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Hu Z, You L, Hu S, Yu L, Gao Y, Li L, Zhang S. Hepatocellular carcinoma cell-derived exosomal miR-21-5p promotes the polarization of tumor-related macrophages (TAMs) through SP1/XBP1 and affects the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 126:111149. [PMID: 38006750 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have unique functions in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The tumor microenvironment is in a complex state in chronic disease. As a major participant in tumor-associated inflammation, TAMs have a unique effect on promoting tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis and immunosuppression. The in-depth study of TAMs has important scientific and clinical value and provides new ideas for the treatment of cancer. METHODS Bioinformatics analysis, dual-luciferase reporter assays, RT-qPCR and clinical samples were used to analyze the potential mechanism of the miR-21-5p/SP1/XBP1 molecular axis in HCC. In this study, miR-21-5p was highly expressed in HCC exosomes compared with normal hepatocyte exosomes, and HCC exosomes containing miR-21-5p promoted the proliferation and migration of HCC cells and inhibited cell apoptosis. In addition, this treatment promoted the M2 polarization of macrophages, induced the expression of transcription factor-specific protein 1 (SP1), and inhibited the expression of X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1). However, these expression trends were reversed after inhibition of miR-21-5p expression in exosomes of hepatoma cells, and the effects of exosomal miR-21-5p were partially restored after overexpression of SP1. Animal experiments also verified that exosomal miR-21-5p in HCC cells affected the expression level of the SP1/XBP1 protein and promoted M2 polarization of TAMs. CONCLUSION Exosomal miR-21-5p in HCC cells can affect the development of HCC cells by regulating SP1/XBP1 and promoting the M2 polarization of TAMs, thereby affecting the adverse prognostic response of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongqiang Hu
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery Department, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Liying You
- The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; Department of Hepatology, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Songqi Hu
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery Department, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Lu Yu
- The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; Department of Pathology, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery Department, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Li Li
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery Department, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China.
| | - Shengning Zhang
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery Department, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China.
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2
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Arnhold J. Inflammation-Associated Cytotoxic Agents in Tumorigenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:81. [PMID: 38201509 PMCID: PMC10778456 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010081] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory processes are related to all stages of tumorigenesis. As inflammation is closely associated with the activation and release of different cytotoxic agents, the interplay between cytotoxic agents and antagonizing principles is highlighted in this review to address the question of how tumor cells overcome the enhanced values of cytotoxic agents in tumors. In tumor cells, the enhanced formation of mitochondrial-derived reactive species and elevated values of iron ions and free heme are antagonized by an overexpression of enzymes and proteins, contributing to the antioxidative defense and maintenance of redox homeostasis. Through these mechanisms, tumor cells can even survive additional stress caused by radio- and chemotherapy. Through the secretion of active agents from tumor cells, immune cells are suppressed in the tumor microenvironment and an enhanced formation of extracellular matrix components is induced. Different oxidant- and protease-based cytotoxic agents are involved in tumor-mediated immunosuppression, tumor growth, tumor cell invasion, and metastasis. Considering the special metabolic conditions in tumors, the main focus here was directed on the disturbed balance between the cytotoxic agents and protective mechanisms in late-stage tumors. This knowledge is mandatory for the implementation of novel anti-cancerous therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Arnhold
- Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Härtelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
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3
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Qiu Z, Wang C, Huang P, Yuan Y, Shi Y, Lin Z, Huang Z, Zuo D, Qiu J, He W, Shen J, Niu Y, Yuan Y, Li B. RFX6 facilitates aerobic glycolysis-mediated growth and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma through targeting PGAM1. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1511. [PMID: 38093528 PMCID: PMC10719540 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells undergo reprogramming of glucose metabolism to support uncontrolled proliferation, of which the intrinsic mechanism still merits further investigation. Although regulatory factor X6 (RFX6) is aberrantly expressed in different cancers, its precise role in cancer development remains ambiguous. METHODS Microarrays of HCC tissues were employed to investigate the expression of RFX6 in tumour and adjacent non-neoplastic tissues. Functional assays were employed to explore the role of RFX6 in HCC development. Chromatin immunoprecipitation, untargeted metabolome profiling and sequencing were performed to identify potential downstream genes and pathways regulated by RFX6. Metabolic assays were employed to investigate the effect of RFX6 on glycolysis in HCC cells. Bioinformatics databases were used to validate the above findings. RESULTS HCC tissues exhibited elevated expression of RFX6. High RFX6 expression represented as an independent hazard factor correlated to poor prognosis in patients with HCC. RFX6 deficiency inhibited HCC development in vitro and in vivo, while its overexpression exerted opposite functions. Mechanistically, RFX6 bound to the promoter area of phosphoglycerate mutase 1 (PGAM1) and upregulated its expression. The increased PGAM1 protein levels enhanced glycolysis and further promoted the development of HCC. CONCLUSIONS RFX6 acted as a novel driver for HCC development by promoting aerobic glycolysis, disclosing the potential of the RFX6-PGAM1 axis for therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Chenwei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Pinzhu Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease and Department of Colon and Rectum SurgeryThe Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Yichuan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Yunxing Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Zhu Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Zhenkun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Dinglan Zuo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Jiliang Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Wei He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Jingxian Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of RadiologySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Yi Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Yunfei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Binkui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
