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Li S, Hao L, Li N, Hu X, Yan H, Dai E, Shi X. Targeting the Hippo/YAP1 signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma: From mechanisms to therapeutic drugs (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 65:88. [PMID: 39092548 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The Hippo signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in regulating cell growth and organ size. Its regulatory effects on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) encompass diverse aspects, including cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis, tumor drug resistance, metabolic reprogramming, immunomodulatory effects and autophagy. Yes‑associated protein 1 (YAP1), a potent transcriptional coactivator and a major downstream target tightly controlled by the Hippo pathway, is influenced by various molecules and pathways. The expression of YAP1 in different cell types within the liver tumor microenvironment exerts varying effects on tumor outcomes, warranting careful consideration. Therefore, research on YAP1‑targeted therapies merits attention. This review discusses the composition and regulation mechanism of the Hippo/YAP1 signaling pathway and its relationship with HCC, offering insights for future research and cancer prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenghao Li
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610075, P.R. China
| | - Liyuan Hao
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610075, P.R. China
| | - Na Li
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610075, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Huimin Yan
- Clinical Research Center, Shijiazhuang Fifth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, P.R. China
| | - Erhei Dai
- Clinical Research Center, Shijiazhuang Fifth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, P.R. China
| | - Xinli Shi
- Center of Experimental Management, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi 030619, P.R. China
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Shi H, Zou Y, Zhong W, Li Z, Wang X, Yin Y, Li D, Liu Y, Li M. Complex roles of Hippo-YAP/TAZ signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:15311-15322. [PMID: 37608027 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05272-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Hippo signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved signaling module that controls organ size in different species, and the disorder of the Hippo pathway can induce liver cancer in organisms, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The exact mechanism that causes cancer is still unknown. Recent studies have shown that it is a classical kinase cascade that phosphorylates the Mst1/2-sav1 complex and activates the phosphorylation of the Lats1/2-mob1A/B complex for inactivating Yap and Taz. These kinases and scaffolds are regarded as primary regulators of the Hippo pathway, and help in activating a variety of carcinogenic processes. Among them, Yap/Taz is seen to be the main effector molecule, which is downstream of the Hippo pathway, and its abnormal activation is related to a variety of human cancers including liver cancer. Currently, since Yap/Taz plays a variety of roles in cancer promotion and tumor regeneration, the Hippo pathway has emerged as an attractive target in recent drug development research. METHODS We collect and review relevant literature in web of Science and Pubmed. CONCLUSION This review highlights the important roles of Yap/Taz in activating Hippo pathway in liver cancer. The recent findings on the crosstalks between the Hippo and other cancer associated pathways and moleculars are also discussed. In this review, we summarized and discussed recent breakthroughs in our understanding of how key components of the Hippo-YAP/TAZ pathway influence the hepatocellular carcinoma, including their effects on tumor occurrence and development, their roles in regulating metastasis, and their function in chemotherapy resistance. Further, the molecular mechanism and roles in regulating cross talk between Hippo-YAP/TAZ pathway and other cancer-associated pathways or oncogenes/cancer suppressor genes were summarized and discussed. More, many other inducers and inhibitors of this signaling cascade and available experimental therapies against the YAP/TAZ/TEAD axis were discussed. Targeting this pathway for cancer therapy may have great significance in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Graphical summary of the complex role of Hippo-YAP/TAZ signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hewen Shi
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Zou
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiwei Zhong
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoying Li
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Research Center, Shandong Public Health Clinical Center, Jinan, 250102, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxue Wang
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yancun Yin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, People's Republic of China
| | - Defang Li
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Liu
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Minjing Li
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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Shi H, Zou Y, Wang X, Wang G, Gao Y, Yi F, Xu J, Yin Y, Li D, Li M. Activating the Hippo pathway by nevadensin overcomes Yap-drived resistance to sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:83. [PMID: 37243813 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00699-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly malignant type of tumor that is insensitive to cytotoxic chemotherapy and often develops drug resistance. Nevadensin, a bioflavonoid, exhibits anti-cancer properties in some cancers. However, the precise underlying mechanism of nevadensin against liver cancer are poorly understood. We aim to evaluate the efficacy as well as the molecular mechanism of nevadensin in the treatment of liver cancer. METHODS Effects of nevadensin on HCC cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected using EdU labeling and flow cytometry assays. The molecular mechanism of nevadensin on HCC was determined using RNAseq. The effects of nevadensin on hippo-Yap signaling were verified using western blot and RT-PCR. RESULTS In this study, we show that nevadensin significantly inhibits growth of HCC cells via inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. RNAseq analysis showed that nevadensin regulates multiple functional signaling pathways associated with cancer including Hippo signaling. Western Blot analysis revealed that nevadensin notably induces activation of the MST1/2- LATS1/2 kinase in HCC cells, further resulting in the primary effector molecule YAP phosphorylation and subsequent degradation. These results indicated that nevadensin might exert its anti-HCC activity through the Hippo-ON mechanism. Moreover, nevadensin could increase the sensitivity of HCC cells to sorafenib by down-regulating YAP and its downstream targets. CONCLUSIONS The present study indicates that nevadensin could be a potential effective approach to treating HCC, and overcoming sorafeni resistance via inducing activation of Hippo signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hewen Shi
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Zou
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxue Wang
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoli Wang
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yijia Gao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Yi
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Junqing Xu
- Department of Hematology, Qingdao University Medical College, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hoepital, Yantai, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yancun Yin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Defang Li
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Minjing Li
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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Jo SY, Hong N, Lee S, Jeong JJ, Won J, Park J, Kim GJ, Kim SK, Kim S, Rhee Y. Genomic and transcriptomic profiling reveal molecular characteristics of parathyroid carcinoma. Exp Mol Med 2023:10.1038/s12276-023-00968-4. [PMID: 37121965 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-00968-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomic and transcriptomic profiling has enhanced the diagnostic and treatment options for many cancers. However, the molecular characteristics of parathyroid cancer remain largely unexplored, thereby limiting the development of new therapeutic interventions. Herein, we conducted genomic and transcriptomic sequencing of 50 parathyroid tissues (12 carcinomas, 28 adenomas, and 10 normal tissues) to investigate the intrinsic and comparative molecular features of parathyroid carcinoma. We confirmed multiple two-hit mutation patterns in cell division cycle 73 (CDC73) that converged to biallelic inactivation, calling into question the presence of a second hit in other genes. In addition, allele-specific repression of CDC73 in copies with germline-truncating variants suggested selective pressure prior to tumorigenesis. Transcriptomic analysis identified upregulation of the expression of E2F targets, KRAS and TNF-alpha signaling, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathways in carcinomas compared to adenomas and normal tissues. A molecular classification model based on carcinoma-specific genes clearly separated carcinomas from adenomas and normal tissues, the clinical utility of which was demonstrated in two patients with uncertain malignant potential. A deeper analysis of gene expression and functional prediction suggested that Wilms tumor 1 (WT1) is a potential biomarker for CDC73-mutant parathyroid carcinoma, which was further validated through immunohistochemistry. Overall, our study revealed the genomic and transcriptomic profiles of parathyroid carcinoma and may help direct future precision diagnostic and therapeutic improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Young Jo
- Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Namki Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seunghyun Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Jong Ju Jeong
- Department of Surgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeongsoo Won
- Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jiho Park
- Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gi Jeong Kim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Kyum Kim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sangwoo Kim
- Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
- Postech Biotech Center, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Korea.
