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Li Z, Zhao Y, Huang P, Wu Z, Ouyang D, Nyarko AO, Ai L, Zhang Z, Chang S. Pan-cancer analysis of the immunological and oncogenic roles of ATAD2 with verification in papillary thyroid carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:22263. [PMID: 39333272 PMCID: PMC11436736 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-73274-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024] Open
Abstract
ATAD2 (ATPase Family AAA Domain-Containing 2) is highly expressed across varies tumor types, yet its common roles in tumor progression and immune interaction remain unclear. We analyzed the expression and alteration profiles of ATAD2, along with its diagnostic and prognostic role in pan-cancer, utilizing TCGA, GTEx, CPTAC, HPA, and cBioPortal databases. Furthermore, we examined the relationship between ATAD2 and immune infiltration utilizing single-cell sequencing data and TCGA database. Additionally, the expression and oncogenic functions of ATAD2 were verified in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) through MTT, wound-healing, transwell, and flow cytometry assays. Our results revealed significant overexpression of ATAD2 in most cancers, strongly associated with poor prognosis. Amplification was the most frequent alteration type of ATAD2, with its mutation correlating with improved overall survival. ATAD2 was positively correlated with multiple inhibitory immune checkpoints and closely associated with the immunosuppressive microenvironment, particularly in PTC. In vitro experiments demonstrated that ATAD2 promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PTC cells by activating the PI3K-AKT pathway and modulating the G1/S cell cycle checkpoint. Collectively, ATAD2 holds promise as a biomarker for pan-cancer diagnosis and prognosis, as well as a predictor of immunotherapeutic responsiveness and a therapeutic target to enhance the efficacy of existing anti-tumor immune therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhecheng Li
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yaxin Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Zhaoyi Wu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Human Normal University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Dengjie Ouyang
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Adolphus Osei Nyarko
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Lei Ai
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Zhejia Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Shi Chang
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
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Tang X, Bi X, Yang A, Wang Q, Yang Y. GGTLC1 knockdown inhibits the progression of endometrial cancer by regulating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31973. [PMID: 38841516 PMCID: PMC11152738 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Endometrial cancer (EC) poses a serious risk to females worldwide; thus, a deep understanding of EC is urgently required. The role and mechanisms of gamma-glutamyltransferase light chain 1 (GGTLC1) in EC remain obscure. This study aims to elucidate the function and mechanisms underlying GGTLC1's involvement in EC. Methods Bioinformatic tools and databases were used to analyze GGTLC1 and its associated gene expression in EC tissues. Functional enrichment explorations and immune infiltration analyses were conducted, together with investigation into the methylation status of GGTLC1. Western blotting and Quantitative real-time PCR quantified expression levels. Additional experimental methodologies elucidated the role of GGTLC1 in EC progression. Transcriptome sequencing identified potential regulatory pathways for GGTLC1, and tumor growth was evaluated in vivo using HEC-1A cells in nude mice. Results GGTLC1 was upregulated and negatively correlated with immune cell infiltration and DNA methylation in EC. Cell migration and proliferation were reduced following GGTLC1 knockdown, together with arrest at the G0/G1 phase and an upsurge in apoptosis. Compared to the knockdown group, TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway was up-regulated in the negative control group of EC cells by transcriptome analysis. The levels of TGF-β, pSmad2, and pSmad3 followed the same decreasing trend, whereas Smad3 and Smad2 protein levels remained unchanged. Conclusion Knockdown of GGTLC1 attenuates EC development through the TGF-β/Smad pathway, positioning GGTLC1 as a promising target for EC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Tang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730099, China
- The Third People's Hospital of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Gynecological Oncology Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xuehan Bi
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730099, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Gynecological Oncology Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Aihong Yang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730099, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Gynecological Oncology Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qinganzi Wang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730099, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Gynecological Oncology Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yongxiu Yang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730099, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Gynecological Oncology Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
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3
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Lei P, Cao L, Zhang H, Fu J, Wei X, Zhou F, Cheng J, Ming J, Lu H, Jiang T. Polyene phosphatidylcholine enhances the therapeutic response of oxaliplatin in gastric cancer through Nrf2/HMOX1 mediated ferroptosis. Transl Oncol 2024; 43:101911. [PMID: 38377934 PMCID: PMC10891348 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101911] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxaliplatin (OXA)-based chemotherapy is one of the first-line treatments for advanced gastric cancer. However, the potential risk for chemotherapy-induced hepatic injury can hinder its effectiveness. Polyene phosphatidylcholine (PPC) is often used as a hepatoprotective agent to counter OXA-induced hepatic injury; however, its impact on the antitumour effectiveness of OXA remains uncertain. Our retrospective study examined 98 patients with stage IV gastric cancer to assess the impact of PPC on progression-free survival (PFS) and disease control rate (DCR). Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo assays were conducted to elucidate the combined biological effects of OXA and PPC (OXA+PPC) on gastric cancer. RNA sequencing, luciferase reporter assays, live/dead cell assays, immunofluorescence, and western blotting were used to identify the activated signalling pathways and downstream factors post OXA+PPC treatment. The findings indicated that PPC served as an independent prognostic factor, correlating with prolonged PFS and improved DCR in patients with gastric cancer. The combination of OXA and PPC significantly inhibited tumour cell growth both in vitro and in vivo. RNA sequencing revealed that OXA+PPC treatment amplified reactive oxygen species and ferroptosis signalling pathways. Mechanistically, OXA+PPC upregulated the expression of haem oxygenase-1 by promoting the nuclear migration of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2), thereby enhancing its transcriptional activity. Drug-molecule docking analysis demonstrated that PPC competitively bound to the peptide structural domains of both Nrf2 and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), accounting for the increased translocation of Nrf2. In conclusion, our study reveals the synergistic antitumour potential of PPC and OXA while protecting patients against hepatic injury. This suggests a promising combined treatment approach for patients with advanced gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peijie Lei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China; Department of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Lianjing Cao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Hongjun Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Jialei Fu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Xiaojuan Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Fei Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Jingjing Cheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Jie Ming
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Haijun Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China.
