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Zhou L, Yu CW. Epigenetic modulations in triple-negative breast cancer: Therapeutic implications for tumor microenvironment. Pharmacol Res 2024; 204:107205. [PMID: 38719195 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype lacking estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors and lacks HER2 overexpression. This absence of critical molecular targets poses significant challenges for conventional therapies. Immunotherapy, remarkably immune checkpoint blockade, offers promise for TNBC treatment, but its efficacy remains limited. Epigenetic dysregulation, including altered DNA methylation, histone modifications, and imbalances in regulators such as BET proteins, plays a crucial role in TNBC development and resistance to treatment. Hypermethylation of tumor suppressor gene promoters and the imbalance of histone methyltransferases such as EZH2 and histone deacetylases (HDACs) profoundly influence tumor cell proliferation, survival, and metastasis. In addition, epigenetic alterations critically shape the tumor microenvironment (TME), including immune cell composition, cytokine signaling, and immune checkpoint expression, ultimately contributing to immune evasion. Targeting these epigenetic mechanisms with specific inhibitors such as EZH2 and HDAC inhibitors in combination with immunotherapy represents a compelling strategy to remodel the TME, potentially overcoming immune evasion and enhancing therapeutic outcomes in TNBC. This review aims to comprehensively elucidate the current understanding of epigenetic modulation in TNBC, its influence on the TME, and the potential of combining epigenetic therapies with immunotherapy to overcome the challenges posed by this aggressive breast cancer subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Zhou
- Institute of Immunotherapy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Chen-Wei Yu
- Department of Statistics and Information Science, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
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Kumar H, Gupta NV, Jain R, Madhunapantula SV, Babu CS, Kesharwani SS, Dey S, Jain V. A review of biological targets and therapeutic approaches in the management of triple-negative breast cancer. J Adv Res 2023; 54:271-292. [PMID: 36791960 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous, aggressive phenotype of breast cancer with associated chemoresistance. The development of chemo- or radioresistance could be attributed to diverse tumor microenvironments, overexpression of membrane proteins (transporters), epigenetic changes, and alteration of the cell signaling pathways/genes associated with the development of cancer stem cells (CSCs). AIM OF REVIEW Due to the diverse and heterogeneous nature of TNBC, therapeutic response to the existing modalities offers limited scope and thus results in reccurance after therapy. To establish landmark therapeutic efficacy, a number of novel therapeutic modalities have been proposed. In addition, reversal of the resistance that developed during treatment may be altered by employing appropriate therapeutic modalities. This review aims to discuss the plethora of investigations carried out, which will help readers understand and make an appropriate choice of therapy directed toward complete elimination of TNBC. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW This manuscript addresses the major contributory factors from the tumor microenvironment that are responsible for the development of chemoresistance and poor prognosis. The associated cellular events and molecular mechanism-based therapeutic interventions have been explained in detail. Inhibition of ABC transporters, cell signaling pathways associated with CSCs, and epigenetic modification offers promising results in this regard. TNBC progression, invasion, metastasis and recurrence can also be inhibited by blocking multiple cell signaling pathways, targeting specific receptors/epigenetic targets, disrupting bioenergetics and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitesh Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India
| | - N Vishal Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India
| | - Rupshee Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India
| | - SubbaRao V Madhunapantula
- Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology & Regenerative Medicine, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India
| | - C Saravana Babu
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India
| | | | - Surajit Dey
- Roseman University of Health Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Henderson, NV, USA
| | - Vikas Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India.
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Deng J, Liao X. Lysine lactylation (Kla) might be a novel therapeutic target for breast cancer. BMC Med Genomics 2023; 16:283. [PMID: 37950222 PMCID: PMC10636881 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-023-01726-1] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Histone lysine lactylation (Kla) is a newly identified histone modification, which plays a crucial role in cancer progression. Hence, we determined the prognostic value of Kla in breast cancer (BC). METHODS We obtained RNA expression profiles of BC from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), following screening out Kla-specific genes. Furthermore, we determined the prognostic value of Kla by constructing a cox model based on Kla-specific genes. Subsequently, we identified expression of lactate accumulation-related genes and prognostic Kla-specific genes through Human Protein Atlas (HPA), and further performed a correlation analysis based on their expression. Meanwhile, we explored the effects of Kla on BC tumor microenvironment (TME), drug therapy and immunotherapy. Moreover, we predicted the pathways influenced by Kla via gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). RESULTS A total of 1073 BC samples and 112 normal controls were obtained from TCGA, and 23 tumor samples were removed owing to inadequate clinical information. We identified 257 differentially expressed Kla-specific genes (DEKlaGs) in BC. A cox model involved with CCR7, IGFBP6, NDUFAF6, OVOL1 and SDC1 was established, and risk score could be visualized as an independent biomarker for BC. Meanwhile, Kla was remarkably associated with BC immune microenvironment, drug therapy and immunotherapy. Kla was identified to be related to activation of various BC-related KEGG pathways. CONCLUSION In conclusion, Kla contributes to drug resistance and undesirable immune responses, and plays a crucial role in BC prognosis, suggesting that Kla was expected to be a new therapeutic target for BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Deng
- Department of Thyroid Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, No. 35 Jiefang Avenue. Hengyang, Hengyang, 421001, China.