| | - Yumie Rhee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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Golino JL, Wang X, Bian J, Ruf B, Kelly M, Karim BO, Cam MC, Xie C. Anti-Cancer Activity of Verteporfin in Cholangiocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2454. [PMID: 37173920 PMCID: PMC10177077 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092454] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a heterogenous malignancy that arises from the biliary epithelium and has a poor clinical prognosis. The Hippo/yes-associated protein (YAP) pathway has been reported to affect various aspects of tumorigenesis, with high expression of YAP1 being negatively associated with survival in CCA patients. Thus, we investigated the antitumoral effect of verteporfin, a YAP1 pathway inhibitor, in YAP1/AKT hydrodynamic tail vein injected murine models. We also used flow cytometry and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to analyze the change in the immune cell profile and malignant cell stemness following verteporfin treatment. Our results demonstrated reduced liver weight and tumor formation in verteporfin-treated groups compared to that of a vehicle-treated group. Immune cell profiling through flow cytometry showed that relative to the vehicle, verteporfin induced a higher ratio of tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) M1/M2 and increased the percentage of activated CD8 T cell population (CD8+CD25+ and CD8+CD69+). scRNA-seq analysis showed significantly increased TAM M1 populations following verteporfin treatment and decreased proportions of stem-like cells within the malignant cell population. In summary, this study indicates that in CCA YAP/AKT murine models, verteporfin reduces tumorigenesis by polarizing anti-tumoral TAM and activating CD8 T cells and decreasing stem-like malignant cell proportions in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihye L. Golino
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Xin Wang
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jing Bian
- CCR Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Benjamin Ruf
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Michael Kelly
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Baktiar O. Karim
- Molecular Histopathology Laboratory, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Maggie C. Cam
- CCR Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Changqing Xie
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Liver Cancer Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Pathology of Combined Hepatocellular Carcinoma-Cholangiocarcinoma: An Update. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020494. [PMID: 36672443 PMCID: PMC9856551 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Combined hepatocellular carcinoma-cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CCA) is a rare primary liver cancer that is composed of both hepatocellular and cholangiocellular differentiated cells. It is slightly more common in men and among Asian and Pacific islanders. Overall, risk factors are similar to classic risk factors of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The classification has significantly evolved over time. The last WHO classification (2019) mainly emphasized diagnosis on morphological basis with routine stainings, discarded previously recognized classifications with carcinomas with stem cell features, introduced intermediate cell carcinoma as a specific subtype and considered cholangiolocarcinoma as a subtype of cholangiocellular carcinoma. Immunohistochemical markers may be applied for further specification but have limited value for diagnosis. Recent discoveries in molecular pathway regulation may pioneer new therapeutic approaches for this poor prognostic and challenging diagnosis.
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Duong NX, Le M, Kondo T, Mitsui T. Heterogeneity of Hippo signalling activity in different histopathologic subtypes of renal cell carcinoma. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 27:66-75. [PMID: 36478130 PMCID: PMC9806300 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to reveal the prognostic role of the Hippo pathway in different histopathological subtypes of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The TCGA-KIRC (n = 537), TCGA-KIRP (n = 291) and TCGA-KICH (n = 113), which contain data about clear cell (ccRCC), papillary (pRCC) and chromophobe RCC (chRCC), respectively, were investigated. Gene Set Variation Analysis was used to compare the activity of many pathways within a single sample. Oncogenic pathway-related expression differed between cases of ccRCC involving low and high Hippo pathway activity. There were two subsets of ccRCC, in which the cancer exhibited lower and higher Hippo signalling activity, respectively, compared with normal tissue. In the ccRCC cohort, lower Hippo pathway activity was associated with a higher clinical stage (p < 0.001). The Hippo pathway (HR = 0.29; 95% CI = 0.17-0.50, p < 0.001), apoptosis (HR = 6.02; 95% CI = 1.47-24.61; p = 0.013) and the p53 pathway (HR = 0.09; 95% CI = 0.02-0.36; p < 0.001) were identified as independent prognostic factors for ccRCC. The 5-year overall survival of the ccRCC patients with low and high Hippo pathway activity were 51.9% (95% CI = 45.0-59.9) and 73.6% (95% CI = 67.8-79.9), respectively. In conclusion, the Hippo pathway plays an important role in the progression of ccRCC. Low Hippo pathway activity is associated with poor outcomes in ccRCC, indicating the tumour suppressor function of this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Xuong Duong
- Department of UrologyUniversity of Yamanashi Graduate School of Medical SciencesChuo‐cityJapan
| | - Minh‐Khang Le
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Yamanashi Graduate School of Medical SciencesChuo‐cityJapan
| | - Tetsuo Kondo
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Yamanashi Graduate School of Medical SciencesChuo‐cityJapan
| | - Takahiko Mitsui
- Department of UrologyUniversity of Yamanashi Graduate School of Medical SciencesChuo‐cityJapan
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Zhou Q, Ji L, Shi X, Deng D, Guo F, Wang Z, Liu W, Zhang J, Xia S, Shang D. INTS8 is a therapeutic target for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma via the integration of bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23649. [PMID: 34880328 PMCID: PMC8654853 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03017-0] [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: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CHOL) remains a rare malignancy, ranking as the leading lethal primary liver cancer worldwide. However, the biological functions of integrator complex subunit 8 (INTS8) in CHOL remain unknown. Thus, this research aimed to explore the potential role of INTS8 as a novel diagnostic or therapeutic target in CHOL. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in two Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets were obtained by the “RRA” package in R software. The “maftools” package was used to visualize the CHOL mutation data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The expression of INTS8 was detected by performing quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry in cell lines and human samples. The association between subtypes of tumour-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) and INTS8 expression in CHOL was determined by using CIBERSORT tools. We evaluated the correlations between INTS8 expression and mismatch repair (MMR) genes and DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) in pan-cancer analysis. Finally, the pan-cancer prognostic signature of INTS8 was identified by univariate analysis. We obtained the mutation landscapes of an RRA gene set in CHOL. The expression of INTS8 was upregulated in CHOL cell lines and human CHOL samples. Furthermore, INTS8 expression was closely associated with a distinct landscape of TIICs, MMR genes, and DNMTs in CHOL. In addition, the high INTS8 expression group presented significantly poor outcomes, including overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS) and disease-free interval (DFI) (p < 0.05) in pan-cancer. INTS8 contributes to the tumorigenesis and progression of CHOL. Our study highlights the significant role of INTS8 in CHOL and pan-cancers, providing a valuable molecular target for cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhou
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No.222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, China.,Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, No.9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, China
| | - Li Ji
- Gastroenterology Department, DongZhiMen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 5 Haiyuncang, Dongcheng District, Beijing, China
| | - Xueying Shi
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No.222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, China.,Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, No.9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, China
| | - Dawei Deng
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No.222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, China
| | - Fangyue Guo
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No.222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, China.,Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, No.9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, China
| | - Zhengpeng Wang
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, No.9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, China
| | - Wenhui Liu
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, No.9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, China
| | - Jinnan Zhang
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, No.9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, China
| | - Shilin Xia
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No.222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, China.
| | - Dong Shang
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No.222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, China. .,Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, No.9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, China. .,Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No.222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, China.
