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Tu M, Ge B, Li J, Pan Y, Zhao B, Han J, Wu J, Zhang K, Liu G, Hou M, Yue M, Han X, Sun T, An Y. Emerging biological functions of Twist1 in cell differentiation. Dev Dyn 2024. [PMID: 39254141 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Twist1 is required for embryonic development and expresses after birth in mesenchymal stem cells derived from mesoderm, where it governs mesenchymal cell development. As a well-known regulator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition or embryonic organogenesis, Twist1 is important in a variety of developmental systems, including mesoderm formation, neurogenesis, myogenesis, cranial neural crest cell migration, and differentiation. In this review, we first highlight the physiological significance of Twist1 in cell differentiation, including osteogenic, chondrogenic, and myogenic differentiation, and then detail its probable molecular processes and signaling pathways. On this premise, we summarize the significance of Twist1 in distinct developmental disorders and diseases to provide a reference for studies on cell differentiation/development-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjie Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Bingqian Ge
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Jiali Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yanbing Pan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Binbin Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Jiayang Han
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Jialin Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Kaifeng Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Guangchao Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Mengwen Hou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Man Yue
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xu Han
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Tiantian Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yang An
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Provincial Engineering Center for Tumor Molecular Medicine, Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
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Baghaie L, Haxho F, Leroy F, Lewis B, Wawer A, Minhas S, Harless WW, Szewczuk MR. Contemporaneous Perioperative Inflammatory and Angiogenic Cytokine Profiles of Surgical Breast, Colorectal, and Prostate Cancer Patients: Clinical Implications. Cells 2023; 12:2767. [PMID: 38067195 PMCID: PMC10706122 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232767] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Surgery-induced tumor growth acceleration and synchronous metastatic growth promotion have been observed for decades. Surgery-induced wound healing, orchestrated through growth factors, chemokines, and cytokines, can negatively impact patients harboring residual or metastatic disease. We provide detailed clinical evidence of this process in surgical breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer patients. Plasma samples were analyzed from 68 cancer patients who had not received treatment before surgery or adjuvant therapy until at least four weeks post-surgery. The levels of plasma cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors were simultaneously quantified and profiled using multiplexed immunoassays for eight time points sampled per patient. The immunologic processes are induced immediately after surgery in patients, characterized by a drastic short-term shift in the expression levels of pro-inflammatory and angiogenic molecules and cytokines. A rapid and significant spike in circulating plasma levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), placental growth factor (PLGF), and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) after surgery was noted. The rise in these molecules was concomitant with a significant drop in transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-AB/BB), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-2 (MCP-2). If not earlier, each plasma analyte was normalized to baseline levels within 1-2 weeks after surgery, suggesting that surgical intervention alone was responsible for these effects. The effects of surgical tumor removal on disrupting the pro-inflammatory and angiogenic plasma profiles of cancer patients provide evidence for potentiating malignant progression. Our findings indicate a narrow therapeutic window of opportunity after surgery to prevent disease recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leili Baghaie
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (L.B.); (F.H.); (F.L.)
| | - Fiona Haxho
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (L.B.); (F.H.); (F.L.)
- Dermatology Residency Program, the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2T 5C7, Canada
| | - Fleur Leroy
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (L.B.); (F.H.); (F.L.)
- Faculté de Médecine, Maïeutique et Sciences de la Santé, Université de Strasbourg, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Beth Lewis
- ENCYT Technologies Inc., Membertou, NS B1S 0H1, Canada; (B.L.); (A.W.); (S.M.)
| | - Alexander Wawer
- ENCYT Technologies Inc., Membertou, NS B1S 0H1, Canada; (B.L.); (A.W.); (S.M.)
| | - Shamano Minhas
- ENCYT Technologies Inc., Membertou, NS B1S 0H1, Canada; (B.L.); (A.W.); (S.M.)
| | - William W. Harless
- ENCYT Technologies Inc., Membertou, NS B1S 0H1, Canada; (B.L.); (A.W.); (S.M.)
| | - Myron R. Szewczuk
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (L.B.); (F.H.); (F.L.)
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Su YW, Huang WY, Lin HC, Liao PN, Lin CY, Lin XY, Huang SH, Chen YT, Wu PS. Silmitasertib, a casein kinase 2 inhibitor, induces massive lipid droplet accumulation and nonapoptotic cell death in head and neck cancer cells. J Oral Pathol Med 2023; 52:245-254. [PMID: 36273268 DOI: 10.1111/jop.13378] [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: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating evidence shows that high expression of casein kinase 2 (CK2) and phosphorylated acetyl CoA carboxylase (pACC) in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) correlates with decreased survival rates. Computational analysis has shown that ACC is a potential substrate for CK2, and its inhibition can suppress ACC phosphorylation in vitro. CX-4945, also known as silmitasertib, is an orally administered, highly specific, ATP-competitive inhibitor of CK2 and is under clinical investigation as a treatment for malignancies. We hypothesize that inhibition of CK2 by CX-4945 can reduce CK2-downstream phosphorylation of ACC as a therapeutic strategy against SCCHN. METHODS Three aggressive SCCHN cell lines (OSC-19, FaDu and HN31) were cultured to investigate the anticancer mechanism of the CK2 inhibitor, CX-4945. Cell cycle analysis, Annexin V/PI staining, and cleavage of PARP were performed to detect apoptosis. Western blot, electron microscopy and analysis of acidic vesicular organelle development were used to detect autophagy. Interference with cellular metabolism by CX-4945 treatment was determined by Seahorse XF24 Extracellular Flux Analyzer and mass spectrometry. RESULTS Cellular metabolism was impeded by CX-4945 in aggressive SCCHN cells by Seahorse XF24 Extracellular Flux Analyzer and mass spectrometry, and consequently time- and dose-dependent lipid droplet accumulation and non-apoptotic cell death were observed. The lipogenic enzyme ACC was demonstrated to be associated with CK2, and its repressive phosphorylation could be removed by the CK2 inhibitor CX-4945. Overexpression of ACC resulted in impaired cell survival following transient transfection. CONCLUSION The findings demonstrate that CK2 inhibition impairs normal cellular energy metabolism and may be an attractive therapy for treating aggressive SCCHN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Wen Su
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Yu Huang
- Laboratory of Good Clinical Research Center, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui Branch, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Huan-Chau Lin
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Nien Liao
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | - Pao-Shu Wu
- Department of Pathology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui Branch, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei, Taiwan
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Zhao B, Huo W, Yu X, Shi X, Lv L, Yang Y, Kang J, Li S, Wu H. USP13 promotes breast cancer metastasis through FBXL14-induced Twist1 ubiquitination. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2023; 46:717-733. [PMID: 36732432 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00779-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important cause of high mortality in breast cancer. Twist1 is one of the EMT transcription factors (EMT-TFs) with a noticeably short half-life, which is regulated by proteasome degradation pathways. Recent studies have found that USP13 stabilizes several specific oncogenic proteins. As yet, however, the relationship between Twist1 and USP13 has not been investigated. METHODS Co-Immunoprecipitation, GST-pulldown, Western blot, qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence assays were used to investigate the role of USP13 in de-ubiquitination of Twist1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and Luciferase reporter assays were used to investigate the role of Twist1 in inhibiting USP13 reporter transcription. Scratch wound healing, cell migration and invasion assays, and a mouse lung metastases assay were used to investigate the roles of USP13 and Twist1 in promoting breast cancer metastasis. RESULTS We found that Twist1 can be de-ubiquitinated by USP13. In addition, we found that the protein levels of Twist1 dose-dependently increased with USP13 overexpression, while USP13 knockdown resulted in a decreased expression of endogenous Twist1. We also found that USP13 can directly interact with Twist1 and specifically cleave the K48-linked polyubiquitin chains of Twist1 induced by FBXL14. We found that the effect of USP13 in promoting the migration and invasion capacities of breast cancer cells can at least partly be achieved through its regulation of Twist1, while Twist1 can inhibit the transcriptional activity of USP13. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that an interplay between Twist1 and USP13 can form a negative physiological feedback loop. Our findings show that USP13 may play an essential role in breast cancer metastasis by regulating Twist1 and, as such, provide a potential target for the clinical treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binggong Zhao
- School of Bioengineering & Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Disease, Liaoning Province, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Wei Huo
- Central Hospital affiliated to Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaomin Yu
- Central Hospital affiliated to Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaoxia Shi
- School of Bioengineering & Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Disease, Liaoning Province, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Linlin Lv
- School of Bioengineering & Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Disease, Liaoning Province, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Yuxi Yang
- School of Bioengineering & Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Disease, Liaoning Province, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Jie Kang
- School of Bioengineering & Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Disease, Liaoning Province, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Shujing Li
- School of Bioengineering & Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Disease, Liaoning Province, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China.
| | - Huijian Wu
- School of Bioengineering & Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Disease, Liaoning Province, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China.
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Jurj A, Ionescu C, Berindan-Neagoe I, Braicu C. The extracellular matrix alteration, implication in modulation of drug resistance mechanism: friends or foes? J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:276. [PMID: 36114508 PMCID: PMC9479349 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02484-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is an important component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), having several important roles related to the hallmarks of cancer. In cancer, multiple components of the ECM have been shown to be altered. Although most of these alterations are represented by the increased or decreased quantity of the ECM components, changes regarding the functional alteration of a particular ECM component or of the ECM as a whole have been described. These alterations can be induced by the cancer cells directly or by the TME cells, with cancer-associated fibroblasts being of particular interest in this regard. Because the ECM has this wide array of functions in the tumor, preclinical and clinical studies have assessed the possibility of targeting the ECM, with some of them showing encouraging results. In the present review, we will highlight the most relevant ECM components presenting a comprehensive description of their physical, cellular and molecular properties which can alter the therapy response of the tumor cells. Lastly, some evidences regarding important biological processes were discussed, offering a more detailed understanding of how to modulate altered signalling pathways and to counteract drug resistance mechanisms in tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ancuta Jurj
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400337, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Calin Ionescu
- 7Th Surgical Department, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Surgical Department, Municipal Hospital, 400139, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Berindan-Neagoe
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400337, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Cornelia Braicu
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400337, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Research Center for Oncopathology and Translational Medicine (CCOMT), George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, 540139, Targu Mures, Romania.
