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Assal RA, Elemam NM, Mekky RY, Attia AA, Soliman AH, Gomaa AI, Efthimiadou EK, Braoudaki M, Fahmy SA, Youness RA. A Novel Epigenetic Strategy to Concurrently Block Immune Checkpoints PD-1/PD-L1 and CD155/TIGIT in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Transl Oncol 2024; 45:101961. [PMID: 38631259 PMCID: PMC11040172 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101961] [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: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment is an intricate web of stromal and immune cells creating an immune suppressive cordon around the tumor. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), Tumor microenvironment is a formidable barrier towards novel immune therapeutic approaches recently evading the oncology field. In this study, the main aim was to identify the intricate immune evasion tactics mediated by HCC cells and to study the epigenetic modulation of the immune checkpoints; Programmed death-1 (PD-1)/ Programmed death-Ligand 1 (PD-L1) and T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT)/Cluster of Differentiation 155 (CD155) at the tumor-immune synapse. Thus, liver tissues, PBMCs and sera were collected from Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), HCC as well as healthy individuals. Screening was performed to PD-L1/PD-1 and CD155/TIGIT axes in HCC patients. PDL1, CD155, PD-1 and TIGIT were found to be significantly upregulated in liver tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of HCC patients. An array of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs validated to regulate such immune checkpoints were screened. The lncRNAs; CCAT-1, H19, and MALAT-1 were all significantly upregulated in the sera, PBMCs, and tissues of HCC patients as compared to HCV patients and healthy controls. However, miR-944-5p, miR-105-5p, miR-486-5p, miR-506-5p, and miR-30a-5p were downregulated in the sera and liver tissues of HCC patients. On the tumor cell side, knocking down of lncRNAs-CCAT-1, MALAT-1, or H19-markedly repressed the co-expression of PD-L1 and CD155 and accordingly induced the cytotoxicity of co-cultured primary immune cells. On the immune side, ectopic expression of the under-expressed microRNAs; miR-486-5p, miR-506-5p, and miR-30a-5p significantly decreased the transcript levels of PD-1 in PBMCs with no effect on TIGIT. On the other hand, ectopic expression of miR-944-5p and miR-105-5p in PBMCs dramatically reduced the co-expression of PD-1 and TIGIT. Finally, all studied miRNAs enhanced the cytotoxic effects of PBMCs against Huh7 cells. However, miR-105-5p showed the highest augmentation for PBMCs cytotoxicity against HCC cells. In conclusion, this study highlights a novel co-targeting strategy using miR-105-5p mimics, MALAT-1, CCAT-1 and H19 siRNAs to efficiently hampers the immune checkpoints; PD-L1/PD-1 and CD155/TIGIT immune evasion properties in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem A Assal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development, Cairo-Ismailia Desert Road, 11785, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha M Elemam
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Radwa Y Mekky
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA University), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdelrahman A Attia
- General Surgery Department, Ain Shams University, Demerdash Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aya Hesham Soliman
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Asmaa Ibrahim Gomaa
- Department of Hepatology, National Liver Institute, Menoufiya University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Eleni K Efthimiadou
- Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Braoudaki
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical, and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Sherif Ashraf Fahmy
- Chemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, New Administrative Capital, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rana A Youness
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835, Cairo, Egypt; Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), New Administrative Capital, 11835, Cairo, Egypt.
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Huang S, He L, Zhao Y, Wei Y, Wang Q, Gao Y, Jiang X. TREM1 + tumor-associated macrophages secrete CCL7 to promote hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:320. [PMID: 38914803 PMCID: PMC11196310 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05831-1] [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: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a critical role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression and metastasis. Systematic investigation of the cross-talk between TAMs and HCC may help in searching for the critical target to guard against HCC metastasis. METHODS AND RESULTS Herein, we found that TREM1 highly expressed in HCC tissue by analyzing the data obtain from GEO database. Interestingly, the results indicated that TREM1 was primarily expressed by monocytes. Immune infiltration studies further validated that TREM1 expression was positively related with increased infiltration of macrophages in HCC tissues. In vitro, we observed that TREM1 knockdown significantly abrogated the effect of TAMs in promoting the metastasis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of HCC cells. Additionally, cytokine array detection identified CCL7 as the main responsive cytokine following with TREM1 knockdown in TAMs. CONCLUSION Taken together, our findings strongly suggested that high expression of TREM1 was positively associated with metastasis and poor prognosis of HCC. Furthermore, TAMs expressing TREM1 contribute to EMT-based metastasis through secreting CCL7. These results provide a novel insight into the potential development of targeting the TREM1/CCL7 pathway for preventing metastatic HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
- Liver Cancer Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Longguang He
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangdong Guangzhou, 510282, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Gaozhou People's Hospital, Guangdong Gaozhou, 525000, China
| | - Yufei Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Lab of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Yuxuan Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
- Liver Cancer Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Qiwen Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Lab of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Yi Gao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangdong Guangzhou, 510282, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
- Liver Cancer Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
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Szilveszter RM, Muntean M, Florea A. Molecular Mechanisms in Tumorigenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and in Target Treatments-An Overview. Biomolecules 2024; 14:656. [PMID: 38927059 PMCID: PMC11201617 DOI: 10.3390/biom14060656] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common primary malignancy of the liver, with hepatocellular differentiation. It is ranked sixth among the most common cancers worldwide and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The most important etiological factors discussed here are viral infection (HBV, HCV), exposure to aflatoxin B1, metabolic syndrome, and obesity (as an independent factor). Directly or indirectly, they induce chromosomal aberrations, mutations, and epigenetic changes in specific genes involved in intracellular signaling pathways, responsible for synthesis of growth factors, cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, the metastasis process (including the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and the expression of adhesion molecules), and angiogenesis. All these disrupted molecular mechanisms contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis. Furthermore, equally important is the interaction between tumor cells and the components of the tumor microenvironment: inflammatory cells and macrophages-predominantly with a pro-tumoral role-hepatic stellate cells, tumor-associated fibroblasts, cancer stem cells, extracellular vesicles, and the extracellular matrix. In this paper, we reviewed the molecular biology of hepatocellular carcinoma and the intricate mechanisms involved in hepatocarcinogenesis, and we highlighted how certain signaling pathways can be pharmacologically influenced at various levels with specific molecules. Additionally, we mentioned several examples of recent clinical trials and briefly described the current treatment protocol according to the NCCN guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raluca-Margit Szilveszter
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400340 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.M.); (A.F.)
- Cluj County Emergency Clinical Hospital, 400340 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mara Muntean
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.M.); (A.F.)
| | - Adrian Florea
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.M.); (A.F.)
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Wang L, Guo W, Guan H, Yan N, Cai X, Zhu L. Tramadol suppresses growth of orthotopic liver tumors via promoting M1 macrophage polarization in the tumor microenvironment. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:4205-4218. [PMID: 38041778 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02871-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are major infiltrating immune cells in liver cancer. They are polarized to anti-tumor M1 type or tumor-supporting M2 type in a dynamic changing state. Tramadol, a synthetic opioid, exhibits tumor-suppressing effect in several cancers, but whether it plays a role in TAMs polarization is uncertain. In the present study, the potential influence of tramadol on TAMs polarization was explored in liver cancer. An orthotopic murine Hepa 1-6 liver cancer model was constructed. The potential function of tramadol was evaluated by cell viability assay, EdU incorporation assay, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assay, T cell proliferation and suppression assays and western blot. We found that tramadol suppressed proliferation and tumor formation of murine Hepa 1-6 cells in vitro and in vivo. Tramadol reprogramed the immune microenvironment to favor M1 macrophage polarization in orthotopic Hepa 1-6 tumors. Moreover, tramadol facilitated M1 macrophage polarization and inhibited M2 macrophage polarization of bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) and human THP-1 macrophages in vitro. Furthermore, tramadol-treated BMDMs promoted proliferation and activation of splenic CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Tramadol induced cellular ROS production and mitochondrial dysfunction of BMDMs. Finally, tramadol activated NF-κB signaling in BMDMs and THP-1 macrophages, while inhibition of NF-κB signaling by JSH-23 attenuated the influence of tramadol on macrophage polarization. In conclusion, these data elucidated a novel anti-tumor mechanism of tramadol in liver cancer. Tramadol might be a promising treatment strategy for liver cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University., No. 222 Zhongshan Road, Xigang District, Dalian, 116000, China
| | - Weijia Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University., No. 222 Zhongshan Road, Xigang District, Dalian, 116000, China
| | - Hongman Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University., No. 222 Zhongshan Road, Xigang District, Dalian, 116000, China
| | - Ni Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University., No. 222 Zhongshan Road, Xigang District, Dalian, 116000, China
| | - Xiaolan Cai
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University., No. 222 Zhongshan Road, Xigang District, Dalian, 116000, China
| | - Lili Zhu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University. , No. 222 Zhongshan Road, Xigang District, Dalian, 116000, China.
