Review on Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Structure, Signaling Pathways, Interactions, and Recent Updates of EGFR Inhibitors

Network pharmacology analysis of the regulatory effects and mechanisms of ALAE on sow reproduction in vivo and in vitro

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Reproductive ability of sows is a primary element influencing the development of pig farming. Herbal extracts of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, Astragalus mongholicus Bunge, Eucommia ulmoides Oliv., and Polypodium glycyrrhiza D.C.Eaton showed effects on improvement of reproduction in sows.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

To investigate the mechanism of the treatment effects by a compound of these four Chinese herbs in a 1:1:1:1 ratio (ALAE) on endometriosis, endometritis, uterine adhesion, intrauterine growth retardation, pre-eclampsia, and its enhancement of reproductive efficiency in sows.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Active components of ALAE were identified by using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis and network pharmacology. Then we used the results to construct a visualization network. Key targets and pathways of ALAE involved in sow reproduction improvement were validated in sow animals and porcine endometrial epithelial cells (PEECs).

RESULTS

A total of 62 active compounds were found in ALAE (41 in Polypodium glycyrrhiza D.C.Eaton, 5 in Astragalus mongholicus Bunge, 11 in Eucommia ulmoides Oliv., 5 in Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels) with 563 disease-related targets (e.g. caspase-3, EGFR, IL-6) involved in EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, PI3K-AKT, and other signaling pathways. Molecular docking results indicated GC41 (glabridin), GC18 (medicarpin), EGFR and CCND1 are possible key components and target proteins related to reproductive improvement in sows. In PEECs, EGFR expression decreased at the mRNA and protein levels by three doses (160, 320, and 640 μg/mL) of ALAE. The phosphorylation of downstream pathway PI3K-AKT1 was enhanced. The expression of inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-1β), ESR1 and caspase-3 decreased through multiple pathways. Additionally, the expression levels of an anti-inflammatory factor (IL-10), angiogenesis-related factors (MMP9, PIGF, PPARγ, IgG), and placental junction-related factors (CTNNB1, occludin, and claudin1) increased. Furthermore, the total born number of piglets, the number of live and healthy litters were significantly increased. The number of stillbirths decreased by ALAE treatment in sow animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Dministration of ALAE significantly increased the total number of piglets born, the numbers of live and healthy litters and decreased the number of stillbirths through improving placental structure, attenuating inflammatory response, modulating placental angiogenesis and growth factor receptors in sows. The improvement of reproductive ability may be related to activation of the EGFR-PI3K-AKT1 pathway in PEECs. Moreover, ALAE maybe involved in modulation of estrogen receptors, apoptotic factors, and cell cycle proteins.

Oxidative stress-mediated protein sulfenylation in human diseases: Past, present, and future

Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) refer to a variety of derivatives of molecular oxygen that play crucial roles in regulating a wide range of physiological and pathological processes. Excessive ROS levels can cause oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage and even cell demise. However, moderately elevated levels of ROS can mediate the oxidative post-translational modifications (oxPTMs) of redox-sensitive proteins, thereby affecting protein functions and regulating various cellular signaling pathways. Among the oxPTMs, ROS-induced reversible protein sulfenylation represents the initial form of cysteine oxidation for sensing redox signaling. In this review, we will summarize the discovery, chemical formation, and detection approaches of protein sulfenylation. In addition, we will highlight recent findings for the roles of protein sulfenylation in various diseases, including thrombotic disorders, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer.

Engineering aptamers to enhance their interaction with protein target for selective inhibition of cell surface receptors

Cell surface receptors play a key role in intracellular signaling, and their overexpression and activation are among the drivers of multiple diseases. Selective inhibition of cell surface receptors is important for regulating intracellular signaling pathways and cell behavior. Here, we design engineered aptamers to selectively inhibit receptor function. In this strategy, the aptamer specifically recognizing the extracellular structural domain of the EGFR, was conjugated to an adamantane moiety through linking arms of various lengths in order to obtain better performances toward EGFR. These interactions inhibit EGFR dimerization, thereby impeding the activation of downstream signaling pathways. It is shown that the adamantane-modified aptamers exhibit superior inhibition of downstream effector proteins relative to the unmodified aptamers. The optimal inhibitory effect was observed with a linker arm of 40 T-base in length. Notably, the best-performing adamantane-modified aptamer specifically binds to A549 cells with a dissociation constant (22.6 ± 4.5 nM) that is approximately 4-fold lower than that of the parent EGFR aptamer (94.4 ± 21.9 nM). We further combine the use of the adamantane-modified aptamer with that of genistein, a natural isoflavone compound with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibition activity, to enhance the inhibitory effect on EGFR and its downstream signaling employing a synergistic action. This study is expected to provide a versatile approach for the improvement of existing aptamers obtaining increased selective inhibition of cell surface receptors.

Bioinformatics Analysis and Identification of Ferroptosis-Related Hub Genes in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

Approximately 80% of individuals encounter lower back pain (LBP), a prevalent clinical issue largely attributed to intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent lipid peroxidation-driven cell death, and there is growing evidence that ferroptosis plays an important role in various human diseases. However, the underlying mechanism of ferroptosis in IDD remains unclear. This study aims to reveal the potential hub genes and related pathways of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis and progression of IDD. In this study, we analyzed three microarray datasets from the GEO database. Additionally, we downloaded ferroptosis-related genes from FerrDb-V2 and extracted apoptosis-related genes from UniProt as a control to show the specificity of ferroptosis. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed to identify the IDD-related module genes. Then, ferroptosis-related genes and apoptosis-related genes were separately overlapped with the IDD-related module genes, resulting in the identification of 35 ferroptosis-related module genes (FRMG) and 142 apoptosis-related module genes (ARMG). Furthermore, we performed functional enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction network, and Cytoscape along with CytoHubba was used to identify the hub genes. Finally, logistic regression models were constructed and identified two hub FRMGs (PTEN and EGFR) and one hub ARMG (CTNNB1), which could distinguish IDD patients from controls (P < 0.05). The areas under the ROC curves were 0.792 and 0.730, respectively, suggesting that ferroptosis is more specific than apoptosis in IDD. In conclusion, this study provided fresh perspectives on ferroptosis in the pathogenesis and progression of IDD that can be used to evaluate potential biomarker genes and therapeutic targets.

Novel antibody-drug conjugates based on DXd-ADC technology

In recent years, antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technology, which uses monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to specifically deliver effective cytotoxic payloads to tumor cells, has become a promising method of tumor targeted therapy. ADCs are a powerful class of biopharmaceuticals that link antibodies targeting specific antigens and small molecule drugs with potent cytotoxicity via a linker, thus enabling selective destruction of cancer cells while minimizing systemic toxicity. DXd is a topoisomerase I inhibitor that induces DNA damage leading to cell cycle arrest, making it an option for ADC payloads. The DXd-ADC technology, developed by Daiichi Sankyo, is a cutting-edge platform that produces a new generation of ADCs with improved therapeutic metrics and has shown significant therapeutic potential in various types of cancer. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of drugs developed with DXd-ADC technology, with a focus on mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics studies, preclinical data, and clinical outcomes for DS-8201a, U3-1402, DS-1062a, DS-7300a, DS-6157a, and DS-6000a. By integrating existing data, we aim to provide valuable insights into the current therapeutic status and future prospects of these novel agents.

Targeting PD-1/PD-L1 in tumor immunotherapy: Mechanisms and interactions with host growth regulatory pathways

Tumor immunotherapy has garnered considerable attention, emerging as a new standard of care in cancer treatment. The conventional targets, such as VEGF and EGFR, have been extended to others including BRAF and PD-1/PD-L1, which have shown significant potential in recent cancer treatments. This review aims to succinctly overview the impact and mechanisms of therapies that modulate PD-1/PD-L1 expression by targeting VEGF, EGFR, LAG-3, CTLA-4 and BRAF. We investigated how modulation of PD-1/PD-L1 expression impacts growth factor signaling, shedding light on the interplay between immunomodulatory pathways and growth factor networks within the tumor microenvironment. By elucidating these interactions, we aim to provide insights into novel potential synergistic therapeutic strategies for cancer immunotherapy.

