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Silva LGDO, Lemos FFB, Luz MS, Rocha Pinheiro SL, Calmon MDS, Correa Santos GL, Rocha GR, de Melo FF. New avenues for the treatment of immunotherapy-resistant pancreatic cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:1134-1153. [PMID: 38660642 PMCID: PMC11037047 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i4.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is characterized by its extremely aggressive nature and ranks 14th in the number of new cancer cases worldwide. However, due to its complexity, it ranks 7th in the list of the most lethal cancers worldwide. The pathogenesis of PC involves several complex processes, including familial genetic factors associated with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, chronic pancreatitis, and smoking. Mutations in genes such as KRAS, TP53, and SMAD4 are linked to the appearance of malignant cells that generate pancreatic lesions and, consequently, cancer. In this context, some therapies are used for PC, one of which is immunotherapy, which is extremely promising in various other types of cancer but has shown little response in the treatment of PC due to various resistance mechanisms that contribute to a drop in immunotherapy efficiency. It is therefore clear that the tumor microenvironment (TME) has a huge impact on the resistance process, since cellular and non-cellular elements create an immunosuppressive environment, characterized by a dense desmoplastic stroma with cancer-associated fibroblasts, pancreatic stellate cells, extracellular matrix, and immunosuppressive cells. Linked to this are genetic mutations in TP53 and immunosuppressive factors that act on T cells, resulting in a shortage of CD8+ T cells and limited expression of activation markers such as interferon-gamma. In this way, finding new strategies that make it possible to manipulate resistance mechanisms is necessary. Thus, techniques such as the use of TME modulators that block receptors and stromal molecules that generate resistance, the use of genetic manipulation in specific regions, such as microRNAs, the modulation of extrinsic and intrinsic factors associated with T cells, and, above all, therapeutic models that combine these modulation techniques constitute the promising future of PC therapy. Thus, this study aims to elucidate the main mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy in PC and new ways of manipulating this process, resulting in a more efficient therapy for cancer patients and, consequently, a reduction in the lethality of this aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabian Fellipe Bueno Lemos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Marcel Silva Luz
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Samuel Luca Rocha Pinheiro
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Mariana dos Santos Calmon
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Lima Correa Santos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Reis Rocha
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Freire de Melo
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
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2
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Alteration in Levels of Specific miRNAs and Their Potential Protein Targets between Human Pancreatic Cancer Samples, Adjacent Normal Tissue, and Xenografts Derived from These Tumors. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13030608. [PMID: 36983764 PMCID: PMC10057657 DOI: 10.3390/life13030608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Herein, we describe the global comparison of miRNAs in human pancreatic cancer tumors, adjacent normal tissue, and matched patient-derived xenograft models using microarray screening. RNA was extracted from seven tumor, five adjacent normal, and eight FI PDX tumor samples and analyzed by Affymetrix GeneChip miRNA 4.0 array. A transcriptome analysis console (TAC) was used to generate comparative lists of up- and downregulated miRNAs for the comparisons, tumor vs. normal and F1 PDX vs. tumor. Particular attention was paid to miRNAs that were changed in the same direction in both comparisons. We identified the involvement in pancreatic tumor tissue of several miRNAs, including miR4534, miR3154, and miR4742, not previously highlighted as being involved in this type of cancer. Investigation in the parallel mRNA and protein lists from the same samples allowed the elimination of proteins where altered expression correlated with corresponding mRNA levels and was thus less likely to be miRNA regulated. Using the remaining differential expression protein lists for proteins predicted to be targeted for differentially expressed miRNA on our list, we were able to tentatively ascribe specific protein changes to individual miRNA. Particularly interesting target proteins for miRs 615-3p, 2467-3p, 4742-5p, 509-5p, and 605-3p were identified. Prominent among the protein targets are enzymes involved in aldehyde metabolism and membrane transport and trafficking. These results may help to uncover vulnerabilities that could enable novel approaches to treating pancreatic cancer.