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Kazmi I, Afzal M, Almalki WH, S RJ, Alzarea SI, Kumar A, Sinha A, Kukreti N, Ali H, Abida. From oncogenes to tumor suppressors: The dual role of ncRNAs in fibrosarcoma. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 258:155329. [PMID: 38692083 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosarcoma is a challenging cancer originating from fibrous tissues, marked by aggressive growth and limited treatment options. The discovery of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), has opened new pathways for understanding and treating this malignancy. These ncRNAs play crucial roles in gene regulation, cellular processes, and the tumor microenvironment. This review aims to explore the impact of ncRNAs on fibrosarcoma's pathogenesis, progression, and resistance to treatment, focusing on their mechanistic roles and therapeutic potential. A comprehensive review of literature from databases like PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted, focusing on the dysregulation of ncRNAs in fibrosarcoma, their contribution to tumor growth, metastasis, drug resistance, and their cellular pathway interactions. NcRNAs significantly influence fibrosarcoma, affecting cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and angiogenesis. Their function as oncogenes or tumor suppressors makes them promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Understanding their interaction with the tumor microenvironment is essential for developing more effective treatments for fibrosarcoma. Targeting ncRNAs emerges as a promising strategy for fibrosarcoma therapy, offering hope to overcome the shortcomings of existing treatments. Further investigation is needed to clarify specific ncRNAs' roles in fibrosarcoma and to develop ncRNA-based therapies, highlighting the significance of ncRNAs in improving patient outcomes in this challenging cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Renuka Jyothi S
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetics, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Sami I Alzarea
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, 72341, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashwani Kumar
- Department of Pharmacy, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan 303012, India
| | - Aashna Sinha
- School of Applied and Life Sciences, Division of Research and Innovation Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Neelima Kukreti
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun 248007, India
| | - Haider Ali
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, India; Department of Pharmacology, Kyrgyz State Medical College, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Abida
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha 91911, Saudi Arabia
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Zhu J, Zhao W, Yang J, Liu C, Wang Y, Zhao H. Anoikis-related lncRNA signature predicts prognosis and is associated with immune infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma. Anticancer Drugs 2024; 35:466-480. [PMID: 38507233 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000001589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Anoikis is a programmed cell death process triggered when cells are dislodged from the extracellular matrix. Numerous long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified as significant factors associated with anoikis resistance in various tumor types, including glioma, breast cancer, and bladder cancer. However, the relationship between lncRNAs and the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has received limited research attention. Further research is needed to investigate this potential link and understand the role of lncRNAs in the progression of HCC. We developed a prognostic signature based on the differential expression of lncRNAs implicated in anoikis in HCC. A co-expression network of anoikis-related mRNAs and lncRNAs was established using data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) for HCC. Cox regression analyses were conducted to formulate an anoikis-related lncRNA signature (ARlncSig) in a training cohort, which was subsequently validated in both a testing cohort and a combined dataset comprising the two cohorts. Receiver operating characteristic curves, nomograms, and decision curve analyses based on the ARlncSig score and clinical characteristics demonstrated robust predictive ability. Moreover, gene set enrichment analysis revealed significant enrichment of several immune processes in the high-risk group compared to the low-risk group. Furthermore, significant differences were observed in immune cell subpopulations, expression of immune checkpoint genes, and response to chemotherapy and immunotherapy between the high- and low-risk groups. Lastly, we validated the expression levels of the five lncRNAs included in the signature using quantitative real-time PCR. In conclusion, our ARlncSig model holds substantial predictive value regarding the prognosis of HCC patients and has the potential to provide clinical guidance for individualized immunotherapy. In this study, we obtained 36 genes associated with anoikis from the Gene Ontology and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis databases. We also identified 22 differentially expressed lncRNAs that were correlated with these genes using data from TCGA. Using Cox regression analyses, we developed an ARlncSig in a training cohort, which was then validated in both a testing cohort and a combined cohort comprising data from both cohorts. Additionally, we collected eight pairs of liver cancer tissues and adjacent tissues from the Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University for further analysis. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of ARlncSig as a biomarker for liver cancer prognosis. The study developed a risk stratification system called ARlncSig, which uses five lncRNAs to categorize liver cancer patients into low- and high-risk groups. Patients in the high-risk group exhibited significantly lower overall survival rates compared to those in the low-risk group. The model's predictive performance was supported by various analyses including the receiver operating characteristic curve, nomogram calibration, clinical correlation analysis, and clinical decision curve. Additionally, differential analysis of immune function, immune checkpoint, response to chemotherapy, and immune cell subpopulations revealed significant differences between the high- and low-risk groups. Finally, quantitative real-time PCR validated the expression levels of the five lncRNAs. In conclusion, the ARlncSig model demonstrates critical predictive value in the prognosis of HCC patients and may provide clinical guidance for personalized immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahong Zhu
- Interventional and Vascular Surgery Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University
| | - Wenjing Zhao
- Cancer Research Center Nantong, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University
| | - Junkai Yang
- Interventional and Vascular Surgery Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University
| | - Cheng Liu
- Interventional and Vascular Surgery Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University
| | - Yilang Wang
- Internal Medicine Department, Affiliated Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Interventional and Vascular Surgery Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University
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Liu L, Hao S, Gou S, Tang X, Zhang Y, Cai D, Xiao M, Zhang X, Zhang D, Shen J, Li Y, Chen Y, Zhao Y, Deng S, Wu X, Li M, Zhang Z, Xiao Z, Du F. Potential applications of dual haptoglobin expression in the reclassification and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Transl Res 2024; 272:19-40. [PMID: 38815898 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2024.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
HCC is a malignancy characterized by high incidence and mortality rates. Traditional classifications of HCC primarily rely on tumor morphology, phenotype, and multicellular molecular levels, which may not accurately capture the cellular heterogeneity within the tumor. This study integrates scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq to spotlight HP as a critical gene within a subgroup of HCC malignant cells. HP is highly expressed in HCC malignant cells and lowly expressed in T cells. Within malignant cells, elevated HP expression interacts with C3, promoting Th1-type responses via the C3/C3AR1 axis. In T cells, down-regulating HP expression favors the expression of Th1 cell-associated marker genes, potentially enhancing Th1-type responses. Consequently, we developed a "HP-promoted Th1 response reclassification" gene set, correlating higher activity scores with improved survival rates in HCC patients. Additionally, four predictive models for neoadjuvant treatment based on HP and C3 expression were established: 1) Low HP and C3 expression with high Th2 cell infiltration; 2) High HP and low C3 expression with high Th2 cell infiltration; 3) High HP and C3 expression with high Th1 cell infiltration; 4) Low HP and high C3 expression with high Th1 cell infiltration. In conclusion, the HP gene selected from the HCC malignant cell subgroup (Malignant_Sub 6) might serve as a potential ally against the tumor by promoting Th1-type immune responses. The establishment of the "HP-promoted Th1 response reclassification" gene set offers predictive insights for HCC patient survival prognosis and neoadjuvant treatment efficacy, providing directions for clinical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Siyu Hao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Shuang Gou
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Xiaolong Tang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Dan Cai
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Mintao Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Xinyi Zhang
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
| | - Duoli Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Jing Shen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Yan Li
- Public Center of Experimental Technology, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Yueshui Zhao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Shuai Deng
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Xu Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Mingxing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Zhuo Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Zhangang Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Fukuan Du
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China; Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Sichuan Luzhou, 646000, China; South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Sichuan Luzhou 646000, China.
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Zhao X, Zhu X, Xiao C, Hu Z. LncRNA SH3BP5-AS1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by sponging miR-6838-5p and activation of PTPN4. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:8511-8523. [PMID: 38761175 PMCID: PMC11164516 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205811] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) have been demonstrated to have significant roles in the carcinogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this work, we sought to determine LncRNA SH3BP5-AS1's function and mechanism in the emergence of HCC. RESULTS First, we discovered that the advanced tumor stage was strongly correlated with high levels of LncRNA SH3BP5-AS1 expression in HCC. MiR-6838-5p expression was down-regulated and inversely correlated with SH3BP5-AS1 expression. Additionally, overexpression of SH3BP5-AS1 boosted cell invasion, migration, and proliferation. The oncogenic effects of the inhibitor of miR-6838-5p were eliminated when PTPN4 was suppressed, following the identification of PTPN4 as a direct target of miR-6838-5p. In addition, SH3BP5-AS1 promoted cellular glycolysis via miR-6838-5p sponging and PTPN4 activation. Lastly, by directly interacting to the promoter of SH3BP5-AS1, HIF-1α could control the transcription of the gene. CONCLUSIONS Our research suggests that SH3BP5-AS1 controls miR-6838-5p/PTPN4 in order to act as a new carcinogenic LncRNA during the growth of HCC cells. METHODS The expression levels of SH3BP5-AS1, miR-6838-5p and PTPN4 were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot. The effects of LncRNA SH3BP5-AS1/miR-6838-5p/PTPN4 on the proliferation, metastasis and glycolysis of HCC cells were clarified by experimental cellular functionality assays, cell derived xenograft and Glycolysis assay.
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MESH Headings
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/genetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/genetics
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- RNA, Long Noncoding/genetics
- RNA, Long Noncoding/metabolism
- MicroRNAs/genetics
- MicroRNAs/metabolism
- Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase, Non-Receptor Type 4/genetics
- Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase, Non-Receptor Type 4/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Cell Proliferation/genetics
- Disease Progression
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Movement/genetics
- Animals
- Male
- Glycolysis/genetics
- Mice
- Female
- Middle Aged
- Mice, Nude
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyang Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430014, Hubei, China
| | - Xinfeng Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430014, Hubei, China
| | - Chaowen Xiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430014, Hubei, China
| | - Zouxiao Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430014, Hubei, China
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Galasso L, Cerrito L, Maccauro V, Termite F, Ainora ME, Gasbarrini A, Zocco MA. Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Multifaceted Relationship with Its Microenvironment: Attacking the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Defensive Fortress. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1837. [PMID: 38791916 PMCID: PMC11119751 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101837] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor that originates from hepatocytes in an inflammatory substrate due to different degrees of liver fibrosis up to cirrhosis. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role played by the complex interrelationship between hepatocellular carcinoma and its microenvironment, capable of influencing tumourigenesis, neoplastic growth, and its progression or even inhibition. The microenvironment is made up of an intricate network of mesenchymal cells, immune system cells, extracellular matrix, and growth factors, as well as proinflammatory cytokines and translocated bacterial products coming from the intestinal microenvironment via the enterohepatic circulation. The aim of this paper is to review the role of the HCC microenvironment and describe the possible implications in the choice of the most appropriate therapeutic scheme in the prediction of tumor response or resistance to currently applied treatments and in the possible development of future therapeutic perspectives, in order to circumvent resistance and break down the tumor's defensive fort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Galasso
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Maccauro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Fabrizio Termite
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Maria Elena Ainora
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Zocco
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
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10
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Chen Z, Su J, You N, Lin H, Lin S, Zhang Z, Chen Y. A novel model based on ubiquitination-related gene to predict prognosis and immunotherapy response in hepatocellular carcinoma. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29387. [PMID: 38628739 PMCID: PMC11019200 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29387] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cancer that is increasingly becoming a global health problem and a major public health concern. In order to improve patient outcomes, additional biomarkers and targets must be explored. Ubiquitination-related genes (URGs), as tumor regulators, exhibit multiple functions in tumor development. Our objective was to examine the influence of URGs on the prognosis of patients with HCC. Methods By utilizing unsupervised cluster analysis, we were able to identify URGs in the database and create a risk score profile for predicting the prognosis of patients with HCC. The model's clinical application was explored using subject operating characteristic curves, survival analysis, and correlation analysis. We additionally examined the variances in clinical traits, immune infiltration, somatic genetic alterations, and responsiveness to treatment among high- and low-risk populations identified by the prognostic model. Scores for immune cell infiltration and immune-related pathway activity were determined by performing ssGSEA enrichment analysis. Additionally, to investigate potential mechanisms, we utilized GO, KEGG and GSVA analyses. Results We developed a risk scoring model that relies on genes associated with ubiquitination. As the risk score increased, the malignancy and prognosis of the tumor worsened. The high-risk and low-risk groups exhibited notable disparities in relation to the immune microenvironment, genes associated with immune checkpoints, sensitivity to drugs, and response to immunotherapy. Conclusion The utilization of a risk model that relies on genes associated with ubiquitination can serve as a biomarker to assess the prognosis of patients with HCC, and aid in the selection of suitable therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu Chen
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Jing Su
- Hematology Laboratory, Suqian First People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Suqian, China
| | - Ningning You
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Hong Lin
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Shanshan Lin
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Zhenjiang Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Suqian First People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Suqian, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
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11
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Ouyang G, Li Q, Wei Y, Dai W, Deng H, Liu Y, Li J, Li M, Luo S, Li S, Liang Y, Pan G, Yang J, Gan T. Identification of PANoptosis-related subtypes, construction of a prognosis signature, and tumor microenvironment landscape of hepatocellular carcinoma using bioinformatic analysis and experimental verification. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1323199. [PMID: 38742112 PMCID: PMC11089137 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1323199] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal malignancies worldwide. PANoptosis is a recently unveiled programmed cell death pathway, Nonetheless, the precise implications of PANoptosis within the context of HCC remain incompletely elucidated. Methods We conducted a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis to evaluate both the expression and mutation patterns of PANoptosis-related genes (PRGs). We categorized HCC into two clusters and identified differentially expressed PANoptosis-related genes (DEPRGs). Next, a PANoptosis risk model was constructed using LASSO and multivariate Cox regression analyses. The relationship between PRGs, risk genes, the risk model, and the immune microenvironment was studies. In addition, drug sensitivity between high- and low-risk groups was examined. The expression profiles of these four risk genes were elucidate by qRT-PCR or immunohistochemical (IHC). Furthermore, the effect of CTSC knock down on HCC cell behavior was verified using in vitro experiments. Results We constructed a prognostic signature of four DEPRGs (CTSC, CDCA8, G6PD, and CXCL9). Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses underscored the superior prognostic capacity of this signature in assessing the outcomes of HCC patients. Subsequently, patients were stratified based on their risk scores, which revealed that the low-risk group had better prognosis than those in the high-risk group. High-risk group displayed a lower Stromal Score, Immune Score, ESTIMATE score, and higher cancer stem cell content, tumor mutation burden (TMB) values. Furthermore, a correlation was noted between the risk model and the sensitivity to 56 chemotherapeutic agents, as well as immunotherapy efficacy, in patient with. These findings provide valuable guidance for personalized clinical treatment strategies. The qRT-PCR analysis revealed that upregulated expression of CTSC, CDCA8, and G6PD, whereas downregulated expression of CXCL9 in HCC compared with adjacent tumor tissue and normal liver cell lines. The knockdown of CTSC significantly reduced both HCC cell proliferation and migration. Conclusion Our study underscores the promise of PANoptosis-based molecular clustering and prognostic signatures in predicting patient survival and discerning the intricacies of the tumor microenvironment within the context of HCC. These insights hold the potential to advance our comprehension of the therapeutic contribution of PANoptosis plays in HCC and pave the way for generating more efficacious treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqing Ouyang
- Department of General Surgery, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, Guangxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Liuzhou Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases Precision Diagnosis Research Center of Engineering Technology, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Qiuyun Li
- Department of General Surgery, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
- Liuzhou Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases Precision Diagnosis Research Center of Engineering Technology, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Yangnian Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Ruikang Hospital, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Wenbin Dai
- Department of Pathology, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Haojian Deng
- Department of Emergency Medical, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Youli Liu
- Department of Pathology, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Jiaguang Li
- Department of Pathology, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Mingjuan Li
- Department of General Surgery, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Shunwen Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Yunying Liang
- Department of General Surgery, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Guandong Pan
- Department of General Surgery, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
- Liuzhou Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases Precision Diagnosis Research Center of Engineering Technology, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Jianqing Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
- Liuzhou Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases Precision Diagnosis Research Center of Engineering Technology, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Tao Gan
- Department of General Surgery, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
- Department of Emergency Medical, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
- Key Specialty Department of Emergency Medicine in Guangxi, Liuzhou People’s Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
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12
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Chang H, Chen H, Ma T, Ma K, Li Y, Suo L, Liang X, Jia K, Ma J, Li J, Sun D. Multi-omics pan-cancer study of SPTBN2 and its value as a potential therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9764. [PMID: 38684762 PMCID: PMC11059406 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60780-6] [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: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
SPTBN2 is a protein-coding gene that is closely related to the development of malignant tumors. However, its prognostic value and biological function in pan-cancer, especially pancreatic cancer (PAAD), have not been reported. In the present study, a novel exploration of the value and potential mechanism of SPTBN2 in PAAD was conducted using multi-omics in the background of pan-cancer. Via various database analysis, up-regulated expression of SPTBN2 was detected in most of the tumor tissues examined. Overexpression of SPTBN2 in PAAD and kidney renal clear cell cancer patients potentially affected overall survival, disease-specific survival, and progression-free interval. In PAAD, SPTBN2 can be used as an independent factor affecting prognosis. Mutations and amplification of SPTBN2 were detected, with abnormal methylation of SPTBN2 affecting its expression and the survival outcome of PAAD patients. Immunoassay results demonstrate that SPTBN2 was a potential biomarker for predicting therapeutic response in PAAD, and may influence the immunotherapy efficacy of PAAD by regulating levels of CD8 + T cells and neutrophil infiltration. Results from an enrichment analysis indicated that SPTBN2 may regulate the development of PAAD via immune pathways. Thus, SPTBN2 is a potential prognostic biomarker and immunotherapy target based on its crucial role in the development of PAAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongliang Chang
- Division of Cholelithiasis Minimally Invasive Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, 116001, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Taiheng Ma
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Kexin Ma
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Yi Li
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Lida Suo
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Xiangnan Liang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Kunyu Jia
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Jiahong Ma
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Jing Li
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Deguang Sun
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116021, China.