A Saccharomyces boulardii-derived antioxidant protein, thioredoxin, ameliorates intestinal inflammation through transactivating epidermal growth factor receptor

Saccharomyces boulardii (Sb) is a probiotic yeast for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Little is known about the modulatory capacity of the Sb in IBD. Here, we found that oral gavage of Sb supernatant (SbS) alleviated gut inflammation, protected the intestinal barrier, and reversed DSS-induced down-regulated activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in colitis. Mass spectrum analysis showed that thioredoxin (Trx) is one of the critical secreted soluble proteins participating in EGFR activation detected in SbS. Trx exerted an array of significant effects on anti-inflammatory activity, including alleviating inflammation, protecting gut barrier, suppressing apoptosis, as well as reducing oxidative stress. Mechanistically, Trx promoted EGFR ligand gene expression and transactivated EGFR in a concentration-dependent manner. EGFR kinase inhibitor could block Trx-mediated preventive effects of intestinal epithelial injury. Our data suggested that Sb-derived soluble protein Trx could serve as a potential prophylactic, as a novel postbiotic against colitis, which provides a new strategy for the precision prevention and treatment of IBD.

Engineered Cancer Nanovaccines: A New Frontier in Cancer Therapy

Vaccinations are essential for preventing and treating disease, especially cancer nanovaccines, which have gained considerable interest recently for their strong anti-tumor immune capabilities. Vaccines can prompt the immune system to generate antibodies and activate various immune cells, leading to a response against tumor tissues and reducing the negative effects and recurrence risks of traditional chemotherapy and surgery. To enhance the flexibility and targeting of vaccines, nanovaccines utilize nanotechnology to encapsulate or carry antigens at the nanoscale level, enabling more controlled and precise drug delivery to enhance immune responses. Cancer nanovaccines function by encapsulating tumor-specific antigens or tumor-associated antigens within nanomaterials. The small size of these nanomaterials allows for precise targeting of T cells, dendritic cells, or cancer cells, thereby eliciting a more potent anti-tumor response. In this paper, we focus on the classification of carriers for cancer nanovaccines, the roles of different target cells, and clinically tested cancer nanovaccines, discussing strategies for effectively inducing cytotoxic T lymphocytes responses and optimizing antigen presentation, while also looking ahead to the translational challenges of moving from animal experiments to clinical trials.

Selective fluorescent labeling of cellular proteins and its biological applications

Proteins, which are ubiquitous in cells and critical to almost all cellular functions, are indispensable for life. Fluorescence imaging of proteins is key to understanding their functions within their native milieu, as it provides insights into protein localization, dynamics, and trafficking in living systems. Consequently, the selective labeling of target proteins with fluorophores has emerged as a highly active research area, encompassing bioorganic chemistry, chemical biology, and cell biology. Various methods for selectively labeling proteins with fluorophores in cells and tissues have been established and are continually being developed to visualize and characterize proteins. This review highlights research findings reported since 2018, with a focus on the selective labeling of cellular proteins with small organic fluorophores and their biological applications in studying protein-associated biological events. We also discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each labeling approach for their utility in living systems.

Investigation of the regulation of EGF signaling by miRNAs, delving into the underlying mechanism and signaling pathways in cancer

The EGF receptors (EGFRs) signaling pathway is essential for tumorigenesis and progression of cancer. Emerging evidence suggests that miRNAs are essential regulators of EGF signaling, influencing various pathway components and tumor behavior. This article discusses the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications of miRNA-mediated regulation of EGF signaling in cancer. miRNAs utilize multiple mechanisms to exert their regulatory effects on EGF signaling. They can target EGF ligands, including EGF and TGF-directly, inhibiting their expression and secretion. In addition, miRNAs can modulate EGF signaling indirectly by targeting EGF receptors, downstream signaling molecules, and transcription factors implicated in regulating the EGF pathway. These miRNAs can disrupt the delicate equilibrium of EGF signaling, resulting in aberrant activation and fostering tumor cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The dysregulation of the expression of specific miRNAs has been linked to clinical outcomes in numerous types of cancer. Specific profiles of miRNA expression have been identified as prognostic markers, reflecting tumor characteristics, invasiveness, metastatic potential, and therapeutic response. These miRNAs can serve as potential therapeutic targets for interventions that modulate EGF signaling and improve patient outcomes. Understanding the intricate relationship between miRNAs and EGF signaling in cancer can transform cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. The identification of specific miRNAs involved in the regulation of the EGF pathway opens the door to the development of targeted therapies and personalized medicine approaches. In addition, miRNA-based interventions promise to overcome therapeutic resistance and improve the efficacy of existing treatments. miRNAs are crucial regulators of EGF signaling in cancer, affecting tumor behavior and clinical outcomes. Further research is required to decipher the complex network of miRNA-mediated EGF signaling regulation and translate these findings into clinically applicable strategies for enhanced cancer treatment.

Prognostic value of anoikis-related genes revealed using multi-omics analysis and machine learning based on lower-grade glioma features and tumor immune microenvironment

Background

The investigation explores the involvement of anoikis-related genes (ARGs) in lower-grade glioma (LGG), seeking to provide fresh insights into the disease's underlying mechanisms and to identify potential targets for therapy.

Methods

We applied unsupervised clustering techniques to categorize LGG patients into distinct molecular subtypes based on ARGs with prognostic significance. Additionally, various machine learning algorithms were employed to pinpoint genes most strongly correlated with patient outcomes, which were then used to develop and assess risk profiles.

Results

Our analysis identified two distinct molecular subtypes of LGG, each with significantly different prognoses. Patients in Cluster 2 had a median survival of 2.036 years, markedly shorter than the 7.994 years observed in Cluster 1 (P < 0.001). We also constructed a six-gene ARG signature that efficiently classified patients into two risk categories, showing median survival durations of 4.084 years for the high-risk group and 10.304 years for the low-risk group (P < 0.001). Significantly, the immune profiles, tumor mutation characteristics, and drug sensitivity varied greatly among these risk groups. The high-risk group was characterized by a "cold" tumor microenvironment (TME), a lower IDH1 mutation rate (61.7 % vs. 91.4 %), a higher TP53 mutation rate (53.7 % vs. 38.9 %), and greater sensitivity to targeted therapies such as QS11 and PF-562271. Furthermore, our nomogram, integrating risk scores with clinicopathological features, demonstrated strong predictive accuracy for clinical outcomes in LGG patients, with an AUC of 0.903 for the first year. The robustness of this prognostic model was further validated through internal cross-validation and across three external cohorts.

Conclusions

The evidence from our research suggests that ARGs could potentially serve as reliable indicators for evaluating immunotherapy effectiveness and forecasting clinical results in patients with LGG.

Fibroblast growth factor 20 ameliorates cardiac hypertrophy via activation ErbB2

Fibroblast growth factor 20 (FGF20) is a member of the fibroblast growth factor family and involved in embryonic development and cardiac repair. This study aimed to explore the role of FGF20 in cardiac hypertrophy and the underlying molecular mechanisms. FGF20 improved cardiac hypertrophy in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, FGF20 increased expression of erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog 2 (ErbB2), which was negatively correlated with expression of the cardiac hypertrophy markers atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP). In addition, FGF20 effectively protected cardiomyocytes against apoptosis and oxidative stress. To further investigate whether protective effect of FGF20 is mediated by ErbB2, neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) were treated with lapatinib, an inhibitor of ErbB2. Lapatinib largely abrogated the anti-hypertrophic effect of FGF20, accompanied by increases in cardiomyocyte apoptosis and oxidative stress. In summary, this study reveals that FGF20 prevents cardiac hypertrophy by inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress via activating ErbB2 and may be a promising therapeutic strategy for cardiac hypertrophy.

