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Fu Y, Sun X, He Q, Gu Z, Jia X, Zhuang Z. Connexin 43 controls metastatic behavior in triple negative breast cancer through TGFβ1-Smad3-intergin αV signaling axis Based on optical image diagnosis. SLAS Technol 2024; 29:100190. [PMID: 39299505 DOI: 10.1016/j.slast.2024.100190] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Abnormal expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) contributes to the development and progression of cancer. However, its regulation is complex and dependent on the environment. The expression of Cx43 in triple-negative cancer lesions was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and optical coherence tomography using experimental models and clinical samples. The model of TGFβ1-SMad3-in-αv signal axis was established and verified by experiments. The results show that Cx43 plays a key role in the regulation of triple-negative cancer metastasis. In vivo, over-expressed Cx43 decreased tumor volume and inhibited ITGαV, TGF-β1, Smad3 and N-cadherin expressions, but enhanced the E-cadherin. Cx43 had the lowest expression in the TNBC samples, especially in lymph node metastatic TNBC patients and had a negative correlation with ITG alpha V, TGF-β1 and Smad3.The study demonstrated Cx43 controlled metastatic behavior through TGF-β1 -Smad3-ITG αV signaling axis in MDA-MB-231 cells, providing evidence for Cx43's function in TNBC. The optical image diagnosis method can realize the identification and quantitative evaluation of early cancer triple negative, and provide a new strategy and means for the treatment of cancer triple negative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Fu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Xiaoyin Sun
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Qizhi He
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Zhangyuan Gu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Xiaoqing Jia
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Zhigang Zhuang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
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2
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Habli Z, Zantout A, Al-Haj N, Saab R, El-Sabban M, Khraiche ML. Single-Cell Fluidic Force Spectroscopy Reveals Dynamic Mechanical Fingerprints of Malignancy in Breast Cancer. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:50147-50159. [PMID: 39105773 PMCID: PMC11440459 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c06335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
The interplay between cancer cell physical characteristics and metastatic potential highlights the significance of cancer cell mechanobiology. Using fluidic-based single-cell force spectroscopy (SCFS), quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D), and a model of cells with a spectrum of metastatic potential, we track the progression of biomechanics across the metastatic states by measuring cell-substrate and cell-to-cell adhesion forces, cell spring constant, cell height, and cell viscoelasticity. Compared to highly metastatic cells, cells in the lower spectrum of metastatic ability are found to be systematically stiffer, less viscoelastic, and larger. These mechanical transformations in cells within a cluster correlate with cells' metastatic potential but are significantly absent in single cells. Additionally, the response to chemotherapy is found to be highly dependent on cell viscoelastic properties in terms of both response time and magnitude. Shifts in cell softness and elasticity might serve as mechanoadaptive mechanisms during cancer cell metastasis, contributing to our understanding of metastasis and the effectiveness of potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeina Habli
- Neural Engineering and Nanobiosensors Group, Biomedical Engineering Program, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Ahmad Zantout
- Neural Engineering and Nanobiosensors Group, Biomedical Engineering Program, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Nadine Al-Haj
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Raya Saab
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California 94304, United States
| | - Marwan El-Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Massoud L Khraiche
- Neural Engineering and Nanobiosensors Group, Biomedical Engineering Program, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
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3
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Awad MF, Habli Z, Saleh S, El-Sabban M, Khraiche ML. Dielectrophoretic and electrochemical impedance mapping of metastatic potential in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells using inkjet-printed castellated microarray. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:4264-4274. [PMID: 39162210 DOI: 10.1039/d4lc00319e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
The spread of metastatic cancer cells poses a significant challenge in cancer treatment, making innovative approaches for early detection and diagnosis essential. Dielectrophoretic impedance spectroscopy (DEPIS), a powerful tool for cell analysis, combines dielectrophoresis (DEP) and impedance spectroscopy (IS) to separate, sort, cells and analyze their dielectric properties. In this study, we developed and built out-of-plane inkjet-printed castellated arrays to map the dielectric properties of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell subtypes across their metastatic potential. This was realized via modulating the expression of connexin 43 (Cx43), a marker associated with poor breast cancer prognosis and increased metastasis. We employed DEP-based trapping, followed by EIS measurements on bulk cell population, for rapid capture and differentiation of the cancer cells according to their metastatic state. Our results revealed a significant correlation between the various MDA-MB-231 metastatic subtypes and their respective dielectrophoretic and dielectric properties. Notably, cells with the highest metastatic potential exhibited the highest membrane capacitance 16.88 ± 3.24 mF m-2, followed by the less metastatic cell subtypes with membrane capacitances below 14.3 ± 2.54 mF m-2. In addition, highly metastatic cells exhibited lower crossover frequency (25 ± 1 kHz) compared to the less metastatic subtypes (≥27 ± 1 kHz), an important characteristic for cell sorting. Finally, EIS measurements showed distinct double layer capacitance (CDL) values at 1 kHz between the metastatic subgroups, confirming unique dielectric and dielectrophoretic properties correlated with the metastatic state of the cell. Our findings underscore the potential of DEPIS as a non-invasive and rapid analytical tool, offering insights into cancer biology and facilitating the development of personalized therapeutic interventions tailored to distinct metastatic stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Fawzi Awad
- Neural Engineering and Nanobiosensors Group, Biomedical Engineering Program, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon.
| | - Zeina Habli
- Neural Engineering and Nanobiosensors Group, Biomedical Engineering Program, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon.
| | - Sahera Saleh
- Neural Engineering and Nanobiosensors Group, Biomedical Engineering Program, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon.
| | - Marwan El-Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Massoud L Khraiche
- Neural Engineering and Nanobiosensors Group, Biomedical Engineering Program, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon.