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Bi F, Qiu Y, Wu Z, Liu S, Zuo D, Huang Z, Li B, Yuan Y, Niu Y, Qiu J. METTL9-SLC7A11 axis promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression through ferroptosis inhibition. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:428. [PMID: 38017014 PMCID: PMC10684523 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01723-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Methytransferase-like proteins 9 (METTL9) has been characterized as an oncogene in several cancers, however, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown. Here, we investigated the function and molecular mechanism of METTL9 in HCC. We showed that METTL9 expression was elevated in HCC, and its high expression was associated with poor survival outcomes. Knockdown of METTL9 observed a significant inhibition of HCC cell viability, migration, and invasion both in vitro and in vivo. By contrast, METTL9 overexpression HCC cells obtained stronger abilities in cell proliferation and migration. Mechanistically, we discovered that METTL9 knockdown led to a reduction in the expression level of SLC7A11, a key suppressor of ferroptosis, in turn, promoted ferroptosis in HCC cells, impeding the progression of HCC. Moreover, we have proved that targeting METTL9 could significantly restrain the growth of HCC patient-derived xenograft (PDX). Our study established METTL9 as a critical role in promoting HCC development and provides a foundation for further investigation and potential therapeutic interventions targeting ferroptosis in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxiong Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zongfeng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaoru Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dinglan Zuo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenkun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Binkui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunfei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jiliang Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
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Li K, Niu Y, Li K, Zhong C, Qiu Z, Yuan Y, Shi Y, Lin Z, Huang Z, Zuo D, Yuan Y, Li B. Dysregulation of PLOD2 Promotes Tumor Metastasis and Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:1094-1105. [PMID: 37577214 PMCID: PMC10412693 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Metastasis is a major factor associated with high recurrence and mortality in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients while the underlying mechanism of metastasis remains elusive. In our study, procollagen-lysine, 2-oxoglutarate 5-dioxygenase 2 (PLOD2) was shown to be involved in the process of metastasis in HCC. Methods The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and HCC tissue microarrays were used to evaluate the expression of genes. In vitro migration, invasion, in vivo subcutaneous tumor model and in vivo lung metastasis assays were used to determine the role of PLOD2 in tumor growth and metastasis in HCC. RNA sequencing and gene set enrichment analysis were performed to uncover the downstream factor of PLOD2 in HCC cells. A luciferase reporter assay was performed to evaluate the interaction between PLOD2 and interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5). Results The expression of PLOD2 in HCC tissues was higher than that in adjacent tissues, and increased PLOD2 expression was often found in advanced tumors and was correlated with poor prognosis in HCC patients. In vitro experiments, knockdown of PLOD2 reduced the migration and invasion of human HCC cells. Loss of PLOD2 suppressed human HCC growth and metastasis in a subcutaneous tumor model and a lung metastasis model. Baculoviral IAP repeat containing 3 (BIRC3) was proven to be the downstream factor of PLOD2 in human HCC cells. In addition, PLOD2 was transcriptionally regulated by IRF5 in HCC cells. Conclusions High expression of PLOD2 was regulated by IRF5, which was correlated with the poor survival of HCC patients. PLOD2 enhanced HCC metastasis via BIRC3, suggesting that PLOD2 might be a valuable prognostic biomarker for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kai Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chengrui Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiyu Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yichuan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunxing Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhu Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenkun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dinglan Zuo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunfei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Binkui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Bang J, Jun M, Lee S, Moon H, Ro SW. Targeting EGFR/PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2130. [PMID: 37631344 PMCID: PMC10458925 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082130] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) poses a significant global health concern, with its incidence steadily increasing. The development of HCC is a multifaceted, multi-step process involving alterations in various signaling cascades. In recent years, significant progress has been made in understanding the molecular signaling pathways that play central roles in hepatocarcinogenesis. In particular, the EGFR/PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in HCC has garnered renewed attention from both basic and clinical researchers. Preclinical studies in vitro and in vivo have shown the effectiveness of targeting the key components of this signaling pathway in human HCC cells. Thus, targeting these signaling pathways with small molecule inhibitors holds promise as a potential therapeutic option for patients with HCC. In this review, we explore recent advancements in understanding the role of the EGFR/PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in HCC and assess the effectiveness of targeting this signaling cascade as a potential strategy for HCC therapy based on preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Simon Weonsang Ro
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-si 17104, Republic of Korea; (J.B.); (M.J.); (S.L.); (H.M.)
