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Golmohammadi M, Zamanian MY, Al-Ani AM, Jabbar TL, Kareem AK, Aghaei ZH, Tahernia H, Hjazi A, Jissir SAR, Hakimizadeh E. Targeting STAT3 signaling pathway by curcumin and its analogues for breast cancer: A narrative review. Animal Model Exp Med 2024. [PMID: 39219410 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12491] [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: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC) continues to be a significant global health issue, with a rising number of cases requiring ongoing research and innovation in treatment strategies. Curcumin (CUR), a natural compound derived from Curcuma longa, and similar compounds have shown potential in targeting the STAT3 signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in BC progression. AIMS The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of curcumin and its analogues on BC based on cellular and molecular mechanisms. MATERIALS & METHODS The literature search conducted for this study involved utilizing the Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases in order to identify pertinent articles. RESULTS This narrative review explores the potential of CUR and similar compounds in inhibiting STAT3 activation, thereby suppressing the proliferation of cancer cells, inducing apoptosis, and inhibiting metastasis. The review demonstrates that CUR directly inhibits the phosphorylation of STAT3, preventing its movement into the nucleus and its ability to bind to DNA, thereby hindering the survival and proliferation of cancer cells. CUR also enhances the effectiveness of other therapeutic agents and modulates the tumor microenvironment by affecting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). CUR analogues, such as hydrazinocurcumin (HC), FLLL11, FLLL12, and GO-Y030, show improved bioavailability and potency in inhibiting STAT3, resulting in reduced cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. CONCLUSION CUR and its analogues hold promise as effective adjuvant treatments for BC by targeting the STAT3 signaling pathway. These compounds provide new insights into the mechanisms of action of CUR and its potential to enhance the effectiveness of BC therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Golmohammadi
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Yassin Zamanian
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Ahmed Muzahem Al-Ani
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, AL-Nisour University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Thaer L Jabbar
- College of pharmacy, Al- Ayen University, Nasiriyah, Iraq
| | - Ali Kamil Kareem
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hillah, Iraq
| | - Zeinab Hashem Aghaei
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Tahernia
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Elham Hakimizadeh
- Physiology-Pharmacology Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
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Li Y, Dong Y. TTI-101 targets STAT3/c-Myc signaling pathway to suppress cervical cancer progression: an integrated experimental and computational analysis. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:286. [PMID: 39135042 PMCID: PMC11320917 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03463-6] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer (CC) is a significant global health concern, demanding the consideration of novel therapeutic strategies. The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway has been implicated in cancer progression and is a potential target for therapeutic intervention. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of TTI-101, a small molecule STAT3 inhibitor, in CC and investigate its underlying mechanisms. METHODS Molecular docking studies and molecular dynamics simulations were performed to explore the binding interaction between TTI-101 and STAT3 and assess the stability of the STAT3-TTI-101 complex. Cell viability assays, wound healing assays, colony formation assays, flow cytometry analysis, and gene expression analysis were conducted. In vivo xenograft models were used to assess the antitumor efficacy of TTI-101. RESULTS The in silico analysis shows a stable binding interaction between TTI-101 and STAT3. TTI-101 treatment inhibits cell viability, clonogenic ability, and cell migration in CC cells. Furthermore, TTI-101 induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Analysis of apoptosis-related markers demonstrated dysregulation of Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 upon TTI-101 treatment. Moreover, TTI-101 caused G2/M phase arrest accompanied by a decrease in CDK1 and Cyclin B1 at mRNA levels. In the xenograft model, TTI-101 significantly inhibited tumor growth without adverse effects on body weight. CONCLUSION TTI-101 exhibited anticancer effects by targeting the STAT3/c-Myc signaling pathway, inducing cell cycle arrest, and promoting apoptosis in CC cells. These findings provide valuable insights into the development of novel therapeutic strategies for cervical cancer. Further investigation is warranted to validate the clinical application of TTI-101.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Department of Gynaecology, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Shandong University, No.11 Wuyingshan Middle Road, Tianqiao District, Jinan, 250031, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuyan Dong
- Department of Gynaecology, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, 238 Jingshi East Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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Hu Y, Dong Z, Liu K. Unraveling the complexity of STAT3 in cancer: molecular understanding and drug discovery. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:23. [PMID: 38245798 PMCID: PMC10799433 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-02949-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a transcriptional factor involved in almost all cancer hallmark features including tumor proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, tumor inflammation, metabolism reprogramming, drug resistance, cancer stemness. Therefore, STAT3 has become a promising therapeutic target in a wide range of cancers. This review focuses on the up-to-date knowledge of STAT3 signaling in cancer. We summarize both the positive and negative modulators of STAT3 together with the cancer hallmarks involving activities regulated by STAT3 and highlight its extremely sophisticated regulation on immunosuppression in tumor microenvironment and metabolic reprogramming. Direct and indirect inhibitors of STAT3 in preclinical and clinical studies also have been summarized and discussed. Additionally, we highlight and propose new strategies of targeting STAT3 and STAT3-based combinations with established chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and combination therapy. These efforts may provide new perspectives for STAT3-based target therapy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Hu
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China
- Medical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450008, Henan, China.
- Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450008, Henan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Iliev P, Hanke D, Page BDG. STAT Protein Thermal Shift Assays to Monitor Protein-Inhibitor Interactions. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200039. [PMID: 35698729 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
STAT3 protein is a sought-after drug target as it plays a key role in the progression of cancer. Many STAT3 inhibitors (STAT3i) have been reported, but accumulating evidence suggests many of these act as off-target/indirect inhibitors of STAT signaling. Herein, we describe the STAT protein thermal shift assay (PTSA) as a novel target engagement tool, which we used to test the binding of known STAT3i to STAT3 and STAT1. This revealed STATTIC, BP-1-102, and Cpd188 destabilized both STATs and produced unique migratory patterns on SDS-PAGE gels, suggesting covalent protein modifications. Mass spectrometry experiments confirmed these compounds are nonspecifically alkylating STATs, as well as an unrelated protein, NUDT5. These experiments have highlighted the benefits of PTSA to investigate interactions with STAT proteins and helped reveal novel reactivity of Cpd188. The described PTSA represents a promising chemical biology tool that could be applied to an array of other protein targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petar Iliev
- The University of British Columbia, Pharmaceutical Sciences, CANADA
| | - Danielle Hanke
- The University of British Columbia, Pharmaceutical Sciences, CANADA
| | - Brent D G Page
- The University of British Columbia, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, V6T1Z3, Vancouver, CANADA
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Xu J, Lin H, Wu G, Zhu M, Li M. IL-6/STAT3 Is a Promising Therapeutic Target for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:760971. [PMID: 34976809 PMCID: PMC8714735 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.760971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor of which the occurrence and development, the tumorigenicity of HCC is involving in multistep and multifactor interactions. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a multifunctional inflammatory cytokine, has increased expression in HCC patients and is closely related to the occurrence of HCC and prognosis. IL-6 plays a role by binding to the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) and then triggering the Janus kinase (JAK) associated with the receptor, stimulating phosphorylation and activating signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) to initiate downstream signals, participating in the processes of anti-apoptosis, angiogenesis, proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance of cancer cells. IL-6/STAT3 signal axes elicit an immunosuppressive in tumor microenvironment, it is important to therapy HCC by blocking the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Recent, some inhibitors of IL-6/STAT3 have been development, such as S31-201 or IL-6 neutralizing monoclonal antibody (IL-6 mAb), Madindoline A (Inhibits the dimerization of IL-6/IL-6R/gpl30 trimeric complexes), C188-9 and Curcumin (Inhibits STAT3 phosphorylation), etc. for treatment of cancers. Overall, consideration of the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway, and its role in the carcinogenesis and progression of HCC will contribute to the development of potential drugs for targeting treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junnv Xu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Haifeng Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Gang Wu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
- Institution of Tumour, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
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6
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Abstract
The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway was discovered more than a quarter-century ago. As a fulcrum of many vital cellular processes, the JAK/STAT pathway constitutes a rapid membrane-to-nucleus signaling module and induces the expression of various critical mediators of cancer and inflammation. Growing evidence suggests that dysregulation of the JAK/STAT pathway is associated with various cancers and autoimmune diseases. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge about the composition, activation, and regulation of the JAK/STAT pathway. Moreover, we highlight the role of the JAK/STAT pathway and its inhibitors in various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Maorong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Xia Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China.
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, P. R. China.
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China.
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Hu X, Li J, Fu M, Zhao X, Wang W. The JAK/STAT signaling pathway: from bench to clinic. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:402. [PMID: 34824210 PMCID: PMC8617206 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00791-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 819] [Impact Index Per Article: 273.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway was discovered more than a quarter-century ago. As a fulcrum of many vital cellular processes, the JAK/STAT pathway constitutes a rapid membrane-to-nucleus signaling module and induces the expression of various critical mediators of cancer and inflammation. Growing evidence suggests that dysregulation of the JAK/STAT pathway is associated with various cancers and autoimmune diseases. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge about the composition, activation, and regulation of the JAK/STAT pathway. Moreover, we highlight the role of the JAK/STAT pathway and its inhibitors in various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Maorong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Xia Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China.
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, P. R. China.
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China.
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Zou S, Tong Q, Liu B, Huang W, Tian Y, Fu X. Targeting STAT3 in Cancer Immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2020; 19:145. [PMID: 32972405 PMCID: PMC7513516 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-020-01258-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 491] [Impact Index Per Article: 122.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As a point of convergence for numerous oncogenic signaling pathways, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is central in regulating the anti-tumor immune response. STAT3 is broadly hyperactivated both in cancer and non-cancerous cells within the tumor ecosystem and plays important roles in inhibiting the expression of crucial immune activation regulators and promoting the production of immunosuppressive factors. Therefore, targeting the STAT3 signaling pathway has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for numerous cancers. In this review, we outline the importance of STAT3 signaling pathway in tumorigenesis and its immune regulation, and highlight the current status for the development of STAT3-targeting therapeutic approaches. We also summarize and discuss recent advances in STAT3-based combination immunotherapy in detail. These endeavors provide new insights into the translational application of STAT3 in cancer and may contribute to the promotion of more effective treatments toward malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sailan Zou
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiyu Tong
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Bowen Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Pancreatitis Centre and West China-Liverpool Biomedical Research Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yan Tian
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Xianghui Fu
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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9
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STAT3 transcription factor as target for anti-cancer therapy. Pharmacol Rep 2020; 72:1101-1124. [PMID: 32880101 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-020-00156-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
STATs constitute a large family of transcription activators and transducers of signals that have an important role in many cell functions as regulation of proliferation and differentiation of the cell also regulation of apoptosis and angiogenesis. STAT3 as a member of that family, recently was discovered to have a vital role in progression of different types of cancers. The activation of STAT3 was observed to regulate multiple gene functions during cancer-like cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, metastasis, inflammation, immunity, cell survival, and angiogenesis. The inhibition of STAT3 activation has been an important target for cancer therapy. Inhibitors of STAT3 have been used for a long time for treatment of many types of cancers like leukemia, melanoma, colon, and renal cancer. In this review article, we summarize and discuss different drugs inhibiting the action of STAT3 and used in treatment of different types of cancer.
