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Escalante PI, Quiñones LA, Contreras HR. Exploring the impact of MiR-92a-3p on FOLFOX chemoresistance biomarker genes in colon cancer cell lines. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1376638. [PMID: 38659583 PMCID: PMC11039864 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1376638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: One of the primary obstacles faced by individuals with advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) is the potential development of acquired chemoresistance as the disease advances. Studies have indicated a direct association between elevated levels of miR-92a-3p and the progression, metastasis, and chemoresistance observed in CRC. We proposed that miR-92a-3p impairs FOLFOX (fluorouracil/oxaliplatin) chemotherapy response by upregulating the expression of chemoresistance biomarker genes through the activation of β-catenin and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). These FOLFOX biomarker genes include the pyrimidine biosynthesis pathway genes dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPYD), thymidylate synthase (TYMS), methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), and the genes encoding the DNA repair complexes subunits ERCC1 and ERCC2, and XRCC1. Methods: To assess this, we transfected SW480 and SW620 colon cancer cell lines with miR-92a-3p mimics and then quantified the expression of DPYD, TYMS, MTHFR, ERCC1, ERCC2, and XRCC1, the expression of EMT markers and transcription factors, and activation of β-catenin. Results and discussion: Our results reveal that miR-92a-3p does not affect the expression of DPYD, TYMS, MTHFR, and ERCC1. Furthermore, even though miR-92a-3p affects ERCC2, XRCC1, E-cadherin, and β-catenin mRNA levels, it has no influence on their protein expression. Conclusion: We found that miR-92a-3p does not upregulate the expression of proteins of DNA-repair pathways and other genes involved in FOLFOX chemotherapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula I. Escalante
- Laboratory of Chemical Carcinogenesis and Pharmacogenetics (CQF), Department of Basic and Clinical Oncology (DOBC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Oncology (LOCYM), Department of Basic and Clinical Oncology (DOBC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Luis A. Quiñones
- Laboratory of Chemical Carcinogenesis and Pharmacogenetics (CQF), Department of Basic and Clinical Oncology (DOBC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Latin American Network for the Implementation and Validation of Pharmacogenomic Clinical Guidelines (RELIVAF), Santiago, Chile
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Héctor R. Contreras
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Oncology (LOCYM), Department of Basic and Clinical Oncology (DOBC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Center for Cancer Prevention and Control (CECAN), Santiago, Chile
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2
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Mirzayans R, Murray D. Intratumor Heterogeneity and Treatment Resistance of Solid Tumors with a Focus on Polyploid/Senescent Giant Cancer Cells (PGCCs). Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11534. [PMID: 37511291 PMCID: PMC10380821 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Single cell biology has revealed that solid tumors and tumor-derived cell lines typically contain subpopulations of cancer cells that are readily distinguishable from the bulk of cancer cells by virtue of their enormous size. Such cells with a highly enlarged nucleus, multiple nuclei, and/or multiple micronuclei are often referred to as polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCCs), and may exhibit features of senescence. PGCCs may enter a dormant phase (active sleep) after they are formed, but a subset remain viable, secrete growth promoting factors, and can give rise to therapy resistant and tumor repopulating progeny. Here we will briefly discuss the prevalence and prognostic value of PGCCs across different cancer types, the current understanding of the mechanisms of their formation and fate, and possible reasons why these tumor repopulating "monsters" continue to be ignored in most cancer therapy-related preclinical studies. In addition to PGCCs, other subpopulations of cancer cells within a solid tumor (such as oncogenic caspase 3-activated cancer cells and drug-tolerant persister cancer cells) can also contribute to therapy resistance and pose major challenges to the delivery of cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razmik Mirzayans
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada
| | - David Murray
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada
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3
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Zheng Y, Chen XX, Zhang DY, Wang WJ, Peng K, Li ZY, Mao ZW, Tan CP. Activation of the cGAS-STING pathway by a mitochondrial DNA-targeted emissive rhodium(iii) metallointercalator. Chem Sci 2023; 14:6890-6903. [PMID: 37389261 PMCID: PMC10306090 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc01737k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon (STING) pathway is a key mediator of innate immunity involved in cancer development and treatment. The roles of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in cancer immunotherapy have gradually emerged. Herein, we report a highly emissive rhodium(iii) complex (Rh-Mito) as the mtDNA intercalator. Rh-Mito can specifically bind to mtDNA to cause the cytoplasmic release of mtDNA fragments to activate the cGAS-STING pathway. Moreover, Rh-Mito activates the mitochondrial retrograde signaling by disturbing the key metabolites involved in epigenetic modifications, which alters the nuclear genome methylation landscape to influence the expression of genes related to immune signaling pathways. Finally, we demonstrate that ferritin-encapsulated Rh-Mito elicits potent anticancer activities and evokes intense immune responses in vivo by intravenous injection. Overall, we report for the first time that small molecules targeting mtDNA can activate the cGAS-STING pathway, which gives insights into the development of biomacromolecule-targeted immunotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Dong-Yang Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Wen-Jin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Kun Peng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Zhi-Yuan Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Zong-Wan Mao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Cai-Ping Tan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
