1
|
Zhang Y, Xie J. Targeting non-coding RNAs as a promising biomarker in peritoneal metastasis: Background, mechanism, and therapeutic approach. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 179:117294. [PMID: 39226726 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117294] [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: 06/09/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Peritoneal metastasis (PM) pathophysiology is complex and not fully understood. PM, originating from gastrointestinal (GI) cancer, is a condition that significantly worsens patient prognosis due to its complex nature and limited treatment options. The non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been shown to play pivotal roles in cancer biology, influencing tumorigenesis, progression, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. Increasing evidence has demonstrated the regulatory functions of different classes of ncRNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in PM. Identifying biomarkers for early detection of PM is a crucial step towards improving patient outcomes, and how ncRNA profiles correlate with survival rates, response to therapy, and recurrence risks have raised much attention in recent years. Additionally, exploring innovative therapeutic approaches utilizing ncRNAs, such as targeted therapy and gene silencing, may offer new horizons in treating this dire condition. Recent advances in systemic treatments and the development of novel loco-regional therapies have opened doors to multimodal treatment approaches. Radical surgeries combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) have shown promising results, leading to extended patient survival. Current research is focused on the molecular characterization of PM, which is crucial for early detection and developing future therapeutic strategies. By summarizing the latest findings, this study underscores the transformative potential of ncRNAs in enhancing the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of PM in GI cancer, paving the way for more personalized and effective clinical strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiping Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; Wanchuanhui (Shanghai) Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Shanghai 201501, China.
| | - Jun Xie
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; Wanchuanhui (Shanghai) Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Shanghai 201501, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tang P, Zheng G, Xu C, Yu N, Du J, Hu L, Zhou Z, Zheng Y. Function of NEK2 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma and its effect on the tumor microenvironment. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37939. [PMID: 38758909 PMCID: PMC11098263 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037939] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have revealed the critical functions of NEK2 in controlling the cell cycle which is linked to poor prognosis in multiple tumor types, but less research has been devoted to clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). METHODS We downloaded clinical data from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) and TCGA databases together with transcriptional and mutational datasets. Strongly coexpressed genes with NEK2 were extracted from TCGA-KIRC cohort, and were submitted to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) for functional analyses. According to NEK2 levels, the survival status, mutational characteristics, response to immunotherapy and sensitivity to drugs of the patients were studied. The potential correlations between NEK2 levels and immune cell state as well as immune cell infiltration were examined using the GEPIA, TIMER and TISIDB databases. Double immunofluorescence (IF) was performed to identify the NEK2 overexpression and relationship with CD8 in ccRCC. RESULTS The NEK2 gene was overexpressed and would enhance the nuclear division and cell cycle activities in ccRCC. ccRCC patients with high NEK2 expression had worse clinical outcomes, higher mutation burden and better therapeutic response. Moreover, NEK2 gene overexpression was positively related to various immune cell marker sets, which was also proved by validation cohort, and more infiltration of various immune cells. CONCLUSION ccRCC patients with NEK2 high expression have a poorer prognosis than those with NEK2 low expression, resulting from its function of promoting proliferation, accompanied by increased infiltration of CD8 + T cells and Tregs and T-cell exhaustion and will respond better to proper treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Tang
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
- Department of Urology, The First People’s Hospital of Linping District of Hangzhou, Hangzhou, China
| | - Gangfu Zheng
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Congcong Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Nengfeng Yu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Jiaqi Du
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Liqian Hu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Zhan Zhou
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of An-ti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yichun Zheng
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gharib E, Rejali L, Piroozkhah M, Zonoobi E, Nasrabadi PN, Arabsorkhi Z, Baghdar K, Shams E, Sadeghi A, Kuppen PJK, Salehi Z, Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad E. IL-2RG as a possible immunotherapeutic target in CRC predicting poor prognosis and regulated by miR-7-5p and miR-26b-5p. J Transl Med 2024; 22:439. [PMID: 38720389 PMCID: PMC11080123 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05251-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in treatment strategies, colorectal cancer (CRC) continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality, with mounting evidence a close link between immune system dysfunctions issued. Interleukin-2 receptor gamma (IL-2RG) plays a pivotal role as a common subunit receptor in the IL-2 family cytokines and activates the JAK-STAT pathway. This study delves into the role of Interleukin-2 receptor gamma (IL-2RG) within the tumor microenvironment and investigates potential microRNAs (miRNAs) that directly inhibit IL-2RG, aiming to discern their impact on CRC clinical outcomes. Bioinformatics analysis revealed a significant upregulation of IL-2RG mRNA in TCGA-COAD samples and showed strong correlations with the infiltration of various lymphocytes. Single-cell analysis corroborated these findings, highlighting IL-2RG expression in critical immune cell subsets. To explore miRNA involvement in IL-2RG dysregulation, mRNA was isolated from the tumor tissues and lymphocytes of 258 CRC patients and 30 healthy controls, and IL-2RG was cloned into the pcDNA3.1/CT-GFP-TOPO vector. Human embryonic kidney cell lines (HEK-293T) were transfected with this construct. Our research involved a comprehensive analysis of miRPathDB, miRWalk, and Targetscan databases to identify the miRNAs associated with the 3' UTR of human IL-2RG. The human microRNA (miRNA) molecules, hsa-miR-7-5p and hsa-miR-26b-5p, have been identified as potent suppressors of IL-2RG expression in CRC patients. Specifically, the downregulation of hsa-miR-7-5p and hsa-miR-26b-5p has been shown to result in the upregulation of IL-2RG mRNA expression in these patients. Prognostic evaluation of IL-2RG, hsa-miR-7-5p, and hsa-miR-26b-5p, using TCGA-COAD data and patient samples, established that higher IL-2RG expression and lower expression of both miRNAs were associated with poorer outcomes. Additionally, this study identified several long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs), such as ZFAS1, SOX21-AS1, SNHG11, SNHG16, SNHG1, DLX6-AS1, GAS5, SNHG6, and MALAT1, which may act as competing endogenous RNA molecules for IL2RG by sequestering shared hsa-miR-7-5p and hsa-miR-26b-5p. In summary, this investigation underscores the potential utility of IL-2RG, hsa-miR-7-5p, and hsa-miR-26b-5p as serum and tissue biomarkers for predicting CRC patient prognosis while also offering promise as targets for immunotherapy in CRC management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Gharib
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leili Rejali
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moein Piroozkhah
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Zonoobi
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Parinaz Nasri Nasrabadi
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Arabsorkhi
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kaveh Baghdar
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elahe Shams
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Sadeghi
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Centre, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Yeman Street, Chamran Expressway, P.O. Box: 19857-17411, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peter J K Kuppen
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - 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
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Centre, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Yeman Street, Chamran Expressway, P.O. Box: 19857-17411, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Karaca C, Demir Karaman E, Leblebici A, Kurter H, Ellidokuz H, Koc A, Ellidokuz EB, Isik Z, Basbinar Y. New treatment alternatives for primary and metastatic colorectal cancer by an integrated transcriptome and network analyses. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8762. [PMID: 38627442 PMCID: PMC11021540 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59101-8] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) is still in need of effective treatments. This study applies a holistic approach to propose new targets for treatment of primary and liver metastatic CRC and investigates their therapeutic potential in-vitro. An integrative analysis of primary and metastatic CRC samples was implemented for alternative target and treatment proposals. Integrated microarray samples were grouped based on a co-expression network analysis. Significant gene modules correlated with primary CRC and metastatic phenotypes were identified. Network clustering and pathway enrichments were applied to gene modules to prioritize potential targets, which were shortlisted by independent validation. Finally, drug-target interaction search led to three agents for primary and liver metastatic CRC phenotypes. Hesperadin and BAY-1217389 suppress colony formation over a 14-day period, with Hesperadin showing additional efficacy in reducing cell viability within 48 h. As both candidates target the G2/M phase proteins NEK2 or TTK, we confirmed their anti-proliferative properties by Ki-67 staining. Hesperadinin particular arrested the cell cycle at the G2/M phase. IL-29A treatment reduced migration and invasion capacities of TGF-β induced metastatic cell lines. In addition, this anti-metastatic treatment attenuated TGF-β dependent mesenchymal transition. Network analysis suggests IL-29A induces the JAK/STAT pathway in a preventive manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caner Karaca
- Department of Translational Oncology, Institute of Health Sciences, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ezgi Demir Karaman
- Department of Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Asim Leblebici
- Department of Translational Oncology, Institute of Health Sciences, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hasan Kurter
- Department of Translational Oncology, Institute of Health Sciences, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hulya Ellidokuz
- Department of Preventive Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Altug Koc
- Department of Translational Oncology, Institute of Health Sciences, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ender Berat Ellidokuz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Zerrin Isik
- Department of Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Yasemin Basbinar
- Department of Translational Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Heuvelings DJI, Wintjens AGWE, Moonen L, Engelen SME, de Hingh IHJT, Valkenburg-van Iersel LB, den Dulk M, Beckervordersandforth J, Thijssen SGM, Leunissen DJG, Stassen LPS, Keszthelyi D, Mujagic Z, Speel EJM, Bouvy ND. Predictive Genetic Biomarkers for the Development of Peritoneal Metastases in Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12830. [PMID: 37629011 PMCID: PMC10454220 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612830] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common cause of cancer-related mortality, of which peritoneal metastases (PMs) have the worse outcome. Metastasis-specific markers may help predict the spread of tumor cells and select patients for preventive strategies. This exploratory pilot study aimed to gain more insight into genetic alterations in primary CRC tumors, which might be a predictive factor for the development of PM. Forty patients with T3 stage CRC were retrospectively divided in three groups: without metachronous metastases during 5-year follow-up (M0, n = 20), with metachronous liver metastases (LM, n = 10) and with metachronous PM (PM, n = 10). Patients with synchronous metastases were excluded. Primary formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor samples were analyzed via comprehensive genome sequencing (TSO500 analysis) to identify DNA alterations and RNA fusion transcripts in 523 genes and 55 genes, respectively. Thirty-eight samples were included for final analysis. Four M0 tumors and one PM tumor were microsatellite instable. BRAF mutations were uniquely identified in three microsatellite-stable (MSS) PM tumors (37.5%, p = 0.010). RNA analysis showed an additional FAM198A-RAF1 fusion in one PM sample. BRAF p.V600E mutations were only present in PM patients with MSS tumors. Greater attention should be paid to BRAF-mutated tumors in relation to the development of metachronous PM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danique J. I. Heuvelings
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of General Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Anne G. W. E. Wintjens
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of General Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Moonen
- GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne M. E. Engelen
- Department of General Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ignace H. J. T. de Hingh
- GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of General Surgery, Catharina Ziekenhuis, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Liselot B. Valkenburg-van Iersel
- GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel den Dulk
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of General Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Jan Beckervordersandforth
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sharon G. M. Thijssen
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Daphne J. G. Leunissen
- GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Laurents P. S. Stassen
