1
|
Lei J, Qiao S. Circular RNA circ_001621 acts as a tumor promoter in lung cancer by regulating the miR-199a-3p/GREM1 axis. Arch Med Sci 2024; 20:876-886. [PMID: 39050152 PMCID: PMC11264106 DOI: 10.5114/aoms/174052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Investigating how circular RNAs (circRNAs) function during tumorigenesis may help uncover novel diagnostic markers for cancer treatment. The oncogenic role of circ_001621 has been verified in osteosarcoma, but its role in lung cancer has yet to be reported. This research is the first to investigate the circ_001621 expression and regulatory mechanism in lung cancer. Material and methods RT-qPCR was performed to assess the circ_001621 expression levels in lung cancer cells and tissues. The influence of circ_001621 on the viability, invasive ability, and apoptosis of lung cancer cells was investigated through CCK-8, transwell, and caspase-3 activity experiments, respectively. A xenograft nude mouse model was designed to evaluate how circ_001621 functions in vivo. The RIP and luciferase reporter experiments confirmed the binding among circRNA, miRNA, and mRNA. Results Circ_001621 was dramatically upregulated in lung cancer tissues and cells. Silencing circ_001621 in lung cancer cells reduced their viability and invasive ability but stimulated apoptosis. The nude mice experiment demonstrated that circ_001621 downregulation considerably stunted tumor growth in vivo. Additionally, circ_001621 could sponge miR-199a-3p. The inhibitor of miR-199a-3p improved the viability and invasion of cells while inhibiting apoptosis. Moreover, it offset the impact of circ_001621 on lung cancer cells. MiR-199a-3p was observed to target GREM1, and the downregulation of GREM1 could counteract miR-199a-3p-induced effects on lung cancer cells. Conclusions The circ_001621/miR-199a-3p/GREM1 axis exhibits an association with the development of lung cancer, suggesting its potential as a future therapeutic target for the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Lei
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Song Qiao
- Massage Department, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Jiang X, Wang S, Guo L, Zhu B, Wen Z, Jia L, Xu L, Xiao G, Li Q. iIMPACT: integrating image and molecular profiles for spatial transcriptomics analysis. Genome Biol 2024; 25:147. [PMID: 38844966 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-024-03289-5] [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: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Current clustering analysis of spatial transcriptomics data primarily relies on molecular information and fails to fully exploit the morphological features present in histology images, leading to compromised accuracy and interpretability. To overcome these limitations, we have developed a multi-stage statistical method called iIMPACT. It identifies and defines histology-based spatial domains based on AI-reconstructed histology images and spatial context of gene expression measurements, and detects domain-specific differentially expressed genes. Through multiple case studies, we demonstrate iIMPACT outperforms existing methods in accuracy and interpretability and provides insights into the cellular spatial organization and landscape of functional genes within spatial transcriptomics data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi Jiang
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Statistics and Data Science, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Shidan Wang
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Lei Guo
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Bencong Zhu
- Department of Statistics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Zhuoyu Wen
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Liwei Jia
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Lin Xu
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Guanghua Xiao
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Qiwei Li
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bokil AA, Le Boulvais Børkja M, Wolowczyk C, Lamsal A, Prestvik WS, Nonstad U, Pettersen K, Andersen SB, Bofin AM, Bjørkøy G, Hak S, Giambelluca MS. Discovery of a new marker to identify myeloid cells associated with metastatic breast tumours. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:279. [PMID: 37980483 PMCID: PMC10656772 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03136-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myeloid cells play an essential role in cancer metastasis. The phenotypic diversity of these cells during cancer development has attracted great interest; however, their functional heterogeneity and plasticity have limited their role as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. METHODS To identify markers associated with myeloid cells in metastatic tumours, we compared transcriptomic data from immune cells sorted from metastatic and non-metastatic mammary tumours grown in BALB/cJ mice. To assess the translational relevance of our in vivo findings, we assessed human breast cancer biopsies and evaluated the association between arginase 1 protein expression in breast cancer tissues with tumour characteristics and patient outcomes. RESULTS Among the differentially expressed genes, arginase 1 (ARG1) showed a unique expression pattern in tumour-infiltrating myeloid cells that correlated with the metastatic capacity of the tumour. Even though ARG1-positive cells were found almost exclusively inside the metastatic tumour, ARG1 protein was also present in the plasma. In human breast cancer biopsies, the presence of ARG1-positive cells was strongly correlated with high-grade proliferating tumours, poor prognosis, and low survival. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the potential use of ARG1-positive myeloid cells as an independent prognostic marker to evaluate the risk of metastasis in breast cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ansooya A Bokil
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Mathieu Le Boulvais Børkja
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Camilla Wolowczyk
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Apsana Lamsal
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Wenche S Prestvik
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Unni Nonstad
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kristine Pettersen
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Sonja B Andersen
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Anna M Bofin
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Geir Bjørkøy
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Sjoerd Hak
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Miriam S Giambelluca
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, UiT- The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gao Z, Houthuijzen JM, Ten Dijke P, Brazil DP. GREM1 signaling in cancer: tumor promotor and suppressor? J Cell Commun Signal 2023:10.1007/s12079-023-00777-4. [PMID: 37615860 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-023-00777-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
GREMLIN1 (GREM1) is member of a family of structurally and functionally related secreted cysteine knot proteins, which act to sequester and inhibit the action of multifunctional bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). GREM1 binds directly to BMP dimers, thereby preventing BMP-mediated activation of BMP type I and type II receptors. Multiple reports identify the overexpression of GREM1 as a contributing factor in a broad range of cancers. Additionally, the GREM1 gene is amplified in a rare autosomal dominant inherited form of colorectal cancer. The inhibitory effects of GREM1 on BMP signaling have been linked to these tumor-promoting effects, including facilitating cancer cell stemness and the activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Moreover, GREM1 has been described to bind and signal to vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and stimulate angiogenesis, as well as epidermal and fibroblast growth factor receptor (EGFR and FGFR) to elicit tumor-promoting effects in breast and prostate cancer, respectively. In contrast, a 2022 report revealed that GREM1 can promote an epithelial state in pancreatic cancers, thereby inhibiting pancreatic tumor growth and metastasis. In this commentary, we will review these disparate findings and attempt to provide clarity around the role of GREM1 signaling in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhichun Gao
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Julia M Houthuijzen
- Oncode Institute, Division of Molecular Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, 1066 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Derek P Brazil
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Liu M, Sui L, Fang Z, Jiang WG, Ye L. Aberrant expression of bone morphogenetic proteins in the disease progression and metastasis of breast cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1166955. [PMID: 37333824 PMCID: PMC10272747 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1166955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) play crucial roles in the tumorigenesis and metastasis of cancers. Controversy remains about the exact implications of BMPs and their antagonists in breast cancer (BC), due to their diverse and complex biological functions and signalling. A comprehensive study of the whole family and their signalling in breast cancer is provoked. Methods Aberrant expression of BMP, BMP receptors and antagonists in primary tumours in breast cancer were analysed by using TCGA-BRCA and E-MTAB-6703 cohorts. Related biomarkers including ER, HER, proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis and bone metastasis were involved to identify the relationship with BMPs in breast cancer. Results The present study showed BMP8B was significantly increased in breast tumours, while BMP6 and ACVRL1 were decreased in breast cancer tissues. The expressions of BMP2, BMP6, TGFBR1 and GREM1 were significantly correlated with BC patients' poor overall survival. Aberrant expression of BMPs, together with BMP receptors, were explored in different subtypes of breast cancer according to ER, PR and HER2 status. Furthermore, higher levels of BMP2, BMP6 and GDF5 were revealed in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) whilst BMP4, GDF15, ACVR1B, ACVR2B and BMPR1B were relatively higher in Luminal type BC. ACVR1B and BMPR1B were positively correlated with ERα but were inversely correlated with ERβ. High expression of GDF15, BMP4 and ACVR1B were associated with poorer overall survival in HER2 positive BC. BMPs also play dual roles in tumour growth and metastasis of BC. Conclusion A shift pattern of BMPs was showed in different subtypes of breast cancer suggesting a subtype specific involvement. It provokes more research to shed light on the exact role of these BMPs and receptors in the disease progression and distant metastasis through a regulation of proliferation, invasion and EMT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Liu