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4
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Su X, Liu B, Wang WJ, Peng K, Liang BB, Zheng Y, Cao Q, Mao ZW. Disruption of Zinc Homeostasis by a Novel Platinum(IV)-Terthiophene Complex for Antitumor Immunity. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202216917. [PMID: 36546893 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202216917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Zinc homeostatic medicine is of great potential for cancer chemo-immunotherapy; however, there are few reports on antitumor compounds that can trigger Zn2+ -mediated immune responses. In this work, we developed a novel cyclometalated PtIV -terthiophene complex, Pt3, that not only induces DNA damage and cellular metabolism dysregulation, but also disrupts zinc homeostasis as indicated by the abnormal transcriptional level of zinc regulatory proteins, excess accumulation of Zn2+ in cytoplasm, and down-regulation of metallothioneins (MTs), which further caused redox imbalance. The simultaneous disruption of zinc and redox homeostasis in response to Pt3 treatment activated gasdermin-D mediated pyroptosis accompanied by cytoskeleton remodeling, thus releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines to promote dendritic cell (DC) maturation and T cell tumor-infiltration, eventually eliminating both primary and distant tumors in vivo. As far as we know, this is the first metal complex that can regulate zinc homeostasis to activate antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuxian Su
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Bin Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Wen-Jin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Kun Peng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Bing-Bing Liang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Yue Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Qian Cao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Zong-Wan Mao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
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5
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Multiplexed and reproducible high content screening of live and fixed cells using Dye Drop. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6918. [PMID: 36376301 PMCID: PMC9663587 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34536-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
High-throughput measurement of cells perturbed using libraries of small molecules, gene knockouts, or different microenvironmental factors is a key step in functional genomics and pre-clinical drug discovery. However, it remains difficult to perform accurate single-cell assays in 384-well plates, limiting many studies to well-average measurements (e.g., CellTiter-Glo®). Here we describe a public domain Dye Drop method that uses sequential density displacement and microscopy to perform multi-step assays on living cells. We use Dye Drop cell viability and DNA replication assays followed by immunofluorescence imaging to collect single-cell dose-response data for 67 investigational and clinical-grade small molecules in 58 breast cancer cell lines. By separating the cytostatic and cytotoxic effects of drugs computationally, we uncover unexpected relationships between the two. Dye Drop is rapid, reproducible, customizable, and compatible with manual or automated laboratory equipment. Dye Drop improves the tradeoff between data content and cost, enabling the collection of information-rich perturbagen-response datasets.
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6
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Mirzayans R, Murray D. What Are the Reasons for Continuing Failures in Cancer Therapy? Are Misleading/Inappropriate Preclinical Assays to Be Blamed? Might Some Modern Therapies Cause More Harm than Benefit? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13217. [PMID: 36362004 PMCID: PMC9655591 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 50 years of cancer research has resulted in the generation of massive amounts of information, but relatively little progress has been made in the treatment of patients with solid tumors, except for extending their survival for a few months at best. Here, we will briefly discuss some of the reasons for this failure, focusing on the limitations and sometimes misunderstanding of the clinical relevance of preclinical assays that are widely used to identify novel anticancer drugs and treatment strategies (e.g., "synthetic lethality"). These include colony formation, apoptosis (e.g., caspase-3 activation), immunoblotting, and high-content multiwell plate cell-based assays, as well as tumor growth studies in animal models. A major limitation is that such assays are rarely designed to recapitulate the tumor repopulating properties associated with therapy-induced cancer cell dormancy (durable proliferation arrest) reflecting, for example, premature senescence, polyploidy and/or multinucleation. Furthermore, pro-survival properties of apoptotic cancer cells through phoenix rising, failed apoptosis, and/or anastasis (return from the brink of death), as well as cancer immunoediting and the impact of therapeutic agents on interactions between cancer and immune cells are often overlooked in preclinical studies. A brief review of the history of cancer research makes one wonder if modern strategies for treating patients with solid tumors may sometimes cause more harm than benefit.