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Liu T, Zhao M, Peng L, Chen J, Xing P, Gao P, Chen L, Qiao X, Wang Z, Di J, Qu H, Jiang B, Su X. WFDC3 inhibits tumor metastasis by promoting the ERβ-mediated transcriptional repression of TGFBR1 in colorectal cancer. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:425. [PMID: 37443102 PMCID: PMC10345115 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05956-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen plays a protective role in colorectal cancer (CRC) and primarily functions through estrogen receptor β (ERβ). However, clinical strategies for CRC therapy associated with ERβ are still under investigation. Our discoveries identified WFDC3 as a tumor suppressor that facilitates estrogen-induced inhibition of metastasis through the ERβ/TGFBR1 signaling axis. WFDC3 interacts with ERβ and increases its protein stability by inhibiting its proteasome-dependent degradation. WFDC3 represses TGFBR1 expression through ERβ-mediated transcription. Blocking TGFβ signaling with galunisertib, a drug used in clinical trials that targets TGFBR1, impaired the migration of CRC cells induced by WFDC3 depletion. Moreover, there was clinical significance to WFDC3 in CRC, as CRC patients with high WFDC3 expression in tumor cells had favorable prognoses. Therefore, this work suggests that WFDC3 could be an indicator for therapies targeting the estrogen/ERβ pathway in CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Min Zhao
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Sunshine Coast, QLD, 4556, Australia
| | - Lin Peng
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangbo Chen
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Pu Xing
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Pin Gao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaowen Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Zaozao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Jiabo Di
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Qu
- Center for Bioinformatics, State Key Laboratory of Protein and Plant Gene Research, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Beihai Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiangqian Su
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery IV, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, 100142, Beijing, China.
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Wu D, Cai Q, Liu D, Zuo G, Li S, Liu L, Zheng J. Identification of molecular subtypes and prognostic signatures based on transient receptor potential channel-related genes to predict the prognostic risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: A review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e33228. [PMID: 36897679 PMCID: PMC9997768 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000033228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal transient receptor potential (TRP) channel function interferes with intracellular calcium-based signaling and causes malignant phenotypes. However, the effects of TRP channel-related genes on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. This study aimed to identify HCC molecular subtypes and prognostic signatures based on TRP channel-related genes to predict prognostic risks. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering was applied to identify HCC molecular subtypes using the expression data of TRP channel-related genes. This was followed by a comparison of the clinical and immune microenvironment characteristics between the resulting subtypes. After screening for differentially expressed genes among subtypes, prognostic signatures were identified to construct risk score-based prognostic and nomogram models and predict HCC survival. Finally, tumor drug sensitivities were predicted and compared between the risk groups. Sixteen TRP channel-related genes that were differentially expressed between HCC and non-tumorous tissues were used to identify 2 subtypes. Cluster 1 had higher TRP scores, better survival status, and lower levels of clinical malignancy. Immune-related analyses also revealed higher infiltration of M1 macrophages and higher immune and stromal scores in Cluster 1 than in Cluster 2. After screening differentially expressed genes between subtypes, 6 prognostic signatures were identified to construct prognostic and nomogram models. The potential of these models to assess the prognostic risk of HCC was further validated. Furthermore, Cluster 1 was more distributed in the low-risk group, with higher drug sensitivities. Two HCC subtypes were identified, of which Cluster 1 was associated with a favorable prognosis. Prognostic signatures related to TRP channel genes and molecular subtypes can be used to predict HCC risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyang Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Tangshan Central Hospital, Tangshan City, Hebei Province, China
| | - Qingshan Cai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Tangshan Central Hospital, Tangshan City, Hebei Province, China
| | - Dong Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Tangshan Central Hospital, Tangshan City, Hebei Province, China
| | - Ganggang Zuo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Tangshan Central Hospital, Tangshan City, Hebei Province, China
| | - Shudong Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Tangshan Central Hospital, Tangshan City, Hebei Province, China
| | - Liyou Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Tangshan Central Hospital, Tangshan City, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jianxing Zheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Tangshan Central Hospital, Tangshan City, Hebei Province, China
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Arnhold J. Host-Derived Cytotoxic Agents in Chronic Inflammation and Disease Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24033016. [PMID: 36769331 PMCID: PMC9918110 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24033016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
