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Gandhi MM, Nguyen KL, Lake JE, Liao D, Khodabakhshian A, Guerrero M, Shufelt CL, Bairey Merz CN, Jordan WC, Daar ES, Bhattacharya D, Chew KW. Proprotein convertase subtisilin/kexin 9 levels decline with hepatitis C virus therapy in people with HIV/hepatitis C virus and correlate with inflammation. AIDS 2024; 38:317-327. [PMID: 37788081 PMCID: PMC10841736 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003739] [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] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proprotein convertase subtisilin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) raises low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and is associated with inflammation, which is elevated in HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We compared PCSK9 levels in people with co-occurring HIV and HCV (HIV/HCV) vs. HIV alone, and evaluated the impact of HCV direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy on PCSK9. DESIGN A prospective, observational cohort study. METHODS Thirty-five adults with HIV/HCV and 37 with HIV alone were evaluated, all with HIV virologic suppression and without documented cardiovascular disease. Circulating PCSK9 and inflammatory biomarkers were measured at baseline and following HCV treatment or at week 52 (for HIV alone) and compared using Wilcoxon tests and Spearman correlations. RESULTS At baseline, PCSK9 trended higher in HIV/HCV vs. HIV alone (307 vs. 284 ng/ml, P = 0.06). Twenty-nine participants with HIV/HCV completed DAA therapy with sustained virologic response. PCSK9 declined from baseline to posttreatment 1 (median 7.3 weeks after end of therapy [EOT]) and posttreatment 2 (median 43.5 weeks after EOT), reaching levels similar to HIV alone; median within-person reduction was -60.5 ng/ml ( P = 0.003) and -55.6 ng/ml ( P = 0.02), respectively. Decline in PCSK9 correlated with decline in soluble (s)E-selectin and sCD163 ( r = 0.64, P = 0.002; r = 0.58, P = 0.008, respectively), but not with changes in LDL-C or other biomarkers. No significant change in PCSK9 occurred in the HIV alone group over 52 weeks. CONCLUSION PCSK9 declined with DAA therapy in participants with HIV/HCV, correlating with declines in several inflammatory biomarkers but not LDL-C. Elevated PCSK9 with HCV may be linked to particular HCV-associated inflammatory pathways more so than cholesterol homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malini M Gandhi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kim-Lien Nguyen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jordan E Lake
- Division of Infectious Diseases, McGovern School of Medicine, UTHealth Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Diana Liao
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles
| | | | - Mario Guerrero
- Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | | | | | - Wilbert C Jordan
- Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Eric S Daar
- Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Debika Bhattacharya
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kara W Chew
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
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Wang Y, Gao L. Cholesterol: A friend to viruses. Int Rev Immunol 2024; 43:248-262. [PMID: 38372266 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2024.2314577] [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: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Cholesterol is a key life-sustaining molecule which regulates membrane fluidity and serves as a signaling mediator. Cholesterol homeostasis is closely related to various pathological conditions including tumor, obesity, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease and viral infection. Viral infection disrupts host cholesterol homeostasis, facilitating their own survival. Meanwhile, the host cells strive to reduce cholesterol accessibility to limit viral infection. This review focuses on the regulation of cholesterol metabolism and the role of cholesterol in viral infection, specifically providing an overview of cholesterol as a friend to promote viral entry, replication, assembly, release and immune evasion, which might inspire valuable thinking for pathogenesis and intervention of viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingchun Wang
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Lifen Gao
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, P.R. China
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3
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Bao X, Liang Y, Chang H, Cai T, Feng B, Gordon K, Zhu Y, Shi H, He Y, Xie L. Targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9): from bench to bedside. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:13. [PMID: 38185721 PMCID: PMC10772138 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01690-3] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has evolved as a pivotal enzyme in lipid metabolism and a revolutionary therapeutic target for hypercholesterolemia and its related cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This comprehensive review delineates the intricate roles and wide-ranging implications of PCSK9, extending beyond CVD to emphasize its significance in diverse physiological and pathological states, including liver diseases, infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and notably, cancer. Our exploration offers insights into the interaction between PCSK9 and low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLRs), elucidating its substantial impact on cholesterol homeostasis and cardiovascular health. It also details the evolution of PCSK9-targeted therapies, translating foundational bench discoveries into bedside applications for optimized patient care. The advent and clinical approval of innovative PCSK9 inhibitory therapies (PCSK9-iTs), including three monoclonal antibodies (Evolocumab, Alirocumab, and Tafolecimab) and one small interfering RNA (siRNA, Inclisiran), have marked a significant breakthrough in cardiovascular medicine. These therapies have demonstrated unparalleled efficacy in mitigating hypercholesterolemia, reducing cardiovascular risks, and have showcased profound value in clinical applications, offering novel therapeutic avenues and a promising future in personalized medicine for cardiovascular disorders. Furthermore, emerging research, inclusive of our findings, unveils PCSK9's potential role as a pivotal indicator for cancer prognosis and its prospective application as a transformative target for cancer treatment. This review also highlights PCSK9's aberrant expression in various cancer forms, its association with cancer prognosis, and its crucial roles in carcinogenesis and cancer immunity. In conclusion, this synthesized review integrates existing knowledge and novel insights on PCSK9, providing a holistic perspective on its transformative impact in reshaping therapeutic paradigms across various disorders. It emphasizes the clinical value and effect of PCSK9-iT, underscoring its potential in advancing the landscape of biomedical research and its capabilities in heralding new eras in personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuhui Bao
- Institute of Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China.