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Department of Surgery, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Laijian Sui
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Ziqian Fang
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Wen G. Jiang
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Lin Ye
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Borlongan MC, Wang H. Profiling and targeting cancer stem cell signaling pathways for cancer therapeutics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1125174. [PMID: 37305676 PMCID: PMC10247984 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1125174] [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: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenic cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation of cells within the tumor that express genetic and phenotypic profiles and signaling pathways distinct from the other tumor cells. CSCs have eluded many conventional anti-oncogenic treatments, resulting in metastases and relapses of cancers. Effectively targeting CSCs' unique self-renewal and differentiation properties would be a breakthrough in cancer therapy. A better characterization of the CSCs' unique signaling mechanisms will improve our understanding of the pathology and treatment of cancer. In this paper, we will discuss CSC origin, followed by an in-depth review of CSC-associated signaling pathways. Particular emphasis is given on CSC signaling pathways' ligand-receptor engagement, upstream and downstream mechanisms, and associated genes, and molecules. Signaling pathways associated with regulation of CSC development stand as potential targets of CSC therapy, which include Wnt, TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β)/SMAD, Notch, JAK-STAT (Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription), Hedgehog (Hh), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Lastly, we will also discuss milestone discoveries in CSC-based therapies, including pre-clinical and clinical studies featuring novel CSC signaling pathway cancer therapeutics. This review aims at generating innovative views on CSCs toward a better understanding of cancer pathology and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mia C. Borlongan
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Science College of Graduate Studies, Elk Grove, CA, United States
| | - Hongbin Wang
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Science College of Graduate Studies, Elk Grove, CA, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences College of Pharmacy, Elk Grove, CA, United States
- Department of Basic Science College of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lamsal A, Andersen SB, Johansson I, Vietri M, Bokil AA, Kurganovs NJ, Rylander F, Bjørkøy G, Pettersen K, Giambelluca MS. Opposite and dynamic regulation of the interferon response in metastatic and non-metastatic breast cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:50. [PMID: 36882786 PMCID: PMC9990226 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01062-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To our current understanding, solid tumors depend on suppressed local immune reactions, often elicited by the interaction between tumor cells and tumor microenvironment (TME) components. Despite an improved understanding of anti-cancer immune responses in the TME, it is still unclear how immuno-suppressive TME are formed and how some cancer cells survive and metastasize. METHODS To identify the major adaptations that cancer cells undergo during tumor development and progression, we compared the transcriptome and proteome from metastatic 66cl4 and non-metastatic 67NR cell lines in culture versus their corresponding mouse mammary primary tumors. Using confocal microscopy, RT-qPCR, flow cytometry and western blotting, we studied the signaling pathway and the mechanisms involved. In addition, we used public gene expression data from human breast cancer biopsies to evaluate the correlation between gene expression and clinical outcomes in patients. RESULTS We found that type I interferon (IFN-I) response was a key differentially regulated pathway between metastatic and non-metastatic cell lines and tumors. The IFN-I response was active in metastatic cancer cells in culture and markedly dampened when these cells formed primary tumors. Interestingly, the opposite was observed in non-metastatic cancer cells and tumors. Consistent with an active IFN-I response in culture, the metastatic cancer cells displayed elevated levels of cytosolic DNA from both mitochondria and ruptured micronuclei with concomitant activation of cGAS-STING signaling. Interestingly, decreased IFN-I-related gene expression in breast cancer biopsies correlated with an unfavourable prognosis in patients. CONCLUSION Our findings show that IFN-I response is dampened in the tumors with the metastatic ability and lower IFN-I expression predicts poor prognosis in triple-negative and HER2 enriched breast cancer patients. This study highlights the possibility of reactivating the IFN-I response as a potential therapeutic strategy in breast cancer. Video Abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Apsana Lamsal
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Sonja Benedikte Andersen
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ida Johansson
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Marina Vietri
- Centre for Cancer Cell Reprogramming, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Montebello, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Montebello, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ansooya Avinash Bokil
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Natalie Jayne Kurganovs
- Institute for Cancer Research, Department of Tumor Biology, Oslo University Hospital, Montebello, Oslo, Norway
| | - Felicia Rylander
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Geir Bjørkøy
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kristine Pettersen
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway. .,Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Miriam S Giambelluca
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway. .,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Vliora M, Ravelli C, Grillo E, Corsini M, Flouris AD, Mitola S. The impact of adipokines on vascular networks in adipose tissue. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2023; 69:61-72. [PMID: 35953434 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adipose tissue (AT) is a highly active and plastic endocrine organ. It secretes numerous soluble molecules known as adipokines, which act locally to AT control the remodel and homeostasis or exert pleiotropic functions in different peripheral organs. Aberrant production or loss of certain adipokines contributes to AT dysfunction associated with metabolic disorders, including obesity. The AT plasticity is strictly related to tissue vascularization. Angiogenesis supports the AT expansion, while regression of blood vessels is associated with AT hypoxia, which in turn mediates tissue inflammation, fibrosis and metabolic dysfunction. Several adipokines can regulate endothelial cell functions and are endowed with either pro- or anti-angiogenic properties. Here we address the role of adipokines in the regulation of angiogenesis. A better understanding of the link between adipokines and angiogenesis will open the way for novel therapeutic approaches to treat obesity and metabolic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vliora
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece; Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, Italy
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, Italy
| | - Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andreas D Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Grillo E, Ravelli C, Colleluori G, D'Agostino F, Domenichini M, Giordano A, Mitola S. Role of gremlin-1 in the pathophysiology of the adipose tissues. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2023; 69:51-60. [PMID: 36155165 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2022.09.004] [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: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gremlin-1 is a secreted bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist playing a pivotal role in the regulation of tissue formation and embryonic development. Since its first identification in 1997, gremlin-1 has been shown to be a multifunctional factor involved in wound healing, inflammation, cancer and tissue fibrosis. Among others, the activity of gremlin-1 is mediated by its interaction with BMPs or with membrane receptors such as the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) or heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). Growing evidence has highlighted a central role of gremlin-1 in the homeostasis of the adipose tissue (AT). Of note, gremlin-1 is involved in AT dysfunction during type 2 diabetes, obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) metabolic disorders. In this review we discuss recent findings on gremlin-1 involvement in AT biology, with particular attention to its role in metabolic diseases, to highlight its potential as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Georgia Colleluori