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Saitoh M. Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition by Synergy between Transforming Growth Factor-β and Growth Factors in Cancer Progression. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12092127. [PMID: 36140527 PMCID: PMC9497767 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12092127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a crucial role in appropriate embryonic development, as well as wound healing, organ fibrosis, and cancer progression. During cancer progression, EMT is associated with the invasion, metastasis, and generation of circulating tumor cells and cancer stem cells, as well as resistance to chemo- and radiation therapy. EMT is induced by several transcription factors, known as EMT transcription factors (EMT-TFs). In nearly all cases, EMT-TFs appear to be regulated by growth factors or cytokines and extracellular matrix components. Among these factors, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β acts as the key mediator for EMT during physiological and pathological processes. TGF-β can initiate and maintain EMT by activating intracellular/intercellular signaling pathways and transcriptional factors. Recent studies have provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sustained EMT in aggressive cancer cells, EMT induced by TGF-β, and crosstalk between TGF-β and growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masao Saitoh
- Center for Medical Education and Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo-City, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
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Firnau MB, Brieger A. CK2 and the Hallmarks of Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1987. [PMID: 36009534 PMCID: PMC9405757 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Casein kinase 2 (CK2) is commonly dysregulated in cancer, impacting diverse molecular pathways. CK2 is a highly conserved serine/threonine kinase, constitutively active and ubiquitously expressed in eukaryotes. With over 500 known substrates and being estimated to be responsible for up to 10% of the human phosphoproteome, it is of significant importance. A broad spectrum of diverse types of cancer cells has been already shown to rely on disturbed CK2 levels for their survival. The hallmarks of cancer provide a rationale for understanding cancer's common traits. They constitute the maintenance of proliferative signaling, evasion of growth suppressors, resisting cell death, enabling of replicative immortality, induction of angiogenesis, the activation of invasion and metastasis, as well as avoidance of immune destruction and dysregulation of cellular energetics. In this work, we have compiled evidence from the literature suggesting that CK2 modulates all hallmarks of cancer, thereby promoting oncogenesis and operating as a cancer driver by creating a cellular environment favorable to neoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angela Brieger
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Biomedical Research Laboratory, University Hospital Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
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8
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Bertol JW, Johnston S, Ahmed R, Xie VK, Hubka KM, Cruz L, Nitschke L, Stetsiv M, Goering JP, Nistor P, Lowell S, Hoskens H, Claes P, Weinberg SM, Saadi I, Farach-Carson MC, Fakhouri WD. TWIST1 interacts with β/δ-catenins during neural tube development and regulates fate transition in cranial neural crest cells. Development 2022; 149:dev200068. [PMID: 35781329 PMCID: PMC9440756 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Cell fate determination is a necessary and tightly regulated process for producing different cell types and structures during development. Cranial neural crest cells (CNCCs) are unique to vertebrate embryos and emerge from the neural plate borders into multiple cell lineages that differentiate into bone, cartilage, neurons and glial cells. We have previously reported that Irf6 genetically interacts with Twist1 during CNCC-derived tissue formation. Here, we have investigated the mechanistic role of Twist1 and Irf6 at early stages of craniofacial development. Our data indicate that TWIST1 is expressed in endocytic vesicles at the apical surface and interacts with β/δ-catenins during neural tube closure, and Irf6 is involved in defining neural fold borders by restricting AP2α expression. Twist1 suppresses Irf6 and other epithelial genes in CNCCs during the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process and cell migration. Conversely, a loss of Twist1 leads to a sustained expression of epithelial and cell adhesion markers in migratory CNCCs. Disruption of TWIST1 phosphorylation in vivo leads to epidermal blebbing, edema, neural tube defects and CNCC-derived structural abnormalities. Altogether, this study describes a previously uncharacterized function of mammalian Twist1 and Irf6 in the neural tube and CNCCs, and provides new target genes for Twist1 that are involved in cytoskeletal remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica W. Bertol
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Shelby Johnston
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Rabia Ahmed
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Victoria K. Xie
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Kelsea M. Hubka
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Lissette Cruz
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Larissa Nitschke
- Department of Pathology and Immunology,Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Marta Stetsiv
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Jeremy P. Goering
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Paul Nistor
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Little France Drive, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Sally Lowell
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Little France Drive, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Hanne Hoskens
- Department of Electrical Engineering, ESAT/PSI, KU Leuven, Leuven 3001, Belgium
- Medical Imaging Research Center, UZ Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Peter Claes
- Department of Electrical Engineering, ESAT/PSI, KU Leuven, Leuven 3001, Belgium
- Medical Imaging Research Center, UZ Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Seth M. Weinberg
- Center for Craniofacial and Dental Genetics, Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Irfan Saadi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Mary C. Farach-Carson
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Walid D. Fakhouri
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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9
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Li M, Jin S, Zhang Z, Ma H, Yang X. Interleukin-6 facilitates tumor progression by inducing ferroptosis resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2021; 527:28-40. [PMID: 34902522 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Ferroptosis resistance is an important mechanism of tumor progression. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a representative inflammatory cytokine during chronic inflammation; however, our current understanding of its regulatory role of ferroptosis during carcinogenesis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is limited. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and functional observations were performed to investigate xCT-regulatory function of IL-6. We observed a gradual increase in lipid peroxide 4-hydroxynonenal and IL-6 levels during progression from normal oral mucosa to leukoplakia and HNSCC. Meanwhile, the expression of xCT, a key amino acid antiporter assisting ferroptosis resistance, was correlated with IL-6 levels. The upregulated expression of xCT in HNSCC is associated with poor prognosis. Silencing of xCT inhibited HNSCC cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in vivo, inducing ferroptosis. Mechanistically, IL-6 transcriptionally activates xCT expression through the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Furthermore, IL-6 reversed ferroptosis and growth suppression that was induced by xCT knockdown or ferroptosis inducer erastin. Our results demonstrate the critical role of IL-6-induced ferroptosis resistance during HNSCC carcinogenesis. The IL-6/STAT3/xCT axis acts as a novel mechanism driving tumor progression and thus may potentially be utilized as a target for tumor prevention and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyu Li
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China; National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China; Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Shufang Jin
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China; National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China; Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Zhiyuan Zhang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China; National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China; Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Hailong Ma
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China; National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China; Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China; National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China; Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 639, Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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10
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Wu Y, Ma Z, Zhang Y, Zhang M, Zhang W, Zhang M, Shi X, Li W, Liu W. Cyclophilin A regulates A549 cells apoptosis via stabilizing Twist1 protein. J Cell Sci 2021; 135:273668. [PMID: 34881782 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclophilin A (CypA) is an essential member of the immunophilin family. As an intracellular target of immunosuppressive drug cyclosporin A (CsA) or a peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase (PPIase), it catalyzes the cis-trans isomerization of proline amidic peptide bonds, through which, it regulates a variety of biological processes, such as intracellular signaling, transcription, and apoptosis. In this study, we found that intracellular CypA enhanced Twist1 phosphorylation at Ser68 and inhibited apoptosis in A549 cells. Mechanistically, CypA could mediate the phosphorylation of Twist1 at Ser68 via p38 MAPK, which inhibited its ubiquitination-mediated degradation. In addition, CypA increased Twist-p65 interaction and nuclear accumulation, which regulated Twist1-dependent expression of CDH1 and CDH2. Our findings collectively indicated the role of CypA in Twist1-mediated A549 cells apoptosis through stabilizing Twist1 protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaru Wu
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhenling Ma
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanyan Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Min Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Menghao Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xixi Shi
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenqing Li
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
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11
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The Role of the IL-6 Cytokine Family in Epithelial-Mesenchymal Plasticity in Cancer Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158334. [PMID: 34361105 PMCID: PMC8347315 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial–mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) plays critical roles during embryonic development, wound repair, fibrosis, inflammation and cancer. During cancer progression, EMP results in heterogeneous and dynamic populations of cells with mixed epithelial and mesenchymal characteristics, which are required for local invasion and metastatic dissemination. Cancer development is associated with an inflammatory microenvironment characterized by the accumulation of multiple immune cells and pro-inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and chemokines. Cytokines from the interleukin 6 (IL-6) family play fundamental roles in mediating tumour-promoting inflammation within the tumour microenvironment, and have been associated with chronic inflammation, autoimmunity, infectious diseases and cancer, where some members often act as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers. All IL-6 family members signal through the Janus kinase (JAK)–signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway and are able to activate a wide array of signalling pathways and transcription factors. In general, IL-6 cytokines activate EMP processes, fostering the acquisition of mesenchymal features in cancer cells. However, this effect may be highly context dependent. This review will summarise all the relevant literature related to all members of the IL-6 family and EMP, although it is mainly focused on IL-6 and oncostatin M (OSM), the family members that have been more extensively studied.
