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Lian J, Chen Y, Zhang Y, Guo S, Wang H. The role of hydrogen sulfide regulation of ferroptosis in different diseases. Apoptosis 2024:10.1007/s10495-024-01992-z. [PMID: 38980600 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-024-01992-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a programmed cell death that relies on iron and lipid peroxidation. It differs from other forms of programmed cell death such as necrosis, apoptosis and autophagy. More and more evidence indicates that ferroptosis participates in many types of diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases, ischemia-reperfusion injury, cardiovascular diseases and so on. Hence, clarifying the role and mechanism of ferroptosis in diseases is of great significance for further understanding the pathogenesis and treatment of some diseases. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a colorless and flammable gas with the smell of rotten eggs. Many years ago, H2S was considered as a toxic gas. however, in recent years, increasing evidence indicates that it is the third important gas signaling molecule after nitric oxide and carbon monoxide. H2S has various physiological and pathological functions such as antioxidant stress, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and anti-tumor, and can participate in various diseases. It has been reported that H2S regulation of ferroptosis plays an important role in many types of diseases, however, the related mechanisms are not fully clear. In this review, we reviewed the recent literature about the role of H2S regulation of ferroptosis in diseases, and analyzed the relevant mechanisms, hoping to provide references for future in-depth researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Lian
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Yuhang Chen
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Yanting Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Shiyun Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Honggang Wang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China.
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Zhang X, Yang Y, Zhao H, Tian Z, Cao Q, Li Y, Gu Y, Song Q, Hu X, Jin M, Jiang X. Correlation of PD-L1 expression with CD8+ T cells and oxidative stress-related molecules NRF2 and NQO1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. J Pathol Clin Res 2024; 10:e12390. [PMID: 38992928 PMCID: PMC11239754 DOI: 10.1002/2056-4538.12390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Oxidative stress and the immune microenvironment both contribute to the pathogenesis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, their interrelationships remain poorly understood. We aimed to examine the status of key molecules involved in oxidative stress and the immune microenvironment, as well as their relationships with each other and with clinicopathological features and prognosis in ESCC. The expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), CD8, nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor-2 (NRF2), and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) was detected using immunohistochemistry in tissue samples from 176 patients with ESCC. We employed both combined positive score (CPS) and tumor proportion score (TPS) to evaluate PD-L1 expression and found a positive correlation between CPS and TPS. Notably, PD-L1 expression, as assessed by either CPS or TPS, was positively correlated with both NRF2 nuclear score and NQO1 score in stage II-IV ESCC. We also observed a positive correlation between the density of CD8+ T cells and PD-L1 expression. Furthermore, high levels of PD-L1 CPS, but not TPS, were associated with advanced TNM stage and lymph node metastases. Moreover, both PD-L1 CPS and the nuclear expression of NRF2 were found to be predictive of shorter overall survival in stage II-IV ESCC. By using the Mandard-tumor regression grading (TRG) system to evaluate the pathological response of tumors to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT), we found that the TRG-5 group had higher NRF2 nuclear score, PD-L1 CPS, and TPS in pre-NACT biopsy samples compared with the TRG-3 + 4 group. The NQO1 scores of post-NACT surgical specimens were significantly higher in the TRG-5 group than in the TRG 3 + 4 group. In conclusion, the expression of PD-L1 is associated with aberrant NRF2 signaling pathway, advanced TNM stage, lymph node metastases, and unfavorable prognosis. The dysregulation of PD-L1 and aberrant activation of the NRF2 signaling pathway are implicated in resistance to NACT. Our findings shed light on the complex interrelationships between oxidative stress and the immune microenvironment in ESCC, which may have implications for personalized therapies and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
| | - Yanan Yang
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
| | - Hongying Zhao
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
| | - Zhongqiu Tian
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
| | - Qing Cao
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
| | - Yunlong Li