Lactate-Induced HBEGF Shedding and EGFR Activation: Paving the Way to a New Anticancer Therapeutic Opportunity

Cancer cells can release EGF-like peptides, acquiring the capacity of autocrine stimulation via EGFR-mediated signaling. One of these peptides (HBEGF) was found to be released from a membrane-bound precursor protein and is critically implicated in the proliferative potential of cancer cells. We observed that the increased lactate levels characterizing neoplastic tissues can induce the release of uPA, a protease promoting HBEGF shedding. This effect led to EGFR activation and increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Since EGFR-mediated signaling potentiates glycolytic metabolism, this phenomenon can induce a self-sustaining deleterious loop, favoring tumor growth. A well characterized HBEGF inhibitor is CRM197, a single-site variant of diphtheria toxin. We observed that, when administered individually, CRM197 did not trigger evident antineoplastic effects. However, its association with a uPA inhibitor caused dampening of EGFR-mediated signaling and apoptosis induction. Overall, our study highlights that the increased glycolytic metabolism and lactate production can foster the activated state of EGFR receptor and suggests that the inhibition of EGFR-mediated signaling can be attempted by means of CRM197 administered with an appropriate protease inhibitor. This attempt could help in overcoming the problem of the acquired resistance to the conventionally used EGFR inhibitors.

Recent progress of protein kinase inhibitors derived from marine peptides for developing anticancer agents

Protein kinases, mediating their biological function via their catalytic activity, play important role in cell development, including cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis and survival. Over the years, protein kinase inhibitors have been developed as an important class of anticancer agents clinically. However, the off-targeting and drug resistance of protein kinase inhibitors limit their efficiency. Anticancer peptides derived from marine organisms represent a novel class of bioactive substances, and some of the peptides exhibit anticancer effect via inhibiting protein kinases. In this mini review, the recent progress of anticancer peptides targeting protein kinases from marine sources are presented. Marine peptides inhibiting resistant cancer cells by targeting novel domains of protein kinases are highlighted. The challenges and prospects of developing marine peptides as anticancer agents are also discussed.

Caveolin-1 differentially regulates the transforming growth factor-β and epidermal growth factor signaling pathways in MDCK cells

Caveolin-1 is critical for interacting with the TGF-β receptor (TGFβR) and EGF receptor (EGFR) signaling, often observed in advanced cancers and tissue fibrosis. However, the mechanism underlying caveolin-1-mediated transactivation of TGFβR and EGFR signaling remains unclear. Therefore, we sought to determine whether caveolin-1 is involved in canonical and non-canonical TGFβR and EGFR signaling transactivation in this study. Methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD) was used to disrupt the cholesterol-containing membranes domains, and the caveolin-1 scaffolding domain (CSD) peptide was used to mimic the CSD of caveolin-1. Additionally, we transfected the Madin-Darby canine kidney cells with wild-type or phosphorylation-defective caveolin-1. We discovered that tyrosine 14 of caveolin-1 was critical for the negative regulation of TGFβR and EGFR canonical signaling. On the contrary, caveolin-1 inhibited TGF-β1-induced ERK2 activation independent of tyrosine 14 phosphorylation. Although EGF failed to induce Smad3 phosphorylation in caveolin-1 knockdown cells, it activated Smad3 upon MβCD co-treatment, indicating that caveolin-1 indirectly regulated the non-canonical pathway of EGF. In conclusion, caveolin-1 differentially modulates TGFβR and EGFR signaling. Thus, targeting caveolin-1 is a potential strategy for treating diseases involving TGF-β1 and EGF signaling.

AGR2 facilitates teratoma progression by regulating glycolysis via the AnXA2/EGFR axis

Anterior gradient-2 (AGR2) is highly expressed in several tumors and plays an important role in tumor development. However, the biological function of AGR2 in teratomas has not yet been thoroughly studied. In this study, AGR2 was found to be upregulated in teratoma tissues and in human testicular teratoma cell lines by Western blotting and qRT-PCR assays. A DNA Methylation-Specific PCR assay demonstrated that AGR2 upregulation resulted from hypomethylated AGR2 in teratoma cells. NCC-IT and NT2-D1 cells were transfected with pcDNA-AGR2 or sh-AGR2 to obtain AGR2-overexpressed or -silenced cells, and cell proliferation, invasion and glycolysis were determined using CCK-8, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), Transwell assays, and commercial kits. The results revealed that overexpression of AGR2 promoted teratoma cell proliferation and invasion and elevated glycolysis levels evidencing by the increase in lactate secretion, glucose consumption, ATP levels and the expression of glycolysis-related proteins, while knockdown of AGR2 showed the opposite results. The interactions between AGR2 and annexin A2 (AnXA2), as well as between AnXA2 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were verified by co-immunoprecipitation assay. Mechanistic studies revealed that AGR2 interacts with AnXA2 and increases the level of AnXA2 to recruit more AnXA2 to EGFR, there by promoting EGFR expression. A series of rescue experiments showed that knockdown of AnXA2 or EGFR weakened the promotional effects of AGR2 overexpression on the proliferation, invasion, and glycolysis of teratoma cells. Finally, tumorigenicity assays were performed using NT2-D1 cells stably transfected with either LV-NC-shRNA or LV-shAGR2. The results showed that AGR2 knockdown significantly inhibited teratoma tumor growth in vivo. In conclusion, our data suggested that AGR2 facilitates glycolysis in teratomas through promoting EGFR expression by interacting with AnXA2, thereby promoting teratoma cells proliferation and invasion.

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG alleviates sleep deprivation-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction and neuroinflammation in mice

Consuming probiotic products is a solution that people are willing to choose to augment health. As a global health hazard, sleep deprivation (SD) can cause both physical and mental diseases. The present study investigated the protective effects of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), a widely used probiotic, on a SD mouse model. Here, it has been shown that SD induced intestinal damage in mice, while LGG supplementation attenuated disruption of the intestinal barrier and enhanced the antioxidant capacity. Microbiome analysis revealed that SD caused dysbiosis in the gut microbiota, characterized by increased levels of Clostridium XlVa, Alistipes, and Desulfovibrio, as well as decreased levels of Ruminococcus, which were partially ameliorated by LGG. Moreover, SD resulted in elevated pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations in both the intestine and the brain, while LGG provided protection in both organs. LGG supplementation significantly improved locomotor activity in SD mice. Although heat-killed LGG showed some protective effects in SD mice, its overall efficacy was inferior to that of live LGG. In terms of mechanism, it was found that AG1478, an inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase, could diminish the protective effects of LGG. In conclusion, LGG demonstrated the ability to alleviate SD-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction through EGFR activation and alleviate neuroinflammation.

Formation of EGFRwt/EGFRvIII homo- and hetero-dimers in glioblastoma cells as detected by single molecule localization microscopy

Super-resolution microscopy has been used to show the formation of receptor clusters and adapted lipid organization of cell membranes for many members of the ErbB receptor family. The clustering behaviour depends on the receptor size and shape, possibly ligand binding or expression activity. Using single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM), we also showed this typical clustering for the epidermal growth factor receptor variant III (EGFRvIII) in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells. EGFRvIII is co-expressed with the wild type (EGFRwt) and both receptors are assumed to preferentially form hetero-dimers leading to transactivation and elevated oncogenic EGFR-signalling in GBM cells. Here, we analysed EGFRvIII and EGFRwt co-localization using our already described model system of the glioblastoma cell line DKMG, displaying endogenous EGFRvIII expression. Using EGFRvIII and EGFRwt specific antibodies, EGFR localization and their potential for dimerization in a given membrane cluster were analysed by dual colour SMLM supported by novel approaches of mathematic evaluations including Ripley statistics, persistent homology and similarity algorithms. Surprisingly, cluster analysis, Ripley point-to-point distance statistics for cluster geometry and persistent homology comparing cluster topology, revealed that both EGFRvIII and EGFRwt do primarily not form hetero-dimers but the results support the hypothesis that they tend to form homo-dimers. The ratio of homo-dimers obtained by this calculation was significantly higher (>5σ, standard deviation) than expected from randomly arranged points. In comparison, hetero-dimer formation was only slightly increased. We confirmed these data by immunoprecipitation, which show no co-precipitation of EGFRvIII and EGFRwt. Furthermore, we showed that the topology of the clusters was more similar among the same type than among the different types of receptors. Taken together, these data indicate that EGFRvIII does induce oncogenic signalling by homo-dimerisation and not preferentially by hetero-dimer formation with EGFRwt. These data offer a new perspective on EGFRvIII signalling which will lead to a better understanding of this tumour associated receptor variant in GBM.