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of General Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel Keszthelyi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Zlatan Mujagic
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ernst-Jan M. Speel
- GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole D. Bouvy
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Alshahrani SH, Alameri AA, Kahar F, Alexis Ramírez-Coronel A, Fadhel Obaid R, Alsaikhan F, Zabibah RS, Qasim QA, Altalbawy FMA, Fakri Mustafa Y, Mirzaei R, Karampoor S. Overview of the role and action mechanism of microRNA-128 in viral infections. Microb Pathog 2023; 176:106020. [PMID: 36746316 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Recently in vivo and in vitro studies have provided evidence establishing the significance of microRNAs (miRNAs) in both physiological and pathological conditions. In this regard, the role of miRNA-128 (miR-128) in health and diseases has been found, and its critical regulatory role in the context of some viral diseases has been recently identified. For instance, it has been found that miR-128 can serve as an antiviral mediator and significantly limit the replication and dissemination of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Besides, it has been noted that poliovirus receptor-related 4 (PVRL4) is post-transcriptionally regulated by miR-128, representing possible miRNA targets that can modulate measles virus infection. Of note, the downregulation of seminal exosomes eca-miR-128 is associated with the long-term persistence of Equine arteritis virus (EAV) in the reproductive tract, and this particular miRNA is a putative regulator of chemokine ligand 16 (C-X-C motif) as determined by target prediction analysis. In this review, the latest information on the role and action mechanism of miR-128 in viral infections will be summarized and discussed in detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shadia Hamoud Alshahrani
- Medical Surgical Nursing Department, King Khalid University, Almahala, Khamis Mushate, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ameer A Alameri
- Department of Chemistry, University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Fitriani Kahar
- Medic Technology Laboratory, Poltekkes Kemenkes Semarang, Indonesia
| | - Andrés Alexis Ramírez-Coronel
- National University of Education, Azogues, Ecuador; Catholic University of Cuenca, Azogues Campus, Ecuador; University of Palermo, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CES University, Colombia, Azogues, Ecuador
| | - Rasha Fadhel Obaid
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Rahman S Zabibah
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | | | - Farag M A Altalbawy
- National Institute of Laser Enhanced Sciences (NILES), Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt; Department of Chemistry, University College of Duba, Tabuk University, Duba 71911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasser Fakri Mustafa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul, Mosul 41001, Iraq
| | - Rasoul Mirzaei
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sajad Karampoor
- Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Heuvelings DJI, Wintjens AGWE, Luyten J, Wilmink GEWA, Moonen L, Speel EJM, de Hingh IHJT, Bouvy ND, Peeters A. DNA and RNA Alterations Associated with Colorectal Peritoneal Metastases: A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020549. [PMID: 36672497 PMCID: PMC9856984 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020549] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with peritoneal metastases (PM) have a poor prognosis, new treatment options are currently being investigated for CRC patients. Specific biomarkers in the primary tumor could serve as a prediction tool to estimate the risk of distant metastatic spread. This would help identify patients eligible for early treatment. AIM To give an overview of previously studied DNA and RNA alterations in the primary tumor correlated to colorectal PM and investigate which gene mutations should be further studied. METHODS A systematic review of all published studies reporting genomic analyses on the primary tissue of CRC tumors in relation to PM was undertaken according to PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Overall, 32 studies with 18,906 patients were included. BRAF mutations were analyzed in 17 articles, of which 10 found a significant association with PM. For all other reported genes, no association with PM was found. Two analyses with broader cancer panels did not reveal any new biomarkers. CONCLUSION An association of specific biomarkers in the primary tumors of CRC patients with metastatic spread into peritoneum could not be proven. The role of BRAF mutations should be further investigated. In addition, studies searching for potential novel biomarkers are still required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danique J. I. Heuvelings
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
| | - Anne G. W. E. Wintjens
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Julien Luyten
- Department of General Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Guus E. W. A. Wilmink
- Department of General Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Moonen
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands
- GROW–School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ernst-Jan M. Speel
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands
- GROW–School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ignace H. J. T. de Hingh
- GROW–School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of General Surgery, Catharina Ziekenhuis, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole D. Bouvy
- Department of General Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands
- GROW–School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Peeters
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
MicroRNA Methylome Signature and Their Functional Roles in Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Chemoresistance. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137281. [PMID: 35806286 PMCID: PMC9266458 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137281] [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: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite significant advances in the diagnostic services and patient care, several gaps remain to be addressed, from early detection, to identifying prognostic variables, effective treatment for the metastatic disease, and the implementation of tailored treatment strategies. MicroRNAs, the short non-coding RNA species, are deregulated in CRC and play a significant role in the occurrence and progression. Nevertheless, microRNA research has historically been based on expression levels to determine its biological significance. The exact mechanism underpinning microRNA deregulation in cancer has yet to be elucidated, but several studies have demonstrated that epigenetic mechanisms play important roles in the regulation of microRNA expression, particularly DNA methylation. However, the methylation profiles of microRNAs remain unknown in CRC patients. Methylation is the next major paradigm shift in cancer detection since large-scale epigenetic alterations are potentially better in identifying and classifying cancers at an earlier stage than somatic mutations. This review aims to provide insight into the current state of understanding of microRNA methylation in CRC. The new knowledge from this study can be utilized for personalized health diagnostics, disease prediction, and monitoring of treatment.
Collapse
|
9
|
Huang X, Zhang G, Tang T, Gao X, Liang T. One shoot, three birds: Targeting NEK2 orchestrates chemoradiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy in cancer treatment. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188696. [PMID: 35157980 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Combinational therapy has improved the cancer therapeutic landscape but is associated with a concomitant increase in adverse side reactions. Emerging evidence proposes that targeting one core target with multiple critical roles in tumors can achieve combined anti-tumor effects. This review focuses on NEK2, a member of serine/threonine kinases, with broad sequence identity to the mitotic regulator NIMA of the filamentous fungus Aspergillus nidulans. Elevated expression of NEK2 was initially found to promote tumorigeneses through abnormal regulation of the cell cycle. Subsequent studies report that NEK2 is overexpressed in a broad spectrum of tumor types and is associated with tumor progression and therapeutic resistance. Intriguingly, NEK2 has recently been revealed to mediate tumor immune escape by stabilizing the expression of PD-L1. Targeting NEK2 is thus becoming a promising approach for cancer treatment by orchestrating chemoradiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. It represents a novel strategy for inducing combined anti-cancer effects using a mono-agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xing Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China; The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Gang Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China; The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tianyu Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China; The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China; The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China; The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Xiang J, Alafate W, Wu W, Wang Y, Li X, Xie W, Bai X, Li R, Wang M, Wang J. NEK2 enhances malignancies of glioblastoma via NIK/NF-κB pathway. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:58. [PMID: 35031599 PMCID: PMC8760305 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04512-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most lethal primary brain tumor with a poor median survival less than 15 months. Despite the development of the clinical strategies over the decades, the outcomes for GBM patients remain dismal due to the strong proliferation and invasion ability and the acquired resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Therefore, developing new biomarkers and therapeutic strategies targeting GBM is in urgent need. In this study, gene expression datasets and relevant clinical information were extracted from public cancers/glioma datasets, including TCGA, GRAVENDEEL, REMBRANDT, and GILL datasets. Differentially expressed genes were analyzed and NEK2 was picked as a candidate gene for subsequent validation. Human tissue samples and corresponding data were collected from our center and detected by immunohistochemistry analysis. Molecular biological assays and in vivo xenograft transplantation were performed to confirm the bioinformatic findings. High-throughput RNA sequencing, followed by KEGG analysis, GSEA analysis and GO analysis were conducted to identify potential signaling pathways related to NEK2 expression. Subsequent mechanism assays were used to verify the relationship between NEK2 and NF-κB signaling. Overall, we identified that NEK2 is significantly upregulated in GBM and the higher expression of NEK2 exhibited a poorer prognosis. Functionally, NEK2 knockdown attenuated cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenesis of GBM while NEK2 overexpression promoted the GBM progression. Furthermore, High-throughput RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis indicated that NEK2 was positively related to the NF-κB signaling pathway in GBM. Mechanically, NEK2 activated the noncanonical NF-κB signaling pathway by phosphorylating NIK and increasing the activity and stability of NIK. In conclusion, NEK2 promoted the progression of GBM through activation of noncanonical NF-κB signaling, indicating that NEK2- NF-κB axis could be a potential drug target for GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianyang Xiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
- Center of Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Wahafu Alafate
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
- Center of Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
- Center of Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Yichang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
- Center of Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Xiaodong Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
- Center of Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Wanfu Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Xiaobin Bai
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Ruichun Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Maode Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China.
- Center of Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China.
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China.
- Center of Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dana D, Das T, Choi A, Bhuiyan AI, Das TK, Talele TT, Pathak SK. Nek2 Kinase Signaling in Malaria, Bone, Immune and Kidney Disorders to Metastatic Cancers and Drug Resistance: Progress on Nek2 Inhibitor Development. Molecules 2022; 27:347. [PMID: 35056661 PMCID: PMC8779408 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27020347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell cycle kinases represent an important component of the cell machinery that controls signal transduction involved in cell proliferation, growth, and differentiation. Nek2 is a mitotic Ser/Thr kinase that localizes predominantly to centrosomes and kinetochores and orchestrates centrosome disjunction and faithful chromosomal segregation. Its activity is tightly regulated during the cell cycle with the help of other kinases and phosphatases and via proteasomal degradation. Increased levels of Nek2 kinase can promote centrosome amplification (CA), mitotic defects, chromosome instability (CIN), tumor growth, and cancer metastasis. While it remains a highly attractive target for the development of anti-cancer therapeutics, several new roles of the Nek2 enzyme have recently emerged: these include drug resistance, bone, ciliopathies, immune and kidney diseases, and parasitic diseases such as malaria. Therefore, Nek2 is at the interface of multiple cellular processes and can influence numerous cellular signaling networks. Herein, we provide a critical overview of Nek2 kinase biology and discuss the signaling roles it plays in both normal and diseased human physiology. While the majority of research efforts over the last two decades have focused on the roles of Nek2 kinase in tumor development and cancer metastasis, the signaling mechanisms involving the key players associated with several other notable human diseases are highlighted here. We summarize the efforts made so far to develop Nek2 inhibitory small molecules, illustrate their action modalities, and provide our opinion on the future of Nek2-targeted therapeutics. It is anticipated that the functional inhibition of Nek2 kinase will be a key strategy going forward in drug development, with applications across multiple human diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dibyendu Dana
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Queens College of the City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, USA; (D.D.); (T.D.); (A.C.); (A.I.B.)