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13
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Wang H, Wang W. Unlocking the future of hepatocellular carcinoma treatment: A comprehensive analysis of disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs for prognosis and drug screening. Open Med (Wars) 2024; 19:20240919. [PMID: 38584823 PMCID: PMC10998672 DOI: 10.1515/med-2024-0919] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The disulfide stress-induced cell death known as disulfidptosis is characterized by the disintegration of cytoskeletal proteins and F-actin as a result of an excessive buildup of disulfides within the cell. The relationship between disulfidptosis-associated long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression is still not clearly understood. In this article, we aim to explore the crucial role of lncRNA in HCC. Methods We initially obtained lncRNA related to HCC and clinical data from TCGA. The genes associated with disulfidptosis were identified through co-expression analysis, Cox regression, and Lasso regression. Additionally, we established a prognostic model for verification. Results The risk model constructed with disulfidptosis-related lncRNA has been confirmed to be a good predictor of high and low-risk groups of HCC patients through survival curves, independent prognostic analysis, concordance index (C-index), ROC curves, and Kaplan-Meier plots. We also discovered differences in the response to immune targets and anticancer drugs between the two groups of patients, with GDC0810, Osimertinib, Paclitaxel, and YK-4-279 being more effective for patients in the high-risk group. Conclusion In conclusion, we have developed a risk model that can guide future efforts to diagnose and treat HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haojun Wang
- Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100071, China
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14
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Ma J, Xin Y, Wang Q, Ding L. Roles of cGAS-STING Pathway in Radiotherapy Combined with Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:447-453. [PMID: 38049087 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Although great strides have been made in the management and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), its prognosis is still poor yielding a high mortality. Immunotherapy is recommended for treating advanced HCC, but its efficiency is hampered because of hepatic immunosuppression. Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway, serving as a critical cytoplasmic DNA-sensing process, is reported to initiate the antitumor immune response, and link the innate immunity to the adaptive immune system. Radiotherapy has been well acknowledged to induce destruction and release of tumor-derived DNA into the cytoplasm, which then activates the cGAS-STING pathway. On this basis, radiotherapy can be used as a sensitizer for immunotherapy, and its combination with immunotherapy may bring in changes to the suboptimal efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy. In this review, we summarized the roles of cGAS-STING pathway in regulation of radiotherapy combined with immunotherapy for treating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianing Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, P.R. China
| | - Yuning Xin
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, P.R. China
| | - Lijuan Ding
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, P.R. China
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15
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De Gaetano V, Pallozzi M, Cerrito L, Santopaolo F, Stella L, Gasbarrini A, Ponziani FR. Management of Portal Hypertension in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma on Systemic Treatment: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1388. [PMID: 38611066 PMCID: PMC11011056 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071388] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The management of CSPH in patients undergoing systemic treatment for HCC has emerged as a critical concern due to the absence of reliable diagnostic criteria and uncertainties surrounding therapeutic approaches. This review aims to underscore the primary pathophysiological aspects linking HCC and PH, while also addressing the current and emerging clinical strategies for the management of portal hypertension. A review of studies from January 2003 to June 2023 was conducted using the PubMed database and employing MeSH terms, such as "hepatocellular carcinoma", "immune checkpoint inhibitors", "systemic therapy", "portal hypertension", "variceal bleeding" and "tyrosine kinase inhibitors". Despite promising results of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in animal models for PH and fibrosis, only Sorafenib has demonstrated similar effects in human studies, whereas Lenvatinib appears to promote PH development. The impact of Atezolizumab/Bevacizumab on PH remains uncertain, with an increasing risk of bleeding related to Bevacizumab in patients with prior variceal hemorrhage. Given the absence of specific guidelines, endoscopic surveillance during treatment is advisable, and primary and secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding should adhere to the Baveno VII recommendations. Furthermore, in patients with advanced HCC, refinement of diagnostic criteria for CSPH and guidelines for its surveillance are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria De Gaetano
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Maria Pallozzi
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Francesco Santopaolo
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Leonardo Stella
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Ponziani
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
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Wang F, Kang X, Li Y, Lu J, Liu X, Yan H. Elucidating hepatocellular carcinoma progression: a novel prognostic miRNA-mRNA network and signature analysis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5042. [PMID: 38424172 PMCID: PMC10904818 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55806-y] [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: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that miRNAs play an important role in the prognosis of HCC. There is currently a lack of acknowledged models that accurately predict patient prognosis. The aim of this study is to create a miRNA-based model to precisely forecast a patient's prognosis and a miRNA-mRNA network to investigate the function of a targeted mRNA. TCGA miRNA dataset and survival data of HCC patients were downloaded for differential analysis. The outcomes of variance analysis were subjected to univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses and LASSO analysis. We constructed and visualized prognosis-related models and subsequently used violin plots to probe the function of miRNAs in tumor cells. We predicted the target mRNAs added those to the String database, built PPI protein interaction networks, and screened those mRNA using Cytoscape. The hub mRNA was subjected to GO and KEGG analysis to determine its biological role. Six of them were associated with prognosis: hsa-miR-139-3p, hsa-miR-139-5p, hsa-miR-101-3p, hsa-miR-30d-5p, hsa-miR-5003-3p, and hsa-miR-6844. The prognostic model was highly predictive and consistently performs, with the C index exceeding 0.7 after 1, 3, and 5 years. The model estimated significant differences in the Kaplan-Meier plotter and the model could predict patient prognosis independently of clinical indicators. A relatively stable miRNA prognostic model for HCC patients was constructed, and the model was highly accurate in predicting patients with good stability over 5 years. The miRNA-mRNA network was constructed to explore the function of mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Clinical Research Center, Shijiazhuang Fifth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Xichun Kang
- Clinical Research Center, Shijiazhuang Fifth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yaoqi Li
- Clinical Research Center, Shijiazhuang Fifth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jianhua Lu
- Clinical Research Center, Shijiazhuang Fifth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Xiling Liu
- Clinical Research Center, Shijiazhuang Fifth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Huimin Yan
- Clinical Research Center, Shijiazhuang Fifth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
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Xie C, Hao X, Yuan H, Wang C, Sharif R, Yu H. Crosstalk Between circRNA and Tumor Microenvironment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Mechanism, Function and Applications. Onco Targets Ther 2024; 17:7-26. [PMID: 38283733 PMCID: PMC10812140 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s437536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common aggressive tumors in the world. Despite the availability of various treatments, its prognosis remains poor due to the lack of specific diagnostic indicators and the high heterogeneity of HCC cases. CircRNAs are noncoding RNAs with stable and highly specific expression. Extensive research evidence suggests that circRNAs mediate the pathogenesis and progression of HCC through acting as miRNA sponges, protein modulators, and translation templates. Tumor microenvironment (TME) has become a hotspot of immune-related research in recent years due to its effects on metabolism, secretion and immunity of HCC. Accordingly, understanding the role played by circRNAs in TME is important for the study of HCC. This review will discuss the crosstalk between circRNAs and TME in HCC. In addition, we will discuss the current deficiencies and controversies in research on circRNAs and predict future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Xie
- Hepatobiliary Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaopei Hao
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Yuan
- Hepatobiliary Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chongyu Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Razinah Sharif
- Center for Healthy Ageing & Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
- Biocompatibility Laboratory, Centre for Research and Instrumentation, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi, Selangor Darul Ehsan, 43600, Malaysia
| | - Haibo Yu
- Hepatobiliary Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People’s Republic of China
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18
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Song XQ, Li RJ, Zhang S. Prediction of prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma based on immune-related score. Asian J Surg 2024; 47:310-319. [PMID: 37673742 DOI: 10.1016/j.asjsur.2023.08.175] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune-related scores are currently used for prognostic evaluation and as an immunotherapy reference in various cancers. However, the relationship between immune-related score and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prognosis has not yet been investigated. This study aimed to explore the clinical application value of immune-related score for predicting HCC prognosis-related indicators including disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS), and to construct a clinical nomogram prediction model related to verification. METHODS This study included 284 HCC patients who were selected from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and linked to the immune-related score downloaded from the public platform. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the adjusted risk ratio, and a nomogram was constructed based on multivariate analysis results and clinical significance. The model was internally verified by bootstrap. The performance of the prediction model was evaluated using the C-index and calibration curves. RESULTS Patients were divided into three subgroups according to the immune-related score level. Compared with patients in the low immune-related score group, the DFS of patients in the medium and high immune-related score groups was significantly prolonged (HR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.32-0.87; HR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.21-0.63, respectively). The OS of patients in the medium and high immune-related score groups was also significantly prolonged (HR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.20-0.95, p = 0.038; HR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.14-0.58, p < 0.001, respectively). The C-indexes for predicting DFS and OS were 0.687 (95% CI: 0.665-0.700) and 0.743 (95% CI: 0.709-0.776), respectively. The calibration curves of 3-year and 5-year DFS and OS showed that the results predicted by the nomogram were in good agreement with the actual observations. CONCLUSIONS Moderate/high-grade immune-related score was significantly associated with better DFS and OS in HCC patients. In addition, a nomogram for prognosis estimation can help clinicians predict the survival status of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Qing Song
- General Surgery Department, Baoan Central Hospital, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Xixiang Street, Bao 'an District, Shenzhen, 518000, Guangdong, PR China.
| | - Rong-Jiang Li
- General Surgery Department, Baoan Central Hospital, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Xixiang Street, Bao 'an District, Shenzhen, 518000, Guangdong, PR China.
| | - Sen Zhang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Nanning, Guangxi, 530000, PR China.
