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Zhang C, Huang T, Li L. Targeting cuproptosis for cancer therapy: mechanistic insights and clinical perspectives. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:68. [PMID: 39152464 PMCID: PMC11328505 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01589-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Cuproptosis is a newly identified form of cell death induced by excessive copper (Cu) accumulation within cells. Mechanistically, cuproptosis results from Cu-induced aggregation of dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase, correlated with the mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid cycle and the loss of iron-sulfur cluster proteins, ultimately resulting in proteotoxic stress and triggering cell death. Recently, cuproptosis has garnered significant interest in tumor research due to its potential as a crucial therapeutic strategy against cancer. In this review, we summarized the cellular and molecular mechanisms of cuproptosis and its relationship with other types of cell death. Additionally, we reviewed the current drugs or strategies available to induce cuproptosis in tumor cells, including Cu ionophores, small compounds, and nanomedicine. Furthermore, we targeted cell metabolism and specific regulatory genes in cancer therapy to enhance tumor sensitivity to cuproptosis. Finally, we discussed the feasibility of targeting cuproptosis to overcome tumor chemotherapy and immunotherapy resistance and suggested future research directions. This study suggested that targeting cuproptosis could open new avenues for developing tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenliang Zhang
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tingting Huang
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Liping Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
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Lin Y, Yuan M, Wang G. Copper homeostasis and cuproptosis in gynecological disorders: Pathogenic insights and therapeutic implications. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2024; 84:127436. [PMID: 38547725 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2024.127436] [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: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
This review comprehensively explores the complex role of copper homeostasis in female reproductive system diseases. As an essential trace element, copper plays a crucial role in various biological functions. Its dysregulation is increasingly recognized as a pivotal factor in the pathogenesis of gynecological disorders. We investigate how copper impacts these diseases, focusing on aspects like oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, immune function, estrogen levels, and angiogenesis. The review highlights significant changes in copper levels in diseases such as cervical, ovarian, endometrial cancer, and endometriosis, underscoring their potential roles in disease mechanisms and therapeutic exploration. The recent discovery of 'cuproptosis,' a novel cell death mechanism induced by copper ions, offers a fresh molecular perspective in understanding these diseases. The review also examines genes associated with cuproptosis, particularly those related to drug resistance, suggesting new strategies to enhance traditional therapy effectiveness. Additionally, we critically evaluate current therapeutic approaches targeting copper homeostasis, including copper ionophores, chelators, and nanoparticles, emphasizing their emerging potential in gynecological disease treatment. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of copper's role in female reproductive health, setting the stage for future research to elucidate its mechanisms and develop targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China; Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China; Jinan Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Gynecological Disease, Jinan, Shandong Province China; Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan Shandong Province, China; Gynecology Laboratory, Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan Shandong Province, China
| | - Ming Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China; Jinan Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Gynecological Disease, Jinan, Shandong Province China; Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan Shandong Province, China; Gynecology Laboratory, Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan Shandong Province, China
| | - Guoyun Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China; Jinan Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Gynecological Disease, Jinan, Shandong Province China; Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan Shandong Province, China; Gynecology Laboratory, Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan Shandong Province, China.
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3
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Xie Q, Tong C, Xiong X. An overview of the co-transcription factor NACC1: Beyond its pro-tumor effects. Life Sci 2024; 336:122314. [PMID: 38030057 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122314] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Nucleus accumbens-associated protein 1 (NACC1) is a member of the broad complex, tramtrack, bric-a-brac/poxvirus and zinc finger (BTB/POZ) protein families, mainly exerting its biological functions as a transcription co-regulator. NACC1 forms homo- or hetero-dimers through the BTB/POZ or BANP, E5R, and NACC1 (BEN) domain with other transcriptional regulators to regulate downstream signals. Recently, the overexpression of NACC1 has been observed in various tumors and is positively associated with tumor progression, high recurrence rate, indicating poor prognosis. NACC1 also regulates biological processes such as embryonic development, stem cell pluripotency, innate immunity, and related diseases. Our review combines recent research to summarize advancements in the structure, biological functions, and relative molecular mechanisms of NACC1. The future development of NACC1 clinical appliances is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Chang Tong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Xiangyang Xiong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China; Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Pathogens and Molecular Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.
