A Molecular Perspective on HIF-1α and Angiogenic Stimulator Networks and Their Role in Solid Tumors: An Update

Tβ4-exosome-loaded hemostatic and antibacterial hydrogel to improve vascular regeneration and modulate macrophage polarization for diabetic wound treatment

Diabetic wounds often exhibit delayed healing due to compromised vascular function and intensified inflammation. In this study, we overexpressed Thymosin β4 (Tβ4) in Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs) to produce Exosomes (Exos) rich in Tβ4. We then utilized a dual photopolymerizable hydrogel composed of Hyaluronic Acid Methacryloyl (HAMA) and Poly-L-lysine Methacryloyl (PLMA) for the sustained release of Tβ4-Exos on diabetic wounds. The results showed that Tβ4-Exos could stimulate angiogenesis and collagen synthesis, and mitigate inflammation in diabetic wounds by promoting the polarization of M1-type macrophages and inhibiting that of M2-type macrophages. Furthermore, Tβ4-Exos was found to activate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/HIF-1a signaling pathway, thereby enhancing vascular proliferation. In summary, the sustained release of Tβ4-Exos in HAMA-PLMA (HP) hydrogel and the management of inflammation through the upregulation of the HIF-1a pathway and modulation of macrophage polarization in vascular proliferation significantly accelerated the healing process of diabetic wounds.

It's all downstream from here: RTK/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway resistance mechanisms in glioblastoma

BACKGROUND

The receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)/Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway is one of the most tumorigenic pathways in cancer, with its hyperactivation strongly linked to the aggressive nature of glioblastoma (GBM). Although extensive research has focused on developing therapeutics targeting this pathway, clinical success remains elusive due to the emergence of resistance mechanisms.

OBJECTIVE

This review investigates how inhibition of the RTK/Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway alters transcription factors, contributing to acquired resistance mechanisms in GBM. It also highlights the critical role of transcription factor dysregulation in therapeutic resistance.

METHODS & RESULTS

Findings from key studies on the RTK/Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway in GBM were synthesized to explore the role of transcription factor dysregulation in resistance to targeted therapies, radiation, and chemotherapy. The review highlights that transcription factors undergo significant dysregulation following RTK/Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway inhibition, contributing to therapeutic resistance.

CONCLUSION

Transcription factors are promising targets for overcoming treatment resistance in GBM, with cotreatment strategies combining RTK/Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway inhibitors and transcription factor-targeted therapies presenting a novel approach. Despite the challenges of targeting complex structures and interactions, advancements in drug development and precision technologies hold great potential. Continued research is essential to refine these strategies and improve outcomes for GBM and other aggressive cancers.

Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α is required to establish the larval glycolytic program in Drosophila melanogaster

OBJECTIVES

The rapid growth that occurs during Drosophila larval development requires a dramatic rewiring of central carbon metabolism to support biosynthesis. Larvae achieve this metabolic state, in part, by coordinately up-regulating the expression of genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. The resulting metabolic program exhibits hallmark characteristics of aerobic glycolysis and establishes a physiological state that supports growth. To date, the only factor known to activate the larval glycolytic program is the Drosophila Estrogen-Related Receptor (dERR). However, dERR is dynamically regulated during the onset of this metabolic switch, indicating that other factors must be involved. Here we examine the possibility that the Drosophila ortholog of Hypoxia inducible factor 1α (Hif1α) is also required to activate the larval glycolytic program.

METHODS

CRISPR/Cas9 was used to generate new loss-of-function alleles in the Drosophila gene similar (sima), which encodes the sole fly ortholog of Hif1α. The resulting mutant strains were analyzed using a combination of metabolomics and RNAseq for defects in carbohydrate metabolism.

RESULTS

Our studies reveal that sima mutants fail to activate aerobic glycolysis and die during larval development with metabolic phenotypes that mimic those displayed by dERR mutants. Moreover, we demonstrate that dERR and Sima/Hif1α protein accumulation is mutually dependent, as loss of either transcription factor results in decreased abundance of the other protein.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrate that Sima/HIF1α is required during embryogenesis to coordinately up-regulate carbohydrate metabolism in preparation for larval growth. Notably, our study also reveals that the Sima/HIF1α-dependent gene expression program shares considerable overlap with that observed in dERR mutant, suggesting that Sima/HIF1α and dERR cooperatively regulate embryonic and larval glycolytic gene expression.

