TRPM7 promotes the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in ovarian cancer through the calcium-related PI3K / AKT oncogenic signaling

Hypoxia-induced TRPM7 promotes glycolytic metabolism and progression in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hypoxia disrupts glucose metabolism in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily M, member 7 (TRPM7) plays an ontogenetic role. Thus, we aimed to explore the regulation of TRPM7 by hypoxia-induced factor (HIF) and its underlying mechanisms in HCC.

METHODS

hypoxia was induced in multiple HCC cells using 1% O2 or CoCl2 treatment, and subsequently blocked using siRNAs targeting HIF-1α or HIF-2α as well as a HIF-1α protein synthesis inhibitor. The levels of HIF-1α and TRPM7 were assessed using quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blot analysis. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase assays were performed to observe the regulation of TRPM7 promoter regions by HIF-1α. A PCR array was utilized to screen glucose metabolism-related enzymes in HEK293 cells overexpressing TRPM7 induced by tetracycline, and then verified in TRPM7-overexpressed huh7 cells. Finally, CCK-8, transwell, scratch and tumor formation experiments in nude mice were conducted to examine the effect of TRPM7 on proliferation and metastasis in HCC.

RESULTS

Exposure to hypoxia led to increase the levels of TRPM7 and HIF-1α in HCC cells, which were inhibited by HIF-1α siRNA or enhanced by HIF-1α overexpression. HIF-1α directly bound to two hypoxia response elements (HREs) in the TRPM7 promoter. Several glycolytic metabolism-related enzymes, were simultaneously upregulated in HEK293 and huh7 cells overexpressing TRPM7 during hypoxia. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that TRPM7 promoted the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

TRPM7 was directly transcriptionally regulated by HIF-1α, leading to glycolytic metabolic reprogramming and the promotion of HCC proliferation and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Our findings suggest that TRPM7 might be a potential diagnostic indicator and therapeutic target for HCC.

Development and therapeutic implications of small molecular inhibitors that target calcium-related channels in tumor treatment

Calcium ion dysregulation exerts profound effects on various physiological activities such as tumor proliferation, migration, and drug resistance. Calcium-related channels play a regulatory role in maintaining calcium ion homeostasis, with most channels being highly expressed in tumor cells. Additionally, these channels serve as potential drug targets for the development of antitumor medications. In this review, we first discuss the current research status of these pathways, examining how they modulate various tumor functions such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metabolism, and drug resistance. Simultaneously, we summarize the recent progress in the study of novel small-molecule drugs over the past 5 years and their current status.

TRPM7 facilitates fibroblast-like synoviocyte proliferation, metastasis and inflammation through increasing IL-6 stability via the PKCα-HuR axis in rheumatoid arthritis

Transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) is a cation channel that plays a role in the progression of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), yet its involvement in synovial hyperplasia and inflammation has not been determined. We previously reported that TRPM7 affects the destruction of articular cartilage in RA. Herein, we further confirmed the involvement of TRPM7 in fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) proliferation, metastasis and inflammation. We observed increased TRPM7 expression in FLSs derived from human RA patients. Pharmacological inhibition of TRPM7 protected primary RA-FLSs from proliferation, metastasis and inflammation. Furthermore, we found that TRPM7 contributes to RA-FLS proliferation, metastasis and inflammation by increasing the intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Mechanistically, the PKCα-HuR axis was demonstrated to respond to Ca2+ influx, leading to TRPM7-mediated RA-FLS proliferation, metastasis and inflammation. Moreover, HuR was shown to bind to IL-6 mRNA after nuclear translocation, which could be weakened by TRPM7 channel inhibition. Additionally, adeno-associated virus 9-mediated TRPM7 silencing is highly effective at alleviating synovial hyperplasia and inflammation in adjuvant-induced arthritis rats. In conclusion, our findings unveil a novel regulatory mechanism involved in the pathogenesis of RA and suggest that targeting TRPM7 might be a potential strategy for the prevention and treatment of RA.

The deregulation of arachidonic acid metabolism in ovarian cancer

Arachidonic acid (AA) is a crucial polyunsaturated fatty acid in the human body, metabolized through the pathways of COX, LOX, and cytochrome P450 oxidase to generate various metabolites. Recent studies have indicated that AA and its metabolites play significant regulatory roles in the onset and progression of ovarian cancer. This article examines the recent research advancements on the correlation between AA metabolites and ovarian cancer, both domestically and internationally, suggesting their potential use as biological markers for early diagnosis, targeted therapy, and prognosis monitoring.

Activin A, a Novel Chemokine, Induces Mouse NK Cell Migration via AKT and Calcium Signaling

Natural killer (NK) cells can migrate quickly to the tumor site to exert cytotoxic effects on tumors, and some chemokines, including CXCL8, CXCL10 or and CXCL12, can regulate the migration of NK cells. Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, is highly expressed in tumor tissues and involved in tumor development and immune cell activation. In this study, we focus on the effects of activin A on NK cell migration. In vitro, activin A induced NK cell migration and invasion, promoted cell polarization and inhibited cell adhesion. Moreover, activin A increased Ca2+, p-SMAD3 and p-AKT levels in NK cells. An AKT inhibitor and Ca2+ chelator partially blocked activin A-induced NK cell migration. In vivo, exogenous activin A increased tumor-infiltrating NK cells in NS-1 cell solid tumors and inhibited tumor growth, and blocking endogenous activin A with anti-activin A antibody reduced tumor-infiltrating NK cells in 4T-1 cell solid tumors. These results suggest that activin A induces NK cell migration through AKT signaling and calcium signaling and may enhance the antitumor effect of NK cells by increasing tumor-infiltrating NK cells.

TRPM7 Mediates BSCB Disruption After Spinal Cord Injury by Regulating the mTOR/JMJD3 Axis in Rats

After spinal cord injury (SCI), secondary injuries including blood cells infiltration followed by the production of inflammatory mediators are led by blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) breakdown. Therefore, preventing BSCB damage could alleviate the secondary injury progresses after SCI. Recently, we reported that transient receptor potential melastatin 7 channel (TRPM7) expression is increased in vascular endothelial cells after injury and thereby mediates BSCB disruption. However, the mechanism by which TRPM7 regulates BSCB disruption has not been examined yet. In current research, we show that TRPM7 mediates BSCB disruption via mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway after SCI in rats. After contusion injury at T9 level of spinal cord, mTOR pathway was activated in the endothelial cells of blood vessels and TRPM7 was involved in the activation of mTOR pathway. BSCB disruption, MMP-2/9 activation, and blood cell infiltration after injury were alleviated by rapamycin, a mTOR signaling inhibitor. Rapamycin also conserved the level of tight junction proteins, which were decreased after SCI. Furthermore, mTOR pathway regulated the expression and activation of histone H3K27 demethylase JMJD3, known as a key epigenetic regulator mediating BSCB damage after SCI. In addition, rapamycin inhibited JMJD3 expression, the loss of tight junction molecules, and MMP-2/9 expression in bEnd.3, a brain endothelial cell line, after oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation. Thus, our results suggest that TRPM7 contributes to the BSCB disruption by regulating JMJD3 expression through the mTOR pathway after SCI.

The Role of TRPM7 in Oncogenesis

This review summarizes the current understanding of the role of transient receptor potential melastatin-subfamily member 7 (TRPM7) channels in the pathophysiology of neoplastic diseases. The TRPM family represents the largest and most diverse group in the TRP superfamily. Its subtypes are expressed in virtually all human organs playing a central role in (patho)physiological events. The TRPM7 protein (along with TRPM2 and TRPM6) is unique in that it has kinase activity in addition to the channel function. Numerous studies demonstrate the role of TRPM7 chanzyme in tumorigenesis and in other tumor hallmarks such as proliferation, migration, invasion and metastasis. Here we provide an up-to-date overview about the possible role of TRMP7 in a broad range of malignancies such as tumors of the nervous system, head and neck cancers, malignant neoplasms of the upper gastrointestinal tract, colorectal carcinoma, lung cancer, neoplasms of the urinary system, breast cancer, malignant tumors of the female reproductive organs, prostate cancer and other neoplastic pathologies. Experimental data show that the increased expression and/or function of TRPM7 are observed in most malignant tumor types. Thus, TRPM7 chanzyme may be a promising target in tumor therapy.

