Knockdown of Pyruvate Kinase M Inhibits Cell Growth and Migration by Reducing NF-kB Activity in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells

High BMI Is Associated with Changes in Peritumor Breast Adipose Tissue That Increase the Invasive Activity of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women with multiple risk factors including smoking, genetics, environmental factors, and obesity. Smoking and obesity are the top two risk factors for the development of breast cancer. The effect of obesity on adipose tissue mediates the pathogenesis of breast cancer in the context of obesity. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a breast cancer subtype within which the cells lack estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. TNBC is the deadliest breast cancer subtype. The 5-year survival rates for patients with TNBC are 8-16% lower than the 5-year survival rates for patients with estrogen-receptor-positive breast tumors. In addition, TNBC patients have early relapse rates (3-5 years after diagnosis). Obesity is associated with an increased risk for TNBC, larger TNBC tumors, and increased breast cancer metastasis compared with lean women. Thus, novel therapeutic approaches are warranted to treat TNBC in the context of obesity. In this paper, we show that peritumor breast adipose-derived secretome (ADS) from patients with a high (>30) BMI is a stronger inducer of TNBC cell invasiveness and JAG1 expression than peritumor breast ADS from patients with low (<30) BMI. These findings indicate that patient BMI-associated changes in peritumor AT induce changes in peritumor ADS, which in turn acts on TNBC cells to stimulate JAG1 expression and cancer cell invasiveness.

Non-metabolic enzyme function of pyruvate kinase M2 in breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is a prevalent malignant tumor in women, and its incidence has been steadily increasing in recent years. Compared with other types of cancer, it has the highest mortality and morbidity rates in women. So, it is crucial to investigate the underlying mechanisms of BC development and identify specific therapeutic targets. Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), an important metabolic enzyme in glycolysis, has been found to be highly expressed in BC. It can also move to the nucleus and interact with various transcription factors and proteins, including hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), β-catenin, cellular-myelocytomatosis oncogene (c-Myc), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and mammalian sterile 20-like kinase 1 (MST1). This interaction leads to non-metabolic functions that control the cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and tumor microenvironment in BC. This review provides an overview of the latest advancements in understanding the interactions between PKM2 and different transcription factors and proteins that influence the initiation and progression of BC. It also examined how natural drugs and noncoding RNAs affect various biological processes in BC cells through the regulation of the non-metabolic enzyme functions of PKM2. The findings provide valuable insights for improving the prognosis and developing targeted therapies for BC in the coming years.

Pharmacoinformatics approach for the screening of Kovidra (Bauhinia variegata) phytoconstituents against tumor suppressor protein in triple negative breast cancer

Globally, 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer, with 6,85000 mortalities in year 2021; making it the world's most prevalent cancer. This growing global burden necessitates a new treatment option, and plant-based medicines offers a promising alternative to conventional cancer treatment. In this work, screening of phytoconstituents of an indigenous therapeutic plant, Bauhinia variegata carried out for potential regulator of tumor suppressor protein p53. Here, an in-silico analysis was employed to develop more effective, pharmaceutically potent small drug-like compounds that target tumor suppressor protein p53. The methanol and aqueous powdered extracts of Bauhinia variegata were prepared and phytochemically evaluated along with antioxidant property evaluation. The LC50 of methanol (325.33 µg/ml) and aqueous extract (361.15 µg/ml) showed their cytotoxic characteristics. Further, GCMS analysis of both the extracts reveals total 57 secondary metabolites. Among these, four lead compounds; compound 1, compound 2, compound 3 and compound 4 were found to have the highest binding ability (-8.15 to -5.40 kcal/mol) with p53. MD simulation and binding free energy validates these findings with highest binding free energy (-67.09 ± 4.87 kcal/mol) towards p53 by the lead phytocompound 2. Selected compounds exhibit excellent pharmacokinetic features and drug-like characteristics. The acute toxicity (LD50) values of the lead phytocompounds ranges from 670 mg/kg to 3100 mg/kg, with toxicity classes of IV and V. As a result, these druggable phytochemicals could serve as potential lead applicants for triple negative breast cancer treatment. However, more in vitro and in vivo research is planned to produce future breast cancer medicine. HIGHLIGHTSScreening of phytoconstituents of an indigenous therapeutic plant, Bauhinia variegata, for potential regulator of tumor suppressor protein p53.The LC50 of methanol (325.33µg/ml) and aqueous extract (361.15µg/ml) showed their cytotoxic characteristics.GCMS analysis of both the extracts reveals total 57 secondary metabolites. Among these, four lead compounds were found to have the highest binding affinity (-8.153 to -5.401 kcal/mol) with tumor suppressor protein p53.MD simulation along with the Prime MM/GBSA binding free energy validates this discovery with highest binding free energy (-67.09 ± 4.87 kcal/mol) towards p53 by the lead compound 2.The acute toxicity (LD50) values of the lead phytocompounds ranges from 670 mg/kg to 3100 mg/kg, with toxicity classes of IV and V.As a result, these druggable phytochemicals could serve as potential lead applicants for triple negative breast cancer treatment.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Mechanistic Investigation of Thiazole-Based Pyruvate Kinase M2 Inhibitor Causing Tumor Regression in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a deadly breast cancer with a poor prognosis. Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), a key rate-limiting enzyme in glycolysis, is abnormally highly expressed in TNBC. Overexpressed PKM2 amplifies glucose uptake, enhances lactate production, and suppresses autophagy, thereby expediting the progression of oncogenic processes. A high mortality rate demands novel chemotherapeutic regimens at once. Herein, we report the rational development of an imidazopyridine-based thiazole derivative 7d as an anticancer agent inhibiting PKM2. Nanomolar range PKM2 inhibitors with favorable drug-like properties emerged through enzyme assays. Experiments on two-dimensional (2D)/three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures, lactate release assay, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) validated 7d preclinically. In vivo, 7d outperformed lapatinib in tumor regression. This investigation introduces a lead-based approach characterized by its clear-cut chemistry and robust efficacy in designing an exceptionally potent inhibitor targeting PKM2, with a focus on combating TNBC.

