An emerging role of CD9 in stemness and chemoresistance

High expression of CD9 and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor promotes the development of tongue cancer

Tongue cancer is distinguished by aggressive behavior, a high risk of recurrence, lymph, and distant metastases. Hypoxia-Induced Factor 1 α functions as a CD9 transcription factor. CD9 is a transmembrane protein that may be found on the cell membrane. It can modulate the expression of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) pathway. ELISA was used to measure serum CD9, p-EGFR, and p-Akt levels in 70 tongue cancer patients and 35 healthy controls. RT-PCR was used to analyze the gene expression of the related genes. The gene as well as protein expression of CD9, EGFR/p-EGFR, and Akt/p-Akt was significantly higher in case subjects when compared with the controls. The expression of CD9 was higher in case subjects who were smokers/alcoholics when to control subjects who were smokers/alcoholics. Overexpression of CD9 due to hypoxic conditions leads to the activation of EGFR-signaling pathway resulting in cancer progression, resistance to chemotherapy. Hence, CD9 could be a potential target to suppress cancer progression.

Novel Isolation Method Reveals Sex-Specific Composition and Neurotoxicity of Small Extracellular Vesicles in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

We developed a new method to isolate small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) from male and female wild-type and 5xFAD mouse brains to investigate the sex-specific functions of sEVs in Alzheimer's disease (AD). A mass spectrometric analysis revealed that sEVs contained proteins critical for EV formation and Aβ. ExoView analysis showed that female mice contained more GFAP and Aβ-labeled sEVs, suggesting that a larger proportion of sEVs from the female brain is derived from astrocytes and/or more likely to bind to Aβ. Moreover, sEVs from female brains had more acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) and ceramide, an enzyme and its sphingolipid product important for EV formation and Aβ binding to EVs, respectively. We confirmed the function of ASM in EV formation and Aβ binding using co-labeling and proximity ligation assays, showing that ASM inhibitors prevented complex formation between Aβ and ceramide in primary cultured astrocytes. Finally, our study demonstrated that sEVs from female 5xFAD mice were more neurotoxic than those from males, as determined by impaired mitochondrial function (Seahorse assays) and LDH cytotoxicity assays. Our study suggests that sex-specific sEVs are functionally distinct markers for AD and that ASM is a potential target for AD therapy.

Role of smartphone devices in precision oncology

BACKGROUND

To improve the care for cancer patients, personalized treatment including monitoring and managing Quality of life (QoL) data collection of patients in his/her home environment, its integration and its analysis is necessary. Advanced technologies have been used to develop smartphone devices to support cancer patients and clinicians by integrating all patient-relevant data, helping with Patient Reported Outcomes (PRO), side effect management, appointments, and nutritional support.

PURPOSE

In this review the role and challenges of using smartphone applications for precision oncology is discussed.

METHODS

The methodology section includes the data collection, data integration and predictive modelling approaches. The design, development and evaluation of (AI/ML) algorithms of these apps need intended purpose of these algorithms, description of used mepthods, validity and appropriateness of the datasets, design of the algorithms, evaluation, implementation of these (AI/ML) algorithms and post treatment monitoring.

RESULTS

Though Artificial intelligence (AI) based results showed higher diagnostic classification accuracy in most of the results, the advancement of these mobile apps technologies has a few limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

ML techniques and DL are used to discover novel biomarkers for early detection and diagnostics, and AI are used to accelerate drug discovery, exploit biomarkers to accurately match patients to clinical trials, and personalize cancer therapy based only on patient's own data. AI based smartphone apps cannot be treated as autonomous rather used as an integrative tool for patient-relevant data, PRO, side effect management, appointments, nutritional support, emotional and social support, severity of pain detection and correct diagnosis at higher level. It should encourage the clinicians and care givers to support and establish patient-physician relationships with the help of these apps.