Comprehensive analysis based on glycolytic and glutaminolytic pathways signature for predicting prognosis and immunotherapy in ovarian cancer

Background: Our study attempts to develop and identify an aerobic glycolysis and glutamine-related genes (AGGRGs) signature for estimating prognostic effectively of ovarian cancer (OV) patients. Materials & methods: OV related data were extracted from the multiple public databases, including TCGA-OV, GSE26193, GSE63885, and ICGC-OV. A consistent clustering approach was used to characterize the subtypes associated with AGGRGs. LASSO Cox regressions was utilized to construct the prognosis signatures of AGGRGs. In addition, GSE26193, GSE63885 and ICGC-OV served as independent external cohorts to assess the reliability of the model. In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to study the role of AAK1 in the malignant progression and glutamine metabolism of OV, and assessed its therapeutic potential for treating OV patients. Results: OV patients could be separated into four subtypes (quiescent, glycolysis, glutaminolytic, and mixed subtypes). The survival outcome of glutaminolytic subtype was notably worse than the glycolytic subtype. Besides, we identified eight AGGRGs (AAK1, GJB6, HMGN5, LPIN3, INTS6L, PPOX, SPAG4, and ZNF316) to establish a prognostic signature for OV patients. Comprehensive analysis revealed that the signature risk score served as an independent prognostic factor for OV. Additionally, high-risk OV patients were less sensitive to platinum and, conversely, were proved to be more responsive to immunotherapy than low-risk score. In cytological experiments, we found that AAK1 could promote cancer progression and glutamine metabolism via activating the Notch3 pathway in OV cells. Furthermore, knockdown of AAK1 significantly inhibited tumor growth and weight, decreased lung metastases, and ultimately extended the survival time of the nude mice. Conclusions: The prognostic signature of AGGRGs constructed could efficiently estimate the prognosis and immunotherapy effectiveness of OV patients. In addition, AAK1 may represent a promising therapeutic target for OV.

Circ_0070203 Promotes Epithelial-mesenchymal Transition in Ovarian Serous Cystadenocarcinoma through miR-370-3p/TGFβR2 Axis

INTRODUCTION

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are important biological molecules associated with the pathogenesis of multiple cancers.

OBJECTIVE

This work aimed to investigate the function and molecular mechanism of circ_0070203 in high-grade serous ovarian cystadenocarcinoma (HGSOC).

METHODS

circRNA microarray was conducted to detect the circ_0070203 expression in HGSOC tissues. Bioinformatics analysis was used to find the binding sites between circ_0070203, miR- 370-3p and TGFβR2. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) was executed to detect the expressions of circ_0070203, miR-370-3p and TGFβR2 in HGSOC tissues and SKOV3 cells. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was used to validate the relationships between miR-370-3p and circ_0070203 or TGFβR2. Besides, transwell assays were conducted to assess the migrative, invasive abilities of ovarian cancer (OC) cells. Western blotting was adopted to detect the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins. The related patents were also studied during the research.

RESULTS

Circ_0070203 and TGFβR2 were upregulated, while miR-370-3p was downregulated in FIGO stage III-IV HGSOC tissues and SKOV-3 cell lines. circ_0070203 overexpression changed the expression of other EMT-related proteins and enhanced the migrative, invasive abilities of OC cells, while silencing circ_0070203 worked oppositely. Mechanistically, circ_0070203 could upregulate TGFβR2 expression in OC cells via sponging miR-370-3p.

CONCLUSION

Circ_0070203 could promote the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, invasion, and metastasis of HGSOC via regulating the miR-370-3p/TGFβR2 axis. Our findings provided a potential biomarker for HGSOC therapy.

DNA Sensor-Based Strategy to Visualize the TRPM7 mRNA-Mg2+ Signaling Pathway in Cancer Cells

Technological advances and methodological innovations in cell signaling pathway analysis will facilitate progress in understanding biological processes, intervening in diseases, and screening drugs. In this work, an elaborate strategy for visualizing and monitoring the transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7)-Mg2+ signaling pathway in living cells was constructed through the logical analysis of upstream mRNA and downstream molecules by two individual DNA sensors. The DNA sensors are constructed by modifying the dye-labeled DNA sequences on the surface of gold nanoparticles. By hybridizing with upstream mRNA, Cy5-modified DNA sensor 1 can detect and silence it simultaneously, outputting a red fluorescence signal. When the upstream mRNA is silenced, the concentration of downstream molecules of Mg2+ will be affected and down-regulated. The FAM-modified DNA sensor 2 detects this change and emits a green fluorescence as a signal. Therefore, the dynamic information on TRPM7 mRNA and the Mg2+-mediated signaling pathway can be successfully obtained by fluorescence imaging methods. Furthermore, the TRPM7 mRNA-Mg2+ signaling pathway also affects cell activity and migratory function through cell scratching and other experiments. More importantly, the proposed sensor also shows potential for screening signaling pathway inhibitors. Our work provides a simple and general strategy for the visualization of signaling pathways, which helps to understand the changes in the physiological activities of cancer cells and the causes of carcinogenesis and is crucial for cancer diagnosis and prognosis.

Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the lineage of malignant epithelial cells and upregulation of TAGLN2 promotes peritoneal metastasis in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal metastasis (PM) is an important factor contributing to poor prognosis in patients with gastric cancer (GC). Transcriptomic sequencing has been used to explore the molecular changes in metastatic cancers, but comparing the bulk RNA-sequencing data between primary tumors and metastases in PM studies is unreasonable due to the small proportion of tumor cells in PM tissues.

METHODS

We performed single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis on four gastric adenocarcinoma specimens, including one primary tumor sample (PT), one adjacent nontumoral sample (PN), one peritoneal metastatic sample (MT) and one normal peritoneum sample (MN), from the same patient. Pseudotime trajectory analysis was used to display the process by which nonmalignant epithelial cells transform into tumor cells and then metastasize to the peritoneum. Finally, in vitro and in vivo assays were used to validate one of the selected genes that promote peritoneal metastasis.

RESULTS

Single-cell RNA sequencing showed that a development curve was found from normal mucosa to tumor tissues and then into metastatic sites on peritoneum. TAGLN2 was found to trigger this metastasis process. The migration and invasion capability of GC cells were changed by downregulating and upregulating TAGLN2 expression. Mechanistically, TAGLN2 might modulate tumor metastasis via alterations in cell morphology and several signaling pathways, thus promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we identified and validated TAGLN2 as a novel gene involved in GC peritoneal metastasis. This study provided valuable insight into the mechanisms of GC metastasis and developed a potential therapeutic target to prevent GC cell dissemination.

Long noncoding RNA FTX promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition of epithelial ovarian cancer through modulating miR-7515/TPD52 and activating Met/Akt/mTOR

Overexpressed long noncoding RNA FTX is associated with low survival rate of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients, and enhances tumor infiltration. Thus, we aim to illuminate the undefined underlying mechanisms. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was applied to detect the expressions of FTX, miR-7515, miR-342-3p, miR-940, miR-150-5p, miR-205-5p and tumor protein D52 (TPD52). Cell counting kit-8 and transwell assays were utilized to explore the cell viability, migration or invasion of EOC cells. Western blot was conducted to measure the expressions of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, Met, phosphorylated (p)-Met, Akt, p-Akt, mTOR and p-mTOR. LncBase and TargetScan predicted the binding of miR-7515 with FTX, and the binding of TPD52 with miR-7515, respectively. The two bindings were further validated by dual luciferase reporter assay. As a result, FTX sponged miR-7515 and miR-7515 targeted to TPD52. FTX was overexpressed in four EOC cell lines. Overexpressed FTX enhanced the cell viability, migration or invasion of EOC cells, elevated N-cadherin and TPD52 expressions, phosphorylated Met/Akt/mTOR, and inhibited E-cadherin expression. All these influences were subsequently reversed by miR-7515 mimic. Collectively, FTX regulates miR-7515/TPD52 to facilitate the migration, invasion or epithelial-mesenchymal transition of EOC through activating Met/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

Relationship Between MUC4 Variants and Metastatic Recurrence in Colorectal Cancer

Background

Recurrent metastasis after radical resection in patients of colorectal cancer (CRC) is a great challenge for the world, in which genomic alterations play a major role in tumorigenesis. MUC4 plays a significant role in recurrence and metastasis in tumor. This study is aimed at exploring the association between MUC4 variants and metastatic recurrence of CRC.