- KemPharm Inc., 2200 Kraft Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
| | - Tuhin Das
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Queens College of the City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, USA; (D.D.); (T.D.); (A.C.); (A.I.B.)
| | - Athena Choi
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Queens College of the City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, USA; (D.D.); (T.D.); (A.C.); (A.I.B.)
- Brooklyn Technical High School, 29 Fort Greene Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA
| | - Ashif I. Bhuiyan
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Queens College of the City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, USA; (D.D.); (T.D.); (A.C.); (A.I.B.)
- Chemistry Doctoral Program, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 5th Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Tirtha K. Das
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
- Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Genetics and Genomic Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Tanaji T. Talele
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John’s University, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Queens, NY 11439, USA;
| | - Sanjai K. Pathak
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Queens College of the City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, USA; (D.D.); (T.D.); (A.C.); (A.I.B.)
- Chemistry Doctoral Program, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 5th Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Biochemistry Doctoral Program, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 5th Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang X, Huang X, Xu J, Li E, Lao M, Tang T, Zhang G, Guo C, Zhang X, Chen W, Yadav DK, Bai X, Liang T. NEK2 inhibition triggers anti-pancreatic cancer immunity by targeting PD-L1. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4536. [PMID: 34315872 PMCID: PMC8316469 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24769-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the substantial impact of post-translational modifications on programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1), its importance in therapeutic resistance in pancreatic cancer remains poorly defined. Here, we demonstrate that never in mitosis gene A-related kinase 2 (NEK2) phosphorylates PD-L1 to maintain its stability, causing PD-L1-targeted pancreatic cancer immunotherapy to have poor efficacy. We identify NEK2 as a prognostic factor in immunologically "hot" pancreatic cancer, involved in the onset and development of pancreatic tumors in an immune-dependent manner. NEK2 deficiency results in the suppression of PD-L1 expression and enhancement of lymphocyte infiltration. A NEK binding motif (F/LXXS/T) is identified in the glycosylation-rich region of PD-L1. NEK2 interacts with PD-L1, phosphorylating the T194/T210 residues and preventing ubiquitin-proteasome pathway-mediated degradation of PD-L1 in ER lumen. NEK2 inhibition thereby sensitizes PD-L1 blockade, synergically enhancing the anti-pancreatic cancer immune response. Together, the present study proposes a promising strategy for improving the effectiveness of pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaozhen Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xing Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jian Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Enliang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengyi Lao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tianyu Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Gang Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chengxiang Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wen Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dipesh Kumar Yadav
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueli Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Silencing of Nek2 suppresses the proliferation, migration and invasion and induces apoptosis of breast cancer cells by regulating ERK/MAPK signaling. J Mol Histol 2021; 52:809-821. [PMID: 34009515 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-021-09979-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a frequent cancer among women. The current study investigated the biological functions of Nek2 in breast cancer and its possible mechanism. The mRNA expression of Nek2 in breast epithelial cells and eight breast cancer cell lines was detected by qRT-PCR. Silencing Nek2 was transfected into MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cells to examine its roles in the viability, migration, invasion, cell colony, apoptosis and cell cycle of the breast cancer cells by performing CCK-8, wound scratch, Transwell, clone formation and flow cytometry assays, respectively. The expressions of related genes were detected using qRT-PCR and Western blot. MAPK pathway agonist IGF (insulin-like growth factor-1) was added into MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cells and then cell viability was examined. Nek2 expression was frequently up-regulated in breast cancer cell lines, and silencing Nek2 significantly inhibited the viability, cell migration, invasion and clone formation, promoted cell apoptosis of MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cells, and arrested cell cycle in G0/G1 phase. Furthermore, knocking down Nek2 decreased the mRNA and protein expressions of Bcl-2, CyclinB1 and CyclinD1, and increased Bax and p27 expressions. Moreover, knocking down Nek2 inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK and p38, and almost completely reversed the expression of p-ERK increased by IGF, but Nek2 knockdown had no obvious effect on p-p38. The inhibitory effect of Nek2 silencing on the cell viability was mainly realized by the inhibition of ERK/MAPK signaling. Nek2 plays an important role in the regulation of the progression of breast cancer in vitro probably through regulating the ERK/MAPK signaling.
Collapse
|
14
|
Novel Genetic and Epigenetic Biomarkers of Prognostic and Predictive Significance in Stage II/III Colorectal Cancer. Mol Ther 2020; 29:587-596. [PMID: 33333293 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic strategies of stage II/III colorectal cancer (CRC) patients after curative surgery remain controversial. In the clinical decision-making process, oncologists need to answer questions such as whether adjuvant chemotherapy is necessary or which therapeutic regimen should be given to each patient. At present, whether adjuvant chemotherapy should be applied is primarily based on histopathological features and clinical risk factors. However, only a fraction of patients can benefit from it. More rigorous stratifying biomarkers are urgently needed to help further distinguishing these populations of patients. Recent progress in next-generation sequencing and high-throughput technologies has greatly promoted biomarker discovery as well as our understanding of the underlying mechanisms in CRC. Novel genetic and epigenetic biomarkers that are associated with prognosis or therapeutic responses have emerged. In this review, we discuss the strategies of biomarker discovery and summarize the status and assess the utility of previously published biomarkers in CRC.
Collapse
|
15
|
Lin K, Zhu X, Luo C, Bu F, Zhu J, Zhu Z. Data mining combined with experiments to validate CEP55 as a prognostic biomarker in colorectal cancer. IMMUNITY INFLAMMATION AND DISEASE 2020; 9:167-182. [PMID: 33190424 PMCID: PMC7860595 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common tumor with high morbidity and mortality. Current specific diagnosis regarding CRC remains complicated and costly, and specific diagnostic biomarkers are lacking. METHODS To find potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for CRC, we screened and analyzed many CRC sequencing data by The Cancer Genome Atlas Program and Gene Expression Omnibus, and validated that CEP55 may be a potential diagnostic biomarker for CRC by molecular cytological experiments and immunohistochemistry, among others. RESULTS We found that CEP55 is upregulated in CRC tissues and tumor cells and can promote CRC proliferation and metastasis by activating the p53/p21 axis and that CEP55 mutations in tumor patients result in worse overall survival and disease-free survival time. Besides, we also found that genes, such as CDK1, CCNB1, NEK2, KIF14, CDCA5, and RFC3 were upregulated in tumors, and their mutations would affect the prognosis of CRC patients, but these results await for more experimental evidence. CONCLUSION Our study validates CEP55 as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for CRC, and we also provide multiple genes and potential molecular mechanisms that may serve as diagnostic and prognostic markers for CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kang Lin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaojian Zhu
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chen Luo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Fanqin Bu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jinfeng Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhengming Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Uddin MH, Kim B, Cho U, Azmi AS, Song YS. Association of ALDH1A1-NEK-2 axis in cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer cells. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05442. [PMID: 33241139 PMCID: PMC7672295 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Development of acquired resistance to cisplatin (CDDP) is a major obstacle in the treatment of ovarian cancer patients. According to the cancer stem cell (CSC) hypothesis, the recurrence and chemoresistance are presumed to be linked to cancer stem/progenitor cells. Here, we investigated the CSC-like phenotypes and mechanism of chemoresistance in CDDP resistant ovarian cancer cells. A well-established CDDP sensitive ovarian cancer cell line A2780 and its resistant population A2780-Cp were used. We also developed a supra resistant population (SKOV3-Cp) from a naturally CDDP resistant cell line SKOV3. Both resistant/supra resistant cell lines showed significantly higher self-renewal capability than their parental counterparts. They also showed significant resistance to apoptosis and sub-G1 arrest by CDDP treatment. Stem cell marker ALDH1 positivity rates were higher both in A2780-Cp and SKOV3-Cp cell lines than in their counterparts, quantified by Aldefluor assay kit. Hoechst 33342 dye effluxing side populations were increased up to about five folds in A2780-Cp cells and two folds in SKOV3-Cp cells compared to A2780 and SKOV3 cells, respectively. Among major stemness related genes (POU5F1/OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, NES, BMI1, KLF4 and ALDH1A1), ALDH1A1 and KLF4 were significantly overexpressed in both resistant/supra resistant cells. Silencing ALDH1A1 in A2780 and A2780-Cp cells using siRNA greatly reduced the stem cell population and sensitized cells to CDDP. Moreover, silencing of ALDH1A1 reduced the transcript and protein level of its downstream target NEK-2. We also observed the downregulation of ABC transporters (ABCB1/MDR1, ABCG2 and ABCC1/MRP1) either by ALDH1A1 or NEK-2 silencing and upreguation of ABCB1/MDR1 due to the overexpression of NEK-2. Taken together, the present study suggests that stemness gene ALDH1A1 can be involved in CDDP resistance through the upregulation of NEK-2 in ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Hafiz Uddin
- Gynecological Oncology Laboratory, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea.,Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayen State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA
| | - Boyun Kim
- Gynecological Oncology Laboratory, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea.,WCU Biomodulation, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Untack Cho
- Gynecological Oncology Laboratory, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Asfar S Azmi
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayen State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA
| | - Yong Sang Song
- Gynecological Oncology Laboratory, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea.,WCU Biomodulation, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea.,Interdisciplinary Program in Cancer Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Construction of an miRNA-mRNA regulatory network in colorectal cancer with bioinformatics methods. Anticancer Drugs 2020; 30:588-595. [PMID: 30601194 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. This study aimed to explore the regulatory mechanisms of miRNAs in CRC. Differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in CRC tissue samples compared with control samples in mRNA and miRNA datasets were screened. Functional and pathway enrichment analysis of the DEGs was carried out. Targets of the DEMs were identified. Overlaps between the DEGs and targets of DEMs were selected. The miRNA-mRNA regulatory network of these overlaps was constructed and visualized. The candidate genes selected were validated by quantitative real-time PCR. DEGs were identified and considered DEGs-1 and DEGs-2. A total of 584 genes in DEGs-1 and 527 genes in DEGs-2 were obtained, including 465 overlaps, and 44 DEMs were identified. The overlaps were enriched in 46 Gene Ontology terms and 19 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways. Moreover, 137 overlapped genes between targets of the DEMs and the 465 overlaps were obtained. The miRNA-mRNA regulating network of the 137 overlapped genes was constructed. Extracellular matrix-related proteins and pathways might play critical roles in the development of CRC. The quantitative real-time PCR results of the candidates were in agreement with the bioinformatics analysis. miR-128, miR-182, and miR-143 might be key miRNAs regulating cell proliferation and metastasis of CRC.