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4
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Xu H, Wang X, Zhu F, Guo S, Chao Z, Cao C, Lu Z, Zhu H, Wang M, Zhu F, Yang J, Zeng R, Yao Y. Comprehensive Pan-Cancer Analysis of Connexin 43 as a Potential Biomarker and Therapeutic Target in Human Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma (KIRC). MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:780. [PMID: 38792963 PMCID: PMC11123162 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60050780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Connexin 43 (Cx43) is involved in the transfer of small signaling molecules between neighboring cells, thereby exerting a major influence on the initiation and progression of tumorigenesis. However, there is a lack of systematic research on Cx43 expression and its predictive role in clinical diagnosis and prognosis in pan-cancer. Materials and Methods: Several biological databases were used to evaluate the expression levels of GJA1 (encoding Cx43) and its diagnostic and prognostic significance in pan-cancer. We targeted kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) and investigated the relationship between GJA1 expression and different clinical features of KIRC patients. Then, we performed cell-based experiments to partially confirm our results and predicted several proteins that were functionally related to Cx43. Results: The expression of GJA1 has a high level of accuracy in predicting KIRC. High GJA1 expression was remarkably correlated with a favorable prognosis, and this expression was reduced in groups with poor clinical features in KIRC. Cell experiments confirmed the inhibitory effects of increased GJA1 expression on the migratory capacity of human renal cancer (RCC) cell lines, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis predicted that CDH1 and CTNNB1 were closely related to Cx43. Conclusions: GJA1 could be a promising independent favorable prognostic factor for KIRC, and upregulation of GJA1 expression could inhibit the migratory capacity of renal cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huzi Xu
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Xiuru Wang
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Fan Zhu
- Wuhan Central Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China;
| | - Shuiming Guo
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Zheng Chao
- Division of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China;
| | - Chujin Cao
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Zhihui Lu
- Division of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China;
| | - Han Zhu
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Meng Wang
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Fengming Zhu
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Juan Yang
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Rui Zeng
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Ying Yao
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
- Division of Nutrition, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China
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5
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Pun R, Cavanaugh AM, Aldrich E, Tran O, Rudd JC, Hansen LA, North BJ. PKCμ promotes keratinocyte cell migration through Cx43 phosphorylation-mediated suppression of intercellular communication. iScience 2024; 27:109033. [PMID: 38375220 PMCID: PMC10875573 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Downregulation of intercellular communication through suppression of gap junctional conductance is necessary during wound healing. Connexin 43 (Cx43), a prominent gap junction protein in skin, is downregulated following wounding to restrict communication between keratinocytes. Previous studies found that PKCμ, a novel PKC isozyme, regulates efficient cutaneous wound healing. However, the molecular mechanism by which PKCμ regulates wound healing remains unknown. We have identified that PKCμ suppresses intercellular communication and enhances cell migration in an in vitro wound healing model by regulating Cx43 containing gap junctions. PKCμ can directly interact with and phosphorylate Cx43 at S368, which leads to Cx43 internalization and downregulation. Finally, utilizing phosphomimetic and non-phosphorylatable S368 substitutions and gap junction inhibitors, we confirmed that PKCμ regulates intercellular communication and in vitro wound healing by controlling Cx43-S368 phosphorylation. These results define PKCμ as a critical regulator of Cx43 phosphorylation to control cell migration and wound healing in keratinocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renju Pun
- Biomedical Sciences Department, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
| | - Ann M. Cavanaugh
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
| | - Emily Aldrich
- Biomedical Sciences Department, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
| | - Olivia Tran
- Biomedical Sciences Department, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
| | - Justin C. Rudd
- Biomedical Sciences Department, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
| | - Laura A. Hansen
- Biomedical Sciences Department, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
| | - Brian J. North
- Biomedical Sciences Department, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
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6
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Hanafy MS, Cui Z. Connexin-Containing Vesicles for Drug Delivery. AAPS J 2024; 26:20. [PMID: 38267725 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-024-00889-8] [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: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Connexin is a transmembrane protein present on the cell membrane of most cell types. Connexins assemble into a hexameric hemichannel known as connexon that pairs with another hemichannel present on a neighboring cell to form gap junction that acts as a channel or pore for the transport of ions and small molecules between the cytoplasm of the two cells. Extracellular vesicles released from connexin-expressing cells could carry connexin hemichannels on their surface and couple with another connexin hemichannel on a distant recipient cell to allow the transfer of the intravesicular content directly into the cytoplasm. Connexin-containing vesicles can be potentially utilized for intracellular drug delivery. In this review, we introduced cell-derived, connexin-containing extracellular vesicles and cell-free connexin-containing liposomes, methods of preparing them, procedures to load cargos in them, factors regulating the connexin hemichannel activity, (potential) applications of connexin-containing vesicles in drug delivery, and finally the challenges and future directions in realizing the promises of this platform delivery system for (intracellular) drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud S Hanafy
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Zhengrong Cui
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA.
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7
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Pérez Jorge G, Gontijo MTP, Brocchi M. Salmonella enterica and outer membrane vesicles are current and future options for cancer treatment. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1293351. [PMID: 38116133 PMCID: PMC10728604 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1293351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional cancer therapies have many limitations. In the last decade, it has been suggested that bacteria-mediated immunotherapy may circumvent the restrictions of traditional treatments. For example, Salmonella enterica is the most promising bacteria for treating cancer due to its intrinsic abilities, such as killing tumor cells, targeting, penetrating, and proliferating into the tumor. S. enterica has been genetically modified to ensure safety and increase its intrinsic antitumor efficacy. This bacterium has been used as a vector for delivering anticancer agents and as a combination therapy with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or photothermic. Recent studies have reported the antitumor efficacy of outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) derived from S. enterica. OMVs are considered safer than attenuated bacteria and can stimulate the immune system as they comprise most of the immunogens found on the surface of their parent bacteria. Furthermore, OMVs can also be used as nanocarriers for antitumor agents. This review describes the advances in S. enterica as immunotherapy against cancer and the mechanisms by which Salmonella fights cancer. We also highlight the use of OMVs as immunotherapy and nanocarriers of anticancer agents. OMVs derived from S. enterica are innovative and promising strategies requiring further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genesy Pérez Jorge
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Departamento de Genética, Evolução, Microbiologia e Imunologia, Laboratório de Doenças Tropicais, Instituto de Biologia, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Marco Túlio Pardini Gontijo
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Marcelo Brocchi
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Departamento de Genética, Evolução, Microbiologia e Imunologia, Laboratório de Doenças Tropicais, Instituto de Biologia, Campinas, Brazil
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Abu Bakar NFAB, Yeo ZL, Hussin F, Madhavan P, Lim V, Jemon K, Prabhakaran P. Synergistic effects of combined cisplatin and Clinacanthus nutans extract on triple negative breast cancer cells. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2023; 18:1220-1236. [PMID: 37250812 PMCID: PMC10209459 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most invasive breast cancer subtype enriched with cancer stem cells. TNBCs do not express estrogen, progesterone, or human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) receptors, making them difficult to be targeted by existing chemotherapy treatments. In this study, we attempted to identify the effects of combined cisplatin and Clinacanthus nutans treatment on MDA-MD-231 and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells, which represent TNBC subtypes. Methods The phytochemical fingerprint of C. nutans ethanolic leaf extract was evaluated by LC-MS/MS analysis. We investigated the effects of cisplatin (0-15.23 μg/mL), C. nutans (0-50 μg/mL), and a combination of cisplatin (3.05 μg/mL) and C. nutans (0-50 μg/mL), on cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, mRNA expression in cancer stem cells (CD49f, KLF4), and differentiation markers (TUBA1A, KRT18) in TNBC cells. In addition, we also studied the interaction between cisplatin and C. nutans. Results Derivatives of fatty acids, carboxylic acid ester, and glycosides, were identified as the major bioactive compounds with potential anticancer properties in C. nutans leaf extract. Reductions in cell viability (0-78%) and proliferation (2-77%), as well as a synergistic anticancer effect, were identified in TNBC cells when treated with a combination of cisplatin and C. nutans. Furthermore, apoptotic induction via increased caspase-3/7 activity (MDA-MB-231: 2.73-fold; MDA-MB-468: 3.53-fold), and a reduction in cell invasion capacity to 36%, were detected in TNBC cells when compared to single cisplatin and C. nutans treatments. At the mRNA level, cisplatin and C. nutans differentially regulated specific genes that are responsible for proliferation and differentiation. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate that the combination of cisplatin and C. nutans represents a potential treatment for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhin Leng Yeo
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia
| | - Faisal Hussin
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia
| | - Priya Madhavan
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Vuanghao Lim
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Khairunadwa Jemon
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia
| | - Praseetha Prabhakaran
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia
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9
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Ibragimova MK, Tsyganov MM, Kravtsova EA, Tsydenova IA, Litviakov NV. Organ-Specificity of Breast Cancer Metastasis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15625. [PMID: 37958607 PMCID: PMC10650169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115625] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) remains one of the most common malignancies among women worldwide. Breast cancer shows metastatic heterogeneity with priority to different organs, which leads to differences in prognosis and response to therapy among patients. The main targets for metastasis in BC are the bone, lung, liver and brain. The molecular mechanism of BC organ-specificity is still under investigation. In recent years, the appearance of new genomic approaches has led to unprecedented changes in the understanding of breast cancer metastasis organ-specificity and has provided a new platform for the development of more effective therapeutic agents. This review summarises recent data on molecular organ-specific markers of metastasis as the basis of a possible therapeutic approach in order to improve the diagnosis and prognosis of patients with metastatically heterogeneous breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina K. Ibragimova
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk 634009, Russia; (M.M.T.); (E.A.K.); (I.A.T.); (N.V.L.)
