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Zhou X, Wang G, Tian C, Du L, Prochownik EV, Li Y. Inhibition of DUSP18 impairs cholesterol biosynthesis and promotes anti-tumor immunity in colorectal cancer. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5851. [PMID: 38992029 PMCID: PMC11239938 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50138-x] [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: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells reprogram their metabolism to produce specialized metabolites that both fuel their own growth and license tumor immune evasion. However, the relationships between these functions remain poorly understood. Here, we report CRISPR screens in a mouse model of colo-rectal cancer (CRC) that implicates the dual specificity phosphatase 18 (DUSP18) in the establishment of tumor-directed immune evasion. Dusp18 inhibition reduces CRC growth rates, which correlate with high levels of CD8+ T cell activation. Mechanistically, DUSP18 dephosphorylates and stabilizes the USF1 bHLH-ZIP transcription factor. In turn, USF1 induces the SREBF2 gene, which allows cells to accumulate the cholesterol biosynthesis intermediate lanosterol and release it into the tumor microenvironment (TME). There, lanosterol uptake by CD8+ T cells suppresses the mevalonate pathway and reduces KRAS protein prenylation and function, which in turn inhibits their activation and establishes a molecular basis for tumor cell immune escape. Finally, the combination of an anti-PD-1 antibody and Lumacaftor, an FDA-approved small molecule inhibitor of DUSP18, inhibits CRC growth in mice and synergistically enhances anti-tumor immunity. Collectively, our findings support the idea that a combination of immune checkpoint and metabolic blockade represents a rationally-designed, mechanistically-based and potential therapy for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Zhou
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Genxin Wang
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Chenhui Tian
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Lin Du
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Edward V Prochownik
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
- The Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, The Hillman Cancer Institute of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
| | - Youjun Li
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China.
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
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Jian HY, Liang ZC, Wen H, Zhang Z, Zeng PH. Shi-pi-xiao-ji formula suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma by reducing cellular stiffness through upregulation of acetyl-coA acetyltransferase 1. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:2727-2741. [PMID: 38994152 PMCID: PMC11236261 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i6.2727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have shown that the Shi-pi-xiao-ji (SPXJ) herbal decoction formula is effective in suppressing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the underlying mechanisms are not known. Therefore, this study investigated whether the antitumor effects of the SPXJ formula in treating HCC were mediated by acetyl-coA acetyltransferase 1 (ACAT1)-regulated cellular stiffness. Through a series of experiments, we concluded that SPXJ inhibits the progression of HCC by upregulating the expression level of ACAT1, lowering the level of cholesterol in the cell membrane, and altering the cellular stiffness, which provides a new idea for the research of traditional Chinese medicine against HCC. AIM To investigate the anti-tumor effects of the SPXJ formula on the malignant progression of HCC. METHODS HCC cells were cultured in vitro with SPXJ-containing serum prepared by injecting SPXJ formula into wild-type mice. The apoptotic rate and proliferative, invasive, and migratory abilities of control and SPXJ-treated HCC cells were compared. Atomic force microscopy was used to determine the cell surface morphology and the Young's modulus values of the control and SPXJ-treated HCC cells. Plasma membrane cholesterol levels in HCC cells were detected using the Amplex Red cholesterol detection kit. ACAT1 protein levels were estimated using western blotting. RESULTS Compared with the vehicle group, SPXJ serum considerably reduced proliferation of HCC cells, increased stiffness and apoptosis of HCC cells, inhibited migration and invasion of HCC cells, decreased plasma membrane cholesterol levels, and upregulated ACAT1 protein levels. However, treatment of HCC cells with the water-soluble cholesterol promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells as well as decreased cell stiffness and plasma membrane cholesterol levels, but did not alter the apoptotic rate and ACAT1 protein expression levels compared with the vehicle control. CONCLUSION SPXJ formula inhibited proliferation, invasion, and migration of HCC cells by decreasing plasma membrane cholesterol levels and altering cellular stiffness through upregulation of ACAT1 protein expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Ying Jian
- Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zi-Cheng Liang
- Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Huan Wen
- Hunan Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western, Cancer Research Institute of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410006, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Hunan Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western, Cancer Research Institute of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410006, Hunan Province, China
| | - Pu-Hua Zeng
- Hunan Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western, Cancer Research Institute of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410006, Hunan Province, China
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Jian HY, Liang ZC, Wen H, Zhang Z, Zeng PH. Shi-pi-xiao-ji formula suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma by reducing cellular stiffness through upregulation of acetyl-coA acetyltransferase 1. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:2715-2729. [DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i6.2715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have shown that the Shi-pi-xiao-ji (SPXJ) herbal decoction formula is effective in suppressing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the underlying mechanisms are not known. Therefore, this study investigated whether the antitumor effects of the SPXJ formula in treating HCC were mediated by acetyl-coA acetyltransferase 1 (ACAT1)-regulated cellular stiffness. Through a series of experiments, we concluded that SPXJ inhibits the progression of HCC by upregulating the expression level of ACAT1, lowering the level of cholesterol in the cell membrane, and altering the cellular stiffness, which provides a new idea for the research of traditional Chinese medicine against HCC.