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7
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Cervinka J, Gobbo A, Biancalana L, Markova L, Novohradsky V, Guelfi M, Zacchini S, Kasparkova J, Brabec V, Marchetti F. Ruthenium(II)-Tris-pyrazolylmethane Complexes Inhibit Cancer Cell Growth by Disrupting Mitochondrial Calcium Homeostasis. J Med Chem 2022; 65:10567-10587. [PMID: 35913426 PMCID: PMC9376960 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
![]()
While ruthenium arene complexes have been widely investigated
for
their medicinal potential, studies on homologous compounds containing
a tridentate tris(1-pyrazolyl)methane ligand are almost absent in
the literature. Ruthenium(II) complex 1 was obtained
by a modified reported procedure; then, the reactions with a series
of organic molecules (L) in boiling alcohol afforded novel complexes 2–9 in 77–99% yields. Products 2–9 were fully structurally characterized. They are
appreciably soluble in water, where they undergo partial chloride/water
exchange. The antiproliferative activity was determined using a panel
of human cancer cell lines and a noncancerous one, evidencing promising
potency of 1, 7, and 8 and
significant selectivity toward cancer cells. The tested compounds
effectively accumulate in cancer cells, and mitochondria represent
a significant target of biological action. Most notably, data provide
convincing evidence that the mechanism of biological action is mediated
by the inhibiting of mitochondrial calcium intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Cervinka
- Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Kralovopolska 135, CZ-61265 Brno, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, CZ-62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Alberto Gobbo
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 13, I-56124 Pisa, Italy.,Department of Industrial Chemistry "Toso Montanari", University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, I-40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Biancalana
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 13, I-56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Lenka Markova
- Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Kralovopolska 135, CZ-61265 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtech Novohradsky
- Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Kralovopolska 135, CZ-61265 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Massimo Guelfi
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 13, I-56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Zacchini
- Department of Industrial Chemistry "Toso Montanari", University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, I-40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Jana Kasparkova
- Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Kralovopolska 135, CZ-61265 Brno, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Science, Department of Biophysics, Palacky University in Olomouc, Slechtitelu 27, CZ-78371 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Viktor Brabec
- Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Kralovopolska 135, CZ-61265 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Fabio Marchetti
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 13, I-56124 Pisa, Italy
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8
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Ravera M, Gabano E, McGlinchey MJ, Osella D. Pt(IV) antitumor prodrugs: dogmas, paradigms, and realities. Dalton Trans 2022; 51:2121-2134. [PMID: 35015025 DOI: 10.1039/d1dt03886a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Platinum(II)-based drugs are widely used for the treatment of solid tumors, especially in combination protocols. Severe side effects and occurrence of resistance are the major limitations to their clinical use. To overcome these drawbacks, a plethora of Pt(IV) derivatives, acting as anticancer prodrugs, have been designed, synthesized and preclinically (often only in vitro) tested. Here, we summarize the recent progress in the development and understanding of the chemical properties and biochemical features of these Pt(IV) prodrugs, especially those containing bioactive molecules as axial ligands, acting as multi-functional agents. Even though no such prodrugs have been yet approved for clinical use, many show encouraging pharmacological profiles. Thus, a better understanding of their features is a promising approach towards improving the available Pt-based anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Ravera
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Innovazione Tecnologica, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Viale Michel 11, Alessandria, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Gabano
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Innovazione Tecnologica, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Viale Michel 11, Alessandria, Italy.
| | | | - Domenico Osella
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Innovazione Tecnologica, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Viale Michel 11, Alessandria, Italy.