| | - Xinyi Liao
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Szczepanek J, Tretyn A. MicroRNA-Mediated Regulation of Histone-Modifying Enzymes in Cancer: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1590. [PMID: 38002272 PMCID: PMC10669115 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111590] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In the past decade, significant advances in molecular research have provided a deeper understanding of the intricate regulatory mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis. MicroRNAs, short non-coding RNA sequences, exert substantial influence on gene expression by repressing translation or inducing mRNA degradation. In the context of cancer, miRNA dysregulation is prevalent and closely associated with various stages of carcinogenesis, including initiation, progression, and metastasis. One crucial aspect of the cancer phenotype is the activity of histone-modifying enzymes that govern chromatin accessibility for transcription factors, thus impacting gene expression. Recent studies have revealed that miRNAs play a significant role in modulating these histone-modifying enzymes, leading to significant implications for genes related to proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis in cancer cells. This article provides an overview of current research on the mechanisms by which miRNAs regulate the activity of histone-modifying enzymes in the context of cancer. Both direct and indirect mechanisms through which miRNAs influence enzyme expression are discussed. Additionally, potential therapeutic implications arising from miRNA manipulation to selectively impact histone-modifying enzyme activity are presented. The insights from this analysis hold significant therapeutic promise, suggesting the utility of miRNAs as tools for the precise regulation of chromatin-related processes and gene expression. A contemporary focus on molecular regulatory mechanisms opens therapeutic pathways that can effectively influence the control of tumor cell growth and dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Szczepanek
- Centre for Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University, ul. Wilenska 4, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Andrzej Tretyn
- Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, ul. Lwowska 1, 87-100 Torun, Poland;
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Pal D, Raj K, Nandi SS, Sinha S, Mishra A, Mondal A, Lagoa R, Burcher JT, Bishayee A. Potential of Synthetic and Natural Compounds as Novel Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Hematological Malignancies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2808. [PMID: 37345145 PMCID: PMC10216849 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Histone deacetylases (HDACs) and histone acetyltransferases (HATs) are enzymes that remove or add acetyl groups to lysine residues of histones, respectively. Histone deacetylation causes DNA to more snugly encircle histones and decreases gene expression, whereas acetylation has the opposite effect. Through these small alterations in chemical structure, HATs and HDACs regulate DNA expression. Recent research indicates histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) may be used to treat malignancies, including leukemia, B-cell lymphoma, virus-associated tumors, and multiple myeloma. These data suggest that HDACis may boost the production of immune-related molecules, resulting in the growth of CD8-positive T-cells and the recognition of nonreactive tumor cells by the immune system, thereby diminishing tumor immunity. The argument for employing epigenetic drugs in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients is supported by evidence that both epigenetic changes and mutations in the epigenetic machinery contribute to AML etiology. Although hypomethylating drugs have been licensed for use in AML, additional epigenetic inhibitors, such as HDACis, are now being tested in humans. Preclinical studies evaluating the efficacy of HDACis against AML have shown the ability of specific agents, such as anobinostat, vorinostat, and tricostatin A, to induce growth arrest, apoptosis, autophagy and cell death. However, these inhibitors do not seem to be successful as monotherapies, but instead achieve results when used in conjunction with other medications. In this article, we discuss the mounting evidence that HDACis promote extensive histone acetylation, as well as substantial increases in reactive oxygen species and DNA damage in hematological malignant cells. We also evaluate the potential of various natural product-based HDACis as therapeutic agents to combat hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilipkumar Pal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Bilaspur 495 009, India
| | - Khushboo Raj
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Bilaspur 495 009, India
| | - Shyam Sundar Nandi
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Council for Medical Research-National Institute of Virology, Mumbai 400 012, India
| | - Surajit Sinha
- Department of Cancer Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Arijit Mondal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, M.R. College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Balisha 743 234, India
| | - Ricardo Lagoa
- Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Jack T. Burcher
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
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The Emerging Role of Epigenetics in Metabolism and Endocrinology. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020256. [PMID: 36829533 PMCID: PMC9953656 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Each cell in a multicellular organism has its own phenotype despite sharing the same genome. Epigenetics is a somatic, heritable pattern of gene expression or cellular phenotype mediated by structural changes in chromatin that occur without altering the DNA sequence. Epigenetic modification is an important factor in determining the level and timing of gene expression in response to endogenous and exogenous stimuli. There is also growing evidence concerning the interaction between epigenetics and metabolism. Accordingly, several enzymes that consume vital metabolites as substrates or cofactors are used during the catalysis of epigenetic modification. Therefore, altered metabolism might lead to diseases and pathogenesis, including endocrine disorders and cancer. In addition, it has been demonstrated that epigenetic modification influences the endocrine system and immune response-related pathways. In this regard, epigenetic modification may impact the levels of hormones that are important in regulating growth, development, reproduction, energy balance, and metabolism. Altering the function of the endocrine system has negative health consequences. Furthermore, endocrine disruptors (EDC) have a significant impact on the endocrine system, causing the abnormal functioning of hormones and their receptors, resulting in various diseases and disorders. Overall, this review focuses on the impact of epigenetics on the endocrine system and its interaction with metabolism.
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Ragia G, Manolopoulos VG. The revolution of pharmaco-omics: ready to open new avenues in materializing precision medicine? Pharmacogenomics 2022; 23:869-872. [DOI: 10.2217/pgs-2022-0145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Tweetable abstract The pharmaco-omics revolution has started and, as a wild stream, sooner or later, will expand and dramatically improve drug discovery and individual response to pharmacotherapy. Hopefully, we will all be ready to follow the stream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Ragia
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, 68100, Greece
- Individualised Medicine & Pharmacological Research Solutions Center (IMPReS), Alexandroupolis, 68100, Greece
| | - Vangelis G Manolopoulos
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, 68100, Greece
- Individualised Medicine & Pharmacological Research Solutions Center (IMPReS), Alexandroupolis, 68100, Greece
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Academic General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, 68100, Greece
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