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Shi Y, Kong W, Lu Y, Zheng Y. Traditional Chinese Medicine Xiaoai Jiedu Recipe Suppresses the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Regulating the microRNA-29a/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 Axis. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:7329-7342. [PMID: 32848411 PMCID: PMC7426996 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s248797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent and lethal tumors affecting human health worldwide. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-cancer effects of Xiaoai Jiedu Recipe (XJR) on HCC development and its underlying mechanisms. Methods The expression of microRNA-29a (miR-29a) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in HCC tissues and cells was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells were measured by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide, wound-healing, and transwell assays, respectively. The regulatory relationship between miR-29a and STAT3 in HCC was predicted by TargetScan and analyzed by luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. The protein expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2/9 and STAT3 was detected by Western blotting. A xenograft tumor mouse model was established, and tumor weight and volume were measured. Results The expression of miR-29a was significantly decreased in HCC tissues and cells compared with that in normal tissues and cells. The up-regulation of miR-29a was related with lymph node metastasis and tumor node metastasis stage. XJR treatment significantly increased the expression of miR-29a, decreased cell viability, migration, and invasion, and reduced the protein expression of MMP-2/9 in HCC cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The anti-tumor effect of XJR on HCC cells was reversed by treatment with miR-29a inhibitor. STAT3 was predicted as a target of miR-29a, and its expression was negatively regulated by miR-29a. Moreover, STAT3 knockdown suppressed the malignant behavior of HCC cells, and its anti-tumor function was reversed by treatment with miR-29a inhibitor. Furthermore, XJR treatment inhibited tumor growth in mice through elevating miR-29a expression and inhibiting STAT3 expression. Conclusion XJR suppressed the development of HCC via regulating miR-29a and STAT3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfen Shi
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The People's Hospital of Jiaozuo City, Jiaozuo City, Henan Province 454000, People's Republic of China
| | - Wuming Kong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Sixth People's East-Hospital, Shanghai City 201306, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanxu Lu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The People's Hospital of Jiaozuo City, Jiaozuo City, Henan Province 454000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Zheng
- Department of Spleen and Stomach Disease, Kunming Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunming City, Yunnan, Province 650051, People's Republic of China
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11
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Busker S, Page B, Arnér ESJ. To inhibit TrxR1 is to inactivate STAT3-Inhibition of TrxR1 enzymatic function by STAT3 small molecule inhibitors. Redox Biol 2020; 36:101646. [PMID: 32863208 PMCID: PMC7378686 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor STAT3 plays a key role in cancer and immunity, being widely explored as a potential drug target for the development of novel immunomodulatory or anticancer therapeutics. The mechanisms of small molecule-derived inhibition of STAT3 appear, however, to be more complex than initially perceived. Our recent discovery, that some novel STAT3 inhibitors were bona fide inhibitors of the cytosolic selenoprotein oxidoreductase TrxR1 (TXNRD1), led us to explore the effects of a wide array of previously described STAT3 inhibitors on TrxR1 function. We found that 17 out of 23 tested STAT3 small molecule inhibitors indeed inhibited purified TrxR1 at the reported concentrations yielding STAT3 inhibition. All tested compounds were electrophilic as shown by direct reactivities with GSH, and several were found to also be redox cycling substrates of TrxR1. Ten compounds previously shown to inhibit STAT3 were here found to irreversibly inhibit cellular TrxR1 activity (Auranofin, Stattic, 5,15-DPP, Galiellalactone, LLL12, Napabucasin, BP1-102, STA-21, S3I-201 and Degrasyn (WP1130)). Our findings suggest that targeting of TrxR1 may be a common feature for many small molecules that inhibit cellular STAT3 function. It is possible that prevention of STAT3 activation in cells by several small molecules classified as STAT3 inhibitors can be a downstream event following TrxR1 inhibition. Therefore, the relationship between TrxR1 and STAT3 should be considered when studying inhibition of either of these promising drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sander Busker
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brent Page
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Science for Life Laboratories, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Elias S J Arnér
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Selenoprotein Research, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.
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Huang G, Li S, Zhang Y, Zhou X, Chen W. Vicenin-2 is a novel inhibitor of STAT3 signaling pathway in human hepatocellular carcinoma. J Funct Foods 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2020.103921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
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13
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Gu Y, Mohammad IS, Liu Z. Overview of the STAT-3 signaling pathway in cancer and the development of specific inhibitors. Oncol Lett 2020; 19:2585-2594. [PMID: 32218808 PMCID: PMC7068531 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins represent novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of cancer. In particular, STAT-3 serves critical roles in several cellular processes, including the cell cycle, cell proliferation, cellular apoptosis and tumorigenesis. Persistent activation of STAT-3 has been reported in a variety of cancer types, and a poor prognosis of cancer may be associated with the phosphorylation level of STAT-3. Furthermore, elevated STAT-3 activity has been demonstrated in a variety of mammalian cancers, both in vitro and in vivo. This indicates that STAT-3 serves an important role in the progression of numerous cancer types. A significant obstacle in developing STAT-3 inhibitors is the demonstration of the antitumor efficacy in in vivo systems and the lack of animal models for human tumors. Therefore, it is crucial to determine whether available STAT-3 inhibitors are suitable for clinical trials. Moreover, further preclinical studies are necessary to focus on the impact of STAT-3 inhibitors on tumor cells. When considering STAT-3 hyper-activation in human cancer, selective targeting to these proteins holds promise for significant advancement in cancer treatment. In the present study, advances in our knowledge of the structure of STAT-3 protein and its regulatory mechanisms are summarized. Moreover, the STAT-3 signaling pathway and its critical role in malignancy are discussed, in addition to the development of STAT-3 inhibitors in various cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Gu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233000, P.R. China.,College of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233000, P.R. China
| | - Imran Shair Mohammad
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Zhe Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233000, P.R. China.,College of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233000, P.R. China
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14
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Abstract
Tyrosine phosphorylation is a critical component of signal transduction for multicellular organisms, particularly for pathways that regulate cell proliferation and differentiation. While tyrosine kinase inhibitors have become FDA-approved drugs, inhibitors of the other important components of these signaling pathways have been harder to develop. Specifically, direct phosphotyrosine (pTyr) isosteres have been aggressively pursued as inhibitors of Src homology 2 (SH2) domains and protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). Medicinal chemists have produced many classes of peptide and small molecule inhibitors that mimic pTyr. However, balancing affinity with selectivity and cell penetration has made this an extremely difficult space for developing successful clinical candidates. This review will provide a comprehensive picture of the field of pTyr isosteres, from early beginnings to the current state and trajectory. We will also highlight the major protein targets of these medicinal chemistry efforts, the major classes of peptide and small molecule inhibitors that have been developed, and the handful of compounds which have been tested in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Cerulli
- Cellular, Molecular and Developmental Biology Program, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, USA
| | - Joshua A Kritzer
- Department of Chemistry, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, USA.
