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Wang X, Feng JK, Mao FF, Hou YC, Zhang YQ, Liu LH, Wei Q, Sun JX, Liu C, Shi J, Cheng SQ. Prognostic and Immunotherapeutic Predictive Value of CAD Gene in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Integrated Bioinformatics and Experimental Analysis. Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01125-6. [PMID: 38683442 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01125-6] [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: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common type of cancer that ranks first in cancer-associated death worldwide. Carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase 2, aspartate transcarbamylase, and dihydroorotase (CAD) are the key components of the pyrimidine pathway, which promotes cancer development. However, the function of CAD in HCC needs to be clarified. In this study, the clinical and transcriptome data of 424 TCGA-derived HCC cases were analyzed. The results demonstrated that high CAD expression was associated with poor prognosis in HCC patients. The effect of CAD on HCC was then investigated comprehensively using GO annotation analysis, KEGG enrichment analysis, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), and CIBERSORT algorithm. The results showed that CAD expression was correlated with immune checkpoint inhibitors and immune cell infiltration. In addition, low CAD levels in HCC patients predicted increased sensitivity to anti-CTLA4 and PD1, while HCC patients with high CAD expression exhibited high sensitivity to chemotherapeutic and molecular-targeted agents, including gemcitabine, paclitaxel, and sorafenib. Finally, the results from clinical sample suggested that CAD expression increased remarkably in HCC compared with non-cancerous tissues. Loss of function experiments demonstrated that CAD knockdown could significantly inhibit HCC cell growth and migration both in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, the results indicated that CAD is a potential oncogene during HCC metastasis and progression. Therefore, CAD is recommended as a candidate marker and target for HCC prediction and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Wang
- Cancer Center, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 110 Ganhe Road, Shanghai, 200437, China
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 225 Changhai Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jin-Kai Feng
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 225 Changhai Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Fei-Fei Mao
- Tongji University Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Chao Hou
- Cancer Center, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 110 Ganhe Road, Shanghai, 200437, China
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 225 Changhai Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yu-Qing Zhang
- Cancer Center, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 110 Ganhe Road, Shanghai, 200437, China
| | - Li-Heng Liu
- Cancer Center, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 110 Ganhe Road, Shanghai, 200437, China
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 225 Changhai Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Qian Wei
- The First Clinical Medicine School, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ju-Xian Sun
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 225 Changhai Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 225 Changhai Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 225 Changhai Road, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Shu-Qun Cheng
- Cancer Center, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 110 Ganhe Road, Shanghai, 200437, China.
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 225 Changhai Road, Shanghai, 200433, China.
- Tongji University Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
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Liu Y, Li G, Ning J, Zhao Y. Unveiling the experimental proof of the anticancer potential of ginsenoside Rg3 (Review). Oncol Lett 2024; 27:182. [PMID: 38476209 PMCID: PMC10928969 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14315] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Ginsenoside Rg3 (GS-Rg3), a sterol molecule isolated from ginseng, has demonstrated various immunological properties, including inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and metastasis, reversal of drug resistance and enhancement of chemotherapy sensitivity. The recent surge in attention towards GS-Rg3 can be attributed to its potential as an antitumor angiogenesis agent and as a therapeutic candidate for immunotherapy. The development of GS-Rg3 as an agent for these purposes has accelerated research on its mechanisms of action. The present review summarizes recent studies investigating the antitumor activity of GS-Rg3 and its underlying mechanisms, as well as providing essential information for future studies on GS-Rg3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongmin Liu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116011, P.R. China
| | - Guanchu Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116011, P.R. China
| | - Jinyue Ning
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116011, P.R. China
| | - Yi Zhao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116011, P.R. China
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Lee CE, Raduka A, Gao N, Hussain A, Rezaee F. 8-Bromo-cAMP attenuates human airway epithelial barrier disruption caused by titanium dioxide fine and nanoparticles. Tissue Barriers 2024:2300579. [PMID: 38166590 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2023.2300579] [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: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Titanium dioxide fine particles (TiO2-FPs) and nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) are the most widely used whitening pigments worldwide. Inhalation of TiO2-FPs and TiO2-NPs can be harmful as it triggers toxicity in the airway epithelial cells. The airway epithelium serves as the respiratory system's first line of defense in which airway epithelial cells are significant targets of inhaled pathogens and environmental particles. Our group previously found that TiO2-NPs lead to a disrupted barrier in the polarized airway epithelial cells. However, the effect of TiO2-FPs on the respiratory epithelial barrier has not been examined closely. In this study, we aimed to compare the effects of TiO2-FPs and TiO2-NPs on the structure and function of the airway epithelial barrier. Additionally, we hypothesized that 8-Bromo-cAMP, a cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) derivative, would alleviate the disruptive effects of both TiO2-FPs and TiO2-NPs. We observed increased epithelial membrane permeability in both TiO2-FPs and TiO2-NPs after exposure to 16HBE cells. Immunofluorescent labeling showed that both particle sizes disrupted the structural integrity of airway epithelial tight junctions and adherens junctions. TiO2-FPs had a slightly more, but insignificant impact on the epithelial barrier disruption than TiO2-NPs. Treatment with 8-Bromo-cAMP significantly attenuated the barrier-disrupting impact of both TiO2-FPs and TiO2-NPs on cell monolayers. Our study demonstrates that both TiO2-FPs and TiO2-NPs cause comparable barrier disruption and suggests a protective role for cAMP signaling. The observed effects of TiO2-FPs and TiO2-NPs provide a necessary understanding for characterizing the pathways involved in the defensive role of the cAMP pathway on TiO2-induced airway barrier disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire E Lee
