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Nasrabadi M, Nazarian M, Darroudi M, Marouzi S, Harifi-Mood MS, Samarghandian S, Farkhondeh T. Carbamate compounds induced toxic effects by affecting Nrf2 signaling pathways. Toxicol Rep 2024; 12:148-157. [PMID: 38304697 PMCID: PMC10831123 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2023.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Carbamate (CBs) is a class of insecticides which is being known as an important cause of intentional or accidental poisoning. CBs, cause carbamylation of acetylcholinesterase at neuronal synapses and neuromuscular junction. Exposure to CBs through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion can result in significant cholinergic toxicity. This is due to the elevation of acetylcholine levels at ganglionic synapses found in both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, as well as muscarinic receptors located in target organs of the parasympathetic nervous system, nicotinic receptors situated in skeletal muscle tissue, and the central nervous system. The association between human illnesses and environmental exposures to CBs have been extensively studied in several studies. Although CBs-triggered toxicity leads to overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the detailed association between the toxicity under CBs exposure and NFE2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathways has not been completely clarified. In this review we aimed to summarize the latest findings on the functional interrelationship between carbamates compounds and Nrf2 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maryam Nazarian
- Student Research Committee, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Majid Darroudi
- Nuclear Medicine Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Basic Sciences, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur 9318614139, Iran
| | - Somayeh Marouzi
- Department of Basic Sciences, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur 9318614139, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Saeed Samarghandian
- Healthy Ageing Research Centre, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur 9318614139, Iran
| | - Tahereh Farkhondeh
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
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2
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Lee JH, Hallis SP, Kwak MK. Continuous TNF-α exposure in mammary epithelial cells promotes cancer phenotype acquisition via EGFR/TNFR2 activation. Arch Pharm Res 2024; 47:465-480. [PMID: 38734854 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-024-01497-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), an abundant inflammatory cytokine in the tumor microenvironment (TME), is linked to breast cancer growth and metastasis. In this study, we established MCF10A cell lines incubated with TNF-α to investigate the effects of continuous TNF-α exposure on the phenotypic change of normal mammary epithelial cells. The established MCF10A-LE cell line, through long-term exposure to TNF-α, displayed cancer-like features, including increased proliferation, migration, and sustained survival signaling even in the absence of TNF-α stimulation. Unlike the short-term exposed cell line MCF10A-SE, MCF10A-LE exhibited elevated levels of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and subsequent TNF receptor 2 (TNFR2), and silencing of EGFR or TNFR2 suppressed the cancer-like phenotype of MCF10A-LE. Notably, we demonstrated that the elevated levels of NAD(P)H oxidase 4 (NOX4) and the resulting increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) were associated with EGFR/TNFR2 elevation in MCF10A-LE. Furthermore, mammosphere-forming capacity and the expression of cancer stem cell (CSC) markers increased in MCF10A-LE. Silencing of EGFR reversed these effects, indicating the acquisition of CSC-like properties via EGFR signaling. In conclusion, our results reveal that continuous TNF-α exposure activates the EGFR/TNFR2 signaling pathway via the NOX4/ROS axis, promoting neoplastic changes in mammary epithelial cells within the inflammatory TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Hee Lee
- Integrated Research Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Gyeonggi‑do, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Steffanus Pranoto Hallis
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21FOUR Advanced Program for SmartPharma Leaders, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Integrated Research Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Gyeonggi‑do, 14662, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21FOUR Advanced Program for SmartPharma Leaders, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea.
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Zhang S, Yang R, Ouyang Y, Shen Y, Hu L, Xu C. Cancer stem cells: a target for overcoming therapeutic resistance and relapse. Cancer Biol Med 2023; 20:j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0333. [PMID: 38164743 PMCID: PMC10845928 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subset of cells in cancers that are thought to initiate tumorous transformation and promote metastasis, recurrence, and resistance to treatment. Growing evidence has revealed the existence of CSCs in various types of cancers and suggested that CSCs differentiate into diverse lineage cells that contribute to tumor progression. We may be able to overcome the limitations of cancer treatment with a comprehensive understanding of the biological features and mechanisms underlying therapeutic resistance in CSCs. This review provides an overview of the properties, biomarkers, and mechanisms of resistance shown by CSCs. Recent findings on metabolic features, especially fatty acid metabolism and ferroptosis in CSCs, are highlighted, along with promising targeting strategies. Targeting CSCs is a potential treatment plan to conquer cancer and prevent resistance and relapse in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610042, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Chengdu Wenjiang District People’s Hospital, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yujie Ouyang
- Acupuncture and Massage College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yang Shen
- Department of Oncology & Cancer Institute, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Lanlin Hu
- Department of Oncology & Cancer Institute, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Yu-Yue Pathology Scientific Research Center, Chongqing 400039, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing 401329, China
| | - Chuan Xu
- Department of Oncology & Cancer Institute, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Yu-Yue Pathology Scientific Research Center, Chongqing 400039, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing 401329, China
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4
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Xia L, Ma W, Afrashteh A, Sajadi MA, Fakheri H, Valilo M. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/p53 axis in breast cancer. Biochem Med (Zagreb) 2023; 33:030504. [PMID: 37841775 PMCID: PMC10564154 DOI: 10.11613/bm.2023.030504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most important factors involved in the response to oxidative stress (OS) is the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which regulates the expression of components such as antioxidative stress proteins and enzymes. Under normal conditions, Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) keeps Nrf2 in the cytoplasm, thus preventing its translocation to the nucleus and inhibiting its role. It has been established that Nrf2 has a dual function; on the one hand, it promotes angiogenesis and cancer cell metastasis while causing resistance to drugs and chemotherapy. On the other hand, Nrf2 increases expression and proliferation of glutathione to protect cells against OS. p53 is a tumour suppressor that activates the apoptosis pathway in aging and cancer cells in addition to stimulating the glutaminolysis and antioxidant pathways. Cancer cells use the antioxidant ability of p53 against OS. Therefore, in the present study, we discussed function of Nrf2 and p53 in breast cancer (BC) cells to elucidate their role in protection or destruction of cancer cells as well as their drug resistance or antioxidant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Xia
- Surgical oncology ward 2, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining Qinghai, China
| | - Wenbiao Ma
- Surgical oncology ward 2, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining Qinghai, China
| | - Ahmad Afrashteh
- Department of Periodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Hadi Fakheri
- Paramedical Faculty, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Valilo
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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5
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Hao J, Huang J, Hua C, Zuo Y, Yu W, Wu X, Li L, Xue G, Wan X, Ru L, Guo Z, Han S, Deng W, Lin F, Guo W. A novel TOX3-WDR5-ABCG2 signaling axis regulates the progression of colorectal cancer by accelerating stem-like traits and chemoresistance. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002256. [PMID: 37708089 PMCID: PMC10501593 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The eradication of cancer stem cells (CSCs) with drug resistance confers the probability of local tumor control after chemotherapy or targeted therapy. As the main drug resistance marker, ABCG2 is also critical for colorectal cancer (CRC) evolution, in particular cancer stem-like traits expansion. Hitherto, the knowledge about the expression regulation of ABCG2, in particular its upstream transcriptional regulatory mechanisms, remains limited in cancer, including CRC. Here, ABCG2 was found to be markedly up-regulated in CRC CSCs (cCSCs) expansion and chemo-resistant CRC tissues and closely associated with CRC recurrence. Mechanistically, TOX3 was identified as a specific transcriptional factor to drive ABCG2 expression and subsequent cCSCs expansion and chemoresistance by binding to -261 to -141 segments of the ABCG2 promoter region. Moreover, we found that TOX3 recruited WDR5 to promote tri-methylation of H3K4 at the ABCG2 promoter in cCSCs, which further confers stem-like traits and chemoresistance to CRC by co-regulating the transcription of ABCG2. In line with this observation, TOX3, WDR5, and ABCG2 showed abnormal activation in chemo-resistant tumor tissues of in situ CRC mouse model and clinical investigation further demonstrated the comprehensive assessment of TOX3, WDR5, and ABCG2 could be a more efficient strategy for survival prediction of CRC patients with recurrence or metastasis. Thus, our study found that TOX3-WDR5/ABCG2 signaling axis plays a critical role in regulating CRC stem-like traits and chemoresistance, and a combination of chemotherapy with WDR5 inhibitors may induce synthetic lethality in ABCG2-deregulated tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaojiao Hao
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells & The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Jinsheng Huang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunyu Hua
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells & The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yan Zuo
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells & The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Wendan Yu
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells & The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaojun Wu
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liren Li
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guoqing Xue
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells & The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xinyu Wan
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells & The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Liyuan Ru
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells & The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Ziyue Guo
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells & The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shilong Han
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells & The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Wuguo Deng
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei Lin
- Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine; The Affiliated Nanhai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Jinan University, Foshan, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells & The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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6
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Lučić I, Kurtović M, Mlinarić M, Piteša N, Čipak Gašparović A, Sabol M, Milković L. Deciphering Common Traits of Breast and Ovarian Cancer Stem Cells and Possible Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10683. [PMID: 37445860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) and ovarian cancer (OC) are among the most common and deadly cancers affecting women worldwide. Both are complex diseases with marked heterogeneity. Despite the induction of screening programs that increase the frequency of earlier diagnosis of BC, at a stage when the cancer is more likely to respond to therapy, which does not exist for OC, more than 50% of both cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Initial therapy can put the cancer into remission. However, recurrences occur frequently in both BC and OC, which are highly cancer-subtype dependent. Therapy resistance is mainly attributed to a rare subpopulation of cells, named cancer stem cells (CSC) or tumor-initiating cells, as they are capable of self-renewal, tumor initiation, and regrowth of tumor bulk. In this review, we will discuss the distinctive markers and signaling pathways that characterize CSC, their interactions with the tumor microenvironment, and the strategies they employ to evade immune surveillance. Our focus will be on identifying the common features of breast cancer stem cells (BCSC) and ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSC) and suggesting potential therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Lučić
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Matea Kurtović
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Monika Mlinarić
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nikolina Piteša
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Čipak Gašparović
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Sabol
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lidija Milković
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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7
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Sargazi Z, Yazdani Y, Tahavvori A, Youshanlouei HR, Alivirdiloo V, Beilankouhi EAV, Valilo M. NFR2/ABC transporter axis in drug resistance of breast cancer cells. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:5407-5414. [PMID: 37081307 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08384-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most serious malignancies among women, accounting for about 12% of all cancers. The inherent complexity and heterogeneity of breast cancer results in failure to respond to treatment in the advanced stages of the disease. Breast cancer is caused by several genetic and environmental factors. One of the significant factors involved in the development of breast cancer is oxidative stress, which is generally regulated by nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2). The level of NRF2 expression is low in healthy cells, which maintains the balance of the antioxidant system; however, its expression is higher in cancer cells, which have correlation characteristics such as angiogenesis, stem cell formation, drug resistance, and metastasis. Drug resistance increases with the upregulation of NRF2 expression, which contributes to cell protection. NRF2 controls this mechanism by increasing the expression of ATP-binding cassettes (ABCs). Considering the growing number of studies in this field, we aimed to investigate the relationship between NRF2 and ABCs, as well as their role in the development of drug resistance in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zinat Sargazi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Yalda Yazdani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Tahavvori