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China.
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Guo D, Sheng K, Zhang Q, Li P, Sun H, Wang Y, Lyu X, Jia Y, Wang C, Wu J, Zhang X, Wang D, Sun Y, Huang S, Yu J, Zhang J. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis reveals the landscape of epithelial-mesenchymal transition molecular heterogeneity in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2024; 587:216723. [PMID: 38342234 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a prevalent and highly lethal malignant disease. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial in promoting ESCC development. However, the molecular heterogeneity of ESCC and the potential inhibitory strategies targeting EMT remain poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed high-resolution single-cell transcriptome data encompassing 209,231 ESCC cells from 39 tumor samples and 16 adjacent samples obtained from 44 individuals. We identified distinct cell populations exhibiting heterogeneous EMT characteristics and identified 87 EMT-associated molecules. The expression profiles of these EMT-associated molecules showed heterogeneity across different stages of ESCC progression. Moreover, we observed that EMT primarily occurred in early-stage tumors, before lymph node metastasis, and significantly promoted the rapid deterioration of ESCC. Notably, we identified SERPINH1 as a potential novel marker for ESCC EMT. By classifying ESCC patients based on EMT gene sets, we found that those with high EMT exhibited poorer prognosis. Furthermore, we predicted and experimentally validated drugs targeting ESCC EMT, including dactolisib, docetaxel, and nutlin, which demonstrated efficacy in inhibiting EMT and metastasis in ESCC. Through the integration of scRNA-seq, RNA-seq, and TCGA data with experimental validation, our comprehensive analysis elucidated the landscape of EMT during the entire course of ESCC development and metastasis. These findings provide valuable insights and a reference for refining ESCC clinical treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianhao Guo
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Kaiwen Sheng
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Qi Zhang
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Pin Li
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Haoqiang Sun
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Yongjie Wang
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Xinxing Lyu
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Yang Jia
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Caifan Wang
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Jing Wu
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Xiaohang Zhang
- Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau.
| | - Dandan Wang
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Yawen Sun
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Shuhong Huang
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
| | - Jinming Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China; Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Jingze Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China.
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Chen Z, Wang Y, Lu X, Chen H, Kong Y, Rong L, Wang G. The immune regulation and therapeutic potential of the SMAD gene family in breast cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6769. [PMID: 38514720 PMCID: PMC10958012 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57189-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a serious threat to human health. The transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway is an important pathway involved in the occurrence and development of cancer. The SMAD family genes are responsible for the TGF-β signaling pathway. However, the mechanism by which genes of the SMAD family are involved in breast cancer is still unclear. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the biological roles of the SMAD family genes in breast cancer. We downloaded the gene expression data, gene mutation data, and clinical pathological data of breast cancer patients from the UCSC Xena database. We used the Wilcox test to estimate the expression of genes of the SMAD family in cancers. And the biological functions of SMAD family genes using the DAVID website. The Pearson correlation method was used to explore the immune cell infiltration and drug response of SMAD family genes. We conducted in biological experiments vitro and vivo. In this study, we integrated the multi-omics data from TCGA breast cancer patients for analysis. The expression of genes of SMAD family was significantly dysregulated in patients with breast cancer. Except for SMAD6, the expression of other SMAD family genes was positively correlated. We also found that genes of the SMAD family were significantly enriched in the TGF-β signaling pathway, Hippo signaling pathway, cell cycle, and cancer-related pathways. In addition, SMAD3, SMAD6, and SMAD7 were lowly expressed in stage II breast cancer, while SMAD4 and SMAD2 were lowly expressed in stage III cancer. Furthermore, the expression of genes of the SMAD family was significantly correlated with immune cell infiltration scores. Constructing a xenograft tumor mouse model, we found that SMAD3 knockdown significantly inhibited tumorigenesis. Finally, we analyzed the association between these genes and the IC50 value of drugs. Interestingly, patients with high expression of SMAD3 exhibited significant resistance to dasatinib and staurosporine, while high sensitivity to tamoxifen and auranofin. In addition, SMAD3 knockdown promoted the apoptosis of BT-549 cells and decreased cell activity, and BAY-1161909 and XK-469 increased drug efficacy. In conclusion, genes of the SMAD family play a crucial role in the development of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaodi Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yiran Kong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Liwei Rong
- Department of Medical Records, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Guonian Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
- Institute of Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, China.
