1
|
Liu Q, Li M, Xiong Y, Shen Y, Ma T, Zhang T, Yang XR, Zhang Y, Bai J. EZH2 is a prognostic factor associated with tumor stemness and immune infiltration in skull base chordoma. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101133. [PMID: 38882008 PMCID: PMC11176624 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.101133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
| | - Mingxuan Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
| | - Yujia Xiong
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
| | - Yutao Shen
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
| | - Tianshun Ma
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
| | - Tianhao Zhang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
| | - Xiaohong R Yang
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Yazhuo Zhang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
| | - Jiwei Bai
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lin H, Liu C, Hu A, Zhang D, Yang H, Mao Y. Understanding the immunosuppressive microenvironment of glioma: mechanistic insights and clinical perspectives. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:31. [PMID: 38720342 PMCID: PMC11077829 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01544-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM), the predominant and primary malignant intracranial tumor, poses a formidable challenge due to its immunosuppressive microenvironment, thereby confounding conventional therapeutic interventions. Despite the established treatment regimen comprising surgical intervention, radiotherapy, temozolomide administration, and the exploration of emerging modalities such as immunotherapy and integration of medicine and engineering technology therapy, the efficacy of these approaches remains constrained, resulting in suboptimal prognostic outcomes. In recent years, intensive scrutiny of the inhibitory and immunosuppressive milieu within GBM has underscored the significance of cellular constituents of the GBM microenvironment and their interactions with malignant cells and neurons. Novel immune and targeted therapy strategies have emerged, offering promising avenues for advancing GBM treatment. One pivotal mechanism orchestrating immunosuppression in GBM involves the aggregation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), glioma-associated macrophage/microglia (GAM), and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Among these, MDSCs, though constituting a minority (4-8%) of CD45+ cells in GBM, play a central component in fostering immune evasion and propelling tumor progression, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. MDSCs deploy intricate immunosuppressive mechanisms that adapt to the dynamic tumor microenvironment (TME). Understanding the interplay between GBM and MDSCs provides a compelling basis for therapeutic interventions. This review seeks to elucidate the immune regulatory mechanisms inherent in the GBM microenvironment, explore existing therapeutic targets, and consolidate recent insights into MDSC induction and their contribution to GBM immunosuppression. Additionally, the review comprehensively surveys ongoing clinical trials and potential treatment strategies, envisioning a future where targeting MDSCs could reshape the immune landscape of GBM. Through the synergistic integration of immunotherapy with other therapeutic modalities, this approach can establish a multidisciplinary, multi-target paradigm, ultimately improving the prognosis and quality of life in patients with GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaxian Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ankang Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Duanwu Zhang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Guo H, Du M, Yang Y, Lin X, Wang Y, Li H, Ren J, Xu W, Yan J, Wang N. Sp1 Regulates the M1 Polarization of Microglia Through the HuR/NF-κB Axis after Spinal Cord Injury. Neuroscience 2024; 544:50-63. [PMID: 38387733 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.02.014] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The M1 polarization of microglia, followed by the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, hinders functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Our previous study has illuminated that specificity protein 1 (Sp1) expression is increased following SCI, whereas the function and regulatory mechanism of Sp1 during M1 polarization of microglia following SCI remain unknown. RNA binding protein, HuR, has been shown to be up-regulated in the injured spinal cord through analysis of the GEO database. Further investigation using Chip-Atlas data suggests a binding between Sp1 and HuR. Emerging evidence indicates that HuR plays a pivotal role in neuroinflammation after SCI. In this research, Sp1 and HuR levels in mice with SCI and BV2 cells treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was determined by using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting techniques. A series of in vitro assays were performed to investigate the function of Sp1 during M1 polarization of microglia. The association between Sp1 and its target gene HuR was confirmed through gene transfection and luciferase reporter assay. Enhanced expression of HuR was observed in both SCI mice and LPS-treated BV2 cells, while Sp1 knockdown restrained M1 polarization of microglia and its associated inflammation by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. Silencing Sp1 also suppressed microglia activation and its mediated inflammatory response, which could be reversed by overexpression of HuR. In conclusion, silencing Sp1 restrains M1 polarization of microglia through the HuR/NF-κB axis, leading to neuroprotection, and thus promotes functional restoration following SCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hangyu Guo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, PR China
| | - Mingyu Du
- Department of Operating Room, First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150007, PR China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, PR China
| | - Xin Lin
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, PR China
| | - Yufu Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, PR China
| | - Helin Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, PR China
| | - Jiyu Ren
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, PR China
| | - Wenbo Xu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, PR China
| | - Jinglong Yan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, PR China.
| | - Nanxiang Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
du Chatinier A, Velilla IQ, Meel MH, Hoving EW, Hulleman E, Metselaar DS. Microglia in pediatric brain tumors: The missing link to successful immunotherapy. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101246. [PMID: 37924816 PMCID: PMC10694606 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in children. Despite the development of immunotherapeutic strategies for adult brain tumors, progress in pediatric neuro-oncology has been hindered by the complex and poorly understood nature of the brain's immune system during early development, a phase that is critical for the onset of many pediatric brain tumors. A defining characteristic of these tumors is the abundance of microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system. In this review, we explore the concept of microglial diversity across brain regions and throughout development and discuss how their maturation stage may contribute to tumor growth in children. We also summarize the current knowledge on the roles of microglia in common pediatric brain tumor entities and provide examples of myeloid-based immunotherapeutic strategies. Our review underscores the importance of microglial plasticity in pediatric brain tumors and its significance for developing effective immunotherapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aimée du Chatinier
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Irene Querol Velilla
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Michaël Hananja Meel
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Eelco Wieger Hoving
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Esther Hulleman
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Dennis Serge Metselaar
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Messiaen J, Jacobs SA, De Smet F. The tumor micro-environment in pediatric glioma: friend or foe? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1227126. [PMID: 37901250 PMCID: PMC10611473 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1227126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality related to cancer in children, where high-grade glioma harbor the worst prognosis. It has become obvious that pediatric glioma differs significantly from their adult counterparts, rendering extrapolations difficult. Curative options for several types of glioma are lacking, albeit ongoing research efforts and clinical trials. As already proven in the past, inter- and intratumoral heterogeneity plays an important role in the resistance to therapy and thus implicates morbidity and mortality for these patients. However, while less studied, the tumor micro-environment (TME) adds another level of heterogeneity. Knowledge gaps exist on how the TME interacts with the tumor cells and how the location of the various cell types in the TME influences tumor growth and the response to treatment. Some studies identified the presence of several (immune) cell types as prognostic factors, but often lack a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms, possibly leading to contradictory findings. Although the TME in pediatric glioma is regarded as "cold", several treatment options are emerging, with the TME being the primary target of treatment. Therefore, it is crucial to study the TME of pediatric glioma, so that the interactions between TME, tumoral cells and therapeutics can be better understood before, during and after treatment. In this review, we provide an overview of the available insights into the composition and role of the TME across different types of pediatric glioma. Moreover, where possible, we provide a framework on how a particular TME may influence responses to conventional- and/or immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Messiaen
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sandra A. Jacobs
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Pediatric Oncology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frederik De Smet
- Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tao JC, Yu D, Shao W, Zhou DR, Wang Y, Hou SQ, Deng K, Lin N. Interactions between microglia and glioma in tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1236268. [PMID: 37700840 PMCID: PMC10493873 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1236268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliomas, the most prevalent primary tumors in the central nervous system, are marked by their immunosuppressive properties and consequent poor patient prognosis. Current evidence emphasizes the pivotal role of the tumor microenvironment in the progression of gliomas, largely attributed to tumor-associated macrophages (brain-resident microglia and bone marrow-derived macrophages) that create a tumor microenvironment conducive to the growth and invasion of tumor cells. Yet, distinguishing between these two cell subgroups remains a challenge. Thus, our review starts by analyzing the heterogeneity between these two cell subsets, then places emphasis on elucidating the complex interactions between microglia and glioma cells. Finally, we conclude with a summary of current attempts at immunotherapy that target microglia. However, given that independent research on microglia is still in its initial stages and has many shortcomings at the present time, we express our related concerns and hope that further research will be carried out to address these issues in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Cheng Tao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dong Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Chuzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People’s Hospital of Chuzhou, Chuzhou, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Chuzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People’s Hospital of Chuzhou, Chuzhou, Anhui, China
| | - Dong-Rui Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Chuzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People’s Hospital of Chuzhou, Chuzhou, Anhui, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Chuzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People’s Hospital of Chuzhou, Chuzhou, Anhui, China
| | - Shi-Qiang Hou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Chuzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People’s Hospital of Chuzhou, Chuzhou, Anhui, China
| | - Ke Deng
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Chuzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People’s Hospital of Chuzhou, Chuzhou, Anhui, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jahandideh A, Yarizadeh M, Noei-Khesht Masjedi M, Fatehnejad M, Jahandideh R, Soheili R, Eslami Y, Zokaei M, Ahmadvand A, Ghalamkarpour N, Kumar Pandey R, Nabi Afjadi M, Payandeh Z. Macrophage's role in solid tumors: two edges of a sword. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:150. [PMID: 37525217 PMCID: PMC10391843 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02999-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is overwhelmingly dictated by macrophages, intimately affiliated with tumors, exercising pivotal roles in multiple processes, including angiogenesis, extracellular matrix reconfiguration, cellular proliferation, metastasis, and immunosuppression. They further exhibit resilience to chemotherapy and immunotherapy via meticulous checkpoint blockades. When appropriately stimulated, macrophages can morph into a potent bidirectional component of the immune system, engulfing malignant cells and annihilating them with cytotoxic substances, thus rendering them intriguing candidates for therapeutic targets. As myelomonocytic cells relentlessly amass within tumor tissues, macrophages rise as prime contenders for cell therapy upon the development of chimeric antigen receptor effector cells. Given the significant incidence of macrophage infiltration correlated with an unfavorable prognosis and heightened resistance to chemotherapy in solid tumors, we delve into the intricate role of macrophages in cancer propagation and their promising potential in confronting four formidable cancer variants-namely, melanoma, colon, glioma, and breast cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arian Jahandideh
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Usern Office, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahsa Yarizadeh
- Islamic Azad University, Tehran Medical Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Noei-Khesht Masjedi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Fatehnejad
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Romina Jahandideh
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Roben Soheili
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Science, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Eslami
- Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Maryam Zokaei
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition Science, Food Science and Technology/National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ardavan Ahmadvand
- Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nogol Ghalamkarpour
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medicine, Student Research Committee, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Rajan Kumar Pandey
- Department Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division Medical Inflammation Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mohsen Nabi Afjadi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zahra Payandeh
- Department Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division Medical Inflammation Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Liu J, Piranlioglu R, Ye F, Shu K, Lei T, Nakashima H. Immunosuppressive cells in oncolytic virotherapy for glioma: challenges and solutions. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1141034. [PMID: 37234776 PMCID: PMC10206241 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1141034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive form of brain cancer characterized by the abundance of myeloid lineage cells in the tumor microenvironment. Tumor-associated macrophages and microglia (TAM) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), play a pivotal role in promoting immune suppression and tumor progression. Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are self-amplifying cytotoxic agents that can stimulate local anti-tumor immune responses and have the potential to suppress immunosuppressive myeloid cells and recruit tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes (TILs) to the tumor site, leading to an adaptive immune response against tumors. However, the impact of OV therapy on the tumor-resident myeloid population and the subsequent immune responses are not yet fully understood. This review provides an overview of how TAM and MDSC respond to different types of OVs, and combination therapeutics that target the myeloid population to promote anti-tumor immune responses in the glioma microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junfeng Liu
- Harvey Cushing Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Raziye Piranlioglu
- Harvey Cushing Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Fei Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Shu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ting Lei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hiroshi Nakashima
- Harvey Cushing Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Benefits and Challenges of Inhibiting EZH2 in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051537. [PMID: 36900330 PMCID: PMC10000483 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive thoracic cancer that is mainly associated with prior exposure to asbestos fibers. Despite being a rare cancer, its global rate is increasing and the prognosis remains extremely poor. Over the last two decades, despite the constant research of new therapeutic options, the combination chemotherapy with cisplatin and pemetrexed has remained the only first-line therapy for MPM. The recent approval of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB)-based immunotherapy has opened new promising avenues of research. However, MPM is still a fatal cancer with no effective treatments. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a histone methyl transferase that exerts pro-oncogenic and immunomodulatory activities in a variety of tumors. Accordingly, a growing number of studies indicate that EZH2 is also an oncogenic driver in MPM, but its effects on tumor microenvironments are still largely unexplored. This review describes the state-of-the-art of EZH2 in MPM biology and discusses its potential use both as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. We highlight current gaps of knowledge, the filling of which will likely favor the entry of EZH2 inhibitors within the treatment options for MPM patients.