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12
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Borgo C, D'Amore C, Cesaro L, Sarno S, Pinna LA, Ruzzene M, Salvi M. How can a traffic light properly work if it is always green? The paradox of CK2 signaling. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 56:321-359. [PMID: 33843388 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2021.1908951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CK2 is a constitutively active protein kinase that assuring a constant level of phosphorylation to its numerous substrates supports many of the most important biological functions. Nevertheless, its activity has to be controlled and adjusted in order to cope with the varying needs of a cell, and several examples of a fine-tune regulation of its activity have been described. More importantly, aberrant regulation of this enzyme may have pathological consequences, e.g. in cancer, chronic inflammation, neurodegeneration, and viral infection. Our review aims at summarizing our current knowledge about CK2 regulation. In the first part, we have considered the most important stimuli shown to affect protein kinase CK2 activity/expression. In the second part, we focus on the molecular mechanisms by which CK2 can be regulated, discussing controversial aspects and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Borgo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Claudio D'Amore
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Cesaro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefania Sarno
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo A Pinna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,CNR Institute of Neurosciences, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Ruzzene
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,CNR Institute of Neurosciences, Padova, Italy
| | - Mauro Salvi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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13
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Kang E, Seo J, Yoon H, Cho S. The Post-Translational Regulation of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition-Inducing Transcription Factors in Cancer Metastasis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3591. [PMID: 33808323 PMCID: PMC8037257 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is generally observed in normal embryogenesis and wound healing. However, this process can occur in cancer cells and lead to metastasis. The contribution of EMT in both development and pathology has been studied widely. This transition requires the up- and down-regulation of specific proteins, both of which are regulated by EMT-inducing transcription factors (EMT-TFs), mainly represented by the families of Snail, Twist, and ZEB proteins. This review highlights the roles of key EMT-TFs and their post-translational regulation in cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sayeon Cho
- Laboratory of Molecular and Pharmacological Cell Biology, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea; (E.K.); (J.S.); (H.Y.)
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14
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Flavones and flavonols may have clinical potential as CK2 inhibitors in cancer therapy. Med Hypotheses 2020; 141:109723. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.109723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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15
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Mammoto A, Hendee K, Muyleart M, Mammoto T. Endothelial Twist1-PDGFB signaling mediates hypoxia-induced proliferation and migration of αSMA-positive cells. Sci Rep 2020; 10:7563. [PMID: 32371931 PMCID: PMC7200682 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64298-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Remodeling of distal pulmonary arterioles (PAs) associated with marked accumulation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) represents one of the major pathologic features of pulmonary hypertension (PH). We have reported that the transcription factor Twist1 mediates hypoxia-induced PH. However, the mechanism by which endothelial Twist1 stimulates SMC accumulation to distal PAs in PH remains unclear. Here, we have demonstrated that Twist1 overexpression increases the expression of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGFB) in human pulmonary arterial endothelial (HPAE) cells. Hypoxia upregulates the levels of Twist1 and PDGFB in HPAE cells. When we implant hydrogel supplemented with endothelial cells (ECs) on the mouse lung, these ECs form vascular lumen structures and hypoxia upregulates PDGFB expression and stimulates accumulation of αSMA–positive cells in the gel, while knockdown of endothelial Twist1 suppresses the effects. The levels of Twist1 and PDGFB are higher in PAE cells isolated from idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) patients compared to those from healthy controls. IPAH patient-derived PAE cells stimulate accumulation of αSMA–positive cells in the implanted gel, while Twist1 knockdown in PAE cells inhibits the effects. Endothelial Twist1-PDGFB signaling plays a key role in αSMA–positive cell proliferation and migration in PH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Mammoto
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, United States. .,Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, United States.
| | - Kathryn Hendee
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, United States
| | - Megan Muyleart
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, United States
| | - Tadanori Mammoto
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, United States.
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16
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Ren J, Crowley SD. Twist1: A Double-Edged Sword in Kidney Diseases. KIDNEY DISEASES 2020; 6:247-257. [PMID: 32903940 DOI: 10.1159/000505188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Twist1 is a basic helix-loop-helix domain containing transcription factor that regulates cell differentiation, migration, proliferation, survival, and inflammatory responses by transcriptionally regulating a wide range of downstream target genes. Its homologous protein, Twist2, shares many structural and functional similarities with Twist1. Summary Accumulating evidence from both preclinical and clinical studies suggests that Twist1 is a pivotal regulator of several forms of renal disease. Twist1 is persistently activated following renal insults, particularly in chronic kidney diseases, and contributes to the renal inflammatory responses, tubular cell transformation programs, and possibly fibroblast activation, all of which are involved in the initiation and progression of kidney diseases. Key Message This review will specifically focus on Twist1 and outline our understanding of its functions in kidney disorders along with the introduction of Twist2 where pertinent. The thorough knowledge of Twist1's actions in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases should facilitate the development of novel therapeutics for kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiafa Ren
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University and Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Steven D Crowley
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University and Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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17
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Zhao Z, Xiao X, Saw PE, Wu W, Huang H, Chen J, Nie Y. Chimeric antigen receptor T cells in solid tumors: a war against the tumor microenvironment. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2019; 63:180-205. [PMID: 31883066 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-019-9665-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell is a novel approach, which utilizes anti-tumor immunity for cancer treatment. As compared to the traditional cell-mediated immunity, CAR-T possesses the improved specificity of tumor antigens and independent cytotoxicity from major histocompatibility complex molecules through a monoclonal antibody in addition to the T-cell receptor. CAR-T cell has proven its effectiveness, primarily in hematological malignancies, specifically where the CD 19 CAR-T cells were used to treat B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and B-cell lymphomas. Nevertheless, there is little progress in the treatment of solid tumors despite the fact that many CAR agents have been created to target tumor antigens such as CEA, EGFR/EGFRvIII, GD2, HER2, MSLN, MUC1, and other antigens. The main obstruction against the progress of research in solid tumors is the tumor microenvironment, in which several elements, such as poor locating ability, immunosuppressive cells, cytokines, chemokines, immunosuppressive checkpoints, inhibitory metabolic factors, tumor antigen loss, and antigen heterogeneity, could affect the potency of CAR-T cells. To overcome these hurdles, researchers have reconstructed the CAR-T cells in various ways. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current research in this field, analyze the mechanisms of the major barriers mentioned above, outline the main solutions, and discuss the outlook of this novel immunotherapeutic modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Xiaoyun Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Phei Er Saw
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Hongyan Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Jiewen Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Yan Nie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
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18
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Yu CY, Liu BH, Tang SY, Liang RY, Hsu KH, Chuang SM. HR23A-knockdown lung cancer cells exhibit epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and gain stemness properties through increased Twist1 stability. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2019; 1866:118537. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2019.118537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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19
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Wang Y, Dong C, Zhou BP. Metabolic reprogram associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition in tumor progression and metastasis. Genes Dis 2019; 7:172-184. [PMID: 32215287 PMCID: PMC7083713 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2019.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 09/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal Transition (EMT) is a de-differentiation program that imparts tumor cells with the phenotypic and cellular plasticity required for drug resistance, metastasis, and recurrence. This dynamic and reversible events is governed by a network of EMT-transcription factors (EMT-TFs) through epigenetic regulation. Many chromatin modifying-enzymes utilize metabolic intermediates as cofactors or substrates; this suggests that EMT is subjected to the metabolic regulation. Conversely, EMT rewires metabolic program to accommodate cellular changes during EMT. Here we summarize the latest findings regarding the epigenetic regulation of EMT, and discuss the mutual interactions among metabolism, epigenetic regulation, and EMT. Finally, we provide perspectives of how this interplay contributes to cellular plasticity, which may result in the clinical manifestation of tumor heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Wang
- Cancer Institute of Integrative Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310012, China
| | - Chenfang Dong
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Department of Surgical Oncology (Breast Center) of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Binhua P Zhou
- Departments of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky School of Medicine, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
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20
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Li S, Lee C, Hsu C, Huang H, Su Y. IL‐6 induces haptoglobin expression through activating STAT3 in human head and neck cancer. J Oral Pathol Med 2019; 49:49-54. [DOI: 10.1111/jop.12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Szu‐Chin Li
- Division of Hematology–Oncology Department of Internal Medicine Buddhist Dalin Tzu Chi General Hospital Chiayi Taiwan
- School of Medicine Tzu Chi University Hualian Taiwan
- Department of Life Science Institute of Molecular Biology National Chung Cheng University Chiayi Taiwan
| | - Ching‐Chih Lee
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital Kaohsiung Taiwan
- Institute of Hospital and Health Care Administration National Yang‐Ming University Taipei Taiwan
- School of Medicine National Yang‐Ming University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Chin‐Mu Hsu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology Department of Internal Medicine Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital Kaohsiung Taiwan
| | - Hsien‐Bin Huang
- Department of Life Science Institute of Molecular Biology National Chung Cheng University Chiayi Taiwan
| | - Yu‐Chieh Su
- Division of Hematology and Oncology Department of Internal Medicine Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital Kaohsiung Taiwan
- Faculty of Medicine College of Medicine Kaohsiung Medical University Kaohsiung Taiwan
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21
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Roles of the Phosphorylation of Transcriptional Factors in Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2019; 2019:5810465. [PMID: 31275381 PMCID: PMC6582791 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5810465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the first step in the development of the invasive and migratory properties of cancer metastasis. Since the transcriptional reprogramming of a number of genes occurs in EMT, the regulation of EMT transcription factors has been intensively investigated. EMT transcriptional factors are commonly classified by the direct or indirect repression of E-cadherin because one of hallmarks of EMT is the loss of E-cadherin. This facilitates the expression of genes for EMT, tumor invasion, and metastasis. The posttranslational modification of EMT transcriptional factors, such as Snail and Slug, directly regulates their functions, including their stability, nuclear localization, protein-protein interaction, and ubiquitination for the promotion or termination of EMT at the specific points. Here, we discuss how posttranslational modifications regulate gene expression in a dynamic and reversible manner by modifying upstream signaling pathways, focusing in particular on the posttranslational modifications of Snail, Slug, ZEB1, ZEB2, and TWIST1. This review demonstrates that EMT transcription factors regulate metastasis through their posttranslational modifications and that the flexibility and reversibility of EMT can be modified by phosphorylation.
