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Wei J, Wang M, Li S, Han R, Xu W, Zhao A, Yu Q, Li H, Li M, Chi G. Reprogramming of astrocytes and glioma cells into neurons for central nervous system repair and glioblastoma therapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 176:116806. [PMID: 38796971 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) damage is usually irreversible owing to the limited regenerative capability of neurons. Following CNS injury, astrocytes are reactively activated and are the key cells involved in post-injury repair mechanisms. Consequently, research on the reprogramming of reactive astrocytes into neurons could provide new directions for the restoration of neural function after CNS injury and in the promotion of recovery in various neurodegenerative diseases. This review aims to provide an overview of the means through which reactive astrocytes around lesions can be reprogrammed into neurons, to elucidate the intrinsic connection between the two cell types from a neurogenesis perspective, and to summarize what is known about the neurotranscription factors, small-molecule compounds and MicroRNA that play major roles in astrocyte reprogramming. As the malignant proliferation of astrocytes promotes the development of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), this review also examines the research advances on and the theoretical basis for the reprogramming of GBM cells into neurons and discusses the advantages of such approaches over traditional treatment modalities. This comprehensive review provides new insights into the field of GBM therapy and theoretical insights into the mechanisms of neurological recovery following neurological injury and in GBM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyuan Wei
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Shilin Li
- School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Rui Han
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, 1xinmin Avenue, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China.
| | - Wenhong Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Anqi Zhao
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Qi Yu
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Haokun Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Meiying Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Guangfan Chi
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
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Boskovic P, Wilke N, Man KH, Lichter P, Francois L, Radlwimmer B. Branched-chain amino acid transaminase 1 regulates glioblastoma cell plasticity and contributes to immunosuppression. Neuro Oncol 2024; 26:251-265. [PMID: 37769206 PMCID: PMC10836774 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noad190] [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: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor in adults. Cellular plasticity and the poorly differentiated features result in a fast relapse of the tumors following treatment. Moreover, the immunosuppressive microenvironment proved to be a major obstacle to immunotherapeutic approaches. Branched-chain amino acid transaminase 1 (BCAT1) was shown to drive the growth of glioblastoma and other cancers;however, its oncogenic mechanism remains poorly understood. METHODS Using human tumor data, cell line models and orthotopic immuno-competent and -deficient mouse models, we investigated the phenotypic and mechanistic effects of BCAT1 on glioblastoma cell state and immunomodulation. RESULTS Here, we show that BCAT1 is crucial for maintaining the poorly differentiated state of glioblastoma cells and that its low expression correlates with a more differentiated glioblastoma phenotype. Furthermore, orthotopic tumor injection into immunocompetent mice demonstrated that the brain microenvironment is sufficient to induce differentiation of Bcat1-KO tumors in vivo. We link the transition to a differentiated cell state to the increased activity of ten-eleven translocation demethylases and the hypomethylation and activation of neuronal differentiation genes. In addition, the knockout of Bcat1 attenuated immunosuppression, allowing for an extensive infiltration of CD8+ cytotoxic T-cells and complete abrogation of tumor growth. Further analysis in immunodeficient mice revealed that both tumor cell differentiation and immunomodulation following BCAT1-KO contribute to the long-term suppression of tumor growth. CONCLUSIONS Our study unveils BCAT1's pivotal role in promoting glioblastoma growth by inhibiting tumor cell differentiation and sustaining an immunosuppressive milieu. These findings offer a novel therapeutic avenue for targeting glioblastoma through the inhibition of BCAT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavle Boskovic
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nathalie Wilke
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ka-Hou Man
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Lichter
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Liliana Francois
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Radlwimmer
