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Fiorini S, Rubini E, Perugini M, Altieri F, Chichiarelli S, Meschiari G, Arrighetti G, Vijgen J, Natali PG, Minacori M, Eufemi M. STAT3 Pathways Contribute to β-HCH Interference with Anticancer Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6181. [PMID: 38892372 PMCID: PMC11173063 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are a class of environmentally persistent and bioaccumulative pollutants. Among these, β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH) is a byproduct of lindane synthesis, one of the most worldwide widespread pesticides. β-HCH cellular mechanisms inducing chemical carcinogenesis correspond to many of those inducing chemoresistance, in particular, by the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathways. For this purpose, four cell lines, representative of breast, lung, prostate, and hepatocellular cancers, were treated with β-HCH, specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), and a STAT3 inhibitor. All cell samples were analyzed by a viability assay, immunoblotting analysis, a wound-healing assay, and a colony formation assay. The results show that β-HCH reduces the efficacy of TKIs. The STAT3 protein, in this context, plays a central role. In fact, by inhibiting its activity, the efficacy of the anticancer drug is restored. Furthermore, this manuscript aimed to draw the attention of the scientific and socio-healthcare community to the issue of prolonged exposure to contaminants and their impact on drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Fiorini
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.F.); (F.A.); (S.C.); (G.M.); (M.M.); (M.E.)
| | - Elisabetta Rubini
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, CNR National Research Council, Via degli Apuli, 4, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Monia Perugini
- Department of Bioscience and Agro-Food and Environmental Technology, University of Teramo, Campus “Aurelio Saliceti”, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
| | - Fabio Altieri
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.F.); (F.A.); (S.C.); (G.M.); (M.M.); (M.E.)
| | - Silvia Chichiarelli
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.F.); (F.A.); (S.C.); (G.M.); (M.M.); (M.E.)
| | - Giorgia Meschiari
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.F.); (F.A.); (S.C.); (G.M.); (M.M.); (M.E.)
| | - Giulia Arrighetti
- Department of Cultures, Politics and Society, University of Turin, Via Verdi, 8, 10124 Turin, Italy;
| | - John Vijgen
- International HCH and Pesticides Association (IHPA), Elmevej 14, 2840 Holte, Denmark;
| | - Pier Giorgio Natali
- Collegium Ramazzini, Castello di Bentivoglio, Via Saliceto, 3, 40010 Bologna, Italy
- Lega Italiana per la Lotta contro i Tumori (LILT), Associazione Metropolitana di Roma, Via Nomentana, 303, 00162 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Minacori
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.F.); (F.A.); (S.C.); (G.M.); (M.M.); (M.E.)
- Department of Bioscience and Agro-Food and Environmental Technology, University of Teramo, Campus “Aurelio Saliceti”, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
| | - Margherita Eufemi
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.F.); (F.A.); (S.C.); (G.M.); (M.M.); (M.E.)
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Paglia G, Minacori M, Meschiari G, Fiorini S, Chichiarelli S, Eufemi M, Altieri F. Protein Disulfide Isomerase A3 (PDIA3): A Pharmacological Target in Glioblastoma? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13279. [PMID: 37686085 PMCID: PMC10488224 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The protein disulfide isomerase A3 (PDIA3) is directly or indirectly involved in various physiopathological processes and participates in cancer initiation, progression and chemosensitivity. However, little is known about its involvement in glioblastoma. To obtain specific information, we performed cellular experiments in the T98G and U-87 MG glioblastoma cell lines to evaluate the role of PDIA3. The loss of PDIA3 functions, either through inhibition or silencing, reduced glioblastoma cells spreading by triggering cytotoxic phenomena. PDIA3 inhibition led to a redistribution of PDIA3, resulting in the formation of protein aggregates visualized through immunofluorescence staining. Concurrently, cell cycle progression underwent arrest at the G1/S checkpoint. After PDIA3 inhibition, ROS-independent DNA damage and the activation of the repair system occurred, as evidenced by the phosphorylation of H2A.X and the overexpression of the Ku70 protein. We also demonstrated through a clonogenic assay that PDIA3 inhibition could increase the chemosensitivity of T98G and U-87 MG cells to the approved glioblastoma drug temozolomide (TMZ). Overall, PDIA3 inhibition induced cytotoxic effects in the analyzed glioblastoma cell lines. Although further in vivo studies are needed, the results suggested PDIA3 as a novel therapeutic target that could also be included in already approved therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Fabio Altieri
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (M.M.); (G.M.); (S.F.); (S.C.); (M.E.)