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9
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Qian X, Zhang W, Yang H, Zhang L, Kang N, Lai J. Role of Yes-associated Protein-1 in Gastrointestinal Cancers and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH AND HYPOTHESIS IN MEDICINE 2021; 6:110-117. [PMID: 34589656 PMCID: PMC8478289 DOI: 10.14218/erhm.2021.00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Yes-associated protein-1 (YAP1) is a potent transcriptional co-activator and functions as an important downstream effector of the Hippo signaling pathway, which is key to regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, and organ growth. YAP1 has been implicated as an oncogene for various human cancers including gastrointestinal cancers and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). YAP1 promotes tumorigenesis and cancer progression by multiple mechanisms, such as by promoting malignant phenotypes, expanding cancer stem cells, and inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition. YAP1 overexpression or its activated forms are associated with advanced pathological grades and poor prognosis of cancer, and therefore targeting YAP1 may open a fertile avenue for cancer therapy. In this review, we summarize the recent evidence regarding the role of YAP1 in the carcinogenesis of gastrointestinal cancers and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Qian
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Wei Zhang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Hua Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory Eye Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lanjing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Princeton Medical center, Rutgers University, Plainsboro, NJ, USA
| | - Ningling Kang
- Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis, Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, USA
| | - Jinping Lai
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Correspondence to: Jinping Lai, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95825, USA. Tel:+1 916-973-7260, Fax:+1 916-973-7283,
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10
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YAP inactivation in estrogen receptor alpha-positive hepatocellular carcinoma with less aggressive behavior. Exp Mol Med 2021; 53:1055-1067. [PMID: 34145394 PMCID: PMC8257598 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-021-00639-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα, encoded by ESR1) has been shown to be associated with the prognostic outcomes of patients in various cancers; however, its prognostic and mechanistic significance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. Here, we evaluated the expression of ERα and its association with clinicopathological features in 339 HCC patients. ERα was expressed in 9.4% (32/339) of HCCs and was related to better overall survival (OS; hazard ratio [HR] = 0.11, p = 0.009, 95% C.I. = 0.016–0.82) and disease-free survival (DFS, HR = 0.4, p = 0.013, 95% C.I. = 0.18–0.85). ERα expression was also associated with features related to more favorable prognosis, such as older age, lower serum alpha-fetoprotein level, and less microvascular invasion (p < 0.05). In addition, to obtain mechanistic insights into the role of ERα in HCC progression, we performed integrative transcriptome data analyses, which revealed that yes-associated protein (YAP) pathway was significantly suppressed in ESR1-expressing HCCs. By performing cell culture experiments, we validated that ERα expression enhanced YAP phosphorylation, attenuating its nuclear translocation, which in turn suppressed the downstream signaling pathways and cancer cell growth. In conclusion, we suggest that ERα expression is an indicator of more favorable prognosis in HCC and that this effect is mediated by inactivation of YAP signaling. Our results provide new clinical and pathobiological insights into ERα and YAP signaling in HCC. Estrogen receptor signaling can act as a brake preventing the progression of an often deadly form of liver cancer. Studies have shown that women are at a lower risk of developing and succumbing to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) than men, suggesting a potential role for sex hormones. Researchers in South Korea led by Hyun Goo Woo of the Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, and Young Nyun Park of Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, have now shown that expression of the estrogen receptor α is a strong prognostic predictor for HCC. In a survey of patient tumor samples, they found that expression of this hormone receptor is associated with nearly a tenfold increased likelihood of survival. The researchers identified a mechanism by which estrogen receptor α signaling impedes cancerous growth, revealing potential new drug targets.
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11
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Park H, Lee Y, Lee K, Lee H, Yoo JE, Ahn S, Park YN, Kim H. The Clinicopathological Significance of YAP/TAZ Expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Relation to Hypoxia and Stemness. Pathol Oncol Res 2021; 27:604600. [PMID: 34257565 PMCID: PMC8262240 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2021.604600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background/Aims: Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) activation has been implicated in hepatocarcinogenesis and hepatic progenitor cell differentiation, and hypoxia has been shown to induce nuclear translocation of YAP in cancer cells. Here, we aimed to investigate the relationship between hypoxia, YAP and TAZ expression and stemness-related marker expression in human hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) and its clinical implications. Methods: Immunohistochemical stains were performed on tissue microarrays from 305 surgically resected HCCs, and the expression status of YAP and TAZ were correlated with CAIX, stemness markers (K19, EpCAM) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related markers (uPAR, ezrin). The clinicopathological significance of YAP/TAZ expression was analyzed with relation to CAIX expression status. Results: YAP and TAZ expression were seen in 13.4 and 4.3% of HCCs, respectively. YAP/TAZ-positive HCCs frequently demonstrated higher serum AFP levels, microvascular invasion, advanced tumor stage, increased proliferative activity and expression of stemness- and EMT-related markers, CAIX, p53 and Smad2/3 (p < 0.05, all). Interestingly, YAP/TAZ-positivity was associated with microvascular invasion, higher serum AFP levels, stemness and EMT-related marker expression only in tumors expressing CAIX (p < 0.05, all), while these associations were not seen in CAIX-negative HCCs. Conclusions: YAP/TAZ expression is associated with vascular invasion, stemness and EMT in HCCs with hypoxia marker expression. The effect of Hippo signaling pathway deregulation in HCC may depend on the presence or absence of a hypoxic microenvironment, and hypoxia marker expression status should be taken into account when considering the use of YAP/TAZ as markers of aggressive biologic behavior in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunjin Park
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Pathology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yangkyu Lee
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Pathology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Kiryang Lee
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Pathology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyejung Lee
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong Eun Yoo
- Department of Pathology, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soomin Ahn
- Department of Pathology and Translational Genomics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Nyun Park
- Department of Pathology, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Haeryoung Kim
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Pathology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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12
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Ngo MHT, Jeng HY, Kuo YC, Nanda JD, Brahmadhi A, Ling TY, Chang TS, Huang YH. The Role of IGF/IGF-1R Signaling in Hepatocellular Carcinomas: Stemness-Related Properties and Drug Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041931. [PMID: 33669204 PMCID: PMC7919800 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF)/IGF-1 Receptor (IGF-1R) signaling is known to regulate stem cell pluripotency and differentiation to trigger cell proliferation, organ development, and tissue regeneration during embryonic development. Unbalanced IGF/IGF-1R signaling can promote cancer cell proliferation and activate cancer reprogramming in tumor tissues, especially in the liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death, with a high incidence and mortality rate in Asia. Most patients with advanced HCC develop tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)-refractoriness after receiving TKI treatment. Dysregulation of IGF/IGF-1R signaling in HCC may activate expression of cancer stemness that leads to TKI refractoriness and tumor recurrence. In this review, we summarize the evidence for dysregulated IGF/IGF-1R signaling especially in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated HCC. The regulation of cancer stemness expression and drug resistance will be highlighted. Current clinical treatments and potential therapies targeting IGF/IGF-1R signaling for the treatment of HCC will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai-Huong Thi Ngo
- International PhD Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (J.D.N.); (A.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Han-Yin Jeng
- Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (H.-Y.J.); (Y.-C.K.)
| | - Yung-Che Kuo
- Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (H.-Y.J.); (Y.-C.K.)
| | - Josephine Diony Nanda
- International PhD Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (J.D.N.); (A.B.)
| | - Ageng Brahmadhi
- International PhD Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (J.D.N.); (A.B.)
| | - Thai-Yen Ling
- Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (T.-Y.L.); (T.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-2-2312-3456 (ext. 8-8322) (T.-Y.L.); +886-5-3621-000 (ext. 2242) (T.-S.C.); +886-2-2736-1661 (ext. 3150) (Y.-H.H.)
| | - Te-Sheng Chang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33382, Taiwan
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 61363, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (T.-Y.L.); (T.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-2-2312-3456 (ext. 8-8322) (T.-Y.L.); +886-5-3621-000 (ext. 2242) (T.-S.C.); +886-2-2736-1661 (ext. 3150) (Y.-H.H.)
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- International PhD Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (J.D.N.); (A.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (H.-Y.J.); (Y.-C.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- PhD Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (T.-Y.L.); (T.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-2-2312-3456 (ext. 8-8322) (T.-Y.L.); +886-5-3621-000 (ext. 2242) (T.-S.C.); +886-2-2736-1661 (ext. 3150) (Y.-H.H.)