The role of tumor-associated macrophages in lung cancer

Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, necessitating innovative treatments. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are primary immunosuppressive effectors that foster tumor proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. They are broadly categorized into proinflammatory M1 and tumor-promoting M2 phenotypes, with elevated M2 infiltration correlating with poor prognosis. Strategies aimed at inhibiting TAM recruitment, depleting TAMs, or reprogramming M2 to M1 are therefore highly promising. Key signaling pathways, such as CSF-1/CSF-1R, IL-4/IL-13-STAT6, TLRs, and CD47-SIRPα, regulate TAM polarization. Additionally, macrophage-based drug delivery systems permit targeted agent transport to hypoxic regions, enhancing therapy. Preclinical studies combining TAM-targeted therapies with chemotherapy or immune checkpoint inhibitors have yielded improved responses and prolonged survival. Several clinical trials have also reported benefits in previously unresponsive patients. Future work should clarify the roles of macrophage-derived exosomes, cytokines, and additional mediators in shaping the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. These insights will inform the design of next-generation drug carriers and optimize combination immunotherapies within precision medicine frameworks. Elucidating TAM phenotypes and their regulatory molecules remains central to developing novel strategies that curb tumor progression and ultimately improve outcomes in lung cancer. Importantly, macrophage-based immunomodulation may offer expanded treatment avenues.

Prostate cancer-selective anticancer action of an oxindole derivative via HO-1-mediated disruption of metabolic reprogramming

Prostate cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in men, exhibits distinct metabolic reprogramming involving zinc and citrate metabolism. This study investigated whether targeting this unique metabolic profile could offer an effective therapeutic approach. A series of novel oxindole derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their inhibitory effects on transcription factors (TFs) and antiproliferative activity across various cancer cell lines. Among these, compound 3D showed the strongest inhibition of master TFs (HIF-1α, c-Myc, and SP-1) and demonstrated selective antiproliferative activity in prostate cancer cells. In PC-3 and LNCaP cells, compound 3D suppressed aerobic glycolysis by downregulating lactate-modulating genes (LDHA, MCT1/4, and CAIX) and the zinc influx transporter (ZIP1), without affecting the zinc efflux transporter (ZnT4). Notably, 3D selectively increased heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) levels in prostate cancer cells, as shown by the proteome profiler oncogene array assay and confirmed by Western blotting. This response was reversed by ZnCl2 treatment. The decreases in LDHA, mitochondrial mass (measured by FACS), and cell proliferation induced by compound 3D were blocked by HO-1-IN-1, an HO-1 inhibitor, and ZnCl2. Furthermore, 3D induced a more pronounced reduction in the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) than in the extracellular acidification rate (EACR), indicating a strong effect on oxidative metabolism. 3D exhibited dose-dependent antitumour efficacy in vivo comparable to that of docetaxel. These findings reveal that the oxindole derivative 3D substantially lowers intracellular zinc levels, yielding potent antitumour effects in prostate cancer through HO-1 upregulation, which impairs mitochondrial function more significantly than aerobic glycolysis.

Synergistic strategies: histone deacetylase inhibitors and platinum-based drugs in cancer therapy

INTRODUCTION

The synergistic combination of histone deacetylase inhibitors and platinum-based medicines represents a promising therapeutic strategy to efficacy and overcome drug resistance in cancer therapy, necessitating a comprehensive understanding on their molecular interactions and clinical potential.

AREAS COVERED

The objective of presented review is to investigate the molecular pathways of platinum medicines and HDAC inhibitors. A comprehensive literature review from 2011 to 2024 was conducted across multiple databases like MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus and official websites of ClinicalTrial.gov to explore publications on HDAC inhibitors, platinum drugs, and combination cancer therapies, revealing preliminary evidence of innovative treatment strategies involving HDAC inhibitors and platinum chemotherapeutics. Several new platinum (IV) complexes, with HDAC inhibitory moieties and better cytotoxicity profiles than conventional platinum drugs, are also reviewed here.

EXPERT OPINION

The above combination has great potential in cancer treatment, however managing toxicity, dosage regimens, and patient selection biomarkers are problematic. More selective HDAC inhibitors and innovative delivery techniques are potential areas for future research. An adaptation toward changing cancer therapeutic landscapes, highlights combining HDAC inhibitors with platinum-based medicines serves as a new concept for personalized medicine, however, a deeper research is still needed at this time.