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3
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Girgin B, Kocabaş F. Newly developed MEIS inhibitor selectively blocks MEIS High prostate cancer growth and induces apoptosis. Gene 2023; 871:147425. [PMID: 37044182 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147425] [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: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most diagnosed cancer in males. Understanding the molecular mechanism and investigation of novel ways to block PCa growth or metastasis are vital and a medical necessity. In this study, we examined differential expression of MEIS1/2/3 and its associated factors in PCa cell lines. MEIS1/2/3 content, reactive oxygen species, and cell cycle status were analyzed in PCa cells post MEIS inhibitor (MEISi) treatments, which is developed in our laboratory as a first-in-class small molecule inhibitor. A correlation was detected between MEIS content and MEISi IC50 values of PCa cells. MEISi decreased the viability of PC-3, DU145, 22Rv-1 and LNCaP cells, and significantly increased apoptosis in parallel with the increased cellular ROS content. The efficacy of MEISi was shown to positively correlate with the levels of MEIS1/2/3 proteins and the long term exposure to MEISi elevated MEIS1/2/3 protein content in PCa cells. Our findings suggest that MEISi could be used to target PCa with high MEIS expression in order to reduce PCa viability and growth; however, more research is needed before this can be translated into clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birkan Girgin
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey; Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Neuropharmacology, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Fatih Kocabaş
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey; Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Li Z, Liu J, Fu H, Li Y, Liu Q, Song W, Zeng M. SENP3 affects the expression of PYCR1 to promote bladder cancer proliferation and EMT transformation by deSUMOylation of STAT3. Aging (Albany NY) 2022; 14:8032-8045. [PMID: 36227136 PMCID: PMC9596220 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) has been found in various types of human cancers, including bladder cancer (BC). In our study, we examined the regulation of STAT3 post-translational modifications (PTMs) and found that SENP3 is high in bladder cancer. Sentrin/SUMO-specific protease3 (SENP3) and STAT3 were highly expressed in BC tissues when compared with tissue adjacent to carcinoma. SENP3 induced STAT3 protein level and p-STAT3 translocating into nuclear through deSUMOylation of STAT3. Further, nuclear STAT3, as a transcriptional activity factor, promoted pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase 1 PYCR1 gene and protein level by interacting with the promoter of (PYCR1). Next, we found that knockdown of PYCR1 inhibited Epithelial to mesenchymal transition of bladder cancer, and simultaneously mitigated the carcinogenic effects of STAT3. In vitro, STAT3 knockdown in bladder cancer cells inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In contrast, SENP3 overexpression reversed these effects. In all, results lend novel insights into the regulation of STAT3, which has key roles in bladder cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Li
- Department of Urology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha City, Hunan Province 410005, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Urology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha City, Hunan Province 410005, China
| | - Huifeng Fu
- Department of Urology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha City, Hunan Province 410005, China
| | - Yuanwei Li
- Department of Urology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha City, Hunan Province 410005, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Urology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha City, Hunan Province 410005, China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Urology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha City, Hunan Province 410005, China
| | - Mingqiang Zeng
- Department of Urology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha City, Hunan Province 410005, China
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Curcumol Inhibits the Development of Prostate Cancer by miR-125a/STAT3 Axis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:9317402. [PMID: 35942374 PMCID: PMC9356804 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9317402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Aim This study aimed to learn the antineoplastic activity of curcumol (Cur) on prostate cancer (PCa) and elucidate its potential molecular mechanism. Methods The proliferation, invasion, and migration of PCa cells (PC3 and 22RV1) were detected by the cell counting kit 8 (CCK8), transwell, and wound healing assay, respectively. The expression of genes and proteins was analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting (WB), respectively. The protein expression in tissues and cells was tested through immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunocytochemistry (ICC). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was utilized to quantify the level of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The interaction between microRNA125a (miR-125a) and the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was confirmed via dual-luciferase reporter assay. Results Cur effectively restrained the proliferation, invasion, and migration of PC3 and 22RV1 cells. After Cur intervention, miR-125a, miR-375, miR-149, miR-183, and miR-106b were all upregulated in PC3 cells, among which miR-125a was the most significantly upregulated. Dual-luciferase reporter assay combined with qRT-PCR and WB experiments confirmed that miR-125a targeted STAT3. Both in vitro and in vivo, Cur enhanced miR-125a expression and suppressed the activation of the STAT3 pathway in PCa. Also, Cur effectively inhibited the growth of PCa. Conclusion Cur inhibited the development of PCa by miR-125a/STAT3 axis. This may provide a potential agent for treating PCa.
