1
|
Peruhova M, Banova-Chakarova S, Miteva DG, Velikova T. Genetic screening of liver cancer: State of the art. World J Hepatol 2024; 16:716-730. [PMID: 38818292 PMCID: PMC11135278 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i5.716] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, primarily hepatocellular carcinoma, remains a global health challenge with rising incidence and limited therapeutic options. Genetic factors play a pivotal role in the development and progression of liver cancer. This state-of-the-art paper provides a comprehensive review of the current landscape of genetic screening strategies for liver cancer. We discuss the genetic underpinnings of liver cancer, emphasizing the critical role of risk-associated genetic variants, somatic mutations, and epigenetic alterations. We also explore the intricate interplay between environmental factors and genetics, highlighting how genetic screening can aid in risk stratification and early detection via using liquid biopsy, and advancements in high-throughput sequencing technologies. By synthesizing the latest research findings, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art genetic screening methods for liver cancer, shedding light on their potential to revolutionize early detection, risk assessment, and targeted therapies in the fight against this devastating disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milena Peruhova
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital "Heart and Brain", Burgas 8000, Bulgaria
| | - Sonya Banova-Chakarova
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital "Heart and Brain", Burgas 8000, Bulgaria.
| | - Dimitrina Georgieva Miteva
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University" St. Kliment Ohridski, Sofia 1164, Bulgaria
| | - Tsvetelina Velikova
- Medical Faculty, Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, Sofia 1407, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Üremiş N, Üremiş MM, Çiğremiş Y, Tosun E, Baysar A, Türköz Y. Cucurbitacin I exhibits anticancer efficacy through induction of apoptosis and modulation of JAK/STAT3, MAPK/ERK, and AKT/mTOR signaling pathways in HepG2 cell line. J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14333. [PMID: 35866877 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common cancer type, especially among men. Although cucurbitacin I (CuI), widely found in plants belonging to the Ecballium elaterium (E. L) plant family, has been shown to have antitumorigenic properties in many cancer types, its anticancer effect, molecular mechanism, and apoptotic effect mediated by signal pathways on hepatocellular carcinoma have not been fully clarified. In the present study, we investigated the anticancer effect of CuI treated at different doses on the HepG2 cell line and the underlying mechanism in vitro. High-purity CuI was obtained from the E. elaterium plant with the aid of HPLC. The effects of this substance on the viability of cells were studied by the MTT assay. The effects of CuI on cell cycle progression and apoptosis were studied with flow cytometry. DNA breaks were analyzed by the Comet assay method. The proteins and genes involved in the JAK/STAT3, MAPK/ERK, and AKT/mTOR signaling pathways were investigated using Western blot and qRT-PCR, respectively. The results of this study demonstrated that CuI significantly reduced HepG2 cell growth in vitro, induced antiproliferation, and G2/M phase of the cell cycle was interrupted. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: CuI administration was shown to downregulate the levels of proteins in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK, and JAK2/STAT3 cascades in HepG2 cells. CuI also reduced the expression of MAPK, STAT3, mTOR, JAK2, and Akt genes in different concentrations. DNA breaks are formed as a result of this effect. CuI, by reducing cell proliferation and promoting apoptosis, was found to have potential as a chemotherapeutic agent of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nuray Üremiş
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Muhammed Mehdi Üremiş
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Yılmaz Çiğremiş
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Emir Tosun
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Baysar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Türköz
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Deng G, Luo Y, Zhang Y, Zhang J, He Z. Enabled homolog (ENAH) regulated by RNA binding protein splicing factor 3b subunit 4 (SF3B4) exacerbates the proliferation, invasion and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via Notch signaling pathway. Bioengineered 2022; 13:2194-2206. [PMID: 35030977 PMCID: PMC8973836 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.2023983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Enabled homolog (ENAH) is an actin-binding protein that implicated in multiple malignant tumors. High ENAH expression has been verified to be associated with poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We aimed to reveal the role of ENAH in HCC and the potential mechanism. ENAH expression in HCC tissues and the prognostic correlation were analyzed by GEPIA2 database. RT-qPCR and Western blot were used to test ENAH expression in HCC cells. Following ENAH silencing, cell proliferation was estimated by CCK-8 and colony formation assays. Transwell and wound healing assays were to assess cell invasion and migration. ENCORI database was to analyze the correlation between ENAH and splicing factor 3b subunit 4 (SF3B4) in HCC tissues, which was then verified by RIP and actinomycin D assay. Then, the expression of Notch signaling-related proteins was detected by Western blotting after ENAH knockdown. Afterward, Notch1 was overexpressed to validate whether ENAH impacted the biological events of HCC cells through mediating Notch signaling. Results revealed that ENAH expression was elevated in HCC tissues and cells and associated with poor prognosis. ENAH deficiency mitigated proliferation, invasion and migration of HCC cells. Mechanistically, ENAH was positively correlated with SF3B4 in HCC tissues. SF3B4 could bind to ENAH mRNA and stabilized ENAH. Besides, ENAH activated Notch signaling. Notch1 up-regulation reversed the influence of ENAH knockdown on biological events of HCC cells. Collectively, ENAH regulated by SF3B4 promoted the development of HCC through activating Notch signaling, which identified ENAH as a potent molecular target for HCC therapy and prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guoming Deng
- The 2nd Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, Meizhou, China
| | - Yufeng Luo
- The 2nd Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, Meizhou, China
| | - Yaoming Zhang
- The 2nd Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, Meizhou, China
| | - Jinfeng Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, Meizhou, China.,The 3rd Department of Medical Oncology, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou, China
| | - Zongyun He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, Meizhou, China.,The Department of Hepatology, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
The role of microRNAs in diseases and related signaling pathways. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 49:6789-6801. [PMID: 34718938 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06725-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are epigenetic regulators of the gene expression and act through posttranslational modification. They bind to 3'-UTR of target mRNAs to inhibit translation or increase the degradation mRNA in many tissues. Any alteration in the level of miRNA expression in many human diseases indicates their involvement in the pathogenesis of many diseases. On the other hand, the regulation of the signaling pathways is necessary for the maintenance of natural and physiological characteristics of any cell. It is worth mentioning that dysfunction of the signaling pathways manifests itself as a disorder or disease. The significant evidence report that miRNAs regulate the several signaling pathways in many diseases. Base on previous studies, miRNAs can be used for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. According to the important role of miRNAs on the cell signaling pathways, this article reviews miRNAs involvement in incidence of diseases by changing signaling pathways.