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15
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Susman S, Pîrlog R, Leucuța D, Mitre AO, Padurean VA, Melincovici C, Moldovan I, Crișan D, Florian SI. The role of p-Stat3 Y705 immunohistochemistry in glioblastoma prognosis. Diagn Pathol 2019; 14:124. [PMID: 31690341 PMCID: PMC6829927 DOI: 10.1186/s13000-019-0903-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In spite of the multimodal treatment used today, glioblastoma is still the most aggressive and lethal cerebral tumour. To increase survival in these patients, novel therapeutic targets must be discovered. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3), a transcription factor that controls normal cell differentiation and survival is also involved in neoplastic celltransformation. In this study we evaluated the immunohistochemical expression of pY705-Stat3 in patients with primary glioblastoma and determined its prognostic role by correlating it with survival. Methods This retrospective study included 94 patients diagnosed with glioblastoma. We determined the localization, number of positive cells, and marker intensity for pY705-Stat3 in these patients with the use of immunohistochemistry. The prognostic role was determined by correlating pY705-Stat3 expression on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumour tissues with the patient’s survival in univariate and multivariate COX regressions. Results We found a statistically significant difference in survival between the patients with more than 20% pY705-Stat3 positive cells and those with less than 20% pY705-Stat3 positive cells (8.9 months median survival versus 13.7 months medial survival, p < 0.001). On multivariate analyses with the COX proportional hazards regression model including pY705-Stat3 expression, age and relapse status, pY705-Stat3 status was an independent prognostic factor in glioblastoma (P < 0.001). Conclusion The results obtained show that the immunohistochemical expression of pY705-Stat3 correlates with survival in glioblastoma. This study identifies Stat3 as a possible target for existing or new developed Stat3 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergiu Susman
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Pasteur Street, 400349, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. .,Department of Pathology, Imogen Research Centre, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Radu Pîrlog
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Pasteur Street, 400349, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel Leucuța
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Otto Mitre
- Department of Neurosurgery, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | | | - Carmen Melincovici
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Pasteur Street, 400349, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Moldovan
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Pasteur Street, 400349, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Doinița Crișan
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Pasteur Street, 400349, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Department of Pathology, Emergency County Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Stefan Ioan Florian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Department of Neurosurgery, Emergency County Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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16
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Jiang LH, Hao YL, Zhu JW. Expression and prognostic value of HER-2/neu, STAT3 and SOCS3 in hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2019; 43:282-291. [PMID: 30385249 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2018.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex and heterogeneous tumor with several genomic alterations, while the viral-chemical etiology along with molecular mechanisms of HCC pathogenesis remains largely unknown. This study aimed to determine expression profile and prognostic value of HER-2/neu, STAT3 and SOCS3 in HCC. METHODS Immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were performed to evaluate the expression of HER-2/neu, STAT3 and SOCS3 in HCC tissues and adjacent normal tissues collected from 176 HCC patients. RESULTS HER-2/neu and STAT3 levels were higher and SOCS3 expression was lower in HCC tissues than in adjacent normal tissues. HER-2/neu, STAT3 and SOCS3 levels were associated with histological grade, tumor diameter, TNM stage, vascular invasion, lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis in HCC. SOCS3 expression was negatively associated with HER-2/neu and STAT3 expression. HCC patients with higher HER-2/neu and STAT3 levels had shorter overall, disease-free and disease-specific survival, whereas the opposite was found in patients with higher SOCS3 expression. In Cox regression analysis, tumor size, TNM stage, and STAT3 expression were identified as independent prognostic factors of HCC. CONCLUSION Taken together, these observations suggest that HER-2/neu, STAT3 and, SOCS3 are related to the aggressive tumor behavior and STAT3 has potential value as a prognostic factor for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Hua Jiang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 20, Yuhuangding East Road, Yantai 264000, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Ying-Li Hao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai 264001, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Jing-Wei Zhu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 20, Yuhuangding East Road, Yantai 264000, Shandong Province, PR China.