AIM To investigate the anti-tumor effects of the SPXJ formula on the malignant progression of HCC.
METHODS HCC cells were cultured in vitro with SPXJ-containing serum prepared by injecting SPXJ formula into wild-type mice. The apoptotic rate and proliferative, invasive, and migratory abilities of control and SPXJ-treated HCC cells were compared. Atomic force microscopy was used to determine the cell surface morphology and the Young’s modulus values of the control and SPXJ-treated HCC cells. Plasma membrane cholesterol levels in HCC cells were detected using the Amplex Red cholesterol detection kit. ACAT1 protein levels were estimated using western blotting.
RESULTS Compared with the vehicle group, SPXJ serum considerably reduced proliferation of HCC cells, increased stiffness and apoptosis of HCC cells, inhibited migration and invasion of HCC cells, decreased plasma membrane cholesterol levels, and upregulated ACAT1 protein levels. However, treatment of HCC cells with the water-soluble cholesterol promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells as well as decreased cell stiffness and plasma membrane cholesterol levels, but did not alter the apoptotic rate and ACAT1 protein expression levels compared with the vehicle control.
CONCLUSION SPXJ formula inhibited proliferation, invasion, and migration of HCC cells by decreasing plasma membrane cholesterol levels and altering cellular stiffness through upregulation of ACAT1 protein expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Ying Jian
- Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zi-Cheng Liang
- Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Huan Wen
- Hunan Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western, Cancer Research Institute of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410006, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Hunan Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western, Cancer Research Institute of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410006, Hunan Province, China
| | - Pu-Hua Zeng
- Hunan Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western, Cancer Research Institute of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410006, Hunan Province, China
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Wang Y, Ma X, Xu E, Huang Z, Yang C, Zhu K, Dong Y, Zhang C. Identifying squalene epoxidase as a metabolic vulnerability in high-risk osteosarcoma using an artificial intelligence-derived prognostic index. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e1586. [PMID: 38372422 PMCID: PMC10875711 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteosarcoma (OSA) presents a clinical challenge and has a low 5-year survival rate. Currently, the lack of advanced stratification models makes personalized therapy difficult. This study aims to identify novel biomarkers to stratify high-risk OSA patients and guide treatment. METHODS We combined 10 machine-learning algorithms into 101 combinations, from which the optimal model was established for predicting overall survival based on transcriptomic profiles for 254 samples. Alterations in transcriptomic, genomic and epigenomic landscapes were assessed to elucidate mechanisms driving poor prognosis. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) unveiled genes overexpressed in OSA cells as potential therapeutic targets, one of which was validated via tissue staining, knockdown and pharmacological inhibition. We characterized changes in multiple phenotypes, including proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, chemosensitivity and in vivo tumourigenicity. RNA-seq and Western blotting elucidated the impact of squalene epoxidase (SQLE) suppression on signalling pathways. RESULTS The artificial intelligence-derived prognostic index (AIDPI), generated by our model, was an independent prognostic biomarker, outperforming clinicopathological factors and previously published signatures. Incorporating the AIDPI with clinical factors into a nomogram improved predictive accuracy. For user convenience, both the model and nomogram are accessible online. Patients in the high-AIDPI group exhibited chemoresistance, coupled with overexpression of MYC and SQLE, increased mTORC1 signalling, disrupted PI3K-Akt signalling, and diminished immune infiltration. ScRNA-seq revealed high expression of MYC and SQLE in OSA cells. Elevated SQLE expression correlated with chemoresistance and worse outcomes in OSA patients. Therapeutically, silencing SQLE suppressed OSA malignancy and enhanced chemosensitivity, mediated by cholesterol depletion and suppression of the FAK/PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Furthermore, the SQLE-specific inhibitor FR194738 demonstrated anti-OSA effects in vivo and exhibited synergistic effects with chemotherapeutic agents. CONCLUSIONS AIDPI is a robust biomarker for identifying the high-risk subset of OSA patients. The SQLE protein emerges as a metabolic vulnerability in these patients, providing a target with translational potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryShanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji UniversityShanghaiP. R. China