Collapse
|
5
|
Liu C, Zhu X, Jia Y, Chi F, Qin K, Pei J, Zhang C, Mu X, Zhang H, Dong X, Xu J, Yu B. Dasatinib inhibits proliferation of liver cancer cells, but activation of Akt/mTOR compromises dasatinib as a cancer drug. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2021; 53:823-836. [PMID: 33961012 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmab061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Dasatinib is a multi-target protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Due to its potent inhibition of Src, Abl, the platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) family kinases, and other oncogenic kinases, it has been investigated as a targeted therapy for a broad spectrum of cancer types. However, its efficacy has not been significantly extended beyond leukemia. The mechanism of resistance to dasatinib in a wide array of cancers is not clear. In the present study, we investigated the effect of dasatinib on hepatocellular carcinoma cell growth and explored the underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that dasatinib potently inhibited the proliferation of SNU-449 cells, but not that of other cell lines, such as SK-Hep-1, even though it inhibited the phosphorylation of Src on both negative and positive regulation sites in all these cells. Dasatinib activated the phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase1 (PDK1)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway in SK-Hep-1 cells, but not in SNU-449 cells. Blocking the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway strongly promoted the efficacy of dasatinib in SK-Hep-1 cells. In SNU-449 cells, dasatinib promoted apoptosis and the cleavage of caspase-3 and caspase-7, induced cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase, and inhibited the expression of Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK4)/6/CyclinD1 complex. These findings demonstrate that dasatinib exerts its anti-proliferative effect on hepatocellular cell proliferation by blocking the Src family kinases; however, it causes Akt activation, which compromises dasatinib as an anti-cancer drug.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Xiaoxia Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Yuqi Jia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Fenqing Chi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Keru Qin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Jinhong Pei
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Chan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Xiuli Mu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Hongwei Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030013, China
| | - Xiushan Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Taiyuan 030032, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Baofeng Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Farzaneh Z, Vosough M, Agarwal T, Farzaneh M. Critical signaling pathways governing hepatocellular carcinoma behavior; small molecule-based approaches. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:208. [PMID: 33849569 PMCID: PMC8045321 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01924-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of death due to cancer. Although there are different treatment options, these strategies are not efficient in terms of restricting the tumor cell's proliferation and metastasis. The liver tumor microenvironment contains the non-parenchymal cells with supportive or inhibitory effects on the cancerous phenotype of HCC. Several signaling pathways are dis-regulated in HCC and cause uncontrolled cell propagation, metastasis, and recurrence of liver carcinoma cells. Recent studies have established new approaches for the prevention and treatment of HCC using small molecules. Small molecules are compounds with a low molecular weight that usually inhibit the specific targets in signal transduction pathways. These components can induce cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, block metastasis, and tumor growth. Devising strategies for simultaneously targeting HCC and the non-parenchymal population of the tumor could lead to more relevant research outcomes. These strategies may open new avenues for the treatment of HCC with minimal cytotoxic effects on healthy cells. This study provides the latest findings on critical signaling pathways governing HCC behavior and using small molecules in the control of HCC both in vitro and in vivo models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Farzaneh
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tarun Agarwal
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| | - Maryam Farzaneh
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wu L, Feng J, Li J, Yu Q, Ji J, Wu J, Dai W, Guo C. The gut microbiome-bile acid axis in hepatocarcinogenesis. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 133:111036. [PMID: 33378947 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, with few effective therapeutic options. Bile acids (BAs) are synthesized from cholesterol in the liver and can be modulated by farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and G-protein coupled BA receptor 1 (GPBAR1/TGR5). Alterations in BAs can affect hepatic metabolic homeostasis and contribute to the pathogenesis of liver cancer. Increasing evidence points to the key role of bacterial microbiota in the promotion and development of liver cancer. They are also involved in the regulation of BA synthesis and metabolism. The purpose of this review is to integrate related articles involving gut microbiota, BAs and HCC, and review how the gut microbiota-BA signaling axis can possibly influence the development of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200060, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Jiao Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Jingjing Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200060, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Qiang Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Jie Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Jianye Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200060, China.
| | - Weiqi Dai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200060, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200336, China.
| | - Chuanyong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200060, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sridhar S, Sharma I, Sankpal UT, Ghabach B, Narra K, Neerukonda L, Basha R. Targeted Molecular Therapeutic Options for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Crit Rev Oncog 2020; 25:47-55. [PMID: 32865910 PMCID: PMC11079775 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2020034985] [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: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Liver cancer is the 6th leading cause of cancer related deaths in the US even though it ranks 14th in incidence. More men are diagnosed with liver cancer than women, and the number of projected deaths among men (20,020) is almost double that among women (10,140) in the US. Infections like hepatitis and metabolic conditions like obesity are believed to be major risk factors for the onset of liver cancer. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, accounts for 75% of all cases. Chemotherapy has not been effective in treating HCC. Targeted therapies are being used in advanced HCC patients due to a better survival and less side effects when compared to traditional chemotherapy. Therapeutic agents targeting the regulators of growth factor signaling pathways and the mediators of downstream signaling-for example, inhibitors of the tyrosine kinase receptor-are used as targeted molecular therapies. Kinase inhibitors that modulate growth signals, such as sorafenib and lenvatinib, are commonly employed in targeted molecular therapy for HCC patients. This review covers these agents, highlighting modes of action and providing details on clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Swathi Sridhar
- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Ishna Sharma
- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Umesh T. Sankpal
- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, Texas
| | | | | | | | - Riyaz Basha
- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mebendazole augments sensitivity to sorafenib by targeting MAPK and BCL-2 signalling in n-nitrosodiethylamine-induced murine hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19095. [PMID: 31836811 PMCID: PMC6911098 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55666-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib (SO) is a multi-kinase inhibitor that targets upstream signals in the MAPK pathway. Drug resistance and transient survival benefits are the main obstacles associated with SO treatment in Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. Mebendazole (MBZ), an anthelmintic agent, has demonstrated activity against various cancer types. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the possible mechanisms of MBZ other than its anti-tubulin activity. MBZ (100 mg/kg/day, P.O.) was administered to N-nitrosodiethylamine-induced HCC mice as a monotherapeutic agent or in combination with SO. Our results revealed that MBZ decreased AFP levels, improved liver function and histology and increased survival in HCC mice, particularly when administered in combination with SO. MBZ also reduced hepatic inflammation and fibrogenesis as evidenced by reductions in TNF-α and TGF-β1 levels, respectively. Increased hepatic caspases-3 and -9 and decreased BCL-2 levels suggest induced-cell death. In addition, MBZ demonstrated anti-angiogenic, anti-metastatic, and anti-proliferative effects, as indicated by reduced VEGF levels, MMP-2:TIMP-1 ratios, and reduced cyclin D1 levels and Ki67 immunostaining, respectively. Our main finding was that MBZ targeted downstream signal of the MAPK pathway by inhibiting ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Targeting downstream MAPK signalling by MBZ and upstream signalling by SO is a novel approach to minimizing resistance and prolonging survival.
