1
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Beevors LI, Sundar S, Foster PA. Steroid metabolism and hormonal dynamics in normal and malignant ovaries. Essays Biochem 2024:EBC20240028. [PMID: 38994724 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20240028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
The ovaries are key steroid hormone production sites in post-pubertal females. However, current research on steroidogenic enzymes, endogenous hormone concentrations and their effects on healthy ovarian function and malignant development is limited. Here, we discuss the importance of steroid enzymes in normal and malignant ovaries, alongside hormone concentrations, receptor expression and action. Key enzymes include STS, 3β-HSD2, HSD17B1, ARK1C3, and aromatase, which influence ovarian steroidal action. Both androgen and oestrogen action, via their facilitating enzyme, drives ovarian follicle activation, development and maturation in healthy ovarian tissue. In ovarian cancer, some data suggest STS and oestrogen receptor α may be linked to aggressive forms, while various oestrogen-responsive factors may be involved in ovarian cancer metastasis. In contrast, androgen receptor expression and action vary across ovarian cancer subtypes. For future studies investigating steroidogenesis and steroidal activity in ovarian cancer, it is necessary to differentiate between disease subtypes for a comprehensive understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy I Beevors
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
| | - Sudha Sundar
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
| | - Paul A Foster
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
- Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, U.K
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2
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Gogola-Mruk J, Pietrus M, Piechowicz M, Milian-Ciesielska K, Głód P, Wolnicka-Glubisz A, Szpor J, Ptak A. Low androgen/progesterone or high oestrogen/androgen receptors ratio in serous ovarian cancer predicts longer survival. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100917. [PMID: 38970978 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
The treatment of ovarian cancer (OC) remains one of the greatest challenges in gynaecological oncology. The presence of classic steroid receptors in OC makes hormone therapy an attractive option; however, the response of OC to hormone therapy is modest. Here, we compared the expression patterns of progesterone (PGR), androgen (AR) and oestrogen alpha (ERα) receptors between serous OC cell lines and non-cancer ovarian cells. These data were analysed in relation to steroid receptor expression profiles from patient tumour samples and survival outcomes using a bioinformatics approach. The results showed that ERα, PGR and AR were co-expressed in OC cell lines, and patient samples from high-grade and low-grade OC co-expressed at least two steroid receptors. High AR expression was negatively correlated, whereas ERα and PGR expression was positively correlated with patient survival. AR showed the opposite expression pattern to that of ERα and PGR in type 1 (SKOV-3) and 2 (OVCAR-3) OC cell lines compared with non-cancer (HOSEpiC) ovarian cells, with AR downregulated in type 1 and upregulated in type 2 OC. A low AR/PGR ratio and a high ESR1/AR ratio were associated with favourable survival outcomes in OC compared with other receptor ratios. Although the results must be interpreted with caution because of the small number of primary tumour samples analysed, they nevertheless suggest that the evaluation of ERα, AR and PGR by immunohistochemistry should be performed in patient biological material to plan future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Gogola-Mruk
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow 30-387, Poland
| | - Miłosz Pietrus
- Department of Gynecology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków 31-501, Poland
| | - Maryla Piechowicz
- Department of Biophysics and Cancer Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow 30-387, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Milian-Ciesielska
- Department of Pathomorphology, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow 31-531, Poland
| | - Paulina Głód
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow 30-387, Poland; Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kracow 30-348, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Wolnicka-Glubisz
- Department of Biophysics and Cancer Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow 30-387, Poland
| | - Joanna Szpor
- Department of Pathomorphology, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow 31-531, Poland
| | - Anna Ptak
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow 30-387, Poland.
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3
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Chen B, Liu J. Advances in ovarian tumor stem cells and therapy. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024:10.1007/s12013-024-01385-8. [PMID: 38955927 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01385-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is considered the most lethal among all gynecological malignancies due to its early metastatic dissemination, extensive spread, and malignant ascites. The current standard of care for advanced ovarian cancer involves a combination of cytoreductive surgery and chemotherapy utilizing platinum-based and taxane-based agents. Although initial treatment yields clinical remission in 70-80% of patients, the majority eventually develop treatment resistance and tumor recurrence. A growing body of evidence indicates the existence of cancer stem cells within diverse solid tumors, including ovarian cancer, which function as a subpopulation to propel tumor growth and disease advancement by means of drug resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. The presence of ovarian cancer stem cells is widely considered to be a significant contributor to the unfavorable clinical outcomes observed in patients with ovarian cancer, as they play a crucial role in mediating chemotherapy resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. Ovarian cancer stem cells possess the capacity to reassemble within the entirety of the tumor following conventional treatment, thereby instigating the recurrence of ovarian cancer and inducing resistance to treatment. Consequently, the creation of therapeutic approaches aimed at eliminating ovarian cancer stem cells holds great potential for the management of ovarian cancer. These cells are regarded as one of the most auspicious targets and mechanisms for the treatment of ovarian cancer. There is a pressing need for a comprehensive comprehension of the fundamental mechanisms of ovarian cancer's recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance, alongside the development of effective strategies to overcome chemoresistance, metastasis, and recurrence. The implementation of cancer stem cell therapies may potentially augment the tumor cells' sensitivity to existing chemotherapy protocols, thereby mitigating the risks of tumor metastasis and recurrence, and ultimately improving the survival rates of ovarian cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biqing Chen
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
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4
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Borella F, Fucina S, Mangherini L, Cosma S, Carosso AR, Cusato J, Cassoni P, Bertero L, Katsaros D, Benedetto C. Hormone Receptors and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: Recent Advances in Biology and Treatment Options. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2157. [PMID: 37626654 PMCID: PMC10452581 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a significant cause of cancer-related mortality in women. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment, EOC remains a challenging disease to manage, and the 5-year survival rate is still poor. The role of hormone receptors (HRs) in EOC carcinogenesis and prognosis has been actively explored; however, the role of hormone therapy (HT) in the treatment of these tumors is not well established. Most available data on HT mainly come from retrospective series and small early clinical trials. Several of these studies suggest that HT may have a role in adjuvant, maintenance therapy, or in the case of recurrent disease, especially for some subtypes of EOC (e.g., low-grade serous EOC). Furthermore, HT has recently been combined with targeted therapies, but most studies evaluating these combinations are still ongoing. The main aim of this review is to provide an overview of the progress made in the last decade to characterize the biological and prognostic role of HRs for EOC and the developments in their therapeutic targeting through HT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fulvio Borella
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Departments of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (S.F.); (S.C.); (A.R.C.); (D.K.); (C.B.)
| | - Stefano Fucina
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Departments of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (S.F.); (S.C.); (A.R.C.); (D.K.); (C.B.)
| | - Luca Mangherini
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (L.M.); (P.C.); (L.B.)
| | - Stefano Cosma
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Departments of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (S.F.); (S.C.); (A.R.C.); (D.K.); (C.B.)
| | - Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Departments of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (S.F.); (S.C.); (A.R.C.); (D.K.); (C.B.)
| | - Jessica Cusato
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Medical Sciences, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, University of Turin, 10149 Turin, Italy;
| | - Paola Cassoni
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (L.M.); (P.C.); (L.B.)
| | - Luca Bertero
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (L.M.); (P.C.); (L.B.)
| | - Dionyssios Katsaros
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Departments of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (S.F.); (S.C.); (A.R.C.); (D.K.); (C.B.)
| | - Chiara Benedetto
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Departments of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (S.F.); (S.C.); (A.R.C.); (D.K.); (C.B.)
