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Parey E, Ortega-Martinez O, Delroisse J, Piovani L, Czarkwiani A, Dylus D, Arya S, Dupont S, Thorndyke M, Larsson T, Johannesson K, Buckley KM, Martinez P, Oliveri P, Marlétaz F. The brittle star genome illuminates the genetic basis of animal appendage regeneration. Nat Ecol Evol 2024:10.1038/s41559-024-02456-y. [PMID: 39030276 DOI: 10.1038/s41559-024-02456-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Species within nearly all extant animal lineages are capable of regenerating body parts. However, it remains unclear whether the gene expression programme controlling regeneration is evolutionarily conserved. Brittle stars are a species-rich class of echinoderms with outstanding regenerative abilities, but investigations into the genetic bases of regeneration in this group have been hindered by the limited genomic resources. Here we report a chromosome-scale genome assembly for the brittle star Amphiura filiformis. We show that the brittle star genome is the most rearranged among echinoderms sequenced so far, featuring a reorganized Hox cluster reminiscent of the rearrangements observed in sea urchins. In addition, we performed an extensive profiling of gene expression during brittle star adult arm regeneration and identified sequential waves of gene expression governing wound healing, proliferation and differentiation. We conducted comparative transcriptomic analyses with other invertebrate and vertebrate models for appendage regeneration and uncovered hundreds of genes with conserved expression dynamics, particularly during the proliferative phase of regeneration. Our findings emphasize the crucial importance of echinoderms to detect long-range expression conservation between vertebrates and classical invertebrate regeneration model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Parey
- Centre for Life's Origins and Evolution, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Olga Ortega-Martinez
- Tjärnö Marine Laboratory, Department of Marine Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Strömstad, Sweden
| | - Jérôme Delroisse
- Biology of Marine Organisms and Biomimetics Unit, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Laura Piovani
- Centre for Life's Origins and Evolution, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anna Czarkwiani
- Centre for Life's Origins and Evolution, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK
- Technische Universität Dresden, Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Dresden, Germany
| | - David Dylus
- Centre for Life's Origins and Evolution, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development (pRED), Cardiovascular and Metabolism, Immunology, Infectious Disease, and Ophthalmology (CMI2O), F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Srishti Arya
- Centre for Life's Origins and Evolution, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK
- MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Samuel Dupont
- Department of Biology and Environmental Science, University of Gothenburg, Kristineberg Marine Research Station, Fiskebäckskil, Sweden
- IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories, Radioecology Laboratory, Quai Antoine 1er, Monaco
| | - Michael Thorndyke
- Department of Biology and Environmental Science, University of Gothenburg, Kristineberg Marine Research Station, Fiskebäckskil, Sweden
| | - Tomas Larsson
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, National Bioinformatics Infrastructure Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Johannesson
- Tjärnö Marine Laboratory, Department of Marine Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Strömstad, Sweden
| | | | - Pedro Martinez
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia, i Estadística, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut Català de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paola Oliveri
- Centre for Life's Origins and Evolution, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Ferdinand Marlétaz
- Centre for Life's Origins and Evolution, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK.
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2
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Wu G, Zhang J, Peng R, Cao J, Tu D, Zhou J, Su B, Jin S, Jiang G, Zhang C, Bai D. Establishment of a circRNA-regulated E3 ubiquitin ligase signature and nomogram to predict immunotherapeutic efficacy and prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Med Res 2024; 29:318. [PMID: 38858746 PMCID: PMC11163726 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-024-01893-6] [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: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common type of malignant tumor where the prognosis is dismal. Circular RNA (CircRNA) is a novel RNA that regulates downstream gene transcription and translation to influence the progression of HCC. However, the regulatory relationship that exists between E3 ligases, which is a class of post-translational modifying proteins, and circRNA remains unclear. METHODS Based on the E3 ubiquitin ligase in the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network, a circRNA-regulated E3 ubiquitin ligase signature (CRE3UL) was developed. A CRE3UL signature was created using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) and Cox regression analysis and merged it with clinicopathologic characteristics to generate a nomogram for prognosis prediction. The pRRophetic algorithm was utilized and immunological checkpoints were analyzed to compare the responses of patients in the high-risk group (HRG) and low-risk group (LRG) to targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Finally, experimental research will further elucidate the relationship between E3 ubiquitin ligase signature and HCC. RESULTS HRG patients were found to have a worse prognosis than LRG patients. Furthermore, significant variations in prognosis were observed among different subgroups based on various clinical characteristics. The CRE3UL signature was identified as being an independent prognostic indicator. The nomogram that combined clinical characteristics and the CRE3UL signature was found to accurately predict the prognosis of HCC patients and demonstrated greater clinical utility than the current TNM staging approach. According to anticancer medication sensitivity predictions, the tumors of HRG patients were more responsive to gefitinib and nilotinib. From immune-checkpoint markers analysis, immunotherapy was identified as being more probable to assist those in the HRG. CONCLUSIONS We found a significant correlation between the CRE3UL signature and the tumor microenvironment, enabling precise prognosis prediction for HCC patients. Additionally, a nomogram was developed that performs well in predicting the overall survival (OS) of HCC patients. This provides valuable guidance for clinicians in devising specific personalized treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gefeng Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
- Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116000, China
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
- Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116000, China
| | - Rui Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Daoyuan Tu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bingbing Su
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shengjie Jin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guoqing Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Dousheng Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, 98 West Nantong Rd, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China.
