1
|
Song S, Tai L, Xu Y, Jiang J, Zhou L, Zhao J. Lathyrol reduces the RCC invasion and incidence of EMT via affecting the expression of AR and SPHK2 in RCC mice. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:264. [PMID: 38965120 PMCID: PMC11224167 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01130-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of Lathyrol on the expression of androgen receptor (AR) and sphingosine kinase 2 (SPHK2) in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) mice and to further explore the mechanism by which Lathyrol inhibits the invasion and incidence of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). METHODS An RCC xenograft mouse model was constructed, and the mice were randomly divided into a model group, an experiment group and a negative control group. The experiment group was intragastrically gavaged with Lathyrol solution (20 mg/kg), the model group was intragastrically gavaged with 0.9% NaCl (same volume as that used in the experiment group), and the negative control group was injected intraperitoneally with 2 mg/kg cisplatin aqueous solution. Changes in the body weight and tumor volume of the mice were recorded. Western blot (WB) was used to assess the protein expression levels of AR, p-AR, CYP17A1, PARP1, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, vimentin, α-SMA, β-catenin, and ZO-1. Protein expression levels of SPHK2, metal matrix protease 2 (MMP2), MMP9 and urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) in tumor tissues were assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC). AR expression in tumor tissues was assessed after immunofluorescence (IF) staining. RESULTS After 14 days of drug administration, compared with that in the model group, the tumor volumes in the negative control and experiment groups were lower; the difference in tumor volume among the model, control and experiment groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The differences in body weight among the three groups were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). In the model group, the protein expression levels of AR, p-AR, CYP17A1, SPHK2, and PARP1 were relatively increased, the protein expression levels of E-cadherin and ZO-1 were relatively reduced (P < 0.05), and the protein expression levels of N-cadherin, β-catenin, vimentin, and α-SMA were relatively increased (P < 0.05). In the negative control and experiment groups, the protein expression levels of AR, p-AR, CYP17A1, SPHK2, and PARP1 were relatively decreased (P < 0.05), the protein expression levels of E-cadherin and ZO-1 were relatively increased (P < 0.05), and the protein expression levels of N-cadherin, β-catenin, vimentin and α-SMA were relatively decreased (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Lathyrol and cisplatin inhibit the proliferation of RCC xenografts, reduce the protein expression levels of AR, CYP17A1, SPHK2, PARP1, E-cadherin, and ZO-1 in tumor tissues (P < 0.05), and promote the protein expression levels of N-cadherin, β-catenin, vimentin and α-SMA (P < 0.05). Therefore, Lathyrol reduces RCC invasion and EMT by affecting the expression of AR and SPHK2 in RCC mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengyou Song
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Lunwei Tai
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Yuqi Xu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Junling Jiang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dongfeng Road 6#, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dongfeng Road 6#, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Junfeng Zhao
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dongfeng Road 6#, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cervello M, Augello G, Cocco L, Ratti S, Follo MY, Martelli AM, Cusimano A, Montalto G, McCubrey JA. The potential of the nutraceutical berberine in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma and other liver diseases such as NAFLD and NASH. Adv Biol Regul 2024; 92:101032. [PMID: 38693042 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2024.101032] [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: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cancer which unfortunately has poor outcomes. Common anti-cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and targeted therapy have not increased patient survival significantly. A common treatment for HCC patients is transplantation, however, it has limitations and complications. Novel approaches are necessary to more effectively treat HCC patients. Berberine (BBR) is a nutraceutical derived from various fruits and trees, which has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various diseases such as diabetes and inflammation. More recently, the anti-proliferation effects of BBR have been investigated in the treatment of patients with various cancers, especially colorectal cancer, and in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In this review, we will focus on studies with BBR in liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Augello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Ratti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Matilde Y Follo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonella Cusimano
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Montalto
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy; Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, PROMISE, University of Palermo School of Medicine, Palermo, Italy
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sahai V, Rothe M, Mangat PK, Garrett-Mayer E, Suhag V, Dib EG, Mehmi I, Kadakia KC, Pisick E, Duvivier HL, Le P, Li R, Michelin DP, Wilcox RE, Grantham GN, Hinshaw DC, Gregory A, Halabi S, Schilsky RL. Regorafenib in Patients With Solid Tumors With BRAF Alterations: Results From the Targeted Agent and Profiling Utilization Registry (TAPUR) Study. JCO Precis Oncol 2024; 8:e2300527. [PMID: 38603652 PMCID: PMC10896467 DOI: 10.1200/po.23.00527] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Targeted Agent and Profiling Utilization Registry is a phase II basket trial evaluating the antitumor activity of commercially available targeted agents in patients with advanced cancer with genomic alterations known to be drug targets. Results of a cohort of patients with solid tumors with BRAF alterations treated with regorafenib are reported. METHODS Eligible patients had measurable disease (RECIST v.1.1), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0-1, adequate organ function, and no standard treatment options. The primary end point was disease control (DC), defined as investigator assessment of patients with complete or partial response (PR) or stable disease of at least 16-weeks duration (SD16+). Low accruing histology-specific cohorts with BRAF alterations treated with regorafenib were collapsed into a single histology-pooled cohort for this analysis. The results were evaluated on the basis of a one-sided exact binomial test with a null DC rate of 15% versus 35% (power, 0.84; α, .10). Secondary end points were objective response (OR), progression-free survival, overall survival, duration of response, duration of stable disease, and safety. RESULTS Twenty-eight patients with 12 tumor types with BRAF alterations were enrolled from June 2016 to June 2021. All patients were evaluable for efficacy. Two patients with PR and four with SD16+ were observed for DC and OR rates of 21% (90% CI, 12 to 100) and 7% (95% CI, 1 to 24), respectively. The null hypothesis of 15% DC rate was not rejected (P = .24). Eight patients had at least one grade 3 adverse event or serious adverse event at least possibly related to regorafenib. CONCLUSION Regorafenib did not meet prespecified criteria to declare a signal of activity in patients with solid tumors with BRAF alterations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vaibhav Sahai
- University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Michael Rothe
- American Society of Clinical Oncology, Alexandria, VA
| | - Pam K. Mangat
- American Society of Clinical Oncology, Alexandria, VA
| | | | - Vijay Suhag
- Sutter Health Roseville Cancer Center, Roseville, CA
| | - Elie G. Dib
- Michigan Cancer Research Consortium, Ypsilanti, MI
| | - Inderjit Mehmi
- The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute, A Cedars-Sinai Affiliate, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | | | | | - Phat Le
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Rui Li
