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Haewphet T, Parhira S, Chaisupasakul P, Wangteeraprasert A, Phoungpetchara I, Pekthong D, Kaewkong W, Jiang ZH, Bai LP, Somran J, Srisawang P. The dichloromethane fraction from Calotropis gigantea (L.) dryand. Stem bark extract prevents liver cancer in SDT rats with insulin-independent diabetes mellitus. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 334:118516. [PMID: 38971341 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Calotropis gigantea (L.) Dryand. (C. gigantea) is a traditional medicinal plant, recognized for its effectiveness in managing diabetes, along with its notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by chronic metabolic disorders associated with an elevated risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to hyperglycemia and impaired insulin response. The scientific validation of C. gigantea's ethnopharmacological efficacy offers advantages in alleviating cancer progression in T2DM complications, enriching existing knowledge and potentially aiding future clinical cancer treatments. AIM This study aimed to investigate the preventive potential of the dichloromethane fraction of C. gigantea stem bark extract (CGDCM) against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC in T2DM rats, aiming to reduce cancer incidence associated with diabetes while validating C. gigantea's ethnopharmacological efficacy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Spontaneously Diabetic Torii (SDT) rats were administered DEN to induce HCC (SDT-DEN-VEH), followed by treatment with CGDCM. Metformin was used as a positive control (SDT-DEN-MET). All the treatments were administered for 10 weeks after the initial DEN injection. Diabetes-related parameters, including serum levels of glucose, insulin, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), as well as liver function enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase), were quantified. Serum inflammation biomarkers interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were evaluated. Liver tissue samples were analyzed for inflammation protein expression (IL-6, TNF-α, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)). Histopathological evaluation was performed to assess hepatic necrosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Liver cell proliferation was determined using immunohistochemistry for Ki-67 expression. RESULTS Rats with SDT-DEN-induced HCC treated with CGDCM exhibited reduced serum glucose levels, elevated insulin levels, and decreased HbA1c levels. CGDCM treatment also reduced elevated hepatic IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β1, and α-SMA levels in SDT-DEN-VEH rats. Additionally, CGDCM treatment prevented hepatocyte damage, fibrosis, and cell proliferation. No adverse effects on normal organs were observed with CGDCM treatment, suggesting its safety for the treatment of HCC complications associated with diabetes. Additionally, the absence of adverse effects in SD rats treated with CGDCM at 2.5 mg/kg further supports the notion of its safe usage. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that C. gigantea stem bark extract exerts preventive effects against the development of HCC complications in patients with T2DM, expanding the potential benefits of its ethnopharmacological advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaiyawat Haewphet
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Supawadee Parhira
- Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Environmental Health and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Pattaraporn Chaisupasakul
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | | | - Ittipon Phoungpetchara
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Dumrongsak Pekthong
- Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Environmental Health and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Worasak Kaewkong
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Zhi-Hong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, China.
| | - Li-Ping Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, China.
| | - Julintorn Somran
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Piyarat Srisawang
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
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Devan AR, Nair B, Pradeep GK, Alexander R, Vinod BS, Nath LR, Calina D, Sharifi-Rad J. The role of glypican-3 in hepatocellular carcinoma: Insights into diagnosis and therapeutic potential. Eur J Med Res 2024; 29:490. [PMID: 39369212 PMCID: PMC11453014 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-024-02073-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/22/2024] [Indexed: 10/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Glypican-3 (GPC-3) is predominantly found in the placenta and fetal liver, with limited expression in adult tissues. Its re-expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and secretion into the serum highlights its potential as a diagnostic marker. GPC-3 is involved in important cellular processes such as proliferation, metastasis, apoptosis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition through various signaling pathways including Wnt, IGF, YAP, and Hedgehog. To review the structure, biosynthesis, and post-translational modifications of GPC-3, and to elucidate its signaling mechanisms and role as a pro-proliferative protein in HCC, emphasizing its diagnostic and therapeutic potential. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on the expression of GPC-3 in various tumors, with a special emphasis on HCC. The review synthesized findings from experimental studies and clinical trials, analyzing the overexpression of GPC-3 in HCC, its differentiation from other liver diseases, and its potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. GPC-3 overexpression in HCC is linked to aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis, including shorter overall and disease-free survival. Additionally, GPC-3 has emerged as a promising therapeutic target. Ongoing investigations, including immunotherapies such as monoclonal antibodies and CAR-T cell therapies, demonstrate potential in inhibiting tumor growth and improving clinical outcomes. The review details the multifaceted roles of GPC-3 in tumorigenesis, including its impact on tumor-associated macrophages, glucose metabolism, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, all contributing to HCC progression. GPC-3's re-expression in HCC and its involvement in key tumorigenic processes underscore its value as a biomarker for early diagnosis and a target for therapeutic intervention. Further research is warranted to fully exploit GPC-3's diagnostic and therapeutic potential in HCC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aswathy R Devan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Ponekkara P.O., Kochi, Kerala, 682041, India
| | - Bhagyalakshmi Nair
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Ponekkara P.O., Kochi, Kerala, 682041, India
| | - Govind K Pradeep
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Ponekkara P.O., Kochi, Kerala, 682041, India
| | - Roshini Alexander
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Ponekkara P.O., Kochi, Kerala, 682041, India
| | - Balachandran S Vinod
- Department of Biochemistry, Sree Narayana College, Kollam, Kerala, 691001, India
| | - Lekshmi R Nath
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Ponekkara P.O., Kochi, Kerala, 682041, India.
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349, Craiova, Romania.
| | - Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Universidad Espíritu Santo, Samborondón, 092301, Ecuador.
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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Kineman RD, Del Rio-Moreno M, Waxman DJ. Liver-specific actions of GH and IGF1 that protect against MASLD. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024:10.1038/s41574-024-01037-0. [PMID: 39322791 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-024-01037-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD; also known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) is a chronic condition associated with metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that includes obesity, insulin resistance, hyperlipidaemia and cardiovascular disease. Primary growth hormone (GH) deficiency is associated with MASLD, and the decline in circulating levels of GH with weight gain might contribute to the development of MASLD. Raising endogenous GH secretion or administering GH replacement therapy in the context of MASLD enhances insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) production and reduces steatosis and the severity of liver injury. GH and IGF1 indirectly control MASLD progression by regulating systemic metabolic function. Evidence supports the proposal that GH and IGF1 also have a direct role in regulating liver metabolism and health. This Review focuses on how GH acts on the hepatocyte in a sex-dependent manner to limit lipid accumulation, reduce stress, and promote survival and regeneration. In addition, we discuss how GH and IGF1 might regulate non-parenchymal cells of the liver to control inflammation and fibrosis, which have a major effect on hepatocyte survival and regeneration. Development of a better understanding of how GH and IGF1 coordinate the functions of specific, individual liver cell types might provide insight into the aetiology of MASLD initiation and progression and suggest novel approaches for the treatment of MASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhonda D Kineman
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Research and Development Division, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Mercedes Del Rio-Moreno
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Research and Development Division, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David J Waxman
- Department of Biology and Bioinformatics Program, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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Zhang J, Zhang F, Zhang L, Zhang M, Liu S, Ma Y. Screening and molecular docking verification of feature genes related to phospholipid metabolism in hepatocarcinoma caused by hepatitis B. Lipids Health Dis 2024; 23:268. [PMID: 39182089 PMCID: PMC11344459 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-024-02253-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The progression of tumours is related to abnormal phospholipid metabolism. This study is anticipated to present a fresh perspective for disease therapy targets of hepatocarcinoma caused by hepatitis B virus in the future by screening feature genes related to phospholipid metabolism. METHODS This study analysed GSE121248 to pinpoint differentially expressed genes (DEGs). By examining the overlap between the metabolism-related genes and DEGs, the research focused on the genes involved in phospholipid metabolism. To find feature genes, functional enrichment studies were carried out and a network diagram was proposed. These findings were validated via data base of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Further analyses included immune infiltration studies and metabolomics. Finally, the relationships between differentially abundant metabolites and feature genes were confirmed by molecular docking, providing a thorough comprehension of the molecular mechanisms. RESULTS The seven genes with the highest degree of connection (PTGS2, IGF1, SPP1, BCHE, NR1I2, NAMPT, and FABP1) were identified as feature genes. In the TCGA database, the seven feature genes also had certain diagnostic efficiency. Immune infiltration analysis revealed that feature genes regulate the infiltration of various immune cells. Metabolomics successfully identified the different metabolites of the phospholipid metabolism pathway between patients and normal individuals. The docking study indicated that different metabolites may play essential roles in causing disease by targeting feature genes. CONCLUSIONS In this study, for the first time, it reveals the possible involvement of genes linked to phospholipid metabolism-related genes using bioinformatics analysis. Identifying genes and probable therapeutic targets could provide clues for the further treatment of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Fengmei Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin, 300170, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin, 300170, China.
| | - Meiling Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics (Theranostics), School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Shuye Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin, 300170, China.