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhang Y, Chen J, Liu H, Mi R, Huang R, Li X, Fan F, Xie X, Ding J. The role of histone methylase and demethylase in antitumor immunity: A new direction for immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1099892. [PMID: 36713412 PMCID: PMC9874864 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1099892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications may alter the proliferation and differentiation of normal cells, leading to malignant transformation. They can also affect normal stimulation, activation, and abnormal function of immune cells in the tissue microenvironment. Histone methylation, coordinated by histone methylase and histone demethylase to stabilize transcription levels in the promoter area, is one of the most common types of epigenetic alteration, which gained increasing interest. It can modify gene transcription through chromatin structure and affect cell fate, at the transcriptome or protein level. According to recent research, histone methylation modification can regulate tumor and immune cells affecting anti-tumor immune response. Consequently, it is critical to have a thorough grasp of the role of methylation function in cancer treatment. In this review, we discussed recent data on the mechanisms of histone methylation on factors associated with immune resistance of tumor cells and regulation of immune cell function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanling Zhang
- School of Medicine, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Junhao Chen
- Graduate School of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Hang Liu
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Rui Mi
- Department of General Surgery, Zhijin County People’s Hospital, Bijie, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Xian Li
- Orthopedics Department, Dongguan Songshan Lake Tungwah Hospital, DongGuan, China
| | - Fei Fan
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Panzhihua University, Panzhihua, China
| | - Xueqing Xie
- School of Medicine, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jie Ding
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China,*Correspondence: Jie Ding,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhao L, Xu DG, Hu YH. The Regulation of Microglial Cell Polarization in the Tumor Microenvironment: A New Potential Strategy for Auxiliary Treatment of Glioma-A Review. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:193-204. [PMID: 35137327 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01195-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Glioma is the most common primary tumor of the central nervous system and normally should be treated by synthetic therapy, mainly with surgical operation assisted by radiotherapy and chemotherapy; however, the therapeutic effect has not been satisfactory, and the 5-year survival rates of anaplastic glioma and glioblastoma are 29.7% and 5.5%, respectively. To identify a more efficient strategy to treat glioma, in recent years, the influence of the inflammatory microenvironment on the progression of glioma has been studied. Various immunophenotypes exist in microglial cells, each of which has a different functional property. In this review, references about the phenotypic conversion of microglial cell polarity in the microenvironment were briefly summarized, and the differences in polarized state and function, their influences on glioma progression under different physiological and pathological conditions, and the interactive effects between the two were mainly discussed. Certain signaling molecules and regulatory pathways involved in the microglial cell polarization process were investigated, and the feasibility of targeted regulation of microglial cell conversion to an antitumor phenotype was analyzed to provide new clues for the efficient auxiliary treatment of neural glioma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong-Gang Xu
- Institute of Military Cognition and Brain Science, Research Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Hua Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Guan R, Mei J, Guo R. Analysis of the Prognosis Prediction Ability of a Necroptosis-Related Gene Signature and its Relationship With the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immune Microenvironment Using Bioinformatics Analysis and Experimental Validation. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2023; 22:15330338231182208. [PMID: 37335078 DOI: 10.1177/15330338231182208] [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: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most malignant cancers and has a poor prognosis. The immune microenvironment is closely related to the drug sensitivity of a tumor. Necroptosis was reported to be a key factor for HCC. The prognostic value of necroptosis-related genes and their association with the tumor immune microenvironment are still unknown. Methods: Necroptosis-related genes that could comprise a signature for predicting the prognosis of HCC cases were identified using univariate analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression analysis. The association between this prognosis prediction signature and HCC immune microenvironment was analyzed. The immunological activities and drug sensitivities were compared between different risk score groups identified using the prognosis prediction signature. The expression levels of the five genes comprising the signature were validated using RT-qPCR. Results: A prognosis prediction signature consisting of five necroptosis-related genes was constructed and validated. Its risk score was = (0.1634 × PGAM5 expression) + (0.0134 × CXCL1 expression) - (0.1007 × ALDH2 expression) + (0.2351 × EZH2 expression) - (0.0564 × NDRG2 expression). The signature was found to be significantly associated with the infiltration of B cells, CD4+ T cells, neutrophils, macrophages, and myeloid dendritic cells into the HCC immune microenvironment. The number of infiltrating immune cells and the expression levels of immune checkpoints in the immune microenvironment of high-risk score patients were higher. Sorafenib and immune checkpoint blockade were determined to be ideally suited for treating high-risk score patients and low-risk score patients, respectively. Finally, RT-qPCR results confirmed that the expression levels of EZH2, NDRG2, and ALDH2 were significantly down-regulated in HuH7 and HepG2 cells compared to those in LO2 cells. Conclusion: The necroptosis-related gene signature developed herein can classify patients with HCC according to prognosis risk well and is associated with infiltration of immune cells into the tumor immune microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renguo Guan
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Mei
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rongping Guo
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
McCornack C, Woodiwiss T, Hardi A, Yano H, Kim AH. The function of histone methylation and acetylation regulators in GBM pathophysiology. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1144184. [PMID: 37205197 PMCID: PMC10185819 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1144184] [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: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and lethal primary brain malignancy and is characterized by a high degree of intra and intertumor cellular heterogeneity, a starkly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and nearly universal recurrence. The application of various genomic approaches has allowed us to understand the core molecular signatures, transcriptional states, and DNA methylation patterns that define GBM. Histone posttranslational modifications (PTMs) have been shown to influence oncogenesis in a variety of malignancies, including other forms of glioma, yet comparatively less effort has been placed on understanding the transcriptional impact and regulation of histone PTMs in the context of GBM. In this review we discuss work that investigates the role of histone acetylating and methylating enzymes in GBM pathogenesis, as well as the effects of targeted inhibition of these enzymes. We then synthesize broader genomic and epigenomic approaches to understand the influence of histone PTMs on chromatin architecture and transcription within GBM and finally, explore the limitations of current research in this field before proposing future directions for this area of research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colin McCornack
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Timothy Woodiwiss
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa, IA, United States
| | - Angela Hardi
- Bernard Becker Medical Library, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Hiroko Yano
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- The Brain Tumor Center, Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Albert H. Kim
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- The Brain Tumor Center, Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- *Correspondence: Albert H. Kim,
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Microglia and Brain Macrophages as Drivers of Glioma Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415612. [PMID: 36555253 PMCID: PMC9779147 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence is accumulating that the tumour microenvironment (TME) has a key role in the progression of gliomas. Non-neoplastic cells in addition to the tumour cells are therefore finding increasing attention. Microglia and other glioma-associated macrophages are at the centre of this interest especially in the context of therapeutic considerations. New ideas have emerged regarding the role of microglia and, more recently, blood-derived brain macrophages in glioblastoma (GBM) progression. We are now beginning to understand the mechanisms that allow malignant glioma cells to weaken microglia and brain macrophage defence mechanisms. Surface molecules and cytokines have a prominent role in microglia/macrophage-glioma cell interactions, and we discuss them in detail. The involvement of exosomes and microRNAs forms another focus of this review. In addition, certain microglia and glioma cell pathways deserve special attention. These "synergistic" (we suggest calling them "Janus") pathways are active in both glioma cells and microglia/macrophages where they act in concert supporting malignant glioma progression. Examples include CCN4 (WISP1)/Integrin α6β1/Akt and CHI3L1/PI3K/Akt/mTOR. They represent attractive therapeutic targets.