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Pinus mugo Essential Oil Impairs STAT3 Activation through Oxidative Stress and Induces Apoptosis in Prostate Cancer Cells. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27154834. [PMID: 35956786 PMCID: PMC9369512 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27154834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Essential oils (EOs) and their components have been reported to possess anticancer properties and to increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy. The aim of this work was to select EOs able to downregulate STAT3 signaling using Western blot and RT-PCR analyses. The molecular mechanism of anti-STAT3 activity was evaluated through spectrophotometric and fluorometric analyses, and the biological effect of STAT3 inhibition was analyzed by flow cytometry and wound healing assay. Herein, Pinus mugo EO (PMEO) is identified as an inhibitor of constitutive STAT3 phosphorylation in human prostate cancer cells, DU145. The down-modulation of the STAT3 signaling cascade decreased the expression of anti-proliferative as well as anti-apoptotic genes and proteins, leading to the inhibition of cell migration and apoptotic cell death. PMEO treatment induced a rapid drop in glutathione (GSH) levels and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentration, resulting in mild oxidative stress. Pretreatment of cells with N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), a cell-permeable ROS scavenger, reverted the inhibitory action of PMEO on STAT3 phosphorylation. Moreover, combination therapy revealed that PMEO treatment displayed synergism with cisplatin in inducing the cytotoxic effect. Overall, our data highlight the importance of STAT3 signaling in PMEO cytotoxic activity, as well as the possibility of developing adjuvant therapy or sensitizing cancer cells to conventional chemotherapy.
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Giridharan M, Rupani V, Banerjee S. Signaling Pathways and Targeted Therapies for Stem Cells in Prostate Cancer. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:193-206. [PMID: 35434534 PMCID: PMC9003388 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most frequently occurring cancers among men, and the current statistics show that it is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men. Over the years, research in PCa treatment and therapies has made many advances. Despite these efforts, the standardized therapies such as radiation, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and surgery are not considered completely effective in treating advanced and metastatic PCa. In most situations, fast-dividing tumor cells are targeted, leaving behind relatively slowly dividing, chemoresistant cells known as cancer stem cells. Therefore, following the seemingly successful treatments, the lingering quiescent cancer stem cells are able to renew themselves, undergo differentiation into mature tumor cells, and sufficiently reinitiate the disease, leading to cancer relapse. Thus, prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs) have been reported to play a vital role in controlling the dynamics of tumorigenesis, progression, and resistance to therapies in PCa. However, the complete knowledge on the mechanisms regulating the stemness of PCSCs is still unclear. Thus, studying the stemness of PCSCs will allow for the development of more effective cancer therapies due to the durable response, resulting in a reduction in recurrences of cancer. In this Review, we will specifically describe the molecular mechanisms responsible for regulating the stemness of PCSCs. Furthermore, current developments in stem cell-specific therapeutic approaches along with future prospects will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhuvanthi Giridharan
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore-632104, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vasu Rupani
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore-632104, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Satarupa Banerjee
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore-632104, Tamil Nadu, India
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Rubini E, Minacori M, Paglia G, Macone A, Chichiarelli S, Altieri F, Eufemi M. Tomato and Olive Bioactive Compounds: A Natural Shield against the Cellular Effects Induced by β-Hexachlorocyclohexane-Activated Signaling Pathways. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26237135. [PMID: 34885717 PMCID: PMC8658925 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26237135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The β-isomer of hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH) is a globally widespread pollutant that embodies all the physicochemical characteristics of organochlorine pesticides, constituting an environmental risk factor for a wide range of noncommunicable diseases. Previous in vitro studies from our group disclosed the carcinogenic potential of β-HCH, which contributes to neoplastic transformation by means of multifaceted intracellular mechanisms. Considering the positive evidence regarding the protective role of natural bioactive compounds against pollution-induced toxicity, micronutrients from olive and tomato endowed with the capability of modulating β-HCH cellular targets were tested. For this purpose, the solution obtained from a patented food supplement (No. EP2851080A1), referred to as Tomato and Olive Bioactive Compounds (TOBC), was administered to the androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cells LNCaP and different biochemical and cellular assays were performed to evaluate its efficiency. TOBC shows a dose-dependent significant chemoprotection by contrasting β-HCH-induced intracellular responses such as STAT3 and AhR activation, disruption of AR signaling, antiapoptotic and proliferative activity, and increase in ROS production and DNA damage. These experimental outcomes identified TOBC as a suitable functional food to be included in a diet regimen aimed at defending cells from β-HCH negative effects, recommending the development of tailored enriched formulations for exposed individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Rubini
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (M.M.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.E.)