- Center for Clinical Research, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Cell-based Immunotherapy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Yongjun Liang
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanman Chang
- Institute for Food Safety and Health, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tianji Cai
- Department of Sociology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Baijie Feng
- Department of Oncology, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Konstantin Gordon
- Medical Institute, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russia
- A. Tsyb Medical Radiological Research Center, Obninsk, Russia
| | - Yuekun Zhu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hailian Shi
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiang Hi-tech Park, Shanghai, China
| | - Yundong He
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Liyi Xie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Wu Y, Liu S, Fan Z, Tian Y, Zhang L, Liu S. Establishment and Validation of a Blood Test-based Nomogram to Diagnose Patients with AFP-negative HCC. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2024; 24:556-564. [PMID: 38178672 DOI: 10.2174/0115680096264770231113103930] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Alpha-protein (AFP) is the most widely used blood biomarker for HCC. However, elevated serum AFP is only observed in part of HCC. AIMS This study aimed to develop an efficient nomogram model to distinguish patients with alpha- protein-negative HCC and liver cirrhosis. OBJECTIVES A total of 1130 patients (508 HCC patients + 622 cirrhosis patients) were enrolled in the training cohort. A total of 244 HCC patients and 246 cirrhosis patients were enrolled in the validation cohort. METHODS A total of 41 parameters about blood tests were analyzed with logistic regression. The nomogram was based on independent factors and validated both internally and externally. RESULTS Independent factors were eosinophils %, hemoglobin concentration distribution width, fibrinogen, platelet counts, total bile acid, and mitochondria aspartate aminotransferase. The calibration curve for the probability of HCC showed good agreement between prediction by nomogram and actual observation. The concordance index was 0.851. In the validation cohort, the nomogram distinguished HCC from liver cirrhosis with an area under the curve of receiver operating characteristic of 0.754. CONCLUSION This proposed nomogram was an accurate and useful method to distinguish patients with AFP-negative HCC from liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Wu
- The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, 83 Jintang Road, Hedong District, Tianjin, 300170, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, 83 Jintang Road, Hedong District, Tianjin, 300170, China
| | - Zhijuan Fan
- The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, 83 Jintang Road, Hedong District, Tianjin, 300170, China
| | - Yaqiong Tian
- The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, 83 Jintang Road, Hedong District, Tianjin, 300170, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, 83 Jintang Road, Hedong District, Tianjin, 300170, China
| | - Shuye Liu
- The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, 83 Jintang Road, Hedong District, Tianjin, 300170, China
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Wang H, Guo Q, Wang M, Liu C, Tian Z. PCSK9 promotes tumor cell proliferation and migration by facilitating CCL25 secretion in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2023; 26:500. [PMID: 37854863 PMCID: PMC10579978 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2023.14086] [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: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) serves an important role in maintaining plasma cholesterol levels, and fatty acid metabolism is involved in the progression of various types of cancer. In the present study, the role of PCSK9 in the development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) was investigated. PCSK9 expression was compared between ESCC and normal esophageal epithelial tissues using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. In addition, the association between PCSK9 expression and clinical staging and prognosis was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The effects of PCSK9 overexpression or knockdown on cell proliferation was evaluated using Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays. The invasion and migration of cancer cells was assessed using wound healing and Transwell assays. Western blotting was performed to evaluate changes in the expression levels of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins. ELISA was performed to detect the effects of PCSK9 on chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 25 (CCL25) secretion. The results revealed that PCSK9 was highly expressed in ESCC tissues compared with that in normal esophageal tissues, and the high expression of PCSK9 was associated with a poor prognosis. Furthermore, PCSK9 could promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of ESCC cells in vitro. Mechanistically, PCSK9 could promote EMT by secreting CCL25. In conclusion, patients with ESCC may benefit from a novel therapeutic strategy based on these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijun Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050010, P.R. China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xingtai People's Hospital, Xingtai, Hebei 054000, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Guo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050010, P.R. China
| | - Mingbo Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050010, P.R. China
| | - Changjiang Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050010, P.R. China
| | - Ziqiang Tian
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050010, P.R. China
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Alannan M, Seidah NG, Merched AJ. PCSK9 in Liver Cancers at the Crossroads between Lipid Metabolism and Immunity. Cells 2022; 11:cells11244132. [PMID: 36552895 PMCID: PMC9777286 DOI: 10.3390/cells11244132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic rewiring and defective immune responses are considered to be the main driving forces sustaining cell growth and oncogenesis in many cancers. The atypical enzyme, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), is produced by the liver in large amounts and plays a major role in lipid metabolism via the control of the low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and other cell surface receptors. In this context, many clinical studies have clearly demonstrated the high efficacy of PCSK9 inhibitors in treating hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular diseases. Recent data implicated PCSK9 in the degradation of major histocompatibility complex I (MHC-I) receptors and the immune system as well as in other physiological activities. This review highlights the complex crosstalk between PCSK9, lipid metabolism and immunosuppression and underlines the latest advances in understanding the involvement of this convertase in other critical functions. We present a comprehensive assessment of the different strategies targeting PCSK9 and show how these approaches could be extended to future therapeutic options to treat cancers with a main focus on the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malak Alannan