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22
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Im DK, Cheong H, Lee JS, Oh MK, Yang KM. Protein kinase CK2-dependent aerobic glycolysis-induced lactate dehydrogenase A enhances the migration and invasion of cancer cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5337. [PMID: 30926903 PMCID: PMC6441004 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41852-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated the intracellular metabolic fluxes of protein kinase CK2-activating (Cα OE) cells and role of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) as a contributor of tumorigenesis after reprogrammed glucose metabolism. Facilitated aerobic glycolysis was confirmed via isotope tracer analysis, in which 13C6-Glc or 13C5-Gln was added to the media, following which metabolites converted from Cα OE cells were identified. We found a greater decrease in cell survival, colony-forming ability, migration, and Cα OE cell invasion under glucose (Glc)-depletion conditions than under glutamine (Gln)-depletion conditions. Cancer cell migration and invasion increased due to LDHA elevation of the altered metabolic axis driven by activated CK2. FX11 treatment and LDHA knockdown suppressed migration and invasion through ROS generation, but this was partially reversed by the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Moreover, LDHA inhibition decreased tumor growth in a mouse xenograft model transplanted with Cα OE cells. Finally, we concluded that LDHA is an excellent metabolic target for tumor therapy, based on CK2α derived aerobic glycolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae-Kyun Im
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Heesun Cheong
- Division of Cancer Biology, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, 10408, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Suk Lee
- Biocenter, Gyeonggido Business and Science Accelerator (GBSA), Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Kyu Oh
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea.
| | - Kyung Mi Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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23
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Bovine lactoferrin reverses programming of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition to mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 507:142-147. [PMID: 30415774 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.10.193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a biological process of invasion and metastasis in cancers, including in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, an effective anticancer drug that directly targets EMT has not yet been discovered. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the repressive effects of bovine lactoferrin (bLF) on EMT to achieve mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) in OSCC. OSCC cell lines, HOC313 (EMT-induced) and SCCVII (without EMT induction), were treated with bLF. The effects of bLF on EMT in OSCC were identified histologically by haematoxylin and eosin staining and observed morphologically and immunohistochemically using an anti-E-cadherin antibody. Expression levels of E-cadherin and vimentin were investigated using RT-PCR and western blotting. Immuno-expression of E-cadherin was examined in vivo in tumour tissues of C3H/HeN mice, transplanted with SCCVII cells, with or without bLF administration. We found that bLF changed the spindle-like mesenchymal cells to cuboidal-like epithelial cells and enhanced the affinity of membrane-bound E-cadherin in HOC313 cells. The transformation of EMT-MET in HOC313 cells was confirmed by the upregulation of E-cadherin and suppression of vimentin. Moreover, bLF suppressed TWIST expression through downregulation of ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Additionally, the inhibition tumour cell infiltration and increase in E-cadherin expression were observed in xenografts of the mice orally administered with bLF. Thus, based on the results from in vitro and in vivo studies, we concluded that bLF caused the restoration of epithelial properties through MET. Importantly, this finding is novel and is the first report indicating that bLF inhibited EMT and induced MET in OSCC, suggesting that bLF may provide a novel therapeutic strategy in OSCC.
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24
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Tang H, Massi D, Hemmings BA, Mandalà M, Hu Z, Wicki A, Xue G. AKT-ions with a TWIST between EMT and MET. Oncotarget 2018; 7:62767-62777. [PMID: 27623213 PMCID: PMC5308764 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor Twist is an important regulator of cranial suture during embryogenesis. Closure of the neural tube is achieved via Twist-triggered cellular transition from an epithelial to mesenchymal phenotype, a process known as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), characterized by a remarkable increase in cell motility. In the absence of Twist activity, EMT and associated phenotypic changes in cell morphology and motility can also be induced, albeit moderately, by other transcription factor families, including Snail and Zeb. Aberrant EMT triggered by Twist in human mammary tumour cells was first reported to drive metastasis to the lung in a metastatic breast cancer model. Subsequent analysis of many types of carcinoma demonstrated overexpression of these unique EMT transcription factors, which statistically correlated with worse outcome, indicating their potential as biomarkers in the clinic. However, the mechanisms underlying their activation remain unclear. Interestingly, increasing evidence indicates they are selectively activated by distinct intracellular kinases, thereby acting as downstream effectors facilitating transduction of cytoplasmic signals into nucleus and reprogramming EMT and mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) transcription to control cell plasticity. Understanding these relationships and emerging data indicating differential phosphorylation of Twist leads to complex and even paradoxical functionalities, will be vital to unlocking their potential in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huifang Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Daniela Massi
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Brian A Hemmings
- Department of Mechanisms of Cancer, Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mario Mandalà
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Zhengqiang Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Andreas Wicki
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gongda Xue
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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25
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Ning X, Zhang K, Wu Q, Liu M, Sun S. Emerging role of Twist1 in fibrotic diseases. J Cell Mol Med 2018; 22:1383-1391. [PMID: 29314610 PMCID: PMC5824384 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a pathological process that occurs in a variety of diseases, including organ fibrosis. Twist1, a basic helix–loop–helix transcription factor, is involved in EMT and plays significant roles in various fibrotic diseases. Suppression of the EMT process represents a promising approach for the treatment of fibrotic diseases. In this review, we discuss the roles and the underlying molecular mechanisms of Twist1 in fibrotic diseases, including those affecting kidney, lung, skin, oral submucosa and other tissues. We aim at providing new insight into the pathogenesis of various fibrotic diseases and facilitating the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic methods for their treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxuan Ning
- Department of Geriatrics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Kun Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qingfeng Wu
- Department of Geriatrics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Minna Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shiren Sun
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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26
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Kumar B, Yadav A, Brown NV, Zhao S, Cipolla MJ, Wakely PE, Schmitt AC, Baiocchi RA, Teknos TN, Old M, Kumar P. Nuclear PRMT5, cyclin D1 and IL-6 are associated with poor outcome in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma patients and is inversely associated with p16-status. Oncotarget 2017; 8:14847-14859. [PMID: 28107179 PMCID: PMC5362449 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.14682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein arginine methyltransferase-5 (PRMT5) plays an important role in cancer progression by repressing the expression of key tumor suppressor genes via the methylation of transcriptional factors and chromatin-associated proteins. However, very little is known about the expression and biological role of PRMT5 in head and neck cancer. In this study, we examined expression profile of PRMT5 at subcellular levels in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) and assessed its correlation with disease progression and patient outcome. Our results show that nuclear PRMT5 was associated with poor overall survival (p < 0.012) and these patients had 1.732 times higher hazard of death (95% CI: 1.127–2.661) as compared to patients in whom PRMT5 was not present in the nucleus of the tumors. Nuclear PRMT5 expression was inversely correlated with p16-status (p < 0.001) and was significantly higher in tumor samples from patients who smoked > 10 pack-years (p = 0.013). In addition, nuclear PRMT5 was directly correlated with cyclin D1 (p = 0.0101) and IL-6 expression (p < 0.001). In a subgroup survival analysis, nuclear PRMT5-positive/IL-6-positive group had worst survival, whereas nuclear PRMT5-negative/IL-6-negative group had the best survival. Similarly, patients with p16-negative/nuclear PRMT5-positive tumors had worse survival compared to patients with p16-positive/nuclear PRMT5-negative tumors. Our mechanistic results suggest that IL-6 promotes nuclear translocation of PRMT5. Taken together, our results demonstrate for the first time that nuclear PRMT5 expression is associated with poor clinical outcome in OPSCC patients and IL-6 plays a role in the nuclear translocation of PRMT5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavna Kumar
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Arti Yadav
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Nicole V Brown
- Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Songzhu Zhao
- Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Michael J Cipolla
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Paul E Wakely
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Alessandra C Schmitt
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Robert A Baiocchi
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Theodoros N Teknos
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Matthew Old
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Pawan Kumar
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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27
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Zhao Z, Rahman MA, Chen ZG, Shin DM. Multiple biological functions of Twist1 in various cancers. Oncotarget 2017; 8:20380-20393. [PMID: 28099910 PMCID: PMC5386770 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.14608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Twist1 is a well-known regulator of transcription during embryonic organogenesis in many species. In humans, Twist1 malfunction was first linked to Saethre-Chotzen syndrome and later identified to play an essential role in tumor initiation, stemness, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, and chemo-resistance in a variety of carcinomas, sarcomas, and hematological malignances. In this review, we will first focus on systematically elaborating the diverse pathological functions of Twist1 in various cancers, then delineating the intricate underlying network of molecular mechanisms, based on which we will summarize current therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment that target and modulate Twist1-involved signaling pathways. Most importantly, we will put special emphasis on revealing the independence and interdependency of these multiple biological functions of Twist1, piecing together the whole delicate picture of Twist1's diversified pathological roles in different cancers and providing new perspectives to guide future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiang Zhao
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America.,Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Mohammad Aminur Rahman
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Zhuo G Chen
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Dong M Shin
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
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28
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Yochum ZA, Cades J, Mazzacurati L, Neumann NM, Khetarpal SK, Chatterjee S, Wang H, Attar MA, Huang EHB, Chatley SN, Nugent K, Somasundaram A, Engh JA, Ewald AJ, Cho YJ, Rudin CM, Tran PT, Burns TF. A First-in-Class TWIST1 Inhibitor with Activity in Oncogene-Driven Lung Cancer. Mol Cancer Res 2017; 15:1764-1776. [PMID: 28851812 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-17-0298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
TWIST1, an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) transcription factor, is critical for oncogene-driven non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumorigenesis. Given the potential of TWIST1 as a therapeutic target, a chemical-bioinformatic approach using connectivity mapping (CMAP) analysis was used to identify TWIST1 inhibitors. Characterization of the top ranked candidates from the unbiased screen revealed that harmine, a harmala alkaloid, inhibited multiple TWIST1 functions, including single-cell dissemination, suppression of normal branching in 3D epithelial culture, and proliferation of oncogene driver-defined NSCLC cells. Harmine treatment phenocopied genetic loss of TWIST1 by inducing oncogene-induced senescence or apoptosis. Mechanistic investigation revealed that harmine targeted the TWIST1 pathway through its promotion of TWIST1 protein degradation. As dimerization is critical for TWIST1 function and stability, the effect of harmine on specific TWIST1 dimers was examined. TWIST1 and its dimer partners, the E2A proteins, which were found to be required for TWIST1-mediated functions, regulated the stability of the other heterodimeric partner posttranslationally. Harmine preferentially promoted degradation of the TWIST1-E2A heterodimer compared with the TWIST-TWIST1 homodimer, and targeting the TWIST1-E2A heterodimer was required for harmine cytotoxicity. Finally, harmine had activity in both transgenic and patient-derived xenograft mouse models of KRAS-mutant NSCLC. These studies identified harmine as a first-in-class TWIST1 inhibitor with marked anti-tumor activity in oncogene-driven NSCLC including EGFR mutant, KRAS mutant and MET altered NSCLC.Implications: TWIST1 is required for oncogene-driven NSCLC tumorigenesis and EMT; thus, harmine and its analogues/derivatives represent a novel therapeutic strategy to treat oncogene-driven NSCLC as well as other solid tumor malignancies. Mol Cancer Res; 15(12); 1764-76. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A Yochum
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Jessica Cades
- Department of Pharmacology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Lucia Mazzacurati
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Neil M Neumann
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Susheel K Khetarpal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Suman Chatterjee