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang H, Chen Y, Gu X, Xi J, Ren Z, Wang S, Duan Y, Li H, Zhu T, Du Y, Zhang X, Ma M. Design, synthesis, and structure activity relationship (SAR) studies of novel imidazo[1,2-a] pyridine derivatives as Nek2 inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2020; 28:115775. [PMID: 32992252 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2020.115775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Never in mitosis (NIMA) related kinase 2 (Nek2) is involved in multiple cellular processes such as cell cycle checkpoint regulation, cell division, DNA damage response and cell apoptosis. Nek2 has been reported to be overexpressed in various tumors and correlated with poor prognosis. Herein, a series of imidazo[1,2-a] pyridines Nek2 inhibitors were designed, synthesized, and their biological activities were investigated. Besides, structure activity relationship analysis of these compounds were performed in the MGC-803 cell. The screening results are promising, and compound 28e shows good proliferation inhibitory activity with an IC50 of 38 nM. The results would be helpful to design and develop more effective Nek2 inhibitors for the treatment of gastric cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haili Wang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Yunzhong Chen
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Xiaofan Gu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Jianbei Xi
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Ziwei Ren
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Shuting Wang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Yanhong Duan
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics-Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongyu Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Tong Zhu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Yijie Du
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China; Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
| | - Xiongwen Zhang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China.
| | - Mingliang Ma
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China; Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics-Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chen C, Peng S, Li P, Ma L, Gan X. High expression of NEK2 promotes lung cancer progression and drug resistance and is regulated by mutant EGFR. Mol Cell Biochem 2020; 475:15-25. [PMID: 32761510 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-020-03854-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Activating mutations within the tyrosine kinase (TK) domain of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene are observed in 10 ~ 30% of the patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and are causally related to NSCLC initiation and progression. Treatments with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) targeting EGFR significantly improve the outcome of NSCLC patients with EGFR mutation, but are often associated with drug resistance, which is the main cause of treatment failure and cancer relapse. In the present study, by screening the transcriptome of NSCLC patients, we found that EGFR activation is highly correlated with the up-regulation of mitotic regulator, never in mitosis gene A-related kinase 2 (NEK2). NEK2 overexpression is associated with the poor survival of EGFR-mutant patients but not the wild-type patients. Further functional validation revealed that EGFR mutation induces NEK2 expression by activating ERK signaling pathway. Elevated NEK2 level promotes the rapid cell cycle progression and favors the rapid proliferation of EGFR-mutant NSCLC cells. Of note, NEK2 overexpression also impairs the efficacy of TKI treatment via inhibiting apoptosis, while depleting NEK2 suppresses cell growth and restored the sensitivity of TKI in NSCLC cells. Taken together, our study revealed that NEK2 is an oncogene regulated by EGFR mutation and is involved in disease progression and treatment response in NSCLC with EGFR mutation. These findings will pave the road for optimizing personalized treatment strategies to overcome drug resistance and improve the prognosis of lung cancer patients with EGFR mutation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuanhui Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17 Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanshan Peng
- Department of Healthy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Penghui Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17 Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Ma
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17 Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Gan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17 Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chen Y, Wu N, Liu L, Dong H, Liu X. microRNA-128-3p overexpression inhibits breast cancer stem cell characteristics through suppression of Wnt signalling pathway by down-regulating NEK2. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:7353-7369. [PMID: 32558224 PMCID: PMC7339185 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence has reported that dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) participated in the development of diverse types of cancers. Our initial microarray‐based analysis identified differentially expressed NEK2 related to breast cancer and predicted the regulatory microRNA‐128‐3p (miR‐128‐3p). Herein, this study aimed to characterize the tumour‐suppressive role of miR‐128‐3p in regulating the biological characteristics of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). CD44+CD24−/low cells were selected for subsequent experiments. After verification of the target relationship between miR‐128‐3p and NEK2, the relationship among miR‐128‐3p, NEK2 and BCSCs was further investigated with the involvement of the Wnt signalling pathway. The regulatory effects of miR‐128‐3p on proliferation, migration, invasion and self‐renewal in vitro as well as tumorigenicity in vivo of BCSCs were examined via gain‐ and loss‐of‐function approaches. Highly expressed NEK2 was found in breast cancer based on GSE61304 expression profile. Breast cancer stem cells and breast cancer cells showed a down‐regulation of miR‐128‐3p. Overexpression of miR‐128‐3p was found to inhibit proliferation, migration, invasion, self‐renewal in vitro and tumorigenicity in vivo of BCSCs, which was further validated to be achieved through inhibition of Wnt signalling pathway by down‐regulating NEK2. In summary, this study indicates that miR‐128‐3p inhibits the stem‐like cell features of BCSCs via inhibition of the Wnt signalling pathway by down‐regulating NEK2, which provides a new target for breast cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanwen Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Chongqing Renji Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Nian Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Chongqing Renji Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Chongqing Renji Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Huaying Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Xinao Liu
- Clinical laboratory, Chongqing Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Science, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Chen W, Gao C, Liu Y, Wen Y, Hong X, Huang Z. Bioinformatics Analysis of Prognostic miRNA Signature and Potential Critical Genes in Colon Cancer. Front Genet 2020; 11:478. [PMID: 32582275 PMCID: PMC7296168 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to lay a foundation for studying the regulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) in colon cancer by applying bioinformatics methods to identify miRNAs and their potential critical target genes associated with colon cancer and prognosis. Data of differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and genes (DEGs) downloaded from two independent databases (TCGA and GEO) and analyzed by R software resulted in 472 DEMs and 565 DEGs in colon cancers, respectively. Next, we developed an 8-miRNA (hsa-mir-6854, hsa-mir-4437, hsa-mir-216a, hsa-mir-3677, hsa-mir-887, hsa-mir-4999, hsa-mir-34b, and hsa-mir-3189) prognostic signature for patients with colon cancer by Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. To predict the target genes of these miRNAs, we used TargetScan and miRDB. The intersection of DEGs with the target genes predicted for these eight miRNAs retrieved 112 consensus genes. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses showed these 112 genes were mainly involved in protein binding, one-carbon metabolic process, nitrogen metabolism, proteoglycans in cancer, and chemokine signaling pathways. The protein-protein interaction network of the consensus genes, constructed using the STRING database and imported into Cytoscape, identified 14 critical genes in the pathogenesis of colon cancer (CEP55, DTL, FANCI, HMMR, KIF15, MCM6, MKI67, NCAPG2, NEK2, RACGAP1, RRM2, TOP2A, UBE2C, and ZWILCH). Finally, we verified the critical genes by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of the GEO data, and further mined the core genes involved in colon cancer. In summary, this study identified an 8-miRNA model that can effectively predict the prognosis of colon cancer patients and 14 critical genes with vital roles in colon cancer carcinogenesis. Our findings contribute new ideas for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of colon cancer carcinogenesis and provide new therapeutic targets and biomarkers for future treatment and prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weigang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Research Platform Service Management Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.,Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Chang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Research Platform Service Management Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.,Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Research Platform Service Management Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.,Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Ying Wen
- Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Research Platform Service Management Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.,Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Xiaoling Hong
- Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Research Platform Service Management Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.,Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Zunnan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Research Platform Service Management Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.,The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.,Institute of Marine Biomedical Research, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Jusino S, Saavedra HI. Role of E2Fs and mitotic regulators controlled by E2Fs in the epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2019; 244:1419-1429. [PMID: 31575294 DOI: 10.1177/1535370219881360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a complex cellular process in which epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal properties. EMT occurs in three biological settings: development, wound healing and fibrosis, and tumor progression. Despite occurring in three independent biological settings, EMT signaling shares some molecular mechanisms that allow epithelial cells to de-differentiate and acquire mesenchymal characteristics that confer cells invasive and migratory capacity to distant sites. Here we summarize the molecular mechanism that delineates EMT and we will focus on the role of E2 promoter binding factors (E2Fs) in EMT during tumor progression. Since the E2Fs are presently undruggable due to their control in numerous pivotal cellular functions and due to the lack of selectivity against individual E2Fs, we will also discuss the role of three mitotic regulators and/or mitotic kinases controlled by the E2Fs (NEK2, Mps1/TTK, and SGO1) in EMT that can be useful as drug targets. Impact statement The study of the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an active area of research since it is one of the early intermediates to invasion and metastasis—a state of the cancer cells that ultimately kills many cancer patients. We will present in this review that besides their canonical roles as regulators of proliferation, unregulated expression of the E2F transcription factors may contribute to cancer initiation and progression to metastasis by signaling centrosome amplification, chromosome instability, and EMT. Since our discovery that the E2F activators control centrosome amplification and mitosis in cancer cells, we have identified centrosome and mitotic regulators that may represent actionable targets against EMT and metastasis in cancer cells. This is impactful to all of the cancer patients in which the Cdk/Rb/E2F pathway is deregulated, which has been estimated to be most cancer patients with solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Jusino
- Basic Sciences Department, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce PR 00732, USA
| | - Harold I Saavedra
- Basic Sciences Department, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce PR 00732, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
FBXW7 circular RNA regulates proliferation, migration and invasion of colorectal carcinoma through NEK2, mTOR, and PTEN signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:918. [PMID: 31519156 PMCID: PMC6744671 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-6028-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds A number of circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified in various cancer including F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 (FBXW7) circular RNA (circ-FBXW7), which can suppress glioma cell growth. However, the role of circ-FBXW7 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the effect and mechanisms of circ-FBXW7 on CRC progression. Methods The expression of circ-FBXW7 in CRC patients was detected by PCR. Stably knockdown of circ-FBXW7 (si circ-FBXW7) cell lines and overexpression of circ-FBXW7 (oe circ-FBXW7) cell lines were constructed by small interfering RNA method and plasmids transfection in CRC SW480 and SW620 cells. The functional experiments including cell proliferation, migration and invasion were carried out by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, wound healing assay and trans well assay. The xenograft animal models were established to evaluate the effect and the underlying molecular mechanisms of circ-FBXW7 on CRC progression. Results CRC samples had a significantly lower level of circ-FBXW7 compared to normal tissue. si circ-FBXW7 notably promoted the proliferation, colony formation, cell migration and invasion of CRC cell in vitro. On contrast, circ-FBXW7 overexpressed significantly suppressed CRC cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Similarly, si circ-FBXW7 stimulated the tumor growth and circ-FBXW7 overexpression repressed the tumor progression in SW480 and SW620 tumor models, which suggested that circ-FBXW7 could serve as a target biomarker of CRC. Further study found that si circ-FBXW7 up-regulated the mRNA and protein expressions of NEK2 and mTOR, and diminished the PTEN expression. Whereas, overexpressed circ-FBXW7 induced the tumor suppression via reversing the expressions of NEK2, mTOR, and PTEN. Conclusion circ-FBXW7 plays a major role in controlling the progression of CRC through NEK2, mTOR, and PTEN signaling pathways and may be a potential therapeutic target for CRC treatment. Graphical abstract Circ-FBXW7 controls the progression of CRC through NEK2, mTOR, and PTEN signaling pathways and its overexpression inhibits colorectal cancer cell migration and invasion, suggesting the potential therapeutic target for CRC treatment.