Mapping the expression and functional landscape of key enzymes in glucose metabolism within human gynecological tumors

Gynecological tumors, primarily ovarian cancer (OC), cervical cancer (CC), and endometrial cancer (EC), have a significant global impact on women's health, characterized by high mortality rates. Emerging evidence underscores the pivotal role of altered glucose metabolism in the initiation and progression of these malignancies. Glucose metabolism, encompassing glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, and the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), among others, is intricately governed by a spectrum of key enzymes. These enzymes drive metabolic reprogramming essential for tumor growth and survival, thereby influencing patient outcomes and clinical management strategies. However, the comprehensive characterization and summary of the expression profiles, regulatory networks involved, and functional roles of these glucose metabolic enzymes in human gynecological tumors remain incomplete. In this review, we systematically map the expression landscape of these critical glucose metabolic enzymes in gynecological cancers based on research utilizing clinical gynecological tumor tissues. Additionally, we summarize the specific functions of key enzymes of glucose metabolism and the pathways they regulate in gynecological tumors. This review provides profound insights into the metabolic dynamics underlying these diseases. This understanding illuminates the metabolic strategies employed by tumor cells and sets the stage for innovative therapeutic approaches targeting cancer cell glucose metabolic dependencies, thereby holding promise for enhancing patient outcomes in gynecological oncology.

The molecular code of kidney cancer: A path of discovery for gene mutation and precision therapy

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a malignant tumor with highly heterogeneous and complex molecular mechanisms. Through systematic analysis of TCGA, COSMIC and other databases, 24 mutated genes closely related to RCC were screened, including VHL, PBRM1, BAP1 and SETD2, which play key roles in signaling pathway transduction, chromatin remodeling and DNA repair. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is particularly important in the pathogenesis of RCC. Mutations in genes such as PIK3CA, MTOR and PTEN are closely associated with metabolic abnormalities and tumor cell proliferation. Clinically, mTOR inhibitors and VEGF-targeted drugs have shown significant efficacy in personalized therapy. Abnormal regulation of metabolic reprogramming, especially glycolysis and glutamine metabolic pathways, provides tumor cells with continuous energy supply and survival advantages, and GLS1 inhibitors have shown promising results in preclinical studies. This paper also explores the potential of immune checkpoint inhibitors in combination with other targeted drugs, as well as the promising application of nanotechnology in drug delivery and targeted therapy. In addition, unique molecular mechanisms are revealed and individualized therapeutic strategies are explored for specific subtypes such as TFE3, TFEB rearrangement type and SDHB mutant type. The review summarizes the common gene mutations in RCC and their molecular mechanisms, emphasizes their important roles in tumor diagnosis, treatment and prognosis, and looks forward to the application prospects of multi-pathway targeted therapy, metabolic targeted therapy, immunotherapy and nanotechnology in RCC treatment, providing theoretical support and clinical guidance for individualized treatment and new drug development.

Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α is required to establish the larval glycolytic program in Drosophila melanogaster

The rapid growth that occurs during Drosophila larval development requires a dramatic rewiring of central carbon metabolism to support biosynthesis. Larvae achieve this metabolic state, in part, by coordinately up-regulating the expression of genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. The resulting metabolic program exhibits hallmark characteristics of aerobic glycolysis and establishes a physiological state that supports growth. To date, the only factor known to activate the larval glycolytic program is the Drosophila Estrogen-Related Receptor (dERR). However, dERR is dynamically regulated during the onset of this metabolic switch, indicating that other factors must be involved. Here we discover that Sima, the Drosophila ortholog of Hif1α, is also essential for establishing the larval glycolytic program. Using a multi-omics approach, we demonstrate that sima mutants fail to properly activate aerobic glycolysis and die during larval development with metabolic defects that phenocopy dERR mutants. Moreover, we demonstrate that dERR and Sima/Hif1α protein accumulation is mutually dependent, as loss of either transcription factor results in decreased abundance of the other protein. Considering that the mammalian homologs of ERR and Hif1α also cooperatively regulate aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells, our findings establish the fly as a powerful genetic model for studying the interaction between these two key metabolic regulators.

Crosstalk between ROS-inflammatory gene expression axis in the progression of lung disorders

A significant number of deaths and disabilities worldwide are brought on by inflammatory lung diseases. Many inflammatory lung disorders, including chronic respiratory emphysema, resistant asthma, resistance to steroids, and coronavirus-infected lung infections, have severe variants for which there are no viable treatments; as a result, new treatment alternatives are needed. Here, we emphasize how oxidative imbalance contributes to the emergence of provocative lung problems that are challenging to treat. Endogenic antioxidant systems are not enough to avert free radical-mediated damage due to the induced overproduction of ROS. Pro-inflammatory mediators are then produced due to intracellular signaling events, which can harm the tissue and worsen the inflammatory response. Overproduction of ROS causes oxidative stress, which causes lung damage and various disease conditions. Invasive microorganisms or hazardous substances that are inhaled repeatedly can cause an excessive amount of ROS to be produced. By starting signal transduction pathways, increased ROS generation during inflammation may cause recurrent DNA damage and apoptosis and activate proto-oncogenes. This review provides information about new targets for conducting research in related domains or target factors to prevent, control, or treat such inflammatory oxidative stress-induced inflammatory lung disorders.

