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Tufail M, Hu JJ, Liang J, He CY, Wan WD, Huang YQ, Jiang CH, Wu H, Li N. Hallmarks of cancer resistance. iScience 2024; 27:109979. [PMID: 38832007 PMCID: PMC11145355 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109979] [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: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
This review explores the hallmarks of cancer resistance, including drug efflux mediated by ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, metabolic reprogramming characterized by the Warburg effect, and the dynamic interplay between cancer cells and mitochondria. The role of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in treatment resistance and the regulatory influence of non-coding RNAs, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are studied. The chapter emphasizes future directions, encompassing advancements in immunotherapy, strategies to counter adaptive resistance, integration of artificial intelligence for predictive modeling, and the identification of biomarkers for personalized treatment. The comprehensive exploration of these hallmarks provides a foundation for innovative therapeutic approaches, aiming to navigate the complex landscape of cancer resistance and enhance patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Tufail
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center of Stomatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jia-Ju Hu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center of Stomatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jie Liang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center of Stomatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Cai-Yun He
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center of Stomatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wen-Dong Wan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center of Stomatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yu-Qi Huang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center of Stomatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Can-Hua Jiang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center of Stomatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Institute of Oral Precancerous Lesions, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Center of Oral and Maxillofacial Tumor, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Ning Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center of Stomatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Institute of Oral Precancerous Lesions, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Center of Oral and Maxillofacial Tumor, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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2
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Brown BA, Myers PJ, Adair SJ, Pitarresi JR, Sah-Teli SK, Campbell LA, Hart WS, Barbeau MC, Leong K, Seyler N, Kane W, Lee KE, Stelow E, Jones M, Simon MC, Koivunen P, Bauer TW, Stanger BZ, Lazzara MJ. A Histone Methylation-MAPK Signaling Axis Drives Durable Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Hypoxic Pancreatic Cancer. Cancer Res 2024; 84:1764-1780. [PMID: 38471099 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-2945] [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: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) plays a key role in tumor progression and response to therapy. The dense PDAC stroma causes hypovascularity, which leads to hypoxia. Here, we showed that hypoxia drives long-lasting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in PDAC primarily through a positive-feedback histone methylation-MAPK signaling axis. Transformed cells preferentially underwent EMT in hypoxic tumor regions in multiple model systems. Hypoxia drove a cell autonomous EMT in PDAC cells, which, unlike EMT in response to growth factors, could last for weeks. Furthermore, hypoxia reduced histone demethylase KDM2A activity, suppressed PP2 family phosphatase expression, and activated MAPKs to post-translationally stabilize histone methyltransferase NSD2, leading to an H3K36me2-dependent EMT in which hypoxia-inducible factors played only a supporting role. Hypoxia-driven EMT could be antagonized in vivo by combinations of MAPK inhibitors. Collectively, these results suggest that hypoxia promotes durable EMT in PDAC by inducing a histone methylation-MAPK axis that can be effectively targeted with multidrug therapies, providing a potential strategy for overcoming chemoresistance. SIGNIFICANCE Integrated regulation of histone methylation and MAPK signaling by the low-oxygen environment of pancreatic cancer drives long-lasting EMT that promotes chemoresistance and shortens patient survival and that can be pharmacologically inhibited. See related commentary by Wirth and Schneider, p. 1739.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke A Brown
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Paul J Myers
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Sara J Adair
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Jason R Pitarresi
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Shiv K Sah-Teli
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Logan A Campbell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - William S Hart
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | | | - Kelsey Leong
- Engineering Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Nicholas Seyler
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - William Kane
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Kyoung Eun Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Edward Stelow
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Marieke Jones
- Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - M Celeste Simon
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Peppi Koivunen
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Todd W Bauer
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Ben Z Stanger
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Matthew J Lazzara
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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Hui San S, Ching Ngai S. E-cadherin re-expression: Its potential in combating TRAIL resistance and reversing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Gene 2024; 909:148293. [PMID: 38373660 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148293] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
The major limitation of conventional chemotherapy drugs is their lack of specificity for cancer cells. As a selective apoptosis-inducing agent, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has emerged as an attractive alternative. However, most of the cancer cells are found to be either intrinsically resistant to the TRAIL protein or may develop resistance after multiple treatments, and TRAIL resistance can induce epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) at a later stage, promoting cancer invasion and migration. Interestingly, E-cadherin loss has been linked to TRAIL resistance and initiation of EMT, making E-cadherin re-expression a potential target to overcome these obstacles. Recent research suggests that re-expressing E-cadherin may reduce TRAIL resistance by enhancing TRAIL-induced apoptosis and preventing EMT by modulating EMT signalling factors. This reversal of EMT, can also aid in improving TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Therefore, this review provides remarkable insights into the mechanisms underlying E-cadherin re-expression, clinical implications, and potentiation, as well as the research gaps of E-cadherin re-expression in the current cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ser Hui San
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Siew Ching Ngai
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia.
