Multiple biological functions of Twist1 in various cancers

MiR-34b promotes oxidative stress and induces cellular senescence through TWIST1 in human cervical cancer

PURPOSE

The aim of this research was to elucidate the role of miR-34b in cervical cancer progression and the underlying mechanism behind the miR-34b-mediated tumor suppression. The study revealed the role of miR-34b as a senescence inducer and serves as a potential therapeutic target in developing combination therapy with senotherapeutics.

METHODS

MiR-34b was ectopically expressed in cervical cancer cell lines using a tetracycline inducible system and its effects on cell viability, apoptosis, senescence, DNA damage and oxidative stress were studied using MTT assay, acridine orange/ ethidium bromide staining, senescence associated β-galactosidase assay, gamma H2AX foci staining assay, western blotting and specific dyes for the detection of total and individual ROS species.

RESULTS

Ectopic expression of miR-34b promoted cellular senescence but no significant induction of apoptosis was observed in cervical cancer cell lines. MiR-34b promoted increase in oxidative stress through increase in total and individual ROS species and contributed to increase in cellular senescence. Mechanistically, miR-34b mediates its action by targeting TWIST1 as evidenced by the similar actions of TWIST1 shRNA in cervical cancer cell lines. Furthermore, our study revealed TWIST1 is one of the most significant targets of miR-34b targetome and identified RITA as a novel senolytic agent for use in combination therapy with miR-34b.

CONCLUSION

MiR-34b promotes cellular senescence and oxidative stress by targeting TWIST1, a known oncogene and EMT regulator. This study delved into the mechanism of miR-34b-mediated tumor suppression and provided novel insights for development of miR-34b based therapeutics for cervical cancer.

Emerging biological functions of Twist1 in cell differentiation

Twist1 is required for embryonic development and expresses after birth in mesenchymal stem cells derived from mesoderm, where it governs mesenchymal cell development. As a well-known regulator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition or embryonic organogenesis, Twist1 is important in a variety of developmental systems, including mesoderm formation, neurogenesis, myogenesis, cranial neural crest cell migration, and differentiation. In this review, we first highlight the physiological significance of Twist1 in cell differentiation, including osteogenic, chondrogenic, and myogenic differentiation, and then detail its probable molecular processes and signaling pathways. On this premise, we summarize the significance of Twist1 in distinct developmental disorders and diseases to provide a reference for studies on cell differentiation/development-related diseases.

Bio-Pathological Functions of Posttranslational Modifications of Histological Biomarkers in Breast Cancer

Proteins are the most common types of biomarkers used in breast cancer (BC) theranostics and management. By definition, a biomarker must be a relevant, objective, stable, and quantifiable biomolecule or other parameter, but proteins are known to exhibit the most variate and profound structural and functional variation. Thus, the proteome is highly dynamic and permanently reshaped and readapted, according to changing microenvironments, to maintain the local cell and tissue homeostasis. It is known that protein posttranslational modifications (PTMs) can affect all aspects of protein function. In this review, we focused our analysis on the different types of PTMs of histological biomarkers in BC. Thus, we analyzed the most common PTMs, including phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, neddylation, palmitoylation, myristoylation, and glycosylation/sialylation/fucosylation of transcription factors, proliferation marker Ki-67, plasma membrane proteins, and histone modifications. Most of these PTMs occur in the presence of cellular stress. We emphasized that these PTMs interfere with these biomarkers maintenance, turnover and lifespan, nuclear or subcellular localization, structure and function, stabilization or inactivation, initiation or silencing of genomic and non-genomic pathways, including transcriptional activities or signaling pathways, mitosis, proteostasis, cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, membrane trafficking, and PPIs. Moreover, PTMs of these biomarkers orchestrate all hallmark pathways that are dysregulated in BC, playing both pro- and/or antitumoral and context-specific roles in DNA damage, repair and genomic stability, inactivation/activation of tumor-suppressor genes and oncogenes, phenotypic plasticity, epigenetic regulation of gene expression and non-mutational reprogramming, proliferative signaling, endocytosis, cell death, dysregulated TME, invasion and metastasis, including epithelial-mesenchymal/mesenchymal-epithelial transition (EMT/MET), and resistance to therapy or reversal of multidrug therapy resistance. PTMs occur in the nucleus but also at the plasma membrane and cytoplasmic level and induce biomarker translocation with opposite effects. Analysis of protein PTMs allows for the discovery and validation of new biomarkers in BC, mainly for early diagnosis, like extracellular vesicle glycosylation, which may be considered as a potential source of circulating cancer biomarkers.

Identifying a Risk Signature of Methylation-Driven Genes as a Predictor of Survival Outcome for Colon Cancer Patients

Aberrant expression of gene is driven by its promoter methylation and is the key molecular basis of carcinogenic processes. This study aimed at identifying a risk signature of methylation-driven (MD) genes and evaluating its prognostic value for colon cancer (CC) patients. The expression profiles of methylation and mRNA in CC samples were obtained from the TCGA database, and the MethylMix algorithm was used to identify MD genes. The relationships between their expression levels and overall survival (OS) of CC patients were analyzed, and a prognostic signature of MD genes was established. The risk score of gene signature was calculated, and the median was used to divide all patients into high (H) and low (L) risk groups. The prognostic value of gene signature was tested by the TCGA cohort and an independent validation cohort (GSE17538 dataset). In total, 69 MD genes were identified, and 7 were associated with OS of CC patients. Ultimately, 4 (TWIST1, LDOC1, EPHX3, and STC2) were screened out to establish a risk signature. The H-risk patients (>0.923) had a worse OS than L-risk patients (≤0.923) in both the TCGA (5-year cumulative survival: 52.9% vs 72.0%, P=0.005) and GSE17538 cohort (49.4% vs 69.3%, P=0.004). The AUC values of MD genes signature for the prediction of 3- and 5-year OS were 0.648 and 0.643 in the TCGA dataset and 0.634 and 0.624 in the GSE17538 dataset, respectively. The risk signature of four MD genes was identified as an independent predictor of OS for CC patients (HR for TCGA dataset: 2.071, 95% CI=1.196-3.586, P=0.009; HR for GSE17538 dataset: 2.021, 95% CI=1.290-3.166, P=0.002). The risk signature of four MD genes might be a useful prognostic tool and help doctors improve the clinical management of CC patients.

Wnt/β-catenin signalling, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and crosslink signalling in colorectal cancer cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC), with its significant incidence and metastatic rates, profoundly affects human health. A common oncogenic event in CRC is the aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway, which drives both the initiation and progression of the disease. Persistent Wnt/β-catenin signalling facilitates the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which accelerates CRC invasion and metastasis. This review provides a summary of recent molecular studies on the role of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling axis in regulating EMT in CRC cells, which triggers metastatic pathogenesis. We present a comprehensive examination of the EMT process and its transcriptional controllers, with an emphasis on the crucial functions of β-catenin, EMT transcription factors (EMT-TFs). We also review recent evidences showing that hyperactive Wnt/β-catenin signalling triggers EMT and metastatic phenotypes in CRC via "Destruction complex" of β-catenin mechanisms. Potential therapeutic and challenges approache to suppress EMT and prevent CRC cells metastasis by targeting Wnt/β-catenin signalling are also discussed. These include direct β-catenin inhibitors and novel targets of the Wnt pathway, and finally highlight novel potential combinational treatment options based on the inhibition of the Wnt pathway.

PL-hMSC and CH-hMSC derived soluble factors inhibit proliferation but improve hGBM cell migration by activating TGF-β and inhibiting Wnt signaling

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most common and aggressive brain tumors. GBM resists most chemotherapeutic agents, resulting in a high mortality rate in patients. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), which are parts of the cancer stroma, have been shown to be involved in the development and progression of GBM. However, different sources of hMSCs might affect GBM cells differently. In the present study, we established hMSCs from placenta (PL-hMSC) and chorion (CH-hMSC) to study the effects of their released soluble factors on the proliferation, migration, invasion, gene expression, and survival of human GBM cells, U251. We found that the soluble factors derived from CH-hMSCs and PL-hMSCs suppressed the proliferation of U251 cells in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, soluble factors derived from both hMSC sources increased U251 migration without affecting their invasive property. The soluble factors derived from these hMSCs decreased the expression levels of CyclinD1, E2Fs and MYC genes that promote GBM cell proliferation but increased the expression level of TWIST gene, which promotes EMT and GBM cell migration. The functional study suggests that both hMSCs might exert their effects, at least in part, by activating TGF-β and suppressing Wnt/β-catenin signaling in U251 cells. Our study provides a better understanding of the interaction between GBM cells and gestational tissue-derived hMSCs. This knowledge might be used to develop safer and more effective stem cell therapy that improves the survival and quality of life of patients with GBM by manipulating the interaction between hMSCs and GBM cells.