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Cognitive Science, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andjela Raduka
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Nannan Gao
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Aabid Hussain
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Fariba Rezaee
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Center for Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Children's, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Sobol NT, Solerno LM, Llavona C, Alonso DF, Garona J. Vasopressin Analog [V 4Q 5]dDAVP Exerts Cooperative Anticancer Effects in Combination With Low-Dose 5-Fluorouracil on Aggressive Colorectal Cancer Models. World J Oncol 2023; 14:540-550. [PMID: 38022396 PMCID: PMC10681791 DOI: 10.14740/wjon1715] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. Despite being an essential component of systemic chemotherapy for advanced CRC, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) clinical use has severe limitations, such as high toxicity, low selectivity and drug resistance. [V4Q5]dDAVP (1-deamino-4-valine-5-glutamine-8-D-arginine vasopressin) is a peptide vasopressin analog and a selective agonist of the arginine vasopressin type 2 membrane receptor (AVPR2), expressed in microvascular and tumor tissue. This synthetic compound has well-proven antitumor and antimetastatic activity in different tumor types, including metastatic CRC. The objective of this work was to assess the potential combinational benefits in preclinical CRC models after [V4Q5]dDAVP addition to 5-FU. Methods Effects on cellular viability, cell cycle progression, apoptosis and molecular mechanisms associated to [V4Q5]dDAVP treatment in combination with 5-FU were evaluated in murine CT-26 and human COLO-205 cell lines. In vivo, impact of dual therapy was explored on CRC tumor growth and metastatic spread. Results In CRC cells, [V4Q5]dDAVP (1 µM) addition to sub-IC50 5-FU concentrations resulted in the enhancement of cytostatic effects induced by chemotherapy. Reduction of cell viability after combined treatment was associated with cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase, induction of apoptosis and increased gene expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 (CDKN1A) and the tumor suppressor p53 (TP53) in malignant cells, as assessed by flow cytometry, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate (dUTP) nick end labeling (TUNEL), and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), respectively. In vivo, intravenous administration of [V4Q5]dDAVP (0.3 µg/kg) in combination with safe low doses of 5-FU (50 or 80 mg/kg for CT-26 or COLO-205 tumor models, respectively) effectively abrogated CRC growth, reducing aggressiveness of primary lesions and increasing survival of tumor-bearing mice. In addition, concomitant administration of [V4Q5]dDAVP and 5-FU inhibited pulmonary metastasis formation by CT-26 cells in immunocompetent mice, especially reducing macrometastatic disease. Conclusions [V4Q5]dDAVP seems to enhance the efficacy of 5-FU-based chemotherapy in CRC by modulating tumor progression, as well as metastatic dissemination, suggesting its potential role as a safe and cost-effective co-adjuvant agent for the management of advanced CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha T. Sobol
- Center of Molecular and Translational Oncology (COMTra), Unit of Translational Oncology, Science and Technology Department, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Center of Translational Medicine, Unit of Biomedical Cancer Research (IBioCAN), Laboratory N° 6, El Cruce “Nestor Kirchner” Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- These authors contributed equally to the study
| | - Luisina M. Solerno
- Center of Molecular and Translational Oncology (COMTra), Unit of Translational Oncology, Science and Technology Department, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Center of Translational Medicine, Unit of Biomedical Cancer Research (IBioCAN), Laboratory N° 6, El Cruce “Nestor Kirchner” Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- These authors contributed equally to the study
| | - Candela Llavona
- Center of Molecular and Translational Oncology (COMTra), Unit of Translational Oncology, Science and Technology Department, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Center of Translational Medicine, Unit of Biomedical Cancer Research (IBioCAN), Laboratory N° 6, El Cruce “Nestor Kirchner” Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel F. Alonso
- Center of Molecular and Translational Oncology (COMTra), Unit of Translational Oncology, Science and Technology Department, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Center of Translational Medicine, Unit of Biomedical Cancer Research (IBioCAN), Laboratory N° 6, El Cruce “Nestor Kirchner” Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Garona
- Center of Molecular and Translational Oncology (COMTra), Unit of Translational Oncology, Science and Technology Department, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Center of Translational Medicine, Unit of Biomedical Cancer Research (IBioCAN), Laboratory N° 6, El Cruce “Nestor Kirchner” Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Liang C, Jiang Y, Sun L. Vitexin suppresses the proliferation, angiogenesis and stemness of endometrial cancer through the PI3K/AKT pathway. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2023; 61:581-589. [PMID: 36994813 PMCID: PMC10064825 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2023.2190774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Endometrial cancer is a common gynecologic malignancy. Vitexin is an active flavonoid compound with an antitumor function. OBJECTIVE This study elucidated the role of vitexin in endometrial cancer development and clarified the potential mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS The toxicity of vitexin (0-80 μM) treatment for 24 h on HEC-1B and Ishikawa cells was tested utilizing the CCK-8 assay. Endometrial cancer cells were divided into vitexin 0, 5, 10, and 20 μM groups. Cell proliferation, angiogenesis and stemness in vitro after treatment with vitexin (0, 5, 10, 20 μM) for 24 h were evaluated using the EdU staining assay, tube formation assay and sphere formation assay, respectively. Twelve BALB/c mice were grouped into control and vitexin (80 mg/kg) groups to monitor tumour growth for 30 days. RESULTS Vitexin suppressed cell viability of HEC-1B (IC50 = 9.89 μM) and Ishikawa (IC50 = 12.35 μM) cells. The proliferation (55.3% and 80% for HEC-1B; 44.7% and 75% for Ishikawa), angiogenesis (54.3% and 78.4% for HEC-1B; 47.1% and 68.2% for Ishikawa) and stemness capacity (57.2% and 87.3% for HEC-1B; 53.4% and 78.4% for Ishikawa) of endometrial cancer cells were inhibited by 10 and 20 μM vitexin. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of vitexin on endometrial cancer were reversed by PI3K/AKT agonist 740Y-P (20 μM). Moreover, the xenograft tumour experiment lasting for 30 days proved that vitexin (80 mg/kg) blocked tumour growth of endometrial cancer in vivo. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Vitexin has therapeutic potential on endometrial cancer, which supports further clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuixia Liang