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Xu L, Liu K, Wang F, Su Y. Cuproptosis and its application in different cancers: an overview. Mol Cell Biochem 2023; 478:2683-2693. [PMID: 36914880 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04693-4] [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: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metal ions are essential micronutrients for human health. They are also indispensable to maintaining health and regular operation of organs. Increasing or decreasing these metal ions will lead to cell death, such as ferroptosis. Tsvetkov et al. have recently proposed a novel cell death method called "Cuproptosis". Many researchers have linked this form of death to the diagnosis, prognosis, microenvironment infiltration, and prediction of immunotherapeutic efficacy of various tumors to better understand these tumors. Similarly, with the proposal of this mechanism, the killing effect of copper ionophores on cancer cells has come to our attention again. We introduced the mechanism of cuproptosis in detail and described the establishment of the corresponding prognostic model and risk score for uveal melanoma through cuproptosis. In addition, we describe the current progress in the study of cancer in other organs through cuproptosis and summarize the treatment of tumours by copper ionophore and its future research direction. With further research, the concept of cuproptosis may help us understand cancer and guide its clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyun Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Kexin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
| | - Ying Su
- Eye Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
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Gao J, Wu X, Huang S, Zhao Z, He W, Song M. Novel insights into anticancer mechanisms of elesclomol: More than a prooxidant drug. Redox Biol 2023; 67:102891. [PMID: 37734229 PMCID: PMC10518591 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102891] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
As an essential micronutrient for humans, the metabolism of copper is fine-tuned by evolutionarily conserved homeostatic mechanisms. Copper toxicity occurs when its concentration exceeds a certain threshold, which has been exploited in the development of copper ionophores, such as elesclomol, for anticancer treatment. Elesclomol has garnered recognition as a potent anticancer drug and has been evaluated in numerous clinical trials. However, the mechanisms underlying elesclomol-induced cell death remain obscure. The discovery of cuproptosis, a novel form of cell death triggered by the targeted accumulation of copper in mitochondria, redefines the significance of elesclomol in cancer therapy. Here, we provide an overview of copper homeostasis and its associated pathological disorders, especially copper metabolism in carcinogenesis. We summarize our current knowledge of the tumor suppressive mechanisms of elesclomol, with emphasis on cuproptosis. Finally, we discuss the strategies that may contribute to better application of elesclomol in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialing Gao
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Xiaoxue Wu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Shuting Huang
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Ziyi Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Weiling He
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China; Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361000, China.
| | - Mei Song
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China.
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Tarin M, Babaie M, Eshghi H, Matin MM, Saljooghi AS. Elesclomol, a copper-transporting therapeutic agent targeting mitochondria: from discovery to its novel applications. J Transl Med 2023; 21:745. [PMID: 37864163 PMCID: PMC10589935 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04533-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Copper (Cu) is an essential element that is involved in a variety of biochemical processes. Both deficiency and accumulation of Cu are associated with various diseases; and a high amount of accumulated Cu in cells can be fatal. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), oxidative stress, and cuproptosis are among the proposed mechanisms of copper toxicity at high concentrations. Elesclomol (ELC) is a mitochondrion-targeting agent discovered for the treatment of solid tumors. In this review, we summarize the synthesis of this drug, its mechanisms of action, and the current status of its applications in the treatment of various diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis, SARS-CoV-2 infection, and other copper-associated disorders. We also provide some detailed information about future directions to improve its clinical performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Tarin
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam Babaie
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Eshghi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam M. Matin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
- Novel Diagnostics and Therapeutics Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Sh. Saljooghi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
- Novel Diagnostics and Therapeutics Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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Gu L, Ren X, Ngule C, Xiong X, Song J, Li Z, Yang JM. Co-Targeting Nucleus Accumbens Associate 1 and NF-κB Signaling Synergistically Inhibits Melanoma Growth. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2221. [PMID: 37626718 PMCID: PMC10452158 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082221] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleus-accumbens-associated protein-1 (NAC1) is a cancer-related transcriptional factor encoded by the NACC1 gene, which is amplified and overexpressed in various human cancers and has been appreciated as one of the top potential cancer driver genes. NAC1 has therefore been explored as a potential therapeutic target for managing malignant tumors. Here, we show that NAC1 is a negative regulator of NF-κB signaling, and NAC1 depletion enhances the level of the nuclear NF-κB in human melanoma. Furthermore, the inhibition of NF-κB signaling significantly potentiates the antineoplastic activity of the NAC1 inhibition in both the cultured melanoma cells and xenograft tumors. This study identifies a novel NAC1-NF-κB signaling axis in melanoma, offering a promising new therapeutic option to treat melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixiang Gu
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; (L.G.); (X.R.); (C.N.); (J.-M.Y.)