- Department of internal medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hamed Rahmani Youshanlouei
- Department of internal medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahid Alivirdiloo
- Medical Doctor Ramsar Campus, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Ramsar, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Valilo
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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8
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Mazurakova A, Koklesova L, Vybohova D, Samec M, Kudela E, Biringer K, Šudomová M, Hassan STS, Kello M, Büsselberg D, Golubnitschaja O, Kubatka P. Therapy-resistant breast cancer in focus: Clinically relevant mitigation by flavonoids targeting cancer stem cells. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1160068. [PMID: 37089930 PMCID: PMC10115970 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1160068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Significant limitations of the reactive medical approach in breast cancer management are clearly reflected by alarming statistics recorded worldwide. According to the WHO updates, breast malignancies become the leading cancer type. Further, the portion of premenopausal breast cancer cases is permanently increasing and demonstrates particularly aggressive patterns and poor outcomes exemplified by young patients with triple-negative breast cancer that lacks targeted therapy. Accumulating studies suggest the crucial role of stem cells in tumour biology, high metastatic activity, and therapy resistance of aggressive breast cancer. Therefore, targeting breast cancer stem cells is a promising treatment approach in secondary and tertiary breast cancer care. To this end, naturally occurring substances demonstrate high potential to target cancer stem cells which, however, require in-depth analysis to identify effective anti-cancer agents for cost-effective breast cancer management. The current article highlights the properties of flavonoids particularly relevant for targeting breast cancer stem cells to mitigate therapy resistance. The proposed approach is conformed with the principles of 3P medicine by applying predictive diagnostics, patient stratification and treatments tailored to the individualised patient profile. Expected impacts are very high, namely, to overcome limitations of reactive medical services improving individual outcomes and the healthcare economy in breast cancer management. Relevant clinical applications are exemplified in the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena Mazurakova
- Department of Anatomy, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
- *Correspondence: Peter Kubatka, ; Alena Mazurakova,
| | - Lenka Koklesova
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Desanka Vybohova
- Department of Anatomy, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Marek Samec
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Erik Kudela
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Kamil Biringer
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | | | - Sherif T. S. Hassan
- Department of Applied Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Kello
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Dietrich Büsselberg
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Olga Golubnitschaja
- Predictive, Preventive and Personalised (3P) Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Peter Kubatka
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
- *Correspondence: Peter Kubatka, ; Alena Mazurakova,
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9
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Hallis SP, Kim JM, Kwak MK. Emerging Role of NRF2 Signaling in Cancer Stem Cell Phenotype. Mol Cells 2023; 46:153-164. [PMID: 36994474 PMCID: PMC10070166 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2023.2196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small population of tumor cells characterized by self-renewal and differentiation capacity. CSCs are currently postulated as the driving force that induces intra-tumor heterogeneity leading to tumor initiation, metastasis, and eventually tumor relapse. Notably, CSCs are inherently resistant to environmental stress, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy due to high levels of antioxidant systems and drug efflux transporters. In this context, a therapeutic strategy targeting the CSC-specific pathway holds a promising cure for cancer. NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2; NFE2L2) is a master transcription factor that regulates an array of genes involved in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species/electrophiles. Accumulating evidence suggests that persistent NRF2 activation, observed in multiple types of cancer, supports tumor growth, aggressive malignancy, and therapy resistance. Herein, we describe the core properties of CSCs, focusing on treatment resistance, and review the evidence that demonstrates the roles of NRF2 signaling in conferring unique properties of CSCs and the associated signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffanus P. Hallis
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
| | - Jin Myung Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
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10
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Association of NRF2 with HIF-2α-induced cancer stem cell phenotypes in chronic hypoxic condition. Redox Biol 2023; 60:102632. [PMID: 36791645 PMCID: PMC9950657 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The acquisition of the cancer stem cell (CSC) properties is often mediated by the surrounding microenvironment, and tumor hypoxia is considered an important factor for CSC phenotype development. High levels of NRF2 (Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Like 2; NFE2L2), a transcription factor that maintains cellular redox balance, have been associated with facilitated tumor growth and therapy resistance. In this study, we investigated the role of NRF2 in hypoxia-induced CSC phenotypes in colorectal cancer cells. Chronic hypoxia for 72 h resulted in CSC phenotypes, including elevation of krupple-like factor 4 (KLF4) and octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4), and an increase in cancer migration and spheroid growth with concomitant hypoxia-inducible factor 2α (HIF-2α) accumulation. All these chronic hypoxia-induced CSC properties were attenuated following HIF-2α-specific silencing. In this chronic hypoxia model, NRF2 inhibition by shRNA-based silencing or brusatol treatment blocked HIF-2α accumulation, which consequently resulted in decreased CSC marker expression and inhibition of CSC properties such as spheroid growth. In contrast, NRF2 overactivation by genetic or chemical approach enhanced the chronic hypoxia-induced HIF-2α accumulation and cancer migration. As a molecular mechanism of the NRF2-inhibition-mediated HIF-2α dysregulation, we demonstrated that miR-181a-2-3p, whose expression is elevated in NRF2-silenced cells, targeted the HIF-2α 3'UTR and subsequently suppressed the chronic hypoxia-induced HIF-2α and CSC phenotypes. The miR-181a-2-3p inhibitor treatment in NRF2-silenced cells could restore the levels of HIF-2α and CSC markers, and increased cancer migration and sphere formation under chronic hypoxia. In line with this, the miR-181a-2-3p inhibitor transfection could increase tumorigenicity of NRF2-silenced colorectal cancer cells. Collectively, our study suggests the involvement of NRF2/miR181a-2-3p signaling in the development of HIF-2α-mediated CSC phenotypes in sustained hypoxic environments.
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11
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Zhang L, Chen W, Liu S, Chen C. Targeting Breast Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:552-570. [PMID: 36632469 PMCID: PMC9830502 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.76187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential roles of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) in tumor initiation and recurrence have been recognized for many decades. Due to their strong capacity for self-renewal and differentiation, BCSCs are the major reasons for poor clinical outcomes and low therapeutic response. Several hypotheses on the origin of cancer stem cells have been proposed, including critical gene mutations in stem cells, dedifferentiation of somatic cells, and cell plasticity remodeling by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, the tumor microenvironment, including cellular components and cytokines, modulates the self-renewal and therapeutic resistance of BCSCs. Small molecules, antibodies, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells targeting BCSCs have been developed, and their applications in combination with conventional therapies are undergoing clinical trials. In this review, we focus on the features of BCSCs, emphasize the major factors and tumor environment that regulate the stemness of BCSCs, and discuss potential BCSC-targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhang
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences; State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering; Cancer Institutes; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai; The Shanghai paracrine Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology; The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology; Shanghai Medical College; Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wenmin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming 650201, China.,Kunming College of Life Sciences, the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Suling Liu
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences; State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering; Cancer Institutes; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai; The Shanghai paracrine Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology; The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology; Shanghai Medical College; Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Ceshi Chen, E-mail: or Suling Liu, E-mail:
| | - Ceshi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming 650201, China.,Academy of Biomedical Engineering, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.,The Third Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650118, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Ceshi Chen, E-mail: or Suling Liu, E-mail:
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12
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Nrf2 Modulation in Breast Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102668. [PMID: 36289931 PMCID: PMC9599257 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are identified to control the expression and activity of various essential signaling intermediates involved in cellular proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. Indeed, ROS represents a double-edged sword in supporting cell survival and death. Many common pathological processes, including various cancer types and neurodegenerative diseases, are inflammation and oxidative stress triggers, or even initiate them. Keap1-Nrf2 is a master antioxidant pathway in cytoprotective mechanisms through Nrf2 target gene expression. Activation of the Nfr2 pathway benefits cells in the early stages and reduces the level of ROS. In contrast, hyperactivation of Keap1-Nrf2 creates a context that supports the survival of both healthy and cancerous cells, defending them against oxidative stress, chemotherapeutic drugs, and radiotherapy. Considering the dual role of Nrf2 in suppressing or expanding cancer cells, determining its inhibitory/stimulatory position and targeting can represent an impressive role in cancer treatment. This review focused on Nrf2 modulators and their roles in sensitizing breast cancer cells to chemo/radiotherapy agents.
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13
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Ibragimova M, Tsyganov M, Litviakov N. Tumour Stem Cells in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095058. [PMID: 35563449 PMCID: PMC9099719 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumour stem cells (CSCs) are a self-renewing population that plays important roles in tumour initiation, recurrence, and metastasis. Although the medical literature is extensive, problems with CSC identification and cancer therapy remain. This review provides the main mechanisms of CSC action in breast cancer (BC): CSC markers and signalling pathways, heterogeneity, plasticity, and ecological behaviour. The dynamic heterogeneity of CSCs and the dynamic transitions of CSC− non-CSCs and their significance for metastasis are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Ibragimova
- Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, 5, Kooperativny Street, 634050 Tomsk, Russia; (M.T.); (N.L.)
- Laboratory of Genetic Technologies, Siberian State Medical University, 2, Moscow Tract, 634050 Tomsk, Russia
- Biological Institute, National Research Tomsk State University, 36, Lenin, 634050 Tomsk, Russia
- Correspondence:
| | - Matvey Tsyganov
- Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, 5, Kooperativny Street, 634050 Tomsk, Russia; (M.T.); (N.L.)
| | - Nikolai Litviakov
- Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, 5, Kooperativny Street, 634050 Tomsk, Russia; (M.T.); (N.L.)
- Laboratory of Genetic Technologies, Siberian State Medical University, 2, Moscow Tract, 634050 Tomsk, Russia
- Biological Institute, National Research Tomsk State University, 36, Lenin, 634050 Tomsk, Russia
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14
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Kumar H, Kumar RM, Bhattacharjee D, Somanna P, Jain V. Role of Nrf2 Signaling Cascade in Breast Cancer: Strategies and Treatment. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:720076. [PMID: 35571115 PMCID: PMC9098811 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.720076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the second leading cancer among all types of cancers. It accounts for 12% of the total cases of cancers. The complex and heterogeneous nature of breast cancer makes it difficult to treat in advanced stages. The expression of various enzymes and proteins is regulated by several molecular pathways. Oxidative stress plays a vital role in cellular events that are generally regulated by nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). The exact mechanism of Nrf2 behind cytoprotective and antioxidative properties is still under investigation. In healthy cells, Nrf2 expression is lower, which maintains antioxidative stress; however, cancerous cells overexpress Nrf2, which is associated with various phenomena, such as the development of drug resistance, angiogenesis, development of cancer stem cells, and metastasis. Aberrant Nrf2 expression diminishes the toxicity and potency of therapeutic anticancer drugs and provides cytoprotection to cancerous cells. In this article, we have discussed the attributes associated with Nrf2 in the development of drug resistance, angiogenesis, cancer stem cell generation, and metastasis in the specific context of breast cancer. We also discussed the therapeutic strategies employed against breast cancer exploiting Nrf2 signaling cascades.