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9
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Gu YQ, Shen WY, Yang QY, Chen ZF, Liang H. Ru(III) complexes with pyrazolopyrimidines as anticancer agents: bioactivities and the underlying mechanisms. Dalton Trans 2022; 51:1333-1343. [PMID: 34989734 DOI: 10.1039/d1dt02765d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Three ruthenium(III) complexes with pyrazolopyrimidine [Ru(Ln)(H2O)Cl3] (1-3, n = 1-3) were prepared and characterized. These Ru(III) compounds show strong cytotoxicity against six cancer cell lines and low toxicity to normal human liver cells. Particularly, they exhibited stronger cytotoxicity to SK-OV-3 cells than cisplatin. Mechanism studies revealed that complex 1 inhibited tumor cell invasion and suppressed cell proliferation, induced apoptosis by elevating the levels of intracellular ROS (reactive oxygen species) and free calcium (Ca2+), and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ). It also activated the caspase cascade, accompanied with upregulation of cytochrome c, Bax, p53, Apaf-1 and downregulation of Bcl-2. Moreover, complex 1 caused cell cycle arrest at S phase by inhibiting the expression of CDC 25, cyclin A2 and CDK 2 proteins, and induced DNA damage by interacting with DNA and inhibiting the topoisomerase I enzyme. Complex 1 exhibited efficient in vivo anticancer activity in a model of SK-OV-3 tumor xenograft.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Qiong Gu
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, P. R. China. .,School of Environment and Life Science, Nanning Normal University, Nanning, 530001, P. R China
| | - Wen-Ying Shen
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, P. R. China.
| | - Qi-Yuan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, P. R. China.
| | - Zhen-Feng Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, P. R. China.
| | - Hong Liang
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, P. R. China.
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10
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Ghasemi M, Turnbull T, Sebastian S, Kempson I. The MTT Assay: Utility, Limitations, Pitfalls, and Interpretation in Bulk and Single-Cell Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12827. [PMID: 34884632 PMCID: PMC8657538 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 220] [Impact Index Per Article: 73.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The MTT assay for cellular metabolic activity is almost ubiquitous to studies of cell toxicity; however, it is commonly applied and interpreted erroneously. We investigated the applicability and limitations of the MTT assay in representing treatment toxicity, cell viability, and metabolic activity. We evaluated the effect of potential confounding variables on the MTT assay measurements on a prostate cancer cell line (PC-3) including cell seeding number, MTT concentration, MTT incubation time, serum starvation, cell culture media composition, released intracellular contents (cell lysate and secretome), and extrusion of formazan to the extracellular space. We also assessed the confounding effect of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-coated gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) as a tested treatment in PC-3 cells on the assay measurements. We additionally evaluated the applicability of microscopic image cytometry as a tool for measuring intracellular MTT reduction at the single-cell level. Our findings show that the assay measurements are a result of a complicated process dependant on many of the above-mentioned factors, and therefore, optimization of the assay and rational interpretation of the data is necessary to prevent misleading conclusions on variables such as cell viability, treatment toxicity, and/or cell metabolism. We conclude, with recommendations on how to apply the assay and a perspective on where the utility of the assay is a powerful tool, but likewise where it has limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ivan Kempson
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia; (M.G.); (T.T.); (S.S.)
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JMJD1C knockdown affects myeloid cell lines proliferation, viability, and gemcitabine/carboplatin-sensitivity. Pharmacogenet Genomics 2021; 31:60-67. [PMID: 33075016 DOI: 10.1097/fpc.0000000000000422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Chemotherapy-induced hematological toxicities are potentially life-threatening adverse drug reactions that vary between individuals. Recently, JMJD1C has been associated with gemcitabine/carboplatin-induced thrombocytopenia in non-small-cell lung cancer patients, making it a candidate marker for predicting the risk of toxicity. This study investigates if JMJD1C knockdown affects gemcitabine/carboplatin-sensitivity in cell lines. METHODS Lentiviral transduction-mediated shRNA knockdown of JMJD1C in the cell lines K562 and MEG-01 were performed using shRNA#32 and shRNA#33. The knockdown was evaluated using qPCR. Cell proliferation, viability, and gemcitabine/carboplatin-sensitivity were subsequently determined using cell counts, trypan blue, and the MTT assay. RESULTS ShRNA#33 resulted in JMJD1C downregulation by 56.24% in K562 and 68.10% in MEG-01. Despite incomplete knockdown, proliferation (reduction of cell numbers by 61-68%, day 7 post-transduction) and viability (reduction by 21-53%, day 7 post-transduction) were impaired in K562 and MEG-01 cells. Moreover, JMJD1C knockdown reduced the gemcitabine IC50-value for K562 cells (P < 0.01) and MEG-01 cells (P < 0.05) compared to scrambled shRNA control transduced cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that JMJD1C is essential for proliferation, survival, and viability of K562 and MEG-01 cells. Further, JMJD1C also potentially affects the cells gemcitabine/carboplatin-sensitivity. Although further research is required, the findings show that JMJD1C could have an influential role for gemcitabine/carboplatin-sensitivity.