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Xia X, Zhao S, Chen W, Xu C, Zhao D. CCT6A promotes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell proliferation, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition by activating TGF-β/Smad/c-Myc pathway. Ir J Med Sci 2023; 192:2653-2660. [PMID: 37017854 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03357-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chaperonin-containing TCP1 subunit 6A (CCT6A) facilitates several malignant cancer behaviors, but its regulation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has not been reported. This study aimed to investigate the effect of CCT6A on cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its interaction with the TGF-β/Smad/c-Myc pathway in ESCC. METHODS CCT6A expression was detected in ESCC and normal esophageal epithelial cell lines by RT‒qPCR and western blotting. Furthermore, CCT6A siRNA, negative control (NC) siRNA, CCT6A encoding plasmid and NC encoding plasmid were transfected into OE21 and TE-1 cells. Subsequently, CCT6A siRNA- and NC siRNA-transfected cells were treated with TGF-β for rescue experiments. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and E-cadherin/N-cadherin and p-Smad2/p-Smad3/c-Myc expression were detected. RESULTS CCT6A expression was increased in KYSE-180, TE-1, TE-4 and OE21 cells compared with HET-1A cells. In both OE21 and TE-1 cells, CCT6A knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, invasion and N-cadherin expression while promoting cell apoptosis and E-cadherin expression; meanwhile, CCT6A overexpression had the opposite effects. Furthermore, in both OE21 and TE-1 cells, CCT6A knockdown decreased p-Smad2/Smad2, p-Smad3/Smad3 and c-Myc/GAPDH expression; CCT6A overexpression had the opposite effects. Next, TGF-β facilitated cell proliferation, invasion, and N-cadherin, p-Smad2/Smad2, p-Smad3/Smad2 and c-Myc/GAPDH expression while repressing cell apoptosis and E-cadherin expression in OE21 and TE-1 cells; importantly, TGF-β could compensate for the regulation of CCT6A knockdown on these activities. CONCLUSION CCT6A facilitates ESCC malignant activities by activating the TGF-β/Smad/c-Myc pathway, which sheds light on the identification of a possible therapeutic target in the management of ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuli Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Handan Central Hospital, Handan, 056001, China
| | - Shushan Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Handan Central Hospital, Handan, 056001, China
| | - Wenting Chen
- Department of Endoscopy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China
| | - Chao Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Handan Central Hospital, Handan, 056001, China
| | - Dongqiang Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China.
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Hassametto A, Tanomrat R, Muangthong T, Worawichawong S, Suwannalert P. Role of Oxidative Stress-Dependent C/EBPβ Expression on CAF Transformation Inducing HCT116 Colorectal Cancer Cell Progression; Migration and Invasion. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2023; 24:3825-3835. [PMID: 38019240 PMCID: PMC10772768 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2023.24.11.3825] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate oxidative stress-related CAF transformation through C/EBPβ, which affects CRC progression and may have a potential implication for CRC treatment. METHODS The conditioned media (CM) from HCT116, CRC cells, was used to activate CCD-18Co, colon fibroblasts, then the ability of activated FBs to induce HCT116 growth and progression was assessed using MTT assay, transwell migration, and matrix invasion assay. Alteration of the cytokine profile and oxidative stress of the activated FBs were studied with cytokine arrays and DCFH-DA assay, respectively. The protein expressions of the CAF markers (α-SMA and FAP) and C/EBPβ were investigated with immunofluorescence and western blotting. RESULT It was found that CM from HCT116 cells induced oxidative stress, change of cytokine profile, CAF markers, and the C/EBPβ expression of activated FBs. Furthermore, when the oxidative stress of the activated FBs was suppressed, FAP and C/EBPβ expression were downregulated, correlating with the disabling of their capability to support the cancer progression. The C/EBPβ and prognosis for CRC patients were accessed using the GEPIA dataset, in which high C/EBPβ expression was associated with a poor prognosis. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that C/EBPβ expression has a role in CAF transformation in an oxidative stress-related manner and might be used as a target to improve aggressive CRC treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artchaya Hassametto
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
| | - Rataya Tanomrat
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
| | - Tharathip Muangthong
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
| | - Suchin Worawichawong
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
| | - Prasit Suwannalert
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
- Pathobiology Information and Learning Center, Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
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8
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Zou H, Chen M, Wang X, Yu J, Li X, Xie Y, Liu J, Liu M, Xu L, Zhang Q, Tian X, Zhang F, Guo B. C/EBPβ isoform-specific regulation of podocyte pyroptosis in lupus nephritis-induced renal injury. J Pathol 2023; 261:269-285. [PMID: 37602503 DOI: 10.1002/path.6174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
