1
|
Ni Q, Miao Y, Li X, Yin Z, Huang H, Shi G, Shi W. Up-Regulation of MELK Promotes Cell Growth and Invasion by Accelerating G1/S Transition and Indicates Poor Prognosis in Lung Adenocarcinoma. Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01143-4. [PMID: 38676754 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01143-4] [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: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK) is an oncogene in many tumors, although its contribution to lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is unclear. We examined MELK expression in patient LUAD tissue and matched healthy lung tissues. We investigated the connection between MELK expression and tumor differentiation, lymph node metastasis, and patient survival. We downregulated MELK expression using small-hairpin RNA to assess its impact on LUAD cell proliferation, clonogenicity, and invasion. We also investigated the molecular mechanism underlying these effects. MELK expression was significantly heightened in LUAD tissue as opposed to the matching healthy lung tissues. LUAD patients who had MELK overexpression had a worse prognosis. Suppression of MELK hinders proliferation, clonogenicity, and invasion of LUAD cells. The MELK suppression led to the arrest of the cell cycle's G1/S phase by reducing the cyclin E1 and cyclin D expression. Our outcomes manifest that MELK can function as a beneficial prognostic indication and a new therapy target for LUAD. MELK has an essential function in progressing LUAD, manifesting potential as a viable target for therapeutic intervention in this disease management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinggan Ni
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Yancheng Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, The First People's Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng, 224000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Miao
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong (Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University), Nantong, Jiangsu, 226011, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Li
- Department of General Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Yancheng Third People's Hospital, Yancheng, 224000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongbo Yin
- Department of Pathology, The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong (Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University), Nantong, Jiangsu, 226011, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Huang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226011, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanglin Shi
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong (Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University), Nantong, Jiangsu, 226011, People's Republic of China.
| | - Weirong Shi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong (Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University), Nantong, Jiangsu, 226011, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tang BF, Yan RC, Wang SW, Zeng ZC, Du SS. Maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase in tumor cell and tumor microenvironment: Emerging player and promising therapeutic opportunities. Cancer Lett 2023; 560:216126. [PMID: 36933780 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK) is a member of the AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) protein family, which is widely and highly expressed in multiple cancer types. Through direct and indirect interactions with other proteins, it mediates various cascades of signal transduction processes and plays an important role in regulating tumor cell survival, growth, invasion and migration and other biological functions. Interestingly, MELK also plays an important role in the regulation of the tumor microenvironment, which can not only predict the responsiveness of immunotherapy, but also affect the function of immune cells to regulate tumor progression. In addition, more and more small molecule inhibitors have been developed for the target of MELK, which exert important anti-tumor effects and have achieved excellent results in a number of clinical trials. In this review, we outline the structural features, molecular biological functions, potential regulatory mechanisms and important roles of MELK in tumors and tumor microenvironment, as well as substances targeting MELK. Although many molecular mechanisms of MELK in the process of tumor regulation are still unknown, it is worth affirming that MELK is a potential tumor molecular therapeutic target, and its unique superiority and important role provide clues and confidence for subsequent basic research and scientific transformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bu-Fu Tang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fudan University Zhongshan Hospital, Fenglin Road 188, 200030, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruo-Chen Yan
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Si-Wei Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fudan University Zhongshan Hospital, Fenglin Road 188, 200030, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhao-Chong Zeng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fudan University Zhongshan Hospital, Fenglin Road 188, 200030, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi-Suo Du