- Enrico ed Enrica Sovena Foundation, 00199 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Federico Calabresi Onlus, 00186 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Minacori
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (M.M.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.E.)
| | - Giuliano Paglia
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (M.M.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.E.)
| | - Alberto Macone
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (M.M.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.E.)
| | - Silvia Chichiarelli
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (M.M.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.E.)
| | - Fabio Altieri
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (M.M.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.E.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Margherita Eufemi
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (M.M.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.E.)
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Tesoriere A, Dinarello A, Argenton F. The Roles of Post-Translational Modifications in STAT3 Biological Activities and Functions. Biomedicines 2021; 9:956. [PMID: 34440160 PMCID: PMC8393524 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9080956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STAT3 is an important transcription factor that regulates cell growth and proliferation by regulating gene transcription of a plethora of genes. This protein also has many roles in cancer progression and several tumors such as prostate, lung, breast, and intestine cancers that are characterized by strong STAT3-dependent transcriptional activity. This protein is post-translationally modified in different ways according to cellular context and stimulus, and the same post-translational modification can have opposite effects in different cellular models. In this review, we describe the studies performed on the main modifications affecting the activity of STAT3: phosphorylation of tyrosine 705 and serine 727; acetylation of lysine 49, 87, 601, 615, 631, 685, 707, and 709; and methylation of lysine 49, 140, and 180. The extensive results obtained by different studies demonstrate that post-translational modifications drastically change STAT3 activities and that we need further analysis to properly elucidate all the functions of this multifaceted transcription factor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Francesco Argenton
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.T.); (A.D.)
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β-Hexachlorocyclohexane Drives Carcinogenesis in the Human Normal Bronchial Epithelium Cell Line BEAS-2B. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115834. [PMID: 34072471 PMCID: PMC8199278 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Organochlorine pesticides constitute the majority of the total environmental pollutants, and a wide range of compounds have been found to be carcinogenic to humans. Among all, growing interest has been focused on β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), virtually the most hazardous and, at the same time, the most poorly investigated member of the hexachlorocyclohexane family. Considering the multifaceted biochemical activities of β-HCH, already established in our previous studies, the aim of this work is to assess whether β-HCH could also trigger cellular malignant transformation toward cancer development. For this purpose, experiments were performed on the human normal bronchial epithelium cell line BEAS-2B exposed to 10 µM β-HCH. The obtained results strongly support the carcinogenic potential of β-HCH, which is achieved through both non-genotoxic (activation of oncogenic signaling pathways and proliferative activity) and indirect genotoxic (ROS production and DNA damage) mechanisms that significantly affect cellular macroscopic characteristics and functions such as cell morphology, cell cycle profile, and apoptosis. Taking all these elements into account, the presented study provides important elements to further characterize β-HCH, which appears to be a full-fledged carcinogenic agent.