![]()
Collapse
|
24
|
Xu H, Zeng L, Guan Y, Feng X, Zhu Y, Lu Y, Shi C, Chen S, Xia J, Guo J, Kuang C, Li W, Jin F, Zhou W. High NEK2 confers to poor prognosis and contributes to cisplatin-based chemotherapy resistance in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:3547-3558. [PMID: 30295336 PMCID: PMC6704366 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.27632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common malignant tumor in southern China and Southeast Asia, but the molecular mechanism of its pathogenesis is poorly understood. Our previous work demonstrated that NEK2 is overexpressed in multiple cancers. However, how NEK2 involves in NPC development remains to be elucidated. In this study, we firstly identified NEK2, located at +1q32-q33, a late event in NPC pathogenesis, overexpressed in the stage III-IV and paired sequential recurrent patients with NPC by immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated high NEK2 conferred an inferior overall survival in NPC. In addition, cisplatin experiments with cell counting kit-8, colony formation, and a xenograft mice model of NPC demonstrated that NEK2 contributed to proliferation and cisplatin resistance in vitro and in vivo. On the contrary, downregulation of NEK2 by short hairpin RNA inhibited NPC cell growth and increased the sensitivity of cisplatin treatment in vitro. Thus, increased expression of NEK2 protein could not be predicted for poor survival but used as a novel biomarker for recurrence of NPC. Targeting NEK2 has the potential to eradicate the cisplatin-based chemotherapy resistant NPC cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- He Xu
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
- Cancer Research Institute, Central South University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangshaHunanChina
| | - Liang Zeng
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Yongjun Guan
- Cancer Research Institute, Central South University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangshaHunanChina
| | - Xiangling Feng
- School of Public Health, Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Yinghong Zhu
- Cancer Research Institute, Central South University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangshaHunanChina
| | - Yichen Lu
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
- Cancer Research Institute, Central South University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangshaHunanChina
| | - Chen Shi
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
- Cancer Research Institute, Central South University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangshaHunanChina
| | - Shilian Chen
- Cancer Research Institute, Central South University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangshaHunanChina
| | - Jiliang Xia
- Cancer Research Institute, Central South University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangshaHunanChina
| | - Jiaojiao Guo
- Cancer Research Institute, Central South University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangshaHunanChina
| | - Chunmei Kuang
- Cancer Research Institute, Central South University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangshaHunanChina
| | - Wei Li
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Fengyan Jin
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Wen Zhou
- Cancer Research Institute, Central South University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangshaHunanChina
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Prognostic significance of NEK2 in human solid tumors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Biosci Rep 2019; 39:BSR20180618. [PMID: 30578380 PMCID: PMC6341124 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20180618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A consensus about the prognostic role of NIMA-related kinase 2 (NEK2) expression in various solid tumors has not been made yet. Thus, this meta-analysis aimed to systematically assess the prognostic role of NEK2 expression in patients with solid tumors. The eligible studies were identified through searching PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE. The hazard ratios (HRs) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to evaluate the link between NEK2 overexpression and overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival/recurrence-free survival (DFS/RFS) of patients with solid tumors. A total of 17 studies with 4897 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Among these studies, all of them explored the association between NEK2 expression and OS of patients with solid tumors. Our pooled analysis indicated that NEK2 overexpression was significantly related to adverse OS (HR = 1.66; 95% CI: 1.38–2.00; P = 0.001). Additionally, there were six studies with 854 patients that investigated the association between NEK2 expression and DFS/RFS. Our pooled result indicated that there was a substantial relationship between NEK2 overexpression and poorer DFS/RFS (HR = 2.00; 95% CI: 1.61–2.48; P = 0.003). In conclusion, our meta-analysis indicated that NEK2 may be a useful predictor of prognosis and an effective therapeutic target in solid tumors. Nevertheless, more high-quality studies are warranted to further support our conclusions because of several limitations in our meta-analysis.
Collapse
|
26
|
Yao Y, Su J, Zhao L, Luo N, Long L, Zhu X. NIMA-related kinase 2 overexpression is associated with poor survival in cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Cancer Manag Res 2019; 11:455-465. [PMID: 30655697 PMCID: PMC6322518 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s188347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective NIMA-related kinase 2 (NEK2) has been reported to be overexpressed in various types of cancer and correlated with poor prognosis. The role(s) of NEK2 in cancer, however, is still uncertain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of NEK2 in human tumors. Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed for PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CNKI databases, and eligible studies were included based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A meta-analysis of the included studies was then carried out. Results Fifteen studies with 3,280 cancer patients were included in the present meta-analysis. All publications were of moderate to high quality, and had no significant heterogeneity (I2=46%, P=0.03) or publication bias was discovered. The results showed that a high NEK2 level was associated with shorter overall survival (OS) in patients with various types of cancers (pooled HR=1.72, 95% CI 1.49–2.00, P<0.00001). However, the disease-free survival (DFS) had no significant association with NEK2 level (HR=1.13, 95% CI: 0.29–4.38, P=0.85). In the subgroup analyses, high NEK2 level was correlated with an increased risk of poor OS in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HR=1.62, 95% CI: 1.25–2.10, P=0.02) and lung cancer (HR=2.18, 95% CI: 1.40–3.38, P=0.0005). However, other factors, including sample size, follow-up period, HR estimation method, and country, also affect the association between NEK2 expression and OS. Analysis of clinicopathological parameters further showed that increased NEK2 level was correlated with younger age, male gender, better tumor differentiation, and lower number of tumor nodules. Conclusion The results of this study indicated that increased expression of NEK2 was associated with unfavorable survival of cancer patients and that NEK2 could be used as a prognostic predictor for cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yao
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710077, PR China,
| | - Jie Su
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710077, PR China,
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Na Luo
- Department of Clinical Medicine (Four-Year Program) of Grade 2014, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710021, PR China
| | - Lihui Long
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710077, PR China
| | - Xingmei Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712046, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Jin J, Guo T, Guo Y, Liu J, Qu F, He Y. Methylation‑associated silencing of miR‑128 promotes the development of esophageal cancer by targeting COX‑2 in areas with a high incidence of esophageal cancer. Int J Oncol 2018; 54:644-654. [PMID: 30535495 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2018.4653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer is one of the most common cancer types in the world, with a widely varying incidence between different regions. Zinc deficiency (ZD) is very common in high‑risk areas for esophageal cancer. Dietary ZD is reported to be associated with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). In the current study, the effects of ZD on tumorigenesis and expression of inflammatory factors were investigated in mice. It was identified that a ZD diet advanced ESCC and increased the expression of cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) prior to the occurrence of ESCC in mice. ZD significantly enhanced DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) activity and increased the expression of DNMT1 and DNMT3B. Furthermore, the expression of miR‑128 was downregulated by methylation, and COX‑2, a direct target of miR‑128, was upregulated with the reduction in miR‑128. Upregulation of miR‑128 inhibited the cell cycle, proliferation and metastasis, and the expression of COX‑2, cyclin D1 and retinoblastoma protein (Rb). Furthermore, the relative expression level of miR‑128 was negatively associated with COX‑2 in ESCC tissues. Collectively, these findings indicate that methylation‑associated silencing of miR‑128 promotes the development of esophageal cancer through upregulation of the expression of cyclin D1 and Rb by targeting COX‑2 in ZD regions with a high incidence of esophageal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Jin
- Cancer Institute, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Tiantian Guo
- Cancer Institute, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Yongdong Guo
- Cancer Institute, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Jianghui Liu
- Cancer Institute, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Feng Qu
- Cancer Institute, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Yutong He
- Cancer Institute, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ren Q, Li B, Liu M, Hu Z, Wang Y. Prognostic value of NEK2 overexpression in digestive system cancers: a meta-analysis and systematic review. Onco Targets Ther 2018; 11:7169-7178. [PMID: 30425509 PMCID: PMC6203090 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s169911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objective Many studies have reported that NEK2 is overexpressed in digestive system cancers (DSCs) and is also correlated with patient survival. We performed a meta-analysis to comprehensively evaluate the prognostic role of NEK2 expression in DSCs. Materials and methods A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Synthesized hazard ratios (HRs) and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to evaluate the influence of NEK2 overexpression on the prognosis and clinicopathological features of patients with DSCs. Results A total of 13 studies involving 1,917 patients was included. Overall, patients with high NEK2 expression had poorer overall survival (HR =1.45; 95% CI: 1.15–1.83; P=0.002) and disease-free survival/recurrence-free survival (HR =2.28; 95% CI: 1.54–3.37; P<0.0001). Furthermore, subgroup analysis also suggested that elevated NEK2 expression was associated with poorer overall survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HR =1.45; 95% CI: 1.05–2.00; P=0.02) and colorectal cancer (HR =2.03; 95% CI: 1.16–3.54; P=0.01). Additionally, NEK2 overexpression was also associated with pretreatment serum AFP level (OR =1.79; 95% CI: 1.23–2.61; P<0.01) and portal vein thrombosis (OR =2.74; 95% CI: 1.22–6.17; P=0.01) in hepatocellular carcinoma. Conclusion NEK2 might act as a useful prognostic predictor and a potential therapeutic target in DSCs. However, multicenter homogeneous studies with larger sample sizes are needed to further confirm our findings owing to some limitations in our meta-analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Ren
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China, .,Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China,
| | - Bowen Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China, .,Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China,
| | - Zenan Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China, .,Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China,
| | - Yuping Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China, .,Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China,
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Literature-based automated discovery of tumor suppressor p53 phosphorylation and inhibition by NEK2. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:10666-10671. [PMID: 30266789 PMCID: PMC6196525 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1806643115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Scientific progress depends on formulating testable hypotheses informed by the literature. In many domains, however, this model is strained because the number of research papers exceeds human readability. Here, we developed computational assistance to analyze the biomedical literature by reading PubMed abstracts to suggest new hypotheses. The approach was tested experimentally on the tumor suppressor p53 by ranking its most likely kinases, based on all available abstracts. Many of the best-ranked kinases were found to bind and phosphorylate p53 (P value = 0.005), suggesting six likely p53 kinases so far. One of these, NEK2, was studied in detail. A known mitosis promoter, NEK2 was shown to phosphorylate p53 at Ser315 in vitro and in vivo and to functionally inhibit p53. These bona fide validations of text-based predictions of p53 phosphorylation, and the discovery of an inhibitory p53 kinase of pharmaceutical interest, suggest that automated reasoning using a large body of literature can generate valuable molecular hypotheses and has the potential to accelerate scientific discovery.