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17
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Zhu PL, Fu XQ, Li JK, Tse AKW, Guo H, Yin CL, Chou JY, Wang YP, Liu YX, Chen YJ, Hossen MJ, Zhang Y, Pan SY, Zhao ZJ, Yu ZL. Antrodia camphorata Mycelia Exert Anti-liver Cancer Effects and Inhibit STAT3 Signaling in vitro and in vivo. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1449. [PMID: 30618745 PMCID: PMC6304454 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the major form of primary liver cancer, is a common cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling is constantly activated in HCC and has been proposed as a chemotherapeutic target for HCC. Antrodia camphorata (AC), a medicinal mushroom unique to Taiwan, is traditionally used for treating HCC. Whereas natural AC is scarce, cultured AC mycelia are becoming alternatives. In this study, we investigated the anti-HCC effects of the ethyl acetate fraction of an ethanolic extract of AC mycelia (EEAC), particularly exploring the involvement of STAT3 signaling in these effects. We found that EEAC reduced cell viability, induced apoptosis, and retarded migration and invasion in cultured HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells. Immunoblotting results showed that EEAC downregulated protein levels of phosphorylated and total STAT3 and JAK2 (an upstream kinase of STAT3) in HCC cells. Real-time PCR analyses showed that STAT3, but not JAK2, mRNA levels were decreased by EEAC. EEAC also lowered the protein level of nuclear STAT3, decreased the transcriptional activity of STAT3, and downregulated protein levels of STAT3-targeted molecules, including anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-xL and Bcl-2, and invasion-related proteins MMP-2 and MMP-9. Over-activation of STAT3 in HCC cells diminished the cytotoxic effects of EEAC. In SMMC-7721 cell-bearing mice, EEAC (100 mg/kg, i.g. for 18 days) significantly inhibited tumor growth. Consistent with our in vitro data, EEAC induced apoptosis and suppressed JAK2/STAT3 activation/phosphorylation in the tumors. Taken together, EEAC exerts anti-HCC effects both in vitro and in vivo; and inhibition of STAT3 signaling is, at least in part, responsible for these effects. We did not observe significant toxicity of EEAC in normal human liver-derived cells, nude mice and rats. Our results provide a pharmacological basis for developing EEAC as a safe and effective agent for HCC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Li Zhu
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiu-Qiong Fu
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jun-Kui Li
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Anfernee Kai-Wing Tse
- Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Hui Guo
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheng-Le Yin
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ji-Yao Chou
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ya-Ping Wang
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yu-Xi Liu
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ying-Jie Chen
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Muhammad Jahangir Hossen
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Yi Zhang
- Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Si-Yuan Pan
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zong-Jie Zhao
- Shenzhen Union Assets Biological Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhi-Ling Yu
- Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Center for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
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18
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Two decades of research in discovery of anticancer drugs targeting STAT3, how close are we? Pharmacol Ther 2018; 191:74-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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19
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Tang S, Yuan X, Song J, Chen Y, Tan X, Li Q. Association analyses of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway with the progression and prognosis of colon cancer. Oncol Lett 2018; 17:159-164. [PMID: 30655751 PMCID: PMC6313177 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.9569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the association between the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway with tumor progression and prognosis of colon cancer. A total of 62 patients with colon cancer were selected as the colon cancer group, and 40 patients with colon lesions were selected as the benign colon lesion group. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression levels of JAK-1 and STAT-3 proteins in colon tissues. The association of JAK-1 and STAT-3 proteins with the pathological parameters and prognosis of colon cancer were analyzed. The total positive rates of JAK-1 and STAT-3 proteins in lesions of patients in the colon cancer group were significantly higher compared with those in the benign colon lesion group (P<0.05). The positive expression of JAK-1 and STAT-3 proteins in patients with colon cancer were not significantly associated with sex, age, tumor differentiation degree and neurovascular invasion (P>0.05), but significantly associated with the clinical stage of colon cancer, tumor infiltration depth and lymph node metastasis (P<0.05). The survival time of patients with colon cancer with positively-expressed JAK-1 and STAT-3 proteins was significantly shorter compared with that of patients with negatively-expressed JAK-1 and STAT-3 proteins (P<0.05). tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage, lymph node metastasis and the expression of JAK-1 and STAT-3 proteins in the tumor were associated with the prognosis of patients with colon cancer (P<0.05). TNM stage and the expression levels of JAK-1 and STAT-3 proteins were independent risk factors influencing the prognosis of colon cancer (P<0.05). The JAK/STAT signal may be used as a novel tumor marker and prognostic factor for the diagnosis, assessment and prognosis of colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengbo Tang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xihong Yuan
- Department of General and Abdominal Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Jintian Song
- Department of Abdominal Medicine, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350000, P.R. China
| | - Yigui Chen
- Department of Abdominal Medicine, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojie Tan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Qiyun Li
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial Cancer Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330029, P.R. China
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20
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Nie Y, Li Y, Hu S. A novel small inhibitor, LLL12, targets STAT3 in non-small cell lung cancer in vitro and in vivo. Oncol Lett 2018; 16:5349-5354. [PMID: 30250605 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.9262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. Despite the development of novel molecular therapies, the prognosis for patients with locally advanced or metastatic lung cancer remains poor. Therefore, the identification of novel therapeutic approaches is required. In numerous types of cancer, the constitutive activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling serves as a potent therapeutic target. The present study aimed to characterize the suppressive role of LLL12, a STAT3 small molecule inhibitor, in lung cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth. The mechanism of STAT3 signaling modulation by LLL12 was also investigated. The antitumor activity of LLL12 was revealed to take place via inhibition of lung cancer cell proliferation and migration in vitro. High and low doses of LLL12 significantly reduced tumor volume and weight in xenograft mice compared with that in the control group. Furthermore, LLL12 was demonstrated to reduce the level of STAT3 phosphorylation. These results suggested that LLL12 inhibited the proliferation and migration of A549 cells, and the increase in tumor volume in nude mice with lung cancer. This may be associated with the inhibitory effect of STAT3 phosphorylation and the expression of STAT3. The results of the present study suggest that constitutive STAT3 signaling is required for lung cancer cell survival and migration, and tumor growth in vivo. It is also indicated that LLL12 has clinical potential as a novel targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Nie
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Hubei Province Cancer Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, P.R. China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, P.R. China
| | - Sheng Hu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Hubei Province Cancer Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, P.R. China
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21
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Lambert M, Jambon S, Depauw S, David-Cordonnier MH. Targeting Transcription Factors for Cancer Treatment. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23061479. [PMID: 29921764 PMCID: PMC6100431 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23061479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 229] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors are involved in a large number of human diseases such as cancers for which they account for about 20% of all oncogenes identified so far. For long time, with the exception of ligand-inducible nuclear receptors, transcription factors were considered as “undruggable” targets. Advances knowledge of these transcription factors, in terms of structure, function (expression, degradation, interaction with co-factors and other proteins) and the dynamics of their mode of binding to DNA has changed this postulate and paved the way for new therapies targeted against transcription factors. Here, we discuss various ways to target transcription factors in cancer models: by modulating their expression or degradation, by blocking protein/protein interactions, by targeting the transcription factor itself to prevent its DNA binding either through a binding pocket or at the DNA-interacting site, some of these inhibitors being currently used or evaluated for cancer treatment. Such different targeting of transcription factors by small molecules is facilitated by modern chemistry developing a wide variety of original molecules designed to specifically abort transcription factor and by an increased knowledge of their pathological implication through the use of new technologies in order to make it possible to improve therapeutic control of transcription factor oncogenic functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Lambert
- INSERM UMR-S1172-JPARC (Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center), Lille University and Hospital Center (CHU-Lille), Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille (IRCL), Place de Verdun, F-59045 Lille, France.
| | - Samy Jambon
- INSERM UMR-S1172-JPARC (Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center), Lille University and Hospital Center (CHU-Lille), Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille (IRCL), Place de Verdun, F-59045 Lille, France.
| | - Sabine Depauw
- INSERM UMR-S1172-JPARC (Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center), Lille University and Hospital Center (CHU-Lille), Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille (IRCL), Place de Verdun, F-59045 Lille, France.
| | - Marie-Hélène David-Cordonnier
- INSERM UMR-S1172-JPARC (Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center), Lille University and Hospital Center (CHU-Lille), Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille (IRCL), Place de Verdun, F-59045 Lille, France.