As an essential factor in the prognosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), lupus nephritis (LN) can accelerate the rate at which patients with SLE can transition to chronic kidney disease or even end-stage renal disease. Podocytes now appear to be a possible direct target in LN in addition to being prone to collateral damage from glomerular capillary lesions induces by immune complexes and inflammatory processes. The NLRP3 inflammasome is regulated by CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ), which is involved in the pathogenesis of SLE. However, the role and mechanism of C/EBPβ in LN remain unclear. In this investigation, glomerular podocytes treated with LN serum and MRL/lpr mice were employed as in vivo and in vitro models of LN, respectively. In vivo, the expression of C/EBPβ isoforms was detected in kidney specimens of humans and mice with LN. Then we assessed the effect of C/EBPβ inhibition on renal structure and function by injecting RNAi adeno-associated virus of C/EBPβ shRNA into MRL/lpr mice. In vitro, glomerular podocytes were treated with LN serum and C/EBPβ siRNA to explore the role of C/EBPβ in the activation of the AIM2 inflammasome and podocyte injury. C/EBPβ-LAP and C/EBPβ-LIP were significantly overexpressed in kidney tissue samples from LN patients and mice, and C/EBPβ inhibition significantly alleviated renal function damage and ameliorated renal structural deficiencies. Inflammatory pathways downstream from the AIM2 inflammasome could be suppressed by C/EBPβ knockdown. Furthermore, the upregulation of C/EBPβ-LAP could activate the AIM2 inflammasome and podocyte pyroptosis by binding to the promoters of AIM2 and CASPASE1 to enhance their expression, and the knockdown of AIM2 or (and) caspase-1 reversed the effects of C/EBPβ-LAP overexpression. Interestingly, C/EBPβ-LIP overexpression could transcriptionally inhibit IRAG and promote Ca2+ release-mediated activation of the AIM2 inflammasome. This finding suggests that C/EBPβ is not only involved in the regulation of the expression of key proteins of the AIM2 inflammasome but also affects the polymerization of key proteins of the AIM2 inflammasome through the regulation of Ca2+ release. In conclusion, this study provides a new idea for studying the regulatory mechanism of C/EBPβ and provides a theoretical basis for the early diagnosis and treatment of LN in the future. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimei Zou
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- School of Nursing, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Min Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Xiuhong Wang
- School of Nursing, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Xiaoying Li
- Department of Nephrology, The First People's Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Ying Xie
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Miao Liu
- Department of Urinary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Lifen Xu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Qiong Zhang
- School of Nursing, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Xiaoxue Tian
- School of Nursing, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Bing Guo
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, PR China
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9
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Tu M, Yin X, Zhuang W, Lin X, Xia Y, Huang Z, Zheng Y, Huang Y. NSG1 promotes glycolytic metabolism to enhance Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma EMT process by upregulating TGF-β. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:391. [PMID: 37872157 PMCID: PMC10593808 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01694-6] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As a highly enriched endosomal protein within neuronal cells, NSG1 has been discovered to facilitate the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, the precise mechanisms behind this phenomenon have yet to be elucidated. The pivotal role of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in triggering the EMT and its significant contribution towards tumor metabolic reprogramming-responsible for EMT activation-has been robustly established. Nevertheless, the extent of TGF-β involvement in the NSG1-mediated EMT within ESCC and the processes through which metabolic reprogramming participates remain ambiguous. We accessed an array of extensive public genome databases to analyze NSG1 expression in ESCC. Regulation of TGF-β by NSG1 was analyzed by transcriptome sequencing, quantitative Real-Time PCR (qRT-PCR), co-immunoprecipitation (CO-IP), and immunofluorescence (IF). Additionally, cellular functional assays and western blot analyses were conducted to elucidate the effect of NSG1 on TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, as well as its role in ESCC cell metastasis and proliferation. We validated the influence of the NSG1/TGF-β axis on metabolic reprogramming in ESCC by measuring extracellular acidification, glucose uptake, and lactate production. Our findings identify an oncogenic role for NSG1 in ESCC and show a correlation between high NSG1 expression and poor prognosis in ESCC patients. Additional research indicated TGF-β's involvement in the NSG1-induced EMT process. From a mechanistic perspective, NSG1 upregulates TGF-β, activating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and subsequently fostering the EMT process by inducing cell metabolic reprogramming-evident from elevated glycolysis levels. In conclusion, our study highlights the NSG1/TGF-β axis as a promising therapeutic target for ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingshu Tu
- Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqing Yin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine College, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Wanzhen Zhuang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqing Lin
- Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine College, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhixin Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine College, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yue Zheng
- Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yi Huang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China.