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4
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Sisto M, Lisi S. Epigenetic Regulation of EMP/EMT-Dependent Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2775. [PMID: 38474021 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052775] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis represents a process characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. It often represents the evolution of pathological conditions, causes organ failure, and can, in extreme cases, compromise the functionality of organs to the point of causing death. In recent years, considerable efforts have been made to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying fibrotic evolution and to identify possible therapeutic strategies. Great interest has been aroused by the discovery of a molecular association between epithelial to mesenchymal plasticity (EMP), in particular epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and fibrogenesis, which has led to the identification of complex molecular mechanisms closely interconnected with each other, which could explain EMT-dependent fibrosis. However, the result remains unsatisfactory from a therapeutic point of view. In recent years, advances in epigenetics, based on chromatin remodeling through various histone modifications or through the intervention of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), have provided more information on the fibrotic process, and this could represent a promising path forward for the identification of innovative therapeutic strategies for organ fibrosis. In this review, we summarize current research on epigenetic mechanisms involved in organ fibrosis, with a focus on epigenetic regulation of EMP/EMT-dependent fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Sisto
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 1, I-70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Sabrina Lisi
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 1, I-70124 Bari, Italy
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Kirtana R, Manna S, Patra SK. KDM5A noncanonically binds antagonists MLL1/2 to mediate gene regulation and promotes epithelial to mesenchymal transition. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2023; 1866:194986. [PMID: 37722486 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2023.194986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Differential expression of genes involved in certain processes is a collaborative outcome of crosstalk between signalling molecules and epigenetic modifiers. In response to environmental stimulus, interplay between transcription factors and epigenetic modifiers together dictates the regulation of genes. MLLs and KDM5A are functionally antagonistic proteins, as one acts as a writer and the other erases the active chromatin mark, i.e., H3K4me3. KDM5A influences the process of EMT by binding to both epithelial and mesenchymal gene promoters. Through this work, we show that when bound to E-cadherin promoter, KDM5A acts as a classical repressor by demethylating H3K4me3, but on mesenchymal markers, it acts as a transcriptional activator by inhibiting the activity of HDACs and increasing H3K18ac. Further, through our chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments, we observed a co-occupancy of KDM5A with MLLs, we tested whether KDM5A might physically interact with MLLs and WDR5, and here we provide experimental evidence that KDM5A indeed interacts with MLLs and WDR5.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Kirtana
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha 769008, India
| | - Soumen Manna
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha 769008, India
| | - Samir Kumar Patra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha 769008, India.