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11
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Hooshmand A. Accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer using logistic regression. Open Med (Wars) 2021; 16:459-463. [PMID: 33817323 PMCID: PMC8005780 DOI: 10.1515/med-2021-0238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A new logistic regression-based method to distinguish between cancerous and noncancerous RNA genomic data is developed and tested with 100% precision on 595 healthy and cancerous prostate samples. A logistic regression system is developed and trained using whole-exome sequencing data at a high-level, i.e., normalized quantification of RNAs obtained from 495 prostate cancer samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas and 100 healthy samples from the Genotype-Tissue Expression project. We could show that both sensitivity and specificity of the method in the classification of cancerous and noncancerous cells are perfectly 100%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Hooshmand
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Health Systems, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 11428 Stockholm, Sweden
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12
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Samaržija I. Post-Translational Modifications That Drive Prostate Cancer Progression. Biomolecules 2021; 11:247. [PMID: 33572160 PMCID: PMC7915076 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
While a protein primary structure is determined by genetic code, its specific functional form is mostly achieved in a dynamic interplay that includes actions of many enzymes involved in post-translational modifications. This versatile repertoire is widely used by cells to direct their response to external stimuli, regulate transcription and protein localization and to keep proteostasis. Herein, post-translational modifications with evident potency to drive prostate cancer are explored. A comprehensive list of proteome-wide and single protein post-translational modifications and their involvement in phenotypic outcomes is presented. Specifically, the data on phosphorylation, glycosylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, acetylation, and lipidation in prostate cancer and the enzymes involved are collected. This type of knowledge is especially valuable in cases when cancer cells do not differ in the expression or mutational status of a protein, but its differential activity is regulated on the level of post-translational modifications. Since their driving roles in prostate cancer, post-translational modifications are widely studied in attempts to advance prostate cancer treatment. Current strategies that exploit the potential of post-translational modifications in prostate cancer therapy are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Samaržija
- Laboratory for Epigenomics, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Caston RA, Gampala S, Armstrong L, Messmann RA, Fishel ML, Kelley MR. The multifunctional APE1 DNA repair-redox signaling protein as a drug target in human disease. Drug Discov Today 2021; 26:218-228. [PMID: 33148489 PMCID: PMC7855940 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2020.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) endonuclease-reduction/oxidation factor 1 (APE1/Ref-1, also called APE1) is a multifunctional enzyme with crucial roles in DNA repair and reduction/oxidation (redox) signaling. APE1 was originally described as an endonuclease in the Base Excision Repair (BER) pathway. Further study revealed it to be a redox signaling hub regulating critical transcription factors (TFs). Although a significant amount of focus has been on the role of APE1 in cancer, recent findings support APE1 as a target in other indications, including ocular diseases [diabetic retinopathy (DR), diabetic macular edema (DME), and age-related macular degeneration (AMD)], inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and others, where APE1 regulation of crucial TFs impacts important pathways in these diseases. The central responsibilities of APE1 in DNA repair and redox signaling make it an attractive therapeutic target for cancer and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Caston
- Herman B. Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Silpa Gampala
- Herman B. Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Lee Armstrong
- Herman B. Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | | | - Melissa L Fishel
- Herman B. Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Mark R Kelley
- Herman B. Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1044 W. Walnut, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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14
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Rubini E, Paglia G, Cannella D, Macone A, Di Sotto A, Gullì M, Altieri F, Eufemi M. β-Hexachlorocyclohexane: A Small Molecule with a Big Impact on Human Cellular Biochemistry. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8110505. [PMID: 33207735 PMCID: PMC7698094 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8110505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) belong to a heterogeneous class of organic compounds blacklisted by the Stockholm Convention in 2009 due to their harmful impact on human health. Among OCPs, β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH) is one of the most widespread and, at the same time, poorly studied environmental contaminant. Due to its physicochemical properties, β-HCH is the most hazardous of all HCH isomers; therefore, clarifying the mechanisms underlying its molecular action could provide further elements to draw the biochemical profile of this OCP. For this purpose, LNCaP and HepG2 cell lines were used as models and were subjected to immunoblot, immunofluorescence, and RT-qPCR analysis to follow the expression and mRNA levels, together with the distribution, of key biomolecules involved in the intracellular responses to β-HCH. In parallel, variations in redox homeostasis and cellular bioenergetic profile were monitored to have a complete overview of β-HCH effects. Obtained results strongly support the hypothesis that β-HCH could be an endocrine disrupting chemical as well as an activator of AhR signaling, promoting the establishment of an oxidative stress condition and a cellular metabolic shift toward aerobic glycolysis. In this altered context, β-HCH can also induce DNA damage through H2AX phosphorylation, demonstrating its multifaceted mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Rubini
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (F.A.)