BRCA1 mutation promotes sprouting angiogenesis in inflammatory cancer-associated fibroblast of triple-negative breast cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer subtype with inferior outcomes owing to its low treatment response and high invasiveness. Based on abundant cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and frequent mutation of breast cancer-associated 1 (BRCA1) in TNBC, the characteristics of CAFs in TNBC patients with BRCA1 mutation compared to wild-type were investigated using single-cell analysis. Intriguingly, we observed that characteristics of inflammatory CAFs (iCAFs) were enriched in patients with BRCA1 mutation compared to the wild-type. iCAFs in patients with BRCA1 mutation exhibited outgoing signals to endothelial cells (ECs) clusters, including chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). During CXCL signaling, the atypical chemokine receptor 1 (ACKR1) mainly interacts with CXCL family members in tumor endothelial cells (TECs). ACKR1-high TECs also showed high expression levels of angiogenesis-related genes, such as ANGPT2, MMP1, and SELE, which might lead to EC migration. Furthermore, iCAFs showed VEGF signals for FLT1 and KDR in TECs, which showed high co-expression with tip cell marker genes, including ZEB1 and MAFF, involved in sprouting angiogenesis. Moreover, BRCA1 mutation patients with relatively abundant iCAFs and tip cell gene expression exhibited a limited response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, including cisplatin and bevacizumab. Importantly, our study observed the intricate link between iCAFs-mediated angiogenesis and chemoresistance in TNBC with BRCA1 mutation.

Fat Biology in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Immune Regulation, Fibrosis, and Senescence

Obesity, now officially recognized as a disease requiring intervention, has emerged as a significant health concern due to its strong association with elevated susceptibility to diverse diseases and various types of cancer, including breast cancer. The link between obesity and cancer is intricate, with obesity exerting a significant impact on cancer recurrence and elevated mortality rates. Among the various subtypes of breast cancer, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive, accounting for 15% to 20% of all cases. TNBC is characterized by low expression of estrogen receptors and progesterone receptors as well as the human epidermal growth factor 2 receptor protein. This subtype poses distinct challenges in terms of treatment response and exhibits strong invasiveness. Furthermore, TNBC has garnered attention because of its association with obesity, in which excess body fat and reduced physical activity have been identified as contributing factors to the increased incidence of this aggressive form of breast cancer. In this comprehensive review, the impact of obesity on TNBC was explored. Specifically, we focused on the three key mechanisms by which obesity affects TNBC development and progression: modification of the immune profile, facilitation of fibrosis, and initiation of senescence. By comprehensively examining these mechanisms, we illuminated the complex interplay between TNBC and obesity, facilitating the development of novel approaches for prevention, early detection, and effective management of this challenging disease.

SOX4-SMARCA4 complex promotes glycolysis-dependent TNBC cell growth through transcriptional regulation of Hexokinase 2

Tumor cells rely on increased glycolytic capacity to promote cell growth and progression. While glycolysis is known to be upregulated in the majority of triple negative (TNBC) or basal-like subtype breast cancers, the mechanism remains unclear. Here, we used integrative genomic analyses to identify a subset of basal-like tumors characterized by increased expression of the oncogenic transcription factor SOX4 and its co-factor the SWI/SNF ATPase SMARCA4. These tumors are defined by unique gene expression programs that correspond with increased tumor proliferation and activation of key metabolic pathways, including glycolysis. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that the SOX4-SMARCA4 complex mediates glycolysis through direct transcriptional regulation of Hexokinase 2 (HK2) and that aberrant HK2 expression and altered glycolytic capacity are required to mediate SOX4-SMARCA4-dependent cell growth. Collectively, we have defined the SOX4-SMARCA4-HK2 signaling axis in basal-like breast tumors and established that this axis promotes metabolic reprogramming which is required to maintain tumor cell growth.

Copper-related genes predict prognosis and characteristics of breast cancer

Background

The role of copper in cancer treatment is multifaceted, with copper homeostasis-related genes associated with both breast cancer prognosis and chemotherapy resistance. Interestingly, both elimination and overload of copper have been reported to have therapeutic potential in cancer treatment. Despite these findings, the exact relationship between copper homeostasis and cancer development remains unclear, and further investigation is needed to clarify this complexity.

Methods

The pan-cancer gene expression and immune infiltration analysis were performed using the Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) dataset. The R software packages were employed to analyze the expression and mutation status of breast cancer samples. After constructing a prognosis model to separate breast cancer samples by LASSO-Cox regression, we examined the immune statement, survival status, drug sensitivity and metabolic characteristics of the high- and low-copper related genes scoring groups. We also studied the expression of the constructed genes using the human protein atlas database and analyzed their related pathways. Finally, copper staining was performed with the clinical sample to investigate the distribution of copper in breast cancer tissue and paracancerous tissue.

Results

Pan-cancer analysis showed that copper-related genes are associated with breast cancer, and the immune infiltration profile of breast cancer samples is significantly different from that of other cancers. The essential copper-related genes of LASSO-Cox regression were ATP7B (ATPase Copper Transporting Beta) and DLAT (Dihydrolipoamide S-Acetyltransferase), whose associated genes were enriched in the cell cycle pathway. The low-copper related genes scoring group presented higher levels of immune activation, better probabilities of survival, enrichment in pathways related to pyruvate metabolism and apoptosis, and higher sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs. Immunohistochemistry staining showed high protein expression of ATP7B and DLAT in breast cancer samples. The copper staining showed copper distribution in breast cancer tissue.

Conclusion

This study displayed the potential impacts of copper-related genes on the overall survival, immune infiltration, drug sensitivity and metabolic profile of breast cancer, which could predict patients' survival and tumor statement. These findings may serve to support future research efforts aiming at improving the management of breast cancer.