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6
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Yoodee S, Thongboonkerd V. Epigenetic regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition during cancer development. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 380:1-61. [PMID: 37657856 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays essential roles in promoting malignant transformation of epithelial cells, leading to cancer progression and metastasis. During EMT-induced cancer development, a wide variety of genes are dramatically modified, especially down-regulation of epithelial-related genes and up-regulation of mesenchymal-related genes. Expression of other EMT-related genes is also modified during the carcinogenic process. Especially, epigenetic modifications are observed in the EMT-related genes, indicating their involvement in cancer development. Mechanically, epigenetic modifications of histone, DNA, mRNA and non-coding RNA stably change the EMT-related gene expression at transcription and translation levels. Herein, we summarize current knowledge on epigenetic regulatory mechanisms observed in EMT process relate to cancer development in humans. The better understanding of epigenetic regulation of EMT during cancer development may lead to improvement of drug design and preventive strategies in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunisa Yoodee
- Medical Proteomics Unit, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Visith Thongboonkerd
- Medical Proteomics Unit, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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7
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Dhungel N, Youngblood R, Chu M, Carroll J, Dragoi AM. Assessing the epithelial-to-mesenchymal plasticity in a small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) and lung fibroblasts co-culture model. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1096326. [PMID: 36936987 PMCID: PMC10022497 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1096326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is the source of important cues that govern epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and facilitate the acquisition of aggressive traits by cancer cells. It is now recognized that EMT is not a binary program, and cancer cells rarely switch to a fully mesenchymal phenotype. Rather, cancer cells exist in multiple hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal (E/M) states responsible for cell population heterogeneity, which is advantageous for the ever-changing environment during tumor development and metastasis. How are these intermediate states generated and maintained is not fully understood. Here, we show that direct interaction between small cell lung carcinoma cells and lung fibroblasts induces a hybrid EMT phenotype in cancer cells in which several mesenchymal genes involved in receptor interaction with the extracellular matrix (ECM) and ECM remodeling are upregulated while epithelial genes such as E-cadherin remain unchanged or slightly increase. We also demonstrate that several core EMT-regulating transcription factors (EMT-TFs) are upregulated in cancer cells during direct contact with fibroblasts, as is Yes-associated protein (YAP1), a major regulator of the Hippo pathway. Further, we show that these changes are transient and reverse to the initial state once the interaction is disrupted. Altogether, our results provide evidence that tumor cells' direct contact with the fibroblasts in the TME initiates a signaling cascade responsible for hybrid E/M states of cancer cells. These hybrid states are maintained during the interaction and possibly contribute to therapy resistance and immune evasion, while interference with direct contact will result in slow recovery and switch to the initial states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilu Dhungel
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, LSUHSC-Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Reneau Youngblood
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, LSUHSC-Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Min Chu
- Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, INLET Core, LSUHSC-Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Jennifer Carroll
- Center for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT), LSUHSC-Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Ana-Maria Dragoi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, LSUHSC-Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
- Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, INLET Core, LSUHSC-Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
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8
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Wang J, Huang P, Pan X, Xia C, Zhang H, Zhao H, Yuan Z, Liu J, Meng C, Liu F. Resveratrol reverses TGF-β1-mediated invasion and metastasis of breast cancer cells via the SIRT3/AMPK/autophagy signal axis. Phytother Res 2023; 37:211-230. [PMID: 36086852 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Resveratrol (Resv) has antitumorigenic and antimetastatic activities; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying the inhibitory effects of Resv on the invasion and metastasis of breast cancer cells are still a subject of debate. In our study, we demonstrated that Resv inhibited tumor cell proliferation and tumor growth. It also suppressed invasion and pulmonary metastasis of breast cancer by reversing the transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)-mediated EMT process. Meanwhile, the anticarcinogenic effects of Resv were abolished by the autophagy blocker 3-methyladenine (3-MA) or Beclin 1 small interfering RNA. Moreover, Resv upregulated autophagy-related genes and protein levels and induced the formation of autophagosomes in 4T1 breast cancer cells and xenograft mice, suggesting that autophagy was involved in the anticarcinogenic activities of Resv in both models. In addition, Resv-induced autophagy by increasing the expression of SIRT3 and phosphorylated AMPK. SIRT3 knockdown reduced AMPK phosphorylation and autophagy-related proteins levels, and suppressed the anticancer effects of Resv, demonstrating that the inhibitory effects of Resv on tumor progression were mediated via the SIRT3/AMPK/autophagy pathway. Taken together, our study provided novel insight into the anticancer effects of Resv and revealed that targeting the SIRT3/AMPK/autophagy pathway can serve as a new therapeutic target against breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wang
- Clinical Pharmacology Institute, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Huang
