1
|
Wang X, Xue X, Pang M, Yu L, Qian J, Li X, Tian M, Lyu A, Lu C, Liu Y. Epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity in cancer: signaling pathways and therapeutic targets. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e659. [PMID: 39092293 PMCID: PMC11292400 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.659] [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: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, cancer is still a leading cause of human death globally. Tumor deterioration comprises multiple events including metastasis, therapeutic resistance and immune evasion, all of which are tightly related to the phenotypic plasticity especially epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP). Tumor cells with EMP are manifest in three states as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), partial EMT, and mesenchymal-epithelial transition, which orchestrate the phenotypic switch and heterogeneity of tumor cells via transcriptional regulation and a series of signaling pathways, including transforming growth factor-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and Notch. However, due to the complicated nature of EMP, the diverse process of EMP is still not fully understood. In this review, we systematically conclude the biological background, regulating mechanisms of EMP as well as the role of EMP in therapy response. We also summarize a range of small molecule inhibitors, immune-related therapeutic approaches, and combination therapies that have been developed to target EMP for the outstanding role of EMP-driven tumor deterioration. Additionally, we explore the potential technique for EMP-based tumor mechanistic investigation and therapeutic research, which may burst vigorous prospects. Overall, we elucidate the multifaceted aspects of EMP in tumor progression and suggest a promising direction of cancer treatment based on targeting EMP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangpeng Wang
- School of Materia MedicaBeijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Xiaoxia Xue
- School of Materia MedicaBeijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Mingshi Pang
- School of Materia MedicaBeijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Liuchunyang Yu
- School of Materia MedicaBeijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Jinxiu Qian
- School of Materia MedicaBeijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- School of Materia MedicaBeijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Meng Tian
- School of Materia MedicaBeijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Aiping Lyu
- School of Chinese MedicineHong Kong Baptist UniversityKowloonHong KongChina
| | - Cheng Lu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical MedicineChina Academy of Chinese Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yuanyan Liu
- School of Materia MedicaBeijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lu X, Xu X, Zhou M, Ge J, Chen L, Yu W, Wang H. IL-17A-induced cancer-associated fibroblasts releases CXCL12 to promote lung adenocarcinoma progression via Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway. Cytokine 2024; 180:156676. [PMID: 38857560 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2024.156676] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and their secretion, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12), play an important role in the development of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Interleukin 17A (IL-17A) is also crucial in regulating tumor progression. Herein, we explored the specific relationships between these two factors and their mechanisms in the progression of LUAD. METHODS Immunohistochemistry was utilized to assess the differential expression levels of IL-17A and CXCL12 in tumor versus normal tissues of LUAD patients, followed by gene correlation analysis. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK8), wound-healing and transwell assays were performed to investigate the effect of IL-17A on the function of LUAD cells. qPCR, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry and western blot analyses were conducted to elucidate the potential mechanism by which IL-17A facilitates the development of LUAD via CXCL12. Male BALB-C nude mice were used to explore the role of IL-17A in subcutaneous LUAD mouse models. RESULTS Elevated expression levels of IL-17A and CXCL12 were observed in LUAD tissues, exhibiting a positive correlation. Further studies revealed that IL-17A could stimulate CAFs to enhance the release of CXCL12, thereby facilitating the growth, proliferation, and metastasis of LUAD. The binding of CXCL12 to its specific receptor influences the activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway, which in turn affects the progression of LUAD. In vivo experiments have demonstrated that IL-17A enhances the growth of LUAD tumors by facilitating the secretion of CXCL12. Conversely, inhibiting CXCL12 has been demonstrated to impede tumor growth. CONCLUSIONS We discovered that IL-17A promotes the release of CAFs-derived CXCL12, which in turn facilitates the development of LUAD via the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi'nan Lu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated People's Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinjia Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated People's Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengxue Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated People's Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianjun Ge
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Affiliated People's Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liping Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated People's Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wanjun Yu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated People's Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huaying Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated People's Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chu X, Tian W, Ning J, Xiao G, Zhou Y, Wang Z, Zhai Z, Tanzhu G, Yang J, Zhou R. Cancer stem cells: advances in knowledge and implications for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:170. [PMID: 38965243 PMCID: PMC11224386 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01851-y] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small subset of cells in tumors that are characterized by self-renewal and continuous proliferation, lead to tumorigenesis, metastasis, and maintain tumor heterogeneity. Cancer continues to be a significant global disease burden. In the past, surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were the main cancer treatments. The technology of cancer treatments continues to develop and advance, and the emergence of targeted therapy, and immunotherapy provides more options for patients to a certain extent. However, the limitations of efficacy and treatment resistance are still inevitable. Our review begins with a brief introduction of the historical discoveries, original hypotheses, and pathways that regulate CSCs, such as WNT/β-Catenin, hedgehog, Notch, NF-κB, JAK/STAT, TGF-β, PI3K/AKT, PPAR pathway, and their crosstalk. We focus on the role of CSCs in various therapeutic outcomes and resistance, including how the treatments affect the content of CSCs and the alteration of related molecules, CSCs-mediated therapeutic resistance, and the clinical value of targeting CSCs in patients with refractory, progressed or advanced tumors. In summary, CSCs affect therapeutic efficacy, and the treatment method of targeting CSCs is still difficult to determine. Clarifying regulatory mechanisms and targeting biomarkers of CSCs is currently the mainstream idea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianjing Chu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Wentao Tian