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3
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Torshizi Esfahani A, Mohammadpour S, Jalali P, Yaghoobi A, Karimpour R, Torkamani S, Pardakhtchi A, Salehi Z, Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad E. Differential expression of angiogenesis-related genes 'VEGF' and 'angiopoietin-1' in metastatic and EMAST-positive colorectal cancer patients. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10539. [PMID: 38719941 PMCID: PMC11079037 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61000-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Abnormal angiogenesis leads to tumor progression and metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to elucidate the association between angiogenesis-related genes, including VEGF-A, ANGPT-1, and ANGPT-2 with both metastatic and microsatellite alterations at selected tetranucleotide repeats (EMAST) subtypes of CRC. We conducted a thorough assessment of the ANGPT-1, ANGPT-2, and VEGF-A gene expression utilizing publicly available RNA sequencing and microarray datasets. Then, the experimental validation was performed in 122 CRC patients, considering their disease metastasis and EMAST+/- profile by using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Subsequently, a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network associated with these angiogenesis-related genes was constructed and analyzed. The expression level of VEGF-A and ANGPT-2 genes were significantly higher in tumor tissues as compared with normal adjacent tissues (P-value < 0.001). Nevertheless, ANGPT-1 had a significantly lower expression in tumor samples than in normal colon tissue (P-value < 0.01). We identified a significantly increased VEGF-A (P-value = 0.002) and decreased ANGPT-1 (P-value = 0.04) expression in EMAST+ colorectal tumors. Regarding metastasis, a significantly increased VEGF-A and ANGPT-2 expression (P-value = 0.001) and decreased ANGPT-1 expression (P-value < 0.05) were established in metastatic CRC patients. Remarkably, co-expression analysis also showed a strong correlation between ANGPT-2 and VEGF-A gene expressions. The ceRNA network was constructed by ANGPT-1, ANGPT-2, VEGF-A, and experimentally validated miRNAs (hsa-miR-190a-3p, hsa-miR-374c-5p, hsa-miR-452-5p, and hsa-miR-889-3p), lncRNAs (AFAP1-AS1, KCNQ1OT1 and MALAT1), and TFs (Sp1, E2F1, and STAT3). Network analysis revealed that colorectal cancer is amongst the 82 significant pathways. We demonstrated a significant differential expression of VEGF-A and ANGPT-1 in colorectal cancer patients exhibiting the EMAST+ phenotype. This finding provides novel insights into the molecular pathogenesis of colorectal cancer, specifically in EMAST subtypes. Yet, the generalization of in silico findings to EMAST+ colorectal cancer warrants future experimental investigations. In the end, this study proposes that the EMAST biomarker could serve as an additional perspective on CMS4 biology which is well-defined by activated angiogenesis and worse overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Torshizi Esfahani
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Mohammadpour
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pooya Jalali
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Yaghoobi
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Raana Karimpour
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soha Torkamani
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Pardakhtchi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Salehi
- Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Research Institute for Oncology, Hematology and Cell Therapy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ehsan Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.