- Markey Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Xingcong Ren
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; (L.G.); (X.R.); (C.N.); (J.-M.Y.)
- Markey Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Chrispus Ngule
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; (L.G.); (X.R.); (C.N.); (J.-M.Y.)
- Markey Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Xiaofang Xiong
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, TX 77807, USA;
| | - Jianxun Song
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, TX 77807, USA;
| | - Zhiguo Li
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; (L.G.); (X.R.); (C.N.); (J.-M.Y.)
- Markey Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Jin-Ming Yang
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; (L.G.); (X.R.); (C.N.); (J.-M.Y.)
- Markey Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
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Liu L, Han L, Dong L, He Z, Gao K, Chen X, Guo JC, Zhao Y. The hypoxia-associated genes in immune infiltration and treatment options of lung adenocarcinoma. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15621. [PMID: 37576511 PMCID: PMC10414028 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a common lung cancer with a poor prognosis under standard chemotherapy. Hypoxia is a crucial factor in the development of solid tumors, and hypoxia-related genes (HRGs) are closely associated with the proliferation of LUAD cells. Methods In this study, LUAD HRGs were screened, and bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation were conducted. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases were used to gather LUAD RNA-seq data and accompanying clinical information. LUAD subtypes were identified by unsupervised cluster analysis, and immune infiltration analysis of subtypes was conducted by GSVA and ssGSEA. Cox regression and LASSO regression analyses were used to obtain prognosis-related HRGs. Prognostic analysis was used to evaluate HRGs. Differences in enrichment pathways and immunotherapy were observed between risk groups based on GSEA and the TIDE method. Finally, RT-PCR and in vitro experiments were used to confirm prognosis-related HRG expression in LUAD cells. Results Two hypoxia-associated subtypes of LUAD were distinguished, demonstrating significant differences in prognostic analysis and immunological characteristics between subtypes. A prognostic model based on six HRGs (HK1, PDK3, PFKL, SLC2A1, STC1, and XPNPEP1) was developed for LUAD. HK1, SLC2A1, STC1, and XPNPEP1 were found to be risk factors for LUAD. PDK3 and PFKL were protective factors in LUAD patients. Conclusion This study demonstrates the effect of hypoxia-associated genes on immune infiltration in LUAD and provides options for immunotherapy and therapeutic strategies in LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lina Han
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Dong
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zihao He
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Gao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Cheng Guo
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Zhao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- The Research Center for Ubiquitous Computing Systems (CUbiCS), Institute of Computing Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Ngule CM, Hemati H, Ren X, Obaleye O, Akinyemi AO, Oyelami FF, Xiong X, Song J, Liu X, Yang JM. Identification of a NACC1-Regulated Gene Signature Implicated in the Features of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1223. [PMID: 37189841 PMCID: PMC10136325 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), characterized by a deficiency in estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor2 (HER2), is among the most lethal subtypes of breast cancer (BC). Nevertheless, the