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Jiaoyang Ning
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Gang Xiao
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yunqi Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Ziqi Wang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Zhuofan Zhai
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Guilong Tanzhu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Rongrong Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Xiangya Lung Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410008, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chong ZX, Ho WY, Yeap SK. Decoding the tumour-modulatory roles of LIMK2. Life Sci 2024; 347:122609. [PMID: 38580197 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
LIM domains kinase 2 (LIMK2) is a 72 kDa protein that regulates actin and cytoskeleton reorganization. Once phosphorylated by its upstream activator (ROCK1), LIMK2 can phosphorylate cofilin to inactivate it. This relieves the levering stress on actin and allows polymerization to occur. Actin rearrangement is essential in regulating cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and migration. Dysregulation of the ROCK1/LIMK2/cofilin pathway has been reported to link to the development of various solid cancers such as breast, lung, and prostate cancer and liquid cancer like leukemia. This review aims to assess the findings from multiple reported in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on the potential tumour-regulatory role of LIMK2 in different human cancers. The findings of the selected literature unraveled that activated AKT, EGF, and TGF-β pathways can upregulate the activities of the ROCK1/LIMK2/cofilin pathway. Besides cofilin, LIMK2 can modulate the cellular levels of other proteins, such as TPPP1, to promote microtubule polymerization. The tumour suppressor protein p53 can transactivate LIMK2b, a splice variant of LIMK2, to induce cell cycle arrest and allow DNA repair to occur before the cell enters the next phase of the cell cycle. Additionally, several non-coding RNAs, such as miR-135a and miR-939-5p, could also epigenetically regulate the expression of LIMK2. Since the expression of LIMK2 is dysregulated in several human cancers, measuring the tissue expression of LIMK2 could potentially help diagnose cancer and predict patient prognosis. As LIMK2 could play tumour-promoting and tumour-inhibiting roles in cancer development, more investigation should be conducted to carefully evaluate whether introducing a LIMK2 inhibitor in cancer patients could slow cancer progression without posing clinical harms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Xiong Chong
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Wan Yong Ho
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Swee Keong Yeap
- China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences, Xiamen University Malaysia, 43900 Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang M, Hu S, Yang J, Yuan L, Han L, Liang F, Zhang F, Zhao H, Liu Y, Gao N. Arenobufagin inhibits lung metastasis of colorectal cancer by targeting c-MYC/Nrf2 axis. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 127:155391. [PMID: 38452690 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the commonest cancers worldwide. Metastasis is the most common cause of death in patients with CRC. Arenobufagin is an active component of bufadienolides, extracted from toad skin and parotid venom. Arenobufagin reportedly inhibits epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis in various cancers. However, the mechanism through which arenobufagin inhibits CRC metastasis remains unclear. PURPOSE This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which arenobufagin inhibits CRC metastasis. METHODS Wound-healing and transwell assays were used to assess the migration and invasion of CRC cells. The expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the CRC tissues was assessed using immunohistochemistry. The protein expression levels of c-MYC and Nrf2 were detected by immunoblotting. A mouse model of lung metastasis was used to study the effects of arenobufagin on CRC lung metastasis in vivo. RESULTS Arenobufagin observably inhibited the migration and invasion of CRC cells by downregulating c-MYC and inactivating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Pretreatment with the Nrf2 inhibitor brusatol markedly enhanced arenobufagin-mediated inhibition of migration and invasion, whereas pretreatment with the Nrf2 agonist tert‑butylhydroquinone significantly attenuated arenobufagin-mediated inhibition of migration and invasion of CRC cells. Furthermore, Nrf2 knockdown with short hairpin RNA enhanced the arenobufagin-induced inhibition of the migration and invasion of CRC cells. Importantly, c-MYC acts as an upstream modulator of Nrf2 in CRC cells. c-MYC knockdown markedly enhanced arenobufagin-mediated inhibition of the Nrf2 signaling pathway, cell migration, and invasion. Arenobufagin inhibited CRC lung metastasis in vivo. Together, these findings provide evidence that interruption of the c-MYC/Nrf2 signaling pathway is crucial for arenobufagin-inhibited cell metastasis in CRC. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our findings show that arenobufagin could be used as a potential anticancer agent against CRC metastasis. The arenobufagin-targeted c-MYC/Nrf2 signaling pathway may be a novel chemotherapeutic strategy for treating CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Siyi Hu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Jiawang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Liang Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Limin Han
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Feng Liang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Fenglin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Hailong Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou, PR China.