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Rahnama N, Jahangir M, Alesaeid S, Kahrizi MS, Adili A, Mohammed RN, Aslaminabad R, Akbari M, Özgönül AM. Association between microRNAs and chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer: Current knowledge, new insights, and forthcoming perspectives. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 236:153982. [PMID: 35779293 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.153982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic duct adenocarcinoma, commonly known as pancreatic cancer (PC), is a cancer-related cause of death due to delayed diagnosis, metastasis, and drug resistance. Patients with PC suffer from incorrect responses to chemotherapy due to inherent and acquired chemical resistance. Numerous studies have shown the mechanism of the effect of chemoresistance on PC, such as genetic and epigenetic changes or the elucidation of signaling pathways. In this regard, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified as essential modulators of gene expression in various cellular functions, including chemoresistance. Thus, identifying the underlying link between microRNAs and PC chemoresistance helps determine the exact pathogenesis of PC. This study aims to classify miRNAs and signaling pathways related to PC chemoresistance, suggesting new therapeutic approaches to overcome PC chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negin Rahnama
- Department of Internal Medicine and Health Services, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | | | - Samira Alesaeid
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ali Adili
- Senior Adult Oncology Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, University of South Florida, FL, USA; Department of Oncology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Rebar N Mohammed
- Medical Laboratory Analysis Department, College of Health Sciences, Cihan University of Sulaimaniya, Kurdistan Region, Iraq; College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq
| | - Ramin Aslaminabad
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Morteza Akbari
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Ali Mert Özgönül
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey.
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4
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Popov A, Mandys V. Senescence-Associated miRNAs and Their Role in Pancreatic Cancer. Pathol Oncol Res 2022; 28:1610156. [PMID: 35570840 PMCID: PMC9098800 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2022.1610156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Replicative senescence is irreversible cell proliferation arrest for somatic cells which can be circumvented in cancers. Cellular senescence is a process, which may play two opposite roles. On the one hand, this is a natural protection of somatic cells against unlimited proliferation and malignant transformation. On the other hand, cellular secretion caused by senescence can stimulate inflammation and proliferation of adjacent cells that may promote malignancy. The main genes controlling the senescence pathways are also well known as tumor suppressors. Almost 140 genes regulate both cellular senescence and cancer pathways. About two thirds of these genes (64%) are regulated by microRNAs. Senescence-associated miRNAs can stimulate cancer progression or act as tumor suppressors. Here we review the role playing by senescence-associated miRNAs in development, diagnostics and treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Popov
- Department of Pathology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czechia
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Gurbuz N, Kahraman N, Sonmez HE, Mokhlis HA, Kosar PA, Ozpolat B. miRNA-193b-5p Suppresses Pancreatic Cancer Cell Proliferation, Invasion, Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition, and Tumor Growth by Inhibiting eEF2K. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2022; 22:2607-2618. [PMID: 35718922 DOI: 10.2174/1871520622666220117123213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the 4th leading cause of cancer deaths in the US due to the lack of effective targeted therapeutics and extremely poor prognosis. OBJECTIVE The study aims to investigate the role of miR-193b and related signaling mechanisms in PDAC cell proliferation, invasion, and tumor growth. METHODS Using PDAC cell lines, we performed cell viability, colony formation, in vitro wound healing, and matrigel invasion assays following transfection with miR-193b mimic or control-miR. To identify potential downstream targets of miR-193b, we utilized miRNA-target prediction algorithms and investigated the regulation of eukaryotic elongation factor-2 kinase (eEF2K) and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) signaling pathways and mediators of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). The role of miR-193b in PDAC tumorigenesis was evaluated in in vivo tumor growth of Panc-1 xenograft model in nude mice. RESULTS We found that miR-193b is under expressed in PDAC cells compared to corresponding normal pancreatic epithelial cells and demonstrated that ectopic expression of miR-193b reduced cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT through downregulation of eEF2K signaling in PDAC cells. miR-193b expression led to increased expression of E-Cadherin and Claudin-1 while decreasing Snail and TCF8/ZEB1 expressions via eEF2K and MAPK/ERK axis. In vivo systemic injection of miR-193b using lipid-nanoparticles twice a week reduced tumor growth of Panc-1 xenografts and eEF2K expression in nude mice. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that miR-193b expression suppresses PDAC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT through inhibition of eEF2K/MAPK-ERK oncogenic axis and that miR-193b-based RNA therapy might be an effective therapeutic strategy to control the growth of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilgun Gurbuz
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta 32260, Turkey
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Nermin Kahraman
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hafize Elif Sonmez
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta 32260, Turkey
| | - Hamada Ahmed Mokhlis
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Pinar Aslan Kosar
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta 32260, Turkey
| | - Bulent Ozpolat
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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6
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RNAi-Based Approaches for Pancreatic Cancer Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13101638. [PMID: 34683931 PMCID: PMC8541396 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal forms of cancer, predicted to be the second leading cause of cancer-associated death by 2025. Despite intensive research for effective treatment strategies and novel anticancer drugs over the past decade, the overall patient survival rate remains low. RNA interference (RNAi) is capable of interfering with expression of specific genes and has emerged as a promising approach for pancreatic cancer because genetic aberrations and dysregulated signaling are the drivers for tumor formation and the stromal barrier to conventional therapy. Despite its therapeutic potential, RNA-based drugs have remaining hurdles such as poor tumor delivery and susceptibility to serum degradation, which could be overcome with the incorporation of nanocarriers for clinical applications. Here we summarize the use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) and microRNA (miRNA) in pancreatic cancer therapy in preclinical reports with approaches for targeting either the tumor or tumor microenvironment (TME) using various types of nanocarriers. In these studies, inhibition of oncogene expression and induction of a tumor suppressive response in cancer cells and surrounding immune cells in TME exhibited a strong anticancer effect in pancreatic cancer models. The review discusses the remaining challenges and prospective strategies suggesting the potential of RNAi-based therapeutics for pancreatic cancer.