At inflammatory sites, cytotoxic agents are released and generated from invading immune cells and damaged tissue cells. The further fate of the inflammation highly depends on the presence of antagonizing principles that are able to inactivate these host-derived cytotoxic agents. As long as the affected tissues are well equipped with ready-to-use protective mechanisms, no damage by cytotoxic agents occurs and resolution of inflammation is initiated. However, long-lasting and severe immune responses can be associated with the decline, exhaustion, or inactivation of selected antagonizing principles. Hence, cytotoxic agents are only partially inactivated and contribute to damage of yet-unperturbed cells. Consequently, a chronic inflammatory process results. In this vicious circle of permanent cell destruction, not only novel cytotoxic elements but also novel alarmins and antigens are liberated from affected cells. In severe cases, very low protection leads to organ failure, sepsis, and septic shock. In this review, the major classes of host-derived cytotoxic agents (reactive species, oxidized heme proteins and free heme, transition metal ions, serine proteases, matrix metalloproteases, and pro-inflammatory peptides), their corresponding protective principles, and resulting implications on the pathogenesis of diseases are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Arnhold
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Leipzig University, Härtelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
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10
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Huang XY, Li F, Li TT, Zhang JT, Shi XJ, Huang XY, Zhou J, Tang ZY, Huang ZL. A clinically feasible circulating tumor cell sorting system for monitoring the progression of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:25. [PMID: 36681851 PMCID: PMC9867854 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-01783-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hematogenous metastasis is essential for the progression of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and can occur even after patients receive multidisciplinary therapies, including immunotherapy and hepatectomy; circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are one of the dominant components of the metastatic cascade. However, the CTC capture efficiency for HCC is low due to the low sensitivity of the detection method. In this study, epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM)/vimentin/Glypican-3 (GPC3) antibody-modified lipid magnetic spheres (LMS) were used to capture tumor cells with epithelial phenotype, mesenchymal phenotype and GPC3 phenotype, respectively, in order to capture more CTCs with a more comprehensive phenotype for monitoring tumor metastasis. RESULTS The novel CTC detection system of Ep-LMS/Vi-LMS/GPC3-LMS was characterized by low toxicity, strong specificity (96.94%), high sensitivity (98.12%) and high capture efficiency (98.64%) in vitro. A sudden increase in CTC counts accompanied by the occurrence of lung metastasis was found in vivo, which was further validated by a clinical study. During follow-up, the rapid increase in CTCs predicted tumor progression in HCC patients. Additionally, genetic testing results showed common genetic alterations in primary tumors, CTCs and metastatic tissues. The proportion of patients predicted to benefit from immunotherapy with the CTC detection method was higher than that for the tissue detection method (76.47% vs. 41.18%, P = 0.037), guiding the application of clinical individualized therapy. CONCLUSIONS The Ep-LMS/Vi-LMS/GPC3-LMS sequential CTC capture system is convenient and feasible for the clinical prediction of HCC progression. CTCs captured by this system could be used as a suitable alternative to HCC tissue detection in guiding immunotherapy, supporting the clinical application of CTC liquid biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu-Yan Huang
- grid.412528.80000 0004 1798 5117Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233 People’s Republic of China
| | - Feng Li
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293School of Materials of Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240 People’s Republic of China
| | - Ting-Ting Li
- grid.412528.80000 0004 1798 5117Department of Infectious Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun-Tao Zhang
- grid.412528.80000 0004 1798 5117Institute of Microsurgery on Extremities, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiang-Jun Shi
- grid.412528.80000 0004 1798 5117Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin-Yu Huang
- grid.412528.80000 0004 1798 5117Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Zhou
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Liver Cancer Institute and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhao-You Tang
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Liver Cancer Institute and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zi-Li Huang
- grid.412528.80000 0004 1798 5117Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233 People’s Republic of China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Department of Radiology, Xuhui District Central Hospital of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 966 Huaihai Middle Road, Shanghai, 200031 People’s Republic of China
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Wang L, Liu X. An oxidative stress-related signature for predicting the prognosis of liver cancer. Front Genet 2023; 13:975211. [PMID: 36685933 PMCID: PMC9845401 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.975211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: This study aimed to screen for oxidative stress-related genes (OSRGs) and build an oxidative stress-related signature to predict the prognosis of liver cancer. Methods: OSRGs with a protein domain correlation score ≥ 6 were downloaded from the GeneCards database and intersected with The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data for subsequent analyses. Differential immune cells (DICs) and immune and stromal scores between the normal and tumor samples were determined, followed by unsupervised hierarchical cluster analysis. Immune-related OSRGs were identified using weighted gene co-expression network analysis. An OSRG-related risk signature was then built, and the GSE14520 dataset was used for validation. A nomogram evaluation model was used to predict prognosis. Results: Nine DICs were determined between the normal and tumor groups, and three subtypes were obtained: clusters 1, 2, and 3. Cluster 1 had the best prognosis among the clusters. One hundred thirty-eight immune-related OSRGs were identified, and seven prognosis-related OSRGs were used to build the OSRG score prognostic model. Patients in the high OSRG score group had a poorer prognosis than those in the low OSRG score group. Six immune cell infiltration and enrichment scores of the 16 immune gene sets showed significant differences between the high and low OSRG score groups. Moreover, a nomogram was constructed based on the prognostic signature and clinicopathological features and had a robust predictive performance and high accuracy. Conclusion: The OSRG-related risk signature and the prognostic nomogram accurately predicted patient survival.
