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Zhang Y, Zhang C, Peng C, Jia J. Unraveling the crosstalk: circRNAs and the wnt signaling pathway in cancers of the digestive system. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:853-864. [PMID: 38586314 PMCID: PMC10995981 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Circular RNA (circRNA) is a unique type of noncoding RNA molecule characterized by its closed-loop structure. Functionally versatile, circRNAs play pivotal roles in gene expression regulation, protein activity modulation, and participation in cell signaling processes. In the context of cancers of the digestive system, the Wnt signaling pathway holds particular significance. Anomalous activation of the Wnt pathway serves as a primary catalyst for the development of colorectal cancer. Extensive research underscores the notable participation of circRNAs associated with the Wnt pathway in the progression of digestive system tumors. These circRNAs exhibit pronounced dysregulation across esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and cholangiocarcinoma. Furthermore, the altered expression of circRNAs linked to the Wnt pathway correlates with prognostic factors in digestive system tumors. Additionally, circRNAs related to the Wnt pathway showcase potential as diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic markers within the realm of digestive system tumors. This comprehensive review outlines the interplay between circRNAs and the Wnt signaling pathway in cancers of the digestive system. It seeks to provide a comprehensive perspective on their association while delving into ongoing research that explores the clinical applications of circRNAs associated with the Wnt pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chuanhui Peng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junjun Jia
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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2
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Ji P, Li Y, Wang Z, Jia S, Jiang X, Chen H, Wang Q. Advances in precision gene editing for liver fibrosis: From technology to therapeutic applications. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117003. [PMID: 38908207 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117003] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This review presents a comprehensive exploration of gene editing technologies and their potential applications in the treatment of liver fibrosis, a condition often leading to serious complications such as liver cancer. Through an in-depth review of current literature and critical analysis, the study delves into the intricate signaling pathways underlying liver fibrosis development and examines the promising role of gene editing in alleviating this disease burden. Gene editing technologies offer precise, efficient, and reproducible tools for manipulating genetic material, holding significant promise for basic research and clinical practice. The manuscript highlights the challenges and potential risks associated with gene editing technology. By synthesizing existing knowledge and exploring future perspectives, this study aims to provide valuable insights into the potential of precision gene editing to combat liver fibrosis and its associated complications, ultimately contributing to advances in liver fibrosis research and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Ji
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310000, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of International Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, PR China
| | - Zihan Wang
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Siyu Jia
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Xinyi Jiang
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Hui Chen
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Qun Wang
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China.
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Geng Y, Hua H, Xia Y, Zhou J, He J, Xu X, Zhao J. miR-199a-5p modulates choroidal neovascularization by regulating Wnt7b/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. J Mol Histol 2024; 55:359-370. [PMID: 38662168 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-024-10194-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) can be seen in many fundus diseases, and lead to fundus exudation, bleeding, or vision loss. miRNAs are vital regulator in CNV. miR-199a-5p has been proved to be involved in regulating vascular formation of endothelial cells, but its role in CNV remains unclear. This study aims to study the role of miR-199a-5p in CNV. Laser irradiation was used to induce CNV model. The lesion area of CNV was calculated by high-resolution angiography with fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran. Wnt family member 7b (Wnt7b), β-catenin, and Wnt pathway proteins was measured by western blot. Immunofluorescence was performed to test Wnt7b, β-catenin, CD31, and p-p65. miR-199a-5p and Wnt7b mRNA were tested by reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction. Cell count kit-8, wound healing, Transwell, tube formation, and flow cytometry were used to detect the function of miR-199a-5p and Wnt7b on human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMEC). TargetScan database and dual-luciferase reporter assay verified the interaction between miR-199a-5p and Wnt7b. The results revealed that Wnt7b increased in CNV rats. Knocking down Wnt7b repressed cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis, and accelerated cell apoptosis of HRMEC. Dual-luciferase reporter assay verified that miR-199a-5p targeted Wnt7b. Overexpression of miR-199a-5p inhibited the angiogenesis of HRMEC and promoted cell apoptosis by inhibiting Wbt7b. In vivo experiment found that Wnt7b rescued the promotion of miR-199a-5p inhibition on CNV lesion of rats. In addition, Wnt7b positively regulated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and promoted the angiogenesis of HRMEC. In conclusion, overexpression of miR-199a-5p inhibited the angiogenesis of HRMEC by regulating Wnt7b/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which may serve as a promising therapy target of CNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Geng
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - HaiRong Hua
- Department of Pathology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Yuan Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Jian He
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - XingYu Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - JianFeng Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China.