Collapse
|
15
|
Wang Z, Guo Z, Wang X, Liao H, Chai Y, Wang Z, Wang Z. Inhibition of EZH2 Ameliorates Sepsis Acute Lung Injury (SALI) and Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Proliferation through the PD-L1 Pathway. Cells 2022; 11:cells11243958. [PMID: 36552722 PMCID: PMC9777373 DOI: 10.3390/cells11243958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Both sepsis acute lung injury (SALI) and non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are life-threatening diseases caused by immune response disorders and inflammation, but the underlining linking mechanisms are still not clear. This study aimed to detect the shared gene signature and potential molecular process between SALI and NSCLC. (2) Methods: RNA sequences and patient information on sepsis and NSCLC were acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to build a co-expression network associated with sepsis and NSCLC. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis of shared genes was intuitively performed by the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) database. The involvement of EZH2 in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and sepsis immune microenvironment (IME) was assessed by R software. Western blot, flow cytometry, and other in vitro assays were performed to further confirm the function and mechanism of EZH2 in NSCLC and SALI. (3) Results: WGCNA recognized three major modules for sepsis and two major modules for NSCLC, and there were seven shared genes identified for the two diseases. Additionally, the hub gene EZH2 was screened out. It was shown that EZH2 was closely related to the IME in the two diseases. In the validation assay, our data showed that EZH2 was expressed at a higher level in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of septic patients than those of healthy donors (HDs), and EZH2 was also expressed at a higher level in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced PBMCs and non-small cell lung cancer (A549) cells. EZH2 inhibitor (GSK343) downregulated the proliferation ability of A549 cells in a concentration-dependent manner, parallel with the decreased expression level of PD-L1. Similarly, GSK343 inhibited PD-L1 protein expression and downregulated the level of proinflammatory factors in LPS-induced PBMCs. In the co-culture system of PBMCs and human type II alveolar epithelial cells (ATIIs), the addition of GSK343 to PBMCs significantly downregulated the apoptosis of LPS-induced ATIIs. (4) Conclusions: This study illustrated that EZH2 inhibition could ameliorate A549 cell proliferation and LPS-induced ATII apoptosis in parallel with downregulation of PD-L1 protein expression, which provided new insights into molecular signaling networks involved in the pathogenetics of SALI and NSCLC.
Collapse
|
16
|
Chen X, Chen Y, Chen X, Wei P, Lin Y, Wu Z, Lin Z, Kang D, Ding C. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals intra-tumoral heterogeneity of glioblastoma and a pro-tumor subset of tumor-associated macrophages characterized by EZH2 overexpression. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2022; 1868:166534. [PMID: 36057370 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly heterogeneous disease with poor clinical outcome. AIM To comprehensively dissect molecular landscape of GBM and heterogeneous distribution and potential role of Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) in tumor microenvironment (TME). METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis was performed in GBM samples from 8 patients. Deconvolution analysis, immunofluorescence (IF) microscopy, reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), colony formation experiments, and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assays were performed to confirmed the potential role of EZH2 in TME cells. RESULTS Malignant cells exhibited remarkable heterogeneity in abnormal metabolic patterns. A mesenchymal-2-like (MES2-like) GBM subcluster with glial-immune dual feature was firstly discovered, which were associated with highly activated hallmark pathways, immune evasion associated transcription factor (IRF8), and poor survival. The oncogene, EZH2, was heterogeneously expressed in malignant cells and immune cells consistent with proliferative genes, cell-cycle transcription factors, and similar activated hallmark pathways. In a tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) subset (macrophage.3), EZH2 was highly expressed with similar changes of transcriptomic dynamics with cell-cycle genes and macrophages M2-phetotype genes. In addition, the subset tightly interacted with malignant cells. Deconvolution analysis showed increased abundance of the subset in GBM compared to low-grade glioma (LGG) and significant association with worse prognosis. Functional verification experiments confirmed the pro-tumor role of TAMs with EZH2 overexpression in GBM. CONCLUSIONS Our study illustrated a MES2-like GBM subcluster characterized by glial-immune dual feature and highlighted the pro-tumor role of a TAMs subset characterized by EZH2 overexpression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyong Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Yue Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Xiangrong Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Penghui Wei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Yuanxiang Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Zanyi Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Zhangya Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China.
| | - Dezhi Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China.
| | - Chenyu Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Huang R, Wu Y, Zou Z. Combining EZH2 inhibitors with other therapies for solid tumors: more choices for better effects. Epigenomics 2022; 14:1449-1464. [PMID: 36601794 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2022-0320] [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: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
EZH2 is an epigenetic regulator that methylates lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27) and is closely related to the development and metastasis of tumors. It often shows gain-of-function mutations in hematological tumors, while it is often overexpressed in solid tumors. EZH2 inhibitors have shown good efficacy in hematological tumors in clinical trials but poor efficacy in solid tumors. Therefore, current research on EZH2 inhibitors has focused on exploring additional combination strategies in solid tumors. Herein we summarize the combinations and mechanisms of EZH2 inhibitors and other therapies, including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy and epigenetic therapy, both in clinical trials and preclinical studies, aiming to provide a reference for better antitumor effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong Huang
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yirong Wu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Zhengyun Zou
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Roles of Chromatin Remodelling and Molecular Heterogeneity in Therapy Resistance in Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194942. [PMID: 36230865 PMCID: PMC9563350 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary We review the role of chromatin and epigenetic dysregulation in therapy resistance in glioblastoma. We discuss how epigenetic and genetic forces may cooperate to programme functional cell states that are inherently resistant to therapy. Targeting epigenetic factors that are dysregulated in this malignancy could, therefore, improve clinical outcomes for patients. We highlight some preclinical and clinical compounds that were tested or are currently being explored for glioblastoma. Lastly, we present our thoughts on the requirements for the development of next-generation epigenetic therapies. Abstract Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a therapy-resistant reservoir in glioblastoma (GBM). It is now becoming clear that epigenetic and chromatin remodelling programs link the stemlike behaviour of CSCs to their treatment resistance. New evidence indicates that the epigenome of GBM cells is shaped by intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including their genetic makeup, their interactions and communication with other neoplastic and non-neoplastic cells, including immune cells, and their metabolic niche. In this review, we explore how all these factors contribute to epigenomic heterogeneity in a tumour and the selection of therapy-resistant cells. Lastly, we discuss current and emerging experimental platforms aimed at precisely understanding the epigenetic mechanisms of therapy resistance that ultimately lead to tumour relapse. Given the growing arsenal of drugs that target epigenetic enzymes, our review addresses promising preclinical and clinical applications of epidrugs to treat GBM, and possible mechanisms of resistance that need to be overcome.
Collapse
|
19
|
Wang YF, Yu L, Hu ZL, Fang YF, Shen YY, Song MF, Chen Y. Regulation of CCL2 by EZH2 affects tumor-associated macrophages polarization and infiltration in breast cancer. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:748. [PMID: 36038549 PMCID: PMC9424193 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05169-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) play an important role in tumorigenesis, development and anti-cancer drug therapy. However, very few epigenetic compounds have been elucidated to affect tumor growth by educating TAMs in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, we identified that EZH2 performs a crucial role in the regulation of TAMs infiltration and protumoral polarization by interacting with human breast cancer (BC) cells. We showed that EZH2 inhibitors-treated BC cells induced M2 macrophage polarization in vitro and in vivo, while EZH2 knockdown exhibited the opposite effect. Mechanistically, inhibition of EZH2 histone methyltransferase alone by EZH2 inhibitors in breast cancer cells could reduce the enrichment of H3K27me3 on CCL2 gene promoter, elevate CCL2 transcription and secretion, contributing to the induction of M2 macrophage polarization and recruitment in TME, which reveal a potential explanation behind the frustrating results of EZH2 inhibitors against breast cancer. On the contrary, EZH2 depletion led to DNA demethylation and subsequent upregulation of miR-124-3p level, which inhibited its target CCL2 expression in the tumor cells, causing arrest of TAMs M2 polarization. Taken together, these data suggested that EZH2 can exert opposite regulatory effects on TAMs polarization through its enzymatic or non-enzymatic activities. Our results also imply that the effect of antitumor drugs on TAMs may affect its therapeutic efficacy, and the combined application with TAMs modifiers should be warranted to achieve great clinical success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-fang Wang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China ,grid.440637.20000 0004 4657 8879Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Lei Yu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zong-long Hu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yan-fen Fang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yan-yan Shen
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Min-fang Song
- grid.440637.20000 0004 4657 8879School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yi Chen
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mabe NW, Huang M, Dalton GN, Alexe G, Schaefer DA, Geraghty AC, Robichaud AL, Conway AS, Khalid D, Mader MM, Belk JA, Ross KN, Sheffer M, Linde MH, Ly N, Yao W, Rotiroti MC, Smith BAH, Wernig M, Bertozzi CR, Monje M, Mitsiades CS, Majeti R, Satpathy AT, Stegmaier K, Majzner RG. Transition to a mesenchymal state in neuroblastoma confers resistance to anti-GD2 antibody via reduced expression of ST8SIA1. NATURE CANCER 2022; 3:976-993. [PMID: 35817829 PMCID: PMC10071839 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-022-00405-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy with anti-GD2 antibodies has advanced the treatment of children with high-risk neuroblastoma, but nearly half of patients relapse, and little is known about mechanisms of resistance to anti-GD2 therapy. Here, we show that reduced GD2 expression was significantly correlated with the mesenchymal cell state in neuroblastoma and that a forced adrenergic-to-mesenchymal transition (AMT) conferred downregulation of GD2 and resistance to anti-GD2 antibody. Mechanistically, low-GD2-expressing cell lines demonstrated significantly reduced expression of the ganglioside synthesis enzyme ST8SIA1 (GD3 synthase), resulting in a bottlenecking of GD2 synthesis. Pharmacologic inhibition of EZH2 resulted in epigenetic rewiring of mesenchymal neuroblastoma cells and re-expression of ST8SIA1, restoring surface expression of GD2 and sensitivity to anti-GD2 antibody. These data identify developmental lineage as a key determinant of sensitivity to anti-GD2 based immunotherapies and credential EZH2 inhibitors for clinical testing in combination with anti-GD2 antibody to enhance outcomes for children with neuroblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel W Mabe
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Min Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Guillermo N Dalton
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Gabriela Alexe
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Daniel A Schaefer
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anna C Geraghty
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Amanda L Robichaud
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amy S Conway
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Delan Khalid
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marius M Mader
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Julia A Belk
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth N Ross
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Michal Sheffer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Miles H Linde
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Immunology Graduate Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nghi Ly
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Winnie Yao
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Benjamin A H Smith
- Department of Chemical & Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Marius Wernig
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Carolyn R Bertozzi
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Ravindra Majeti
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ansuman T Satpathy
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kimberly Stegmaier
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Robbie G Majzner
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Shin DS, Park K, Garon E, Dubinett S. Targeting EZH2 to overcome the resistance to immunotherapy in lung cancer. Semin Oncol 2022; 49:S0093-7754(22)00045-8. [PMID: 35851153 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Unleashing the immune system to fight cancer has been a major breakthrough in cancer therapeutics since 2014 when anti-PD-1 antibodies (pembrolizumab and nivolumab) were approved for patients with metastatic melanoma. Therapeutic indications have rapidly expanded for many types of advanced cancer, including lung cancer. A variety of antibodies targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint are contributing to this paradigm shift. The field now confronts two salient challenges: first, to improve the therapeutic outcome given the low response rate across the histologies; second, to identify biomarkers for improved patient selection. Pre-clinical and clinical studies are underway to evaluate combinatorial treatments to improve the therapeutic outcome paired with correlative studies to identify the factors associated with response and resistance. One of the emerging strategies is to combine epigenetic modifiers with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) based on the evidence that targeting epigenetic elements can enhance anti-tumor immunity by reshaping the tumor microenvironment (TME). We will briefly review pleotropic biological functions of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the enzymatic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), clinical developments of oral EZH2 inhibitors, and potentially promising approaches to combine EZH2 inhibitors and PD-1 blockade for patients with advanced solid tumors, focusing on lung cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Sanghoon Shin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Division of Hematology/Oncology, CA, USA; Member of Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, CA, USA; Member of Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, CA, USA.