Collapse
|
10
|
Chen F, Fang Y, Zhao R, Le J, Zhang B, Huang R, Chen Z, Shao J. Evolution in medicinal chemistry of sorafenib derivatives for hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 179:916-935. [PMID: 31306818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.06.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors. Traditional chemotherapy drugs are hard to reach a satisfactory therapeutic effect since advanced HCC is highly chemo-resistant. Sorafenib is an oral multikinase inhibitor that can suppress tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis and induce cancer cell apoptosis. However, the poor solubility, rapid metabolism and low bioavailability of sorafenib greatly restricted its further clinical application. During the past decade, numerous sorafenib derivatives have been designed and synthesized to overcome its disadvantages and improve its clinical performance. This article focuses on the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of various sorafenib derivatives with modifications on the N-methylpicolinamide group, urea group, central aromatic ring or others. More importantly, this review summarizes the current status of the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of reported sorafenib derivatives, which can provide some detailed information of future directions for further structural modifications of sorafenib to discovery new anti-tumor drugs with improved clinical performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fangmin Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, 350116, China
| | - Yifan Fang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, 350116, China
| | - Ruirui Zhao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, 350116, China
| | - Jingqing Le
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, 350116, China
| | - Bingchen Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, 350116, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Marine Drug R&D Center, Institute of Oceanography, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, 350108, China
| | - Zixuan Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, 350116, China
| | - Jingwei Shao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, 350116, China; Marine Drug R&D Center, Institute of Oceanography, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, 350108, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li JJ, Yang Z, Huang ZS. Progress in basic and clinical research on molecular targeted therapy for primary hepatic carcinoma. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2019; 27:643-650. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v27.i10.643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As the second most common cancer in the world, primary liver cancer has become one of the most common causes of cancer-related death in China, causing great pain and financial burden to patients and their families. Traditional treatment methods have not achieved satisfactory results so far, and people are gradually turning their attention to targeted drug therapy, which has many advantages, such as accuracy and little adverse reactions. Previous studies have shown that the introduction of targeted drug sorafenib can improve the survival of patients with primary liver cancer and open a new era of tumor targeted therapy. In recent years, molecular targeted therapy for liver cancer has become a research hotspot. A variety of new molecular targeted drugs have been found to be able to improve the prognosis of patients with advanced liver cancer. The purpose of this article is to review the progress in basic and clinical research on molecular targeted therapy for primary hepatic carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Ji Li
- Graduate College, Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Zhe Yang
- Graduate College, Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Zan-Song Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Guangxi Clinical Medical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wu JY, Shih YL, Lin SP, Hsieh TY, Lin YW. YC-1 Antagonizes Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Through the EBP1 p42 Isoform in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11050661. [PMID: 31086087 PMCID: PMC6562864 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11050661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel drugs targeting Wnt signaling are gradually being developed for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment. In this study, we used a Wnt-responsive Super-TOPflash (STF) luciferase reporter assay to screen a new compound targeting Wnt signaling. 3-(5'-Hydroxymethyl-2'-furyl)-1-benzylindazole (YC-1) was identified as a small molecule inhibitor of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Our coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) data showed that YC-1 did not affect the β-catenin/TCF interaction. Then, by mass spectrometry, we identified the ErbB3 receptor-binding protein 1 (EBP1) interaction with the β-catenin/TCF complex upon YC-1 treatment. EBP1 encodes two splice isoforms, p42 and p48. We further demonstrated that YC-1 enhances p42 isoform binding to the β-catenin/TCF complex and reduces the transcriptional activity of the complex. The suppression of colony formation by YC-1 was significantly reversed after knockdown of both isoforms (p48 and p42); however, the inhibition of colony formation was maintained when only EBP1 p48 was silenced. Taken together, these results suggest that YC-1 treatment results in a reduction in Wnt-regulated transcription through EBP1 p42 and leads to the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation. These data imply that YC-1 is a drug that antagonizes Wnt/β-catenin signaling in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Yun Wu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Lueng Shih
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
| | - Shih-Ping Lin
- Department and Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
| | - Tsai-Yuan Hsieh
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
| | - Ya-Wen Lin
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
- Department and Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang KF, Chen YD, Mo LQ, Zhang Z, Liu YJ, Chen JX, Sui XB, Xie T, Wu SX. Integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine in hepatocellular carcinoma treatment. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2019; 27:459-466. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v27.i7.459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As the branches of oncology become more and more detailed, its deficiencies gradually appear in clinical work in recent years. With the development of modern medicine, individualized treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has already been more emphasized in clinical work. This article reviews the diagnosis and treatment of HCC, which can be regarded as an organic systemic disease, based on a concept of integrated medicine. It is suggested that simply eliminating cancer lesions does not mean curing HCC. In clinical practice, it is necessary to use integrative thoughts such as basic study combined with clinical practice, medicine with pharmacy, traditional Chinese medicine with Western medicine, local with whole, etc, so as to find new integrative methods for diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Feng Wang
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310002, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yi-Dan Chen
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310002, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Li-Qin Mo
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310002, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310002, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ya-Juan Liu
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310002, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jiang-Xiang Chen
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310002, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xin-Bing Sui
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310002, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Tian Xie
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310002, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Shi-Xiu Wu
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310002, Zhejiang Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chang Lee R, Tebbutt N. Systemic treatment of advanced hepatocellular cancer: new hope on the horizon. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2019; 19:343-353. [PMID: 30793991 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2019.1585245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the leading causes of cancer-related mortality in the world. The majority of the patients present at an advanced or incurable stage where neither locoregional treatment nor combination treatment of locoregional treatment and systemic therapies is feasible. For decades sorafenib was the only treatment option available for advanced HCC. However, with the advent of new and more effective therapies recently, the overall prognosis of advanced HCC has improved significantly. Areas covered: This review summarises the current systemic treatment options available and future prospects in the management of advanced HCC where patients are not suitable for locoregional treatment. Expert opinion: New effective targeted therapeutics have dramatically changed the treatment landscape for advanced HCC. The incorporation of sequential therapy including sorafenib or lenvatinib as first-line treatment and immunotherapy, regorafenib or cabozantinib as second-line treatment have significantly improved outcomes for patients with advanced HCC. Further development of novel combinations of these new agents and predictive/prognostic biomarkers are being explored. Efforts should also be made to tailor treatment to individual patients based on etiology, clinical and molecular factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Chang Lee