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12
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Mirzayans R, Murray D. Do TUNEL and Other Apoptosis Assays Detect Cell Death in Preclinical Studies? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239090. [PMID: 33260475 PMCID: PMC7730366 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay detects DNA breakage by labeling the free 3ʹ-hydroxyl termini. Given that genomic DNA breaks arise during early and late stages of apoptosis, TUNEL staining continues to be widely used as a measure of apoptotic cell death. The advantages of the assay include its relative ease of performance and the broad availability of TUNEL assay kits for various applications, such as single-cell analysis of apoptosis in cell cultures and tissue samples. However, as briefly discussed herein, aside from some concerns relating to the specificity of the TUNEL assay itself, it was demonstrated some twenty years ago that the early stages of apoptosis, detected by TUNEL, can be reversed. More recently, compelling evidence from different biological systems has revealed that cells can recover from even late stage apoptosis through a process called anastasis. Specifically, such recovery has been observed in cells exhibiting caspase activation, genomic DNA breakage, phosphatidylserine externalization, and formation of apoptotic bodies. Furthermore, there is solid evidence demonstrating that apoptotic cells can promote neighboring tumor cell repopulation (e.g., through caspase-3-mediated secretion of prostaglandin E2) and confer resistance to anticancer therapy. Accordingly, caution should be exercised in the interpretation of results obtained by the TUNEL and other apoptosis assays (e.g., caspase activation) in terms of apoptotic cell demise.
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13
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Bian M, Fan R, Jiang G, Wang Y, Lu Y, Liu W. Halo and Pseudohalo Gold(I)-NHC Complexes Derived from 4,5-Diarylimidazoles with Excellent In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Activities Against HCC. J Med Chem 2020; 63:9197-9211. [PMID: 32787098 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c00257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A series of halo and pseudohalo gold(I)-NHC complexes (NHC-Au-X) (X = Cl, Br, I, NCO, and OAc) derived from 4,5-diarylimidazoles were synthesized, structurally characterized, and analyzed for their biological activities. The most active complex was iodo(1,3-diethyl-4,5-bis(4-methoxyphenyl)imidazol-2-ylidene)gold(I) (6), which was at least 2-fold more cytotoxic than cisplatin and auranofin against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. In vivo studies indicated that complex 6 exhibited a considerably higher anticancer efficacy (IRT = 75.7%) than cisplatin (IRT = 44.4%) in a HepG2 xenograft mouse model and ameliorated liver injury caused by CCl4 in chronic HCC. Further studies revealed that complex 6 can inhibit the expression of the thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) both in vitro and in vivo, block the HepG2 cells in the G2/M phase, induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, damage mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and promote HepG2 cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mianli Bian
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, School of Pharmacy, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Rong Fan
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, School of Pharmacy, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Guizhi Jiang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, School of Pharmacy, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Yingxiang Wang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, School of Pharmacy, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Yunlong Lu
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, School of Pharmacy, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Wukun Liu
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, School of Pharmacy, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
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Murray D, Mirzayans R. Cellular Responses to Platinum-Based Anticancer Drugs and UVC: Role of p53 and Implications for Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165766. [PMID: 32796711 PMCID: PMC7461110 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is intended to induce cancer cell death through apoptosis and other avenues. Unfortunately, as discussed in this article, moderate doses of genotoxic drugs such as cisplatin typical of those achieved in the clinic often invoke a cytostatic/dormancy rather than cytotoxic/apoptosis response in solid tumour-derived cell lines. This is commonly manifested by an extended apoptotic threshold, with extensive apoptosis only being seen after very high/supralethal doses of such agents. The dormancy response can be associated with senescence-like features, polyploidy and/or multinucleation, depending in part on the p53 status of the cells. In most solid tumour-derived cells, dormancy represents a long-term survival mechanism, ultimately contributing to disease recurrence. This review highlights the nonlinearity of key aspects of the molecular and cellular responses to bulky DNA lesions in human cells treated with chemotherapeutic drugs (e.g., cisplatin) or ultraviolet light-C (a widely used tool for unraveling details of the DNA damage-response) as a function of the level of genotoxic stress. Such data highlight the growing realization that targeting dormant cancer cells, which frequently emerge following conventional anticancer treatments, may represent a novel strategy to prevent or, at least, significantly suppress cancer recurrence.