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15
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Gall Trošelj K, Tomljanović M, Jaganjac M, Matijević Glavan T, Čipak Gašparović A, Milković L, Borović Šunjić S, Buttari B, Profumo E, Saha S, Saso L, Žarković N. Oxidative Stress and Cancer Heterogeneity Orchestrate NRF2 Roles Relevant for Therapy Response. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27051468. [PMID: 35268568 PMCID: PMC8912061 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27051468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress and its end-products, such as 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), initiate activation of the Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (NRF2)/Kelch Like ECH Associated Protein 1 (KEAP1) signaling pathway that plays a crucial role in the maintenance of cellular redox homeostasis. However, an involvement of 4-HNE and NRF2 in processes associated with the initiation of cancer, its progression, and response to therapy includes numerous, highly complex events. They occur through interactions between cancer and stromal cells. These events are dependent on many cell-type specific features. They start with the extent of NRF2 binding to its cytoplasmic repressor, KEAP1, and extend to the permissiveness of chromatin for transcription of Antioxidant Response Element (ARE)-containing genes that are NRF2 targets. This review will explore epigenetic molecular mechanisms of NRF2 transcription through the specific molecular anatomy of its promoter. It will explain the role of NRF2 in cancer stem cells, with respect to cancer therapy resistance. Additionally, it also discusses NRF2 involvement at the cross-roads of communication between tumor associated inflammatory and stromal cells, which is also an important factor involved in the response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koraljka Gall Trošelj
- Laboratory for Epigenomics, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Marko Tomljanović
- Laboratory for Epigenomics, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Morana Jaganjac
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress (LabOS), Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (A.Č.G.); (L.M.); (S.B.Š.); (N.Ž.)
| | - Tanja Matijević Glavan
- Laboratory for Personalized Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Ana Čipak Gašparović
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress (LabOS), Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (A.Č.G.); (L.M.); (S.B.Š.); (N.Ž.)
| | - Lidija Milković
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress (LabOS), Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (A.Č.G.); (L.M.); (S.B.Š.); (N.Ž.)
| | - Suzana Borović Šunjić
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress (LabOS), Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (A.Č.G.); (L.M.); (S.B.Š.); (N.Ž.)
| | - Brigitta Buttari
- Department of Cardiovascular, Endocrine-Metabolic Diseases, and Aging, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (B.B.); (E.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Elisabetta Profumo
- Department of Cardiovascular, Endocrine-Metabolic Diseases, and Aging, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (B.B.); (E.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Sarmistha Saha
- Department of Cardiovascular, Endocrine-Metabolic Diseases, and Aging, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (B.B.); (E.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Neven Žarković
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress (LabOS), Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (A.Č.G.); (L.M.); (S.B.Š.); (N.Ž.)
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16
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Park J, Kim SK, Hallis SP, Choi BH, Kwak MK. Role of CD133/NRF2 Axis in the Development of Colon Cancer Stem Cell-Like Properties. Front Oncol 2022; 11:808300. [PMID: 35155201 PMCID: PMC8825377 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.808300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) exhibit intrinsic therapy/stress resistance, which often cause cancer recurrence after therapy. In this study, we investigated the potential relationship between the cluster of differentiation (CD)-133, a CSC marker of colon cancer, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NFE2L2; NRF2), a master transcription factor for the regulation of multiple antioxidant genes. In the first model of CSC, a sphere culture of the colorectal cell line HCT116, showed increased levels of CD133 and NRF2. Silencing of CD133 reduced the levels of CSC markers, such as Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2), and further suppressed the expression levels of NRF2 and its target genes. As a potential molecular link, CD133-mediated activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/serine-threonine kinase (PI3K/AKT) signaling appears to increase the NRF2 protein levels via phosphorylation and the consequent inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β. Additionally, NRF2-silenced HCT116 cells showed attenuated sphere formation capacity and reduced CSC markers expression, indicating the critical role of the NRF2 pathway in the development of CSC-like properties. As a second model of CSC, the CD133high cell population was isolated from HCT116 cells. CSC-like properties, including sphere formation, motility, migration, colony formation, and anticancer resistance, were enhanced in the CD133high population compared to CD133low HCT116 cells. Levels of NRF2, which were elevated in CD133high HCT116, were suppressed by CD133-silencing. In line with these, the analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database showed that high levels of CD133 expression are correlated with increased NRF2 signaling, and alterations in CD133 gene or expression are associated with unfavorable clinical outcome in colorectal carcinoma patients. These results indicate that the CD133/NRF2 axis contributes to the development of CSC-like properties in colon cancer cells, and that PI3K/AKT signaling activation is involved in CD133-mediated NRF2 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimin Park
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21FOUR Advanced Program for SmartPharma Leaders, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Seung Ki Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21FOUR Advanced Program for SmartPharma Leaders, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Steffanus Pranoto Hallis
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21FOUR Advanced Program for SmartPharma Leaders, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Bo-Hyun Choi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21FOUR Advanced Program for SmartPharma Leaders, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.,Integrated Research Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.,College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
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17
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Badmann S, Mayr D, Schmoeckel E, Hester A, Buschmann C, Beyer S, Kolben T, Kraus F, Chelariu-Raicu A, Burges A, Mahner S, Jeschke U, Trillsch F, Czogalla B. AKR1C1/2 inhibition by MPA sensitizes platinum resistant ovarian cancer towards carboplatin. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1862. [PMID: 35115586 PMCID: PMC8814148 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05785-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) most patients develop platinum-resistance. On molecular level the NRF2 pathway, a cellular defense mechanism against reactive oxygen species, is induced. In this study, we investigate AKR1C1/2, target of NRF2, in a well-established EOC collective by immunohistochemistry and in a panel of ovarian cancer cell lines including platinum-resistant clones. The therapeutic effect of carboplatin and MPA as monotherapy or in combination was assessed by functional assays, using OV90 and OV90cp cells. Molecular mechanisms of action of MPA were investigated by NRF2 silencing and AKR activity measurements. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that AKR1C1/2 is a key player in the development of chemoresistance and an independent indicator for short PFS (23.5 vs. 49.6 months, p = 0.013). Inhibition of AKR1C1/2 by MPA led to a concentration- and time-dependent decline of OV90 viability and to an increased response to CP in vitro. By NRF2 silencing, however, the effects of MPA treatment were reduced. Concludingly, our data suggest that a combination therapy of carboplatin and MPA might be a promising therapeutic approach to increase response rates of EOC patients, which should be explored in clinical context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susann Badmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Doris Mayr
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Elisa Schmoeckel
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna Hester
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Christina Buschmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Susanne Beyer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Kolben
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Fabian Kraus
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Anca Chelariu-Raicu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Burges
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Sven Mahner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Udo Jeschke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Trillsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Bastian Czogalla
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
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18
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Abad E, Lyakhovich A. Movement of Mitochondria with Mutant DNA through Extracellular Vesicles Helps Cancer Cells Acquire Chemoresistance. ChemMedChem 2021; 17:e202100642. [PMID: 34847299 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive subtypes of breast cancer with the worst prognosis after chemo- or radiation therapy. This is mainly due to the development of cancer chemoresistance accompanied by tumor recurrence. In this work, we investigated a new mechanism of acquired chemoresistance of TNBC cells. We showed that extracellular vehicles (EVs) of chemoresistant TNBC cells can transfer mitochondria to sensitive cancer cells, thus increasing their chemoresistance. Such transfer, but with less efficiency, can be carried out over short distances using tunneling nanotubes. In addition, we showed that exosome fractions carrying mitochondria from resistant TNBC cells contribute to acquired chemoresistance by increasing mtDNA levels with mutations in the mtND4 gene responsible for tumorigenesis. Blocking mitochondrial transport by exosome inhibitors, including GW4869, reduced acquired TNBC chemoresistance. These results could lead to the identification of new molecular targets necessary for more effective treatment of this type of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etna Abad
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alex Lyakhovich
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabancı University, Istanbul, 34956, Turkey
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19
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Tang J, Li Y, Xia S, Li J, Yang Q, Ding K, Zhang H. Sequestosome 1/p62: A multitasker in the regulation of malignant tumor aggression (Review). Int J Oncol 2021; 59:77. [PMID: 34414460 PMCID: PMC8425587 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2021.5257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1)/p62 is an adapter protein mainly involved in the transportation, degradation and destruction of various proteins that cooperates with components of autophagy and the ubiquitin-proteasome degradation pathway. Numerous studies have shown that SQSTM1/p62 functions at multiple levels, including involvement in genetic stability or modification, post-transcriptional regulation and protein function. As a result, SQSTM1/p62 is a versatile protein that is a critical core regulator of tumor cell genetic stability, autophagy, apoptosis and other forms of cell death, malignant growth, proliferation, migration, invasion, metastasis and chemoradiotherapeutic response, and an indicator of patient prognosis. SQSTM1/p62 regulates these processes via its distinct molecular structure, through which it participates in a variety of activating or inactivating tumor-related and tumor microenvironment-related signaling pathways, particularly positive feedback loops and epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related pathways. Therefore, functioning as a proto-oncogene or tumor suppressor gene in various types of cancer and tumor-associated microenvironments, SQSTM1/p62 is capable of promoting or retarding malignant tumor aggression, giving rise to immeasurable effects on tumor occurrence and development, and on patient treatment and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlong Tang
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Shuli Xia
- Department of Pathology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Disease Proteomics of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P.R. China
| | - Jinfan Li
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, P.R. China
| | - Qi Yang
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, P.R. China
| | - Kefeng Ding
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, P.R. China,Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, P.R. China
| | - Honghe Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Disease Proteomics of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P.R. China
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20
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Shen YA, Chen CC, Chen BJ, Wu YT, Juan JR, Chen LY, Teng YC, Wei YH. Potential Therapies Targeting Metabolic Pathways in Cancer Stem Cells. Cells 2021; 10:1772. [PMID: 34359941 PMCID: PMC8304173 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are heterogeneous cells with stem cell-like properties that are responsible for therapeutic resistance, recurrence, and metastasis, and are the major cause for cancer treatment failure. Since CSCs have distinct metabolic characteristics that plays an important role in cancer development and progression, targeting metabolic pathways of CSCs appears to be a promising therapeutic approach for cancer treatment. Here we classify and discuss the unique metabolisms that CSCs rely on for energy production and survival, including mitochondrial respiration, glycolysis, glutaminolysis, and fatty acid metabolism. Because of metabolic plasticity, CSCs can switch between these metabolisms to acquire energy for tumor progression in different microenvironments compare to the rest of tumor bulk. Thus, we highlight the specific conditions and factors that promote or suppress CSCs properties to portray distinct metabolic phenotypes that attribute to CSCs in common cancers. Identification and characterization of the features in these metabolisms can offer new anticancer opportunities and improve the prognosis of cancer. However, the therapeutic window of metabolic inhibitors used alone or in combination may be rather narrow due to cytotoxicity to normal cells. In this review, we present current findings of potential targets in these four metabolic pathways for the development of more effective and alternative strategies to eradicate CSCs and treat cancer more effectively in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-An Shen
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (Y.-A.S.); (C.-C.C.); (J.-R.J.); (L.-Y.C.); (Y.-C.T.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- International Master/Ph.D. Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Cyuan Chen
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (Y.-A.S.); (C.-C.C.); (J.-R.J.); (L.-Y.C.); (Y.-C.T.)