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22
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Corylin increases the sensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma cells to chemotherapy through long noncoding RNA RAD51-AS1-mediated inhibition of DNA repair. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:543. [PMID: 29749376 PMCID: PMC5945779 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0575-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Corylin, a biologically active agent extracted from Psoralea corylifolia L. (Fabaceae), promotes bone differentiation and inhibits inflammation. Currently, few reports have addressed the biological functions that are regulated by corylin, and to date, no studies have investigated its antitumor activity. In this study, we used cell functional assays to analyze the antitumor activity of corylin in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Furthermore, whole-transcriptome assays were performed to identify the downstream genes that were regulated by corylin, and gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments were conducted to examine the regulatory roles of the above genes. We found that corylin significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells and increased the toxic effects of chemotherapeutic agents against HCC cells. These properties were due to the induction of a long noncoding RNA, RAD51-AS1, which bound to RAD51 mRNA, thereby inhibiting RAD51 protein expression, thus inhibiting the DNA damage repair ability of HCC cells. Animal experiments also showed that a combination treatment with corylin significantly increased the inhibitory effects of the chemotherapeutic agent etoposide (VP16) on tumor growth. These findings indicate that corylin has strong potential as an adjuvant drug in HCC treatment and that corylin can strengthen the therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
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23
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Corylin Suppresses Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression via the Inhibition of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition, Mediated by Long Noncoding RNA GAS5. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19020380. [PMID: 29382035 PMCID: PMC5855602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19020380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Revised: 01/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Corylin is a flavonoid extracted from the nuts of Psoralea corylifolia L. (Fabaceae), which is a widely used anti-inflammatory and anticancer herb in China. Recent studies revealed antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and bone differentiation–promoting effects of corylin. However, there are no studies examining the anticancer activity of corylin. In this study, we used cells and animal models to examine the antitumor effects of corylin on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and then studied its downstream regulatory mechanisms. The results showed that corylin significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasiveness of HCC cells and suppressed epithelial–mesenchymal transition. We found that the anti-HCC mechanism of corylin’s action lies in the upregulation of tumor suppressor long noncoding RNA growth arrest-specific transcript 5 (GAS5) and the activation of its downstream anticancer pathways. In animal experiments, we also found that corylin can significantly inhibit tumor growth without significant physiological toxicity. The above results suggest that corylin has anti-HCC effects and good potential as a clinical treatment.
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24
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Mehmood T, Maryam A, Tian X, Khan M, Ma T. Santamarine Inhibits NF-кB and STAT3 Activation and Induces Apoptosis in HepG2 Liver Cancer Cells via Oxidative Stress. J Cancer 2017; 8:3707-3717. [PMID: 29151958 PMCID: PMC5688924 DOI: 10.7150/jca.20239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Sesquiterpene lactones have long been used in traditional Chinese medicines to treat inflammatory diseases. Recently, sesquiterpene lactone family compounds have been recognized as potential anticancer agents. Thus, it is necessary to explore new sesquiterpene lactones and their antitumor mechanism for cancer treatments. In the present study, we have explored the potential anti-cancer activity of a novel sesquiterpene lactone compound “santamarine” (STM) in HepG2 cells. It inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis dose-dependently with IC50 ~ 70 μM. Induction of apoptosis was found to be linked with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, decreased activity of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), glutathione (GSH) depletion, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) dissipation, Bcl-2 family proteins modulation, cytochrome c release, caspases-9, -8 and -3 activation and PARP cleavage. Further mechanistic study demonstrated that STM inhibited the constitutive and TNF-α-induced translocation of NF-кB into nucleus by decreasing phosphorylation of IkB-α. Moreover, STM inhibited STAT3 activation by decreasing phosphorylation at tyrosine705. NAC pretreatment reversed the effect of STM-mediated cell death, NF-кB inhibition and blockage of STAT3 activity, indicating the involvement of oxidative stress in STM-mediated anticancer activity. Further studies are needed to explore the exact molecular mechanism of STM-induced apoptosis to develop it into a lead for treatment of liver cancer in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahir Mehmood
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, P.R. China
| | - Amara Maryam
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, P.R. China
| | - Xiangge Tian
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, P.R. China
| | - Muhammad Khan
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, P.R. China
| | - Tonghui Ma
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, P.R. China
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25
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Discovery of monocarbonyl curcumin-BTP hybrids as STAT3 inhibitors for drug-sensitive and drug-resistant breast cancer therapy. Sci Rep 2017; 7:46352. [PMID: 28397855 PMCID: PMC5387716 DOI: 10.1038/srep46352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a well-known antitumor target. Exogenous ROS insult can lead to selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells. A combination of STAT3 inhibition and “oxidation therapy” may be a new strategy to address the multidrug-resistance issue due to their important roles in the survival and drug resistance of cancer cells. Here, a series of novel curcumin-BTP hybrids were designed and evaluated as STAT3 inhibitors with ROS production activity. Compound 6b exerted the best antitumor activity and selectivity for MCF-7 and MCF-7/DOX cells (IC50 = 0.52 μM and 0.40 μM, respectively), while its IC50 value for MCF-10A breast epithelial cells was 7.72 μM. Furthermore, compound 6b suppressed STAT3 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation and DNA-binding activity and the expression of STAT3 specific oncogenes. Increases in the level of IL-6-induced p-STAT3 were also inhibited by 6b without influencing IFN-γ-induced p-STAT1 expression. Additionally, 6b effectively promoted intracellular ROS accumulation, induced cancer cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, abolished the colony formation ability of breast cancer cells, and inhibited P-gp expression in MCF-7/DOX cells. Finally, 6b suppressed the growth of implanted human breast cancer in vivo. Our findings highlight that 6b may be a promising therapeutic agent for drug-sensitive and drug-resistant breast cancers.
