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Dang X, Chen X, Liang Z, Dai Z, Ding W, Song J, Fu J. P4HA2 promotes tumor progression and is transcriptionally regulated by SP1 in colorectal cancer. Cancer Biol Ther 2024; 25:2361594. [PMID: 38857058 PMCID: PMC11168210 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2024.2361594] [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: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
P4HA2 has been implicated in various malignant tumors; however, its expression and functional role in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain poorly elucidated. This study aims to investigate the involvement of P4HA2 in CRC metastasis and progression, uncovering the underlying mechanisms. In colorectal cancer (CRC), P4HA2 exhibited overexpression, and elevated levels of P4HA2 expression were associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Functional assays demonstrated P4HA2's regulation of cell proliferation, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, the AGO1 expression was correlated with P4HA2, and depletion of AGO1 reversed the proliferation and EMT function induced by P4HA2. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase assays suggested that the transcription factor SP1 binds to the promoter sequence of P4HA2, activating its expression in CRC. This study unveiled SP1 as a transcriptional regulator of P4HA2 in CRC and AGO1 is a probable target of P4HA2. In conclusion, P4HA2 emerges as a potential prognostic biomarker and promising therapeutic target in colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuening Dang
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Colorectal Cancer Research Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojian Chen
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Colorectal Cancer Research Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhonglin Liang
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Colorectal Cancer Research Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhujiang Dai
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Colorectal Cancer Research Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjun Ding
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Colorectal Cancer Research Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinglue Song
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Colorectal Cancer Research Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jihong Fu
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Colorectal Cancer Research Center, Shanghai, China
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2
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Bhati FK, Bhat MK. An anti-neoplastic tale of metformin through its transport. Life Sci 2024:123060. [PMID: 39278619 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.123060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Revised: 08/31/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
Metformin is an attractive candidate drug among all the repurposed drugs for cancer. Extensive preclinical and clinical research has evaluated its efficacy in cancer therapy, revealing a mixed outcome in clinical settings. To fully exploit metformin's therapeutic potential, understanding cellular factors relevant to its transport and accumulation in cancer cells needs to be understood. This review highlights the relevance of metformin transporter status towards its anti-cancer potential. Metformin transporters are regulated at pre-transcriptional, transcriptional, and post-translational levels. Moreover, the tumour microenvironment can also influence metformin accumulation in cancer cells. Also, Metformin treatment can regulate its transporters by altering global DNA methylation, protein acetylation, and transcription factors. Importantly, metformin transporters not only influence chemotherapeutic drug toxicity but are also associated with the prognosis and survival of individuals having cancer. Strategic decisions based on the expression and regulation of metformin transporters holds promise for its therapeutic implications and relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firoz Khan Bhati
- Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council - National Centre for Cell Science (BRIC- NCCS), Savitribai Phule Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411 007, India
| | - Manoj Kumar Bhat
- Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council - National Centre for Cell Science (BRIC- NCCS), Savitribai Phule Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411 007, India.
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3
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Lucchini S, Constantinou M, Marino S. Unravelling the mosaic: Epigenetic diversity in glioblastoma. Mol Oncol 2024. [PMID: 39148319 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13706] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common primary malignant brain tumour. Despite decades of intensive research in the disease, its prognosis remains poor, with an average survival of only 14 months after diagnosis. The remarkable level of intra- and interpatient heterogeneity is certainly contributing to the lack of progress in tackling this tumour. Epigenetic dysregulation plays an important role in glioblastoma biology and significantly contributes to intratumour heterogeneity. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that it also contributes to intertumour heterogeneity, which historically had mainly been linked to diverse genetic events occurring in different patients. In this review, we explore how DNA methylation, chromatin remodelling, microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation, and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) alterations contribute to intertumour heterogeneity in glioblastoma, including its implications for advanced tumour stratification, which is the essential first step for developing more effective patient-specific therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Lucchini