Methods

Forty-seven patients relapsing with metastasis and 37 patients remaining disease-free postoperatively were enrolled. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) detected mutations. Mutation and mRNA expression data were downloaded from TCGA and cBioPortal databases. We analyzed the relationship between MUC4 variants and clinical parameters, as well as possible molecular mechanisms.

Results

MUC4 variants rs56359992 and rs781124621 were associated with survival in patients with CRC. Rs56359992 was more common in patients with metastatic recurrence. MAPK pathway, PI3K-Akt pathway, JAK-STAT pathway, cell cycle, WNT pathway and mTOR pathway were found to correlate with MUC4 mutation by GO/KEGG analysis, as well as resting and activated mast cell related to MUC4 mutation by CIBERSORT analysis.

Conclusion

Genetic variants of MUC4 with CRC may constitute a molecular signature of metastatic recurrence. MUC4 may become a new target for the treatment of CRC recurrence.

Calcium signals and potential therapy targets in ovarian cancer (Review)

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a deadly disease. The poor prognosis and high lethality of OC are attributed to its high degrees of aggressiveness, resistance to chemotherapy and recurrence rates. Calcium ion (Ca2+) signaling has received attention in recent years, as it appears to form an essential part of various aspects of cancer pathophysiology and is a potential therapeutic target for OC treatment. Disruption of normal Ca2+ signaling pathways can induce changes in cell cycle progression, apoptosis, proliferation and migration and invasion, leading to the development of the malignant phenotype of tumors. In the present review, the main roles of ion channel/receptor/pump‑triggered Ca2+ signaling pathways located at the plasma membrane and organelle Ca2+ transport in OC are summarized. In addition, the potential of Ca2+ signaling as a novel target for the development of effective treatment strategies for OC was discussed. Furthering the understanding into the role of Ca2+ signaling in OC is expected to facilitated the identification of novel therapeutic targets and improved clinical outcomes for patients.

SGLT2 inhibitors prevent LPS-induced M1 macrophage polarization and alleviate inflammatory bowel disease by downregulating NHE1 expression

BACKGROUND

Classically activated M1 macrophages, characterized by aberrant glycolysis and secretion of inflammatory cytokines, play pivotal roles in inflammatory diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Recently, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors were shown to suppress Na+/H+ exchanger 1 (NHE1) and Na+/Ca2+ exchanger 1 (NCX1) activity, regulating downstream intracellular Ca2+ concentrations in cardiomyocytes. However, whether SGLT2 inhibitors regulate M1 macrophage polarization by downregulating NHE1 and NCX1 remains unknown.

METHODS

We analyzed cellular responses to SGLT2 inhibitors using mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages and peritoneal macrophages treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). To induce IBD, we used a dextran sulfate sodium salt-induced colitis mouse model.

RESULTS

We observed that NHE1 and NCX1 were overexpressed in LPS-treated macrophages, leading to M1 macrophage polarization. Mechanistically, NHE1 and NCX1-mediated Ca2+ accumulation in the macrophage resulted in enhanced glycolysis by promoting PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 signaling. SGLT2 inhibitors suppressed both the expression levels and activities of NHE1 and NCX1, and consequently downregulated PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 signaling and glycolysis in LPS-treated macrophages. We observed inhibition of LPS-stimulated M1 polarization and cytokine production by SGLT2 inhibitors in vitro, ex vivo, and in an IBD mouse model.

CONCLUSIONS

NHE1 promotes M1 macrophage polarization and SGLT2 inhibitors are a novel strategy to treat M1 macrophage-mediated inflammatory diseases, including IBD.

Roles of TRPM7 in ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer stands as the prevailing gynecologic malignancy, afflicting over 313,959 individuals annually worldwide, accompanied by more than 207,252 fatalities. Perturbations in calcium signaling contribute significantly to the pathogenesis of numerous cancers, including ovarian cancer, wherein alterations in calcium transporter expression have been reported. Overexpression of TRPM7, a prominent calcium transporter, has been linked to adverse prognostic outcomes in various cancer types. The focus of this comprehensive review centers around delineating the oncogenic role of TRPM7 in cancer development and exploring its therapeutic potential as a target in combating this disease. Notably, TRPM7 fosters cancer invasion, metastasis, and uncontrolled cell proliferation, thereby perpetuating the expansion and reinforcement of these malignant entities. Furthermore, this review takes ovarian cancer as an example and summarizes the "dual-mode" regulatory role of TRPM7 in cancer. Within the domain of ovarian cancer, TRPM7 assumes the role of a harsh tyrant, firmly controlling the calcium ion signaling pathway and metabolic reprogramming pathways.

Glycolysis in human cancers: Emphasis circRNA/glycolysis axis and nanoparticles in glycolysis regulation in cancer therapy

The metabolism of cancer has been an interesting hallmark and metabolic reprogramming, especially the change from oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria to glucose metabolism known as glycolysis occurs in cancer. The molecular profile of glycolysis, related molecular pathways and enzymes involved in this mechanism such as hexokinase have been fully understood. The glycolysis inhibition can significantly decrease tumorigenesis. On the other hand, circRNAs are new emerging non-coding RNA (ncRNA) molecules with potential biological functions and aberrant expression in cancer cells which have received high attention in recent years. CircRNAs have a unique covalently closed loop structure which makes them highly stable and reliable biomarkers in cancer. CircRNAs are regulators of molecular mechanisms including glycolysis. The enzymes involved in the glycolysis mechanism such as hexokinase are regulated by circRNAs to modulate tumor progression. Induction of glycolysis by circRNAs can significantly increase proliferation rate of cancer cells given access to energy and enhance metastasis. CircRNAs regulating glycolysis can influence drug resistance in cancers because of theirimpact on malignancy of tumor cells upon glycolysis induction. TRIM44, CDCA3, SKA2 and ROCK1 are among the downstream targets of circRNAs in regulating glycolysis in cancer. Additionally, microRNAs are key regulators of glycolysis mechanism in cancer cells and can affect related molecular pathways and enzymes. CircRNAs sponge miRNAs to regulate glycolysis as a main upstream mediator. Moreover, nanoparticles have been emerged as new tools in tumorigenesis suppression and in addition to drug and gene delivery, then mediate cancer immunotherapy and can be used for vaccine development. The nanoparticles can delivery circRNAs in cancer therapy and they are promising candidates in regulation of glycolysis, its suppression and inhibition of related pathways such as HIF-1α. The stimuli-responsive nanoparticles and ligand-functionalized ones have been developed for selective targeting of glycolysis and cancer cells, and mediating carcinogenesis inhibition.

Inhibition of Piezo1 Ameliorates Intestinal Inflammation and Limits the Activation of Group 3 Innate Lymphoid Cells in Experimental Colitis

Piezo1, the mechanosensory ion channel, has attracted increasing attention for its essential roles in various inflammatory responses and immune-related diseases. Although most of the key immune cells in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have been reported to be regulated by Piezo1, the specific role of Piezo1 in colitis has yet to be intensively studied. The present study investigated the impact of pharmacological inhibition of Piezo1 on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis and explored the role of Piezo1 in intestinal immune cells in the context of colitis. We observed upregulated expression of Piezo1 in the colon tissue of mice with DSS-induced colitis. Pharmacological inhibition of Piezo1 by GsMTx4 diminished the severity of colitis. Piezo1 inhibition downregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators Il1b, Il6, and Ptgs2 in colonic tissue and suppressed the production of IL-6 from macrophages and dendritic cells without altering the balance of T helper (Th) cells. In particular, Piezo1 did not affect cell viability but regulated cell proliferation and production of IL-17A in group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s), which is dependent on the PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling pathway. Our findings uncover Piezo1 as an effective regulator of gut inflammation. Targeting Piezo1 could be a promising strategy to modulate intestinal immunity in IBD.