- Providence Cancer Institute, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland, OR
| | - David P. Michelin
- Munson Medical Center, Cancer Research Consortium of West Michigan, Traverse City, MI
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Komai M, Noda Y, Ikeda A, Kaneshiro N, Kamikubo Y, Sakurai T, Uehara T, Takasugi N. Nuclear SphK2/S1P signaling is a key regulator of ApoE production and Aβ uptake in astrocytes. J Lipid Res 2024; 65:100510. [PMID: 38280459 PMCID: PMC10907773 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2024.100510] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The link between changes in astrocyte function and the pathological progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has attracted considerable attention. Interestingly, activated astrocytes in AD show abnormalities in their lipid content and metabolism. In particular, the expression of apolipoprotein E (ApoE), a lipid transporter, is decreased. Because ApoE has anti-inflammatory and amyloid β (Aβ)-metabolizing effects, the nuclear receptors, retinoid X receptor (RXR) and LXR, which are involved in ApoE expression, are considered promising therapeutic targets for AD. However, the therapeutic effects of agents targeting these receptors are limited or vary considerably among groups, indicating the involvement of an unknown pathological factor that modifies astrocyte and ApoE function. Here, we focused on the signaling lipid, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), which is mainly produced by sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2) in the brain. Using astrocyte models, we found that upregulation of SphK2/S1P signaling suppressed ApoE induction by both RXR and LXR agonists. We also found that SphK2 activation reduced RXR binding to the APOE promoter region in the nucleus, suggesting the nuclear function of SphK2/S1P. Intriguingly, suppression of SphK2 activity by RNA knockdown or specific inhibitors upregulated lipidated ApoE induction. Furthermore, the induced ApoE facilitates Aβ uptake in astrocytes. Together with our previous findings that SphK2 activity is upregulated in AD brain and promotes Aβ production in neurons, these results indicate that SphK2/S1P signaling is a promising multifunctional therapeutic target for AD that can modulate astrocyte function by stabilizing the effects of RXR and LXR agonists, and simultaneously regulate neuronal pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masato Komai
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan; Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuka Noda
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - Atsuya Ikeda
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - Nanaka Kaneshiro
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - Yuji Kamikubo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Sakurai
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Uehara
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - Nobumasa Takasugi
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan; Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nojima H, Shimizu H, Murakami T, Shuto K, Koda K. Critical Roles of the Sphingolipid Metabolic Pathway in Liver Regeneration, Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression and Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:850. [PMID: 38473211 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050850] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The sphingolipid metabolic pathway, an important signaling pathway, plays a crucial role in various physiological processes including cell proliferation, survival, apoptosis, and immune regulation. The liver has the unique ability to regenerate using bioactive lipid mediators involving multiple sphingolipids, including ceramide and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P). Dysregulation of the balance between sphingomyelin, ceramide, and S1P has been implicated in the regulation of liver regeneration and diseases, including liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Understanding and modulating this balance may have therapeutic implications for tumor proliferation, progression, and metastasis in HCC. For cancer therapy, several inhibitors and activators of sphingolipid signaling, including ABC294640, SKI-II, and FTY720, have been discussed. Here, we elucidate the critical roles of the sphingolipid pathway in the regulation of liver regeneration, fibrosis, and HCC. Regulation of sphingolipids and their corresponding enzymes may considerably influence new insights into therapies for various liver disorders and diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Nojima
- Department of Surgery, Teikyo University Chiba Medical Center, 3426-3, Anesaki, Ichihara, Chiba 299-0011, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Shimizu
- Department of Surgery, Teikyo University Chiba Medical Center, 3426-3, Anesaki, Ichihara, Chiba 299-0011, Japan
| | - Takashi Murakami
- Department of Surgery, Teikyo University Chiba Medical Center, 3426-3, Anesaki, Ichihara, Chiba 299-0011, Japan
| | - Kiyohiko Shuto
- Department of Surgery, Teikyo University Chiba Medical Center, 3426-3, Anesaki, Ichihara, Chiba 299-0011, Japan
| | - Keiji Koda
- Department of Surgery, Teikyo University Chiba Medical Center, 3426-3, Anesaki, Ichihara, Chiba 299-0011, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yang H, Chen D, Wu Y, Zhou H, Diao W, Liu G, Li Q. A feedback loop of PPP and PI3K/AKT signal pathway drives regorafenib-resistance in HCC. Cancer Metab 2023; 11:27. [PMID: 38111012 PMCID: PMC10726576 DOI: 10.1186/s40170-023-00311-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a principal type of liver cancer with high incidence and mortality rates. Regorafenib is a novel oral multikinase inhibitor for second-line therapy for advanced HCC. However, resistance to regorafenib is gradually becoming a dilemma for HCC and the mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to reveal the metabolic profiles of regorafenib-resistant cells and the key role and mechanism of the most relevant metabolic pathway in regorafenib resistance. METHODS Metabolomics was performed to detect the metabolic alteration between drug-sensitive and regorafenib-resistant cells. Colony formation assay, CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry were applied to observe cell colony formation, cell proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. The protein and mRNA levels were detected by western blot and RT-qPCR. Cell lines of Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase(G6PD) knockdown in regorafenib-resistant cells or G6PD overexpression in HCC cell lines were stably established by lentivirus infection technique. G6PD activity, NADPH level, NADPH/NADP+ ratio, the ratio of ROS positive cells, GSH level, and GSH/GSSG ratio were detected to evaluate the anti-oxidative stress ability of cells. Phosphorylation levels of NADK were evaluated by immunoprecipitation. RESULTS Metabonomics analysis revealed that pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) was the most relevant metabolic pathway in regorafenib resistance in HCC. Compared with drug-sensitive cells, G6PD enzyme activity, NADPH level and NADPH/NADP+ ratio were increased in regorafenib-resistant cells, but the ratio of ROS positive cells and the apoptosis rate under the conditions of oxidative stress were decreased. Furthermore, G6PD suppression using shRNA or an inhibitor, sensitized regorafenib-resistant cells to regorafenib. In contrast, G6PD overexpression blunted the effects of regorafenib to drug-sensitive cells. Mechanistically, G6PD, the rate-limiting enzyme of PPP, regulated the PI3K/AKT activation. Furthermore, PI3K/AKT inhibition decreased G6PD protein expression, G6PD enzymatic activity and the capacity of PPP to anti-oxidative stress possibly by inhibited the expression and phosphorylation of NADK. CONCLUSION Taken together, a feedback loop of PPP and PI3K/AKT signal pathway drives regorafenib-resistance in HCC and targeting the feedback loop could be a promising approach to overcome drug resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huihua Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dahong Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yafei Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Heming Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjing Diao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Gaolin Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qin Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Maines LW, Keller SN, Smith CD. Opaganib (ABC294640) Induces Immunogenic Tumor Cell Death and Enhances Checkpoint Antibody Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16901. [PMID: 38069222 PMCID: PMC10706694 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibody-based cancer drugs that target the checkpoint proteins CTLA-4, PD-1 and PD-L1 provide marked improvement in some patients with deadly diseases such as lung cancer and melanoma. However, most patients are either unresponsive or relapse following an initial response, underscoring the need for further improvement in immunotherapy. Certain drugs induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) in tumor cells in which the dying cells promote immunologic responses in the host that may enhance the in vivo activity of checkpoint antibodies. Sphingolipid metabolism is a key pathway in cancer biology, in which ceramides and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) regulate tumor cell death, proliferation and drug resistance, as well as host inflammation and immunity. In particular, sphingosine kinases are key sites for manipulation of the ceramide/S1P balance that regulates tumor cell proliferation and sensitivity to radiation and chemotherapy. We and others have demonstrated that inhibition of sphingosine kinase-2 by the small-molecule investigational drug opaganib (formerly ABC294640) kills tumor cells and increases their sensitivities to other drugs and radiation. Because sphingolipids have been shown to regulate ICD, opaganib may induce ICD and improve the efficacy of checkpoint antibodies for cancer therapy. This was demonstrated by showing that in vitro treatment with opaganib increases the surface expression of the ICD marker calreticulin on a variety of tumor cell types. In vivo confirmation was achieved using the gold standard immunization assay in which B16 melanoma, Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) or Neuro-2a neuroblastoma cells were treated with opaganib in vitro and then injected subcutaneously into syngeneic mice, followed by implantation of untreated tumor cells 7 days later. In all cases, immunization with opaganib-treated cells strongly suppressed the growth of subsequently injected tumor cells. Interestingly, opaganib treatment induced crossover immunity in that opaganib-treated B16 cells suppressed the growth of both untreated B16 and LLC cells and opaganib-treated LLC cells inhibited the growth of both untreated LLC and B16 cells. Next, the effects of opaganib in combination with a checkpoint antibody on tumor growth in vivo were assessed. Opaganib and anti-PD-1 antibody each slowed the growth of B16 tumors and improved mouse survival, while the combination of opaganib plus anti-PD-1 strongly suppressed tumor growth and improved survival (p < 0.0001). Individually, opaganib and anti-CTLA-4 antibody had modest effects on the growth of LLC tumors and mouse survival, whereas the combination of opaganib with anti-CTLA-4 substantially inhibited tumor growth and increased survival (p < 0.001). Finally, the survival of mice bearing B16 tumors was only marginally improved by opaganib or anti-PD-L1 antibody alone but was nearly doubled by the drugs in combination (p < 0.005). Overall, these studies demonstrate the ability of opaganib to induce ICD in tumor cells, which improves the antitumor activity of checkpoint antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Charles D. Smith
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, 1214 Research Blvd, Suite 2015, Hummelstown, PA 17036, USA; (L.W.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yang F, Hilakivi-Clarke L, Shaha A, Wang Y, Wang X, Deng Y, Lai J, Kang N. Metabolic reprogramming and its clinical implication for liver cancer. Hepatology 2023; 78:1602-1624. [PMID: 36626639 PMCID: PMC10315435 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells often encounter hypoxic and hypo-nutrient conditions, which force them to make adaptive changes to meet their high demands for energy and various biomaterials for biomass synthesis. As a result, enhanced catabolism (breakdown of macromolecules for energy production) and anabolism (macromolecule synthesis from bio-precursors) are induced in cancer. This phenomenon is called "metabolic reprogramming," a cancer hallmark contributing to cancer development, metastasis, and drug resistance. HCC and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) are 2 different liver cancers with high intertumoral heterogeneity in terms of etiologies, mutational landscapes, transcriptomes, and histological representations. In agreement, metabolism in HCC or CCA is remarkably heterogeneous, although changes in the glycolytic pathways and an increase in the generation of lactate (the Warburg effect) have been frequently detected in those tumors. For example, HCC tumors with activated β-catenin are addicted to fatty acid catabolism, whereas HCC tumors derived from fatty liver avoid using fatty acids. In this review, we describe common metabolic alterations in HCC and CCA as well as metabolic features unique for their subsets. We discuss metabolism of NAFLD as well, because NAFLD will likely become a leading etiology of liver cancer in the coming years due to the obesity epidemic in the Western world. Furthermore, we outline the clinical implication of liver cancer metabolism and highlight the computation and systems biology approaches, such as genome-wide metabolic models, as a valuable tool allowing us to identify therapeutic targets and develop personalized treatments for liver cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flora Yang
- BA/MD Joint Admission Scholars Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Leena Hilakivi-Clarke
- Food Science and Nutrition Section, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota
| | - Aurpita Shaha
- Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis Section, the Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota
| | - Yuanguo Wang
- Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis Section, the Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota
| | - Xianghu Wang
- Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis Section, the Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota
| | - Yibin Deng
- Department of Urology, Masonic Cancer Center, The University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Jinping Lai
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, California
| | - Ningling Kang
- Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis Section, the Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kim KM, Shin EJ, Yang JH, Ki SH. Integrative roles of sphingosine kinase in liver pathophysiology. Toxicol Res 2023; 39:549-564. [PMID: 37779595 PMCID: PMC10541397 DOI: 10.1007/s43188-023-00193-1] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioactive sphingolipids and enzymes that metabolize sphingolipid-related substances have been considered as critical messengers in various signaling pathways. One such enzyme is the crucial lipid kinase, sphingosine kinase (SphK), which mediates the conversion of sphingosine to the potent signaling substance, sphingosine-1-phosphate. Several studies have demonstrated that SphK metabolism is strictly regulated to maintain the homeostatic balance of cells. Here, we summarize the role of SphK in the course of liver disease and illustrate its effects on both physiological and pathological conditions of the liver. SphK has been implicated in a variety of liver diseases, such as steatosis, liver fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and hepatic failure. This study may advance the understanding of the cellular and molecular foundations of liver disease and establish therapeutic approaches via SphK modulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyu Min Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Natural Science, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452 Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Jin Shin
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Natural Science, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452 Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hye Yang
- College of Korean Medicine, Dongshin University, Naju, Jeollanam-Do 58245 Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hwan Ki