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Zhang F, Zhou K, Yuan W, Sun K. Radix Bupleuri-Radix Paeoniae Alba Inhibits the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma through Activation of the PTEN/PD-L1 Axis within the Immune Microenvironment. Nutr Cancer 2023; 76:63-79. [PMID: 37909316 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2023.2276525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigated how Radix Bupleuri-Radix Paeoniae Alba (BP) was active against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS Traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database was employed to determine the active ingredients of BP and potential targets against HCC. Molecular docking analysis verified the binding activity of PTEN with BP ingredients. H22 cells were used to establish an HCC model in male balb/c mice. Immunofluorescence staining, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and real-time quantitative PCR were used to study changes in proliferation, apoptosis, PTEN levels, inflammation, and T-cell differentiation in male balb/c mice. RESULTS The major active ingredients in BP were found to be quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, stigmasterol, and beta-sitosterol. Molecular docking demonstrated that these five active BP ingredients formed a stable complex with PTEN. BP exhibited an anti-tumor effect in our HCC mouse model. BP was found to increase the CD8+ and IFN-γ+/CD4+ T cell levels while decreasing the PD-1+/CD8+ T and Treg cell levels in HCC mice. BP up-regulated the IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α levels but down-regulated the IL-10 levels in HCC mice. After PTEN knockdown, BP-induced effects were abrogated. CONCLUSION BP influenced the immune microenvironment through activation of the PTEN/PD-L1 axis, protecting against HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhang
- Department of TCM, Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, Second Hospital Affiliated to Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Kun Zhou
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Yuan
- Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hu'nan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Kewei Sun
- Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hu'nan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
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20
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Cuesta ÁM, Palao N, Bragado P, Gutierrez-Uzquiza A, Herrera B, Sánchez A, Porras A. New and Old Key Players in Liver Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17152. [PMID: 38138981 PMCID: PMC10742790 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417152] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer represents a major health problem worldwide with growing incidence and high mortality, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most frequent. Hepatocytes are likely the cellular origin of most HCCs through the accumulation of genetic alterations, although hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) might also be candidates in specific cases, as discussed here. HCC usually develops in a context of chronic inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, although the role of fibrosis is controversial. The interplay between hepatocytes, immune cells and hepatic stellate cells is a key issue. This review summarizes critical aspects of the liver tumor microenvironment paying special attention to platelets as new key players, which exert both pro- and anti-tumor effects, determined by specific contexts and a tight regulation of platelet signaling. Additionally, the relevance of specific signaling pathways, mainly HGF/MET, EGFR and TGF-β is discussed. HGF and TGF-β are produced by different liver cells and platelets and regulate not only tumor cell fate but also HPCs, inflammation and fibrosis, these being key players in these processes. The role of C3G/RAPGEF1, required for the proper function of HGF/MET signaling in HCC and HPCs, is highlighted, due to its ability to promote HCC growth and, regulate HPC fate and platelet-mediated actions on liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel M. Cuesta
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nerea Palao
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alvaro Gutierrez-Uzquiza
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Herrera
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD-ISCIII), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Aránzazu Sánchez
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD-ISCIII), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Almudena Porras
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Hao W, Chen Z, Tang J, Yang R, Gao WQ, Xu H. hnRNPA2B1 promotes the occurrence and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by downregulating PCK1 mRNA via a m6A RNA methylation manner. J Transl Med 2023; 21:861. [PMID: 38017546 PMCID: PMC10683354 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04704-4] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent RNA modification. Although hnRNPA2B1, as a reader of m6A modification, has been reported to promote tumorigenesis in a few types of tumors, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. METHODS Multiple public databases were used to analyze the expression of hnRNPA2B1 in HCC and its correlation with survival prognosis. We employed a CRISPR-Cas9 sgRNA editing strategy to knockout hnRNPA2B1 expression in HCC cells. The biological function of hnRNPA2B1 in vitro in HCC cells was measured by CCK8, colony formation, migration, and invasion assay. The tumorigenic function of hnRNPA2B1 in vivo was determined by a subcutaneous tumor formation experiment and a HCC mouse model via tail injection of several plasmids into the mouse within 5s-7s. RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) experiment using hnRNPA2B1 was performed to test the target genes of hnRNPA2B1 and methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP) assay was performed to explore the m6A methylated mRNA of target genes. RESULTS hnRNPA2B1 highly expressed in HCC tissues, correlated with high grades and poor prognosis. Its knockout reduced HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro, while overexpression promoted these processes. hnRNPA2B1-knockout cells inhibited tumor formation in graft experiments. In HCC mice, endogenous knockout attenuated hepatocarcinogenesis. RNA-seq showed downregulated gluconeogenesis with high hnRNPA2B1 expression. hnRNPA2B1 negatively correlated with PCK1, a key enzyme. RIP assay revealed hnRNPA2B1 binding to PCK1 mRNA. hnRNPA2B1 knockout increased m6A-methylation of PCK1 mRNA. Interestingly, PCK1 knockout partially counteracted tumor inhibition by hnRNPA2B1 knockout in mice. CONCLUSION Our study indicated that hnRNPA2B1 is highly expressed in HCC and correlated with a poor prognosis. hnRNPA2B1 promotes the tumorigenesis and progression of HCC both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, hnRNPA2B1 downregulates the expression of PCK1 mRNA via a m6A methylation manner. More importantly, the ability of hnRNPA2B1 to induce tumorigenesis and progression in HCC is dependent on its ability to decrease the expression of PCK1. Therefore, this study suggested that hnRNPA2B1 might be a diagnostic marker of poor prognosis of HCC and a potential therapeutic target for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhimin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingzhi Tang
- Department of Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Ru Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Qiang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- Med-X Research Institute and School of Biological Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Huiming Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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Shi H, Zou Y, Zhong W, Li Z, Wang X, Yin Y, Li D, Liu Y, Li M. Complex roles of Hippo-YAP/TAZ signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:15311-15322. [PMID: 37608027 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05272-2] [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: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Hippo signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved signaling module that controls organ size in different species, and the disorder of the Hippo pathway can induce liver cancer in organisms, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The exact mechanism that causes cancer is still unknown. Recent studies have shown that it is a classical kinase cascade that phosphorylates the Mst1/2-sav1 complex and activates the phosphorylation of the Lats1/2-mob1A/B complex for inactivating Yap and Taz. These kinases and scaffolds are regarded as primary regulators of the Hippo pathway, and help in activating a variety of carcinogenic processes. Among them, Yap/Taz is seen to be the main effector molecule, which is downstream of the Hippo pathway, and its abnormal activation is related to a variety of human cancers including liver cancer. Currently, since Yap/Taz plays a variety of roles in cancer promotion and tumor regeneration, the Hippo pathway has emerged as an attractive target in recent drug development research. METHODS We collect and review relevant literature in web of Science and Pubmed. CONCLUSION This review highlights the important roles of Yap/Taz in activating Hippo pathway in liver cancer. The recent findings on the crosstalks between the Hippo and other cancer associated pathways and moleculars are also discussed. In this review, we summarized and discussed recent breakthroughs in our understanding of how key components of the Hippo-YAP/TAZ pathway influence the hepatocellular carcinoma, including their effects on tumor occurrence and development, their roles in regulating metastasis, and their function in chemotherapy resistance. Further, the molecular mechanism and roles in regulating cross talk between Hippo-YAP/TAZ pathway and other cancer-associated pathways or oncogenes/cancer suppressor genes were summarized and discussed. More, many other inducers and inhibitors of this signaling cascade and available experimental therapies against the YAP/TAZ/TEAD axis were discussed. Targeting this pathway for cancer therapy may have great significance in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Graphical summary of the complex role of Hippo-YAP/TAZ signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hewen Shi
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Zou
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiwei Zhong
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoying Li
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Research Center, Shandong Public Health Clinical Center, Jinan, 250102, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxue Wang
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yancun Yin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, People's Republic of China
| | - Defang Li
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Liu
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Minjing Li
- Featured Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Target Discovery of Active Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Zhong Z, Xie F, Yin J, Zhao H, Zhou Y, Guo K, Li R, Wang Q, Tang B. Development of a prognostic model for anoikis and identifies hub genes in hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14723. [PMID: 37679418 PMCID: PMC10484901 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41139-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering the high fatality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), current prognostic systems are insufficient to accurately forecast HCC patients' outcomes. In our study, nine anoikis‑related genes (PTRH2, ITGAV, ANXA5, BIRC5, BDNF, BSG, DAP3, SKP2, and EGF) were determined to establish a risk scoring model using LASSO regression, which could be validated in ICGC dataset. Kaplan-Meier curves and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis confirmed the risk score possessed an accurate predictive value for the prognosis of HCC patients. The high-risk group showed a higher infiltration of aDCs, macrophages, T-follicular helper cells, and Th2 cells. Besides, PD-L1 was significantly higher in the high-risk group compared to the low-risk group. Several anoikis‑related genes, such as ANX5, ITGAV, BDNF and SKP2, were associated with drug sensitivity in HCC. Finally, we identified BIRC5 and SKP2 as hub genes among the nine model genes using WGCNA analysis. BIRC5 and SKP2 were over-expressed in HCC tissues, and their over-expression was associated with poor prognosis, no matter in our cohort by immunohistochemical staining or in the TCGA cohort by mRNA-Seq. In our cohort, BIRC5 expression was highly associated with the T stage, pathologic stage, histologic grade and AFP of HCC patients. In general, our anoikis-related risk model can enhance the ability to predict the survival outcomes of HCC patients and provide a feasible therapeutic strategy for immunotherapy and drug resistance in HCC. BIRC5 and SKP2 are hub genes of anoikis‑related genes in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Zhong
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuchun Xie
- Department of Radiology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiajun Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, 116300, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuehan Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Guo
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongkuan Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qimin Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bo Tang
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
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24