| | - Ying Ma
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics (Theranostics), School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
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He Y, Han S, Li H, Wu Y, Jia W, Chen Z, Pan Y, Cai N, Wen J, Li G, Liang J, Zhao J, Liu Q, Liang H, Ding Z, Huang Z, Zhang B. CREB3 suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma progression by depressing AKT signaling through competitively binding with insulin receptor and transcriptionally activating RNA-binding motif protein 38. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e633. [PMID: 38952575 PMCID: PMC11215284 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
cAMP responsive element binding protein 3 (CREB3), belonging to bZIP family, was reported to play multiple roles in various cancers, but its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still unclear. cAMP responsive element binding protein 3 like 3 (CREB3L3), another member of bZIP family, was thought to be transcription factor (TF) to regulate hepatic metabolism. Nevertheless, except for being TFs, other function of bZIP family were poorly understood. In this study, we found CREB3 inhibited growth and metastasis of HCC in vitro and in vivo. RNA sequencing indicated CREB3 regulated AKT signaling to influence HCC progression. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed CREB3 interacted with insulin receptor (INSR). Mechanistically, CREB3 suppressed AKT phosphorylation by inhibiting the interaction of INSR with insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1). In our study, CREB3 was firstly proved to affect activation of substrates by interacting with tyrosine kinase receptor. Besides, CREB3 could act as a TF to transactivate RNA-binding motif protein 38 (RBM38) expression, leading to suppressed AKT phosphorylation. Rescue experiments further confirmed the independence between the two functional manners. In conclusion, CREB3 acted as a tumor suppressor in HCC, which inhibited AKT phosphorylation through independently interfering interaction of INSR with IRS1, and transcriptionally activating RBM38.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi He
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Department of Pediatric SurgeryTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Shenqi Han
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Han Li
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Yu Wu
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Wenlong Jia
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Zeyu Chen
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Yonglong Pan
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Department of Pediatric SurgeryTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Ning Cai
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Jingyuan Wen
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Ganxun Li
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Junnan Liang
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Jianping Zhao
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Qiumeng Liu
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Huifang Liang
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Zeyang Ding
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Zhao Huang
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Bixiang Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery CenterTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei ProvinceWuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato‐Pancreatic‐Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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Almohaid S, Akhtar S. Diet, lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and hepatocellular carcinoma risk in a middle eastern country: a case-control study. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:694. [PMID: 38844890 PMCID: PMC11157712 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12409-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) can be classified as one of the most common malignancies worldwide. There is scarcity of the published data on the risk factors for HCC in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries specifically Kuwait. Therefore, this case-control study sought to examine the risk factors associated with HCC in Kuwait. METHODS Fifty-three histopathologically confirmed HCC cases were recruited from the Kuwait Cancer Control Center Registry. One hundred ninety-six controls (1:4 ratio) were selected from medical and/ or surgical outpatient's clinics at all six public hospitals of Kuwait. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data both from cases and controls through face-to-face interviews. A multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to the case-control data. Adjusted odds ratios (ORadj) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed using the parameters' estimates of the final model and used for interpretation of the model. RESULTS The HCC cases compared with the controls were 41.6 times more likely to have had the history of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (ORadj = 41.6; 95% CI: 8.9-193.5; p < 0.001). The cases compared with the controls were more likely to have reported the history of heavy alcohol drinking (ORadj = 14.2; 95% CI: 1.2-173.4; p = 0.038). Furthermore, compared with the controls, the HCC cases tended to frequently consume milk and/or milk substitutes (≥ 3 glass/ week) (ORadj = 7.2; 95% CI: 1.2-43.4). Conversely however, there was a significant protective effect if the participants reportedly have had regularly used olive oil in their routine diet as a source of fat (ORadj = 0.17; 95% CI: 0.04-0.80) or regularly used non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (ORadj = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.05-0.71). CONCLUSIONS This study showed that heavy alcohol consumption, NAFLD history, and excessive consumption of milk/ milk substitutes were associated with a significantly increased HCC risk. Conversely however, regular use of olive oil in the diet as a source of fat or regular use of NSAIDs had a significantly protective effect against HCC risk. Adapting healthy dietary habits and preventing/ treating NAFLD may minimize the HCC risk. Future research with a larger sample size may contemplate validating the results of this study and unraveling additional risk factors contributing to HCC risk. The resultant data may help design and implement evidence-based educational programs for the prevention of HCC in this and other similar settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaimaa Almohaid
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioural Sciences, College of Medicine, Kuwait University, PO Box 24923, Safat, 13110, Kuwait
| | - Saeed Akhtar
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioural Sciences, College of Medicine, Kuwait University, PO Box 24923, Safat, 13110, Kuwait.
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To J, Ghosh S, Zhao X, Pasini E, Fischer S, Sapisochin G, Ghanekar A, Jaeckel E, Bhat M. Deep learning-based pathway-centric approach to characterize recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation. Hum Genomics 2024; 18:58. [PMID: 38840185 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-024-00624-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation (LT) is offered as a cure for Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), however 15-20% develop recurrence post-transplant which tends to be aggressive. In this study, we examined the transcriptome profiles of patients with recurrent HCC to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), the involved pathways, biological functions, and potential gene signatures of recurrent HCC post-transplant using deep machine learning (ML) methodology. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed the transcriptomic profiles of primary and recurrent tumor samples from 7 pairs of patients who underwent LT. Following differential gene expression analysis, we performed pathway enrichment, gene ontology (GO) analyses and protein-protein interactions (PPIs) with top 10 hub gene networks. We also predicted the landscape of infiltrating immune cells using Cibersortx. We next develop pathway and GO term-based deep learning models leveraging primary tissue gene expression data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to identify gene signatures in recurrent HCC. RESULTS The PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and cytokine-mediated signaling pathway were particularly activated in HCC recurrence. The recurrent tumors exhibited upregulation of an immune-escape related gene, CD274, in the top 10 hub gene analysis. Significantly higher infiltration of monocytes and lower M1 macrophages were found in recurrent HCC tumors. Our deep learning approach identified a 20-gene signature in recurrent HCC. Amongst the 20 genes, through multiple analysis, IL6 was found to be significantly associated with HCC recurrence. CONCLUSION Our deep learning approach identified PI3K/Akt signaling as potentially regulating cytokine-mediated functions and the expression of immune escape genes, leading to alterations in the pattern of immune cell infiltration. In conclusion, IL6 was identified to play an important role in HCC recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey To
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Soumita Ghosh
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Xun Zhao
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elisa Pasini
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sandra Fischer
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gonzalo Sapisochin
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anand Ghanekar
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mamatha Bhat
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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8
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Xue Y, Ruan Y, Wang Y, Xiao P, Xu J. Signaling pathways in liver cancer: pathogenesis and targeted therapy. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2024; 5:20. [PMID: 38816668 PMCID: PMC11139849 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-024-00184-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide with high incidence and mortality rates. Due to its subtle onset, liver cancer is commonly diagnosed at a late stage when surgical interventions are no longer feasible. This situation highlights the critical role of systemic treatments, including targeted therapies, in bettering patient outcomes. Despite numerous studies on the mechanisms underlying liver cancer, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are the only widely used clinical inhibitors, represented by sorafenib, whose clinical application is greatly limited by the phenomenon of drug resistance. Here we show an in-depth discussion of the signaling pathways frequently implicated in liver cancer pathogenesis and the inhibitors targeting these pathways under investigation or already in use in the management of advanced liver cancer. We elucidate the oncogenic roles of these pathways in liver cancer especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), as well as the current state of research on inhibitors respectively. Given that TKIs represent the sole class of targeted therapeutics for liver cancer employed in clinical practice, we have particularly focused on TKIs and the mechanisms of the commonly encountered phenomena of its resistance during HCC treatment. This necessitates the imperative development of innovative targeted strategies and the urgency of overcoming the existing limitations. This review endeavors to shed light on the utilization of targeted therapy in advanced liver cancer, with a vision to improve the unsatisfactory prognostic outlook for those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangtao Xue
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Yeling Ruan
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Yali Wang
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Peng Xiao
- Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
| | - Junjie Xu
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
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9
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Elemam NM, Hotait HY, Saleh MA, El-Huneidi W, Talaat IM. Insulin-like growth factor family and prostate cancer: new insights and emerging opportunities. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1396192. [PMID: 38872970 PMCID: PMC11169579 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1396192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. The mammalian insulin-like growth factor (IGF) family is made up of three ligands (IGF-I, IGF-II, and insulin), three receptors (IGF-I receptor (IGF-1R), insulin receptor (IR), and IGF-II receptor (IGF-2R)), and six IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs). IGF-I and IGF-II were identified as potent mitogens and were previously associated with an increased risk of cancer development including prostate cancer. Several reports showed controversy about the expression of the IGF family and their connection to prostate cancer risk due to the high degree of heterogeneity among prostate tumors, sampling bias, and evaluation techniques. Despite that, it is clear that several IGF family members play a role in prostate cancer development, metastasis, and androgen-independent progression. In this review, we aim to expand our understanding of prostate tumorigenesis and regulation through the IGF system. Further understanding of the role of IGF signaling in PCa shows promise and needs to be considered in the context of a comprehensive treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha M. Elemam
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Mohamed A. Saleh
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Waseem El-Huneidi
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Iman M. Talaat
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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10
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Singh K, Kumar P, Singh AK, Singh N, Singh S, Tiwari KN, Agrawal S, Das R, Singh A, Ram B, Tripathi AK, Mishra SK. In silico and network pharmacology analysis of fucosterol: a potent anticancer bioactive compound against HCC. Med Oncol 2024; 41:130. [PMID: 38676780 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02374-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
The Fucaceae family of marine brown algae includes Ascophyllum nodosum. Fucosterol (FSL) is a unique bioactive component that was identified through GC-MS analysis of the hydroalcoholic extract of A. nodosum. Fucosterol's mechanism of action towards hepatocellular cancer was clarified using network pharmacology and docking study techniques. The probable target gene of FSL has been predicted using the TargetNet and SwissTargetPred databases. GeneCards and the DisGNet database were used to check the targeted genes of FSL. By using the web programme Venny 2.1, the overlaps of FSL and HCC disease demonstrated that 18 genes (1.3%) were obtained as targeted genes Via the STRING database, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network with 18 common target genes was constructed. With the aid of CytoNCA, hub genes were screened using the Cytoscape software, and the targets' hub genes were exported into the ShinyGo online tool for study of KEGG and gene ontology enrichment. Using the software AutoDock, a hub gene molecular docking study was performed. Ten genes, including AR, CYP19A1, ESR1, ESR2, TNF, PPARA, PPARG, HMGCR, SRC, and IGF1R, were obtained. The 10 targeted hubs docked with FSL successfully. The active components FSL of ASD, the FSL, are engaged in fatty liver disease, cancer pathways, and other signalling pathways, which could prove beneficial for the management of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kajal Singh
- Department of Biosciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Botany, MMV, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221005, India
| | - Amit Kumar Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP, 221005, India
| | - Nancy Singh
- Department of Biosciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sakshi Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Parul Institute of Applied Science, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, 391760, India
| | - Kavindra Nath Tiwari
- Department of Botany, MMV, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221005, India
| | - Shreni Agrawal
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidhyapith, Tonk, Rajsthan, India
| | - Richa Das
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidhyapith, Tonk, Rajsthan, India
| | - Anuradha Singh
- Department of Biosciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Bhuwal Ram
- Department of Dravyaguna, IMS, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221005, India
| | - Amit Kumar Tripathi
- School of Basic and Applied Science, Galgotias University, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 203201, India
| | - Sunil Kumar Mishra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP, 221005, India.