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
| | - Yajuan Gu
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
| | - Qinfei Song
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
| | - Xiumei Hu
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
| | - Mulan Jin
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
| | - Xingran Jiang
- Department of PathologyBeijing Chao‐Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingPR China
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Chen F, Xiao M, Hu S, Wang M. Keap1-Nrf2 pathway: a key mechanism in the occurrence and development of cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1381467. [PMID: 38634043 PMCID: PMC11021590 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1381467] [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: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway is a major regulator of the cytoprotective response, participating in endogenous and exogenous stress caused by ROS (reactive oxygen species). Nrf2 is the core of this pathway. We summarized the literature on Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway and summarized the following three aspects: structure, function pathway, and cancer and clinical application status. This signaling pathway is similar to a double-edged sword: on the one hand, Nrf2 activity can protect cells from oxidative and electrophilic stress; on the other hand, increasing Nrf2 activity can enhance the survival and proliferation of cancer cells. Notably, oxidative stress is also considered a marker of cancer in humans. Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway, as a typical antioxidant stress pathway, is abnormal in a variety of human malignant tumor diseases (such as lung cancer, liver cancer, and thyroid cancer). In recent years, research on the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway has become increasingly in-depth and detailed. Therefore, it is of great significance for cancer prevention and treatment to explore the molecular mechanism of the occurrence and development of this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feilong Chen
- Sports Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Expert Centre of Sichuan Province, Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mei Xiao
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shaofan Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
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Hu J, Hu H, Liu Q, Feng B, Lu Y, Chen K. Inhibition of Apoc1 reverses resistance of sorafenib by promoting ferroptosis in esophageal cancers. Gene 2024; 892:147874. [PMID: 37804922 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Drug resistance is an obstacle in therapy of esophageal cancers (ECs), and the role of ferroptosis in progression ECs is still not clearly clarified. In the present study, we investigated the role of Apolipoprotein C1 (Apoc1) in regulating the sorafenib resistance in EC cells. Apoc1 was knock down after infection with Apoc1 shRNA lentivirus and stable cell lines for Apoc1 knockdown were screened. Cell viabilities were tested by MTT assay. ROS, MDA, and GSH tested by specific kits. In vivo experiment in nude mice were performed to test the correlation of Apoc1 and ferroptosis. The expression of Apoc1 and GPX4 was tested by western blotting. The results showed that Apoc1 was highly expressed in EC tissues and associated with poor overall survival rate of EC. Knockdown Apoc1 overcame resistance of sorafenib in EC cells and promoted erastin and sorafenib induced ferroptosis by upregulating the levels of ROS and MDA and downregulating the level of GSH in OE19/Sora and EC109/Sora cells. Rescue experiments proved that Apoc1 regulated sorafenib induced ferroptosis via GPX4. Furthermore, knockdown of Apoc1 inhibited the tumor progression by promoting ferroptosis in nude mice. In conclusion, knockdown Apoc1 overcome resistance of sorafenib in EC cells and in vivo by promoting sorafenib induced ferroptosis via GPX4. Targeting Apoc1 might be an effective way to reverse the drug resistance of sorafenib via inducing ferroptosis in EC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology of The Eastern Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.58, Zhong Shan Er Lu, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Hai Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 138, Tongzipo Road, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Qilong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology of The Eastern Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.58, Zhong Shan Er Lu, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Bi Feng
- Department of Medical Oncology of The Eastern Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.58, Zhong Shan Er Lu, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yanling Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology of The Eastern Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.58, Zhong Shan Er Lu, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology of The Eastern Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.58, Zhong Shan Er Lu, Guangzhou 510080, China.