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Agostino
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mattia Domenichini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wang D, Jiang H. Long noncoding RNA long intergenic non-protein-coding RNA 173 contributes to nasopharyngeal carcinoma progression by regulating microRNA-765/Gremlin 1 pathway. Hum Exp Toxicol 2023; 42:9603271231172921. [PMID: 37365917 DOI: 10.1177/09603271231172921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long intergenic non-protein-coding RNA 173 (LINC00173) executes vital functions in various cancers. Nevertheless, its role and expression in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) have yet to be investigated. Here, we investigated its effects on the malignancy characteristics of NPC and elucidated the potential molecular mechanism of LINC00173 in NPC progression. METHODS Quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunoblotting were conducted to estimate the LINC00173, microRNA-765 (miR-765), and Gremlin 1 (GREM1) expressions in NPC cells and tissues. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK8), colony formation, and wound healing experiments were done to evaluate the proliferation, growth, and migration of NPC cells, respectively. The tumorous growth of NPC cells in vivo was assessed through the xenograft tumor experiment. Furthermore, the interactions among miR-765, LINC00173, and GREM1 were investigated through bioinformatics analyses, luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation chip assays. RESULTS An upregulated LINC00173 expression was found in NPC cell lines and tissues. The functional experiments uncovered that its downregulation repressed NPC cell proliferation, growth, and migration. In addition, LINC00173 knockdown hampered the NPC cells' tumorous growth in vivo. These effects could partially be reversed by downregulating miR-765. GREM1 is a downstream target of miR-765. GREM1 knockdown could repress the proliferation, growth, and migration of NPC cells. Nonetheless, these anti-tumor effects could be abolished by miR-765 downregulation. Mechanistically, LINC00173 increased the expression of GREM1 by binding with miR-765. CONCLUSIONS LINC00173 functions as an oncogenic factor by binding with miR-765 to promote the progression of NPC via GREM1 upregulation. This study provides a novel insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in NPC progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wang
- Otorhinolaryngologic Department, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, China
| | - Heng Jiang
- Otorhinolaryngologic Department, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ten Years of CRISPRing Cancers In Vitro. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14235746. [PMID: 36497228 PMCID: PMC9738354 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235746] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell lines have always constituted a good investigation tool for cancer research, allowing scientists to understand the basic mechanisms underlying the complex network of phenomena peculiar to the transforming path from a healthy to cancerous cell. The introduction of CRISPR in everyday laboratory activity and its relative affordability greatly expanded the bench lab weaponry in the daily attempt to better understand tumor biology with the final aim to mitigate cancer's impact in our lives. In this review, we aim to report how this genome editing technique affected in the in vitro modeling of different aspects of tumor biology, its several declinations, and analyze the advantages and drawbacks of each of them.
Collapse
|
12
|
Wu CWK, Reid M, Leedham S, Lui RN. The emerging era of personalized medicine in advanced colorectal cancer. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 37:1411-1425. [PMID: 35815339 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a genetically heterogeneous disease with its pathogenesis often driven by varying genetic or epigenetic alterations. This has led to a substantial number of patients developing chemoresistance and treatment failure, resulting in a high mortality rate for advanced disease. Deep molecular analysis has allowed for the discovery of key intestinal signaling pathways which impacts colonic epithelial cell fate, and the integral role of the tumor microenvironment on cancer growth and dissemination. Through transitioning pre-clinical knowledge in research into clinical practice, many potential druggable targets within these pathways have been discovered in the hopes of overcoming the roadblocks encountered by conventional therapies. A personalized approach tailoring treatment according to the histopathological and molecular features of individual tumors can hopefully translate to better patient outcomes, and reduce the rate of recurrence in patients with advanced CRC. Herein, the latest understanding on the molecular science behind CRC tumorigenesis, and the potential treatment targets currently at the forefront of research are summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia W K Wu
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Madeleine Reid
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, John Radcliffe hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Simon Leedham
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, John Radcliffe hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rashid N Lui
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Clinical Oncology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Shonibare Z, Monavarian M, O’Connell K, Altomare D, Shelton A, Mehta S, Jaskula-Sztul R, Phaeton R, Starr MD, Whitaker R, Berchuck A, Nixon AB, Arend RC, Lee NY, Miller CR, Hempel N, Mythreye K. Reciprocal SOX2 regulation by SMAD1-SMAD3 is critical for anoikis resistance and metastasis in cancer. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111066. [PMID: 35905726 PMCID: PMC9899501 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth factors in tumor environments are regulators of cell survival and metastasis. Here, we reveal the dichotomy between TGF-β superfamily growth factors BMP and TGF-β/activin and their downstream SMAD effectors. Gene expression profiling uncovers SOX2 as a key contextual signaling node regulated in an opposing manner by BMP2, -4, and -9 and TGF-β and activin A to impact anchorage-independent cell survival. We find that SOX2 is repressed by BMPs, leading to a reduction in intraperitoneal tumor burden and improved survival of tumor-bearing mice. Repression of SOX2 is driven by SMAD1-dependent histone H3K27me3 recruitment and DNA methylation at SOX2's promoter. Conversely, TGF-β, which is elevated in patient ascites, and activin A can promote SOX2 expression and anchorage-independent survival by SMAD3-dependent histone H3K4me3 recruitment. Our findings identify SOX2 as a contextual and contrastingly regulated node downstream of TGF-β members controlling anchorage-independent survival and metastasis in ovarian cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Shonibare
- Department of Pathology, O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Mehri Monavarian
- Department of Pathology, O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Kathleen O’Connell
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Diego Altomare
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Abigail Shelton
- Department of Pathology, O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Shubham Mehta
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Renata Jaskula-Sztul
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rebecca Phaeton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Mark D. Starr
- Department of Medicine and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Regina Whitaker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Andrew Berchuck
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Andrew B. Nixon
- Department of Medicine and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Rebecca C. Arend
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Nam Y. Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - C. Ryan Miller
- Department of Pathology, O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Nadine Hempel
- Department of Pharmacology, and Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology Oncology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - Karthikeyan Mythreye
- Department of Pathology, O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gremlin-1 Promotes Colorectal Cancer Cell Metastasis by Activating ATF6 and Inhibiting ATF4 Pathways. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142136. [PMID: 35883579 PMCID: PMC9324664 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cell survival, function and fate strongly depend on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) proteostasis. Although previous studies have implicated the ER stress signaling network in all stages of cancer development, its role in cancer metastasis remains to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the role of Gremlin-1 (GREM1), a secreted protein, in the invasion and metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells in vitro and in vivo. Firstly, public datasets showed a positive correlation between high expression of GREM1 and a poor prognosis for CRC. Secondly, GREM1 enhanced motility and invasion of CRC cells by epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Thirdly, GREM1 upregulated expression of activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) and downregulated that of ATF4, and modulation of the two key players of the unfolded protein response (UPR) was possibly through activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and antagonization of BMP2 signaling pathways, respectively. Taken together, our results demonstrate that GREM1 is an invasion-promoting factor via regulation of ATF6 and ATF4 expression in CRC cells, suggesting GREM1 may be a potential pharmacological target for colorectal cancer treatment.