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China.
- Central Laboratory, Center for Experimental Research in Clinical Medicine, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuzhou, China.
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10
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Zheng C, Yu X, Xu T, Liu Z, Jiang Z, Xu J, Yang J, Zhang G, He Y, Yang H, Shi X, Li Z, Liu J, Xu WW. KCTD4 interacts with CLIC1 to disrupt calcium homeostasis and promote metastasis in esophageal cancer. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4217-4233. [PMID: 37799381 PMCID: PMC10547965 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidences suggest the important role of calcium homeostasis in hallmarks of cancer, but its function and regulatory network in metastasis remain unclear. A comprehensive investigation of key regulators in cancer metastasis is urgently needed. Transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) of primary esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and matched metastatic tissues and a series of gain/loss-of-function experiments identified potassium channel tetramerization domain containing 4 (KCTD4) as a driver of cancer metastasis. KCTD4 expression was found upregulated in metastatic ESCC. High KCTD4 expression is associated with poor prognosis in patients with ESCC and contributes to cancer metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, KCTD4 binds to CLIC1 and disrupts its dimerization, thus increasing intracellular Ca2+ level to enhance NFATc1-dependent fibronectin transcription. KCTD4-induced fibronectin secretion activates fibroblasts in a paracrine manner, which in turn promotes cancer cell invasion via MMP24 signaling as positive feedback. Furthermore, a lead compound K279-0738 significantly suppresses cancer metastasis by targeting the KCTD4‒CLIC1 interaction, providing a potential therapeutic strategy. Taken together, our study not only uncovers KCTD4 as a regulator of calcium homeostasis, but also reveals KCTD4/CLIC1-Ca2+-NFATc1-fibronectin signaling as a novel mechanism of cancer metastasis. These findings validate KCTD4 as a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cancan Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeting Diagnosis, Therapy and Rehabilitation of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510230, China
| | - Xiaomei Yu
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeting Diagnosis, Therapy and Rehabilitation of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510230, China
| | - Taoyang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeting Diagnosis, Therapy and Rehabilitation of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510230, China
| | - Zhichao Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Zhili Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510230, China
| | - Jiaojiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeting Diagnosis, Therapy and Rehabilitation of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510230, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeting Diagnosis, Therapy and Rehabilitation of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510230, China
| | - Guogeng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeting Diagnosis, Therapy and Rehabilitation of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510230, China
| | - Yan He
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeting Diagnosis, Therapy and Rehabilitation of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510230, China
| | - Han Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xingyuan Shi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510230, China
| | - Zhigang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Jinbao Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511495, China
| | - Wen Wen Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511495, China
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11
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Sun T, Liu Z. MicroRNA-139-5p suppresses non-small cell lung cancer progression by targeting ATAD2. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 249:154719. [PMID: 37595446 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154719] [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: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
MiR-139-5p is a suppressor in multiple types of cancer. However, whether miR-139-5p affects NSCLC is unknown. In this study, miR-139-5p expression in clinical samples was examined by real-time PCR and in situ hybridization (ISH). MiR-139-5p mimic was transfected to monitor NSCLC cell behaviors. Potential target was predicated using bioinformatics database. Next, whether miR-139-5p impacted cell behaviors via regulation of its predicted target gene were further evaluated. The result revealed that miR-139-5p was lower in NSCLC samples/cells. MiR-139-5p restrained A549 cell proliferation, accelerated apoptosis, and inhibited the β-catenin signaling. ATAD2 was a predicted target of miR-139-5p, and it was highly expressed in NSCLC tissues. ATAD2 overexpression abolished the miR-139-5p's anti-tumor effect on cell proliferation and apoptosis. TWS119 (a β-catenin signaling activator) partially reversed miR-139-5p overexpression-induced suppression of cell proliferation and promotion of cell apoptosis. In tumor xenografts, miR-139-5p restrained tumor growth. MiR-139-5p was a tumor suppressor in NSCLC by regulating the oncogene ATAD2 and β-catenin signaling. Our study provides a promising target for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Sun
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, PR China
| | - Zhaoyu Liu
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, PR China.