- Brain Tumour Research Centre, Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, UK
| | - Myrianni Constantinou
- Brain Tumour Research Centre, Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, UK
| | - Silvia Marino
- Brain Tumour Research Centre, Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, UK
- Barts Brain Tumour Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, UK
- Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
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4
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Xu J, Liu X, Huang Z, Lu T, Zhang Y, Cai D, Li X. XRCC2 knockdown effectively sensitizes esophageal cancer to albumin-paclitaxel in vitro and in vivo. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-024-10885-4. [PMID: 39048769 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10885-4] [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: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC), a prevalent malignancy, has a high incidence and mortality. X-ray repair cross complementing 2 (XRCC2) functions on DNA damage and repair that works the progression of various cancers. Nevertheless, the role and mechanism of XRCC2 remain unknown in EC. The XRCC2 expression was examined by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot. The function of XRCC2 in EC were investigated through cell counting kit-8, colony formation, transwell, flow cytometry, chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase, and western blot experiments. Besides, the role of XRCC2 in EC was assessed by western blot and immunohistochemistry experiments after nude mice were injected with EC109 cells and treated with nab-paclitaxel. The XRCC2 expression was upregulated in EC. Knockdown of XRCC2 diminished cell viability, and the number of colonies, migration cells and invasion cells of KYSE150 and EC109 cells. Silencing of XRCC2 diminished the cell viability of both two cells with a lower IC50, whereas boosted the apoptosis rate of both cells with the treatment of albumin-paclitaxel. All these outcomes were reverse with the upregulation of XRCC2 in both two cells. Mechanically, XRCC2 was transcriptionally regulated by specificity protein 1 (SP1), and silencing of SP1 inhibited the cell growth of EC. In vivo, transfection of shXRCC2 with or without albumin-paclitaxel treatment both decreased the tumor size and weight, as well as the expression of XRCC2 and Ki-67 in xenografted mice. XRCC2 transcriptionally regulated by SP2 promoted proliferation, migration, invasion, and chemoresistance of EC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zebo Huang
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tingxun Lu
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dongyan Cai
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xia Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China.
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5
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Ding J, Fayyaz AI, Ding Y, Liang D, Luo M. Role of Specificity Protein 1 (SP1) in Cardiovascular Diseases: Pathological Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potentials. Biomolecules 2024; 14:807. [PMID: 39062521 PMCID: PMC11274404 DOI: 10.3390/biom14070807] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In mammals, specificity protein 1 (SP1) was the first Cys2-His2 zinc finger transcription factor to be isolated within the specificity protein and Krüppel-like factor (Sp/KLF) gene family. SP1 regulates gene expression by binding to Guanine-Cytosine (GC)-rich sequences on promoter regions of target genes, affecting various cellular processes. Additionally, the activity of SP1 is markedly influenced by posttranslational modifications, such as phosphorylation, acetylation, glycosylation, and proteolysis. SP1 is implicated in the regulation of apoptosis, cell hypertrophy, inflammation, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, plaque stabilization, endothelial dysfunction, fibrosis, calcification, and other pathological processes. These processes impact the onset and progression of numerous cardiovascular disorders, including coronary heart disease, ischemia-reperfusion injury, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, and vascular disease. SP1 emerges as a potential target for the prevention and therapeutic intervention of cardiac ailments. In this review, we delve into the biological functions, pathophysiological mechanisms, and potential clinical implications of SP1 in cardiac pathology to offer valuable insights into the regulatory functions of SP1 in heart diseases and unveil novel avenues for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Ding
- School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; (J.D.); (D.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, China
- Shanghai Arrhythmia Research Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Aminah I. Fayyaz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (A.I.F.); (Y.D.)
| | - Yuchuan Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (A.I.F.); (Y.D.)
| | - Dandan Liang
- School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; (J.D.); (D.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, China
- Shanghai Arrhythmia Research Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Ming Luo
- School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; (J.D.); (D.L.)