| | - Yun Liu
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Laboratory for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, PR China.
| | - Ning Gao
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yuan Y, Wu D, Hou Y, Zhang Y, Tan C, Nie X, Zhao Z, Hou J. Wnt signaling: Modulating tumor-associated macrophages and related immunotherapeutic insights. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 223:116154. [PMID: 38513742 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Wnt signaling pathways are highly conserved cascades that mediate multiple biological processes through canonical or noncanonical pathways, from embryonic development to tissue maintenance, but they also contribute to the pathogenesis of numerous cancers. Recent studies have revealed that Wnt signaling pathways critically control the interplay between cancer cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and potentially impact the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we summarize the evidence that Wnt signaling pathways boost the maturation and infiltration of macrophages for immune surveillance in the steady state but also polarize TAMs toward immunosuppressive M2-like phenotypes for immune escape in the TME. Both cancer cells and TAMs utilize Wnt signaling to transmit signals, and this interaction is crucial for the carcinogenesis and progression of common solid cancers, such as colorectal, gastric, hepatocellular, breast, thyroid, prostate, kidney, and lung cancers; osteosarcoma; and glioma. Specifically, compared with those in solid cancers, Wnt signaling pathways play a distinct role in the pathogenesis of leukemia. Efforts to develop Wnt-based drugs for cancer treatment are still ongoing, and some indeed enhance the anticancer immune response. We believe that the combination of Wnt signaling-based therapy with conventional or immune therapies is a promising therapeutic approach and can facilitate personalized treatment for most cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yimeng Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Dapeng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yifan Hou
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Cong Tan
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xiaobo Nie
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China; Henan Provincial Research Center for the Prevention and Diagnosis of Prostate Diseases, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.
| | - Zhenhua Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China; Henan Provincial Research Center for the Prevention and Diagnosis of Prostate Diseases, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.
| | - Junqing Hou
- Kaifeng 155 Hospital, China RongTong Medical Healthcare Group Co. Ltd., Kaifeng, China; Henan Provincial Research Center for the Prevention and Diagnosis of Prostate Diseases, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Radu P, Zurzu M, Tigora A, Paic V, Bratucu M, Garofil D, Surlin V, Munteanu AC, Coman IS, Popa F, Strambu V, Ramboiu S. The Impact of Cancer Stem Cells in Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4140. [PMID: 38673727 PMCID: PMC11050141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite incessant research, colorectal cancer (CRC) is still one of the most common causes of fatality in both men and women worldwide. Over time, advancements in medical treatments have notably enhanced the survival rates of patients with colorectal cancer. Managing metastatic CRC involves a complex tradeoff between the potential benefits and adverse effects of treatment, considering factors like disease progression, treatment toxicity, drug resistance, and the overall impact on the patient's quality of life. An increasing body of evidence highlights the significance of the cancer stem cell (CSC) concept, proposing that CSCs occupy a central role in triggering cancer. CSCs have been a focal point of extensive research in a variety of cancer types, including CRC. Colorectal cancer stem cells (CCSCs) play a crucial role in tumor initiation, metastasis, and therapy resistance, making them potential treatment targets. Various methods exist for isolating CCSCs, and understanding the mechanisms of drug resistance associated with them is crucial. This paper offers an overview of the current body of research pertaining to the comprehension of CSCs in colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petru Radu
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Mihai Zurzu
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Anca Tigora
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Vlad Paic
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Mircea Bratucu
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Dragos Garofil
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Valeriu Surlin
- Sixth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova Emergency Clinical 7 Hospital, 200642 Craiova, Romania; (V.S.); (A.C.M.); (S.R.)