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11
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Li Y, Xu Z, Li Y, Jiang T, Meng F, Fu J, Huang L, Wang F, Wang X, Wang F. Preclinical and phase I studies of an antisense oligonucleotide drug targeting IGF-1R in liver cancer. Future Oncol 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38573183 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2023-0872] [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: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate a novel antisense oligonucleotide drug targeting human IGF-1R in preclinical and phase I studies of liver cancer. Materials & methods: The tolerability and safety of an investigational new drug were evaluated in a dose-escalation trial involving 17 patients with advanced liver cancer after preclinical assessment of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Results: The drug exposure levels in the phase I trial were determined by the in vivo efficacy with pharmacokinetics evaluation in rats and rhesus monkeys. This clinical study showed that the maximum tolerated dose was 3.96 mg/kg, and the dose-limiting toxicity dose was 4.4 mg/kg. Conclusion: The drug was safe and tolerable in patients with advanced liver cancer.Clinical Trial Registration: ChiCTR2100044235 (www.chictr.org.cn).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonggang Li
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Zhe Xu
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Tianjun Jiang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Fanping Meng
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Junliang Fu
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Lei Huang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Fengchao Wang
- Youcare Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd, Beijing, 100176, China
| | - Xia Wang
- Youcare Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd, Beijing, 100176, China
| | - Fusheng Wang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
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12
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Chen S, Liao C, Hu H, Liao J, Chen Z, Li S, Zeng X, Peng B, Shen S, Li D, Li S, Lai J, Peng S, Xie Y, Kuang M. Hypoxia-driven tumor stromal remodeling and immunosuppressive microenvironment in scirrhous HCC. Hepatology 2024; 79:780-797. [PMID: 37725755 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Scirrhous HCC (SHCC) is one of the unique subtypes of HCC, characterized by abundant fibrous stroma in the tumor microenvironment. However, the molecular traits of SHCC remain unclear, which is essential to develop specialized therapeutic approaches for SHCC. APPROACH AND RESULTS We presented an integrative analysis containing single-cell RNA-sequencing, whole-exome sequencing, and bulk RNA-sequencing in SHCC and usual HCC samples from 134 patients to delineate genomic features, transcriptomic profiles, and stromal immune microenvironment of SHCC. Multiplexed immunofluorescence staining, flow cytometry, and functional experiments were performed for validation. Here, we identified SHCC presented with less genomic heterogeneity while possessing a unique transcriptomic profile different from usual HCC. Insulin-like growth factor 2 was significantly upregulated in SHCC tumor cells compared to usual HCC, and could serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker for SHCC. Significant tumor stromal remodeling and hypoxia were observed in SHCC with enrichment of matrix cancer-associated fibroblasts and upregulation of hypoxic pathways. Insulin-like growth factor 2 was identified as a key mediator in shaping the hypoxic stromal microenvironment of SHCC. Under this microenvironment, SHCC exhibited an immunosuppressive niche correlated to enhanced VEGFA signaling activity, where CD4 + T cells and CD8 + T cells were dysfunctional. Furthermore, we found that another hypoxic-related molecule SPP1 from SHCC tumor cells suppressed the function of dendritic cells via the SPP1-CD44 axis, which also probably hindered the activation of T cells. CONCLUSION We uncovered the genomic characteristics of SHCC, and revealed a hypoxia-driven tumor stroma remodeling and immunosuppressive microenvironment in SHCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Chen
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Changyi Liao
- Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Huanjing Hu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Junbin Liao
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zebin Chen
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xuezhen Zeng
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Bo Peng
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shunli Shen
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Dongming Li
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shaoqiang Li
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jiaming Lai
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sui Peng
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Clinical Trials Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yubin Xie
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ming Kuang
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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13
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Chitluri KK, Emerson IA. The importance of protein domain mutations in cancer therapy. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27655. [PMID: 38509890 PMCID: PMC10950675 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27655] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a complex disease that is caused by multiple genetic factors. Researchers have been studying protein domain mutations to understand how they affect the progression and treatment of cancer. These mutations can significantly impact the development and spread of cancer by changing the protein structure, function, and signalling pathways. As a result, there is a growing interest in how these mutations can be used as prognostic indicators for cancer prognosis. Recent studies have shown that protein domain mutations can provide valuable information about the severity of the disease and the patient's response to treatment. They may also be used to predict the response and resistance to targeted therapy in cancer treatment. The clinical implications of protein domain mutations in cancer are significant, and they are regarded as essential biomarkers in oncology. However, additional techniques and approaches are required to characterize changes in protein domains and predict their functional effects. Machine learning and other computational tools offer promising solutions to this challenge, enabling the prediction of the impact of mutations on protein structure and function. Such predictions can aid in the clinical interpretation of genetic information. Furthermore, the development of genome editing tools like CRISPR/Cas9 has made it possible to validate the functional significance of mutants more efficiently and accurately. In conclusion, protein domain mutations hold great promise as prognostic and predictive biomarkers in cancer. Overall, considerable research is still needed to better define genetic and molecular heterogeneity and to resolve the challenges that remain, so that their full potential can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Kumar Chitluri
- Bioinformatics Programming Lab, Department of Bio-Sciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, TN, 632014, India
| | - Isaac Arnold Emerson
- Bioinformatics Programming Lab, Department of Bio-Sciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, TN, 632014, India
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14
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Ruff SM, Pawlik TM. Emerging therapies targeting growth factors in hepatocellular carcinoma. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:255-262. [PMID: 38591252 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2340714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver cancer that commonly arises in the background of chronic liver inflammation and/or cirrhosis. Chronic liver inflammation results in the production of different growth factors, remodeling of the microenvironment architecture into fibrosis, and eventually carcinogenesis. Overexpression of some growth factors has been associated with worse prognosis in patients with HCC. Targeted therapies against growth factors may disrupt cell signaling and the mechanisms that allow for cell survival (e.g. angiogenesis, proliferation, metastases). AREAS COVERED We herein review potential growth factor targets of HCC and the limited research that exists regarding targeted therapy of these ligands and their receptors. We performed an extensive literature search to investigate preclinical studies, clinical research, and clinical trials. EXPERT OPINION Systemic therapy for patients with HCC is continuing to evolve. Anti-angiogenic therapy holds the most promise among targeted therapy for growth factors among patients with HCC. Improving our understanding of growth factors in HCC will hopefully lead to the development of new targeted therapies and strategies for combination therapies with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Ruff
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
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15
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Mai Y, Meng L, Deng G, Qin Y. The Role of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus-Related Risk Factors and Drugs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2024; 11:159-171. [PMID: 38268569 PMCID: PMC10806369 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s441672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
With changes in modern lifestyles, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has become a global epidemic metabolic disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. T2DM is a complex metabolic disorder and has been considered an independent risk factor for HCC. Growing evidence supports that T2DM-related risk factors facilitate hepatocarcinogenesis via abundant mechanisms. With the wide implementation of microbiomics, transcriptomics, and immunotherapy, the understanding of the complex mechanisms of intestinal flora and immune cell subsets have advanced tremendously in T2DM-related HCC, uncovering new findings in T2DM-related HCC patients. In addition, reports have indicated the different effects of anti-DM drugs on the progression of HCC. In this review, we summarize the effects of major T2DM-related risk factors (including hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, insulin, chronic inflammation, obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, gut microbiota and immunomodulation), and anti-DM drugs on the carcinogensis and progression of HCC, as well as their potential molecular mechanisms. In addition, other factors (miRNAs, genes, and lifestyle) related to T2DM-related HCC are discussed. We propose a refined concept by which T2DM-related risk factors and anti-DM drugs contribute to HCC and discuss research directions prompted by such evidence worth pursuing in the coming years. Finally, we put forward novel therapeutic approaches to improve the prognosis of T2DM-related HCC, including exploiting novel diagnostic biomarkers, combination therapy with immunocheckpoint inhibitors, and enhancement of the standardized management of T2DM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Mai
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of GuangXi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, People’s Republic of China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liheng Meng
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of GuangXi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ganlu Deng
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yingfen Qin
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of GuangXi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, People’s Republic of China
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16
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Panneerselvam S, Wilson C, Kumar P, Abirami D, Pamarthi J, Reddy MS, Varghese J. Overview of hepatocellular carcinoma: from molecular aspects to future therapeutic options. Cell Adh Migr 2023; 17:1-21. [PMID: 37726886 PMCID: PMC10512929 DOI: 10.1080/19336918.2023.2258539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the seventh most highly prevalent malignant tumor globally and the second most common cause of mortality. HCC develops with complex pathways that occur through multistage biological processes. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are the causative etiologies of HCC. HCC develops as a result of epigenetic changes, protein-coding gene mutations, and altered signaling pathways. Biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for HCC open up new possibilities for treating the disease. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are included in the treatment options in combination with molecular targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sugan Panneerselvam