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6
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Sichani AR, Sichani ZR, Yazdani B, Looha MA, Sirous H. A bioinformatics approach of specificity protein transcription factors in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Res Pharm Sci 2024; 19:287-302. [PMID: 39035812 PMCID: PMC11257197 DOI: 10.4103/rps.rps_171_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose The seventh most common type of cancer with increasing diagnosis rates around the world is head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Specificity proteins (SPs) have been known for their role in the regulation of cellular division, growth, and apoptotic pathways in various cancers. In this work, we analyzed the expression levels of SPs in HNSCC to assess their diagnostic and prognostic biomarker potential. Experimental approach Differential gene expression and correlation analysis methods were used to determine the top dysregulated genes in HNSCC. Functional enrichment and protein-protein interaction analyses were done with the DAVID database and Cytoscape software to understand their function and biological processes. Receiver operating test, logistic regression, and Cox regression analyses were performed to check SP genes' diagnostic and prognostic potential. Findings/Results SP1 (LogFC = -0.27, P = 0.0013) and SP2 (LogFC = -0.20, P = 0.0019) genes were upregulated in HNSCC samples, while SP8 (LogFC = 2.57, P < 0.001) and SP9 (LogFC = 2.57, P < 0.001) genes were downregulated in cancer samples. A moderate positive correlation was observed among the expression levels of SP1, SP2, and SP3 genes. The SP8 and SP9 genes with AUC values of 0.79 and 0.75 demonstrated diagnostic potential which increased to 0.84 when both genes were assessed by logistic regression test. Also, the SP1 gene held a marginally significant prognostic potential. Conclusion and implications Our findings clarify the potential of SP transcription factors as candidate diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for early screening and treatment of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adel Rezvani Sichani
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Shahreza Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahreza. I.R. Iran
| | - Ziba Rezvani Sichani
- Department of Biochemistry, Islamic Azad University, Falavarjan Branch, I.R. Iran
| | - Behnaz Yazdani
- Bioscience Department, Faculty of Science and Technology (FCT), Universitat de Vic—Universitat Central de Catalunya (Uvic-UCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
| | - Mehdi Azizmohammad Looha
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hajar Sirous
- Bioinformatics Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, I.R. Iran
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7
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Tinsley E, Bredin P, Toomey S, Hennessy BT, Furney SJ. KMT2C and KMT2D aberrations in breast cancer. Trends Cancer 2024; 10:519-530. [PMID: 38453563 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2024.02.003] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
KMT2C and KMT2D are histone lysine methyltransferases responsible for the monomethylation of histone 3 lysine 4 (H3K4) residues at gene enhancer sites. KMT2C/D are the most frequently mutated histone methyltransferases (HMTs) in breast cancer, occurring at frequencies of 10-20% collectively. Frequent damaging and truncating somatic mutations indicate a tumour-suppressive role of KMT2C/D in breast oncogenesis. Recent studies using cell lines and mouse models to replicate KMT2C/D loss show that these genes contribute to oestrogen receptor (ER)-driven transcription in ER+ breast cancers through the priming of gene enhancer regions. This review provides an overview of the functions of KMT2C/D and outlines the recent clinical and experimental evidence of the roles of KMT2C and KMT2D in breast cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Tinsley
- Genomic Oncology Research Group, Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Philip Bredin
- Medical Oncology Group, Department of Molecular Medicine, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sinead Toomey
- Medical Oncology Group, Department of Molecular Medicine, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bryan T Hennessy
- Medical Oncology Group, Department of Molecular Medicine, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland; Department of Medical Oncology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Simon J Furney
- Genomic Oncology Research Group, Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland.
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8
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Kwok T, Yeguvapalli S, Chitrala KN. Identification of Genes Crucial for Biological Processes in Breast Cancer Liver Metastasis Relapse. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5439. [PMID: 38791477 PMCID: PMC11122209 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105439] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer, when advancing to a metastatic stage, involves the liver, impacting over 50% of cases and significantly diminishing survival rates. Presently, a lack of tailored therapeutic protocols for breast cancer liver metastasis (BCLM) underscores the need for a deeper understanding of molecular patterns governing this complication. Therefore, by analyzing differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between primary breast tumors and BCLM lesions, we aimed to shed light on the diversities of this process. This research investigated breast cancer liver metastasis relapse by employing a comprehensive approach that integrated data filtering, gene ontology and KEGG pathway analysis, overall survival analysis, identification of the alteration in the DEGs, visualization of the protein-protein interaction network, Signor 2.0, identification of positively correlated genes, immune cell infiltration analysis, genetic alternation analysis, copy number variant analysis, gene-to-mRNA interaction, transcription factor analysis, molecular docking, and identification of potential treatment targets. This study's integrative approach unveiled metabolic reprogramming, suggesting altered PCK1 and LPL expression as key in breast cancer metastasis recurrence.