Angiogenesis and EMT regulators in the tumor microenvironment in lung cancer and immunotherapy

Lung cancer remains the primary cause of cancer-related mortality, with factors such as postoperative tumor recurrence, metastasis, and therapeutic drug resistance exacerbating patient outcomes. Immunotherapy has emerged as a transformative approach, challenging conventional treatment paradigms for lung cancer. Consequently, advancing research in lung cancer immunotherapy is imperative. Recent studies indicate that numerous regulators within the tumor microenvironment (TME) drive tumor angiogenesis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT); these processes are interdependent, reciprocal, and collectively contribute to tumor progression. Tumor angiogenesis not only supplies adequate oxygen and nutrients for cellular proliferation but also establishes pathways facilitating tumor metastasis and creating hypoxic regions that foster drug resistance. Concurrently, EMT enhances metastatic potential and reinforces drug-resistance genes within tumor cells, creating a reciprocal relationship with angiogenesis. This interplay ultimately results in tumor invasion, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. This paper reviews key regulators of angiogenesis and EMT, examining their impact on lung cancer immunotherapy and progression, and investigates whether newly identified regulators could influence lung cancer treatment, thus offering valuable insights for developing future therapeutic strategies.

Targeting the SMURF2-HIF1α axis: a new frontier in cancer therapy

The SMAD-specific E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 2 (SMURF2) has emerged as a critical regulator in cancer biology, modulating the stability of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1-alpha (HIF1α) and influencing a network of hypoxia-driven pathways within the tumor microenvironment (TME). SMURF2 targets HIF1α for ubiquitination and subsequent proteasomal degradation, disrupting hypoxic responses that promote cancer cell survival, metabolic reprogramming, angiogenesis, and resistance to therapy. Beyond its role in HIF1α regulation, SMURF2 exerts extensive control over cellular processes central to tumor progression, including chromatin remodeling, DNA damage repair, ferroptosis, and cellular stress responses. Notably, SMURF2's ability to promote ferroptotic cell death through GSTP1 degradation offers an alternative pathway to overcome apoptosis resistance, expanding therapeutic options for refractory cancers. This review delves into the multifaceted interactions between SMURF2 and HIF1α, emphasizing how their interplay impacts metabolic adaptations like the Warburg effect, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance. We discuss SMURF2's dual functionality as both a tumor suppressor and, in certain contexts, an oncogenic factor, underscoring its potential as a highly versatile therapeutic target. Furthermore, modulating the SMURF2-HIF1α axis presents an innovative approach to destabilize hypoxia-dependent pathways, sensitizing tumors to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immune-based treatments. However, the complexity of SMURF2's interactions necessitate a thorough assessment of potential off-target effects and challenges in specificity, which must be addressed to optimize its clinical application. This review concludes by proposing future directions for research into the SMURF2-HIF1α pathway, aiming to refine targeted strategies that exploit this axis and address the adaptive mechanisms of aggressive tumors, ultimately advancing the landscape of precision oncology.

Exploring the role of antigen-presenting cancer-associated fibroblasts and CD74 on the pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma tumor microenvironment

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has proven to be a formidable cancer primarily due to its tumor microenvironment (TME). This highly desmoplastic, hypoxic, and pro-inflammatory environment has not only been shown to facilitate the growth and metastasis of PDAC but has also displayed powerful immunosuppressive capabilities. A critical cell involved in the development of the PDAC TME is the fibroblast, specifically the antigen-presenting cancer-associated fibroblast (apCAF). The pro-inflammatory environment of PDAC induces the proliferation of apCAFs, promoting immunosuppression through immune cell inactivation, immune response regulation, and expression of CD74. In conjunction with apCAFs and tumor cells, CD74 serves as a versatile promoter of PDAC by preventing tumor antigen-expression on tumor cells, upregulating the expression of immunosuppressive chemical mediators, and activating proliferative pathways to induce PDAC malignancy. This review will highlight critical mediators and pathways that promote the PDAC stroma and TME with its hypoxic and immunosuppressive properties. Further, we will highlight the nature of apCAFs and CD74, their specific roles in the PDAC TME, and their potential as targets for immunotherapy.