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5
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Lissaman AC, Girling JE, Cree LM, Campbell RE, Ponnampalam AP. Androgen signalling in the ovaries and endometrium. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad017. [PMID: 37171897 PMCID: PMC10663053 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad017] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, our understanding of hormonal regulation within the female reproductive system is largely based on our knowledge of estrogen and progesterone signalling. However, while the important functions of androgens in male physiology are well known, it is also recognized that androgens play critical roles in the female reproductive system. Further, androgen signalling is altered in a variety of gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, indicative of regulatory roles in endometrial and ovarian function. Co-regulatory mechanisms exist between different androgens, estrogens, and progesterone, resulting in a complex network of steroid hormone interactions. Evidence from animal knockout studies, in vitro experiments, and human data indicate that androgen receptor expression is cell-specific and menstrual cycle stage-dependent, with important regulatory roles in the menstrual cycle, endometrial biology, and follicular development in the ovaries. This review will discuss the expression and co-regulatory interactions of androgen receptors, highlighting the complexity of the androgen signalling pathway in the endometrium and ovaries, and the synthesis of androgens from additional alternative pathways previously disregarded as male-specific. Moreover, it will illustrate the challenges faced when studying androgens in female biology, and the need for a more in-depth, integrative view of androgen metabolism and signalling in the female reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey C Lissaman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Lynsey M Cree
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anna P Ponnampalam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Pūtahi Manawa-Healthy Hearts for Aotearoa New Zealand, Centre of Research Excellence, New Zealand
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6
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Ha S, Luo G, Xiang H. A Comprehensive Overview of Small-Molecule Androgen Receptor Degraders: Recent Progress and Future Perspectives. J Med Chem 2022; 65:16128-16154. [PMID: 36459083 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PC), the second most prevalent malignancy in men worldwide, has been proven to depend on the aberrant activation of androgen receptor (AR) signaling. Long-term androgen deprivation for the treatment of PC inevitably leads to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) in which AR remains a crucial oncogenic driver. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop new strategies to address this unmet medical need. Targeting AR for degradation has recently been in a vigorous development stage, and accumulating clinical studies have highlighted the benefits of AR degraders in CRPC patients. Herein, we provide a comprehensive summary of small-molecule AR degraders with diverse mechanisms of action including proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), selective AR degraders (SARDs), hydrophobic tags (HyT), and other AR degraders with distinct mechanisms. Accordingly, their structure-activity relationships, biomedical applications, and therapeutic values are also dissected to provide insights into the future development of promising AR degradation-based therapeutics for CRPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Ha
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, P. R. China
| | - Guoshun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, P. R. China
| | - Hua Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, P. R. China
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7
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Bialek J, Yankulov S, Kawan F, Fornara P, Theil G. Role of Nivolumab in the Modulation of PD-1 and PD-L1 Expression in Papillary and Clear Cell Renal Carcinoma (RCC). Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123244. [PMID: 36552000 PMCID: PMC9776360 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123244] [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: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression and cellular mechanisms of programmed cell death-1 protein (PD-1) and its ligands (PD-L1 and PD-L2) in renal cancer cells are not well known. Here, we aimed to investigate the response of renal carcinoma subtypes to the immune checkpoint inhibitor nivolumab and its impact on related signaling pathways. All cell lines analyzed (clear cell (cc)RCC (Caki-1, RCC31) and papillary (p)RCC (ACHN, RCC30)) expressed PD-1 and both ccRCC cell lines, and RCC30 expressed PD-L1. Nivolumab treatment at increasing doses led to increased PD-1 levels in analyzed cells and resulted in aggressive behavior of pRCC but diminished this behavior in ccRCC. The analysis of PD-1/PD-L1-associated signaling pathways demonstrated increased AKT activity in Caki-1 and RCC30 cells but decreased activity in ACHN and RCC31 cells, while ribosomal protein S6 remained largely unchanged. Androgen receptors are related to RCC and were predominantly increased in RCC30 cells, which were the only cells that formed nivolumab-dependent spheroids. Finally, all cell lines exhibited a complex response to nivolumab treatment. Since the pRCC cells responded with increased tumorigenicity and PD-1/PD-L1 levels while ccRCC tumorigenicity was diminished, further studies are needed to improve nivolumab-based therapy for renal carcinoma subtypes, especially the identification of response-involved molecular pathways.
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8
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Punzón-Jiménez P, Lago V, Domingo S, Simón C, Mas A. Molecular Management of High-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13777. [PMID: 36430255 PMCID: PMC9692799 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) represents the most common form of epithelial ovarian carcinoma. The absence of specific symptoms leads to late-stage diagnosis, making HGSOC one of the gynecological cancers with the worst prognosis. The cellular origin of HGSOC and the role of reproductive hormones, genetic traits (such as alterations in P53 and DNA-repair mechanisms), chromosomal instability, or dysregulation of crucial signaling pathways have been considered when evaluating prognosis and response to therapy in HGSOC patients. However, the detection of HGSOC is still based on traditional methods such as carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) detection and ultrasound, and the combined use of these methods has yet to support significant reductions in overall mortality rates. The current paradigm for HGSOC management has moved towards early diagnosis via the non-invasive detection of molecular markers through liquid biopsies. This review presents an integrated view of the relevant cellular and molecular aspects involved in the etiopathogenesis of HGSOC and brings together studies that consider new horizons for the possible early detection of this gynecological cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Punzón-Jiménez
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Victor Lago
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, 46115 Valencia, Spain
| | - Santiago Domingo
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Simón
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Aymara Mas
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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Cellular Landscaping of COVID-19 and Gynaecological Cancers: An Infrequent Correlation. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:5231022. [PMID: 36299504 PMCID: PMC9592241 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5231022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 resulted in a mortality rate of 3–6% caused by SARS-CoV-2 and its variant leading to unprecedented consequences of acute respiratory distress septic shock and multiorgan failure. In such a situation, evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and care for cancer patients are difficult tasks faced by medical staff. Moreover, patients with gynaecological cancer appear to be more prone to severe infection and mortality from COVID-19 due to immunosuppression by chemotherapy and coexisting medical disorders. To deal with such a circumtances oncologists have been obliged to reconsider the entire diagnostic, treatment, and management approach. This review will provide and discuss the molecular link with gynaecological cancer under COVID-19 infection, providing a novel bilateral relationship between the two infections. Moreover, the authors have provided insights to discuss the pathobiology of COVID-19 in gynaecological cancer and their risks associated with such comorbidity. Furthermore, we have depicted the overall impact of host immunity along with guidelines for the treatment of patients with gynaecological cancer under COVID-19 infection. We have also discussed the feasible scope for the management of COVID-19 and gynaecological cancer.