- Biological Institute, National Research Tomsk State University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
- Faculty of Medicine and Biology, Siberian State Medical University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Matvey M. Tsyganov
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk 634009, Russia; (M.M.T.); (E.A.K.); (I.A.T.); (N.V.L.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Biology, Siberian State Medical University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Ekaterina A. Kravtsova
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk 634009, Russia; (M.M.T.); (E.A.K.); (I.A.T.); (N.V.L.)
- Biological Institute, National Research Tomsk State University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Irina A. Tsydenova
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk 634009, Russia; (M.M.T.); (E.A.K.); (I.A.T.); (N.V.L.)
- Biological Institute, National Research Tomsk State University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Nikolai V. Litviakov
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk 634009, Russia; (M.M.T.); (E.A.K.); (I.A.T.); (N.V.L.)
- Biological Institute, National Research Tomsk State University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
- Faculty of Medicine and Biology, Siberian State Medical University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
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10
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Khromov T, Fischer L, Leha A, Bremmer F, Fischer A, Schliephake H, Rahat MA, Brockmeyer P. Combined Biomarker System Predicts Prognosis in Patients with Metastatic Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4924. [PMID: 37894290 PMCID: PMC10605069 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204924] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metastatic oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is associated with poor patient prognosis. Metastasis is a complex process involving various proteins, tumor cell alterations, including changes attributable to the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, and interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we investigate a combined protein marker system consisting of connexin 43 (Cx43), EMMPRIN (CD147), E-cadherin, and vimentin, with a focus on their roles in the invasive metastatic progression of OSCC and their potential utility in predicting prognosis. METHODS We conducted an immunohistochemical analysis to assess the protein expression profiles of Cx43, EMMPRIN, E-cadherin, and vimentin using tissue samples obtained from 24 OSCC patients. The metastatic process was mapped through different regions of interest (ROIs), including adjacent healthy oral mucosa (OM), center of primary OSCC, invasive front (IF), and local cervical lymph node metastases (LNM). The primary clinical endpoints were disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). RESULTS Substantial changes in the expression profiles of the different marker proteins were observed among the different ROIs, with all p-values < 0.05, signifying statistical significance. Multivariable Cox regression analysis results showed a significant effect of increased EMMPRIN expression toward the IF on DFS (p = 0.019) and OS (p = 0.023). Furthermore, the combined predictive analysis showed a significant predictive value of the marker system for DFS (p = 0.0017) and OS (p = 0.00044). CONCLUSIONS The combined marker system exhibited a significant ability to predict patient prognosis. An increase in EMMPRIN expression toward the IF showed the strongest effect and could be an interesting new antimetastatic therapy approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Khromov
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; (T.K.); (A.F.)
| | - Lucas Fischer
- Department of Urology, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
| | - Andreas Leha
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
| | - Felix Bremmer
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
| | - Andreas Fischer
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; (T.K.); (A.F.)
| | - Henning Schliephake
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
| | - Michal Amit Rahat
- Immunotherapy Laboratory, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa 3436212, Israel;
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3109601, Israel
| | - Phillipp Brockmeyer
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
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11
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Kneitz H, Frings V, Kircher S, Goebeler M. Expression of Connexin 43 in Granular Cell Tumors of the Skin, Tongue and Esophagus. Dermatopathology (Basel) 2023; 10:184-192. [PMID: 37366801 DOI: 10.3390/dermatopathology10020026] [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: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Granular cell tumors (GCT) are rare neoplasms of Schwann cell origin occurring in the skin and in other organs. The etiopathogenesis of GCT is yet poorly understood. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is the most broadly expressed gap junction protein in humans, the tumoral role of which has been investigated in several types of tumors. Its role in GCT of the skin, oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract is as yet unknown. METHODS Herein, we present a study on the immunohistochemical expression of Cx43 in GCT of the skin (n = 15), tongue (n = 4) and esophagus (n = 3). Immunolabeling was scored positive (weak (+), moderate (++) or strong (+++)). RESULTS Cx43 was expressed by all cases of GCT of the skin, tongue and esophagus (22/22), showing moderate to strong staining. All tissue sections of GCT were characterized by a diffuse, cytoplasmic staining pattern of the tumor cells. None of those showed membranous or nuclear staining. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that Cx43 probably plays an important role in the development of this rare tumor entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermann Kneitz
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Verena Frings
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Kircher
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Goebeler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
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12
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El-Hajjar L, Saliba J, Karam M, Shaito A, El Hajj H, El-Sabban M. Ubiquitin-Related Modifier 1 (URM-1) Modulates Cx43 in Breast Cancer Cell Lines. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032958. [PMID: 36769280 PMCID: PMC9917400 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap-junction-forming connexins are exquisitely regulated by post-translational modifications (PTMs). In particular, the PTM of connexin 43 (Cx43), a tumor suppressor protein, regulates its turnover and activity. Here, we investigated the interaction of Cx43 with the ubiquitin-related modifier 1 (URM-1) protein and its impact on tumor progression in two breast cancer cell lines, highly metastatic triple-negative MDA-MB-231 and luminal breast cancer MCF-7 cell lines. To evaluate the subsequent modulation of Cx43 levels, URM-1 was downregulated in these cells. The transcriptional levels of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and the metastatic phenotype were assessed. We demonstrated that Cx43 co-localizes and interacts with URM-1, and URMylated Cx43 was accentuated upon cellular stress. The significant upregulation of small ubiquitin-like modifier-1 (SUMO-1) was also observed. In cells with downregulated URM-1, Cx43 expression significantly decreased, and SUMOylation by SUMO-1 was affected. The concomitant expression of EMT markers increased, leading to increased proliferation, migration, and invasion potential. Inversely, the upregulation of URM-1 increased Cx43 expression and reversed EMT-induced processes, underpinning a role for this PTM in the observed phenotypes. This study proposes that the URMylation of Cx43 in breast cancer cells regulates its tumor suppression properties and contributes to breast cancer cell malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layal El-Hajjar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon
| | - Jessica Saliba
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut P.O. Box 90656, Lebanon
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Beirut P.O. Box 100, Lebanon
| | - Mario Karam
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon
| | - Abdullah Shaito
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University Doha, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
| | - Hiba El Hajj
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon
| | - Marwan El-Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +961-(1)-350000 (ext. 4765)
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13