Intersecting Paths: Unraveling the Complex Journey of Cancer to Bone Metastasis

The phenomenon of bone metastases presents a significant challenge within the context of advanced cancer treatments, particularly pertaining to breast, prostate, and lung cancers. These metastatic occurrences stem from the dissemination of cancerous cells into the bone, thereby interrupting the equilibrium between osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Such disruption results in skeletal complications, adversely affecting patient morbidity and quality of life. This review discusses the intricate interplay between cancer cells and the bone microenvironment, positing the bone not merely as a passive recipient of metastatic cells but as an active contributor to cancer progression through its distinctive biochemical and cellular makeup. A thorough examination of bone structure and the dynamics of bone remodeling is undertaken, elucidating how metastatic cancer cells exploit these processes. This review explores the genetic and molecular pathways that underpin the onset and development of bone metastases. Particular emphasis is placed on the roles of cytokines and growth factors in facilitating osteoclastogenesis and influencing osteoblast activity. Additionally, this paper offers a meticulous critique of current diagnostic methodologies, ranging from conventional radiography to advanced molecular imaging techniques, and discusses the implications of a nuanced understanding of bone metastasis biology for therapeutic intervention. This includes the development of targeted therapies and strategies for managing bone pain and other skeletal-related events. Moreover, this review underscores the imperative of ongoing research efforts aimed at identifying novel therapeutic targets and refining management approaches for bone metastases. It advocates for a multidisciplinary strategy that integrates advancements in medical oncology and radiology with insights derived from molecular biology and genetics, to enhance prognostic outcomes and the quality of life for patients afflicted by this debilitating condition. In summary, bone metastases constitute a complex issue that demands a comprehensive and informed approach to treatment. This article contributes to the ongoing discourse by consolidating existing knowledge and identifying avenues for future investigation, with the overarching objective of ameliorating patient care in the domain of oncology.

LncRNAs as nodes for the cross-talk between autophagy and Wnt signaling in pancreatic cancer drug resistance

Pancreatic cancer is a malignancy with high mortality. In addition to the few symptoms until the disease reaches an advanced stage, the high fatality rate is attributed to its rapid development, drug resistance and lack of appropriate treatment. In the selection and research of therapeutic drugs, gemcitabine is the first-line drug for pancreatic cancer. Solving the problem of gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer will contribute to the progress of pancreatic cancer treatment. Long non coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are RNA transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides, play vital roles in cellular physiological metabolic activities. Currently, our group and others have found that some lncRNAs are aberrantly expressed in pancreatic cancer cells, which can regulate the process of cancer through autophagy and Wnt/β-catenin pathways simultaneously and affect the sensitivity of cancer cells to therapeutic drugs. This review presents an overview of the recent evidence concerning the node of lncRNA for the cross-talk between autophagy and Wnt/β-catenin signaling in pancreatic cancer, together with the practicability of lncRNAs and the core regulatory factors as targets in therapeutic resistance.

Improvement of histone deacetylase inhibitor efficacy by SN38 through TWIST1 suppression in synovial sarcoma

Background

Synovial sarcoma (SS) is an SS18-SSX fusion gene-driven soft tissue sarcoma with mesenchymal characteristics, associated with a poor prognosis due to frequent metastasis to a distant organ, such as the lung. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors (HDACis) are arising as potent molecular targeted drugs, as HDACi treatment disrupts the SS oncoprotein complex, which includes HDACs, in addition to general HDACi effects. To provide further molecular evidence for the advantages of HDACi treatment and its limitations due to drug resistance induced by the microenvironment in SS cells, we examined cellular responses to HDACi treatment in combination with two-dimensional (2D) and 3D culture conditions.

Methods

Using several SS cell lines, biochemical and cell biological assays were performed with romidepsin, an HDAC1/2 selective inhibitor. SN38 was concomitantly used as an ameliorant drug with romidepsin treatment. Cytostasis, apoptosis induction, and MHC class I polypeptide-related sequence A/B (MICA/B) induction were monitored to evaluate the drug efficacy. In addition to the conventional 2D culture condition, spheroid culture was adopted to evaluate the influence of cell-mass microenvironment on chemoresistance.

Results

By monitoring the cellular behavior with romidepsin and/or SN38 in SS cells, we observed that responsiveness is diverse in each cell line. In the apoptotic inducible cells, co-treatment with SN38 enhanced cell death. In nonapoptotic inducible cells, cytostasis and MICA/B induction were observed, and SN38 improved MICA/B induction further. As a novel efficacy of SN38, we revealed TWIST1 suppression in SS cells. In the spheroid (3D) condition, romidepsin efficacy was severely restricted in TWIST1-positive cells. We demonstrated that TWIST1 downregulation restored romidepsin efficacy even in spheroid form, and concomitant SN38 treatment along with romidepsin reproduced the reaction.

Conclusions

The current study demonstrated the benefits and concerns of using HDACi for SS treatment in 2D and 3D culture conditions and provided molecular evidence that concomitant treatment with SN38 can overcome drug resistance to HDACi by suppressing TWIST1 expression.

Novel TCF4:TCF12 heterodimer inhibits glioblastoma growth

TWIST1 (TW) is a pro-oncogenic basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor and promotes the hallmark features of malignancy (e.g., cell invasion, cancer cell stemness, and treatment resistance), which contribute to poor prognoses of glioblastoma (GBM). We previously reported that specific TW dimerization motifs regulate unique cellular phenotypes in GBM. For example, the TW:E12 heterodimer increases periostin (POSTN) expression and promotes cell invasion. TW dimer-specific transcriptional regulation requires binding to the regulatory E-box consensus sequences, but alternative bHLH dimers that balance TW dimer activity in regulating pro-oncogenic TW target genes are unknown. We leveraged the ENCODE DNase I hypersensitivity data to identify E-box sites and tethered TW:E12 and TW:TW proteins to validate dimer binding to E-boxes in vitro. Subsequently, TW knockdown revealed a novel TCF4:TCF12 bHLH dimer occupying the same TW E-box site that, when expressed as a tethered TCF4:TCF12 dimer, markedly repressed POSTN expression and extended animal survival. These observations support TCF4:TCF12 as a novel dimer with tumor-suppressor activity in GBM that functions in part through displacement of and/or competitive inhibition of pro-oncogenic TW dimers at E-box sites.

Ubiquitin-specific protease 5 promotes bladder cancer progression through stabilizing Twist1

Aberrant activation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway drives the development of solid tumors, which is precisely regulated by core EMT-related transcription factors, including Twist1. However, the expression pattern and regulatory mechanism of Twist1 in the progression of bladder cancer is still unclear. In this study, we explore the role of Twist1 in the progression of bladder cancer. We discovered that the EMT regulon Twist1 protein, but not Twist1 mRNA, is overexpressed in bladder cancer samples using RT-qPCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Mechanistically, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) coupled with liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry identified USP5 as a binding partner of Twist1, and the binding of Twist1 to ubiquitin-specific protease 5 (USP5) stabilizes Twist through its deubiquitinase activity to activate the EMT. Further studies found that USP5 depletion reduces cell proliferation, invasion and the EMT in bladder cancer cells, and ectopic expression of Twist1 rescues the adverse effects of USP5 loss on cell invasion and the EMT. A xenograft tumor model was used to reconfirmed the inhibitor effect of silencing USP5 expression on tumorigenesis in vivo. In addition, USP5 protein levels are significantly elevated and positively associated with Twist1 levels in clinical bladder cancer samples. Collectively, our study revealed that USP5-Twist1 axis is a novel regulatory mechanism driving bladder cancer progression and that approaches targeting USP5 may become a promising cancer treatment strategy.

Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Acute Leukemias

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a metabolic process that confers phenotypic flexibility to cells and the ability to adapt to new functions. This transition is critical during embryogenesis and is required for the differentiation of many tissues and organs. EMT can also be induced in advanced-stage cancers, leading to further malignant behavior and chemotherapy resistance, resulting in an unfavorable prognosis for patients. Although EMT was long considered and studied only in solid tumors, it has been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of hematological malignancies, including acute leukemias. Indeed, there is increasing evidence that EMT promotes the progression of acute leukemias, leading to the emergence of a more aggressive phenotype of the disease, and also causes chemotherapy resistance. The current literature suggests that the levels and activities of EMT inducers and markers can be used to predict prognosis, and that targeting EMT in addition to conventional therapies may increase treatment success in acute leukemias.

Jagged1 intracellular domain/SMAD3 complex transcriptionally regulates TWIST1 to drive glioma invasion

Jagged1 (JAG1) is a Notch ligand that correlates with tumor progression. Not limited to its function as a ligand, JAG1 can be cleaved, and its intracellular domain translocates to the nucleus, where it functions as a transcriptional cofactor. Previously, we showed that JAG1 intracellular domain (JICD1) forms a protein complex with DDX17/SMAD3/TGIF2. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying JICD1-mediated tumor aggressiveness remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that JICD1 enhances the invasive phenotypes of glioblastoma cells by transcriptionally activating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes, especially TWIST1. The inhibition of TWIST1 reduced JICD1-driven tumor aggressiveness. Although SMAD3 is an important component of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling, the JICD1/SMAD3 transcriptional complex was shown to govern brain tumor invasion independent of TGF-β signaling. Moreover, JICD1-TWIST1-MMP2 and MMP9 axes were significantly correlated with clinical outcome of glioblastoma patients. Collectively, we identified the JICD1/SMAD3-TWIST1 axis as a novel inducer of invasive phenotypes in cancer cells.

Transcriptional regulation of EMT transcription factors in cancer

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is one of the processes by which epithelial cells transdifferentiate into mesenchymal cells in the developmental stage, known as "complete EMT." In epithelial cancer, EMT, also termed "partial EMT," is associated with invasion, metastasis, and resistance to therapy, and is elicited by several transcription factors, frequently referred to as EMT transcription factors. Among these transcription factors that regulate EMT, ZEB1/2 (ZEB1 and ZEB2), SNAIL, and TWIST play a prominent role in driving the EMT process (hereafter referred to as "EMT-TFs"). Among these, ZEB1/2 show positive correlation with both expression of mesenchymal marker proteins and the aggressiveness of various carcinomas. On the other hand, TWIST and SNAIL are also correlated with the aggressiveness of carcinomas, but are not highly correlated with mesenchymal marker protein expression. Interestingly, these EMT-TFs are not detected simultaneously in any studied cases of aggressive cancers, except for sarcoma. Thus, only one or some of the EMT-TFs are expressed at high levels in cells of aggressive carcinomas. Expression of EMT-TFs is regulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), a well-established inducer of EMT, in cooperation with other signaling molecules, such as active RAS signals. The focus of this review is the molecular mechanisms by which EMT-TFs are transcriptionally sustained at sufficiently high levels in cells of aggressive carcinomas and upregulated by TGF-β during cancer progression.

CDC20 promotes radioresistance of prostate cancer by activating Twist1 expression

Currently, radiotherapy is one of the most attractive treatments for prostate cancer (PCa) patients. However, radioresistance remains a challenging issue and the underlying mechanism is unknown. Growing evidence has demonstrated that CDC20 (Cell division cycle protein 20) plays a pivotal role in a variety of tumors, including PCa. Here, GEPIA database mining and western blot analysis showed that higher expression of CDC20 was observed in PCa tissues and cells. We demonstrated that the expression of CDC20 was increased in PCa cells by irradiation, and knockdown of CDC20 resulted in inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, tumor formation, induced cell apoptosis and increased radiosensitivity in PCa in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we observed that CDC20 regulated Twist1 pathway, influencing cell proliferation and migration. These results suggest that targeting CDC20 and Twist1 may be an effective way to improve the radiosensitivity of PCa.

Evening Primrose Extract Modulates TYMS Expression via SP1 Transcription Factor in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

PURPOSE

To determine the mechanism of EPE in downregulating TYMS in MPM cancer.

METHODS

The TYMS mRNA expression with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition biomarkers and nuclear factor SP1 was assessed using the GEO database in a data set of MPM patients (GSE51024). Invasive MPM cell lines were in vitro models for the investigation of TYMS expression after EPE treatment. The tyms promoter SP1 binding sequences were determined using Genomatix v 3.4 software Electrophoretic mobility shift and dual-luciferase reporter assays revealed specific SP1 motifs in the interaction of EPE and reference compounds. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and Re-ChIP were used for the co-occupancy study.

RESULTS

In MPM patients, a positive correlation of overexpressed TYMS with mesenchymal TWIST1, FN1 and N-cadherin was observed. EPE and its major components, gallic and ellagic acid (GA and EA, respectively), downregulated TYMS in invasive MPM cells by interacting with particular SP1 motifs on the tyms promoter. The luciferase constructs confirmed the occupation of two SP1 regulatory regions critical for the promotion of TYMS expression. Both EPE and reference standards influenced SP1 translocation into the nucleus.

CONCLUSION

EPE components reduced TYMS expression by occupation of SP1 motifs on the tyms promoter and reversed the EMT phenotype of invasive MPM cells. Further in-depth analysis of the molecular docking of polyphenol compounds with SP1 regulatory motifs is required.

Single-cell causal network inferred by cross-mapping entropy

Gene regulatory networks (GRNs) reveal the complex molecular interactions that govern cell state. However, it is challenging for identifying causal relations among genes due to noisy data and molecular nonlinearity. Here, we propose a novel causal criterion, neighbor cross-mapping entropy (NME), for inferring GRNs from both steady data and time-series data. NME is designed to quantify 'continuous causality' or functional dependency from one variable to another based on their function continuity with varying neighbor sizes. NME shows superior performance on benchmark datasets, comparing with existing methods. By applying to scRNA-seq datasets, NME not only reliably inferred GRNs for cell types but also identified cell states. Based on the inferred GRNs and further their activity matrices, NME showed better performance in single-cell clustering and downstream analyses. In summary, based on continuous causality, NME provides a powerful tool in inferring causal regulations of GRNs between genes from scRNA-seq data, which is further exploited to identify novel cell types/states and predict cell type-specific network modules.

Silencing Rac1 and Prex1 Inhibit Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Human Gastric Cancer Cells Induced by Transforming Growth Factor-β1

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Transforming growth factor-beta can influence tumor cells, causing epithelial-mesenchymal transition and enhancing their invasion and metastasis ability. Rac1 protein could be used as an independent tumor diagnostic marker and survival predictor. Prex1 is closely related to cell metastasis. In this study, the impact of silencing Rac1 and Prex1 on transforming growth factor-beta 1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition and apoptosis of human gastric cancer cells MGC-803 and MKN45 was investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MGC-803 and MKN45 cells received recombinant transforming growth factor-beta 1 (rTGF-β1) treatments at various concentrations. Cell Counting Kit-8 kit was used to determine cell viability. Rac1 and Prex1 interference vectors were transfected into the rTGF-β1-treated MGC-803 and MKN45 cells. Cell apoptosis and migration were detected by flow cytometry and scratch test, respectively. Western blot was used to detect the epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related markers E-cadherin, N-cadherin, vimentin, and PDLIM2 expression levels.

RESULTS

The rTGF-β1 (10 ng/mL) could promote MGC-803 and MKN45 cell viability. Silencing Rac1 and Prex1 could increase E-cadherin and PDLIM2 expression, decrease N-cadherin and vimentin expression, inhibit cell viability and migration, and promote apoptosis in rTGF-β1-treated MGC-803 and MKN45 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Silencing Rac1 and Prex1 could inhibit epithelial-mesenchymal transition, reduce cell viability and migration, and promote apoptosis in human gastric cancer cells.