- Bordeaux Institute of Oncology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, University of Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Nabil G. Seidah
- Laboratory of Biochemical Neuroendocrinology, Montreal Clinical Research Institute, IRCM, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H2W 1R7, Canada
| | - Aksam J. Merched
- Bordeaux Institute of Oncology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, University of Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
- Correspondence:
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Minhas AS, Leucker TM, Goerlich E, Soleimani‐Fard A, Schär M, Ziogos E, Miller E, Gerstenblith G, Hays AG. Effect of Sex on Coronary Endothelial Dysfunction in People Living With HIV. J Am Heart Assoc 2022; 11:e026428. [PMID: 36382948 PMCID: PMC9851436 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.026428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Impaired coronary endothelial function (CEF) predicts cardiovascular events and occurs in people living with HIV (PLWH). Women compared with men living with HIV have worse cardiovascular outcomes, but prior CEF studies included few women. The authors aimed to compare CEF in women with HIV versus without HIV, investigate sex differences in CEF and PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) (a proinflammatory biomarker), and evaluate whether increased serum levels of PCSK9 are associated with CEF in PLWH. Methods and Results Magnetic resonance imaging was performed to measure CEF (as percent change in coronary cross-sectional area and coronary blood flow during isometric handgrip exercise, an endothelial-dependent stressor) and serum PCSK9 levels were measured in 106 PLWH and 76 people without HIV. CEF was significantly reduced in women with versus without HIV (cross-sectional area change -0.5%±9.7 versus 9.5%±3.2, respectively). After adjustment for age, body mass index, and menopausal status, women with HIV still had reduced CEF (percentage of cross-sectional area: ß -8.3 [-13 to -3.6], P=0.001) compared with women without HIV. PCSK9 was elevated in women living with HIV versus without (306 ng/mL [200-412 ng/mL] versus 180 ng/mL [154-223 ng/mL], P<0.001), and no sex differences in either CEF or PCSK9 were detected in PLWH. Elevated PCSK9 was associated with impaired CEF in PLWH; however, no significant sex differences in the association were detected. Conclusions Among PLWH, coronary endothelial dysfunction is present in women and comparable to men. PCSK9 is higher in women with versus without HIV and a significant inverse relationship between PCSK9 and CEF was shown. Future studies should determine whether PLWH would benefit from interventions to improve endothelial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anum S. Minhas
- Division of Cardiology, Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD
| | - Thorsten M. Leucker
- Division of Cardiology, Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD
| | - Erin Goerlich
- Division of Cardiology, Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD
| | - Alborz Soleimani‐Fard
- Division of Cardiology, Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD
| | - Michael Schär
- Department of Radiology and Radiological ScienceJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD
| | - Efthymios Ziogos
- Division of Cardiology, Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD
| | - Eliza Miller
- Division of Cardiology, Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD
| | - Gary Gerstenblith
- Division of Cardiology, Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD
| | - Allison G. Hays
- Division of Cardiology, Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD
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Duan Y, Gong K, Xu S, Zhang F, Meng X, Han J. Regulation of cholesterol homeostasis in health and diseases: from mechanisms to targeted therapeutics. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:265. [PMID: 35918332 PMCID: PMC9344793 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01125-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Disturbed cholesterol homeostasis plays critical roles in the development of multiple diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases (CVD), neurodegenerative diseases and cancers, particularly the CVD in which the accumulation of lipids (mainly the cholesteryl esters) within macrophage/foam cells underneath the endothelial layer drives the formation of atherosclerotic lesions eventually. More and more studies have shown that lowering cholesterol level, especially low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, protects cardiovascular system and prevents cardiovascular events effectively. Maintaining cholesterol homeostasis is determined by cholesterol biosynthesis, uptake, efflux, transport, storage, utilization, and/or excretion. All the processes should be precisely controlled by the multiple regulatory pathways. Based on the regulation of cholesterol homeostasis, many interventions have been developed to lower cholesterol by inhibiting cholesterol biosynthesis and uptake or enhancing cholesterol utilization and excretion. Herein, we summarize the historical review and research events, the current understandings of the molecular pathways playing key roles in regulating cholesterol homeostasis, and the cholesterol-lowering interventions in clinics or in preclinical studies as well as new cholesterol-lowering targets and their clinical advances. More importantly, we review and discuss the benefits of those interventions for the treatment of multiple diseases including atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, osteoporosis and virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Duan
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Ke Gong
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Suowen Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Xianshe Meng
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Jihong Han
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China. .,College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.