Recent advances of SIRT1 and implications in chemotherapeutics resistance in cancer

Cancer is a big group of diseases and one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Despite enormous studies and efforts are being carried out in understanding the cancer and developing drugs against tumorigenesis, drug resistance is the main obstacle in cancer treatments. Chemotherapeutic treatment is an important part of cancer treatment and drug resistance is getting gradually multidimensional with the advancement of studies in cancer. The underlying mechanisms of drug resistance are largely unknown. Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) is a type of the Class III histone deacetylase family that is distinctively dependent on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) for catalysis reaction. SIRT1 is a molecule which upon upregulation directly influences tumor progression, metastasis, tumor cell apoptosis, autophagy, DNA repair, as well as other interlinked tumorigenesis mechanism. It is involved in drug metabolism, apoptosis, DNA damage, DNA repair, and autophagy, which are key hallmarks of drug resistance and may contribute to multidrug resistance. Thus, understanding the role of SIRT1 in drug resistance could be important. This study focuses on the SIRT1 based mechanisms that might be a potential underlying approach in the development of cancer drug resistance and could be a potential target for drug development.

Cytidine deamination-induced perpetual immunity to SAR-CoV-2 infection is a potential new therapeutic target

As the world is racing to develop perpetual immunity to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The emergence of new viral strains, together with vaccination and reinfections, are all contributing to a long-term immunity against the deadly virus that has taken over the world since its introduction to humans in late December 2019. The discovery that more than 95 percent of people who recovered from COVID-19 had long-lasting immunity and that asymptomatic people have a different immune response to SARS-CoV-2 than symptomatic people has shifted attention to how our immune system initiates such diverse responses. These findings have provided reason to believe that SARS-CoV-2 days are numbered. Hundreds of research papers have been published on the causes of long-lasting immune responses and variations in the numbers of different immune cell types in COVID 19 survivors, but the main reason of these differences has still not been adequately identified. In this article, we focus on the activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID), which initiates molecular processes that allow our immune system to generate antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. To establish lasting immunity to SARS-CoV-2, we suggest that AID could be the key to unlocking it.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Potential of Extracellular Vesicles

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are naturally phospholipid enclosed nanovesicles released by many cells in the body. They are stable in circulation, have low immunogenicity, and act as carriers for functionally active biological molecules. They interact with target organs and bind to the receptors. Their target specificity is important to use EVs as noninvasive diagnostic and prognostic tools. EVs play a vital role in normal physiology and cellular communication. They are known to protect their cargo from degradation, which makes them important drug carriers for targeted drug delivery. Using EVs with markers and tracking their path in systemic circulation can be revolutionary in using them as diagnostic tools. We will discuss the scope of this in this paper. Although there are limitations in EVs isolation and storage, their high biocompatibility will fuel more innovations to overcome these challenges.

SAR-CoV-2 infection, emerging new variants and the role of activation induced cytidine deaminase (AID) in lasting immunity

As the world faces a fourth COVID-19 spike, scientists are learning a lot more about the new SARS-CoV-2 strains that were previously unknown. Currently, the Delta versions of SARS-CoV-2 have become the prevalent strains in much of the world since it first appeared in India in late 2020. Researchers believe they have discovered why Delta has been so successful: those infected with it create significantly more virus than those infected with the original strain of SARS-CoV-2, making it extremely contagious. This has redirected the focus to how our immune system defends us from these various pathogens and initiates such varied responses. Hundreds of research papers have been published on the origins of long-lasting immune responses and disparities in the numbers of different immune cell types in COVID 19 survivors, but the primary architect of these discrepancies has yet to be discovered. In this essay, we will concentrate on the primary architect protein, activation induced cytidine deaminase (AID), which triggers molecular processes that allow our immune system to produce powerful antibodies and SARS-CoV-2 specific B cells, allowing us to outwit the virus. We believe that if we ever achieve permanent immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection, AID will be the key to releasing it.

Artificial intelligence and guidance of medicine in the bubble

Microbubbles are nanosized gas-filled bubbles. They are used in clinical diagnostics, in medical imaging, as contrast agents in ultrasound imaging, and as transporters for targeted drug delivery. They can also be used to treat thrombosis, neoplastic diseases, open arteries and vascular plaques and for localized transport of chemotherapies in cancer patients. Microbubbles can be filled with any type of therapeutics, cure agents, growth factors, extracellular vesicles, exosomes, miRNAs, and drugs. Microbubbles protect their cargo from immune attack because of their specialized encapsulated shell composed of lipid and protein. Filled with curative medicine, they could effectively circulate through the whole body safely and efficiently to reach the target area. The advanced bubble-based drug-delivery system, integrated with artificial intelligence for guidance, holds great promise for the targeted delivery of drugs and medicines.