LRRC15 expression indicates high level of stemness regulated by TWIST1 in mesenchymal stem cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are used as a major source for cell therapy, and its application is expanding in various diseases. On the other hand, reliable method to evaluate quality and therapeutic properties of MSC is limited. In this study, we focused on TWIST1 that is a transcription factor regulating stemness of MSCs and found that the transmembrane protein LRRC15 tightly correlated with the expression of TWIST1 and useful to expect TWIST1-regulated stemness of MSCs. The LRRC15-positive MSC populations in human and mouse bone marrow tissues highly expressed stemness-associated transcription factors and therapeutic cytokines, and showed better therapeutic effect in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis model mice. This study provides evidence for the important role of TWIST1 in the MSC stemness, and for the utility of the LRRC15 protein as a marker to estimate stem cell quality in MSCs before cell transplantation.

Pro-tumorigenic role of lnc-ZNF30-3 as a sponge counteracting miR-145-5p in prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer remains one of the deadliest neoplasms in developed countries. Identification of new molecular markers that predict the onset and progression of the disease could improve its clinical management. Low miR-145-5p expression is consistently found in primary tumors and metastases, but the regulatory mechanisms governing its functions remain largely unknown.

METHODS

Bioinformatics analysis was conducted to identify [1] a set of novel potential competing endogenous lncRNAs for sponging of miRNA-145-5p in prostate cancer and [2] miR-145-5p and other EMT-related miRNAs response elements in lnc-ZNF30-3. Quantification of miR-145-5p, lnc-ZNF30-3, and TWIST1 expression levels in tumor tissues in RNA sequencing datasets of our and TCGA PRAD cohorts revealed a correlation with clinical outcome of prostate cancer patients. Biochemical and cell biology approaches, such as RNA pull-down, western blot, immunostaining, and wound healing assays were used for evaluation of the impact of TWIST1/miR-145/ lnc-ZNF30-3 interactions in prostate cancer cells altered in miRNA and lncRNA expression.

RESULTS

We identified a few potential lncRNA sponges of miR-145-5p, including lnc-ZNF30-3. It contains five response elements for miR-145-5p, but also other miRNAs targeting EMT transcription factors. Lnc-ZNF30-3 is significantly upregulated in prostate cancer cell lines and tumor tissues, and its high expression is correlated with poor patient prognosis. We demonstrated that lnc-ZNF30-3 is associated with AGO2 and specifically interacts with the miR-145-5p seed region. Knockdown of lnc-ZNF30-3 results in decreased migration of prostate cancer cells and downregulation of EMT drivers such as TWIST1 and ZEB1 at both the RNA and protein levels. These phenotypic and molecular features of lnc-ZNF30-3-depleted cells are partially rescued by miR-145-5p inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our results point to lnc-ZNF30-3 as a novel competing endogenous lncRNA for miR-145-5p and other miRNAs that target TWIST1 as well as other EMT transcription factors. Prostate cancer patients with high lncRNA expression in primary tumors show lower survival rate suggesting that lnc-ZNF30-3 may contribute to prostate cancer progression and metastasis.

USP51 promotes non-small cell lung carcinoma cell stemness by deubiquitinating TWIST1

BACKGROUND

USP51 is a deubiquitinase (DUB), that is involved in diverse cellular processes. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that USP51 contributes to cancer development. However, its impact on non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) cell malignancy is largely unknown.

METHODS

In this study, we performed bioinformatics analysis on a dataset from The Cancer Genome Atlas to determine the association between USP51 and cell stemness marker expression in NSCLC patients. RT‒qPCR, Western blotting, and flow cytometry were performed to examine the effects of USP51 depletion on stemness marker expression. Colony formation and tumor sphere formation assays were used to assess the stemness of NSCLC cells. A cycloheximide chase time-course assay and a polyubiquitination assay were carried out to analyze the effects of USP51 on the TWIST1 protein level. TWIST1 was overexpressed in USP51 knockdown NSCLC cells to determine whether TWIST1 is required. The effect of USP51 on the in vivo growth of NSCLC cells was tested through subcutaneous injections in mice.

RESULTS

We found that USP51 deubiquitinates TWIST1, which is significantly upregulated in the tissues of patients with NSCLC and is closely associated with poor prognosis. USP51 expression was positively correlated with the expression of stemness marker CD44, SOX2, NANOG, and OCT4 in NSCLC patients. USP51 depletion attenuated mRNA, protein, and cell surface expression of stemness markers and the stemness of NSCLC cells. Ectopic USP51 expression potentiated the stability of the TWIST1 protein by attenuating its polyubiquitination. In addition, TWIST1 re-expression in NSCLC cells reversed the inhibitory effect of USP51 knockdown on cell stemness. Furthermore, the in vivo results confirmed the suppressive effect of USP51 depletion on NSCLC cell growth.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that USP51 maintains the stemness of NSCLC cells by deubiquitinating TWIST1. Knocking it down reduces both cell stemness and growth of NSCLC cells.

Anti-migration and anti-invasion effects of LY-290181 on breast cancer cell lines through the inhibition of Twist1

Breast cancer has become the most common cancer among women worldwide. Among breast cancers, metastatic breast cancer is associated with the highest mortality rate. Twist1, one of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition-regulating transcription factors, is known to promote the intravasation of breast cancer cells into metastatic sites. Therefore, targeting Twist1 to develop anti-cancer drugs might be a valuable strategy. In this study, LY-290181 dose-dependently inhibited migration, invasion, and multicellular tumor spheroid invasion in breast cancer cell lines. These anti-cancer effects of LY-290181 were mediated through the down-regulation of Twist1 protein levels. LY-290181 inhibited extracellular signal-regulated kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling pathways. Therefore, our findings suggest that LY-290181 may serve as a basis for future research and development of an anti-cancer agent targeting metastatic cancers. [BMB Reports 2023; 56(7): 410-415].

Extracellular matrix remodelling and stiffening contributes to tumorigenesis of salivary carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma--A study based on patient-derived organoids

BACKGROUND

Salivary carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA) is defined as a carcinoma that develops from benign pleomorphic adenoma (PA). Abnormally activated Androgen signaling pathway and amplification of HER-2/neu(ERBB-2) gene are known to be involved in CXPA tumorigenesis. Recent progress in tumour microenvironment research has led to identification that extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling and increased stiffness act as critical contributing role in tumour carcinogenesis. This study examined ECM modifications to elucidate the mechanism underlying CXPA tumorigenesis.

RESULTS

PA and CXPA organoids were successfully established. Histological observation, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and whole-exome sequencing demonstrated that organoids recapitulated phenotypic and molecular characteristics of their parental tumours. RNA-sequencing and bioinformatic analysis of organoids showed that differentially expressed genes are highly enriched in ECM-associated terms, implying that ECM alternations may be involved in carcinogenesis. Microscopical examination for surgical samples revealed that excessive hyalinized tissues were deposited in tumour during CXPA tumorigenesis. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed that these hyalinized tissues were tumour ECM in nature. Subsequently, examination by picrosirius red staining, liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry, and cross-linking analysis indicated that tumour ECM was predominantly composed of type I collagen fibers, with dense collagen alignment and an increased level of collagen cross-linking. IHC revealed the overexpression of COL1A1 protein and collagen-synthesis-related genes, DCN and IGFBP5 (p < 0.05). Higher stiffness of CXPA than PA was demonstrated by atomic force microscopy and elastic imaging analysis. We utilized hydrogels to mimic ECM with varying stiffness degrees in vitro. Compared with softer matrices (5Kpa), CXPA cell line and PA primary cells exhibited more proliferative and invasive phenotypes in stiffer matrices (50Kpa, p < 0.01). Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis of RNA-sequencing data revealed that AR and ERBB-2 expression was associated with TWIST1. Moreover, surgical specimens demonstrated a higher TWIST1 expression in CXPA over PA. After knocking down TWIST1 in CXPA cells, cell proliferation, migration, and invasiveness were significantly inhibited (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Developing CXPA organoids provides a useful model for cancer biology research and drug screening. ECM remodelling, attributed to overproduction of collagen, alternation of collagen alignment, and increased cross-linking, leads to increased ECM stiffness. ECM modification is an important contributor in CXPA tumorigenesis.