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Mirzayans R, Murray D. Intratumor Heterogeneity and Therapy Resistance: Contributions of Dormancy, Apoptosis Reversal (Anastasis) and Cell Fusion to Disease Recurrence. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041308. [PMID: 32075223 PMCID: PMC7073004 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A major challenge in treating cancer is posed by intratumor heterogeneity, with different sub-populations of cancer cells within the same tumor exhibiting therapy resistance through different biological processes. These include therapy-induced dormancy (durable proliferation arrest through, e.g., polyploidy, multinucleation, or senescence), apoptosis reversal (anastasis), and cell fusion. Unfortunately, such responses are often overlooked or misinterpreted as “death” in commonly used preclinical assays, including the in vitro colony-forming assay and multiwell plate “viability” or “cytotoxicity” assays. Although these assays predominantly determine the ability of a test agent to convert dangerous (proliferating) cancer cells to potentially even more dangerous (dormant) cancer cells, the results are often assumed to reflect loss of cancer cell viability (death). In this article we briefly discuss the dark sides of dormancy, apoptosis, and cell fusion in cancer therapy, and underscore the danger of relying on short-term preclinical assays that generate population-based data averaged over a large number of cells. Unveiling the molecular events that underlie intratumor heterogeneity together with more appropriate experimental design and data interpretation will hopefully lead to clinically relevant strategies for treating recurrent/metastatic disease, which remains a major global health issue despite extensive research over the past half century.
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16
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Liu H, Ma J, Li Y, Yue K, Li L, Xi Z, Zhang X, Liu J, Feng K, Ma Q, Liu S, Guo S, Wang PG, Wang C, Xie S. Polyamine-Based Pt(IV) Prodrugs as Substrates for Polyamine Transporters Preferentially Accumulate in Cancer Metastases as DNA and Polyamine Metabolism Dual-Targeted Antimetastatic Agents. J Med Chem 2019; 62:11324-11334. [PMID: 31765154 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b01641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Diverse platinum drug candidates have been designed to improve inhibitory potency and overcome resistance for orthotopic tumors. However, the antimetastatic properties have rarely been reported. We herein report that homospermidineplatin (4a), a polyamine-Pt(IV) prodrug, can potently inhibit tumor growth in situ and reverse cisplatin resistance as expected, and more importantly, 4a displays remarkably elevated antimetastatic activity in vivo (65.7%), compared to those of cisplatin (27.0%) and oxaliplatin (19.6%). The underlying molecular mechanism indicates that in addition to targeting nuclear DNA, 4a can modulate polyamine metabolism and function in a manner different from that of cisplatin. By upregulating SSAT and PAO, 4a downregulates the concentrations of Put, Spd, and Spm, which favors the suppression of fast-growing tumor cells. Moreover, the p53/SSAT/β-catenin and PAO/ROS/GSH/GSH-Px pathways are involved in the inhibition of 4a-induced tumor metastasis. Our study implies a promising strategy for the design of platinum drugs for the treatment of terminal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanfang Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation , Henan University , North Jinming Avenue , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Jing Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation , Henan University , North Jinming Avenue , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Yingguang Li
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation , Henan University , North Jinming Avenue , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Kexin Yue
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation , Henan University , North Jinming Avenue , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Linrong Li
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation , Henan University , North Jinming Avenue , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Zhuoqing Xi
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation , Henan University , North Jinming Avenue , Kaifeng 475004 , China
- Henan University of Science and Technology Second Affiliated Hospital , Luoyang 471000 , China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immuno-Engineering , Henan University , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Jianing Liu
- School of Medicine , Henan University Minsheng College , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Kai Feng
- School of Medicine , Henan University Minsheng College , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Qi Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation , Henan University , North Jinming Avenue , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Sitong Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation , Henan University , North Jinming Avenue , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Shudi Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation , Henan University , North Jinming Avenue , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Peng George Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology and National Glycoengineering Research Center , Shandong University , Qingdao 266237 , China
| | - Chaojie Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immuno-Engineering , Henan University , Kaifeng 475004 , China