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Krigers A, Moser P, Fritsch H, Demetz M, Kerschbaumer J, Brawanski KR, Thomé C, Freyschlag CF. The relationship between connexin-43 expression and Ki67 in non-glial central nervous system tumors. Int J Biol Markers 2023; 38:46-52. [PMID: 36726335 DOI: 10.1177/03936155221143138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced intercellular communication is a known oncogenic factor. In the central nervous system, Connexin-43 (Cx43) forms this junctional networking. Moreover, it correlates with the proliferation rate, and thus behavior, of gliomas. We assessed the expression of Cx43 and its relationship to Ki67 in other common central nervous system tumors. METHODS The expression of Cx43 and Ki67 were assessed in formalin-fixed paraffin embedded samples of human brain metastases, meningiomas, and neurinomas using immunohistochemistry. Neurinomas and meningiomas were jointly evaluated due to similar non-malignant behavior. RESULTS A total of 14 metastases of different extracerebral carcinomas, 6 meningiomas, and 10 neurinomas were evaluated. Five (36%) metastases and 5 (31%) meningiomas/neurinomas showed minor expression, whereas 6 (43%) metastases and 2 (13%) meningiomas/neurinomas showed no Cx43 expression at all. In 3 (21%) metastases and 9 (56%) meningiomas/neurinomas, moderate or strong expression of Cx43 was identified. The higher expression of Cx43 in meningiomas and neurinomas directly correlated with Ki67, r = 0.53 (P = 0.034). For metastases no significant correlation was found. Mitotic index in meningiomas/neurinomas correlated with Ki67 expression, r = 0.74 (P < 0.001), but did not show statistically significant correlation with Cx43 expression in these tumors. CONCLUSIONS The expression of Cx43 as a marker of cell-to-cell networking exposed a significant correlation with the Ki67-defined proliferation index in case of primary central nervous system neuroectodermal neoplasms. However, it does not seem to play a comparable role in metastases with extracerebral origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandrs Krigers
- Department of Neurosurgery, 27280Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Patrizia Moser
- Department of Neuropathology, 31445University Hospital of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Helga Fritsch
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, 31445Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Matthias Demetz
- Department of Neurosurgery, 27280Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Johannes Kerschbaumer
- Department of Neurosurgery, 27280Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Claudius Thomé
- Department of Neurosurgery, 27280Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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14
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Zhou M, Zheng M, Zhou X, Tian S, Yang X, Ning Y, Li Y, Zhang S. The roles of connexins and gap junctions in the progression of cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:8. [PMID: 36639804 PMCID: PMC9837928 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-01009-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs), which are composed of connexins (Cxs), provide channels for direct information exchange between cells. Cx expression has a strong spatial specificity; however, its influence on cell behavior and information exchange between cells cannot be ignored. A variety of factors in organisms can modulate Cxs and subsequently trigger a series of responses that have important effects on cellular behavior. The expression and function of Cxs and the number and function of GJs are in dynamic change. Cxs have been characterized as tumor suppressors in the past, but recent studies have highlighted the critical roles of Cxs and GJs in cancer pathogenesis. The complex mechanism underlying Cx and GJ involvement in cancer development is a major obstacle to the evolution of therapy targeting Cxs. In this paper, we review the post-translational modifications of Cxs, the interactions of Cxs with several chaperone proteins, and the effects of Cxs and GJs on cancer. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Zhou
- grid.265021.20000 0000 9792 1228Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070 People’s Republic of China
| | - Minying Zheng
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300121 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinyue Zhou
- grid.265021.20000 0000 9792 1228Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070 People’s Republic of China
| | - Shifeng Tian
- grid.265021.20000 0000 9792 1228Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohui Yang
- grid.216938.70000 0000 9878 7032Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yidi Ning
- grid.216938.70000 0000 9878 7032Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuwei Li
- grid.417031.00000 0004 1799 2675Department of Colorectal Surgery, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121 People’s Republic of China
| | - Shiwu Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300121 People’s Republic of China
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15
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Mao BH, Nguyen Thi KM, Tang MJ, Kamm RD, Tu TY. The interface stiffness and topographic feature dictate interfacial invasiveness of cancer spheroids. Biofabrication 2023; 15. [PMID: 36594698 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/acaa00] [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: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
During cancer metastasis, tumor cells likely navigate, in a collective manner, discrete tissue spaces comprising inherently heterogeneous extracellular matrix microstructures where interfaces may be frequently encountered. Studies have shown that cell migration modes can be determined by adaptation to mechanical/topographic cues from interfacial microenvironments. However, less attention has been paid to exploring the impact of interfacial mechnochemical attributes on invasive and metastatic behaviors of tumor aggregates. Here, we excogitated a collagen matrix-solid substrate interface platform to investigate the afore-stated interesting issue. Our data revealed that stiffer interfaces stimulated spheroid outgrowth by motivating detachment of single cells and boosting their motility and velocity. However, stronger interfacial adhesive strength between matrix and substrate led to the opposite outcomes. Besides, this interfacial parameter also affected the morphological switch between migration modes of the detached cells and their directionality. Mechanistically, myosin II-mediated cell contraction, compared to matrix metalloproteinases-driven collagen degradation, was shown to play a more crucial role in the invasive outgrowth of tumor spheroids in interfacial microenvironments. Thus, our findings highlight the importance of heterogeneous interfaces in addressing and combating cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin-Hsu Mao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, Tainan City 701, Taiwan
| | - Kim Mai Nguyen Thi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, Tainan City 701, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Jer Tang
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, Tainan City 701, Taiwan.,International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, Tainan City 701, Taiwan
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States of America.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States of America
| | - Ting-Yuan Tu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, Tainan City 701, Taiwan.,International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, Tainan City 701, Taiwan.,Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan No.1, University Road, Tainan City 701, Taiwan
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16
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El-Harakeh M, Saliba J, Sharaf Aldeen K, Haidar M, El Hajjar L, Awad MK, Hashash JG, Shirinian M, El-Sabban M. Expression of the methylcytosine dioxygenase ten-eleven translocation-2 and connexin 43 in inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:5845-5864. [PMID: 36353202 PMCID: PMC9639657 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i40.5845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) constitutes a substantial risk factor for colorectal cancer. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is a protein that forms gap junction (GJ) complexes involved in intercellular communication, and its expression is altered under pathological conditions, such as IBD and cancer. Recent studies have implicated epigenetic processes modulating DNA methylation in the pathogenesis of diverse inflammatory and malignant diseases. The ten-eleven translocation-2 (TET-2) enzyme catalyzes the demethylation, hence, regulating the activity of various cancer-promoting and tumor-suppressor genes.
AIM To investigate Cx43 and TET-2 expression levels and presence of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) marks under inflammatory conditions both in vitro and in vivo.
METHODS TET-2 expression was evaluated in parental HT-29 cells and in HT-29 cells expressing low or high levels of Cx43, a putative tumor-suppressor gene whose expression varies in IBD and colorectal cancer, and which has been implicated in the inflammatory process and in tumor onset. The dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis model was reproduced in BALB/c mice to evaluate the expression of TET-2 and Cx43 under inflammatory conditions in vivo. In addition, archived colon tissue sections from normal, IBD (ulcerative colitis), and sporadic colon adenocarcinoma patients were obtained and evaluated for the expression of TET-2 and Cx43. Expression levels were reported at the transcriptional level by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and at the translational level by Western blotting and immunofluorescence.
RESULTS Under inflammatory conditions, Cx43 and TET-2 expression levels increased compared to non-inflammatory conditions. TET-2 upregulation was more pronounced in Cx43-deficient cells. Moreover, colon tissue sections from normal, ulcerative colitis, and sporadic colon adenocarcinoma patients corroborated that Cx43 expression increased in IBD and decreased in adenocarcinoma, compared to tissues from non-IBD subjects. However, TET-2 expression and 5-hmC mark levels decreased in samples from patients with ulcerative colitis or cancer. Cx43 and TET-2 expression levels were also investigated in an experimental colitis mouse model. Interestingly, mice exposed to carbenoxolone (CBX), a GJ inhibitor, had upregulated TET-2 levels. Collectively, these results show that TET-2 levels and activity increased under inflammatory conditions, in cells downregulating gap junctional protein Cx43, and in colon tissues from mice exposed to CBX.