The role of neutrophils in osteosarcoma: insights from laboratory to clinic

Osteosarcoma, a highly aggressive malignant bone tumor, is significantly influenced by the intricate interactions within its tumor microenvironment (TME), particularly involving neutrophils. This review delineates the multifaceted roles of neutrophils, including tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), in osteosarcoma's pathogenesis. TANs exhibit both pro- and anti-tumor phenotypes, modulating tumor growth and immune evasion, while NETs facilitate tumor cell adhesion, migration, and immunosuppression. Clinically, neutrophil-related markers such as the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) predict patient outcomes, highlighting the potential for neutrophil-targeted therapies. Unraveling these complex interactions is crucial for developing novel treatment strategies that harness the TME to improve osteosarcoma management.

Angiogenesis unveiled: Insights into its role and mechanisms in cartilage injury

Osteoarthritis (OA) commonly results in compromised mobility and disability, thereby imposing a significant burden on healthcare systems. Cartilage injury is a prevalent pathological manifestation in OA and constitutes a central focus for the development of treatment strategies. Despite the considerable number of studies aimed at delaying this degenerative process, their outcomes remain unvalidated in preclinical settings. Recently, therapeutic strategies focused on angiogenesis have attracted the growing interest from researchers. Thus, we conducted a comprehensive literature review to elucidate the current progress in research and pinpoint research gaps in this domain. Additionally, it provides theoretical guidance for future research endeavors and the development of treatment strategies.

Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1-Alpha (HIF-1α) and Cancer: Mechanisms of Tumor Hypoxia and Therapeutic Targeting

Hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) is necessary for cells to adapt to low oxygen levels often present in the tumor microenvironment. HIF-1α triggers a transcriptional program that promotes invasion, angiogenesis, metabolic reprogramming, and cell survival when it is active in hypoxic environments. These processes together lead to the growth and spread of tumors. This review article examines the molecular mechanisms by which HIF-1α contributes to tumor progression, including its regulation by oxygen-dependent and independent pathways, interactions with oncogenic signaling networks, and impact on the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, we explore current therapeutic strategies targeting HIF-1α, such as small molecule inhibitors, RNA interference, and immunotherapy approaches. Understanding the multifaceted roles of HIF-1α in cancer biology not only elucidates the complexities of tumor hypoxia but also opens avenues for developing novel and more effective cancer therapies.

Tumoroids, a valid preclinical screening platform for monitoring cancer angiogenesis

In recent years, biologists and clinicians have witnessed prominent advances in in vitro 3D culture techniques related to biomimetic human/animal tissue analogs. Numerous data have confirmed that unicellular and multicellular (tumoroids) tumor spheroids with dense native cells in certain matrices are sensitive and valid analytical tools for drug screening, cancer cell dynamic growth, behavior, etc. in laboratory settings. Angiogenesis/vascularization is a very critical biological phenomenon to support oxygen and nutrients to tumor cells within the deep layer of solid masses. It has been shown that endothelial cell (EC)-incorporated or -free spheroid/tumoroid systems provide a relatively reliable biological platform for monitoring the formation of nascent blood vessels in micron/micrometer scales. Besides, the paracrine angiogenic activity of cells within the spheroid/tumoroid systems can be monitored after being treated with different therapeutic approaches. Here, we aimed to collect recent advances and findings related to the monitoring of cancer angiogenesis using unicellular and multicellular tumor spheroids. Vascularized spheroids/tumoroids can help us in the elucidation of mechanisms related to cancer formation, development, and metastasis by monitoring the main influencing factors.

Survival strategies: How tumor hypoxia microenvironment orchestrates angiogenesis

During tumor development, the tumor itself must continuously generate new blood vessels to meet their growth needs while also allowing for tumor invasion and metastasis. One of the most common features of tumors is hypoxia, which drives the process of tumor angiogenesis by regulating the tumor microenvironment, thus adversely affecting the prognosis of patients. In addition, to overcome unsuitable environments for growth, such as hypoxia, nutrient deficiency, hyperacidity, and immunosuppression, the tumor microenvironment (TME) coordinates angiogenesis in several ways to restore the supply of oxygen and nutrients and to remove metabolic wastes. A growing body of research suggests that tumor angiogenesis and hypoxia interact through a complex interplay of crosstalk, which is inextricably linked to the TME. Here, we review the TME's positive contribution to angiogenesis from an angiogenesis-centric perspective while considering the objective impact of hypoxic phenotypes and the status and limitations of current angiogenic therapies.