- College of Pharmacy, Chosun University, 309 Pilmun-Daero, Dong-Gu, Gwangju, 61452 Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li J, Hua Q. Regorafenib inhibits growth, survival and angiogenesis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma and is synergistic with Mcl-1 inhibitor. J Pharm Pharmacol 2023; 75:1177-1185. [PMID: 37133348 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgad034] [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: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Regorafenib is an oral multi-kinase inhibitor approved for various metastatic/advanced cancers, and has been investigated in clinical trials in many other tumour entities. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of regorafenib for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). METHODS Cellular proliferation, survival, apoptosis and colony formation assays were performed and combination index was determined. NPC xenograft tumour models were established. In vitro and In vivo angiogenesis assays were performed. KEY FINDINGS Regorafenib is effective against a panel of NPC cell lines regardless of cellular origin and genetic profiling while sparing normal nasal epithelial cells. The predominant inhibitory effects of regorafenib in NPC are anchorage-dependent and anchorage-independent growth rather than survival. Apart from tumour cells, regorafenib potently inhibits angiogenesis. Mechanistically, regorafenib inhibits multiple oncogenic pathways including Raf/Erk/Mek and PI3K/Akt/mTOR. Regorafenib decreases Bcl-2 but not Mcl-1 level in NPC cells. The in vitro observations are evident in in vivo NPC xenograft mouse model. The combination of Mcl-1 inhibitor with regorafenib is synergistic in inhibiting NPC growth without causing systemic toxicity in mice. CONCLUSIONS Our findings also support further clinical investigation of regorafenib and Mcl-1 inhibitor for NPC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiangping Li
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, People's Republic of China
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei 441021, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingquan Hua
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sgro A, Cursons J, Waryah C, Woodward EA, Foroutan M, Lyu R, Yeoh GCT, Leedman PJ, Blancafort P. Epigenetic reactivation of tumor suppressor genes with CRISPRa technologies as precision therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:73. [PMID: 37120619 PMCID: PMC10149030 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01482-0] [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: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) is a key feature of oncogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Liver-targeted delivery of CRISPR-activation (CRISPRa) systems makes it possible to exploit chromatin plasticity, by reprogramming transcriptional dysregulation. RESULTS Using The Cancer Genome Atlas HCC data, we identify 12 putative TSGs with negative associations between promoter DNA methylation and transcript abundance, with limited genetic alterations. All HCC samples harbor at least one silenced TSG, suggesting that combining a specific panel of genomic targets could maximize efficacy, and potentially improve outcomes as a personalized treatment strategy for HCC patients. Unlike epigenetic modifying drugs lacking locus selectivity, CRISPRa systems enable potent and precise reactivation of at least 4 TSGs tailored to representative HCC lines. Concerted reactivation of HHIP, MT1M, PZP, and TTC36 in Hep3B cells inhibits multiple facets of HCC pathogenesis, such as cell viability, proliferation, and migration. CONCLUSIONS By combining multiple effector domains, we demonstrate the utility of a CRISPRa toolbox of epigenetic effectors and gRNAs for patient-specific treatment of aggressive HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agustin Sgro
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Joseph Cursons
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Charlene Waryah
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Eleanor A Woodward
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Momeneh Foroutan
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Ruqian Lyu
- Bioinformatics and Cellular Genomics, St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Melbourne, VIC, 3065, Australia
- Melbourne Integrative Genomics/School of Mathematics and Statistics, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - George C T Yeoh
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Peter J Leedman
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- Laboratory for Cancer Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre, 6 Verdun St, Nedlands, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- School of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Pilar Blancafort
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia.
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia.
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Erratum: Drug resistance mechanism of kinase inhibitors in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1188062. [PMID: 37077813 PMCID: PMC10107049 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1188062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1097277.].
Collapse
|
13
|
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.
Collapse
|
14
|
Jiang L, Li L, Liu Y, Lu L, Zhan M, Yuan S, Liu Y. Drug resistance mechanism of kinase inhibitors in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1097277. [PMID: 36891274 PMCID: PMC9987615 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1097277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of primary liver cancer, and it usually occurs following chronic liver disease. Although some progress has been made in the treatment of HCC, the prognosis of patients with advanced HCC is not optimistic, mainly because of the inevitable development of drug resistance. Therefore, multi-target kinase inhibitors for the treatment of HCC, such as sorafenib, lenvatinib, cabozantinib, and regorafenib, produce small clinical benefits for patients with HCC. It is necessary to study the mechanism of kinase inhibitor resistance and explore possible solutions to overcome this resistance to improve clinical benefits. In this study, we reviewed the mechanisms of resistance to multi-target kinase inhibitors in HCC and discussed strategies that can be used to improve treatment outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Luan Li
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yongzhuang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Meixiao Zhan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Shengtao Yuan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yanyan Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Resistance to Antiangiogenic Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Impact. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246245. [PMID: 36551730 PMCID: PMC9776845 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246245] [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: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiangiogenic drugs were the only mainstay of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment from 2007 to 2017. However, primary or secondary resistance hampered their efficacy. Primary resistance could be due to different molecular and/or genetic characteristics of HCC and their knowledge would clarify the optimal treatment approach in each patient. Several molecular mechanisms responsible for secondary resistance have been discovered over the last few years; they represent potential targets for new specific drugs. In this light, the advent of checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has been a new opportunity; however, their use has highlighted other issues: the vascular normalization compared to a vessel pruning to promote the delivery of an active cancer immunotherapy and the development of resistance to immunotherapy which leads to a better selection of patients as candidates for ICIs. Nevertheless, the combination of antiangiogenic therapy plus ICIs represents an intriguing approach with high potential to improve the survival of these patients. Waiting for results from ongoing clinical trials, this review depicts the current knowledge about the resistance to antiangiogenic drugs in HCC. It could also provide updated information to clinicians focusing on the most effective combinations or sequential approaches in this regard, based on molecular mechanisms.