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Jayaprakash S, Hegde M, Girisa S, Alqahtani MS, Abbas M, Lee EHC, Yap KCH, Sethi G, Kumar AP, Kunnumakkara AB. Demystifying the Functional Role of Nuclear Receptors in Esophageal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810952. [PMID: 36142861 PMCID: PMC9501100 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC), an aggressive and poorly understood disease, is one of the top causes of cancer-related fatalities. GLOBOCAN 2020 reports that there are 544,076 deaths and 604,100 new cases expected worldwide. Even though there are various advancements in treatment procedures, this cancer has been reported as one of the most difficult cancers to cure, and to increase patient survival; treatment targets still need to be established. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are a type of transcription factor, which has a key role in several biological processes such as reproduction, development, cellular differentiation, stress response, immunity, metabolism, lipids, and drugs, and are essential regulators of several diseases, including cancer. Numerous studies have demonstrated the importance of NRs in tumor immunology and proved the well-known roles of multiple NRs in modulating proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. There are surplus of studies conducted on NRs and their implications in EC, but only a few studies have demonstrated the diagnostic and prognostic potential of NRs. Therefore, there is still a paucity of the role of NRs and different ways to target them in EC cells to stop them from spreading malignancy. This review emphasizes the significance of NRs in EC by discussing their diverse agonists as well as antagonists and their response to tumor progression. Additionally, we emphasize NRs’ potential to serve as a novel therapeutic target and their capacity to treat and prevent EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujitha Jayaprakash
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Mangala Hegde
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Sosmitha Girisa
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Mohammed S. Alqahtani
- Radiological Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
- BioImaging Unit, Space Research Centre, Michael Atiyah Building, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
- Electronics and Communications Department, College of Engineering, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa 35712, Egypt
| | - E. Hui Clarissa Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Kenneth Chun-Hong Yap
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
- Correspondence: (A.P.K.); (A.B.K.)
| | - Ajaikumar B. Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
- Correspondence: (A.P.K.); (A.B.K.)
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11
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Bisht D, Arora A, Sachan M. Role of DNA De-methylation intermediate '5-hydroxymethylcytosine' in ovarian cancer management: A comprehensive review. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113674. [PMID: 36099791 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer remains the most eminent silent killer, with high morbidity and mortality among all gynaecological cancers. The advanced-stage patient's diagnosis has a low survival rate caused by its asymptomatic progression and diverse histopathological sub-types, wherefore in poor prognosis and highly recurring malignancy with multidrug resistance towards chemotherapy. Epigenetic biomarkers open promising avenues of intriguing research to combat OC malignancy, furthermore a tool for its early diagnosis. 5-hydroxymethycytosine (5-hmC), alias the sixth base of the genome, is an intermediate formed during the recently established DNA demethylation process and catalysed via ten-eleven translocation (TET) family of enzymes. It plays a significant role in regulating gene expression and has sparked interest in various cancer types. This review summarizes the role of active DNA demethylation process, its enzymes and intermediate 5-hmC in epigenetic landscape of ovarian cancer as a potent biomarker for clinical translation in identification of therapeutic targets, diagnostic and prognostic evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bisht
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj 211004, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Arisha Arora
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039 Assam, India
| | - Manisha Sachan
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj 211004, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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12
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Molecular Regulation of Androgen Receptors in Major Female Reproductive System Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147556. [PMID: 35886904 PMCID: PMC9322163 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
There are three main types of cancer in the female reproductive system, specifically ovarian cancer (OVCA), endometrial cancer (EC), and cervical cancer (CC). They are common malignant tumors in women worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality. In recent years, androgen receptors (ARs) have been found to be closely related to the occurrence, progression, prognosis, and drug resistance of these three types of tumors. This paper summarizes current views on the role of AR in female reproductive system cancer, the associations between female reproductive system cancers and AR expression and polymorphisms. AR regulates the downstream target genes transcriptional activity and the expression via interacting with coactivators/corepressors and upstream/downstream regulators and through the gene transcription mechanism of “classical A/AR signaling” or “non-classical AR signaling”, involving a large number of regulatory factors and signaling pathways. ARs take part in the processes of cancer cell proliferation, migration/invasion, cancer cell stemness, and chemotherapeutic drug resistance. These findings suggest that the AR and related regulators could target the treatment of female reproductive system cancer.
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13
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GLI3 and androgen receptor are mutually dependent for their malignancy-promoting activity in ovarian and breast cancer cells. Cell Signal 2022; 92:110278. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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14
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Parchwani D, Dholariya SJ, Takodara S, Singh R, Sharma VK, Saxena A, Patel DD, Radadiya M. Analysis of Prediagnostic Circulating Levels of Gonadotropins and Androgens with Risk of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer. J Lab Physicians 2022; 14:47-56. [PMID: 36105913 PMCID: PMC9465621 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1741443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Prevailing experimental and epidemiological evidence supports the role of circulating endogenous sex steroid hormones in the pathogenesis of ovarian carcinogenesis by dysregulation of cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis but is scarce and inconclusive.
Objectives
This article evaluates the role of circulating levels of gonadotropins (follicle-stimulating hormone [FSH], luteinizing hormone [LH]) and androgens (testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate [DHEA-S]) for the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer in a case–control approach using samples collected in advance of clinical diagnosis.
Materials and Methods
A total of 100 epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients and 100 healthy female controls were consequently enrolled in this hospital-based case–control study. Serum FSH, LH, testosterone, and DHEA-S were measured based on the principle of electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Suitable descriptive statistics were used for different variables.