| | - Bo-Jung Chen
- Department of Pathology, Shuang-Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan;
| | - Yu-Ting Wu
- Center for Mitochondrial Medicine and Free Radical Research, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua City 50046, Taiwan;
| | - Jiun-Ru Juan
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (Y.-A.S.); (C.-C.C.); (J.-R.J.); (L.-Y.C.); (Y.-C.T.)
| | - Liang-Yun Chen
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (Y.-A.S.); (C.-C.C.); (J.-R.J.); (L.-Y.C.); (Y.-C.T.)
| | - Yueh-Chun Teng
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (Y.-A.S.); (C.-C.C.); (J.-R.J.); (L.-Y.C.); (Y.-C.T.)
| | - Yau-Huei Wei
- Center for Mitochondrial Medicine and Free Radical Research, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua City 50046, Taiwan;
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21
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Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are heterogeneous cells with stem cell-like properties that are responsible for therapeutic resistance, recurrence, and metastasis, and are the major cause for cancer treatment failure. Since CSCs have distinct metabolic characteristics that plays an important role in cancer development and progression, targeting metabolic pathways of CSCs appears to be a promising therapeutic approach for cancer treatment. Here we classify and discuss the unique metabolisms that CSCs rely on for energy production and survival, including mitochondrial respiration, glycolysis, glutaminolysis, and fatty acid metabolism. Because of metabolic plasticity, CSCs can switch between these metabolisms to acquire energy for tumor progression in different microenvironments compare to the rest of tumor bulk. Thus, we highlight the specific conditions and factors that promote or suppress CSCs properties to portray distinct metabolic phenotypes that attribute to CSCs in common cancers. Identification and characterization of the features in these metabolisms can offer new anticancer opportunities and improve the prognosis of cancer. However, the therapeutic window of metabolic inhibitors used alone or in combination may be rather narrow due to cytotoxicity to normal cells. In this review, we present current findings of potential targets in these four metabolic pathways for the development of more effective and alternative strategies to eradicate CSCs and treat cancer more effectively in the future.
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22
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Choi BH, Kim JM, Kwak MK. The multifaceted role of NRF2 in cancer progression and cancer stem cells maintenance. Arch Pharm Res 2021; 44:263-280. [PMID: 33754307 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-021-01316-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NEF2L2; NRF2) plays crucial roles in the defense system against electrophilic or oxidative stress by upregulating an array of genes encoding antioxidant proteins, electrophile/reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxifying enzymes, and drug efflux transporters. In contrast to the protective roles in normal cells, the multifaceted role of NRF2 in tumor growth and progression, resistance to therapy and intratumoral stress, and metabolic adaptation is rapidly expanding, and the complex association of NRF2 with cancer signaling networks is being unveiled. In particular, the implication of NRF2 signaling in cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small population of tumor cells responsible for therapy resistance and tumor relapse, is emerging. Here, we described the dark side of NRF2 signaling in cancers discovered so far. A particular focus was put on the role of NRF2 in CSCs maintenance and therapy resistance, showing that low ROS levels and refractory drug response of CSCs are mediated by the activation of NRF2 signaling. A better understanding of the roles of the NRF2 pathway in CSCs will allow us to develop a novel therapeutic approach to control tumor relapse after therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Hyun Choi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu, 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Myung Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea.
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea.
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23
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Mehraj U, Dar AH, Wani NA, Mir MA. Tumor microenvironment promotes breast cancer chemoresistance. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2021; 87:147-158. [PMID: 33420940 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-020-04222-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is presently the most predominant tumor type and the second leading cause of tumor-related deaths among women. Although advancements in diagnosis and therapeutics have momentously improved, chemoresistance remains an important challenge. Tumors oppose chemotherapeutic agents through a variety of mechanisms, with studies revealing that the tumor microenvironment (TME) is central to this process. The components of TME including stromal cells, immune cells, and non-stromal factors on exposure to chemotherapy promote the acquisition of resistant phenotype. Consequently, limited targeting of tumor cells leads to tumor recurrence after chemotherapy. Here, in this article, we summarize how TME alters chemotherapy responses in breast cancer. Furthermore, the role of different stromal cells viz., CAFs, TAMs, MSCs, endothelial cells, and cancer stem cells (CSC) in breast cancer chemoresistance is discussed in greater detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umar Mehraj
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006, J&K, India
| | - Abid Hamid Dar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, 191201, India
| | - Nissar A Wani
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, 191201, India
| | - Manzoor A Mir
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006, J&K, India.
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24
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Kamble D, Mahajan M, Dhat R, Sitasawad S. Keap1-Nrf2 Pathway Regulates ALDH and Contributes to Radioresistance in Breast Cancer Stem Cells. Cells 2021; 10:E83. [PMID: 33419140 PMCID: PMC7825579 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor recurrence after radiotherapy due to the presence of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) is a clinical challenge, and the mechanism remains unclear. Low levels of ROS and enhanced antioxidant defenses are shown to contribute to increasing radioresistance. However, the role of Nrf2-Keap1-Bach1 signaling in the radioresistance of BCSCs remains elusive. Fractionated radiation increased the percentage of the ALDH-expressing subpopulation and their sphere formation ability, promoted mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition and enhanced radioresistance in BCSCs. Radiation activated Nrf2 via Keap1 silencing and enhanced the tumor-initiating capability of BCSCs. Furthermore, knockdown of Nrf2 suppressed ALDH+ population and stem cell markers, reduced radioresistance by decreasing clonogenicity and blocked the tumorigenic ability in immunocompromised mice. An underlying mechanism of Keap1 silencing could be via miR200a, as we observed a significant increase in its expression, and the promoter methylation of Keap1 or GSK-3β did not change. Our data demonstrate that ALDH+ BCSC population contributes to breast tumor radioresistance via the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway, and targeting this cell population with miR200a could be beneficial but warrants detailed studies. Our results support the notion that Nrf2-Keap1 signaling controls mesenchymal-epithelial plasticity, regulates tumor-initiating ability and promotes the radioresistance of BCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sandhya Sitasawad
- Redox Biology Lab, National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune 411007, India; (D.K.); (M.M.); (R.D.)
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25
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Xu Q, Fan Y, Loor JJ, Liang Y, Sun X, Jia H, Zhao C, Xu C. Cardamonin Reduces Acetaminophen-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice via Activating Autophagy and NFE2L2 Signaling. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:601716. [PMID: 33364966 PMCID: PMC7751642 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.601716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardamonin (CD), a naturally occurring chalcone derived from the Alpinia species, has been shown to exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, but its role in the prevention of acetaminophen- (APAP-) induced hepatotoxicity remains elusive. The objective of this study was to determine the protective effects of CD against APAP-induced acute liver injury (ALI) and the underlying mechanisms. Wild-type or transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2- (NFE2L2-) deficient mice were treated with CD (50 or 100 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle for 24 h. Subsequently, these mice were challenged with APAP (400 mg/kg, i.p.) for 6 h. Liver and blood samples were collected to evaluate liver injury and protein abundance. Treatment with CD significantly reduced APAP-induced hepatotoxicity. Furthermore, CD effectively reduced APAP-induced inflammation by inhibiting high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) signaling. In addition, CD induced activation of sequestosome 1 (p62) and NFE2L2 signaling and facilitated autophagy. By applying autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA; 20 mg/kg, i.p.), further mechanistic exploration revealed that NFE2L2 deficiency promoted autophagic activity induced by CD treatment, which was conducive to the hepatoprotective effect of CD against APAP-induced hepatoxicity in NFE2L2−/− mice. Overall, data suggest that CD has hepatoprotective effect against APAP-induced ALI, which might contribute to the activation of NFE2L2 and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiushi Xu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Yunhui Fan
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Juan J Loor
- Mammalian NutriPhysioGenomics, Department of Animal Sciences and Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Yusheng Liang
- Mammalian NutriPhysioGenomics, Department of Animal Sciences and Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Xudong Sun
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Hongdou Jia
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Chenxu Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Chuang Xu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
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26
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Smolková K, Mikó E, Kovács T, Leguina-Ruzzi A, Sipos A, Bai P. Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 in Regulating Cancer Metabolism. Antioxid Redox Signal 2020; 33:966-997. [PMID: 31989830 PMCID: PMC7533893 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NFE2)-related factor 2 (NFE2L2, or NRF2) is a transcription factor predominantly affecting the expression of antioxidant genes. NRF2 plays a significant role in the control of redox balance, which is crucial in cancer cells. NRF2 activation regulates numerous cancer hallmarks, including metabolism, cancer stem cell characteristics, tumor aggressiveness, invasion, and metastasis formation. We review the molecular characteristics of the NRF2 pathway and discuss its interactions with the cancer hallmarks previously listed. Recent Advances: The noncanonical activation of NRF2 was recently discovered, and members of this pathway are involved in carcinogenesis. Further, cancer-related changes (e.g., metabolic flexibility) that support cancer progression were found to be redox- and NRF2 dependent. Critical Issues: NRF2 undergoes Janus-faced behavior in cancers. The pro- or antineoplastic effects of NRF2 are context dependent and essentially based on the specific molecular characteristics of the cancer in question. Therefore, systematic investigation of NRF2 signaling is necessary to clarify its role in cancer etiology. The biggest challenge in the NRF2 field is to determine which cancers can be targeted for better clinical outcomes. Further, large-scale genomic and transcriptomic studies are missing to correlate the clinical outcome with the activity of the NRF2 system. Future Directions: To exploit NRF2 in a clinical setting in the future, the druggable members of the NRF2 pathway should be identified. In addition, it will be important to study how the modulation of the NRF2 system interferes with cytostatic drugs and their combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarína Smolková
- Department of Mitochondrial Physiology, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IPHYS CAS), Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Edit Mikó
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.,MTA-DE Lendület Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tünde Kovács
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Alberto Leguina-Ruzzi
- Department of Mitochondrial Physiology, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IPHYS CAS), Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adrienn Sipos
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Péter Bai
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.,MTA-DE Lendület Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism, Debrecen, Hungary.,Faculty of Medicine, Research Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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27
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Role of Nrf2 and mitochondria in cancer stem cells; in carcinogenesis, tumor progression, and chemoresistance. Biochimie 2020; 179:32-45. [PMID: 32946993 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2020.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are rare sub-population in tumor mass with self-renewal and differentiation abilities; CSCs are considered as the main cells which are responsible for tumor metastasis, cancer recurrence, and chemo/radio-resistance. CSCs are believed to contain low mitochondria in quantity, high concentration of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and low reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Mitochondria regulate certain cellular functions, including controlling of cellular energetics, calcium signaling, cell growth and cell differentiation, cell cycle regulation, and cell death. Also, mitochondria are the main sources of intrinsic ROS production. Dysfunction of CSCs mitochondria due to oxidative phosphorylation is reported in several pathological conditions, including metabolic disorders, age-related diseases, and various types of cancers. ROS levels play a significant role in cellular signal transduction and CSCs' identity and differentiation capability. Nrf2 is a master transcription factor that plays critical functions in maintaining cellular redox hemostasis by regulating several antioxidant and detoxification pathways. Recently, the critical function of Nrf2 in CSCs has been revealed by several studies. Nrf2 is an essential molecule in the maintenance of CSCs' stemness and self-renewal in response to different oxidative stresses such as chemotherapy-induced elevation of ROS. Nrf2 enables these cells to recover from chemotherapy damages, and promotes establishment of invasion and dissemination. In this study, we have summarized the role of Nrf2 and mitochondria function CSCs, which promote cancer development. The significant role of Nrf2 in the regulation of mitochondrial function and ROS levels suggests this molecule as a potential target to eradicate CSCs.