Collapse
|
16
|
Iqubal MK, Kaur H, Md S, Alhakamy NA, Iqubal A, Ali J, Baboota S. A technical note on emerging combination approach involved in the onconanotherapeutics. Drug Deliv 2022; 29:3197-3212. [PMID: 36226570 PMCID: PMC9578464 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2022.2132018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the second cause of mortality worldwide, and the currently available conventional treatment approach is associated with serious side effects and poor clinical outcomes. Based on the outcome of the exploratory preclinical and clinical studies, it was found that therapeutic response increases multiple folds when anticancer drugs are used in combination. However, the conventional combination of anticancer drugs was associated with various limitations such as increased cost of treatment, systemic toxicity, drug resistance, and reduced pharmacokinetic attributes. Hence, attempts were made to formulate nanocarrier fabricated combinatorial drugs (NFCDs) to effectively manage and treat cancer. This approach offers several advantages, such as improved stability, lower drug exposure, targeted drug delivery, low side effects, and improved clinical outcome. Hence, in this review, first time, we have discussed the recent advancement and various types of nano carrier-based combinatorial drug delivery systems in a different type of cancer and highlighted the personalized combinatorial theranostic medicine as a futuristic anticancer treatment approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Kashif Iqubal
- Product Development Department, Sentiss Research Centre, Sentiss Pharma Pvt Ltd, Gurugram, India.,Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Harsimran Kaur
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Delhi Pharmaceutical Science and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Shadab Md
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nabil A Alhakamy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashif Iqubal
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Javed Ali
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjula Baboota
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ablation of sphingosine kinase 2 suppresses fatty liver-associated hepatocellular carcinoma via downregulation of ceramide transfer protein. Oncogenesis 2022; 11:67. [PMID: 36333295 PMCID: PMC9636415 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-022-00444-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 90% of primary liver cancer, the third leading cause of cancer-associated death worldwide. With the increasing prevalence of metabolic conditions, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is emerging as the fastest-growing HCC risk factor, and it imposes an additional layer of difficulty in HCC management. Dysregulated hepatic lipids are generally believed to constitute a deleterious environment cultivating the development of NAFLD-associated HCC. However, exactly which lipids or lipid regulators drive this process remains elusive. We report herein that sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2), a key sphingolipid metabolic enzyme, plays a critical role in NAFLD-associated HCC. Ablation of Sphk2 suppressed HCC development in NAFLD livers via inhibition of hepatocyte proliferation both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, SphK2 deficiency led to downregulation of ceramide transfer protein (CERT) that, in turn, decreased the ratio of pro-cancer sphingomyelin (SM) to anti-cancer ceramide. Overexpression of CERT restored hepatocyte proliferation, colony growth and cell cycle progression. In conclusion, the current study demonstrates that SphK2 is an essential lipid regulator in NAFLD-associated HCC, providing experimental evidence to support clinical trials of SphK2 inhibitors as systemic therapies against HCC.
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang Z, Zhu Q, Li X, Ren X, Li J, Zhang Y, Zeng S, Xu L, Dong X, Zhai B. TOP2A inhibition reverses drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma to regorafenib. Am J Cancer Res 2022; 12:4343-4360. [PMID: 36225636 PMCID: PMC9548008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death attributed to high frequency of metastasis and multiple drug resistance. We aim to examine the underlying molecular mechanism and to seek potential strategies to reverse primary/acquired resistance to regorafenib. Topoisomerase IIα (TOP2A) is critical for tumorigenesis and carcinogenesis. Clinically, high-TOP2A expression was correlated to shorter overall survival (OS) of patients, but its role in drug resistance of HCC remains unknown. Here, we screened the expression profiling of TOP2A in HCC and identified TOP2A as an upregulated gene involved in the resistance to regorafenib. Sustained exposure of HCC cells to regorafenib could upregulate the expression of TOP2A. Silencing TOP2A enhanced HCC cells' sensitivity to regorafenib. TOP2A inhibition by doxorubicin or epirubicin synergized with regorafenib to suppress the growth of sorafenib-resistant HCC tumors that possessed the sorafenib-resistant features both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, targeting TOP2A may be a promising therapeutic strategy to alleviate resistance to regorafenib and thus improving the efficacy of HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zongwen Wang
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Qiankun Zhu
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaodong Li
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaohang Ren
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jingtao Li
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Shicong Zeng
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Lishan Xu
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaoqun Dong
- The Liver Research Center of Rhode Island Hospital/Lifespan; Department of Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Bo Zhai
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Xie D, Hu G, Chen C, Ahmadinejad F, Wang W, Li PL, Gewirtz DA, Li N. Loss of sphingosine kinase 2 protects against cisplatin-induced kidney injury. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2022; 323:F322-F334. [PMID: 35834271 PMCID: PMC9394771 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00229.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin is an established chemotherapeutic drug for treatment of solid-organ cancers and is the primary drug used in the treatment of head and neck cancer; however, cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity largely limits its clinical use. Inhibition of sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2) has been demonstrated to alleviate various kidney diseases. Therefore, we hypothesized that inhibition of SphK2 could also protect against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Results from the present study showed that the SphK2 inhibitor ABC294640 or knockdown of SphK2 by siRNA blocked the cisplatin-induced increase of cellular injury markers (neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, kidney injury molecule-1, and cleaved caspase-3) by Western blot analysis in HK-2 cells, a human renal tubular cell line. In addition, SphK2 inhibition blocked cisplatin-induced activation of NF-κB by Western blot analysis and immunostaining analysis. Furthermore, SphK2 inhibition suppressed cisplatin-induced increases of proinflammatory markers (NLR family pyrin domain containing 3, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6). Genetic deletion of the SphK2 gene in mice further confirmed that inhibition of SphK2 protected against cisplatin-induced kidney damage in vivo. Compared with wild-type mice, SphK2 knockout mice exhibited less renal dysfunction and reduced promotion of kidney injury markers, inflammatory factors, tubular morphology damage, and fibrotic staining. At the same time, the SphK2 inhibitor ABC294640 failed to interfere with the activity of cisplatin or radiation in two cell culture models of head and neck cancer. It is concluded that inhibition of Sphk2 protects against cisplatin-induced kidney injury. SphK2 may be used as a potential therapeutic target for the prevention or treatment of cisplatin-induced kidney injury.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present study provides new findings that sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2) is highly expressed in renal tubules, cisplatin treatment increases the expression of SphK2 in proximal tubular cells and kidneys, and inhibition of SphK2 alleviates cisplatin-induced kidney injury by suppressing the activation of NF-κB, production of inflammatory factors, and apoptosis. SphK2 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for the prevention or treatment of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dengpiao Xie