| | - Kevin Park
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Edward Garon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Member of Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, CA, USA
| | - Steven Dubinett
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Departments of Pathology, Laboratory Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology University of California Los Angeles, CA, USA; VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Division of Hematology/Oncology, CA, USA; Member of Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, CA, USA; Member of Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chen N, Peng C, Li D. Epigenetic Underpinnings of Inflammation: A Key to Unlock the Tumor Microenvironment in Glioblastoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:869307. [PMID: 35572545 PMCID: PMC9100418 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.869307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant brain tumor in adults, and immunotherapies and genetic therapies for GBM have evolved dramatically over the past decade, but GBM therapy is still facing a dilemma due to the high recurrence rate. The inflammatory microenvironment is a general signature of tumors that accelerates epigenetic changes in GBM and helps tumors avoid immunological surveillance. GBM tumor cells and glioma-associated microglia/macrophages are the primary contributors to the inflammatory condition, meanwhile the modification of epigenetic events including DNA methylation, non-coding RNAs, and histone methylation and deacetylases involved in this pathological process of GBM, finally result in exacerbating the proliferation, invasion, and migration of GBM. On the other hand, histone deacetylase inhibitors, DNA methyltransferases inhibitors, and RNA interference could reverse the inflammatory landscapes and inhibit GBM growth and invasion. Here, we systematically review the inflammatory-associated epigenetic changes and regulations in the microenvironment of GBM, aiming to provide a comprehensive epigenetic profile underlying the recognition of inflammation in GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Characteristic Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Characteristic Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Characteristic Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Chi G, Pei JH, Li XQ. EZH2-mediated H3K27me3 promotes autoimmune hepatitis progression by regulating macrophage polarization. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 106:108612. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
24
|
Wang Y, Shi R, Zhai R, Yang S, Peng T, Zheng F, Shen Y, Li M, Li L. Matrix stiffness regulates macrophage polarization in atherosclerosis. Pharmacol Res 2022; 179:106236. [PMID: 35483516 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease and the pathological basis of many fatal cardiovascular diseases. Macrophages, the main inflammatory cells in atherosclerotic plaque, have a paradox role in disease progression. In response to different microenvironments, macrophages mainly have two polarized directions: pro-inflammatory macrophages and anti-inflammatory macrophages. More and more evidence shows that macrophage is mechanosensitive and matrix stiffness regulate macrophage phenotypes in atherosclerosis. However, the molecular mechanism of matrix stiffness regulating macrophage polarization still lacks in-depth research, which hinders the development of new anti-atherosclerotic therapies. In this review, we discuss the important role of matrix stiffness in regulating macrophage polarization through mechanical signal transduction (Hippo, Piezo, cytoskeleton, and integrin) and epigenetic mechanisms (miRNA, DNA methylation, and histone). We hope to provide a new perspective for atherosclerosis therapy by targeting matrix stiffness and macrophage polarization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yin Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Ruotong Shi
- Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Ran Zhai
- Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Shiyan Yang
- Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Tianqi Peng
- Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Fuwen Zheng
- Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - YanNan Shen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Meiying Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Lisha Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
The Pivotal Immunoregulatory Functions of Microglia and Macrophages in Glioma Pathogenesis and Therapy. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:8903482. [PMID: 35419058 PMCID: PMC9001141 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8903482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Gliomas are mixed solid tumors composed of both neoplastic and nonneoplastic cells. In glioma microenvironment, the most common nonneoplastic and infiltrating cells are macrophages and microglia. Microglia are the exact phagocytes of the central nervous system, whereas macrophages are myeloid immune cells that are depicted with ardent phagocytosis. Microglia are heterogeneously located in almost all nonoverlapping sections of the brain as well as the spinal cord, while macrophages are derived from circulating monocytes. Microglia and macrophages utilize a variety of receptors for the detection of molecules, particles, and cells that they engulf. Both microglia and peripheral macrophages interact directly with vessels both in the periphery of and within the tumor. In glioma milieu, normal human astrocytes, glioma cells, and microglia all exhibited the ability of phagocytosing glioma cells and precisely apoptotic tumor cells. Also, microglia and macrophages are robustly triggered by the glioma via the expression of chemoattractants such as monocyte chemoattractant protein, stromal-derived factor-1, and macrophage-colony stimulating factor. Glioma-associated microglia and/or macrophages positively correlated with glioma invasiveness, immunosuppression, and patients' poor outcome, making these cells a suitable target for immunotherapeutic schemes.
Collapse
|
26
|
Li C, Song J, Guo Z, Gong Y, Zhang T, Huang J, Cheng R, Yu X, Li Y, Chen L, Ma X, Sun Y, Wang Y, Xue L. EZH2 Inhibitors Suppress Colorectal Cancer by Regulating Macrophage Polarization in the Tumor Microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:857808. [PMID: 35432300 PMCID: PMC9010515 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.857808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
EZH2 inhibitors (EZH2i), a class of small-molecule inhibitors that target EZH2 to exert anti-tumor functions, have just been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in treatment of adults and adolescents with locally advanced or metastatic epithelioid sarcoma. The application of EZH2i in several solid tumors is still in different stages of clinical trials and needs to be further validated. As a key epigenetic regulator, besides its role in controlling the proliferation of tumor cells, EZH2 has been implicated in the regulation of various immune cells including macrophages. But there are still controversial research results at present. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor that highly expresses EZH2, which has the third highest incidence and is the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Studies have shown that the numbers of M2-type tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are highly associated with the progression and metastasis of CRC. In the current study, we aim to investigate how EZH2 modulates the polarization of macrophages in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of CRC, and compare the role of two different EZH2 inhibitors, EPZ6438 and GSK126. We applied a 3D culture method to demonstrate that EZH2i did indeed suppress the proliferation of CRC cells in vitro. In vivo, we found that the percentage of CD206+ macrophages of the TME was decreased under the treatment of EPZ6438, but it increased upon GSK126 treatment. Besides, in the co-culture system of macrophages and CRC cells, EPZ6438 led to significant elevation of M1 markers and reduction of M2 markers. Furthermore, mechanistic studies validated by ChIP-qPCR demonstrated that EZH2i inhibit EZH2-mediated H3K27me3 levels on the promoters of STAT3, an essential transcription factor for M1 macrophage polarization. Therefore, our data suggested that EZH2i not only suppress CRC cell proliferation directly, but also regulate macrophage by skewing M2 into effector M1 macrophage to exert a tumor suppressive effect. Moreover, our study provided new insight for better understanding of the role of two kinds of EZH2i: EPZ6438 and GSK126, which may pave the way in treating CRC by targeting cancer cells and immune cells via this epigenetic approach in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital Cancer Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiagui Song
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhengyang Guo
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yueqing Gong
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tengrui Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital Cancer Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaqi Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital Cancer Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Cheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital Cancer Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotong Yu
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanfang Li
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Li Chen
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Ma
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Lixiang Xue, ; Yan Wang,
| | - Lixiang Xue
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital Cancer Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Lixiang Xue, ; Yan Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Zhou HJ, Wang LQ, Zhan RY, Zheng XJ, Zheng JS. lncRNA MEG3 restrained the M1 polarization of microglia in acute spinal cord injury through the HuR/A20/NF-κB axis. Brain Pathol 2022; 32:e13070. [PMID: 35338543 PMCID: PMC9425005 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The M1 polarization of microglia and neuroinflammation restrict the treatment of acute spinal cord injury (ASCI), and long non‐coding ribonucleic acid (lncRNA) maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) expression is lessened in ASCI. However, the function and mechanism of lncRNA MEG3 in the M1 polarization of microglia and neuroinflammation in ASCI are unclear. The expressions of lncRNA MEG3 in ASCI mouse spinal cord tissues and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐treated primary microglia and BV2 cells were quantified through a quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. In‐vitro assays were conducted to explore the function of lncRNA MEG3 in the M1 polarization of microglia and neuroinflammation in ASCI. RNA degradation, RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA pull‐down, cycloheximide‐chase, and ubiquitination analyses were carried out to probe into the mechanism of lncRNA MEG3 in the M1 polarization of microglia and neuroinflammation in ASCI. The lncRNA MEG3 expression was lessened in the ASCI mouse spinal cord tissues and LPS‐treated primary microglia and BV2 cells, and the overexpression of lncRNA MEG3 restrained the M1 polarization of microglia and the neuroinflammation by regulating the NF‐κB signaling pathway. For the investigation of the potential mechanism of such, the overexpression of lncRNA MEG3 restrained the M1 polarization of microglia through the HuR/A20/NF‐κB axis and boosted the motor function recovery and neuroinflammation relief in the mice with SCI. The overexpression of lncRNA MEG3 restrained the M1 polarization of microglia through the HuR/A20/NF‐κB axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heng-Jun Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li-Qing Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ren-Ya Zhan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiu-Jue Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jie-Sheng Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ye M, Gao R, Chen S, Wei M, Wang J, Zhang B, Wu S, Xu Y, Wu P, Chen X, Ma J, Ma D, Dong K. Downregulation of MEG3 and upregulation of EZH2 cooperatively promote neuroblastoma progression. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:2377-2391. [PMID: 35257481 PMCID: PMC8995459 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB), an embryonic tumour originating from sympathetic crest cells, is the most common extracranial solid tumour type in children with poor overall prognosis. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated the involvement of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) in numerous biological processes and their associations with embryonic development and multiple diseases. Ectopic lncRNA expression is linked to malignant tumours. Previous studies by our team indicate that MEG3 attenuates NB autophagy through inhibition of FOXO1 and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition via the mTOR pathway in vitro. Moreover, MEG3 and EZH2 negatively regulate each other. In present study, we first collected 60 NB tissues and 20 adjacent tissues for Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (Q‐PCR) experiments and performed clinical correlation analysis of the results. At the same time, nude mice were used for subcutaneous tumour formation to detect the effect of MEG3 in vivo. Two NB cell lines, SK‐N‐AS and SK‐N‐BE(2)C, were overexpressed MEG3 and rescued with EZH2 and then were subjected to proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis and autophagy experiments. RNA‐binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) and Co‐Immunoprecipitation (Co‐IP) experiments were performed to explore the molecular mechanism of MEG3 and EZH2 interaction. Q‐PCR revealed that MEG3 expression was negatively correlated with INSS stage and risk grade of NB. Moreover, MEG3 overexpression was associated with inhibition of NB growth in vivo. MEG3 exerted an anti‐cancer effect via stimulatory effects on EZH2 ubiquitination leading to its degradation. Conversely, EZH2 interacted with DNMT1 and HDAC1 to induce silencing of MEG3. The EZH2 inhibitor, DZNep, and HDAC inhibitor, SAHA, displayed synergistic activity against NB. Combined treatment with DZNep and SAHA inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion of NB through suppression of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/FOXO1 pathway. In conclusion, downregulation of MEG3 and upregulation of EZH2 forms a feedback loop that concertedly promotes the development of NB. Combined blockage of EZH2 and HDAC1 with the appropriate inhibitors may therefore present an effective treatment strategy for NB cases with low MEG3 and high EZH2 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mujie Ye