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7
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Tian Z, Liang G, Cui K, Liang Y, Wang Q, Lv S, Cheng X, Zhang L. Insight Into the Prospects for RNAi Therapy of Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:644718. [PMID: 33796026 PMCID: PMC8007863 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.644718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi), also known as gene silencing, is a biological process that prevents gene expression in certain diseases such as cancer. It can be used to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and stability of treatments, particularly genetic therapies. However, challenges such as delivery of oligonucleotide drug to less accessible parts of the body and the high incidence of toxic side effects are encountered. It is therefore imperative to improve their delivery to target sites and reduce their harmful effects on noncancerous cells to harness their full potential. In this study, the role of RNAi in the treatment of COVID-19, the novel coronavirus disease plaguing many countries, has been discussed. This review aims to ascertain the mechanism and application of RNAi and explore the current challenges of RNAi therapy by identifying some of the cancer delivery systems and providing drug information for their improvement. It is worth mentioning that delivery systems such as lipid-based delivery systems and exosomes have revolutionized RNAi therapy by reducing their immunogenicity and improving their cellular affinity. A deeper understanding of the mechanism and challenges associated with RNAi in cancer therapy can provide new insights into RNAi drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Tian
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,School of Clinical Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Guohui Liang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,School of Clinical Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Kunli Cui
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yayu Liang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Qun Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Shuangyu Lv
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xiaoxia Cheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
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8
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Carvalho AM, Cordeiro RA, Faneca H. Silica-Based Gene Delivery Systems: From Design to Therapeutic Applications. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E649. [PMID: 32660110 PMCID: PMC7407166 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12070649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in gene therapy have been foreshadowing its potential for the treatment of a vast range of diseases involving genetic malfunctioning. However, its therapeutic efficiency and successful outcome are highly dependent on the development of the ideal gene delivery system. On that matter, silica-based vectors have diverted some attention from viral and other types of non-viral vectors due to their increased safety, easily modifiable structure and surface, high stability, and cost-effectiveness. The versatility of silane chemistry and the combination of silica with other materials, such as polymers, lipids, or inorganic particles, has resulted in the development of carriers with great loading capacities, ability to effectively protect and bind genetic material, targeted delivery, and stimuli-responsive release of cargos. Promising results have been obtained both in vitro and in vivo using these nanosystems as multifunctional platforms in different potential therapeutic areas, such as cancer or brain therapies, sometimes combined with imaging functions. Herein, the current advances in silica-based systems designed for gene therapy are reviewed, including their main properties, fabrication methods, surface modifications, and potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Henrique Faneca
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.M.C.); (R.A.C.)