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9
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Sun H, Meng W, Zhu J, Wang L. Antitumor activity and molecular mechanism of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 395:643-658. [PMID: 35307759 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-022-02200-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a member of the proprotein convertase family of proteins that activate other proteins in cells. Functionally, PCSK9 binds to the receptor of low-density lipoprotein particles (LDL) to regulate cholesterol metabolism and lipoprotein homeostasis in human body. PCSK9 inhibition is a novel pharmacological strategy to control hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular diseases. Recently accumulating evidence realizes that PCSK9 possesses other roles in cells, such as regulation of tissue inflammatory response, intratumoral immune cell infiltration, and tumor progression. This review discussed the advancement of PCSK9 research on its role and underlying mechanisms in tumor development and progression. For example, PCSK9 inhibition could attenuate progression of breast cancer, glioma, colon tumor, hepatocellular cancer, prostate cancer, and lung adenocarcinoma and promote apoptosis of glioma, prostate cancer, and hepatocellular cancer cells. PCSK9 deficiency could reduce liver metastasis of B16F1 melanoma cells by lowering the circulating cholesterol levels. PCSK9 gene knockdown substantially attenuated mouse tumor growth in vivo by activation of cytotoxic T cells, although PCSK9 knockdown had no effect on morphology and growth rate of different mouse cancer cell lines in vitro. PCSK9 inhibition thus can be used to control human cancers. Future preclinical and clinical studies are warranted to define anti-tumor activity of PCSK9 inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong, Jinan, China
| | - Wen Meng
- Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong, Jinan, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong, Jinan, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong, Jinan, China.
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Hu J, Zhang M, Gui L, Wan Q, Zhong J, Bai L, He M. PCSK9 Suppresses M2-Like Tumor-Associated Macrophage Polarization by Regulating the Secretion of OX40L from Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Immunol Invest 2022; 51:1678-1693. [PMID: 35078374 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2022.2027439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) participates in the development of various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we attempted to reveal the underlying mechanism of PCSK9 in HCC. METHODS Tumor tissues and adjacent tissues were separated from HCC patients to detect PCSK9 expression. Then, PCSK9 was overexpressed or silenced in HCC cells (MHCC97H or Huh7), and then the cell supernatant was incubated with THP-1 macrophages. OX40L neutralizing antibody (nAb) was used to inhibit OX40L activity. The expression of macrophage markers was examined by immunohistochemical staining and flow cytometry. Finally, tumor-bearing mouse model was constructed by inoculation of LV-PCSK9 infected MHCC97H cells to verify the role of PCSK in HCC. RESULTS PCSK9 expression was decreased in tumor tissues of HCC patient specimens. HCC patients displayed M2 macrophage infiltration in tumor tissues. Moreover, PCSK9-silenced Huh7 cell supernatant promoted cell migration, and enhanced the proportion of CD206-positive cells and the expression of M2 macrophage markers IL-10 and ARG-1 in THP-1 macrophages. PCSK9-overexpressing MHCC97H cell supernatant inhibited THP-1 macrophage migration and M2-like tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) polarization, which was abolished by OX40L nAb treatment. PCSK9 overexpression enhanced the expression of OX40L in MHCC97H cells. In tumor-bearing mouse models, PCSK9 overexpression inhibited tumor growth and M2 polarization of TAMs in HCC by promoting OX40L expression. Conclusion: This work demonstrated that PCSK9 suppressed M2-like TAM polarization by regulating the secretion of OX40L from hepatocellular carcinoma cells. This study suggests that PCSK9 may be a potential target for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Meixia Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ling Gui
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qinsi Wan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jiawei Zhong
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Liangliang Bai
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Mingyan He
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Grewal T, Buechler C. Emerging Insights on the Diverse Roles of Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9) in Chronic Liver Diseases: Cholesterol Metabolism and Beyond. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031070. [PMID: 35162992 PMCID: PMC8834914 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases are commonly associated with dysregulated cholesterol metabolism. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a serine protease of the proprotein convertase family that is mainly synthetized and secreted by the liver, and represents one of the key regulators of circulating low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. Its ability to bind and induce LDL-receptor degradation, in particular in the liver, increases circulating LDL-cholesterol levels in the blood. Hence, inhibition of PCSK9 has become a very potent tool for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Besides PCSK9 limiting entry of LDL-derived cholesterol, affecting multiple cholesterol-related functions in cells, more recent studies have associated PCSK9 with various other cellular processes, including inflammation, fatty acid metabolism, cancerogenesis and visceral adiposity. It is increasingly becoming evident that additional roles for PCSK9 beyond cholesterol homeostasis are crucial for liver physiology in health and disease, often contributing to pathophysiology. This review will summarize studies analyzing circulating and hepatic PCSK9 levels in patients with chronic liver diseases. The factors affecting PCSK9 levels in the circulation and in hepatocytes, clinically relevant studies and the pathophysiological role of PCSK9 in chronic liver injury are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Grewal