| | - Songqiang Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Institute of Chemical Biology , Henan University , North Jinming Avenue , Kaifeng 475004 , China
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17
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Mirzayans R, Andrais B, Murray D. Viability Assessment Following Anticancer Treatment Requires Single-Cell Visualization. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10080255. [PMID: 30071623 PMCID: PMC6115892 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10080255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
A subset of cells within solid tumors become highly enlarged and enter a state of dormancy (sustained proliferation arrest) in response to anticancer treatment. Although dormant cancer cells might be scored as “dead” in conventional preclinical assays, they remain viable, secrete growth-promoting factors, and can give rise to progeny with stem cell-like properties. Furthermore, cancer cells exhibiting features of apoptosis (e.g., caspase-3 activation) following genotoxic stress can undergo a reversal process called anastasis and survive. Consistent with these observations, single-cell analysis of adherent cultures (solid tumor-derived cell lines with differing p53 status) has demonstrated that virtually all cells—irrespective of their size and morphology—that remain adherent to the culture dish for a long time (weeks) after treatment with anticancer agents exhibit the ability to metabolize 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl- tetrazolium bromide (MTT). The purpose of this commentary is to briefly review these findings and discuss the significance of single-cell (versus population averaged) observation methods for assessment of cancer cell viability and metabolic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razmik Mirzayans
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Bonnie Andrais
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - David Murray
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
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18
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Mirzayans R, Andrais B, Murray D. Roles of Polyploid/Multinucleated Giant Cancer Cells in Metastasis and Disease Relapse Following Anticancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10040118. [PMID: 29662021 PMCID: PMC5923373 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10040118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumors and tumor-derived cell lines contain polyploid giant cells with significantly elevated genomic content, often with multiple nuclei. The frequency of giant cells can increase markedly following anticancer treatment. Although giant cells enter a dormant phase and therefore do not form macroscopic colonies (aggregates of ≥50 cells) in the conventional in vitro colony formation assay, they remain viable and metabolically active. The purpose of this commentary is to underscore the potential importance of polyploid/multinucleated giant cells in metastasis and cancer recurrence following exposure to anticancer agents. We also discuss the possibility that most preclinical (cell-based and animal model) drug discovery approaches might not account for delayed responses that are associated with dormant giant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razmik Mirzayans
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Bonnie Andrais
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - David Murray
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
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Pascua-Maestro R, Corraliza-Gomez M, Diez-Hermano S, Perez-Segurado C, Ganfornina MD, Sanchez D. The MTT-formazan assay: Complementary technical approaches and in vivo validation in Drosophila larvae. Acta Histochem 2018; 120:179-186. [PMID: 29395318 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2018.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The MTT assay was the first widely accepted method to assess cytotoxicity and cell viability. However, there is controversy on whether this indicator is a useful tool. In this work we intend to expand the interpretability of the MTT study by its combination with widely used cellular biology techniques. We propose complementary approaches to the colorimetric assay, based on the use of measurements in three different settings: confocal microscopy, multi-well plate assay and flow cytometry. Using confocal microscopy, we confirmed that MTT uptake and reduction by cells is a time-dependent process, and that formazan accumulates in round-shaped organelles. Quantitative measurements with a multi-well fluorimeter combined with nuclear staining result in a useful method, yielding a ratio between formazan production and cell number that informs about the average cell metabolic state. We also found that flow cytometry is a suitable technique to measure MTT reduction in large cell populations. When assaying the effect of an oxidizing agent such as paraquat (PQ), this approach allows for the distinction of subpopulations of cells with different reducing power. Finally, we prove that it is feasible to monitor MTT reduction in an in vivo model, the Drosophila larvae, without affecting its survival rate. Formazan accumulates exclusively in the larval fat body, confirming its lipid solubility. The methods explored in this work expand the MTT potential as a useful tool to provide information of the physiological state of cells and organisms.
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