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He Z, Chen Q, He W, Cao J, Yao S, Huang Q, Zheng Y. Hepatocellular carcinoma subtypes based on metabolic pathways reveals potential therapeutic targets. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1086604. [PMID: 36937389 PMCID: PMC10017446 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1086604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy with steadily increasing incidence rates worldwide and poor therapeutic outcomes. Studies show that metabolic reprogramming plays a key role in tumor genesis and progression. In this study, we analyzed the metabolic heterogeneity of epithelial cells in the HCC and screened for potential biomarkers. Methods The hepatic single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets of HCC patients and healthy controls were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Based on data intergration and measurement of differences among groups, the metabolic epithelial cell subpopulations were identified. The single-cell metabolic pathway was analyzed and the myeloid subpopulations were identified. Cell-cell interaction analysis and single-cell proliferation analysis were performed. The gene expression profiles of HCC patients were obtained from the GSE14520 dataset of GEO and TCGA-LIHC cohort of the UCSC Xena website. Immune analysis was performed. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and functionally annotated. Tumor tissues from HCC patients were probed with anti-ALDOA, anti-CD68, anti-CD163, anti-CD4 and anti-FOXP3 antibodies. Results We analyzed the scRNA-seq data from 48 HCC patients and 14 healthy controls. The epithelial cells were significantly enriched in HCC patients compared to the controls (p = 0.011). The epithelial cells from HCC patients were classified into two metabolism-related subpopulations (MRSs) - pertaining to amino acid metabolism (MRS1) and glycolysis (MRS2). Depending on the abundance of these metabolic subpopulations, the HCC patients were also classified into the MRS1 and MRS2 subtype distinct prognoses and immune infiltration. The MRS2 group had significantly worse clinical outcomes and more inflamed tumor microenvironment (TME), as well as a stronger crosstalk between MRS2 cells and immune subpopulations that resulted in an immunosuppressive TME. We also detected high expression levels of ALDOA in the MRS2 cells and HCC tissues. In the clinical cohort, HCC patients with higher ALDOA expression showed greater enrichment of immunosuppressive cells including M2 macrophages and T regulatory cells. Discussion The glycolytic subtype of HCC cells with high ALDOA expression is associated with an immunosuppressive TME and predicts worse clinical outcomes, providing new insights into the metabolism and prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehua He
- College of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Qingfeng Chen
- School of Computer, Electronic and Information, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- *Correspondence: Qingfeng Chen,
| | - Wanrong He
- Department of Gastroenterology, People’s Hospital of Guangxi, Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Junyue Cao
- College of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Shunhan Yao
- Medical College, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Qingqiang Huang
- Guigang City Department of Radiology, People’s Hospital, Guigang, Guangxi, China
| | - Yu Zheng
- Department of Computer Science and Information Technology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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13
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Wang C, Liao Y, He W, Zhang H, Zuo D, Liu W, Yang Z, Qiu J, Yuan Y, Li K, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Shi Y, Qiu Y, Gao S, Yuan Y, Li B. Correction to: Elafin promotes tumour metastasis and attenuates the anti-metastatic effects of erlotinib via binding to EGFR in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:104. [PMID: 35300728 PMCID: PMC8932148 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02313-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Yi Q, Liang Q, Liu Y, Gong Z, Yan Y. Application of genomic selection and experimental techniques to predict cell death and immunotherapeutic efficacy of ferroptosis-related CXCL2 in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:998736. [PMID: 36276119 PMCID: PMC9579367 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.998736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since most hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, there is no effective treatment to improve patient survival. Ferroptosis, a regulated cell death driven by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation, has been reported to play an important role in tumorigenesis. However, the detailed mechanism and biological function of ferroptosis are still incompletely understood in HCC patients. In this study, we analyzed genomic profiles of three HCC datasets, GSE6764, GSE14520, and GSE14323. Venn diagrams were implemented to visualize the overlapping genes between differentially expressed genes and ferroptosis-related gene set. Then, one up-regulated gene, ACSL4, and five down-regulated genes, STEAP3, MT1G, GCH1, HAMP, and CXCL2, were screened. Based on the survival analysis performed by Kaplan-Meier plotter database, ferroptosis-related gene CXCL2 was demonstrated positively-correlated with the patients’ prognosis. Moreover, CXCL2 overexpression significantly inhibited cell growth