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Runnan Gao
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Shiyu Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Research Center for Birth Defects, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Wei
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Bowen Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Research Center for Birth Defects, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suwen Wu
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuexin Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Research Center for Birth Defects, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peixuan Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Research Center for Birth Defects, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Eye and ENT Hospital, ENT Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Department of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Eye and ENT Hospital, ENT Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Duan Ma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Research Center for Birth Defects, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kuiran Dong
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Glioblastoma Microenvironment and Cellular Interactions. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14041092. [PMID: 35205842 PMCID: PMC8870579 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This paper summarizes the crosstalk between tumor/non-tumor cells and other elements of the glioblastoma (GB) microenvironment. In tumor pathology, glial cells result in the highest number of cancers, and GB is considered the most lethal tumor of the central nervous system (CNS). The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex peritumoral hallo composed of tumor cells and several non-tumor cells (e.g., nervous cells, stem cells, fibroblasts, vascular and immune cells), which might be a key factor for the ineffective treatment since the microenvironment modulates the biologic status of the tumor with the increase in its evasion capacity. A deeper understanding of cell–cell interactions in the TME and with the tumor cells could be the basis for a more efficient therapy. Abstract The central nervous system (CNS) represents a complex network of different cells, such as neurons, glial cells, and blood vessels. In tumor pathology, glial cells result in the highest number of cancers, and glioblastoma (GB) is considered the most lethal tumor in this region. The development of GB leads to the infiltration of healthy tissue through the interaction between all the elements of the brain network. This results in a GB microenvironment, a complex peritumoral hallo composed of tumor cells and several non-tumor cells (e.g., nervous cells, stem cells, fibroblasts, vascular and immune cells), which might be the principal factor for the ineffective treatment due to the fact that the microenvironment modulates the biologic status of the tumor with the increase in its evasion capacity. Crosstalk between glioma cells and the brain microenvironment finally inhibits the beneficial action of molecular pathways, favoring the development and invasion of the tumor and its increasing resistance to treatment. A deeper understanding of cell–cell interactions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and with the tumor cells could be the basis for a more efficient therapy.
Collapse
|
30
|
EZH2 as a new therapeutic target in brain tumors: Molecular landscape, therapeutic targeting and future prospects. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 146:112532. [PMID: 34906772 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors are responsible for high mortality and morbidity worldwide. The brain tumor treatment depends on identification of molecular pathways involved in progression and malignancy. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has obtained much attention in recent years in field of cancer therapy due to its aberrant expression and capacity in modulating expression of genes by binding to their promoter and affecting methylation status. The present review focuses on EZH2 signaling in brain tumors including glioma, glioblastoma, astrocytoma, ependymomas, medulloblastoma and brain rhabdoid tumors. EZH2 signaling mainly participates in increasing proliferation and invasion of cancer cells. However, in medulloblastoma, EZH2 demonstrates tumor-suppressor activity. Furthermore, EZH2 can regulate response of brain tumors to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Various molecular pathways can function as upstream mediators of EZH2 in brain tumors including lncRNAs and miRNAs. Owing to its enzymatic activity, EZH2 can bind to promoter of target genes to induce methylation and affects their expression. EZH2 can be considered as an independent prognostic factor in brain tumors that its upregulation provides undesirable prognosis. Both anti-tumor agents and gene therapies such as siRNA have been developed for targeting EZH2 in cancer therapy.
Collapse
|
31
|
Development of a UPLC-MS/MS method for determination of a dual EZH1/2 inhibitor UNC1999 in rat plasma. Bioanalysis 2021; 14:67-74. [PMID: 34841882 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2021-0227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: We aimed to establish and validate a simple and sensitive UPLC-MS/MS method for the determination of UNC1999, a dual inhibitor against EZH1 and EZH2 in plasma samples. Materials & methods: UNC1999 in rat plasma was processed with protein precipitation method and then separated on a C18 column and detected under positive ionization mode. The method presented good linearity over the range of 1.0-2000 ng/ml with good accuracy and precision. UNC1999 was absorbed slowly and achieved a maximum concentration of 118.8 ± 12.0 ng/ml 1.5 h after oral administration. Conclusion: The method provides a favorable character in selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, recovery, matrix effects and stabilities and was suitable for describing the pharmacokinetic profile of UNC1999.
Collapse
|
32
|
Shang Y, Wu S, Li S, Qin X, Chen J, Ding J, Yang J. Downregulation of EZH2 in Trophoblasts Induces Decidual M1 Macrophage Polarization: a Potential Cause of Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:2820-2828. [PMID: 34820775 PMCID: PMC9537223 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00790-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are known to be pivotal for ensuring the establishment of the immune tolerance microenvironment at the maternal–fetal interface. In particular, trophoblasts stay in close contact with decidual macrophages (DMs), which have been reported to play an active role in the modulation of the polarization of DMs. Thus, any dysfunction of trophoblasts might be associated with certain pregnancy‐related complications, such as recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is an important epigenetic regulatory gene that has been previously shown to be related to immune regulation. The present study assessed the expression of EZH2 in villi tissue obtained from healthy controls and RSA patients. Trophoblasts conditioned medium was collected to incubate macrophages differentiated from the THP‐1 cell line. The expression and function of EZH2 in trophoblasts were knocked down either by the use of siRNA or GSK126 as an inhibitor. Our results show a significant decrease in the expression of EZH2 in villi tissue from RSA patients as compared to healthy controls. Further, the inhibition of expression or function of EZH2 in trophoblasts promoted M1 macrophage polarization, which might be involved in the pathogenesis of RSA. Moreover, the suppression of EZH2 was found to affect the secretion of immune and inflammatory cytokines in trophoblasts. Altogether, these results indicated the importance of EZH2 in the regulation of immune functions of trophoblasts and thus highlighted its potential to be explored as a therapeutic target to prevent and treat pregnancy loss.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Shang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jie Fang Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.,Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Shujuan Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jie Fang Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.,Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - SaiJiao Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jie Fang Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.,Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaolin Qin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jie Fang Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.,Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiao Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jie Fang Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.,Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinli Ding
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jie Fang Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.,Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jie Fang Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China. .,Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
The Pivotal Immunomodulatory and Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Histone-Lysine N-Methyltransferase in the Glioma Microenvironment: Its Biomarker and Therapy Potentials. Anal Cell Pathol (Amst) 2021; 2021:4907167. [PMID: 34745848 PMCID: PMC8566080 DOI: 10.1155/2021/4907167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a histone-lysine N-methyltransferase that encrypts a member of the Polycomb group (PcG) family. EZH2 forms a repressive chromatin structure which eventually participates in regulating the development as well as lineage propagation of stem cells and glioma progression. Posttranslational modifications are distinct approaches for the adjusted modification of EZH2 in the development of cancer. The amino acid succession of EZH2 protein makes it appropriate for covalent modifications, like phosphorylation, acetylation, O-GlcNAcylation, methylation, ubiquitination, and sumoylation. The glioma microenvironment is a dynamic component that comprises, besides glioma cells and glioma stem cells, a complex network that comprises diverse cell types like endothelial cells, astrocytes, and microglia as well as stromal components, soluble factors, and the extracellular membrane. EZH2 is well recognized as an essential modulator of cell invasion as well as metastasis in glioma. EZH2 oversecretion was implicated in the malfunction of several fundamental signaling pathways like Wnt/β-catenin signaling, Ras and NF-κB signaling, PI3K/AKT signaling, β-adrenergic receptor signaling, and bone morphogenetic protein as well as NOTCH signaling pathways. EZH2 was more secreted in glioblastoma multiforme than in low-grade gliomas as well as extremely secreted in U251 and U87 human glioma cells. Thus, the blockade of EZH2 expression in glioma could be of therapeutic value for patients with glioma. The suppression of EZH2 gene secretion was capable of reversing temozolomide resistance in patients with glioma. EZH2 is a promising therapeutic as well as prognostic biomarker for the treatment of glioma.