- Institute of Bone Tumor Affiliated to Tongji University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
- Proteomics and Cancer Cell Signaling Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)HeidelbergGermany
| | - Xiaolong Ma
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryShanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji UniversityShanghaiP. R. China
- Institute of Bone Tumor Affiliated to Tongji University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Enjie Xu
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryShanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji UniversityShanghaiP. R. China
- Institute of Bone Tumor Affiliated to Tongji University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Zhen Huang
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryShanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji UniversityShanghaiP. R. China
- Institute of Bone Tumor Affiliated to Tongji University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Chen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related GenesShanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Kunpeng Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryShanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji UniversityShanghaiP. R. China
- Institute of Bone Tumor Affiliated to Tongji University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Yang Dong
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Chunlin Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryShanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji UniversityShanghaiP. R. China
- Institute of Bone Tumor Affiliated to Tongji University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
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Zhao N, Qu C, Yang Y, Li H, Li Y, Zhu H, Long Z. Identification of a cholesterol metabolism-related prognostic signature for multiple myeloma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19395. [PMID: 37938654 PMCID: PMC10632470 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46426-z] [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: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a prevalent hematological malignancy that poses significant challenges for treatment. Dysregulated cholesterol metabolism has been linked to tumorigenesis, disease progression, and therapy resistance. However, the correlation between cholesterol metabolism-related genes (CMGs) and the prognosis of MM remains unclear. Univariate Cox regression analysis and LASSO Cox regression analysis were applied to construct an overall survival-related signature based on the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The signature was validated using three external datasets. Enrichment analysis and immune analysis were performed between two risk groups. Furthermore, an optimal nomogram was established for clinical application, and its performance was assessed by the calibration curve and C-index. A total of 6 CMGs were selected to establish the prognostic signature, including ANXA2, CHKA, NSDHL, PMVK, SCAP and SQLE. The prognostic signature demonstrated good prognostic performance and correlated with several important clinical parameters, including number of transplants, International Staging System, albumin, beta2-Microglobulin and lactate dehydrogenase levels. The function analysis and immune analysis revealed that the metabolic pathways and immunologic status were associated with risk score. The nomogram incorporating the signature along with other clinical characteristics was constructed and the discrimination was verified by the calibration curve and C-index. Our findings indicated the potential prognostic connotation of cholesterol metabolism in MM. The development and validation of the prognostic signature is expected to aid in predicting prognosis and guiding precision treatment for MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhao
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Chunxia Qu
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Huihui Li
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Yueyue Li
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Hongbo Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China.
| | - Zhiguo Long
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China.