Transcriptome Profiling of Prostate Cancer, Considering Risk Groups and the TMPRSS2-ERG Molecular Subtype

Molecular heterogeneity in prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the key reasons underlying the differing likelihoods of recurrence after surgical treatment in individual patients of the same clinical category. In this study, we performed RNA-Seq profiling of 58 localized PCa and 43 locally advanced PCa tissue samples obtained as a result of radical prostatectomy on a cohort of Russian patients. Based on bioinformatics analysis, we examined features of the transcriptome profiles within the high-risk group, including within the most commonly represented molecular subtype, TMPRSS2-ERG. The most significantly affected biological processes in the samples were also identified, so that they may be further studied in the search for new potential therapeutic targets for the categories of PCa under consideration. The highest predictive potential was found with the EEF1A1P5, RPLP0P6, ZNF483, CIBAR1, HECTD2, OGN, and CLIC4 genes. We also reviewed the main transcriptome changes in the groups at intermediate risk of PCa-Gleason Score 7 (groups 2 and 3 according to the ISUP classification)-on the basis of which the LPL, MYC, and TWIST1 genes were identified as promising additional prognostic markers, the statistical significance of which was confirmed using qPCR validation.

Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition-Related Markers in Prostate Cancer: From Bench to Bedside

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most frequent type of cancer in men worldwide, with 288,300 new cases and 34,700 deaths estimated in the United States in 2023. Treatment options for early-stage disease include external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy, radical prostatectomy, active surveillance, or a combination of these. In advanced cases, androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) is considered the first-line therapy; however, PCa in most patients eventually progresses to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) despite ADT. Nonetheless, the transition from androgen-dependent to androgen-independent tumors is not yet fully understood. The physiological processes of epithelial-to-non-epithelial ("mesenchymal") transition (EMT) and mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) are essential for normal embryonic development; however, they have also been linked to higher tumor grade, metastatic progression, and treatment resistance. Due to this association, EMT and MET have been identified as important targets for novel cancer therapies, including CRPC. Here, we discuss the transcriptional factors and signaling pathways involved in EMT, in addition to the diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers that have been identified in these processes. We also tackle the various studies that have been conducted from bench to bedside and the current landscape of EMT-targeted therapies.

LIM Kinases, LIMK1 and LIMK2, Are Crucial Node Actors of the Cell Fate: Molecular to Pathological Features

LIM kinase 1 (LIMK1) and LIM kinase 2 (LIMK2) are serine/threonine and tyrosine kinases and the only two members of the LIM kinase family. They play a crucial role in the regulation of cytoskeleton dynamics by controlling actin filaments and microtubule turnover, especially through the phosphorylation of cofilin, an actin depolymerising factor. Thus, they are involved in many biological processes, such as cell cycle, cell migration, and neuronal differentiation. Consequently, they are also part of numerous pathological mechanisms, especially in cancer, where their involvement has been reported for a few years and has led to the development of a wide range of inhibitors. LIMK1 and LIMK2 are known to be part of the Rho family GTPase signal transduction pathways, but many more partners have been discovered over the decades, and both LIMKs are suspected to be part of an extended and various range of regulation pathways. In this review, we propose to consider the different molecular mechanisms involving LIM kinases and their associated signalling pathways, and to offer a better understanding of their variety of actions within the physiology and physiopathology of the cell.

The Transcription Factor Twist1 Has a Significant Role in Mycosis Fungoides (MF) Cell Biology: An RNA Sequencing Study of 40 MF Cases

The purpose of this RNA sequencing study was to investigate the biological mechanism underlying how the transcription factors (TFs) Twist1 and Zeb1 influence the prognosis of mycosis fungoides (MF). We used laser-captured microdissection to dissect malignant T-cells obtained from 40 skin biopsies from 40 MF patients with stage I-IV disease. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to determinate the protein expression levels of Twist1 and Zeb1. Based on RNA sequencing, principal component analysis (PCA), differential expression (DE) analysis, ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA), and hub gene analysis were performed between the high and low Twist1 IHC expression cases. The DNA from 28 samples was used to analyze the TWIST1 promoter methylation level. In the PCA, Twist1 IHC expression seemed to classify cases into different groups. The DE analysis yielded 321 significant genes. In the IPA, 228 significant upstream regulators and 177 significant master regulators/causal networks were identified. In the hub gene analysis, 28 hub genes were found. The methylation level of TWIST1 promoter regions did not correlate with Twist1 protein expression. Zeb1 protein expression did not show any major correlation with global RNA expression in the PCA. Many of the observed genes and pathways associated with high Twist1 expression are known to be involved in immunoregulation, lymphocyte differentiation, and aggressive tumor biology. In conclusion, Twist1 might be an important regulator in the disease progression of MF.

TWIST1 is a prognostic factor for neoadjuvant chemotherapy for patients with resectable pancreatic cancer: a preliminary study

Recent advances in the development of chemotherapies have helped improve the prognosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, predicting factors for the outcomes of chemotherapies (either gemcitabine or S-1) have not yet been established. We analyzed the expression of 4 major epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-inducing transcription factors in 38 PDAC patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy after radical resection to examine the association with patients' prognoses. The TWIST1-positive group showed a significantly poorer prognosis than the TWIST1-negative group for both the relapse-free survival (median survival time [MST] of 8.9 vs. 18.5 months, P = 0.016) and the overall survival (MST of 15.2 vs. 33.4 months, P = 0.023). A multivariate analysis revealed that TWIST1 positivity was an independent prognostic factor for a poor response to adjuvant chemotherapies (hazard ratio 2.61; 95% confidence interval 1.10-6.79; P = 0.029). These results suggest that TWIST1 can be utilized as an important poor prognostic factor for radically resected PDAC patients with adjuvant chemotherapy, potentially including neoadjuvant therapy using these agents.

USP13 promotes breast cancer metastasis through FBXL14-induced Twist1 ubiquitination

PURPOSE

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important cause of high mortality in breast cancer. Twist1 is one of the EMT transcription factors (EMT-TFs) with a noticeably short half-life, which is regulated by proteasome degradation pathways. Recent studies have found that USP13 stabilizes several specific oncogenic proteins. As yet, however, the relationship between Twist1 and USP13 has not been investigated.

METHODS

Co-Immunoprecipitation, GST-pulldown, Western blot, qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence assays were used to investigate the role of USP13 in de-ubiquitination of Twist1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and Luciferase reporter assays were used to investigate the role of Twist1 in inhibiting USP13 reporter transcription. Scratch wound healing, cell migration and invasion assays, and a mouse lung metastases assay were used to investigate the roles of USP13 and Twist1 in promoting breast cancer metastasis.

RESULTS

We found that Twist1 can be de-ubiquitinated by USP13. In addition, we found that the protein levels of Twist1 dose-dependently increased with USP13 overexpression, while USP13 knockdown resulted in a decreased expression of endogenous Twist1. We also found that USP13 can directly interact with Twist1 and specifically cleave the K48-linked polyubiquitin chains of Twist1 induced by FBXL14. We found that the effect of USP13 in promoting the migration and invasion capacities of breast cancer cells can at least partly be achieved through its regulation of Twist1, while Twist1 can inhibit the transcriptional activity of USP13.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that an interplay between Twist1 and USP13 can form a negative physiological feedback loop. Our findings show that USP13 may play an essential role in breast cancer metastasis by regulating Twist1 and, as such, provide a potential target for the clinical treatment of breast cancer.

Dissecting the effects of androgen deprivation therapy on cadherin switching in advanced prostate cancer: A molecular perspective

Prostate cancer is one of the most often diagnosed malignancies in males and its prevalence is rising in both developed and developing countries. Androgen deprivation therapy has been used as a standard treatment approach for advanced prostate cancer for more than 80 years. The primary aim of androgen deprivation therapy is to decrease circulatory androgen and block androgen signaling. Although a partly remediation is accomplished at the beginning of treatment, some cell populations become refractory to androgen deprivation therapy and continue to metastasize. Recent evidences suggest that androgen deprivation therapy may cause cadherin switching, from E-cadherin to N-cadherin, which is the hallmark of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Diverse direct and indirect mechanisms are involved in this switching and consequently, the cadherin pool changes from E-cadherin to N-cadherin in the epithelial cells. Since E-cadherin represses invasive and migrative behaviors of the tumor cells, the loss of E-cadherin disrupts epithelial tissue structure leading to the release of tumor cells into surrounding tissues and circulation. In this study, we review the androgen deprivation therapy-dependent cadherin switching in advanced prostate cancer with emphasis on its molecular basis especially the transcriptional factors regulated through TFG-β pathway.