Comprehensive research into prognostic and immune signatures of transcription factor family in breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer (BRCA) is the most common malignancy with high morbidity and mortality in women, and transcription factor (TF) is closely related to the occurrence and development of BRCA. This study was designed to identify a prognostic gene signature based on TF family to reveal immune characteristics and prognostic survival of BRCA.

METHODS

In this study, RNA-sequence with corresponding clinical data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and GSE42568. Prognostic differentially expressed transcription factor family genes (TFDEGs) were screened to construct a risk score model, after which BRCA patients were stratified into low-risk and high-risk groups based on their corresponding risk scores. Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis was applied to evaluate the prognostic implication of risk score model, and a nomogram model was developed and validated with the TCGA and GSE20685. Furthermore, the GSEA revealed pathological processes and signaling pathways enriched in the low-risk and high-risk groups. Finally, analyses regarding levels of immune infiltration, immune checkpoints and chemotactic factors were all completed to investigate the correlation between the risk score and tumor immune microenvironment (TIME).

RESULTS

A prognostic 9-gene signature based on TFDEGs was selected to establish a risk score model. According to KM analyses, high-risk group witnessed a significantly worse overall survival (OS) than low-risk group in both TCGA-BRCA and GSE20685. Furthermore, the nomogram model proved great possibility in predicting the OS of BRCA patients. As indicted in GSEA analysis, tumor-associated pathological processes and pathways were relatively enriched in high-risk group, and the risk score was negatively correlated with ESTIMATE score, infiltration levels of CD4+ and CD8+T cells, as well as expression levels of immune checkpoints and chemotactic factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The prognostic model based on TFDEGs could distinguish as a novel biomarker for predicting prognosis of BRCA patients; in addition, it may also be utilized to identify potential benefit population from immunotherapy in different TIME and predict potential drug targets.

Network Pharmacology and in vitro Experimental Verification on Intervention of Quercetin, Present in Chinese Medicine Yishen Qutong Granules, on Esophageal Cancer

OBJECTIVE

To explore the potential mechanism of Yishen Qutong Granules (YSQTG) for the treatment of esophageal cancer using network pharmacology and experimental research.

METHODS

The effective components and molecular mechanism of YSQTG in treating esophageal cancer were expounded based on network pharmacology and molecular docking. The key compound was identified by high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) to verify the malignant phenotype of the key compounds in the treatment of esophageal cancer. Then, the interaction proteins of key compounds were screened by pull-down assay combined with mass spectrometry. RNA-seq was used to screen the differential genes in the treatment of esophageal cancer by key compounds, and the potential mechanism of key compounds on the main therapeutic targets was verified.

RESULTS

Totally 76 effective compounds of YSQTG were found, as well as 309 related targets, and 102 drug and disease interaction targets. The drug-compound-target network of YSQTG was constructed, suggesting that quercetin, luteolin, wogonin, kaempferol and baicalein may be the most important compounds, while quercetin had higher degree value and degree centrality, which might be the key compound in YSQTG. The HPLC-MS results also showed the stable presence of quercetin in YSQTG. By establishing a protein interaction network, the main therapeutic targets of YSQTG in treating esophageal cancer were Jun proto-oncogene, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor, and RELA proto-oncogene. The results of cell function experiments in vitro showed that quercetin could inhibit proliferation, invasion, and clonal formation of esophageal carcinoma cells. Quercetin mainly affected the biological processes of esophageal cancer cells, such as proliferation, cell cycle, and cell metastasis. A total of 357 quercetin interacting proteins were screened, and 531 genes were significantly changed. Further pathway enrichment analysis showed that quercetin mainly affects the metabolic pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, and nuclear factor kappa B (NF- κ B) signaling pathway, etc. Quercetin, the key compound of YSQTG, had stronger binding activity by molecular docking. Pull-down assay confirmed that NF- κ B was a quercetin-specific interaction protein, and quercetin could significantly reduce the protein level of NF- κ B, the main therapeutic target.

CONCLUSION

YSQTG can be multi-component, multi-target, multi-channel treatment of esophageal cancer, it is a potential drug for the treatment of esophageal cancer.

Inhibition of triple negative breast cancer-associated inflammation and progression by N- acylethanolamine acid amide hydrolase (NAAA)

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with high mortality due to the high expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and lack of targeted therapies. N-acylethanolamine acid amidase (NAAA) is an N-terminal cysteine hydrolase that promotes inflammatory responses through the deactivation of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), an endogenous bioactive lipid mediator. Here, we examined NAAA expression in TNBC cells (MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-BrM2 cells) and the effects of NAAA inhibition on TNBC tumor growth, using a selective NAAA inhibitor AM11095 (IC₅₀ = 20 nM). TNBC cells expressed elevated levels of full-length and splice mRNAs naaa variants. TNBC cells also express the N-acyl ethanol amides and elevated levels of the two fatty acid cores arachidonic (AA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA). PEA or AM11095 inhibited the secretion of IL-6 and IL-8, reduced the activation of the NF-kB pathway, decreased the expression of VEGF and Placental growth factor (PLGF) in TNBCs, and inhibited tumor cell migration in vitro. Using cellular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), body images of mice administered with human MDA-MB-BrM2 cells treated with AM11095 showed a significant decrease in tumor numbers with a lower volume of tumors and increased mice survival. Mice untreated or treated with vehicle control showed a high number of tumors with high volumes in multiple organs. Thus, NAAA inhibition may constitute a potential therapeutic approach in the management of TNBC-associated inflammation and tumor growth.

circCYP24A1 facilitates esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression through binding PKM2 to regulate NF-κB-induced CCL5 secretion

BACKGROUND

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a common gastrointestinal malignant tumor, while the molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Multiple circular RNAs have been reported to involve in the onset and progression of malignant tumors through various molecular mechanisms. However, the clinical significance and functional mechanism of most circRNAs involved in the progression of ESCC remains obscure.