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13
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Qian X, Zhang W, Shams A, Mohammed K, Befeler AS, Kang N, Lai J. Yes-associated protein-1 may serve as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for residual/recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma post-transarterial chemoembolization ☆. LIVER RESEARCH 2020; 4:212-217. [PMID: 33520338 PMCID: PMC7842263 DOI: 10.1016/j.livres.2020.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The transcriptional co-activator Yes-associated protein-1 (YAP1) has been implicated as an oncogene and is overexpressed in different kinds of human cancers, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the role of YAP1 has not been reported in residual/recurrent HCC after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). Our aim is to determine whether YAP1 is overexpressed in the residual/recurrent HCC after TACE. METHODS A total of 105 tumor tissues from 71 patients including 30 cases of primary HCC without prior treatment, 35 cases of residual/recurrent HCC post TACE, and 6 cases of hepatoblastoma were included in the immunohistochemical study. YAP1 immunoreactivity was blindly scored as 0, 1+, 2+ or 3+ in density and percentages of positive cells. RESULTS About 33.3% (10/30) of primary HCC without prior treatment showed 2+ of YAP1 immunoreactivity. While 82.8% (29/35) of residual/recurrent HCCs after TACE treatment displayed 2-3+ of YAP1 immunoreactivity, which was significantly higher compared to primary HCC without prior treatment (P = 0.0002). YAP1 immunoreactivity was moderately to strongly positive (2-3+) in 100% of the hepatoblastoma, particularly in the embryonal components (3+ in 100% cases). CONCLUSIONS YAP1 is significantly upregulated in the residual/recurrent HCCs post TACE treatment, suggesting that YAP1 may serve as a sensitive diagnostic marker and a treatment target for residual/recurrent HCC post TACE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Qian
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Wei Zhang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA,Corresponding author. Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA. (W. Zhang)
| | - Alireza Shams
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kahee Mohammed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Alex S. Befeler
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ningling Kang
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota and Mayo Clinic, Austin, MN, USA
| | - Jinping Lai
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA,Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA,Corresponding author. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA. (J. Lai)
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14
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Driskill JH, Pan D. The Hippo Pathway in Liver Homeostasis and Pathophysiology. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY-MECHANISMS OF DISEASE 2020; 16:299-322. [PMID: 33234023 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-030420-105050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Studies of the regenerative capacity of the liver have converged on the Hippo pathway, a serine/threonine kinase cascade discovered in Drosophila and conserved from unicellular organisms to mammals. Genetic studies of mouse and rat livers have revealed that the Hippo pathway is a key regulator of liver size, regeneration, development, metabolism, and homeostasis and that perturbations in the Hippo pathway can lead to the development of common liver diseases, such as fatty liver disease and liver cancer. In turn, pharmacological targeting of the Hippo pathway may be utilized to boost regeneration and to prevent the development and progression of liver diseases. We review current insights provided by the Hippo pathway into liver pathophysiology. Furthermore, we present a path forward for future studies to understand how newly identified components of the Hippo pathway may control liver physiology and how the Hippo pathway is regulated in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan H Driskill
- Department of Physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA; , .,Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Duojia Pan
- Department of Physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA; ,
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15
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Raevskaya O, Appelman H, Razumilava N. A Contemporary Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment of Combined Hepatocellular-Cholangiocarcinoma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 19:478-485. [PMID: 33415066 DOI: 10.1007/s11901-020-00556-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review To provide updates on terminology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CCA). Recent findings cHCC-CCAs are tumors that in the same nodule contain a variable degree of HCC and CCA components with a transition zone. cHCC-CCAs develop in cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic livers like and is associated with poor outcomes. Mutations in TP53, TERT promoter, and ARID1A are the most common genetic aberrations in cHCC-CCA. Fusion gene PTMS-AP1G1 is unique for cHCC-CCA. A biopsy is required for diagnosis. Surgical resection remains treatment of choice, while liver transplantation for early cHCC-CCA is associated with favorable outcomes. Gemcitabine-based therapy shows benefits for advanced cHCC-CCA. Summary cHCC-CCAs are a heterogeneous group of primary liver cancers with unique biological behavior. Multicenter studies are required for a molecular analysis to inform novel therapeutic approaches, and understand epidemiology and benefits of liver transplantation, liver-directed and targeted therapies for this rare aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Raevskaya
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Henry Appelman
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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16
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Guo L, Zheng J, Luo J, Zhang Z, Shao G. Targeting Yes1 Associated Transcriptional Regulator Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression and Improves Sensitivity to Sorafenib: An in vitro and in vivo Study. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:11071-11087. [PMID: 33149619 PMCID: PMC7605682 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s249412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the role of Yes1 associated transcriptional regulator (YAP1) in the pathology of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its potential as a therapeutic target. Methods YAP1 expression in HCC and adjacent tissues was determined via immunohistochemistry; in HCC and human normal liver cell lines, expression was examined via Western blotting. The effects of YAP1 knockdown and overexpression were detected following transfection of HCC cells with siRNA-YAP1 recombinants or pcDNA3.1-YAP1 plasmids. A tumor xenograft model was constructed by implanting YAP1-knockdown lentivirus-infected Hep-3B cells into nude mice, and the animals were treated with sorafenib. Results In patients with HCC, YAP1 was upregulated in tumor tissue compared with adjacent tissue, and its high expression in the tumor was associated with increased Edmonson grade. In vitro, YAP1 expression was increased in Hep-3B, SK-HEP-1 and Huh7 cells, while it was similar in SMMC-7721 cells and LO2 cells. Meanwhile, YAP1 increased cell proliferation and invasion, promoted the progression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and inhibited cell apoptosis in HCC cells; furthermore, YAP1 knockdown combined with the administration of sorafenib decreased cell viability and increased cell apoptosis compared with YAP1 knockdown or treatment with sorafenib alone. In vivo, YAP1 knockdown inhibited tumor growth and metastasis, whereas it promoted apoptosis; meanwhile, YAP1 knockdown synergized with sorafenib to suppress tumor progression in HCC mice. Conclusion YAP1 is upregulated in both HCC tumor tissues and cell lines. Moreover, it promotes cell proliferation and invasion and promoted the progression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in vitro. Furthermore, targeting YAP1 inhibits HCC progression and improves sensitivity to sorafenib in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwen Guo
- 1Department of Interventional Radiology, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaping Zheng
- 1Department of Interventional Radiology, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Luo
- 1Department of Interventional Radiology, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhewei Zhang
- 1Department of Interventional Radiology, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoliang Shao
- 1Department of Interventional Radiology, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, People's Republic of China
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17
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Jewell ML, Gibson JR, Guy CD, Hyun J, Du K, Oh SH, Premont RT, Hsu DS, Ribar T, Gregory SG, Diehl AME. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Identifies Yes-Associated Protein 1-Dependent Hepatic Mesothelial Progenitors in Fibrolamellar Carcinoma. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2020; 190:93-107. [PMID: 31669305 PMCID: PMC10069284 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2019.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Fibrolamellar carcinoma (FLC) is characterized by in-frame fusion of DnaJ heat shock protein family (Hsp40) member B1 (DNAJB1) with protein kinase cAMP-activated catalytic subunit α (PRKACA) and by dense desmoplasia. Surgery is the only effective treatment because mechanisms supporting tumor survival are unknown. We used single-cell RNA sequencing to characterize a patient-derived FLC xenograft model and identify therapeutic targets. Human FLC cells segregated into four discrete clusters that all expressed the oncogene Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1). The two communities most enriched with cells coexpressing FLC markers [CD68, A-kinase anchoring protein 12 (AKAP12), cytokeratin 7, epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EPCAM), and carbamoyl palmitate synthase-1] also had the most cells expressing YAP1 and its proproliferative target genes (AREG and CCND1), suggesting these were proliferative FLC cell clusters. The other two clusters were enriched with cells expressing profibrotic YAP1 target genes, ACTA2, ELN, and COL1A1, indicating these were fibrogenic FLC cells. All clusters expressed the YAP1 target gene and mesothelial progenitor marker mesothelin, and many mesothelin-positive cells coexpressed albumin. Trajectory analysis predicted that the four FLC communities were derived from a single cell type transitioning among phenotypic states. After establishing a novel FLC cell line that harbored the DNAJB1-PRKACA fusion, YAP1 was inhibited, which significantly reduced expression of known YAP1 target genes as well as cell growth and migration. Thus, both FLC epithelial and stromal cells appear to arise from DNAJB1-PRKACA fusion in a YAP1-dependent liver mesothelial progenitor, identifying YAP1 as a target for FLC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark L Jewell
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jason R Gibson
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Cynthia D Guy
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jeongeun Hyun
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Kuo Du
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Seh-Hoon Oh
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Richard T Premont
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - David S Hsu
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Thomas Ribar
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Simon G Gregory
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Anna Mae E Diehl
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.