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9
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Shetty A, Nagesh PK, Setua S, Hafeez BB, Jaggi M, Yallapu MM, Chauhan SC. Novel Paclitaxel Nanoformulation Impairs De Novo Lipid Synthesis in Pancreatic Cancer Cells and Enhances Gemcitabine Efficacy. ACS OMEGA 2020; 5:8982-8991. [PMID: 32337462 PMCID: PMC7178800 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c00793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PanCa) is a highly lethal disease with a poor 5 year survival rate, less than 7%. It has a dismal prognosis, and more than 50% of cases are detected at an advanced and metastatic stage. Gemcitabine (GEM) is a gold standard chemotherapy used for PanCa treatment. However, GEM-acquired resistance in cancer cells is considered as a major setback for its continued clinical implementation. This phenomenon is evidently linked to de novo lipid synthesis. PanCa cells rely on de novo lipid synthesis, which is a prime event in survival and one of the key drivers for tumorigenesis, cancer progression, and drug resistance. Thus, the depletion of lipogenesis or lipid metabolism can not only improve treatment outcomes but also overcome chemoresistance, which is an unmet clinical need. Toward this effort, our study reports a unique paclitaxel-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (PPNPs) formulation which can target lipid metabolism and improve anticancer efficacy of GEM in PanCa cells. PPNPs inhibit excessive lipid formation and alter membrane stability with compromised membrane integrity, which was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared and zeta potential measurements. The effective interference of PPNPs in lipid metabolic signaling was determined by reduction in the expression of FASN, ACC, lipin, and Cox-2 proteins. This molecular action profoundly enhances efficacy of GEM as evident through enhanced inhibitory effects on the tumorigenic and metastasis assays in PanCa cells. These data clearly suggest that the ablation of lipid metabolism might offer an innovative approach for the improved therapeutic outcome in PanCa patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Advait Shetty
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163 Tennessee, United States
| | - Prashanth K.B. Nagesh
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163 Tennessee, United States
- Department
of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, 78539 Texas, United States
| | - Saini Setua
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163 Tennessee, United States
| | - Bilal B. Hafeez
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163 Tennessee, United States
- Department
of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, 78539 Texas, United States
- South
Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, 78539 Texas, United States
| | - Meena Jaggi
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163 Tennessee, United States
- Department
of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, 78539 Texas, United States
- South
Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, 78539 Texas, United States
| | - Murali M. Yallapu
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163 Tennessee, United States
- Department
of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, 78539 Texas, United States
- South
Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, 78539 Texas, United States
| | - Subhash C. Chauhan
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163 Tennessee, United States
- Department
of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, 78539 Texas, United States
- South
Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, 78539 Texas, United States
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10
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Wang Q, Wang J, Niu S, Wang S, Liu Y, Wang X. MicroRNA-664 targets paired box protein 6 to inhibit the oncogenicity of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Int J Oncol 2019; 54:1884-1896. [PMID: 30896829 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2019.4759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The abnormal expression of microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) with oncogenic or tumor‑suppressive roles in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has been widely reported in recent years, and these dysregulated miRNAs are implicated in the formation and progression of PDAC. Therefore, an investigation into the functional roles of miRNAs in PDAC may facilitate the identification of effective therapeutic targets. miRNA‑664 (miR‑664) has been found to be aberrantly expressed and to play crucial roles in several human cancer types. However, the expression pattern and functional roles of miR‑664 in the malignant capacity of PDAC have yet to be elucidated. In this study, the results revealed that miR‑664 was clearly downregulated in PDAC tissues and cell lines. The low miR‑664 expression was strongly associated with pathological T stage and lymph node metastasis of the patients with PDAC. Patients with PDAC with a low miR‑664 expression had a poorer overall survival and a worse disease‑free survival than those patients with a high miR‑664 level. Functional experiments suggested that exogenous miR‑664 expression suppressed the growth and metastasis of PDAC cells in vitro, whereas miR‑664 downregulation exerted the opposite effects. In addition, miR‑664 suppressed the tumor growth of PDAC cells in vivo. Mechanistically, paired box protein 6 (PAX6) was identified as a direct target gene of miR‑664 in PDAC cells. Furthermore, PAX6 was upregulated in PDAC tissues, and its upregulation inversely correlated with miR‑664 levels. Moreover, the silencing of PAX6 mimicked the effects of miR‑664 upregulation in PDAC cells, and the recovered expression of PAX6 eliminated the effects of miR‑664 on PDAC cells. Notably, miR‑664 could inhibit the activation of PI3K/Akt pathway in PDAC cells in vitro and in vivo. Cumulatively, these results indicate an important role of the miR‑664/PAX6 pathway in suppressing the aggressiveness of PDAC cells, suggesting that miR‑664 may be an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with this fatal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, P.R. China