Collapse
|
30
|
Zhou T, Wu L, Wang Q, Jiang Z, Li Y, Ma N, Chen W, Hou Z, Gan W, Chen S. MicroRNA-128 targeting RPN2 inhibits cell proliferation and migration through the Akt-p53-cyclin pathway in colorectal cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2018; 16:6940-6949. [PMID: 30546426 PMCID: PMC6256417 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.9506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a malignancy with high metastatic rates. The mechanism of miR-128 on the regulation of Ribophorin-II (RPN2) in CRC cells was explored in the present study. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) or western blot analyses were conducted to detect miR-128 and RPN2 levels in tissues and cell lines. AmiR-128 overexpression model was constructed using miR-128 mimic transfection in HT29 CRC cells. Then, cell proliferation was detected using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, and the migratory and invasive abilities were measured by Transwell assay. RT-qPCR and western blot analysis were used to detect expression levels of protein kinase-B (Akt)-tumor protein 53 (p53)-cyclin pathway and metastasis-associated factors. In the present study, it was identified that aberrant decreased miR-128 was negatively correlated with RPN2 in CRC tissues. The increased RPN2 levels were significantly associated with poorly-differentiated histology, advanced stages and lymph nodes metastasis in patients with CRC. The survival rate of patients with CRC was also closely associated with RPN2 levels. In HT29 cells, miR-128 upregulation downregulated mRNA and protein levels of RPN2, and significantly inhibited cell proliferative, migratory and invasive abilities. Markedly decreased Akt phosphorylation and cyclin D1 levels and increased p53 levels were detected when cells were transfected with miR-128 mimics. Concurrently, decreased levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9 and metastasis-associated protein 1, and increased levels of epithelial-cadherin and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2, were revealed in miR-128 mimic-transfected cells. Subsequent to screening with miRNA target prediction databases, the specificity of miR-128-targeted RPN2 was validated by a luciferase reporter assay. In conclusion, the results suggested that miR-128 was a specific negative regulator of RPN2, which regulated colorectal cancer cell proliferation and migration by affecting the Akt-p53-cyclin pathway. These data may provide novel evidence for the therapeutic potential of miR-128-based treatments for colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taicheng Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery and Hernia Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, P.R. China
| | - Lili Wu
- Department of Ultrasonography, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Qirui Wang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medial University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Zhipeng Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery and Hernia Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, P.R. China
| | - Yingru Li
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery and Hernia Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, P.R. China
| | - Ning Ma
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery and Hernia Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, P.R. China
| | - Wenhao Chen
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery and Hernia Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, P.R. China
| | - Zehui Hou
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery and Hernia Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, P.R. China
| | - Wenchang Gan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery and Hernia Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, P.R. China
| | - Shuang Chen
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery and Hernia Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
van Dam PA, Rolfo C, Ruiz R, Pauwels P, Van Berckelaer C, Trinh XB, Ferri Gandia J, Bogers JP, Van Laere S. Potential new biomarkers for squamous carcinoma of the uterine cervix. ESMO Open 2018; 3:e000352. [PMID: 30018810 PMCID: PMC6045706 DOI: 10.1136/esmoopen-2018-000352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim An in silico pathway analysis was performed in an attempt to identify new biomarkers for cervical carcinoma. Methods Three publicly available Affymetrix gene expression data sets (GSE5787, GSE7803, GSE9750) were retrieved, vouching for a total 9 cervical cancer cell lines, 39 normal cervical samples, 7 CIN3 samples and 111 cervical cancer samples. An Agilent data set (GSE7410; 5 normal cervical samples, 35 samples from invasive cervical cancer) was selected as a validation set. Predication analysis of microarrays was performed in the Affymetrix sets to identify cervical cancer biomarkers. We compared the lists of differentially expressed genes between normal and CIN3 samples on the one hand (n=1923) and between CIN3 and invasive cancer samples on the other hand (n=628). Results Seven probe sets were identified that were significantly overexpressed (at least 2 fold increase expression level, and false discovery rate <5%) in both CIN3 samples respective to normal samples and in cancer samples respective to CIN3 samples. From these, five probes sets could be validated in the Agilent data set (P<0.001) comparing the normal with the invasive cancer samples, corresponding to the genes DTL, HMGB3, KIF2C, NEK2 and RFC4. These genes were additionally overexpressed in cervical cancer cell lines respective to the cancer samples. The literature on these markers was reviewed. Conclusion Novel biomarkers in combination with primary human papilloma virus (HPV) testing may allow complete cervical screening by objective, non-morphological molecular methods, which may be particularly important in developing countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter A van Dam
- Multidisciplinary Oncologic Centre Antwerp (MOCA), Antwerp University Hospita, Edegem, Belgium.,Centre of Oncologic Research (CORE) Antwerp University, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Christian Rolfo
- Multidisciplinary Oncologic Centre Antwerp (MOCA), Antwerp University Hospita, Edegem, Belgium.,Centre of Oncologic Research (CORE) Antwerp University, Edegem, Belgium.,Fase 1 Unit for Experimental Oncology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Rossana Ruiz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas (INEN), Lima, Peru
| | - Patrick Pauwels
- Centre of Oncologic Research (CORE) Antwerp University, Edegem, Belgium.,Department of Histopathology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | | | - Xuan Bich Trinh
- Multidisciplinary Oncologic Centre Antwerp (MOCA), Antwerp University Hospita, Edegem, Belgium.,Centre of Oncologic Research (CORE) Antwerp University, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Jose Ferri Gandia
- Fase 1 Unit for Experimental Oncology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Johannes P Bogers
- AMBIOR Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Antwerp University, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Steven Van Laere
- Centre of Oncologic Research (CORE) Antwerp University, Edegem, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Gao S, Zhao ZY, Wu R, Zhang Y, Zhang ZY. Prognostic value of microRNAs in colorectal cancer: a meta-analysis. Cancer Manag Res 2018; 10:907-929. [PMID: 29750053 PMCID: PMC5935085 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s157493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Numerous studies have shown that miRNA levels are closely related to the survival time of patients with colon, rectal, or colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the outcomes of different investigations have been inconsistent. Accordingly, a meta-analysis was conducted to study associations among the three types of cancers. Materials and methods Studies published in English that estimated the expression levels of miRNAs with survival curves in CRC were identified until May 20, 2017 by online searches in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library by two independent authors. Pooled HRs with 95% CIs were used to estimate the correlation between miRNA expression and overall survival. Results A total of 63 relevant articles regarding 13 different miRNAs, with 10,254 patients were ultimately included. CRC patients with high expression of blood miR141 (HR 2.52, 95% CI 1.68-3.77), tissue miR21 (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.12-1.53), miR181a (HR 1.52, 95% CI 1.26-1.83), or miR224 (HR 2.12, 95% CI 1.04-4.34), or low expression of tissue miR126 (HR 1.55, 95% CI 1.24-1.93) had significantly poor overall survival (P<0.05). Conclusion In general, blood miR141 and tissue miR21, miR181a, miR224, and miR126 had significant prognostic value. Among these, blood miR141 and tissue miR224 were strong biomarkers of prognosis for CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Song Gao
- Second Department of Clinical Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University
| | - Zhi-Ying Zhao
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang
| | - Rong Wu
- Second Department of Clinical Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University
| | - Yue Zhang
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhen-Yong Zhang
- Second Department of Clinical Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Tang X, Wang Z, Lei T, Zhou W, Chang S, Li D. Importance of protein flexibility on molecular recognition: modeling binding mechanisms of aminopyrazine inhibitors to Nek2. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2018; 20:5591-5605. [PMID: 29270587 DOI: 10.1039/c7cp07588j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
NIMA-related kinase 2 (Nek2) plays a significant role in cell cycle regulation, and overexpression of Nek2 has been observed in several types of carcinoma, suggesting it is a potential target for cancer therapy. In this study, we attempted to gain more insight into the binding mechanisms of a series of aminopyrazine inhibitors of Nek2 through multiple molecular modeling techniques, including molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and free energy calculations. The simulation results showed that the induced fit docking and ensemble docking based on multiple protein structures yield better predictions than conventional rigid receptor docking, highlighting the importance of incorporating receptor flexibility into the accurate predictions of the binding poses and binding affinities of Nek2 inhibitors. Additionally, we observed that the Molecular Mechanics/Generalized Born Surface Area (MM/GBSA) calculations did not show better performance than the docking scoring to rank the binding affinities of the studied inhibitors, suggesting that MM/GBSA is system-dependent and may not be the best choice for the Nek2 systems. Moreover, the detailed information on protein-ligand binding was characterized by the MM/GBSA free energy decomposition, and a number of derivatives with improved docking scores were designed. It is expected that our study can provide valuable information for the future rational design of novel and potent inhibitors of Nek2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Tang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P. R. China.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
miR128-1 inhibits the growth of glioblastoma multiforme and glioma stem-like cells via targeting BMI1 and E2F3. Oncotarget 2018; 7:78813-78826. [PMID: 27705931 PMCID: PMC5346679 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA128-1 (miR128-1), as a brain-specific miRNA, is downregulated in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and closely associated with the progression of GBM. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of the downregulation and its role in the regulation of tumorigenesis and anticancer drug resistance in GBM remains largely unknown. In the current study,we found that miR128-1 was downregulated in GBM and glioma stem-like cells (GSCs). Intriguingly, treatment with the DNA methylation inhibitors 5-Aza-CdR (Aza) and 4-phenylbutyric acid (PBA) resulted in miR128-1 upregulation in both GBM cells and GSCs. Either forced expression of miR128-1 or Aza/PBA treatment inhibited tumor cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro. Moreover, overexpression of miR128-1 inhibited the growth of transplant tumor in vivo. BMI1 and E2F3 were found to be direct targets of miR128-1 and downregulated by miR128-1 in vitro and in vivo. Our results revealed a mechanism of methylation that controls miR128-1 expression in GBM cells and GSCs and indicate miR128-1 could function as a tumor suppressor in GBM by negatively regulating tumor cell proliferation, invasion and self-renewal through direct targeting BMI1 and E2F3. Our findings suggest that DNA methylation inhibitors are potential agents for GBM treatment by upregulating miR-128-1.