Collapse
|
15
|
Keunecke C, Kulbe H, Dreher F, Taube ET, Chekerov R, Horst D, Hummel M, Kessler T, Pietzner K, Kassuhn W, Heitz F, Muallem MZ, Lang SM, Vergote I, Dorigo O, Lammert H, du Bois A, Angelotti T, Fotopoulou C, Sehouli J, Braicu EI. Predictive biomarker for surgical outcome in patients with advanced primary high-grade serous ovarian cancer. Are we there yet? An analysis of the prospective biobank for ovarian cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2022; 166:334-343. [PMID: 35738917 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2022.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most common subtype of ovarian cancer and is associated with high mortality rates. Surgical outcome is one of the most important prognostic factors. There are no valid biomarkers to identify which patients may benefit from a primary debulking approach. OBJECTIVE Our study aimed to discover and validate a predictive panel for surgical outcome of residual tumor mass after first-line debulking surgery. STUDY DESIGN Firstly, "In silico" analysis of publicly available datasets identified 200 genes as predictors for surgical outcome. The top selected genes were then validated using the novel Nanostring method, which was applied for the first time for this particular research objective. 225 primary ovarian cancer patients with well annotated clinical data and a complete debulking rate of 60% were compiled for a clinical cohort. The 14 best rated genes were then validated through the cohort, using immunohistochemistry testing. Lastly, we used our biomarker expression data to predict the presence of miliary carcinomatosis patterns. RESULTS The Nanostring analysis identified 37 genes differentially expressed between optimal and suboptimal debulked patients (p < 0.05). The immunohistochemistry validated the top 14 genes, reaching an AUC Ø0.650. The analysis for the prediction of miliary carcinomatosis patterns reached an AUC of Ø0.797. CONCLUSION The tissue-based biomarkers in our analysis could not reliably predict post-operative residual tumor. Patient and non-patient-associated co-factors, surgical skills, and center experience remain the main determining factors when considering the surgical outcome at primary debulking in high-grade serous ovarian cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Keunecke
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Gynecology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Hagen Kulbe
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Gynecology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Felix Dreher
- Alacris Theranostics GmbH, Max-Planck-Straße 3, 12489 Berlin, Germany
| | - Eliane T Taube
- Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Pathology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Radoslav Chekerov
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Gynecology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - David Horst
- Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Pathology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Hummel
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Pathology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Kessler
- Alacris Theranostics GmbH, Max-Planck-Straße 3, 12489 Berlin, Germany
| | - Klaus Pietzner
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Gynecology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Wanja Kassuhn
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Gynecology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Florian Heitz
- Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Department of Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Henricistrasse 92, 45136 Essen, Germany
| | - Mustafa Z Muallem
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Gynecology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Susan M Lang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Gynaecologic Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ignace Vergote
- Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Department of Gynecologic Oncology, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Oliver Dorigo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Gynaecologic Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Hedwig Lammert
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Pathology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas du Bois
- Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Department of Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Henricistrasse 92, 45136 Essen, Germany
| | - Tim Angelotti
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive H3580, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Christina Fotopoulou
- Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jalid Sehouli
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Gynecology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Elena I Braicu
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Department of Gynecology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Tumor Bank Ovarian Cancer, ENGOT Biobank, Charité Medizinische Universität Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Gynaecologic Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wolowczyk C, Neckmann U, Aure MR, Hall M, Johannessen B, Zhao S, Skotheim RI, Andersen SB, Zwiggelaar R, Steigedal TS, Lingjærde OC, Sahlberg KK, Almaas E, Bjørkøy G. NRF2 drives an oxidative stress response predictive of breast cancer. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 184:170-184. [PMID: 35381325 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Many breast cancer patients are diagnosed with small, well-differentiated, hormone receptor-positive tumors. Risk of relapse is not easily identified in these patients, resulting in overtreatment. To identify metastasis-related gene expression patterns, we compared the transcriptomes of the non-metastatic 67NR and metastatic 66cl4 cell lines from the murine 4T1 mammary tumor model. The transcription factor nuclear factor, erythroid 2-like 2 (NRF2, encoded by NFE2L2) was constitutively activated in the metastatic cells and tumors, and correspondingly a subset of established NRF2-regulated genes was also upregulated. Depletion of NRF2 increased basal levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and severely reduced ability to form primary tumors and lung metastases. Consistently, a set of NRF2-controlled genes was elevated in breast cancer biopsies. Sixteen of these were combined into a gene expression signature that significantly improves the PAM50 ROR score, and is an independent, strong predictor of prognosis, even in hormone receptor-positive tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Wolowczyk
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Clinic of Laboratory Medicine, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Ulrike Neckmann
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Clinic of Laboratory Medicine, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Miriam Ragle Aure
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Martina Hall
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; K.G.Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Public Health and General Practice, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
| | - Bjarne Johannessen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital-Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Cancer Genomics Consortium, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sen Zhao
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital-Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Cancer Genomics Consortium, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rolf I Skotheim
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital-Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Cancer Genomics Consortium, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sonja B Andersen
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rosalie Zwiggelaar
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Tonje S Steigedal
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Kristine Kleivi Sahlberg
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Research, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway
| | - Eivind Almaas
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; K.G.Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Public Health and General Practice, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
| | - Geir Bjørkøy
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Elemam NM, Malek AI, Mahmoud EE, El-Huneidi W, Talaat IM. Insights into the Role of Gremlin-1, a Bone Morphogenic Protein Antagonist, in Cancer Initiation and Progression. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020301. [PMID: 35203511 PMCID: PMC8869528 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The bone morphogenic protein (BMP) antagonist Gremlin-1 is a biologically significant regulator known for its crucial role in tissue differentiation and embryonic development. Nevertheless, it has been reported that Gremlin-1 can exhibit its function through BMP dependent and independent pathways. Gremlin-1 has also been reported to be involved in organ fibrosis, which has been correlated to the development of other diseases, such as renal inflammation and diabetic nephropathy. Based on growing evidence, Gremlin-1 has recently been implicated in the initiation and progression of different types of cancers. Further, it contributes to the stemness state of cancer cells. Herein, we explore the recent findings on the role of Gremlin-1 in various cancer types, including breast, cervical, colorectal, and gastric cancers, as well as glioblastomas. Additionally, we highlighted the impact of Gremlin-1 on cellular processes and signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis. Therefore, it was suggested that Gremlin-1 might be a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noha Mousaad Elemam
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (A.I.M.); (E.E.M.)