and improved cellular ROS, Fe2+ and MDA levels in HCC cells Huh7 and MHCC97H, suggesting the roles of CXCL2 in inducing ferroptotic cell death. In addition, aberrantly expressed CXCL2 was negatively associated with malignancy clinical features, such as nodal metastasis and higher grades. The ssGSEA enrichment analysis revealed that CXCL2 co-expressed molecules were mainly involved in inflammation and immune-related pathways, such as acute inflammatory response, humoral immune response, adaptive immune response. TISIDB algorithm indicated the positive correlation between CXCL2 expression and tumor-infiltrating immune cells, including neutrophils and macrophages. Additionally, we also found that CXCL2 was positively correlated with immune infiltration score, and HCC patients with higher score harbored better prognosis. Together, these findings suggested that CXCL2 may enhance ferroptosis sensitivity and regulate immune microenvironment in HCC, and serve as a promising prognosis biomarker for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoli Yi
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiuju Liang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuanhong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhicheng Gong
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Yuanliang Yan, ; Zhicheng Gong,
| | - Yuanliang Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Yuanliang Yan, ; Zhicheng Gong,
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15
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Zhong C, Niu Y, Liu W, Yuan Y, Li K, Shi Y, Qiu Z, Li K, Lin Z, Huang Z, Zuo D, Yang Z, Liao Y, Zhang Y, Wang C, Qiu J, He W, Yuan Y, Li B. S100A9 Derived from Chemoembolization-Induced Hypoxia Governs Mitochondrial Function in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2202206. [PMID: 36041055 PMCID: PMC9596847 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202202206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the major treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but it may cause hypoxic environment, leading to rapid progression after treatment. Here, using high-throughput sequencing on different models, S100 calcium binding protein A9 (S100A9) is identified as a key oncogene involved in post-TACE progression. Depletion or pharmacologic inhibition of S100A9 significantly dampens the growth and metastatic ability of HCC. Mechanistically, TACE induces S100A9 via hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1A)-mediated pathway. S100A9 acts as a scaffold recruiting ubiquitin specific peptidase 10 and phosphoglycerate mutase family member 5 (PGAM5) to form a tripolymer, causing the deubiquitination and stabilization of PGAM5, leading to mitochondrial fission and reactive oxygen species production, thereby promoting the growth and metastasis of HCC. Higher S100A9 level in HCC tissue or in serum predicts a worse outcome for HCC patients. Collectively, this study identifies S100A9 as a key driver for post-TACE HCC progression. Targeting S100A9 may be a promising therapeutic strategy for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengrui Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Yi Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Wenwu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Gastric SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Yichuan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Kai Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Yunxing Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Zhiyu Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Keren Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Zhu Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Zhenkun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Dinglan Zuo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Zhiwen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of AnesthesiologySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Yadi Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of AnesthesiologySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Yuanping Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Chenwei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Jiliang Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Wei He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Yunfei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
| | - Binkui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
- Department of Liver SurgerySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510030China
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Identification of Downregulated Exosome-Associated Gene ENPP1 as a Novel Lipid Metabolism and Immune-Associated Biomarker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:4834791. [PMID: 36199794 PMCID: PMC9529392 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4834791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Exosome plays an important role in the occurrence and development of tumors, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC). However, the functions and mechanisms of exosome-associated molecules in LIHC are still underexplored. Here, we investigated the role of the exosome-related gene ENPP1 in LIHC. Comprehensive bioinformatics from multiple databases revealed that ENPP1 was significantly downregulated in LIHC tissues. The patients with downregulated ENPP1 displayed a poor prognosis. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to further confirm the downregulated ENPP1 in LIHC tissues. In addition, the coexpression network of ENPP1 was also explored to understand its roles in the underlying signaling pathways, including fatty acid degradation and the PPAR signaling pathway. Simultaneously, GSEA analysis indicated the potential roles of ENPP1 in the lipid metabolism-associated signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of LIHC, including fatty acid metabolism, fatty acid synthesis, and so on. Finally, immunological analysis indicated that ENPP1 might also be involved in multiple immune-related features, including immunoinhibitors, immunostimulators, and chemokines. Taken together, these findings could enhance our understanding of ENPP1 in LIHC pathogenesis and immune response and provide a new target for ENPP1-related immunotherapy in clinical treatment.