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Hailun Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Myriam A Attar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Eric H-B Huang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sarah N Chatley
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Katriana Nugent
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ashwin Somasundaram
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Johnathan A Engh
- Department of Neurological Surgery University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrew J Ewald
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yoon-Jae Cho
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Charles M Rudin
- Department of Medicine, Thoracic Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Phuoc T Tran
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Timothy F Burns
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. .,Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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29
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Lin Y, Wang Y, Shi Q, Yu Q, Liu C, Feng J, Deng J, Evers BM, Zhou BP, Wu Y. Stabilization of the transcription factors slug and twist by the deubiquitinase dub3 is a key requirement for tumor metastasis. Oncotarget 2017; 8:75127-75140. [PMID: 29088851 PMCID: PMC5650406 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.20561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) represents a cellular de-differentiation process that provides cells with the increased plasticity required during embryonic development, tissue remodeling, wound healing and metastasis. Slug and Twist are two key EMT transcription factors (EMT-TFs) that are tightly regulated via ubiquitination and degradation. How Slug and Twist escape degradation and become stabilized in cancer cells remains unclear. One plausible mechanism of Slug and Twist stabilization involves removal of ubiquitin by deubiquitinases (DUBs). In this study, we identified Dub3 as a novel DUB for both Slug and Twist. We further found that Dub3 overexpression increased Slug and Twist protein levels in a dose-dependent manner, whereas Dub3-knockdown decreased their protein levels. Of importance, Dub3 interacted with Slug and Twist and prevented them from degradation, thereby promoting migration, invasion, and cancer stem cell (CSC)-like properties of breast cancer cells. Intriguingly, Dub3 was identified as an early response gene that was upregulated after exposure to inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, which plays a critical role in the growth and metastasis of breast cancer cells, as well as the maintenance of breast CSCs. We found that Dub3 played an essential role in IL-6 induced EMT through stabilization of Slug and Twist. Our study has uncovered an IL-6-Dub3-Slug/Twist signaling axis during EMT and suggests potential approaches that could target Dub3 to prevent metastatic breast tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Lin
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Lexington, KY, USA.,Markey Cancer Center, the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Pharmacology & Nutritional Sciences, Lexington, KY, USA.,Markey Cancer Center, the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Qing Shi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Lexington, KY, USA.,Markey Cancer Center, the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Qian Yu
- Department of Pharmacology & Nutritional Sciences, Lexington, KY, USA.,Markey Cancer Center, the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Cuicui Liu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Lexington, KY, USA.,Markey Cancer Center, the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine & Central Laboratory, Shanghai Fengxian District Central Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Feng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Central Laboratory, Shanghai Fengxian District Central Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiong Deng
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Minister of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - B Mark Evers
- Department of Surgery, Lexington, KY, USA.,Markey Cancer Center, the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Binhua P Zhou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Lexington, KY, USA.,Markey Cancer Center, the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Yadi Wu
- Department of Pharmacology & Nutritional Sciences, Lexington, KY, USA.,Markey Cancer Center, the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
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30
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Wang J, Nikhil K, Viccaro K, Chang L, Jacobsen M, Sandusky G, Shah K. The Aurora-A-Twist1 axis promotes highly aggressive phenotypes in pancreatic carcinoma. J Cell Sci 2017; 130:1078-1093. [PMID: 28167680 PMCID: PMC5358340 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.196790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We uncovered a crucial role for the Aurora kinase A (AURKA)-Twist1 axis in promoting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer. Twist1 is the first EMT-specific target of AURKA that was identified using an innovative screen. AURKA phosphorylates Twist1 at three sites, which results in its multifaceted regulation - AURKA inhibits its ubiquitylation, increases its transcriptional activity and favors its homodimerization. Twist1 reciprocates and prevents AURKA degradation, thereby triggering a feedback loop. Ablation of either AURKA or Twist1 completely inhibits EMT, highlighting both proteins as central players in EMT progression. Phosphorylation-dead Twist1 serves as a dominant-negative and fully reverses the EMT phenotype induced by Twist1, underscoring the crucial role of AURKA-mediated phosphorylation in mediating Twist1-induced malignancy. Likewise, Twist1-overexpressing BxPC3 cells formed large tumors in vivo, whereas expression of phosphorylation-dead Twist1 fully abrogated this effect. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis of pancreatic cancer specimens revealed a 3-fold higher level of Twist1 compared to that seen in healthy normal tissues. This is the first study that links Twist1 in a feedback loop with its activating kinase, which indicates that concurrent inhibition of AURKA and Twist1 will be synergistic in inhibiting pancreatic tumorigenesis and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, 560 Oval Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Kumar Nikhil
- Department of Chemistry and Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, 560 Oval Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Keith Viccaro
- Department of Chemistry and Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, 560 Oval Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Lei Chang
- Department of Chemistry and Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, 560 Oval Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Max Jacobsen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Drive, room A-128, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - George Sandusky
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Drive, room A-128, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Kavita Shah
- Department of Chemistry and Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, 560 Oval Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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31
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Chua MMJ, Ortega CE, Sheikh A, Lee M, Abdul-Rassoul H, Hartshorn KL, Dominguez I. CK2 in Cancer: Cellular and Biochemical Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Target. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2017; 10:E18. [PMID: 28134850 PMCID: PMC5374422 DOI: 10.3390/ph10010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
CK2 genes are overexpressed in many human cancers, and most often overexpression is associated with worse prognosis. Site-specific expression in mice leads to cancer development (e.g., breast, lymphoma) indicating the oncogenic nature of CK2. CK2 is involved in many key aspects of cancer including inhibition of apoptosis, modulation of signaling pathways, DNA damage response, and cell cycle regulation. A number of CK2 inhibitors are now available and have been shown to have activity against various cancers in vitro and in pre-clinical models. Some of these inhibitors are now undergoing exploration in clinical trials as well. In this review, we will examine some of the major cancers in which CK2 inhibition has promise based on in vitro and pre-clinical studies, the proposed cellular and signaling mechanisms of anti-cancer activity by CK2 inhibitors, and the current or recent clinical trials using CK2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M J Chua
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Charina E Ortega
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Ayesha Sheikh
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Migi Lee
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Hussein Abdul-Rassoul
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Kevan L Hartshorn
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Isabel Dominguez
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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32
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Johnston PA, Sen M, Hua Y, Camarco DP, Shun TY, Lazo JS, Wilson GM, Resnick LO, LaPorte MG, Wipf P, Huryn DM, Grandis JR. HCS campaign to identify selective inhibitors of IL-6-induced STAT3 pathway activation in head and neck cancer cell lines. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2016; 13:356-76. [PMID: 26317883 DOI: 10.1089/adt.2015.663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription factor 3 (STAT3) is hyperactivated in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). Cumulative evidence indicates that IL-6 production by HNSCC cells and/or stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment activates STAT3 and contributes to tumor progression and drug resistance. A library of 94,491 compounds from the Molecular Library Screening Center Network (MLSCN) was screened for the ability to inhibit interleukin-6 (IL-6)-induced pSTAT3 activation. For contractual reasons, the primary high-content screening (HCS) campaign was conducted over several months in 3 distinct phases; 1,068 (1.1%) primary HCS actives remained after cytotoxic or fluorescent outliers were eliminated. One thousand one hundred eighty-seven compounds were cherry-picked for confirmation; actives identified in the primary HCS and compounds selected by a structural similarity search of the remaining MLSCN library using hits identified in phases I and II of the screen. Actives were confirmed in pSTAT3 IC50 assays, and an IFNγ-induced pSTAT1 activation assay was used to prioritize selective inhibitors of STAT3 activation that would not inhibit STAT1 tumor suppressor functions. Two hundred three concentration-dependent inhibitors of IL-6-induced pSTAT3 activation were identified and 89 of these also produced IC50s against IFN-γ-induced pSTAT1 activation. Forty-nine compounds met our hit criteria: they reproducibly inhibited IL-6-induced pSTAT3 activation by ≥70% at 20 μM; their pSTAT3 activation IC50s were ≤25 μM; they were ≥2-fold selective for pSTAT3 inhibition over pSTAT1 inhibition; a cross target query of PubChem indicated that they were not biologically promiscuous; and they were ≥90% pure. Twenty-six chemically tractable hits that passed filters for nuisance compounds and had acceptable drug-like and ADME-Tox properties by computational evaluation were purchased for characterization. The hit structures were distributed among 5 clusters and 8 singletons. Twenty-four compounds inhibited IL-6-induced pSTAT3 activation with IC50s ≤20 μM and 13 were ≥3-fold selective versus inhibition of pSTAT1 activation. Eighteen hits inhibited the growth of HNSCC cell lines with average IC50s ≤ 20 μM. Four chemical series were progressed into lead optimization: the guanidinoquinazolines, the triazolothiadiazines, the amino alcohols, and an oxazole-piperazine singleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Johnston
- 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,2 University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,3 Pittsburgh Specialized Application Center, University of Pittsburgh Drug Discovery Institute , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Malabika Sen
- 4 Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Yun Hua
- 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Daniel P Camarco
- 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Tong Ying Shun
- 3 Pittsburgh Specialized Application Center, University of Pittsburgh Drug Discovery Institute , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - John S Lazo
- 5 Departments of Pharmacology and Chemistry, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Gabriela Mustata Wilson
- 6 University of Pittsburgh Chemical Diversity Center , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,7 Department of Health Services and Health Administration, College of Nursing and Health Professions, University of Southern Indiana , Evansville, Indiana
| | - Lynn O Resnick
- 6 University of Pittsburgh Chemical Diversity Center , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Matthew G LaPorte
- 6 University of Pittsburgh Chemical Diversity Center , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Peter Wipf
- 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,2 University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,6 University of Pittsburgh Chemical Diversity Center , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,8 Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Donna M Huryn
- 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,6 University of Pittsburgh Chemical Diversity Center , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Jennifer R Grandis
- 9 Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of California , San Francisco, California
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33
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Mao XY, Li QQ, Gao YF, Zhou HH, Liu ZQ, Jin WL. Gap junction as an intercellular glue: Emerging roles in cancer EMT and metastasis. Cancer Lett 2016; 381:133-7. [PMID: 27490999 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis is a common phenomenon in the progression and dissemination of cancer. It is estimated that metastasis accounts for 90% cancer-related mortality. Although the formation of tumor metastasis is relatively well understood, the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for the emergence of aggressive cancer phenotype are still elusive. Figuring out the mechanisms by which cancer cells evade from the tumor is beneficial for obtaining novel and effectively therapeutic approaches. Primary tumors are composed of various subpopulations of cells with heterogeneous metastatic characteristics and the occurrence of metastatic dissemination is mainly dependent upon the interactions between tumor and the surrounding microenvironment. Tumor microenvironment (TME) such as extracellular matrix, macrophages, fibroblasts, stem cells and endothelial cells can orchestrate events critical to tumor evolution toward metastasis. GJ serves as an important communication between tumor cells and stromal cells. Increased GJs coupling blocks metastatic potential in some cancer animal models such as breast cancer and melanoma. Besides, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is also a crucial step in the metastatic process and there are signs that GJs contribute to cell adhesion and migration (the pathological feature of EMT) in breast cancer. Therefore, we propose that GJ serves as an intercellular glue to suppress EMT and cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yuan Mao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China.