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Zhang C, Sun C, Zhao Y, Ye B, Yu G. Signaling pathways of liver regeneration: Biological mechanisms and implications. iScience 2024; 27:108683. [PMID: 38155779 PMCID: PMC10753089 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108683] [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: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver possesses a unique regenerative ability to restore its original mass, in this regard, partial hepatectomy (PHx) and partial liver transplantation (PLTx) can be executed smoothly and safely, which has important implications for the treatment of liver disease. Liver regeneration (LR) can be the very complicated procedure that involves multiple cytokines and transcription factors that interact with each other to activate different signaling pathways. Activation of these pathways can drive the LR process, which can be divided into three stages, namely, the initiation, progression, and termination stages. Therefore, it is important to investigate the pathways involved in LR to elucidate the mechanism of LR. This study reviews the latest research on the key signaling pathways in the different stages of LR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, College of Life Science, Institute of Biomedical Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Caifang Sun
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, College of Life Science, Institute of Biomedical Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Yabin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, College of Life Science, Institute of Biomedical Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Bingyu Ye
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, College of Life Science, Institute of Biomedical Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - GuoYing Yu
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, College of Life Science, Institute of Biomedical Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
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Hu Y, Wang R, An N, Li C, Wang Q, Cao Y, Li C, Liu J, Wang Y. Unveiling the power of microenvironment in liver regeneration: an in-depth overview. Front Genet 2023; 14:1332190. [PMID: 38152656 PMCID: PMC10751322 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1332190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver serves as a vital regulatory hub for various physiological processes, including sugar, protein, and fat metabolism, coagulation regulation, immune system maintenance, hormone inactivation, urea metabolism, and water-electrolyte acid-base balance control. These functions rely on coordinated communication among different liver cell types, particularly within the liver's fundamental hepatic lobular structure. In the early stages of liver development, diverse liver cells differentiate from stem cells in a carefully orchestrated manner. Despite its susceptibility to damage, the liver possesses a remarkable regenerative capacity, with the hepatic lobule serving as a secure environment for cell division and proliferation during liver regeneration. This regenerative process depends on a complex microenvironment, involving liver resident cells, circulating cells, secreted cytokines, extracellular matrix, and biological forces. While hepatocytes proliferate under varying injury conditions, their sources may vary. It is well-established that hepatocytes with regenerative potential are distributed throughout the hepatic lobules. However, a comprehensive spatiotemporal model of liver regeneration remains elusive, despite recent advancements in genomics, lineage tracing, and microscopic imaging. This review summarizes the spatial distribution of cell gene expression within the regenerative microenvironment and its impact on liver regeneration patterns. It offers valuable insights into understanding the complex process of liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuelei Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Ruilin Wang
- Department of Cadre’s Wards Ultrasound Diagnostics, Ultrasound Diagnostic Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ni An
- Clinical Translational Science Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Li
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yannan Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Li
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yunfang Wang
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Clinical Translational Science Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Ji XF, Zhou Q, Wang JW, Sun F, Gao S, Wang K. Associations of Wnt5a expression with liver injury in chronic hepatitis B virus infection. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:860. [PMID: 38062395 PMCID: PMC10704684 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08865-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant Wnt5a expression contributes to immunity, inflammation and tissue damage. However, it remains unknown whether Wnt5a is associated with liver injury in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We aimed to explore the potential role of Wnt5a expression in liver injury caused by chronic HBV infection. METHODS Wnt5a mRNA levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were analyzed in 31 acute-on-chronic hepatitis B liver failure (ACHBLF) patients, 82 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients, and 20 healthy controls using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Intrahepatic Wnt5a protein expression from 32 chronic HBV infection patients and 6 normal controls was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS Wnt5a mRNA expression was increased in CHB patients and ACHBLF patients compared to healthy controls and correlated positively with liver injury markers. Additionally, there was a significant correlation between Wnt5a mRNA expression and HBV DNA load in all patients and CHB patients but not in ACHBLF patients. Furthermore, intrahepatic Wnt5a protein expression was elevated in chronic HBV infection patients compared to that in normal controls. Moreover, chronic HBV infection patients with higher hepatic inflammatory grades had increased intrahepatic Wnt5a protein expression compared with lower hepatic inflammatory grades. In addition, the cut-off value of 12.59 for Wnt5a mRNA level was a strong indicator in predicting ACHBLF in CHB patients. CONCLUSIONS We found that Wnt5a expression was associated with liver injury in chronic HBV infection patients. Wnt5a might be involved in exacerbation of chronic HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Fen Ji
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Shandong University, Qingdao, 266035, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Shandong University, Qingdao, 266035, China
| | - Jing-Wei Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Shandong University, Qingdao, 266035, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Shandong University, Qingdao, 266035, China
| | - Shuai Gao
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
- Hepatology Institute of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
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Wang Y, Song W, Li Y, Liu Z, Zhao K, Jia L, Wang X, Jiang R, Tian Y, He X. Integrated analysis of tumor microenvironment features to establish a diagnostic model for papillary thyroid cancer using bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing technology. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:16837-16850. [PMID: 37733241 PMCID: PMC10645658 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05420-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Characterizing tumor microenvironment using single-cell RNA sequencing has been a promising strategy for cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, a few studies have focused on diagnosing papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) through this technology. Therefore, our study explored tumor microenvironment (TME) features and identified potential biomarkers to establish a diagnostic model for papillary thyroid cancer. METHODS The cell types were identified using the markers from the CellMarker database and published research. The CellChat package was conducted to analyze the cell-cell interaction. The SCEVAN package was used to identify malignant thyroid cells. The SCP package was used to perform multiple single-cell downstream analyses, such as GSEA analysis, enrichment analysis, pseudotime trajectory analysis, and differential expression analysis. The diagnostic model of PTC was estimated using the calibration curves, receiver operating characteristic curves, and decision curve analysis. RT-qPCR was performed to validate the expression of candidate genes in human papillary thyroid samples. RESULTS Eight cell types were identified in the scRNA-seq dataset by published cell markers. Extensive cell-cell interactions like FN1/ITGB1 existed in PTC tissues. We identified 26 critical genes related to PTC progression. Further, eight subgroups of PTC tumor cells were identified and exhibited high heterogeneity. The MDK/LRP1, MDK/ALK, GAS6/MERTK, and GAS6/AXL were identified as potential ligand-receptor pairs involved in the interactions between fibroblasts/endothelial cells and tumor cells. Eventually, the diagnostic model constructed by TRPC5, TENM1, NELL2, DMD, SLC35F3, and AUTS2 showed a good efficiency for distinguishing the PTC and normal tissues. CONCLUSIONS Our study comprehensively characterized the tumor microenvironment in papillary thyroid cancer. Through combined analysis with bulk RNA-seq, six potential diagnostic biomarkers were identified and validated. The diagnostic model we constructed was a promising tool for PTC diagnosis. Our findings provide new insights into the heterogeneity of thyroid cancer and the theoretical basis for diagnosing thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizeng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenbin Song
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingxi Li
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoyi Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Lanning Jia
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoning Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruoyu Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xianghui He
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China.