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdullah Imadeddin Malek
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (A.I.M.); (E.E.M.)
| | - Esraa Elaraby Mahmoud
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (A.I.M.); (E.E.M.)
| | - Waseem El-Huneidi
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (A.I.M.); (E.E.M.)
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: (W.E.-H.); (I.M.T.)
| | - Iman M. Talaat
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (A.I.M.); (E.E.M.)
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21526, Egypt
- Correspondence: (W.E.-H.); (I.M.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Li C, Ma J, Groenewoud A, Ren J, Liu S, Snaar-Jagalska BE, Ten Dijke P. Establishment of Embryonic Zebrafish Xenograft Assays to Investigate TGF-β Family Signaling in Human Breast Cancer Progression. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2488:67-80. [PMID: 35347683 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2277-3_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family members have pivotal functions in controlling breast cancer progression, acting not only on cancer cells but also on other cells within the tumor microenvironment. Here we describe embryonic zebrafish xenograft assays to investigate how TGF-β family signaling controls breast cancer cell intravasation, extravasation and regulates tumor angiogenesis. Fluorescently mCherry-labeled breast cancer cells are injected in the perivitelline space or Duct of Cuvier of Tg (fli:EGFP) transgenic Casper zebrafish embryos, in which the zebrafish express enhanced green fluorescent protein in the entire vasculature. The dynamic responses of migratory and invasive human cancer cells, and the induction of new blood vessel formation by the cancer cells in zebrafish host, are visualized using a fluorescent microscope. These assays provide efficient, reliable, low-cost models to investigate the effect of (epi)genetic modulators and pharmacological compounds that perturb the activity of TGF-β family signaling components on breast cancer cell metastasis and angiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Li
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jin Ma
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Arwin Groenewoud
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jiang Ren
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Sijia Liu
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
McNamee N, Daly R, Crown J, O'Driscoll L. A method of separating extracellular vesicles from blood shows potential clinical translation, and reveals extracellular vesicle cargo gremlin-1 as a diagnostic biomarker. Transl Oncol 2021; 15:101274. [PMID: 34800917 PMCID: PMC8605358 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have potential as minimally invasive biomarkers. However, the methods most commonly used for EV retrieval rely on ultracentrifugation, are time-consuming, and unrealistic to translate to standard-of-care. We sought a method suitable for EV separation from blood that could be used in patient care. Sera from breast cancer patients and age-matched controls (n = 27 patients; n = 36 controls) were analysed to compare 6 proposed EV separation methods. The EVs were then characterised on 8 parameters. The selected method was subsequently applied to independent cohorts of sera (n = 20 patients; n = 20 controls), as proof-of-principle, investigating EVs' gremlin-1 cargo. Three independent runs with each method were very reproducible, within each given method. All isolates contained EVs, although they varied in quantity and purity. Methods that require ultracentrifugation were not superior for low volumes of sera typically available in routine standard-of-care. A CD63/CD81/CD9-coated immunobead-based method was most suitable based on EV markers' detection and minimal albumin and lipoprotein contamination. Applying this method to independent sera cohorts, EVs and their gremlin-1 cargo were at significantly higher amounts for breast cancer patients compared to controls. In conclusion, CD63/CD81/CD9-coated immunobeads may enable clinical utility of blood-based EVs as biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niamh McNamee
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity St. James's Cancer Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Róisín Daly
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity St. James's Cancer Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - John Crown
- Department of Medical Oncology, St. Vincent's University Hospital (SVUH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lorraine O'Driscoll
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity St. James's Cancer Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ye T, Li J, Feng J, Guo J, Wan X, Xie D, Liu J. The subtype-specific molecular function of SPDEF in breast cancer and insights into prognostic significance. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:7307-7320. [PMID: 34191390 PMCID: PMC8335683 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a molecular diverse disease which becomes the most common malignancy among women worldwide. There are four BC subtypes (Luminal A, Luminal B, HER2‐enriched and Basal‐like) robustly established following gene expression pattern‐based characterization, behave significant differences in terms of their incidence, risk factors, prognosis and therapeutic sensitivity. Thus, there is an urgent need to provide mechanism research, treatment strategies and/or prognosis evaluation based on the patient stratification of BC subtypes. The prostate‐derived ETS factor SPDEF was first identified as an activator of prostate specific antigen, and then, the involvements in many aspects of BC have been proposed. However, the subtype‐specific molecular function of SPDEF in BC and insights into prognostic significance have not been clearly elucidated. This study demonstrated for the first time that SPDEF may play a diversity role in the expression levels, clinicopathologic importance, biological function and prognostic evaluation in BC via bioinformatics and experimental evidence, which mainly depends on different BC subtyping. In summary, our findings would help to better understand the possible mechanisms of various BC subtypes and to find possible candidate genes for prognostic and therapeutic usage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Ye
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingyuan Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Sichuan, China
| | - Jia Feng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Sichuan, China
| | - Jinglan Guo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Sichuan, China
| | - Xue Wan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Sichuan, China
| | - Dan Xie
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Sichuan, China
| | - Jinbo Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Deng F, Zhao J, Jia W, Fu K, Zuo X, Huang L, Wang N, Xia H, Zhang Y, Fu W, Liu G. Increased hypospadias risk by GREM1 rs3743104[G] in the southern Han Chinese population. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:13898-13908. [PMID: 33962391 PMCID: PMC8202882 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hypospadias is a common congenital genitourinary malformation characterized by ventral opening of the urethral meatus. As a member of the bone morphogenic protein antagonist family, GREM1 has been identified as associated with susceptibility to hypospadias in the European population. The present study was designed to elaborate on the mutual relationship between replicated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and hypospadias in Asia's largest case-control study in the Southern Han Chinese population involving 577 patients and 654 controls. Our results demonstrate that the GREM1 risk allele rs3743104[G] markedly increases the risk of mild/moderate and severe hypospadias (P<0.01, 0.28≤OR≤0.66). GTEx expression quantitative trait locus data revealed that the eQTL SNP rs3743104 has more associations of eQTL SNP rs3743104 and GREM1 targets in pituitary tissues. Additionally, Bioinformatics and Luciferase Assays show that miR-182 is identified as a suppressor for GREM1 expression, likely through regulation of its binding affinity to rs3743104 locus. In conclusion, the GREM1 risk allele rs3743104[G] increases hypospadias susceptibility in mild/moderate and severe cases among the southern Han population. rs3743104 regulates GREM1 expression by altering the binding affinity of miR-182 to their locus. Collectively, this study provides new evidence that GREM1 rs3743104 is associated with an increased risk of hypospadias. These findings provide a promising biomarker and merit further exploration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fuming Deng