Hepatotoxicity of epidermal growth factor receptor - tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs)

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is one of the most frequently adverse reactions in clinical drug use, usually caused by drugs or herbal compounds. Compared with other populations, cancer patients are more prone to abnormal liver function due to primary or secondary liver malignant tumor, radiation-induced liver injury and other reasons, making potential adverse reactions from liver damage caused by anticancer drugs of particular concernduring clinical treatment process. In recent years, the application of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) has changed the treatment status of a series of solid malignant tumors. Unfortunately, the increasing incidence of hepatotoxicitylimits the clinical application of EGFR-TKIs. The mechanisms of liver injury caused by EGFR-TKIs were complex. Despite more than a decade of research, other than direct damage to hepatocytes caused by inhibition of cellular DNA synthesis and resulting in hepatocyte necrosis, the rest of the specific mechanisms remain unclear, and few effective solutions are available. This review focuses on the clinical feature, incidence rates and the recent advances on the discovery of mechanism of hepatotoxicity in EGFR-TKIs, as well as rechallenge and therapeutic strategies underlying hepatotoxicity of EGFR-TKIs.

The hidden Australian skin cancer epidemic, high-risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: a narrative review

Deaths from non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) have almost doubled in Australia in recent years. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) constitutes approximately 20% of NMSCs, but is responsible for most of the deaths. Most skin cancers are easy to diagnose and treat and therefore cSCC are often trivialised; however, there is a high-risk subgroup of cSCC (HRcSCC) that is associated with a high risk of metastasis and death. The definition of early HRcSCC and our ability to identify them is evolving. Many significant prognostic factors have been identified, but a universally accepted prognostic index does not exist. Guidelines for workup, treatment, and follow-up leave many important decisions open to broad interpretation by the treating physician or multidisciplinary team. Some of the treatments used for metastatic cSCC are not supported by robust evidence and the prognosis of metastatic cSCC is guarded. In this review, we highlight the rapid rise in NMSC deaths and discuss some of the deficiencies in our knowledge of how to define, diagnose, stage, and manage HRcSCC.

Discovery of a prominent dual-target DDR1/EGFR inhibitor aimed DDR1/EGFR-positive NSCLC

This study aimed to develop the first dual-target small molecule inhibitor concurrently targeting Discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1) and Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which play a crucial interdependent roles in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), demonstrating a synergistic inhibitory effect. A series of innovative dual-target inhibitors for DDR1 and EGFR were discovered. These compounds were designed and synthesized using structural optimization strategies based on the lead compound BZF02, employing 4,6-pyrimidine diamine as the core scaffold, followed by an investigation of their biological activities. Among these compounds, D06 was selected and showed micromolar enzymatic potencies against DDR1 and EGFR. Subsequently, compound D06 was observed to inhibit NSCLC cell proliferation and invasion. Demonstrating acceptable pharmacokinetic performance, compound D06 exhibited its anti-tumor activity in NSCLC PC-9/GR xenograft models without apparent toxicity or significant weight loss. These collective results showcase the successful synthesis of a potent dual-targeted inhibitor, suggesting the potential therapeutic efficacy of co-targeting DDR1 and EGFR for DDR1/EGFR-positive NSCLC.

Antibody-drug conjugates in cancer therapy: mechanisms and clinical studies

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) consist of monoclonal antibodies that target tumor cells and cytotoxic drugs linked through linkers. By leveraging antibodies' targeting properties, ADCs deliver cytotoxic drugs into tumor cells via endocytosis after identifying the tumor antigen. This precise method aims to kill tumor cells selectively while minimizing harm to normal cells, offering safe and effective therapeutic benefits. Recent years have seen significant progress in antitumor treatment with ADC development, providing patients with new and potent treatment options. With over 300 ADCs explored for various tumor indications and some already approved for clinical use, challenges such as resistance due to factors like antigen expression, ADC processing, and payload have emerged. This review aims to outline the history of ADC development, their structure, mechanism of action, recent composition advancements, target selection, completed and ongoing clinical trials, resistance mechanisms, and intervention strategies. Additionally, it will delve into the potential of ADCs with novel markers, linkers, payloads, and innovative action mechanisms to enhance cancer treatment options. The evolution of ADCs has also led to the emergence of combination therapy as a new therapeutic approach to improve drug efficacy.

High expression of COPZ2 is associated with poor prognosis and cancer progression in glioma

Background

Coatomer protein complex zeta 2 (COPZ2) is a member of heptameric coatomer protein complex I and has been reported to be involved in various tumors. However, COPZ2's potential involvement in glioma remains to be explored.

Methods

The COPZ2 expression and related clinical data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). TIMER2.0 and the Ualcan database were utilized to assess the COPZ2 expression in various tumors. Univariable, multivariate Cox regression, Kaplan-Meier methods, nomogram analysis, and ROC curve analysis were carried out to assess the relationship of COPZ2 and other prognostic factors with glioma. The LinkedOmics database was used to predict the potential biological mechanism of COPZ2 in glioma. We also conducted in vitro experiments to evaluate the functional role and mechanism of COPZ2 in glioma cell lines.

Results

We found that COPZ2 was highly expressed in glioma and it was associated with age and WHO grades. Kaplan-Meier survival curves, Cox analysis, nomogram analysis, and ROC curve showed that COPZ2 was a disadvantageous factor in poor glioma prognosis. The functions of COPZ2 and co-expression genes were significantly associated with neutrophil-mediated immunity, granulocyte activation, and response to interferon-gamma. In addition, COPZ2 knockdown significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioblastoma cells. Mechanistically, COPZ2 suppressed tumor development by participating in the regulation of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that the elevation of COPZ2 was associated with the prognosis and progression of glioma, and it might be a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for glioma.

Synthesis of scaberol C amino acid ester derivatives with anti-cancer activity

A series of amino acid ester trifluoroacetate derivatives was synthesized from scaberol C. They were screened for their inhibitory activity against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) cells. Among them, compound 2 l showed significant cytotoxicity against A549 and H460 cells (IC50), and was more active than cisplatin (DDP). The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was overexpressed in NSCLC, which was the target of multiple cancer therapies and a strong prognostic indicator. Our previous studies reported that the target of scaberol C derivatives against NSCLC cells was EGFR. And then molecular docking analysis and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations indicated that 2 l can stably and covalently bind to the EGFR target protein.

Targeting cytokine and chemokine signaling pathways for cancer therapy

Cytokines are critical in regulating immune responses and cellular behavior, playing dual roles in both normal physiology and the pathology of diseases such as cancer. These molecules, including interleukins, interferons, tumor necrosis factors, chemokines, and growth factors like TGF-β, VEGF, and EGF, can promote or inhibit tumor growth, influence the tumor microenvironment, and impact the efficacy of cancer treatments. Recent advances in targeting these pathways have shown promising therapeutic potential, offering new strategies to modulate the immune system, inhibit tumor progression, and overcome resistance to conventional therapies. In this review, we summarized the current understanding and therapeutic implications of targeting cytokine and chemokine signaling pathways in cancer. By exploring the roles of these molecules in tumor biology and the immune response, we highlighted the development of novel therapeutic agents aimed at modulating these pathways to combat cancer. The review elaborated on the dual nature of cytokines as both promoters and suppressors of tumorigenesis, depending on the context, and discussed the challenges and opportunities this presents for therapeutic intervention. We also examined the latest advancements in targeted therapies, including monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, receptor inhibitors, fusion proteins, engineered cytokine variants, and their impact on tumor growth, metastasis, and the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, we evaluated the potential of combining these targeted therapies with other treatment modalities to overcome resistance and improve patient outcomes. Besides, we also focused on the ongoing research and clinical trials that are pivotal in advancing our understanding and application of cytokine- and chemokine-targeted therapies for cancer patients.

Stilbenoids from fenugreek seeds alleviate insulin resistance by regulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in a type 2 diabetes zebrafish model

Insulin resistance (IR) is the main cause of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The specific targets and underlying mechanisms responsible for the ameliorative effects of the stilbenoid compounds found in fenugreek seeds for ameliorating IR require further study. Here, we were predicted by using the network pharmacology prediction, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation approach the targets in common and the potential mechanismsof three stilbenoid compounds (rhaponticin, desoxyrhaponticin, and rhapontigenin) in relation to T2DM and IR. The results showed that the compounds may improve IR through the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway. Molecular docking studies revealed that they exhibit high binding affinity with the structural domains of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARG), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), PI3K, and AKT. These results suggest that PPARG and GAPDH may be the potential targets for these three compounds in the treatment of T2DM.Subsequently, experiments using the zebrafish T2DM model showed that the stilbenoid compounds had varying degrees of efficacy in improving IR through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, and rhaponticin had the most promising effects. The findings implicate a potential mechanism of action for the three stilbenoid compounds in enhancing insulin resistance (IR) through modulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.