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Weston WA, Barr AR. A cell cycle centric view of tumour dormancy. Br J Cancer 2023; 129:1535-1545. [PMID: 37608096 PMCID: PMC10645753 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02401-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumour dormancy and recurrent metastatic cancer remain the greatest clinical challenge for cancer patients. Dormant tumour cells can evade treatment and detection, while retaining proliferative potential, often for years, before relapsing to tumour outgrowth. Cellular quiescence is one mechanism that promotes and maintains tumour dormancy due to its central role in reducing proliferation, elevating cyto-protective mechanisms, and retaining proliferative potential. Quiescence/proliferation decisions are dictated by intrinsic and extrinsic signals, which regulate the activity of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) to modulate cell cycle gene expression. By clarifying the pathways regulating CDK activity and the signals which activate them, we can better understand how cancer cells enter, maintain, and escape from quiescence throughout the progression of dormancy and metastatic disease. Here we review how CDK activity is regulated to modulate cellular quiescence in the context of tumour dormancy and highlight the therapeutic challenges and opportunities it presents.
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Affiliation(s)
- William A Weston
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Alexis R Barr
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK.
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, Du Cane Rd, London, W12 0NN, UK.
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5
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Wei X, Liu Z, Shen Y, Dong H, Chen K, Shi X, Chen Y, Wang B, Dong S. Semaphorin4A promotes lung cancer by activation of NF-κB pathway mediated by PlexinB1. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16292. [PMID: 37901456 PMCID: PMC10607275 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Lung cancer (LC) is the most prevalent cancer with a poor prognosis. Semaphorin4A (Sema4A) is important in many physiological and pathological processes. This study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of Sema4A in LC. Methods Firstly, Sema4A expression was analyzed by the available dataset and detected in human normal bronchial epithelial cell line (HBE) and LC cell line (NCI-H460). Then, LC cells were transfected with Sema4A siRNA, and the cells were stimulated by PlexinB1, PlexinB2, PlexinD1 blocking antibodies, IgG antibody, BAY 11-7082 (an inhibitor for NF-κB pathway) and Sema4A-Fc protein, alone or in combination. After transfection, PlexinB1 mRNA expression was analyzed. Next, the biological functions, including proliferative, migratory, invasive abilities and viability of the cells were detected by colony formation, scratch, Transwell and MTT assays, respectively. NF-κB, Stat3 and MAPK protein expressions were determined by western blot. Furthermore, the secretion of IL-6 in LC cells was tested by ELISA. Results Sema4A was highly expressed in LC tissues and cells, could activate the NF-κB pathway and upregulate PlexinB1 mRNA expression. Furthermore, we observed that Sema4A knockdown suppressed the biological functions of NCI-H460 cells, while Sema4A-Fc protein reversed the situation. However, Sema4A-induced biological functions and activation in the NF-κB pathway were inhibited by PlexinB1 blocking antibody. Consistently, Sema4A promoted IL-6 production, which was down-regulated by PlexinB1 blocking antibody and BAY 11-7082. Conclusions Sema4A may facilitate LC development via the activation of the NF-κB pathway mediated by PlexinB1, suggesting that Sema4A would be a novel therapeutic target for LC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Wei
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital, Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhili Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Jiangyin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yili Shen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital, Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hui Dong
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital, Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital, Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuefei Shi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital, Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital, Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital, Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shunli Dong
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital, Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
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6
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Cui Z, Zou F, Wang R, Wang L, Cheng F, Wang L, Pan R, Guan X, Zheng N, Wang W. Integrative bioinformatics analysis of WDHD1: a potential biomarker for pan-cancer prognosis, diagnosis, and immunotherapy. World J Surg Oncol 2023; 21:309. [PMID: 37759234 PMCID: PMC10523704 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-023-03187-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although WD repeat and high-mobility group box DNA binding protein 1 (WDHD1) played an essential role in DNA replication, chromosome stability, and DNA damage repair, the panoramic picture of WDHD1 in human tumors remains unclear. Hence, this study aims to comprehensively characterize WDHD1 across 33 human cancers. METHODS Based on publicly available databases such as TCGA, GTEx, and HPA, we used a bioinformatics approach to systematically explore the genomic features and biological functions of WDHD1 in pan-cancer. RESULTS WDHD1 mRNA levels were significantly increased in more than 20 types of tumor tissues. Elevated WDHD1 expression was associated with significantly shorter overall survival (OS) in 10 tumors. Furthermore, in uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC) and liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), WDHD1 expression was significantly associated with higher histological grades and pathological stages. In addition, WDHD1 had a high diagnostic value among 16 tumors (area under the ROC curve [AUC] > 0.9). Functional enrichment analyses suggested that WDHD1 probably participated in many oncogenic pathways such as E2F and MYC targets (false discovery rate [FDR] < 0.05), and it was involved in the processes of DNA replication and DNA damage repair (p.adjust < 0.05). WDHD1 expression also correlated with the half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of rapamycin (4 out of 10 cancers) and paclitaxel (10 out of 10 cancers). Overall, WDHD1 was negatively associated with immune cell infiltration and might promote tumor immune escape. Our analysis of genomic alterations suggested that WDHD1 was altered in 1.5% of pan-cancer cohorts and the "mutation" was the predominant type of alteration. Finally, through correlation analysis, we found that WDHD1 might be closely associated with tumor heterogeneity, tumor stemness, mismatch repair (MMR), and RNA methylation modification, which were all processes associated with the tumor progression. CONCLUSIONS Our pan-cancer analysis of WDHD1 provides valuable insights into the genomic characterization and biological functions of WDHD1 in human cancers and offers some theoretical support for the future use of WDHD1-targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and chemotherapeutic combinations for the management of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Cui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fan Zou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Rongli Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lijun Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Feiyan Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lihui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Rumeng Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xin Guan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Nini Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.