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Zhang Y, Tang M, Guo Q, Xu H, Yang Z, Li D. The value of erlotinib related target molecules in kidney renal cell carcinoma via bioinformatics analysis. Gene X 2022; 816:146173. [PMID: 35026294 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.146173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Erlotinib was found to be an effective treatment for metastatic kidney renal cell carcinoma (KIRC). This study employed bioinformatics to explore the value of erlotinib's target molecules in KIRC. METHODS We screened GSE25698 dataset for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) following erlotinib treatment, followed by analyzing their underlying functional mechanisms. The value of DEGs was identified in TCGA database to construct risk model and nomogram, and possible mechanisms underlying model factors and their relationship with KIRC immune infiltration were analyzed. RESULTS Following erlotinib treatment, DEGs were involved in antigen binding, myeloid leukocyte activation, JAK-STAT signaling pathway, etc. COL11A1, EMCN, GLYATL1, HHLA2, IGFN1, LIPA, LRRC19, PANK1, PRAME, and TNFSF14 were independent factors influencing poor prognosis in KIRC patients. Age, grade, and risk score were independent risk factors influencing poor prognosis of KIRC patients. The risk score was associated with immune cells such as T cells regulatory, T cells follicular helper, macrophages M0, etc., and participated signaling mechanisms such as ERBB, insulin, mTOR, PPAR, apoptosis, MAPK, T cell receptor, etc. CONCLUSIONS: The expression levels of COL11A1, EMCN, GLYATL1, HHLA2, IGFN1 LIPA, LRRC19, PANK1, PRAME, and TNFSF14 were associated with KIRC prognosis and immune cell infiltration. The risk model and nomogram based on erlotinib's target molecules were expected to be a tool for evaluating the prognosis of KIRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- YunQiang Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Beilun District people's Hospital of Ningbo, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315800, China
| | - MingYang Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Qiang Guo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - HaoQiang Xu
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - ZhiYong Yang
- Department of Oncology, Huanggang Central Hospital, Huanggang, Hubei 438000, China.
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Oncology, Huanggang Central Hospital, Huanggang, Hubei 438000, China.
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The Detection and Verification of Two Heterogeneous Subgroups and a Risk Model Based on Ferroptosis-Related Genes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:1182383. [PMID: 35313563 PMCID: PMC8934225 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1182383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
#Background. Because of the heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the complex nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME), the long-term efficacy of therapy continues to be a clinical challenge. It is necessary to classify and refine the appropriate treatment intervention decision-making in this kind of tumor. Methods. We used “ConsensusClusterPlus” to establish a stable molecular classification based on the ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) expression obtained from FerrDb. The clinical features, immune infiltration, DNA damage, and genomic changes of different subclasses were evaluated. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression (LASSO) method and univariate Cox regression were utilized to construct the ferroptosis-related prognosis risk score (FPRS) model, and the association between the FPRS model and HCC molecular characteristics, immune features, and immunotherapy was studied. Results. We identified two ferroptosis subclasses, C1 with poor prognosis and a higher proportion of patients in the middle and late stages infected with HBV and HCV, having higher DNA damage including aneuploidy, HRD, fraction altered, and the number of segments, and higher probability of gene mutation and copy number mutation. FPRS model was constructed on the basis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between C1 and C2, which showed a higher area under the curve (AUC) in predicting overall survival rate in the training set and independent verification cohort and could reflect the clinical characteristics and response to immunotherapy of different patients, being an independent prognostic factor of HCC. Conclusion. Here, we revealed two novel molecular subgroups based on FRGs and develop an FPRS model consisting of six genes that can help predict prognosis and select patients suitable for immunotherapy.