Application of Photoactive Compounds in Cancer Theranostics: Review on Recent Trends from Photoactive Chemistry to Artificial Intelligence

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the number of cancer cases and deaths worldwide is predicted to nearly double by 2030, reaching 21.7 million cases and 13 million fatalities. The increase in cancer mortality is due to limitations in the diagnosis and treatment options that are currently available. The close relationship between diagnostics and medicine has made it possible for cancer patients to receive precise diagnoses and individualized care. This article discusses newly developed compounds with potential for photodynamic therapy and diagnostic applications, as well as those already in use. In addition, it discusses the use of artificial intelligence in the analysis of diagnostic images obtained using, among other things, theranostic agents.

Unveiling the potential of FOXO3 in lung cancer: From molecular insights to therapeutic prospects

Lung cancer poses a significant challenge regarding molecular heterogeneity, as it encompasses a wide range of molecular alterations and cancer-related pathways. Recent discoveries made it feasible to thoroughly investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying lung cancer, giving rise to the possibility of novel therapeutic strategies relying on molecularly targeted drugs. In this context, forkhead box O3 (FOXO3), a member of forkhead transcription factors, has emerged as a crucial protein commonly dysregulated in cancer cells. The regulation of the FOXO3 in reacting to external stimuli plays a key role in maintaining cellular homeostasis as a component of the molecular machinery that determines whether cells will survive or dies. Indeed, various extrinsic cues regulate FOXO3, affecting its subcellular location and transcriptional activity. These regulations are mediated by diverse signaling pathways, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), and protein interactions that eventually drive post-transcriptional modification of FOXO3. Nevertheless, while it is no doubt that FOXO3 is implicated in numerous aspects of lung cancer, it is unclear whether they act as tumor suppressors, promotors, or both based on the situation. However, FOXO3 serves as an intriguing possible target in lung cancer therapeutics while widely used anti-cancer chemo drugs can regulate it. In this review, we describe a summary of recent findings on molecular mechanisms of FOXO3 to clarify that targeting its activity might hold promise in lung cancer treatment.

Integrated multi-omics analysis and machine learning to refine molecular subtypes, prognosis, and immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) has a malignant characteristic that is highly aggressive and prone to metastasis. There is still a lack of suitable biomarkers to facilitate the refinement of precision-based therapeutic regimens. We used a combination of 10 known clustering algorithms and the omics data from 4 dimensions to identify high-resolution molecular subtypes of LUAD. Subsequently, consensus machine learning-related prognostic signature (CMRS) was developed based on subtypes related genes and an integrated program framework containing 10 machine learning algorithms. The efficiency of CMRS was analyzed from the perspectives of tumor microenvironment, genomic landscape, immunotherapy, drug sensitivity, and single-cell analysis. In terms of results, through multi-omics clustering, we identified 2 comprehensive omics subtypes (CSs) in which CS1 patients had worse survival outcomes, higher aggressiveness, mRNAsi and mutation frequency. Subsequently, we developed CMRS based on 13 key genes up-regulated in CS1. The prognostic predictive efficiency of CMRS was superior to most established LUAD prognostic signatures. CMRS demonstrated a strong correlation with tumor microenvironmental feature variants and genomic instability generation. Regarding clinical performance, patients in the high CMRS group were more likely to benefit from immunotherapy, whereas low CMRS were more likely to benefit from chemotherapy and targeted drug therapy. In addition, we evaluated that drugs such as neratinib, oligomycin A, and others may be candidates for patients in the high CMRS group. Single-cell analysis revealed that CMRS-related genes were mainly expressed in epithelial cells. The novel molecular subtypes identified in this study based on multi-omics data could provide new insights into the stratified treatment of LUAD, while the development of CMRS could serve as a candidate indicator of the degree of benefit of precision therapy and immunotherapy for LUAD.

Integrating UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and Network Pharmacology to Explore the Potential Mechanisms of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. in the Treatment of Blood Stasis Syndrome

Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (PLP) is thought to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis. This study used blood component analysis, network pharmacology, and molecular docking to predict the mechanism of PLP in the treatment of blood stasis syndrome (BSS). PLP was processed into Paeoniae Radix Alba (PRA) and Paeoniae Radix Rubra (PRR). PRA and PRR could significantly reduce whole blood viscosity (WBV) at 1/s shear rates and could increase the erythrocyte aggregation index (EAI), plasma viscosity (PV), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of rats with acute blood stasis. They prolonged the prothrombin time (PT), and PRR prolonged the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). PRA and PRR increased the thrombin time (TT) and decreased the fibrinogen (FBG) content. All the results were significant (p < 0.05). Ten components of Paeoniflorin, Albiflorin, Paeonin C, and others were identified in the plasma of rats using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS). A protein-protein interaction network (PPI) analysis showed that AKT1, EGFR, SRC, MAPK14, NOS3, and KDR were key targets of PLP in the treatment of BSS, and the molecular docking results further verified this. This study indicated that PLP improves BSS in multiple ways and that the potential pharmacological mechanisms may be related to angiogenesis, vasoconstriction and relaxation, coagulation, and the migration and proliferation of vascular cells.

Gliovascular transcriptional perturbations in Alzheimer's disease reveal molecular mechanisms of blood brain barrier dysfunction

To uncover molecular changes underlying blood-brain-barrier dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease, we performed single nucleus RNA sequencing in 24 Alzheimer's disease and control brains and focused on vascular and astrocyte clusters as main cell types of blood-brain-barrier gliovascular-unit. The majority of the vascular transcriptional changes were in pericytes. Of the vascular molecular targets predicted to interact with astrocytic ligands, SMAD3, upregulated in Alzheimer's disease pericytes, has the highest number of ligands including VEGFA, downregulated in Alzheimer's disease astrocytes. We validated these findings with external datasets comprising 4,730 pericyte and 150,664 astrocyte nuclei. Blood SMAD3 levels are associated with Alzheimer's disease-related neuroimaging outcomes. We determined inverse relationships between pericytic SMAD3 and astrocytic VEGFA in human iPSC and zebrafish models. Here, we detect vast transcriptome changes in Alzheimer's disease at the gliovascular-unit, prioritize perturbed pericytic SMAD3-astrocytic VEGFA interactions, and validate these in cross-species models to provide a molecular mechanism of blood-brain-barrier disintegrity in Alzheimer's disease.

Topical JAK inhibition ameliorates EGFR inhibitor-induced rash in rodents and humans

Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRis) are used to treat many cancers, but their use is complicated by the development of a skin rash that may be severe, limiting their use and adversely affecting patient quality of life. Most studies of EGFRi-induced rash have focused on the fully developed stage of this skin disorder, and early pathological changes remain unclear. We analyzed high-throughput transcriptome sequencing of skin samples from rats exposed to the EGFRi afatinib and identified that keratinocyte activation is an early pathological alteration in EGFRi-induced rash. Mechanistically, the induction of S100 calcium-binding protein A9 (S100A9) occurred before skin barrier disruption and led to keratinocyte activation, resulting in expression of specific cytokines, chemokines, and surface molecules such as interleukin 6 (Il6) and C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) to recruit and activate monocytes through activation of the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) pathway, further recruiting more immune cells. Topical JAK inhibition suppressed the recruitment of immune cells and ameliorated the severity of skin rash in afatinib-treated rats and mice with epidermal deletion of EGFR, while having no effect on EGFRi efficacy in tumor-bearing mice. In a pilot clinical trial (NCT05120362), 11 patients with EGFRi-induced rash were treated with delgocitinib ointment, resulting in improvement in rash severity by at least one grade in 10 of them according to the MASCC EGFR inhibitor skin toxicity tool (MESTT) criteria. These findings provide a better understanding of the early pathophysiology of EGFRi-induced rash and suggest a strategy to manage this condition.