Exploring the utility of extracellular vesicles in ameliorating viral infection-associated inflammation, cytokine storm and tissue damage

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as potential mediators of intercellular communication. EVs are nano-sized, lipid membrane-bound vesicles that contains biological information in the form of proteins, metabolites and/or nucleic acids. EVs are key regulators of tissue repair mechanisms, such as in the context of lung injuries. Recent studies suggest that EVs have the ability to repair COVID19-associated acute lung damage. EVs hold great promise for therapeutic treatments, particularly in treating a potentially fatal autoimmune response and attenuate inflammation. They are known to boost lung immunity and are involved in the pathogenesis of various lung diseases, including viral infection. EV-based immunization technology has been proven to elicit robust immune responses in many models of infectious disease, including COVID-19. The field of EV research has tremendous potential in advancing our understanding about viral infection pathogenesis, and can be translated into anti-viral therapeutic strategies.

Microbubbles versus Extracellular Vesicles as Therapeutic Cargo for Targeting Drug Delivery

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) and microbubbles are nanoparticles in drug-delivery systems that are both considered important for clinical translation. Current research has found that both microbubbles and EVs have the potential to be utilized as drug-delivery agents for therapeutic targets in various diseases. In combination with EVs, microbubbles are capable of delivering chemotherapeutic drugs to tumor sites and neighboring sites of damaged tissues. However, there are no standards to evaluate or to compare the benefits of EVs (natural carrier) versus microbubbles (synthetic carrier) as drug carriers. Both drug carriers are being investigated for release patterns and for pharmacokinetics; however, few researchers have focused on their targeted delivery or efficacy. In this Perspective, we compare EVs and microbubbles for a better understanding of their utility in terms of delivering drugs to their site of action and future clinical translation.

CD9, a tetraspanin target for cancer therapy?

In the present minireview, we intend to provide a brief history of the field of CD9 involvement in oncogenesis and in the metastatic process of cancer, considering its potential value as a tumor-associated antigenic target. Over the years, CD9 has been identified as a favorable prognostic marker or predictor of metastatic potential depending on the cancer type. To understand its implications in cancer beside its use as an antigenic biomarker, it is essential to know its physiological functions, including its molecular partners in a given cell system. Moreover, the discovery that CD9 is one of the most specific and broadly expressed markers of extracellular membrane vesicles, nanometer-sized entities that are released into extracellular space and various physiological body fluids and play a role in intercellular communication under physiological and pathological conditions, notably the establishment of cancer metastases, has added a new dimension to our knowledge of CD9 function in cancer. Here, we will discuss these issues as well as the possible cancer therapeutic implications of CD9, their limitations, and pitfalls.

CD9, a potential leukemia stem cell marker, regulates drug resistance and leukemia development in acute myeloid leukemia

BACKGROUND

Leukemia stem cells (LSCs) are responsible for the initiation, progression, and relapse of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Therefore, a therapeutic strategy targeting LSCs is a potential approach to eradicate AML. In this study, we aimed to identify LSC-specific surface markers and uncover the underlying mechanism of AML LSCs.

METHODS

Microarray gene expression data were used to investigate candidate AML-LSC-specific markers. CD9 expression in AML cell lines, patients with AML, and normal donors was evaluated by flow cytometry (FC). The biological characteristics of CD9-positive (CD9⁺) cells were analyzed by in vitro proliferation, chemotherapeutic drug resistance, migration, and in vivo xenotransplantation assays. The molecular mechanism involved in CD9⁺ cell function was investigated by gene expression profiling. The effects of alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M) on CD9⁺ cells were analyzed with regard to proliferation, drug resistance, and migration.

RESULTS

CD9, a cell surface protein, was specifically expressed on AML LSCs but barely detected on normal hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). CD9⁺ cells exhibit more resistance to chemotherapy drugs and higher migration potential than do CD9-negative (CD9^-) cells. More importantly, CD9⁺ cells possess the ability to reconstitute human AML in immunocompromised mice and promote leukemia growth, suggesting that CD9⁺ cells define the LSC population. Furthermore, we identified that A2M plays a crucial role in maintaining CD9⁺ LSC stemness. Knockdown of A2M impairs drug resistance and migration of CD9⁺ cells.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that CD9 is a new biomarker of AML LSCs and is a promising therapeutic target.