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fudan University Zhongshan Hospital, Fenglin Road 188, 200030, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cai X, Gao J, Shi C, Guo WZ, Guo D, Zhang S. The role of NCAPG in various of tumors. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113635. [PMID: 36095957 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-SMC Condensin I complex subunit G (NCAPG), a mitosis-associated chromosomal condensation protein, is related to sister chromatid appropriate separation during the condensation and fusion of chromosomes and responsible for the condensation and stabilization of chromosomes during meiosis and mitosis. Studies have shown that NCAPG is highly adjusted in a variety of cancers, and its related molecular mechanism affects tumor cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and apoptosis including hepatocellular carcinoma, prostate cancer, breast cancer, gastric cancer, gliomas, lung adenocarcinoma, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. Clinically, the expression of NCAPG is strongly correlated with N-classification, M-classification, and clinical stage, and NCAPG is valuable for the prognosis of patients with lung adenocarcinoma. In addition, NCAPG can also reduce the sensitivity of tumor cells such as breast cancer to reduce the reaction of the original chemotherapy, so that tumor cells are drug-resistance. In summary, NCAPG can serve as a new diagnosis and treatment target for a variety of cancers, and is also a very promising prognostic marker. Therefore, this review summarizes the critical role of NCAPG in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for various cancers, and the mechanism by which NCAPG plays its pivotal roles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Cai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ, Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Jie Gao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ, Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Chengcheng Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Wen Zhi Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ, Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Danfeng Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ, Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Shuijun Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ, Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
The Role of the Selected miRNAs as Diagnostic, Predictive and Prognostic Markers in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12081227. [PMID: 36013176 PMCID: PMC9410235 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12081227] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, overtaking colon, breast, and prostate cancer-related deaths. Due to the limited diagnostic possibilities, it is often diagnosed after it has reached an advanced stage. The delayed diagnosis significantly worsens the patient’s prognosis. In recent years, we have observed an increased interest in the use of microRNAs (miRNAs) as diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic markers in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The abnormal expression levels of the miRNAs could be used to detect NSCLC in its early stages while it is still asymptomatic. This could drastically improve the clinical outcome. Furthermore, some miRNAs could serve as promising predictive and prognostic factors for NSCLC. Some of the currently available studies have shown a correlation between the miRNAs’ levels and the sensitivity of tumour cells to different treatment regimens. Analysing and modulating the miRNAs’ expression could be a way to predict and improve the treatment’s outcome.
Collapse
|
5
|
Han F, Huang D, Meng J, Chu J, Wang M, Chen S. miR-126-5p enhances radiosensitivity of lung adenocarcinoma cells by inhibiting EZH2 via the KLF2/BIRC axis. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:2529-2542. [PMID: 35322532 PMCID: PMC9077299 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is a common method for the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma, but it often fails due to the relative non‐susceptibility of lung adenocarcinoma cells to radiation. We aimed to discuss the related mechanisms by which miR‐126‐5p might mediate radiosensitivity of lung adenocarcinoma cells. The binding affinity between miR‐126‐5p and EZH2 and between KLF2 and BIRC5 was identified using multiple assays. A549 and H1650 cells treated with X‐ray were transfected with miR‐126‐5p mimic/inhibitor, oe‐EZH2, or si‐KLF2 to detect cell biological functions and radiosensitivity. Finally, lung adenocarcinoma nude mouse models were established. miR‐126‐5p and KLF2 were poorly expressed, while EZH2 and BIRC5 were upregulated in lung adenocarcinoma tissues and cells. miR‐126‐5p targeted EZH2 to promote the KLF2 expression so as to inhibit BIRC5 activation. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments verified that elevated miR‐126‐5p inhibited cell migration and promoted apoptosis to enhance the sensitivity of lung adenocarcinoma cells to radiotherapy via the EZH2/KLF2/BIRC5 axis. Collectively, miR‐126‐5p downregulated EZH2 to facilitate the sensitivity of lung adenocarcinoma cells to radiotherapy via KLF2/BIRC5.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fushi Han
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongdong Huang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinqian Meng
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiapeng Chu