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18
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Wu Y, Hou Y, Xu P, Deng Y, Liu K, Wang M, Tian T, Dai C, Li N, Hao Q, Song D, Zhou LH, Dai Z. The prognostic value of YAP1 on clinical outcomes in human cancers. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 11:8681-8700. [PMID: 31613226 PMCID: PMC6814621 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background: As an important downstream factor in the Hippo pathway, yes-associated protein 1(YAP1) has been detected to be elevated in various cancers and demonstrated to play a role in tumor development. Therefore, we evaluated by a meta-analysis the prognostic value of YAP1 in cancer patients. Results: Sixty-eight studies with 8631 patients were identified. The results indicated that YAP1 overexpression predicted unfavorable patient prognosis in studies with overall survival (OS) (HR=1.76, 95%CI: 1.50-2.06, p<0.001) and disease-free survival (DFS) (HR=1.39, 95%CI: 1.22-1.59, p<0.001), as well as in studies with recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR=2.38, 95%CI: 1.73-3.27, p<0.001), and disease-specific survival (DSS) (HR=2.04, 95%CI: 1.55-2.70, p<0.001). Meanwhile, YAP1 overexpression was also observed to be significantly associated with worse OS in GEPIA (HR=1.2, p<0.001). Conclusions: Overexpression of YAP1 showed great association with poorer prognosis in patients with various cancers, particularly liver cancer. Therefore, YAP1 might be an important prognostic marker and a novel target of cancer therapy. Methods: We searched for potential publications in several online databases and retrieved relevant data. Overall and subgroup analyses were performed. Begg’s and Egger’s tests were used to assess publication bias. Online dataset GEPIA was used to generate the survival curves and verify the prognostic role of YAP1 in patients with tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yanshen Hou
- Department of Anesthesiology, The 3rd Affiliated Teaching Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University (Affiliated Tumor Hospital), Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yujiao Deng
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Kang Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tian Tian
- Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Cong Dai
- Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qian Hao
- Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dingli Song
- Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ling Hui Zhou
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhijun Dai
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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Targeting Cancer Stem Cells: A Strategy for Effective Eradication of Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11050732. [PMID: 31137841 PMCID: PMC6562442 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11050732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are subpopulations of tumor cells with the ability to self-renew, differentiate, and initiate and maintain tumor growth, and they are considered to be the main drivers of intra- and inter-tumoral heterogeneity. While conventional chemotherapy can eradicate the majority of non-CSC tumor cells, CSCs are often drug-resistant, leading to tumor recurrence and metastasis. The heterogeneity of CSCs is the main challenge in developing CSC-targeting therapy; therefore, we and other investigators have focused on developing novel therapeutic strategies that combine conventional chemotherapy with inhibitors of CSC-regulating pathways. Encouraging preclinical findings have suggested that CSC pathway blockade can indeed enhance cellular sensitivity to non-targeted conventional therapy, and this work has led to several ongoing clinical trials of CSC pathway inhibitors. Our studies in bladder cancer and lung adenocarcinoma have demonstrated a crucial role of YAP1, a transcriptional regulator of genes that promote cell survival and proliferation, in regulating CSC phenotypes. Moreover, using cell lines and patient-derived xenograft models, we showed that inhibition of YAP1 enhances the efficacy of conventional therapies by attenuating CSC stemness features. In this review, we summarize the therapeutic strategies for targeting CSCs in several cancers and discuss the potential and challenges of the approach.
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YAP and TAZ Heterogeneity in Primary Liver Cancer: An Analysis of Its Prognostic and Diagnostic Role. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030638. [PMID: 30717258 PMCID: PMC6386931 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer comprises a diverse group of liver tumors. The heterogeneity of these tumors is seen as one of the obstacles to finding an effective therapy. The Hippo pathway, with its downstream transcriptional co-activator Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), has a decisive role in the carcinogenesis of primary liver cancer. Therefore, we examined the expression pattern of YAP and TAZ in 141 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma keratin 19 positive (HCC K19+), hepatocellular carcinoma keratin 19 negative (HCC K19−), combined hepatocellular–cholangiocarcinoma carcinoma (cHCC-CCA), or cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). All cHCC-CCA and CCA patients showed high expression levels for YAP and TAZ, while only some patients of the HCC group were positive. Notably, we found that a histoscore of both markers is useful in the challenging diagnosis of cHCC-CCA. In addition, positivity for YAP and TAZ was observed in the hepatocellular and cholangiocellular components of cHCC-CCA, which suggests a single cell origin in cHCC-CCA. Within the K19− HCC group, our results demonstrate that the expression of YAP is a statistically significant predictor of poor prognosis when observed in the cytoplasm. Nuclear expression of TAZ is an even more specific and independent predictor of poor disease-free survival and overall survival of K19− HCC patients. Our results thus identify different levels of YAP/TAZ expression in various liver cancers that can be used for diagnostics.
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High Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development in Fibrotic Liver: Role of the Hippo-YAP/TAZ Signaling Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030581. [PMID: 30700007 PMCID: PMC6387126 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death globally, accounting for approximately 800,000 deaths annually. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer, making up about 80% of cases. Liver fibrosis and its end-stage disease, cirrhosis, are major risk factors for HCC. A fibrotic liver typically shows persistent hepatocyte death and compensatory regeneration, chronic inflammation, and an increase in reactive oxygen species, which collaboratively create a tumor-promoting microenvironment via inducing genetic alterations and chromosomal instability, and activating various oncogenic molecular signaling pathways. In this article, we review recent advances in fields of liver fibrosis and carcinogenesis, and consider several molecular signaling pathways that promote hepato-carcinogenesis under the microenvironment of liver fibrosis. In particular, we pay attention to emerging roles of the Hippo-YAP/TAZ signaling pathway in stromal activation, hepatic fibrosis, and liver cancer.
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22
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Shibata M, Ham K, Hoque MO. A time for YAP1: Tumorigenesis, immunosuppression and targeted therapy. Int J Cancer 2018; 143:2133-2144. [PMID: 29696628 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.31561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
YAP1 is one of the most important effectors of the Hippo pathway and has crosstalk with other cancer promoting pathways. YAP1 contributes to cancer development in various ways that include promoting malignant phenotypes, expansion of cancer stem cells and drug resistance of cancer cells. Because pharmacologic or genetic inhibition of YAP1 suppresses tumor progression and increases the drug sensitivity, targeting YAP1 may open a fertile avenue for a novel therapeutic approach in relevant cancers. Recent enormous studies have established the efficacy of immunotherapy, and several immune checkpoint blockades are in clinical use or in the phase of development to treat various cancer types. Immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment (TME) induced by cancer cells, immune cells and associated stromal cells promotes tumor progression and causes drug resistance. Accumulated evidences of scientific efforts from the last few years suggest that YAP1 influences macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells and regulatory T-cells to facilitate immunosuppressive TME. Although the underlying mechanisms is not clearly discerned, it is evident that YAP1 activating pathways in different cellular components induce immunosuppressive TME. In this review, we summarize the evidences involved in the dual roles of YAP1 in cancer development and immunosuppression in the TME. We also discuss the possibility of YAP1 as a novel therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Shibata
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Kendall Ham
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Mohammad Obaidul Hoque
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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Ma MC, Chen YJ, Chiu TJ, Lan J, Liu CT, Chen YC, Tien HH, Chen YY. Positive expression of Midkine predicts early recurrence and poor prognosis of initially resectable combined hepatocellular cholangiocarcinoma. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:227. [PMID: 29486735 PMCID: PMC5830052 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-4146-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Post-surgical prognosis is usually poor for combined hepatocellular cholangiocarcinoma (CHCC-CC), a rare primary liver cancer. Although midkine (MK) is a prognostic biomarker for several known cancers, it is not known whether it can be used as such in resectable CHCC-CC. This study examined whether MK expression can predict recurrence and survival in patients with resectable CHCC-CC. Methods We retrospectively enrolled 52 patients with resectable CHCC-CC who had received curative hepatic resections. MK expression was assessed in post-surgical immunohistochemical studies of specimens in paraffin blocks. Clinical outcomes were analyzed from medical records. Results Two-year disease-free and three-year overall survival rates were 42.1% and 44.6%. MK was expressed in 30 patients. Univariate analysis showed patients positively expressing MK had a significantly poorer 2-year disease free and three-year overall survival. Multivariate analysis found positive MK expression independently predicted recurrence. Conclusions Positive expression of MK predicts poor prognosis in patients with resectable CHCC-CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Chun Ma
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niaosong District, Kaohsiung, 833, Taiwan.,Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ju Chen
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, E-Da hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tai-Jan Chiu
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niaosong District, Kaohsiung, 833, Taiwan.,Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Kaohsiung Chang Gung Cholangiocarcinoma and Pancreatic Cancer Group, Cancer Center, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung, 833, Taiwan
| | - Jui Lan
- Department of Pathology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Ting Liu
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niaosong District, Kaohsiung, 833, Taiwan.,Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ching Chen
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niaosong District, Kaohsiung, 833, Taiwan.,Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Ho Tien
- Department of Nursing, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Cancer Center, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Yang Chen
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niaosong District, Kaohsiung, 833, Taiwan. .,Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. .,Kaohsiung Chang Gung Cholangiocarcinoma and Pancreatic Cancer Group, Cancer Center, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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24
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Chakraborty S, Hong W. Linking Extracellular Matrix Agrin to the Hippo Pathway in Liver Cancer and Beyond. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10020045. [PMID: 29415512 PMCID: PMC5836077 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10020045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to the structural and scaffolding role, the extracellular matrix (ECM) is emerging as a hub for biomechanical signal transduction that is frequently relayed to intracellular sensors to regulate diverse cellular processes. At a macroscopic scale, matrix rigidity confers long-ranging effects contributing towards tissue fibrosis and cancer. The transcriptional co-activators YAP/TAZ, better known as the converging effectors of the Hippo pathway, are widely recognized for their new role as nuclear mechanosensors during organ homeostasis and cancer. Still, how YAP/TAZ senses these “stiffness cues” from the ECM remains enigmatic. Here, we highlight the recent perspectives on the role of agrin in mechanosignaling from the ECM via antagonizing the Hippo pathway to activate YAP/TAZ in the contexts of cancer, neuromuscular junctions, and cardiac regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayan Chakraborty
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A-STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore.