- Department of Gynecology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Yongjie Jiang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Zheng Zhou Big Bridge Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lizhu Sun
- Department of Oncology, Shuyang Hospital, The Affiliated Shuyang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, China
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Chen K, Zhang X, Peng H, Huang F, Sun G, Xu Q, Liao L, Xing Z, Zhong Y, Fang Z, Liao M, Luo S, Chen W, Dong M. Exploring the diagnostic value, prognostic value, and biological functions of NPC gene family members in hepatocellular carcinoma based on a multi-omics analysis. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:264. [PMID: 37541978 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01195-w] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Liver cancer is a cunning malignancy with a high incidence and mortality rate among cancers worldwide. The NPC gene family members (NPCs: NPC1, NPC2, and NPC1L1) are closely linked to the development of multiple cancers, but their role in liver cancer remains unclear. As a result, we must investigate their functions in liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC). NPCs were significantly differentially expressed between normal and LIHC tissues, with a high mutation frequency in LIHC. The ROC curve analysis revealed that NPC1/NPC2 had high diagnostic and prognostic values in LIHC. NPC1 expression was also found to be negatively correlated with its methylation level. The differentially expressed genes between high and low NPC1 expression groups in LIHC were mainly related to channel activity, transporter complexes, and plasma membrane adhesion molecules. Additionally, NPC1 expression was significantly associated with multiple immune cells and immunization checkpoints. It was hypothesized that a TUG1/SNHG4-miR-148a-3p-NPC1 regulatory axis is associated with hepatocarcinogenesis. Finally, the protein expression of NPC1 in LIHC tissues and paraneoplastic tissues was detected, and NPC1-knockdown HepG2 cells (NPC1KO) inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion. This study helped to identify new prognostic markers and potential immunotherapeutic targets for LIHC and revealed the molecular mechanisms underlying NPC1 regulation in LIHC. The NPCs play a key role in the prognosis and diagnosis of LIHC and may be an important indicator for LIHC prognosis and diagnosis; NPC1 might be a potential therapeutic target in LIHC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keheng Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
- Modern Industrial College of Biomedicine and Great Health, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Modern Industrial College of Biomedicine and Great Health, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Huixin Peng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
- Center for Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Research, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Fengdie Huang
- Modern Industrial College of Biomedicine and Great Health, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Guangyu Sun
- Chaozhou People's Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Chaozhou, China
| | - Qijiang Xu
- Modern Industrial College of Biomedicine and Great Health, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Lusheng Liao
- Modern Industrial College of Biomedicine and Great Health, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zhiyong Xing
- Modern Industrial College of Biomedicine and Great Health, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Yanping Zhong
- Modern Industrial College of Biomedicine and Great Health, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zhichao Fang
- Modern Industrial College of Biomedicine and Great Health, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Meihua Liao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Shihua Luo
- Center for Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Research, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, PR China.
| | - Wencheng Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China.
- Center for Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Research, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, PR China.
| | - Mingyou Dong
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China.
- Modern Industrial College of Biomedicine and Great Health, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China.
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Ahmed MB, Alghamdi AAA, Islam SU, Lee JS, Lee YS. cAMP Signaling in Cancer: A PKA-CREB and EPAC-Centric Approach. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132020. [PMID: 35805104 PMCID: PMC9266045 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most common causes of death globally. Despite extensive research and considerable advances in cancer therapy, the fundamentals of the disease remain unclear. Understanding the key signaling mechanisms that cause cancer cell malignancy may help to uncover new pharmaco-targets. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) regulates various biological functions, including those in malignant cells. Understanding intracellular second messenger pathways is crucial for identifying downstream proteins involved in cancer growth and development. cAMP regulates cell signaling and a variety of physiological and pathological activities. There may be an impact on gene transcription from protein kinase A (PKA) as well as its downstream effectors, such as cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). The position of CREB downstream of numerous growth signaling pathways implies its oncogenic potential in tumor cells. Tumor growth is associated with increased CREB expression and activation. PKA can be used as both an onco-drug target and a biomarker to find, identify, and stage tumors. Exploring cAMP effectors and their downstream pathways in cancer has become easier using exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (EPAC) modulators. This signaling system may inhibit or accelerate tumor growth depending on the tumor and its environment. As cAMP and its effectors are critical for cancer development, targeting them may be a useful cancer treatment strategy. Moreover, by reviewing the material from a distinct viewpoint, this review aims to give a knowledge of the impact of the cAMP signaling pathway and the related effectors on cancer incidence and development. These innovative insights seek to encourage the development of novel treatment techniques and new approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Bilal Ahmed
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; (M.B.A.); (J.-S.L.)