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19
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Gao ZW, Liu C, Yang L, He T, Wu XN, Zhang HZ, Dong K. SPARC Overexpression Promotes Liver Cancer Cell Proliferation and Tumor Growth. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:775743. [PMID: 34912848 PMCID: PMC8668270 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.775743] [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] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) plays an important role in cancer development. The roles of SPARC in the liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) are unclear. Methods: GEPIA2 and UALCAN were used to analyze the SPARC mRNA expression levels in LIHC based on the TCGA database. The GEO database was used to verify the analysis results. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis was used to investigate the SPARC protein levels in LIHC tissues. The Kaplan-Meier (KM) plotter was used to analyze the correlation between SPARC and prognosis. The serum SPARC levels were measured by ELISA. CCK8 and murine xenograft models were used to investigate the effect of SPARC on the liver cancer growth in vitro and in vivo. SPARC-correlated genes were screened by LinkedOmics. Results: Based on the TCGA and GEO databases, the analysis showed that the SPARC mRNA expression levels were increased in tumor tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) from LIHC compared to normal controls. The IHC analysis showed an increased level of SPARC in LIHC tissues compared to adjacent non-tumor tissues. However, we found that the serum SPARC levels were lower in LIHC than those in healthy controls. The KM plotter showed that there was no significant correlation between the SPARC mRNA levels and overall survival. However, in sorafenib-treated LIHC patients, the high SPARC expression predicts favorable prognosis. Furthermore, the endogenous SPARC overexpression promotes liver cancer cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in vivo, while there was no significant effect of exogenous SPARC treatment on liver cancer cell proliferation. Function enrichment analysis of SPARC-correlated genes indicated a critical role of interaction with an extracellular matrix in SPARC-promoting cancer cell proliferation. Conclusion: SPARC mRNAs were increased in LIHC tumor tissues, and SPARC overexpression may promote the liver cancer growth. Further studies are needed to clarify the potential prognostic value of SPARC, both in tissues and in circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Wei Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, xi'an, China
| | - Chong Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, xi'an, China
| | - Lan Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, xi'an, China
| | - Ting He
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, xi'an, China
| | - Xia-Nan Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, xi'an, China
| | - Hui-Zhong Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, xi'an, China
| | - Ke Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, xi'an, China
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20
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Yan Y, Liang Q, Xu Z, Huang J, Chen X, Cai Y, Peng B, Yi Q. Downregulated Ferroptosis-Related Gene STEAP3 as a Novel Diagnostic and Prognostic Target for Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Roles in Immune Regulation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:743046. [PMID: 34790664 PMCID: PMC8591264 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.743046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis, a distinct type of regulated cell death, has been reported to be involved in the tumorigenesis of liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC). However, the precise functions and potential mechanisms of ferroptosis in LIHC were still poorly understood. Herein, we investigated the biological roles of ferroptosis-related gene STEAP3 in LIHC. STEAP3 was previously proved to serve a key regulator in ferroptosis via mediating the iron metabolism. Comprehensive bioinformatics from several databases revealed that STEAP3 was significantly downregulated in LIHC tissues and exhibited the favorable prognostic significance in LIHC patients. The downregulated STEAP3 was further confirmed in two LIHC cells Huh7 and MHCC97H using real-time PCR and western blot. And STEAP3 overexpression significantly inhibited the cell proliferation in Huh7 and MHCC97H cells. In addition, clinical data identified the relationship between STEAP3 expression and several clinicopathological parameters of LIHC patients, including histologic grade, alpha fetal protein (AFP) concentration, etc. Receiver operation characteristic (ROC) curve revealed STEAP3 as a potential diagnostic biomarker for LIHC patients. Moreover, the co-expression network of STEAP3 was explored to gain a better insight into its underlying signaling pathways. Finally, aberrant STEAP3 might participate in varieties of immune-associated signatures in LIHC pathogenesis, including immunostimulators, immunoinhibitors, chemokines, and chemokine receptors. Taken together, these findings could enhance our knowledge regarding the inhibitory roles and underlying biological significance of STEAP3 in LIHC tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanliang Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiuju Liang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhijie Xu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Jinzhou Huang
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuan Cai
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bi Peng
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiaoli Yi
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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