Results
Median values of FSH (58.9 vs. 45.5 IU/L,
p
= 0.02) and DHEA-S (163.43 vs. 142.2 ug/dL,
p
= 0.03) were significantly high in EOC patients compared with controls. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) across increasing thirds of FSH and DHEA-S concentrations, and the results revealed that the highest third tertile of FSH (> 72.6 IU/L; OR = 3.0, confidence interval [CI] = 1.24–7.29,
p
trend = 0.04) and DHEA-S (> 194.2 ug/dL; OR = 3.8, CI = 1.26–11.61,
p
trend = 0.03) were significantly associated with increased risk of ovarian cancer in postmenopausal and premenopausal women, respectively. The statistically significant trend observed for FSH in postmenopausal women, remained only for the subgroup with menopause duration greater than 10 years (OR = 5.9, CI = 1.33–26.66,
p
trend = 0.04). FSH and DHEA-S concentrations and ovarian cancer risk were internally consistent with groups defined by oral contraceptive pill use, hormone replacement therapy, and smoking. However, no evidence was found for the association between serum LH and testosterone level with the occurrence of ovarian tumorigenesis.
Conclusion
Prediagnostic circulating concentration of FSH and DHEA-S unveiled a significant positive association with augmented risk of EOC, thus might serve as a predictive marker for the susceptibility to ovarian carcinogenesis and should be added in the screening profile of EOC for early recognition and scheduling necessary interventions/management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Parchwani
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, Rajkot – 360001, Gujarat, India
| | | | - Sohil Takodara
- Department of Biochemistry, Geetanjali Medical College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Ragini Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, Rajkot – 360001, Gujarat, India
| | - Vivek Kumar Sharma
- Department of Physiology, All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, Rajkot, Gujarat, India
| | - Alpana Saxena
- Department of Biochemistry, Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Digishaben D. Patel
- Department of Physiology, All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, Rajkot, Gujarat, India
| | - Madhuri Radadiya
- Department of Radiology, Pandit Dindayal Upadhyay Medical College, Rajkot, Gujarat, India
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15
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Differential Expression of the Androgen Receptor, Splice Variants and Relaxin 2 in Renal Cancer. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11080731. [PMID: 34440475 PMCID: PMC8402134 DOI: 10.3390/life11080731] [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: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The role of the androgen receptor (AR) in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is unclear. We aimed to analyze the expression of AR and its splice variants (SVs) and their correlation with relaxin 2 (RLN2) and cytokines in RCC. Methods: We investigated the expression of RLN2 and AR variants in 25 clear cell RCC (ccRCC) and 9 papillary (pRCC) tumor tissues and the corresponding controls using quantitative PCR and serum RLN2, testosterone and cytokine levels in matched samples using ELISA and chemiluminescent immunometric assay, respectively. Results: ccRCC tissues but not pRCC tissues more frequently expressed AR and the SVs than did normal tissues. All pRCC samples expressed more AR than did ccRCC samples. The highest expression of all AR variants except AR-V12 was found in low-stage tumors, with dominant expression of AR-V7. In males in the ccRCC cohort, the expression of AR-FL, AR-V1 and AR-V3 was significantly correlated with that of RLN2. The secretion pattern of proinflammatory IL-6 was higher in ccRCC than in pRCC. Conclusions: The results highlight additional molecular differences between ccRCC and pRCC, suggesting the influence of external factors on the whole kidney or genetic predispositions to developing certain types of renal cancer, and may support further pathological analysis and studies of targeted hormone therapy.
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16
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Androgen/Androgen Receptor Signaling in Ovarian Cancer: Molecular Regulation and Therapeutic Potentials. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147748. [PMID: 34299364 PMCID: PMC8304547 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OVCA) arises from three cellular origins, namely surface epithelial cells, germ cells, and stromal cells. More than 85% of OVCAs are EOCs (epithelial ovarian carcinomas), which are the most lethal gynecological malignancies. Cancer stem/progenitor cells (CSPCs) are considered to be cancer promoters due to their capacity for unlimited self-renewal and drug resistance. Androgen receptor (AR) belongs to the nuclear receptor superfamily and can be activated through binding to its ligand androgens. Studies have reported an association between AR expression and EOC carcinogenesis, and AR is suggested to be involved in proliferation, migration/invasion, and stemness. In addition, alternative AR activating signals, including both ligand-dependent and ligand-independent, are involved in OVCA progression. Although some clinical trials have previously been conducted to evaluate the effects of anti-androgens in EOC, no significant results have been reported. In contrast, experimental studies evaluating the effects of anti-androgen or anti-AR reagents in AR-expressing EOC models have demonstrated positive results for suppressing disease progression. Since AR is involved in complex signaling pathways and may be expressed at various levels in OVCA, the aim of this article was to provide an overview of current studies and perspectives regarding the relevance of androgen/AR roles in OVCA.
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17
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Fallopian Tube-Derived Tumor Cells Induce Testosterone Secretion from the Ovary, Increasing Epithelial Proliferation and Invasion. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13081925. [PMID: 33923536 PMCID: PMC8073317 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13081925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The fallopian tube epithelium is the site of origin for a majority of high grade serous ovarian carcinomas (HGSOC). The chemical communication between the fallopian tube and the ovary in the development of HGSOC from the fallopian tube is of interest since the fimbriated ends in proximity of the ovary harbor serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STICs). Epidemiological data indicates that androgens play a role in ovarian carcinogenesis; however, the oncogenic impact of androgen exposure on the fallopian tube, or tubal neoplastic precursor lesions, has yet to be explored. In this report, imaging mass spectrometry identified that testosterone is produced by the ovary when exposed to tumorigenic fallopian tube derived PTEN deficient cells. Androgen exposure increased cellular viability, proliferation, and invasion of murine cell models of healthy fallopian tube epithelium and PAX2 deficient models of the preneoplastic secretory cell outgrowths (SCOUTs). Proliferation and invasion induced by androgen was reversed by co-treatment with androgen receptor (AR) antagonist, bicalutamide. Furthermore, ablation of phosphorylated ERK reversed proliferation, but not invasion. Investigation of two hyperandrogenic rodent models of polycystic ovarian syndrome revealed that peripheral administration of androgens does not induce fallopian proliferation in vivo. These data suggest that tumorigenic lesions in the fallopian tube may induce an androgenic microenvironment proximal to the ovary, which may in turn promote proliferation of the fallopian tube epithelium and preneoplastic lesions.