| | | | - Salman Ul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Cecos University, Peshawar, Street 1, Sector F 5 Phase 6 Hayatabad, Peshawar 25000, Pakistan;
| | - Joon-Seok Lee
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; (M.B.A.); (J.-S.L.)
| | - Young-Sup Lee
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; (M.B.A.); (J.-S.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-53-950-6353; Fax: +82-53-943-2762
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Kamo H, Kawahara R, Simizu S. Tyrosinase suppresses vasculogenic mimicry in human melanoma cells. Oncol Lett 2022; 23:169. [PMID: 35496574 PMCID: PMC9019664 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Kamo
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, Kanagawa 223‑8522, Japan
| | - Ryota Kawahara
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, Kanagawa 223‑8522, Japan
| | - Siro Simizu
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, Kanagawa 223‑8522, Japan
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9
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Zhang B, Hu Q, Zhang J, Jin Z, Ruan Y, Xia L, Wang C. Silencing of A-kinase anchor protein 4 inhibits the metastasis and growth of non-small cell lung cancer. Bioengineered 2022; 13:6895-6907. [PMID: 35253625 PMCID: PMC8974088 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1977105] [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] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most malignant tumors. The treatment of advanced NSCLC can be challenging due to drug resistance. The discovery of novel cancer-testis antigens to develop new strategies for advanced metastatic NSCLC is required. AKAP4 is an oncogene discovered in some malignant tumors, and its molecular function of AKAP4 in NSCLC is unknown. This study aimed to explore the potential function of AKAP4 in the development and progression of NSCLC. AKAP-4 was found to be significantly upregulated in both clinical NSCLC tissues and NSCLC cell lines. Cell viability and migration were suppressed, apoptosis was induced, and tube formation was inhibited by the knockdown of AKAP-4, accompanied by the downregulation of VEGF, N-cadherin, EphA2, and MMP-2, and upregulation of c-AMP, PKA, and E-cadherin. In vivo xenograft experiments revealed that tumor growth was inhibited by the knockdown of AKAP4, accompanied by the activation of c-AMP/PKA signaling and inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition progression. Our results show that AKAP4 might be an important target for treating NSCLC because of its function in promoting the migration and proliferation of NSCLC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai Zhejiang Province China
| | - Quanteng Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai Zhejiang Province China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai Zhejiang Province China
| | - Zixian Jin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai Zhejiang Province China
| | - Yuhang Ruan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai Zhejiang Province China
| | - Lilong Xia
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhejiang Hospital , No.1229 Gudun Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou Zhejiang province, 310000,China
| | - Chunguo Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai Zhejiang Province China
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Yan J, Xu W, Lenahan C, Huang L, Wen J, Li G, Hu X, Zheng W, Zhang JH, Tang J. CCR5 Activation Promotes NLRP1-Dependent Neuronal Pyroptosis via CCR5/PKA/CREB Pathway After Intracerebral Hemorrhage. Stroke 2021; 52:4021-4032. [PMID: 34719258 PMCID: PMC8607924 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.120.033285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Neuronal pyroptosis is a type of regulated cell death triggered by proinflammatory signals. CCR5 (C-C chemokine receptor 5)-mediated inflammation is involved in the pathology of various neurological diseases. This study investigated the impact of CCR5 activation on neuronal pyroptosis and the underlying mechanism involving cAMP-dependent PKA (protein kinase A)/CREB (cAMP response element binding)/NLRP1 (nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat pyrin domain containing 1) pathway after experimental intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). METHODS A total of 194 adult male CD1 mice were used. ICH was induced by autologous whole blood injection. Maraviroc (MVC)-a selective antagonist of CCR5-was administered intranasally 1 hour after ICH. To elucidate the underlying mechanism, a specific CREB inhibitor, 666-15, was administered intracerebroventricularly before MVC administration in ICH mice. In a set of naive mice, rCCL5 (recombinant chemokine ligand 5) and selective PKA activator, 8-Bromo-cAMP, were administered intracerebroventricularly. Short- and long-term neurobehavioral assessments, Western blot, Fluoro-Jade C, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), and immunofluorescence staining were performed. RESULTS The brain expression of CCL5 (chemokine ligand 5), CCR5, PKA-Cα (protein kinase A-Cα), p-CREB (phospho-cAMP response element binding), and NLRP1 was increased, peaking at 24 hours after ICH. CCR5 was expressed on neurons, microglia, and astrocytes. MVC improved the short- and long-term neurobehavioral deficits and decreased neuronal pyroptosis in ipsilateral brain tissues at 24 hours after ICH, which were accompanied by increased PKA-Cα and p-CREB expression, and decreased expression of NLRP1, ASC (apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD), C-caspase-1, GSDMD (gasdermin D), and IL (interleukin)-1β/IL-18. Such effects of MVC were abolished by 666-15. At 24 hours after injection in naive mice, rCCL5 induced neurological deficits, decreased PKA-Cα and p-CREB expression in the brain, and upregulated NLRP1, ASC, C-caspase-1, N-GSDMD, and IL-1β/IL-18 expression. Those effects of rCCL5 were reversed by 8-Bromo-cAMP. CONCLUSIONS CCR5 activation promoted neuronal pyroptosis and neurological deficits after ICH in mice, partially through the CCR5/PKA/CREB/NLRP1 signaling pathway. CCR5 inhibition with MVC may provide a promising therapeutic approach in managing patients with ICH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China (J.Y.)