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Hu J, Liu N, Song D, Steer CJ, Zheng G, Song G. A positive feedback between cholesterol synthesis and the pentose phosphate pathway rather than glycolysis promotes hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncogene 2023; 42:2892-2904. [PMID: 37596320 PMCID: PMC10516751 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02757-9] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic cholesterol accumulation and hypercholesterolemia are implicated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the therapeutic effects of cholesterol-lowering drugs on HCC are controversial, indicating that the relationship between cholesterol metabolism and HCC is more complex than anticipated. A positive feedback between cholesterol synthesis and the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) rather than glycolysis was formed in tumors of c-Myc mice. Blocking the PPP prevented cholesterol synthesis and thereby HCC in c-Myc mice, while ablating glycolysis did not affect cholesterol synthesis and failed to prevent c-Myc-induced HCC. Unexpectedly, HMGCR (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase) and G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase), the rate-limiting enzymes of cholesterol synthesis and the PPP, were identified as direct targets of microRNA-206. By targeting Hmgcr and G6pd, microRNA-206 disrupted the positive feedback and fully prevented HCC in c-Myc mice, while 100% of control mice died of HCC. Disrupting the interaction of microRNA-206 with Hmgcr and G6pd restored cholesterol synthesis, the PPP and HCC growth that was inhibited by miR-206. This study identified a previously undescribed positive feedback loop between cholesterol synthesis and the PPP, which drives HCC, while microRNA-206 prevents HCC by disrupting this loop. Cholesterol synthesis as a process rather than cholesterol itself is the major contributor of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Ningning Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - David Song
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- American High School, Fremont, CA, USA
| | - Clifford J Steer
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Guohua Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, PR China.
| | - Guisheng Song
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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Zhou M, Kong B, Zhang X, Xiao K, Lu J, Li W, Li M, Li Z, Ji W, Hou J, Xu T. A proximity labeling strategy enables proteomic analysis of inter-organelle membrane contacts. iScience 2023; 26:107159. [PMID: 37485370 PMCID: PMC10362359 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Inter-organelle membrane contacts are highly dynamic and act as central hubs for many biological processes, but the protein compositions remain largely unknown due to the lack of efficient tools. Here, we developed BiFCPL to analyze the contact proteome in living cells by a bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC)-based proximity labeling (PL) strategy. BiFCPL was applied to study mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum contacts (MERCs) and mitochondria-lipid droplet (LD) contacts. We identified 403 highly confident MERC proteins, including many transiently resident proteins and potential tethers. Moreover, we demonstrated that mitochondria-LD contacts are sensitive to nutrient status. A comparative proteomic analysis revealed that 60 proteins are up- or downregulated at contact sites under metabolic challenge. We verified that SQLE, an enzyme for cholesterol synthesis, accumulates at mitochondria-LD contact sites probably to utilize local ATP for cholesterol synthesis. This work provides an efficient method to identify key proteins at inter-organelle membrane contacts in living cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoge Zhou
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510005, China
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Bingjie Kong
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ke Xiao
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jing Lu
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Weixing Li
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Min Li
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510005, China
| | - Zonghong Li
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510005, China
| | - Wei Ji
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Junjie Hou
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510005, China
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 511436, China
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Yu Y, Wang H, Yang JJ, Fang S, Wen YN, Jiao YF, Qian K, Le N, Shan RQ, Gao WJ, Hua BL, Li F. A novel scoring system for the quantitative prediction of prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1144403. [PMID: 37064135 PMCID: PMC10098320 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1144403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundAcute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous hematopoietic malignancy. Patient prognosis cannot be accurately assessed in National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) risk stratification subgroups based on the current criteria. This study aimed to develop a novel prognostic score model for the quantitative prediction of prognosis in AML.ResultsWe developed a prognostic risk scoring model of AML using differentially expressed genes to predict prognosis in patients with AML. Furthermore, we evaluated the effectiveness and clinical significance of this prognostic model in 4 AML cohorts and 905 patients with AML. A prognostic risk scoring model of AML containing eight prognosis-related genes was constructed using a multivariate Cox regression model. The model had a higher predictive value for the prognosis of AML in the training and validation sets. In addition, patients with lower scores had significantly better overall survival (OS) and even-free survival (EFS) than those with higher scores among patients with intermediate-risk AML according to the NCCN guidelines, indicating that the model could be used to further predict the prognosis of the intermediate-risk AML populations. Similarly, patients with high scores had remarkably poor OS and EFS in the normal-karyotype populations, indicating that the scoring model had an excellent predictive performance for patients with AML having normal karyotype.ConclusionsOur study provided an individualized prognostic risk score model that could predict the prognosis of patients with AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yu