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Zhang Z, Zhu Q. WD Repeat and HMG Box DNA Binding Protein 1: An Oncoprotein at the Hub of Tumorigenesis and a Novel Therapeutic Target. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12494. [PMID: 37569867 PMCID: PMC10420296 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512494] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
WD repeat and HMG-box DNA binding protein 1 (WDHD1) is a highly conserved gene from yeast to humans. It actively participates in DNA replication, playing a crucial role in DNA damage repair and the cell cycle, contributing to centromere formation and sister chromosome segregation. Notably, several studies have implicated WDHD1 in the development and progression of diverse tumor types, including esophageal carcinoma, pulmonary carcinoma, and breast carcinoma. Additionally, the inhibitor of WDHD1 has been found to enhance radiation sensitivity, improve drug resistance, and significantly decrease tumor cell proliferation. This comprehensive review aims to provide an overview of the molecular structure, biological functions, and regulatory mechanisms of WDHD1 in tumors, thereby establishing a foundation for future investigations and potential clinical applications of WDHD1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qing Zhu
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China;
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O'Meara CH, Jafri Z, Khachigian LM. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors, Small-Molecule Immunotherapies and the Emerging Role of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Therapeutic Strategies for Head and Neck Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11695. [PMID: 37511453 PMCID: PMC10380483 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has revolutionized the treatment of many cancer types, including head and neck cancers (HNC). When checkpoint and partner proteins bind, these send an "off" signal to T cells, which prevents the immune system from destroying tumor cells. However, in HNC, and indeed many other cancers, more people do not respond and/or suffer from toxic effects than those who do respond. Hence, newer, more effective approaches are needed. The challenge to durable therapy lies in a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between immune cells, tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment. This will help develop therapies that promote lasting tumorlysis by overcoming T-cell exhaustion. Here we explore the strengths and limitations of current ICI therapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We also review emerging small-molecule immunotherapies and the growing promise of neutrophil extracellular traps in controlling tumor progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor H O'Meara
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Zuhayr Jafri
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, UNSW Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Levon M Khachigian
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, UNSW Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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9
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Gong S, Wu H, Wu C, Duan Y, Zhang B, Wu P, Tang J, Fu J. A human pan-cancer system analysis of regulator of chromatin condensation 2. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13599. [PMID: 36865448 PMCID: PMC9970930 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulation of chromosome condensation 2 (RCC2) is associated with the cell cycle and is a crucial regulator of the chromatin condensation 1 (RCC1) family. The members of this family were normally regulators in the process of DNA replication and nucleocytoplasmic transport. RCC2 overexpression may lead to tumor formation and poor prognosis in some tumors including breast cancer and lung adenocarcinoma. However, the possible role of RCC2 in tumor formation and its prognostic function remains unclear. In this study, expression analysis from databases including The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC) were combined to perform the first integrative and comprehensive analysis of RCC2 in human pan-cancer. RCC2 was highly expressed in most tumors which may lead to a poor prognosis. RCC2 expression was associated with immune/stromal infiltration, immune checkpoints, tumor mutational burden, and microsatellite instability. Thus, RCC2 could be a novel biomarker for prognosis and a promising cancer therapy target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siming Gong
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China,Institute of Anatomy, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Changwu Wu
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Yingjuan Duan
- Faculty of Chemistry and Mineralogy, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Bixi Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Panfeng Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Juyu Tang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jinfei Fu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China,Corresponding author. Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Joo M, Kim D, Lee MW, Lee HJ, Kim JM. GDF15 Promotes Cell Growth, Migration, and Invasion in Gastric Cancer by Inducing STAT3 Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032925. [PMID: 36769245 PMCID: PMC9917887 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) has been reported to play an important role in cancer and is secreted and involved in the progression of various cancers, including ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, and thyroid cancer. Nevertheless, the functional mechanism of GDF15 in gastric cancer is still unclear. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to estimate the expression of GDF15 in 178 gastric cancer tissues. The biological role and action mechanism of GDF15 were investigated by examining the effect of GDF15 knockdown in AGS and SNU216 gastric cancer cells. Here, we report that the high expression of GDF15 was associated with invasion depth (p = 0.002), nodal involvement (p = 0.003), stage III/IV (p = 0.01), lymphatic invasion (p = 0.05), and tumor size (p = 0.049), which are related to poor survival in gastric cancer patients. GDF15 knockdown induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and remarkably inhibited cell proliferation and reduced cell motility, migration, and invasion compared to the control. GDF15 knockdown inhibited the epithelial-mesenchymal transition by regulating the STAT3 phosphorylation signaling pathways. Taken together, our results indicate that GDF15 expression is associated with aggressive gastric cancer by promoting STAT3 phosphorylation, suggesting that the GDF15-STAT3 signaling axis is a potential therapeutic target against gastric cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Joo
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Donghyun Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Won Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Jin Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
- Infection Control Convergence Research Center, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (H.J.L.); (J.-M.K.); Tel.: +82-42-280-8369 (H.J.L.); +82-42-580-8237 (J.-M.K.)
| | - Jin-Man Kim
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (H.J.L.); (J.-M.K.); Tel.: +82-42-280-8369 (H.J.L.); +82-42-580-8237 (J.-M.K.)
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Wu J, Niu Y, Huang S, Tan Y, Yang Z, Fang Y, Jiang L, Zhang T, Zeng X, Peng Y, Mo M, Lin C, Wei Z. WDHD1 is over-expressed in nasopharyngeal carcinoma and may control the expression of ITGAV. FEBS Open Bio 2022; 13:102-117. [PMID: 36345604 PMCID: PMC9811654 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13519] [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: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a highly metastatic and invasive malignant tumor that originates in the nasopharynx. The DNA-binding protein WD repeat and HMG-box DNA-binding protein 1 (WDHD1) are highly expressed in a variety of tumours, but its expression and mechanism of action in NPC have not been reported to date. To investigate the involvement of WDHD1 in NPC, we first mined databases for the gene expression profile of NPC. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed on 338 cases of NPC and 112 non-NPC samples to verify the results. We report that the expression of WDHD1 is significantly elevated in NPC. ChIP-seq was used to show that integrin alpha V (ITGAV) and WDHD1 exhibit a significant binding peak in the promoter region of the ITGAV gene. The expression levels of ITGAV and WDHD1 exhibit a significant positive correlation, and IHC was performed to show that ITGAV is highly expressed in NPC. Expression of ITGAV increased after overexpression of WDHD1, suggesting that ITGAV may be a potential target gene of WDHD1. Pathway analysis showed that both genes were closely related to the cell cycle, and flow cytometry was used to further confirm that decreased expression of WDHD1 significantly increased the number of apoptotic cells. In conclusion, our results suggest that expression of WDHD1 is increased in NPC and is likely to be associated with the NPC cell cycle; thus, we propose that WDHD1 may have the potential as a target gene for primary screening and treatment of NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji‐Yun Wu
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
| | - Yi‐Tong Niu
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
| | - Su‐Ning Huang
- Department of RadiotherapyGuangxi Medical University Cancer HospitalNanningChina
| | - Yu‐Min Tan
- Department of OtolaryngologyFirst People's Hospital of Hechi CityYizhouChina
| | - Zhen‐Dong Yang
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
| | - Ye‐Ying Fang
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
| | - Ting‐Ting Zhang
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
| | - Xiao‐Fen Zeng
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
| | - Yun‐Xi Peng
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
| | - Miao Mo
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
| | - Cai‐Xing Lin
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
| | - Zhu‐Xin Wei
- Department of RadiotherapyFirst Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanningChina
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Witalisz-Siepracka A, Klein K, Zdársky B, Stoiber D. The Multifaceted Role of STAT3 in NK-Cell Tumor Surveillance. Front Immunol 2022; 13:947568. [PMID: 35865518 PMCID: PMC9294167 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.947568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a member of the Janus kinase (JAK)-STAT pathway, which is one of the key pathways contributing to cancer. STAT3 regulates transcription downstream of many cytokines including interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10. In cancer, STAT3 is mainly described as a tumor promoter driving tumor cell proliferation, resistance to apoptosis, angiogenesis and metastasis and aberrant activation of STAT3 is associated with poor prognosis. STAT3 is also an important driver of immune evasion. Among many other immunosuppressive mechanisms, STAT3 aids tumor cells to escape natural killer (NK) cell-mediated immune surveillance. NK cells are innate lymphocytes, which can directly kill malignant cells but also regulate adaptive immune responses and contribute to the composition