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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Wang H, Zhao P, Zhang Y, Chen Z, Bao H, Qian W, Wu J, Xing Z, Hu X, Jin K, Zhuge Q, Yang J. NeuroD4 converts glioblastoma cells into neuron-like cells through the SLC7A11-GSH-GPX4 antioxidant axis. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:297. [PMID: 37582760 PMCID: PMC10427652 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01595-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell fate and proliferation ability can be transformed through reprogramming technology. Reprogramming glioblastoma cells into neuron-like cells holds great promise for glioblastoma treatment, as it induces their terminal differentiation. NeuroD4 (Neuronal Differentiation 4) is a crucial transcription factor in neuronal development and has the potential to convert astrocytes into functional neurons. In this study, we exclusively employed NeuroD4 to reprogram glioblastoma cells into neuron-like cells. In vivo, the reprogrammed glioblastoma cells demonstrated terminal differentiation, inhibited proliferation, and exited the cell cycle. Additionally, NeuroD4 virus-infected xenografts exhibited smaller sizes compared to the GFP group, and tumor-bearing mice in the GFP+NeuroD4 group experienced prolonged survival. Mechanistically, NeuroD4 overexpression significantly reduced the expression of SLC7A11 and Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4). The ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 effectively blocked the NeuroD4-mediated process of neuron reprogramming in glioblastoma. To summarize, our study demonstrates that NeuroD4 overexpression can reprogram glioblastoma cells into neuron-like cells through the SLC7A11-GSH-GPX4 signaling pathway, thus offering a potential novel therapeutic approach for glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Peiqi Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Zhen Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Han Bao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Wenqi Qian
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Zhenqiu Xing
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Xiaowei Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Kunlin Jin
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA
| | - Qichuan Zhuge
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
| | - Jianjing Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
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Peng E, Hu C, Feng J, He R. MASH1 induces neuron transdifferentiation of adrenal medulla chromaffin cells. ZHONG NAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF CENTRAL SOUTH UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCES 2023; 48:526-537. [PMID: 37385615 PMCID: PMC10930259 DOI: 10.11817/j.issn.1672-7347.2023.220326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Nerve growth factor (NGF) induces neuron transdifferentiation of adrenal medulla chromaffin cells (AMCCs) and consequently downregulates the secretion of epinephrine (EPI), which may be involved in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma. Mammalian achaete scute-homologous 1 (MASH1), a key regulator of neurogenesis in the nervous system, has been proved to be elevated in AMCCs with neuron transdifferentiation in vivo. This study aims to explore the role of MASH1 in the process of neuron transdifferentiation of AMCCs and the mechanisms. METHODS Rat AMCCs were isolated and cultured. AMCCs were transfected with siMASH1 or MASH1 overexpression plasmid, then were stimulated with NGF and/or dexamethasone, PD98059 (a MAPK kinase-1 inhibitor) for 48 hours. Morphological changes were observed using light and electron microscope. Phenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase (PNMT, the key enzyme for epinephrine synthesis) and tyrosine hydroxylase were detected by immunofluorescence. Western blotting was used to test the protein levels of PNMT, MASH1, peripherin (neuronal markers), extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK), phosphorylated extracellular regulated protein kinases (pERK), and JMJD3. Real-time RT-PCR was applied to analyze the mRNA levels of MASH1 and JMJD3. EPI levels in the cellular supernatant were measured using ELISA. RESULTS Cells with both tyrosine hydroxylase and PNMT positive by immunofluorescence were proved to be AMCCs. Exposure to NGF, AMCCs exhibited neurite-like processes concomitant with increases in pERK/ERK, peripherin, and MASH1 levels (all P<0.05). Additionally, impairment of endocrine phenotype was proved by a signifcant decrease in the PNMT level and the secretion of EPI from AMCCs (all P<0.01). MASH1 interference reversed the effect of NGF, causing increases in the levels of PNMT and EPI, conversely reduced the peripherin level and cell processes (all P<0.01). MASH1 overexpression significantly increased the number of cell processes and peripherin level, while decreased the levels of PNMT and EPI (all P<0.01). Compared with the NGF group, the levels of MASH1, JMJD3 protein and mRNA in AMCCs in the NGF+PD98059 group were decreased (all P<0.05). After treatment with PD98059 and dexamethasone, the effect of NGF on promoting the transdifferentiation of AMCCs was inhibited, and the number of cell processes and EPI levels were decreased (both P<0.05). In addition, the activity of the pERK/MASH1 pathway activated by NGF was also inhibited. CONCLUSIONS MASH1 is the key factor in neuron transdifferentiation of AMCCs. NGF-induced neuron transdifferentiation is probably mediated via pERK/MASH1 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emin Peng
- Outpatient Clinic of Xiangya Hospital International Medical Center, Central South University, Changsha 410008.