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Li W, Zhang H, Nie M, Tian Y, Chen X, Chen C, Chen H, Liu R. Ursolic acid derivative FZU-03,010 inhibits STAT3 and induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in renal and breast cancer cells. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2017; 49:367-373. [PMID: 28338932 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmx012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced renal cell carcinoma and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) are malignancies without effective therapeutics currently. Ursolic acid (UA) has been previously reported to have anti-cancer effects in multiple solid tumors. In order to develop more potent anti-cancer reagents, FZU-03,010 based on the chemical structure of UA were synthesized. The results demonstrated that, compared with UA, FZU-03,010 could suppress renal cancer cell 786-0 and TNBC cell HCC1806 cell viability more potently. Furthermore, FZU-03,010 could induce G1 cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis more efficiently than UA. FZU-03,010 could also inhibit signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 activation, induce the expression of cell cycle-dependent kinase inhibitors (p21 and p27) and promote cell apoptosis. In conclusion, our results suggest that the UA derivative FZU-03,010 is more potent in inhibiting cancer cell survival, and FZU-03,010 has the potential to be developed as a therapeutic for renal cell cancers and TNBCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Department of Urology of the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming 650032, China
- Medical College of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Hongxiu Zhang
- Department of Urology of the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming 650032, China
- Medical College of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Mingxiu Nie
- Department of Urology of the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming 650032, China
- Medical College of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Yanlei Tian
- Department of Urology of the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming 650032, China
- Yunnan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Xu Chen
- Department of Urology of the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming 650032, China
- Medical College of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Ceshi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, China
| | - Haijun Chen
- College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Rong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, China
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Mahran RI, Hagras MM, Sun D, Brenner DE. Bringing Curcumin to the Clinic in Cancer Prevention: a Review of Strategies to Enhance Bioavailability and Efficacy. AAPS JOURNAL 2016; 19:54-81. [DOI: 10.1208/s12248-016-0003-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Zhao J, Yu H, Liu Y, Gibson SA, Yan Z, Xu X, Gaggar A, Li PK, Li C, Wei S, Benveniste EN, Qin H. Protective effect of suppressing STAT3 activity in LPS-induced acute lung injury. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2016; 311:L868-L880. [PMID: 27638904 PMCID: PMC5130536 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00281.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are diseases with high mortality. Macrophages and neutrophils are responsible for inflammatory responses in ALI and ARDS, which are characterized by excessive production of proinflammatory mediators in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and plasma. Aberrant activation of the JAK/STAT pathway is critical for persistent inflammation in many conditions such as infection and autoimmunity. Given the importance of the STAT3 transcription factor in activating macrophages and neutrophils and augmenting inflammation, we investigated the therapeutic potential of inhibiting STAT3 activity using the small-molecule STAT3 inhibitor, LLL12. Our results demonstrate that LPS induces STAT3 activation in macrophages in vitro and in CD45+CD11b+ cells from BALF in the LPS-induced ALI model in vivo. LLL12 treatment inhibits LPS-induced lung inflammation in the ALI model, which is accompanied by suppression of LPS-induced STAT3 activation and an inhibition of macrophage and inflammatory cell infiltration in lung and BALF. LLL12 treatment also suppresses expression of proinflammatory genes including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, iNOS, CCL2, and MHC class II in macrophages and inflammatory cells from BALF and serum as determined by ELISA. Furthermore, hyperactivation of STAT3 in LysMCre-SOCS3fl/fl mice accelerates the severity of inflammation in the ALI model. Both pre- and post-LPS treatment with LLL12 decrease LPS-induced inflammatory responses in mice with ALI. Importantly, LLL12 treatment attenuates STAT3 phosphorylation in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells induced by plasma from patients with ARDS, which suggests the feasibility of targeting the STAT3 pathway therapeutically for patients with ALI and ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiping Zhao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Hao Yu
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Yudong Liu
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Sara A Gibson
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Zhaoqi Yan
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Xin Xu
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.,Birmingham VA Medical Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.,Program in Protease and Matrix Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama; and
| | - Amit Gaggar
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.,Birmingham VA Medical Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.,Program in Protease and Matrix Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama; and
| | - Pui-Kai Li
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Chenglong Li
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Shi Wei
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Etty N Benveniste
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Hongwei Qin
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama;
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Guo F, Xu Z, Zhang Y, Jiang P, Huang G, Chen S, Lyu X, Zheng P, Zhao X, Zeng Y, Wang S, He F. FXR induces SOCS3 and suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncotarget 2016; 6:34606-16. [PMID: 26416445 PMCID: PMC4741476 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) is regarded as a vital repressor in the liver carcinogenesis mainly by inhibiting signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activity. Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR), highly expressed in liver, has an important role in protecting against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, it is unclear whether the tumor suppressive activity of FXR involves the regulation of SOCS3. In the present study, we found that activation of FXR by its specific agonist GW4064 in HCC cells inhibited cell growth, induced cell cycle arrest at G1 phase, elevated p21 expression and repressed STAT3 activity. The above anti-tumor effects of FXR were dramatically alleviated by knockdown of SOCS3 with siRNA. Reporter assay revealed that FXR activation enhanced the transcriptional activity of SOCS3 promoter. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay displayed that FXR directly bound to IR9 DNA motif within SOCS3 promoter region. The in vivo study in nude mice showed that treatment with FXR ligand GW4064 could decelerate the growth of HCC xenografts, up-regulate SOCS3 and p21 expression and inhibit STAT3 phosphorylation in the xenografts. These results suggest that induction of SOCS3 may be a novel mechanism by which FXR exerts its anti-HCC effects, and the FXR-SOCS3 signaling may serve as a new potential target for the prevention/treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhizhen Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Peng Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Gang Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Shan Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Xilin Lyu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Ping Zheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yijun Zeng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Shuguang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Fengtian He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