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12
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Zhu WH, Chen J, Huang RK, Zhang Y, Huang ZX, Pang XQ, Hu B, Yang Y, Li X. Erythroid-transdifferentiated myeloid cells promote portal vein tumor thrombus in hepatocellular carcinoma. Theranostics 2023; 13:4316-4332. [PMID: 37649603 PMCID: PMC10465220 DOI: 10.7150/thno.82907] [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: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is primarily characterized by a high incidence of vascular invasion. However, the specific mechanism underlying portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) in HCC remains unclear. As a consequence of myeloid cell developmental arrest, CD71+ erythroid progenitor cells (EPCs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells play important roles in HCC; however, their roles in PVTT remain unclear. Methods: The role of CD71+ EPCs in the HCC tumor microenvironment (TME) was evaluated via morphological, RNA-sequencing, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and flow cytometric analyses. Co-culture techniques were employed to assess the CD45+ EPCs and their vascular compromising effect. Additionally, the PVTT-promoting function of CD45+ EPCs was explored in vivo in a murine model. Results: The CD45+EPCs in HCC tissues exhibited increased myeloid cell features, including morphology, surface markers, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β generation, and gene expression, compared with those in circulation. Hence, a large proportion of CD45+EPCs, particularly those in TMEs, comprise erythroid-transdifferentiated myeloid cells (EDMCs). Additionally, the expression of C-C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2) mRNA was upregulated in CD45+EPCs within the TME. Tumor macrophages from HCC tissues induced substantial migration of CD45+EPCs in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, results from immunofluorescence analyses revealed that these two cell types are positively associated in the TME and circulation. That is, EDMCs are chemoattracted by HCC macrophages mainly via CCR2 from CD45+ EPCs in the circulation. Additionally, the expressions of FX, FVII, FGB, C4b, CFB, and CFH were elevated in CD45+EPCs within the TME compared with those in the spleen. The CD45+EPCs from the HCC TME promoted vessel endothelial cell migration and compromised tube formation through TGF-β and FGB, respectively. Additionally, CD45+EPCs from the TME induced HCC cell migration. HCC macrophage-induced CD45+EPCs to exhibit higher levels of FX, FVII, FGB, and TGF-β. Meanwhile, upregulation of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein beta expression induced FGB and TGF-β generation in CD45+EPCs in the TME. WTAP, a major RNA m6A writer, stabilized FX and FVII mRNA and enhanced their nuclear export in CD45+EPCs from the TME. CD45+EPCs from the TME were positively associated with PVTT and poor prognosis. Splenectomy reduced the level of CD45+EPCs in the circulation and TME, as well as the incidence of microvascular invasion. The incidence of microvascular invasion increased following the transfer of HCC tissue CD45+EPCs to splenectomized HCC-bearing mice. Conclusions: The CD45+EPCs enriched in the HCC microenvironment are EDMCs, which are induced by HCC macrophages to migrate from the circulation to the TME. Subsequently, EDMCs promote PVTT by compromising the blood vessel endothelium, aggravating coagulation, and promoting HCC cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Hang Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Guangdong Key laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Guangdong Key laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Run-Kai Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Guangdong Key laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Ze-Xuan Huang
- Guangdong Key laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Xiu-Qing Pang
- Guangdong Key laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Bo Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Xing Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Guangdong Key laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510630, China
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13
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Xu Q, Li X, Li Y, Yu J, Yang A. Kinesin family member 23 knockdown inhibits cell proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in esophageal carcinoma by inactivating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:154. [PMID: 37162618 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01088-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Kinesin family member 23 (KIF23) serves as a tumor-promoting gene with prognostic values in various tumors. However, the role of KIF23 in esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) progression is largely unknown. The overlapping differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in GSE12452, GSE17351, and GSE20347 datasets were identified via GEO2R tool and Venn diagram software. KIF23 expression was analyzed using GSE12452, GSE17351, and GSE20347 datasets, GEPIA database, and qRT-PCR. Cell proliferation was assessed by CCK-8 and EdU incorporation assays. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) analysis was performed to investigate the pathways associated with the regulatory mechanisms of KIF23 in ESCA. The expression of E-cadherin, vimentin, N-cadherin, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and alternation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway were detected by western blot analysis. We identified two overlapping upregulated DEGs, among which KIF23 was selected for subsequent experiments. KIF23 was overexpressed in ESCA samples and cells, and knockdown of KIF23 retarded cell proliferation in ESCA cells. Besides, KIF23 knockdown suppressed epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in ESCA cells, as evidenced by the increase of E-cadherin expression and the reduction of vimentin, N-cadherin, and MMP-9 expression. GSEA analysis suggested that Wnt signaling pathway was the significant pathway related to KIF23. Moreover, we demonstrated that KIF23 silencing inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in ESCA cells. Activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway by SKL2001 reversed the effects of KIF23 silencing on cell proliferation and EMT in ESCA cells. In conclusion, KIF23 knockdown inhibited the proliferation and EMT in ESCA cells through blockage of Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanxiao Xu
- Department of Oncology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang, 473012, China
| | - Xianzhe Li
- Department of General Surgery, Nanshi Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang, 473000, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of General Surgery, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang, 473012, China
| | - Jinsong Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang, 473012, China
| | - Aimin Yang
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an Second People's Hospital, 62 South Huaihai Road, Huai'an, 223022, China.