molecular determinants that contribute to its malignant phenotypes such as tumor heterogeneity and therapy resistance, remain elusive. In this study, we sought to identify the stemness-associated genes involved in TNBC progression. Using bioinformatics approaches, we found 55 up- and 9 downregulated genes in TNBC. Out of the 55 upregulated genes, a 5 gene-signature (CDK1, EZH2, CCNB1, CCNA2, and AURKA) involved in cell regeneration was positively correlated with the status of tumor hypoxia and clustered with stemness-associated genes, as recognized by Parametric Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (PGSEA). Enhanced infiltration of immunosuppressive cells was also positively correlated with the expression of these five genes. Moreover, our experiments showed that depletion of the transcriptional co-factor nucleus accumbens-associated protein 1 (NAC1), which is highly expressed in TNBC, reduced the expression of these genes. Thus, the five genes signature identified by this study warrants further exploration as a potential new biomarker of TNBC heterogeneity/stemness characterized by high hypoxia, stemness enrichment, and immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrispus M. Ngule
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Hami Hemati
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Xingcong Ren
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Oluwafunminiyi Obaleye
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Amos O. Akinyemi
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Felix F. Oyelami
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Xiaofang Xiong
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Jianxun Song
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Jin-Ming Yang
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Science, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
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Zheng P, Zhou C, Lu L, Liu B, Ding Y. Elesclomol: a copper ionophore targeting mitochondrial metabolism for cancer therapy. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:271. [PMID: 36089608 PMCID: PMC9465867 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02485-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Elesclomol is an anticancer drug that targets mitochondrial metabolism. In the past, elesclomol was recognized as an inducer of oxidative stress, but now it has also been found to suppress cancer by inducing cuproptosis. Elesclomol’s anticancer activity is determined by the dependence of cancer on mitochondrial metabolism. The mitochondrial metabolism of cancer stem cells, cancer cells resistant to platinum drugs, proteasome inhibitors, molecularly targeted drugs, and cancer cells with inhibited glycolysis was significantly enhanced. Elesclomol exhibited tremendous toxicity to all three kinds of cells. Elesclomol's toxicity to cells is highly dependent on its transport of extracellular copper ions, a process involved in cuproptosis. The discovery of cuproptosis has perfected the specific cancer suppressor mechanism of elesclomol. For some time, elesclomol failed to yield favorable results in oncology clinical trials, but its safety in clinical application was confirmed. Research progress on the relationship between elesclomol, mitochondrial metabolism and cuproptosis provides a possibility to explore the reapplication of elesclomol in the clinic. New clinical trials should selectively target cancer types with high mitochondrial metabolism and attempt to combine elesclomol with platinum, proteasome inhibitors, molecularly targeted drugs, or glycolysis inhibitors. Herein, the particular anticancer mechanism of elesclomol and its relationship with mitochondrial metabolism and cuproptosis will be presented, which may shed light on the better application of elesclomol in clinical tumor treatment.