Adipose Tissue-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Contribute to Phenotypic Plasticity of Prostate Cancer Cells

Metastatic prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of male cancer deaths in the western world. Obesity significantly increases the risk of metastatic disease and is associated with a higher mortality rate. Systemic chronic inflammation can result from a variety of conditions, including obesity, where adipose tissue inflammation is a major contributor. Adipose tissue endothelial cells (EC) exposed to inflammation become dysfunctional and produce a secretome, including extracellular vesicles (EV), that can impact function of cells in distant tissues, including malignant cells. The aim of this study was to explore the potential role of EVs produced by obese adipose tissue and the ECs exposed to pro-inflammatory cytokines on prostate cancer phenotypic plasticity in vitro. We demonstrate that PC3ML metastatic prostate cancer cells exposed to EVs from adipose tissue ECs and to EVs from human adipose tissue total explants display reduced invasion and increased proliferation. The latter functional changes could be attributed to the EV miRNA cargo. We also show that the functional shift is TWIST1-dependent and is consistent with mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition, which is key to establishment of secondary tumor growth. Understanding the complex effects of EVs on prostate cancer cells of different phenotypes is key before their intended use as therapeutics.

Twist1 Promoter Methylation Regulates the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells via PI3K/AKT Pathway

Twist-related protein 1 (Twist1) is a widely recognized oncogene in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and its promoter methylation is related with the progression of solid tumors. However, the association between Twist1 promoter methylation and AML has not been well studied. Twist1 mRNA expression was detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The protein levels of Twist1 and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signal were measured via western blotting. Methylation-specific PCR was performed to detect the methylation status of Twist1 promoter. CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry were used to reveal cellular biological effects. Twist1 expression and promoter methylation level were significantly upregulated in AML tissues and cell lines and were further downregulated in demethylating agent 5'-azacitidine (5-Aza)-treated cells. Ectopic expression of Twist1 increased AML cell viability, while reducing apoptosis, and attenuated the effects of 5-Aza on the proliferation and apoptosis. We also found that the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was positively regulated by Twist1. Our findings revealed that Twist1 accelerates the tumorigenesis of AML cells by promoting its promoter methylation via the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Targeting PPARγ/ NF-κB Signaling Pathway by Britannin, a Sesquiterpene Lactone from Inula aucheriana DC., in Gastric Cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer is one of the most common and deadliest malignancies in the world. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new and effective agents to reduce mortality. The plants of genus Inula have gained the attention of researchers worldwide as a rich source of potent medicinal compounds.

OBJECTIVE

This study explores the anti-cancer activity of Britannin, a sesquiterpene lactone isolated from Inula aucheriana DC., and its molecular mechanism in gastric cancer cells, AGS and MKN45.

METHODS

Cytotoxicity was evaluated through the MTT assay following 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h treatment with different concentrations of Britannin. Apoptosis rate and caspase-3 activity were measured 24 h after treatment by Britannin. . Western blotting was performed to determine the expression of the NF-κB, IκBα, and PPARγ proteins. Moreover, quantitative RT-PCR was applied to measure the expression of NF-κB target genes.

RESULTS

We showed that Britannin induced cell growth inhibition and apoptosis in gastric cancer cells. Britannin caused an elevation in mRNA and protein levels of PPARγ. The involvement of PPARγ was more confirmed using GW9662, a PPARγ inhibitor. Suppression of NF-κB was demonstrated by western blot analysis. Down-regulation of MMP-9, TWIST-1, COX-2, and Bcl-2 and up-regulation of Bax were also observed in gastric cancer cells.

CONCLUSION

These results imply that activation of the PPARγ signaling pathway through suppression of NF-κB underlies the anti-cancer properties of Britannin in gastric cancer. Therefore, Britannin could be considered as a promising anti-cancer candidate for further evaluation.

COM33 suppresses carboplatin-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition via inhibition of Twist1 in ovarian cancer

Despite favorable responses to platinum-based chemotherapy in ovarian cancer (OC), chemoresistance is still a major cause of treatment failure. Hence, we develop a novel synthetic agent, COM33, to relieve the chemoresistance caused by carboplatin. The anti-cancerous effects of the combination of COM33 and carboplatin on OC are evaluated by cell viability, wound healing, and transwell invasion assays. A mechanistic investigation is carried out by using RNA-Seq analysis and then verified by western blot analysis and immunofluorescence microscopy. The safety and efficacy in vivo are evaluated using SKOV3 tumor-bearing nude mice. Results show that the co-administration of COM33 enhances the inhibitory effects of carboplatin on cancer cell viability, migration, and invasion in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, COM33 suppresses the carboplatin-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by inhibiting the ERK signaling pathway. Additionally, we show that Twist1, the effector of the ERK signaling pathway, participates in carboplatin-induced EMT and is also inhibited by COM33. Our data show that the combination of carboplatin with COM33 is beneficial for chemotherapy against OC, which may be a potential novel anti-tumor strategy.

circRNA DENND1B inhibits tumorigenicity of clear cell renal cell carcinoma via miR-122-5p/TIMP2 axis

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common type of renal cancers. However, circ_DENND1B has not been studied yet. GSE100186 dataset was used for the level analysis of circ_DENND1B. The quantitative real-time PCR was used to verify the expression of circ_DENND1B, microRNA-122-5p (miR-122-5p) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP2) in ccRCC tissues and cells. Cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis were detected by colony formation assay, thymidine analog 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assay, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-y1)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide, transwell and flow cytometry. The binding of miR-122-5p to circ_DENND1B/TIMP2 was investigated by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Finally, the role of circ_DENND1B in ccRCC was detected by tumorigenesis experiment in mice. circ_DENND1B was downregulated in ccRCC and circ_DENND1B overexpression suppressed the malignant behaviors of ccRCC cells. circ_DENND1B acted as a sponge of miR-122-5p. miR-122-5p upregulation reversed the effects of circ_DENND1B on cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis. TIMP2 was a target of miR-122-5p. Overexpression of circ_DENND1B regulated TIMP2 level by inhibiting miR-122-5p expression in ccRCC cells. circ_DENND1B overexpression inhibited the tumor growth of ccRCC in vivo. circ_DENND1B inhibited ccRCC cell progression by promoting TIMP2 expression by sponging miR-122-5p, suggesting that circ_DENND1B might be an effective therapeutic target for ccRCC.

TWIST1 Plays Role in Expression of Stemness State Markers in ESCC

BACKGROUND

Stemness markers play critical roles in the maintenance of key properties of embryonic stem cells (ESCs), including the pluripotency, stemness state, and self-renewal capacities, as well as cell fate decision. Some of these features are present in cancer stem cells (CSCs). TWIST1, as a bHLH transcription factor oncogene, is involved in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in both embryonic and cancer development. Our aim in this study was to investigate the functional correlation between TWIST1 and the involved genes in the process of CSCs self-renewal in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) line KYSE-30.

METHODS

TWIST1 overexpression was enforced in the ESCC KYSE-30 cells using retroviral vector containing the specific pruf-IRES-GFP-hTWIST1 sequence. Following RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis, the mRNA expression profile of TWIST1 and the stem cell markers, including BMI1, CRIPTO1, DPPA2, KLF4, SOX2, NANOG, and MSI1, were assessed using relative comparative real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Ectopic expression of TWIST1 in KYSE-30 cells resulted in an increased expression of TWIST1 compared to control GFP cells by nearly 9-fold. Transduction of TWIST1-retroviral particles caused a significant enhancement in BMI1, CRIPTO1, DPPA2, KLF4, and SOX2 mRNA expression, approximately 4.5-, 3.2-, 5.5-, 3.5-, and 3.7-folds, respectively, whereas this increased TWIST1 expression caused no change in the mRNA expression of NANOG and MSI1 genes.