- Clinical Pharmacology Institute, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiafang Pan
- Clinical Pharmacology Institute, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunhua Xia
- Clinical Pharmacology Institute, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Clinical Pharmacology Institute, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Zhao
- Clinical Pharmacology Institute, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Yuan
- Clinical Trial Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianming Liu
- Clinical Pharmacology Institute, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Meng
- Clinical Pharmacology Institute, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Fanglan Liu
- Clinical Pharmacology Institute, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
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9
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Kong F, Ma L, Wang X, You H, Zheng K, Tang R. Regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition by protein lysine acetylation. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:57. [PMID: 35484625 PMCID: PMC9052664 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00870-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a vital driver of tumor progression. It is a well-known and complex trans-differentiation process in which epithelial cells undergo morphogenetic changes with loss of apical-basal polarity, but acquire spindle-shaped mesenchymal phenotypes. Lysine acetylation is a type of protein modification that favors reversibly altering the structure and function of target molecules via the modulation of lysine acetyltransferases (KATs), as well as lysine deacetylases (KDACs). To date, research has found that histones and non-histone proteins can be acetylated to facilitate EMT. Interestingly, histone acetylation is a type of epigenetic regulation that is capable of modulating the acetylation levels of distinct histones at the promoters of EMT-related markers, EMT-inducing transcription factors (EMT-TFs), and EMT-related long non-coding RNAs to control EMT. However, non-histone acetylation is a post-translational modification, and its effect on EMT mainly relies on modulating the acetylation of EMT marker proteins, EMT-TFs, and EMT-related signal transduction molecules. In addition, several inhibitors against KATs and KDACs have been developed, some of which can suppress the development of different cancers by targeting EMT. In this review, we discuss the complex biological roles and molecular mechanisms underlying histone acetylation and non-histone protein acetylation in the control of EMT, highlighting lysine acetylation as potential strategy for the treatment of cancer through the regulation of EMT. Video Abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanyun Kong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lihong Ma
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xing Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongjuan You
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Kuiyang Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.,National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Sciences Education, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Renxian Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China. .,National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Sciences Education, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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10
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Yang F, Xuan G, Chen Y, Cao L, Zhao M, Wang C, Chen E. MicroRNAs Are Key Molecules Involved in the Gene Regulation Network of Colorectal Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:828128. [PMID: 35465317 PMCID: PMC9023807 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.828128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common types of cancer and one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play central roles in normal cell maintenance, development, and other physiological processes. Growing evidence has illustrated that dysregulated miRNAs can participate in the initiation, progression, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance that confer miRNAs to serve as clinical biomarkers and therapeutic targets for CRC. Through binding to the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of target genes, miRNAs can lead to target mRNA degradation or inhibition at a post-transcriptional level. During the last decade, studies have found numerous miRNAs and their potential targets, but the complex network of miRNA/Targets in CRC remains unclear. In this review, we sought to summarize the complicated roles of the miRNA-target regulation network (Wnt, TGF-β, PI3K-AKT, MAPK, and EMT related pathways) in CRC with up-to-date, high-quality published data. In particular, we aimed to discuss the downstream miRNAs of specific pathways. We hope these data can be a potent supplement for the canonical miRNA-target regulation network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Guoyun Xuan
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yixin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Lichao Cao
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Min Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Erfei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Erfei Chen,
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11
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Pantelaiou-Prokaki G, Mieczkowska I, Schmidt GE, Fritzsche S, Prokakis E, Gallwas J, Wegwitz F. HDAC8 suppresses the epithelial phenotype and promotes EMT in chemotherapy-treated basal-like breast cancer. Clin Epigenetics 2022; 14:7. [PMID: 35016723 PMCID: PMC8753869 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-022-01228-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) is one of the most aggressive malignant diseases in women with an increased metastatic behavior and poor prognosis compared to other molecular subtypes of breast cancer. Resistance to chemotherapy is the main cause of treatment failure in BLBC. Therefore, novel therapeutic strategies counteracting the gain of aggressiveness underlying therapy resistance are urgently needed. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been established as one central process stimulating cancer cell migratory capacity but also acquisition of chemotherapy-resistant properties. In this study, we aimed to uncover epigenetic factors involved in the EMT-transcriptional program occurring in BLBC cells surviving conventional chemotherapy. RESULTS Using whole transcriptome data from a murine mammary carcinoma cell line (pG-2), we identified upregulation of Hdac4, 7 and 8 in tumor cells surviving conventional chemotherapy. Subsequent analyses of human BLBC patient datasets and cell lines established HDAC8 as the most promising factor sustaining tumor cell viability. ChIP-sequencing data analysis identified a pronounced loss of H3K27ac at regulatory regions of master transcription factors (TFs) of epithelial phenotype like Gata3, Elf5, Rora and Grhl2 upon chemotherapy. Interestingly, impairment of HDAC8 activity reverted epithelial-TFs levels. Furthermore, loss of HDAC8 activity sensitized tumor cells to chemotherapeutic treatments, even at low doses. CONCLUSION The current study reveals a previously unknown transcriptional repressive function of HDAC8 exerted on a panel of transcription factors involved in the maintenance of epithelial cell phenotype, thereby supporting BLBC cell survival to conventional chemotherapy. Our data establish HDAC8 as an attractive therapeutically targetable epigenetic factor to increase the efficiency of chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garyfallia Pantelaiou-Prokaki
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Translational Molecular Imaging, Max Planck Institute for Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Iga Mieczkowska
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Geske E Schmidt
- Department of Gastroenterology, GI-Oncology and Endocrinology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sonja Fritzsche
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Evangelos Prokakis
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Julia Gallwas
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Florian Wegwitz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
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Kretzmann JA, Irving KL, Smith NM, Evans CW. Modulating gene expression in breast cancer via DNA secondary structure and the CRISPR toolbox. NAR Cancer 2022; 3:zcab048. [PMID: 34988459 PMCID: PMC8693572 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcab048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy in women, and while the survival prognosis of patients with early-stage, non-metastatic disease is ∼75%, recurrence poses a significant risk and advanced and/or metastatic breast cancer is incurable. A distinctive feature of advanced breast cancer is an unstable genome and altered gene expression patterns that result in disease heterogeneity. Transcription factors represent a unique therapeutic opportunity in breast cancer, since they are known regulators of gene expression, including gene expression involved in differentiation and cell death, which are themselves often mutated or dysregulated in cancer. While transcription factors have traditionally been viewed as 'undruggable', progress has been made in the development of small-molecule therapeutics to target relevant protein-protein, protein-DNA and enzymatic active sites, with varying levels of success. However, non-traditional approaches such as epigenetic editing, transcriptional control via CRISPR/dCas9 systems, and gene regulation through non-canonical nucleic acid secondary structures represent new directions yet to be fully explored. Here, we discuss these new approaches and current limitations in light of new therapeutic opportunities for breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Kretzmann
- Laboratory for Biomolecular Nanotechnology, Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, Am Coulombwall 4a, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Kelly L Irving
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Nicole M Smith
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Cameron W Evans
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
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Chaves LP, Melo CM, Saggioro FP, dos Reis RB, Squire JA. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Signaling and Prostate Cancer Stem Cells: Emerging Biomarkers and Opportunities for Precision Therapeutics. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1900. [PMID: 34946849 PMCID: PMC8701270 DOI: 10.3390/genes12121900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancers may reactivate a latent embryonic program called the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) during the development of metastatic disease. Through EMT, tumors can develop a mesenchymal phenotype similar to cancer stem cell traits that contributes to metastasis and variation in therapeutic responses. Some of the recurrent somatic mutations of prostate cancer affect EMT driver genes and effector transcription factors that induce the chromatin- and androgen-dependent epigenetic alterations that characterize castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). EMT regulators in prostate cancer comprise transcription factors (SNAI1/2, ZEB1, TWIST1, and ETS), tumor suppressor genes (RB1, PTEN, and TP53), and post-transcriptional regulators (miRNAs) that under the selective pressures of antiandrogen therapy can develop an androgen-independent metastatic phenotype. In prostate cancer mouse models of EMT, Slug expression, as well as WNT/β-Catenin and notch signaling pathways, have been shown to increase stemness potential. Recent single-cell transcriptomic studies also suggest that the stemness phenotype of advanced prostate cancer may be related to EMT. Other evidence correlates EMT and stemness with immune evasion, for example, activation of the polycomb repressor complex I, promoting EMT and stemness and cytokine secretion through RB1, TP53, and PRC1. These findings are helping clinical trials in CRPC that seek to understand how drugs and biomarkers related to the acquisition of EMT can improve drug response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz Paulo Chaves
- Department of Genetics, Medicine School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14048-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.C.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Camila Morais Melo
- Department of Genetics, Medicine School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14048-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.C.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Fabiano Pinto Saggioro
- Pathology Department, Medicine School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14048-900, SP, Brazil;
| | - Rodolfo Borges dos Reis
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery and Anatomy, Medicine School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14048-900, SP, Brazil;
| | - Jeremy Andrew Squire
- Department of Genetics, Medicine School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14048-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.C.); (C.M.M.)