METHODS

RNA-Seq was used to explore potential circRNAs in participated in 5 pairs of ESCC and their corresponding normal esophageal tissues. The up-regulated circCYP24A1 was selected. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was cunducted to verificated the expression and intracellular localization of circCYP24A1 by using the tissue microarray. The Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards model was used to examine the potential prognostic value of circCYP24A1 on overall survival of ESCC patients. The biological function were confirmed by gain- and loss-of-function approaches in vivo. mRNA expression profile microarray was proformed to investigate the downstream signaling pathways involved in circCYP24A1. RNA pull-down assay and mass spectrometry were performed to identify the proteins associated with circCYP24A1. Rescue experiments were carried out to identified hypothetical regulatory role of circCYP24A1 on ESCC progression in vivo and in virto.

RESULTS

In this study, we identified circCYP24A1 in ESCC tissues by RNA sequencing, which is up-regulated in 114 cases of ESCC tissues and acts as a novel prognosis-related factor. Moreover, circCYP24A1 promoted the ability of proliferation, migration, invasion and clone formation in vitro, as well as tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, chemokine (C-Cmotif) ligand 5 (CCL5) is functional downstream mediator for circCYP24A1, which is screened by mRNA microarray. Moreover, circCYP24A1 physically interacts with M2 isoform of pyruvate kinase (PKM2). Rescue experiments showed that PKM2 knockdown partly reverses the promotional effects of circCYP24A1. It was revealed that circCYP24A1 increases secretion of CCL5 through the mechanism mainly by interacting with PKM2, an activator of NF-κB pathway, and thereby accelerate malignant progression of ESCC.

CONCLUSIONS

Up-regulated circCYP24A1 could activate NF-κB pathway by binding PKM2, which promotes the secretion of CCL5 and accelerate malignant progression of ESCC. Our fndings recommended a novel function for circCYP24A1 as a potential effective biomarker for judging prognosis and a therapeutic target in ESCC.

Diindolylmethane Promotes Metabolic Crisis and Enhances the Efficacy of Centchroman in Breast Cancer: A 1H NMR-Based Approach

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a key metabolite of indole-3-carbinol found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. DIM has been known for its anti-cancerous activity through various mechanisms. Most cancer cells, including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), adapt distinct metabolic reprogramming for rapid growth and proliferation. Hence, targeting metabolic dysregulation may provide a favorable therapeutic condition for the treatment of TNBC. Earlier, we found that DIM increases the intracellular accumulation of Centchroman (CC), a potential anticancer agent, thereby enhancing the therapeutic potential of CC against breast cancer. However, the role of DIM in regulating TNBC cellular metabolism remains unknown. In the current study, we investigated the potential therapeutic interventions of DIM in TNBC and its metabolic reprogramming in enhancing the efficacy of CC. We found that DIM induced metabolic catastrophe in TNBC cells by regulating aerobic glycolysis and intermediate metabolism. Further, the DIM and CC combination significantly inhibited the TNBC tumor growth in the 4T1-syngeneic model. The inhibition of tumor growth was associated with the downregulation of key aerobic glycolysis mediators such as PKM2, GLUT1, and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α). This is a first-of-a-kind investigation linking DIM with aerobic glycolysis regulation and enhancing the treatment efficacy of CC against TNBC. Therefore, these findings suggest that DIM-based nutraceuticals and functional foods can be developed as adjuvant therapy for treating metabolically dysregulated TNBC.

Investigation of the effects of downregulation of jumping translocation breakpoint (JTB) protein expression in MCF7 cells for potential use as a biomarker in breast cancer

MCF7 is a commonly used luminal type A non-invasive/poor-invasive human breast cancer cell line that does not usually migrate or invade compared with MDA-MB-231 highly metastatic cells, which emphasize an invasive and migratory behavior. Under special conditions, MCF7 cells might acquire invasive features. The aberration in expression and biological functions of the jumping translocation breackpoint (JTB) protein is associated with malignant transformation of cells, based on mitochondrial dysfunction, inhibition of tumor suppressive function of TGF-β, and involvement in cancer cell cycle. To investigate new putative functions of JTB by cellular proteomics, we analyzed the biological processes and pathways that are associated with the JTB protein downregulation. The results demonstrated that MCF7 cell line developed a more "aggressive" phenotype and behavior. Most of the proteins that were overexpressed in this experiment promoted the actin cytoskeleton reorganization that is involved in growth and metastatic dissemination of cancer cells. Some of these proteins are involved in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process (ACTBL2, TUBA4A, MYH14, CSPG5, PKM, UGDH, HSP90AA2, and MIF), in correlation with the energy metabolism reprogramming (PKM, UGDH), stress-response (HSP10, HSP70A1A, HSP90AA2), and immune and inflammatory response (MIF and ERp57-TAPBP). Almost all upregulated proteins in JTB downregulated condition promote viability, motility, proliferation, invasion, survival into a hostile microenvironment, metabolic reprogramming, and escaping of tumor cells from host immune control, leading to a more invasive phenotype for MCF7 cell line. Due to their downregulated condition, four proteins, such as CREBZF, KMT2B, SELENOS and CACNA1I are also involved in maintenance of the invasive phenotype of cancer cells, promoting cell proliferation, migration, invasion and tumorigenesis. Other downregulated proteins, such as MAZ, PLEKHG2, ENO1, TPI2, TOR2A, and CNNM1, may promote suppression of cancer cell growth, invasion, EMT, tumorigenic abilities, interacting with glucose and lipid metabolism, disrupting nuclear envelope stability, or suppressing apoptosis and developing anti-angiogenetic activities. Therefore, the main biological processes and pathways that may increase the tumorigenic potential of the MCF7 cells in JTB downregulated condition are related to the actin cytoskeleton organization, EMT, mitotic cell cycle, glycolysis and fatty acid metabolism, inflammatory response and macrophage activation, chemotaxis and migration, cellular response to stress condition (oxidative stress and hypoxia), transcription control, histone modification and ion transport.