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinglu Zhao
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Jia
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Kai Fu
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zuo
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Lihua Huang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Huiming Xia
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen Fu
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Guochang Liu
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Yang Y, Zeng QS, Zou M, Zeng J, Nie J, Chen D, Gan HT. Targeting Gremlin 1 Prevents Intestinal Fibrosis Progression by Inhibiting the Fatty Acid Oxidation of Fibroblast Cells. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:663774. [PMID: 33967807 PMCID: PMC8100665 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.663774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal fibrosis is a consequence of continuous inflammatory responses that negatively affect the quality of life of patients. By screening altered proteomic profiles of mouse fibrotic colon tissues, we identified that GREM1 was dramatically upregulated in comparison to that in normal tissues. Functional experiments revealed that GREM1 promoted the proliferation and activation of intestinal fibroblast cells by enhancing fatty acid oxidation. Blocking GREM1 prevented the progression of intestinal fibrosis in vivo. Mechanistic research revealed that GREM1 acted as a ligand for VEGFR2 and triggered downstream MAPK signaling. This facilitated the expression of FAO-related genes, consequently enhancing fatty acid oxidation. Taken together, our data indicated that targeting GREM1 could represent a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of intestinal fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and the Center of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qi-Shan Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology and the Center of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Min Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology and the Center of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jian Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiao Nie
- Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - DongFeng Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hua-Tian Gan
- Department of Gastroenterology and the Center of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kobayashi H, Gieniec KA, Wright JA, Wang T, Asai N, Mizutani Y, Lida T, Ando R, Suzuki N, Lannagan TRM, Ng JQ, Hara A, Shiraki Y, Mii S, Ichinose M, Vrbanac L, Lawrence MJ, Sammour T, Uehara K, Davies G, Lisowski L, Alexander IE, Hayakawa Y, Butler LM, Zannettino ACW, Din MO, Hasty J, Burt AD, Leedham SJ, Rustgi AK, Mukherjee S, Wang TC, Enomoto A, Takahashi M, Worthley DL, Woods SL. The Balance of Stromal BMP Signaling Mediated by GREM1 and ISLR Drives Colorectal Carcinogenesis. Gastroenterology 2021; 160:1224-1239.e30. [PMID: 33197448 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2020.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), key constituents of the tumor microenvironment, either promote or restrain tumor growth. Attempts to therapeutically target CAFs have been hampered by our incomplete understanding of these functionally heterogeneous cells. Key growth factors in the intestinal epithelial niche, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), also play a critical role in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. However, the crucial proteins regulating stromal BMP balance and the potential application of BMP signaling to manage CRC remain largely unexplored. METHODS Using human CRC RNA expression data, we identified CAF-specific factors involved in BMP signaling, then verified and characterized their expression in the CRC stroma by in situ hybridization. CRC tumoroids and a mouse model of CRC hepatic metastasis were used to test approaches to modify BMP signaling and treat CRC. RESULTS We identified Grem1 and Islr as CAF-specific genes involved in BMP signaling. Functionally, GREM1 and ISLR acted to inhibit and promote BMP signaling, respectively. Grem1 and Islr marked distinct fibroblast subpopulations and were differentially regulated by transforming growth factor β and FOXL1, providing an underlying mechanism to explain fibroblast biological dichotomy. In patients with CRC, high GREM1 and ISLR expression levels were associated with poor and favorable survival, respectively. A GREM1-neutralizing antibody or fibroblast Islr overexpression reduced CRC tumoroid growth and promoted Lgr5+ intestinal stem cell differentiation. Finally, adeno-associated virus 8 (AAV8)-mediated delivery of Islr to hepatocytes increased BMP signaling and improved survival in our mouse model of hepatic metastasis. CONCLUSIONS Stromal BMP signaling predicts and modifies CRC progression and survival, and it can be therapeutically targeted by novel AAV-directed gene delivery to the liver.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Kobayashi
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia; Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan; Division of Molecular Pathology, Center for Neurological Disease and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Krystyna A Gieniec
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Josephine A Wright
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tongtong Wang
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Naoya Asai
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Mizutani
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Tadashi Lida
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ryota Ando
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Nobumi Suzuki
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia; Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tamsin R M Lannagan
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Jia Q Ng
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Akitoshi Hara
- Department of Cardiology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Shiraki
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shinji Mii
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan; Division of Molecular Pathology, Center for Neurological Disease and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Mari Ichinose
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Laura Vrbanac
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Matthew J Lawrence
- Colorectal Unit, Department of Surgery, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tarik Sammour
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia; Colorectal Unit, Department of Surgery, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kay Uehara
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Leszek Lisowski
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Vector and Genome Engineering Facility, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia; Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, The Biological Threats Identification and Countermeasure Centre, Puławy, Poland
| | - Ian E Alexander
- Gene Therapy Research Unit, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network and Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Yoku Hayakawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Lisa M Butler
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Andrew C W Zannettino
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | - Jeff Hasty
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Alastair D Burt
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Precision and Molecular Pathology, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Simon J Leedham
- Intestinal Stem Cell Biology Lab, Wellcome Trust Centre Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Anil K Rustgi
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Siddhartha Mukherjee
- Department of Medicine and Irving Cancer Research Center, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Timothy C Wang
- Department of Medicine and Irving Cancer Research Center, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Atsushi Enomoto
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.