- a Department of Medical Oncology , Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre , Heidelberg , Australia
| | - Niall Tebbutt
- a Department of Medical Oncology , Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre , Heidelberg , Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Almanza D, Gharaee-Kermani M, Zhilin-Roth A, Rodriguez-Nieves JA, Colaneri C, Riley T, Macoska JA. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Demonstrates a Pre-fibrotic and Premalignant Molecular Signature. Dig Dis Sci 2019; 64:1257-1269. [PMID: 30519850 PMCID: PMC6512804 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-018-5398-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metabolic syndrome contributing to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can lead to hepatic dysfunction, steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. AIMS In this study, we tested whether diet-induced fatty liver in a mouse model physiologically mimicked human NAFLD, and whether transcriptional alterations in mouse fatty liver signified risk for the development of hepatitis, cirrhosis, and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. METHODS SAMP6 strain mice were fed a low-fat diet or high-fat diet (HFD) for 6 months. Mouse livers were isolated and subjected to histology, immunohistochemistry, and whole transcriptome RNA sequencing. Sequences were aligned to the mouse reference genome, and gene expression signatures were analyzed using bioinformatics tools including Cufflinks, Pathview, Cytoscape, ClueGO, and GOstats. RESULTS Consistent with NAFLD, livers from HFD-fed mice demonstrated steatosis, high levels of inflammation, an up-regulation of genes encoding proteins associated with the complement pathway and immune responses, and down-regulation of those associated with metabolic processes. These livers also showed an up-regulation of genes associated with fibrosis and malignant transformation but no histological evidence of either pathobiology or DNA damage. CONCLUSIONS HFD-fed mice exhibited NAFLD that had incompletely transitioned from fatty liver to NASH. Importantly, bioinformatics approaches identified pre-fibrotic and premalignant signatures, suggesting that the pathogenesis of both fibrosis and cancer may initiate in fatty livers well before associated histological changes are evident.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Almanza
- 0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, USA ,0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, The University of Massachusetts Boston, Room 4601, Integrated Sciences Complex, 100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125 USA
| | - Mehrnaz Gharaee-Kermani
- 0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, USA ,0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, The University of Massachusetts Boston, Room 4601, Integrated Sciences Complex, 100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125 USA
| | - Alisa Zhilin-Roth
- 0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, USA ,0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, The University of Massachusetts Boston, Room 4601, Integrated Sciences Complex, 100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125 USA
| | - Jose A. Rodriguez-Nieves
- 0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, The University of Massachusetts Boston, Room 4601, Integrated Sciences Complex, 100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125 USA
| | - Cory Colaneri
- 0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, USA
| | - Todd Riley
- 0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, USA ,0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, The University of Massachusetts Boston, Room 4601, Integrated Sciences Complex, 100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125 USA
| | - Jill A. Macoska
- 0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, USA ,0000 0004 0386 3207grid.266685.9Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, The University of Massachusetts Boston, Room 4601, Integrated Sciences Complex, 100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125 USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wang L, Min Z, Wang X, Hu M, Song D, Ren Z, Cheng Y, Wang Y. Arsenic trioxide and sorafenib combination therapy for human hepatocellular carcinoma functions via up-regulation of TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand. Oncol Lett 2018; 16:3341-3350. [PMID: 30127933 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.8981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The survival benefits of sorafenib treatment for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are limited due to drug resistance and side effects. Therefore, combinations of sorafenib with other low toxicity drugs, including arsenic trioxide (As2O3) require investigation. The present study aimed to evaluate the potency of apoptosis-induction by As2O3/sorafenib treatment in HCC cell lines, Huh7, 97H and freshly-isolated HCC cells, and also to elucidate the underlying mechanism. A total of 10 patients with HCC were enrolled in the present study. Freshly-isolated HCC cells were purified from HCC tissues collected at surgery. HCC-cell apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry using proprium iodide/Annexin-V staining. The impacts of As2O3 and/or sorafenib on Huh7, 97H and fresh-isolated HCC-cell proliferation were evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. The expression of TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) was determined by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The downregulation of TRAIL protein expression was achieved using small interfering RNA. The combination of As2O3 and sorafenib had anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in the liver cancer cell line, Huh7, via increased expression of TRAIL, but not in 97H cells. TRAIL-knockdown increased the drug-resistance of Huh7 cells. Freshly-isolated HCC cells were more sensitive to the As2O3 and sorafenib combination than the single drug treatments. Overall, the combination of As2O3 and sorafenib demonstrated potent anti-tumor activity in Huh7 and freshly-isolated HCC cells via a TRAIL-dependent pathway. This may be a potential therapeutic approach for advanced HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Wang
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Shanghai Institute of Clinical Bioinformatics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Zhihui Min
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Shanghai Institute of Clinical Bioinformatics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Xiangdong Wang
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Shanghai Institute of Clinical Bioinformatics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Mushuang Hu
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Dongli Song
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Shanghai Institute of Clinical Bioinformatics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Zhenggang Ren
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Yunfeng Cheng
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Shanghai Institute of Clinical Bioinformatics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Department of Hematology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,Department of Hematology, Zhongshan Hospital Qingpu Branch, Shanghai 201700, P.R. China
| | - Yanhong Wang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Soluble factors from adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells promote canine hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation and invasion. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0191539. [PMID: 29346427 PMCID: PMC5773216 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential effects of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSCs) on the growth and invasion of canine tumours including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are not yet understood. Moreover in humans, the functional contribution of AT-MSCs to malignancies remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of AT-MSCs on the proliferation and invasion of canine HCC cells in vitro. The effect of AT-MSCs on mRNA levels of factors related to HCC progression were also evaluated. Conditioned medium from AT-MSCs (AT-MSC-CM) significantly enhanced canine HCC cell proliferation and invasion. Moreover, mRNA expression levels of transforming growth factor-beta 1, epidermal growth factor A, hepatocyte growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor-beta, vascular endothelial growth factor, and insulin-like growth factor 2 were 2.3 ± 0.4, 2.0 ± 0.5, 5.7 ± 1.9, 1.7 ± 0.2, 2.1 ± 0.4, and 1.4 ± 0.3 times higher, respectively (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression level of MMP-2 also increased (to 4.0 ± 1.2 times control levels) in canine HCC cells co-cultured with AT-MSCs, but MMP-9 mRNA significantly decreased (to 0.5 ± 0.1 times control levels). These findings suggest that soluble factors from AT-MSCs promote the proliferation and invasion of canine HCC cells.