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Shao J, Meng Q, Li Y. Theaflavins suppress tumor growth and metastasis via the blockage of the STAT3 pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma. Onco Targets Ther 2016; 9:4265-75. [PMID: 27478384 PMCID: PMC4951064 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s102858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Theaflavins, the major black tea polyphenols, have been reported to exhibit promising antitumor activities in several human cancers. However, the role of theaflavins in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still unknown. In this study, we found that theaflavins could significantly inhibit proliferation, migration, and invasion, and induce apoptosis in HCC cells in vitro. Furthermore, we found that theaflavins inhibited the growth and metastasis of HCC in an orthotopic model and a lung metastasis model. Immunohistochemical analyses and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end-labeling assays showed that theaflavins could suppress proliferation and induce apoptosis in vivo. Theaflavins also suppressed constitutive and inducible signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) phosphorylation. The downstream proteins regulated by STAT3, including the antiapoptotic proteins (Bcl-2 and Survivin) and the invasion-related proteins (MMP-2, MMP-9), were also downregulated after theaflavins treatment. Theaflavins induced apoptosis by activating the caspase pathway. Together, our results suggest that theaflavins suppress the growth and metastasis of human HCC through the blockage of the STAT3 pathway, and thus may act as potential therapeutic agents for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qingyan Meng
- Outpatient Department, The Fifth Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
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31
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Zhao C, Li H, Lin HJ, Yang S, Lin J, Liang G. Feedback Activation of STAT3 as a Cancer Drug-Resistance Mechanism. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2015; 37:47-61. [PMID: 26576830 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2015.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Revised: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) plays crucial roles in several cellular processes such as cell proliferation and survival, and has been found to be aberrantly activated in many cancers. Much research has explored the leading mechanisms for regulating the STAT3 pathway and its role in promoting tumorigenesis. We focus here on recent evidence suggesting that feedback activation of STAT3 plays a prominent role in mediating drug resistance to a broad spectrum of targeted cancer therapies and chemotherapies. We highlight the potential of co-targeting STAT3 and its primary target to overcome drug resistance, and provide perspective on repurposing clinically approved drugs as STAT3 pathway inhibitors, in combination with the FDA-approved receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibitors, to improve clinical outcome of cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengguang Zhao
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210094, People's Republic of China; Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, University Town, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Huameng Li
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, University Town, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Huey-Jen Lin
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Shulin Yang
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210094, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jiayuh Lin
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.
| | - Guang Liang
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, University Town, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, People's Republic of China
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Li W, Xiao J, Zhou X, Xu M, Hu C, Xu X, Lu Y, Liu C, Xue S, Nie L, Zhang H, Li Z, Zhang Y, Ji F, Hui L, Tao W, Wei B, Wang H. STK4 regulates TLR pathways and protects against chronic inflammation-related hepatocellular carcinoma. J Clin Invest 2015; 125:4239-54. [PMID: 26457732 DOI: 10.1172/jci81203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is frequently associated with pathogen infection-induced chronic inflammation. Large numbers of innate immune cells are present in HCCs and can influence disease outcome. Here, we demonstrated that the tumor suppressor serine/threonine-protein kinase 4 (STK4) differentially regulates TLR3/4/9-mediated inflammatory responses in macrophages and thereby is protective against chronic inflammation-associated HCC. STK4 dampened TLR4/9-induced proinflammatory cytokine secretion but enhanced TLR3/4-triggered IFN-β production via binding to and phosphorylating IL-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1), leading to IRAK1 degradation. Notably, macrophage-specific Stk4 deletion resulted in chronic inflammation, liver fibrosis, and HCC in mice treated with a combination of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and CCl4, along with either LPS or E. coli infection. STK4 expression was markedly reduced in macrophages isolated from human HCC patients and was inversely associated with the levels of IRAK1, IL-6, and phospho-p65 or phospho-STAT3. Moreover, serum STK4 levels were specifically decreased in HCC patients with high levels of IL-6. In STK4-deficient mice, treatment with an IRAK1/4 inhibitor after DEN administration reduced serum IL-6 levels and liver tumor numbers to levels similar to those observed in the control mice. Together, our results suggest that STK4 has potential as a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for inflammation-induced HCC.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Carbon Tetrachloride/toxicity
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/chemistry
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/etiology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/immunology
- Cytokines/metabolism
- Diethylnitrosamine
- Escherichia coli Infections/complications
- Female
- HEK293 Cells
- Hepatitis, Animal/chemically induced
- Hepatitis, Animal/immunology
- Humans
- Immunity, Innate
- Interferon-beta/biosynthesis
- Interferon-beta/genetics
- Interleukin-1 Receptor-Associated Kinases/physiology
- Interleukin-6/analysis
- Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
- Lipopolysaccharides/toxicity
- Liver Neoplasms/chemistry
- Liver Neoplasms/etiology
- Liver Neoplasms/immunology
- Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/etiology
- Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/genetics
- Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/immunology
- Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/prevention & control
- Lung/immunology
- Lung/pathology
- Macrophages/immunology
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Male
- Mice
- Neoplasm Proteins/analysis
- Phosphorylation
- Protein Processing, Post-Translational
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/blood
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/deficiency
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/physiology
- STAT3 Transcription Factor/analysis
- Signal Transduction
- Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms
- Toll-Like Receptors/immunology
- Transcription Factor RelA/analysis
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