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14
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Wei R, Guo S, Meng Z, Li Z, Liu J, Hu L, Sui L. Mediator1 involved in functional integration of Smad3 and Notch1 promoting enamel mineralization. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 663:47-53. [PMID: 37119765 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.04.053] [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: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Enamel hypoplasia is a tooth development defection due to the disruption of enamel matrix mineralization, manifesting as chalky white phenotype. Multiple genes may be involved in this tooth agenesis. It has been proved that ablation of coactivator Mediator1 (Med1) switches the cell fate of dental epithelia, resulting in abnormal tooth development via Notch1 signaling. Smad3 (-/-) mice displays the similar chalky white incisors. However, the expression of Smad3 in Med1 ablation mice and the impact of Med1 on functional integration between Smad3 and Notch1 remains unclear. Cre-loxP-based C57/BL6 mice with epithelial-specific Med1 knockout (Med1 KO) backgrounds were generated. Mandibles and dental epithelial stem cells (DE-SCs) from incisors cervical loop (CL) were isolated from wild-type (CON) mice and Med1 KO mice. Transcriptome sequencing was used to analyze the differences of CL tissue between KO and CON mice. The results revealed the enrichment of TGF-β signaling pathway. qRT-PCR and western blot were performed to show the gene and protein expression of Smad3, pSmad3, Notch1 and NICD, the key regulators of TGF-β and Notch1 signaling pathway. Expression of Notch1 and Smad3 was confirmed to be down-regulated in Med1 KO cells. Using activators of Smad3 and Notch1 on Med1 KO cells, both pSmad3 and NICD were rescued. Moreover, adding inhibitors and activators of Smad3 and Notch1 to cells of CON groups respectively, the protein expressions of Smad3, pSmad3, Notch1 and NICD were synergistically affected. In summary, Med1 participates in the functional integration of Smad3 and Notch1, thus promoting enamel mineralization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Wei
- School of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300014, China.
| | - Shuling Guo
- School of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300014, China.
| | - Zhaosong Meng
- School of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300014, China.
| | - Zhe Li
- School of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300014, China.
| | - Jiacheng Liu
- School of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300014, China.
| | - Lizhi Hu
- Immunology Department, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300014, China.
| | - Lei Sui
- School of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300014, China.
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15
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Gao Y, Cheng X, Han M. ZEB1-activated Notch1 promotes circulating tumor cell migration and invasion in lung squamous cell carcinoma. Clin Transl Oncol 2023; 25:817-829. [PMID: 36418641 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-022-02993-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is recognized as the major subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are critical players in tumor metastasis. A molecular profiling of CTCs has previously identified notch receptor 1 (Notch1) as an important mediator in NSCLC. Therefore, we investigate Notch1 roles in LUSC and its related mechanisms. METHODS The serum levels of Notch1 were measured by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The CTCs isolated from blood samples were characterized via an immunofluorescence method. Cell motion was determined using Transwell chambers. The regulatory relationship between Notch1 and zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) was verified by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase reporter assays. The protein levels were detected by western blotting. RESULTS Higher Notch1 expression in patients with LUSC than that in normal controls was observed. Notch1 knockdown inhibited cell motion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). ZEB1 transcriptionally activated Notch1. ZEB1 upregulation exacerbated the malignant phenotypes of CTCs. CONCLUSION ZEB1-activated Notch1 promotes malignant phenotypes of CTCs in LUSC and indicates poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fuyang Second People's Hospital, Fuyang Infectious Disease Clinical College, Anhui Medical University, Fuyang, 236015, Anhui, China
| | - Xinyuan Cheng
- Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, Shandong, China
| | - Mingfeng Han
- Department of Respiratory, Fuyang Second People's Hospital, Fuyang Infectious Disease Clinical College, Anhui Medical University, No. 1088, Yinghe West Road, Yingzhou District, Fuyang, 236015, Anhui, China.
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16
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Targeting Transcription Factors ATF5, CEBPB and CEBPD with Cell-Penetrating Peptides to Treat Brain and Other Cancers. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040581. [PMID: 36831248 PMCID: PMC9954556 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing novel therapeutics often follows three steps: target identification, design of strategies to suppress target activity and drug development to implement the strategies. In this review, we recount the evidence identifying the basic leucine zipper transcription factors ATF5, CEBPB, and CEBPD as targets for brain and other malignancies. We describe strategies that exploit the structures of the three factors to create inhibitory dominant-negative (DN) mutant forms that selectively suppress growth and survival of cancer cells. We then discuss and compare four peptides (CP-DN-ATF5, Dpep, Bpep and ST101) in which DN sequences are joined with cell-penetrating domains to create drugs that pass through tissue barriers and into cells. The peptide drugs show both efficacy and safety in suppressing growth and in the survival of brain and other cancers in vivo, and ST101 is currently in clinical trials for solid tumors, including GBM. We further consider known mechanisms by which the peptides act and how these have been exploited in rationally designed combination therapies. We additionally discuss lacunae in our knowledge about the peptides that merit further research. Finally, we suggest both short- and long-term directions for creating new generations of drugs targeting ATF5, CEBPB, CEBPD, and other transcription factors for treating brain and other malignancies.