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18
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Thomas PB, Jeffery P, Gahete MD, Whiteside E, Walpole C, Maugham M, Jovanovic L, Gunter J, Williams E, Nelson C, Herington A, Luque RM, Veedu R, Chopin LK, Seim I. The long non-coding RNA GHSROS reprograms prostate cancer cell lines toward a more aggressive phenotype. PeerJ 2021; 9:e10280. [PMID: 33585078 PMCID: PMC7860111 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
It is now appreciated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are important players in orchestrating cancer progression. In this study we characterized GHSROS, a human lncRNA gene on the opposite DNA strand (antisense) to the ghrelin receptor gene, in prostate cancer. The lncRNA was upregulated by prostate tumors from different clinical datasets. Transcriptome data revealed that GHSROS alters the expression of cancer-associated genes. Functional analyses in vitro showed that GHSROS mediates tumor growth, migration and survival, and resistance to the cytotoxic drug docetaxel. Increased cellular proliferation of GHSROS-overexpressing PC3, DU145, and LNCaP prostate cancer cell lines in vitro was recapitulated in a subcutaneous xenograft model. Conversely, in vitro antisense oligonucleotide inhibition of the lncRNA reciprocally regulated cell growth and migration, and gene expression. Notably, GHSROS modulates the expression of PPP2R2C, the loss of which may drive androgen receptor pathway-independent prostate tumor progression in a subset of prostate cancers. Collectively, our findings suggest that GHSROS can reprogram prostate cancer cells toward a more aggressive phenotype and that this lncRNA may represent a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick B. Thomas
- Ghrelin Research Group, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Comparative and Endocrine Biology Laboratory, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Penny Jeffery
- Ghrelin Research Group, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Comparative and Endocrine Biology Laboratory, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Manuel D. Gahete
- Maimonides Institute of Biomedical Research of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía (HURS), Cordoba, Spain
- Campus de Excelencia Internacional Agroalimentario (ceiA3), Cordoba, Spain
- CIBER de la Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Cordoba, Spain
| | - Eliza Whiteside
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Carina Walpole
- Ghrelin Research Group, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michelle Maugham
- Ghrelin Research Group, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Comparative and Endocrine Biology Laboratory, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lidija Jovanovic
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jennifer Gunter
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Williams
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Colleen Nelson
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Adrian Herington
- Ghrelin Research Group, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Raul M. Luque
- Maimonides Institute of Biomedical Research of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía (HURS), Cordoba, Spain
- Campus de Excelencia Internacional Agroalimentario (ceiA3), Cordoba, Spain
- CIBER de la Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Cordoba, Spain
| | - Rakesh Veedu
- Centre for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lisa K. Chopin
- Ghrelin Research Group, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Comparative and Endocrine Biology Laboratory, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Inge Seim
- Ghrelin Research Group, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Comparative and Endocrine Biology Laboratory, Translational Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Integrative Biology Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
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19
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Jung US, Min KW, Kim DH, Kwon MJ, Park H, Jang HS. Suppression of ARID1A associated with decreased CD8 T cells improves cell survival of ovarian clear cell carcinoma. J Gynecol Oncol 2020; 32:e3. [PMID: 33185044 PMCID: PMC7767648 DOI: 10.3802/jgo.2021.32.e3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective AT-rich interactive domain 1A (ARID1A) plays an important role as a tumor suppressor gene in ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC), but the clinical application of ARID1A remains unclear. The aim of this study was to analyze clinicopathological parameters, molecular interactions and immune-infiltration in patients with low ARID1A expression and to provide candidate target drugs. Methods We investigated the clinicopathologic parameters, specific gene sets/genes, and immunological relevance according to ARID1A expression in 998 OCCC patients from 12 eligible studies (using meta-analyses); 30 OCCC patients from the Hanyang University Guri Hospital (HYGH) cohort; and 52 OCCC patients from gene set enrichment (GSE) 65986 (25 patients), 63885 (9 patients), and 54809 (6 patients and 12 healthy people) of the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). We analyzed network-based pathways based on gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and performed in vitro drug screening. Results Low ARID1A expression was associated with poor survival in OCCC from the meta-analysis, HYGH cohort and GEO data. In GSEA, low ARID1A expression was related to the tumor invasion process as well as a low immune-infiltration. In silico cytometry showed that CD8 T cells were decreased with low ARID1A expression. In pathway analysis, ARID1A was associated with angiogenic endothelial cell signaling. In vitro drug screening revealed that cabozantinib and bicalutamide effectively inhibited specific hub genes, such as vascular endothelial growth factor-A and androgen receptor, in OCCC cells with low ARID1A expression. Conclusions Therapeutic strategies making use of low ARID1A could contribute to better clinical management/research for patients with OCCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Un Suk Jung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Guri, Korea
| | - Kyueng Whan Min
- Department of Pathology, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Guri, Korea.
| | - Dong Hoon Kim
- Department of Pathology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mi Jung Kwon
- Department of Pathology, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Korea
| | - HoHyun Park
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Mokpo Science University, Mokpo, Korea
| | - Hyung Seok Jang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Ansan University, Ansan, Korea
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20
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Mittica G, Goia M, Gambino A, Scotto G, Fonte M, Senetta R, Aglietta M, Borella F, Sapino A, Katsaros D, Maggiorotto F, Ghisoni E, Giannone G, Tuninetti V, Genta S, Eusebi C, Momi M, Cassoni P, Valabrega G. Validation of Androgen Receptor loss as a risk factor for the development of brain metastases from ovarian cancers. J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:53. [PMID: 32366278 PMCID: PMC7199337 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00655-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Central nervous system (CNS) spreading from epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) is an uncommon but increasing phenomenon. We previously reported in a small series of 11 patients a correlation between Androgen Receptor (AR) loss and localization to CNS. Aims of this study were: to confirm a predictive role of AR loss in an independent validation cohort; to evaluate if AR status impacts on EOC survival. Results We collected an additional 29 cases and 19 controls as validation cohort. In this independent cohort at univariate analysis, cases exhibited lower expression of AR, considered both as continuous (p < 0.001) and as discrete variable (10% cut-off: p < 0.003; Immunoreactive score: p < 0.001). AR negative EOC showed an odds ratio (OR) = 8.33 for CNS dissemination compared with AR positive EOC. Kaplan-Meier curves of the combined dataset, combining data of new validation cohort with the previously published cohort, showed that AR < 10% significantly correlates with worse outcomes (p = 0.005 for Progression Free Survival (PFS) and p = 0.002 for brain PFS (bPFS) respectively). Comparison of AR expression between primary tissue and paired brain metastases in the combined dataset did not show any statistically significant difference. Conclusions We confirmed AR loss as predictive role for CNS involvement from EOC in an independent cohort of cases and controls. Early assessment of AR status could improve clinical management and patients’ prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Mittica
- Unit of Oncology, ASL Verbano Cusio Ossola (VCO), Domodossola, Italy
| | - Margherita Goia
- Unit of Pathology, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Angela Gambino
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giulia Scotto
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Turin, Italy. .,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, TO, Italy.