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28
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Elgendy SM, Alyammahi SK, Alhamad DW, Abdin SM, Omar HA. Ferroptosis: An emerging approach for targeting cancer stem cells and drug resistance. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 155:103095. [PMID: 32927333 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Resistance to chemotherapeutic agents remains a major challenge in the fierce battle against cancer. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small population of cells in tumors that possesses the ability to self-renew, initiate tumors, and cause resistance to conventional anticancer agents. Targeting this population of cells was proven as a promising approach to eliminate cancer recurrence and improve the clinical outcome. CSCs are less susceptible to death by classical anticancer agents inducing apoptosis. CSCs can be eradicated by ferroptosis, which is a non-apoptotic-regulated mechanism of cell death. The induction of ferroptosis is an attractive strategy to eliminate tumors due to its ability to selectively target aggressive CSCs. The current review critically explored the crosstalk and regulatory pathways controlling ferroptosis, which can selectively induce CSCs death. In addition, successful chemotherapeutic agents that achieve better therapeutic outcomes through the induction of ferroptosis in CSCs were discussed to highlight their promising clinical impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Elgendy
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shatha K Alyammahi
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Dima W Alhamad
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shifaa M Abdin
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hany A Omar
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates.
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29
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Noman ASM, Parag RR, Rashid MI, Islam S, Rahman MZ, Chowdhury AA, Sultana A, Jerin C, Siddiqua A, Rahman L, Nayeem J, Akther S, Baidya S, Shil RK, Rahman M, Shirin A, Mahmud R, Hossain SMI, Sumi SA, Chowdhury A, Basher SB, Hasan A, Bithy S, Aklima J, Chowdhury N, Hasan MN, Banu T, Chowdhury S, Hossain MM, Yeger H, Farhat WA, Islam SS. Chemotherapeutic resistance of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is mediated by EpCAM induction driven by IL-6/p62 associated Nrf2-antioxidant pathway activation. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:663. [PMID: 32814771 PMCID: PMC7438524 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02907-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Overexpression of epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) has been associated with chemotherapeutic resistance, leads to aggressive tumor behavior, and results in an adverse clinical outcome. The molecular mechanism by which EpCAM enrichment is linked to therapeutic resistance via Nrf2, a key regulator of antioxidant genes is unknown. We have investigated the link between EpCAM and the Nrf2 pathway in light of therapeutic resistance using head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patient tumor samples and cell lines. We report that EpCAM was highly expressed in Nrf2-positive and HPV-negative HNSCC cells. In addition, cisplatin-resistant tumor cells consisted of a higher proportion of EpCAMhigh cells compared to the cisplatin sensitive counterpart. EpCAMhigh populations exhibited resistance to cisplatin, a higher efficiency in colony formation, sphere growth and invasion capacity, and demonstrated reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity. Furthermore, Nrf2 expression was significantly higher in EpCAMhigh populations. Mechanistically, expression of Nrf2 and its target genes were most prominently observed in EpCAMhigh populations. Silencing of EpCAM expression resulted in the attenuation of expressions of Nrf2 and SOD1 concomitant with a reduction of Sox2 expression. On the other hand, silencing of Nrf2 expression rendered EpCAMhigh populations sensitive to cisplatin treatment accompanied by the inhibition of colony formation, sphere formation, and invasion efficiency and increased ROS activity. The molecular mechanistic link between EpCAM expression and activation of Nrf2 was found to be a concerted interaction of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and p62. Silencing of p62 expression in EpCAMhigh populations resulted in the attenuation of Nrf2 pathway activation suggesting that Nrf2 pathway activation promoted resistance to cisplatin in EpCAMhigh populations. We propose that therapeutic targeting the Nrf2-EpCAM axis might be an excellent approach to modulate stress resistance and thereby survival of HNSCC patients enriched in EpCAMhigh populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu Shadat M Noman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh.,Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Rashed R Parag
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Muhammad I Rashid
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Shafiqul Islam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Z Rahman
- Department of Pathology, Chittagong Medical College Hospital, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Ali A Chowdhury
- Department of Radiotherapy, Chittagong Medical College Hospital, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Afrin Sultana
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Chandsultana Jerin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Ayesha Siddiqua
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Lutfur Rahman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Junayed Nayeem
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Sonam Akther
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Sunanda Baidya
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Rajib K Shil
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Mizanur Rahman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh.,Department of Biochemistry, Rangamati Medical College, Rangamati, Bangladesh
| | - Afsana Shirin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Reaz Mahmud
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - S M Ikram Hossain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Sharmin A Sumi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Arfina Chowdhury
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Shabnam B Basher
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Abul Hasan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Shammy Bithy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Jannatul Aklima
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Nabila Chowdhury
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Muhammad N Hasan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Tahmina Banu
- Chittagong Research Institute for Children Surgery (CRICS), Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Srikanta Chowdhury
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Muhammad M Hossain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Herman Yeger
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Walid A Farhat
- Division of Pediatric Urology, American Family Children's Hospital, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Syed S Islam
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. .,School of Medicine, Al-Faisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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30
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Kim DH, Jang JH, Kwon OS, Cha HJ, Youn HJ, Chun KS, Surh YJ. Nuclear Factor Erythroid-Derived 2-Like 2-Induced Reductive Stress Favors Self-Renewal of Breast Cancer Stem-Like Cells via the FoxO3a-Bmi-1 Axis. Antioxid Redox Signal 2020; 32:1313-1329. [PMID: 31672029 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2019.7730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Aims: A subpopulation of cancer cells, termed cancer stem cells (CSCs), has stemness properties, such as self-renewal and differentiation, which drive cancer recurrence and tumor resistance. CSCs possess enhanced protection capabilities to maintain reduced intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared with nonstem-like cancer cells. This study investigated whether reductive stress could regulate self-renewal activity in breast CSCs. Results: We found that manifestation of stemness in breast cancer stem-like cells was associated with an elevated production of reduced glutathione (GSH) maintained by upregulation of glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) and consequently, lowered ROS levels. This was accompanied by upregulation of phospho-AMP-activated protein kinase, FoxO3a, and Bmi-1. Notably, expression of nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (Nrf2) protein was substantially increased in cells undergoing sphere formation. We noticed that expression of Bmi-1 was inhibited after introduction of Nrf2 short interfering RNA into MCF-7 mammosphere cells. Silencing of Nrf2 expression suppressed the xenograft growth of subcutaneously or orthotopically injected human breast cancer cells. Innovation: Association between Nrf2 and self-renewal signaling in CSCs has been reported, but the underlying molecular mechanism remains largely unresolved. This study demonstrates the Nrf2-mediated signaling pathway in maintenance of reductive stress in breast CSCs. Conclusion: Nrf2 overactivation in breast CSCs upregulates GCLC expression and consequently enhances GSH biosynthesis with concurrent reduction in intracellular ROS accumulation, thereby provoking the reductive stress. The consequent upregulation of nuclear FoxO3a and its binding to the promoter of the gene encoding Bmi-1 account for the self-renewal activity of breast cancer stem-like cells and their growth in a xenograft mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do-Hee Kim
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Jang
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ok-Seon Kwon
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyuk-Jin Cha
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyo-Jin Youn
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Soo Chun
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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31
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Shimokawa M, Yoshizumi T, Itoh S, Iseda N, Sakata K, Yugawa K, Toshima T, Harada N, Ikegami T, Mori M. Modulation of Nqo1 activity intercepts anoikis resistance and reduces metastatic potential of hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Sci 2020; 111:1228-1240. [PMID: 31968140 PMCID: PMC7156873 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The processing of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) by nuclear factor erythroid‐derived 2‐like 2 (Nrf2) and NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1 (Nqo1) is important for tumor metastasis. However, the clinical and biological significance of Nrf2/Nqo1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. We aimed to clarify the clinical importance of Nrf2/Nqo1 expression in HCC and evaluate the association of Nrf2/Nqo1 expression with HCC metastasis. We also evaluated the impact of Nqo1 modulation on HCC metastatic potential. We used spheroids derived from HCC cell lines. In anchorage‐independent culture, HCC cells showed increased ROS, leading to the upregulation of Nrf2/Nqo1. Futile stimulation of Nqo1 by β‐lapachone induces excessive oxidative stress and dramatically increased anoikis sensitivity, finally diminishing the spheroid formation ability, which was far stronger than depletion of Nqo1. We analyzed 117 cases of primary HCC who underwent curative resection. Overexpression of Nrf2/Nqo1 in primary HCC was associated with tumor size, high α‐fetoprotein, and des‐γ‐carboxy‐prothrombin levels. Overexpression of Nrf2/Nqo1 was also associated with multiple intrahepatic recurrences (P = .0073) and was an independent risk factor for poor prognosis (P = .0031). NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1 plays an important role in anchorage‐independent survival, which is essential for survival for circulation and distant metastasis of HCC cells. These results suggest that targeting Nqo1 activity could be a potential strategy for HCC adjuvant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Shimokawa
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tomoharu Yoshizumi
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shinji Itoh
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Norifumi Iseda
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kazuhito Sakata
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kyohei Yugawa
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takeo Toshima
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Noboru Harada
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Toru Ikegami
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Masaki Mori
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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Leung HW, Lau EYT, Leung CON, Lei MML, Mok EHK, Ma VWS, Cho WCS, Ng IOL, Yun JP, Cai SH, Yu HJ, Ma S, Lee TKW. NRF2/SHH signaling cascade promotes tumor-initiating cell lineage and drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2020; 476:48-56. [PMID: 32061952 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Solid evidence shows that tumor-initiating cells (T-ICs) are the root of tumor relapse and drug resistance, which lead to a poor prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Through an in vitro liver T-IC enrichment approach, we identified nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) as a transcription regulator that is significantly activated in enriched liver T-IC populations. In human HCCs, NRF2 was found to be overexpressed, which was associated with poor patient survival. Through a lentiviral based knockdown approach, NRF2 was found to be critical for regulating liver T-IC properties, including self-renewal, tumorigenicity, drug resistance and expression of liver T-IC markers. Furthermore, we found that ROS-induced NRF2 activation regulates sorafenib resistance in HCC cells. Mechanistically, NRF2 was found to physically bind to the promoter of sonic hedgehog homolog (SHH), which triggers activation of the sonic hedgehog pathway. The effect of NRF2 knockdown was eliminated upon administration of recombinant SHH, demonstrating that NRF2 mediated T-IC function via upregulation of SHH expression. Our study suggests a novel regulatory mechanism for the canonical sonic hedgehog pathway that may function through the NRF2/SHH/GLI signaling axis, thus mediating T-IC phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Wing Leung
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | | | - Carmen Oi Ning Leung
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Martina Mang Leng Lei
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Etienne Ho Kit Mok
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Victor Wan San Ma
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | | | - Irene Oi Lin Ng
- Department of Pathology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jing Ping Yun
- Department of Pathology, Sun Yat Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shao Hang Cai
- Department of Pathology, Sun Yat Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hua Jian Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Stephanie Ma
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Terence Kin Wah Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong.