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Ren Y, Kumar A, Das JK, Peng HY, Wang L, Balllard D, Xiong X, Ren X, Zhang Y, Yang JM, Song J. Tumorous expression of NAC1 restrains antitumor immunity through the LDHA-mediated immune evasion. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:e004856. [PMID: 36150745 PMCID: PMC9511653 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-004856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND T cell-mediated antitumor immunity has a vital role in cancer prevention and treatment; however, the immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) constitutes a significant contributor to immune evasion that weakens antitumor immunity. Here, we explore the relationship between nucleus accumbens-associated protein-1 (NAC1), a nuclear factor of the BTB (broad-complex, Tramtrack, bric a brac)/POZ (Poxvirus, and Zinc finger) gene family, and the TME. METHODS Adoptive cell transfer (ACT) of mouse or human tumor antigen (Ag)-specific CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) was tested in an immunocompetent or immunodeficient mouse model of melanoma with or without expression of NAC1. The effects of NAC1 expression on immune evasion in tumor cells were assessed in vitro and in vivo. CRISPR/Cas9, glycolysis analysis, retroviral transduction, quantitative real-time PCR, flow cytometric analysis, immunoblotting, database analyses were used to screen the downstream target and underlying mechanism of NAC1 in tumor cells. RESULTS Tumorous expression of NAC1 negatively impacts the CTL-mediated antitumor immunity via lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA)-mediated suppressive TME. NAC1 positively regulated the expression of LDHA at the transcriptional level, which led to higher accumulation of lactic acid in the TME. This inhibited the cytokine production and induced exhaustion and apoptosis of CTLs, impairing their cell-killing ability. In the immunocompetent and immunodeficient mice, NAC1 depleted melanoma tumors grew significantly slower and had an elevated infiltration of tumor Ag-specific CTLs following ACT, compared with the control groups. CONCLUSIONS Tumor expression of NAC1 contributes substantially to immune evasion through its regulatory role in LDHA expression and lactic acid production. Thus, therapeutic targeting of NAC1 warrants further exploration as a potential strategy to reinforce cancer immunotherapy, such as the ACT of CTLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijie Ren
- Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Anil Kumar
- Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Jugal K Das
- Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Hao-Yun Peng
- Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Liqing Wang
- Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Darby Balllard
- Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Xiaofang Xiong
- Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Xingcong Ren
- Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Yi Zhang
- Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jin-Ming Yang
- Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jianxun Song
- Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
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Horsophonphong S, Sritanaudomchai H, Nakornchai S, Kitkumthorn N, Surarit R. Odontogenic gene expression profile of human dental pulp-derived cells under high glucose influence: a microarray analysis. J Appl Oral Sci 2021; 29:e20201074. [PMID: 34586189 PMCID: PMC8477757 DOI: 10.1590/1678-7757-2020-1074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyperglycemia, a major characteristic of diabetes, is considered to play a vital role in diabetic complications. High glucose levels have been found to inhibit the mineralization of dental pulp cells. However, gene expression associated with this phenomenon has not yet been reported. This is important for future dental therapeutic application. OBJECTIVE Our study aimed to investigate the effect of high glucose levels on mineralization of human dental pulp-derived cells (hDPCs) and identify the genes involved. METHODOLOGY hDPCs were cultured in mineralizing medium containing 25 or 5.5 mM D-glucose. On days 1 and 14, RNA was extracted and expression microarray performed. Then, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were selected for further validation using the reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) method. Cells were fixed and stained with alizarin red on day 21 to detect the formation of mineralized nodules, which was further quantified by acetic acid extraction. RESULTS Comparisons between high-glucose and low-glucose conditions showed that on day 1, there were 72 significantly up-regulated and 75 down-regulated genes in the high-glucose condition. Moreover, 115 significantly up- and 292 down-regulated genes were identified in the high-glucose condition on day 14. DEGs were enriched in different GO terms and pathways, such as biological and cellular processes, metabolic pathways, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and AGE-RAGE signaling pathways. RT-qPCR results confirmed the significant expression of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 3 (PDK3), cyclin-dependent kinase 8 (CDK8), activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3), fibulin-7 (Fbln-7), hyaluronan synthase 1 (HAS1), interleukin 4 receptor (IL-4R) and apolipoprotein C1 (ApoC1). CONCLUSIONS The high-glucose condition significantly inhibited the mineralization of hDPCs. DEGs were identified, and interestingly, HAS1 and Fbln-7 genes may be involved in the glucose inhibitory effect on hDPC mineralization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivaporn Horsophonphong
- Mahidol University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Oral Biology, Thailand
- Mahidol University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Thailand
| | | | - Siriruk Nakornchai
- Mahidol University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Thailand
| | - Nakarin Kitkumthorn
- Mahidol University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Oral Biology, Thailand