- Department of Hepatology and Transplant Hepatology, Gleneagles Global Health City, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Cornelia Wilson
- Natural and Applied Sciences, School of Psychology and Life Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Discovery Park, Sandwich, UK
| | - Prem Kumar
- Department of Hepatology and Transplant Hepatology, Gleneagles Global Health City, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Dinu Abirami
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gleneagles Global Health City, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jayakrishna Pamarthi
- Multi-Disciplinary Research Unit, Madras Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mettu Srinivas Reddy
- The Director and Head, Liver Transplant and HPB surgery, Gleneagles Global Health City, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Joy Varghese
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gleneagles Global Health City, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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17
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Li Z, Zhang Z, Fang L, Zhao J, Niu Z, Chen H, Cao G. Tumor Microenvironment Composition and Related Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2023; 10:2083-2099. [PMID: 38022729 PMCID: PMC10676104 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s436962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, primary liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 75%-95%. The tumor microenvironment (TME), composed of the extracellular matrix, helper cells, immune cells, cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors, promotes the immune escape, invasion, and metastasis of HCC. Tumor metastasis and postoperative recurrence are the main threats to the long-term prognosis of HCC. TME-related therapies are increasingly recognized as effective treatments. Molecular-targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and their combined therapy are the main approaches. Immunotherapy, represented by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and targeted therapy, highlighted by tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have greatly improved the prognosis of HCC. This review focuses on the TME compositions and emerging therapeutic approaches to TME in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zishuai Li
- Key Laboratory of Biological Defense, Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Bioprotection, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zihan Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, Tongji University School of Medicine Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, People’s Republic of China
| | - Letian Fang
- Key Laboratory of Biological Defense, Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Bioprotection, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiayi Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Biological Defense, Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Bioprotection, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zheyun Niu
- Department of Epidemiology, Tongji University School of Medicine Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongsen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biological Defense, Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Bioprotection, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guangwen Cao
- Key Laboratory of Biological Defense, Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Bioprotection, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
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18
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Weidle UH, Nopora A. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Up-regulated Circular RNAs Which Mediate Efficacy in Preclinical In Vivo Models. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2023; 20:500-521. [PMID: 37889063 PMCID: PMC10614070 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranges as number two with respect to the incidence of tumors and is associated with a dismal prognosis. The therapeutic efficacy of approved multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitors and checkpoint inhibitors is modest. Therefore, the identification of new therapeutic targets and entities is of paramount importance. We searched the literature for up-regulated circular RNAs (circRNAs) which mediate efficacy in preclinical in vivo models of HCC. Our search resulted in 14 circRNAs which up-regulate plasma membrane transmembrane receptors, while 5 circRNAs induced secreted proteins. Two circRNAs facilitated replication of Hepatitis B or C viruses. Three circRNAs up-regulated high mobility group proteins. Six circRNAs regulated components of the ubiquitin system. Seven circRNAs induced GTPases of the family of ras-associated binding proteins (RABs). Three circRNAs induced redox-related proteins, eight of them up-regulated metabolic enzymes and nine circRNAs induced signaling-related proteins. The identified circRNAs up-regulate the corresponding targets by sponging microRNAs. Identified circRNAs and their targets have to be validated by standard criteria of preclinical drug development. Identified targets can potentially be inhibited by small molecules or antibody-based moieties and circRNAs can be inhibited by small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich H Weidle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Adam Nopora
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
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19
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Li Y, Li K, Pan T, Xie Q, Cheng Y, Wu X, Xu R, Liu X, Liu L, Gao J, Yuan W, Qu X, Cui S. Translocation of IGF-1R in endoplasmic reticulum enhances SERCA2 activity to trigger Ca 2+ER perturbation in hepatocellular carcinoma. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:3744-3755. [PMID: 37719369 PMCID: PMC10501870 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The well-known insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1)/IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) signaling pathway is overexpressed in many tumors, and is thus an attractive target for cancer treatment. However, results have often been disappointing due to crosstalk with other signals. Here, we report that IGF-1R signaling stimulates the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells through the translocation of IGF-1R into the ER to enhance sarco-endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase 2 (SERCA2) activity. In response to ligand binding, IGF-1Rβ is translocated into the ER by β-arrestin2 (β-arr2). Mass spectrometry analysis identified SERCA2 as a target of ER IGF-1Rβ. SERCA2 activity is heavily dependent on the increase in ER IGF-1Rβ levels. ER IGF-1Rβ phosphorylates SERCA2 on Tyr990 to enhance its activity. Mutation of SERCA2-Tyr990 disrupted the interaction of ER IGF-1Rβ with SERCA2, and therefore ER IGF-1Rβ failed to promote SERCA2 activity. The enhancement of SERCA2 activity triggered Ca2+ER perturbation, leading to an increase in autophagy. Thapsigargin blocked the interaction between SERCA2 and ER IGF-1Rβ and therefore SERCA2 activity, resulting in inhibition of HCC growth. In conclusion, the translocation of IGF-1R into the ER triggers Ca2+ER perturbation by enhancing SERCA2 activity through phosphorylating Tyr990 in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Li
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Keqin Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Ting Pan
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Qiaobo Xie
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yuyao Cheng
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Xinfeng Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Rui Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Qingdao, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Jiangming Gao
- Department of Pharmacology, Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Qingdao, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Wenmin Yuan
- Department of Pharmacology, Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Qingdao, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xianjun Qu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Shuxiang Cui
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
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20
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Aborehab NM, Kandeil MA, Sabry D, Rabie R, Ibrahim IT. Circular SERPINA3 and its target microRNA-944 as potential biomarkers in hepatitis C virus-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in Egyptian population. Noncoding RNA Res 2023; 8:401-412. [PMID: 37305177 PMCID: PMC10247953 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.05.005] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The most prevalent cancer in Egypt is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mainly due to the infection with the hepatitis C virus. So it is critical to find sensitive biomarkers for early diagnosis of HCC and avoid post-operation tumor recurrence. Therefore, this research was designed to demonstrate the circSERPINA3 role in the regulation of microRNA-944 gene expression in HCV-related HCC cases and compare these results with circSERPINA3 and microRNA-944 gene expression levels in HCV-infected patients. Methodology Study participants were divided into three groups: healthy controls, HCV- infected, and HCV-induced HCC patients. The gene expression levels of circSERPINA3 and microRNA-944 were evaluated using Real-Time qPCR. Then the immunoblotting procedure was applied to measure the serum levels of MDM2 and E-cadherin besides, the serum concentration levels of glypican-3 and alpha-fetoprotein were measured by sandwich ELISA. Results The gene expression level of circSERPINA3 was significantly upregulated in both HCV-infected and HCC patients causing suppression of the antitumor effect of miR-944 and showing a lower 1-year survival rate than the participants who had low circSERPINA3 gene expression levels. Subsequently, the miR-944 downstream protein, MDM2 was remarkably upregulated, exaggerating the metastasis and oxidative stress in HCC cases. Additionally, the results confirmed the downregulation of microRNA-944 improved the progression of viral hepatitis C cases to hepatocarcinogenesis through the significantly increased serum level of the metastatic marker, E-cadherin. Although alpha-fetoprotein is a common diagnostic marker used in the diagnosis of HCC, our results showed that glypican-3 had greater sensitivity and specificity and positively correlated to the IGF-1 signaling pathway of HCC cases. Moreover, the gene expression levels of circSERPINA3 and E-cadherin in both the HCV and HCV-induced HCC were significantly positively correlated. Conclusion circSERPINA3 and miR-944 were sensitive molecular markers for early diagnosis of HCC and could be prospective treatment targets for HCV-infected patients to avoid tumor recurrence in HCC cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora M. Aborehab
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), Giza, 12451, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. Kandeil
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62521, Egypt
| | - Dina Sabry
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Badr University in Cairo, Cairo, 11829, Egypt
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt
| | - Radwa Rabie
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), Giza, 12451, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim T. Ibrahim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62521, Egypt
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21