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Tamura Y, Ono A, Nakahara H, Hayes CN, Fujii Y, Zhang P, Yamauchi M, Uchikawa S, Teraoka Y, Uchida T, Fujino H, Nakahara T, Murakami E, Tsuge M, Serikawa M, Miki D, Kawaoka T, Okamoto W, Imamura M, Nakamura Y, Awai K, Kobayashi T, Ohdan H, Fujita M, Nakagawa H, Chayama K, Aikata H, Oka S. Association of Hepatobiliary Phase of Gadoxetic-Acid-Enhanced MRI Imaging with Immune Microenvironment and Response to Atezolizumab Plus Bevacizumab Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4234. [PMID: 37686510 PMCID: PMC10486496 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174234] [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: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been reported that high intensity in the hepatobiliary (HB) phase of Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI (EOB-MRI) is associated with an immune-cold microenvironment in HCC. The aim of this study is to reveal whether non-high-intensity HCCs are homogeneous with respect to the immune microenvironment and to investigate the predictive ability of EOB-MRI for the response to atezolizumab + bevacizumab therapy (Atezo/Bev). The association between differences in stepwise signal intensity of HB phase and molecular subtypes and somatic mutations associated with the immune microenvironment was investigated in 65 HCC patients (cohort 1). The association between EOB-MRI and the therapeutic effect of Atezo/Bev was evaluated in the Atezo/Bev cohort (60 patients in cohort 2). The proportion of HCCs having CTNNB1 mutations and classified as Chiang CTNNB1 and Hoshida S3 was high in the high-intensity HB-phase group. Infiltration of tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) and regulatory T-lymphocytes (Treg) was characteristic of the high-intensity and low-intensity groups, respectively. Although EOB-MRI could not predict the response to Atezo/Bev treatment, our results demonstrate that EOB-MRI could serve as a surrogate marker predicting the immune microenvironment. This suggests that Atezo/Bev treatment can be selected regardless of signal intensity in the EOB-MRI HB phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Tamura
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Atsushi Ono
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Hikaru Nakahara
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Clair Nelson Hayes
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yasutoshi Fujii
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Peiyi Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Masami Yamauchi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Uchikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yuji Teraoka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Takuro Uchida
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Hatsue Fujino
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Takashi Nakahara
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Eisuke Murakami
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Masataka Tsuge
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Masahiro Serikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Daiki Miki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Tomokazu Kawaoka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Wataru Okamoto
- Cancer Treatment Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Michio Imamura
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yuko Nakamura
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Kazuo Awai
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Hideki Ohdan
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Masashi Fujita
- Laboratory for Cancer Genomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Hidewaki Nakagawa
- Laboratory for Cancer Genomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Chayama
- Collaborative Research Laboratory of Medical Innovation, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
- Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Aikata
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hiroshima Prefectural Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8530, Japan
| | - Shiro Oka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
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Chen VCH, Huang SL, Huang JY, Hsu TC, Tzang BS, McIntyre RS. Combined Administration of Escitalopram Oxalate and Nivolumab Exhibits Synergistic Growth-Inhibitory Effects on Liver Cancer Cells through Inducing Apoptosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12630. [PMID: 37628813 PMCID: PMC10454364 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612630] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most lethal malignant cancers worldwide. However, the therapeutic options for advanced liver cancers are limited and reveal scant efficacy. The current study investigated the effects of nivolumab (Niv) and escitalopram oxalate (Esc) in combination on proliferation of liver cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Significantly decreased viability of HepG2 cells that were treated with Esc or Niv was observed in a dose-dependent manner at 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h. Administration of Esc (50 μM) + Niv (20 μM), Esc (75 μM) + Niv (5 μM), and Esc (75 μM) + Niv (20 μM) over 24 h exhibited synergistic effects, inhibiting the survival of HepG2 cells. Additionally, treatment with Esc (50 μM) + Niv (1 μM), Esc (50 μM) + Niv (20 μM), and Esc (75 μM) + Niv (20 μM) over 48 h exhibited synergistic effects, inhibiting the survival of HepG2 cells. Finally, treatment with Esc (50 μM) + Niv (1 μM), Esc (50 μM) + Niv (20 μM), and Esc (75 μM) + Niv (20 μM) for 72 h exhibited synergistic effects, inhibiting HepG2 survival. Com-pared with controls, HepG2 cells treated with Esc (50 μM) + Niv (20 μM) exhibited significantly increased sub-G1 portion and annexin-V signals. In a xenograft animal study, Niv (6.66 mg/kg) + Esc (2.5 mg/kg) significantly suppressed the growth of xenograft HepG2 tumors in nude mice. This study reports for the first time the synergistic effects of combined administration of Niv and Esc for inhibiting HepG2 cell proliferation, which may provide an alternative option for liver cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Chin-Hung Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan;
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 61303, Taiwan; (S.-L.H.); (J.-Y.H.)
| | - Shao-Lan Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 61303, Taiwan; (S.-L.H.); (J.-Y.H.)
| | - Jing-Yu Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 61303, Taiwan; (S.-L.H.); (J.-Y.H.)
| | - Tsai-Ching Hsu
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Immunology Center, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Bor-Show Tzang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Immunology Center, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Roger S. McIntyre
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T2S8, Canada;
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T1R8, Canada
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26
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Zhao Y, Xu X, Wang Y, Wu LD, Luo RL, Xia RP. Tumor purity-associated genes influence hepatocellular carcinoma prognosis and tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1197898. [PMID: 37434985 PMCID: PMC10330704 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1197898] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tumor purity takes on critical significance to the progression of solid tumors. The aim of this study was at exploring potential prognostic genes correlated with tumor purity in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by bioinformatics analysis. Methods The ESTIMATE algorithm was applied for determining the tumor purity of HCC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The tumor purity-associated genes with differential expression (DEGs) were identified based on overlap analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and differential expression analysis. The prognostic genes were identified in terms of the prognostic model construction based on the Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survival analysis and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression analyses. The expression of the above-described genes was further validated by the GSE105130 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. We also characterized the clinical and immunophenotypes of prognostic genes. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was carried out for exploring the biological signaling pathway. Results A total of 26 tumor purity-associated DEGs were identified, which were involved in biological processes such as immune/inflammatory responses and fatty acid elongation. Ultimately, we identified ADCK3, HK3, and PPT1 as the prognostic genes for HCC. Moreover, HCC patients exhibiting higher ADCK3 expression and lower HK3 and PPT1 expressions had a better prognosis. Furthermore, high HK3 and PPT1 expressions and low ADCK3 expression resulted in high tumor purity, high immune score, high stromal score, and high ESTIMATE score. GSEA showed that the abovementioned prognostic genes showed a significant correlation with immune-inflammatory response, tumor growth, and fatty acid production/degradation. Discussion In conclusion, this study identified novel predictive biomarkers (ADCK3, HK3, and PPT1) and studied the underlying molecular mechanisms of HCC pathology initially.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhao
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Kunming Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Xu Xu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Kunming Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Lin D. Wu
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Kunming Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Rui L. Luo
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Ren P. Xia
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Kunming Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming, China
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27
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Su D, Zhang Z, Xia F, Liang Q, Liu Y, Liu W, Xu Z. ICD-related risk model predicts the prognosis and immunotherapy response of patients with liver cancer. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1202823. [PMID: 37361216 PMCID: PMC10285067 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1202823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a novel cell death mechanism that activates and regulates the immune system against cancer. However, its prognostic value in liver cancer remains unclear. Here, several algorithms such as correlation analysis, Cox regression analysis, and Lasso regression analysis were carried out to evaluate the prognostic value of ICD-related genes in patients with liver cancer. Three ICD-related prognostic genes, the prion protein gene (PRNP), dynamin 1-like gene (DNM1L), and caspase-8 (CASP8), were identified and used to construct a risk signature. Patients with liver cancer were categorized into high- and low-risk groups using the ICD-related signature. Subsequently, a multivariate regression analysis revealed that the signature was an independent risk factor in liver cancer [hazard ratio (HR) = 6.839; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.625-78.785]. Patient survival was also predicted using the risk model, with area under the curve values of 0.75, 0.70, and 0.69 for 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival, respectively. Finally, a prognostic nomogram containing the clinical characteristics and risk scores of patients was constructed. The constructed ICD-related signature could serve as a prognostic and immunotherapeutic biomarker in liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duntao Su
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zeyu Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fada Xia
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qiuju Liang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yuanhong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhijie Xu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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28
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Zhang M, Lai J, Wu Q, Lai J, Su J, Zhu B, Li Y. Naringenin Induces HepG2 Cell Apoptosis via ROS-Mediated JAK-2/STAT-3 Signaling Pathways. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28114506. [PMID: 37298981 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28114506] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocarcinoma is one of the most prevalent digestive system tumors worldwide and lacks effective therapy. Recently, naringenin has been isolated from some citrus fruits, and its anticancer effects have been tested. However, the molecular mechanisms of naringenin and the potential implications of oxidative stress in naringenin-induced cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells remain elusive. Based on the above, the present study examined the effect of naringenin on the cytotoxic and anticancer mechanisms of HepG2 cells. Naringenin-induced HepG2 cell apoptosis was confirmed via the accumulation of the sub-G1 cell population, phosphatidylserine exposure, mitochondrial transmembrane potential loss, DNA fragmentation, caspase-3 activation, and caspase-9 activation. Furthermore, naringenin enhanced cytotoxic effects on HepG2 cells and triggered intracellular reactive oxygen species; the signaling pathways of JAK-2/STAT-3 were inhibited, and caspase-3 was activated to advance cell apoptosis. These results suggest that naringenin plays an important role in inducing apoptosis in HepG2 cells and that naringenin may be a promising candidate for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zhang
- Department of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Anomalies, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Jianmei Lai
- Center Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Qianlong Wu
- Center Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Jia Lai
- Center Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Jingyao Su
- Center Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Bing Zhu
- Center Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Yinghua Li
- Center Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