| | - Alexandru Claudiu Munteanu
- Sixth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova Emergency Clinical 7 Hospital, 200642 Craiova, Romania; (V.S.); (A.C.M.); (S.R.)
| | - Ionut Simion Coman
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
- General Surgery Department, “Bagdasar-Arseni” Clinical Emergency Hospital, 12 Berceni Road, 041915 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florian Popa
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Victor Strambu
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Sandu Ramboiu
- Sixth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova Emergency Clinical 7 Hospital, 200642 Craiova, Romania; (V.S.); (A.C.M.); (S.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cai X, Wang Z, Lin S, Chen H, Bu H. Ginsenoside Rg3 suppresses vasculogenic mimicry by impairing DVL3-maintained stemness via PAAD cell-derived exosomal miR-204 in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 126:155402. [PMID: 38350242 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is an angiogenesis-independent process that potentially contributes to the poor clinical outcome of anti-angiogenesis therapy in multiple malignant cancers, including pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD). Several studies have shown that ginsenoside Rg3, a bioactive component of ginseng, holds considerable potential for cancer treatment. Our previous work has proved that Rg3 can inhibit VM formation in PAAD. However, its underlying mechanism remains unclear. PURPOSE To explore the underlying mechanism by which Rg3 affects VM formation in PAAD. METHODS We first investigated the effects of Rg3 on the cellular phenotypes of two PAAD cell lines (SW-1990 and PCI-35), and the expression of EMT- and stemness-related proteins. SW-1990 cells were adopted to construct xenograft models, and the anti-tumor effects of Rg3 in vivo were validated. Subsequently, we isolated the exosomes from the two PAAD cell lines with Rg3 treatment or not, and explored whether Rg3 regulated VM via PAAD cell-derived exosomes. MiRNA sequencing, clinical analysis, and rescue experiments were performed to investigate whether and which miRNA was involved. Subsequently, the target gene of miRNA was predicted using the miRDB website (https://mirdb.org/), and rescue experiments were further conducted to validate those in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Rg3 indeed exhibited excellent anti-tumor effects both in vitro and in vivo, with inhibitory effects on EMT and stemness of PAAD cells. More interestingly, Rg3-treated PAAD cell-derived exosomes suppressed the tube-forming ability of HUVEC and PAAD cells, with a decrease in stemness-related protein expression, indicating that Rg3 inhibited both angiogenesis and VM processes. Subsequently, we found that Rg3 induced the up-regulation of miR-204 in PAAD cell-derived exosomes, and miR-204 alone inhibited tube and sphere formation abilities of PAAD cells like exosomes. Specifically, miR-204 down-regulated DVL3 expression, which was involved in regulating cancer cell stemness, and ultimately affected VM. The in vivo experiments further indicated that Rg3-treated SW-1990 cell-derived exosome-inhibited tumor growth, VM formation, and stemness-related protein expression can be abrogated by DVL3 overexpression. CONCLUSION Ginsenoside Rg3 increased the PAAD cell-derived exosomal miR-204 levels, which subsequently inhibited its target genes DVL3 expression in the receptor PAAD cells, and the down-regulated DVL3 broke stemness maintenance, ultimately suppressing VM formation of PAAD. Our findings revealed a novel mechanism by which Rg3 exerted its anti-tumor activity in PAAD via inhibiting VM, and provided a promising strategy to make up for the deficiency of anti-angiogenesis therapy in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xufan Cai
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaohong Wang
- Department of hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengzhang Lin
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, #51 Huzhou Street, Gongshu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Heqi Bu
- Department of Surgery, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310012, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Jiang J, Wang Y, Sun M, Luo X, Zhang Z, Wang Y, Li S, Hu D, Zhang J, Wu Z, Chen X, Zhang B, Xu X, Wang S, Xu S, Huang W, Xia L. SOX on tumors, a comfort or a constraint? Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:67. [PMID: 38331879 PMCID: PMC10853543 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01834-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The sex-determining region Y (SRY)-related high-mobility group (HMG) box (SOX) family, composed of 20 transcription factors, is a conserved family with a highly homologous HMG domain. Due to their crucial role in determining cell fate, the dysregulation of SOX family members is closely associated with tumorigenesis, including tumor invasion, metastasis, proliferation, apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, stemness and drug resistance. Despite considerable research to investigate the mechanisms and functions of the SOX family, confusion remains regarding aspects such as the role of the SOX family in tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and contradictory impacts the SOX family exerts on tumors. This review summarizes the physiological function of the SOX family and their multiple roles in tumors, with a focus on the relationship between the SOX family and TIME, aiming to propose their potential role in cancer and promising methods for treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junqing Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yufei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Mengyu Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiangyuan Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zerui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yijun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Siwen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Dian Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jiaqian Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhangfan Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Bixiang Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Westlake university school of medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Shengjun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Wenjie Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China.