| | - Masahide Takahashi
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan; Division of Molecular Pathology, Center for Neurological Disease and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan; International Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan.
| | - Daniel L Worthley
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Susan L Woods
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zhang L, Han L, Huang Y, Feng Z, Wang X, Li H, Song F, Liu L, Li J, Zheng H, Wang P, Song F, Chen K. SNPs within microRNA binding sites and the prognosis of breast cancer. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:7465-7480. [PMID: 33658398 PMCID: PMC7993692 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within microRNA binding sites can affect the binding of microRNA to mRNA and regulate gene expression, thereby contributing to cancer prognosis. Here we performed a two-stage study of 2647 breast cancer patients to explore the association between SNPs within microRNA binding sites and breast cancer prognosis. In stage I, we genotyped 192 SNPs within microRNA binding sites using the Illumina Goldengate platform. In stage II, we validated SNPs associated with breast cancer prognosis in another dataset using the TaqMan platform. We identified 8 SNPs significantly associated with breast cancer prognosis in stage I (P<0.05), and only rs10878441 was statistically significant in stage II (AA vs CC, HR=2.21, 95% CI: 1.11-4.42, P=0.024). We combined the data from stage I and stage II, and found that, compared with rs10878441 AA genotype, CC genotype was associated with poor survival of breast cancer (HR=2.19, 95% CI: 1.30-3.70, P=0.003). Stratified analyses demonstrated that rs10878441 was related to breast cancer prognosis in grade II and lymph node-negative patients (P<0.05). The Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) rs10878441 CC genotype is associated with poor prognosis of breast cancer in a Chinese population and may be used as a potential prognostic biomarker for breast cancer. • The LRRK2 rs10878441 CC genotype is associated with poor prognosis of breast cancer in a Chinese population. • Stratified analyses demonstrated that rs10878441 was related to breast cancer prognosis in grade II patients and lymph node-negative patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liwen Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Han
- Department of Infection Control, Tianjin Huanhu Hospital, Tianjin 300350, People's Republic of China
| | - Yubei Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziwei Feng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, West China School of Public Health, Sichuan University, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Haixin Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China.,Department of Cancer Biobank, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy of Tianjin, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, National Clinical Research Centre of Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangfang Song
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Luyang Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Junxian Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zheng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Peishan Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengju Song
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Kexin Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Epidemiology of Tianjin, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
Despite the decline in death rate from breast cancer and recent advances in targeted therapies and combinations for the treatment of metastatic disease, metastatic breast cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-associated death in U.S. women. The invasion-metastasis cascade involves a number of steps and multitudes of proteins and signaling molecules. The pathways include invasion, intravasation, circulation, extravasation, infiltration into a distant site to form a metastatic niche, and micrometastasis formation in a new environment. Each of these processes is regulated by changes in gene expression. Noncoding RNAs including microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in breast cancer tumorigenesis, progression, and metastasis by post-transcriptional regulation of target gene expression. miRNAs can stimulate oncogenesis (oncomiRs), inhibit tumor growth (tumor suppressors or miRsupps), and regulate gene targets in metastasis (metastamiRs). The goal of this review is to summarize some of the key miRNAs that regulate genes and pathways involved in metastatic breast cancer with an emphasis on estrogen receptor α (ERα+) breast cancer. We reviewed the identity, regulation, human breast tumor expression, and reported prognostic significance of miRNAs that have been documented to directly target key genes in pathways, including epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributing to the metastatic cascade. We critically evaluated the evidence for metastamiRs and their targets and miRNA regulation of metastasis suppressor genes in breast cancer progression and metastasis. It is clear that our understanding of miRNA regulation of targets in metastasis is incomplete.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Belinda J Petri
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Carolyn M Klinge
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Sung NJ, Kim NH, Surh YJ, Park SA. Gremlin-1 Promotes Metastasis of Breast Cancer Cells by Activating STAT3-MMP13 Signaling Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239227. [PMID: 33287358 PMCID: PMC7730512 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Gremlin-1 (GREM1), one of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonists, can directly bind to BMPs. GREM1 is involved in organogenesis, tissue differentiation, and organ fibrosis. Recently, numerous studies have reported the oncogenic role of GREM1 in cancer. However, the role of GREM1 in metastasis of breast cancer cells and its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. The role of GREM1 in breast cancer progression was assessed by measuring growth, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells. An orthotopic breast cancer mouse model was used to investigate the role of GREM1 in lung metastasis of breast cancer cells. GREM1 knockdown suppressed the proliferation of breast cancer cells, while its overexpression increased their growth, migration, and invasion. Cells with Grem1-knockdown showed much lower tumor growth rates and lung metastasis than control cells. GREM1 enhanced the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13). A positive correlation between GREM1 and MMP13 expression was observed in breast cancer patients. GREM1 activated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) transcription factor involved in the expression of MMP13. Our study suggests that GREM1 can promote lung metastasis of breast cancer cells through the STAT3-MMP13 pathway. In addition, GREM1 might be a promising therapeutic target for breast cancer metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nam Ji Sung
- Department of ICT Environmental Health System, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan-si 31538, Korea; (N.J.S.); (N.H.K.)
| | - Na Hui Kim
- Department of ICT Environmental Health System, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan-si 31538, Korea; (N.J.S.); (N.H.K.)
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea;
| | - Sin-Aye Park
- Department of ICT Environmental Health System, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan-si 31538, Korea; (N.J.S.); (N.H.K.)