- Department of Hematology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Hematology, Peking University Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Jing-Jing Yang
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Shu Fang
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ya-Nan Wen
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Fan Jiao
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Kun Qian
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ning Le
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Ruo-Qi Shan
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wen-Jing Gao
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Bao-Lai Hua
- Department of Hematology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Hematology, Peking University Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Bao-Lai Hua, ; Fei Li,
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Bao-Lai Hua, ; Fei Li,
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Chen C, Hu X, Ahmad MJ, Niu K, Ye T, Liang A, Yang L. Novel Insight into the Role of Squalene Epoxidase ( SQLE) Gene in Determining Milk Production Traits in Buffalo. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032436. [PMID: 36768756 PMCID: PMC9916492 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying milk production traits contribute to improving the production potential of dairy animals. Squalene epoxidase (SQLE) is one of the rate-limiting enzymes for cholesterol biosynthesis and was highly expressed in the buffalo mammary. The objectives of the present study were to detect the polymorphisms within SQLE in buffalo, the genetic effects of these mutations on milk production traits, and to understand the gene regulatory effects on buffalo mammary epithelial cells (BuMECs). A total of five SNPs were identified by sequencing, g.18858G > A loci were significantly associated with fat yield, and g.22834C > T loci were significantly associated with peak milk yield, milk yield, fat yield, and protein yield. Notably, linkage disequilibrium analysis indicated that 2 SNPs (g.18858G > A and g.22834C > T) formed one haplotype block, which was found to be significantly associated with milk fat yield, fat percentage, and protein yield. Furthermore, expression of SQLE was measured in different tissues of buffalo and was found to be higher in the mammary. Knockdown of SQLE gene expression significantly affected the growth of BuMECs, including proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis, and significantly downregulated the expression of related genes MYC, PCNA, and P21. In addition, knockdown of the SQLE gene significantly reduces triglyceride concentrations and the signal intensity of oil red O staining. In addition, silencing of SQLE was also found to regulate the synthesis and secretion of β-casein and κ-casein negatively. Furthermore, SQLE knockdown is accompanied by the downregulation of critical genes (RPS6KB1, JAK2, eIF4E, and SREBP1) related to milk fat and protein synthesis. The current study showed the potential of the SQLE gene as a candidate for buffalo milk production traits. It provides a new understanding of the physiological mechanisms underlying buffalo milk production regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Chen
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (NCIRAGBR), College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Xiangwei Hu
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (NCIRAGBR), College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Muhammad Jamil Ahmad
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (NCIRAGBR), College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Kaifeng Niu
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (NCIRAGBR), College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Tingzhu Ye
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (NCIRAGBR), College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Aixin Liang
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (NCIRAGBR), College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Hubei Province’s Engineering Research Center in Buffalo Breeding and Products, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Liguo Yang
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (NCIRAGBR), College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Hubei Province’s Engineering Research Center in Buffalo Breeding and Products, Wuhan 430070, China
- Correspondence:
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Regulation of Normal and Neoplastic Proliferation and Metabolism by the Extended Myc Network. Cells 2022; 11:cells11243974. [PMID: 36552737 PMCID: PMC9777120 DOI: 10.3390/cells11243974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Myc Network, comprising a small assemblage of bHLH-ZIP transcription factors, regulates many hundreds to thousands of genes involved in proliferation, energy metabolism, translation and other activities. A structurally and functionally related set of factors known as the Mlx Network also supervises some of these same functions via the regulation of a more limited but overlapping transcriptional repertoire. Target gene co-regulation by these two Networks is the result of their sharing of three members that suppress target gene expression as well as by the ability of both Network's members to cross-bind one another's consensus DNA sites. The two Networks also differ in that the Mlx Network's control over transcription is positively regulated by several glycolytic pathway intermediates and other metabolites. These distinctive properties, functions and tissue expression patterns potentially allow for sensitive control of gene regulation in ways that are differentially responsive to environmental and metabolic cues while allowing for them to be both rapid and of limited duration. This review explores how such control might occur. It further discusses how the actual functional dependencies of the Myc and Mlx Networks rely upon cellular context and how they may differ between normal and neoplastic cells. Finally, consideration is given to how future studies may permit a more refined understanding of the functional interrelationships between the two Networks.