| | - Qiu-Qi Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Yuan-Feng Gao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Hong-Hao Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Zhao-Qian Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China.
| | - Wei-Lin Jin
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, Key Lab. for Thin Film and Microfabrication Technology of Ministry of Education, School of Electronic Information and Electronic Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; National Centers for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
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34
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Choudhary MM, France TJ, Teknos TN, Kumar P. Interleukin-6 role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma progression. World J Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2016; 2:90-97. [PMID: 29204553 PMCID: PMC5698512 DOI: 10.1016/j.wjorl.2016.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine which plays an important role in a number of cellular processes including proliferation, survival, differentiation, migration and invasion. IL-6 mediates its downstream effects by activating a number of signaling cascades including JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways. In addition to its effects on tumor cells, IL-6 also regulates tumor progression and tumor metastasis by modulating tumor angiogenesis and tumor lymphangiogenesis. A number of studies have shown that IL-6 levels are markedly upregulated in cancer patients. We and others have shown that high IL-6 expression independently predicts tumor recurrence, tumor metastasis and poor survival in head and neck cancer patients. Therefore targeting IL-6 signaling is a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the role of IL-6 in HNSCC progression and potential therapeutic strategies to target IL-6 signaling for the treatment of head and neck cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moaz M Choudhary
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Thomas J France
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Theodoros N Teknos
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Pawan Kumar
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Sun T, Fu J, Shen T, Lin X, Liao L, Feng XH, Xu J. The Small C-terminal Domain Phosphatase 1 Inhibits Cancer Cell Migration and Invasion by Dephosphorylating Ser(P)68-Twist1 to Accelerate Twist1 Protein Degradation. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:11518-28. [PMID: 26975371 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.721795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Twist1 is a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor that strongly promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, migration, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells. The MAPK-phosphorylated Twist1 on its serine 68 (Ser(P)(68)-Twist1) has a significantly enhanced stability and function to drive cancer cell invasion and metastasis. However, the phosphatase that dephosphorylates Ser(P)(68)-Twist1 and destabilizes Twist1 has not been identified and characterized. In this study, we screened a serine/threonine phosphatase cDNA expression library in HEK293T cells with ectopically coexpressed Twist1. We found that the small C-terminal domain phosphatase 1 (SCP1) specifically dephosphorylates Ser(P)(68)-Twist1 in both cell-free reactions and living cells. SCP1 uses its amino acid residues 43-63 to interact with the N terminus of Twist1. Increased SCP1 expression in cells decreased Ser(P)(68)-Twist1 and total Twist1 proteins, whereas knockdown of SCP1 increased Ser(P)(68)-Twist1 and total Twist1 proteins. Furthermore, the levels of SCP1 are negatively correlated with Twist1 protein levels in several cancer cell lines. SCP1-dephosphorylated Twist1 undergoes fast degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Importantly, an increase in SCP1 expression in breast cancer cells with either endogenous or ectopically expressed Twist1 largely inhibits the Twist1-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition phenotype and the migration and invasion capabilities of these cells. These results indicate that SCP1 is the phosphatase that counterregulates the MAPK-mediated phosphorylation of Ser(68)-Twist1. Thus, an increase in SCP1 expression and activity may be a useful strategy for eliminating the detrimental roles of Twist1 in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Sun
- From the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology
| | - Junjiang Fu
- From the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, the Institute for Cancer Medicine, Research Center for Preclinical Medicine and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China, and
| | - Tao Shen
- From the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology
| | - Xia Lin
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Lan Liao
- From the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology
| | - Xin-Hua Feng
- From the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, the Life Sciences Institute and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Networks, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Jianming Xu
- From the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, the Institute for Cancer Medicine, Research Center for Preclinical Medicine and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China, and
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36
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Liu J, Lin PC, Zhou BP. Inflammation fuels tumor progress and metastasis. Curr Pharm Des 2016; 21:3032-40. [PMID: 26004407 DOI: 10.2174/1381612821666150514105741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation is a beneficial response that can remove pathogens, repair injured tissue and restore homeostasis to damaged tissues and organs. However, increasing evidence indicate that chronic inflammation plays a pivotal role in tumor development, as well as progression, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy. We will review the current knowledge regarding the contribution of inflammation to epithelial mesenchymal transition. We will also provide some perspectives on the relationship between ER-stress signals and metabolism, and the role of these processes in the development of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Binhua P Zhou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, 741 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY 40536.
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37
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Díaz VM, de Herreros AG. F-box proteins: Keeping the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in check. Semin Cancer Biol 2016; 36:71-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Revised: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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38
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Shi J, Cao J, Zhou BP. Twist-BRD4 complex: potential drug target for basal-like breast cancer. Curr Pharm Des 2015; 21:1256-61. [PMID: 25506891 DOI: 10.2174/1381612821666141211153853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
As an important basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor, Twist associates with several physiological processes such as mesodermal development, and pathological processes such as Saethre-Chotzen syndrome. During cancer progression, Twist induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), potentiating cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Although many studies have revealed its multiple biological roles, it remained unclear how Twist transcriptionally activates targeted genes. Recently we discovered tip60-mediated Twist di-acetylation in the ''histone H4-mimic'' GK-X-GK motif. The di-acetylated Twist recruits BRD4 and related transcriptional components to super-enhancer of its targeted genes during progression of basal-like breast cancer (BLBC). Here, we review this new advance of regulation and functional mechanism of Twist.