Mechanosensitive Ion Channels: Their Physiological Importance and Potential Key Role in Cancer

Mechanosensitive ion channels comprise a broad group of proteins that sense mechanical extracellular and intracellular changes, translating them into cation influx to adapt and respond to these physical cues. All cells in the organism are mechanosensitive, and these physical cues have proven to have an important role in regulating proliferation, cell fate and differentiation, migration and cellular stress, among other processes. Indeed, the mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix in cancer change drastically due to high cell proliferation and modification of extracellular protein secretion, suggesting an important contribution to tumor cell regulation. In this review, we describe the physiological significance of mechanosensitive ion channels, emphasizing their role in cancer and immunity, and providing compelling proof of the importance of continuing to explore their potential as new therapeutic targets in cancer research.

TMTC1 promotes invasiveness of ovarian cancer cells through integrins β1 and β4

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy and is characterized by peritoneal disseminated metastasis. Although O-mannosyltransferase TMTC1 is highly expressed by ovarian cancer, its pathophysiological role in ovarian cancer remains unclear. Here, immunohistochemistry showed that TMTC1 was overexpressed in ovarian cancer tissues compared with adjacent normal ovarian tissues, and high TMTC1 expression was associated with poor prognosis in patients with ovarian cancer. Silencing TMTC1 reduced ovarian cancer cell viability, migration, and invasion in vitro, as well as suppressed peritoneal tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Moreover, TMTC1 knockdown reduced cell-laminin adhesion, which was associated with the decreased phosphorylation of FAK at pY397. Conversely, TMTC1 overexpression promoted these malignant properties in ovarian cancer cells. Glycoproteomic analysis and Concanavalin A (ConA) pull-down assays showed that integrins β1 and β4 were novel O-mannosylated protein substrates of TMTC1. Furthermore, TMTC1-mediated cell migration and invasion were significantly reversed by siRNA-mediated knockdown of integrin β1 or β4. Collectively, these results suggest that TMTC1-mediated invasive behaviors are primarily through integrins β1 and β4 and that TMTC1 is a potential therapeutic target for ovarian cancer.

miRNA-186-5p inhibits migration, invasion and proliferation of breast cancer cells by targeting SBEM

The paper aimed to investigate the effect of miR186-5p on invasion and migration of breast cancer cells and its molecular mechanism. MicroRNA-186-5p was found to be low expressed in breast cancer and highly expressed in SBEM by bioinformatics analysis. After transfecting MDA-MB-231 cells with miR-186-5p inhibitor NC, miR-186-5p inhibitor, miR-186-5p mimic NC and miR-186-5p mimic, respectively. The migration and invasive ability of breast cancer cells were detected by cell scratch test and Transwell test. Moreover, after adding 740 Y-P to the miR-186-5p mimic NC group and miR-186-5p mimic group cells, SBEM and PI3K pathway-related proteins were detected by Western blotting and proliferation of the cancer cells was evaluated by monoclonal cell experiment. Meanwhile, exogenous miR-186-5p mimic in MDA-MB-231 cells significantly inhibited the expression of SBEM, p-PI3K, p-AKT and their downstream pathways, MMP1, MMP3, MMP9, CyclinD1, PCNA and CyclinB1 proteins and reduced proliferation of breast cancer cells. Furthermore, the expression of SBEM protein in the miR-186-5p mimic + 740Y-P group was significantly lower than the miR-186-5p mimic NC + 740Y-P group after adding 740 Y-P. However, there were no significant changes in the protein's levels associated with PI3K pathway and the cancer cells proliferation. These results suggest that low expression of miR-186-5p in breast cancer results in an abnormally high expression of SBEM, activation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, promoting migration and invasion of human breast cancer cells.

LncRNA DGUOK-AS1 facilitates non-small cell lung cancer growth and metastasis through increasing TRPM7 stability via m6A modification

BACKGROUND

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification plays key roles in tumor progression. LncRNA deoxyguanosine kinase antisense RNA 1 (DGUOK-AS1) has been reported as a promoter in tumors, but its role and mechanism in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) development remain uncertain.

METHODS

Cell proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis were investigated via CCK-8, colony formation, transwell, and tube formation assays, respectively. The location of DGUOK-AS1 was detected via FISH assay. The interaction relationship among DGUOK-AS1, IGF2BP2 and TRPM7 was confirmed by RIP and MeRIP assays. The effects of DGUOK-AS1 on NSCLC growth and metastasis in vivo were investigated using xenograft and pulmonary metastatic models.

RESULTS

DGUOK-AS1 was upregulated in NSCLC. DGUOK-AS1 silencing inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis. DGUOK-AS1 was mostly expressed in cytoplasm, and positively regulated IGF2BP2. METTL3/IGF2BP2 axis could increase TRPM7 mRNA stability in m6A-dependent manner. TRPM7 overexpression reversed the inhibitive function of DGUOK-AS1 silencing on NSCLC development. DGUOK-AS1 knockdown suppressed NSCLC cell growth and metastasis in nude mice.

CONCLUSION

DGUOK-AS1 silencing restrains NSCLC cell growth and metastasis through decreasing TRPM7 stability via regulation of the METTL3/IGF2BP2-mediated m6A modification.

Ion Channels and Personalized Medicine in Gynecological Cancers

Targeted therapy against cancer plays a key role in delivering safer and more efficient treatments. In the last decades, ion channels have been studied for their participation in oncogenic processes because their aberrant expression and/or function have been associated with different types of malignancies, including ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancer. The altered expression or function of several ion channels have been associated with tumor aggressiveness, increased proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells and with poor prognosis in gynecological cancer patients. Most ion channels are integral membrane proteins easily accessible by drugs. Interestingly, a plethora of ion channel blockers have demonstrated anticancer activity. Consequently, some ion channels have been proposed as oncogenes, cancer, and prognostic biomarkers, as well as therapeutic targets in gynecological cancers. Here, we review the association of ion channels with the properties of cancer cells in these tumors, which makes them very promising candidates to be exploited in personalized medicine. The detailed analysis of the expression pattern and function of ion channels could help to improve the clinical outcomes in gynecological cancer patients.

Carvacrol enhances anti-tumor activity and mitigates cardiotoxicity of sorafenib in thioacetamide-induced hepatocellular carcinoma model through inhibiting TRPM7

AIMS

Sorafenib (Sora) represents one of the few effective drugs for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), while resistance and cardiotoxicity limit its therapeutic efficacy. This study investigated the effect of transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) inhibitor, carvacrol (CARV), on overcoming Sora resistance and cardiotoxicity in thioacetamide (TAA) induced HCC in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

TAA (200 mg/kg/twice weekly, intraperitoneal) was administered for 16 weeks to induce HCC. Rats were treated with Sora (10 mg/Kg/day; orally) and CARV (15 mg/kg/day; orally) alone or in combination, for six weeks after HCC induction. Liver and heart functions, antioxidant capacity, and histopathology were performed. Apoptosis, proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance were assessed by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunohistochemistry.

KEY FINDINGS

CARV/Sora combination significantly improved survival rate, and liver functions, reduced Alpha-Fetoprotein level, and attenuated HCC progression compared with Sora group. CARV coadministration almost obviated Sora-induced changes in cardiac and hepatic tissues. The CARV/Sora combination suppressed drug resistance and stemness by downregulating ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2, NOTCH1, Spalt like transcription factor 4, and CD133. CARV boosted Sora antiproliferative and apoptotic activities by decreasing cyclin D1 and B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 and increasing BCL2-Associated X and caspase-3.

SIGNIFICANCE

CARV/Sora is a promising combination for tumor suppression and overcoming Sora resistance and cardiotoxicity in HCC by modulating TRPM7. To our best knowledge, this study represents the first study to investigate the efficiency of CARV/ Sora on the HCC rat model. Moreover, no previous studies have reported the effect of inhibiting TRPM7 on HCC.