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Hua Z, Zhang W, Han L, Zhang Y, Jiang X, Ding C. Kaempferol exerts antioxidant effects in age-related diminished ovarian reserve by regulating the HSP90/NRF2 pathway. Chem Biol Drug Des 2024; 103:e14385. [PMID: 37914430 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Kaempferol is the active ingredient of Er-Xian decoction (EXD), a traditional Chinese medicine formula used clinically to treat ovarian dysfunction, but the mechanism of kaempferol relieving age-related diminished ovarian reserve (AR-DOR) is still unclear. In this study, 36 volunteers and 78 DOR patients (37 patients with EXD treatment) were enrolled in the clinical research. Meanwhile, 32-week-old female mice were used to establish the AR-DOR model, and these model mice were intragastrically administered with 100 mg/kg kaempferol in the presence or absence of 200 mg/kg geranylgeranylacetone (GGA) or 1 mg/kg geldanamycin (GDA). The effects of kaempferol on serum hormone levels and oxidative stress-related indexes were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Antral follicle count (AFC) was determined by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The protein levels of HSP90 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) were assayed by Western blot. This study displayed that the serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level in DOR patients with EXD treatment was higher than that in DOR patients without EXD treatment. Kaempferol treatment reversed the low levels of AMH, estradiol (E2), AFC, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT), as well as the high levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malonaldehyde (MDA). The results showed that HSP90 was predicted to have high affinity with kaempferol, and its expression was inhibited by kaempferol, while the expression of NRF2, the target of HSP90, was up-regulated by kaempferol. However, the above effects of kaempferol were reversed by GGA. On the contrary, GDA enhanced the therapeutic effects of kaempferol on AR-DOR mice. Moreover, the treatment of kaempferol resulted in a reduction in the phosphorylation level of heat shock factor 1 (HSF1), the transcription factor associated with HSP90, and an increase in the phosphorylation level of Src, a client protein of HSP90. In summary, kaempferol exerts an antioxidant effect on AR-DOR by inhibiting HSP90 expression to up-regulate NRF2 expression. This study provides a theoretical basis for the clinical application of kaempferol in AR-DOR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhoujia Hua
- Department of Reproduction, Zhejiang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Reproduction, Zhejiang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Han
- Department of Reproduction, Zhejiang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuwei Zhang
- Second Clinical Medical School, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuejuan Jiang
- Department of Reproduction, Zhejiang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Caifei Ding
- Department of Reproduction, Zhejiang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Paiboonrungruang C, Xiong Z, Lamson D, Li Y, Bowman B, Chembo J, Huang C, Li J, Livingston EW, Frank JE, Chen V, Li Y, Weissman B, Yuan H, Williams KP, Ben Major M, Chen X. Small molecule screen identifies pyrimethamine as an inhibitor of NRF2-driven esophageal hyperplasia. Redox Biol 2023; 67:102901. [PMID: 37776708 PMCID: PMC10558795 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE NRF2 is a master transcription factor that regulates the stress response. NRF2 is frequently mutated and activated in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), which drives resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Therefore, a great need exists for NRF2 inhibitors for targeted therapy of NRF2high ESCC. DESIGN We performed high-throughput screening of two compound libraries from which hit compounds were further validated in human ESCC cells and a genetically modified mouse model. The mechanism of action of one compound was explored by biochemical assays. RESULTS Using high-throughput screening of two small molecule compound libraries, we identified 11 hit compounds as potential NRF2 inhibitors with minimal cytotoxicity at specified concentrations. We then validated two of these compounds, pyrimethamine and mitoxantrone, by demonstrating their dose- and time-dependent inhibitory effects on the expression of NRF2 and its target genes in two NRF2Mut human ESCC cells (KYSE70 and KYSE180). RNAseq and qPCR confirmed the suppression of global NRF2 signaling by these two compounds. Mechanistically, pyrimethamine reduced NRF2 half-life by promoting NRF2 ubiquitination and degradation in KYSE70 and KYSE180 cells. Expression of an Nrf2E79Q allele in mouse esophageal epithelium (Sox2CreER;LSL-Nrf2E79Q/+) resulted in an NRF2high phenotype, which included squamous hyperplasia, hyperkeratinization, and hyperactive glycolysis. Treatment with pyrimethamine (30 mg/kg/day, p.o.) suppressed the NRF2high esophageal phenotype with no observed toxicity. CONCLUSION We have identified and validated pyrimethamine as an NRF2 inhibitor that may be rapidly tested in the clinic for NRF2high ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chorlada Paiboonrungruang