| | - Weilin Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China (W.X.)
| | - Cameron Lenahan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, Las Cruces, NM (C.L.)
| | - Lei Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery (L.H., J.H.Z.), Loma Linda University, CA
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (L.H., J.H.Z., J.T.), Loma Linda University, CA
| | - Jing Wen
- Department of Rheumatism, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China (J.W.)
| | - Gaigai Li
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical college, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (G.L.)
| | - Xin Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China (X.H.)
| | - Wen Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China (W.Z.)
| | - John H. Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery (L.H., J.H.Z.), Loma Linda University, CA
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (L.H., J.H.Z., J.T.), Loma Linda University, CA
- Department of Anesthesiology (J.H.Z.), Loma Linda University, CA
| | - Jiping Tang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (L.H., J.H.Z., J.T.), Loma Linda University, CA
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11
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Tan S, Gui W, Wang S, Sun C, Xu X, Liu L. A methylation-based prognostic model predicts survival in patients with colorectal cancer. J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 12:1590-1600. [PMID: 34532113 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-21-376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To construct a model that could effectively predict the prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) by searching for methylated-differentially expressed genes (MDEGs). Methods We identified MDEGs through four databases from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and annotated their functions via bioinformatics analysis. Subsequently, after adjusting for gender, age, and grading, multivariate Cox hazard analysis was utilized to select MDEGs interrelated with the prognosis of CRC, and LASSO analysis was utilized to fit the prediction model in the training set. Furthermore, another independent dataset was harnessed to verify the effectiveness of the model in predicting prognosis. Results In total, 252 hypomethylated and up-regulated genes and 132 hypermethylated and down-regulated genes were identified, 27 of which were correlated with the prognosis of CRC, and a 10-gene prognostic model was established after LASSO analysis. The overall survival rate could be effectively grouped into different risks by the median score of this model in the training set [risk ratio (HR) =2.27, confidence interval (95% CI), 1.69-3.13, P=8.15×10-8], and the validity of its effect in predicting prognosis in CRC was verified in the validation dataset (HR =1.75, 95% CI, 1.15-2.70, P=9.32×10-3). Conclusions Our model could effectively predict the overall survival rate of patients with CRC and provides potential application guidelines for its clinically personalized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanyue Tan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weiwei Gui
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sumeng Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chongqi Sun
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xian Xu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingxiang Liu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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12
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Wang G, Wang Y, Yang X, Zhang Y, Lu Y, Li Y. The expression and diagnostic value of serum levels of EphA2 and VEGF-A in patients with colorectal cancer. Cancer Biomark 2021; 31:399-408. [PMID: 34092605 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-201745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several molecules are highly expressed in the serum of cancer patients, and can be used as serological markers. This approach has become one of the important auxiliary diagnostic methods for cancer. AIM To investigate the correlation between the serum levels of EphA2 and VEGF-A and the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC) as well as the potential value of these molecules in the diagnosis of CRC. METHODS ELISA was used to detect the levels of EphA2 and VEGF-A in the peripheral venous serum of 106 newly diagnosed patients with CRC and 69 normal controls. The relationship between the serum EphA2 and VEGF-A levels and the clinicopathological characteristics of CRC patients was analyzed. ROC analysis was used to investigate the diagnostic value of the serum EphA2 and VEGF-A levels in CRC, and the optimal cutoff value was calculated. RESULTS The serum levels of EphA2 and VEGF-A in the CRC group were higher than those in the control as well as CEA, the serum level of EphA2 was positively correlated with the VEGF-A levels, but neither was significantly associated with the clinicopathological parameters of CRC. The ROC curve showed that the single index AUC was < 0.7 except for VEGF-A, and the accuracy of the combined diagnosis was higher than that of any other single index. The diagnosis scheme involving all three markers was the best (the sensitivity was 60.40%, the specificity was 92.8%, and the accuracy was 53.1%). The best critical values calculated were EphA2 > 297.92 ng/ml, EphA2 > 183.92 pg/ml and CEA > 5.19 ng/ml. CONCLUSION The serum levels of EphA2 and VEGF-A are high in CRC patients, and the combine detection of CEA, EphA2 and VEGF-A can significantly improve the diagnostic accuracy of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganbiao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Department of General Surgery, Guzhen County Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guzhen, Bengbu, Anhui, China.,Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yigao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaodong Yang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yaqin Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yida Lu
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yongxiang Li
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
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13
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Wu M, Sun X, Wang T, Zhang M, Li P. TRPS1 knockdown inhibits angiogenic vascular mimicry in human triple negative breast cancer cells. Clin Transl Oncol 2021; 24:145-153. [PMID: 34216368 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-021-02676-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Vascular mimicry (VM) tubules are lumen structures comprised of malignant tumor cells without the participation of endothelial cells. VM simulates blood vessel function in tumors to deliver a sufficient blood supply for proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of malignant tumors, thereby reducing the clinical effects of anti-angiogenic treatments. The elimination or prevention of malignant tumor VM development therefore represents an urgent research goal as a therapeutic strategy to and cut off nutrients required for tumor growth. The GATA transcription factor TRPS1 is abnormally up-regulated in breast cancer, osteosarcoma, prostate cancer, and other tumor tissues, and is instrumental in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue growth and development. METHODS Here, we explored the effects of TRPS1 knockdown on VM and the proteins underlying its development in triple-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. RESULTS We found that TRPS1 knockdown resulted in obvious inhibition of VM development. Fluorescence microscopy of F-actin and tubulin revealed that loss of TRPS1 function resulted in disruption of cytoskeleton and microtubule formation, respectively. In addition, TRPS1-suppressed cells exhibited reduced accumulation of VM-associated proteins EphA2, MMP-2, MMP-9, VEGF, and VE-cadherin. Moreover, it is interesting to know that the capacity for migration and invasion were limited in MDA-MB-231cells after TRPS1 knockdown and that the average number of VM tubules, their length, and number of intersections were also significantly decreased. CONCLUSIONS Based on our results, and in light of previous studies, we thus proposed that TRPS1 suppression negatively affects vascular mimicry possibly through reduced TRPS1-mediated transcriptional regulation of VM-related protein VEGF-A.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Wu
- Chinese Integrative Medicine Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 120 Wanshui Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - X Sun
- Chinese Integrative Medicine Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 120 Wanshui Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - T Wang
- Chinese Integrative Medicine Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 120 Wanshui Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - M Zhang
- Chinese Integrative Medicine Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 120 Wanshui Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - P Li
- Chinese Integrative Medicine Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 120 Wanshui Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China.