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Kouroumalis E, Tsomidis I, Voumvouraki A. Pathogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Interplay of Apoptosis and Autophagy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1166. [PMID: 37189787 PMCID: PMC10135776 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a multifactorial process that has not yet been fully investigated. Autophagy and apoptosis are two important cellular pathways that are critical for cell survival or death. The balance between apoptosis and autophagy regulates liver cell turnover and maintains intracellular homeostasis. However, the balance is often dysregulated in many cancers, including HCC. Autophagy and apoptosis pathways may be either independent or parallel or one may influence the other. Autophagy may either inhibit or promote apoptosis, thus regulating the fate of the liver cancer cells. In this review, a concise overview of the pathogenesis of HCC is presented, with emphasis on new developments, including the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress, the implication of microRNAs and the role of gut microbiota. The characteristics of HCC associated with a specific liver disease are also described and a brief description of autophagy and apoptosis is provided. The role of autophagy and apoptosis in the initiation, progress and metastatic potential is reviewed and the experimental evidence indicating an interplay between the two is extensively analyzed. The role of ferroptosis, a recently described specific pathway of regulated cell death, is presented. Finally, the potential therapeutic implications of autophagy and apoptosis in drug resistance are examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Kouroumalis
- Department of Gastroenterology, PAGNI University Hospital, University of Crete School of Medicine, 71500 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Crete Medical School, 71500 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Ioannis Tsomidis
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Crete Medical School, 71500 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, 54621 Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia, Greece
| | - Argyro Voumvouraki
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, 54621 Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia, Greece
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22
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Sun L, Zhou H, Zhao X, Zhang H, Wang Y, Li G. Small RNA sequencing identified miR-3180 as a potential prognostic biomarker for Chinese hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Front Genet 2023; 14:1102171. [PMID: 37051592 PMCID: PMC10083302 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1102171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and their target genes are aberrantly expressed in many cancers and are linked to carcinogenesis and metastasis, especially among hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. This study sought to identify new biomarkers related to HCC prognosis using small RNA sequencing from the tumor and matched normal adjacent tissue of 32 patients with HCC. Eight miRNAs were downregulated and 61 were upregulated more than twofold. Of these, five miRNAs, hsa-miR-3180, hsa-miR-5589-5p, hsa-miR-490-5p, hsa-miR-137, and hsa-miR-378i, were significantly associated with 5-year overall survival (OS) rates. Differential upregulation of hsa-miR-3180 and downregulation of hsa-miR-378i in tumor samples supported the finding that low and high concentrations of hsa-miR-3180 (p = 0.029) and hsa-miR-378i (p = 0.047), respectively, were associated with higher 5-year OS. Cox regression analyses indicated that hsa-miR-3180 (HR = 0.08; p = 0.013) and hsa-miR-378i (HR = 18.34; p = 0.045) were independent prognostic factors of poor survival. However, high hsa-miR-3180 expression obtained larger AUCs for OS and progression-free survival (PFS) and had better nomogram prediction than hsa-miR-378i. These findings indicate that hsa-miR-3180 may be associated with HCC progression and could serve as a potential biomarker for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libo Sun
- General Surgery Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hansheng Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Linyi People’s Hospital, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaofei Zhao
- General Surgery Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Haitao Zhang
- General Surgery Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- CAS Key Lab of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Wang, ; Guangming Li,
| | - Guangming Li
- General Surgery Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Wang, ; Guangming Li,
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23
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Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), Type 2 Diabetes, and Non-viral Hepatocarcinoma: Pathophysiological Mechanisms and New Therapeutic Strategies. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020468. [PMID: 36831004 PMCID: PMC9953066 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the incidence of non-viral hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has increased dramatically, which is probably related to the increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome, together with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Several epidemiological studies have established the association between T2DM and the incidence of HCC and have demonstrated the role of diabetes mellitus as an independent risk factor for the development of HCC. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the development of Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its progression to Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis are various and involve pro-inflammatory agents, oxidative stress, apoptosis, adipokines, JNK-1 activation, increased IGF-1 activity, immunomodulation, and alteration of the gut microbiota. Moreover, these mechanisms are thought to play a significant role in the development of NAFLD-related hepatocellular carcinoma. Early diagnosis and the timely correction of risk factors are essential to prevent the onset of liver fibrosis and HCC. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current evidence on the association among obesity, NASH/NAFLD, T2DM, and HCC, with an emphasis on clinical impact. In addition, we will examine the main mechanisms underlying this complex relationship, and the promising strategies that have recently emerged for these diseases' treatments.
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24
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Peng SW, Ngo MHT, Kuo YC, Teng MH, Guo CL, Lai HC, Chang TS, Huang YH. Niclosamide Revitalizes Sorafenib through Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 Receptor (IGF-1R)/Stemness and Metabolic Changes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030931. [PMID: 36765890 PMCID: PMC9913083 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030931] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib is the first approved systemic targeting agent for advanced HCC; however, when used alone, drug resistance can result in considerably reduced efficacy. Here, we demonstrate that niclosamide, an antihelminthic agent approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, can be repurposed to increase sorafenib sensitivity in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells. We generated sorafenib-resistant HCC cell lines (HepG2215_R and Hep3B_R) with elevated IGF-1R levels and strong properties in terms of stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Niclosamide was found to increase sorafenib sensitivity effectively in both cell lines and their organoids. The underlying mechanism involves the modulation of cancer stemness, IGF-1R/p-IGF1R/OCT4, and metabolic changes. The combination of sorafenib and niclosamide, but not linsitinib, effectively suppressed the IGF-1R/OCT4 expressions, yielded a synergistic combination index (CI), and attenuated stemness-related properties such as secondary tumor sphere formation and cell migration in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells. Notably, niclosamide significantly suppressed the sorafenib-induced IGF-1R phosphorylation prompted by IGF-1 treatment. Niclosamide effectively downregulated the sorafenib-induced gene expression associated with glycolysis (GLUT1, HK2, LDHA, and PEPCK), stemness (OCT4), and drug resistance (ABCG2) and enhanced the ability of sorafenib to reduce the mitochondrial membrane potential in vitro. The synergistic effect of a combination of niclosamide and sorafenib in vivo was further demonstrated by the decreased tumor size and tumor volume resulting from apoptosis regulation. Our results suggest that niclosamide can enhance sorafenib sensitivity in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells through IGF-1R/stemness regulation and metabolic changes. Our findings highlight a practical clinical strategy for enhancing sorafenib sensitivity in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syue-Wei Peng
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Mai-Huong T. Ngo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Che Kuo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hao Teng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Lin Guo
- Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Cheng Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Te-Sheng Chang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33382, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 61363, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (T.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-5-3621000 (ext. 2242) (T.-S.C.); +886-2-27361661 (ext. 3150) (Y.-H.H.)
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- International PhD Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- PhD Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (T.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-5-3621000 (ext. 2242) (T.-S.C.); +886-2-27361661 (ext. 3150) (Y.-H.H.)
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25
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Plaz Torres MC, Jaffe A, Perry R, Marabotto E, Strazzabosco M, Giannini EG. Diabetes medications and risk of HCC. Hepatology 2022; 76:1880-1897. [PMID: 35239194 PMCID: PMC9790535 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a recognized risk factor for HCC in patients with liver disease, independent from the etiology of their liver disease. Hence, prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and its underlying cause, insulin resistance, should be considered a treatment target for patients with liver disease. The drug armamentarium for diabetes is wide and consists of agents with insulin-sensitizing activity, agents that stimulate insulin secretion, insulin itself, and agents that reduce gastrointestinal and urinary glucose absorption. From an endocrinology perspective, the main goal of treatment is the achievement of euglycemia; however, in patients at risk of, or with known underlying liver disease, the choice of diabetic medication as it relates to potential hepatic carcinogenesis remains complex and should be carefully considered. In the last decade, increasing evidence has suggested that metformin may reduce the risk of HCC, whereas evidence for other classes of diabetic medications, particularly some of the newer agents including the sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, is fewer and often inconsistent. In this review, we aim to summarize the current evidence on the potential effects of the most widely used diabetic agents on liver cancer tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Corina Plaz Torres
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal MedicineIRCCS—Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of GenoaGenoaItaly
| | - Ariel Jaffe
- Liver CenterDepartment of Internal MedicineYale University School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Rachel Perry
- Liver CenterDepartment of Internal MedicineYale University School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Section of EndocrinologyDepartment of Internal MedicineYale University School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular PhysiologyYale University School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Elisa Marabotto
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal MedicineIRCCS—Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of GenoaGenoaItaly
| | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Liver CenterDepartment of Internal MedicineYale University School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Edoardo G. Giannini
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal MedicineIRCCS—Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of GenoaGenoaItaly
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Yao M, Cai Y, Wu ZJ, Zhou P, Sai WL, Wang DF, Wang L, Yao DF. Effects of targeted-edited oncogenic insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor with specific-sgRNA on biological behaviors of HepG2 cells. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:10017-10030. [PMID: 36246809 PMCID: PMC9561564 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i28.10017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) is over-expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the relationship between IGF-1R activation and HCC progression remains unidentified.