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
- Department of Nephrology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Gaizun Hu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Chaoling Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Fereshteh Ahmadinejad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Weili Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Pin-Lan Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - David A Gewirtz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Ningjun Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Smith CD, Maines LW, Keller SN, Katz Ben-Yair V, Fathi R, Plasse TF, Levitt ML. Recent Progress in the Development of Opaganib for the Treatment of Covid-19. Drug Des Devel Ther 2022; 16:2199-2211. [PMID: 35855741 PMCID: PMC9288228 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s367612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Covid-19 pandemic driven by the SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to exert extensive humanitarian and economic stress across the world. Although antivirals active against mild disease have been identified recently, new drugs to treat moderate and severe Covid-19 patients are needed. Sphingolipids regulate key pathologic processes, including viral proliferation and pathologic host inflammation. Opaganib (aka ABC294640) is a first-in-class clinical drug targeting sphingolipid metabolism for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. Recent work demonstrates that opaganib also has antiviral activity against several viruses including SARS-CoV-2. A recently completed multinational Phase 2/3 clinical trial of opaganib in patients hospitalized with Covid-19 demonstrated that opaganib can be safely administered to these patients, and more importantly, resulted in a 62% decrease in mortality in a large subpopulation of patients with moderately severe Covid-19. Furthermore, acceleration of the clearance of the virus was observed in opaganib-treated patients. Understanding the biochemical mechanism for the anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of opaganib is essential for optimizing Covid-19 treatment protocols. Opaganib inhibits three key enzymes in sphingolipid metabolism: sphingosine kinase-2 (SK2); dihydroceramide desaturase (DES1); and glucosylceramide synthase (GCS). Herein, we describe a tripartite model by which opaganib suppresses infection and replication of SARS-CoV-2 by inhibiting SK2, DES1 and GCS. The potential impact of modulation of sphingolipid signaling on multi-organ dysfunction in Covid-19 patients is also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles D Smith
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, Hummelstown, PA, USA
- Correspondence: Charles D Smith, Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, 1214 Research Blvd, Suite 2015, Hummelstown, PA, 17036, USA, Tel +1 843 814 9257, Email
| | - Lynn W Maines
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, Hummelstown, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Anwer KE, El-Sattar NEAA, Shamaa MM, Zakaria MY, Beshay BY. Design, Green Synthesis and Tailoring of Vitamin E TPGS Augmented Niosomal Nano-Carrier of Pyrazolopyrimidines as Potential Anti-Liver and Breast Cancer Agents with Accentuated Oral Bioavailability. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15030330. [PMID: 35337128 PMCID: PMC8949375 DOI: 10.3390/ph15030330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
VEGF plays a crucial role in cancer development, angiogenesis and progression, principally liver and breast cancer. It is vital to uncover novel chemical candidates of VEGFR inhibitors to develop more potent anti-breast and anti-liver cancer agents than the currently available candidates, sorafenib and regorafenib, that face resistance obstacles and severe side effects. Herein, nine pyrazolopyrimidine derivatives were designed, synthesized as sorafenib and regorafenib analogues and screened for their in vitro cytotoxic and growth inhibition activities against four human cancer cell lines, namely breast cancer (Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) type (HepG2), lung carcinoma (A-549) and human colorectal carcinoma-116 (HCT-116)). Among the tested compounds, compounds 1, 2a, 4b and 7 showed the uppermost cytotoxic activities against all aforementioned cell lines with IC50 estimates varying from 6 to 50 µM, among which compound 7 showed the best inhibitory activity on all tested compounds. Stunningly, compound 7 showed the best significant inhibition of the VEGFR-2 protein expression level (72.3%) as compared to the control and even higher than that produced with sorafenib and regorafenib (70.4% and 55.6%, respectively). Modeling studies provided evidence for the possible interactions of the synthesized compounds with the key residues of the ATP binding sites on the hinge region and the “DFG out” motif of VEGFR-2 kinase. Collectively, our present study suggests that pyrazolopyrimidine derivatives are a novel class of anti-cancer drug candidates to inhibit VEGF-VEGFR function. Aspiring to promote constrained aqueous solubility, hence poor oral bioavailability of the developed lead molecule, 7 and 2a-charged D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) surface-coated niosomes were successfully constructed, adopting a thin film hydration technique striving to overcome these pitfalls. A 23 full factorial design was involved in order to investigate the influence of formulation variables: type of surfactant, either Span 60 or Span 40; surfactant:cholesterol ratio (8:2 or 5:5) along with the amount of TPGS (25 mg or 50 mg) on the characteristics of the nanosystem. F2 and S2 were picked as the optimum formula for compounds 2a and 7 with desirability values of 0.907 and 0.903, respectively. In addition, a distinguished improvement was observed in the compound’s oral bioavailability and cytotoxic activity after being included in the nano-TPGS-coated niosomal system relative to the unformulated compound. The nano-TPGS-coated niosomal system increased the hepatocellular inhibitory activity four times fold of compound 7a (1.6 µM) and two-fold of 2a (3 µM) relative to the unformulated compounds (6 µM and 6.2 µM, respectively).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kurls E. Anwer
- Heterocyclic Synthesis Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
| | - Nour E. A. Abd El-Sattar
- Heterocyclic Synthesis Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
- Correspondence: (N.E.A.A.E.-S.); or (M.Y.Z.); Tel.: +20-1012277219 (N.E.A.A.E.-S.); +20-1006886853 (M.Y.Z.)