Single-Cell FISH Analysis Reveals Distinct Shifts in PKM Isoform Populations during Drug Resistance Acquisition

The Warburg effect, i.e., the utilization of glycolysis under aerobic conditions, is recognized as a survival advantage of cancer cells. However, how the glycolytic activity is affected during drug resistance acquisition has not been explored at single-cell resolution. Because the relative ratio of the splicing isoform of pyruvate kinase M (PKM), PKM2/PKM1, can be used to estimate glycolytic activity, we utilized a single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (SM-FISH) method to simultaneously quantify the mRNA levels of PKM1 and PKM2. Treatment of HCT116 cells with gefitinib (GE) resulted in two distinct populations of cells. However, as cells developed GE resistance, the GE-sensitive population with reduced PKM2 expression disappeared, and GE-resistant cells (Res) demonstrated enhanced PKM1 expression and a tightly regulated PKM2/PKM1 ratio. Our data suggest that maintaining an appropriate PKM2 level is important for cell survival upon GE treatment, whereas increased PKM1 expression becomes crucial in GE Res. This approach demonstrates the importance of single-cell-based analysis for our understanding of cancer cell metabolic responses to drugs, which could aid in the design of treatment strategies for drug-resistant cancers.

LncRNA SNHG1 activates glycolysis to promote hepatocellular cancer progression through miR-326/PKM2 axis

AIMS

Hepatocellular cancer (HCC) is a lethal malignancy with extremely poor prognosis. Here, we attempted to investigate the role and underlying mechanism of SNHG1 in HCC progression.

METHODS

Combined with bioinformatics and experimental validation, we explored the clinical significance of SNHG1 in HCC. CCK8, cell colony formation assay, and subcutaneous tumorigenesis experiments of nude mice were conducted to evaluate the pro-proliferative capacity of SNHG1. Glucose consumption and lactate production were measured to explore the regulatory role of SNHG1 in glycolysis. Nuclear-cytoplasmic separation, qRT-PCR and Western blot assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were performed to investigate the molecular mechanisms of SNHG1 in HCC.

RESULTS

SNHG1 expression was dramatically increased in HCC and positively correlated with poor prognosis. It was E2F1 that bound to SNHG1 promoter region to activate SNHG1 transcription. Furthermore, SNHG1 served as a molecular sponge for miR-326 to sequester the interaction of miR-326 and PKM2, facilitating the expression of PKM2. Activating PKM2 expression was evidenced to be one of mechanisms of SNHG1 to promote glycolysis and proliferation of HCC cells.

CONCLUSION

E2F1-activated SNHG1 modulates miR-326/PKM2 axis to facilitate glycolysis and proliferation of HCC cells. Targeting SNHG1 could be a promising therapeutic option for HCC.

Ginsenoside Rh1 inhibits tumor growth in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells via mitochondrial ROS and ER stress-mediated signaling pathway

Ginsenoside-Rh1 (Rh1) is a ginseng-derived compound that has been reported to exert anticancer effects by regulating cell cycle arrest and apoptosis according to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. However, the effects of Rh1 on mitochondrial dysfunction are involved in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell apoptosis, and the related molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Rh1 treatment induced cell toxicity less than 50% at 50 μM. In addition, Rh1 induced apoptosis in TNBC cells through cleaved caspase-3 activation and G1/S arrest. The Rh1-treated TNBC cells showed a significant increase in mitochondrial ROS (mtROS), which in turn increased protein expression of mitochondrial molecules, such as Bak and cytochrome C, and caused the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Pretreatment with mitochondria-targeted antioxidant Mito-TEMPO alters the Rh1-reduced rate of mito- and glycol-ATP. Furthermore, Rh1 induces ER stress-mediated calcium accumulation via PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP pathway. Inhibition of ATF4 by siRNA transfection significantly inhibited Rh1-mediated apoptosis and calcium production. Interestingly, Mito-TEMPO treatment significantly reduced apoptosis and ER stress induced by Rh1. Finally, Rh1 at 5 mg/kg suppressed tumor growth through increased levels of ROS production, cleaved caspase-3, and ATF4 more than 5-fluorouracil treated group. Overall, our results suggest that Rh1 has potential for use in TNBC treatment.

Research progress of nanocarriers for gene therapy targeting abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism in tumors

In recent years, the incidence of various types of tumors has gradually increased, and it has also been found that there is a certain correlation between abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism and tumors. Glycolipid metabolism can promote tumor progression through multiple pathways, and the expression of related genes also directly or indirectly affects tumor metabolism, metastasis, invasion, and apoptosis. There has been much research on targeted drug delivery systems designed for abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism due to their accuracy and efficiency when used for tumor therapy. In addition, gene mutations have become an important factor in tumorigenesis. For this reason, gene therapy consisting of drugs designed for certain specifically expressed genes have been transfected into target cells to express or silence the corresponding proteins. Targeted gene drug vectors that achieve their corresponding therapeutic purposes are also rapidly developing. The genes related to glucose and lipid metabolism are considered as the target, and a corresponding gene drug carrier is constructed to influence and interfere with the expression of related genes, so as to block the tumorigenesis process and inhibit tumor growth. Designing drugs that target genes related to glucose and lipid metabolism within tumors is considered to be a promising strategy for the treatment of tumor diseases. This article summarizes the chemical drugs/gene drug delivery systems and the corresponding methods used in recent years for the treatment of abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism of tumors, and provides a theoretical basis for the development of glucolipid metabolism related therapeutic methods.