- Department of Cardiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuzhen Chen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jiang X, Shi Y, Chen X, Xu H, Liu B, Zhou F, Huang X, Cho WC, Li L, Pu J. NCAPG as a Novel Prognostic Biomarker in Glioma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:831438. [PMID: 35280743 PMCID: PMC8906777 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.831438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Non-SMC condensin I complex subunit G (NCAPG) is expressed in various human cancers, including gliomas. However, its biological function in glioma remains unclear. The present study was designed to determine the biological functions of NCAPG in glioma and to evaluate the association of NCAPG expression with glioma progression. Methods Clinical data on patients with glioma were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA), the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and the Rembrandt and Gravendeel databases. The correlations among NCAPG expression, pathological characteristics, and clinical outcome were evaluated. In addition, the correlations of NCAPG expression with immune cell infiltration and glioma progression were analyzed. Results NCAPG expression was higher in gliomas than in adjacent normal tissues. Higher expression of NCAPG in gliomas correlated with poorer prognosis, unfavorable histological features, absence of mutations in the isocitrate dehydrogenase gene (IDH), absence of chromosome 1p and 19q deletions, and responses to chemoradiotherapy. Univariate and multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated, in addition to patient age, tumor grade, absence of IDH mutations, and absence of chromosome 1p and 19q deletions, NCAPG expression was independently prognostic of overall survival, disease-free survival, and progression-free survival in patients with glioma. In addition, high expression of NCAPG correlated with tumor infiltration of B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) indicated that high NCAPG expression was associated with cell proliferation and immune response-related signaling pathways. NCAPG knockdown in glioma cell lines significantly reduced cell survival, proliferation, and migration. Conclusion NCAPG expression correlates with glioma progression and immune cell infiltration, suggesting that NCAPG expression may be a useful prognostic biomarker for glioma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiulin Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, China
| | - Yulin Shi
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.,College of Forensic Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.,College of Forensic Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, The Pu'er People's Hospital, Pu'er, China
| | - Haitao Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.,College of Forensic Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Bohu Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kunming First People's Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Fan Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Pu'er People's Hospital, Pu'er, China
| | - Xiaobin Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - William C Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lihua Li
- College of Forensic Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Jun Pu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Liu P, Li H, Liao C, Tang Y, Li M, Wang Z, Wu Q, Zhou Y. Identification of key genes and biological pathways in Chinese lung cancer population using bioinformatics analysis. PeerJ 2022; 10:e12731. [PMID: 35178291 PMCID: PMC8812315 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12731] [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: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identification of accurate prognostic biomarkers is still particularly urgent for improving the poor survival of lung cancer patients. In this study, we aimed to identity the potential biomarkers in Chinese lung cancer population via bioinformatics analysis. METHODS In this study, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in lung cancer were identified using six datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Subsequently, enrichment analysis was conducted to evaluate the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in progression of lung cancer. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) and CytoHubba analysis were performed to determine the hub genes. The GEPIA, Human Protein Atlas (HPA), Kaplan-Meier plotter, and TIMER databases were used to explore the hub genes. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic value of hub genes. Reverse transcription quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to validate the expression levels of hub genes in 10 pairs of lung cancer paired tissues. RESULTS A total of 499 overlapping DEGs (160 upregulated and 339 downregulated genes) were identified in the microarray datasets. DEGs were mainly associated with pathways in cancer, focal adhesion, and protein digestion and absorption. There were nine hub genes (CDKN3, MKI67, CEP55, SPAG5, AURKA, TOP2A, UBE2C, CHEK1 and BIRC5) identified by PPI and module analysis. In GEPIA database, the expression levels of these genes in lung cancer tissues were significantly upregulated compared with normal lung tissues. The results of prognostic analysis showed that relatively higher expression of hub genes was associated with poor prognosis of lung cancer. In HPA database, most hub genes were highly expressed in lung cancer tissues. The hub genes have good diagnostic efficiency in lung cancer and normal tissues. The expression of any hub gene was associated with the infiltration of at least two immune cells. qRT-PCR confirmed that the expression level of CDKN3, MKI67, CEP55, SPAG5, AURKA, TOP2A were highly expressed in lung cancer tissues. CONCLUSIONS The hub genes and functional pathways identified in this study may contribute to understand the molecular mechanisms of lung cancer. Our findings may provide new therapeutic targets for lung cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, China
| | - Chunfeng Liao
- Department of Cardiology, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, China
| | - Yuling Tang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, China
| | - Mengzhen Li
- MyGene Diagnostics Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhouyu Wang
- MyGene Diagnostics Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi Wu
- Department of Emergency, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