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Gajula RP, Chettiar ST, Williams RD, Nugent K, Kato Y, Wang H, Malek R, Taparra K, Cades J, Annadanam A, Yoon AR, Fertig E, Firulli BA, Mazzacurati L, Burns TF, Firulli AB, An SS, Tran PT. Structure-function studies of the bHLH phosphorylation domain of TWIST1 in prostate cancer cells. Neoplasia 2015; 17:16-31. [PMID: 25622896 PMCID: PMC4309734 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2014.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2014] [Revised: 10/23/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The TWIST1 gene has diverse roles in development and pathologic diseases such as cancer. TWIST1 is a dimeric basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor existing as TWIST1-TWIST1 or TWIST1-E12/47. TWIST1 partner choice and DNA binding can be influenced during development by phosphorylation of Thr125 and Ser127 of the Thr-Gln-Ser (TQS) motif within the bHLH of TWIST1. The significance of these TWIST1 phosphorylation sites for metastasis is unknown. We created stable isogenic prostate cancer cell lines overexpressing TWIST1 wild-type, phospho-mutants, and tethered versions. We assessed these isogenic lines using assays that mimic stages of cancer metastasis. In vitro assays suggested the phospho-mimetic Twist1-DQD mutation could confer cellular properties associated with pro-metastatic behavior. The hypo-phosphorylation mimic Twist1-AQA mutation displayed reduced pro-metastatic activity compared to wild-type TWIST1 in vitro, suggesting that phosphorylation of the TWIST1 TQS motif was necessary for pro-metastatic functions. In vivo analysis demonstrates that the Twist1-AQA mutation exhibits reduced capacity to contribute to metastasis, whereas the expression of the Twist1-DQD mutation exhibits proficient metastatic potential. Tethered TWIST1-E12 heterodimers phenocopied the Twist1-DQD mutation for many in vitro assays, suggesting that TWIST1 phosphorylation may result in heterodimerization in prostate cancer cells. Lastly, the dual phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor BEZ235 strongly attenuated TWIST1-induced migration that was dependent on the TQS motif. TWIST1 TQS phosphorylation state determines the intensity of TWIST1-induced pro-metastatic ability in prostate cancer cells, which may be partly explained mechanistically by TWIST1 dimeric partner choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajendra P Gajula
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sivarajan T Chettiar
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Russell D Williams
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Katriana Nugent
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yoshinori Kato
- The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Division of Cancer Imaging Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hailun Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Reem Malek
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kekoa Taparra
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jessica Cades
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anvesh Annadanam
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - A-Rum Yoon
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elana Fertig
- Department of Oncology, Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Beth A Firulli
- Department of Pediatrics, Riley Heart Research Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Lucia Mazzacurati
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Timothy F Burns
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anthony B Firulli
- Department of Pediatrics, Riley Heart Research Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Steven S An
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Physical Sciences in Oncology Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Phuoc T Tran
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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40
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Filhol O, Giacosa S, Wallez Y, Cochet C. Protein kinase CK2 in breast cancer: the CK2β regulatory subunit takes center stage in epithelial plasticity. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:3305-22. [PMID: 25990538 PMCID: PMC11113558 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1929-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Structurally, protein kinase CK2 consists of two catalytic subunits (α and α') and two regulatory subunits (β), which play a critical role in targeting specific CK2 substrates. Compelling evidence shows the complexity of the CK2 cellular signaling network and supports the view that this enzyme is a key component of regulatory protein kinase networks that are involved in several aspects of cancer. CK2 both activates and suppresses the expression of a number of essential oncogenes and tumor suppressors, and its expression and activity are upregulated in blood tumors and virtually all solid tumors. The prognostic significance of CK2α expression in association with various clinicopathological parameters highlighted this kinase as an adverse prognostic marker in breast cancer. In addition, several recent studies reported its implication in the regulation of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), an early step in cancer invasion and metastasis. In this review, we briefly overview the contribution of CK2 to several aspects of cancer and discuss how in mammary epithelial cells, the expression of its CK2β regulatory subunit plays a critical role in maintaining an epithelial phenotype through CK2-mediated control of key EMT-related transcription factors. Importantly, decreased CK2β expression in breast tumors is correlated with inefficient phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Snail1 and Foxc2, ultimately leading to EMT induction. This review highlights the pivotal role played by CK2β in the mammary epithelial phenotype and discusses how a modest alteration in its expression may be sufficient to induce dramatic effects facilitating the early steps in tumor cell dissemination through the coordinated regulation of two key transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odile Filhol
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1036, Grenoble, France
- Institute of Life Sciences Research and Technologies, Biology of Cancer and Infection, Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique, Grenoble, France
- Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1036, University of Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Sofia Giacosa
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1036, Grenoble, France
- Institute of Life Sciences Research and Technologies, Biology of Cancer and Infection, Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique, Grenoble, France
- Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1036, University of Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Yann Wallez
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1036, Grenoble, France
- Institute of Life Sciences Research and Technologies, Biology of Cancer and Infection, Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique, Grenoble, France
- Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1036, University of Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Claude Cochet
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1036, Grenoble, France
- Institute of Life Sciences Research and Technologies, Biology of Cancer and Infection, Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique, Grenoble, France
- Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1036, University of Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
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41
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Failure of anti tumor-derived endothelial cell immunotherapy depends on augmentation of tumor hypoxia. Oncotarget 2015; 5:10368-81. [PMID: 25362644 PMCID: PMC4279379 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that Tenascin-C (TNC)+ human neuroblastoma (NB) cells transdifferentiate into tumor-derived endothelial cells (TDEC), which have been detected both in primary tumors and in tumors formed by human NB cell lines in immunodeficient mice. TDEC are genetically unstable and may favor tumor progression, suggesting that their elimination could reduce tumor growth and dissemination. So far, TDEC have never been targeted by antibody-mediated immunotherapy in any of the tumor models investigated. To address this issue, immunodeficient mice carrying orthotopic NB formed by the HTLA-230 human cell line were treated with TDEC-targeting cytotoxic human (h)CD31, that spares host-derived endothelial cells, or isotype-matched mAbs. hCD31 mAb treatment did not affect survival of NB-bearing mice, but increased significantly hypoxia in tumor microenvironment, where apoptotic and proliferating TDEC coexisted, indicating the occurrence of vascular remodeling. Tumor cells from hCD31 mAb treated mice showed i) up-regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related and vascular mimicry (VM)-related gene expression, ii) expression of endothelial (i.e. CD31 and VE-cadherin) and EMT-associated (i.e. Twist-1, N-cadherin and TNC) immunophenotypic markers, and iii) up-regulation of high mobility group box-1 (HMGB-1) expression. In vitro experiments with two NB cell lines showed that hypoxia was the common driver of all the above phenomena and that human recombinant HMGB-1 amplified EMT and TDEC trans-differentiation. In conclusion, TDEC targeting with hCD31 mAb increases tumor hypoxia, setting the stage for the occurrence of EMT and of new waves of TDEC trans-differentiation. These adaptive responses to the changes induced by immunotherapy in the tumor microenvironment allow tumor cells to escape from the effects of hCD31 mAb.
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Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are key contributors to malignant progression, but their critical regulators remain largely unknown. In this study, we examined the role of Twist1, a central regulator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in carcinoma cells, in the transdifferentiation of normal quiescent fibroblasts to CAF and we defined its upstream controls and downstream effectors. Primary human gastric fibroblast and CAF cultures were established from gastrectomy specimens and validated as nontumor cells by somatic mutation analyses. In these cultures, exposure to the proinflammatory cytokine IL6 commonly expressed in tumors was sufficient to induce Twist1 expression in normal fibroblasts and transdifferentiate them into CAFs via STAT3 phosphorylation. In xenograft models, tumor infiltration of Twist1-expressing CAFs was enhanced strongly by ectopic IL6 expression in gastric or breast cancer cells. We found that Twist1 expression was necessary and sufficient for CAF transdifferentiation. Enforced expression of Twist1 in normal fibroblasts was also sufficient to drive CAF marker expression and malignant character in gastric cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Conversely, silencing the expression of Twist1 in CAFs abrogated their tumor-promoting properties. Downstream of Twist1, we defined the chemokine CXCL12 as a transcriptional target. Clinically, CXCL12 and Twist1 expression were correlated in CAFs present in gastric tumor specimens. Finally, ectopic expression of Twist1 in normal fibroblasts suppressed premature senescence, whereas Twist1 attenuation accelerated senescence in CAFs. Our findings define Twist1 as a compelling target to deprogram the tumor-supporting features of the cancer microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keun-Woo Lee
- Department of Pathology, 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
| | - So-Young Yeo
- Department of Pathology, 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
| | - Chang Ohk Sung
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Hyung Kim
- Department of Pathology, 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.
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Lee JK, Joo KM, Lee J, Yoon Y, Nam DH. Targeting the epithelial to mesenchymal transition in glioblastoma: the emerging role of MET signaling. Onco Targets Ther 2014; 7:1933-44. [PMID: 25364264 PMCID: PMC4211615 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s36582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common human primary brain malignancy and has a dismal prognosis. Aggressive treatments using maximal surgical resection, radiotherapy, and temozolomide result in median survival of only 14.6 months in patients with GBM. Numerous clinical approaches using small molecule inhibitors have shown disappointing results because of the genetic heterogeneity of GBM. The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial biological process occurring in the early development stages of many species. However, cancer cells often obtain the ability to invade and metastasize through the EMT, which triggers the scattering of cells. The hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/MET signaling pathway is indicative of the EMT during both embryogenesis and the invasive growth of tumors, because HGF potently induces mesenchymal transition in epithelial-driven cells. Activation of MET signaling or co-overexpression of HGF and MET frequently represents aggressive growth and poor prognosis of various cancers, including GBM. Thus, efforts to treat cancers by inhibiting MET signaling using neutralizing antibodies or small molecule inhibitors have progressed during the last decade. In this review, we discuss HGF/MET signaling in the development of diseases, including cancers, as well as updates on MET inhibition therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Ku Lee
- Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea ; Department of Neurosurgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyeung Min Joo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeongwu Lee
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Yeup Yoon
- Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Do-Hyun Nam
- Department of Neurosurgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea ; Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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44