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11
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Zou Y, Zhang H, Bi F, Tang Q, Xu H. Targeting the key cholesterol biosynthesis enzyme squalene monooxygenasefor cancer therapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:938502. [PMID: 36091156 PMCID: PMC9449579 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.938502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol metabolism is often dysregulated in cancer. Squalene monooxygenase (SQLE) is the second rate-limiting enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis. Since the discovery of SQLE dysregulation in cancer, compelling evidence has indicated that SQLE plays a vital role in cancer initiation and progression and is a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment. In this review, we provide an overview of the role and regulation of SQLE in cancer and summarize the updates of antitumor therapy targeting SQLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuheng Zou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongying Zhang
- Laboratory of Oncogene, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Feng Bi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiulin Tang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Qiulin Tang, ; Huanji Xu,
| | - Huanji Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Qiulin Tang, ; Huanji Xu,
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12
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Identification of CXCR4 Upregulation in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Associated with Prognostic Significance and Clinicopathological Characteristics. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:3276925. [PMID: 35774848 PMCID: PMC9239773 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3276925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a heterogeneous malignant lymphoma with distinct characteristics. Patients with treatment failure after the standard immunochemotherapy have worse prognosis, which implies the necessity to uncover novel targets. The C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) overexpression has been identified in several hematopoietic malignancies. However, the expression signatures and prognostic significance of CXCR4 in DLBCL associated with clinicopathological features remain unclear. Methods Gene expression profiles of DLBCL were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Then, a meta-analysis with an integrated bioinformatic analysis was performed to assess the relationship between CXCR4 expression and clinicopathological features of DLBCL. Finally, experimental verification including immunohistochemical (IHC) staining and real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) was carried out using patient samples. In vitro cell line viability tests were conducted using CXCR4 inhibitor WZ811. Results DLBCL patients with activated B-cell-like (ABC) subtype have higher expression level of CXCR4 with worse survival. Differential expressed genes in the CXCR4-upregulation group were enriched in canonical pathways associated with oncogenesis. DLBCL with CXCR4 upregulation had lower degree of CD8+ T cell infiltration. TIMER analysis demonstrated that the CXCR4 expression was positively correlated with the expression of CD5, MYC, NOTCH1, PDCD1, CD274, mTOR, FOXO1, and hnRNPA2B1 in DLBCL. IHC study in patient samples showed the positive correlation between CXCR4 and nongerminal center B-cell (non-GCB) subtype and mTOR expression. Meanwhile, quantitative polymerase chain reaction results revealed that high CXCR4 mRNA level was correlated to double-hit DLBCL. Finally, cell viability test showed that WZ811 exerted antiproliferation effect in DLBCL cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion CXCR4 was upregulated in ABC-DLBCL associated with worse prognosis. Our analysis predicted CXCR4 as a potential target for DLBCL treatment, which may serve as an inhibitor both on BCR signaling and nuclear export warranting further investigation in clinical trials.
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Peng Y, Shi H, Liu Y, Huang Y, Zheng R, Jiang D, Jiang M, Zhu C, Li G. RNA Sequencing Analysis Reveals Divergent Adaptive Response to Hypo- and Hyper-Salinity in Greater Amberjack (Seriola dumerili) Juveniles. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030327. [PMID: 35158652 PMCID: PMC8833429 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The gill tanscriptomes of greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) reared under different salinity stress were analyzed. The regulatory networks of salinity-related pathways were explored through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genome (KEGG) pathway enrichment and bioinformatics analyses. This will be of great value in understanding the molecular basis of salinity adaptation in greater amberjack. Abstract Salinity significantly affects physiological and metabolic activities, breeding, development, survival, and growth of marine fish. The greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) is a fast-growing species that has immensely contributed to global aquaculture diversification. However, the tolerance, adaptation, and molecular responses of greater amberjack to salinity are unclear. This study reared greater amberjack juveniles under different salinity stresses (40, 30, 20, and 10 ppt) for 30 days to assess their tolerance, adaptation, and molecular responses to salinity. RNA sequencing analysis of gill tissue was used to identify genes and biological processes involved in greater amberjack response to salinity stress at 40, 30, and 20 ppt. Eighteen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (nine upregulated and nine downregulated) were identified in the 40 vs. 30 ppt group. Moreover, 417 DEGs (205 up-regulated and 212 down-regulated) were identified in the 20 vs. 30 ppt group. qPCR and transcriptomic analysis indicated that salinity stress affected the expression of genes involved in steroid biosynthesis (ebp, sqle, lss, dhcr7, dhcr24, and cyp51a1), lipid metabolism (msmo1, nsdhl, ogdh, and edar), ion transporters (slc25a48, slc37a4, slc44a4, and apq4), and immune response (wnt4 and tlr5). Furthermore, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs were enriched in steroid biosynthesis, lipids metabolism, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, tryptophan metabolism, and insulin signaling pathway. Therefore, this study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of marine fish adaptation to salinity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhao Peng
- Guangdong Research Center on Reproductive Control and Breeding Technology of Indigenous Valuable Fish Species, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Mariculture Organism Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology and Epidemiology for Aquatic Economic Animals, Fisheries College, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (Y.P.); (H.S.); (Y.L.); (Y.H.); (R.Z.); (D.J.); (M.J.); (C.Z.)