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Nawas AF, Kanchwala M, Thomas-Jardin SE, Dahl H, Daescu K, Bautista M, Anunobi V, Wong A, Meade R, Mistry R, Ghatwai N, Bayerl F, Xing C, Delk NA. IL-1-conferred gene expression pattern in ERα + BCa and AR + PCa cells is intrinsic to ERα - BCa and AR - PCa cells and promotes cell survival. BMC Cancer 2020; 20:46. [PMID: 31959131 PMCID: PMC6971947 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-020-6529-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Breast (BCa) and prostate (PCa) cancers are hormone receptor (HR)-driven cancers. Thus, BCa and PCa patients are given therapies that reduce hormone levels or directly block HR activity; but most patients eventually develop treatment resistance. We have previously reported that interleukin-1 (IL-1) inflammatory cytokine downregulates ERα and AR mRNA in HR-positive (HR+) BCa and PCa cell lines, yet the cells can remain viable. Additionally, we identified pro-survival proteins and processes upregulated by IL-1 in HR+ BCa and PCa cells, that are basally high in HR− BCa and PCa cells. Therefore, we hypothesize that IL-1 confers a conserved gene expression pattern in HR+ BCa and PCa cells that mimics conserved basal gene expression patterns in HR− BCa and PCa cells to promote HR-independent survival and tumorigenicity. Methods We performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) for HR+ BCa and PCa cell lines exposed to IL-1 and for untreated HR− BCa and PCa cell lines. We confirmed expression patterns of select genes by RT-qPCR and used siRNA and/or drug inhibition to silence select genes in the BCa and PCa cell lines. Finally, we performed Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) and used the gene ontology web-based tool, GOrilla, to identify signaling pathways encoded by our RNA-seq data set. Results We identified 350 genes in common between BCa and PCa cells that are induced or repressed by IL-1 in HR+ cells that are, respectively, basally high or low in HR− cells. Among these genes, we identified Sequestome-1 (SQSTM1/p62) and SRY (Sex-Determining Region Y)-Box 9 (SOX9) to be essential for survival of HR− BCa and PCa cell lines. Analysis of publicly available data indicates that p62 and SOX9 expression are elevated in HR-independent BCa and PCa sublines generated in vitro, suggesting that p62 and SOX9 have a role in acquired hormone receptor independence and treatment resistance. We also assessed HR− cell line viability in response to the p62-targeting drug, verteporfin, and found that verteporfin is cytotoxic for HR− cell lines. Conclusions Our 350 gene set can be used to identify novel therapeutic targets and/or biomarkers conserved among acquired (e.g. due to inflammation) or intrinsic HR-independent BCa and PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afshan F Nawas
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Mohammed Kanchwala
- McDermott Center of Human Growth and Development, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Shayna E Thomas-Jardin
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Haley Dahl
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Kelly Daescu
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Monica Bautista
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Vanessa Anunobi
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Ally Wong
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Rachel Meade
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Ragini Mistry
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Nisha Ghatwai
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Felix Bayerl
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Chao Xing
- McDermott Center of Human Growth and Development, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.,Department of Bioinformatics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.,Department of Clinical Sciences, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Nikki A Delk
- Biological Sciences Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, FO-1, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA.
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Czogalla B, Kahaly M, Mayr D, Schmoeckel E, Niesler B, Hester A, Zeder-Göß C, Kolben T, Burges A, Mahner S, Jeschke U, Trillsch F. Correlation of NRF2 and progesterone receptor and its effects on ovarian cancer biology. Cancer Manag Res 2019; 11:7673-7684. [PMID: 31616183 PMCID: PMC6699153 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s210004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate the potential prognostic impact of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and progesterone receptor A (PRA)/progesterone receptor B (PRB) in ovarian cancer patients which might be the rationale for putative new treatment strategies. Patients and methods The presence of NRF2 and PRA/PRB was investigated in 156 ovarian cancer samples using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Staining of NRF2 and PRA/PRB was rated using the semi-quantitative immunoreactive score (IR score, Remmele’s score) and correlated to clinical and pathological data. NRF2 and PRA/PRB expression were compared with respect to the overall survival (OS). Results NRF2 staining was different in both, the cytoplasm and nucleus between the histological subtypes (p=0.001 and p=0.02, respectively). There was a significant difference in the PRA expression comparing all histological subtypes (p=0.02). Histological subtypes showed no significant differences in the PRB expression. A strong correlation of cytoplasmic NRF2 and PRA expression was detected (cc=0.247, p=0.003) as well as of cytoplasmic NRF2 and PRB expression (cc=0.25, p=0.003), confirmed by immunofluorescence double staining. Cytoplasmic NRF2 expression was associated with a longer OS (median 50.6 vs 32.5 months; p=0.1) as it was seen for PRA expression (median 63.4 vs 33.1 months; p=0.08), although not statistically significant. In addition, high PRB expression (median 80.4 vs 32.5 months; p=0.04) and concurrent expression of cytoplasmic NRF2 and PRA were associated with a significantly longer OS (median 109.7 vs 30.6 months; p=0.02). The same relationship was also noted for NRF2 and PRB with improved OS for patients expressing both cytoplasmic NRF2 and PRB (median 153.5 vs 30.6 months; p=0.009). Silencing of NFE2L2 induced higher mRNA expression of PGR in the cancer cell line OVCAR3 (p>0.05) confirming genetic interactions of NRF2 and PR. Conclusion In this study, the combination of cytoplasmic NRF2 and high PRA/PRB expression was demonstrated to be associated with improved overall survival in ovarian cancer patients. Further understanding of interactions within the NRF2/AKR1C1/PR pathway could open new additional therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Czogalla
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Maja Kahaly
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Doris Mayr
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathology, Lmu Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Elisa Schmoeckel
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathology, Lmu Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Beate Niesler
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna Hester
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christine Zeder-Göß
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Kolben
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Burges
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sven Mahner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Udo Jeschke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Fabian Trillsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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Su J, Zhang F, Li X, Liu Z. Osthole promotes the suppressive effects of cisplatin on NRF2 expression to prevent drug-resistant cervical cancer progression. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 514:510-517. [PMID: 31056260 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cervical cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed lethal malignancies among gynecological malignant tumors worldwide. Chemo-resistance is one of the key causal factors in cervical cancer death. Osthole (OST), a natural compound, exhibits various pharmacological activities, including anti-tumor effects. However, its involvement in the chemoresistance of human cervical cancer has not been reported. In the study, we aimed to clarify the role of OST in regulating the chemoresistance of human cervical cancer. The results indicated that cisplatin (CDDP) combined with OST markedly reduced the cell proliferation and induced cervical cancer cells undergoing apoptosis when compared to CDDP alone treatment. In CDDP-resistant cervical cancer cells, OST significantly decreased nuclear factor, erythroid 2 like 2 (NRF2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1) and glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) expression levels from mRNA or protein levels. Additionally, through combination with CDDP, OST dose- and time-dependently reduced NRF2 expression in CDDP-resistant cervical cancer cells. Moreover, we found that CDDP co-treated with OST significantly blocked phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway. Importantly, CDDP combined with LY294002, inhibitor of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT serine/threonine kinase (AKT) signaling, markedly decreased the expression of NRF2, HO-1, NQO1 and GCLC in drug-resistant cervical cancer cells. The in vivo study also suggested that OST in combination obviously reduced tumor growth in comparison to the CDDP alone group. Taken together, these findings indicated that OST could be used as a potential sensitizer to reverse chemoresistance of cisplatin-resistant cervical cancer to cisplatin through repressing NRF2 expression partly associated with PI3K/AKT blockage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Su
- Department of Oncological Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Chuiyangliu Hospital of Beijing, Beijing, 100022, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Zi Liu
- Department of Oncological Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
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Potential Applications of NRF2 Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:8592348. [PMID: 31097977 PMCID: PMC6487091 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8592348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The NRF2/KEAP1 pathway represents one of the most important cell defense mechanisms against exogenous or endogenous stressors. Indeed, by increasing the expression of several cytoprotective genes, the transcription factor NRF2 can shelter cells and tissues from multiple sources of damage including xenobiotic, electrophilic, metabolic, and oxidative stress. Importantly, the aberrant activation or accumulation of NRF2, a common event in many tumors, confers a selective advantage to cancer cells and is associated to malignant progression, therapy resistance, and poor prognosis. Hence, in the last years, NRF2 has emerged as a promising target in cancer treatment and many efforts have been made to identify therapeutic strategies aimed at disrupting its prooncogenic role. By summarizing the results from past and recent studies, in this review, we provide an overview concerning the NRF2/KEAP1 pathway, its biological impact in solid and hematologic malignancies, and the molecular mechanisms causing NRF2 hyperactivation in cancer cells. Finally, we also describe some of the most promising therapeutic approaches that have been successfully employed to counteract NRF2 activity in tumors, with a particular emphasis on the development of natural compounds and the adoption of drug repurposing strategies.