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Cao Y. Neural induction drives body axis formation during embryogenesis, but a neural induction-like process drives tumorigenesis in postnatal animals. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1092667. [PMID: 37228646 PMCID: PMC10203556 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1092667] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Characterization of cancer cells and neural stem cells indicates that tumorigenicity and pluripotency are coupled cell properties determined by neural stemness, and tumorigenesis represents a process of progressive loss of original cell identity and gain of neural stemness. This reminds of a most fundamental process required for the development of the nervous system and body axis during embryogenesis, i.e., embryonic neural induction. Neural induction is that, in response to extracellular signals that are secreted by the Spemann-Mangold organizer in amphibians or the node in mammals and inhibit epidermal fate in ectoderm, the ectodermal cells lose their epidermal fate and assume the neural default fate and consequently, turn into neuroectodermal cells. They further differentiate into the nervous system and also some non-neural cells via interaction with adjacent tissues. Failure in neural induction leads to failure of embryogenesis, and ectopic neural induction due to ectopic organizer or node activity or activation of embryonic neural genes causes a formation of secondary body axis or a conjoined twin. During tumorigenesis, cells progressively lose their original cell identity and gain of neural stemness, and consequently, gain of tumorigenicity and pluripotency, due to various intra-/extracellular insults in cells of a postnatal animal. Tumorigenic cells can be induced to differentiation into normal cells and integrate into normal embryonic development within an embryo. However, they form tumors and cannot integrate into animal tissues/organs in a postnatal animal because of lack of embryonic inducing signals. Combination of studies of developmental and cancer biology indicates that neural induction drives embryogenesis in gastrulating embryos but a similar process drives tumorigenesis in a postnatal animal. Tumorigenicity is by nature the manifestation of aberrant occurrence of pluripotent state in a postnatal animal. Pluripotency and tumorigenicity are both but different manifestations of neural stemness in pre- and postnatal stages of animal life, respectively. Based on these findings, I discuss about some confusion in cancer research, propose to distinguish the causality and associations and discriminate causal and supporting factors involved in tumorigenesis, and suggest revisiting the focus of cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cao
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Nanjing University, Shenzhen, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animals for Disease Study, Model Animal Research Center of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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30
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Arulanandam A, Lin L, Chang HM, Cerutti M, Choblet S, Gao P, Rath A, Bensussan A, Kadouche J, Teper D, Mandelboim O, Li W. Derivation and Preclinical Characterization of CYT-303, a Novel NKp46-NK Cell Engager Targeting GPC3. Cells 2023; 12:cells12070996. [PMID: 37048069 PMCID: PMC10093649 DOI: 10.3390/cells12070996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Glypican-3 (GPC3) is an oncofetal antigen that is highly expressed in multiple solid tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma, and is barely expressed in adult normal tissues except the placenta. NKp46 activation receptor is expressed in all-natural killer (NK) cells, including tumor-infiltrating NK cells. FLEX-NKTM is a platform for the production of tetravalent multifunctional antibody NK cell engagers (NKE). CYT-303 was designed using the FLEX-NK scaffold, incorporating a novel humanized NKp46 binder that does not induce NKp46 internalization and a humanized GPC3 binder that targets the membrane-proximal lobe to mediate NK cell-redirected killing of HCC tumors. CYT-303 shows sub-nanomolar binding affinities to both GPC3 and NKp46. CYT-303 was highly potent and effective in mediating NK cell-redirected cytotoxicity against multiple HCC tumor cell lines and tumor spheroids. More interestingly, it can reverse the dysfunction induced in NK cells following repeated rounds of serial killing of tumors. It also mediated antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity against GPC3-expressing HCC tumors. In vivo, CYT-303 showed no toxicity or cytokine release in cynomolgus monkeys up to the highest dose (60 mg/kg), administered weekly by intravenous infusion for 28 days. These results demonstrate the potential of CYT-303 to be a safe and effective therapy against HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Liang Lin
- Cytovia Therapeutics, Inc., Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | | | - Martine Cerutti
- Baculovirus and Therapy, UAR3426 Biocampus, Centre National De La Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), 34293 Montpellier CEDEX 5, France
| | - Sylvie Choblet
- Baculovirus and Therapy, UAR3426 Biocampus, Centre National De La Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), 34293 Montpellier CEDEX 5, France
| | - Peng Gao
- Cytovia Therapeutics, Inc., Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Armin Rath
- Cytovia Therapeutics, Inc., Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Armand Bensussan
- CLCC de Reims, U976 and Institut Godinot, The Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), 1 Rue Du General Koenig, 51726 Reims CEDEX, France
| | | | - Daniel Teper
- Cytovia Therapeutics, Inc., Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Ofer Mandelboim
- The Lautenberg Center for Immunology and Cancer Research, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada (IMRIC), Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12272, 91120 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Wei Li
- Cytovia Therapeutics, Inc., Natick, MA 01760, USA
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31
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Hu Y, Tang D, Zhang P. Prognostic and immunological role of alpha-L-fucosidase 2 ( FUCA2) in hepatocellular carcinoma. Transl Cancer Res 2023; 12:257-272. [PMID: 36915579 PMCID: PMC10007884 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-22-1850] [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: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Background This study investigated the prognostic and immunological significance of alpha-L-fucosidase 2 (FUCA2) in hepatocellular cancer (HCC). Methods The expression of FUCA2 and its clinical and prognostic values were explored across several databases, namely the University of Alabama Cancer Database, The Cancer Genome Atlas, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis, and the Human Protein Atlas. The prognostic relevance of FUCA2 was investigated using Kaplan-Meier curves, nomograms, and Cox analysis. The "limma" package in R was used to identify differentially expressed genes between high and low FUCA2 expression. A protein interaction network was established using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING), whereas hub genes and clustering modules were identified using Cytoscape. "clusterProfiler", an R package, was used to examine the potential function of FUCA2. Using gene set enrichment analysis, signaling pathways associated with FUCA2 expression were identified. Cell-type Identification by Estimating Relative Subsets of RNA Transcripts (CIBERSORT), Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) 2.0, and Tumor and Immune System Interaction Database (TISIDB) were used to examine immune infiltration and FUCA2 in HCC. Results Many datasets indicated that FUCA2 expression is higher in HCC, and that this is related to age and overall survival (OS). With the cutoff value of 50% as the dividing threshold, the patients were divided into a high-FUCA2 expression group (n=167) and a low-FUCA2 expression group (n=168). High levels of FUCA2 expression coincided with decreased OS. FUCA2 expression in HCC was associated with immune infiltrates. The functional mechanisms of FUCA2 depend on signal release, extracellular matrix collagen, and neuroactive ligands and receptors. Conclusions In HCC, increased FUCA2 expression is associated with a poor prognosis and immune infiltration. FUCA2 may serve as an immunological and predictive biomarker for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanhui Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dongling Tang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Pingan Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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32
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Li D, Huang S, Luo C, Xu Y, Fu S, Liu K, Wu J. CKLF as a Prognostic Biomarker and Its Association with Immune Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:2653-2672. [PMID: 36975415 PMCID: PMC10047849 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30030202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The Chemokine-like factor (CKLF)-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing (CMTM) family, comprising nine members, is involved in the tumorigenesis and progression of various cancers. However, the expression profiles and clinical significance of CMTM family members in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are not fully clarified. In this study, the RNA-sequencing and clinical data were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases. The Kaplan–Meier method and the Cox proportional hazards regression analysis were used to evaluate the prognostic significance of CMTM family members. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) and ESTIMATE algorithms were employed to explore the relationship between CMTM family genes and the tumor microenvironment in HCC. Finally, the prognostic CMTM family gene expression was further validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining in clinical HCC tissue specimens. The results indicated that, compared with normal tissues, the expression of CKLF, CMTM1, CMTM3, CMTM4, CMTM7, and CMTM8 were significantly upregulated in HCC, while the expression of CMTM2, CMTM5, and CMTM6 were significantly downregulated in HCC. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that CKLF was an independent prognostic biomarker for the overall survival (OS) of HCC patients. In HCC, the expression of CKLF was found to be correlated with immune cell infiltration, immune-related functions, and immune checkpoint genes. The qRT-PCR and IHC confirmed that CKLF was highly expressed in HCC. Overall, this research suggested that CKLF is involved in immune cell infiltration and may serve as a critical prognostic biomarker, which provides new light on the therapeutics for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Li
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Cancer Research, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Shenglan Huang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Cancer Research, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Chen Luo
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Yongkang Xu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Shumin Fu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Kan Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Jianbing Wu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Cancer Research, Nanchang 330006, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-13507917177; Fax: +86-0791-83969154
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Xu X, Xiang Y, Yang Y, Liu K, Cui Z, Tong X, Chen J, Hou F, Luo Z. The application of tumor cell-derived vesicles in oncology therapy. Clin Transl Oncol 2023; 25:364-374. [PMID: 36207510 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-022-02966-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Tumor cell-derived vesicles are released by tumor cells, have a phospholipid bilayer, and are widely distributed in various biological fluids. In recent years, it has been found that tumor cell-derived vesicles contain proteins, metabolites and nucleic acids and can be delivered to recipient cells to perform their physiological functions, such as mediating specific intercellular communication, activating or inhibiting signaling pathways, participating in regulating the modulation of tumor microenvironment and influencing tumor development, which can be used for early detection and diagnosis of cancer. In addition, tumor cell-derived vesicles exhibit multiple properties in tumor therapeutic applications and may serve as a new class of delivery systems. In this review, we elaborate on the application of tumor cell-derived vesicles in oncology therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximei Xu
- The People's Hospital of Leshan, Leshan, 614000, Sichuan, China.
| | - Yin Xiang
- The People's Hospital of Leshan, Leshan, 614000, Sichuan, China
| | - Yang Yang
- The People's Hospital of Leshan, Leshan, 614000, Sichuan, China
| | - Kai Liu
- The People's Hospital of Leshan, Leshan, 614000, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhiwei Cui
- The People's Hospital of Leshan, Leshan, 614000, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaodong Tong
- The People's Hospital of Leshan, Leshan, 614000, Sichuan, China
| | - Junliang Chen
- The People's Hospital of Leshan, Leshan, 614000, Sichuan, China
| | - Fang Hou
- The People's Hospital of Leshan, Leshan, 614000, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Luo
- The People's Hospital of Leshan, Leshan, 614000, Sichuan, China
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Oura K, Morishita A, Hamaya S, Fujita K, Masaki T. The Roles of Epigenetic Regulation and the Tumor Microenvironment in the Mechanism of Resistance to Systemic Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032805. [PMID: 36769116 PMCID: PMC9917861 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032805] [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: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer and the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major histologic type with a poor prognosis owing to the difficulty in early detection, the chemotherapy resistance, and the high recurrence rate of the disease. Despite recent advancements in HCC prevention and diagnosis, over 50% of patients are diagnosed at Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer Stage B or C. Systemic therapies are recommended for unresectable HCC (uHCC) with major vascular invasion, extrahepatic metastases, or intrahepatic lesions that have a limited response to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, but the treatment outcome tends to be unsatisfactory due to acquired drug resistance. Elucidation of the mechanisms underlying the resistance to systemic therapies and the appropriate response strategies to solve this issue will contribute to improved outcomes in the multidisciplinary treatment of uHCC. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the mechanisms of resistance to drugs such as sorafenib, regorafenib, and lenvatinib in molecularly targeted therapy, with a focus on epigenetic regulation and the tumor microenvironment and outline the approaches to improve the therapeutic outcome for patients with advanced HCC.