Collapse
|
34
|
Huang J, Zhang J, Guo Z, Li C, Tan Z, Wang J, Yang J, Xue L. Easy or Not-The Advances of EZH2 in Regulating T Cell Development, Differentiation, and Activation in Antitumor Immunity. Front Immunol 2021; 12:741302. [PMID: 34737746 PMCID: PMC8560704 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.741302] [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: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is the catalytic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), which regulates downstream gene expression by trimethylation of lysine 27 in histone H3 (H3K27me3). EZH2 mutations or overexpressions are associated with many types of cancer. As inhibition of EZH2 activity could upregulate the expression of tumor suppressor genes, EZH2 has recently become an interesting therapeutic target for cancer therapy. Moreover, accumulating evidence has shown that EZH2 may contribute to the regulation of immune cells, especially T cells. EZH2 regulates T cell development, differentiation, and function, suggesting that EZH2 also regulates immune homeostasis in addition to tumor suppressor genes. Moreover, EZH2 can regulate T cell fate by targeting non-T cell factors such as metabolism, cytokines, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. The role of EZH2 in this process has not been fully addressed. This review discusses up-to-date research on EZH2-mediated regulation of immunological function and the progress of immunological therapeutic strategies based on this regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhengyang Guo
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Tan
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Junjie Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jianling Yang
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lixiang Xue
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mormino A, Cocozza G, Fontemaggi G, Valente S, Esposito V, Santoro A, Bernardini G, Santoni A, Fazi F, Mai A, Limatola C, Garofalo S. Histone-deacetylase 8 drives the immune response and the growth of glioma. Glia 2021; 69:2682-2698. [PMID: 34310727 PMCID: PMC8457175 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Many epigenetic modifications occur in glioma, in particular the histone-deacetylase class proteins play a pivotal role in glioma development, driving the proliferation rate and the invasiveness of tumor cells, and modulating the tumor microenvironment. In this study, we evaluated the role of the histone deacetylase HDAC8 in the regulation of the immune response in glioma and tumor growth. We found that inhibition of HDAC8 by the specific inhibitor PCI-34051 reduces tumor volume in glioma mouse models. We reported that HDAC8 modulates the viability and the migration of human and murine glioma cells. Interestingly, HDAC8 inhibition increases the acetylation of alpha-tubulin, suggesting this epigenetic modification controls glioma migration. Furthermore, we identify HDAC8 as a key molecule that supports a poorly immunogenic tumor microenvironment, modulating microglial phenotype and regulating the gene transcription of NKG2D ligands that trigger the Natural Killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity of tumor cells. Altogether, these results identify HDAC8 as a key actor in glioma growth and tumor microenvironment, and pave the way to a better knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of immune escape in glioma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Giulia Fontemaggi
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit“Regina Elena” National Cancer Institute – IFORomeItaly
| | - Sergio Valente
- Department of Drug Chemistry and TechnologiesSapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| | - Vincenzo Esposito
- IRCCS NeuromedPozzilliItaly
- Department of Neurology and PsychiatrySapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| | - Antonio Santoro
- Department of Neurology and PsychiatrySapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| | - Giovanni Bernardini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur ItaliaSapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| | | | - Francesco Fazi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic & Orthopaedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur ItaliaSapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| | - Antonello Mai
- Department of Drug Chemistry and TechnologiesSapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| | - Cristina Limatola
- IRCCS NeuromedPozzilliItaly
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur ItaliaSapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| | - Stefano Garofalo
- Department of Physiology and PharmacologySapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Qiu M, Xu E, Zhan L. Epigenetic Regulations of Microglia/Macrophage Polarization in Ischemic Stroke. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:697416. [PMID: 34707480 PMCID: PMC8542724 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.697416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Microglia/macrophages (MMs)-mediated neuroinflammation contributes significantly to the pathological process of ischemic brain injury. Microglia, serving as resident innate immune cells in the central nervous system, undergo pro-inflammatory phenotype or anti-inflammatory phenotype in response to the microenvironmental changes after cerebral ischemia. Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetics modifications, reversible modifications of the phenotype without changing the DNA sequence, could play a pivotal role in regulation of MM polarization. However, the knowledge of the mechanism of epigenetic regulations of MM polarization after cerebral ischemia is still limited. In this review, we present the recent advances in the mechanisms of epigenetics involved in regulating MM polarization, including histone modification, non-coding RNA, and DNA methylation. In addition, we discuss the potential of epigenetic-mediated MM polarization as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for ischemic stroke. It is valuable to identify the underlying mechanisms between epigenetics and MM polarization, which may provide a promising treatment strategy for neuronal damage after cerebral ischemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meiqian Qiu
- Institute of Neurosciences and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University and Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - En Xu
- Institute of Neurosciences and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University and Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lixuan Zhan
- Institute of Neurosciences and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University and Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zhou S, Cisse B. Regulation of Microglia for the Treatment of Glioma. World Neurosurg 2021; 154:222-227. [PMID: 34583499 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.06.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Microglia are the resident macrophages of the central nervous system (CNS). They are derived from the erythromyeloid progenitors in the embryonic yolk sac, and they are maintained postnatally by limited self-renewal and longevity. As the most abundant immune cells in the CNS, they play critical roles in homeostasis and various CNS pathologies, including tumor, stroke, and neurodegenerative disease. For instance, in gliomas, up to more than 30% of cells in the tumor microenvironment can be microglia and tumor-associated macrophages. These cells are typically coopted by tumor cells to create a pro-tumorigenic microenvironment. The transcriptional regulation of the development and function of microglia in health and disease is not well understood. Transcription factors are master regulators of cell fates and functions and activate target genes that execute a genetic program typically initiated by external stimuli. Several transcription factors, not necessarily specific to microglia, have been shown to play roles in the development, function, and activation state of microglia. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the roles of transcription factors in the functions of microglia in normal CNS homeostasis and in gliomas. A thorough understanding of the transcription factors and their target genes that mediate and regulate the functions of microglia in gliomas may help identify new targets for immune therapies. These stroma-directed therapies may be combined with tumor cell-directed therapies for more effective treatment of these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sichang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Babacar Cisse
- Department of Neurosurgery, NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Huang Y, Wang W, Xu YY, Guo J, Jiao L, Wang H, Li M, Yang Q. Dextran sulfate inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis by regulating EZH2 in gastric carcinoma. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2021; 21:953-964. [PMID: 34551698 DOI: 10.2174/1568009621666210922112039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal malignancies. According to reports, the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) exhibits carcinogenic function in a variety of cancers. Therefore, EZH2 may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of human cancer. Macromolecular dextran sulfate (DS) has been displayed to play a critical role in tumor inhibition. However, the molecular mechanism by which DS mediates this effect is unclear. OBJECTIVES In this study, we explored the effects of DS on the proliferation and apoptosis of gastric cancer and the related mechanisms. Cell proliferation and counting assays, as well as cell colony formation assays, revealed that DS inhibited the proliferation and tumorigenesis of GC cells. Additionally, flow cytometry analysis displayed that DS blocked the cell cycle of GC cells in the G1/S phase and promoted their apoptosis. METHODS Bioinformatics analyses, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, immunohistochemistry, and other methods were applied to measure the expression of EZH2 in human GC cells and tissues. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Further studies have shown that DS treatment can reduce the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and increase the level of the ratio of Bax: Bcl-2 protein in GC cells. In addition, DS reduced EZH2 levels and increased CXXC finger protein 4 levels both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, down-regulation of EZH2 with EZH2 inhibitors reversed the inhibitory effect of DS on gastric cancer cells. CONCLUSION Collectively, our work demonstrates that DS suppresses proliferation and promotes apoptosis of GC cells by regulating EZH2. Our study suggests that DS is a promising therapeutic compound for the treatment of GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunning Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Affiliated People's Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750001. China
| | - Wenjun Wang
- Department of Pathology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan. China
| | - Yuan-Yi Xu
- Department of Pathology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan. China
| | - Jiaxin Guo
- Department of Pathology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan. China
| | - Longxing Jiao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Affiliated People's Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750001. China
| | - Honghong Wang
- Department of Pathology, the Affiliated People's Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750001. China
| | - Mengqi Li
- Department of Pathology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan. China
| | - Qi Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan NO.3 Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou. China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wu L, Li S, Pang S, Zhang B, Wang J, He B, Lv L, Wang W, Zhao N, Zhang Y. Effects of lead exposure on the activation of microglia in mice fed with high-fat diets. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2021; 36:1923-1931. [PMID: 34156151 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) exposure can cause central nervous system (CNS) damage. The process of Pb neurotoxicity is accompanied by the microglia activation. In addition, microglia activation was observed under the intervention of high-fat diets (HFD). This study was designed to investigate the effect of Pb on the cognitive function of mice with HFD, with focus on the microglia activation in brain. Male C57BL/6J mice, 8 weeks of age, were randomly divided into control, HFD, Pb, and HFD + Pb groups. The results showed that HFD following Pb exposure could exacerbate the learning and memory impairment in mice. Pb exposure could promote microglia activation and increase the expression of M1 microglia marker and decrease the expression of M2 microglia marker in the hippocampus of mice with HFD. Our finding suggested that Pb exposure may aggravate CNS damage by promoting M1 polarization and inhibiting M2 polarization of hippocampal microglia in HFD mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wu
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Experiment Animal Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Shulan Pang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- JiTang college of North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Jierui Wang