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14
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Wang Z, Gu J, Yan A, Li K. Downregulation of circ-RANBP9 in laryngeal cancer and its clinical significance. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:484. [PMID: 33850881 PMCID: PMC8039645 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Laryngeal cancer (LC) is a common malignant tumor of the head and neck. As circular RNAs (circRNAs) and other non-coding RNAs are involved in various malignant processes, we analyzed circRNAs to better understand LC and explored specific tumor markers. Methods High-throughput sequence was performed to analyze the differential circular RNAs in four coupled laryngeal cancers and para-cancerous tissues. The differential expression of selected circ-RANBP9 in laryngeal cancer tissues and cells was verified by RT-qPCR assay. CCK8, EDU, Transwell and wound healing assays were used to confirm the biological function of circ-RANBP9 in laryngeal cancer. Western blot assay was performed to identify the effects of circ-RANBP9 having on the epithelial to mesenchymal transition process. One-way AN0VA was used to analyze the correlation between the expression of circ-RANBP9 and clinicopathological parameters of the included patients. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to investigate whether the expression level of circ-RANBP9 correlated with survival in LC patients. Bioinformatic analyses were also conducted to predict the functions and possible signaling pathways of the targeted mRNAs of circ-RANBP9 via co-expression and competing endogenous RNA network. Results We found a transcript from RNA sequence data, termed hsa_circ_0001578, which is a circRNA spliced from RANBP9. Circ-RANBP9 was downregulated in the LC cell lines tissues, relating to a better prognosis. Circ-RANBP9 was found to inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of LC, exerting a suppressive role in the epithelial to mesenchymal transition process as well. For the diagnostic value of circ-RANBP9, the sensitivity and the specificity were 0.979 and 0.553, respectively. Circ-RANBP9 downregulation was significantly correlated with differentiation (P=0.031), T-stage (P=0.018), lymphatic metastasis (P=0.046), and clinical stage (P=0.003). Circ-RANBP9 was involved in insulin-like growth factor receptor binding, cell polarity, focal adhesion, and MAPK signaling pathways. CeRNA analysis identified the possible involvement of circ-RANBP9 in the ECM-receptor interaction, cAMP, calcium, and Wnt signaling pathways by harboring miRNA genes. Conclusions Circ-RANBP9 was confirmed to play important roles in inhibiting laryngeal cancers. Circ-RANBP9 was also validated to be associated with the clinicopathological parameters and diagnostic value, suggesting that circ-RANBP9 is a promising biomarker for LC prognosis and early diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jia Gu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Aihui Yan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Surgical Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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15
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Protein kinase A negatively regulates VEGF-induced AMPK activation by phosphorylating CaMKK2 at serine 495. Biochem J 2021; 477:3453-3469. [PMID: 32869834 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20200555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in endothelial cells by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) via the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CaMKK2) represents a pro-angiogenic pathway, whose regulation and function is incompletely understood. This study investigates whether the VEGF/AMPK pathway is regulated by cAMP-mediated signalling. We show that cAMP elevation in endothelial cells by forskolin, an activator of the adenylate cyclase, and/or 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), an inhibitor of phosphodiesterases, triggers protein kinase A (PKA)-mediated phosphorylation of CaMKK2 (serine residues S495, S511) and AMPK (S487). Phosphorylation of CaMKK2 by PKA led to an inhibition of its activity as measured in CaMKK2 immunoprecipitates of forskolin/IBMX-treated cells. This inhibition was linked to phosphorylation of S495, since it was not seen in cells expressing a non-phosphorylatable CaMKK2 S495C mutant. Phosphorylation of S511 alone in these cells was not able to inhibit CaMKK2 activity. Moreover, phosphorylation of AMPK at S487 was not sufficient to inhibit VEGF-induced AMPK activation in cells, in which PKA-mediated CaMKK2 inhibition was prevented by expression of the CaMKK2 S495C mutant. cAMP elevation in endothelial cells reduced basal and VEGF-induced acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) phosphorylation at S79 even if AMPK was not inhibited. Together, this study reveals a novel regulatory mechanism of VEGF-induced AMPK activation by cAMP/PKA, which may explain, in part, inhibitory effects of PKA on angiogenic sprouting and play a role in balancing pro- and anti-angiogenic mechanisms in order to ensure functional angiogenesis.