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Kim M, Lee NK, Wang CPJ, Lim J, Byun MJ, Kim TH, Park W, Park DH, Kim SN, Park CG. Reprogramming the tumor microenvironment with biotechnology. Biomater Res 2023; 27:5. [PMID: 36721212 PMCID: PMC9890796 DOI: 10.1186/s40824-023-00343-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a unique environment that is developed by the tumor and controlled by tumor-induced interactions with host cells during tumor progression. The TME includes immune cells, which can be classified into two types: tumor- antagonizing and tumor-promoting immune cells. Increasing the tumor treatment responses is associated with the tumor immune microenvironment. Targeting the TME has become a popular topic in research, which includes polarizing macrophage phenotype 2 into macrophage phenotype 1 using Toll-like receptor agonists with cytokines, anti-CD47, and anti-SIPRα. Moreover, inhibiting regulatory T cells through blockades and depletion restricts immunosuppressive cells in the TME. Reprogramming T cell infiltration and T cell exhaustion improves tumor infiltrating lymphocytes, such as CD8+ or CD4+ T cells. Targeting metabolic pathways, including glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolisms, can suppress tumor growth by restricting the absorption of nutrients and adenosine triphosphate energy into tumor cells. In conclusion, these TME reprogramming strategies exhibit more effective responses using combination treatments, biomaterials, and nanoparticles. This review highlights how biomaterials and immunotherapy can reprogram TME and improve the immune activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjeong Kim
- grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Biomedical Engineering, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea ,grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Intelligent Precision Healthcare Convergence, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea
| | - Na Kyeong Lee
- grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Biomedical Engineering, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea ,grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Intelligent Precision Healthcare Convergence, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea
| | - Chi-Pin James Wang
- grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Biomedical Engineering, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea ,grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Intelligent Precision Healthcare Convergence, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea
| | - Jaesung Lim
- grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Biomedical Engineering, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea ,grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Intelligent Precision Healthcare Convergence, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea
| | - Min Ji Byun
- grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Biomedical Engineering, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea ,grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Intelligent Precision Healthcare Convergence, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Hyung Kim
- grid.254224.70000 0001 0789 9563School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-Ro, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 06974 Republic of Korea
| | - Wooram Park
- grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Integrative Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hwan Park
- grid.254229.a0000 0000 9611 0917Department of Engineering Chemistry, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 Republic of Korea ,grid.254229.a0000 0000 9611 0917Department of Industrial Cosmetic Science, College of Bio-Health University System, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 Republic of Korea ,grid.254229.a0000 0000 9611 0917Department of Synchrotron Radiation Science and Technology, College of Bio-Health University System, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 Republic of Korea ,grid.254229.a0000 0000 9611 0917LANG SCIENCE Inc., Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Na Kim
- Research and Development Center, MediArk Inc., Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 Republic of Korea
| | - Chun Gwon Park
- grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Biomedical Engineering, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea ,grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Intelligent Precision Healthcare Convergence, SKKU Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea ,Research and Development Center, MediArk Inc., Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 Republic of Korea ,grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XBiomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU (BICS), Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea ,grid.410720.00000 0004 1784 4496Center for Neuroscience Imaging Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, Gyeonggi 16419 Republic of Korea
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Miao YD, Quan WX, Wang JT, Gan J, Dong X, Zhang F. Prognostic role of ring finger and WD repeat domain 3 and immune cell infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:116-122. [PMID: 36744161 PMCID: PMC9896504 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i1.116] [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: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
We have found that the expression of ring finger and WD repeat domain 3 (RFWD3) is significantly higher in unpaired and paired hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues than in normal tissues. Moreover, this expression has a significant correlation with the infiltration level of 14 immune cell types and when the detected RFWD3 expression levels were grouped as high and low, a prominent difference was revealed for overall survival, disease-specific survival, and progression-free interval. Through statistical analysis (univariate Cox), we were also able to identify RFWD3 as an independent prognostic element for HCC, with RFWD3 having an ability to accurately predict HCC prognosis (area under the curve of 0.863). Finally, we have generated prognostic nomograms for probabilities of 1-, 3- and 5-year overall survival in HCC via integrating the factors of age, pathologic stage, alpha-fetoprotein level, and RFWD3 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Dong Miao
- Cancer Center, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wu-Xia Quan
- Department of Electrocardiogram, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264100, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jiang-Tao Wang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jian Gan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xin Dong
- Second Department of Oncology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Fang Zhang
- Cancer Center, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264000, Shandong Province, China
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Zheng C, Peng Y, Wang H, Wang Y, Liu L, Zhao Q. Identification and Validation of Ferroptosis-Related Subtypes and a Predictive Signature in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pharmgenomics Pers Med 2023; 16:39-58. [PMID: 36726530 PMCID: PMC9885776 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s397892] [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: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world with an immunosuppressive Tumor microenvironment (TME). Ferroptosis plays an essential role in tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. However, the relationship between ferroptosis and TME of HCC has remained elusive. Methods Differentially expressed ferroptosis-related genes (DE FRGs) between normal liver tissues and HCC tissues were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). On this basis, we identified the molecular subtypes mediated by DE FRGs and TME cell infiltration. Next, a predictive signature was established to quantity the ferroptosis-related characteristics by performing the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression analyses. Univariate and multivariate COX analyses determined the independent prognostic factors. Finally, the expression stability of 3 ferroptosis-related signature genes was verified in cancer and paracancerous normal tissues of HCC. Results We identified three different molecular subtypes and found that the subtype with the better prognosis was associated with high enrichment of immune- and metabolic-related hallmark signaling pathways and high infiltration of immune cells in TME. The signature was considered to be an independent prognostic factor. We also found that the signature can reflect the infiltration characteristics of different immune cells in TME. Immunosuppressive cells such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), regulatory T cells, and type 17 T helper cells were significantly enriched in the high-risk group. The analysis data of immune checkpoints and tumor mutation load indicated that the signature had great potential in predicting Immunotherapy response and chemotherapeutic sensitivity. In addition, the overexpression of 3 ferroptosis-related signature genes was confirmed in HCC tissues and HCC cell lines. Ferroptosis inducer RSL3 inhibited the proliferation of HCC cells and was a potential cancer immunotherapy agent. Conclusion These findings enhanced our understanding of the regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis in HCC and provided new insights into evaluating prognosis and developing more effective Immunotherapy and chemotherapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlan Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanan Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haizhou Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Youwei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China,Correspondence: Lan Liu; Qiu Zhao, Tel +86-027-67812888, Fax +86 027-67812892, Email ;
| | - Qiu Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, People’s Republic of China
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Lin J, Yan J, Deng XL, Wang CS, Wang HS. SPATS2 is correlated with cell cycle progression and immune cells infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma. BMC Gastroenterol 2023; 23:8. [PMID: 36631750 PMCID: PMC9832668 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-022-02633-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The spermatogenesis associated serine rich 2 (SPATS2) is a member of RNA-binding protein in which the abnormal expression is linked with carcinogenesis in serval types of cancer. However, there is no systematic study on the differential expression, prognostic significance, epigenetic regulation, immune infiltration of SPATS2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the present study, we investigated the expression, prognosis, epigenetic regulation, and immune cell infiltration of SPATS2 in HCC. We found that the elevated expression of SPATS2 was unfavorably associated with the clinical pathological stage and prognosis. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that SPATS2 is associated with cell cycle, apoptosis and cancer cell metastasis processes in HCC. Our results confirmed that knockdown of SPATS2 will affect cell cycle, apoptosis and invasion of HCC cell lines. Moreover, the expression of SPATS2 is upregulated by epigenetic regulation, including DNA methylation, m6A and histone modification in HCC. In addition, SPATS2 expression was positively correlated with immune cell infiltration or expression of immune related gene markers in HCC. Taken together, our data demonstrated that SPATS2 is associated with progression and immune infiltration, and could serve as a prognostic biomarker for HCC. In conclusion, these results highlight the potential of SPATS2 to be used as a therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Lin
- grid.411643.50000 0004 1761 0411College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia China
| | - Jia Yan
- grid.410612.00000 0004 0604 6392School of Basic Medical, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia China
| | - Xiu ling Deng
- grid.410612.00000 0004 0604 6392School of Basic Medical, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia China
| | - Chang shan Wang
- grid.411643.50000 0004 1761 0411College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia China
| | - Hai sheng Wang
- grid.410612.00000 0004 0604 6392School of Basic Medical, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia China
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Coiled-Coil Domain-Containing Protein 45 Is a Potential Prognostic Biomarker and Is Associated with Immune Cell Enrichment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:7745315. [PMID: 36618966 PMCID: PMC9815921 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7745315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Objective The role of coiled-coil domain-containing protein 45 (CCDC45) in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been reported. The present study is aimed at investigating the expression and prognosis of CCDC45 in HCC and its relevance to immune infiltration. Methods We conducted CCDC45 expression analysis using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) tumor database, the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database, and the Tumor Immunological Evaluation Resource (TIMER). We used the University of Alabama at Birmingham Cancer data analysis Portal (UALCAN) database to show the correlation of CCDC45 with clinical features. We examined the prognostic impact of CCDC45 expression levels on HCC patients with the Kaplan-Meier mapper database. Genes coexpressed with CCDC45 and its regulators were also identified using LinkedOmics. The enriched Gene Ontology (GO) categories and associated signaling pathways were estimated using GO, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Gene Set Enrichment Assay (GSEA) pathway data. Correlations between CCDC45 and cancer immune infiltration was analyzed through the TIMER and an integrated repository portal for Tumor-Immune System Interactions (TISIDB) databases. Results The expression of CCDC45 was elevated in HCC tissues compared to adjacent liver tissues, and overexpression of CCDC45 was significantly correlated with tumor stage. Furthermore, HCC patients with CCDC45 overexpression had a shorter overall survival (OS). Functional network analysis indicated that CCDC45 was involved in homologous recombination, spliceosome, and DNA replication. Interestingly, CCDC45 expression was positively correlated with the level of immune cell infiltration. Conclusions CCDC45 is associated with prognosis and immune infiltration of HCC and may be a potential therapeutic target for HCC.
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Khanam A, Kottilil S. New Therapeutics for HCC: Does Tumor Immune Microenvironment Matter? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010437. [PMID: 36613878 PMCID: PMC9820509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010437] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of liver cancer is continuously rising where hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains the most common form of liver cancer accounting for approximately 80-90% of the cases. HCC is strongly prejudiced by the tumor microenvironment and being an inflammation-associated condition, the contribution of various immune mechanisms is critical in its development, progression, and metastasis. The tumor immune microenvironment is initially inflammatory which is subsequently replenished by the immunosuppressive cells contributing to tumor immune escape. Regardless of substantial advancement in systemic therapy, HCC has poor prognosis and outcomes attributed to the drug resistance, recurrence, and its metastatic behavior. Therefore, currently, new immunotherapeutic strategies are extensively targeted in preclinical and clinical settings in order to elicit robust HCC-specific immune responses and appear to be quite effective, extending current treatment alternatives. Understanding the complex interplay between the tumor and the immune cells and its microenvironment will provide new insights into designing novel immunotherapeutics to overcome existing treatment hurdles. In this review, we have provided a recent update on immunological mechanisms associated with HCC and discussed potential advancement in immunotherapies for HCC treatment.
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Han HT, Jin WL, Li X. Mesenchymal stem cells-based therapy in liver diseases. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:23. [PMID: 35895169 PMCID: PMC9326420 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00088-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple immune cells and their products in the liver together form a complex and unique immune microenvironment, and preclinical models have demonstrated the importance of imbalances in the hepatic immune microenvironment in liver inflammatory diseases and immunocompromised liver diseases. Various immunotherapies have been attempted to modulate the hepatic immune microenvironment for the purpose of treating liver diseases. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have a comprehensive and plastic immunomodulatory capacity. On the one hand, they have been tried for the treatment of inflammatory liver diseases because of their excellent immunosuppressive capacity; On the other hand, MSCs have immune-enhancing properties in immunocompromised settings and can be modified into cellular carriers for targeted transport of immune enhancers by genetic modification, physical and chemical loading, and thus they are also used in the treatment of immunocompromised liver diseases such as chronic viral infections and hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we discuss the immunological basis and recent strategies of MSCs for the treatment of the aforementioned liver diseases. Specifically, we update the immune microenvironment of the liver and summarize the distinct mechanisms of immune microenvironment imbalance in inflammatory diseases and immunocompromised liver diseases, and how MSCs can fully exploit their immunotherapeutic role in liver diseases with both immune imbalance patterns.
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Zhang J, Han H, Wang L, Wang W, Yang M, Qin Y. Overcoming the therapeutic resistance of hepatomas by targeting the tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2022; 12:988956. [DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.988956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for the majority of primary liver cancers and is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Multifactorial drug resistance is regarded as the major cause of treatment failure in HCC. Accumulating evidence shows that the constituents of the tumor microenvironment (TME), including cancer-associated fibroblasts, tumor vasculature, immune cells, physical factors, cytokines, and exosomes may explain the therapeutic resistance mechanisms in HCC. In recent years, anti-angiogenic drugs and immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown satisfactory results in HCC patients. However, due to enhanced communication between the tumor and TME, the effect of heterogeneity of the microenvironment on therapeutic resistance is particularly complicated, which suggests a more challenging research direction. In addition, it has been reported that the three-dimensional (3D) organoid model derived from patient biopsies is more intuitive to fully understand the role of the TME in acquired resistance. Therefore, in this review, we have focused not only on the mechanisms and targets of therapeutic resistance related to the contents of the TME in HCC but also provide a comprehensive description of 3D models and how they contribute to the exploration of HCC therapies.