- PhotoBioCatalysis Unit–Bio-Cat, Interfaculty School of Bioengineers, Université libre de Bruxelles, CP245, Bd du Triomphe, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Giuliano Paglia
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (F.A.)
| | - David Cannella
- PhotoBioCatalysis Unit–Bio-Cat, Interfaculty School of Bioengineers, Université libre de Bruxelles, CP245, Bd du Triomphe, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Alberto Macone
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (F.A.)
| | - Antonella Di Sotto
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.D.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Marco Gullì
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.D.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Fabio Altieri
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (F.A.)
| | - Margherita Eufemi
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.R.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (F.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-4991-0598
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15
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Perspectives Regarding the Intersections between STAT3 and Oxidative Metabolism in Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102202. [PMID: 33003453 PMCID: PMC7600636 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) functions as a major molecular switch that plays an important role in the communication between cytokines and kinases. In this role, it regulates the transcription of genes involved in various biochemical processes, such as proliferation, migration, and metabolism of cancer cells. STAT3 undergoes diverse post-translational modifications, such as the oxidation of cysteine by oxidative stress, the acetylation of lysine, or the phosphorylation of serine/threonine. In particular, the redox modulation of critical cysteine residues present in the DNA-binding domain of STAT3 inhibits its DNA-binding activity, resulting in the inactivation of STAT3-mediated gene expression. Accumulating evidence supports that STAT3 is a key protein that acts as a mediator of metabolism and mitochondrial activity. In this review, we focus on the post-translational modifications of STAT3 by oxidative stress and how the modification of STAT3 regulates cell metabolism, particularly in the metabolic pathways in cancer cells.
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16
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Ding H, Yu X, Hang C, Gao K, Lao X, Jia Y, Yan Z. Ailanthone: A novel potential drug for treating human cancer. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:1489-1503. [PMID: 32724391 PMCID: PMC7377054 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of death after cardiovascular disease. In 2015, >8.7 million people died worldwide due to cancer, and by 2030 this figure is expected to increase to ~13.1 million. Tumor chemotherapy drugs have specific toxicity and side effects, and patients can also develop secondary drug resistance. To prevent and treat cancer, scientists have developed novel drugs with improved antitumor effects and decreased toxicity. Ailanthone (AIL) is a quassinoid extract from the traditional Chinese medicine plant Ailanthus altissima, which is known to have anti-inflammatory and antimalarial effects. An increasing number of studies have focused on AIL due to its antitumor activity. AIL can inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis by up- or downregulating cancer-associated molecules, which ultimately leads to cancer cell death. Antitumor effects of AIL have been observed in melanoma, acute myeloid leukemia, bladder, lung, breast, gastric and prostate cancer and vestibular neurilemmoma. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first review to describe the antitumor mechanisms of AIL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixiang Ding
- Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, P.R. China
| | - Xiuchong Yu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of The Medical School of Ningbo University and Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, P.R. China
| | - Chen Hang
- Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, P.R. China
| | - Kaijun Gao
- Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, P.R. China
| | - Xifeng Lao
- Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, P.R. China
| | - Yangtao Jia
- Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, P.R. China
| | - Zhilong Yan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of The Medical School of Ningbo University and Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, P.R. China
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17
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Panda SP, Panigrahy UP, Prasanth D, Gorla US, Guntupalli C, Panda DP, Jena BR. A trimethoxy flavonoid isolated from stem extract of Tabebuia chrysantha suppresses angiogenesis in angiosarcoma. J Pharm Pharmacol 2020; 72:990-999. [PMID: 32311118 DOI: 10.1111/jphp.13272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This research aimed to evaluate the antiangiogenic activity of isolated flavonoid 4a,5,8,8a-tetrahydro-5-hydroxy-3,7,8-trimethoxy-2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl) chromen-4-one (TMF) from Tabebuia chrysantha. STAT3-MMP9 signalling is a signal transduction mechanism that promotes angiogenesis in various cancers. METHODS The tumour xenografting chicken embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model-based ex vivo assay was used to evaluate the activity of TMF. The Western blot, densitometric analysis and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were performed to evaluate the activity of the MMP9. Zebrafish embryos were used to evaluate embryotoxicity, and in vitro free radical scavenging activity of flavonoid was also elucidated. KEY FINDINGS This research assessed the high level of STAT3, p-ERK, VEGF-R and MMP9 in the tissue extract of the control group, and also, the suppression of angiogenesis in the treatment groups was due to scavenged ROS and RNS, dephosphorylation of STAT3 and ERK, and suppression of MMP9 gene expression. CONCLUSION The isolated flavonoid named TMF from T. chrysantha functions as specific regulators of target proteins of angiosarcoma. The STAT3-MMP9 signalling may be used as an effective prognostic marker of angiosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siva Prasad Panda