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9
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Kimura K, Jackson TLB, Huang RCC. Interaction and Collaboration of SP1, HIF-1, and MYC in Regulating the Expression of Cancer-Related Genes to Further Enhance Anticancer Drug Development. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:9262-9283. [PMID: 37998757 PMCID: PMC10670631 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45110580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Specificity protein 1 (SP1), hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1), and MYC are important transcription factors (TFs). SP1, a constitutively expressed housekeeping gene, regulates diverse yet distinct biological activities; MYC is a master regulator of all key cellular activities including cell metabolism and proliferation; and HIF-1, whose protein level is rapidly increased when the local tissue oxygen concentration decreases, functions as a mediator of hypoxic signals. Systems analyses of the regulatory networks in cancer have shown that SP1, HIF-1, and MYC belong to a group of TFs that function as master regulators of cancer. Therefore, the contributions of these TFs are crucial to the development of cancer. SP1, HIF-1, and MYC are often overexpressed in tumors, which indicates the importance of their roles in the development of cancer. Thus, proper manipulation of SP1, HIF-1, and MYC by appropriate agents could have a strong negative impact on cancer development. Under these circumstances, these TFs have naturally become major targets for anticancer drug development. Accordingly, there are currently many SP1 or HIF-1 inhibitors available; however, designing efficient MYC inhibitors has been extremely difficult. Studies have shown that SP1, HIF-1, and MYC modulate the expression of each other and collaborate to regulate the expression of numerous genes. In this review, we provide an overview of the interactions and collaborations of SP1, HIF1A, and MYC in the regulation of various cancer-related genes, and their potential implications in the development of anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ru Chih C. Huang
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218-2685, USA
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10
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Chu PY, Chou DA, Chen PM, Chiang EPI. Translocation of Methionine Adenosyl Transferase MAT2A and Its Prognostic Relevance for Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24109103. [PMID: 37240447 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109103] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Methionine adenosyl transferases (MATs) catalyze the synthesis of the biological methyl donor adenosylmethionine (SAM). Dysregulation of MATs has been associated with carcinogenesis in humans. We previously found that downregulation of the MAT1A gene enriches the protein-associated translation process and worsens liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) prognosis. We also discovered that subcellular localization of the MAT2A protein has independently prognostic relevance in breast cancer patients. The present study aimed to examined the clinical relevance of MAT2A translocation in human LIHC. Essential methionine cycle gene expressions in TCGA LIHC datasets were analyzed using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2 (GEPIA2). The protein expression pattern of MAT2A was determined in the tissue array of our own LIHC cohort (n = 261) using immuno-histochemistry, and the prognostic relevance of MAT2A protein's subcellular localization expression was examined using Kaplan-Meier survival curves. LIHC patients with higher MAT2A mRNA expression had a worse survival rate (p = 0.0083). MAT2A protein immunoreactivity was observed in both cytoplasm and nucleus fractions in the tissue array. Tumor tissues had elevated MAT2A protein expression in both cytoplasm and nucleus compared to their adjacent normal tissues. A higher cytoplasmic to nuclear MAT2A protein expression ratio (C/N) was found in female LIHC patients compared to that of male patients (p = 0.047). Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed that a lower MAT2A C/N correlated with poor overall survival in female LIHC patients (10-year survival rate: 29.2% vs. 68.8%, C/N ≤ 1.0 vs. C/N > 1.0, log-rank p = 0.004). Moreover, we found that specificity protein 1 (SP1) may have a potential interaction with nuclear MAT2A protein, using protein-protein interaction; this we found using the GeneMANIA algorithm. We explored the possible protective effects of the estrogen axis in LIHC using the Human Protein Atlas (HPA), and found evidence supporting a possible protective effect of estrogen-related protein ESSRG in LIHC. The localization of SP1 and MAT2 appeared to be inversely associated with ESRRG expression in LIHC. The present study demonstrated the translocation of MAT2A and its prognostic relevance in female LIHC patients. Our findings suggest the potential of estrogen in SP1 regulation and localization of MAT2A, as therapeutic modalities against in female LIHC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Yi Chu
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 242, Taiwan
- Department of Pathology, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 704, Taiwan
| | - Dev-Aur Chou
- Department of General Surgery, Changhua Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Po-Ming Chen
- Research Assistant Center, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - En-Pei Isabel Chiang
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- Innovation and Development Center of Sustainable Agriculture (IDCSA), National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- Advanced Plant and Food Crop Biotechnology Center (APFCBC), National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
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11