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA; Cancer Research Program, Julius L. Chambers Biomedical Biotechnology Research Institute, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Zhaohui Xiong
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA; Cancer Research Program, Julius L. Chambers Biomedical Biotechnology Research Institute, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - David Lamson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Yahui Li
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA; Cancer Research Program, Julius L. Chambers Biomedical Biotechnology Research Institute, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Brittany Bowman
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Otolaryngology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Julius Chembo
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Otolaryngology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Caizhi Huang
- Cancer Research Program, Julius L. Chambers Biomedical Biotechnology Research Institute, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Jianying Li
- Euclados Bioinformatics Solutions, Cary, NC, 27519, USA
| | - Eric W Livingston
- Biomedical Research Imaging Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 277599, USA
| | - Jon E Frank
- Biomedical Research Imaging Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 277599, USA
| | - Vivian Chen
- Cancer Research Program, Julius L. Chambers Biomedical Biotechnology Research Institute, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center, Cancer Hospital of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Bernard Weissman
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 277599, USA
| | - Hong Yuan
- Biomedical Research Imaging Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 277599, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 277599, USA; Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 277599, USA
| | - Kevin P Williams
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA.
| | - M Ben Major
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Otolaryngology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| | - Xiaoxin Chen
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA; Cancer Research Program, Julius L. Chambers Biomedical Biotechnology Research Institute, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA; Surgical Research Lab, Department of Surgery, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA; MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA; Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA.
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7
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Zhou X, An B, Lin Y, Ni Y, Zhao X, Liang X. Molecular mechanisms of ROS-modulated cancer chemoresistance and therapeutic strategies. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115036. [PMID: 37354814 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is the main obstacle to achieving a cure in many cancer patients. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are master regulators of cancer development that act through complex mechanisms. Remarkably, ROS levels and antioxidant content are typically higher in drug-resistant cancer cells than in non-resistant and normal cells, and have been shown to play a central role in modulating drug resistance. Therefore, determining the underlying functions of ROS in the modulation of drug resistance will contribute to develop therapies that sensitize cancer resistant cells by leveraging ROS modulation. In this review, we summarize the notable literature on the sources and regulation of ROS production and highlight the complex roles of ROS in cancer chemoresistance, encompassing transcription factor-mediated chemoresistance, maintenance of cancer stem cells, and their impact on the tumor microenvironment. We also discuss the potential of ROS-targeted therapies in overcoming tumor therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Zhou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Biao An
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Yi Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Yanghong Ni
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China.