| | - Mattia Fonte
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Rebecca Senetta
- Unit of Pathology, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Massimo Aglietta
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, TO, Italy
| | - Fulvio Borella
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Gynecology, AOU, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | - Anna Sapino
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, TO, Italy
| | - Dionyssios Katsaros
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Gynecology, AOU, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Eleonora Ghisoni
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, TO, Italy
| | - Gaia Giannone
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, TO, Italy
| | - Valentina Tuninetti
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, TO, Italy
| | - Sofia Genta
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, TO, Italy
| | - Chiara Eusebi
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marina Momi
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paola Cassoni
- Unit of Pathology, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Giorgio Valabrega
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, TO, Italy
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21
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Kollara A, Shathasivam P, Park S, Ringuette MJ, Brown TJ. Increased androgen receptor levels and signaling in ovarian cancer cells by VEPH1 associated with suppression of SMAD3 and AKT activation. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 196:105498. [PMID: 31614206 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.105498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Studies indicate androgens contribute to initiation or progression of epithelial ovarian cancer through poorly understood mechanisms. We provide evidence that the androgen receptor (AR) interacts in a ligand-independent manner with the putative armadillo repeat domain of ventricular zone expressed PH domain-containing 1 (VEPH1). This interaction was increased by mutation of the two nuclear receptor-interacting LxxLL motifs present within the VEPH1 armadillo repeat domain. Androgen treatment did not result in nuclear co-localization of VEPH1 with AR, suggesting that VEPH1 does not function as a nuclear co-regulatory protein. VEPH1 expression decreased SMAD3 and activated AKT levels in ovarian cancer cell lines and increased AR activity and protein levels, consistent with an impact on receptor stability. Treatment of cells with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) increased AR protein levels measured 24 h after treatment, an effect augmented in VEPH1-transfected cells, and inhibited by knock-down of endogenous VEPH1. SMAD3 overexpression decreased AR protein levels and prevented the VEPH1-dependent increase in AR; however, silencing of SMAD3 paradoxically also decreased AR levels. DHT treatment led to a rapid and sustained decrease in phosphorylated AKT (pAKT) levels that was enhanced by VEPH1 expression. Inhibition of PI3K resulted in increased AR protein levels. These studies indicate that VEPH1 acts to enhance AR activity in ovarian cancer cells by decreasing SMAD3 and pAKT levels, resulting in increased levels of AR protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Kollara
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3L9, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G5, Canada
| | - Premalatha Shathasivam
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3L9, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G5, Canada
| | - Soyeon Park
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3L9, Canada
| | - Maurice J Ringuette
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G5, Canada
| | - Theodore J Brown
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3L9, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G5, Canada.
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22
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Predescu DV, Crețoiu SM, Crețoiu D, Alexandra Pavelescu L, Suciu N, Radu BM, Voinea SC. G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs)-Mediated Calcium Signaling in Ovarian Cancer: Focus on GPCRs activated by Neurotransmitters and Inflammation-Associated Molecules. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225568. [PMID: 31703453 PMCID: PMC6888001 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
G-coupled protein receptors (GCPR) involve several signaling pathways, some of them being coupled with intracellular calcium (Ca2+) mobilization. GPCRs were involved in migration, invasion and metastasis of different types of cancers, including ovarian cancer. Many studies have discussed the essential contribution of GPCRs activated by steroid hormones in ovarian cancer. However, ovarian cancer is also associated with altered signals coming from the nervous system, the immune system or the inflammatory environment, in which GPCRs are ‘sensing’ these molecular signals. Many studies have been oriented so far on ovarian cell lines (most of them being of human cell lines), and only few studies based on animal models or clinical studies have been devoted to the expression changes or functional role of GPCRs in ovarian cancer. In this paper, we review the alterations of GPCRs activated by neurotransmitters (muscarinic receptors, serotonin receptors, dopamine receptors, adrenoceptors) or inflammation-associated molecules (bradykinin receptors, histamine receptors, chemokine receptors) in ovarian cancer and we discuss their potential as histological biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragoș-Valentin Predescu
- Department of General Surgery, Sf. Maria Clinical Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 37-39 Ion Mihalache Blvd., 011172 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sanda Maria Crețoiu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Eroii Sanitari Blvd., 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dragoș Crețoiu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Eroii Sanitari Blvd., 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute of Mother and Child Health, Polizu Clinical Hospital, 38-52 Gh. Polizu Street, 020395 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Luciana Alexandra Pavelescu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Eroii Sanitari Blvd., 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicolae Suciu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute of Mother and Child Health, Polizu Clinical Hospital, 38-52 Gh. Polizu Street, 020395 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute of Mother and Child Health, Polizu Clinical Hospital, 38-52 Gh. Polizu Street, 020395 Bucharest, Romania
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Neonatology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Polizu Clinical Hospital, 38-52 Gh. Polizu Street, 020395 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Beatrice Mihaela Radu
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independenţei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
- Life, Environmental and Earth Sciences Division, Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independenţei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +00-40-21-318-1573
| | - Silviu-Cristian Voinea
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Prof. Dr. Alexandru Trestioreanu Oncology Institute, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 252 Fundeni Rd., 022328 Bucharest, Romania
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Chung WM, Ho YP, Chang WC, Dai YC, Chen L, Hung YC, Ma WL. Increase Paclitaxel Sensitivity to Better Suppress Serous Epithelial Ovarian Cancer via Ablating Androgen Receptor/Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor-ABCG2 Axis. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11040463. [PMID: 30986993 PMCID: PMC6521308 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11040463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is one of the most lethal gynecological malignancies and presents chemoresistance after chemotherapy treatment. Androgen receptor (AR) has been known to participate in proliferation. Yet the mechanisms of the resistance of this drug and its linkage to the AR remains unclear. Methods: To elucidate AR-related paclitaxel sensitivity, co-IP, luciferase reporter assay and ChIP assay were performed to identify that AR direct-regulated ABCG2 expression under paclitaxel treatment. IHC staining by AR antibody presented higher AR expression in serous-type patients than other types. AR degradation enhancer (ASC-J9) was used to examine paclitaxel-associated and paclitaxel-resistant cytotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. Results: We found AR/aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)-mediates ABCG2 expression and leads to a change in paclitaxel cytotoxicity/sensitivity in EOC serous subtype cell lines. Molecular mechanism study showed that paclitaxel activated AR transactivity and bound to alternative ARE in the ABCG2 proximal promoter region. To identify AR as a potential therapeutic target, the ASC-J9 was used to re-sensitize paclitaxel-resistant EOC tumors upon paclitaxel treatment in vitro and in vivo. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that activation of AR transactivity beyond the androgen-associated biological effect. This novel AR mechanism explains that degradation of AR is the most effective therapeutic strategy for treating AR-positive EOC serous subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Min Chung
- Graduate Institution of Clinical Medical Science, and Graduate Institute of BioMedical Sciences, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40403, Taiwan.