| | - Wanjin Hong
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A-STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore.
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25
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Zhu JN, Jiang L, Jiang JH, Yang X, Li XY, Zeng JX, Shi RY, Shi Y, Pan XR, Han ZP, Wei LX. Hepatocyte nuclear factor-1beta enhances the stemness of hepatocellular carcinoma cells through activation of the Notch pathway. Sci Rep 2017; 7:4793. [PMID: 28684878 PMCID: PMC5500528 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-04116-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte nuclear factor-1beta plays an important role in the development and progression of liver cancer. In recent years, the expression of HNF-1β has been reported to be associated with risk for a variety of cancers. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether the expression of HNF-1β promotes the malignancy of HCC and its mechanism. We retrospectively investigated the expression of HNF-1β in 90 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and found that the high expression of HNF-1β indicated poor prognosis. We overexpressed HNF-1β in liver cancer cell lines and found the expression of liver progenitor cell markers and stemness were upregulated. The invasion ability and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated genes were also significantly higher in liver cancer cells overexpressing HNF-1β than in the control group. A mechanistic study suggested the activation of the Notch signalling pathway probably plays a key role downstream of HNF-1β. More importantly, HNF-1β promoted tumourigenesis of HCC cells in vivo. In conclusion, high expression of HNF-1β not only promoted the de-differentiation of HCC cells into liver cancer stem cells through activating the Notch pathway but also enhanced the invasive potential of HCC cells and EMT occurrence, which would contribute to the enhancement of cell migration and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Ni Zhu
- Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy Center, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Jiang
- Center of Digestive Endoscopy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Shandong, China
| | - Jing-Hua Jiang
- Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy Center, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Yang
- Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy Center, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Li
- Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy Center, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | - Yang Shi
- Department of general surgery, Chinese PLA 82nd Hospital, Jiangsu, China
| | | | - Zhi-Peng Han
- Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy Center, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Li-Xin Wei
- Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy Center, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.
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26
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Lee K, Lee KB, Jung HY, Yi NJ, Lee KW, Suh KS, Jang JJ. The correlation between poor prognosis and increased yes-associated protein 1 expression in keratin 19 expressing hepatocellular carcinomas and cholangiocarcinomas. BMC Cancer 2017. [PMID: 28645247 PMCID: PMC5481924 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-017-3431-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Hippo pathway plays a vital role in liver regeneration and development by determining cellular lineage and regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis. In this study, we aimed to assess the role of the Hippo pathway in hepatic carcinogenesis and morphogenesis by examining Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) expression in the spectrum of hepatic carcinomas based on cellular lineage. Methods We examined 913 primary hepatic carcinomas, including hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), combined hepatocellular and cholangiocarcinomas (cHC-CCAs), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas (IHCCAs) and perihilar extrahepatic bile duct carcinomas (EHBCAs). Our study group was categorized into 8 disease groups, based on histological diagnosis and cytokeratin 19 (CK19) expression, and immunohistochemistry was used to detect and compare YAP1 expression levels between the groups. The eight disease groups we identified were: 1) CK19(−) HCC, 2) CK19(−) scirrhous HCC, 3) CK19(+) HCC, 4) stem cell feature of cHC-CCA, 5) classical cHC-CCA, 6) cholangiolocellular IHCCA, 7) non-cholangiolocellular IHCCA, and 8) EHBCA. Results Positive rates of YAP1 were the highest in the EHBCA group (21%). CK19(+) HCC and non-cholangiolocellular IHCCA groups also showed high expression levels (10% -11%), while the CK19 (−) HCC, CK19 (−) scirrhous HCC, cHC-CCA, and cholangiolocellular IHCCA groups showed low expression levels, ranging between 0% and 5%. Survival analysis, restricted to pT1 stage HCCs and IHCCAs, showed poor overall survival for YAP1(+) IHCCA patients (39 ± 17 vs. 109 ± 10 months, mean ± SD, log rank p-value 0.005). For HCCs, a trend of poor progression-free survival for YAP1(+) HCCs was observed (39 ± 18 vs. 81 ± 5 months, mean ± SD, log rank p-value 0.205) Conclusions YAP1 activation was more commonly found in CCAs than in pure HCCs. However, a differing pattern of YAP1 expression between cHC-CCAs and CK19(+) HCCs and the poor prognosis of YAP1 positive hepatic carcinomas suggests that YAP1 may have a preferential role in aggressive tumor behavior, rather than in the determination of cellular lineage in hepatic carcinomas. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12885-017-3431-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- KyuHo Lee
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 110-744, South Korea
| | - Kyoung-Bun Lee
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 110-744, South Korea.
| | - Hae Yoen Jung
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 110-744, South Korea
| | - Nam-Joon Yi
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 110-744, South Korea
| | - Kwang-Woong Lee
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 110-744, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Suk Suh
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 110-744, South Korea
| | - Ja-June Jang
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 110-744, South Korea
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27
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Noh MG, Kim SS, Hwang EC, Kwon DD, Choi C. Yes-Associated Protein Expression Is Correlated to the Differentiation of Prostate Adenocarcinoma. J Pathol Transl Med 2017; 51:365-373. [PMID: 28602051 PMCID: PMC5525043 DOI: 10.4132/jptm.2017.05.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 04/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Yes-associated protein (YAP) in the Hippo signaling pathway is a growth control pathway that regulates cell proliferation and stem cell functions. Abnormal regulation of YAP was reported in human cancers including liver, lung, breast, skin, colon, and ovarian cancer. However, the function of YAP is not known in prostate adenocarcinoma. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of YAP in tumorigenesis, differentiation, and prognosis of prostate adenocarcinoma. Methods The nuclear and cytoplasmic expression of YAP was examined in 188 cases of prostate adenocarcinoma using immunohistochemistry. YAP expression levels were evaluated in the nucleus and cytoplasm of the prostate adenocarcinoma and the adjacent normal prostate tissue. The presence of immunopositive tumor cells was evaluated and interpreted in comparison with the patients’ clinicopathologic data. Results YAP expression levels were not significantly different between normal epithelial cells and prostate adenocarcinoma. However, YAP expression level was significantly higher in carcinomas with a high Gleason grades (8–10) than in carcinomas with a low Gleason grades (6–7) (p < .01). There was no statistical correlation between YAP expression and stage, age, prostate-specific antigen level, and tumor volume. Biochemical recurrence (BCR)–free survival was significantly lower in patients with high YAP expressing cancers (p = .02). However high YAP expression was not an independent prognostic factor for BCR in the Cox proportional hazards model. Conclusions The results suggested that YAP is not associated with prostate adenocarcinoma development, but it may be associated with the differentiation of the adenocarcinoma. YAP was not associated with BCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung-Giun Noh
- Department of Pathology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Sung Sun Kim
- Department of Pathology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Eu Chang Hwang
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Dong Deuk Kwon
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Chan Choi
- Department of Pathology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
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28
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Gera S, Ettel M, Acosta-Gonzalez G, Xu R. Clinical features, histology, and histogenesis of combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma. World J Hepatol 2017; 9:300-309. [PMID: 28293379 PMCID: PMC5332419 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v9.i6.300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) is a rare tumor with poor prognosis, with incidence ranging from 1.0%-4.7% of all primary hepatic tumors. This entity will be soon renamed as hepato-cholangiocarcinoma. The known risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been implicated for CHC including viral hepatitis and cirrhosis. It is difficult to diagnose this tumor pre-operatively. The predominant histologic component within the tumor largely determines the predominant radiographic features making it a difficult distinction. Heterogeneous and overlapping imaging features of HCC and cholangiocarcinoma should raise the suspicion for CHC and multiple core biopsies (from different areas of tumor) are recommended before administering treatment. Serum tumor markers CA19-9 and alpha-fetoprotein can aid in the diagnosis, but it remains a challenging diagnosis prior to resection. There is sufficient data to support bipotent hepatic progenitor cells as the cell of origin for CHC. The current World Health Organization classification categorizes two main types of CHC based on histo-morphological features: Classical type and CHC with stem cell features. Liver transplant is one of the available treatment modalities with other management options including transarterial chemoembolization, radiofrequency ablation, and percutaneous ethanol injection. We present a review paper on CHC highlighting the risk factors, origin, histological classification and therapeutic modalities.