| | - Chengping Hu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Key Specialty of Respiratory Disease, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Juntao Feng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Key Specialty of Respiratory Disease, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Ruoxi He
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Key Specialty of Respiratory Disease, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008.
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008.
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China.
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Rodgers TM, Muzzio N, Valero A, Ahmad I, Lüdtke TU, Moya SE, Romero G. Poly (β-amino Ester) Nanoparticles Modified with a Rabies Virus-derived peptide for the Delivery of ASCL1 Across a 3D In Vitro Model of the Blood Brain Barrier. ACS APPLIED NANO MATERIALS 2023; 6:6299-6311. [PMID: 37274933 PMCID: PMC10234607 DOI: 10.1021/acsanm.3c00651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Gene editing has emerged as a therapeutic approach to manipulate the genome for killing cancer cells, protecting healthy tissues, and improving immune response to a tumor. The gene editing tool achaete-scute family bHLH transcription factor 1 CRISPR guide RNA (ASCL1-gRNA) is known to restore neuronal lineage potential, promote terminal differentiation, and attenuate tumorigenicity in glioblastoma tumors. Here, we fabricated a polymeric nonviral carrier to encapsulate ASCL1-gRNA by electrostatic interactions and deliver it into glioblastoma cells across a 3D in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). To mimic rabies virus (RV) neurotropism, gene-loaded poly (β-amino ester) nanoparticles are surface functionalized with a peptide derivative of rabies virus glycoprotein (RVG29). The capability of the obtained NPs, hereinafter referred to as RV-like NPs, to travel across the BBB, internalize into glioblastoma cells and deliver ASCL1-gRNA are investigated in a 3D BBB in vitro model through flow cytometry and CLSM microscopy. The formation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the 3D BBB in vitro model is confirmed by immunochemistry. These receptors are known to bind to RVG29. Unlike Lipofectamine that primarily internalizes and transfects endothelial cells, RV-like NPs are capable to travel across the BBB, preferentially internalize glioblastoma cells and deliver ASCL1-gRNA at an efficiency of 10 % causing non-cytotoxic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina M Rodgers
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78249, USA
| | - Nicolas Muzzio
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78249, USA
| | - Andrea Valero
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78249, USA
| | - Ikram Ahmad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78249, USA
| | - Tanja Ursula Lüdtke
- Soft Matter Nanotechnology, CIC biomaGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Paseo Miramon 182, Donostia/San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, 20014 Spain
| | - Sergio E Moya
- Soft Matter Nanotechnology, CIC biomaGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Paseo Miramon 182, Donostia/San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, 20014 Spain
| | - Gabriela Romero
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78249, USA
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Shen Y, Ye YR, Tang ZQ. Expression, Significance, and Correlation of Histone Deacetylase 1/RE-1 Silencing Transcription Factor and Neuronal Markers in Glioma. World Neurosurg 2023; 172:e267-e277. [PMID: 36623722 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inducing the differentiation of glioma cells into neuron-like cells may be an effective strategy to combat glioma. The histone deacetylase 1/RE-1 silencing transcription factor (HDAC1/REST) complex regulates the expression of multiple neuronal genes. In this study, we analyzed the presence and significance of this regulatory effect in glioma based on bioinformatics methods. METHODS The Human Protein Atlas database was used to obtain immunohistochemical staining images. The Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas databases were used to analyze the expression of HDAC1/REST and neuronal markers in glioma, their effects on survival, and the association between HDAC1/REST and the expression of neuronal markers and stem cell markers. The differentially expressed genes between the high and low HDAC1/REST groups were explored. The Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery database was used for gene ontology and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analysis. RESULTS The results showed that the expression of HDAC1 and REST increased with the grade of glioma, while the expression of neuronal markers decreased with the grade of glioma. High expression of HDAC1/REST and low expression of neuronal markers were associated with poor prognosis. HDAC1/REST expression was negatively correlated with the expression of neuronal markers, and positively correlated with the expression of neural stem cell markers. The genes up-regulated in the high HDAC1/REST group were mainly related to extracellular matrix and inflammation, and the down-regulated genes were mainly related to synapsis. CONCLUSIONS This study suggested that HDAC1/REST may be involved in maintaining the malignant phenotype of glioma cells and the stem cell status of glioma stem cells by inhibiting the expression of neuronal markers, which promote the progression of glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Shen