Collapse
|
18
|
Elsonbaty SM, Zahran WE, Moawed FS. Gamma-irradiated β-glucan modulates signaling molecular targets of hepatocellular carcinoma in rats. Tumour Biol 2017; 39:1010428317708703. [PMID: 28810822 DOI: 10.1177/1010428317708703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
β-glucans are one of the most abundant forms of polysaccharides known as biological response modifiers which influence host's biological response and stimulate immune system. Accordingly, this study was initiated to evaluate irradiated β-glucan as a modulator for cellular signaling growth factors involved in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma in rats. Hepatocellular carcinoma was induced with 20 mg diethylnitrosamine/kg BW. Rats received daily by gastric gavage 65 mg irradiated β-glucan/kg BW. It was found that treatment of rats with diethylnitrosamine induced hepatic injury and caused significant increase in liver injury markers with a concomitant significant increase in both hepatic oxidative and inflammatory indices: alpha-fetoprotein, interferon gamma, and interleukin 6 in comparison with normal and irradiated β-glucan-treated groups. Western immunoblotting showed a significant increase in the signaling growth factors: extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and phosphoinositide 3-kinase proteins in a diethylnitrosamine-treated group while both preventive and therapeutic irradiated β-glucan treatments recorded significant improvement versus diethylnitrosamine group via the modulation of growth factors that encounters hepatic toxicity. The transcript levels of vascular endothelial growth factor A and inducible nitric oxide synthase genes were significantly higher in the diethylnitrosamine-treated group in comparison with controls. Preventive and therapeutic treatments with irradiated β-glucan demonstrated that the transcript level of these genes was significantly decreased which demonstrates the protective effect of β-glucan. Histological investigations revealed that diethylnitrosamine treatment affects the hepatic architecture throughout the significant severe appearance of inflammatory cell infiltration in the portal area and congestion in the portal vein in association with severe degeneration and dysplasia in hepatocytes all over hepatic parenchyma. The severity of hepatic architecture changes was significantly decreased with both β-glucan therapeutic and preventive treatments. In conclusion, irradiated β-glucan modulated signal growth factors, vascular endothelial growth factor A, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1, and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, which contributed to experimental hepatocarcinogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sawsan M Elsonbaty
- 1 National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Walid E Zahran
- 2 Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Fatma Sm Moawed
- 1 National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
The antitumor activity of a lactosaminated albumin conjugate of doxorubicin in a chemically induced hepatocellular carcinoma rat model compared to sorafenib. Dig Liver Dis 2017; 49:213-222. [PMID: 27825923 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Revised: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, consistent survival benefit for chemotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a golden goal for concerned researchers. Nexavar® (sorafenib) is the only approved agent that achieved touchable successes in this regard. Thus, there is a pressing medical need for new promising drugs to improve HCC therapy. AIMS our designed lactosaminated albumin conjugate of doxorubicin (L-HSA-DOXO) that rapidly and preferentially accumulates in the liver is compared, for the first time at its MTD, with doxorubicin and sorafenib, not only for antitumor efficacy but also for overall survival. METHODS HCC was induced in male Wistar rats with N-nitrosodiethylamine added to drinking water (100mg/L) for 8 weeks. Endpoints were antitumor efficacy, tolerability and overall survival. RESULTS L-HSA-DOXO proved to be superior at least over doxorubicin in the majority of assessed endpoints. Circulating AFP-L3% was diminished in L-HSA-DOXO (14.5%) and sorafenib (18.4%) groups compared to DENA (31.1%) and doxorubicin (29.5%) groups. This superiority was further confirmed by Western blot analyses of some novel HCC biomarkers. Survival study reinforced consistent benefits of both L-HSA-DOXO and sorafenib. CONCLUSIONS L-HSA-DOXO shows at least comparable activity to sorafenib which clinically achieves only ∼3 months overall survival benefit. Combination of these two agents could act beneficially or synergistically via two different modes of action to fight HCC.
Collapse
|
20
|
Hsu MH, Hsu SM, Kuo YC, Liu CY, Hsieh CY, Twu YC, Wang CK, Wang YH, Liao YJ. Treatment with low-dose sorafenib in combination with a novel benzimidazole derivative bearing a pyrolidine side chain provides synergistic anti-proliferative effects against human liver cancer. RSC Adv 2017. [DOI: 10.1039/c6ra28281d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies and deadliest cancers in the world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Hua Hsu
- Nuclear Science & Technology Development Center
- National Tsing Hua University
- Hsinchu
- Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ming Hsu
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Sciences
- National Yang-Ming University
- Taipei
- Taiwan
| | - Yu-Cheng Kuo
- Radiation Oncology
- Show Chwan Memorial Hospital
- Changhua
- Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yu Liu
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology
- College of Medical Science and Technology
- Taipei Medical University
- Taipei
- Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Ying Hsieh
- Nuclear Science & Technology Development Center
- National Tsing Hua University
- Hsinchu
- Taiwan
- Department of Chemistry
| | - Yuh-Ching Twu
- Department of Biotechnology and Laboratory Science in Medicine
- School of Biomedical Science and Engineering
- National Yang-Ming University
- 11221 Taipei
- Taiwan
| | - Chung-Kwe Wang
- Department of International Medicine
- Taipei City Hospital Ranai Branch
- Taipei
- Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Hsi Wang
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology
- College of Medical Science and Technology
- Taipei Medical University
- Taipei
- Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jen Liao
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology
- College of Medical Science and Technology
- Taipei Medical University
- Taipei
- Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Niu ZS, Niu XJ, Wang WH. Genetic alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma: An update. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:9069-9095. [PMID: 27895396 PMCID: PMC5107590 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i41.9069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although recent advances in therapeutic approaches for treating HCC have improved the prognoses of patients with HCC, this cancer is still associated with a poor survival rate mainly due to late diagnosis. Therefore, a diagnosis must be made sufficiently early to perform curative and effective treatments. There is a need for a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the initiation and progression of HCC because these mechanisms are critical for making early diagnoses and developing novel therapeutic strategies. Over the past decade, much progress has been made in elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying hepatocarcinogenesis. In particular, recent advances in next-generation sequencing technologies have revealed numerous genetic alterations, including recurrently mutated genes and dysregulated signaling pathways in HCC. A better understanding of the genetic alterations in HCC could contribute to identifying potential driver mutations and discovering novel therapeutic targets in the future. In this article, we summarize the current advances in research on the genetic alterations, including genomic instability, single-nucleotide polymorphisms, somatic mutations and deregulated signaling pathways, implicated in the initiation and progression of HCC. We also attempt to elucidate some of the genetic mechanisms that contribute to making early diagnoses of and developing molecularly targeted therapies for HCC.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/genetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/metabolism
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/pathology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- Genomic Instability
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Liver Neoplasms/genetics
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Molecular Diagnostic Techniques
- Molecular Targeted Therapy
- Mutation
- Patient Selection
- Phenotype
- Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
- Precision Medicine
- Predictive Value of Tests
- Signal Transduction
Collapse
|
22
|
Glypican-3 Targeting Immunotoxins for the Treatment of Liver Cancer. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:toxins8100274. [PMID: 27669301 PMCID: PMC5086635 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8100274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of primary liver cancer, yet no effective therapeutics exist. This review provides an overview of the recent development of recombinant immunotoxins for the treatment of glypican-3 (GPC3) expressing HCC. GPC3 is a cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycan that is overexpressed in HCC, but is absent from normal adult human tissues. Treatment of HCC with anti-GPC3 immunotoxins represents a new therapeutic option. Using phage display and hybridoma technologies, three high affinity antibodies (HN3, HS20 and YP7) have been generated against GPC3. Two of these antibodies (HN3 and HS20) have demonstrated the ability to inhibit Wnt/Yap signaling, leading to a reduction in liver cancer cell proliferation. By combining the HN3 antibody capable of inhibiting Wnt/Yap signaling with the protein synthesis inhibitory domain of the Pseudomonas exotoxin, a recombinant immunotoxin that exhibits a dual inhibitory mechanism was generated. This immunotoxin was found to be highly effective in the treatment of human HCCs in mouse xenograft models. Engineering of the toxin fragment to reduce the level of immunogenicity is currently being explored. The development of immunotoxins provides opportunities for novel liver cancer therapies.