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29
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Nishio M, Maehama T, Goto H, Nakatani K, Kato W, Omori H, Miyachi Y, Togashi H, Shimono Y, Suzuki A. Hippo vs. Crab: tissue-specific functions of the mammalian Hippo pathway. Genes Cells 2017; 22:6-31. [PMID: 28078823 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Hippo signaling pathway is a vital suppressor of tumorigenesis that is often inactivated in human cancers. In normal cells, the Hippo pathway is triggered by external forces such as cell crowding, or changes to the extracellular matrix or cell polarity. Once activated, Hippo signaling down-regulates transcription supported by the paralogous cofactors YAP1 and TAZ. The Hippo pathway's functions in normal and cancer biology have been dissected by studies of mutant mice with null or conditional tissue-specific mutations of Hippo signaling elements. In this review, we attempt to systematically summarize results that have been gleaned from detailed in vivo characterizations of these mutants. Our goal is to describe the physiological roles of Hippo signaling in several normal organ systems, as well as to emphasize how disruption of the Hippo pathway, and particularly hyperactivation of YAP1/TAZ, can be oncogenic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Nishio
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan.,Division of Cancer Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Maehama
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hiroki Goto
- Division of Cancer Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Keisuke Nakatani
- Division of Cancer Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Wakako Kato
- Division of Cancer Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Omori
- Division of Cancer Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yosuke Miyachi
- Division of Cancer Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hideru Togashi
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yohei Shimono
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Akira Suzuki
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan.,Division of Cancer Genetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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Simile MM, Latte G, Demartis MI, Brozzetti S, Calvisi DF, Porcu A, Feo CF, Seddaiu MA, Daino L, Berasain C, Tomasi ML, Avila MA, Feo F, Pascale RM. Post-translational deregulation of YAP1 is genetically controlled in rat liver cancer and determines the fate and stem-like behavior of the human disease. Oncotarget 2016; 7:49194-49216. [PMID: 27359056 PMCID: PMC5226501 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies showed that YAP1 is over-expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here we observed higher expression of Yap1/Ctgf axis in dysplastic nodules and HCC chemically-induced in F344 rats, genetically susceptible to hepatocarcinogenesis, than in lesions induced in resistant BN rats. In BN rats, highest increase in Yap1-tyr357, p73 phosphorylation and Caspase 3 cleavage occurred. In human HCCs with poorer prognosis (< 3 years survival after partial liver resection, HCCP), levels of YAP1, CTGF, 14-3-3, and TEAD proteins, and YAP1-14-3-3 and YAP1-TEAD complexes were higher than in HCCs with better outcome (> 3 years survival; HCCB). In the latter, higher levels of phosphorylated YAP1-ser127, YAP1-tyr357 and p73, YAP1 ubiquitination, and Caspase 3 cleavage occurred. Expression of stemness markers NANOG, OCT-3/4, and CD133 were highest in HCCP and correlated with YAP1 and YAP1-TEAD levels. In HepG2, Huh7, and Hep3B cells, forced YAP1 over-expression led to stem cell markers expression and increased cell viability, whereas inhibition of YAP1 expression by specific siRNA, or transfection of mutant YAP1 which does not bind to TEAD, induced opposite alterations. These changes were associated, in Huh7 cells transfected with YAP1 or YAP1 siRNA, with stimulation or inhibition of cell migration and invasivity, respectively. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis showed that YAP1 transfection in Huh7 cells induces over-expression of genes involved in tumor stemness. In conclusion, Yap1 post-translational modifications favoring its ubiquitination and apoptosis characterize HCC with better prognosis, whereas conditions favoring the formation of YAP1-TEAD complexes are associated with aggressiveness and acquisition of stemness features by HCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria M. Simile
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Gavinella Latte
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria I. Demartis
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Stefania Brozzetti
- Department of Surgery “Pietro Valdoni”, University of Rome ‘Sapienza’', Rome, Italy
| | - Diego F. Calvisi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Alberto Porcu
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Surgery, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Claudio F. Feo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Surgery, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria A. Seddaiu
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Lucia Daino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Carmen Berasain
- Division of Hepatology, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- IDISNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria L. Tomasi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- USC Research Center for Liver Diseases, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Matias A. Avila
- Division of Hepatology, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- IDISNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Francesco Feo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Rosa M. Pascale
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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31
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Zanconato F, Cordenonsi M, Piccolo S. YAP/TAZ at the Roots of Cancer. Cancer Cell 2016; 29:783-803. [PMID: 27300434 PMCID: PMC6186419 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2016.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1310] [Impact Index Per Article: 163.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
YAP and TAZ are highly related transcriptional regulators pervasively activated in human malignancies. Recent work indicates that, remarkably, YAP/TAZ are essential for cancer initiation or growth of most solid tumors. Their activation induces cancer stem cell attributes, proliferation, chemoresistance, and metastasis. YAP/TAZ are sensors of the structural and mechanical features of the cell microenvironment. A number of cancer-associated extrinsic and intrinsic cues conspire to overrule the YAP-inhibiting microenvironment of normal tissues, including changes in mechanotransduction, inflammation, oncogenic signaling, and regulation of the Hippo pathway. Addiction to YAP/TAZ thus potentially represents a central cancer vulnerability that may be exploited therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Zanconato
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, viale Colombo 3, 35126 Padua, Italy
| | - Michelangelo Cordenonsi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, viale Colombo 3, 35126 Padua, Italy.
| | - Stefano Piccolo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, viale Colombo 3, 35126 Padua, Italy.
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Wang AQ, Zheng YC, Du J, Zhu CP, Huang HC, Wang SS, Wu LC, Wan XS, Zhang HH, Miao RY, Sang XT, Zhao HT. Combined hepatocellular cholangiocarcinoma: Controversies to be addressed. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:4459-4465. [PMID: 27182157 PMCID: PMC4858629 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i18.4459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Combined hepatocellular cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) accounts for 0.4%-14.2% of primary liver cancer cases and possesses pathological features of both hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. Since this disease was first described and classified in 1949, the classification of CHC has continuously evolved. The latest definition and classification of CHC by the World Health Organization is based on the speculation that CHC arises from hepatic progenitor cells. However, there is no evidence demonstrating the common origin of different components of CHC. Furthermore, the definition of CHC subtypes is still ambiguous and the identification of CHC subtype when a single tumor contains many components has remained unresolved. In addition, there is no summary on the newly recognized histopathology features or the contribution of CHC components to prognosis and outcome of this disease. Here we provide a review of the current literature to address these questions.