Ginsenoside Rh1 Prevents Migration and Invasion through Mitochondrial ROS-Mediated Inhibition of STAT3/NF-κB Signaling in MDA-MB-231 Cells

Breast cancer (BC) a very common cancer in women worldwide. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) has been shown to have a poor prognosis with a high level of tumor metastatic spread. Here, the inhibitory effects of ginsenoside-Rh1 (Rh1) on BC metastasis, and its underlying signaling pathway in TNBC were investigated. Rh1-treated MDA-MB-231 cells were analyzed for metastasis using a wound healing assay, transwell migration and invasion assay, western blotting, and qRT-PCR. Rh1 treatment significantly inhibited BC metastasis by inhibiting the both protein and mRNA levels of MMP2, MMP9, and VEGF-A. Further, Rh1-mediated inhibitory effect on BC migration was associated with mitochondrial ROS generation. Rh1 treatment significantly eliminated STAT3 phosphorylation and NF-κB transactivation to downregulate metastatic factors, such as MMP2, MMP9, and VEGF-A. In addition, Mito-TEMPO treatment reversed Rh1 effects on the activation of STAT3, NF-κB, and their transcriptional targets. Rh1 further enhanced the inhibitory effects of STAT3 or NF-κB specific inhibitor, stattic or BAY 11-7082 on MMP2, MMP9, and VEGF-A expression, respectively. In summary, our results revealed the potent anticancer effect of Rh1 on TNBC migration and invasion through mtROS-mediated inhibition of STAT3 and NF-κB signaling.

B4GALNT2 Gene Promotes Proliferation, and Invasiveness and Migration Abilities of Model Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) Cells by Interacting With HLA-B Protein

B4GALNT2 gene encodes the enzyme β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 2 that biosynthesizes the histo-blood group antigen Sda, which is expressed on the surface of erythrocytes and in body secretions. Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database revealed that this gene was highly expressed in breast cancer tissues in comparison with adjacent healthy ones. In-vitro lentivirus-assisted B4GALNT2 gene knockdown experiments in model triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines (HCC1937 and MDA-MB-231) showed inhibition in cell proliferation, decrease in cell viability, promotion of cell apoptosis and inhibitions in cell migration and invasiveness abilities in comparison with empty lentivirus transfectant controls. Also, in cell cycle tests, the number of cells in the G1 phase increased, in the S phase decreased and did not change in the G2/M phase (indicative of the presence of a block in the G1 phase). In-vivo tumor formation experiments in mice revealed that knockdown of the B4GALNT2 gene in MDA-MB-231 cells inhibited their proliferation. Using co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) mass spectroscopy-assisted analysis, it was found that HLA-B protein [a product of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I gene] interacts with B4GALNT2 protein. In-vitro overexpression of HLA-B in B4GALNT2-knocked down MDA-MB-231 cell lines significantly recovered the cell proliferation, viability and migration ability of B4GALNT2 gene. These indicate that HLA-B is one of the interaction proteins in the downstream pathway of the B4GALNT2 gene.

Glucose Metabolism and Glucose Transporters in Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women worldwide and is associated with high mortality rates despite the continuously advancing treatment strategies. Glucose is essential for cancer cell metabolism owing to the Warburg effect. During the process of glucose metabolism, various glycolytic metabolites, such as serine and glycine metabolites, are produced and other metabolic pathways, such as the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), are associated with the process. Glucose is transported into the cell by glucose transporters, such as GLUT. Breast cancer shows high expressions of glucose metabolism-related enzymes and GLUT, which are also related to breast cancer prognosis. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), which is a high-grade breast cancer, is especially dependent on glucose metabolism. Breast cancer also harbors various stromal cells such as cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells as tumor microenvironment, and there exists a metabolic interaction between these stromal cells and breast cancer cells as explained by the reverse Warburg effect. Breast cancer is heterogeneous, and, consequently, its metabolic status is also diverse, which is especially affected by the molecular subtype, progression stage, and metastatic site. In this review, we will focus on glucose metabolism and glucose transporters in breast cancer, and we will additionally discuss their potential applications as cancer imaging tracers and treatment targets.

Metabolic changes in triple negative breast cancer-focus on aerobic glycolysis

Among breast cancer subtypes, the triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) has the worst prognosis. In absence of any permitted targeted therapy, standard chemotherapy is the mainstay for TNBC treatment. Hence, there is a crucial need to identify potential druggable targets in TNBCs for its effective treatment. In recent times, metabolic reprogramming has emerged as cancer cells hallmark, wherein cancer cells display discrete metabolic phenotypes to fuel cell progression and metastasis. Altered glycolysis is one such phenotype, in which even in oxygen abundance majority of cancer cells harvest considerable amount of energy through elevated glycolytic-flux. In the present review, we attempt to summarize the role of key glycolytic enzymes i.e. HK, Hexokinase; PFK, Phosphofructokinase; PKM2, Pyruvate kinase isozyme type 2; and LDH, Lactate dehydrogenase in TNBCs, and possible therapeutic options presently available.

GBP5 Repression Suppresses the Metastatic Potential and PD-L1 Expression in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive breast cancer subtype because of its high metastatic potential. Immune evasion due to aberrant expression of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) has also been reported recently in metastatic TNBC. However, the mechanism underlying metastatic progression and PD-L1 upregulation in TNBC is still largely unknown. Here, we found that guanylate binding protein 5 (GBP5) is expressed in higher levels in TNBC tissues than in non-TNBC and normal mammary tissues and serves as a poorer prognostic marker in breast cancer patients. Transwell cultivation indicated that GBP5 expression is causally related to cellular migration ability in the detected TNBC cell lines. Moreover, the computational simulation of the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) program against the GBP5 signature generated from its coexpression with other somatic genes in TNBC revealed that GBP5 upregulation may be associated with the activation of interferon gamma (IFN-γ)-responsive and NF-κB-related signaling cascades. In addition, we found that the coexpression of GBP5 with PD-L1 was significantly positive correlation in TNBC tissues. Robustly, our data showed that GBP5 knockdown in TNBC cells harboring a higher GBP5 level dramatically suppresses the number of migrated cells, the activity of IFN-γ/STAT1 and TNF-α/NF-κB signaling axes, and the expression of PD-L1. Importantly, the signature combining a higher GBP5 and PD-L1 level predicted the shortest time interval of brain metastasis in breast cancer patients. These findings not only uncover the oncogenic function of GBP5 but also provide a new strategy to combat metastatic/immunosuppressive TNBC by targeting GBP5 activity.