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Nawas A, Narayanan S, Mistry R, Thomas-Jardin S, Ramachandran J, Ravichandran J, Neduvelil E, Luangpanh K, Delk NA. IL-1 induces p62/SQSTM1 and autophagy in ERα + /PR + BCa cell lines concomitant with ERα and PR repression, conferring an ERα - /PR - BCa-like phenotype. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:1477-1491. [PMID: 30324661 PMCID: PMC6465183 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.27340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen receptor α (ERα)low/- tumors are associated with breast cancer (BCa) endocrine resistance, where ERα low tumors show a poor prognosis and a molecular profile similar to triple negative BCa tumors. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) downregulates ERα accumulation in BCa cell lines, yet the cells can remain viable. In kind, IL-1 and ERα show inverse accumulation in BCa patient tumors and IL-1 is implicated in BCa progression. IL-1 represses the androgen receptor hormone receptor in prostate cancer cells concomitant with the upregulation of the prosurvival, autophagy-related protein, Sequestome-1 (p62/SQSTM1; hereinafter, p62); and given their similar etiology, we hypothesized that IL-1 also upregulates p62 in BCa cells concomitant with hormone receptor repression. To test our hypothesis, BCa cell lines were exposed to conditioned medium from IL-1-secreting bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs), IL-1, or IL-1 receptor antagonist. Cells were analyzed for the accumulation of ERα, progesterone receptor (PR), p62, or the autophagosome membrane protein, microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), and for p62-LC3 interaction. We found that IL-1 is sufficient to mediate BMSC-induced ERα and PR repression, p62 and autophagy upregulation, and p62-LC3 interaction in ERα+ /PR+ BCa cell lines. However, IL-1 does not significantly elevate the high basal p62 accumulation or high basal autophagy in the ERα- /PR- BCa cell lines. Thus, our observations imply that IL-1 confers a prosurvival ERα- /PR- molecular phenotype in ERα+ /PR+ BCa cells that may be dependent on p62 function and autophagy and may underlie endocrine resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.F. Nawas
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080
| | - S. Narayanan
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080
| | - R. Mistry
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080
| | - S.E. Thomas-Jardin
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080
| | - J. Ramachandran
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080
| | - J. Ravichandran
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080
| | - E. Neduvelil
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080
| | - K. Luangpanh
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080
| | - N. A. Delk
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080
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Czogalla B, Kahaly M, Mayr D, Schmoeckel E, Niesler B, Kolben T, Burges A, Mahner S, Jeschke U, Trillsch F. Interaction of ERα and NRF2 Impacts Survival in Ovarian Cancer Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 20:ijms20010112. [PMID: 30597961 PMCID: PMC6337731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20010112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) regulates cytoprotective antioxidant processes. In this study, the prognostic potential of NRF2 and its interactions with the estrogen receptor α (ERα) in ovarian cancer cells was investigated. NRF2 and ERα protein expression in ovarian cancer tissue was analyzed as well as mRNA expression of NRF2 (NFE2L2) and ERα (ESR1) in four ovarian cancer and one benign cell line. NFE2L2 silencing was carried out to evaluate a potential interplay between NRF2 and ERα. Cytoplasmic NRF2 expression as inactive form had significantly higher expression in patients with low-grade histology (p = 0.03). In the serous cancer subtype, high cytoplasmic NRF2 expression (overall survival (OS), median 50.6 vs. 29.3 months; p = 0.04) and high ERα expression (OS, median 74.5 vs. 27.1 months; p = 0.002) was associated with longer overall survival as well as combined expression of both inactive cytoplasmic NRF2 and ERα in the whole cohort (median 74.5 vs. 37.7 months; p = 0.04). Cytoplasmic NRF2 expression showed a positive correlation with ERα expression (p = 0.004). NFE2L2 was found to be highly expressed in the ovarian cancer cell lines OVCAR3, UWB1.289, and TOV112D. Compared with the benign cell line HOSEpiC, ESR1 expression was reduced in all ovary cancer cell lines (all p < 0.001). Silencing of NFE2L2 induced a higher mRNA expression of ESR1 in the NFE2L2 downregulated cancer cell lines OVCAR3 (p = 0.003) and ES2 (p < 0.001), confirming genetic interactions of NRF2 and ERα. In this study, both inactive cytoplasmic NRF2 and high ERα expression were demonstrated to be associated with improved survival in ovarian cancer patients. Further understanding of interactions within the estradiol⁻ERα⁻NRF2 pathway could better predict the impact of endocrine therapy in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Czogalla
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Maja Kahaly
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Doris Mayr
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, 81377 LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Elisa Schmoeckel
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, 81377 LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Beate Niesler
- Institute of Human Genetics, Department of Human Molecular Genetics, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Kolben
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Alexander Burges
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Sven Mahner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Udo Jeschke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Fabian Trillsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
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Yen CH, Hsiao HH. NRF2 Is One of the Players Involved in Bone Marrow Mediated Drug Resistance in Multiple Myeloma. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E3503. [PMID: 30405034 PMCID: PMC6274683 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19113503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 10/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma with clonal plasma expansion in bone marrow is the second most common hematologic malignancy in the world. Though the improvement of outcomes from the achievement of novel agents in recent decades, the disease progresses and leads to death eventually due to the elusive nature of myeloma cells and resistance mechanisms to therapeutic agents. In addition to the molecular and genetic basis of resistance pathomechanisms, the bone marrow microenvironment also contributes to disease progression and confers drug resistance in myeloma cells. In this review, we focus on the current state of the literature in terms of critical bone marrow microenvironment components, including soluble factors, cell adhesion mechanisms, and other cellular components. Transcriptional factor nuclear factor erythroid-derived-2-like 2 (NRF2), a central regulator for anti-oxidative stresses and detoxification, is implicated in chemoresistance in several cancers. The functional roles of NRF2 in myeloid-derived suppressor cells and multiple myeloma cells, and the potential of targeting NRF2 for overcoming microenvironment-mediated drug resistance in multiple myeloma are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Hung Yen
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan.
- Center for Infectious Disease and Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan.
| | - Hui-Hua Hsiao
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan.
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan.
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Kim DH, Yoon HJ, Cha YN, Surh YJ. Role of heme oxygenase-1 and its reaction product, carbon monoxide, in manifestation of breast cancer stem cell-like properties: Notch-1 as a putative target. Free Radic Res 2018; 52:1336-1347. [DOI: 10.1080/10715762.2018.1473571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Do-Hee Kim
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyo-Jin Yoon
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young-Nam Cha
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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Ryoo IG, Kwak MK. Regulatory crosstalk between the oxidative stress-related transcription factor Nfe2l2/Nrf2 and mitochondria. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2018; 359:24-33. [PMID: 30236989 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2018.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria play essential roles in cellular bioenergetics, biosynthesis, and apoptosis. During the process of respiration and oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondria utilize oxygen to generate ATP, and at the same time, there is an inevitable generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). As excess ROS create oxidative stress and damage cells, the proper function of the antioxidant defense system is critical for eukaryotic cell survival under aerobic conditions. Nuclear factor, erythroid 2-like 2 (Nfe2l2/Nrf2) is a master transcription factor for regulating basal as well as inducible expression of multiple antioxidant proteins. Nrf2 has been involved in maintaining mitochondrial redox homeostasis by providing reduced forms of glutathione (GSH); the reducing cofactor NADPH; and mitochondrial antioxidant enzymes such as GSH peroxidase 1, superoxide dismutase 2, and peroxiredoxin 3/5. In addition, recent research advances suggest that Nrf2 contributes to mitochondrial regulation through more divergent intermolecular linkages. Nrf2 has been positively associated with mitochondrial biogenesis through the direct upregulation of mitochondrial transcription factors and is involved in the mitochondrial quality control system through mitophagy activation. Moreover, several mitochondrial proteins participate in regulating Nrf2 to form a reciprocal regulatory loop between mitochondria and Nrf2. Additionally, Nrf2 modulation in cancer cells leads to changes in the mitochondrial respiration system and cancer bioenergetics that overall affect cancer metabolism. In this review, we describe recent experimental observations on the relationship between Nrf2 and mitochondria, and further discuss the effects of Nrf2 on cancer mitochondria and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Geun Ryoo
- Integrated Research Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon 14662, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Integrated Research Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon 14662, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do 14662, Republic of Korea.
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High NRF2 level mediates cancer stem cell-like properties of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH)-high ovarian cancer cells: inhibitory role of all-trans retinoic acid in ALDH/NRF2 signaling. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:896. [PMID: 30166520 PMCID: PMC6117306 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0903-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1 (ALDH1A1) is one of cancer stem cell (CSC) markers, and high ALDH1 expression has been related to drug resistance and facilitated tumor growth. In this study, we investigated the potential involvement of nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NFE2L2/NRF2) in CSC-like properties of ALDH-high ovarian CSCs. Our experimental system, ALDH1A1-high (ALDH-H) subpopulation, was isolated and stabilized using doxorubicin-resistant ovarian cancer A2780 cells. ALDH-H exerted CSC-like properties such as drug resistance, colony/sphere formation, and enhanced tumor growth along with high levels of CSCs markers compared to ALDH1A1-low (ALDH-L). Levels of NRF2 and subsequent target genes substantially increased in ALDH-H cells, and the increase in ALDH1A1 and p62 was associated with NRF2 upregulation. ALDH1A1-silencing blocked increases in NRF2, drug efflux transporters, and p62, along with CSC markers in ALDH-H cells. The inhibition of p62, which was elevated in ALDH-H, suppressed NRF2 activation. High NRF2 level was confirmed in the ALDH1-high subpopulation from colon cancer HCT116 cells. The functional implication of NRF2 activation in ovarian CSCs was verified by two experimental approaches. First, CSC-like properties such as high CSC markers, chemoresistance, colony/sphere formation, and tumor growth were significantly inhibited by NRF2-silencing in ALDH-H cells. Second, all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) suppressed ALDH1 expression, inhibiting NRF2 activation, which led to the attenuation of CSC-like properties in ALDH-H cells but not in ALDH-L cells. These results provide insight into the molecular basis of the ALDH1A1-mediated development of CSC-like properties such as stress/treatment resistance, and further suggest the therapeutic potential of ATRA in ALDH-high ovarian CSCs.
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Bai X, Ni J, Beretov J, Graham P, Li Y. Cancer stem cell in breast cancer therapeutic resistance. Cancer Treat Rev 2018; 69:152-163. [PMID: 30029203 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Development of therapeutic resistance and metastasis is a major challenge with current breast cancer (BC) therapy. Mounting evidence suggests that a subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to the cancer therapeutic resistance and metastasis, leading to the recurrence and death in patients. Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are not only a consequence of mutations that overactivate the self-renewal ability of normal stem cells or committed progenitors but also a result of the de-differentiation of cancer cells induced by somatic mutations or microenvironmental components under treatment. Eradication of BCSCs may bring hope and relief to patients whose lives are threatened by recurrent BCs. Therefore, a better understanding of the generation, regulatory mechanisms, and identification of CSCs in BC therapeutic resistance and metastasis will be imperative for developing BCSC-targeted strategies. Here we summarize the latest studies about cell surface markers and signalling pathways that sustain the stemness of BCSC and discuss the associations of mechanisms behind these traits with phenotype and behavior changes in BCSCs. More importantly, their implications for future study are also evaluated and potential BCSC-targeted strategies are proposed to break through the limitation of current therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xupeng Bai
- Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia; St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Jie Ni
- Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia; St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Julia Beretov
- Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia; St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia; Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Peter Graham
- Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia; St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Yong Li
- Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia; St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Henan 450001, China.