Intersection between calcium signalling and epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity in the context of cancer

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a form of cellular phenotypic plasticity and is considered a crucial step in the progression of many cancers. The calcium ion (Ca²⁺) acts as a ubiquitous second messenger and is implicated in many cellular processes, including cell death, migration, invasion and more recently EMT. Throughout this review, the complex interplay between Ca²⁺ signalling and EMT will be explored. An overview of the Ca²⁺ pathways that are remodelled as a consequence of EMT is provided and the role of Ca²⁺ signalling in regulating EMT and its significance is considered. Ca²⁺ signalling pathways may represent a therapeutic opportunity to regulate EMT. However, as will be described in this review, the complexity of these signalling pathways represents significant challenges that must be considered if Ca²⁺ signalling is to be manipulated with the aim of therapeutic intervention in cancer.

High expression of IGHG1 promotes breast cancer malignant development by activating the AKT pathway

This study researched the exact function of IgG1 heavy chain (IGHG1) on breast cancer (BC) progression. IGHG1 level within BC and paired normal tissues was acquired in Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis dataset. Meanwhile, this work harvested tumor and paired healthy tissues in 42 BC cases. siRNA targeting IGHG1 was transfected into BC cells. SC79 was used to treat the transfected BC cells. CCK-8 assay, clone formation experiment, BrdU assay, Transwell experiment and flow cytometry were carried out to measure the viability, colony formation, proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis of BC cells. Paclitaxel and cisplatin sensitivity of BC cells was evaluated by MTT assay. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western-blot were performed for measuring mRNA and protein expression. The overexpressed IGHG1 indicated dismal BC survival. IGHG1 silencing attenuated the viability, invasion, proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, but enhanced the apoptosis of BC cells. IGHG1 silencing enhanced the paclitaxel and cisplatin sensitivity of BC cells. IGHG1 silencing suppressed the activity of the MEK, AKT, and ERK pathways. AKT agonist partially reversed the inhibition of IGHG1 silencing on BC cell malignant phenotype and resistance to paclitaxel and cisplatin. IGHG1 promotes the malignant development of BC by activating the AKT pathway. It may be an effective target for BC treatment.

Cancerous inhibitor of protein phosphatase 2A enhances chemoresistance of gastric cancer cells to oxaliplatin

BACKGROUND

Cancerous inhibitor of protein phosphatase 2A (CIP2A) is a newly discovered oncogene. It is an active cell proliferation regulatory factor that inhibits tumor apoptosis in gastric cancer (GC) cells. CIP2A is functionally related to chemoresistance in various types of tumors according to recent studies. The underlying mechanism, however, is unknown. Further, the primary treatment regimen for GC is oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy. Nonetheless, it often fails due to chemoresistance of GC cells to oxaliplatin.

AIM

The goal of this study was to examine CIP2A expression and its association with oxaliplatin resistance in human GC cells.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry was used to examine CIP2A expression in GC tissues and adjacent normal tissues. CIP2A expression in GC cell lines was reduced using small interfering RNA. After confirming the silencing efficiency, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide tetrazolium and flow cytometry assays were used to evaluate cell proliferation and apoptosis caused by oxaliplatin treatment. Further, the key genes and protein changes were verified using real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR and Western blotting, respectively, before and after intervention. For bioinformatics analysis, we used the R software and Bioconductor project. For statistical analysis, we used GraphPad Prism 6.0 and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software version 20.0 (IBM, Armonk, United States).

RESULTS

A high level of CIP2A expression was associated with tumor size, T stage, lymph node metastasis, Tumor Node Metastasis stage, and a poor prognosis. Further, CIP2A expression was higher in GC cells than in normal human gastric epithelial cells. Using small interfering RNA against CIP2A, we discovered that CIP2A knockdown inhibited cell proliferation and significantly increased GC cell sensitivity to oxaliplatin. Moreover, CIP2A knockdown enhanced oxaliplatin-induced apoptosis in GC cells. Hence, high CIP2A levels in GC may be a factor in chemoresistance to oxaliplatin. In human GC cells, CIP2A regulated protein kinase B phosphorylation, and chemical inhibition of the protein kinase B signaling pathway was significantly associated with increased sensitivity to oxaliplatin. Therefore, the protein kinase B signaling pathway was correlated with CIP2A-enhanced chemoresistance of human GC cells to oxaliplatin.

CONCLUSION

CIP2A expression could be a novel therapeutic strategy for chemoresistance in GC.

On the modulation of TRPM channels: Current perspectives and anticancer therapeutic implications

The transient melastatin receptor potential (TRPM) ion channel subfamily functions as cellular sensors and transducers of critical biological signal pathways by regulating ion homeostasis. Some members of TRPM have been cloned from cancerous tissues, and their abnormal expressions in various solid malignancies have been correlated with cancer cell growth, survival, or death. Recent evidence also highlights the mechanisms underlying the role of TRPMs in tumor epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), autophagy, and cancer metabolic reprogramming. These implications support TRPM channels as potential molecular targets and their modulation as an innovative therapeutic approach against cancer. Here, we discuss the general characteristics of the different TRPMs, focusing on current knowledge about the connection between TRPM channels and critical features of cancer. We also cover TRPM modulators used as pharmaceutical tools in biological trials and an indication of the only clinical trial with a TRPM modulator about cancer. To conclude, the authors describe the prospects for TRPM channels in oncology.

The role of transient receptor potential channels in metastasis

Metastasis is the hallmark of failed tumor treatment and is typically associated with death due to cancer. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels affect changes in intracellular calcium concentrations and participate at every stage of metastasis. Further, they increase the migratory ability of tumor cells, promote angiogenesis, regulate immune function, and promote the growth of tumor cells through changes in gene expression and function. In this review, we explore the potential mechanisms of action of TRP channels, summarize their role in tumor metastasis, compile inhibitors of TRP channels relevant in tumors, and discuss current challenges in research on TRP channels involved in tumor metastasis.

Sevoflurane participates in the protection of rat renal ischemia-reperfusion injury by down-regulating the expression of TRPM7

INTRODUCTION

To investigate the protective effect of sevoflurane preconditioning on renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (renalischemiareperfusionmodel, RIRI) and its related mechanism.

METHODS

Eighty healthy adult male SD rats were randomly divided into control group (Sham group), model group (RIRI group), sevoflurane pretreatment group (Sev group) and TRPM7 inhibitor combined with sevoflurane pretreatment group (T + Sev group), 20 animals in each group. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the pathological changes of renal tissue, and the levels of creatinine and urea nitrogen in each group were detected. Deoxyribonucleic acid terminal transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay was used to detect renal cell apoptosis, and Western blottingwas used to detect the expression of apoptotic proteins cleaved-caspase-3, bax, Bcl-2, and TRPM7 in renal tissue; Detection of oxidative stress-related index levels in renal tissue and levels of inflammatory factors in renal tissue and serum.

RESULTS

Compared with the Sham group, the renal tissue pathological damage was aggravated, the levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen were increased, and the apoptosis was increased in the RIR group and the Sev group. Death, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and inflammatory factors were increased, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were decreased (all p < .05); The scores, apoptosis rate, MDA level, and relative expression of inflammatory factor levels were decreased, and SOD levels were increased (all p < .05). Compared with the Sev group, the renal tissue pathological damage in the T + Sev group was aggravated, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen levels increased, apoptosis increased, apoptosis-related proteins cleaved-caspase-3, bax, Bcl-2 showed increased apoptosis, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, inflammatory factor levels increased, ultrahigh The levels of oxide dismutase (SOD) were decreased (all p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, we believe that sevoflurane is involved in the protection of rat renal ischemia-reperfusion injury by downregulating the expression of TRPM7.