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Beury DW, Parker KH, Nyandjo M, Sinha P, Carter KA, Ostrand-Rosenberg S. Cross-talk among myeloid-derived suppressor cells, macrophages, and tumor cells impacts the inflammatory milieu of solid tumors. J Leukoc Biol 2014; 96:1109-18. [PMID: 25170116 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.3a0414-210r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MDSC and macrophages are present in most solid tumors and are important drivers of immune suppression and inflammation. It is established that cross-talk between MDSC and macrophages impacts anti-tumor immunity; however, interactions between tumor cells and MDSC or macrophages are less well studied. To examine potential interactions between these cells, we studied the impact of MDSC, macrophages, and four murine tumor cell lines on each other, both in vitro and in vivo. We focused on IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-α, and NO, as these molecules are produced by macrophages, MDSC, and many tumor cells; are present in most solid tumors; and regulate inflammation. In vitro studies demonstrated that MDSC-produced IL-10 decreased macrophage IL-6 and TNF-α and increased NO. IL-6 indirectly regulated MDSC IL-10. Tumor cells increased MDSC IL-6 and vice versa. Tumor cells also increased macrophage IL-6 and NO and decreased macrophage TNF-α. Tumor cell-driven macrophage IL-6 was reduced by MDSC, and tumor cells and MDSC enhanced macrophage NO. In vivo analysis of solid tumors identified IL-6 and IL-10 as the dominant cytokines and demonstrated that these molecules were produced predominantly by stromal cells. These results suggest that inflammation within solid tumors is regulated by the ratio of tumor cells to MDSC and macrophages and that interactions of these cells have the potential to alter significantly the inflammatory milieu within the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W Beury
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Katherine H Parker
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Maeva Nyandjo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Pratima Sinha
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kayla A Carter
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Suzanne Ostrand-Rosenberg
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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45
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Jung HY, Fattet L, Yang J. Molecular pathways: linking tumor microenvironment to epithelial-mesenchymal transition in metastasis. Clin Cancer Res 2014; 21:962-968. [PMID: 25107915 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-13-3173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 227] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
During tumor development, tumor cells constantly communicate with the surrounding microenvironment through both biochemical and biophysical cues. In particular, the tumor microenvironment can instruct carcinoma cells to undergo a morphogenesis program termed epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to facilitate local invasion and metastatic dissemination. Growing evidence uncovered a plethora of microenvironmental factors in promoting EMT, including proinflammatory cytokines secreted by locally activated stromal cells, hypoxia conditions, extracellular matrix components, and mechanical properties. Here, we review various biochemical and biophysical factors in the tumor microenvironment that directly impinge upon the EMT program. Specifically, cytokines such as TGFβ, TNFα, and IL6 and hypoxia are capable of inducing EMT in various tumors. Several extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, including collagen-I, fibronectin, and hyaluronan, and ECM remodeling via extracellular lysyl oxidase are also implicated in regulating EMT. In preclinical studies and ongoing clinical trials, targeting these tumor microenvironmental signals has shown promises in halting tumor progression in various human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae-Yun Jung
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Laurent Fattet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Koellensperger E, Gramley F, Preisner F, Leimer U, Germann G, Dexheimer V. Alterations of gene expression and protein synthesis in co-cultured adipose tissue-derived stem cells and squamous cell-carcinoma cells: consequences for clinical applications. Stem Cell Res Ther 2014; 5:65. [PMID: 24887580 PMCID: PMC4076640 DOI: 10.1186/scrt454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2013] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction This is the first study evaluating the interactions of human adipose tissue derived stem cells (ADSCs) and human squamous cell carcinoma cells (SCCs), with regard to a prospective cell-based skin regenerative therapy and a thereby unintended co-localization of ADSCs and SCCs. Methods ADSCs were co-cultured with A431-SCCs and primary SCCs (pSCCs) in a transwell system, and cell-cell interactions were analyzed by assessing doubling time, migration and invasion, angiogenesis, quantitative real time PCR of 229 tumor associated genes, and multiplex protein assays of 20 chemokines and growth factors and eight matrix metalloproteinases (MMPS). Results of co-culture were compared to those of the respective mono-culture. Results ADSCs’ proliferation on the plate was significantly increased when co-cultured with A431-SCCs (P = 0.038). PSCCs and ADSCs significantly decreased their proliferation in co-culture if cultured on the plate (P <0.001 and P = 0.03). The migration of pSCC was significantly increased in co-culture (P = 0.009), as well as that of ADSCs in A431-SCC-co-culture (P = 0.012). The invasive behavior of pSCCs and A431-SCCs was significantly increased in co-culture by a mean of 33% and 35%, respectively (P = 0.038 and P <0.001). Furthermore, conditioned media from co-cultured ADSC-A431-SCCs and co-cultured ADSCs-pSCCs induced tube formation in an angiogenesis assay in vitro. In A431-SCC-co-culture 36 genes were up- and 6 were down-regulated in ADSCs, in A431-SCCs 14 genes were up- and 8 genes were down-regulated. In pSCCs-co-culture 36 genes were up-regulated in ADSCs, two were down-regulated, one gene was up-regulated in pSCC, and three genes were down-regulated. Protein expression analysis revealed that three proteins were exclusively produced in co-culture (CXCL9, IL-1b, and MMP-7). In A431-SCC-co-culture the concentration of 17 proteins was significantly increased compared to the ADSCs mono-culture (2.8- to 357-fold), and 15 proteins were expressed more highly (2.8- to 1,527-fold) compared to the A431-SCCs mono-culture. In pSCC-co-culture the concentration of 10 proteins was increased compared to ADSCs-mono-culture (2.5- to 77-fold) and that of 15 proteins was increased compared to pSCC mono-culture (2.6- to 480-fold). Conclusions This is the first study evaluating the possible interactions of primary human ADSCs with human SCCs, pointing towards a doubtlessly increased oncological risk, which should not be neglected when considering a clinical use of isolated human ADSCs in skin regenerative therapies.
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Díaz VM, Viñas-Castells R, García de Herreros A. Regulation of the protein stability of EMT transcription factors. Cell Adh Migr 2014; 8:418-28. [PMID: 25482633 PMCID: PMC4594480 DOI: 10.4161/19336918.2014.969998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Revised: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) consists of a rapid change of cell phenotype, characterized by the loss of epithelial characteristics and the acquisition of a more invasive phenotype. Transcription factors regulating EMT (Snail, Twist and Zeb) are extremely labile proteins, rapidly degraded by the proteasome system. In this review we analyze the current mechanisms controlling degradation of EMT transcription factors, focusing on the role of new E3 ubiquitin-ligases involved in EMT. We also summarize the regulation of the stability of these EMT transcription factors, specially observed in different stress conditions, such as hypoxia, chemotherapeutic drugs, oxidative stress or γ-irradiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- VM Díaz
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer; Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM); Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona; Doctor Aiguader; Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut; Universitat Pompeu Fabra; Barcelona, Spain
- Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona; Barcelona, Spain
| | - R Viñas-Castells
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer; Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM); Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona; Doctor Aiguader; Barcelona, Spain
| | - A García de Herreros
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer; Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM); Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona; Doctor Aiguader; Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut; Universitat Pompeu Fabra; Barcelona, Spain
- Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona; Barcelona, Spain
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Loss of let-7 microRNA upregulates IL-6 in bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells triggering a reactive stromal response to prostate cancer. PLoS One 2013; 8:e71637. [PMID: 23977098 PMCID: PMC3747243 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0071637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 06/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are able to migrate to tumors, where they promote tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis. However, the molecular phenotype of the recruited MSCs at the tumor microenvironment and the genetic programs underlying their role in cancer progression remains largely unknown. By using a three-dimensional rotary wall vessel coculture system in which human MSCs were grown alone or in close contact with LNCaP, C4-2 or PC3 prostate cancer cell lines, we established invitro matched pairs of normal and cancer-associated MSC derivatives to study the stromal response of MSCs to prostate cancer. We observed that prostate cancer-associated MSCs acquired a higher potential for adipogenic differentiation and exhibited a stronger ability to promote prostate cancer cell migration and invasion compared with normal MSCs both in vitro and in experimental animal models. The enhanced adipogenesis and the pro-metastatic properties were conferred by the high levels of IL-6 secretion by cancer-associated MSCs and were reversible by functionally inhibiting of IL-6. We also found that IL-6 is a direct target gene for the let-7 microRNA, which was downregulated in cancer-associated MSCs. The overexpression of let-7 via the transfection of let-7 precursors decreased IL-6 expression and repressed the adipogenic potential and metastasis-promoting activity of cancer-associated MSCs, which was consistent with the inhibition of IL-6 3′UTR luciferase activity. Conversely, the treatment of normal MSCs with let-7 inhibitors resulted in effects similar to those seen with IL-6. Taken together, our data demonstrated that MSCs co-evolve with prostate cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment, and the downregulation of let-7 by cancer-associated MSCs upregulates IL-6 expression. This upregulation triggers adipogenesis and facilitates prostate cancer progression. These findings not only provide key insights into the molecular basis of tumor-stroma interactions but also pave the way for new treatments for metastatic prostate cancer.
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Ulrich C, Rolauffs B, Abele H, Bonin M, Nieselt K, Hart ML, Aicher WK. Low osteogenic differentiation potential of placenta-derived mesenchymal stromal cells correlates with low expression of the transcription factors Runx2 and Twist2. Stem Cells Dev 2013; 22:2859-72. [PMID: 23763516 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2012.0693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies indicated that mesenchymal stromal cells from bone marrow (bmMSC) differ in their osteogenic differentiation capacity compared to MSC from term placenta (pMSC). We extended these studies and investigated the expression of factors involved in regulation of bone metabolism in both cell types. To this end, MSC were expanded in vitro and characterized. The total transcriptome was investigated by microarrays, and for selected genes, the differences in gene expression were explored by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, immunocytochemistry, and flow cytometry. We report that bmMSC and pMSC share expression of typical lineage surface markers, including CD73, CD90, CD105, and lack of CD14, CD34, and CD45. However, according to transcriptome analyses, they differ significantly in their expression of more than 590 genes. Factors involved in bone metabolism, including alkaline phosphatase (P<0.05), osteoglycin (P<0.05), osteomodulin (P<0.05), runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) (P<0.04), and WISP2 (P<0.05), were expressed at significantly lower levels in pMSC, but twist-related protein 2 (Twist2) (P<0.0002) was expressed at significantly higher levels. The osteogenic differentiation capacity of pMSC was very low. The adipogenic differentiation was somewhat more prominent in bmMSC, while the chondrogenic differentiation seemed not to differ between bmMSC and pMSC, as determined by histochemical staining. However, expression and induction of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma-2 (PPARγ2) and Sox9, factors involved in early adipogenesis and chondrogenesis, respectively, were higher in bmMSC. We conclude that despite many similarities between bmMSC and pMSC, when expanded under identical conditions, they vary considerably with respect to their in vitro differentiation potential. For regenerative purposes, the choice of MSC may therefore influence the outcome of a treatment considerably.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Ulrich
- 1 ZRM, Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Tuebingen , Tuebingen, Germany
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Zhang LJ, Liu W, Gao YM, Qin YJ, Wu RD. The expression of IL-6 and STAT3 might predict progression and unfavorable prognosis in Wilms’ tumor. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 435:408-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.04.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2013] [Accepted: 04/30/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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