Bioinformatics analysis of the potential receptor and therapeutic drugs for Alzheimer's disease with comorbid Parkinson's disease

Background

Now, there are no sensitive biomarkers for improving Alzheimer's disease (AD) and comorbid Parkinson's disease (PD). The aim of the present study was to analyze differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in brain tissue from AD and PD patients via bioinformatics analysis, as well as to explore precise diagnostic and therapeutic targets for AD and comorbid PD.

Methods

GFE122063 and GSE7621 data sets from GEO in NCBI, were used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) for AD and PD, and identify the intersected genes, respectively. Intersected genes were analyzed by Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Then, STRING site and Cytoscape were used to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, CytoNCA algorithm to analyze and evaluate centrality, Mcode plug-in to analyze module, and Cytohubba to screen key genes. Combined GO-KEGG enrichment analysis with Cytoscape algorithm to screen the key gene in AD complicated with PD. Then, the DEGs for AD and PD were imported into the Association Map (CMap) online platform to screen out the top 10 small molecule drugs, and using molecular docking techniques to evaluate the interactions between small molecule drugs and key genes receptors.

Results

In total, 231 upregulated genes and 300 downregulated genes were identified. GO analysis revealed that the DEGs were highly enriched in signal transduction, and KEGG analysis revealed that the DEGs were associated with the MAPK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was identified as a potential receptor gene in AD and comorbid PD. EGFR was upregulated in both AD and PD, and the proteins that interact with EGFR were enriched in the Ras/Raf/MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. Semagacestat was identified as a drug with therapeutic potential for treating AD complicated with PD. There was a high binding affinity between semagacestat and EGFRNTD, with seven hydrogen bonds and one hydrophobic bond.

Discussion

Semagacestat may improve the health of patients with AD complicated with PD through the regulation of the Ras/Raf/MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways by EGFR, providing evidence supporting the structural modification of semagacestat to develop a more effective drug for treating AD complicated with PD.

The efficacy and safety of EGFR-TKI in recurrent/metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) is used to treat recurrent and metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (rmNPC). This meta-analysis aims to study the efficacy and safety of EGFR-TKI in treating patients with rmNPC.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science up to November 2023, and included literature that met the criteria. We extracted objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), median progression-free survival (mPFS), median overall survival (mOS), and adverse reaction-related events and performed meta-analysis using Stata 14.0.

Results

A total of nine articles were included. The summary results showed that the ORR for patients treated with EGFR-TKI for rmNPC was 38% (95% CI = 27%-49%), the DCR was 71% (95% CI = 61%-80%), the mPFS was 6.29 months (95% CI = 5.22-7.35), and the mOS was 15.94 months (95% CI = 14.68-17.20). The most common grade 3-4 adverse reaction events in these patients were mucositis, nasopharyngeal necrosis, and oral ulceration. We found an incidence rate of 49% (95% CI = 38%-61%) for grade 3-4 adverse events (AEs). The anti-PD1 combined with TKI treatment method is more effective than the EGFR-TKI alone for treating rmNPC.

Conclusion

The study shows that EGFR-TKI has good efficacy in treating rmNPC but does not translate into survival benefits and owns a high incidence of grade 3-4 AEs. More RCT trials are needed in the future to verify the efficacy of anti-PD1 combined with TKI treatment method.

Emerging paradigms and recent progress in targeting ErbB in cancers

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family is a class of transmembrane proteins, highly regarded as anticancer targets due to their pivotal role in various malignancies. Standard cancer treatments targeting the ErbB receptors include tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Despite their substantial survival benefits, the achievement of curative outcomes is hindered by acquired resistance. Recent advancements in anti-ErbB approaches, such as inhibitory peptides, nanobodies, targeted-protein degradation strategies, and bispecific antibodies (BsAbs), aim to overcome such resistance. More recently, emerging insights into the cell surface interactome of the ErbB family open new avenues for modulating ErbB signaling by targeting specific domains of ErbB partners. Here, we review recent progress in ErbB targeting and elucidate emerging paradigms that underscore the significance of EGF domain-containing proteins (EDCPs) as new ErbB-targeting pathways.

Network pharmacology prediction and experiment validation of anti-liver cancer activity of Curcumae Rhizoma and Hedyotis diffusa Willd

Objective

This study aims to elucidate anti-liver cancer components and potential mechanisms of Curcumae Rhizoma and Hedyotis diffusa Willd (CR-HDW).

Methods

Effective components and targets of CR-HDW were identified from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. Liver cancer-related genes were collected from GeneCards, Gene-Disease Association (DisGeNET), and National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Protein-protein interaction networks, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment were conducted to analyze the identified genes. Molecular docking was used to simulate binding of the active components and their target proteins. Cell activity assay, western blot, and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) experiments were conducted to validate core targets identified from molecular docking.

Results

Ten active compounds of CR-HDW were identified including quercetin, 3-epioleanic acid and hederagenin. The primary core proteins comprised Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), Protein Kinase B(AKT1), etc. The pathways for Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/ AKT, cellular senescence, Fork head boxO (FOXO) were revealed as important for anti-cancer activity of CR-HDW. Molecular docking demonstrated strong binding between liver cancer target proteins and major active components of CR-HDW. In-vitro experiments confirmed that hederagenin and 3-epioleolic acid inhibited HuH-7 cell growth, reduced expression of PI3K, AKT, and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) proteins. Hederagenin also induced HuH-7 senescence.

Conclusions

In summary, The authors' results suggest that the CR-HDW component (Hederagenin, 3-epoxy-olanolic acid) can inhibit the proliferation of HuH-7 cells by decreasing PI3K, AKT, and mTOR. Hederagenin also induced HuH-7 senescence.

Timosaponin AⅢ induces drug-metabolizing enzymes by activating constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) via dephosphorylation of the EGFR signaling pathway

The current study aimed to assess the effect of timosaponin AⅢ (T-AⅢ) on drug-metabolizing enzymes during anticancer therapy. The in vivo experiments were conducted on nude and ICR mice. Following a 24-day administration of T-AⅢ, the nude mice exhibited an induction of CYP2B10, MDR1, and CYP3A11 expression in the liver tissues. In the ICR mice, the expression levels of CYP2B10 and MDR1 increased after a three-day T-AⅢ administration. The in vitro assessments with HepG2 cells revealed that T-AⅢ induced the expression of CYP2B6, MDR1, and CYP3A4, along with constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) activation. Treatment with CAR siRNA reversed the T-AⅢ-induced increases in CYP2B6 and CYP3A4 expression. Furthermore, other CAR target genes also showed a significant increase in the expression. The up-regulation of murine CAR was observed in the liver tissues of both nude and ICR mice. Subsequent findings demonstrated that T-AⅢ activated CAR by inhibiting ERK1/2 phosphorylation, with this effect being partially reversed by the ERK activator t-BHQ. Inhibition of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway was also observed in vivo. Additionally, T-AⅢinhibited the phosphorylation of EGFR at Tyr1173 and Tyr845, and suppressed EGF-induced phosphorylation of EGFR, ERK, and CAR. In the nude mice, T-AⅢ also inhibited EGFR phosphorylation. These results collectively indicate that T-AⅢ is a novel CAR activator through inhibition of the EGFR pathway.

PSMD9 promotes the malignant progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by interacting with c-Cbl to activate EGFR signaling and recycling

BACKGROUND

Mounting evidences shows that the ubiquitin‒proteasome pathway plays a pivotal role in tumor progression. The expression of 26S proteasome non-ATPase regulatory subunit 9 (PSMD9) is correlated with recurrence and radiotherapy resistance in several tumor types. However, the role and mechanism of PSMD9 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression remain largely unclear.

METHODS

PSMD9 was identified as a prognosis-related biomarker for HCC based on analysis of clinical characteristics and RNA-seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the JP Project of the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC-LIRI-JP). PSMD9 expression was analyzed in cancer tissues and adjacent noncancerous tissues via immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Multiple in vivo and in vitro experimental techniques (such as CCK-8, colony formation, EdU, and Transwell assays; flow cytometry; Western blotting; quantitative RT-PCR; Coimmunoprecipitation assay and immunofluorescence confocal imaging) were used to assess the functions of PSMD9 in the pathogenesis of HCC.