A pan-cancer-bioinformatic-based literature review of TRPM7 in cancers

TRPM7, a divalent cation-selective channel with kinase domains, has been widely reported to potentially affect cancers. In this study, we conducted multiple bioinformatic analyses based on open databases and reviewed articles that provided evidence for the effects of TRPM7 on cancers. The purposes of this paper are 1) to provide a pan-cancer overview of TRPM7 in cancers; 2) to summarize evidence of TRPM7 effects on cancers; 3) to identify potential future studies of TRPM7 in cancer. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that no cancer-related TRPM7 mutation was found. TRPM7 is aberrantly expressed in most cancer types but the cancer-noncancer expression pattern varies across cancer types. TRPM7 was not associated with survival, TMB, or cancer stemness in most cancer types. TRPM7 affected drug sensitivity and tumor immunity in some cancer types. The in vitro evidence, preclinical in vivo evidence, and clinical evidence for TRPM7 effects on cancers as well as TRPM7 kinase substrate and TRPM7-targeting drugs associated with cancers were summarized to facilitate comparison. We matched the bioinformatics evidence to literature evidence, thereby unveiling potential avenues for future investigation of TRPM7 in cancers. We believe that this paper will help orient research toward important and relevant aspects of the role of TRPM7 in cancers.

The interplay between physical cues and mechanosensitive ion channels in cancer metastasis

Physical cues have emerged as critical influencers of cell function during physiological processes, like development and organogenesis, and throughout pathological abnormalities, including cancer progression and fibrosis. While ion channels have been implicated in maintaining cellular homeostasis, their cell surface localization often places them among the first few molecules to sense external cues. Mechanosensitive ion channels (MICs) are especially important transducers of physical stimuli into biochemical signals. In this review, we describe how physical cues in the tumor microenvironment are sensed by MICs and contribute to cancer metastasis. First, we highlight mechanical perturbations, by both solid and fluid surroundings typically found in the tumor microenvironment and during critical stages of cancer cell dissemination from the primary tumor. Next, we describe how Piezo1/2 and transient receptor potential (TRP) channels respond to these physical cues to regulate cancer cell behavior during different stages of metastasis. We conclude by proposing alternative mechanisms of MIC activation that work in tandem with cytoskeletal components and other ion channels to bestow cells with the capacity to sense, respond and navigate through the surrounding microenvironment. Collectively, this review provides a perspective for devising treatment strategies against cancer by targeting MICs that sense aberrant physical characteristics during metastasis, the most lethal aspect of cancer.

Roles of calcium signaling in cancer metastasis to bone

Bone metastasis is a frequent complication for cancers and an important reason for the mortality in cancer patients. After surviving in bone, cancer cells can cause severe pain, life-threatening hypercalcemia, pathologic fractures, spinal cord compression, and even death. However, the underlying mechanisms of bone metastasis were not clear. The role of calcium (Ca2+) in cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion has been well established. Interestingly, emerging evidence indicates that Ca2+ signaling played a key role in bone metastasis, for it not only promotes cancer progression but also mediates osteoclasts and osteoblasts differentiation. Therefore, Ca2+ signaling has emerged as a novel therapeutical target for cancer bone metastasis treatments. Here, the role of Ca2+ channels and Ca2+-binding proteins including calmodulin and Ca2+-sensing receptor in bone metastasis, and the perspective of anti-cancer bone metastasis therapeutics via targeting the Ca2+ signaling pathway are summarized.

Integrated analysis of the M2 macrophage-related signature associated with prognosis in ovarian cancer

Background

M2 macrophages play an important role in cancer development. However, the underlying biological fator affecting M2 macrophages infiltration in ovarian cancer (OV) has not been elucidated.

Methods

R software v 4.0.0 was used for all the analysis. The expression profile and clinical information of OV patients enrolled in this study were all downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases.

Results

The CIBERSORT algorithm was used to quantify the M2 macrophage infiltration in OV tissue, which was found a risk factor for patients survival. Based on the limma package, a total of 196 DEGs were identified between OV patients with high and low M2 macrophage infiltration, which were defined as M2 macrophages related genes. Finally, the genes PTGFR, LILRA2 and KCNA1 were identified for prognosis model construction, which showed a great prediction efficiency in both training and validation cohorts (Training cohort, 1-year AUC = 0.661, 3-year AUC = 0.682, 8-year AUC = 0.846; Validation cohort, 1-year AUC = 0.642, 3-year AUC = 0.716, 5-year AUC = 0.741). Clinical correlation showed that the riskscore was associated with the worse clinical features. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that in high risk patients, the pathway of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), TNF-α signaling via NFKB, IL2/STAT5 signaling, apical junction, inflammatory response, KRAS signaling, myogenesis were activated. Moreover, we found that the PTGFR, LILRA2 and KCNA1 were all positively correlated with M2 macrophage infiltration and PTGFR was significantly associated with the pathway of autophagy regulation. Moreover, we found that the low risk patients might be more sensitive to cisplatin, while high risk patient might be more sensitive to axitinib, bexarotene, bortezomib, nilotinib, pazopanib.

Conclusions

In this study, we identified the genes associated with M2 macrophage infiltration and developed a model that could effectively predict the prognosis of OV patients.

Role of TRPV1 ion channel in cervical squamous cell carcinoma genesis

The transient receptor potential (TRP) family is a widely expressed superfamily of ion channels that regulate intracellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis and signal transduction. Abnormal expression of TRPV1 is closely related to malignant tumors of the female reproductive system such as breast, ovarian, cervical and endometrial cancers. In this study, we found a significant reduction of TRPV1 expression in cervical squamous cell carcinoma and this expression is inversely association with the risk of cervical squamous cell carcinoma. Furthermore, TRPV1 is involved in cell differentiation, iron death, inflammatory response, and metabolic regulation in cervical squamous cell carcinoma. Meanwhile TRPV1 is positively correlated with T cells and negatively associated with macrophages, indicating that TRPV is associated with tumor cell immunity. Therefore, TRPV1 may be a potential marker of cervical cancer and a promising anti-cancer drug candidate.

Glycosphingolipids are mediators of cancer plasticity through independent signaling pathways

The molecular repertoire promoting cancer cell plasticity is not fully elucidated. Here, we propose that glycosphingolipids (GSLs), specifically the globo and ganglio series, correlate and promote the transition between epithelial and mesenchymal cells. The epithelial character of ovarian cancer remains stable throughout disease progression, and spatial glycosphingolipidomics reveals elevated globosides in the tumor compartment compared with the ganglioside-rich stroma. CRISPR-Cas9 knockin mediated truncation of endogenous E-cadherin induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and decreases globosides. The transcriptomics analysis identifies the ganglioside-synthesizing enzyme ST8SIA1 to be consistently elevated in mesenchymal-like samples, predicting poor outcome. Subsequent deletion of ST8SIA1 induces epithelial cell features through mTOR^S2448 phosphorylation, whereas loss of globosides in ΔA4GALT cells, resulting in EMT, is accompanied by increased ERK^Y202/T204 and AKT^S124. The GSL composition dynamics corroborate cancer cell plasticity, and further evidence suggests that mesenchymal cells are maintained through ganglioside-dependent, calcium-mediated mechanisms.

Synergistic effects of nab-PTX and anti-PD-1 antibody combination against lung cancer by regulating the Pi3K/AKT pathway through the Serpinc1 gene

Lung cancer is a type of cancer with higher morbidity and mortality. In spite of the impressive response rates of nab-paclitaxel (nab-PTX) or programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and its ligand inhibitors, the effective treatment remains limited. Currently, alternative strategies aim at drug combination of nab-PTX and PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Even as the clinical impact of the combined agents continues to increase, basic research studies are still limited and the mechanisms underlying this synergy are not well studied. In this study, we evaluated the antitumor efficacy and the molecular mechanisms of action of nab-PTX in combination with anti-PD-1 antibody, using Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cell and subcutaneously transplanted tumor models. The combination of nab-PTX and anti-PD-1 antibody displayed stronger antitumor effects, manifested at tumor volume, proliferation and apoptosis through Ki67 and TUNEL staining. In-vivo experiments showed significant increases in CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-2, PF, and Gzms-B, exerting antitumor effects with reductions in MDSCs and IL-10 after the treatments. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis indicated 20 overlapped differentially expressed genes, and Serpin peptidase inhibitor clade C Member 1 (Serpinc1) was downregulated during treatment in vivo, whose expression level was markedly related to metastasis and overall survival of lung cancer patients. Functional enrichment analysis of the target gene revealed primary GO terms related to tumor, which warrants further investigation. We also found that Serpinc1 overexpression promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and inhibited cell apoptosis of LLC cells in vitro, possibly regulating the associated factors via the Pi3K/AKT pathway. In summary, our results reveal the synergistic antitumor responses of nab-PTX combined with anti-PD-1 antibody, in which Serpinc1 may play an important role, providing a target gene for combination treatment strategy.