CONCLUSIONS

TWIST1 gene ectopic expression in KYSE-30 cells enhanced the level of cancer stem cell markers' mRNA expression. These results may emphasize the role of TWIST1 in the self-renewal process and may corroborate the involvement of TWIST1 in the stemness state capacity of ESCC cell line KYSE-30, as well as its potential as a therapeutic target.

Micellar Curcumin Substantially Increases the Antineoplastic Activity of the Alkylphosphocholine Erufosine against TWIST1 Positive Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma Cell Lines

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a rare form of cancer with local as well as systemic manifestations. Concomitant bacterial infections increase morbidity and mortality rates due to impaired skin barrier and immune deficiency. In the current study, we demonstrated that the in vitro anti-lymphoma potential of erufosine is diminished by TWIST1 expression and micellar curcumin substantially increases its antineoplastic activity. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed that the micellar curcumin (MCRM) used in our study was characterized by low zeta potential, slow release of curcumin, and fast cell membrane penetration. The combination ratio 1:4 [erufosine:MCRM] achieved strong synergism by inhibiting cell proliferation and clonogenicity. The combined antiproliferative effects were calculated using the symbolic mathematical software MAPLE 15. The synergistic combination strongly decreased the expression of TWIST1 and protein kinase B/Akt as proven by western blotting. Significant reductions in NF-κB activation, induction of apoptosis, and altered glutathione levels were demonstrated by corresponding assays. In addition, the synergistic combination enhanced the anti-staphylococcal activity and prevented biofilm formation, as shown by crystal violet staining. Taken together, the above results show that the development of nanotechnological treatment modalities for CTCL, based on rational drug combinations exhibiting parallel antineoplastic and antibacterial effects, may prove efficacious.

Knockdown of MKL1 ameliorates oxidative stress-induced chondrocyte apoptosis and cartilage matrix degeneration by activating TWIST1-mediated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in rats

Studies have reported that megakaryocytic leukemia 1 (MKL1) is closely related to the pathological process of a variety of inflammatory diseases, but its role in osteoarthritis (OA) needs to be clarified. This study aimed to investigate the regulatory role of MKL1 in oxidative stress-induced chondrocyte apoptosis and cartilage matrix degeneration. The expressions of target mRNAs and proteins were measured by using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. ELISA assay was used to measure the levels of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α in chondrocytes. And commercial kits based on different spectrophotometry or colorimetry methods were performed to validate oxidative stress. CCK-8 and apoptosis kits were used to determine cell viability and apoptosis. Rat OA model was established by anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT), and the expression of MKL1 was interfered by injecting sh-MKL1 lentiviral vector into caudal vein. The results showed that the expression of MKL1was induced by H₂O₂ in chondrocytes. Knockdown of MKL1 alleviated H₂O₂-induced inflammation and cell apoptosis, reduced H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress, and improved cartilage matrix degeneration of chondrocytes. Besides, inhibition of MKL1 regulated the activation of TWIST1-mediated PI3K/AKT signaling. Further studies have found that TWIST1-mediated PI3K/AKT signaling was involved in the regulation mechanism of MKL1 on chondrocyte apoptosis and cartilage matrix degeneration. Next, intervention with MKL1 inhibited the progression of OA in rats. These results demonstrated that MKL1 regulate the apoptosis and cartilage matrix degeneration of chondrocytes via TWIST1-mediated PI3K/AKT signaling.

TWIST1 interacts with β/δ-catenins during neural tube development and regulates fate transition in cranial neural crest cells

Cell fate determination is a necessary and tightly regulated process for producing different cell types and structures during development. Cranial neural crest cells (CNCCs) are unique to vertebrate embryos and emerge from the neural plate borders into multiple cell lineages that differentiate into bone, cartilage, neurons and glial cells. We have previously reported that Irf6 genetically interacts with Twist1 during CNCC-derived tissue formation. Here, we have investigated the mechanistic role of Twist1 and Irf6 at early stages of craniofacial development. Our data indicate that TWIST1 is expressed in endocytic vesicles at the apical surface and interacts with β/δ-catenins during neural tube closure, and Irf6 is involved in defining neural fold borders by restricting AP2α expression. Twist1 suppresses Irf6 and other epithelial genes in CNCCs during the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process and cell migration. Conversely, a loss of Twist1 leads to a sustained expression of epithelial and cell adhesion markers in migratory CNCCs. Disruption of TWIST1 phosphorylation in vivo leads to epidermal blebbing, edema, neural tube defects and CNCC-derived structural abnormalities. Altogether, this study describes a previously uncharacterized function of mammalian Twist1 and Irf6 in the neural tube and CNCCs, and provides new target genes for Twist1 that are involved in cytoskeletal remodeling.

CBX7 regulates metastasis of basal-like breast cancer through Twist1/EphA2 pathway

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CBX7 was down-regulated, while twist and EphA2 were up-regulated in BLBC.

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EphA2 or twist silencing inhibited BLBC cell proliferation and metastasis.

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Twist bond to EphA2 and increased the expression of EphA2.

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CBX7 blocked the binding of twist to EphA2 and inhibited EphA2 expression.

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CBX7 regulated BLBC growth and metastasis via Twist/EphA2 axis.

Background

Basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) is an important subtype of breast cancer. Twist1 is a key transcription factor in BLBC metastasis, which serves a key role in tumorigenesis. The potential mechanism of Twist1 in BLBC remains to be elucidated. Here, we explored the role and molecular mechanism of Twist1 in BLBC.

Methods

The levels of CBX7, Twist1 and EphA2 in BLBC tissues and cells were determined by Western blot. ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed the interaction between CBX7, Twist1 and EphA2 promoter. The cellular functions were analyzed by CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing and Transwell assays. Expression of EMT related proteins was analyzed by Western blot. IHC measured the expression of CBX7, Twist1 and EphA2 in tumor tissues.

Results

CBX7 was down-regulated in BLBC tissues and cells, whereas Twist1 and EphA2 were up-regulated. Twist1 silencing inhibited the cell migration, invasion and cancer metastasis of BLBC through targeting EphA2 and regulating EphA2 expression. Additionally, CBX7 blocked the binding of Twist1 to EphA2 promoter and inhibited EphA2 expression and suppressed BLBC growth and metastasis via Twist1/EphA2 axis.

Conclusion

CBX7 suppresses BLBC growth and metastasis through Twist1/EphA2 pathway. Our study may provide evidence and new therapeutic targets for the comprehensive treatment of BLBC.

Hsa_circ_0016070/micro‐340‐5p Axis Accelerates Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Progression by Upregulating TWIST1 Transcription Via TCF4/β‐Catenin Complex

Background

Hypoxia is considered a major leading cause of pulmonary hypertension (PH). In this study, the roles and molecular mechanism of circ_0016070 in PH were studied.

Methods and Results

The expression of circ_0016070 in serum samples, human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells and hypoxia/monocrotaline‐treated rats was determined by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cell viability, migration, and apoptosis were analyzed by Cell Counting Kit‐8, wound healing, flow cytometry, and TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling) assays, respectively. The molecular interactions were validated using RNA immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and dual luciferase reporter assays. The levels of phenotype switch‐related proteins were evaluated by Western blot and immunohistochemistry. The pathological characteristics were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. circ_0016070 was highly expressed in the serum samples, hypoxia‐induced pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells and pulmonary arterial tissues of PH rats. Downregulation of circ_0016070 ameliorated the excessive proliferation, migration, vascular remodeling, and phenotypic transformation but enhanced cell apoptosis in the PH rat model. In addition, micro (miR)‐340‐5p was verified as a direct target of circ_0016070 and negatively regulated TCF4 (transcription factor 4) expression. TCF4 formed a transcriptional complex with β‐catenin to activate TWIST1 (Twist family bHLH transcription factor 1) expression. Functional rescue experiments showed that neither miR‐340‐5p inhibition nor TWIST1 or TCF4 upregulation significantly impeded the biological roles of circ_0010670 silencing in PH.