| | - Marium M. Shamaa
- Clinical and Biological Sciences (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) Department, College of Pharmacy, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, Alexandria P.O. Box 1029, Egypt;
| | - Mohamed Y. Zakaria
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Port Said University, Port Said 42526, Egypt
- Correspondence: (N.E.A.A.E.-S.); or (M.Y.Z.); Tel.: +20-1012277219 (N.E.A.A.E.-S.); +20-1006886853 (M.Y.Z.)
| | - Botros Y. Beshay
- Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmaceutical Chemistry) Department, College of Pharmacy, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, Alexandria P.O. Box 1029, Egypt;
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Paul B, Lewinska M, Andersen JB. Lipid alterations in chronic liver disease and liver cancer. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100479. [PMID: 35469167 PMCID: PMC9034302 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipids are a complex and diverse group of molecules with crucial roles in many physiological processes, as well as in the onset, progression, and maintenance of cancers. Fatty acids and cholesterol are the building blocks of lipids, orchestrating these crucial metabolic processes. In the liver, lipid alterations are prevalent as a cause and consequence of chronic hepatitis B and C virus infections, alcoholic hepatitis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and steatohepatitis. Recent developments in lipidomics have also revealed that dynamic changes in triacylglycerols, phospholipids, sphingolipids, ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol are involved in the development and progression of primary liver cancer. Accordingly, the transcriptional landscape of lipid metabolism suggests a carcinogenic role of increasing fatty acids and sterol synthesis. However, limited mechanistic insights into the complex nature of the hepatic lipidome have so far hindered the development of effective therapies.
Collapse
|
23
|
Dai L, Wang C, Wang W, Song K, Ye T, Zhu J, Di W. Activation of SphK2 contributes to adipocyte-induced EOC cell proliferation. Open Med (Wars) 2022; 17:229-238. [PMID: 35178477 PMCID: PMC8812714 DOI: 10.1515/med-2022-0422] [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: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the leading cause of deaths due to cancer in women. Adipocytes have been suggested to play a key role in the stimulation of EOC growth. However, the mechanisms underlying the adipocyte-induced EOC proliferation remain undefined. Here, we provide the first evidence that adipocytes induce the activation of sphingosine kinase (SphK) 2 in EOC, which represents a novel pathway that mediates the adipocyte-induced EOC growth. SphK2 inhibition in EOC cells led to a remarkable inhibition of the adipocyte-induced cell proliferation. Moreover, the adipocyte-induced SphK2 activation in EOC cells was extracellular signal-regulated protein kinases (ERK) dependent. Furthermore, silencing SphK2 in EOC significantly inhibited the adipocyte-induced expression of phospho-ERK and c-Myc, two crucial players in EOC growth. Collectively, the current study unraveled a previously unrecognized role of SphK2 in the adipocyte-induced growth-promoting action in EOC, suggesting a novel target for EOC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Keqi Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Taiyang Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Wen Di
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Jia Z, Tang X, Zhang X, Shen J, Sun Y, Qian L. miR-153-3p Attenuates the Development of Gastric Cancer by Suppressing SphK2. Biochem Genet 2022; 60:1748-1761. [PMID: 35088224 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-021-10166-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been extensively reported to play a role in GC development; however, it remains unknown whether miR-153-3p participates in the nosogenesis of GC. GC tissues along with the adjacent nontumor tissues were obtained from 50 patients with GC. Moreover, we incubated human GC cell lines (SGC7901, AGS, MGC803, and BGC823) and a gastric epithelial cell line (GES-1) and then transfected BGC823 cells with miR-153-3p and DNA/SphK2 vector to determine the action of miR-153-3p and SphK2 on GC. RT-qPCR was performed to determine the levels of miR-153-3p and sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2). The viability of BGC823 cells was measured by the CCK-8 assay, while wound healing assays and transwell assays were used to measure the migration and invasion ability of BGC823 cells. Western blotting analysis and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were conducted to evaluate the level of SphK2. The binding ability of miR-153-3p and SphK2 was determined by dual-luciferase reporter assays. The expression level of miR-153-3p was reduced in GC tissues and cells, while the SphK2 was enhanced. An increase in miR-153-3p level led to a decline in the growth and metastasis of GC cells and increased their apoptosis. Moreover, a decrease in miR-153-3p level elevated GC cells growth and metastasis, and attenuated their apoptosis. SphK2 was also corroborated as a downstream gene of miR-153-3p. Here, SphK2 expression was elevated in GC tissues and cells, indicating SphK2 might be involved in the development of GC. Rescue assays showed that miR-153-3p could reverse the effect of SphK2 on the cell growth, metastasis, and the apoptosis of GC cells. In conclusion, this study showed that miR-153-3p suppressed the growth and metastasis in GC cells by regulating SphK2, which might facilitate the search for novel biomarkers to treat GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwo Jia
- Department of Digestive System, Tongxiang First People's Hospital, 1918, Jiaochang East Road, Tongxiang, 314500, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaofang Tang
- Department of Digestive System, Tongxiang First People's Hospital, 1918, Jiaochang East Road, Tongxiang, 314500, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xicheng Zhang
- Department of Digestive System, Tongxiang First People's Hospital, 1918, Jiaochang East Road, Tongxiang, 314500, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingen Shen
- Department of Digestive System, Tongxiang First People's Hospital, 1918, Jiaochang East Road, Tongxiang, 314500, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuanlong Sun
- Department of Digestive System, Tongxiang First People's Hospital, 1918, Jiaochang East Road, Tongxiang, 314500, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lifen Qian
- Department of Digestive System, Tongxiang First People's Hospital, 1918, Jiaochang East Road, Tongxiang, 314500, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Manifold Roles of Ceramide Metabolism in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Liver Cancer. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1372:157-168. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-0394-6_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
26
|
Companioni O, Mir C, Garcia-Mayea Y, LLeonart ME. Targeting Sphingolipids for Cancer Therapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:745092. [PMID: 34737957 PMCID: PMC8560795 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.745092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids are an extensive class of lipids with different functions in the cell, ranging from proliferation to cell death. Sphingolipids are modified in multiple cancers and are responsible for tumor proliferation, progression, and metastasis. Several inhibitors or activators of sphingolipid signaling, such as fenretinide, safingol, ABC294640, ceramide nanoliposomes (CNLs), SKI-II, α-galactosylceramide, fingolimod, and sonepcizumab, have been described. The objective of this review was to analyze the results from preclinical and clinical trials of these drugs for the treatment of cancer. Sphingolipid-targeting drugs have been tested alone or in combination with chemotherapy, exhibiting antitumor activity alone and in synergism with chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo. As a consequence of treatments, the most frequent mechanism of cell death is apoptosis, followed by autophagy. Aslthough all these drugs have produced good results in preclinical studies of multiple cancers, the outcomes of clinical trials have not been similar. The most effective drugs are fenretinide and α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer). In contrast, minor adverse effects restricted to a few subjects and hepatic toxicity have been observed in clinical trials of ABC294640 and safingol, respectively. In the case of CNLs, SKI-II, fingolimod and sonepcizumab there are some limitations and absence of enough clinical studies to demonstrate a benefit. The effectiveness or lack of a major therapeutic effect of sphingolipid modulation by some drugs as a cancer therapy and other aspects related to their mechanism of action are discussed in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Osmel Companioni