| | - Jiaqi Wang
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, P.R. China
| | - Songtao Niu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, P.R. China
| | - Songsong Wang
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, P.R. China
| | - Yibin Liu
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoya Wang
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, P.R. China
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11
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Li S, Chen W, Zhan A, Liang J. Identification and characterization of microRNAs involved in scale biomineralization in the naked carp Gymnocypris przewalskii. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY D-GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2018; 28:196-203. [PMID: 30317123 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2018.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The mineralized scale derived from skin plays a protective role for the fish body and also possesses important application values in the biomaterial field. However, little is known about fish scale biomineralization and related molecular regulatory mechanisms. Here, we used a comparative microRNA sequencing approach to identify and characterize differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs) involved in scale biomineralization in the naked carp Gymnocypris przewalskii. A total of 18, 43, and 66 DEMs were obtained from skin tissues covered with initial, developing, and mature scales (IS, DS, and MS) compared with scale-uncovered skin. The target genes of these DEMs were significantly enriched in a sole biomineralization-related sphingolipid signaling pathway. Seven DEMs (dre-miR-124-3p, dre-miR-133a-2-5p, dre-miR-184, dre-miR-206-3p, novel_33, novel_56 and novel_75) were common in IS, DS, and MS. Dre-miR-124-3p, dre-miR-206-3p, and novel_33 were predicted to be able to target biomineralization-related genes. Stem-loop real-time quantitative PCR further confirmed that the common DEMs had higher expression levels in scale-covered skin tissues than that in the gill, intestine, and brain, except for dre-miR-133a-2-5p. Our results suggest that these identified microRNAs may play a role in scale biomineralization in G. przewalskii, and the obtained microRNAs are expected to be candidates in understanding the molecular mechanism of scale biomineralization in fish species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiguo Li
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Weiwei Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Aibin Zhan
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Jian Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China.
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12
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Karmakar S, Kaushik G, Nimmakayala R, Rachagani S, Ponnusamy MP, Batra SK. MicroRNA regulation of K-Ras in pancreatic cancer and opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Semin Cancer Biol 2017; 54:63-71. [PMID: 29199014 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2017.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The Ras family of GTPases is involved in cell proliferation, cell survival, and angiogenesis. It is upregulated in several cancers, including pancreatic cancer (PC) and leads to uncontrolled growth and aggressiveness. PC is well known to be a lethal disease with poor prognosis, plagued by limited therapeutic modalities. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), which are short non-coding RNA molecules, have recently emerged as regulators of signaling networks and have shown potential to target pathway components for therapeutic use in several malignancies. K-Ras mutations are widespread in PC cases (90%), with mutations detectable as early as pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasias and in later metastatic stages alike; therefore, these mutations in K-Ras are obvious drivers and potential targets for PC therapy. Several K-Ras targeting miRNAs have lately been discovered, and many of them have shown promise in combating pancreatic tumor growth in vitro and in mouse models. However, the field of miRNA therapy is still in its infancy, and miRNA mimics or anti-miRNA oligonucleotides that target Ras pathway have thus far not been evaluated in PC patients. In this review, we summarize the role of several miRNAs that regulate oncogenic K-Ras signaling in PC, with their prospective roles as therapeutic agents for targeting K-Ras pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saswati Karmakar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Garima Kaushik
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Ramakrishna Nimmakayala
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Satyanarayana Rachagani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Moorthy P Ponnusamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases and Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases and Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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13