| | - Limin Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wu Z, Zhou S, Liang D, Mu L. GPX2 acts as an oncogene and cudraflavone C has an anti-tumor effect by suppressing GPX2-dependent Wnt/β-catenin pathway in colorectal cancer cells. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:1115-1125. [PMID: 37610461 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02668-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is a common cancer associated with poor prognosis, and cudraflavone C (Cud C) is a natural flavonol with reported anti-CRC capacity. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the anti-CRC effect require further demonstration. The aim of present study was to evaluate the impact of Cud C on the cell viability and apoptosis of CRC cells and to determine the underlying mechanisms. The Human Protein Atlas (THPA) and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) databases were used to analyze the expression status of glutathione peroxidase 2 (GPX2) in CRC. Cell viability was examined using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Flow cytometry was utilized to evaluate apoptosis. The levels of gene transcription and protein expression of GPX2, caspase-3, cleaved caspase-3), β-catenin, and c-Myc were determined by RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Our results showed that GPX2 was overexpressed in CRC as compared to normal tissue and the extent of GPX2 overexpression is greatest in CRC when compared with other cancers according to GEPIA and THPA databases. GPX2 knockdown significantly suppressed the cell viability, induced apoptosis of CRC cell lines, and restrained the activity of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Cud C treatment decreased cell viability, induced apoptosis in CRC cell lines, and diminished the expression level of GPX2-dependent activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, while such effects can be abolished by GPX2 overexpression. In conclusion, Cud C suppressed GPX2-dependent Wnt/β-catenin pathway to exert anti-CRC function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Wu
- Uutpatient Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Su Zhou
- Department of Drug Management, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Liang
- Department of Otolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, 5-2 Renmin Street, Jinzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Lan Mu
- Department of Otolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, 5-2 Renmin Street, Jinzhou, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Alshahrani SH, Rakhimov N, Rana A, Alsaab HO, Hjazi A, Adile M, Abosaooda M, Abdulhussien Alazbjee AA, Alsalamy A, Mahmoudi R. Dishevelled: An emerging therapeutic oncogene in human cancers. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 250:154793. [PMID: 37683388 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a multifaceted and complex disorder characterized by uncontrolled rates of cell proliferation and its ability to spread and attack other organs. Emerging data indicated several pathways and molecular targets are engaged in cancer progression. Among them, the Wnt signaling pathway was shown to have a crucial role in cancer onset and progression. Dishevelled (DVL) acts in a branch point of canonical and non-canonical Wnt pathway. DVL not only acts in the cytoplasm to inactivate the destruction complex of β-catenin but is also transported into the nucleus to affect the transcription of target genes. Available data revealed that the expression levels of DVL increased in cell and clinical specimens of various cancers, proposing that it may have an oncogenic role. DVL promoted cell invasion, migration, cell cycle, survival, proliferation, 3D-spheroid formation, stemness, and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and it suppressed cell apoptosis. The higher levels of DVL is associated with the clinicopathological characteristic of cancer-affected patients, including lymph node metastasis, tumor grade, histological type, and age. In addition, the higher levels of DVL could be a promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in cancer as well as it could be a mediator in cancer chemoresistance to Methotrexate, paclitaxel, and 5-fluorouracil. This study aimed to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism of DVL in cancer pathogenesis as well as to explore its importance in cancer diagnosis and prognosis as well as its role as a mediator in cancer chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nodir Rakhimov
- Department of Oncology, Samarkand State Medical University, Amir Temur Street 18, Samarkand, Uzbekistan; Department of Scientific Affairs,Tashkent State Dental Institute, Makhtumkuli 103, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Arti Rana
- Uttaranchal Institute of Technology, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun 248007, India
| | - Hashem O Alsaab
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohaned Adile
- Medical Technical College, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | | | | | - Ali Alsalamy
- College of Technical Engineering, Imam Ja'afar Al-Sadiq University, Al-Muthanna 66002, Iraq
| | - Reza Mahmoudi
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|