AIM To investigate the effects of editing IGF-1R on the biological features of HCC cells.
METHODS Immunohistochemistry analyzed the expressions of IGF-1R and P-glyco protein (P-gp) in HCC tissues and their distal non-cancerous tissues (non-Ca). IGF-1R was edited with Crispr/Cas9 system, screened specific sgRNAs, and then transfected into HepG2 cells. CCK-8, scratch wound test detected cell proliferation, migration, invasion and transwell assays, respectively. Alterations of IGF-1R and P-gp were confirmed by Western blotting. Alterations of anti-cancer drug IC50 values were analyzed at the cell level.
RESULTS The positive rates of IGF-1R (93.6%, χ2 = 63.947) or P-gp (88.2%, χ2 = 58.448) were significantly higher (P < 0.001) in the HCC group than those (36.6% in IGF-1R or 26.9% in P-gp) in the non-Ca group. They were positively correlated between high IGF-1R and P-gp expression, and they were associated with hepatitis B virus infection and vascular invasion of HCC. Abnormal expressions of circulating IGF-1R and P-gp were confirmed and associated with HCC progression. Biological feature alterations of HCC cells transfected with specific sgRNA showed IGF-1R expression down-regulation, cell proliferation inhibition, cell invasion or migration potential decreasing, and enhancing susceptibility of HepG2 cells to anti-cancer drugs.
CONCLUSION Edited oncogenic IGF-1R was useful to inhibit biological behaviors of HepG2 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Yao
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yin Cai
- Department of Oncology, Xinghua People’s Hospital, Xinghua 225700, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Wu
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Nantong Rehabilitation Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wen-Li Sai
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - De-Feng Wang
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Li Wang
- Research Center for Intelligent Information Technology, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Deng-Fu Yao
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
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27
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Protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance in malignant tumors: molecular mechanisms and future perspective. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:329. [PMID: 36115852 PMCID: PMC9482625 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01168-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractProtein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) are a class of proteins with tyrosine kinase activity that phosphorylate tyrosine residues of critical molecules in signaling pathways. Their basal function is essential for maintaining normal cell growth and differentiation. However, aberrant activation of PTKs caused by various factors can deviate cell function from the expected trajectory to an abnormal growth state, leading to carcinogenesis. Inhibiting the aberrant PTK function could inhibit tumor growth. Therefore, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), target-specific inhibitors of PTKs, have been used in treating malignant tumors and play a significant role in targeted therapy of cancer. Currently, drug resistance is the main reason for limiting TKIs efficacy of cancer. The increasing studies indicated that tumor microenvironment, cell death resistance, tumor metabolism, epigenetic modification and abnormal metabolism of TKIs were deeply involved in tumor development and TKI resistance, besides the abnormal activation of PTK-related signaling pathways involved in gene mutations. Accordingly, it is of great significance to study the underlying mechanisms of TKIs resistance and find solutions to reverse TKIs resistance for improving TKIs efficacy of cancer. Herein, we reviewed the drug resistance mechanisms of TKIs and the potential approaches to overcome TKI resistance, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for improving the efficacy of TKIs.
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Small Molecule Inhibitors for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Advances and Challenges. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175537. [PMID: 36080304 PMCID: PMC9457820 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175537] [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: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
According to data provided by World Health Organization, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cause of deaths due to cancer worldwide. Tremendous progress has been achieved over the last 10 years developing novel agents for HCC treatment, including small-molecule kinase inhibitors. Several small molecule inhibitors currently form the core of HCC treatment due to their versatility since they would be more easily absorbed and have higher oral bioavailability, thus easier to formulate and administer to patients. In addition, they can be altered structurally to have greater volumes of distribution, allowing them to block extravascular molecular targets and to accumulate in a high concentration in the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, they can be designed to have shortened half-lives to control for immune-related adverse events. Most importantly, they would spare patients, healthcare institutions, and society as a whole from the burden of high drug costs. The present review provides an overview of the pharmaceutical compounds that are licensed for HCC treatment and other emerging compounds that are still investigated in preclinical and clinical trials. These molecules are targeting different molecular targets and pathways that are proven to be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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Network pharmacology-based study on apigenin present in the methanolic fraction of leaves extract of Cestrum nocturnum L. to uncover mechanism of action on hepatocellular carcinoma. MEDICAL ONCOLOGY (NORTHWOOD, LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 39:155. [PMID: 35852639 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-022-01759-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common type of cancer in the world. It is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality. In more than 80% of people liver cancer-related death is due to its poor prognosis. The flavonoids obtained from natural sources have potent therapeutic effects on HCC. The flavonoid rich methanolic fraction obtained from ethyl acetate extract of leaf of Cestrum nocturnum (MFLCN) was analyzed by UPLC-QTOFMS/MS for the presence of different flavonoids. The physiochemical and pharmacokinetics properties of the identified flavonoids were performed by absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET). It was selected on the basis of Lipinski rule and hepatotoxicity evaluations. The potential gene dataset of HCC were taken from gene card database and targets compounds were selected from target net prediction. Gene ontology and pathway enrichment analysis of HCC was performed via enricher and David web tools. Cytoscape was used to visualize targets and network pathways. MFLCN contains 33 flavonoids. Among these flavonoids, apigenin was selected as principal active compound on the basis of their pharmacokinetic and ADMET properties. Apigenin has 92 targets out of 627 total targets related to HCC, while there was13 pathways in the target-pathway network. Results revealed that apigenin regulates cell proliferation and survival, primarily through different signaling pathways like estrogen, VEGF, PI3K/AKT1, TNF, FoXO, and Ras signaling pathways. Thus, integrating network pharmacology prediction with m-RNA and human protein atlas validation could be an effective method for understanding the molecular mechanism of apigenin on HCC.
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Chun KH. Molecular Targets and Signaling Pathways of microRNA-122 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:1380. [PMID: 35890276 PMCID: PMC9316959 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14071380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading global causes of cancer mortality. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small interfering RNAs that alleviate the levels of protein expression by suppressing translation, inducing mRNA cleavage, and promoting mRNA degradation. miR-122 is the most abundant miRNA in the liver and is responsible for several liver-specific functions, including metabolism, cellular growth and differentiation, and hepatitis virus replication. Recent studies have shown that aberrant regulation of miR-122 is a key factor contributing to the development of HCC. In this review, the signaling pathways and the molecular targets of miR-122 involved in the progression of HCC have been summarized, and the importance of miR-122 in therapy has been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Hoon Chun
- Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
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31
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Bhat AQ, Ayaz MO, Hussain R, Dar MS, Hossain MM, Showket F, Dar MS, Akhter Y, Dar MJ. Identification of a stretch of four discontinuous amino acids involved in regulating kinase activity of IGF1R. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:275976. [PMID: 35686490 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.260014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
IGF1R is pursued as a therapeutic target because of its abnormal expression in various cancers. Recently, we reported the presence of a putative allosteric inhibitor binding pocket in IGF1R that could be exploited for developing novel anti-cancer agents. In this study, we examined the role of nine highly conserved residues surrounding this binding pocket with the aim to screen compound libraries in order to develop small molecule allosteric inhibitors of IGF1R. We generated GFP fusion constructs of these mutants to analyze their impact on subcellular localization, kinase activity as well as downstream signalling of IGF1R. K1055H and E1056G were seen to completely abrogate the kinase activity of IGF1R whereas R1064K and L1065A were seen to significantly reduce the IGF1R activity as well. During molecular dynamics analysis, various structural and conformational changes were observed in different conserved regions of mutant proteins particularly in the activation loop resulting in compromising kinase activity of IGF1R. These results show that a stretch of four discontinuous residues within this newly identified binding pocket is critical for activity as well as the structural integrity of IGF1R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aadil Qadir Bhat
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Cancer Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, J&K, India
| | - Mir Owais Ayaz
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Cancer Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, J&K, India
| | - Razak Hussain
- Department of botany, Central university of Jammu, Rahya Suchani 181143, J&K, India
| | - Mohmmad Saleem Dar
- Cancer Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, J&K, India
| | - Md Mehedi Hossain
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Cancer Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, J&K, India
| | - Farheen Showket
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Cancer Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, J&K, India
| | - Mohd Saleem Dar
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University,West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Yusuf Akhter
- Department of Biotechnology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226025, India
| | - Mohd Jamal Dar
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Cancer Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, J&K, India