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, China; Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan-Rong Ye
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, China; Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhao-Qi Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Clinical Research Center for Cancer Therapy, Xiamen, China.
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Regulation of Cell Plasticity by Bromodomain and Extraterminal Domain (BET) Proteins: A New Perspective in Glioblastoma Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065665. [PMID: 36982740 PMCID: PMC10055343 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BET proteins are a family of multifunctional epigenetic readers, mainly involved in transcriptional regulation through chromatin modelling. Transcriptome handling ability of BET proteins suggests a key role in the modulation of cell plasticity, both in fate decision and in lineage commitment during embryonic development and in pathogenic conditions, including cancerogenesis. Glioblastoma is the most aggressive form of glioma, characterized by a very poor prognosis despite the application of a multimodal therapy. Recently, new insights are emerging about the glioblastoma cellular origin, leading to the hypothesis that several putative mechanisms occur during gliomagenesis. Interestingly, epigenome dysregulation associated with loss of cellular identity and functions are emerging as crucial features of glioblastoma pathogenesis. Therefore, the emerging roles of BET protein in glioblastoma onco-biology and the compelling demand for more effective therapeutic strategies suggest that BET family members could be promising targets for translational breakthroughs in glioblastoma treatment. Primarily, “Reprogramming Therapy”, which is aimed at reverting the malignant phenotype, is now considered a promising strategy for GBM therapy.
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Clark IH, Roman A, Fellows E, Radha S, Var SR, Roushdy Z, Borer SM, Johnson S, Chen O, Borgida JS, Steevens A, Shetty A, Strell P, Low WC, Grande AW. Cell Reprogramming for Regeneration and Repair of the Nervous System. Biomedicines 2022; 10:2598. [PMID: 36289861 PMCID: PMC9599606 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A persistent barrier to the cure and treatment of neurological diseases is the limited ability of the central and peripheral nervous systems to undergo neuroregeneration and repair. Recent efforts have turned to regeneration of various cell types through cellular reprogramming of native cells as a promising therapy to replenish lost or diminished cell populations in various neurological diseases. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the current viral vectors, genes of interest, and target cellular populations that have been studied, as well as the challenges and future directions of these novel therapies. Furthermore, the mechanisms by which cellular reprogramming could be optimized as treatment in neurological diseases and a review of the most recent cellular reprogramming in vitro and in vivo studies will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac H. Clark
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Alex Roman
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Emily Fellows
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Swathi Radha
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Susanna R. Var
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Zachary Roushdy
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Samuel M. Borer
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Samantha Johnson
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Olivia Chen
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jacob S. Borgida
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Aleta Steevens
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Anala Shetty
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Molecular, Cell, Developmental Biology & Genetics Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Phoebe Strell
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Comparative and Molecular Sciences Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Walter C. Low
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Molecular, Cell, Developmental Biology & Genetics Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Comparative and Molecular Sciences Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Andrew W. Grande