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8
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Knapp K, Verchio V, Coburn-Flynn O, Li Y, Xiong Z, Morrison JC, Shersher DD, Spitz F, Chen X. Exploring cell competition for the prevention and therapy of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 214:115639. [PMID: 37290594 PMCID: PMC10528900 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is characterized by the development of cancer in the esophageal squamous epithelium through a step-by-step accumulation of genetic, epigenetic, and histopathological alterations. Recent studies have demonstrated that cancer-associated gene mutations exist in histologically normal or precancerous clones of the human esophageal epithelium. However, only a small proportion of such mutant clones will develop ESCC, and most ESCC patients develop only one cancer. This suggests that most of these mutant clones are kept in a histologically normal state by neighboring cells with higher competitive fitness. When some of the mutant cells evade cell competition, they become "super-competitors" and develop into clinical cancer. It is known that human ESCC is composed of a heterogeneous population of cancer cells that interact with and influence their environment and neighbors. During cancer therapy, these cancer cells not only respond to therapeutic agents but also compete with each other. Therefore, competition between ESCC cells within the same ESCC tumor is a constantly dynamic process. However, it remains challenging to fine-tune the competitive fitness of various clones for therapeutic benefits. In this review, we will explore the role of cell competition in carcinogenesis, cancer prevention, and therapy, using NRF2, NOTCH pathway, and TP53 as examples. We believe that cell competition is a research area with promising targets for clinical translation. Manipulating cell competition may help improve the prevention and therapy of ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Knapp
- Department of Surgery, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ 08103, USA
| | - Vincent Verchio
- Department of Surgery, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ 08103, USA
| | | | - Yahui Li
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, NJ 08103, USA
| | - Zhaohui Xiong
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, NJ 08103, USA
| | - Jamin C Morrison
- MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, NJ 08103, USA; Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ 08103, USA
| | - David D Shersher
- Department of Surgery, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ 08103, USA; MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, NJ 08103, USA; Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ 08103, USA
| | - Francis Spitz
- Department of Surgery, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ 08103, USA; MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, NJ 08103, USA; Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ 08103, USA
| | - Xiaoxin Chen
- Department of Surgery, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ 08103, USA; Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, NJ 08103, USA; MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, NJ 08103, USA; Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ 08103, USA.
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9
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Zhao Z, Dong R, You Q, Jiang Z. Medicinal Chemistry Insights into the Development of Small-Molecule Kelch-Like ECH-Associated Protein 1-Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (Keap1-Nrf2) Protein-Protein Interaction Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2023. [PMID: 37441735 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been implicated in a wide range of pathological conditions. The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) exerts a central role in regulating the cellular defense system against oxidative and electrophilic insults. Nonelectrophilic inhibition of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and Nrf2 has become a promising approach to activate Nrf2. Recently, multiple drug discovery strategies have facilitated the development of small-molecule Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors with potent activity and favorable drug-like properties. In this Perspective, we summarize the latest progress of small-molecule Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors from medicinal chemistry insights and discuss future prospects and challenges in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziquan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ruitian Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qidong You
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhengyu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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10
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Wang R, Liang L, Matsumoto M, Iwata K, Umemura A, He F. Reactive Oxygen Species and NRF2 Signaling, Friends or Foes in Cancer? Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020353. [PMID: 36830722 PMCID: PMC9953152 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and clearance causes oxidative stress and ROS, which play a central role in regulating cell and tissue physiology and pathology. Contingent upon concentration, ROS influence cancer development in contradictory ways, either stimulating cancer survival and growth or causing cell death. Cells developed evolutionarily conserved programs to sense and adapt redox the fluctuations to regulate ROS as either signaling molecules or toxic insults. The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2)-KEAP1 system is the master regulator of cellular redox and metabolic homeostasis. NRF2 has Janus-like roles in carcinogenesis and cancer development. Short-term NRF2 activation suppresses tissue injury, inflammation, and cancer initiation. However, cancer cells often exhibit constitutive NRF2 activation due to genetic mutations or oncogenic signaling, conferring advantages for cancer cells' survival and growth. Emerging evidence suggests that NRF2 hyperactivation, as an adaptive cancer phenotype under stressful tumor environments, regulates all hallmarks of cancer. In this review, we summarized the source of ROS, regulation of ROS signaling, and cellular sensors for ROS and oxygen (O2), we reviewed recent progress on the regulation of ROS generation and NRF2 signaling with a focus on the new functions of NRF2 in cancer development that reach beyond what we originally envisioned, including regulation of cancer metabolism, autophagy, macropinocytosis, unfolded protein response, proteostasis, and circadian rhythm, which, together with anti-oxidant and drug detoxification enzymes, contributes to cancer development, metastasis, and anticancer therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruolei Wang
- The Center for Cancer Research, Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lirong Liang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Misaki Matsumoto
- Department of Pharmacology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Kazumi Iwata
- Department of Pharmacology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Atsushi Umemura
- Department of Pharmacology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
- Correspondence: (A.U.); (F.H.); Tel.: +75-251-5332 (A.U.); +86-21-5132-2501 (F.H.)
| | - Feng He
- The Center for Cancer Research, Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
- Correspondence: (A.U.); (F.H.); Tel.: +75-251-5332 (A.U.); +86-21-5132-2501 (F.H.)