Insights on possible interplay between epithelial-mesenchymal transition and T-type voltage gated calcium channels genes in metastatic breast carcinoma

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common life-threatening malignancy amongst women with high incidence worldwide. In Egypt, it is the most known malignancy amongst females. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) participates in breast tumors’ invasiveness, and metastasis, but the process is poorly understood. The involvement of voltage-gated calcium channels signaling in EMT has not yet been fully explored. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the possible role of T-type calcium channels in metastasis and EMT among breast cancer patients. The study was carried out on 48 female breast cancer patients who were divided into two groups; metastatic and non-metastatic. qRT-PCR was employed to measure the expression of EMT marker genes (N- cadherin, E-cadherin, Snail, Vimentin and T-type VGCCs genes (CACNA1G, CACNA1H, and CACNA1I). The results of the present study revealed differential expression of the EMT marker genes in blood and tissue of non-metastatic and metastatic breast cancer patients, with a clear tendency for the mesenchymal markers to be significantly elevated in metastatic patients as well as malignant tissues taken from non-metastatic patients as compared to their paired tumor adjacent normal (TAN) tissue. Both CACNA1H and CACNA1I (T-type VGCCs oncogenes) were significantly elevated in blood of metastatic patients when compared to non-metastatic ones. In contrast, CACNA1G (tumor suppressor) exhibited a significant decrease in metastatic patients. The strong correlation between the expression of T-type VGCCs and mesenchymal marker genes in metastatic breast cancer patients casts light on the role of T-type VGCCs in metastasis and their involved in tumor invasiveness.

Knockdown of TRPM7 attenuates apoptosis and inflammation in neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis model cell IEC-6 via modulating TLR4/NF-κB and MEK/ERK pathways

OBJECTIVES

Neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most common gastrointestinal critical illness in neonatal infants. TRPM7 reportedly plays a role in human inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer, but the role of TRPM7 in the pathogenesis of NEC remains vague.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression of TRPM7 was determined in intestinal tissues of NEC patients and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced IEC-6 cells. Subsequently, a loss-of-function assay was performed to assess the effects of TRPM7 on cell apoptosis and inflammatory response in IEC-6 cells after LPS induction. Furthermore, the modulation of TRPM7 on TLR4/NF-κB and MEK/ERK signaling pathways was validated.

RESULTS

The expression of TRPM7 was higher in the intestinal tissues of NEC patients compared with the normal human intestinal tissues. Moreover, the expression level of TRPM7 was elevated in LPS stimulation IEC-6 cells. Knockdown of TRPM7 enhanced cell viability and suppressed apoptosis, accompanied by the decreased Bax/Bcl-1 ratio and cleaved-caspase3 expression in LPS-induced IEC-6 cells. Additionally, TRPM7 silencing attenuated LPS-induced expressions and secretions of proinflammatory cytokines. Mechanistically, TRPM7 knockdown inhibited the TLR4/NF-κB activation, while enhancing the MEK/ERK activation in LPS-treated IEC-6 cells. Overexpression of TLR4 or inhibition of MEK attenuated the inhibitory effects of TRPM7 knockdown on LPS-induced apoptosis and inflammation in IEC-6 cells.

CONCLUSION

Knockdown of TRPM7 attenuated LPS-induced IEC-6 cell apoptosis and inflammation by modulating TLR4/NF-κB and MEK/ERK pathways.

Self-anti-angiogenesis nanoparticles enhance anti-metastatic-tumor efficacy of chemotherapeutics

Beyond traditional endothelium-dependent vessel (EDV), vascular mimicry (VM) is another critical tumor angiogenesis that further forms in many malignant metastatic tumors. However, the existing anti-angiogenesis combined chemotherapeutics strategies are only efficient for the treatment of EDV-based subcutaneous tumors, but remain a great challenge for the treatment of in situ malignant metastatic tumor associated with EDV and VM. Here, we demonstrate a self-assembled nanoparticle (VE-DDP-Pro) featuring self-anti-EDV and -VM capacity enables to significantly enhance the treatment efficacy of cisplatin (DDP) against the growth and metastasis of ovarian cancer. The VE-DDP-Pro is constructed by patching DDP loaded cRGD-folate-heparin nanoparticles (VE) onto the surface of protamine (Pro) nanoparticle. We demonstrated the self-anti-angiogenesis capacity of VE-DDP-Pro was attributed to VE, which could significantly inhibit the formation of EDV and VM by regulating signaling pathway of MMP-2/VEGF, AKT/mTOR/MMP-2/Laminin and AKT/mTOR/EMT, facilitating chemotherapeutics to effectively suppress the development and metastasis of ovarian cancer. Thus, combing with the chemotherapeutics effectiveness of DDP, the VE-DDP-Pro can significantly enhance treatment efficacy and prolong median survival of mice with metastatic ovarian cancer. We believe our self-assembled nanoparticles integrating the anti-EDV and anti-VM capacity provide a new preclinical sight to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapeutics for the treatment malignant metastasis tumor.

Mechanical Stretch Triggers Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Keratinocytes Through Piezo1 Channel

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process has emerged as a central regulator of embryonic development, tissue repair and tumor malignancy. In recent years, researchers have specifically focused on how mechanical signals drive the EMT program in epithelial cells. However, how epithelial cells specifically leverage mechanical force to control the EMT process remains unclear. Here, we show that the bona fide mechanically activated cation channel Piezo1 plays a critical role in the EMT. The Piezo1 is expressed in human primary epidermal keratinocytes (HEKs) and is responsible for the mechanical stretch-induced Ca2+ concentration. Inhibition of Piezo1 activation by the inhibitor GsMTx4 or by siRNA-mediated Piezo1 knockdown influenced the morphology and migration of HEKs. Moreover, Piezo1 activity also altered EMT-correlated markers expression in response to mechanical stretch. We propose that the mechanically activated cation channel Piezo1 is an important determinant of mechanical force-induced EMT in keratinocytes and might play similar roles in other epithelial cells.

Peripheral blood circular RNA hsa_circ_0058493 as a potential novel biomarker for silicosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Existing studies reported that some circular RNAs (circRNAs) play vital roles in the development of pulmonary fibrosis. However, few studies explored the biomarker potential of circRNAs for pulmonary fibrosis based on population data. Therefore, we aimed to identify peripheral blood circRNAs as potential biomarkers for diagnosing silicosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). In brief, an RNA-seq screening based on 4 silicosis cases and 4 controls was initially performed. Differentially expressed circRNAs were combined with the human serum circRNA dataset to identify overlapping serum-detectable circRNAs, followed by validation using the GEO dataset (3 IPF cases and 3 controls) and subsequent qRT-PCR, including 84 additional individuals. Following the above steps, 243 differentially expressed circRNAs were identified during the screening stage, with fold changes ≥ 1.5 and P < 0.05. Of note, the human serum circRNA dataset encompassed 28 of 243 circRNAs. GEO (GSE102660) validation revealed two highly expressed circRNAs (P < 0.05) in the IPF case group. Furthermore, at the enlarged sample validation stage, hsa_circ_0058493 was highly expressed in both silicosis and IPF cases (silicosis: P = 1.16 × 10^-6; IPF: P = 7.46 × 10^-5). Additionally, hsa_circ_0058493 expression was significantly increased in MRC-5 cells upon TGF-β1 treatment, while hsa_circ_0058493 knockdown inhibited the expression of fibrotic molecules by affecting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process. These shreds of evidence indicated that hsa_circ_0058493 might serve as a novel biomarker for diagnosing silicosis and IPF.