CONCLUSION These results suggest that TET-2 expression levels, as well as Cx43 expression levels, are modulated in models of intestinal inflammation. We hypothesize that TET-2 may demethylate genes involved in inflammation and tumorigenesis, such as Cx43, potentially contributing to intestinal inflammation and associated carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad El-Harakeh
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
- UR GPF Laboratory of Biodiversity and Functional Genomics, Faculty of Science, Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Jessica Saliba
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut 1533, Lebanon
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Dekwaneh, Sin el Fil 1552, Lebanon
| | - Kawthar Sharaf Aldeen
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - May Haidar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Layal El Hajjar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Mireille Kallassy Awad
- UR GPF Laboratory of Biodiversity and Functional Genomics, Faculty of Science, Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Jana G Hashash
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Margret Shirinian
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Marwan El-Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
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17
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Maliekal TT, Dharmapal D, Sengupta S. Tubulin Isotypes: Emerging Roles in Defining Cancer Stem Cell Niche. Front Immunol 2022; 13:876278. [PMID: 35693789 PMCID: PMC9179084 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.876278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the role of microtubule dynamics in cancer progression is well-established, the roles of tubulin isotypes, their cargos and their specific function in the induction and sustenance of cancer stem cells (CSCs) were poorly explored. But emerging reports urge to focus on the transport function of tubulin isotypes in defining orchestrated expression of functionally critical molecules in establishing a stem cell niche, which is the key for CSC regulation. In this review, we summarize the role of specific tubulin isotypes in the transport of functional molecules that regulate metabolic reprogramming, which leads to the induction of CSCs and immune evasion. Recently, the surface expression of GLUT1 and GRP78 as well as voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) permeability, regulated by specific isotypes of β-tubulins have been shown to impart CSC properties to cancer cells, by implementing a metabolic reprogramming. Moreover, βIVb tubulin is shown to be critical in modulating EphrinB1signaling to sustain CSCs in oral carcinoma. These tubulin-interacting molecules, Ephrins, GLUT1 and GRP78, are also important regulators of immune evasion, by evoking PD-L1 mediated T-cell suppression. Thus, the recent advances in the field implicate that tubulins play a role in the controlled transport of molecules involved in CSC niche. The indication of tubulin isotypes in the regulation of CSCs offers a strategy to specifically target those tubulin isotypes to eliminate CSCs, rather than the general inhibition of microtubules, which usually leads to therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessy Thomas Maliekal
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, India
- *Correspondence: Tessy Thomas Maliekal, ; Suparna Sengupta,
| | - Dhrishya Dharmapal
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
- University of Kerala, Department of Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Suparna Sengupta
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, India
- University of Kerala, Department of Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
- *Correspondence: Tessy Thomas Maliekal, ; Suparna Sengupta,
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18
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Omolaoye TS, Jalaleddine N, Cardona Maya WD, du Plessis SS. Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 and Male Infertility: Could Connexin and Pannexin Play a Role? Front Physiol 2022; 13:866675. [PMID: 35721552 PMCID: PMC9205395 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.866675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on male infertility has lately received significant attention. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in humans, has been shown to impose adverse effects on both the structural components and function of the testis, which potentially impact spermatogenesis. These adverse effects are partially explained by fever, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and an increased immune response leading to impaired blood-testis barrier. It has been well established that efficient cellular communication via gap junctions or functional channels is required for tissue homeostasis. Connexins and pannexins are two protein families that mediate autocrine and paracrine signaling between the cells and the extracellular environment. These channel-forming proteins have been shown to play a role in coordinating cellular communication in the testis and epididymis. Despite their role in maintaining a proper male reproductive milieu, their function is disrupted under pathological conditions. The involvement of these channels has been well documented in several physiological and pathological conditions and their designated function in infectious diseases. However, their role in COVID-19 and their meaningful contribution to male infertility remains to be elucidated. Therefore, this review highlights the multivariate pathophysiological mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 involvement in male reproduction. It also aims to shed light on the role of connexin and pannexin channels in disease progression, emphasizing their unexplored role and regulation of SARS-CoV-2 pathophysiology. Finally, we hypothesize the possible involvement of connexins and pannexins in SARS-CoV-2 inducing male infertility to assist future research ideas targeting therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nour Jalaleddine
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Walter D. Cardona Maya
- Reproduction Group, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Stefan S. du Plessis
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Stefan S. du Plessis,
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19
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Yang ZJ, Bi QC, Gan LJ, Zhang LL, Wei MJ, Hong T, Liu R, Qiu CL, Han XJ, Jiang LP. Exosomes Derived from Glioma Cells under Hypoxia Promote Angiogenesis through Up-regulated Exosomal Connexin 43. Int J Med Sci 2022; 19:1205-1215. [PMID: 35919821 PMCID: PMC9339413 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.71912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) is a highly aggressive primary brain tumor. Exosomes derived from glioma cells under a hypoxic microenvironment play an important role in tumor biology including metastasis, angiogenesis and chemoresistance. However, the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of connexin 43 on exosomal uptake and angiogenesis in glioma under hypoxia. U251 cells were exposed to 3% oxygen to achieve hypoxia, and the expression levels of HIF-1α and Cx43, involved in the colony formation and proliferation of cells were assessed. Exosomes were isolated by differential velocity centrifugation from U251 cells under normoxia and hypoxia (Nor-Exos and Hypo-Exos), respectively. Immunofluorescence staining, along with assays for CCK-8, tube formation and wound healing along with a transwell assay were conducted to profile exosomal uptake, proliferation, tube formation, migration and invasion of HUVECs, respectively. Our results revealed that Hypoxia significantly up-regulated the expression of HIF-1α in U251 cells as well as promoting proliferation and colony number. Hypoxia also increased the level of Cx43 in U251 cells and in the exosomes secreted. The uptake of Dio-stained Hypo-Exos by HUVECs was greater than that of Nor-Exos, and inhibition of Cx43 by 37,43gap27 or lenti-Cx43-shRNA efficiently prevented the uptake of Hypo-Exos by recipient endothelial cells. In addition, the proliferation and total loops of HUVECs were remarkably increased at 24 h, 48 h, and 10 h after Hypo-Exos, respectively. Notably, 37,43gap27, a specific Cx-mimetic peptide blocker of Cx37 and Cx43, efficiently alleviated Hypo-Exos-induced proliferation and tube formation by HUVECs. Finally, 37,43gap27 also significantly attenuated Hypo-Exos-induced migration and invasion of HUVECs. These findings demonstrate that exosomal Cx43 contributes to glioma angiogenesis mediated by Hypo-Exos, and suggests that exosomal Cx43 might serve as a potential therapeutic target for glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang-Jian Yang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Qiu-Chen Bi
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Li-Jun Gan
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Le-Ling Zhang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Min-Jun Wei
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Tao Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Rong Liu
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Cheng-Lin Qiu
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Xiao-Jian Han
- Institute of Geriatrics, Jiangxi provincial People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, 330006, China.,Department of Neurology, Jiangxi provincial People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Li-Ping Jiang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
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Ye YX, Guan J, Chen XY, Yu YW, Xu ZM, Zeng SMZ, Wang ZC, Wang BZ, Jiao QC, Zhu HL. A new fluorescently labeled bisphosphonate for theranostics in tumor bone metastasis. Talanta 2021; 235:122796. [PMID: 34517654 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2021.122796] [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: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Bone metastasis of malignant solid tumors has become one of the most serious complications, especially in breast cancer, which was particularly challenging for early detection and treatment in clinical practice. In this work, we reported a new fluorescently labeled bisphosphonate for bone metastasis detection of breast cancer. The designed probes were based on Rhodamine B and bisphosphonate as recognition group, which can specifically target hydroxyapatite (HA) existed in bone tissue. After the osteoclasts were adsorbed on the bone surface, the surrounding microenvironment was acidified, causing the HA to locally dissolve. The probe bound to the HA was then released, and realized the fluorescence turn on under acidic conditions. In vitro experiments showed that G0 was more excellent than G2 owing to shorter connecting arm. Subsequently, we proved that G0 could combine with HA rapidly and exhibit excellent response in solid state. More importantly, we established a model of bone metastasis with MDA-MB-231 cells which was similar to the clinical cases and evaluated the theranostics value of G0 prospectively, which provide the potential application prospect in clinical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Xi Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Jing Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Xin-Yue Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Ya-Wen Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Zhu-Min Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Shang-Ming-Zhu Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Zhong-Chang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing, 210023, PR China; Institute of Artificial Intelligence Biomedicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Bao-Zhong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing, 210023, PR China.
| | - Qing-Cai Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing, 210023, PR China.
| | - Hai-Liang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing, 210023, PR China.