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Medical Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan-si 31538, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-41-530-4990
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kim NH, Sung NJ, Youn HS, Park SA. Gremlin-1 activates Akt/STAT3 signaling, which increases the glycolysis rate in breast cancer cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 533:1378-1384. [PMID: 33097188 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Gremlin-1 (GREM1), one of the antagonists of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), has recently been reported to be overexpressed in a variety of cancers including breast cancer. GREM1 is involved in tumor promotion, but little is known about its role in the glycolysis of cancer cells. In this study, we investigated the role of GREM1 in glycolysis of breast cancer cells and its underlying molecular mechanisms. We first observed that glucose uptake and lactate production were increased in GREM1-overexpressing breast cancer cells. GREM1 increased the expression of hexokinase-2 (HK2), which catalyzes the phosphorylation of glucose, the first step in glycolysis. In addition, GREM1 activated STAT3 transcription factor through the ROS-Akt signaling pathway. The ROS-Akt-STAT3 axis activated by GREM1 was involved in promoting glucose uptake by increasing the expression of HK2 in breast cancer cells. Therefore, our study suggested a new mechanism by which GREM1 is involved in breast cancer promotion by increasing glycolysis in breast cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Hui Kim
- Department of ICT Environmental Health System, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan-si, 31538, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam Ji Sung
- Department of ICT Environmental Health System, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan-si, 31538, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Sun Youn
- Department of ICT Environmental Health System, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan-si, 31538, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Medical Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan-si, 31538, Republic of Korea
| | - Sin-Aye Park
- Department of ICT Environmental Health System, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan-si, 31538, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Medical Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan-si, 31538, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Du J, Yan X, Mi S, Li Y, Ji H, Hou K, Ma S, Ba Y, Zhou P, Chen L, Xie R, Hu S. Identification of Prognostic Model and Biomarkers for Cancer Stem Cell Characteristics in Glioblastoma by Network Analysis of Multi-Omics Data and Stemness Indices. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:558961. [PMID: 33195193 PMCID: PMC7604309 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.558961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The progression of most human cancers mainly involves the gradual accumulation of the loss of differentiated phenotypes and the sequential acquisition of progenitor and stem cell-like features. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) stem cells (GSCs), characterized by self-renewal and therapeutic resistance, play vital roles in GBM. However, a comprehensive understanding of GBM stemness remains elusive. Two stemness indices, mRNAsi and EREG-mRNAsi, were employed to comprehensively analyze GBM stemness. We observed that mRNAsi was significantly related to multi-omics parameters (such as mutant status, sample type, transcriptomics, and molecular subtype). Moreover, potential mechanisms and candidate compounds targeting the GBM stemness signature were illuminated. By combining weighted gene co-expression network analysis with differential analysis, we obtained 18 stemness-related genes, 10 of which were significantly related to survival. Moreover, we obtained a prediction model from both two independent cancer databases that was not only an independent clinical outcome predictor but could also accurately predict the clinical parameters of GBM. Survival analysis and experimental data confirmed that the five hub genes (CHI3L2, FSTL3, RPA3, RRM2, and YTHDF2) could be used as markers for poor prognosis of GBM. Mechanistically, the effect of inhibiting the proliferation of GSCs was attributed to the reduction of the ratio of CD133 and the suppression of the invasiveness of GSCs. The results based on an in vivo xenograft model are consistent with the finding that knockdown of the hub gene inhibits the growth of GSCs in vitro. Our approach could be applied to facilitate the development of objective diagnostic and targeted treatment tools to quantify cancer stemness in clinical tumors, and perhaps lead considerable benefits that could predict tumor prognosis, identify new stemness-related targets and targeted therapies, or improve targeted therapy sensitivity. The five genes identified in this study are expected to be the targets of GBM stem cell therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianyang Du
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.,Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Xiuwei Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shan Mi
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.,Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Pharmacology (The State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Hang Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.,Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Kuiyuan Hou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.,Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Shuai Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yixu Ba
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.,Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin, Harbin, China
| | - Rui Xie
- Department of Digestive Internal Medicine, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Shaoshan Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Todd GM, Gao Z, Hyvönen M, Brazil DP, Ten Dijke P. Secreted BMP antagonists and their role in cancer and bone metastases. Bone 2020; 137:115455. [PMID: 32473315 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2020.115455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are multifunctional secreted cytokines that act in a highly context-dependent manner. BMP action extends beyond the induction of cartilage and bone formation, to encompass pivotal roles in controlling tissue and organ homeostasis during development and adulthood. BMPs signal via plasma membrane type I and type II serine/threonine kinase receptors and intracellular SMAD transcriptional effectors. Exquisite temporospatial control of BMP/SMAD signalling and crosstalk with other cellular cues is achieved by a series of positive and negative regulators at each step in the BMP/SMAD pathway. The interaction of BMP ligand with its receptors is carefully controlled by a diverse set of secreted antagonists that bind BMPs and block their interaction with their cognate BMP receptors. Perturbations in this BMP/BMP antagonist balance are implicated in a range of developmental disorders and diseases, including cancer. Here, we provide an overview of the structure and function of secreted BMP antagonists, and summarize recent novel insights into their role in cancer progression and bone metastasis. Gremlin1 (GREM1) is a highly studied BMP antagonist, and we will focus on this molecule in particular and its role in cancer. The therapeutic potential of pharmacological inhibitors for secreted BMP antagonists for cancer and other human diseases will also be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace M Todd
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Zhichun Gao
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Marko Hyvönen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK.
| | - Derek P Brazil
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK.
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
TrkB Inhibits the BMP Signaling-Mediated Growth Inhibition of Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12082095. [PMID: 32731498 PMCID: PMC7464134 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We have previously observed that tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) induces breast cancer metastasis by activating both the Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) and phosphatidylinositol-3-Kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathways and inhibiting runt-related transcription factor 3 (RUNX3) and kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1). These studies indicated that TrkB expression is crucial to the pathogenesis of breast cancer. However, how TrkB regulates bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling and tumor suppression is largely unknown. Herein, we report that TrkB is a key regulator of BMP-mediated tumor suppression. TrkB enhances the metastatic potential of cancer cells by promoting cell anchorage-independent growth, migration, and suppressing BMP-2-mediated growth inhibition. TrkB inhibits the BMP-mediated activation of SMAD family member 1 (SMAD1) by promoting the formation of the TrkB/BMP type II receptor complex and suppresses RUNX3 by depleting BMP receptor I (BMPRI) expression. In addition, the knockdown of TrkB restored the tumor-inhibitory effect of BMP-2 via the activation of SMAD1. Moreover, the TrkB kinase activity was required for its effect on BMP signaling. Our study identified a unique role of TrkB in the regulation of BMP-mediated growth inhibition and BMP-2-induced RUNX3 expression.
Collapse
|
31
|
Ouahoud S, Hardwick JC, Hawinkels LJ. Extracellular BMP Antagonists, Multifaceted Orchestrators in the Tumor and Its Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113888. [PMID: 32486027 PMCID: PMC7313454 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), a subgroup of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, are involved in multiple biological processes such as embryonic development and maintenance of adult tissue homeostasis. The importance of a functional BMP pathway is underlined by various diseases, including cancer, which can arise as a consequence of dysregulated BMP signaling. Mutations in crucial elements of this signaling pathway, such as receptors, have been reported to disrupt BMP signaling. Next to that, aberrant expression of BMP antagonists could also contribute to abrogated signaling. In this review we set out to highlight how BMP antagonists affect not only the cancer cells, but also the other cells present in the microenvironment to influence cancer progression.
Collapse
|