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Liu Q, Tian R, Yu P, Shu M. miR-221/222 suppression induced by activation of the cAMP/PKA/CREB1 pathway is required for cAMP-induced bidirectional differentiation of glioma cells. FEBS Lett 2021; 595:2829-2843. [PMID: 34687039 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Factors that increase cAMP levels can induce lineage-specific differentiation of glioma cells into astrocyte-like cells. However, the differentiation pattern and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we find that cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP responsive element binding protein 1 (CREB1)-induced miR-221/222 suppression contributes to the neuron-like differentiation of gliomas. cAMP agonists selectively induced neuron- and astrocyte-like but not oligodendrocyte-like differentiation of C6 glioma cells. PKA inhibitors and CREB1 knockout blocked neuron-like differentiation of glioma cells. cAMP inhibited miR-221/222 in a PKA/CREB1-dependent manner. Importantly, both in vitro and in vivo assays demonstrated that transcriptional suppression of miR-221/222 is required for neuronal differentiation of glioma cells. Our findings suggest that increasing cAMP levels can induce bidirectional differentiation of glioma cells. Furthermore, the miR-221/222 cluster acts as an epigenetic brake during glioma differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruotong Tian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Panpan Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minfeng Shu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Curry RN, Glasgow SM. The Role of Neurodevelopmental Pathways in Brain Tumors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:659055. [PMID: 34012965 PMCID: PMC8127784 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.659055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Disruptions to developmental cell signaling pathways and transcriptional cascades have been implicated in tumor initiation, maintenance and progression. Resurgence of aberrant neurodevelopmental programs in the context of brain tumors highlights the numerous parallels that exist between developmental and oncologic mechanisms. A deeper understanding of how dysregulated developmental factors contribute to brain tumor oncogenesis and disease progression will help to identify potential therapeutic targets for these malignancies. In this review, we summarize the current literature concerning developmental signaling cascades and neurodevelopmentally-regulated transcriptional programs. We also examine their respective contributions towards tumor initiation, maintenance, and progression in both pediatric and adult brain tumors and highlight relevant differentiation therapies and putative candidates for prospective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel N. Curry
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Houston, TX, United States
- Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Stacey M. Glasgow
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Neurosciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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11
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Wang X, Pei Z, Hossain A, Bai Y, Chen G. Transcription factor-based gene therapy to treat glioblastoma through direct neuronal conversion. Cancer Biol Med 2021; 18:j.issn.2095-3941.2020.0499. [PMID: 33755378 PMCID: PMC8330525 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2020.0499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most prevalent and aggressive adult primary cancer in the central nervous system. Therapeutic approaches for GBM treatment are under intense investigation, including the use of emerging immunotherapies. Here, we propose an alternative approach to treat GBM through reprogramming proliferative GBM cells into non-proliferative neurons. METHODS Retroviruses were used to target highly proliferative human GBM cells through overexpression of neural transcription factors. Immunostaining, electrophysiological recording, and bulk RNA-seq were performed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the neuronal conversion of human GBM cells. An in vivo intracranial xenograft mouse model was used to examine the neuronal conversion of human GBM cells. RESULTS We report efficient neuronal conversion from human GBM cells by overexpressing single neural transcription factor Neurogenic differentiation 1 (NeuroD1), Neurogenin-2 (Neurog2), or Achaete-scute homolog 1 (Ascl1). Subtype characterization showed that the majority of Neurog2- and NeuroD1-converted neurons were glutamatergic, while Ascl1 favored GABAergic neuron generation. The GBM cell-converted neurons not only showed pan-neuronal markers but also exhibited neuron-specific electrophysiological activities. Transcriptome analyses revealed that neuronal genes were activated in glioma cells after overexpression of neural transcription factors, and different signaling pathways were activated by different neural transcription factors. Importantly, the neuronal conversion of GBM cells was accompanied by significant inhibition of GBM cell proliferation in both in vitro and in vivo models. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that GBM cells can be reprogrammed into different subtypes of neurons, leading to a potential alternative approach to treat brain tumors using in vivo cell conversion technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of Biology, Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Zifei Pei
- Department of Biology, Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Aasma Hossain
- Department of Biology, Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Yuting Bai