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He D, Huang C, Zhou Q, Liu D, Xiong L, Xiang H, Ma G, Zhang Z. HnRNPK/miR-223/FBXW7 feedback cascade promotes pancreatic cancer cell growth and invasion. Oncotarget 2017; 8:20165-20178. [PMID: 28423622 PMCID: PMC5386752 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have identified miR-223 critically involved in various types of cancer, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, its action and regulatory mechanisms in PDAC remains largely unclear. In this study, we found that the expression levels of miR-223 were increased in clinical samples with PDAC (81.6%). The upregulation of miR-223 increases the proliferation, migration, and invasive abilities of PDAC cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, miR-223 directly targeted FBXW7 and overexpression of FBXW7 reverted miR-223- induced drastic proliferation in PDAC cells. Interestingly, miR-223 promoter was found to form a coprecipitable complex with hnRNPK, and siRNA knockdown of hnRNPK in PDAC cells reduced the levels of miR-223. These results show that hnRNPK is a cellular protein that binds and affects the accumulation of miR-223 in PDAC. Furthermore, FBXW7 interacts with hnRNPK and promotes its degradation, which requires phosphorylation of hnRNPK at threonine 1695 by GSK3. Consistently, we observed an inverse expression pattern between FBXW7 and miR-223, whereas a positive expression pattern between miR-223 and hnRNPK was found in human PDAC tissues. These data unveiled an important new miR-223/FBXW7/HnRNPK feedback cascade in human PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- D He
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Baoan Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518101, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Baoan Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518101, China.,Guangdong Medical University Graduate School, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524001, China
| | - Qingxin Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150086, China
| | - Dawei Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Baoan Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518101, China.,Guangdong Medical University Graduate School, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524001, China
| | - Longhui Xiong
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Baoan Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518101, China
| | - Hongxia Xiang
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Baoan Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518101, China
| | - Guangnian Ma
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Baoan Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518101, China
| | - Zhiyong Zhang
- Department of Surgery, Robert-Wood-Johnson Medical School University Hospital, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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14
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Karamitopoulou E, Haemmig S, Baumgartner U, Schlup C, Wartenberg M, Vassella E. MicroRNA dysregulation in the tumor microenvironment influences the phenotype of pancreatic cancer. Mod Pathol 2017; 30:1116-1125. [PMID: 28548126 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.2017.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Cellular interactions in the tumor microenvironment influence neoplastic progression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. One underlying mechanism is the induction of the prognostically unfavorable epithelial-mesenchymal-transition-like tumor budding. Our aim is to explore the expression of microRNAs implicated in the regulation of tumor budding focusing on the microenvironment of the invasive front. To this end, RNA from laser-capture-microdissected material of the main tumor, tumor buds, juxta-tumoral stroma, tumor-remote stroma, and non-neoplastic pancreatic parenchyma from pancreatic cancer cases with (n=7) and without (n=6) tumor budding was analyzed by qRT-PCR for the expression of a panel of miRNAs that are known to be implicated in the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, including miR-21, miR-183, miR-200b, miR-200c, miR-203, miR-205, miR-210, and miR-217. Here we show that at the invasive front of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, specific microRNAs, are differentially expressed between tumor buds and main tumor cells and between cases with and without tumor budding, indicating their involvement in the regulation of the budding phenotype. Notably, miR-200b and miR-200c were significantly downregulated in the tumor buds. Consistent with this finding, they negatively correlated with the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal-transition-associated E-cadherin repressors ZEB1 and ZEB2 in the budding cells (P<0.001). Interestingly, many microRNAs were also dysregulated in juxta-tumoral compared to tumor-remote stroma suggesting that juxta-tumoral stroma contributes to microRNA dysregulation. Notably, miR-200b and miR-200c were strongly downregulated while miR-210 and miR-21 were upregulated in the juxta-tumoral vs tumor-remote stroma in carcinomas with tumor budding. In conclusion, microRNA targeting in both tumor and stromal cells could represent a treatment option for aggressive pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Karamitopoulou
- Division of Clinical Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Haemmig
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Baumgartner
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Schlup
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Martin Wartenberg
- Division of Clinical Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Erik Vassella
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Khalafalla FG, Khan MW. Inflammation and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Fighting Against Multiple Opponents. CANCER GROWTH AND METASTASIS 2017; 10:1179064417709287. [PMID: 28579826 PMCID: PMC5436837 DOI: 10.1177/1179064417709287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common type of pancreatic cancer and one of the most lethal human cancers. Inflammation is a critical component in PDAC initiation and progression. Inflammation also contributes to the aggressiveness of PDAC indirectly via induction of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), altogether leading to enhanced resistance to chemotherapy and poor survival rates. This review gives an overview of the key pro-inflammatory signaling pathways involved in PDAC pathogenesis and discusses the role of inflammation in induction of EMT and development of chemoresistance in patients with PDAC.