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17
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Fu J, Zhang J, Chen X, Liu Z, Yang X, He Z, Hao Y, Liu B, Yao D. ATPase family AAA domain-containing protein 2 (ATAD2): From an epigenetic modulator to cancer therapeutic target. Theranostics 2023; 13:787-809. [PMID: 36632213 PMCID: PMC9830439 DOI: 10.7150/thno.78840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
ATPase family AAA domain-containing protein 2 (ATAD2) has been widely reported to be a new emerging oncogene that is closely associated with epigenetic modifications in human cancers. As a coactivator of transcription factors, ATAD2 can participate in epigenetic modifications and regulate the expression of downstream oncogenes or tumor suppressors, which may be supported by the enhancer of zeste homologue 2. Moreover, the dominant structure (AAA + ATPase and bromine domains) can make ATAD2 a potential therapeutic target in cancer, and some relevant small-molecule inhibitors, such as GSK8814 and AZ13824374, have also been discovered. Thus, in this review, we focus on summarizing the structural features and biological functions of ATAD2 from an epigenetic modulator to a cancer therapeutic target, and further discuss the existing small-molecule inhibitors targeting ATAD2 to improve potential cancer therapy. Together, these inspiring findings would shed new light on ATAD2 as a promising druggable target in cancer and provide a clue on the development of candidate anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Fu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518118, China.,State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Xiya Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518118, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Zhiying Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518118, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Xuetao Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518118, China
| | - Zhendan He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518118, China
| | - Yue Hao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: E-mail addresses: (Yue Hao); (Bo Liu), or (Dahong Yao). Tel./Fax. (+86)-28-85164063
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: E-mail addresses: (Yue Hao); (Bo Liu), or (Dahong Yao). Tel./Fax. (+86)-28-85164063
| | - Dahong Yao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518118, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: E-mail addresses: (Yue Hao); (Bo Liu), or (Dahong Yao). Tel./Fax. (+86)-28-85164063
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Characterization of the Immune Infiltration Landscape and Identification of Prognostic Biomarkers for Esophageal Cancer. Mol Biotechnol 2023; 65:361-383. [PMID: 35780460 PMCID: PMC9935668 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-022-00526-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is an effective treatment for esophageal cancer (ESCA) patients. However, there are no dependable markers for predicting prognosis and immunotherapy responses in ESCA. Our study aims to explore immune gene prognostic models and markers in ESCA as well as predictors for immunotherapy. The expression profiles of ESCA were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) databases. Cox regression analysis was performed to construct an immune gene prognostic model. ESCA was grouped into three immune cell infiltration (ICI) clusters by CIBERSORT algorithm. The immunotherapy response of patients in different ICI score clusters was also compared. The copy number variations, somatic mutations, and single nucleotide polymorphisms were analyzed. Enrichment analyses were also performed. An immune gene prognostic model was successfully constructed. The ICI score may be used as a predictor independent of tumor mutation burden. Enrichment analyses showed that the differentially expressed genes were mostly enriched in microvillus and the KRAS and IL6/JAK/STAT3 pathways. The top eight genes with the highest mutation frequencies in ESCA were identified and all related to the prognosis of ESCA patients. Our study established an effective immune gene prognostic model and identified markers for predicting the prognosis and immunotherapy response of ESCA patients.
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Saikia M, Bhattacharyya DK, Kalita JK. CBDCEM: An effective centrality based differential co-expression method for critical gene finding. GENE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2022.101688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
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Tumor-Promoting ATAD2 and Its Preclinical Challenges. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12081040. [PMID: 36008934 PMCID: PMC9405547 DOI: 10.3390/biom12081040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
ATAD2 has received extensive attention in recent years as one prospective oncogene with tumor-promoting features in many malignancies. ATAD2 is a highly conserved bromodomain family protein that exerts its biological functions by mainly AAA ATPase and bromodomain. ATAD2 acts as an epigenetic decoder and transcription factor or co-activator, which is engaged in cellular activities, such as transcriptional regulation, DNA replication, and protein modification. ATAD2 has been reported to be highly expressed in a variety of human malignancies, including gastrointestinal malignancies, reproductive malignancies, urological malignancies, lung cancer, and other types of malignancies. ATAD2 is involved in the activation of multiple oncogenic signaling pathways and is closely associated with tumorigenesis, progression, chemoresistance, and poor prognosis, but the oncogenic mechanisms vary in different cancer types. Moreover, the direct targeting of ATAD2’s bromodomain may be a very challenging task. In this review, we summarized the role of ATAD2 in various types of malignancies and pointed out the pharmacological direction.
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