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Sarantis P, Trifylli EM, Koustas E, Papavassiliou KA, Karamouzis MV, Papavassiliou AG. Immune Microenvironment and Immunotherapeutic Management in Virus-Associated Digestive System Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13612. [PMID: 36362398 PMCID: PMC9655697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of cancer is a multifactorial phenomenon, while it constitutes a major global health problem. Viruses are an important factor that is involved in tumorigenesis and is associated with 12.1% of all cancer cases. Major examples of oncogenic viruses which are closely associated with the digestive system are HBV, HCV, EBV, HPV, JCV, and CMV. EBV, HPV, JCV, and CMV directly cause oncogenesis by expressing oncogenic proteins that are encoded in their genome. In contrast, HBV and HCV are correlated indirectly with carcinogenesis by causing chronic inflammation in the infected organs. In addition, the tumor microenvironment contains various immune cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts, as well as several growth factors, cytokines, and other tumor-secreted molecules that play a key role in tumor growth, progression, and migration, while they are closely interrelated with the virus. The presence of T-regulatory and B-regulatory cells in the tumor microenvironment plays an important role in the anti-tumor immune reaction. The tumor immune microenvironments differ in each type of cancer and depend on viral infection. The alterations in the immune microenvironment caused by viruses are also reflected in the effectiveness of immunotherapy. The present review aims at shedding light on the association between viruses and digestive system malignancies, the characteristics of the tumor immune microenvironment that develop, and the possible treatments that can be administered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Sarantis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni-Myrto Trifylli
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- First Department of Internal Medicine, 417 Army Share Fund Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Koustas
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- First Department of Internal Medicine, 417 Army Share Fund Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas A. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Michalis V. Karamouzis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Effect of Tertiary Lymphoid Structures on Prognosis of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Preliminary Exploration of Its Formation Mechanism. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14205157. [PMID: 36291944 PMCID: PMC9601110 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary At present, research on tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been limited to the prognostic impact. Our manuscript first validates previous studies using two databases and then initially explores the key molecules and mechanisms of TLS formation and immunotherapy implications for HCC patients by using the TCGA database. For example, LCK, a key molecule in the formation of TLSs, may affect the formation of TLSs by regulating the cytokine signalling pathway, chemokine signalling pathway, T-cell activation and P53 signalling pathway. Second, the expression level of LCK is another factor affecting the sensitivity of HCC patients to immune checkpoint inhibitors. In conclusion, our study provides a potential mechanism for further exploration of TLSs. Abstract Background: Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) are formed by the aggregation of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), which is driven by chemokines or cytokines in the tumour microenvironment. Studies have shown that TLSs are associated with good prognosis in patients with various solid tumours and can improve patient responses to immunotherapy. However, the role of TLSs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial, and the underlying molecular mechanism is unclear. Methods: According to haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining results, HCC patients in Xijing Hospital data and TCGA data were divided into TLS+ and TLS- groups, and Kaplan–Meier (KM) analysis was performed to assess overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Immunofluorescence (IF) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to identify TILs in the TLS+ group. Lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase (LCK), a molecule involved in TLS formation, was explored in LinkedOmics. TILs were divided into two groups by drawing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to calculate cut-off values. Spearman correlation analysis was used to calculate the correlation between LCK and TILs, and the molecular pathways by which LCK regulates immunotherapy were clarified through enrichment analysis. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) distribution of sorafenib was observed in groups that varied in LCK expression. Results: According to the HE results, 61 cases in the Xijing Hospital cohort and 195 cases in the TCGA cohort had TLSs, while 89 cases and 136 cases did not. The KM results showed that TLSs had no effect on the OS of HCC patients but significantly affected RFS. The IF/IHC results showed that higher TIL numbers in TLSs were correlated with better prognosis in HCC patients. Spearman correlation analysis showed that LCK expression was positively correlated with TIL numbers. Enrichment analysis showed that upregulation of LCK expression mainly regulated the cytokine signalling pathway, the chemokine signalling pathway and T-cell activation. The IC50 scores of sorafenib in HCC patients with high LCK expression were lower, and the sensitivity was higher. Conclusion: TLSs mainly affected the early RFS of HCC patients but had no effect on OS. The high expression of the TLS formation-related gene LCK can increase the sensitivity of HCC patients to ICIs.
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Wang Y, Peng B, Ning C, He S, Yang H, Mao Y, Sun L. Characterization of immune features and immunotherapy response in subtypes of hepatocellular carcinoma based on mitophagy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:966167. [PMID: 36304466 PMCID: PMC9592915 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.966167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitophagy is suggested to be involved in tumor initiation and development; however, mitophagy heterogeneity in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its association with immune status and prognosis remain unclear. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using expression profiles acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Mitophagy-related subtypes were identified using the ConsensusClusterPlus software. The differences in prognosis, clinical characteristics, and immune status, including immune cell infiltration, immune function, immune-checkpoint gene expression, and response to immunotherapy, were compared between subtypes. A mitophagy-related gene signature was constructed by applying least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression to the TCGA cohort. The International Cancer Genome Consortium cohort and the cohort from Peking Union Medical College Hospital were utilized for validation. Carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone was used to induce mitophagy in HCC cell lines to obtain our own mitophagy signature. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used for the experimental validation of the expression of model genes. Two mitophagy-related subtypes with distinct prognoses, clinical characteristics, immune states, and biological function patterns were identified based on the mitophagy-related DEGs. The subtype that showed higher mitophagy-related DEG expression had worse survival outcomes, suppressed immune function, higher immune-checkpoint gene expression, and a better response to immunotherapy, indicating that this subpopulation in HCC may benefit from immune-checkpoint blockade therapy and other immunotherapies. A risk model consisting of nine mitophagy-related genes was constructed and its performance was confirmed in two validation cohorts. The risk score was an independent risk factor even when age, sex, and tumor stage were considered. Our study identified two distinct mitophagy subtypes and built a mitophagy signature, uncovering mitophagy heterogeneity in HCC and its association with immune status and prognosis. These findings shed light on the treatment of HCC, especially with immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Lejia Sun, ; Yanan Wang,
| | - Boshizhang Peng
- Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chun Ning
- Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuya He
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Huayu Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yilei Mao
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lejia Sun
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Lejia Sun, ; Yanan Wang,
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Increased Expression of NXPH4 Correlates with Immune Cell Infiltration and Unfavorable Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:5005747. [PMID: 36245978 PMCID: PMC9560829 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5005747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading malignant carcinomas. Despite the advancement in the treatment for HCC, such as precise hepatectomy, radiotherapy, transarterial therapies, chemotherapy, targeted treatments, and immunotherapy, the 5-year overall survival rate of HCC is extremely low. Hence, novel biomarkers are urgently needed for advancing the therapy and prognosis of HCC. Neurexophilin 4 (NXPH4) is a neuropeptide-like glycoprotein. The study is designed to investigate the function of NXPH4 in HCC through a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. NXPH4 expression status and prognostic values were analyzed via multiple datasets, such as TCGA, GEO, and ICGC. The association between NXPH4 and immune cell infiltration was estimated by TIMER, TISIDB, and CIBERSORT. In vitro, we explored the biological function of NXPH4 in JHH7 and SNU182 cells through knocking down the expression of NXPH4 via siRNA. In general, NXPH4 was predominantly upregulated in HCC tumors, and increased NXPH4 expression predicted unfavorable prognosis. The gene enrichment analysis displayed that NXPH4 was related with metabolic pathways. NXPH4 expression was correlated with immune cell infiltration. NXPH4 knockdown significantly suppressed proliferation, migration, and invasion of JHH7 and SNU182 cells. This study suggested that the upregulation of NXPH4 is associated with adverse prognosis and immune cell infiltration in HCC. NXPH4 could be a novel biomarker of unfavorable prognosis and an underlying target for immunotherapy in HCC.
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Feng Y, Wu W, Li M. Metal-organic frameworks for hepatocellular carcinoma therapy and mechanism. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1025780. [PMID: 36225574 PMCID: PMC9549350 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1025780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, metal organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted increasing attention in cancer therapy, because they can enhance the anticancer efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), photoacoustic imaging, and drug delivery. Owing to stable chemical adjustability, MOFs can be used as carriers to provide excellent loading sites and protection for small-molecule drugs. In addition, MOFs can be used to combine with a variety of therapeutic drugs, including chemotherapeutics drugs, photosensitizers, and radiosensitizers, to efficiently deliver drugs to tumor tissue and achieve desired treatment. There is hardly any review regarding the application of MOFs in hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, the design, structure, and potential applications of MOFs as nanoparticulate systems in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma are presented. Systematic Review Registration: website, identifier registration number
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Kasprzak A, Adamek A. Role of the Ghrelin System in Colitis and Hepatitis as Risk Factors for Inflammatory-Related Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911188. [PMID: 36232490 PMCID: PMC9569806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
It is not known exactly what leads to the development of colorectal cancer (CRC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but there are specific risk factors that increase the probability of their occurrence. The unclear pathogenesis, too-late diagnosis, poor prognosis as a result of high recurrence and metastasis rates, and repeatedly ineffective therapy of both cancers continue to challenge both basic science and practical medicine. The ghrelin system, which is comprised of ghrelin and alternative peptides (e.g., obestatin), growth hormone secretagogue receptors (GHS-Rs), and ghrelin-O-acyl-transferase (GOAT), plays an important role in the physiology and pathology of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It promotes various physiological effects, including energy metabolism and amelioration of inflammation. The ghrelin system plays a role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), which are well known risk factors for the development of CRC, as well as inflammatory liver diseases which can trigger the development of HCC. Colitis-associated cancer serves as a prototype of inflammation-associated cancers. Little is known about the role of the ghrelin system in the mechanisms of transformation of chronic inflammation to low- and high-grade dysplasia, and, finally, to CRC. HCC is also associated with chronic inflammation and fibrosis arising from different etiologies, including alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD), and/or hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. However, the exact role of ghrelin in the progression of the chronic inflammatory lesions into HCC is still unknown. The aim of this review is to summarize findings on the role of the ghrelin system in inflammatory bowel and liver diseases in order to better understand the impact of this system on the development of inflammatory-related cancers, namely CRC and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldona Kasprzak
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Medical Sciences, Święcicki Street 6, 60-781 Poznań, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-61-8546441; Fax: +48-61-8546440
| | - Agnieszka Adamek
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Acquired Immunodeficiencies, University of Medical Sciences, Szwajcarska Street 3, 61-285 Poznań, Poland
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Chang T, Yang L, Wang X, Lu Y, Yang L, Yang C, Cai X, Li J, Zeng J. A
CD8
+ T cell‐related genes prognostic model for hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Scand J Immunol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/sji.13216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tanjie Chang
- Departments of Medical Oncology The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou China
| | - Liangxia Yang
- Departments of Medical Oncology The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou China
| | - Xiaojing Wang
- Anesthesia Resuscitation Room The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou China
| | - Yanda Lu
- Departments of Medical Oncology The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou China
| | - Lu Yang
- Departments of Medical Oncology The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou China
| | - Changcheng Yang
- Departments of Medical Oncology The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou China
| | - Xingrui Cai
- Departments of Medical Oncology The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou China
| | - Jingquan Li
- Departments of Medical Oncology The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou China
| | - Jiangzheng Zeng
- Departments of Medical Oncology The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou China
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Wang H, Shi F, Zheng S, Zhao M, Pan Z, Xiong L, Zheng L. Feasibility of hepatocellular carcinoma treatment based on the tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2022; 12:896662. [PMID: 36176401 PMCID: PMC9513472 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.896662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of liver cancer is extremely high worldwide and poses a serious threat to human life and health. But at present, apart from radiotherapy, chemotherapy, liver transplantation, and early resection, sorafenib was the main systemic therapy proven to have clinical efficacy for unresectable liver cancer (HCC) until 2017. Despite the emerging immunotherapy in the past decade with immune inhibitors such as PD - 1 being approved and applied to clinical treatment, there are still some patients with no response. This review aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma and thus analyze the effectiveness of targeting the tumor microenvironment to improve the therapeutic efficacy of hepatocellular carcinoma, including the effectiveness and feasibility of immunotherapy, tumor oncolytic viruses and anti-vascular proliferation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiqiang Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Fan Shi
- Graduate School of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Shudan Zheng
- Graduate School of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Mei Zhao
- Graduate School of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Zimeng Pan
- Graduate School of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Li Xiong
- Graduate School of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Lihong Zheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Lihong Zheng,
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