Collapse
|
35
|
Liang RF, Li M, Yang Y, Wang X, Mao Q, Liu YH. Circulating miR-128 as a potential diagnostic biomarker for glioma. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2017; 160:88-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2017.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Revised: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
36
|
Wang J, Cheng P, Pavlyukov MS, Yu H, Zhang Z, Kim SH, Minata M, Mohyeldin A, Xie W, Chen D, Goidts V, Frett B, Hu W, Li H, Shin YJ, Lee Y, Nam DH, Kornblum HI, Wang M, Nakano I. Targeting NEK2 attenuates glioblastoma growth and radioresistance by destabilizing histone methyltransferase EZH2. J Clin Invest 2017; 127:3075-3089. [PMID: 28737508 DOI: 10.1172/jci89092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that glioma stem cells (GSCs) are important therapeutic targets in glioblastoma (GBM). In this study, we identified NIMA-related kinase 2 (NEK2) as a functional binding protein of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) that plays a critical role in the posttranslational regulation of EZH2 protein in GSCs. NEK2 was among the most differentially expressed kinase-encoding genes in GSC-containing cultures (glioma spheres), and it was required for in vitro clonogenicity, in vivo tumor propagation, and radioresistance. Mechanistically, the formation of a protein complex comprising NEK2 and EZH2 in glioma spheres phosphorylated and then protected EZH2 from ubiquitination-dependent protein degradation in a NEK2 kinase activity-dependent manner. Clinically, NEK2 expression in patients with glioma was closely associated with EZH2 expression and correlated with a poor prognosis. NEK2 expression was also substantially elevated in recurrent tumors after therapeutic failure compared with primary untreated tumors in matched GBM patients. We designed a NEK2 kinase inhibitor, compound 3a (CMP3a), which efficiently attenuated GBM growth in a mouse model and exhibited a synergistic effect with radiotherapy. These data demonstrate a key role for NEK2 in maintaining GSCs in GBM by stabilizing the EZH2 protein and introduce the small-molecule inhibitor CMP3a as a potential therapeutic agent for GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Peng Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Marat S Pavlyukov
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.,Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - Hai Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Zhuo Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Sung-Hak Kim
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Mutsuko Minata
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Ahmed Mohyeldin
- Department of Neurological Surgery, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Wanfu Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dongquan Chen
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Violaine Goidts
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Brendan Frett
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA.,Synactix Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Wenhao Hu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongyu Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Yong Jae Shin
- Institute for Refractory Cancer Research, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Neurosurgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeri Lee
- Institute for Refractory Cancer Research, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Hyun Nam
- Institute for Refractory Cancer Research, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Neurosurgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Health Science and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Science and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Harley I Kornblum
- Departments of Psychiatry.,Pharmacology, and.,Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Maode Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ichiro Nakano
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Ames H, Halushka MK, Rodriguez FJ. miRNA Regulation in Gliomas: Usual Suspects in Glial Tumorigenesis and Evolving Clinical Applications. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2017; 76:246-254. [PMID: 28431179 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlx005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, an increasing role for noncoding small RNAs (miRNA) has been uncovered in carcinogenesis. These oligonucleotides can promote degradation and/or inhibit translation of key mRNAs. Recent studies have also highlighted a possible role for miRNAs in adult and pediatric brain tumors, including high- and low-grade gliomas, medulloblastoma, ependymoma, and neoplasms associated with neurofibromatosis type 1. Gliomas represent the most common category of primary intraparenchymal brain tumors, and, for example, manipulation of signaling pathways, through inhibition of PTEN transcription appears to be an important function of miRNA dysregulation through miR-21, miR-106b, and miR-26a. Moreover, altered miRNA expression in gliomas play roles in the regulation of common tumorigenic processes, including receptor tyrosine kinase signaling, angiogenesis, invasion, suppression of differentiation, cell cycle enhancement, and inhibition of apoptosis. Suppression of differentiation requires the downregulation of a number of miRNAs that are both enriched in the brain and required for terminal glial differentiation, including miR-219 and miR-338. Our evolving understanding about the biology of gliomas make them attractive for miRNA study, given that recent evidence suggests that epigenetic and subtle genetic changes may contribute to their pathogenesis. Identification of key miRNAs also provides a rationale for developing robust biomarkers and inhibitory RNA strategies for therapeutic purposes in glioma patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heather Ames
- Division of Neuropathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Marc K Halushka
- Division of Cardiovascular Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Fausto J Rodriguez
- Division of Neuropathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Zhang P, Sun H, Yang B, Luo W, Liu Z, Wang J, Zuo Y. miR-152 regulated glioma cell proliferation and apoptosis via Runx2 mediated by DNMT1. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 92:690-695. [PMID: 28595085 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.05.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant DNA methylation is associated with tumor onset and progression. Study has verified that the DNA methylation of miR-152 was mediated in many tumors, but whether it involved in glioblastomas was still unclear. METHODS This study enrolled 20 patients with glioma to analyze the expression pattern of miR-152. Real-time PCR and western blot were used to detect the mRNA or protein expression level, respectively. The relationship between miR-152 and runx2 was detected by Luciferase reporter assay. The methylation level of miR-152 was determined by methylation-specific PCR. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by MTT and Annexin-FITC/PI assay. RESULTS The expression of miR-152 was down-regulated while the expression of DNMT1 was up-regulated in both glioma tissue and cell lines. MiR-152 was hypermethylated and its expression was negatively correlated with DNMT in glioma cell lines. DNMT1 knockdown promoted the expression of miR-152, however, DNMT1 overexpression suppressed the expression of miR-152. MiR-152 overexpression promoted glioma cell apoptosis while miR-152 knockdown promoted cell proliferation. MiR-152 targets Runx2 to regulate its expression, Runx2 overexpression abolished the effects of miR-152 overexpression. CONCLUSION MiR-152 regulated cell proliferation and apoptosis of glioma mediated by Runx2, while the mechanism of down regulated miR-152 in glioma tissues and cells was its hypermethylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China.
| | - Hongwei Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Wenzheng Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Zengjin Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Junkuan Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Yuchao Zuo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Zhao D, Han W, Liu X, Cui D, Chen Y. MicroRNA-128 promotes apoptosis in lung cancer by directly targeting NIMA-related kinase 2. Thorac Cancer 2017; 8:304-311. [PMID: 28514100 PMCID: PMC5494458 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.12442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background MicroRNA‐128 (miR‐128) serves as a regulator by inducing cancer cell apoptosis, differentiation, the epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition process, and tumor growth by mediating different targets. NIMA‐related kinase 2 (NEK2) is aberrantly expressed in lung cancer. The miR‐128/NEK2 pathway has been reported to predict prognosis in colorectal cancer; however, the determination of a relationship between miR‐128 and NEK2 in lung cancer has remained elusive. We explored the association between miR‐128 and NEK2 in lung cancer. Methods MiR‐128 and NEK2 expression were examined in 15 lung cancer tissues by real time‐PCR. Lung cancer SK‐MES‐1 cells were transfected with miR‐128 mimic, an inhibitor or a negative control. MiR‐128 and NEK2 expression levels were detected using quantitative real time‐PCR and Western blot. SK‐MES‐1 cell apoptosis was performed by flow cytometry. Results Compared to adjacent non‐tumor tissues, miR‐128 was downregulated and NEK2 was upregulated in 15 lung cancer tissues. Lung cancer SK‐MES‐1 cells transfected with miR‐128 mimic induced a higher apoptotic rate than those transfected with the negative control. Dual luciferase assay further confirmed that NEK2 was a direct target of miR‐128 in lung cancer, and transfection with miR‐128 mimic could decrease the NEK2 protein level while the miR‐128 inhibitor increased NEK2 expression. Finally, the apoptotic effect of lung cancer cells induced by miR‐128 mimic could be reversed by NEK2 overexpression. Conclusions NEK2 was regulated by miR‐128 in lung cancer and miR‐128 induced lung cancer cell apoptosis by mediating NEK2 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dejian Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical in vitro Diagnostic Techniques of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenzheng Han
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical in vitro Diagnostic Techniques of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical in vitro Diagnostic Techniques of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dawei Cui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical in vitro Diagnostic Techniques of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical in vitro Diagnostic Techniques of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Overexpression of NIMA-related kinase 2 is associated with poor prognoses in malignant glioma. J Neurooncol 2017; 132:409-417. [PMID: 28321704 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-017-2401-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Eleated expression of NIMA-related kinase 2 (NEK2) was frequently observed in a variety of malignant cancers, and it appears to be involved in the initiation, maintenance, progression, metastasis of cancer and is positively associated with poor prognosis. We sought to investigate NEK2 expression and its predictive roles in malignant gliomas, and study the correlation of NEK2 protein expression with proliferation, clinical parameters, overall survival and some other parameters. We investigate NEK2 protein expression in 99 samples of malignant gliomas, including 35 WHO grade II, 22 grade III, and 42 grade IV gliomas, by immunohistochemistry and western blot (n = 50). We then made correlative analysis of protein overexpression using the Kaplan-Meier method, Log rank test, and Cox proportional-hazards model analysis. NEK2 protein was overexpressed in malignant gliomas, but not in normal brain tissues. Overexpression of NEK2 correlated with malignancy, proliferation and adverse overall survival in gliomas. Moreover, chemotherapy, resection extent and WHO grade also correlate with overall survival in gliomas. However, within WHO grade II glioma subgroup, NEK2 overexpression showed no impact on overall survival. The present study firstly reveals that NEK2 protein is widely overexpressed in gliomas. NEK2 overexpression correlates significantly with malignancy (WHO grades), proliferation (Ki-67) and prognosis in malignant gliomas. NEK2 is a potential gene therapy target and prognostic indicator.