| | - Rudee Surarit
- Mahidol University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Oral Biology, Thailand
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13
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S Allemailem K, Almatroudi A, Alsahli MA, Aljaghwani A, M El-Kady A, Rahmani AH, Khan AA. Novel Strategies for Disrupting Cancer-Cell Functions with Mitochondria-Targeted Antitumor Drug-Loaded Nanoformulations. Int J Nanomedicine 2021; 16:3907-3936. [PMID: 34135584 PMCID: PMC8200140 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s303832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Any variation in normal cellular function results in mitochondrial dysregulation that occurs in several diseases, including cancer. Such processes as oxidative stress, metabolism, signaling, and biogenesis play significant roles in cancer initiation and progression. Due to their central role in cellular metabolism, mitochondria are favorable therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of conditions like neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and cancer. Subcellular mitochondria-specific theranostic nanoformulations for simultaneous targeting, drug delivery, and imaging of these organelles are of immense interest in cancer therapy. It is a challenging task to cross multiple barriers to target mitochondria in diseased cells. To overcome these multiple barriers, several mitochondriotropic nanoformulations have been engineered for the transportation of mitochondria-specific drugs. These nanoformulations include liposomes, dendrimers, carbon nanotubes, polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), and inorganic NPs. These nanoformulations are made mitochondriotropic by conjugating them with moieties like dequalinium, Mito-Porter, triphenylphosphonium, and Mitochondria-penetrating peptides. Most of these nanoformulations are meticulously tailored to control their size, charge, shape, mitochondriotropic drug loading, and specific cell-membrane interactions. Recently, some novel mitochondria-selective antitumor compounds known as mitocans have shown high toxicity against cancer cells. These selective compounds form vicious oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species cycles within cancer cells and ultimately push them to cell death. Nanoformulations approved by the FDA and EMA for clinical applications in cancer patients include Doxil, NK105, and Abraxane. The novel use of these NPs still faces tremendous challenges and an immense amount of research is needed to understand the proper mechanisms of cancer progression and control by these NPs. Here in this review, we summarize current advancements and novel strategies of delivering different anticancer therapeutic agents to mitochondria with the help of various nanoformulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled S Allemailem
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Almatroudi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed A Alsahli
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aseel Aljaghwani
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asmaa M El-Kady
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Arshad Husain Rahmani
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad Ali Khan
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
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14
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Peng J, Cui Y, Xu S, Wu X, Huang Y, Zhou W, Wang S, Fu Z, Xie H. Altered glycolysis results in drug-resistant in clinical tumor therapy. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:369. [PMID: 33747225 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells undergo metabolic reprogramming, including increased glucose metabolism, fatty acid synthesis and glutamine metabolic rates. These enhancements to three major metabolic pathways are closely associated with glycolysis, which is considered the central component of cancer cell metabolism. Increasing evidence suggests that dysfunctional glycolysis is commonly associated with drug resistance in cancer treatment, and aberrant glycolysis plays a significant role in drug-resistant cancer cells. Studies on the development of drugs targeting these abnormalities have led to improvements in the efficacy of tumor treatment. The present review discusses the changes in glycolysis targets that cause drug resistance in cancer cells, including hexokinase, pyruvate kinase, pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, glucose transporters, and lactate, as well the underlying molecular mechanisms and corresponding novel therapeutic strategies. In addition, the association between increased oxidative phosphorylation and drug resistance is introduced, which is caused by metabolic plasticity. Given that aberrant glycolysis has been identified as a common metabolic feature of drug-resistant tumor cells, targeting glycolysis may be a novel strategy to develop new drugs to benefit patients with drug-resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghui Peng
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Yangyang Cui
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Shipeng Xu
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Xiaowei Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Yue Huang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Wenbin Zhou
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Shui Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Ziyi Fu
- Nanjing Maternal and Child Health Medical Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210004, P.R. China.,Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Hui Xie
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
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15