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Frings VG, Goebeler M, Schilling B, Kneitz H. Aberrant cytoplasmic connexin43 expression as a helpful marker in vascular neoplasms. J Cutan Pathol 2021; 48:1335-1341. [PMID: 34021619 DOI: 10.1111/cup.14066] [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: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gap junctions consisting of connexins (Cx) are fundamental in controlling cell proliferation, differentiation, and cell death. Cx43 is the most broadly expressed Cx in humans and is attributed an important role in skin tumor development. Its role in cutaneous vascular neoplasms is yet unknown. METHODS Fifteen cases each of cutaneous angiosarcoma (cAS), Kaposi sarcoma (KS), and cherry hemangioma (CH) were assessed by immunohistochemistry for expression of Cx43. Expression pattern, intensity, and percentage of positively stained cells were analyzed. Solid basal cell carcinomas served as positive and healthy skin as negative controls. RESULTS Most cases of cAS presented with a strong Cx43 staining of almost all tumor cells, whereas endothelia of KS showed medium expression and CH showed mostly weak expression. In comparison with KS or cAS, the staining intensity of CH was significantly lower (P ≤ 0.001). All tissue sections of both cAS and KS were characterized by a mostly diffuse, cytoplasmic staining pattern of the vascular endothelia. None of those showed nuclear staining. CONCLUSION The high-to-intermediate expression of Cx43 observed in all cases of cAS and KS suggests that this Cx may play a role in the development of malignant vascular neoplasms and serve as a helpful diagnostic marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Gerlinde Frings
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Goebeler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Bastian Schilling
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Kneitz
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Glucose-limiting conditions induce an invasive population of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells with increased connexin 43 expression and membrane localization. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 15:223-236. [PMID: 33591483 PMCID: PMC7991056 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-020-00601-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) is a homeostatic process mediated by membrane channels composed of a protein family known as connexins. Alterations to channel activity can modulate suppression or facilitation of cancer progression. These varying roles are influenced by the cancer cell genetic profile and the context-dependent mechanisms of a dynamic extracellular environment that encompasses fluctuations to nutrient availability. To better explore the effects of altered cellular metabolism on GJIC in breast cancer, we generated a derivative of the triple-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 optimized for growth in low-glucose. Reduced availability of glucose is commonly encountered during tumor development and leads to metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells. MDA-MB-231 low-glucose adapted cells exhibited a larger size with improved cell–cell contact and upregulation of cadherin-11. Additionally, increased protein levels of connexin 43 and greater plasma membrane localization were observed with a corresponding improvement in GJIC activity compared to the parental cell line. Since GJIC has been shown to affect cellular invasion in multiple cancer cell types, we evaluated the invasive qualities of these cells using multiple three-dimensional Matrigel growth models. Results of these experiments demonstrated a significantly more invasive phenotype. Moreover, a decrease in invasion was noted when GJIC was inhibited. Our results indicate a potential response of triple-negative breast cancer cells to reduced glucose availability that results in changes to GJIC and invasiveness. Delineation of this relationship may help elucidate mechanisms by which altered cancer cell metabolism affects GJIC and how cancer cells respond to nutrient availability in this regard.
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Adak A, Unal YC, Yucel S, Vural Z, Turan FB, Yalcin-Ozuysal O, Ozcivici E, Mese G. Connexin 32 induces pro-tumorigenic features in MCF10A normal breast cells and MDA-MB-231 metastatic breast cancer cells. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2020; 1867:118851. [PMID: 32918981 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2020.118851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Connexins (Cx), the basic subunit of gap junctions, play important roles in cell homeostasis, and their abnormal expression and function are associated with human hereditary diseases and cancers. In tumorigenesis, connexins were observed to have both anti-tumorigenic and pro-tumorigenic roles in a context- and stage-dependent manner. Initially, Cx26 and Cx43 were thought to be the only connexins involved in normal breast homeostasis and breast cancer. Later on, association of Cx32 expression with lymph node metastasis of breast cancer and subsequent demonstration of its expression in normal breast tissue suggested that Cx32 contributes to breast tissue homeostasis. Here, we aimed to determine the effects of Cx32 on normal breast cells, MCF10A, and on breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231. Cx32 overexpression had profound effects on MCF10A cells, decreasing cell proliferation by increasing the doubling time of MCF10A. Furthermore, MCF10A cells acquired mesenchymal-like appearance upon Cx32 expression and had increased migration capacity and expression of both E-cadherin and vimentin. In contrast, Cx32 overexpression altered the EMT markers of MDA-MB-231 by increasing the expression of mesenchymal markers, such as slug and vimentin, and decreasing E-cadherin expression without affecting their proliferation and morphology. Our results indicate, for the first time in the literature, that Cx32 has tumor-promoting roles in MCF10A and MDA-MB-231 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asli Adak
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Yagmur Ceren Unal
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Simge Yucel
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Zehra Vural
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Fatma Basak Turan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ozden Yalcin-Ozuysal
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Engin Ozcivici
- Department of Bioengineering, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gulistan Mese
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey.
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Connexins-Therapeutic Targets in Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239119. [PMID: 33266154 PMCID: PMC7730856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cx) are members of a protein family that forms intercellular channels localised in gap junction (GJ) plaques and single transmembrane channels called hemichannels. They participate in intercellular communication or communication between the intracellular and extracellular environments. Connexins affect cell homeostasis, growth and differentiation by enabling the exchange of metabolites or by interfering with various signalling pathways. Alterations in the functionality and the expression of connexins have been linked to the occurrence of many diseases. Connexins have been already linked to cancers, cardiac and brain disorders, chronic lung and kidney conditions and wound healing processes. Connexins have been shown either to suppress cancer tumour growth or to increase tumorigenicity by promoting cancer cell growth, migration and invasiveness. A better understanding of the complexity of cancer biology related to connexins and intercellular communication could result in the design of novel therapeutic strategies. The modulation of connexin expression may be an effective therapeutic approach in some types of cancers. Therefore, one important challenge is the search for mechanisms and new drugs, selectively modulating the expression of various connexin isoforms. We performed a systematic literature search up to February 2020 in the electronic databases PubMed and EMBASE. Our search terms were as follows: connexins, hemichannels, cancer and cancer treatment. This review aims to provide information about the role of connexins and gap junctions in cancer, as well as to discuss possible therapeutic options that are currently being studied.
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Gap Junctions and Connexins in Cancer Formation, Progression, and Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113307. [PMID: 33182480 PMCID: PMC7697820 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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MYC as a Multifaceted Regulator of Tumor Microenvironment Leading to Metastasis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207710. [PMID: 33081056 PMCID: PMC7589112 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Myc family of oncogenes is deregulated in many types of cancer, and their over-expression is often correlated with poor prognosis. The Myc family members are transcription factors that can coordinate the expression of thousands of genes. Among them, c-Myc (MYC) is the gene most strongly associated with cancer, and it is the focus of this review. It regulates the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation, growth, differentiation, self-renewal, survival, metabolism, protein synthesis, and apoptosis. More recently, novel studies have shown that MYC plays a role not only in tumor initiation and growth but also has a broader spectrum of functions in tumor progression. MYC contributes to angiogenesis, immune evasion, invasion, and migration, which all lead to distant metastasis. Moreover, MYC is able to promote tumor growth and aggressiveness by recruiting stromal and tumor-infiltrating cells. In this review, we will dissect all of these novel functions and their involvement in the crosstalk between tumor and host, which have demonstrated that MYC is undoubtedly the master regulator of the tumor microenvironment. In sum, a better understanding of MYC’s role in the tumor microenvironment and metastasis development is crucial in proposing novel and effective cancer treatment strategies.