- Department of Biology, Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Gong Chen
- Department of Biology, Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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12
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Kim KM, Thaqi M, Peterson DA, Marr RA. Induced Neurons for Disease Modeling and Repair: A Focus on Non-fibroblastic Cell Sources in Direct Reprogramming. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:658498. [PMID: 33777923 PMCID: PMC7995206 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.658498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct cellular reprogramming exhibits distinct advantages over reprogramming from an induced pluripotent stem cell intermediate. These include a reduced risk of tumorigenesis and the likely preservation of epigenetic data. In vitro direct reprogramming approaches primarily aim to model the pathophysiological development of neurological disease and identify therapeutic targets, while in vivo direct reprogramming aims to develop treatments for various neurological disorders, including cerebral injury and cancer. In both approaches, there is progress toward developing increased control of subtype-specific production of induced neurons. A majority of research primarily utilizes fibroblasts as the donor cells. However, there are a variety of other somatic cell types that have demonstrated the potential for reprogramming into induced neurons. This review highlights studies that utilize non-fibroblastic cell sources for reprogramming, such as astrocytes, olfactory ensheathing cells, peripheral blood cells, Müller glia, and more. We will examine benefits and obstructions for translation into therapeutics or disease modeling, as well as efficiency of the conversion. A summary of donor cells, induced neuron types, and methods of induction is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M Kim
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Mentor Thaqi
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States.,Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Daniel A Peterson
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Robert A Marr
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
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13
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Abstract
Purpose of review This review focuses on the development and progression of glioblastoma through the brain and glioma microenvironment. Specifically we highlight how the tumor microenvironment contributes to the hallmarks of cancer in hopes of offering novel therapeutic options and tools to target this microenvironment. Recent findings The hallmarks of cancer, which represent elements of cancers that contribute to the disease's malignancy, yet elements within the brain tumor microenvironment, such as other cellular types as well as biochemical and biophysical cues that can each uniquely affect tumor cells, have not been well-described in this context and serve as potential targets for modulation. Summary Here, we highlight how the brain tumor microenvironment contributes to the progression and therapeutic response of tumor cells. Specifically, we examine these contributions through the lens of Hanahan & Weinberg's Hallmarks of Cancer in order to identify potential novel targets within the brain that may offer a means to treat brain cancers, including the deadliest brain cancer, glioblastoma.
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14
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Becskei A. Tuning up Transcription Factors for Therapy. Molecules 2020; 25:E1902. [PMID: 32326099 PMCID: PMC7221782 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25081902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent developments in the delivery and design of transcription factors put their therapeutic applications within reach, exemplified by cell replacement, cancer differentiation and T-cell based cancer therapies. The success of such applications depends on the efficacy and precision in the action of transcription factors. The biophysical and genetic characterization of the paradigmatic prokaryotic repressors, LacI and TetR and the designer transcription factors, transcription activator-like effector (TALE) and CRISPR-dCas9 revealed common principles behind their efficacy, which can aid the optimization of transcriptional activators and repressors. Further studies will be required to analyze the linkage between dissociation constants and enzymatic activity, the role of phase separation and squelching in activation and repression and the long-range interaction of transcription factors with epigenetic regulators in the context of the chromosomes. Understanding these mechanisms will help to tailor natural and synthetic transcription factors to the needs of specific applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila Becskei
- Biozentrum, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50/70, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
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15