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Cai HK, Chen X, Tang YH, Deng YC. MicroRNA-194 modulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition in human colorectal cancer metastasis. Onco Targets Ther 2017; 10:1269-1278. [PMID: 28280361 PMCID: PMC5338959 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s125172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as key regulators of gene expression, are closely related to tumor occurrence and progression. MiR-194 has been proved as a tumor regulatory factor in various cancers; however, the biological function and mechanism of action in colorectal cancer (CRC) have not been well explored. In the present study, we found that miR-194 expression is upregulated in CRC clinical specimens, while overexpression of miR-194 promotes cell migration and invasion in CRC cell lines. Besides, miR-194 significantly influenced the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers by downregulating E-cadherin expression (P<0.01) and upregulating vimentin and MMP-2 expression (P<0.001, P<0.05). Cell migration is the cell movement related to actin cytoskeleton. In this study, we found miR-194 increased cell polarization in SW480 cells. Moreover, zymography assay showed that miR-194 significantly upregulated the gelatin-degrading activity of MMP-2 (P<0.01). Collectively, our findings suggest that miR-194 functions as a tumor promoter in CRC, which may provide new insights for the study of CRC development and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Ke Cai
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Chen
- Center of Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun-Hao Tang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong-Chuan Deng
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
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17
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Alterations of Epigenetic Regulators in Pancreatic Cancer and Their Clinical Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17122138. [PMID: 27999365 PMCID: PMC5187938 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17122138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive human cancer types with a five-year survival less than 7%. Emerging evidence revealed that many genetic alterations in pancreatic cancer target epigenetic regulators. Some of these mutations are driver mutations in cancer development. Several most important mechanisms of epigenetic regulations include DNA methylation, histone modifications (methylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination), chromatin remodeling, and non-coding ribonucleic acids (RNAs). These modifications can alter chromatin structure and promoter accessibility, and thus lead to aberrant gene expression. However, exactly how these alterations affect epigenetic reprogramming in pancreatic cancer cells and in different stages of tumor development is still not clear. This mini-review summarizes the current knowledge of epigenetic alterations in pancreatic cancer development and progression, and discusses the clinical applications of epigenetic regulators as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in pancreatic cancer.
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Durand N, Storz P. Targeting reactive oxygen species in development and progression of pancreatic cancer. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2016; 17:19-31. [PMID: 27841037 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2017.1261017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is characterized by expression of oncogenic KRas which drives all aspects of tumorigenesis. Oncogenic KRas induces the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which have been implicated in initiation and progression of PDA. To facilitate tumor promoting levels and to avoid oncogene-induced senescence or cytotoxicity, ROS homeostasis in PDA cells is balanced by additional up-regulation of antioxidant systems. Areas covered: We examine the sources of ROS in PDA, the mechanisms by which ROS homeostasis is maintained, and the biological consequences of ROS in PDA. Additionally, we discuss the potential mechanisms for targeting ROS homoeostasis as a point of therapeutic intervention. An extensive review of the relevant literature as it relates to the topic was conducted using PubMed. Expert commentary: Even though oncogenic mutations in the KRAS gene have been detected in over 95% of human pancreatic adenocarcinoma, targeting its gene product, KRas, has been difficult. The dependency of PDA cells on balancing ROS homeostasis could be an angle for new prevention or treatment strategies. These include use of antioxidants to prevent formation or progression of precancerous lesions, or methods to increase ROS in tumor cells to toxic levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Durand
- a Department of Cancer Biology , Mayo Clinic , Jacksonville , FL , USA
| | - Peter Storz
- a Department of Cancer Biology , Mayo Clinic , Jacksonville , FL , USA
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Lewis AR, Valle JW, McNamara MG. Pancreatic cancer: Are "liquid biopsies" ready for prime-time? World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:7175-7185. [PMID: 27621566 PMCID: PMC4997639 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i32.7175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a disease that carries a poor prognosis. Accurate tissue diagnosis is required. Tumours contain a high content of stromal tissue and therefore biopsies may be inconclusive. Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) have been investigated as a potential “liquid biopsy” in several malignancies and have proven to be of prognostic value in breast, prostate and colorectal cancers. They have been detected in patients with localised and metastatic pancreatic cancer with sensitivities ranging from 38%-100% using a variety of platforms. Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) has also been detected in pancreas cancer with a sensitivity ranging from 26%-100% in studies across different platforms and using different genetic markers. However, there is no clear consensus on which platform is the most effective for detection, nor which genetic markers are the most useful to use. Potential roles of liquid biopsies include diagnosis, screening, guiding therapies and prognosis. The presence of CTCs or ctDNA has been shown to be of prognostic value both at diagnosis and after treatment in patients with pancreatic cancer. However, more prospective studies are required before this promising technology is ready for adoption into routine clinical practice.
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