miR-126 in Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Hepatoblastoma Cells Promotes the Tumorigenesis of Hepatoblastoma through Inducing the Differentiation of BMSCs into Cancer Stem Cells. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:6744715. [PMID: 34746322 PMCID: PMC8570887 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6744715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can deliver miRNAs between cells and play a crucial role in hepatoblastoma progression. In this study, we explored the differentially expressed miRNAs related to tumor cell-derived EVs and the mechanism by which EVs regulate hepatoblastoma progression. Methods Bioinformatics analysis was performed to explore the differentially expressed miRNAs between the hepatoblastoma and adjacent normal tissues. TEM, NTA, and western blotting were conducted to identify EVs. The expression of miR-126-3p, miR-126-5p, miR-30b-3p, miR-30b-3p, SRY, IL-1α, IL-6, and TGF-β was detected by RT-qPCR. Immunofluorescence (IF) was used to analyze the expression of PKH67, and flow cytometry was applied to assess the ratio of CD44+ CD90+ CD133+ cells. ELISA was used to evaluate the levels of IL-6 and TGF-β. A xenograft mouse model was constructed to detect the function of EVs with downregulated miR-126. IHC was performed to calculate β-catenin levels in tumor tissues. Results miR-126 was upregulated in hepatoblastoma. EVs derived from hepatoblastoma cells significantly increased the ratio of CD44+ CD90+ CD133+ cells and increased the expression of IL-6, Oct4, SRY, and TGF-β in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), while EVs with downregulated miR-126 reversed these phenomena. miR-126 downregulation notably attenuated hepatoblastoma tumor growth and decreased the ratio of CD44+ CD90+ CD133+ cells and increased the expression of IL-6, Oct4, SRY, TGF-β, and β-catenin in tumor tissues of mice. Furthermore, EVs with downregulated miR-126 inhibited the differentiation of BMSCs into cancer stem cells. Conclusions Exosomal miR-126 derived from hepatoblastoma cells promoted the tumorigenesis of liver cancer through inducing the differentiation of BMSCs into cancer stem cells.
Collapse
|
9
|
Chen H, Wang W, Xiao C, Xia D, Li F, Liu S. ACY1 regulating PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling in the promotion of non-small cell lung cancer progression. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1378. [PMID: 34733930 PMCID: PMC8506526 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-3127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has a poor prognosis and is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Aminoacylase 1 (ACY1) plays a promoting role in some cancers, but its role in NSCLC is still unclear. Methods Immunohistochemistry, Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blotting assays were used to determine ACY1 expression patterns in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. The clinical significance of ACY1 in NSCLC was evaluated by χ2 test and Kaplan-Meier analysis. MTT, flow cytometry, wound healing, and Transwell assays were performed to assess cell growth, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and tumorigenesis under different treatments. Male athymic BALB/C nude mice were used for xenotransplantation experiments. Results The results showed that ACY1 expression was elevated in NSCLC tissue samples and cells, and high ACY1 expression predicted an advanced clinical process and shorter overall survival in patients with NSCLC. Overexpression of ACY1 significantly increased cell growth, migration, invasion, and tumorigenesis, and reduced cell apoptosis, indicating that ACY1 functions as an oncogene in NSCLC. Moreover, ACY1 decreased phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression, increased its ubiquitination, and activated PI3K/AKT signaling. Overexpression of PTEN diminished the effects of ACY1 upregulation on cell tumorigenesis promotion. Conclusions This study reveals that ACY1 may promote the progression of NSCLC via activating PI3K/AKT signaling in a PTEN-dependent manner. Our study may provide a better understanding of the pathogenesis and development of NSCLC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education (Chongqing University), Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Caizhi Xiao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Dongqin Xia
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Fangfei Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Shaoyong Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Identification of Significant Genes in Lung Cancer of Nonsmoking Women via Bioinformatics Analysis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:5516218. [PMID: 34671675 PMCID: PMC8523254 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5516218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to identify potential key genes, proteins, and associated interaction networks for the development of lung cancer in nonsmoking women through a bioinformatics approach. Methods We used the GSE19804 dataset, which includes 60 lung cancer and corresponding paracancerous tissue samples from nonsmoking women, to perform the work. The GSE19804 microarray was downloaded from the GEO database and differentially expressed genes were identified using the limma package analysis in R software, with the screening criteria of p value < 0.01 and ∣log2 fold change (FC) | >2. Results A total of 169 DEGs including 130 upregulated genes and 39 downregulated were selected. Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway analysis were performed using the DAVID website, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed and the hub gene module was screened through STING and Cytoscape. Conclusions We obtained five key genes such as GREM1, MMP11, SPP1, FOSB, and IL33 which were strongly associated with lung cancer in nonsmoking women, which improved understanding and could serve as new therapeutic targets, but their functionality needs further experimental verification.