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Park YY, Sohn BH, Johnson RL, Kang MH, Kim SB, Shim JJ, Mangala LS, Kim JH, Yoo JE, Rodriguez-Aguayo C, Pradeep S, Hwang JE, Jang HJ, Lee HS, Rupaimoole R, Lopez-Berestein G, Jeong W, Park IS, Park YN, Sood AK, Mills GB, Lee JS. Yes-associated protein 1 and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif activate the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 pathway by regulating amino acid transporters in hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatology 2016; 63:159-72. [PMID: 26389641 PMCID: PMC4881866 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Metabolic activation is a common feature of many cancer cells and is frequently associated with the clinical outcomes of various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma. Thus, aberrantly activated metabolic pathways in cancer cells are attractive targets for cancer therapy. Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are oncogenic downstream effectors of the Hippo tumor suppressor pathway, which is frequently inactivated in many cancers. Our study revealed that YAP1/TAZ regulates amino acid metabolism by up-regulating expression of the amino acid transporters solute carrier family 38 member 1 (SLC38A1) and solute carrier family 7 member 5 (SLC7A5). Subsequently, increased uptake of amino acids by the transporters (SLC38A1 and SLC7A5) activates mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), a master regulator of cell growth, and stimulates cell proliferation. We also show that high expression of SLC38A1 and SLC7A5 is significantly associated with shorter survival in hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Furthermore, inhibition of the transporters and mTORC1 significantly blocks YAP1/TAZ-mediated tumorigenesis in the liver. These findings elucidate regulatory networks connecting the Hippo pathway to mTORC1 through amino acid metabolism and the mechanism's potential clinical implications for treating hepatocellular carcinoma. CONCLUSION YAP1 and TAZ regulate cancer metabolism and mTORC1 through regulation of amino acid transportation, and two amino acid transporters, SLC38A1 and SLC7A5, might be important therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Yong Park
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Kleberg Center for Molecular Markers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,ASAN Institute for Life Sciences, ASAN Medical Center, Department of convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 138-736, Korea
| | - Bo Hwa Sohn
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Kleberg Center for Molecular Markers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Randy L. Johnson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Myoung-Hee Kang
- ASAN Institute for Life Sciences, ASAN Medical Center, Department of convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 138-736, Korea
| | - Sang Bae Kim
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Kleberg Center for Molecular Markers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jae-Jun Shim
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Kleberg Center for Molecular Markers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Lingegowda S. Mangala
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ji Hoon Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong Eun Yoo
- Department of Pathology and Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Institute for Medical Convergence, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Cristian Rodriguez-Aguayo
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sunila Pradeep
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jun Eul Hwang
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Kleberg Center for Molecular Markers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hee-Jin Jang
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Kleberg Center for Molecular Markers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hyun-Sung Lee
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Kleberg Center for Molecular Markers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rajesha Rupaimoole
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Gabriel Lopez-Berestein
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Woojin Jeong
- Department of Life Sciences and Research Center for Cellular Homeostasis, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Inn Sun Park
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Young Nyun Park
- Department of Pathology and Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Institute for Medical Convergence, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Anil K. Sood
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Gordon B. Mills
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Kleberg Center for Molecular Markers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ju-Seog Lee
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA,Kleberg Center for Molecular Markers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Sun Z, Xu R, Li X, Ren W, Ou C, Wang Q, Zhang H, Zhang X, Ma J, Wang H, Li G. Prognostic Value of Yes-Associated Protein 1 (YAP1) in Various Cancers: A Meta-Analysis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0135119. [PMID: 26263504 PMCID: PMC4532485 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0135119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) is an effector of Hippo pathway, which is critical for regulating organ size, cell proliferation and tumor growth in mammals. Many previous studies have explored the relationship between YAP1 and various types of cancer. However, these studies were limited by the small samples size and the findings were inconsistent among them. Therefore, a meta-analysis was conducted to assess the association between YAP1 and malignancies. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted for eligible studies in the PubMed, Corchane Library, Web of Knowledge, EMBASE and CBM disc databases from inception to August 1st 2014. After heterogeneity analysis, pooled harzad ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (95%CI) using both fixed and random effect models were estimated in STATA 10.0. Meta regression analysis, subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were performed to explore the potential sources of heterogeneity and to evaluate the robustness of the result. Publication bias was assessed by Egger’s test and funnel plot. Results A total of 21 unique articles from 2009 to 2014, comprising 2983 patients, were analyzed in the meta-analysis. The association of YAP1 expression and overall survival time (OS) was evaluated in 20 studies including 2067 patients. Positive YAP1 showed poorer OS (HR = 1.826; 95% CI = 1.465–2.275; p <0.002). For evaluating disease-free survival time (DFS), 10 studies with 1139 patients were analyzed. Positive YAP1 indicated worse DFS (HR = 2.114; 95%CI = 1.406–3.179; p <0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that both positive nuclear YAP1 (HR = 1.390, 95% CI: 0.810–2.400, p = 0.729) and up-regulation overall YAP1 (HR = 2.237, 95% CI: 1.548–3.232, p <0.001) had poorer OS for patients with malignancies. Similarly, both positive nuclear YAP1 (HR = 3.733, 95% CI: 1.469–9.483, p = 0.001) and up-regulation overall YAP1 (HR = 1.481, 95% CI: 1.163–1.886, p = 0.554) showed worse DFS. The patients with urogenital system cancer had the poorest OS (HR = 2.133, 95% CI: 1.549–2.937, p = 0.020). The patients with alimentary system cancer had the most significant impact on DFS (HR = 1.879, 95% CI: 1.537–2.297, p <0.001). Conclusion Both overall and nuclear YAP1 overexpression are intimately associated with adverse OS and DFS in numerous cancers, suggesting that YAP1 may act as a potential therapeutic targets of these malignancies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenqiang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of Ministry of Health and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Ruiwei Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Infection Control, Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Xiayu Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of Ministry of Health and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer and Disease Genome Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Weiguo Ren
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer and Disease Genome Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chunlin Ou
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of Ministry of Health and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qisan Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of Ministry of Health and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xuemei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of Ministry of Health and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jian Ma
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of Ministry of Health and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer and Disease Genome Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital and The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- * E-mail: (JM); (HJW); (GYL)
| | - Haijiang Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
- * E-mail: (JM); (HJW); (GYL)
| | - Guiyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of Ministry of Health and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer and Disease Genome Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital and The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- * E-mail: (JM); (HJW); (GYL)
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36
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Raggi C, Invernizzi P, Andersen JB. Impact of microenvironment and stem-like plasticity in cholangiocarcinoma: molecular networks and biological concepts. J Hepatol 2015; 62:198-207. [PMID: 25220250 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Revised: 08/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Clinical complexity, anatomic diversity and molecular heterogeneity of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) represent a major challenge in the assessment of effective targeted therapies. Molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the diversity of CCA growth patterns remain a key issue of clinical concern. Crucial questions comprise the nature of the CCA-origin, the initial target for cellular transformation as well as the relationship with the cancer stem cells (CSC) concept. Additionally, since CCA often develops in the context of an inflammatory milieu (cirrhosis and cholangitis), the stromal compartment or tumour microenvironment (TME) likely promotes initiation and progression of this malignancy, contributing to its heterogeneity. This review will emphasize the dynamic interplay between stem-like intrinsic and TME-extrinsic pathways, which may represent novel options for multi-targeted therapies in CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Raggi
- Liver Unit and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Liver Unit and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Jesper B Andersen
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Metaplastic carcinoma show different expression pattern of YAP compared to triple-negative breast cancer. Tumour Biol 2014; 36:1207-12. [DOI: 10.1007/s13277-014-2735-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
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38
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Sanada Y, Kawashita Y, Okada S, Azuma T, Matsuo S. Review to better understand the macroscopic subtypes and histogenesis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. World J Gastrointest Pathophysiol 2014; 5:188-199. [PMID: 25133021 PMCID: PMC4133518 DOI: 10.4291/wjgp.v5.i3.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 05/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is macroscopically classified into three subtypes, mass-forming-type, periductal infiltrating-type, and intraductal growth-type. Each subtype should be preoperatively differentiated to perform the valid surgical resection. Recent researches have revealed the clinical, radiologic, pathobiological characteristics of each subtype. We reviewed recently published studies covering various aspects of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), focusing especially on the macroscopic subtypes and stem cell features to better understand the pathophysiology of ICC and to establish the valid therapeutic strategy.
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