- Sex Hormone Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40403, Taiwan.
| | - Yen-Ping Ho
- Sex Hormone Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40403, Taiwan.
| | - Wei-Chun Chang
- Graduate Institution of Clinical Medical Science, and Graduate Institute of BioMedical Sciences, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40403, Taiwan.
- Sex Hormone Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40403, Taiwan.
| | - Yuan-Chang Dai
- Department of Pathology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chia-Yi City 60002, Taiwan.
| | - Lumin Chen
- Sex Hormone Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40403, Taiwan.
- Department of OBs & GYN, BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou 215004, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Yao-Ching Hung
- Graduate Institution of Clinical Medical Science, and Graduate Institute of BioMedical Sciences, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40403, Taiwan.
- Sex Hormone Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40403, Taiwan.
| | - Wen-Lung Ma
- Graduate Institution of Clinical Medical Science, and Graduate Institute of BioMedical Sciences, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40403, Taiwan.
- Sex Hormone Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40403, Taiwan.
- Department of Nursing, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan.
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Luo GF, Chen CY, Wang J, Yue HY, Tian Y, Yang P, Li YK, Li Y. FOXD3 may be a new cellular target biomarker as a hypermethylation gene in human ovarian cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2019; 19:44. [PMID: 30858761 PMCID: PMC6394078 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-019-0755-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background FOXD3 is aberrantly regulated in several tumors, but its underlying mechanisms in ovarian cancer (OC) remains largely unknown. The present study aimed to explore the role and associated mechanisms of FOXD3 in OC. Methods Microarray data from GEO was used to analyze differential CpG sites and differentially methylated regions (DMR) in tumor tissues and Illumina 450 genome-wide methylation data was employed. The FOXD3 expression level was determined through qRT-PCR and western blot analysis. Wound healing test, colony formation and flow cytometry assay were utilized to analyze cell migration, proliferation abilities, cell cycle and cell apoptosis, respectively. Finally, the effect of FOXD3 on tumor growth was investigated through in vivo xenograft experiments. Results GEO data analysis showed that FOXD3 was hypermethylated in OC tissues. Also, qRT-PCR revealed that FOXD3 was low expressed and methylation-specific PCR (MSP) confirmed that the methylation level of FOXD3 was hypermethylated. Combined treatment of 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-dC) could synergistically restored FOXD3 expression. Finally, in vitro and in vivo experiments showed that demethylated FOXD3 decreased cell proliferation and migration abilities, and increased the cell apoptosis. In vivo experiment detected that demethylated FOXD3 restrained tumor growth. Conclusions FOXD3 could act as a tumor suppressor to inhibit cell proliferation, migration and promote cell apoptosis in OC cells. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12935-019-0755-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-Fang Luo
- 1Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, 421001 People's Republic of China
| | - Chang-Ye Chen
- 1Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, 421001 People's Republic of China
| | - Juan Wang
- 2Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Department of Histology and Embryology, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001 Hunan People's Republic of China
| | - Hai-Yan Yue
- 3Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular and Molecular Pathology, College of Hunan Province, Cancer Research Institute, University of South China, No. 28 West Changsheng Road, Hengyang, 421001 Hunan People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Tian
- 4Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi Clinical College of Wuhan University, Enshi, 445000 Hubei People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Yang
- 3Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular and Molecular Pathology, College of Hunan Province, Cancer Research Institute, University of South China, No. 28 West Changsheng Road, Hengyang, 421001 Hunan People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Kun Li
- 3Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular and Molecular Pathology, College of Hunan Province, Cancer Research Institute, University of South China, No. 28 West Changsheng Road, Hengyang, 421001 Hunan People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Li
- 5Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, No. 932 South Lushan Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, 410013 Hunan People's Republic of China.,6Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of Citic-Xiangya, No. 84 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078 Hunan People's Republic of China
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Cancer of Reproductive System: Receptors and Targeting Strategies. TARGETED INTRACELLULAR DRUG DELIVERY BY RECEPTOR MEDIATED ENDOCYTOSIS 2019. [PMCID: PMC7122620 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-29168-6_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Carcinogenesis in the different organs of the reproductive system, particularly, prostate, ovarian, and cervical tissues, involves aberrant expression of various physiological receptors belonging to different superfamilies. This chapter provides insights into the physiological receptors that are associated with the genesis, progression, metastasis, management, as well as the prognosis of the cancers of the male and female reproductive systems. It also highlights the structural and binding characteristics of the highly predominant receptors, namely, androgen, estrogen, progesterone, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors, which are overexpressed in these cancers and discusses various strategies to target them.
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26
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Li D, Zhou W, Pang J, Tang Q, Zhong B, Shen C, Xiao L, Hou T. A magic drug target: Androgen receptor. Med Res Rev 2018; 39:1485-1514. [PMID: 30569509 DOI: 10.1002/med.21558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Androgen receptor (AR) is closely associated with a group of hormone-related diseases including the cancers of prostate, breast, ovary, pancreas, etc and anabolic deficiencies such as muscle atrophy and osteoporosis. Depending on the specific type and stage of the diseases, AR ligands including not only antagonists but also agonists and modulators are considered as potential therapeutics, which makes AR an extremely interesting drug target. Here, we at first review the current understandings on the structural characteristics of AR, and then address why and how AR is investigated as a drug target for the relevant diseases and summarize the representative antagonists and agonists targeting five prospective small molecule binding sites at AR, including ligand-binding pocket, activation function-2 site, binding function-3 site, DNA-binding domain, and N-terminal domain, providing recent insights from a target and drug development view. Further comprehensive studies on AR and AR ligands would bring fruitful information and push the therapy of AR relevant diseases forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenfang Zhou
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,State Key Lab of CAD&CG, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jinping Pang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qin Tang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bingling Zhong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chao Shen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li Xiao
- School of Life Science, Huzhou University, Huzhou, China
| | - Tingjun Hou
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,State Key Lab of CAD&CG, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Murmann AE, Yu J, Opal P, Peter ME. Trinucleotide Repeat Expansion Diseases, RNAi, and Cancer. Trends Cancer 2018; 4:684-700. [PMID: 30292352 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Many neurodegenerative diseases are caused by unstable trinucleotide repeat (TNR) expansions located in disease-associated genes. siRNAs based on CAG repeat expansions effectively kill cancer cell lines in vitro through RNAi. They also cause significant reduction in tumor growth in a human ovarian cancer mouse model with no toxicity to the treated mice. This suggests that cancer cells are particularly sensitive to CAG TNR-derived siRNAs, and explains a reported inverse correlation between the length of CAG TNRs and reduced global cancer incidences in some CAG TNR diseases. This review discusses both mutant proteins and mutant RNAs as a cause of TNR diseases, with a focus on RNAi and its role in contributing to disease pathology and in suppressing cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea E Murmann
- Department of Medicine, Division Hematology/Oncology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jindan Yu
- Department of Medicine, Division Hematology/Oncology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Puneet Opal
- Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Marcus E Peter