- Pharmacology research division, College of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram, India
| | | | - Dsnbk Prasanth
- Pharmacology research division, College of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram, India
| | - Uma Sankar Gorla
- Pharmacology research division, College of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram, India
| | - Chakravarthi Guntupalli
- Pharmacology research division, College of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram, India
| | | | - Bikash Ranjan Jena
- Southern Institute of Medical Sciences (SIMS college of Pharmacy), Guntur, India
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18
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da Fonseca GWP, Farkas J, Dora E, von Haehling S, Lainscak M. Cancer Cachexia and Related Metabolic Dysfunction. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072321. [PMID: 32230855 PMCID: PMC7177950 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cachexia is a complex multifactorial syndrome marked by a continuous depletion of skeletal muscle mass associated, in some cases, with a reduction in fat mass. It is irreversible by nutritional support alone and affects up to 74% of patients with cancer-dependent on the underlying type of cancer-and is associated with physical function impairment, reduced response to cancer-related therapy, and higher mortality. Organs, like muscle, adipose tissue, and liver, play an important role in the progression of cancer cachexia by exacerbating the pro- and anti-inflammatory response initially activated by the tumor and the immune system of the host. Moreover, this metabolic dysfunction is produced by alterations in glucose, lipids, and protein metabolism that, when maintained chronically, may lead to the loss of skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Although a couple of drugs have yielded positive results in increasing lean body mass with limited impact on physical function, a single therapy has not lead to effective treatment of this condition. Therefore, a multimodal intervention, including pharmacological agents, nutritional support, and physical exercise, may be a reasonable approach for future studies to better understand and prevent the wasting of body compartments in patients with cancer cachexia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Wesley Peixoto da Fonseca
- Heart Institute (InCor), University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo SP 05403-900, Brazil or
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, University Medicine Göttingen (UMG), DE-37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Jerneja Farkas
- Research Unit, General Hospital Murska Sobota, SI-9000 Murska Sobota, Slovenia;
- National Institute of Public Health, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Eva Dora
- Division of Cardiology, General Hospital Murska Sobota, SI-9000 Murska Sobota, Slovenia;
| | - Stephan von Haehling
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, University Medicine Göttingen (UMG), DE-37075 Goettingen, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Goettingen, DE-37099 Goettingen, Germany
- Correspondence: (S.v.H.); (M.L.); Tel.: +49-551-3920-911 (S.v.H.); +386-251-23-733 (M.L.); Fax: +49-551-3920-918 (S.v.H.); Fax: +386-252-11-007 (M.L.)
| | - Mitja Lainscak
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Division of Cardiology, General Hospital Murska Sobota, SI-9000 Murska Sobota, Slovenia;
- Correspondence: (S.v.H.); (M.L.); Tel.: +49-551-3920-911 (S.v.H.); +386-251-23-733 (M.L.); Fax: +49-551-3920-918 (S.v.H.); Fax: +386-252-11-007 (M.L.)
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19
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Cytokines and Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling in prostate cancer: overview and therapeutic opportunities. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2020.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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20
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Di Sotto A, Irannejad H, Eufemi M, Mancinelli R, Abete L, Mammola CL, Altieri F, Mazzanti G, Di Giacomo S. Potentiation of Low-Dose Doxorubicin Cytotoxicity by Affecting P-Glycoprotein through Caryophyllane Sesquiterpenes in HepG2 Cells: an in Vitro and in Silico Study. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E633. [PMID: 31963614 PMCID: PMC7014471 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Doxorubicin represents a valuable choice for different cancers, although the severe side effects occurring at the high effective dose limits its clinical use. In the present study, potential strategies to potentiate low-dose doxorubicin efficacy, including a metronomic schedule, characterized by a short and repeated exposure to the anticancer drug, and the combination with the natural chemosensitizing sesquiterpenes β-caryophyllene and β-caryophyllene oxide, were assessed in human hepatoma HepG2 cells. The involvement of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in the HepG2-chemosensitization to doxorubicin was evaluated. Also, the direct interaction of caryophyllene sesquiterpenes with P-gp was characterized by molecular docking and dynamic simulation studies. A metronomic schedule allowed us to enhance the low-dose doxorubicin cytotoxicity and the combination with caryophyllane sesquiterpenes further potentiated this effect. Also, an increased intracellular accumulation of doxorubicin and rhodamine 123 induced by caryophyllane sesquiterpenes was found, thus suggesting their interference with P-gp function. A lowered expression of P-gp induced by the combinations, with respect to doxorubicin alone, was observed too. Docking studies found that the binding site of caryophyllane sesquiterpene was next to the ATP binding domain of P-gp and that β-caryophyllene possessed the stronger binding affinity and higher inhibition potential calculated by MM-PBSA. Present findings strengthen our hypothesis about the potential chemosensitizing power of caryophyllane sesquiterpenes and suggest that combining a chemosensitizer and a metronomic schedule can represent a suitable strategy to overcome drawbacks of doxorubicin chemotherapy while exploiting its powerful activity.