Collapse
|
23
|
Jiang X, Feng K, Zhang Y, Li Z, Zhou F, Dou H, Wang T. Sorafenib and DE605, a novel c-Met inhibitor, synergistically suppress hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncotarget 2016; 6:12340-56. [PMID: 25895026 PMCID: PMC4494942 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib, an oral multikinase inhibitor of Raf, VEGF and PDGF receptor signaling is approved for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). One strategy to improve HCC therapy is to combine agents that target key signaling pathways. Aberrant mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-Met) activation is associated with a variety of human malignancies and therefore represents a target for therapy. In this study, we investigated a novel c-Met inhibitor, DE605, together with sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo. DE605 and sorafenib synergistically induced apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Mechanistically, DE605 activated the FGFR3/Erk pathway, which in turn was inhibited by sorafenib, resulting in synergism. Finally, DE605 and sorafenib significantly inhibited growth of PLC/PRF/5 hepatocellular carcinoma tumor xenografts in athymic nude mice. Importantly, no obvious weight loss (toxicity) was detected. Thus in combination, DE605 and sorafenib target complementary anti-apoptotic pathways and synergistically suppress HCC, providing the rationale for clinical studies with this novel combination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiufeng Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi, China.,Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kang Feng
- Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Zengyao Li
- Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fan Zhou
- Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huiqiang Dou
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Tong Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi, China.,Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Grandhi MS, Kim AK, Ronnekleiv-Kelly SM, Kamel IR, Ghasebeh MA, Pawlik TM. Hepatocellular carcinoma: From diagnosis to treatment. Surg Oncol 2016; 25:74-85. [PMID: 27312032 DOI: 10.1016/j.suronc.2016.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 304] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer overall and the second most common cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma accounts for up to 90% of all primary hepatic malignancies and represents a major international health problem. While surgical resection and transplantation are the cornerstone of therapy in early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma, locoregional therapy and sorafenib are beneficial in those with more advanced disease or those who are not surgical candidates. At times, the integration of both surgical and locoregional therapy may be necessary. Hence, hepatocellular carcinoma requires a multidisciplinary approach to determine the most appropriate treatment as well as the timing of various treatments for optimal outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miral Sadaria Grandhi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amy K Kim
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sean M Ronnekleiv-Kelly
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ihab R Kamel
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mounes A Ghasebeh
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Chen WQ, Hu L, Chen GX, Deng HX. Role of microRNA-7 in digestive system malignancy. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2016; 8:121-127. [PMID: 26798443 PMCID: PMC4714141 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v8.i1.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
There are several malignancies of the digestive system (including gastric, pancreatic and colorectal cancers, and hepatocellular carcinoma), which are the most common types of cancer and a major cause of death worldwide. MicroRNA (miR)-7 is abundant in the pancreas, playing an important role in pancreatic development and endocrine function. Expression of miR-7 is downregulated in digestive system malignancies compared with normal tissue. Although there are contrasting results for miR-7 expression, almost all research reveals that miR-7 is a tumor suppressor, by targeting various genes in specific pathways. Moreover, miR-7 can target different genes simultaneously in different malignancies of the digestive system. By acting on many cytokines, miR-7 is also involved in many gastrointestinal inflammatory diseases as a significant carcinogenic factor. Consequently, miR-7 might be a biomarker or therapeutic target gene in digestive system malignancies.
Collapse
|
26
|
DCT015, a new sorafenib derivate, inhibits tumor growth and angiogenesis in gastric cancer models. Tumour Biol 2016; 37:9221-32. [PMID: 26768619 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-016-4826-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study is to investigate antiproliferative activities against gastric cancer and anti-angiogenesis of DCT015, a novel sorafenib derivate, and potential mechanisms. The effects of DCT015 on proliferation and apoptosis in gastric cancer cells were evaluated by cytotoxicity assays, apoptosis analysis, flow cytometry analysis, and Western blotting assays. The in vivo antitumor effects were carried out in nude mice bearing gastric cancer. On the other hand, the anti-angiogenesis effects of DCT015 were measured by human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation, migration, tube formation, and Western blotting analysis. The results showed that DCT015 inhibited the proliferation, induced the morphological changes of apoptosis, and increased the apoptosis percentage, as well as increased the "sub-G1" population in gastric cancer cells. DCT015 also significantly decreased the tumor volumes and tumor weights in vivo by oral administration. Immunohistochemistry assay demonstrated that DCT015 inhibited tumor growth and neovascularization. In vitro studies found that DCT015 inhibited both MEK/ERK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways by Western blotting assays. Moreover, DCT015 significantly inhibited VEGF-induced migration and tube formation in HUVECs. Western blotting analysis showed that DCT015 downregulated VEGF-induced VEGFR2 phosphorylation with the decreased phosphorylation of the downstream key proteins. Taken together, our findings highlight that DCT015 is a promising orally anticancer drug for treating gastric cancer.
Collapse
|
27
|
Bouattour M, Payancé A, Wassermann J. Evaluation of antiangiogenic efficacy in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: Biomarkers and functional imaging. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:2245-2263. [PMID: 26380650 PMCID: PMC4568486 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i20.2245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Revised: 03/15/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Many years after therapeutic wilderness, sorafenib finally showed a clinical benefit in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. After the primary general enthusiasm worldwide, some disappointments emerged particularly since no new treatment could exceed or at least match sorafenib in this setting. Without these new drugs, research focused on optimizing care of patients treated with sorafenib. One challenging research approach deals with identifying prognostic and predictive biomarkers of sorafenib in this population. The task still seems difficult; however appropriate investigations could resolve this dilemma, as observed for some malignancies where other drugs were used.