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Safe S. Specificity Proteins (Sp) and Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:5164. [PMID: 36982239 PMCID: PMC10048989 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The specificity protein (Sp) transcription factors (TFs) Sp1, Sp2, Sp3 and Sp4 exhibit structural and functional similarities in cancer cells and extensive studies of Sp1 show that it is a negative prognostic factor for patients with multiple tumor types. In this review, the role of Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4 in the development of cancer and their regulation of pro-oncogenic factors and pathways is reviewed. In addition, interactions with non-coding RNAs and the development of agents that target Sp transcription factors are also discussed. Studies on normal cell transformation into cancer cell lines show that this transformation process is accompanied by increased levels of Sp1 in most cell models, and in the transformation of muscle cells into rhabdomyosarcoma, both Sp1 and Sp3, but not Sp4, are increased. The pro-oncogenic functions of Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4 in cancer cell lines were studied in knockdown studies where silencing of each individual Sp TF decreased cancer growth, invasion and induced apoptosis. Silencing of an individual Sp TF was not compensated for by the other two and it was concluded that Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4 are examples of non-oncogene addicted genes. This conclusion was strengthened by the results of Sp TF interactions with non-coding microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs where Sp1 contributed to pro-oncogenic functions of Sp/non-coding RNAs. There are now many examples of anticancer agents and pharmaceuticals that induce downregulation/degradation of Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4, yet clinical applications of drugs specifically targeting Sp TFs are not being used. The application of agents targeting Sp TFs in combination therapies should be considered for their potential to enhance treatment efficacy and decrease toxic side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Safe
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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12
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Merhi M, Ahmad F, Taib N, Inchakalody V, Uddin S, Shablak A, Dermime S. The complex network of transcription factors, immune checkpoint inhibitors and stemness features in colorectal cancer: A recent update. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 89:1-17. [PMID: 36621515 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunity is regulated by several mechanisms that include co-stimulatory and/or co-inhibitory molecules known as immune checkpoints expressed by the immune cells. In colorectal cancer (CRC), CTLA-4, LAG3, TIM-3 and PD-1 are the major co-inhibitory checkpoints involved in tumor development and progression. On the other hand, the deregulation of transcription factors and cancer stem cells activity plays a major role in the development of drug resistance and in the spread of metastatic disease in CRC. In this review, we describe how the modulation of such transcription factors affects the response of CRC to therapies. We also focus on the role of cancer stem cells in tumor metastasis and chemoresistance and discuss both preclinical and clinical approaches for targeting stem cells to prevent their tumorigenic effect. Finally, we provide an update on the clinical applications of immune checkpoint inhibitors in CRC and discuss the regulatory effects of transcription factors on the expression of the immune inhibitory checkpoints with specific focus on the PD-1 and PD-L1 molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysaloun Merhi
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Fareed Ahmad
- Translational Research Institute and Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nassiba Taib
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Varghese Inchakalody
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute and Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Alaaeldin Shablak
- National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Said Dermime
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar.
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Nalla LV, Gondaliya P, Kalia K, Khairnar A. Targeting specificity protein 1 with miR-128-3p overcomes TGF-β1 mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer: An in vitro study. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:6987-6996. [PMID: 35486287 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07466-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Specificity protein 1 (SP1) was found to play a critical role in the regulation of TGF-β1 driven epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Recent clinical findings demonstrated a significant drop in the expression of miR-128-3p with the cancer progression in breast cancer patients. However, the impact of miR-128-3p on the SP1 expression in breast cancer remains unknown. Herein, we evaluated the role of miR-128-3p mimics in suppressing EMT of breast cancer cell lines by regulating the TGF-β1/SP1 axis. METHODS miR-128-3p interaction with SP1 was detected by in silico tools and dual-luciferase reporter assay. qPCR, western blot, and immunocytochemistry experiments were conducted for determining the expression levels of miR-128-3p and EMT markers with and without the treatment of miR-128-3p mimics. Further, to understand the effect of miR-128-3p mimics on cancer progression, experiments such as wound healing assay, transwell assay, adhesion assay, and cell cycle analysis were performed. RESULTS A significant inverse relation between SP1 and miR-128-3p levels was found in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. miR-128-3p overexpression impeded the SP1 mediated EMT markers in TGF-β1 stimulated cells by inhibiting the SP1 nuclear function. Further, treatment with miR-128-3p mimics significantly reduced the migration, invasion and spreading capability of TGF-β1 stimulated cells. Flow cytometry results showed the impeding role of miR-128-3p on the cell cycle progression. CONCLUSIONS Upregulated miR-128-3p inhibited SP1, thereby limiting the TGF-β1 induced EMT in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines for the first time. This study may pave the path to explore novel miRNA therapeutics for eradicating advanced breast cancer cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Vineela Nalla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Piyush Gondaliya
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Kiran Kalia
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Amit Khairnar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India.
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