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Christa Buechler
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Regensburg University Hospital, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Virus-Induced Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Recent Progress and Future Challenges. J Clin Med 2021; 11:jcm11010208. [PMID: 35011949 PMCID: PMC8745496 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11010208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic viral hepatitis is a key risk factor for liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) [...].
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Magnasco L, Sepulcri C, Antonello RM, Di Bella S, Labate L, Luzzati R, Giacobbe DR, Bassetti M. The role of PCSK9 in infectious diseases. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:1000-1015. [PMID: 34269657 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210714160343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, many aspects of the physiological role of PCSK9 have been elucidated, particularly regarding its role in lipid metabolism, cardiovascular risk, and its role in innate immunity. Increasing evidence is available about the involvement of PCSK9 in the pathogenesis of viral infections, mainly HCV, and the regulation of host response to bacterial infections, primarily sepsis and septic shock. Moreover, the action of PCSK9 has been investigated as a crucial step in the pathogenesis of malaria infection and disease severity. OBJECTIVE This paper aims to review the available published literature on the role of PCSK9 in a wide array of infectious diseases. CONCLUSION Besides the ongoing investigation on PCSK9 inhibition among HIV-infected patients to treat HIV- and ART-related hyperlipidemia, preclinical studies indicate how PCSK9 is involved in reducing the replication of HCV. Interestingly, high plasmatic PCSK9 levels have been described in patients with sepsis. Moreover, a protective role of PCSK9 inhibition has also been proposed against dengue and SARS-CoV-2 viral infections. Finally, a loss of function in the PCSK9-encoding gene has been reported to reduce malaria infection mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Magnasco
- Infectious Diseases Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - Chiara Sepulcri
- Infectious Diseases Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | - Laura Labate
- Infectious Diseases Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - Roberto Luzzati
- Clinical Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Bassetti
- Infectious Diseases Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
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Seidah NG, Pasquato A, Andréo U. How Do Enveloped Viruses Exploit the Secretory Proprotein Convertases to Regulate Infectivity and Spread? Viruses 2021; 13:v13071229. [PMID: 34202098 PMCID: PMC8310232 DOI: 10.3390/v13071229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of the binding of enveloped viruses surface glycoproteins to host cell receptor(s) is a major target of vaccines and constitutes an efficient strategy to block viral entry and infection of various host cells and tissues. Cellular entry usually requires the fusion of the viral envelope with host plasma membranes. Such entry mechanism is often preceded by “priming” and/or “activation” steps requiring limited proteolysis of the viral surface glycoprotein to expose a fusogenic domain for efficient membrane juxtapositions. The 9-membered family of Proprotein Convertases related to Subtilisin/Kexin (PCSK) serine proteases (PC1, PC2, Furin, PC4, PC5, PACE4, PC7, SKI-1/S1P, and PCSK9) participate in post-translational cleavages and/or regulation of multiple secretory proteins. The type-I membrane-bound Furin and SKI-1/S1P are the major convertases responsible for the processing of surface glycoproteins of enveloped viruses. Stefan Kunz has considerably contributed to define the role of SKI-1/S1P in the activation of arenaviruses causing hemorrhagic fever. Furin was recently implicated in the activation of the spike S-protein of SARS-CoV-2 and Furin-inhibitors are being tested as antivirals in COVID-19. Other members of the PCSK-family are also implicated in some viral infections, such as PCSK9 in Dengue. Herein, we summarize the various functions of the PCSKs and present arguments whereby their inhibition could represent a powerful arsenal to limit viral infections causing the present and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabil G. Seidah
- Laboratory of Biochemical Neuroendocrinology Montreal Clinical Research Institute, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H2W1R7, Canada;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-514-987-5609
| | - Antonella Pasquato
- Antonella Pasquato, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 9, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Ursula Andréo
- Laboratory of Biochemical Neuroendocrinology Montreal Clinical Research Institute, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H2W1R7, Canada;