Collapse
|
28
|
Wang J, Gong L, Zhu SJ, Zhu Q, Yao L, Han XJ, Zhang JR, Li YH, Zhang W. The Human Homolog of Drosophila Headcase Acts as a Tumor Suppressor through Its Blocking Effect on the Cell Cycle in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0137579. [PMID: 26356417 PMCID: PMC4565651 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is heterogeneous and extremely complex. Thus, for individual molecular targeted therapy, novel molecular markers are needed. The abnormal expression of the human homolog of Drosophila headcase (HECA homo) has been found in pancreatic, colorectal, and oral squamous cell carcinoma. Studies of oral squamous cell carcinoma have also demonstrated that the HECA homo protein can be negatively controlled by the Wnt-pathway and transcription factor 4 (TCF4) and can slow cell division by interacting with cyclins and CDKs. However, the role of HECA in HCC has not been reported elsewhere. Here, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the downregulation of HECA homo protein occurred in 71.0% (66/93) of HCC cases and was positively correlated with a poorly differentiated grade, high serum AFP level, liver cirrhosis and large tumor size. The expression of HECA homo was detected in five live cell lines. In vitro, the overexpression of HECA homo in HepG2, Huh-7 and MHCC-97H cells could inhibit cell proliferation and colony formation and induce G1 phase arrest. In contrast, the downregulation of HECA homo could promote cell proliferation, colony formation and the cell cycle process. However, neither the overexpression nor downregulation of HECA homo in the three cell lines could affect cell migration or invasion. Collectively, HECA homo is regularly expressed in normal live cells, and the HECA homo protein level is heterogeneously altered in HCC, but the downregulation of HECA homo is more common and positively correlated with several malignant phenotypes. The HECA homo protein can slow cell proliferation to some extent primarily through its blocking effect on the cell cycle. Hence, the HECA homo protein may act as a tumor suppressor in HCC and might be a potential molecular marker for diagnostic classification and targeted therapy in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- The Helmholtz Sino-German Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li Gong
- The Helmholtz Sino-German Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shao-Jun Zhu
- The Helmholtz Sino-German Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qiao Zhu
- The Helmholtz Sino-German Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li Yao
- The Helmholtz Sino-German Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiu-Juan Han
- The Helmholtz Sino-German Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jia-Rui Zhang
- The Helmholtz Sino-German Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yan-Hong Li
- The Helmholtz Sino-German Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- * E-mail: (WZ); (Y-HL)
| | - Wei Zhang
- The Helmholtz Sino-German Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- * E-mail: (WZ); (Y-HL)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Chiba T, Suzuki E, Saito T, Ogasawara S, Ooka Y, Tawada A, Iwama A, Yokosuka O. Biological features and biomarkers in hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:2020-2028. [PMID: 26261691 PMCID: PMC4528275 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i16.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2015] [Revised: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Similar to other cancers, a multistep process of carcinogenesis is observed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although the mechanisms underlying the development of HCC have been investigated in terms of oncology, virology, and stem cell biology, the whole picture of hepatocarcinogenesis remains to be elucidated. Recent progress in molecular biology has provided clues to the underlying cause of various diseases. In particular, sequencing technologies, such as whole genome and exome sequencing analyses, have made an impact on genomic research on a variety of cancers including HCC. Comprehensive genomic analyses have detected numerous abnormal genetic alterations, such as mutations and copy number alterations. Based on these findings, signaling pathways and cancer-related genes involved in hepatocarcinogenesis could be analyzed in detail. Simultaneously, a number of novel biomarkers, both from tissue and blood samples, have been recently reported. These biomarkers have been successfully applied to early diagnosis and prognostic prediction of patients with HCC. In this review, we focus on the recent developments in molecular cancer research on HCC and explain the biological features and novel biomarkers.
Collapse
|
30
|
Chen KW, Ou TM, Hsu CW, Horng CT, Lee CC, Tsai YY, Tsai CC, Liou YS, Yang CC, Hsueh CW, Kuo WH. Current systemic treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: A review of the literature. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:1412-20. [PMID: 26052386 PMCID: PMC4450204 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i10.1412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 11/29/2014] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common form of human cancer worldwide and the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths. The strategies of various treatments for HCC depend on the stage of tumor, the status of patient's performance and the reserved hepatic function. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system is currently used most for patients with HCC. For example, for patients with BCLC stage 0 (very early stage) and stage A (early stage) HCC, the curable treatment modalities, including resection, transplantation and radiofrequency ablation, are taken into consideration. If the patients are in BCLC stage B (intermediate stage) and stage C (advanced stage) HCC, they may need the palliative transarterial chemoembolization and even the target medication of sorafenib. In addition, symptomatic treatment is always recommended for patients with BCLC stage D (end stage) HCC. In this review, we will attempt to summarize the historical perspective and the current developments of systemic therapies in BCLC stage B and C in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Wen Chen
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Ming Ou
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Wen Hsu
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Ting Horng
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chang Lee
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| | - Yuh-Yuan Tsai
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chang Tsai
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Sheng Liou
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Chieh Yang
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Wen Hsueh
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Hsien Kuo
- Kai-Wen Chen, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital, Hualien 97144, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Pu X, Guo QX, Long HA, Yang CW. Effects of mTOR-STAT3 on the migration and invasion abilities of hepatoma cell and mTOR-STAT3 expression in liver cancer. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2015; 7:368-72. [PMID: 25063062 DOI: 10.1016/s1995-7645(14)60057-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Revised: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 03/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of mTOR-STAT3 pathway on the invasion and migration of hepatoma cell. METHODS mTOR and STAT3 expression in the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2 and normal liver cell line L02 were detected by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and western blotting. The migration and invasion abilities of cells and expression of STAT3 were detected by scratch adhesion test and transwell migration assays, after siRNA transfection blocking mTOR expression of HepG2 cells. RESULTS The HepG2 cells expression is higher compared with normal cells L02 expression. Western blotting assay showed the mTOR expression was blocked, while STAT3 expression was also decreased, after the siRNA transfection of HepG2 cells. The migration (scratch adhesion test) and invasion (transwell assays) abilities of HepG2 cells which the mTOR expression was blocked by siRNA interference were significantly decreased (P<0.05). CONCLUSION mTORSTAT3 expression in hepatoma cells HepG2 was significantly higher than that in normal liver cells. mTOR blocking can reduce the expression of STAT3, which is also closely related to the invasion and metastasis of liver cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Pu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China.
