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Wang K, Yan L, Qiu X, Chen H, Gao F, Ge W, Lian Z, Wei X, Wang S, He H, Xu X. PAK1 inhibition increases TRIM21-induced PD-L1 degradation and enhances responses to anti-PD-1 therapy in pancreatic cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167236. [PMID: 38740225 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167236] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is a common malignancy with a 5-year survival <10 %. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in the progression of PDA. In recent years, programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1)/programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) blockade has emerged as a potent anti-tumor immunotherapy, while is yet to achieve significant clinical benefits for PDA patients. P21-Activated kinase 1 (PAK1) is highly upregulated in PDA and has been reported to be involved in the regulation of anti-tumor immunity. This study aims to investigate the combined effect of PAK1 inhibition and anti-PD-1 therapy on PDA and the underlying mechanisms. We have shown that PAK1 expression positively correlated with PD-L1 in PDA patients, and that inhibition of PAK1 downregulated PD-L1 expression of PDA cells. More importantly, we have demonstrated that PAK1 competed with PD-L1 in binding to tripartite motif-containing protein 21 (TRIM21), a ubiquitin E3 ligase, resulting in less ubiquitination and degradation of PD-L1. Moreover, PAK1 inhibition promoted CD8+ T cells activation and infiltration. In a murine PDA model, the combination of PAK1 inhibition and anti-PD-1 therapy showed significant anti-tumor effects compared with the control or monotherapy. Our results indicated that the combination of PAK1 inhibition and anti-PD-1 therapy would be a more effective treatment for PDA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Minimally Invasive Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lili Yan
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xun Qiu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Huan Chen
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Fengqiang Gao
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wenwen Ge
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhengxing Lian
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xuyong Wei
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Hong He
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia.
| | - Xiao Xu
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Minimally Invasive Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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2
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Ansardamavandi A, Nikfarjam M, He H. PAK in Pancreatic Cancer-Associated Vasculature: Implications for Therapeutic Response. Cells 2023; 12:2692. [PMID: 38067120 PMCID: PMC10705971 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232692] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis has been associated with numbers of solid tumours. Anti-angiogenesis drugs starve tumours of nutrients and oxygen but also make it difficult for a chemo reagent to distribute into a tumour, leading to aggressive tumour growth. Anti-angiogenesis drugs do not appear to improve the overall survival rate of pancreatic cancer. Vessel normalisation is merging as one of the new approaches for halting tumour progression by facilitating the tumour infiltration of immune cells and the delivery of chemo reagents. Targeting p21-activated kinases (PAKs) in cancer has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth and improve the efficacy of chemotherapy. Inhibition of PAK enhances anti-tumour immunity and stimulates the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockades. Inhibition of PAK also improves Car-T immunotherapy by reprogramming the vascular microenvironment. This review summarizes current research on PAK's role in tumour vasculature and therapeutical response, with a focus on pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arian Ansardamavandi
- Department of Surgery, Austin Precinct, The University of Melbourne, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia; (A.A.); (M.N.)
| | - Mehrdad Nikfarjam
- Department of Surgery, Austin Precinct, The University of Melbourne, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia; (A.A.); (M.N.)
- Department of Hepatopancreatic-Biliary Surgery, Austin Health, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Hong He
- Department of Surgery, Austin Precinct, The University of Melbourne, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia; (A.A.); (M.N.)