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Rahnama S, Tehrankhah ZM, Mohajerani F, Mohammadi FS, Yeganeh ZY, Najafi F, Babashah S, Sadeghizadeh M. Milk thistle nano-micelle formulation promotes cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells through modulating miR-155-3p /SOCS2 /PHLDA1 signaling axis. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:337. [PMID: 37749575 PMCID: PMC10521506 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04168-5] [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: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent form of liver cancer that causes significant mortality in numerous individuals worldwide. This study compared the effects of milk thistle (MT) and nano-milk thistle (N-MT) on the expression of the genes that participate in apoptosis and cell cycle pathways in Huh-7 and HepG2 cells. METHODS IC50 values of MT and N-MT were determined using the MTT assay. Huh-7 and HepG2 cell lines (containing mutant and wild-type TP53 gene, respectively) were incubated with MT and N-MT for 24h and 48h and the impact of MT and N-MT on the proliferation of these cell lines was evaluated through a comparative analysis. Cell cycle and apoptosis were assessed by flow cytometry after 24h and 48h treatment in the cell lines mentioned. Real-time PCR was used to analyze miR-155-3p, PHLDA1, SOCS2, TP53, P21, BAX, and BCL-2 expression in the cell lines that were being treated. RESULTS N-MT reduces cancer cell growth in a time and concentration-dependent manner, which is more toxic compared to MT. Huh-7 was observed to have IC50 values of 2.35 and 1.7 μg/ml at 24h and 48h, and HepG2 was observed to have IC50 values of 3.4 and 2.6 μg/ml at 24 and 48h, respectively. N-MT arrested Huh-7 and HepG2 cells in the Sub-G1 phase and induced apoptosis. N-MT led to a marked reduction in the expression of miR-155-3p and BCL-2 after 24h and 48h treatments. Conversely, PHLDA1, SOCS2, BAX, and P21 were upregulated in the treated cells compared to untreated cells, which suggests that milk thistle has the potential to regulate these genes. N-MT reduced the expression of TP53 in Huh-7 cells after mentioned time points, while there was a significant increase in the expression of the TP53 gene in HepG2 cells. No gene expression changes were observed in MT-treated cells after 24h and 48h. CONCLUSION N-MT can regulate cancer cell death by arresting cell cycle and inducing apoptosis. This occurs through the alteration of apoptotic genes expression. A reduction in the expression of miR-155-3p and increase in the expression of SOCS2 and PHLDA1 after N-MT treatment showed the correlation between miR-155-3p and PHLDA1/SOCS2 found in bioinformatics analysis. While N-MT increased TP53 expression in HepG2, reduced it in Huh-7. The findings indicate that N-MT can function intelligently in cancer cells and can be a helpful complement to cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saghar Rahnama
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Moazezi Tehrankhah
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohajerani
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Shah Mohammadi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Yousefi Yeganeh
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farhood Najafi
- Department of Resin and Additives, Institute for Color Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sadegh Babashah
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Sadeghizadeh
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Jeong H, Lee C, Lee MJ, Jung Y. Therapeutic strategies to improve liver regeneration after hepatectomy. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:1313-1318. [PMID: 37786387 PMCID: PMC10625346 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231191195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease is one of the most common diseases worldwide, and its prevalence is particularly high among adults aged 40-60 years; it takes a toll on productivity and causes significant economic burden. However, there are still no effective treatments that can fundamentally treat chronic liver disease. Although liver transplantation is considered the only effective treatment for chronic liver disease, it has limitations in that the pool of available donors is vastly insufficient for the number of potential recipients. Even if a patient undergoes liver transplantation, side effects such as immune rejection or bile duct complications could occur. In addition, impaired liver regeneration due to various causes, such as aging and metabolic disorders, may cause liver failure after liver resection, even leading to death. Therefore, further research on the liver regeneration process and therapeutic strategies to improve liver regeneration are needed. In this review, we describe the process of liver regeneration after hepatectomy, focusing on various cytokines and signaling pathways. In addition, we review treatment strategies that have been studied to date to improve liver regeneration, such as promotion of hepatocyte proliferation and metabolism and transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells. This review helps to understand the physiological processes involved in liver regeneration and provides basic knowledge for developing treatments for successful liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayeong Jeong
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Pusan 46241, Korea
| | - Chanbin Lee
- Institute of Systems Biology, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Pusan 46241, Korea
| | - Min Jae Lee
- Department of Laboratory Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