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Bhattacharya A, Chowdhury A, Chaudhury K, Shukla PC. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9): A potential multifaceted player in cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1876:188581. [PMID: 34144130 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2021.188581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has emerged as a novel pharmacological target for hypercholesterolemia and associated cardiovascular diseases owing to its function to mediate the degradation of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR). Findings over the past two decades have identified novel binding partners and cellular functions of PCSK9. Notably, PCSK9 is aberrantly expressed in a broad spectrum of cancers and apparently contributes to disease prognosis, indicating that PCSK9 could be a valuable cancer biomarker. Experimental studies demonstrate the contribution of PCSK9 in various aspects of cancer, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, metastasis, anti-tumor immunity and radioresistance, strengthening the idea that PCSK9 could be a promising therapeutic target. Here, we comprehensively review the involvement of PCSK9 in cancer, summarizing its aberrant expression, association with disease prognosis, biological functions and underlying mechanisms in various malignancies. Besides, we highlight the potential of PCSK9 as a future therapeutic target in personalized cancer medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anindita Bhattacharya
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302, India
| | - Abhirup Chowdhury
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302, India
| | - Koel Chaudhury
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302, India.
| | - Praphulla Chandra Shukla
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302, India.
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Torti C, Scaglione V, Cesana BM, Costa C, Marascio N, Schiaroli E, Busti C, Bastianelli S, Mazzitelli M, Trecarichi EM, Francisci D. Effect of directly acting antivirals for hepatitis C virus infection on proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 level. Health Sci Rep 2021; 4:e273. [PMID: 33969232 PMCID: PMC8088586 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Eradication of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) may affect proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) levels and cardiovascular risk. However, information regarding PCSK9 level after HCV eradication is lacking. Hence, in this case-control retrospective study, we aimed to evaluate PCSK9 level from pretherapy baseline up to sustained virological response (SVR). METHODS Eighty-four patients treated with directly acting antivirals (DAAs) between July 2015 and May 2018 were enrolled. Differences in baseline PCSK9 level due to absence/presence of recorded baseline characteristics (covariates) were evaluated. Changes in PCSK9 levels from pretherapy to SVR (ΔPCSK9) and their correlations with the covariates were assessed. The repeated measures analysis of variance was used to investigate the differences in PCSK9 level from the baseline to the achievement of SVR due to absence/presence of any covariate. RESULTS The mean age of the patients was 67.6 ± 11 years, and 53.6% were males. Baseline PCSK9 levels were statistically lower in patients using statins than in those not using statins (mean, 70.3 ± 43.1 ng/mL vs 271.8 ± 252.2 ng/mL; P = .017). PCSK9 level decreased significantly from baseline to the time of SVR (255 ± 248 ng/mL vs 169 ± 188 ng/mL; P < .001). PCSK9 levels were statistically higher in the HCV-infected patients at baseline than in the control group (255 ± 248 vs 166.3 ± 120.2 ng/mL; P = .020); however, this difference was lost after achieving SVR (mean, 169 ± 188 vs 166.3 ± 120.2 ng/mL; P = .464). Changes in PCSK9 level was not statistically related to any of the recorded covariates. The PCSK9 mean level did not differ significantly with absence/presence of any covariate from pretherapy to SVR. CONCLUSIONS The reduction in mean PCSK9 level from baseline pretherapy to after HCV eradication was statistically significant. Whether PCSK9 is a new biomarker for cardiovascular risk in these patients remains to be ascertained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Torti
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences“Magna Graecia” UniversityCatanzaroItaly
| | - Vincenzo Scaglione
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences“Magna Graecia” UniversityCatanzaroItaly
| | - Bruno Mario Cesana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Unit of Medical Statistics, Biometrics and Bioinformatics “Giulio A. Maccacaro”, Faculty of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of MilanMilanItaly
| | - Chiara Costa
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases“Mater Domini” Teaching HospitalCatanzaroItaly
| | - Nadia Marascio
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Health Sciences“Magna Graecia” UniversityCatanzaroItaly
| | - Elisabetta Schiaroli
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, Department of MedicineUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Chiara Busti
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, Department of MedicineUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Sabrina Bastianelli
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, Department of MedicineUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Maria Mazzitelli
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences“Magna Graecia” UniversityCatanzaroItaly
| | - Enrico Maria Trecarichi
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences“Magna Graecia” UniversityCatanzaroItaly
| | - Daniela Francisci
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, Department of MedicineUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