- Rheumatology Department, Kailuan General Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Bin He
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Linyi Lv
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Weixuan Wang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Na Zhao
- Experiment Animal Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Yanshu Zhang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
- Experiment Animal Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhou D, Luan J, Huang C, Li J. Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Friend or Foe? Gut Liver 2021; 15:500-516. [PMID: 33087588 PMCID: PMC8283292 DOI: 10.5009/gnl20223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, and it has diverse etiologies with multiple mechanisms. The diagnosis of HCC typically occurs at advanced stages when there are limited therapeutic options. Hepatocarcinogenesis is considered a multistep process, and hepatic macrophages play a critical role in the inflammatory process leading to HCC. Emerging evidence has shown that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are crucial components defining the HCC immune microenvironment and represent an appealing option for disrupting the formation and development of HCC. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the polarization and function of TAMs in the pathogenesis of HCC, as well as the mechanisms underlying TAM-related anti-HCC therapies. Eventually, novel insights into these important aspects of TAMs and their roles in the HCC microenvironment might lead to promising TAM-focused therapeutic strategies for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dexi Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, China.,Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Jiajie Luan
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, China.,Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Liu RJ, Li SY, Liu LQ, Xu B, Chen M. Identification of biomarkers, pathways and potential therapeutic target for docetaxel resistant prostate cancer. Bioengineered 2021; 12:2377-2388. [PMID: 34077304 PMCID: PMC8806863 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1936831] [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] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Docetaxel has been proved to provide survival benefit for advanced prostate cancer (PCa) patients. Resistance to docetaxel further reduces the survival of these patients. Herein, we performed a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between docetaxel sensitive and resistant PCa (DRPC) cell based on Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were applied for functional and pathway analysis of DEGs. The STRING database, cytoscape software and plug-in 'cytoHubba' were used to construct protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and identify hub genes. Survival analysis were performed via GEPIA database. Finally, we conducted immune infiltration analysis by TIMER. A total of 460 DEGs were identified. GO functional analysis showed that these DEGs are mainly enriched in chemotaxis, negative regulation of intracellular signal transduction, and regulation of cell adhesion, positive regulation of inflammatory response, regulation of response to cytokine stimulus. According to the results of KEGG pathway analysis, these DEGs are mainly involved in signaling by Rho GTPases, Miro GTPases and RHOBTB3; interferon Signaling; arginine biosynthesis; PI3K-Akt signaling pathway; cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction; MAPK signaling pathway. Finally, CCNB1 and EZH2 were identified as prognostic hub genes and the expression of these two genes were associated with immune infiltration. The present study may helps to improve the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of DRPC and facilitate the selection of therapeutic and prognostic biomarkers for DRPC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Ji Liu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Surgical Research Center, Institute of Urology, Southeast University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Shu-Ying- Li
- Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Cancer Hospital Affiliate to School of Medicine, UESTC, Chengdu, China
| | - Li-Quan Liu
- Department of Urology, Meishan City People's Hospital, Meishan, China
| | - Bin Xu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Surgical Research Center, Institute of Urology, Southeast University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Surgical Research Center, Institute of Urology, Southeast University Medical School, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Lishui District People's Hospital, Zhongda Hospital Lishui Branch, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Ma J, Chen CC, Li M. Macrophages/Microglia in the Glioblastoma Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115775. [PMID: 34071306 PMCID: PMC8198046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex interaction between glioblastoma and its microenvironment has been recognized for decades. Among various immune profiles, the major population is tumor-associated macrophage, with microglia as its localized homolog. The present definition of such myeloid cells is based on a series of cell markers. These good sentinel cells experience significant changes, facilitating glioblastoma development and protecting it from therapeutic treatments. Huge, complicated mechanisms are involved during the overall processes. A lot of effort has been dedicated to crack the mysterious codes in macrophage/microglia recruiting, activating, reprogramming, and functioning. We have made our path. With more and more key factors identified, a lot of new therapeutic methods could be explored to break the ominous loop, to enhance tumor sensitivity to treatments, and to improve the prognosis of glioblastoma patients. However, it might be a synergistic system rather than a series of clear, stepwise events. There are still significant challenges before the light of truth can shine onto the field. Here, we summarize recent advances in this field, reviewing the path we have been on and where we are now.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ming Li
- Correspondence: (C.C.C.); (M.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Zhai X, Li LS, Zhou YD, Ji WY, Chen H, Xiao H, Liang P. EZH2 regulates the malignancy of human glioblastoma cells via modulation of Twist mRNA stability. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 904:174177. [PMID: 34015321 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a lethal primary brain tumor with poor survival lifespan and dismal outcome. However, the effects and mechanisms of epigenetic factors on the development of GBM were still not well illustrated. We found that expression of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), which can catalyze histone H3K27me3 to modulate gene expression, was increased in GBM cells. Knockdown of EZH2 can suppress proliferation and migration, while increase temozolomide (TMZ) sensitivity, of GBM cells. Further, knockdown of EZH2 or its specific inhibitor GSK126 can decrease expression of Twist, while over expression of Twist can reverse si-EZH2-suppressed malignancy of GBM cells. Mechanistically, EZH2 can positively regulate mRNA stability of Twist1 mRNA. Further, miR-206, which can bind with 3'UTR of Twist1 mRNA, was involved in EZH2-regulated mRNA stability of Twist1. Collectively, our data suggest that EZH2 might be a potential target for GBM treatment. Further, miR-206/Twist axis is involved in EZH2-regulated malignancy of GBM cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China.
| | - Lu-Sheng Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China.
| | - Yu-Dong Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China.
| | - Wen-Yuan Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China.
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China.
| | - Han Xiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China.
| | - Ping Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Woolf Z, Swanson MEV, Smyth LC, Mee EW, Schweder P, Heppner P, Kim BJH, Turner C, Oldfield RL, Curtis MA, Faull RLM, Scotter EL, Park TIH, Dragunow M. Single-cell image analysis reveals a protective role for microglia in glioblastoma. Neurooncol Adv 2021; 3:vdab031. [PMID: 34286275 PMCID: PMC8284623 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdab031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Microglia and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) constitute up to half of the total tumor mass of glioblastomas. Despite these myeloid populations being ontogenetically distinct, they have been largely conflated. Recent single-cell transcriptomic studies have identified genes that distinguish microglia from TAMs. Here we investigated whether the translated proteins of genes enriched in microglial or TAM populations can be used to differentiate these myeloid cells in immunohistochemically stained human glioblastoma tissue. Methods Tissue sections from resected low-grade, meningioma, and glioblastoma (grade IV) tumors and epilepsy tissues were immunofluorescently triple-labeled for Iba1 (pan-myeloid marker), CD14 or CD163 (preferential TAM markers), and either P2RY12 or TMEM119 (microglial-specific markers). Using a single-cell-based image analysis pipeline, we quantified the abundance of each marker within single myeloid cells, allowing the identification and analysis of myeloid populations. Results P2RY12 and TMEM119 successfully discriminated microglia from TAMs in glioblastoma. In contrast, CD14 and CD163 expression were not restricted to invading TAMs and were upregulated by tumor microglia. Notably, a higher ratio of microglia to TAMs significantly correlated with increased patient survival. Conclusions We demonstrate the validity of previously defined microglial-specific genes P2RY12 and TMEM119 as robust discriminators of microglia and TAMs at the protein level in human tissue. Moreover, our data suggest that a higher proportion of microglia may be beneficial for patient survival in glioblastoma. Accordingly, this tissue-based method for myeloid population differentiation could serve as a useful prognostic tool.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Woolf
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Molly E V Swanson
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Leon C Smyth
- Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Edward W Mee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Patrick Schweder
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Neurosurgery, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Peter Heppner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Bernard J H Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Clinton Turner
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Anatomical Pathology, LabPlus, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Robyn L Oldfield
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, LabPlus, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Maurice A Curtis
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Richard L M Faull
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Emma L Scotter
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Thomas I-H Park
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michael Dragunow
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Mola S, Pinton G, Erreni M, Corazzari M, De Andrea M, Grolla AA, Martini V, Moro L, Porta C. Inhibition of the Histone Methyltransferase EZH2 Enhances Protumor Monocyte Recruitment in Human Mesothelioma Spheroids. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094391. [PMID: 33922336 PMCID: PMC8122808 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a highly aggressive cancer with a long latency period and dismal prognosis. Recently, tazemetostat (EPZ-6438), an inhibitor of the histone methyltransferase EZH2, has entered clinical trials due to the antiproliferative effects reported on MPM cells. However, the direct and indirect effects of epigenetic reprogramming on the tumor microenvironment are hitherto unexplored. To investigate the impact of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) on MPM cell responsiveness to tazemetostat, we developed a three-dimensional MPM spheroid model that recapitulates in vitro, both monocytes’ recruitment in tumors and their functional differentiation toward a TAM-like phenotype (Mo-TAMs). Along with an increased expression of genes for monocyte chemoattractants, inhibitory immune checkpoints, immunosuppressive and M2-like molecules, Mo-TAMs promote tumor cell proliferation and spreading. Prolonged treatment of MPM spheroids with tazemetostat enhances both the recruitment of Mo-TAMs and the expression of their protumor phenotype. Therefore, Mo-TAMs profoundly suppress the antiproliferative effects due to EZH2 inhibition in MPM cells. Overall, our findings indicate that TAMs are a driving force for MPM growth, progression, and resistance to tazemetostat; therefore, strategies of TAM depletion might be evaluated to improve the therapeutic efficacy of pharmacological inhibition of EZH2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Mola
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (S.M.); (G.P.); (A.A.G.); (L.M.)