| | - Youngmi Jung
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Pusan 46241, Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Pusan 46241, Korea
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10
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Ji Z, Shen J, Lan Y, Yi Q, Liu H. Targeting signaling pathways in osteosarcoma: Mechanisms and clinical studies. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e308. [PMID: 37441462 PMCID: PMC10333890 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a highly prevalent bone malignancy among adolescents, accounting for 40% of all primary malignant bone tumors. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with limb-preserving surgery has effectively reduced patient disability and mortality, but pulmonary metastases and OS cells' resistance to chemotherapeutic agents are pressing challenges in the clinical management of OS. There has been an urgent need to identify new biomarkers for OS to develop specific targeted therapies. Recently, the continued advancements in genomic analysis have contributed to the identification of clinically significant molecular biomarkers for diagnosing OS, acting as therapeutic targets, and predicting prognosis. Additionally, the contemporary molecular classifications have revealed that the signaling pathways, including Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, JAK/STAT3, Hippo, Notch, PD-1/PD-L1, MAPK, and NF-κB, have an integral role in OS onset, progression, metastasis, and treatment response. These molecular classifications and biological markers have created new avenues for more accurate OS diagnosis and relevant treatment. We herein present a review of the recent findings for the modulatory role of signaling pathways as possible biological markers and treatment targets for OS. This review also discusses current OS therapeutic approaches, including signaling pathway-based therapies developed over the past decade. Additionally, the review covers the signaling targets involved in the curative effects of traditional Chinese medicines in the context of expression regulation of relevant genes and proteins through the signaling pathways to inhibit OS cell growth. These findings are expected to provide directions for integrating genomic, molecular, and clinical profiles to enhance OS diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyu Ji
- School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western MedicineSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouSichuanChina
| | - Jianlin Shen
- Department of OrthopaedicsAffiliated Hospital of Putian UniversityPutianFujianChina
| | - Yujian Lan
- School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western MedicineSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouSichuanChina
| | - Qian Yi
- Department of PhysiologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouSichuanChina
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhouSichuanChina
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Chen Y, Hu Y. Wnt Signaling Activation in Gingival Epithelial Cells and Macrophages of Experimental Periodontitis. Dent J (Basel) 2023; 11:129. [PMID: 37232780 PMCID: PMC10217294 DOI: 10.3390/dj11050129] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Wingless/integrated (Wnt) signaling plays critical roles in maintaining environmental homeostasis and is also involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. However, its role in macrophages during periodontitis is not well understood. The present study aims to investigate the interaction between Wnt signaling and macrophages in the context of periodontitis. Methods: Experimental periodontitis was induced in C57/BL6 mice using a Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.g)-associated ligature for 14 days. Immunohistochemistry was performed to study the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), the stabilization of β-catenin, and the macrophage marker F4/80 in the periodontal tissues. The effect of Wnt signaling on TNF-α was examined using Western blot analysis in Raw 264.7 murine macrophages stimulated by Wnt3a-conditioned medium, with or without Wnt3a antibody neutralization, and compared with primary cultured gingival epithelial cells (GECs). The effect of P.g lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on Wnt signaling was assessed by analyzing key components of the Wnt signaling pathway, including the activity of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP) 6 and nuclear accumulation of β-catenin in GEC and Raw 264.7 cells. Results: Over-expressions of TNF-α and activated β-catenin were presented in the macrophages in the gingiva from mice with P.g-associated ligature-induced periodontitis. The expression patterns of TNF-α and activated β-catenin were consistent with the expression of F4/80. In Raw 264.7 cells, activation of the Wnt signaling pathway led to an increase in TNF-α, but this effect was not observed in GEC. Additionally, treatment with LPS induced β-catenin accumulation and LRP6 activation in Raw 264.7 cells, which were blocked by the addition of Dickkopf-1(DKK1). Conclusions: Wnt signaling was aberrantly activated in the macrophages in experimental periodontitis. The activation of Wnt signaling in the macrophages may play a pro-inflammatory role in periodontitis. Targeting specific signaling pathways, such as the Wnt pathway, may hold promise for developing novel therapeutic interventions for periodontitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, The Forsyth Institute, 245 First Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
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