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Targeted apoptosis of myofibroblasts by elesclomol inhibits hypertrophic scar formation. EBioMedicine 2020; 54:102715. [PMID: 32251998 PMCID: PMC7132150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2020.102715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypertrophic scar (HS) is characterized by the increased proliferation and decreased apoptosis of myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts, the main effector cells for dermal fibrosis, develop from normal fibroblasts. Thus, the stimulation of myofibroblast apoptosis is a possible treatment for HS. We aimed to explore that whether over-activated myofibroblasts can be targeted for apoptosis by anticancer drug elesclomol. Methods 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining, flow cytometry, western blotting, collagen gel contraction and immunofluorescence assays were applied to demonstrate the proapoptotic effect of elesclomol in scar derived myofibroblasts and TGF-β1 induced myofibroblasts. The therapeutic potential of elesclomol was investigated by establishing rabbit ear hypertrophic scar models. Findings Both 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining and flow cytometry indicated that elesclomol targets myofibroblasts in vitro. Collagen gel contraction assay showed that elesclomol inhibited myofibroblast contractility. Flow cytometry and western blot analysis revealed that elesclomol resulted in excessive intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species(ROS), and caspase-3 and cytochrome c proteins. Moreover, compared with the control group, the elesclomol group had a significantly lower scar elevation index in vivo. Immunofluorescence assays for TUNEL and α-smooth muscle actin indicated that elesclomol treatment increased the number of apoptotic myofibroblasts. Interpretation The above results indicate that elesclomol exerted a significant inhibitory effect on HS formation via targeted myofibroblast apoptosis associated with increased oxidative stress. Thus, elesclomol is a promising candidate drug for the treatment of myofibroblast-related diseases such as HS.
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16
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Cui L, Cheng Z, Liu Y, Dai Y, Pang Y, Jiao Y, Ke X, Cui W, Zhang Q, Shi J, Fu L. Overexpression of PDK2 and PDK3 reflects poor prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia. Cancer Gene Ther 2020; 27:15-21. [PMID: 30578412 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-018-0071-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematological malignancy characterized by the proliferation of immature myeloid cells, with impaired differentiation and maturation. Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) is a pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) phosphatase inhibitor that enhances cell glycolysis and facilitates tumor cell proliferation. Inhibition of its activity can induce apoptosis of tumor cells. Currently, little is known about the role of PDKs in AML. Therefore, we screened The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database for de novo AML patients with complete clinical information and PDK family expression data, and 84 patients were included for the study. These patients did not undergo allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Univariate analysis showed that high expression of PDK2 was associated with shorter EFS (P = 0.047), and high expression of PDK3 was associated with shorter OS (P = 0.026). In multivariate analysis, high expression of PDK3 was an independent risk factor for EFS and OS (P < 0.05). In another TCGA cohort of AML patients who underwent allo-HSCT (n = 71), PDK expression was not associated with OS (all P > 0.05). Our results indicated that high expressions of PDK2 and PDK3, especially the latter, were poor prognostic factors of AML, and the effect could be overcome by allo-HSCT.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Biomarkers, Tumor/analysis
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Bone Marrow/pathology
- Datasets as Topic
- Disease-Free Survival
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Leukemic
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
- Humans
- Kaplan-Meier Estimate
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/genetics
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/mortality
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/pathology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/therapy
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Prognosis
- Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Acetyl-Transferring Kinase/analysis
- Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Acetyl-Transferring Kinase/genetics
- Transplantation, Homologous
- Young Adult
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Affiliation(s)
- Longzhen Cui
- Translational Medicine Center, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, 475000, China
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
- Department of Hematology and Lymphoma Research Center, Peking University, Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhiheng Cheng
- Translational Medicine Center, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, 475000, China
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Translational Medicine Center, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, 475000, China
| | - Yifeng Dai
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China
- Immunoendocrinology, Division of Medical Biology, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Yifan Pang
- Department of Medicine, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, 48073, USA
| | - Yang Jiao
- Life Sciences Institute and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ke
- Department of Hematology and Lymphoma Research Center, Peking University, Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Wei Cui
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Haidian Hospital, Beijing Haidian Section of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100080, China
| | - Qingyi Zhang
- Department of Hematology of Air Force PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jinlong Shi
- Translational Medicine Center, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, 475000, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Lin Fu
- Translational Medicine Center, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, 475000, China.