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Mahboobnia K, Pirro M, Marini E, Grignani F, Bezsonov EE, Jamialahmadi T, Sahebkar A. PCSK9 and cancer: Rethinking the link. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 140:111758. [PMID: 34058443 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is emerging as a major problem globally, as it accounts for the second cause of death despite medical advances. According to epidemiological and basic studies, cholesterol is involved in cancer progression and there are abnormalities in cholesterol metabolism of cancer cells including prostate, breast, and colorectal carcinomas. However, the importance of cholesterol in carcinogenesis and thereby the role of cholesterol homeostasis as a therapeutic target is still a debated area in cancer therapy. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK9), a serine protease, modulates cholesterol metabolism by attachment to the LDL receptor (LDLR) and reducing its recycling by targeting the receptor for lysosomal destruction. Published research has shown that PCSK9 is also involved in degradation of other LDLR family members namely very-low-density-lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR), lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP-1), and apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoER2). As a result, this protein represents an interesting therapeutic target for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Interestingly, clinical trials on PCSK9-specific monoclonal antibodies have reported promising results with high efficacy in lowering LDL-C and in turn reducing cardiovascular complications. It is important to note that PCSK9 mediates several other pathways apart from its role in lipid homeostasis, including antiviral activity, hepatic regeneration, neuronal apoptosis, and modulation of various signaling pathways. Furthermore, recent literature has illustrated that PCSK9 is closely associated with incidence and progression of several cancers. In a number of studies, PCSK9 siRNA was shown to effectively suppress the proliferation and invasion of the several studied tumor cells. Hence, a novel application of PCSK9 inhibitors/silencers in cancer/metastasis could be considered. However, due to poor data on effectiveness and safety of PCSK9 inhibitors in cancer, the impact of PCSK9 inhibition in these pathological conditions is still unknown. SEARCH METHODS A vast literature search was conducted to find intended studies from 1956 up to 2020, and inclusion criteria were original peer-reviewed publications. PURPOSE OF REVIEW To date, PCSK9 has been scantly investigated in cancer. The question that needs to be discussed is "How does PCSK9 act in cancer pathophysiology and what are the risks or benefits associated to its inhibition?". We reviewed the available publications highlighting the contribution of this proprotein convertase in pathways related to cancer, with focus on the potential implications of its long-term pharmacological inhibition in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Mahboobnia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Matteo Pirro
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Angiology and Arteriosclerosis Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Ettore Marini
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Angiology and Arteriosclerosis Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesco Grignani
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Angiology and Arteriosclerosis Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Evgeny E Bezsonov
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology of Cardiovascular System, Institute of Human Morphology, 3 Tsyurupa Street, Moscow 117418, Russia; Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 8 Baltiiskaya Street, Moscow 125315, Russia
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Quchan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Quchan, Iran; Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Grimm J, Peschel G, Müller M, Schacherer D, Wiest R, Weigand K, Buechler C. Rapid Decline of Serum Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin 9 (PCSK9) in Non-Cirrhotic Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Infection Receiving Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy. J Clin Med 2021; 10:1621. [PMID: 33920491 PMCID: PMC8069657 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) efficiently eradicate the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels increase rapidly upon DAA treatment. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) induces degradation of the hepatic LDL receptor and thereby elevates serum LDL. The aim of this study was to determine serum PCSK9 concentrations during and after DAA therapy to identify associations with LDL levels. Serum PCSK9 was increased in 82 chronic HCV-infected patients compared to 55 patients not infected with HCV. Serum PCSK9 was low in HCV patients with liver cirrhosis, but patients with HCV-induced liver cirrhosis still exhibited higher serum PCSK9 than patients with non-viral liver cirrhosis. Serum PCSK9 correlated with measures of liver injury and inflammation in cirrhotic HCV patients. In patients without liver cirrhosis, a positive association of serum PCSK9 with viral load existed. Serum PCSK9 was not different between viral genotypes. Serum PCSK9 did not correlate with LDL levels in HCV patients irrespective of cirrhotic status. Serum PCSK9 was reduced, and LDL was increased at four weeks after DAA therapy start in non-cirrhotic HCV patients. Serum PCSK9 and LDL did not change upon DAA treatment in the cirrhotic group. The rapid decline of PCSK9 after the start of DAA therapy in conjunction with raised LDL levels in non-cirrhotic HCV patients shows that these changes are not functionally related.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Grimm
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.G.); (G.P.); (M.M.); (D.S.); (K.W.)