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune & Allergic Diseases (CAAD), Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.C.); (M.D.A.); (V.M.)
| | - Giulia Pinton
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (S.M.); (G.P.); (A.A.G.); (L.M.)
| | - Marco Erreni
- Unit of Advanced Optical Microscopy, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Italy;
| | - Marco Corazzari
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune & Allergic Diseases (CAAD), Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.C.); (M.D.A.); (V.M.)
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Marco De Andrea
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune & Allergic Diseases (CAAD), Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.C.); (M.D.A.); (V.M.)
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Medical School, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Ambra A. Grolla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (S.M.); (G.P.); (A.A.G.); (L.M.)
| | - Veronica Martini
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune & Allergic Diseases (CAAD), Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.C.); (M.D.A.); (V.M.)
- Department of Translational Medicine (DIMET), University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Laura Moro
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (S.M.); (G.P.); (A.A.G.); (L.M.)
| | - Chiara Porta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (S.M.); (G.P.); (A.A.G.); (L.M.)
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune & Allergic Diseases (CAAD), Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.C.); (M.D.A.); (V.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0321-375883; Fax: +39-0321-375821
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Morini R, Bizzotto M, Perrucci F, Filipello F, Matteoli M. Strategies and Tools for Studying Microglial-Mediated Synapse Elimination and Refinement. Front Immunol 2021; 12:640937. [PMID: 33708226 PMCID: PMC7940197 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.640937] [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: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of microglia in controlling synapse homeostasis is becoming increasingly recognized by the scientific community. In particular, the microglia-mediated elimination of supernumerary synapses during development lays the basis for the correct formation of neuronal circuits in adulthood, while the possible reactivation of this process in pathological conditions, such as schizophrenia or Alzheimer's Disease, provides a promising target for future therapeutic strategies. The methodological approaches to investigate microglial synaptic engulfment include different in vitro and in vivo settings. Basic in vitro assays, employing isolated microglia and microbeads, apoptotic membranes, liposomes or synaptosomes allow the quantification of the microglia phagocytic abilities, while co-cultures of microglia and neurons, deriving from either WT or genetically modified mice models, provide a relatively manageable setting to investigate the involvement of specific molecular pathways. Further detailed analysis in mice brain is then mandatory to validate the in vitro assays as representative for the in vivo situation. The present review aims to dissect the main technical approaches to investigate microglia-mediated phagocytosis of neuronal and synaptic substrates in critical developmental time windows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Morini
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Pathology, Neurocenter, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Matteo Bizzotto
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Pathology, Neurocenter, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Fabio Perrucci
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Pathology, Neurocenter, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Fabia Filipello
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Pathology, Neurocenter, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy.,Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Michela Matteoli
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Pathology, Neurocenter, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), Institute of Neuroscience - URT Humanitas, Rozzano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Zhuang S, Liu B, Guo S, Xue Y, Wu L, Liu S, Zhang C, Ni X. Germacrone alleviates neurological deficits following traumatic brain injury by modulating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. BMC Complement Med Ther 2021; 21:6. [PMID: 33402180 PMCID: PMC7786997 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-03175-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Germacrone (GM) is a terpenoid compound which is reported to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects. However, its role in treating traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains largely unknown. METHODS Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into the following groups: control group, TBI group [controlled cortical impact (CCI) model], CCI + 5 mg/kg GM group, CCI + 10 mg/kg GM group and CCI + 20 mg/kg GM group. GM was administered via intraperitoneal injection. The neurological functions (including motor coordination, spatial learning and memory abilities) and brain edema were measured. Nissl staining was used to detect the neuronal apoptosis. Colorimetric assays and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits were used to determine the expression levels of oxidative stress markers including myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as the expressions of inflammatory markers, including tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Additionally, protein levels of Nrf2 and p-p65 were detected by Western blot assay. RESULTS GM significantly ameliorated motor dysfunction, spatial learning and memory deficits of the mice induced by TBI and it also reduced neuronal apoptosis and microglial activation in a dose-dependent manner. Besides, GM treatment reduced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress compared to those in the CCI group in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, GM up-regulated the expression of antioxidant protein Nrf2 and inhibited the expression of inflammatory response protein p-p65. CONCLUSIONS GM is a promising drug to improve the functional recovery after TBI via repressing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sujing Zhuang
- Department of Neurology, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi, 276400, Shandong, China
| | - Baogui Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi, 276400, Shandong, China
| | - Shifeng Guo
- Department of Neurology, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi, 276400, Shandong, China
| | - Yanzhong Xue
- Department of Neurology, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi, 276400, Shandong, China
| | - Lin Wu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit 2, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, 272000, Shandong, China
| | - Shiqi Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, 272000, Shandong, China
| | - Chunling Zhang
- Department of Intensive Care Unit 2, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, 272000, Shandong, China
| | - Xiuyan Ni
- Department of Radiotherapy, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi, 276400, Shandong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Kunadis E, Lakiotaki E, Korkolopoulou P, Piperi C. Targeting post-translational histone modifying enzymes in glioblastoma. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 220:107721. [PMID: 33144118 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor in adults, and the most lethal form of glioma, characterized by variable histopathology, aggressiveness and poor clinical outcome and prognosis. GBMs constitute a challenge for oncologists because of their molecular heterogeneity, extensive invasion, and tendency to relapse. Glioma cells demonstrate a variety of deregulated genomic pathways and extensive interplay with epigenetic alterations. Epigenetic modifications have emerged as essential players in GBM research, with biomarker potential for tumor classification and prognosis and for drug targeting. Histone posttranslational modifications (PTMs) are crucial regulators of chromatin architecture and gene expression, playing a pivotal role in malignant transformation, tumor development and progression. Alteration in the expression of genes coding for lysine and arginine methyltransferases (G9a, SUV39H1 and SETDB1) and acetyltransferases and deacetylases (KAT6A, SIRT2, SIRT7, HDAC4, 6, 9) contribute to GBM pathogenesis. In addition, proteins of the sumoylation pathway are upregulated in GBM cell lines, including E1 (SAE1), E2 (Ubc9) components, and a SUMO-specific protease (SENP1). Preclinical and clinical studies are currently in progress targeting epigenetic enzymes in gliomas, including a new generation of histone deacetylase (HDAC), protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT) and bromodomain (BRD) inhibitors. Herein, we provide an update on recent advances in glioma epigenetic research, focusing on the role of histone modifications and the use of epigenetic therapy as a valid treatment option for glioblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Kunadis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Eleftheria Lakiotaki
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Penelope Korkolopoulou
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Piperi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Shao FF, Chen BJ, Wu GQ. The functions of EZH2 in immune cells: Principles for novel immunotherapies. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 110:77-87. [PMID: 33040370 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.1ru0520-311r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is aberrantly expressed or mutated in multiple types of cancer cells and plays an oncogenic role in tumorigenesis and development in most cancers. Results from pilot clinical studies have implied that EZH2 inhibitors have therapeutic potential against some cancers. However, the exact mechanisms by which EZH2 plays oncogenic roles and EZH2 inhibition exerts anticancer effects are incompletely understood. To date, the findings of studies focusing on EZH2 and cancer cells have failed to fully explain the observations in preclinical and clinical studies. Therefore, recent studies about the roles of EZH2 in cancers have shifted from cancer cells to immune cells. The human immune system is a complex network comprising multiple subpopulations of immune cells. Immune cells communicate and interact with cancer cells during cancer development and treatment, dictating the fate of cancer cells. Elucidating the roles of EZH2 in immune cells, especially in cancer patients, promises the identification of novel immunotherapeutic strategies or priming of existing immunotherapies against cancer. Hence, we reviewed the studies focusing on the involvement of EZH2 in various immune cells, aiming to provide ideas for immunotherapies targeting EZH2 in immune cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Fei Shao
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bo-Jin Chen
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guo-Qing Wu
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Zhou P, Zheng G, Li Y, Wu D, Chen Y. Construction of a circRNA-miRNA-mRNA Network Related to Macrophage Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Genet 2020; 11:1026. [PMID: 33101367 PMCID: PMC7500212 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.01026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune cells in the tumor microenvironment play a crucial role in regulating tumor progression. The circular RNA (circRNA) regulatory network involved in immune cell infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains largely unknown. In this study, the “estimate the proportion of immune and cancer cells” (EPIC) application is used to evaluate the fractions of immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and endothelial cells in HCC from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Patients with a high macrophage fraction have better overall survival, and macrophage fraction is an independent prognostic factor for HCC. Next, the common differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs), miRNAs (DEmiRNAs), and circRNAs (DEcircRNAs) between paired tumor and non-tumor tissues are screened out from the TCGA and/or GEO databases. Through spearman correlation analysis, the macrophage-related DEmRNAs are identified to construct a circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network, which includes 6 DEcircRNAs, 7 DEmiRNAs, and 45 DEmRNAs. Functional enrichment analysis reveals that these DEmRNAs are mainly involved in immune-related processes. Furthermore, six hub DEmRNAs are identified to establish a hub circRNA regulatory network. Among the DEmRNAs in the network, PRC1 is identified as the most influential node. PRC1 high expression is correlated with poor prognosis and low macrophage infiltration in HCC. Taken together, we identify a certain circRNA regulatory network related to macrophage infiltration and provide novel insight into the mechanism of study and therapeutic targets for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peitao Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guanglei Zheng
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yalin Li
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dehua Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhan Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|