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Wang H, Zhang Q, Pi J. Advances in research strategies and approaches for toxicity testing of environmental exposures. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 460:116363. [PMID: 36623737 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Wang
- Group of Chronic Disease and Environmental Genomics, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; The Key Laboratory of Liaoning Province on Toxic and Biological Effects of Arsenic, Shenyang 110122, China.
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Jingbo Pi
- The Key Laboratory of Liaoning Province on Toxic and Biological Effects of Arsenic, Shenyang 110122, China; Program of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China..
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Testa U, Castelli G, Pelosi E. The Molecular Characterization of Genetic Abnormalities in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma May Foster the Development of Targeted Therapies. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:610-640. [PMID: 36661697 PMCID: PMC9858483 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30010048] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer is among the most common tumors in the world and is associated with poor outcomes, with a 5-year survival rate of about 10-20%. Two main histological subtypes are observed: esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), more frequent among Asian populations, and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), the predominant type in Western populations. The development of molecular analysis techniques has led to the definition of the molecular alterations observed in ESCC, consistently differing from those observed in EAC. The genetic alterations observed are complex and heterogeneous and involve gene mutations, gene deletions and gene amplifications. However, despite the consistent progress in the definition of the molecular basis of ESCC, precision oncology for these patients is still virtually absent. The recent identification of molecular subtypes of ESCC with clinical relevance may foster the development of new therapeutic strategies. It is estimated that about 40% of the genetic alterations observed in ESCC are actionable. Furthermore, the recent introduction of solid tumor immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) showed that a minority of ESCC patients are responsive, and the administration of ICIs, in combination with standard chemotherapy, significantly improves overall survival over chemotherapy in ESCC patients with advanced disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Testa
- Department of Oncology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Nomogram-Based Survival Predictions and Treatment Recommendations for Locally Advanced Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treated with Upfront Surgery. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14225567. [PMID: 36428660 PMCID: PMC9688301 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose: The aim of this study is to develop a prognostic nomogram, quantify survival benefit, and guide risk-dependent adjuvant therapy for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (LA-ESCC) after esophagectomy. Materials and methods: This was a single-center, retrospective study of consecutive LA-ESCCs treated by curative-intent esophagectomy with internal validation and independent external validation in a randomized controlled trial. After factor selection by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, a nomogram was developed to estimate 5-year overall survival (OS) based on the Cox proportional hazards model. The area under the curve (AUC) and calibration plot were used to determine its discriminative and predictive capacities, respectively. Survival improvement from adjuvant therapy was quantified and plotted corresponding to nomogram score. Results: A total of 1077, 718, and 118 patients were included for model development, internal validation, and external validation, respectively. The nomogram identified eight significant prognostic factors: gender, pathological T and N stages, differentiation, surgical margin, lymphovascular invasion, number of lymph node resection, and adjuvant therapy. The nomogram showed superior discriminative capacity than TNM stage (AUC: 0.76 vs. 0.72, p < 0.01), with significant survival differences among different risk stratifications. The calibration plot illustrated a good agreement between nomogram-predicated and actual 5-year OS. Consistent results were concluded after external validation. At least 10% 5-year OS improvement from adjuvant chemoradiotherapy and chemotherapy was expected in almost all patients (nomogram score 110 to 260) and patients mainly with high-intermediate risk (nomogram score 159 to 207), respectively. Conclusions: The clinicopathological nomogram predicting 5-year OS for LA-ESCC after esophagectomy was developed with high accuracy. The proposed nomogram showed better performance than TNM stage and provided risk-dependent and individualized adjuvant treatment recommendations.
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