| | - Georg Peschel
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.G.); (G.P.); (M.M.); (D.S.); (K.W.)
| | - Martina Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.G.); (G.P.); (M.M.); (D.S.); (K.W.)
| | - Doris Schacherer
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.G.); (G.P.); (M.M.); (D.S.); (K.W.)
| | - Reiner Wiest
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University Inselspital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Kilian Weigand
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.G.); (G.P.); (M.M.); (D.S.); (K.W.)
| | - Christa Buechler
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.G.); (G.P.); (M.M.); (D.S.); (K.W.)
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PCSK9 promotes tumor growth by inhibiting tumor cell apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Exp Hematol Oncol 2021; 10:25. [PMID: 33789749 PMCID: PMC8011384 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-021-00218-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), one of the key enzymes in the process of lipid transport, is involved in the disease progression of various types of tumors. This article is to study the role of PCSK9 in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods Immunohistochemistry was used to assess the expression of PCSK9 in tumor specimens from 105 HCC patients who underwent curative resection. Western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR were used to test the protein and mRNA expression levels in HCC cell lines. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and clone formation assays were performed to evaluate the proliferation ability of different kinds of cells in vitro. Flow cytometry was used to analyze cell cycle distribution and apoptosis rate. A xenograft model was established to study the effect of PCSK9 on HCC growth in vivo. TUNEL and immunofluorescence assays were used to detect cell apoptosis. Results High expression of PCSK9 in tumor tissues was related to microvascular invasion (p = 0.036) and large tumor size (p = 0.001) in HCC patients. Overall survival and disease-free survival after surgery were poor in patients with high expression of PCSK9 (p = 0.035 and p = 0.007, respectively). In vivo and in vitro experiments showed that PCSK9 promoted the growth of HCC by inhibiting cell apoptosis. A mechanistic study revealed that PCSK9 increases FASN expression, thereby inhibiting apoptosis of HCC cells via the Bax/Bcl-2/Caspase9/Caspase3 pathway. Conclusions PCSK9 expression level in HCC is an indicator of poor prognosis for patients with HCC. FASN-mediated anti-apoptosis plays an important role in PCSK9-induced HCC progression.
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Virzì A, Gonzalez-Motos V, Tripon S, Baumert TF, Lupberger J. Profibrotic Signaling and HCC Risk during Chronic Viral Hepatitis: Biomarker Development. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10050977. [PMID: 33801181 PMCID: PMC7957739 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10050977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite breakthroughs in antiviral therapies, chronic viral hepatitis B and C are still the major causes of liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Importantly, even in patients with controlled infection or viral cure, the cancer risk cannot be fully eliminated, highlighting a persisting oncogenic pressure imposed by epigenetic imprinting and advanced liver disease. Reliable and minimally invasive biomarkers for early fibrosis and for residual HCC risk in HCV-cured patients are urgently needed. Chronic infection with HBV and/or HCV dysregulates oncogenic and profibrogenic signaling within the host, also displayed in the secretion of soluble factors to the blood. The study of virus-dysregulated signaling pathways may, therefore, contribute to the identification of reliable minimally invasive biomarkers for the detection of patients at early-stage liver disease potentially complementing existing noninvasive methods in clinics. With a focus on virus-induced signaling events, this review provides an overview of candidate blood biomarkers for liver disease and HCC risk associated with chronic viral hepatitis and epigenetic viral footprints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Virzì
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (A.V.); (V.G.-M.); (S.T.); (T.F.B.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques (IVH), 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Victor Gonzalez-Motos
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (A.V.); (V.G.-M.); (S.T.); (T.F.B.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques (IVH), 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Simona Tripon
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (A.V.); (V.G.-M.); (S.T.); (T.F.B.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques (IVH), 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pôle Hépato-Digestif, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, 67091 Strasbourg, France
| | - Thomas F. Baumert
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (A.V.); (V.G.-M.); (S.T.); (T.F.B.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques (IVH), 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pôle Hépato-Digestif, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, 67091 Strasbourg, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), 75231 Paris, France
| | - Joachim Lupberger
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (A.V.); (V.G.-M.); (S.T.); (T.F.B.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques (IVH), 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Correspondence:
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