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16
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Connexins and cAMP Cross-Talk in Cancer Progression and Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 13:cancers13010058. [PMID: 33379194 PMCID: PMC7795795 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Different connexins play diverse roles in cancers, either tumor-suppressing or tumor-promoting. In lung cancer, Cx43 serves as a tumor suppressor at the early stage, but it can also be a tumor-promotor at an advanced stage and during metastasis. Moreover, other connexins, including Cx26, Cx31.1, and Cx32, can be tumor suppressors. In contrast, Cx30.3 can be a tumor-promotor. The roles of different connexins in different cancers have also been established. Cx43 acts as a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and glioma, whereas Cx32 can be a suppressor in liver tumors and hepatocarcinogenesis. Cx26 can be a tumor suppressor in mammary tumors; in contrast, it can be a tumor-promotor in melanoma. Existing drugs/molecules targeting the cAMP/PKA/connexin axis act to regulate channel opening/closing. Mimic peptides, such as Gap19, Gap26, and Gap 27 block hemichannels, mimetic peptides, and CT9/CT10 and promote hemichannel opening and also hemichannel closing. Abstract Connexin-containing gap junctions mediate the direct exchange of small molecules between cells, thus promoting cell–cell communication. Connexins (Cxs) have been widely studied as key tumor-suppressors. However, certain Cx subtypes, such as Cx43 and Cx26, are overexpressed in metastatic tumor lesions. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling regulates Cx expression and function via transcriptional control and phosphorylation. cAMP also passes through gap junction channels between adjacent cells, regulating cell cycle progression, particularly in cancer cell populations. Low levels of cAMP are sufficient to activate key effectors. The present review evaluates the mechanisms underlying Cx regulation by cAMP signaling and the role of gap junctions in cancer progression and metastasis. A deeper understanding of these processes might facilitate the development of novel anticancer drugs.
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17
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Du K, Ren J, Fu Z, Wu X, Zheng J, Li X. ANXA3 is upregulated by hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha and promotes colon cancer growth. Transl Cancer Res 2020; 9:7440-7449. [PMID: 35117344 PMCID: PMC8797770 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-20-994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background Annexin A3 (ANXA3) is overexpressed in various cancers and is a potential target for cancer treatment. However, clinical implication and biological function of ANXA3 in colon cancer remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) and ANXA3, and explore the function of ANXA3 in colon carcinoma. Methods Expression levels of HIF-1α and ANXA3 in human colon carcinoma specimens and colon cancer cell lines were detected by immunohistochemistry, real-time PCR and Western blot analysis. The proliferation of colon cancer cells was examined. Nude mice were used for xenograft tumor model, and HIF-1α siRNA or control adenovirus was injected into the tumor. Results HIF-1α and ANXA3 expression levels were higher in colon cancer tissues than their expression levels in normal colon tissues. In addition, HIF-1α and ANXA3 expression increased in colon cancer cells under hypoxic condition. Knockdown of HIF-1α decreased HIF-1α and ANXA3 expression, and inhibited the proliferation and growth of colon cancer cells. In nude mouse model, silencing HIF-1α decreased volume of xenograft tumor and ANXA3 expression. Conclusions ANXA3 expression is upregulated by HIF-1α in colon cancer in response to hypoxic stress and contributes to colon tumor growth. ANXA3 may represent a new therapeutic target for colon carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunli Du
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiahui Ren
- Department of Anus and Intestine Surgery, Xi'an Mayinglong Anorectal Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhongxue Fu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xingye Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianyong Zheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xing Li
- Nanjing Yuheming Medical Nutrition Research Institute, Nanjing, China
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18
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Fathi Maroufi N, Taefehshokr S, Rashidi MR, Taefehshokr N, Khoshakhlagh M, Isazadeh A, Mokarizadeh N, Baradaran B, Nouri M. Vascular mimicry: changing the therapeutic paradigms in cancer. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:4749-4765. [PMID: 32424524 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05515-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a major problem in the health system, and despite many efforts to effectively treat it, none has yet been fully successful. Angiogenesis and metastasis are considered as major challenges in the treatment of various cancers. Researchers have struggled to succeed with anti-angiogenesis drugs for the effective treatment of cancer, although new challenges have emerged in the treatment with the emergence of resistance to anti-angiogenesis and anti-metastatic drugs. Numerous studies have shown that different cancers can resist anti-angiogenesis drugs in a new process called vascular mimicry (VM). The studies have revealed that cells resistant to anti-angiogenesis cancer therapies are more capable of forming VMs in the in vivo and in vitro environment, although there is a link between the presence of VM and poor clinical outcomes. Given the importance of the VM in the challenges facing cancer treatment, researchers are trying to identify factors that prevent the formation of these structures. In this review article, it is attempted to provide a comprehensive overview of the molecules and main signaling pathways involved in VM phenomena, as well as the agents currently being identified as anti-VM and the role of VM in response to treatment and prognosis of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazila Fathi Maroufi
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sina Taefehshokr
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Rashidi
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nima Taefehshokr
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Center for Human Immunology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Mahdieh Khoshakhlagh
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Isazadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Narmin Mokarizadeh
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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19