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Khalil AA, Ilina O, Vasaturo A, Venhuizen JH, Vullings M, Venhuizen V, Bilos A, Figdor CG, Span PN, Friedl P. Collective invasion induced by an autocrine purinergic loop through connexin-43 hemichannels. J Cell Biol 2020; 219:e201911120. [PMID: 32777015 PMCID: PMC7659730 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201911120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Progression of epithelial cancers predominantly proceeds by collective invasion of cell groups with coordinated cell-cell junctions and multicellular cytoskeletal activity. Collectively invading breast cancer cells express the gap junction protein connexin-43 (Cx43), yet whether Cx43 regulates collective invasion remains unclear. We here show that Cx43 mediates gap-junctional coupling between collectively invading breast cancer cells and, via hemichannels, adenosine nucleotide/nucleoside release into the extracellular space. Using molecular interference and rescue strategies, we identify that Cx43 hemichannel function, but not intercellular communication, induces leader cell activity and collective migration through the engagement of the adenosine receptor 1 (ADORA1) and AKT signaling. Accordingly, pharmacological inhibition of ADORA1 or AKT signaling caused leader cell collapse and halted collective invasion. ADORA1 inhibition further reduced local invasion of orthotopic mammary tumors in vivo, and joint up-regulation of Cx43 and ADORA1 in breast cancer patients correlated with decreased relapse-free survival. This identifies autocrine purinergic signaling, through Cx43 hemichannels, as a critical pathway in leader cell function and collective invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine A. Khalil
- Department of Dermatology and Graduate School of Life Science, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Olga Ilina
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Angela Vasaturo
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jan-Hendrik Venhuizen
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Manon Vullings
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Victor Venhuizen
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Ab Bilos
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Carl G. Figdor
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Paul N. Span
- Radiotherapy and OncoImmunology Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Peter Friedl
- Department of Dermatology and Graduate School of Life Science, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- David H. Koch Center for Genitourinary Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- Cancer Genomics Center, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Antagonistic Functions of Connexin 43 during the Development of Primary or Secondary Bone Tumors. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10091240. [PMID: 32859065 PMCID: PMC7565206 DOI: 10.3390/biom10091240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite research and clinical advances during recent decades, bone cancers remain a leading cause of death worldwide. There is a low survival rate for patients with primary bone tumors such as osteosarcoma and Ewing’s sarcoma or secondary bone tumors such as bone metastases from prostate carcinoma. Gap junctions are specialized plasma membrane structures consisting of transmembrane channels that directly link the cytoplasm of adjacent cells, thereby enabling the direct exchange of small signaling molecules between cells. Discoveries of human genetic disorders due to genetic mutations in gap junction proteins (connexins) and experimental data using connexin knockout mice have provided significant evidence that gap-junctional intercellular communication (Gj) is crucial for tissue function. Thus, the dysfunction of Gj may be responsible for the development of some diseases. Gj is thus a main mechanism for tumor cells to communicate with other tumor cells and their surrounding microenvironment to survive and proliferate. If it is well accepted that a low level of connexin expression favors cancer cell proliferation and therefore primary tumor development, more evidence is suggesting that a high level of connexin expression stimulates various cellular process such as intravasation, extravasation, or migration of metastatic cells. If so, connexin expression would facilitate secondary tumor dissemination. This paper discusses evidence that suggests that connexin 43 plays an antagonistic role in the development of primary bone tumors as a tumor suppressor and secondary bone tumors as a tumor promoter.
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Akpe V, Kim TH, Brown CL, Cock IE. Circulating tumour cells: a broad perspective. J R Soc Interface 2020; 17:20200065. [PMCID: PMC7423436 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2020.0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) have recently been identified as valuable biomarkers for diagnostic and prognostic evaluations, as well for monitoring therapeutic responses to treatments. CTCs are rare cells which may be present as one CTC surrounded by approximately 1 million white blood cells and 1 billion red blood cells per millilitre of peripheral blood. Despite the various challenges in CTC detection, considerable progress in detection methods have been documented in recent times, particularly for methodologies incorporating nanomaterial-based platforms and/or integrated microfluidics. Herein, we summarize the importance of CTCs as biological markers for tumour detection, highlight their mechanism of cellular invasion and discuss the various challenges associated with CTC research, including vulnerability, heterogeneity, phenotypicity and size differences. In addition, we describe nanomaterial agents used for electrochemistry and surface plasmon resonance applications, which have recently been used to selectively capture cancer cells and amplify signals for CTC detection. The intrinsic properties of nanomaterials have also recently been exploited to achieve photothermal destruction of cancer cells. This review describes recent advancements and future perspectives in the CTC field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Akpe
- School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Queensland 4111, Australia
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Queensland 4111, Australia
| | - Tak H. Kim
- School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Queensland 4111, Australia
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Queensland 4111, Australia
| | - Christopher L. Brown
- School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Queensland 4111, Australia
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Queensland 4111, Australia
| | - Ian E. Cock
- School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Queensland 4111, Australia
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Queensland 4111, Australia
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Kosanic MM, Šeklic DS, Jovanovic MM, Petrovic NN, Markovic SD. Hygrophorus eburneus, edible mushroom, a promising natural bioactive agent. EXCLI JOURNAL 2020; 19:442-457. [PMID: 32398969 PMCID: PMC7214781 DOI: 10.17179/excli2019-2056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
It is known that many edible mushrooms have important medicinal properties, including effects on different types of cancers. This is the first report regarding the neuroprotective, antimicrobial, antioxidative and anticancer activities of the acetone extract of edible mushroom Hygrophorus eburneus. Neuroprotective potential was evaluated by measuring the capacity of the extract to inhibit acetylcholinesterase. In this assay, the tested extract showed activity against acetylcholinesterase in a dose-dependent manner where the percentage of inhibition ranged from 13.19 to 46.44 %. The antimicrobial potential was determined by the microdilution method against five species of bacteria and eight species of fungi and the results of this method exhibited moderate antimicrobial activity of H. eburneus with MIC values ranging from 6.25 to 25 mg/mL. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by measuring the scavenging capacity of the tested sample on DPPH and superoxide anion radicals, by the reducing power assay and by measuring the amounts of total phenolics in extract. As a result of the study, H. eburneus extract showed a potent antioxidant activity (IC50 were 102.93 μg/mL for DPPH radical scavenging activity and 123.27 μg/mL for superoxide anion radicals scavenging) while absorbances for reducing power assay were from 0.0235 to 0.1161. The total phenolic content in the extract was 9.27 µg PE/mg. Finally, anticancer effects were evaluated by MTT test for cytotoxicity, acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining for detection of the type of cell death and wound healing assay for antimigratory effects on human colorectal cancer cell line (HCT-116) and human breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231). The results for cytotoxicity and apoptosis were measured after 24 and 72 h and for anti-migratory effect after 12 and 24 h. The tested H. eburneus mushroom extract expressed cell selectivity, with notable cytotoxic effects observed on HCT-116 cells, with a strong proapoptotic potential. The migration of HCT-116 cells was significantly inhibited, while MDA-MB-231 cells were less sensitive to the treatment. The results of this study revealed that the tested extract had relatively strong neuroprotective, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. It suggests that this mushroom can be proposed as a novel source of nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijana M Kosanic
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Kragujevac, Radoja Domanovica 12, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Dragana S Šeklic