CD9 expression in vascular aging and atherosclerosis

CD9 is a transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the tetraspanin family. CD9 expression has been reported to be associated with cellular signaling, cell adhesion, cell migration, and tumor related processes. The aim of this study was to examine the immunohistochemical expression of CD9 in vascular senescence and atherosclerosis. One hundred and twenty samples of normal young arteries (obtained from individuals aged 0-60 years), 40 samples of normal old arteries (obtained from individuals aged 61-80 years), and 67 samples of atherosclerotic arteries were obtained from surgically resected specimens. Tissue microarray blocks were prepared for immunohistochemical staining. Immunohistochemical staining detected CD9 expression in 10.8% (13 of 120 samples) of normal young arteries and 30.0% (12 of 40 samples) of normal old arteries. CD9 expression was absent or mildly present in the smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells of normal arteries. Normal old arteries showed significantly higher expression of CD9 than normal young arteries (P<0.01). Atherosclerotic arteries showed moderate or strong CD9 expression (65 of 67 samples, 97.0%), which was observed in the smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, macrophages, and atheromatous plaques. CD9 was significantly expressed in the atherosclerotic arteries compared to normal young and old arteries (P<0.01). The results suggest that CD9 expression may play an important role in the vascular senescence and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.

Applications of artificial intelligence in, early detection of cancer, clinical diagnosis and personalized medicine

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines programmed to convert raw input data into decision-making actions, like humans. AI programs are designed to make decisions, often using deep learning and computer-guided programs that analyze and process raw data into clinical decision making for effective treatment. New techniques for predicting cancer at an early stage are needed as conventional methods have poor accuracy and are not applicable to personalized medicine. AI has the potential to use smart, intelligent computer systems for image interpretation and early diagnosis of cancer. AI has been changing almost all the areas of the medical field by integrating with new emerging technologies. AI has revolutionized the entire health care system through innovative digital diagnostics with greater precision and accuracy. AI is capable of detecting cancer at an early stage with accurate diagnosis and improved survival outcomes. AI is an innovative technology of the future that can be used for early prediction, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Need for Specialized Therapeutic Stem Cells Banks Equipped with Tumor Regression Enzymes and Anti-Tumor Genes

Stem cells are currently being used in many clinical trials for regenerative purposes. These are promising results for stem cells in the treatment of several diseases, including cancer. Nevertheless, there are still many variables which should be addressed before the application of stem cells for cancer treatment. One approach should be to establish well-characterized therapeutic stem cell banks to minimize the variation in results from different clinical trials and facilitate their effective use in basic and translational research.

Clinical Relevance of RNA Editing to Early Detection of Cancer in Human

DNA encodes RNA and is responsible for protein production in cells. RNA editing is the process by which genetic information is altered in the RNA molecule. RNA editing in cancer initiation, progression and development has been well documented and play an important role in tumorigenesis. Studying RNA editing and its application to change genetic information after transcription, RNA-editing technology could be an important innovation in cancer and has the potential for more effective precision treatment. Bioengineering integration approach and artificial intelligence could revolutionize the entire field of RNA editing for early detection of cancer.

Clinical Applications of RNA Editing Technology for the Early Detection of Cancer and Future Directions

Early detection of cancer has great clinical importance and potentially improves cure, survival rate and treatment outcome. RNA editing technology can be used as targeted and precise molecular scissors to cut and replace disease-causing genes with healthy ones. This is a post transcriptional modification that can lead to the recoding of proteins. RNA editing technology is in its infancy, but it can be used for early diagnoses and effective treatment of cancer. The full potential of precision medicine will be achieved by using the knowledge of RNA reversible-recoding to edit the protein. RNA editing technology could be used to expose chemo resistant cancer cells, dormant cancer stem cells and other malignant tumors. RNA editing generates RNA and protein diversity to accelerate and enhance the screening window for early detection of cancer. We propose that the RNA editing sites could be used as a novel tool for early detection of cancer.