of the tumor microenvironment. The inborn ability to lyse transformed cells renders NK cells an attractive tool for cancer immunotherapy. Here, we provide an overview of the role of STAT3 in the dynamic interplay between NK cells and tumor cells. On the one hand, we summarize the current knowledge on how tumor cell-intrinsic STAT3 drives the evasion from NK cells. On the other hand, we describe the multiple functions of STAT3 in regulating NK-cell cytotoxicity, cytokine production and their anti-tumor responses in vivo. In light of the ongoing research on STAT3 inhibitors, we also discuss how targeting STAT3 would affect the two arms of STAT3-dependent regulation of NK cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity. Understanding the complexity of this interplay in the tumor microenvironment is crucial for future implementation of NK cell-based immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Witalisz-Siepracka
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Microbiology, Division Pharmacology, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
| | - Klara Klein
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernhard Zdársky
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Microbiology, Division Pharmacology, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
| | - Dagmar Stoiber
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Microbiology, Division Pharmacology, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
- *Correspondence: Dagmar Stoiber,
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The Involvement of WDHD1 in the Occurrence of Esophageal Cancer as a Downstream Target of PI3K/AKT Pathway. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:5871188. [PMID: 35422862 PMCID: PMC9005294 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5871188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Esophageal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world, which is characterized by high incidence, strong invasiveness, high mortality, and poor prognosis. At present, the therapies include surgery, endoscopic resection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The five-year survival rate of esophageal cancer has not been significantly improved, although the medical level has been continuously improved and the management and application of different therapies have been improved day by day. At present, an abnormal gene expression is still regarded as an important factor in the occurrence and development of esophageal cancer. WD repeat and HMG-box DNA binding protein 1(WDHD1), as a key gene, plays an important role in the occurrence of esophageal cancer. It is known that the protein encoded by WDHD1 is the downstream target of the PI3K/AKT pathway. When PI3Ks is activated by extracellular signals, PI(4,5)P2 on the inner side of the plasma membrane will be converted into PI(3,4,5)P3. Then, PI(3,4,5)P3 can be converted into PI(3,4)P2,PI(4)P and PI(3)P by dephosphorylation of some regulatory factors. PI(3,4,5)P3 recruited AKT to the plasma membrane and combined with its pH domain, resulting in conformational change of AKT. Subsequently, AKT was completely activated by PDK1 and PDK2 and begins to move to the cytoplasm and nucleus. In this process, AKT continuously phosphorylates downstream substrates. WDHD1, as a downstream target of AKT, is also phosphorylated and induces DNA replication. Besides the abnormal regulation of cells by other downstream targets of AKT, it also becomes a potential pathway that may eventually lead to the occurrence of esophageal cancer.
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Huang L, Ye T, Wang J, Gu X, Ma R, Sheng L, Ma B. Identification of Survival-Associated Hub Genes in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Based on WGCNA. Front Genet 2022; 12:814798. [PMID: 35047023 PMCID: PMC8762281 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.814798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Since little clinical symptoms were shown in the early period of pancreatic adenocarcinoma, most patients were found to carry metastases when diagnosis. The lack of effective diagnosis biomarkers and therapeutic targets makes pancreatic adenocarcinoma difficult to screen and cure. The fundamental problem is we know very little about the regulatory mechanisms during carcinogenesis. Here, we employed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to build gene interaction network using expression profile of pancreatic adenocarcinoma from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). STRING was used for the construction and visualization of biological networks. A total of 22 modules were detected in the network, among which yellow and pink modules showed the most significant associations with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Dozens of new genes including PKMYT1, WDHD1, ASF1B, and RAD18 were identified. Further survival analysis yielded their valuable effects on the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Our study pioneered network-based algorithm in the application of tumor etiology and discovered several promising regulators for pancreatic adenocarcinoma detection and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liya Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ting Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, The General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xiaojing Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ruiting Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology, The General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Lulu Sheng
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Binwu Ma
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
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