RESULTS

We found that the expression of PSMD9 was upregulated and associated with a poor prognosis in HCC patients. PSMD9 promoted HCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion and metastasis. Knockdown of PSMD9 significantly inhibited HCC cell proliferation by inducing G1/S cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that PSMD9 promoted HCC cell proliferation and metastasis via direct interaction with the E3 ubiquitin ligase c-Cbl, suppresses EGFR ubiquitination, influenced EGFR endosomal trafficking and degradation and subsequently activated ERK1/2 and Akt signaling. In addition, we showed that PSMD9 knockdown sensitized HCC cells to the tyrosine kinase inhibitor erlotinib in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our results indicate that PSMD9 drives HCC progression and erlotinib resistance by suppressing c-Cbl mediated EGFR ubiquitination and therefore can be a potential therapeutic target for HCC.

Unveiling an oxidative stress-linked diagnostic signature and molecular subtypes in preeclampsia: novel insights into pathogenesis

Preeclampsia (PE) is a complex pregnancy disorder characterized by hypertension and organ dysfunction, affecting both maternal and fetal health. Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PE, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to identify a diagnostic signature and molecular subtypes associated with oxidative stress in PE to gain novel insights into its pathogenesis. The ssGSEA algorithm evaluated oxidative stress-related pathway scores using transcriptional data from the GSE75010 dataset. Oxidative stress-related genes (ORGs) were co lected from these pathways, and hub ORGs associated with PE were identified using the LASSO and logistic regression models. A nomogram prediction model was constructed using the identified ORGs. Consensus clustering identified two molecular subgroups related to oxidative stress, labeled as C1 and C2, with unique immune characteristics and inflammatory pathway profiles. Seventy ORGs associated with oxidative stress, ce l death, and inflammation-related pathways were identified in PE. EGFR, RIPK3, and ALAD were confirmed as core ORGs for PE biomarkers. The C1 and C2 subgroups exhibited distinct immune characteristics and inflammatory pathway profiles. This study provides novel insights into the role of oxidative stress in PE pathogenesis. A diagnostic signature and molecular subtypes associated with oxidative stress were identified, which may improve understanding, diagnosis, and management of PE.

FuncPhos-STR: An integrated deep neural network for functional phosphosite prediction based on AlphaFold protein structure and dynamics

Phosphorylation modifications play important regulatory roles in most biological processes. However, the functional assignment for the vast majority of the identified phosphosites remains a major challenge. Here, we provide a deep learning framework named FuncPhos-STR as an online resource, for functional prediction and structural visualization of human proteome-level phosphosites. Based on our reported FuncPhos-SEQ framework, which was built by integrating phosphosite sequence evolution and protein-protein interaction (PPI) information, FuncPhos-STR was developed by further integrating the structural and dynamics information on AlphaFold protein structures. The characterized structural topology and dynamics features underlying functional phosphosites emphasized their molecular mechanism for regulating protein functions. By integrating the structural and dynamics, sequence evolutionary, and PPI network features from protein different dimensions, FuncPhos-STR has advantage over other reported models, with the best AUC value of 0.855. Using FuncPhos-STR, the phosphosites inside the pocket regions are accessible to higher functional scores, theoretically supporting their potential regulatory mechanism. Overall, FuncPhos-STR would accelerate the functional identification of huge unexplored phosphosites, and facilitate the elucidation of their allosteric regulation mechanisms. The web server of FuncPhos-STR is freely available at http://funcptm.jysw.suda.edu.cn/str.

Combination therapy involving HSP90 inhibitors for combating cancer: an overview of clinical and preclinical progress

The molecular chaperone heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) regulates multiple crucial signalling pathways in cancer by driving the maturation of key signalling components, thereby playing a crucial role in tumorigenesis and drug resistance in cancer. Inhibition of HSP90 results in metastable conformational collapse of its client proteins and their proteasomal degradation. Considerable efforts have been devoted to the development of small-molecule inhibitors targeting HSP90, and more than 20 inhibitors have been evaluated in clinical trials for cancer therapy. However, owing to disadvantages such as organ toxicity and drug resistance, only one HSP90 inhibitor has been approved for use in clinical settings. In recent years, HSP90 inhibitors used in combination with other anti-cancer therapies have shown remarkable potential in the treatment of cancer. HSP90 inhibitors work synergistically with various anti-cancer therapies, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy. HSP90 inhibitors can improve the pharmacological effects of the above-mentioned therapies and reduce treatment resistance. This review provides an overview of the use of combination therapy with HSP90 inhibitors and other anti-cancer therapies in clinical and preclinical studies reported in the past decade and summarises design strategies and prospects for these combination therapies. Altogether, this review provides a theoretical basis for further research and application of these combination therapies in the treatment of cancer.

Cathepsin L-mediated EGFR cleavage affects intracellular signalling pathways in cancer

Proteolytic activity in the tumour microenvironment is an important factor in cancer development since it can also affect intracellular signalling pathways via positive feedback loops that result in either increased tumour growth or resistance to anticancer mechanisms. In this study, we demonstrated extracellular cathepsin L-mediated cleavage of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and identified the cleavage site in the extracellular domain after R224. To further evaluate the relevance of this cleavage, we cloned and expressed a truncated version of EGFR, starting at G225, in HeLa cells. We confirmed the constitutive activation of the truncated protein in the absence of ligand binding and determined possible changes in intracellular signalling. Furthermore, we determined the effect of truncated EGFR protein expression on HeLa cell viability and response to the EGFR inhibitors, tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) erlotinib and monoclonal antibody (mAb) cetuximab. Our data reveal the nuclear localization and phosphorylation of EGFR and signal trancducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in cells that express the truncated EGFR protein and suggest that these phenomena cause resistance to EGFR inhibitors.

Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Newly Synthesized Cinnamide-Fluorinated Containing Compounds as Bioactive Anticancer Agents

A new series of cinnamide-fluorinated derivatives has been synthesized and characterized by using different spectroscopic and elemental microanalyses methods. All of the prepared p-fluorocinnamide derivatives were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against the HepG2 liver cancerous cell line. The imidazolone derivative 6, which bears N-(N-pyrimidin-2-ylbenzenesulphamoyl) moiety, displayed antiproliferative activity against HepG2 liver cancerous cells with an IC50 value of 4.23 μM as compared to staurosporin (STU) (IC50 = 5.59 μM). In addition, compound 6 experienced epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitory activity comparable to palatinib. The cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry indicated that compound 6 arrested the cellular cycle of HepG2 cells at the G1 phase. Additionally, as demonstrated by the fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) technique, compound 6 increased both early and late apoptotic ratios compared to control untreated HepG2 cells. Moreover, imidazolone compound 6 induced apoptosis via the intrinsic apoptotic pathway by decreasing the level of mitochondrial membrane polarization (MMP) compared to untreated HepG2 cells. Therefore, the new N-(N-pyrimidin-2-ylbenzenesulphamoyl)imidazolone derivative 6 could be considered a potential platform for further optimizing an antitumor agent against hepatocellular carcinoma.

EGFR Inhibition by Erlotinib Rescues Desmosome Ultrastructure and Keratin Anchorage and Protects against Pemphigus Vulgaris IgG-Induced Acantholysis in Human Epidermis

Pemphigus is a severe blistering disease caused by autoantibodies primarily against the desmosomal cadherins desmoglein (DSG)1 and DSG3, which impair desmosome integrity. Especially for the acute phase, additional treatment options allowing to reduce corticosteroids would fulfill an unmet medical need. In this study, we provide evidence that EGFR inhibition by erlotinib ameliorates pemphigus vulgaris IgG-induced acantholysis in intact human epidermis. Pemphigus vulgaris IgG caused phosphorylation of EGFR (Y845) and Rous sarcoma-related kinase in human epidermis. In line with this, a phosphotyrosine kinome analysis revealed a robust response associated with EGFR and Rous sarcoma-related kinase family kinase signaling in response to pemphigus vulgaris IgG but not to pemphigus foliaceus autoantibodies. Erlotinib inhibited pemphigus vulgaris IgG-induced epidermal blistering and EGFR phosphorylation, loss of desmosomes, as well as ultrastructural alterations of desmosome size, plaque symmetry, and keratin filament insertion and restored the desmosome midline considered as hallmark of mature desmosomes. Erlotinib enhanced both single-molecule DSG3-binding frequency and strength and delayed DSG3 fluorescence recovery, supporting that EGFR inhibition increases DSG3 availability and cytoskeletal anchorage. Our data indicate that EGFR is a promising target for pemphigus therapy owing to its link to several signaling pathways known to be involved in pemphigus pathogenesis.