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Rojo de la Vega M, Chapman E, Zhang DD. NRF2 and the Hallmarks of Cancer. Cancer Cell 2018; 34:21-43. [PMID: 29731393 PMCID: PMC6039250 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2018.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 941] [Impact Index Per Article: 156.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 02/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The transcription factor NRF2 is the master regulator of the cellular antioxidant response. Though recognized originally as a target of chemopreventive compounds that help prevent cancer and other maladies, accumulating evidence has established the NRF2 pathway as a driver of cancer progression, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. Recent studies have identified new functions for NRF2 in the regulation of metabolism and other essential cellular functions, establishing NRF2 as a truly pleiotropic transcription factor. In this review, we explore the roles of NRF2 in the hallmarks of cancer, indicating both tumor suppressive and tumor-promoting effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Montserrat Rojo de la Vega
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Eli Chapman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Donna D Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA.
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Ryoo IG, Choi BH, Ku SK, Kwak MK. High CD44 expression mediates p62-associated NFE2L2/NRF2 activation in breast cancer stem cell-like cells: Implications for cancer stem cell resistance. Redox Biol 2018; 17:246-258. [PMID: 29729523 PMCID: PMC6006726 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2018.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) is the most common cancer stem cell (CSC) marker and high CD44 expression has been associated with anticancer drug resistance, tumor recurrence, and metastasis. In this study, we aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism by which CD44 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NFE2L2; NRF2), a key regulator of antioxidant genes, are linked to CSC resistance using CD44high breast CSC-like cells. NRF2 expression was higher in CD44high cell populations isolated from doxorubicin-resistant MCF7 (ADR), as well as MCF7, MDA-MB231, and A549 cells, than in corresponding CD44low cells. High NRF2 expression in the CD44highCD24low CSC population (ADR44P) established from ADR cells depended on standard isoform of CD44. Silencing of CD44 or overexpression of CD44 resulted in the reduction or elevation of NRF2, respectively, and treatment with hyaluronic acid, a CD44 ligand, augmented NRF2 activation. As functional implications, NRF2 silencing rendered ADR44P cells to retain higher levels of reactive oxygen species and to be sensitive to anticancer drug toxicity. Moreover, NRF2-silenced ADR44P cells displayed tumor growth retardation and reduced colony/sphere formation and invasion capacity. In line with these, CD44 significantly colocalized with NRF2 in breast tumor clinical samples. The molecular mechanism of CD44-mediated NRF2 activation was found to involve high p62 expression. CD44 elevation led to an increase in p62, and inhibition of p62 resulted in NRF2 suppression in ADR44P. Collectively, our results showed that high CD44 led to p62-associated NRF2 activation in CD44high breast CSC-like cells. NRF2 activation contributed to the aggressive phenotype, tumor growth, and anticancer drug resistance of CD44high CSCs. Therefore, the CD44-NRF2 axis might be a promising therapeutic target for the control of stress resistance and survival of CD44high CSC population within breast tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Geun Ryoo
- Integrated Research Institue for Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Hyun Choi
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21 PLUS Team for Creative Leader Program for Pharmacomics-based Future Pharmacy, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Sae-Kwang Ku
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan, Gyeonsangbuk-do 712-715, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Integrated Research Institue for Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do 14662, Republic of Korea; Department of Pharmacy and BK21 PLUS Team for Creative Leader Program for Pharmacomics-based Future Pharmacy, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea; College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea.
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46
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Silva-Islas CA, Maldonado PD. Canonical and non-canonical mechanisms of Nrf2 activation. Pharmacol Res 2018; 134:92-99. [PMID: 29913224 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that regulates the expression of genes involved in the metabolism, immune response, cellular proliferation, and other processes; however, the attention has been focused on the study of its ability to induce the expression of proteins involved in the antioxidant defense. Nrf2 is mainly regulated by Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), an adapter substrate of Cullin 3 (Cul3) ubiquitin E3 ligase complex. Keap1 represses Nrf2 activity in the cytoplasm by its sequestering, ubiquitination and proteosomal degradation. Nrf2 activation, through the canonical mechanism, is carried out by electrophilic compounds and oxidative stress where some cysteine residues in Keap1 are oxidized, resulting in a decrease in Nrf2 ubiquitination and an increase in its nuclear translocation and activation. In the nucleus, Nrf2 induces a variety of genes involved in the antioxidant defense. Recently a new mechanism of Nrf2 activation has been described, called the non-canonical pathway, where proteins such as p62, p21, dipeptidyl peptidase III (DPP3), wilms tumor gene on X chromosome (WTX) and others are able to disrupt the Nrf2-Keap1 complex, by direct interaction with Keap1 decreasing Nrf2 ubiquitination and increasing its nuclear translocation and activation. In this review, the regulatory mechanisms involved in both canonical and non-canonical Nrf2 activation are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Alfredo Silva-Islas
- Laboratorio de Patología Vascular Cerebral, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Insurgentes Sur 3877, La Fama, Tlalpan, 14269, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Perla D Maldonado
- Laboratorio de Patología Vascular Cerebral, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Insurgentes Sur 3877, La Fama, Tlalpan, 14269, CDMX, Mexico.
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Lleonart ME, Abad E, Graifer D, Lyakhovich A. Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Autophagy Defines the Fate of Cancer Stem Cells. Antioxid Redox Signal 2018; 28:1066-1079. [PMID: 28683561 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2017.7223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Significance: A fraction of tumorigenic cells, also known as tumor initiating or cancer stem cells (CSCs), is thought to drive tumor growth, metastasis, and chemoresistance. However, little is known regarding mechanisms that convey relevant pathways contributing to their self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation abilities. Recent Advances: Recent works on CSCs provide evidence on the role of redox disruption and regulation of autophagic flux. This has been linked to increased DNA repair capacity and chemoresistance. Critical Issues: The current review summarizes the most recent studies assessing the role of redox homeostasis, autophagy, and chemoresistance in CSCs, including some novel findings on microRNAs and their role in horizontal transfer within cancer cell populations. Future Directions: Rational anticancer therapy and prevention should rely on the fact that cancer is a redox disease with the CSCs being the apex modulated by redox-mediated autophagy. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 28, 1066-1079.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilde E Lleonart
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Etna Abad
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Dmitry Graifer
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Alex Lyakhovich
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Novosibirsk, Russia.,ICRC-FNUSA, International Clinical Research Center and St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
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Inflammatory-Related P62 Triggers Malignant Transformation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells through the Cascade of CUDR-CTCF-IGFII-RAS Signaling. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2018; 11:367-381. [PMID: 29858072 PMCID: PMC5992448 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory and autophagy-related gene P62 is highly expressed in most human tumor tissues. Herein, we demonstrate that P62 promotes human mesenchymal stem cells' malignant transformation via the cascade of P62-tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)-CUDR-CTCF-insulin growth factor II (IGFII)-H-Ras signaling. Mechanistically, we reveal P62 enhances IGFII transcriptional activity through forming IGFII promoter-enhancer chromatin loop and increasing METTL3 occupancy on IGFII 3' UTR and enhances H-Ras overexpression by harboring inflammation-related factors, e.g., TNFR1, CLYD, EGR1, NFκB, TLR4, and PPARγ. Furthermore, the P62 cooperates with TNF-α to promote malignant transformation of mesenchymal stem cells. These findings, for the first time, provide insight into the positive role that P62 plays in malignant transformation of mesenchymal stem cells and reveal a novel link between P62 and the inflammation factors in mesenchymal stem cells.
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Isoaaptamine Induces T-47D Cells Apoptosis and Autophagy via Oxidative Stress. Mar Drugs 2018; 16:md16010018. [PMID: 29315210 PMCID: PMC5793066 DOI: 10.3390/md16010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aaptos is a genus of marine sponge which belongs to Suberitidae and is distributed in tropical and subtropical oceans. Bioactivity-guided fractionation of Aaptos sp. methanolic extract resulted in the isolation of aaptamine, demethyloxyaaptamine, and isoaaptamine. The cytotoxic activity of the isolated compounds was evaluated revealing that isoaaptamine exhibited potent cytotoxic activity against breast cancer T-47D cells. In a concentration-dependent manner, isoaaptamine inhibited the growth of T-47D cells as indicated by short-(MTT) and long-term (colony formation) anti-proliferative assays. The cytotoxic effect of isoaaptamine was mediated through apoptosis as indicated by DNA ladder formation, caspase-7 activation, XIAP inhibition and PARP cleavage. Transmission electron microscopy and flow cytometric analysis using acridine orange dye indicated that isoaaptamine treatment could induce T-47D cells autophagy. Immunoblot assays demonstrated that isoaaptamine treatment significantly activated autophagy marker proteins such as type II LC-3. In addition, isoaaptamine treatment enhanced the activation of DNA damage (γH2AX) and ER stress-related proteins (IRE1 α and BiP). Moreover, the use of isoaaptamine resulted in a significant increase in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as in the disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). The pretreatment of T-47D cells with an ROS scavenger, N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), attenuated the apoptosis and MMP disruption induced by isoaaptamine up to 90%, and these effects were mediated by the disruption of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf 2)/p62 pathway. Taken together, these findings suggested that the cytotoxic effect of isoaaptamine is associated with the induction of apoptosis and autophagy through oxidative stress. Our data indicated that isoaaptamine represents an interesting drug lead in the war against breast cancer.
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Tao S, Rojo de la Vega M, Chapman E, Ooi A, Zhang DD. The effects of NRF2 modulation on the initiation and progression of chemically and genetically induced lung cancer. Mol Carcinog 2017; 57:182-192. [PMID: 28976703 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Targeting the transcription factor NRF2 has been recognized as a feasible strategy for cancer prevention and treatment, but many of the mechanistic details underlying its role in cancer development and progression are lacking. Therefore, careful mechanistic studies of the NRF2 pathway in cancer initiation and progression are needed to identify which therapeutic avenue-activation or inhibition-is appropriate in a given context. Moreover, while numerous reports confirm the protective effect of NRF2 activation against chemical carcinogenesis little is known of its role in cancer arising from spontaneous mutations. Here, we tested the effects of NRF2 modulation (activation by sulforaphane or inhibition by brusatol) in lung carcinogenesis using a chemical (vinyl carbamate) model in A/J mice and a genetic (conditional KrasG12D oncogene expression, to simulate spontaneous oncogene mutation) model in C57BL/6J mice. Mice were treated with NRF2 modulators before carcinogen exposure or KrasG12D expression to test the role of NRF2 in cancer initiation, or treated after tumor development to test the role of NRF2 in cancer progression. Lung tissues were analyzed to determine tumor burden, as well as status of NRF2 and KRAS pathways. Additionally, proliferation, apoptosis, and oxidative DNA damage were assessed. Overall, NRF2 activation prevents initiation of chemically induced cancer, but promotes progression of pre-existing tumors regardless of chemical or genetic etiology. Once tumors are initiated, NRF2 inhibition is effective against the progression of chemically and spontaneously induced tumors. These results have important implications for NRF2-targeted cancer prevention and intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shasha Tao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | | | - Eli Chapman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Aikseng Ooi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Donna D Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona.,Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
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