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
- Department of Hematology and Lymphoma Research Center, Peking University, Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
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17
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Nguyen C, Pandey S. Exploiting Mitochondrial Vulnerabilities to Trigger Apoptosis Selectively in Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:E916. [PMID: 31261935 PMCID: PMC6678564 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11070916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The transformation of normal cells to the cancerous stage involves multiple genetic changes or mutations leading to hyperproliferation, resistance to apoptosis, and evasion of the host immune system. However, to accomplish hyperproliferation, cancer cells undergo profound metabolic reprogramming including oxidative glycolysis and acidification of the cytoplasm, leading to hyperpolarization of the mitochondrial membrane. The majority of drug development research in the past has focused on targeting DNA replication, repair, and tubulin polymerization to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Unfortunately, these are not cancer-selective targets. Recently, researchers have started focusing on metabolic, mitochondrial, and oxidative stress vulnerabilities of cancer cells that can be exploited as selective targets for inducing cancer cell death. Indeed, the hyperpolarization of mitochondrial membranes in cancer cells can lead to selective importing of mitocans that can induce apoptotic effects. Herein, we will discuss recent mitochondrial-selective anticancer compounds (mitocans) that have shown selective toxicity against cancer cells. Increased oxidative stress has also been shown to be very effective in selectively inducing cell death in cancer cells. This oxidative stress could lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, which in turn will produce more reactive oxygen species (ROS). This creates a vicious cycle of mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS production, irreversibly leading to cell suicide. We will also explore the possibility of combining these compounds to sensitize cancer cells to the conventional anticancer agents. Mitocans in combination with selective oxidative-stress producing agents could be very effective anticancer treatments with minimal effect on healthy cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Nguyen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON N9E 3P4, Canada
| | - Siyaram Pandey
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON N9E 3P4, Canada.
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18
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Kalyanaraman B, Cheng G, Zielonka J, Bennett B. Low-Temperature EPR Spectroscopy as a Probe-Free Technique for Monitoring Oxidants Formed in Tumor Cells and Tissues: Implications in Drug Resistance and OXPHOS-Targeted Therapies. Cell Biochem Biophys 2018; 77:89-98. [PMID: 30259334 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-018-0858-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Oxidants formed from oxidative and nitrative metabolism include reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide, hydrogen peroxide/lipid hydroperoxides and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) (e.g., peroxynitrite [ONOO-] and nitrogen dioxide), and reactive halogenated species (e.g., hypochlorous acid [HOCl]). Increasingly, ROS and RNS are implicated in tumorigenesis as well as tumor growth, progression, and metastasis. Recently, ROS were implicated in drug resistance, metabolic reprogramming, and T-cell metabolism in immunotherapy. Mostly, fluorescent probes have been used in cell culture systems. The identity of species is obtained by LC-MS analyses of diagnostic marker products. However, extrapolation of these assays to cancer xenografts is difficult if not impossible. Thus, development of a probe-free assay for monitoring and assessing oxidant formation in tumor cells and tumor xenografts is critical and timely. Here, we describe the use of ex vivo electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy at cryogenic temperatures as a uniquely useful probe-free technique for assessing intracellular oxidation and oxidants via EPR signals from redox centers, particularly iron-sulfur clusters, in mitochondrial and cytosolic redox proteins. Examples of cancer cells subjected to inhibition of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation are presented. This ex vivo methodology can be readily extended to monitor oxidant formation in tumor tissues isolated from mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balaraman Kalyanaraman
- Department of Biophysics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA. .,Free Radical Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA. .,Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.
| | - Gang Cheng
- Department of Biophysics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.,Free Radical Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Jacek Zielonka
- Department of Biophysics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.,Free Radical Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.,Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Brian Bennett
- Department of Physics, Marquette University, 540 N. 15th St., Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA.
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