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Tsai YT, Li CY, Huang YH, Chang TS, Lin CY, Chuang CH, Wang CY, Anuraga G, Chang TH, Shih TC, Lin ZY, Chen YL, Chung I, Lee KH, Chang CC, Sung SY, Yang KH, Tsui WL, Yap CV, Wu MH. Galectin-1 orchestrates an inflammatory tumor-stroma crosstalk in hepatoma by enhancing TNFR1 protein stability and signaling in carcinoma-associated fibroblasts. Oncogene 2022; 41:3011-3023. [PMID: 35459781 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02309-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Most cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arise with the fibrotic microenvironment where hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are critical components in HCC progression. Therefore, CAF normalization could be a feasible therapy for HCC. Galectin-1 (Gal-1), a β-galactoside-binding lectin, is critical for HSC activation and liver fibrosis. However, few studies has evaluated the pathological role of Gal-1 in HCC stroma and its role in hepatic CAF is unclear. Here we showed that Gal-1 mainly expressed in HCC stroma, but not cancer cells. High expression of Gal-1 is correlated with CAF markers and poor prognoses of HCC patients. In co-culture systems, targeting Gal-1 in CAFs or HSCs, using small hairpin (sh)RNAs or an therapeutic inhibitor (LLS30), downregulated plasminogen activator inhibitor-2 (PAI-2) production which suppressed cancer stem-like cell properties and invasion ability of HCC in a paracrine manner. The Gal-1-targeting effect was mediated by increased a disintegrin and metalloprotease 17 (ADAM17)-dependent TNF-receptor 1 (TNFR1) shedding/cleavage which inhibited the TNF-α → JNK → c-Jun/ATF2 signaling axis of pro-inflammatory gene transcription. Silencing Gal-1 in CAFs inhibited CAF-augmented HCC progression and reprogrammed the CAF-mediated inflammatory responses in a co-injection xenograft model. Taken together, the findings uncover a crucial role of Gal-1 in CAFs that orchestrates an inflammatory CSC niche supporting HCC progression and demonstrate that targeting Gal-1 could be a potential therapy for fibrosis-related HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Tsung Tsai
- International PhD Program for Translational Science, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Medical Sciences and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yi Li
- International PhD Program for Translational Science, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Medical Sciences and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Graduate Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Medical Sciences and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Center for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Te-Sheng Chang
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Yen Lin
- Institute of Information Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Chih-Yang Wang
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Gangga Anuraga
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Hao Chang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medical Sciences and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Chieh Shih
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Zu-Yau Lin
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yuh-Ling Chen
- Institute of Oral Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ivy Chung
- Universiti Malaya Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Kuen-Haur Lee
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Che-Chang Chang
- International PhD Program for Translational Science, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Medical Sciences and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shian-Ying Sung
- International PhD Program for Translational Science, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Medical Sciences and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Huei Yang
- International PhD Program for Translational Science, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Medical Sciences and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Lin Tsui
- International PhD Program for Translational Science, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Medical Sciences and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chee-Voon Yap
- International PhD Program for Translational Science, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Medical Sciences and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Heng Wu
- International PhD Program for Translational Science, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Graduate Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Medical Sciences and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Center for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Yao M, Yang JL, Wang DF, Wang L, Chen Y, Yao DF. Encouraging specific biomarkers-based therapeutic strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:3321-3333. [PMID: 35611205 PMCID: PMC9048543 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i11.3321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevention, early discovery and effective treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain a global medical challenge. At present, HCC is still mainly treated by surgery, supplemented by vascular embolization, radio frequency, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and biotherapy. The application of multikinase inhibitor sorafenib, chimeric antigen receptor T cells, or PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors can prolong the median survival of HCC patients. However, the treatment efficacy is still unsatisfactory due to HCC metastasis and postoperative recurrence. During the process of hepatocyte malignant transformation, HCC tissues can express and secrete many types of specific biomarkers, or oncogenic antigen molecules into blood, for example, alpha-fetoprotein, glypican-3, Wnt3a (one of the key signaling molecules in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway), insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II or IGF-I receptor, vascular endothelial growth factor, secretory clusterin and so on. In addition, combining immunotherapy with non-coding RNAs might improve anti-cancer efficacy. These biomarkers not only contribute to HCC diagnosis or prognosis, but may also become molecular targets for HCC therapy under developing or clinical trials. This article reviews the progress in emerging biomarkers in basic research or clinical trials for HCC immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Yao
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine & Department of Immunology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jun-Ling Yang
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - De-Feng Wang
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Medical Informatics, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Second Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Deng-Fu Yao
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
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Leitner BP, Siebel S, Akingbesote ND, Zhang X, Perry RJ. Insulin and cancer: a tangled web. Biochem J 2022; 479:583-607. [PMID: 35244142 PMCID: PMC9022985 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
For a century, since the pioneering work of Otto Warburg, the interwoven relationship between metabolism and cancer has been appreciated. More recently, with obesity rates rising in the U.S. and worldwide, epidemiologic evidence has supported a link between obesity and cancer. A substantial body of work seeks to mechanistically unpack the association between obesity, altered metabolism, and cancer. Without question, these relationships are multifactorial and cannot be distilled to a single obesity- and metabolism-altering hormone, substrate, or factor. However, it is important to understand the hormone-specific associations between metabolism and cancer. Here, we review the links between obesity, metabolic dysregulation, insulin, and cancer, with an emphasis on current investigational metabolic adjuncts to standard-of-care cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooks P. Leitner
- Departments of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
| | - Stephan Siebel
- Departments of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
- Departments of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
| | - Ngozi D. Akingbesote
- Departments of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
| | - Xinyi Zhang
- Departments of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
| | - Rachel J. Perry
- Departments of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, U.S.A
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Wang Y, Chen X, Yao N, Gong J, Cao Y, Su X, Feng X, Tao M. MiR-448 suppresses cell proliferation and glycolysis of hepatocellular carcinoma through inhibiting IGF-1R expression. J Gastrointest Oncol 2022; 13:355-367. [PMID: 35284123 PMCID: PMC8899737 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-22-90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microribonucleic acids (miRNAs) have been shown to play important roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. MiR-448 has frequently been shown to be a tumor suppressor, and is abnormally expressed in HCC tumor tissues. However, little is known about the role of miR-448 in HCC development. In this article, the regulatory role of miR-448 on insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) in modulating hepatoma cell viability and glycolysis was investigated. METHODS The expression of miR-448 profiles in clinical tumor tissues and cell lines was examined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). HepG2 and Huh7 cells were transfected with miR-448 mimics, inhibitors, and scramble sequences. Cell viability and apoptosis were determined by a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and a flow cytometry analysis. IGF-1R, a potential target of miR-448, was selected following a bioinformatic analysis, and the regulatory effects of miR-448 on IGF-1R expression was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay, qRT-PCR, and western blot. Glucose uptake, lactate production, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation were detected by corresponding kits. RESULTS Decreased miR-448 expression was observed in both HCC patients' tumor tissues and hepatoma cells in vitro. The overexpression of miR-448 in HepG2 and Huh7 cells decreased cell viability and increased apoptosis. Additionally, the overexpression of miR-448 or the knockdown of IGF-1R lowered the level of glucose uptake, lactate production, and ATP generation, while the knockdown of miR-448 increased glycolysis. Further, aberrantly expressed miR-448 downregulated IGF-1R levels, while the inhibition of miR-448 resulted in the upregulation of IGF-1R in both HepG2 and Huh7 cells. In addition, miR-448 interacted with the wild-type 3'untranslated regions (3'UTRs) of IGF-1R, but had no effect on the mutant 3'UTRs. The expression of IGF-1R was increased in HCC patients' tumor tissues and serum, and was inversely correlated with miR-448 expression. CONCLUSIONS The increased expression of miR-448 appears to downregulate the expression of IGF-1R by interacting with the 3'UTR in HCC progression. These findings highlight its role as a potential target for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilang Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaohong Chen
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Ninghua Yao
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jun Gong
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yongfeng Cao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaoqing Su
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiu Feng
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Min Tao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Sipos F, Bohusné Barta B, Simon Á, Nagy L, Dankó T, Raffay RE, Petővári G, Zsiros V, Wichmann B, Sebestyén A, Műzes G. Survival of HT29 Cancer Cells Is Affected by IGF1R Inhibition via Modulation of Self-DNA-Triggered TLR9 Signaling and the Autophagy Response. Pathol Oncol Res 2022; 28:1610322. [PMID: 35651701 PMCID: PMC9148969 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2022.1610322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: In HT29 colon cancer cells, a close interplay between self-DNA-induced TLR9 signaling and autophagy response was found, with remarkable effects on cell survival and differentiation. IGF1R activation drives the development and malignant progression of colorectal cancer. IGF1R inhibition displays a controversial effect on autophagy. The interrelated roles of IGF1R inhibition and TLR9/autophagy signaling in HT29 cancer cells have not yet been clarified. In our study, we aimed to investigate the complex interplay of IGF1R inhibition and TLR9/autophagy signaling in HT29 cells. Methods: HT29 cells were incubated with tumor-originated self-DNA with or without inhibitors of IGF1R (picropodophyllin), autophagy (chloroquine), and TLR9 (ODN2088), respectively. Cell proliferation and metabolic activity measurements, direct cell counting, NanoString and Taqman gene expression analyses, immunocytochemistry, WES Simple Western blot, and transmission electron microscopy investigations were performed. Results: The concomitant use of tumor-derived self-DNA and IGF1R inhibitors displays anti-proliferative potential, which can be reversed by parallel TLR9 signaling inhibition. The distinct effects of picropodophyllin, ODN2088, and chloroquine per se or in combination on HT29 cell proliferation and autophagy suggest that either the IGF1R-associated or non-associated autophagy machinery is "Janus-faced" regarding its actions on cell proliferation. Autophagy, induced by different combinations of self-DNA and inhibitors is not sufficient to rescue HT29 cells from death but results in the survival of some CD133-positive stem-like HT29 cells. Conclusion: The creation of new types of combined IGF1R, autophagy, and/or TLR9 signaling inhibitors would play a significant role in the development of more personalized anti-tumor therapies for colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferenc Sipos
- Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Ferenc Sipos,
| | - Bettina Bohusné Barta
- Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Simon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lőrinc Nagy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Titanilla Dankó
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Regina Eszter Raffay
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor Petővári
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Viktória Zsiros
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Anna Sebestyén
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Györgyi Műzes
- Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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Cetin-Atalay R, Kahraman DC, Nalbat E, Rifaioglu AS, Atakan A, Donmez A, Atas H, Atalay MV, Acar AC, Doğan T. Data Centric Molecular Analysis and Evaluation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Therapeutics Using Machine Intelligence-Based Tools. J Gastrointest Cancer 2021; 52:1266-1276. [PMID: 34910274 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-021-00768-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Computational approaches have been used at different stages of drug development with the purpose of decreasing the time and cost of conventional experimental procedures. Lately, techniques mainly developed and applied in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), have been transferred to different application domains such as biomedicine. METHODS In this study, we conducted an investigative analysis via data-driven evaluation of potential hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) therapeutics in the context of AI-assisted drug discovery/repurposing. First, we discussed basic concepts, computational approaches, databases, modeling approaches, and featurization techniques in drug discovery/repurposing. In the analysis part, we automatically integrated HCC-related biological entities such as genes/proteins, pathways, phenotypes, drugs/compounds, and other diseases with similar implications, and represented these heterogeneous relationships via a knowledge graph using the CROssBAR system. RESULTS Following the system-level evaluation and selection of critical genes/proteins and pathways to target, our deep learning-based drug/compound-target protein interaction predictors DEEPScreen and MDeePred have been employed for predicting new bioactive drugs and compounds for these critical targets. Finally, we embedded ligands of selected HCC-associated proteins which had a significant enrichment with the CROssBAR system into a 2-D space to identify and repurpose small molecule inhibitors as potential drug candidates based on their molecular similarities to known HCC drugs. CONCLUSIONS We expect that these series of data-driven analyses can be used as a roadmap to propose early-stage potential inhibitors (from database-scale sets of compounds) to both HCC and other complex diseases, which may subsequently be analyzed with more targeted in silico and experimental approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rengul Cetin-Atalay
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Deniz Cansen Kahraman
- Cancer Systems Biology Laboratory, Graduate School of Informatics, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey.
| | - Esra Nalbat
- Cancer Systems Biology Laboratory, Graduate School of Informatics, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Sureyya Rifaioglu
- Department of Computer Engineering, Iskenderun Technical University, Iskenderun, Hatay, 31200, Turkey.,Department of Computer Engineering, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Atakan
- Department of Computer Engineering, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey.,Department of Computer Engineering, EBYU, Ankara, 24002, Turkey
| | - Ataberk Donmez
- Department of Computer Engineering, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey.,Department of Computer Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Heval Atas
- Cancer Systems Biology Laboratory, Graduate School of Informatics, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey
| | - M Volkan Atalay
- Cancer Systems Biology Laboratory, Graduate School of Informatics, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey.,Department of Computer Engineering, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey
| | - Aybar C Acar
- Cancer Systems Biology Laboratory, Graduate School of Informatics, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey
| | - Tunca Doğan
- Cancer Systems Biology Laboratory, Graduate School of Informatics, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey. .,Department of Computer Engineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, 06800, Turkey.
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Kim HK, Park Y, Shin M, Kim JM, Go GW. Betulinic Acid Suppresses de novo Lipogenesis by Inhibiting Insulin and IGF1 Signaling as Upstream Effectors of the Nutrient-Sensing mTOR Pathway. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:12465-12473. [PMID: 34645271 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c04797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite its beneficial properties, effects of betulinic acid on the nutrient-sensing mTOR pathway via insulin or IGF1 signaling remain unclear. Here, we investigated whether betulinic acid reduces intracellular lipid accumulation via the nutrient-sensing pathway in HepG2 cells. Results showed that betulinic acid reduced intracellular lipid accumulation in a dose-dependent manner and inhibited the expression of de novo lipogenesis-related genes and proteins. RNA sequencing analysis revealed the transcriptional modulation of plasma membrane proteins by betulinic acid, and an in silico binding assay indicated an interaction between betulinic acid and IR or IGF1R. Furthermore, betulinic acid downregulated the post-translational modification of the canonical IRS1/PI3K/AKT-pT308 and IGF1/mTORC2/AKT-pS473 pathways, thereby reducing the activity of the mTOR/S6K/S6 pathway. These findings imply that betulinic acid suppresses hepatic lipid synthesis by inhibiting insulin and IGF1 signaling as upstream effectors of the nutrient-sensing mTOR pathway and could be a potent nutraceutical agent for the treatment of metabolic syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Kyung Kim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Yejee Park
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Minhye Shin
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Mo Kim
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Gwang-Woong Go
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
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Ngo MHT, Peng SW, Kuo YC, Lin CY, Wu MH, Chuang CH, Kao CX, Jeng HY, Lin GW, Ling TY, Chang TS, Huang YH. A Yes-Associated Protein (YAP) and Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor (IGF-1R) Signaling Loop Is Involved in Sorafenib Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3812. [PMID: 34359714 PMCID: PMC8345119 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of a YAP-IGF-1R signaling loop in HCC resistance to sorafenib remains unknown. METHOD Sorafenib-resistant cells were generated by treating naïve cells (HepG2215 and Hep3B) with sorafenib. Different cancer cell lines from databases were analyzed through the ONCOMINE web server. BIOSTORM-LIHC patient tissues (46 nonresponders and 21 responders to sorafenib) were used to compare YAP mRNA levels. The HepG2215_R-derived xenograft in SCID mice was used as an in vivo model. HCC tissues from a patient with sorafenib failure were used to examine differences in YAP and IGF-R signaling. RESULTS Positive associations exist among the levels of YAP, IGF-1R, and EMT markers in HCC tissues and the levels of these proteins increased with sorafenib failure, with a trend of tumor-margin distribution in vivo. Blocking YAP downregulated IGF-1R signaling-related proteins, while IGF-1/2 treatment enhanced the nuclear translocation of YAP in HCC cells through PI3K-mTOR regulation. The combination of YAP-specific inhibitor verteporfin (VP) and sorafenib effectively decreased cell viability in a synergistic manner, evidenced by the combination index (CI). CONCLUSION A YAP-IGF-1R signaling loop may play a role in HCC sorafenib resistance and could provide novel potential targets for combination therapy with sorafenib to overcome drug resistance in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai-Huong T. Ngo
- International Ph.D. Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (C.-X.K.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (S.-W.P.); (G.-W.L.)
| | - Sue-Wei Peng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (S.-W.P.); (G.-W.L.)
- TMU Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (Y.-C.K.); (H.-Y.J.)
| | - Yung-Che Kuo
- TMU Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (Y.-C.K.); (H.-Y.J.)
| | - Chun-Yen Lin
- Institute of Information Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Ming-Heng Wu
- The Ph.D. Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- International Ph.D. Program for Translational Science, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hsien Chuang
- Institute of Information Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Cheng-Xiang Kao
- International Ph.D. Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (C.-X.K.)
| | - Han-Yin Jeng
- TMU Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (Y.-C.K.); (H.-Y.J.)
| | - Gee-Way Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (S.-W.P.); (G.-W.L.)
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Thai-Yen Ling
- Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan;
| | - Te-Sheng Chang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33382, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 61363, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- International Ph.D. Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (C.-X.K.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (S.-W.P.); (G.-W.L.)
- TMU Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (Y.-C.K.); (H.-Y.J.)
- The Ph.D. Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- International Ph.D. Program for Translational Science, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Comprehensive Cancer Center of Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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Moon H, Ro SW. MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3026. [PMID: 34204242 PMCID: PMC8234271 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health concern worldwide, and its incidence is increasing steadily. Recently, the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway in HCC has gained renewed attention from basic and clinical researchers. The MAPK/ERK signaling pathway is activated in more than 50% of human HCC cases; however, activating mutations in RAS and RAF genes are rarely found in HCC, which are major genetic events leading to the activation of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway in other cancers. This suggests that there is an alternative mechanism behind the activation of the signaling pathway in HCC. Here, we will review recent advances in understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the activation of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway and discuss potential therapeutic strategies targeting the signaling pathway in the context of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon Weonsang Ro
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-si 17104, Gyeonggi-do, Korea;
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