| | - Qing-Xi Guo
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Han-An Long
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Cheng-Wan Yang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wu JR, Hu CT, You RI, Ma PL, Pan SM, Lee MC, Wu WS. Preclinical trials for prevention of tumor progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by LZ-8 targeting c-Met dependent and independent pathways. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0114495. [PMID: 25607934 PMCID: PMC4301873 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most lethal cancers. Mounting studies highlighted the essential role of the HGF/c-MET axis in driving HCC tumor progression. Therefore, c-Met is a potential therapeutic target for HCC. However, several concerns remain unresolved in c-Met targeting. First, the status of active c-Met in HCC must be screened to determine patients suitable for therapy. Second, resistance and side effects have been observed frequently when using conventional c-Met inhibitors. Thus, a preclinical system for screening the status of c-Met signaling and identifying efficient and safe anti-HCC agents is urgently required. In this study, immunohistochemical staining of phosphorylated c-Met (Tyr1234) on tissue sections indicated that HCCs with positive c-Met signaling accounted for approximately 46% in 26 cases. Second, many patient-derived HCC cell lines were established and characterized according to motility and c-Met signaling status. Moreover, LZ8, a medicinal peptide purified from the herb Lingzhi, featuring immunomodulatory and anticancer properties, was capable of suppressing cell migration and slightly reducing the survival rate of both c-Met positive and negative HCCs, HCC372, and HCC329, respectively. LZ8 also suppressed the intrahepatic metastasis of HCC329 in SCID mice. On the molecular level, LZ8 suppressed the expression of c-Met and phosphorylation of c-Met, ERK and AKT in HCC372, and suppressed the phosphorylation of JNK, ERK, and AKT in HCC329. According to receptor array screening, the major receptor tyrosine kinase activated in HCC329 was found to be the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Moreover, tyrosine-phosphorylated EGFR (the active EGFR) was greatly suppressed in HCC329 by LZ8 treatment. In addition, LZ8 blocked HGF-induced cell migration and c-Met-dependent signaling in HepG2. In summary, we designed a preclinical trial using LZ8 to prevent the tumor progression of patient-derived HCCs with c-Met-positive or -negative signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Ru Wu
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualein, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Tan Hu
- Research Centre for Hepatology, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital and Department of Internal Medicine Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Ren-In You
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualein, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ling Ma
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualein, Taiwan
| | - Siou-Mei Pan
- Research Centre for Hepatology, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital and Department of Internal Medicine Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Che Lee
- Department of Surgery, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Sheng Wu
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualein, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualein, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
The study of a novel sorafenib derivative HLC-080 as an antitumor agent. PLoS One 2014; 9:e101889. [PMID: 25004130 PMCID: PMC4086976 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0101889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, our objective is to evaluate the potential of a novel Sorafenib derivative, named HLC-080, as a new anticancer agent for colon cancer. We firstly carried out MTT assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry analysis and transwell invasion assay to determine effect of our compound HLC-080 on cell viability, anti-proliferation activity, cell cycle arrest and the intervention on cell invasion, respectively. On the other hand, in vivo antitumor activity of HLC-080 was also tested using H22 xenograft model and the angiogenesis effect of HLC-080 was measured by EA.hy926 tube formation assay. The expression levels of various proteins in HLC-080 treated with HT-29 cell lines were examined using Western blot and ELISA experiments. The results showed that HLC-080 could dramatically inhibit the growth and colony formation of various tumor cells, therefore exhibited remarkable antitumor activity. HLC-080 can induce cell cycle arrest at G1 phase in HT-29 cells and subsequently inhibit the invasive potential of colon cancer cells. HLC-080 also exhibits anti-angiogenesis effect in EA.hy926 model. Additionally, the in vivo study showed that HLC-080 was able to reduced the tumor weight with the rate of 35.81%. And at the concentration of 0.352±0.034 µM, HLC-080 is able to reduce half of the regular protein level of p-c-Raf (Ser259), consequently block Raf/MEK/ERK signaling in HT-29 cell lines. In conclusion, our study suggests that Sorafenib derivative HLC-080 has the potential to inhibit cell proliferation and angiogenesis, Since, HLC-080 is particularly active against human colon cancer cells, our study highlights that HLC-080 and its related analogues may serve as a new anti-cancer drug, particularly against colon cancer.
Collapse
|
34
|
Chen CH, Chen MC, Wang JC, Tsai AC, Chen CS, Liou JP, Pan SL, Teng CM. Synergistic interaction between the HDAC inhibitor, MPT0E028, and sorafenib in liver cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Clin Cancer Res 2014; 20:1274-1287. [PMID: 24520095 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-3909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the antitumor activities of a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, MPT0E028, plus sorafenib in liver cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Different liver cancer cell lines were exposed to sorafenib in the presence or absence of MPT0E028, and cell viability was determined by MTT assay. Effects of combined treatment on cell cycle and intracellular signaling pathways were assessed by flow cytometry and Western blot analysis. The Hep3B xenograft model was used to examine the antitumor activity in vivo. RESULTS Our data indicate that sorafenib and MPT0E028 synergistically reduced cell viability in liver cancer cells, and also markedly induced apoptotic cell death in these cells, as evidenced by the cleavage of caspase-3, PARP, and DNA fragmentation. MPT0E028 altered the global modifications of histone and nonhistone proteins regardless of the presence of sorafenib. However, sorafenib blocked MPT0E028-induced Erk activation and its downstream signaling cascades, such as Stat3 phosphorylation (Ser(727)) and Mcl-1 upregulation. Ectopic expression of constitutively active Mek successively reversed the apoptosis triggered by the combined treatment. Pharmacologic inhibition of Mek by PD98059 potentiated MPT0E028-induced apoptosis, suggesting that the synergistic interaction between MPT0E028 and sorafenib occurs at least partly through inhibition of Erk signaling. The data demonstrated that transcriptional activation of fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) contributes to MPT0E028-mediated Erk phosphorylation. Finally, MPT0E028 plus sorafenib significantly improved the tumor growth delay (TGD) in a Hep3B xenograft model. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that MPT0E028 in combination with sorafenib has significant anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity in preclinical models, potentially suggesting a novel therapeutic strategy for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Han Chen
- Pharmacological Institute, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chuan Chen
- Pharmacological Institute, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Chi Wang
- The Ph.D. program for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - An-Chi Tsai
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Shih Chen
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | | | - Shiow-Lin Pan
- The Ph.D. program for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Che-Ming Teng
- Pharmacological Institute, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Yamasaki T, Saeki I, Sakaida I. Efficacy of iron chelator deferoxamine for hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma patients refractory to current treatments. Hepatol Int 2014. [PMID: 26201330 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-013-9515-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The prognosis of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains poor. For patients with advanced HCC, the multikinase inhibitor sorafenib is recommended as the current standard of care. In contrast, hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) is one of the recommended treatments in Japan. However, in Japan, the use of sorafenib versus hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy for first-line treatment remains unclear, because there have been no randomized controlled trials comparing HAIC with sorafenib. HAIC can substantially prolong survival in patients with complete and partial response, while non-responders may be suitable candidates for sorafenib therapy. Nonetheless, HAIC non-responders with deteriorated liver function currently have no treatment options. We have shown the efficacy of an alternative therapy, the iron chelator deferoxamine, for advanced HCC patients with deteriorated liver function. Iron chelators may have future therapeutic possibilities in this patient population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Yamasaki
- Department of Oncology and Laboratory Medicine, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan.
| | - Issei Saeki
- Division of Laboratory, Yamaguchi University Hospital, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan.
| | - Isao Sakaida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Minamikogushi, Ube, Yamaguchi, 755-8505, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Suh SJ, Yim HJ. [Current status of molecular targeted therapies in hepatocellular carcinoma]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2013; 61:136-46. [PMID: 23575232 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2013.61.3.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death in Korea. Curative treatment is only possible when the disease is diagnosed at the early stage. The prognosis of patients with HCC is even dismal in advanced stages. No systemic cytotoxic chemotherapy has proven to be beneficial in overall survival. Recently, the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis led to the development of new therapies. With the evidence of dysregulation of critical genes associated with cellular proliferation, growth factor signaling, cell cycling, apoptosis, and angiogenesis in HCC, a number of molecular target agents are under clinical trials. Sorafenib is the first systemic anticancer drug which has proven to gain survival benefit in the global as well as Asia-Pacific trials. However, the survival gain is still modest, and further efforts to improve outcomes in patients with HCC are necessary by developing novel drugs or combining other forms of therapies. This article will review signaling pathways in HCC and introduce molecular target agents under investigation currently.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Jun Suh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | |
Collapse
|