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
Never in Mitosis (NIMA) Related Kinase 2 (NEK2) plays a key role in regulating mitotic processes, including centrosome duplication and separation, microtubule stabilization, kinetochore attachment and spindle assembly checkpoint. NEK2 is aberrantly overexpressed in a wide variety of human cancers and has been implicated in various aspects of malignant transformation, including tumorigenesis, drug resistance and tumor progression. The close relationship between NEK2 and cancer has made it an attractive target for anticancer therapeutic development; however, the mechanisms of how NEK2 coordinates altered signaling to malignant transformation remains unclear. In this paper, we discuss the functional roles of NEK2 in cancer development; highlight some of the significant NEK2 signaling in cancer, and summarize recent advances in the development of NEK2 inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanfen Fang
- a Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University , Shanghai , China
| | - Xiongwen Zhang
- a Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University , Shanghai , China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Wang F, Ma Y, Wang H, Qin H. Reciprocal regulation between microRNAs and epigenetic machinery in colorectal cancer. Oncol Lett 2017; 13:1048-1057. [PMID: 28454212 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.5593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics encompasses changes in DNA methylation, histone and chromatin structure, and non-coding RNAs, specifically microRNA (miRNA) expression. Recent advances in the rapidly evolving field of colorectal cancer (CRC) epigenetics have revealed a complicated network of reciprocal interconnections between miRNAs and other epigenetic machinery. On the one hand, miRNA expression may be regulated by epigenetic mechanisms including DNA methylation and histone modifications. However, miRNAs may affect the epigenetic machinery by directly targeting its enzymatic components. In this study, we focus on the colorectal miRNA expression profile and further illustrate the reciprocal regulation in CRC, with the aim of offering new insights into the strategies of combatting the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, P.R. China
| | - Yanlei Ma
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, P.R. China
| | - Huamin Wang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Huanlong Qin
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Li G, Zhong Y, Shen Q, Zhou Y, Deng X, Li C, Chen J, Zhou Y, He M. NEK2 serves as a prognostic biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Oncol 2017; 50:405-413. [PMID: 28101574 PMCID: PMC5238800 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2017.3837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Never in mitosis gene A (NIMA)-related kinase 2 (NEK2) is a microtubule-associated protein that regulates spindle assembly in human cells and is overexpressed in various malignancies. However, the role of NEK2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains undetermined. We performed RNA-seq of the HCC cell line SMMC-7721 and the normal liver cell line HL-7702 using the Ion Proton System. NEK2 expression was detected using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in two cell lines and 5 matched HCC and adjacent non-tumorous liver tissues. The correlation between survival and NEK2 expression was analyzed in 359 patients with HCC using RNASeqV2 data available from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) website (https://tcga-data.nci.nih.gov/tcga/). The expression of NEK2, phospho-AKT and MMP-2 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 63 cases of HCC and matched adjacent non-tumorous liver tissues. Relationships between protein expression and clinicopathological parameters were assessed, and the correlations between NEK2 with phospho-AKT and MMP-2 expressions were evaluated. A total of 610 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were revealed in the transcriptome comparison, 297 of which were upregulated and 313 were downregulated in HCC. NEK2, as the most obviously different DEG in cells and tissues from the RNA-seq data, was listed as an HCC candidate biomarker for further verification. NEK2 was overexpressed in HCC cells and tissues (P=0.002, P=0.013) and HCC patients with a high expression of NEK2 had a poor prognosis (P=0.0145). Clinical analysis indicated that the overexpression of NEK2 in HCC was significantly correlated with diolame complete (P<0.001), tumor nodule number (P=0.012) and recurrence (P=0.004). NEK2 expression was positively correlated with the expression of phospho-AKT (r=0.883, P<0.01) and MMP-2 (r=0.781, P<0.01). Overexpression of NEK2 was associated with clinicopathological characteristics and poor patient outcomes, suggesting that NEK2 serves as a prognostic biomarker for HCC. Alteration of NEK2 protein levels may contribute to invasion and metastasis of HCC, which may occur through activation of AKT signaling and promotion of MMP-2 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gang Li
- Medical Scientific Research Center, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P.R. China
| | - Yanping Zhong
- Medical Scientific Research Center, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P.R. China
| | - Qingrong Shen
- Department of Pharmacy, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, P.R. China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Medical Scientific Research Center, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofang Deng
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P.R. China
| | - Cuiping Li
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P.R. China
| | - Jiagui Chen
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P.R. China
| | - Ying Zhou
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P.R. China
| | - Min He
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Structure-based design and synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives as novel and potent Nek2 inhibitors with in vitro and in vivo antitumor activities. Eur J Med Chem 2017; 126:1083-1106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2016.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
45
|
Zhou F, Huang D, Li Y, Hu G, Rao H, Lu Q, Luo S, Wang Y. Nek2A/SuFu feedback loop regulates Gli-mediated Hedgehog signaling pathway. Int J Oncol 2016; 50:373-380. [PMID: 28035348 PMCID: PMC5238777 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2016.3819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Suppressor of Fused (SuFu), one of the most conserved components of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling, binds Gli transcription factors and impedes activation of target gene expression in mammalian cells. Despite the central importance of SuFu in the Hh pathway, little is known about SuFu regulation. In a previous study, we identified NIMA-related expressed kinase 2A (Nek2A) as a SuFu-interacting protein. Here, we show that Nek2A stabilizes SuFu through impairing ubiquitin/proteasome degradation of SuFu. In addition, Nek2A negatively regulates target genes of Hh signaling as well as Gli2 transcriptional activity. In turn, inhibition of Hh signaling by GANT61 diminishes mRNA and protein levels of Nek2A, and Hh agonist promotes transcription of NEK2A gene. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that Gli1 and Gli2 directly bind to the promoter regions of NEK2A gene and induced its transcription. Thus, we uncovered one of the mechanisms by which Nek2A acts as a modulator of the Hh signaling pathway in the context of a novel negative-feedback loop, which may offer new insights into Gli-mediated Hh signaling regulation in development and human diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fen Zhou
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Dengliang Huang
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yong Li
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Guanghui Hu
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Hai Rao
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Quqin Lu
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Shiwen Luo
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yao Wang
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Geekiyanage H, Galanis E. MiR-31 and miR-128 regulates poliovirus receptor-related 4 mediated measles virus infectivity in tumors. Mol Oncol 2016; 10:1387-1403. [PMID: 27507538 PMCID: PMC5100694 DOI: 10.1016/j.molonc.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic measles virus strains are currently being evaluated in several clinical trials, as a promising novel oncolytic platform. Poliovirus receptor-related 4 (PVRL4) was recently identified as a potent measles virus (MV) receptor; however, its regulation is not yet understood. Increased levels of PVRL4 protein were observed in cell membrane, cytoplasm and nuclei of glioblastoma, breast and ovarian tumor clinical samples with no significant change in PVRL4 mRNA levels in glioblastoma and breast cancer compared with their corresponding control samples, suggesting that PVRL4 is likely post-transcriptionally regulated. Therefore, we sought to investigate the potential role of miRNAs in PVRL4 regulation and thus MV infectivity. We demonstrated that miR-31 and miR-128 can bind to the 3'UTR of PVRL4 and decrease PVRL4 levels while anti-miR-31/128 increase PVRL4 levels suggesting that PVRL4 is miRNA targeted. Furthermore, miR-31/128 expression levels were down-regulated in glioblastoma and breast tumor samples and showed significant negative correlations with PVRL4 levels. Infection with an MV strain that exclusively utilizes PVRL4 as its receptor showed that over-expression of miR-31/128 decreases MV infectivity while inhibition of the respective miRNAs via anti-miRs increase MV infectivity and reduce tumor size in mouse xenograft models of glioblastoma, breast and ovarian cancer. Additionally, miR-128 levels showed significant correlations with MV infection and in vivo anti-tumor effect, while MV infection increased miR-31 expression and thereby contributed to the observed decrease in PVRL4 levels. This study suggests that PVRL4 is post-transcriptionally regulated by miR-128 and miR-31 and harbors possible miRNA targets that could modulate MV infectivity and in turn enhance MV based oncolytic therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hirosha Geekiyanage
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA.
| | - Evanthia Galanis
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Lin S, Zhou S, Jiang S, Liu X, Wang Y, Zheng X, Zhou H, Li X, Cai X. NEK2 regulates stem-like properties and predicts poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncol Rep 2016; 36:853-62. [PMID: 27349376 DOI: 10.3892/or.2016.4896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
NEK2 has been estimated to play an important role in cancer progression. However, its relevance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not yet been explored. Immunohistochemistry revealed NEK2 expression was upregulated in HCC. NEK2-positive hepatocellular carcinoma patients were associated with poor prognosis after surgery compared with NEK2-negative patients based on Kaplan-Meier curves. Deletion of NEK2 reduced self-renewal properties and chemotherapeutic resistance, and decreased the stemness associated genes in cell lines. NEK2 was associated with unfavorable outcomes in HCC patients, and was revealed to regulate self-renewal property by means of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and chemotherapeutic resistance by preferential regulation of the expression of ABCG2 and ALDH1A1 in HCC cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Senjun Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Shaojie Jiang
- Department of Radiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolong Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Yifan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xueyong Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Haimeng Zhou
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Enzymology, Yangtze Delta Region Institute of Tsinghua University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xuhui Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Enzymology, Yangtze Delta Region Institute of Tsinghua University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xiujun Cai
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Wang Y, Li Y, Hu G, Huang X, Rao H, Xiong X, Luo Z, Lu Q, Luo S. Nek2A phosphorylates and stabilizes SuFu: A new strategy of Gli2/Hedgehog signaling regulatory mechanism. Cell Signal 2016; 28:1304-1313. [PMID: 27297360 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2016.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Revised: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 06/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Suppressor of Fused (SuFu) plays a conservative role in the regulation of the Gli transcription factors within the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway. Despite the central importance of SuFu in the Hh pathway, little is known about its regulation. Here, we performed a GAL4-based yeast two-hybrid screen using human SuFu as bait, and identified NIMA-related expressed kinase 2A (Nek2A) as a new SuFu-interacting protein, which was also confirmed by glutathione-S-transferase pull-down and co-immunoprecipitation assays. Intriguingly, Nek2A is found to stabilize SuFu at least partly depending on its kinase activity, thereby triggering phosphorylation of the SuFu protein. Moreover, the phosphorylated SuFu inhibits the nuclear localization and transcriptional activity of Gli2/Hh signaling. These findings reveal a new mechanism of mammalian SuFu regulation, and offers novel insights into Hh signaling regulation in development and human disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China; Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine, China
| | - Yong Li
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Guanghui Hu
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China; Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine, China
| | - Xuan Huang
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Hai Rao
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Xiangyang Xiong
- School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Zhijun Luo
- School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Quqin Lu
- Department of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Shiwen Luo
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China; Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine, China.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Gong J, Tian J, Lou J, Ke J, Li L, Li J, Yang Y, Gong Y, Zhu Y, Zhang Y, Zhong R, Chang J, Miao X. A functional polymorphism inlnc-LAMC2-1:1confers risk of colorectal cancer by affecting miRNA binding. Carcinogenesis 2016; 37:443-51. [DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgw024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
|
50
|
Zhou XU, Qi L, Tong S, Cui YU, Chen J, Huang T, Chen Z, Zu XB. miR-128 downregulation promotes growth and metastasis of bladder cancer cells and involves VEGF-C upregulation. Oncol Lett 2015; 10:3183-3190. [PMID: 26722309 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2015.3689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA-128 (miR-128) serves an important role in regulating growth, invasiveness, stem cell-like traits, differentiation and apoptosis of different types of tumor cells. Vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) has been associated with angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis and regional lymph node metastasis and has previously been reported to have an anti-apoptotic and proliferative role in bladder cancer (BC). To investigate the regulation of miR-128 on VEGF-C expression and their effects on proliferation and metastasis of bladder cancer, T24 and 5637 BC cells were transfected with pre-miR-128, anti-miR-128 and their respective negative control. miR-128 was downregulated in BC tissues and cell lines, while the expression levels of VEGF-C were upregulated. The present results indicated that miR-128 negatively regulated VEGF-C expression in BC T24 and 5637 BC cells. VEGF-C is a direct target of miR-128 in BC cells. Overexpression of miR-128 inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Knockdown of miR-128 promoted proliferation, migration and invasion in BC cells. Therefore, downregulation mediated malignant progression of BC may be partly attributed to increased VEGF-C expression. Consequently, the findings of the present study provide a molecular basis for the role of miR-128/VEGF-C in the progression of human BC and indicate a novel target for treatment of BC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- X U Zhou
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 430121, P.R. China
| | - Lin Qi
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 430121, P.R. China
| | - Shiyu Tong
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 430121, P.R. China
| | - Y U Cui
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 430121, P.R. China
| | - Jinbo Chen
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 430121, P.R. China
| | - Tianxiang Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 430121, P.R. China
| | - Zhi Chen
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 430121, P.R. China
| | - Xiong-Bing Zu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 430121, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|