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
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A reciprocal feedback loop between HIF-1α and HPIP controls phenotypic plasticity in breast cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2021; 526:12-28. [PMID: 34767928 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
While phenotypic plasticity is a critical factor contributing to tumor heterogeneity, molecular mechanisms underlying this process are largely unknown. Here we report that breast cancer cells display phenotypic diversity in response to hypoxia or normoxia microenvironments by operating a reciprocal positive feedback regulation of HPIP and HIF-1α. We show that under hypoxia, HIF-1α induces HPIP expression that establishes cell survival, and also promotes cell migration/invasion, EMT and metastatic phenotypes in breast cancer cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that HPIP interacts with SRP14, a component of signal recognition particle, and stimulates MMP9 synthesis under hypoxic stress. Whereas, in normoxia, HPIP stabilizes HIF-1α, causing the Warburg effect to support cell growth. Concurrently, mathematical modelling corroborates this reciprocal feedback loop in enabling cell-state transitions in cancer cells. Clinical data indicate that elevated levels of HPIP and HIF-1α correlate with unfavorable prognosis and shorter survival rates in breast cancer subjects. Together, this data shows a reciprocal positive feedback loop between HPIP and HIF-1α that was unknown hitherto. It unveils how the tumor microenvironment influences phenotypic plasticity that has an impact on tumor growth and metastasis and, further signifies considering this pathway as a potential therapeutic target in breast cancer.
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Epigenetic Regulation and Post-Translational Modifications of SNAI1 in Cancer Metastasis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011062. [PMID: 34681726 PMCID: PMC8538584 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
SNAI1, a zinc finger transcription factor, not only acts as the master regulator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) but also functions as a driver of cancer progression, including cell invasion, survival, immune regulation, stem cell properties, and metabolic regulation. The regulation of SNAI1 occurs at the transcriptional, translational, and predominant post-translational levels including phosphorylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination. Here, we discuss the regulation and role of SNAI1 in cancer metastasis, with a particular emphasis on epigenetic regulation and post-translational modifications. Understanding how signaling networks integrate with SNAI1 in cancer progression will shed new light on the mechanism of tumor metastasis and help develop novel therapeutic strategies against cancer metastasis.
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Godel M, Ortone G, Anobile DP, Pasino M, Randazzo G, Riganti C, Kopecka J. Targeting Mitochondrial Oncometabolites: A New Approach to Overcome Drug Resistance in Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:762. [PMID: 34065551 PMCID: PMC8161136 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13050762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is the main obstacle for a successful cancer therapy. There are many mechanisms by which cancers avoid drug-mediated death, including alterations in cellular metabolism and apoptotic programs. Mitochondria represent the cell's powerhouse and the connection between carbohydrate, lipid and proteins metabolism, as well as crucial controllers of apoptosis, playing an important role not only in tumor growth and progression, but also in drug response. Alterations in tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) caused by mutations in three TCA enzymes-isocitrate dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase and fumarate hydratase-lead to the accumulation of 2-hydroxyglutarate, succinate and fumarate respectively, collectively known as oncometabolites. Oncometabolites have pleiotropic effects on cancer biology. For instance, they generate a pseudohypoxic phenotype and induce epigenetic changes, two factors that may promote cancer drug resistance leading to disease progression and poor therapy outcome. This review sums up the most recent findings about the role of TCA-derived oncometabolites in cancer aggressiveness and drug resistance, highlighting possible pharmacological strategies targeting oncometabolites production in order to improve the efficacy of cancer treatment.
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