The role of PKM2 nuclear translocation in the constant activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in cancer-associated fibroblasts

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play critical roles in cancer progression by regulating tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Recent studies demonstrated that CAFs induce inhibitory immune cell infiltration and chemotherapy resistance in gastric cancer by activating the NF-κB signaling pathway to secrete IL6, IL8, and other inflammatory factors. Inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway in CAFs might be a potential therapeutic strategy in gastric cancer. However, how the NF-κB pathway is activated in CAFs remains unclear. We showed that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) differentiated into CAFs, induced by the exosomes derived from gastric cancer cells. During the process of differentiation from MSCs into CAFs, we showed that nuclear PKM2 expression was continuously upregulated and associated with NF-κB P65 acetylation, contributing to P65 nuclear retention in CAFs and constant transcription of IL-6, IL-8, and other inflammatory factors, thus promoting gastric cancer cell proliferation. We showed that NF-κB P65 acetylation was induced by P300. We showed that nuclear PKM2 was derived from exosomes of gastric cancer cell lines and the positive feedback loop induced by PKM2-P65 combination. It is also proved that P300 inhibitors can inhibit tumor proliferation in an AGS subcutaneous xenograft tumor model. Our study showed that gastric cancer cells influence the continuous activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in CAFs by secreting gastric cancer exosomes containing PKM2, thus inducing abnormal metabolism and inflammation activation. This study provides a new therapeutic target for CAF normalization or deactivation strategies.

GBP5 Serves as a Potential Marker to Predict a Favorable Response in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients Receiving a Taxane-Based Chemotherapy

Pre-operative (neoadjuvant) or post-operative (adjuvant) taxane-based chemotherapy is still commonly used to treat patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, there are still no effective biomarkers used to predict the responsiveness and efficacy of taxane-based chemotherapy in TNBC patients. Here we find that guanylate-binding protein 5 (GBP5), compared to other GBPs, exhibits the strongest prognostic significance in predicting TNBC recurrence and progression. Whereas GBP5 upregulation showed no prognostic significance in non-TNBC patients, a higher GBP5 level predicted a favorable recurrence and progression-free condition in the TNBC cohort. Moreover, we found that GBP5 expression negatively correlated with the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of paclitaxel in a panel of TNBC cell lines. The gene knockdown of GBP5 increased the IC₅₀ of paclitaxel in the tested TNBC cells. In TNBC patients receiving neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy, a higher GBP5 level strongly predicted a good responsiveness. Computational simulation by the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis program and cell-based assays demonstrated that GBP5 probably enhances the cytotoxic effectiveness of paclitaxel via activating the Akt/mTOR signaling axis and suppressing autophagy formation in TNBC cells. These findings suggest that GBP5 could be a good biomarker to predict a favorable outcome in TNBC patients who decide to receive a taxane-based neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy.

Hyperglycemia and Chemoresistance in Breast Cancer: From Cellular Mechanisms to Treatment Response

Female breast cancer is a complex, multifactorial disease. Studies have shown that hyperglycemia is one of the most important contributing factors to increasing the risk of breast cancer that also has a major impact on the efficacy of chemotherapy. At the cellular level, hyperglycemia can promote the proliferation, invasion, and migration of breast cancer cells and can also induce anti-apoptotic responses to enhance the chemoresistance of tumors via abnormal glucose metabolism. In this article, we focus on the latest progress in defining the mechanisms of chemotherapy resistance in hyperglycemic patients including the abnormal behaviors of cancer cells in the hyperglycemic microenvironment and the impact of abnormal glucose metabolism on key signaling pathways. To better understand the advantages and challenges of breast cancer treatments, we explore the causes of drug resistance in hyperglycemic patients that may help to better inform the development of effective treatments.

Anti-Warburg effect by targeting HRD1-PFKP pathway may inhibit breast cancer progression

BACKGROUND

Our previous studies have shown that the E3 ubiquitin ligase of HMG-CoA reductase degradation 1 (HRD1) functions as a tumor suppressor, as overexpression of HRD1 suppressed breast cancer proliferation and invasion. However, its role in breast cancer cell glucose metabolism was unclear. Here, our aim was to uncover the role and molecular mechanisms of HRD1 in regulating aerobic glycolysis in breast cancer.

METHODS

The effect of HRD1 on robic glycolysis in breast cancer cells were assessed. Then the proliferation, colony formation ability, invasion and migration of breast cancer cells were evaluated. The relationship between HRD1 and PFKP was validated by Mass spectrometry analysis, immunofluorescence and co-immunoprecipitation. The level of PFKP ubiquitination was measured using ubiquitylation assay. Furthermore, the tumor growth and metastasis in mice xenografts were observed.

RESULTS

We found that upregulation of HRD1 clearly decreased aerobic glycolysis, and subsequently inhibited breast cancer proliferation and invasion. Mass spectrometry analysis results revealed a large HRD1 interactome, which included PFKP (platelet isoform of phosphofructokinase), a critical enzyme involved in the Warburg Effect in breast cancer. Mechanistically, HRD1 interacted and colocalized with PFKP in the cytoplasm, targeted PFKP for ubiquitination and degradation, and ultimately reduced PFKP expression and activity in breast cancer cells. HRD1 inhibited breast cancer growth and metastasis in vivo through a PFKP-dependent way CONCLUSIONS: Our findings reveal a new regulatory role of HRD1 in Warburg effect and provide a key contributor in breast cancer metabolism. Video abstract.

Epigenetic Regulation and Dietary Control of Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents a highly heterogeneous group of breast cancers, lacking expression of the estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptors, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). TNBC are characterized by a high level of mutation and metastasis, poor clinical outcomes and overall survival. Here, we review the epigenetic mechanisms of regulation involved in cell pathways disrupted in TNBC, with particular emphasis on dietary food components that may be exploited for the development of effective strategies for management of TNBC.

Mining Database for the Expression and Clinical Significance of NF-κB Family in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest diseases affecting humans. Its incidence has been increasing over the last decade. It is characterized by poor prognosis as well as lack of therapeutic regimens for patients in the advanced stages. It is therefore important to develop effective biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and immunotherapy of HCC. Research suggests that the NF-κB family plays vital roles in immune response, inflammation, tumorigenesis, and the progress of malignancy in various cancers. However, its role in HCC remains unidentified. Methodology. The expression and clinical significance of the NF-κB family in HCC were analyzed using several bioinformatics tools including UALCAN, The Human Protein Atlas, GEPIA, GSCALite, David, GeneMANIA, and TIMER.