FOXO3a deregulation in uterine smooth muscle tumors

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to investigate FOXO3a deregulation in Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumors (USMT) and its potential association with cancer development and prognosis.

METHODS

The authors analyzed gene and protein expression profiles of FOXO3a in 56 uterine Leiomyosarcomas (LMS), 119 leiomyomas (comprising conventional and unusual leiomyomas), and 20 Myometrium (MM) samples. The authors used techniques such as Immunohistochemistry (IHC), FISH/CISH, and qRT-PCR for the present analyses. Additionally, the authors conducted an in-silico analysis to understand the interaction network involving FOXO3a and its correlated genes.

RESULTS

This investigation revealed distinct expression patterns of the FOXO3a gene and protein, including both normal and phosphorylated forms. Expression levels were notably elevated in LMS, and Unusual Leiomyomas (ULM) compared to conventional Leiomyomas (LM) and Myometrium (MM) samples. This upregulation was significantly associated with metastasis and Overall Survival (OS) in LMS patients. Intriguingly, FOXO3a deregulation did not seem to be influenced by EGF/HER-2 signaling, as there were minimal levels of EGF and VEGF expression detected, and HER-2 and EGFR were negative in the analyzed samples. In the examination of miRNAs, the authors observed upregulation of miR-96-5p and miR-155-5p, which are known negative regulators of FOXO3a, in LMS samples. Conversely, the tumor suppressor miR-let7c-5p was downregulated.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, the outcomes of the present study suggest that the imbalance in FOXO3a within Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumors might arise from both protein phosphorylation and miRNA activity. FOXO3a could emerge as a promising therapeutic target for individuals with Unusual Leiomyomas and Leiomyosarcomas (ULM and LMS), offering novel directions for treatment strategies.

EGFR of platelet regulates macrophage activation and bacterial phagocytosis function

BACKGROUND

Beyond their crucial role in hemostasis, platelets possess the ability to regulate inflammation and combat infections through various mechanisms. Stringent control of macrophage activation is essential during innate immune responses in sepsis. Macrophages are considered crucial phagocytic cells that aid in the elimination of pathogens. Platelet interactions with monocytes-macrophages are known to be significant in the response against bacterial infections, but the primary mediator driving these interactions remains unclear. EGFR plays critical role in the regulation of inflammation and infection through various mechanisms.

RESULTS

The overexpression of platelets by thrombopoietin (TPO) leads to the sequestration of both pro-inflammatory (IL-6/IL-1) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines in the organ tissue of septic mice. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is critical for platelet activation in sepsis. EGFR-licensed platelets enhance macrophage immune function, including the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the clearance of bacteria. Platelet EGFR also induces M1 macrophage polarization by increasing the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and CD64.

CONCLUSION

EGFR can activate platelet immune function. Moreover, activated platelets efficiently regulate bacterial phagocytosis and pro-inflammatory function of macrophages through an EGFR-dependent pathway.

Calcium and Neural Stem Cell Proliferation

Intracellular calcium plays a pivotal role in central nervous system (CNS) development by regulating various processes such as cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, and maturation. However, understanding the involvement of calcium (Ca2+) in these processes during CNS development is challenging due to the dynamic nature of this cation and the evolving cell populations during development. While Ca2+ transient patterns have been observed in specific cell processes and molecules responsible for Ca2+ homeostasis have been identified in excitable and non-excitable cells, further research into Ca2+ dynamics and the underlying mechanisms in neural stem cells (NSCs) is required. This review focuses on molecules involved in Ca2+ entrance expressed in NSCs in vivo and in vitro, which are crucial for Ca2+ dynamics and signaling. It also discusses how these molecules might play a key role in balancing cell proliferation for self-renewal or promoting differentiation. These processes are finely regulated in a time-dependent manner throughout brain development, influenced by extrinsic and intrinsic factors that directly or indirectly modulate Ca2+ dynamics. Furthermore, this review addresses the potential implications of understanding Ca2+ dynamics in NSCs for treating neurological disorders. Despite significant progress in this field, unraveling the elements contributing to Ca2+ intracellular dynamics in cell proliferation remains a challenging puzzle that requires further investigation.

Phylogenetic and transcriptomic characterization of insulin and growth factor receptor tyrosine kinases in crustaceans

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) mediate the actions of growth factors in metazoans. In decapod crustaceans, RTKs are implicated in various physiological processes, such molting and growth, limb regeneration, reproduction and sexual differentiation, and innate immunity. RTKs are organized into two main types: insulin receptors (InsRs) and growth factor receptors, which include epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR). The identities of crustacean RTK genes are incomplete. A phylogenetic analysis of the CrusTome transcriptome database, which included all major crustacean taxa, showed that RTK sequences segregated into receptor clades representing InsR (72 sequences), EGFR (228 sequences), FGFR (129 sequences), and PDGFR/VEGFR (PVR; 235 sequences). These four receptor families were distinguished by the domain organization of the extracellular N-terminal region and motif sequences in the protein kinase catalytic domain in the C-terminus or the ligand-binding domain in the N-terminus. EGFR1 formed a single monophyletic group, while the other RTK sequences were divided into subclades, designated InsR1-3, FGFR1-3, and PVR1-2. In decapods, isoforms within the RTK subclades were common. InsRs were characterized by leucine-rich repeat, furin-like cysteine-rich, and fibronectin type 3 domains in the N-terminus. EGFRs had leucine-rich repeat, furin-like cysteine-rich, and growth factor IV domains. N-terminal regions of FGFR1 had one to three immunoglobulin-like domains, whereas FGFR2 had a cadherin tandem repeat domain. PVRs had between two and five immunoglobulin-like domains. A classification nomenclature of the four RTK classes, based on phylogenetic analysis and multiple sequence alignments, is proposed.

Design, synthesis, and anti-tumor activity of derivatives of ring A and C-28 of asiatic acid

Based on computer-aided drug design (CADD), the active groups of the known active small molecule compounds that can bind to EGFR target protein were analyzed through the molecular docking method. Then, 12 novel asiatic acid derivatives were synthesized by introducing active groups at ring A and C-28 positions of asiatic acid. The structures of these novel compounds were determined by NMR and MS. Furthermore, the anti-tumor activities of these derivatives on human lung cancer cells (A549) and human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) were evaluated by MTT assay. In conclusion, compounds I4 and II3 have stronger anti-cancer activity than parent compounds, the activities were stronger than gefitinib and comparable to afatinib, which may be potential candidate compounds for tumor therapy.

Differential Protein Expression in Response to Varlitinib Treatment in Oral Cancer Cell Line: an In Vitro Therapeutic Approach

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is the most frequently overexpressed receptor histologically exhibited by oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients. Aberrated EGFR signaling may lead to recurrence and metastasis, thus laying the foundation of targeted therapy. Deactivating EGFR is likely to prevent downstream signaling thus resulting in apoptosis. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have come into play to revert aggressiveness of OSCC. We exploited comparative proteomic analyses based on anti-EGFR potential of varlitinib, using cellular proteomes from treated and untreated groups of oral cancer cells to identify protein players functional during oral carcinogenesis. Following separation by two-dimensional electrophoresis, differentially expressed cellular proteins (varlitinib-treated and untreated cells) were analyzed and later identified using QTOF mass spectrometer. In silico analysis for protein-protein interaction was carried out using STRING. Six differentially expressed proteins were identified as binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP), heat shock protein 7 C (HSP7C), protein disulfide isomerase 1 A (PDIA1), vimentin (VIME), keratin type I cytoskeletal 14 (K1C14), and β-Actin (ACTB). Relative expression of five proteins was found to be downregulated upon varlitinib treatment, whereas only K1C14 was upregulated in treated cells compared to control. Protein network analysis depicts the interaction between BiP, PDIA1, VIME, etc. indicating their role in oral carcinogenesis. Oral cancer cells show proteome shift based on varlitinib treatment compared to corresponding controls. Our data suggest candidature of varlitinib as a potent therapeutic agent and BiP, PDIA1, HSP7C, VIME, and β-Actin as complementary/prognostic markers of OSCC.