- Department of Medicine, Division Hematology/Oncology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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28
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Zhu F, Xu X, Shi B, Zeng L, Wang L, Wu X, Zhu H. The positive predictive value of low-density lipoprotein for recurrence-free survival in ovarian cancer. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2018; 143:232-238. [PMID: 30112762 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.12645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Zhu
- Department of Gynecology; the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Xinxin Xu
- Department of Gynecology; the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Beibei Shi
- Department of Gynecology; the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Linchai Zeng
- Department of Gynecology; the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Luhui Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine; Jiaxing University; Jiaxing China
| | - Xueqing Wu
- Department of Gynecology; the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Haiyan Zhu
- Department of Gynecology; the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
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29
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Ling K, Jiang L, Liang S, Kwong J, Yang L, Li Y, PingYin, Deng Q, Liang Z. Nanog interaction with the androgen receptor signaling axis induce ovarian cancer stem cell regulation: studies based on the CRISPR/Cas9 system. J Ovarian Res 2018; 11:36. [PMID: 29716628 PMCID: PMC5930492 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-018-0403-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSCs) contribute to the poor prognosis of ovarian cancer. Involvement of the androgen receptor (AR) in the malignant behaviors of other tumors has been reported. However, whether AR associates with Nanog (a stem cell marker) and participates in OCSC functions remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the interaction of Nanog with AR and examined whether this interaction induced stem-like properties in ovarian cancer cells. Methods AR and Nanog expression in ovarian tumors was evaluated. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, we constructed a Nanog green fluorescent protein (GFP) marker cell model to investigate the expression and co-localization of Nanog and AR. Then, we examined the effect of androgen on the Nanog promoter in ovarian cancer cell lines (A2780 and SKOV3). After androgen or anti-androgen treatment, cell proliferation, migration, sphere formation, colony formation and tumorigenesis were assessed in vitro and in vivo. Results Both AR and Nanog expression were obviously high in ovarian tumors. Our results showed that Nanog expression was correlated with AR expression. The androgen 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) activated Nanog promoter transcription. Meanwhile, Nanog GFP-positive cells treated with DHT exhibited higher levels of proliferation, migration, sphere formation and colony formation. We also observed that the tumorigenesis of Nanog GFP-positive cells was significantly higher than that of the GFP-negative cells. Xenografts of Nanog GFP-positive cells showed significant differences when treated with androgen or anti-androgen drugs in vivo. Conclusions The interaction of Nanog with the AR signaling axis might induce or contribute to OCSC regulation. In addition, androgen might promote stemness characteristics in ovarian cancer cells by activating the Nanog promoter. This finding merits further study because it may provide a new understanding of OCSC regulation from a hormone perspective and lead to the reevaluation of stem cell therapy for ovarian cancer. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13048-018-0403-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaijian Ling
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Lupin Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Shi Liang
- Bjrigham Young University, ID 272 Rigby Hall, Rexburg, 83460-4500, USA
| | - Joseph Kwong
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Leiyan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yudi Li
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - PingYin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Qingchun Deng
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Zhiqing Liang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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Luo H, Li S, Zhao M, Sheng B, Zhu H, Zhu X. Prognostic value of progesterone receptor expression in ovarian cancer: a meta-analysis. Oncotarget 2018; 8:36845-36856. [PMID: 28415663 PMCID: PMC5482703 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective While a prognosis value of progesterone receptor (PR) in ovarian cancer has been reported in some publications, controversial data were presented by different reports. In order to address the disagreement of progesterone receptor in ovarian cancer survival, we conducted this meta-analysis. Methods Relevant articles on progesterone receptor and ovarian cancer prognosis were identified via a thorough search of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were extracted from studies on overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS)/progress-free survival (PFS)/recurrence-free survival (RFS). Result A total of 28 eligible studies containing 5685 patients were collected for analysis. It was found that progesterone receptor positivity was significantly associated with favorable overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.78 to 0.95, P = 0.002) and disease-free survival (DFS)/progress-free survival (PFS)/recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.61 to 0.93, P = 0.008) of ovarian cancer patients. Subgroup analysis showed that progesterone receptor expression was associated with a favorable prognosis of unclassified ovarian cancer, European origin, and immunohistochemical detection method. Conclusion Progesterone receptor expression can be used as a favorable prognostic predictor in ovarian cancer managements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Saisai Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Menghuang Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bo Sheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haiyan Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueqiong Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Zhao M, Li S, Zhou L, Shen Q, Zhu H, Zhu X. Prognostic values of excision repair cross-complementing genes mRNA expression in ovarian cancer patients. Life Sci 2017; 194:34-39. [PMID: 29247747 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2017.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Revised: 12/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Excision repair cross-complementing (ERCC) genes, key components of the nucleotide excision repair pathway, are regarded as crucial factors for DNA repair capacity. Previous studies have investigated prognostic values of ERCC genes in a number of malignancies. However, the relationship between ERCC genes and prognosis of ovarian cancer patients remains controversial. Therefore, in the current study, we systematically analyze the prognostic values of ERCC genes in ovarian cancer by the Kaplan-Meier plotter, which includes updated gene expression data and survival information of 1656 ovarian cancer patients. Our results showed that high expression of ERCC1 and ERCC8 mRNA was related to a worse overall survival among ovarian cancer patients, especially in late stage and poor differentiation serous ovarian patients. Increased ERCC4 mRNA expression indicated a better overall survival among serous ovarian cancer patients. The other ERCC genes were uncorrelated with prognosis in ovarian cancer. These results indicate that some ERCC genes have critical prognostic values in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghuang Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Saisai Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Lulu Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qi Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Haiyan Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
| | - Xueqiong Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
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AR-Signaling in Human Malignancies: Prostate Cancer and Beyond. Cancers (Basel) 2017; 9:cancers9010007. [PMID: 28085048 PMCID: PMC5295778 DOI: 10.3390/cancers9010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Revised: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the 1940s Charles Huggins reported remarkable palliative benefits following surgical castration in men with advanced prostate cancer, and since then the androgen receptor (AR) has remained the main therapeutic target in this disease. Over the past couple of decades, our understanding of AR-signaling biology has dramatically improved, and it has become apparent that the AR can modulate a number of other well-described oncogenic signaling pathways. Not surprisingly, mounting preclinical and epidemiologic data now supports a role for AR-signaling in promoting the growth and progression of several cancers other than prostate, and early phase clinical trials have documented preliminary signs of efficacy when AR-signaling inhibitors are used in several of these malignancies. In this article, we provide an overview of the evidence supporting the use of AR-directed therapies in prostate as well as other cancers, with an emphasis on the rationale for targeting AR-signaling across tumor types.
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