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Yavarpour-Bali H, Ghasemi-Kasman M, Shojaei A. Direct reprogramming of terminally differentiated cells into neurons: A novel and promising strategy for Alzheimer's disease treatment. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 98:109820. [PMID: 31743695 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.109820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Glial activation is a common pathological process of the central nervous system (CNS) in disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Several approaches have been used to reduce the number of activated astrocytes and microglia in damaged areas. In recent years, various kinds of fully differentiated cells have been successfully reprogrammed to a desired type of cell in lesion areas. Interestingly, internal glial cells, including astrocytes and NG2 positive cells, were efficiently converted to neuroblasts and neurons by overexpression of some transcription factors (TFs) or microRNAs (miRNAs). Notably, some specific subtypes of neurons have been achieved by in vivo reprogramming and the resulting neurons were successfully integrated into local neuronal circuits. Furthermore, somatic cells from AD patients have been converted to functional neurons. Although direct reprogramming of a patient's own internal cells has revolutionized regenerative medicine, but there are some major obstacles that should be examined before using these induced cells in clinical therapies. In the present review article, we aim to discuss the current studies on in vitro and in vivo reprogramming of somatic cells to neurons using TFs, miRNAs or small molecules in healthy and AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maryam Ghasemi-Kasman
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
| | - Amir Shojaei
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Sun Z, Wang L, Zhou Y, Dong L, Ma W, Lv L, Zhang J, Wang X. Glioblastoma Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Enhance Stemness and Tumorigenicity of Glioma Cells by Transferring Notch1 Protein. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2019; 40:767-784. [PMID: 31853695 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-019-00771-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes contain plenty of bioactive information, playing an important role in intercellular communication by transfer their bioactive molecular contents to recipient cells. Glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) and non-GSC glioma cells coexist in GBM microenvironment; GSC-released exosomes contain intracellular signaling molecules, which may affect the biological phenotypes of recipient cells. However, whether GSC exosomes could affect the biological phenotype of non-GSC glioma cells has not yet been defined. To explore whether GSC exosomes could reprogramme non-GSC glioma cells into GSCs and its possible mechanism involved, non-GSC glioma cells were treated with GSCs released exosomes; the potential mechanisms of action were studied with RNA interference, Notch inhibitors and Western blot analysis. The proliferation, neurosphere formation, invasive capacities, and tumorigenicity of non-GSC glioma cells were increased significantly after GSC exosome treatment; Notch1 signaling pathway was activated in GSCs; Notch1 protein was highly enriched in GSC exosomes; Notch1 signaling pathway and stemness-related protein expressions were increased in GSC exosome treated non-GSC glioma cells and these cell generated tumor tissues; Notch1 protein expression in GSCs and their exosomes, and the neurosphere formation of GSCs were decreased by Notch1 RNA interference; Notch1 signaling pathway protein and stemness protein expressions were decreased in GSC exosome treated non-GSC glioma cells by Notch1 RNA interference and Notch inhibitors. The findings in this study indicated that GSC exosomes act as information carriers, mediated non-GSC glioma cell dedifferentiation into GSCs by delivering Notch1 protein through Notch1 signaling activation, and enhanced stemness and tumorigenicity of non-GSC glioma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Sun
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Clinical Medical School, Sichuan University, No. 1 Keyuan Road 4, Gaopeng Avenu, Hi-tech Zone, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Li Wang
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Clinical Medical School, Sichuan University, No. 1 Keyuan Road 4, Gaopeng Avenu, Hi-tech Zone, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yueling Zhou
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Clinical Medical School, Sichuan University, No. 1 Keyuan Road 4, Gaopeng Avenu, Hi-tech Zone, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lihua Dong
- Human Anatomy Department, School of Preclinical and Forensic Medcine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Weichao Ma
- Neurosurgery Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Liang Lv
- Neurosurgery Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Clinical Medical School, Sichuan University, No. 1 Keyuan Road 4, Gaopeng Avenu, Hi-tech Zone, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiujie Wang
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Clinical Medical School, Sichuan University, No. 1 Keyuan Road 4, Gaopeng Avenu, Hi-tech Zone, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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