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Kragujevac, Radoja Domanovica 12, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Milena M Jovanovic
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Kragujevac, Radoja Domanovica 12, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Nevena N Petrovic
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Kragujevac, Radoja Domanovica 12, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Snežana D Markovic
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Kragujevac, Radoja Domanovica 12, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
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31
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Jalaleddine N, El-Hajjar L, Dakik H, Shaito A, Saliba J, Safi R, Zibara K, El-Sabban M. Pannexin1 Is Associated with Enhanced Epithelial-To-Mesenchymal Transition in Human Patient Breast Cancer Tissues and in Breast Cancer Cell Lines. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11121967. [PMID: 31817827 PMCID: PMC6966616 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11121967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of connexin-mediated cell-cell communication is a hallmark of breast cancer progression. Pannexin1 (PANX1), a glycoprotein that shares structural and functional features with connexins and engages in cell communication with its environment, is highly expressed in breast cancer metastatic foci; however, PANX1 contribution to metastatic progression is still obscure. Here we report elevated expression of PANX1 in different breast cancer (BRCA) subtypes using RNA-seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The elevated PANX1 expression correlated with poorer outcomes in TCGA BRCA patients. In addition, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway genes correlated positively with PANX1 expression. Pharmacological inhibition of PANX1, in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cells, or genetic ablation of PANX1, in MDA-MB-231 cells, reverted the EMT phenotype, as evidenced by decreased expression of EMT markers. In addition, PANX1 inhibition or genetic ablation decreased the invasiveness of MDA-MB-231 cells. Our results suggest PANX1 overexpression in breast cancer is associated with a shift towards an EMT phenotype, in silico and in vitro, attributing to it a tumor-promoting effect, with poorer clinical outcomes in breast cancer patients. This association offers a novel target for breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour Jalaleddine
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Beirut Arab University, Beirut 1107-2809, Lebanon;
| | - Layal El-Hajjar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon;
| | - Hassan Dakik
- University of Tours, EA 7501 GICC, CNRS ERL 7001 LNOx, CEDEX 01, 37032 Tours, France;
| | - Abdullah Shaito
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut 1105, Lebanon;
| | - Jessica Saliba
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Hadath, Beirut 1003, Lebanon;
| | - Rémi Safi
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon;
| | - Kazem Zibara
- ER045-Laboratory of Stem Cells, PRASE, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Hadath, Beirut 1003, Lebanon;
| | - Marwan El-Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +961-1-350000 (ext. 4765-4766)
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Wang X, Zou Y, Li Y, Chen Z, Yin C, Wang Y, Zhang L, Wu J, Yang C, Zhang G, Zou Y, Gong H. Lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 is required to maintain intercalated disk integrity. Genes Cells 2019; 24:789-800. [PMID: 31609038 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The intercalated disk (ID), a highly organized adhesion structure connecting neighboring cardiomyocytes, fulfills mechanical and electrical signaling communication to ensure normal heart function. Lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) is a co-receptor inducing canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling. It was recently reported that LRP6 deficiency in cardiomyocytes predisposes to arrhythmia independent of Wnt signaling. However, whether LRP6 directly regulates the structure of IDs requires further investigation. The aim of the present study was to explore the role of LRP6 in IDs and the potential underlying mechanisms by inducible cardiac-specific LRP6 knockout mice. The results revealed that LRP6 was predominately expressed in the cell membrane, including the IDs of cardiomyocytes. Tamoxifen-inducible cardiac-specific LRP6 knockout mice displayed overt cardiac dysfunction and disruption of ID structure. Further analysis revealed that cardiac LRP6 deficiency induced the imbalance of ID component proteins, characterized by the sharply decreased expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) and the significantly increased expression of N-cadherin, desmoplakin and γ-catenin in tissue lysates or membrane fraction from the left ventricle. STRING database analysis indicated that β-catenin, but no other ID-associated proteins, interacted with LRP6. Our immunoprecipitation analysis demonstrated that LRP6 strongly interacted with Cx43, N-cadherin and γ-catenin, and weakly interacted with β-catenin, whereas there was no association with desmoplakin. In response to LRP6 deficiency, the recruitment of β- or γ-catenin to N-cadherin was increased, but they displayed little interaction with Cx43. In conclusion, LRP6 is required to maintain the integrity of ID structure and the balance of ID proteins, and the interaction between LRP6 and Cx43, N-cadherin and γ-catenin may be involved in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Zou
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Li
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhidan Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Yin
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunjie Yang
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guoping Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunzeng Zou
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Gong
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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王 道, 刘 亚, 赵 婉, 王 茹, 童 旭, 蒋 国. [SRC kinase inhibitor PP2 inhibits invasion and metastasis of lung cancer A549 cells by upregulating connexin43 expression]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2019; 39:797-803. [PMID: 31340912 PMCID: PMC6765555 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2019.07.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of SRC kinase inhibitor PP2 on the invasion and metastasis of lung cancer A549 cells and explore its molecular mechanism. METHODS MTT assay was used to evaluate the inhibitory effect of PP2 on the proliferation of A549 cells. Cell scratch and Transwell assays were performed to assess the invasion and metastatic capacity of A549 cells after treatment with 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 μmol/L PP2 for 24 h. Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of connexin43 (Cx43) and MMP-2 in the cells after small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated silencing or overexpression of Cx43; the changes in the cell invasion and metastasis in response to PP2 treatment after Cx43 silencing or overexpression were investigated. RESULTS MTT assay showed that treatment with PP2 at 2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 μmol/L significantly inhibited the proliferation of A549 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Treatments with PP2 at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 μmol/L for 24 h also concentration-dependently lowered the invasion and metastatic abilities of the cells (P < 0.05). At 4 and 8 μmol/L, PP2 significantly increased the expression level of Cx43 protein and decreased the expression level of MMP-2 protein. Overexpression of Cx43 significantly enhanced the inhibitory effect of PP2 on the cell invasion and metastasis, and Cx43 silencing significantly attenuated the inhibitory effect of PP2 (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS PP2 treatment can suppress the invasion and metastasis of A549 cells in vitro possibly by modulating the expression of Cx43.
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Affiliation(s)
- 道鑫 王
- />蚌埠医学院药学院药理教研室//安徽省生化药物工程技术研究中心,安徽 蚌埠 233030School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College/Anhui Engineering Technology Research Center of Biochemical Pharmaceuticals, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - 亚明 刘
- />蚌埠医学院药学院药理教研室//安徽省生化药物工程技术研究中心,安徽 蚌埠 233030School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College/Anhui Engineering Technology Research Center of Biochemical Pharmaceuticals, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - 婉晨 赵
- />蚌埠医学院药学院药理教研室//安徽省生化药物工程技术研究中心,安徽 蚌埠 233030School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College/Anhui Engineering Technology Research Center of Biochemical Pharmaceuticals, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - 茹 王
- />蚌埠医学院药学院药理教研室//安徽省生化药物工程技术研究中心,安徽 蚌埠 233030School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College/Anhui Engineering Technology Research Center of Biochemical Pharmaceuticals, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - 旭辉 童
- />蚌埠医学院药学院药理教研室//安徽省生化药物工程技术研究中心,安徽 蚌埠 233030School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College/Anhui Engineering Technology Research Center of Biochemical Pharmaceuticals, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - 国君 蒋
- />蚌埠医学院药学院药理教研室//安徽省生化药物工程技术研究中心,安徽 蚌埠 233030School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College/Anhui Engineering Technology Research Center of Biochemical Pharmaceuticals, Bengbu 233030, China
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