| | - Hongjuan Shi
- Guangdong Research Center on Reproductive Control and Breeding Technology of Indigenous Valuable Fish Species, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Mariculture Organism Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology and Epidemiology for Aquatic Economic Animals, Fisheries College, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (Y.P.); (H.S.); (Y.L.); (Y.H.); (R.Z.); (D.J.); (M.J.); (C.Z.)
| | - Yuqi Liu
- Guangdong Research Center on Reproductive Control and Breeding Technology of Indigenous Valuable Fish Species, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Mariculture Organism Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology and Epidemiology for Aquatic Economic Animals, Fisheries College, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (Y.P.); (H.S.); (Y.L.); (Y.H.); (R.Z.); (D.J.); (M.J.); (C.Z.)
| | - Yang Huang
- Guangdong Research Center on Reproductive Control and Breeding Technology of Indigenous Valuable Fish Species, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Mariculture Organism Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology and Epidemiology for Aquatic Economic Animals, Fisheries College, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (Y.P.); (H.S.); (Y.L.); (Y.H.); (R.Z.); (D.J.); (M.J.); (C.Z.)
| | - Renchi Zheng
- Guangdong Research Center on Reproductive Control and Breeding Technology of Indigenous Valuable Fish Species, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Mariculture Organism Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology and Epidemiology for Aquatic Economic Animals, Fisheries College, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (Y.P.); (H.S.); (Y.L.); (Y.H.); (R.Z.); (D.J.); (M.J.); (C.Z.)
| | - Dongneng Jiang
- Guangdong Research Center on Reproductive Control and Breeding Technology of Indigenous Valuable Fish Species, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Mariculture Organism Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology and Epidemiology for Aquatic Economic Animals, Fisheries College, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (Y.P.); (H.S.); (Y.L.); (Y.H.); (R.Z.); (D.J.); (M.J.); (C.Z.)
| | - Mouyan Jiang
- Guangdong Research Center on Reproductive Control and Breeding Technology of Indigenous Valuable Fish Species, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Mariculture Organism Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology and Epidemiology for Aquatic Economic Animals, Fisheries College, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (Y.P.); (H.S.); (Y.L.); (Y.H.); (R.Z.); (D.J.); (M.J.); (C.Z.)
| | - Chunhua Zhu
- Guangdong Research Center on Reproductive Control and Breeding Technology of Indigenous Valuable Fish Species, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Mariculture Organism Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology and Epidemiology for Aquatic Economic Animals, Fisheries College, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (Y.P.); (H.S.); (Y.L.); (Y.H.); (R.Z.); (D.J.); (M.J.); (C.Z.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Zhanjiang 524025, China
| | - Guangli Li
- Guangdong Research Center on Reproductive Control and Breeding Technology of Indigenous Valuable Fish Species, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Mariculture Organism Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology and Epidemiology for Aquatic Economic Animals, Fisheries College, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; (Y.P.); (H.S.); (Y.L.); (Y.H.); (R.Z.); (D.J.); (M.J.); (C.Z.)
- Correspondence:
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