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Cui WQ, Wang ST, Pan D, Chang B, Sang LX. Caffeine and its main targets of colorectal cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2020; 12:149-172. [PMID: 32104547 PMCID: PMC7031145 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v12.i2.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Caffeine is a purine alkaloid and is widely consumed in coffee, soda, tea, chocolate and energy drinks. To date, a growing number of studies have indicated that caffeine is associated with many diseases including colorectal cancer. Caffeine exerts its biological activity through binding to adenosine receptors, inhibiting phosphodiesterases, sensitizing calcium channels, antagonizing gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors and stimulating adrenal hormones. Some studies have indicated that caffeine can interact with signaling pathways such as transforming growth factor β, phosphoinositide-3-kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways through which caffeine can play an important role in colorectal cancer pathogenesis, metastasis and prognosis. Moreover, caffeine can act as a general antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress and also as a regulatory factor of the cell cycle that modulates the DNA repair system. Additionally, as for intestinal homeostasis, through the interaction with receptors and cytokines, caffeine can modulate the immune system mediating its effects on T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, natural killer cells and macrophages. Furthermore, caffeine can not only directly inhibit species in the gut microbiome, such as Escherichia coli and Candida albicans but also can indirectly exert inhibition by increasing the effects of other antimicrobial drugs. This review summarizes the association between colorectal cancer and caffeine that is being currently studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Qi Cui
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China
- China Medical University 101K class 87, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Shi-Tong Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Ultrasound, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning Province, China
- China Medical University 101K class 87, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Dan Pan
- Department of Geriatrics, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Bing Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Li-Xuan Sang
- Department of Geriatrics, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning Province, China
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20
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Zhu Y, Liu X, Zhao P, Zhao H, Gao W, Wang L. Celastrol Suppresses Glioma Vasculogenic Mimicry Formation and Angiogenesis by Blocking the PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:25. [PMID: 32116702 PMCID: PMC7025498 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis and vasculogenic mimicry (VM) are thought to be the predominant processes ensuring tumor blood supply during the growth and metastasis of glioblastoma (GBM). Celastrol has potential anti-glioma effects, however the mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclarified. Recent studies have shown that the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway is closely related to angiogenesis and VM formation. In the present study, we have demonstrated, for the first time, that celastrol eliminated VM formation by blocking this signaling pathway in glioma cells. By the treatment of celastrol, tumor growth was suppressed, tight junction and basal lamina structures in tumor microvasculature were disarranged in U87 glioma orthotopic xenografts in nude mice. Periodic acid Schiff (PAS)-CD31 staining revealed that celastrol inhibited both VM and angiogenesis in tumor tissues. Additionally, celastrol reduced the expression levels of the angiogenesis-related proteins CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) 2, angiopoietin (Ang) 2 and VEGFA, VM-related proteins ephrin type-A receptor (EphA) 2, and vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin. Hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α, phosphorylated PI3K, Akt, and mTOR were also downregulated by treatment with celastrol. In vitro, we further demonstrated that celastrol inhibited the growth, migration, and invasion of U87 and U251 cells, disrupted VM formation, and blocked the activity of PI3K, Akt, and mTOR. Collectively, our data suggest that celastrol inhibits VM formation and angiogenesis likely by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjun Zhu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Key Lab of TCM Collateral Disease Theory Research, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xihong Liu
- Basic Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Henan, China
| | - Peiyuan Zhao
- Basic Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Henan, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Key Lab of TCM Collateral Disease Theory Research, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Gao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Key Lab of TCM Collateral Disease Theory Research, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Key Lab of TCM Collateral Disease Theory Research, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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21
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Kong L, Cai FY, Yao XM, Jing M, Fu M, Liu JJ, He SY, Zhang L, Liu XZ, Ju RJ, Li XT. RPV-modified epirubicin and dioscin co-delivery liposomes suppress non-small cell lung cancer growth by limiting nutrition supply. Cancer Sci 2020; 111:621-636. [PMID: 31777993 PMCID: PMC7004549 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy for non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is far from satisfactory, mainly due to poor targeting of antitumor drugs and self‐adaptations of the tumors. Angiogenesis, vasculogenic mimicry (VM) channels, migration, and invasion are the main ways for tumors to obtain nutrition. Herein, RPV‐modified epirubicin and dioscin co‐delivery liposomes were successfully prepared. These liposomes showed ideal physicochemical properties, enhanced tumor targeting and accumulation in tumor sites, and inhibited VM channel formation, tumor angiogenesis, migration and invasion. The liposomes also downregulated VM‐related and angiogenesis‐related proteins in vitro. Furthermore, when tested in vivo, the targeted co‐delivery liposomes increased selective accumulation of drugs in tumor sites and showed extended stability in blood circulation. In conclusion, RPV‐modified epirubicin and dioscin co‐delivery liposomes showed strong antitumor efficacy in vivo and could thus be considered a promising strategy for NSCLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Kong
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Fu-Yi Cai
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Xue-Min Yao
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Ming Jing
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Min Fu
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Jing-Jing Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Si-Yu He
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Xin-Ze Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Rui-Jun Ju
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Tao Li
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
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Wang Q, Feng Y, Peng W, Ji D, Zhang Z, Qian W, Li J, Gu Q, Zhang D, Tang J, Zhang C, Wang S, Fu Z, Sun Y. Long noncoding RNA Linc02023 regulates PTEN stability and suppresses tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer in a PTEN-dependent pathway. Cancer Lett 2019; 451:68-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.02.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Revised: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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23
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The association between autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease and cancer. Int Urol Nephrol 2018; 51:93-100. [DOI: 10.1007/s11255-018-1951-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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