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Mir
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yoelsis Garcia-Mayea
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Matilde E LLeonart
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Spanish Biomedical Research Network Center in Oncology, CIBERONC, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
S1P induces proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells by promoting YAP-induced Notch3 expression and activation. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100599. [PMID: 33781742 PMCID: PMC8094894 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a natural multifunctional phospholipid, is highly increased in plasma from patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension and mediates proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) by activating the Notch3 signaling pathway. However, the mechanisms underpinning S1P-mediated induction of PASMCs proliferation remain unclear. In this study, using biochemical and molecular biology approaches, RNA interference and gene expression analyses, 5'-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation assay, and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, we demonstrated that S1P promoted the activation of signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) through sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 (S1PR2), and subsequently upregulated the expression of the microRNA miR-135b, which further reduced the expression of E3 ubiquitin ligase β-transduction repeat-containing protein and led to a reduction in yes-associated protein (YAP) ubiquitinated degradation in PASMCs. YAP is the core effector of the Hippo pathway and mediates the expression of particular genes. The accumulation of YAP further increased the expression and activation of Notch3 and ultimately promoted the proliferation of PASMCs. In addition, we showed that preblocking S1PR2, prior silencing of STAT3, miR-135b, or YAP, and prior inhibition of Notch3 all attenuated S1P-induced PASMCs proliferation. Taken together, our study indicates that S1P stimulates PASMCs proliferation by activation of the S1PR2/STAT3/miR-135b/β-transduction repeat-containing protein/YAP/Notch3 pathway, and our data suggest that targeting this cascade might have potential value in ameliorating PASMCs hyperproliferation and benefit pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Collapse
|
28
|
Ngo MHT, Jeng HY, Kuo YC, Nanda JD, Brahmadhi A, Ling TY, Chang TS, Huang YH. The Role of IGF/IGF-1R Signaling in Hepatocellular Carcinomas: Stemness-Related Properties and Drug Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041931. [PMID: 33669204 PMCID: PMC7919800 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF)/IGF-1 Receptor (IGF-1R) signaling is known to regulate stem cell pluripotency and differentiation to trigger cell proliferation, organ development, and tissue regeneration during embryonic development. Unbalanced IGF/IGF-1R signaling can promote cancer cell proliferation and activate cancer reprogramming in tumor tissues, especially in the liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death, with a high incidence and mortality rate in Asia. Most patients with advanced HCC develop tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)-refractoriness after receiving TKI treatment. Dysregulation of IGF/IGF-1R signaling in HCC may activate expression of cancer stemness that leads to TKI refractoriness and tumor recurrence. In this review, we summarize the evidence for dysregulated IGF/IGF-1R signaling especially in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated HCC. The regulation of cancer stemness expression and drug resistance will be highlighted. Current clinical treatments and potential therapies targeting IGF/IGF-1R signaling for the treatment of HCC will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mai-Huong Thi Ngo
- International PhD Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (J.D.N.); (A.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Han-Yin Jeng
- Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (H.-Y.J.); (Y.-C.K.)
| | - Yung-Che Kuo
- Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (H.-Y.J.); (Y.-C.K.)
| | - Josephine Diony Nanda
- International PhD Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (J.D.N.); (A.B.)
| | - Ageng Brahmadhi
- International PhD Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (J.D.N.); (A.B.)
| | - Thai-Yen Ling
- Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (T.-Y.L.); (T.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-2-2312-3456 (ext. 8-8322) (T.-Y.L.); +886-5-3621-000 (ext. 2242) (T.-S.C.); +886-2-2736-1661 (ext. 3150) (Y.-H.H.)
| | - Te-Sheng Chang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33382, Taiwan
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 61363, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (T.-Y.L.); (T.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-2-2312-3456 (ext. 8-8322) (T.-Y.L.); +886-5-3621-000 (ext. 2242) (T.-S.C.); +886-2-2736-1661 (ext. 3150) (Y.-H.H.)
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- International PhD Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (J.D.N.); (A.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (H.-Y.J.); (Y.-C.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- PhD Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (T.-Y.L.); (T.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-2-2312-3456 (ext. 8-8322) (T.-Y.L.); +886-5-3621-000 (ext. 2242) (T.-S.C.); +886-2-2736-1661 (ext. 3150) (Y.-H.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Lu X, Xu C, Dong J, Zuo S, Zhang H, Jiang C, Wu J, Wei J. Liraglutide activates nature killer cell-mediated antitumor responses by inhibiting IL-6/STAT3 signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma. Transl Oncol 2020; 14:100872. [PMID: 32979685 PMCID: PMC7516274 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2020.100872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory IL-6/STAT3 signaling is constitutively activated in diverse cancers and is associated with malignant cell proliferation, invasion and escape of antitumor immunosurveillance. Liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog, is commonly used to treat insulin-resistant diabetes. In this study, for the first time, we showed that liraglutide remarkably improved the antitumor immune responses in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Furthermore, we showed that the antitumor activity was mediated by nature killer cells (NKs) but not CD8+ T cells. Finally, we showed that liraglutide enhanced NK-mediated cytotoxicity by suppressing the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway in HCC cells. Our findings unveil a novel therapeutic role of liraglutide by manipulating the innate immunity in cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xian Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Kunshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunshan Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou 215300, China
| | - Chun Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jie Dong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Shuguang Zuo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Hailin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Chunping Jiang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; The Affiliated Drum Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Junhua Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
| | - Jiwu Wei
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
| |
Collapse
|