Results

The mRNA expression levels of RelA, RelB, NF-κB1, and NF-κB2 were significantly elevated in HCC. The mRNA levels of RelB and NF-κB2 were significantly upregulated in HCC tissues compared to normal liver tissues in subgroup analyses based on patient's race, gender, age, weight, tumor grade, cancer stage, and nodal metastasis status. Moreover, HCC patients with elevated levels of RelB and NF-κB2 had a worse overall survival and disease-free survival. Methylation downregulated the expressions of RelA, RelB, and NF-κB1 in HCC. NF-κB family was also significantly involved in various hallmark cancer-related pathways such as the apoptosis, EMT, RTK, and cell cycle pathways. Similarly, the expression of RelB and NF-κB2 was positively correlated with the abundance of immune cells and the expression of immune biomarkers. Several kinase and miRNA targets of RelB and NF-κB2 were also identified.

Conclusion

RelB and NF-κB2 are potential biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and immunotherapy of HCC.

Cryptanshinone Inhibits the Glycolysis and Inhibits Cell Migration Through PKM2/β-Catenin Axis in Breast Cancer

Background

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent gynecologic malignancies worldwide. Despite the high sensitivity in response to chemotherapy, drug resistance occurred frequently in clinical treatment. Cryptotanshinone (CTS) is a herbal medicine and has been identified as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative drug.

Methods

In vitro assays, including the cell proliferation assay, colony formation assay, Western blot analysis, transwell migration/invasion assays, and cell scratch assay were used to explore the biological activities and working mechanism of CTS. Breast cancer cells were also transfected with PKM2 expressing vectors to define the molecular mechanisms involved in CTS-mediated anti-tumor activity.

Results

We found that CTS shows anti-proliferative effects and decreases the clonogenic ability of breast cancer cells. We also found that CTS inhibited the migration and invasion activity of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells by different analyzed methods. CTS also downregulated the levels of glycolysis-related proteins, such as PKM2, LDHA, and HK2. In addition, overexpression of PKM2 recovered CTS-mediated suppression of cell proliferation, colony formation, and cell mobility of breast cancer cells. We also found PKM2 was significantly overexpressed in tumor tissues and invasive ductal breast carcinoma compared to normal tissues and patients with high PKM2 expression had worse overall survival and metastasis-free survival outcomes.

Conclusion

CTS inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells. The involved mechanism may refer to the downregulation of the PKM2/β-catenin axis.

Suppression of CCT3 inhibits the proliferation and migration in breast cancer cells

Background

CCT3 is a subunit of chaperonin-containing TCP-1 (CCT), which folds many proteins involved in cancer development and plays an important role in many cancers. However, the role of CCT3 in breast cancer is still unclear.

Methods

CCT3 expression was knocked down by transfecting breast cancer cells with lentiviral shRNA. The proliferation of breast cancer cells (HCC1937 and MDA-MB-231) was detected by Celigo image cytometry and MTT assay, the migration of the cells was measured by Transwell analysis, cell cycle distribution and apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry, and changes in signal transduction proteins were detected by western blot analysis.

Results

The expression of CCT3 was significantly suppressed by transduction with lentiviral shRNA; CCT3 knockdown significantly reduced the proliferation and metastasis ability of breast cancer cells (HCC 1937 and MDA-MB-231), increased the proportion of cells in S phase, and decreased the proportion of cells in G1 phase compared to those in shControl cells. There was no significant change in the number of cells in the G2/M phase. Apoptosis analysis showed that knockdown of CCT3 induced apoptosis in breast cancer cells. Western blot analysis showed that the expression of many signal transduction proteins was changed after suppression of CCT3. A rescue experiment showed that overexpression of NFκB-p65 rescued the cell proliferation and migration affected by CCT3 in breast cancer cells.

Conclusion

CCT3 is closely related to the proliferation and migration of breast cancer and may be a novel therapeutic target.

Can NF-κB Be Considered a Valid Drug Target in Neoplastic Diseases? Our Point of View

Multidrug resistance (MDR), of the innate and acquired types, is one of major problems in treating tumor diseases with a good chance of success. In this review, we examine the key role of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) to induce MDR in three tumor models characterized precisely by innate or acquired MDR, in particular triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We also present different pharmacological approaches that our group have employed to reduce the expression/activation of this transcriptional factor and thus to restore chemo-sensitivity. Finally, we examine the latest scientific evidence found by other groups, the most significant clinical trials regarding NF-κB, and new perspectives on the possibility to consider this transcriptional factor a valid drug target in neoplastic diseases.

Birth order and multiple sclerosis

Metabolic reprogramming is an emerging hallmark of cancer cells, in which cancer cells exhibit distinct metabolic phenotypes to fuel their proliferation and progression. The significant advancements made in the area of metabolic reprogramming make possible new strategies for overcoming malignant cancer, including triple-negative breast cancer. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with high histologic grade, aggressive phenotype, and poor prognosis. Even though triple-negative breast cancer patients benefit from standard chemotherapy, they still face high recurrence rates and are more likely to develop resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. Therefore, there is an urgent need to explore vulnerabilities of triple-negative breast cancer and develop novel therapeutic drugs to improve clinical outcomes for triple-negative breast cancer patients. Metabolic reprogramming may provide promising therapeutic targets for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer. In this paper, we primarily discuss how triple-negative breast cancer cells reprogram their metabolic phenotype and that of stromal cells in the microenvironment to survive under nutrient-poor conditions. Considering that metastasis and chemoresistance are the main contributors to mortality in triple-negative breast cancer patients, we also focus on the role of metabolic adaption in mediating metastasis and chemoresistance of triple-negative breast cancer tumors.