Conclusions

These results uncovered a novel mechanism by which circ_0016070 play as a competing endogenouse RNA of miR‐340‐5p to aggravate PH progression by promoting TCF4/β‐catenin/TWIST1 complex, which may provide potential therapeutic targets for PH.

Transcription factors in DNA damage response

Transcription factors (TFs) constitute a wide and highly diverse group of proteins capable of controlling gene expression. Their roles in oncogenesis, tumor progression, and metastasis have been established, but recently their role in the DNA damage response pathway (DDR) has emerged. Many of them can affect elements of canonical DDR pathways, modulating their activity and deciding on the effectiveness of DNA repair. In this review, we focus on the latest reports on the effects of two TFs with dual roles in oncogenesis and metastasis (hypoxia-inducible factor-1 α (HIF1α), proto-oncogene MYC) and three epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) TFs (twist-related protein 1 (TWIST), zinc-finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), and zinc finger protein 281 (ZNF281)) associated with control of canonical DDR pathways.

The Prognostic Value of the Circulating Tumor Cell-Based Four mRNA Scoring System: A New Non-Invasive Setting for the Management of Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer (BC) is one of the most expensive lifetime cancers to treat because of the high recurrence rate, repeated surgeries, and long-term cystoscopy monitoring and treatment. The lack of an accurate classification system predicting the risk of recurrence or progression leads to the search for new biomarkers and strategies. Our pilot study aimed to identify a prognostic gene signature in circulating tumor cells (CTCs) isolated by ScreenCell devices from muscle invasive and non-muscle invasive BC patients. Through the PubMed database and Cancer Genome Atlas dataset, a panel of 15 genes modulated in BC with respect to normal tissues was selected. Their expression was evaluated in CTCs and thanks to the univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, EGFR, TRPM4, TWIST1, and ZEB1 were recognized as prognostic biomarkers. Thereafter, by using the risk score model, we demonstrated that this 4-gene signature significantly grouped patients into high- and low-risk in terms of recurrence free survival (HR = 2.704, 95% CI = 1.010−7.313, Log-rank p < 0.050). Overall, we identified a new prognostic signature that directly impacted the prediction of recurrence, improving the choice of the best treatment for BC patients.

TWIST1 methylation by SETD6 selectively antagonizes LINC-PINT expression in glioma

Gliomas are one of the most common and lethal brain tumors among adults. One process that contributes to glioma progression and recurrence is the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is regulated by a set of defined transcription factors which tightly regulate this process, among them is the basic helix-loop-helix family member, TWIST1. Here we show that TWIST1 is methylated on lysine-33 at chromatin by SETD6, a methyltransferase with expression levels correlating with poor survival in glioma patients. RNA-seq analysis in U251 glioma cells suggested that both SETD6 and TWIST1 regulate cell adhesion and migration processes. We further show that TWIST1 methylation attenuates the expression of the long-non-coding RNA, LINC-PINT, thereby promoting EMT in glioma. Mechanistically, TWIST1 methylation represses the transcription of LINC-PINT by increasing the occupancy of EZH2 and the catalysis of the repressive H3K27me3 mark at the LINC-PINT locus. Under un-methylated conditions, TWIST1 dissociates from the LINC-PINT locus, allowing the expression of LINC-PINT which leads to increased cell adhesion and decreased cell migration. Together, our findings unravel a new mechanistic dimension for selective expression of LINC-PINT mediated by TWIST1 methylation.

Sirtuins and Hypoxia in EMT Control

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), a physiological process during embryogenesis, can become pathological in the presence of different driving forces. Reduced oxygen tension or hypoxia is one of these forces, triggering a large number of molecular pathways with aberrant EMT induction, resulting in cancer and fibrosis onset. Both hypoxia-induced factors, HIF-1α and HIF-2α, act as master transcription factors implicated in EMT. On the other hand, hypoxia-dependent HIF-independent EMT has also been described. Recently, a new class of seven proteins with deacylase activity, called sirtuins, have been implicated in the control of both hypoxia responses, HIF-1α and HIF-2α activation, as well as EMT induction. Intriguingly, different sirtuins have different effects on hypoxia and EMT, acting as either activators or inhibitors, depending on the tissue and cell type. Interestingly, sirtuins and HIF can be activated or inhibited with natural or synthetic molecules. Moreover, recent studies have shown that these natural or synthetic molecules can be better conveyed using nanoparticles, representing a valid strategy for EMT modulation. The following review, by detailing the aspects listed above, summarizes the interplay between hypoxia, sirtuins, and EMT, as well as the possible strategies to modulate them by using a nanoparticle-based approach.

The HDAC9-associated risk locus promotes coronary artery disease by governing TWIST1

Genome wide association studies (GWAS) have identified thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the risk of common disorders. However, since the large majority of these risk SNPs reside outside gene-coding regions, GWAS generally provide no information about causal mechanisms regarding the specific gene(s) that are affected or the tissue(s) in which these candidate gene(s) exert their effect. The 'gold standard' method for understanding causal genes and their mechanisms of action are laborious basic science studies often involving sophisticated knockin or knockout mouse lines, however, these types of studies are impractical as a high-throughput means to understand the many risk variants that cause complex diseases like coronary artery disease (CAD). As a solution, we developed a streamlined, data-driven informatics pipeline to gain mechanistic insights on complex genetic loci. The pipeline begins by understanding the SNPs in a given locus in terms of their relative location and linkage disequilibrium relationships, and then identifies nearby expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) to determine their relative independence and the likely tissues that mediate their disease-causal effects. The pipeline then seeks to understand associations with other disease-relevant genes, disease sub-phenotypes, potential causality (Mendelian randomization), and the regulatory and functional involvement of these genes in gene regulatory co-expression networks (GRNs). Here, we applied this pipeline to understand a cluster of SNPs associated with CAD within and immediately adjacent to the gene encoding HDAC9. Our pipeline demonstrated, and validated, that this locus is causal for CAD by modulation of TWIST1 expression levels in the arterial wall, and by also governing a GRN related to metabolic function in skeletal muscle. Our results reconciled numerous prior studies, and also provided clear evidence that this locus does not govern HDAC9 expression, structure or function. This pipeline should be considered as a powerful and efficient way to understand GWAS risk loci in a manner that better reflects the highly complex nature of genetic risk associated with common disorders.

Acquisition of paclitaxel resistance modulates the biological traits of gastric cancer AGS cells and facilitates epithelial to mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis

PURPOSE

This study aims to develop a paclitaxel (PTX)-resistant gastric cancer AGS cells (AGS-R) and evaluate the mechanisms of drug resistance.

METHODS

AGS cells were successively treated with increasing PTX concentrations. Cross-resistance of established AGS-R, the molecular patterns of cell survival, evasion of apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and the angiogenic potential were evaluated.

RESULTS

AGS-R was induced within six months of PTX exposure. Extension of the treatment resulted in PTX-resistance beyond clinical levels. The established AGS-R showed resistance to vincristine and doxorubicin but not cisplatin. Upon induction of resistance, the expressions of MDR-1 (P < 0.001) and MRP-1 (P < 0.01) genes and proteins significantly increased. AGS-R cells had elevated levels of BCL-2, pro-CASP3, cleaved-NOTCH1, HES1, HEY1, NF-κB, PI3K, p-AKT, HIF-1α, Cyclin A, and B1 as compared with parental cells (at least P < 0.01). The protein levels of BAX, CASP3, P53, and P21 (at least P < 0.01) as well as intracellular ROS (P < 0.001) were reduced in AGS-R. A relative arrest at the G2/M phase (15.8 ± 0.75 vs. 26.7 ± 1.67) of the cell cycle and enrichment of AGS-R cells for CD44 marker (9 ± 0.6 vs. 1 ± 0.8) (P < 0.001) were detected by flow cytometry. While the E-cadherin expression was reduced (P < 0.001), the protein levels of Vimentin, N-cadherin, SLUG, and SNAIL were increased (at least P < 0.05). The angiogenic activity and release of VEGF and MMP2/9 were increased in AGS-R cells relative to the AGS line (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

AGS-R cells could bypass chemotherapy stress by expressing the genes coding for efflux pumps and altering some key signaling in favor of survival, EMT, and angiogenesis.