The regulatory and modulatory roles of TRP family channels in malignant tumors and relevant therapeutic strategies

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are one primary type of calcium (Ca²⁺) permeable channels, and those relevant transmembrane and intracellular TRP channels were previously thought to be mainly associated with the regulation of cardiovascular and neuronal systems. Nowadays, however, accumulating evidence shows that those TRP channels are also responsible for tumorigenesis and progression, inducing tumor invasion and metastasis. However, the overall underlying mechanisms and possible signaling transduction pathways that TRP channels in malignant tumors might still remain elusive. Therefore, in this review, we focus on the linkage between TRP channels and the significant characteristics of tumors such as multi-drug resistance (MDR), metastasis, apoptosis, proliferation, immune surveillance evasion, and the alterations of relevant tumor micro-environment. Moreover, we also have discussed the expression of relevant TRP channels in various forms of cancer and the relevant inhibitors' efficacy. The chemo-sensitivity of the anti-cancer drugs of various acting mechanisms and the potential clinical applications are also presented. Furthermore, it would be enlightening to provide possible novel therapeutic approaches to counteract malignant tumors regarding the intervention of calcium channels of this type.

A TRP Family Based Signature for Prognosis Prediction in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Purpose

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a classical type of head and neck cancers, with heterogeneous clinical outcome. This project is set out to create a robust risk signature based on TRP family genes (TFGs) for prognosis evaluation in HNSCC.

Methods

Based on the HNSCC sample data from the TCGA website, we integrated expression profile of TFGs for 490 HNSCC cases. We explore the interactions among TFGs using STRING tool. The TFGs-based signature (TFBS) was created by Cox relative analyses. In addition, we conducted GSEA to identify the underlying signaling pathways of the specific TFGs in HNSCC. The immune landscape of HNSCC patients was analyzed by CIBERSORT and ssGSEA algorithms.

Results

A total of 6 TFGs (TRPC1, TRPC3, TRPC6, TRPV2, TRPV4, and TRPM8) closely associated with prognosis of HNSCC cases were screened to create TFBS. TFBS predicted that the TFBS-high group presented dismal patient outcome. Cox regression revealed the favorable independent value of TFBS. ROC analysis showed the robust power of TFBS for prognosis forecasting. GSEA determined several crucial pathways related with HNSCC, which are the p53 pathway, TNF-alpha signaling via NFKB, and hypoxia. Moreover, immune-related analysis showed that patients in the TFBS-high group were more likely in immunosuppressive status.

Conclusion

Our proposed TFBS could serve as a favorable indicator to forecast the survival outcome of HNSCC cases and offer prominent therapy guidance.

TRPM7 silencing modulates glucose metabolic reprogramming to inhibit the growth of ovarian cancer by enhancing AMPK activation to promote HIF-1α degradation

BACKGROUND

Tumor cell metabolic reprogramming is crucial for the malignant behavior of cancer cells by promoting their proliferation. However, little is known on how transient receptor potential 7 (TRPM7) modulates metabolic reprogramming in ovarian cancer.

METHODS

The effects of TRPM7 silencing on transcriptome profile, glucose uptake, lactic acid production, extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), oxygen consumption rate (OCR), intracellular ROS and ATP levels, and NAD+/NADH ratios in ovarian cancer cells were examined. The impacts of TRPM7 silencing on the levels of glycolysis-related HK2, PDK1 and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS)-related IDH3B and UQCRC1, HIF-1α expression and AMPK phosphorylation were determined in ovarian cancer. The effect of AMPK activity on HIF-1α ubiquitination degradation was investigated in ovarian cancer cells.

RESULTS

Compared with the control, TRPM7 silencing suppressed the proliferation of ovarian cancer cells by shifting preferable glycolysis to OXPHOS. In parallel, TRPM7 silencing decreased the glucose uptake of tumor-bearing mice and TRPM7 levels were negatively correlated with IDH3B and UQCRC1, but positively with HK2 and PDK1 expression in ovarian cancer tissues. Mechanistically, TRPM7 silencing significantly increased AMPK phosphorylation and decreased HIF-1α protein levels in ovarian cancer, particularly in HIF-1α silencing cells. The shifting from glycolysis to OXPHOS by TRPM7 silencing was abrogated by HIF-1α over-expression and impaired by inhibiting AMPK activity in ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, enhanced AMPK activation inhibited glycolysis, which was abrogated by HIF-1α over-expression in ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, the enhanced AMPK activation promoted HIF-1α ubiquitination degradation.

CONCLUSIONS

TRPM7 silencing enhanced AMPK activation to shift glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation by promoting HIF-1α ubiquitination degradation in ovarian cancer. Hence, TRPM7 may be a therapeutic target for intervention of ovarian cancer.

Alterations of Ion Homeostasis in Cancer Metastasis: Implications for Treatment

We have previously reported that metastases from all malignancies are characterized by a core program of gene expression that suppresses extracellular matrix interactions, induces vascularization/tissue remodeling, activates the oxidative metabolism, and alters ion homeostasis. Among these features, the least elucidated component is ion homeostasis. Here we review the literature with the goal to infer a better mechanistic understanding of the progression-associated ionic alterations and identify the most promising drugs for treatment. Cancer metastasis is accompanied by skewing in calcium, zinc, copper, potassium, sodium and chloride homeostasis. Membrane potential changes and water uptake through Aquaporins may also play roles. Drug candidates to reverse these alterations are at various stages of testing, with some having entered clinical trials. Challenges to their utilization comprise differences among tumor types and the involvement of multiple ions in each case. Further, adverse effects may become a concern, as channel blockers, chelators, or supplemented ions will affect healthy and transformed cells alike.

Canine Oral Melanoma Genomic and Transcriptomic Study Defines Two Molecular Subgroups with Different Therapeutical Targets

Simple Summary

In humans, mucosal melanoma (MM) is a rare and aggressive cancer. The canine model is frequently and spontaneously affected by MM, thus facilitating the collection of samples and the study of its genetic bases. Thanks to an integrative genomic and transcriptomic analysis of 32 canine MM samples, we identified two molecular subgroups of MM with a different microenvironment and structural variant (SV) content. We demonstrated that SVs are associated with recurrently amplified regions, and identified new candidate oncogenes (TRPM7, GABPB1, and SPPL2A) for MM. Our findings suggest the existence of two MM molecular subgroups that could benefit from dedicated therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors or targeted therapies, for both human and veterinary medicine.

Abstract

Mucosal melanoma (MM) is a rare, aggressive clinical cancer. Despite recent advances in genetics and treatment, the prognosis of MM remains poor. Canine MM offers a relevant spontaneous and immunocompetent model to decipher the genetic bases and explore treatments for MM. We performed an integrative genomic and transcriptomic analysis of 32 canine MM samples, which identified two molecular subgroups with a different microenvironment and structural variant (SV) content. The overexpression of genes related to the microenvironment and T-cell response was associated with tumors harboring a lower content of SVs, whereas the overexpression of pigmentation-related pathways and oncogenes, such as TERT, was associated with a high SV burden. Using whole-genome sequencing, we showed that focal amplifications characterized complex chromosomal rearrangements targeting oncogenes, such as MDM2 or CDK4, and a recurrently amplified region on canine chromosome 30. We also demonstrated that the genes TRPM7, GABPB1, and SPPL2A, located in this CFA30 region, play a role in cell proliferation, and thus, may be considered as new candidate oncogenes for human MM. Our findings suggest the existence of two MM molecular subgroups that may benefit from dedicated therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors or targeted therapies, for both human and veterinary medicine.

Leveraging cellular mechano-responsiveness for cancer therapy

Cells sense the biophysical properties of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and adopt these signals in their development, progression, and metastatic dissemination. Recent work highlights the mechano-responsiveness of cells in tumors and the underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, approaches to mechano-modulating diverse types of cell have emerged aiming to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis. These include targeting mechanosensitive machineries in cancer cells to induce apoptosis, intervening matrix stiffening incurred by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in both primary and metastatic tumor sites, and modulating matrix mechanics to improve immune cell therapeutic efficacy. This review is envisaged to help scientists and clinicians in cancer research to advance understanding of the cellular mechano-responsiveness in TME, and to harness these concepts for cancer mechanotherapies.