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MESH Headings
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B, Member 1/genetics
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B, Member 1/metabolism
- Antibiotics, Antineoplastic/pharmacology
- Apoptosis
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Computer Simulation
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Doxorubicin/pharmacology
- Humans
- In Vitro Techniques
- Liver Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Polycyclic Sesquiterpenes/chemistry
- Sesquiterpenes/chemistry
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Di Sotto
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (G.M.); (S.D.G.)
| | - Hamid Irannejad
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, 48175-866 Sari, Iran;
| | - Margherita Eufemi
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Romina Mancinelli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (R.M.); (C.L.M.)
| | - Lorena Abete
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (G.M.); (S.D.G.)
| | - Caterina Loredana Mammola
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (R.M.); (C.L.M.)
| | - Fabio Altieri
- Department of Biochemical Science “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gabriela Mazzanti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (G.M.); (S.D.G.)
| | - Silvia Di Giacomo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (G.M.); (S.D.G.)
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21
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Marrocco I, Altieri F, Rubini E, Paglia G, Chichiarelli S, Giamogante F, Macone A, Perugia G, Magliocca FM, Gurtner A, Maras B, Ragno R, Patsilinakos A, Manganaro R, Eufemi M. Shmt2: A Stat3 Signaling New Player in Prostate Cancer Energy Metabolism. Cells 2019; 8:cells8091048. [PMID: 31500219 PMCID: PMC6770108 DOI: 10.3390/cells8091048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a multifactorial disease characterized by the aberrant activity of different regulatory pathways. STAT3 protein mediates some of these pathways and its activation is implicated in the modulation of several metabolic enzymes. A bioinformatic analysis indicated a STAT3 binding site in the upstream region of SHMT2 gene. We demonstrated that in LNCaP, PCa cells’ SHMT2 expression is upregulated by the JAK2/STAT3 canonical pathway upon IL-6 stimulation. Activation of SHTM2 leads to a decrease in serine levels, pushing PKM2 towards the nuclear compartment where it can activate STAT3 in a non-canonical fashion that in turn promotes a transient shift toward anaerobic metabolism. These results were also confirmed on FFPE prostate tissue sections at different Gleason scores. STAT3/SHMT2/PKM2 loop in LNCaP cells can modulate a metabolic shift in response to inflammation at early stages of cancer progression, whereas a non-canonical STAT3 activation involving the STAT3/HIF-1α/PKM2 loop is responsible for the maintenance of Warburg effect distinctive of more aggressive PCa cells. Chronic inflammation might thus prime the transition of PCa cells towards more advanced stages, and SHMT2 could represent a missing factor to further understand the molecular mechanisms responsible for the transition of prostate cancer towards a more aggressive phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Marrocco
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Fabio Altieri
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Rubini
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giuliano Paglia
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvia Chichiarelli
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Flavia Giamogante
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Alberto Macone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giacomo Perugia
- Department of Maternal Child and Urologic Sciences, Sapienza University, V.le Dell'Università 33, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Fabio Massimo Magliocca
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University, V.le del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Aymone Gurtner
- Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics, and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy.
| | - Bruno Maras
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Rino Ragno
- Rome Center for Molecular Design, Sapienza University, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
- Alchemical Dynamics s.r.l., 00125 Rome, Italy.
| | - Alexandros Patsilinakos
- Rome Center for Molecular Design, Sapienza University, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
- Alchemical Dynamics s.r.l., 00125 Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Margherita Eufemi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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