Collapse
|
11
|
Liu L, Xu K, Zhou Y. Development of a novel embryonic germline gene-related prognostic model of lung adenocarcinoma. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12257. [PMID: 34721973 PMCID: PMC8542372 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12257] [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: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence implicates the correlation of embryonic germline genes with the tumor progress and patient's outcome. However, the prognostic value of these genes in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) has not been fully studied. Here we systematically evaluated this issue, and constructed a novel signature and a nomogram associated with embryonic germline genes for predicting the outcomes of lung adenocarcinoma. METHODS The LUAD cohorts retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were used as training set and testing set, respectively. The embryonic germline genes were downloaded from the website https://venn.lodder.dev. Then, the differentially expressed embryonic germline genes (DEGGs) between the tumor and normal samples were identified by limma package. The functional enrichment and pathway analyses were also performed by clusterProfiler package. The prognostic model was constructed by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)-Cox regression method. Survival and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analyses were performed to validate the model using training set and four testing GEO datasets. Finally, a prognostic nomogram based on the signature genes was constructed using multivariate regression method. RESULTS Among the identified 269 DEGGs, 249 were up-regulated and 20 were down-regulated. GO and KEGG analyses revealed that these DEGGs were mainly enriched in the process of cell proliferation and DNA damage repair. Then, 103 DEGGs with prognostic value were identified by univariate Cox regression and further filtered by LASSO method. The resulting sixteen DEGGs were included in step multivariate Cox regression and an eleven embryonic germline gene related signature (EGRS) was constructed. The model could robustly stratify the LUAD patients into high-risk and low-risk groups in both training and testing sets, and low-risk patients had much better outcomes. The multi-ROC analysis also showed that the EGRS model had the best predictive efficacy compared with other common clinicopathological factors. The EGRS model also showed robust predictive ability in four independent external datasets, and the area under curve (AUC) was 0.726 (GSE30219), 0.764 (GSE50081), 0.657 (GSE37745) and 0.668 (GSE72094). More importantly, the expression level of some genes in EGRS has a significant correlation with the progression of LUAD clinicopathology, suggesting these genes might play an important role in the progression of LUAD. Finally, based on EGRS genes, we built and calibrated a nomogram for conveniently evaluating patients' outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linjun Liu
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science & Chemistry, Beijing University of Technology, Chaoyang, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Xu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Biosafety, China CDC, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Yubai Zhou
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science & Chemistry, Beijing University of Technology, Chaoyang, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Liu LJ, Liao JM, Zhu F. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen clamp associated factor, a potential proto-oncogene with increased expression in malignant gastrointestinal tumors. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 13:1425-1439. [PMID: 34721775 PMCID: PMC8529917 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v13.i10.1425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, including malignancies in the gastrointestinal tract and accessory organs of digestion, represent the leading cause of death worldwide due to the poor prognosis of most GI cancers. An investigation into the potential molecular targets of prediction, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy in GI cancers is urgently required. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) clamp associated factor (PCLAF), which plays an essential role in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle regulation by binding to PCNA, is a potential molecular target of GI cancers as it contributes to a series of malignant properties, including tumorigenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, and invasion. Furthermore, PCLAF is an underlying plasma prediction target in colorectal cancer and liver cancer. In addition to GI cancers, PCLAF is also involved in other types of cancers and autoimmune diseases. Several pivotal pathways, including the Rb/E2F pathway, NF-κB pathway, and p53-p21 cascade, are implicated in PCLAF-mediated diseases. PCLAF also contributes to some diseases through dysregulation of the p53 pathway, WNT signal pathway, MEK/ERK pathway, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signal cascade. This review mainly describes in detail the role of PCLAF in physiological status and GI cancers. The signaling pathways involved in PCLAF are also summarized. Suppression of the interaction of PCLAF/PCNA or the expression of PCLAF might be potential biological therapeutic strategies for GI cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Juan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jian-Ming Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, Hubei Province, China
| | - Fan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| |
Collapse
|