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3
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Belli S, Pesapane A, Servetto A, Esposito D, Napolitano F, Ascione CM, Allotta A, Zambrano N, Marino FZ, Franco R, Troiani T, Formisano L, Bianco R. Combined blockade of mTOR and p21-activated kinases pathways prevents tumour growth in KRAS-mutated colorectal cancer. Br J Cancer 2023; 129:1071-1082. [PMID: 37568037 PMCID: PMC10539494 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02390-z] [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: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of novel therapeutic strategies for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients harbouring KRAS mutations represents an unmet clinical need. In this study, we aimed to clarify the role of p21-activated kinases (Paks) as therapeutic target for KRAS-mutated CRC. METHODS Paks expression and activation levels were evaluated in a cohort of KRAS-WT or -mutated CRC patients by immunohistochemistry. The effects of Paks inhibition on tumour cell proliferation and signal transduction were assayed by RNAi and by the use of three pan-Paks inhibitors (PF-3758309, FRAX1036, GNE-2861), evaluating CRC cells, spheroids and tumour xenografts' growth. RESULTS Paks activation positively correlated with KRAS mutational status in both patients and cell lines. Moreover, genetic modulation or pharmacological inhibition of Paks led to a robust impairment of KRAS-mut CRC cell proliferation. However, Paks prolonged blockade induced a rapid tumour adaptation through the hyper-activation of the mTOR/p70S6K pathway. The addition of everolimus (mTOR inhibitor) prevented the growth of KRAS-mut CRC tumours in vitro and in vivo, reverting the adaptive tumour resistance to Paks targeting. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our results suggest the simultaneous blockade of mTOR and Pak pathways as a promising alternative therapeutic strategy for patients affected by KRAS-mut colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Belli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Ada Pesapane
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Servetto
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Esposito
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Napolitano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Maria Ascione
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Allotta
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Zambrano
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate S.C.aR.L., Via G. Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Renato Franco
- Pathology Unit, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Troiani
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Formisano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Roberto Bianco
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy.
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Samant C, Kale R, Bokare A, Verma M, Pai KSR, Bhonde M. PAK4 inhibition significantly potentiates Gemcitabine activity in PDAC cells via inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin, p-ERK/MAPK and p-AKT/PI3K pathways. Biochem Biophys Rep 2023; 35:101544. [PMID: 37720313 PMCID: PMC10500449 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2023.101544] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the most difficult to treat cancers. Gemcitabine is still the standard of care treatment for PDAC but with modest survival benefit and well reported resistance. Here we explored potential of inhibiting p21 activated kinase 4 (PAK4), a downstream protein of KRAS oncogenic pathway, in combination with Gemcitabine in PDAC cells. PAK4 inhibition by KPT-9274 led to significant potentiation of Gemcitabine activity in PDAC cells, with an increase in apoptosis, DNA damage and cell cycle arrest. At molecular level, PAK4 inhibition dose dependently inhibited Gemcitabine-induced β-catenin, c-JUN and Ribonucleotide Reductase subunit 2 (RRM2) levels. PAK4 inhibition further inhibited levels of phosphorylated ERK (p-ERK); Gemcitabine-induced phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT), phosphorylated and total c-Myc. These results suggest possible role of β-catenin, p-ERK and p-AKT, key effector proteins of Wnt/β-catenin, MAPK and PI3K pathways respectively, in sensitisation of Gemcitabine activity with PAK4 inhibition. Our data unravel probable molecular mechanisms behind combination of PAK4 inhibition with Gemcitabine to counter PDAC, which may be unequivocally proved further with knock down of PAK4. Our findings provide a strong rationale to exploit the combination therapy of Gemcitabine and PAK4 inhibitor for PDAC at pre-clinical and clinical levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charudatt Samant
- Department of Pharmacology, Novel Drug Discovery and Development (NDDD), Lupin Limited, Survey No. 46A/47A, Village Nande, Taluka Mulshi, Pune, 412115, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ramesh Kale
- Department of Pharmacology, Novel Drug Discovery and Development (NDDD), Lupin Limited, Survey No. 46A/47A, Village Nande, Taluka Mulshi, Pune, 412115, Maharashtra, India
| | - Anand Bokare
- Department of Pharmacology, Novel Drug Discovery and Development (NDDD), Lupin Limited, Survey No. 46A/47A, Village Nande, Taluka Mulshi, Pune, 412115, Maharashtra, India
| | - Mahip Verma
- Department of Pharmacology, Novel Drug Discovery and Development (NDDD), Lupin Limited, Survey No. 46A/47A, Village Nande, Taluka Mulshi, Pune, 412115, Maharashtra, India
| | - K. Sreedhara Ranganath Pai
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Mandar Bhonde
- Department of Pharmacology, Novel Drug Discovery and Development (NDDD), Lupin Limited, Survey No. 46A/47A, Village Nande, Taluka Mulshi, Pune, 412115, Maharashtra, India
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5
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El-Tanani M, Nsairat H, Matalka II, Aljabali AAA, Mishra V, Mishra Y, Naikoo GA, Chava SR, Charbe NB, Tambuwala MM. Impact of exosome therapy on pancreatic cancer and its progression. Med Oncol 2023; 40:225. [PMID: 37405480 PMCID: PMC10322774 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02101-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, one of the most aggressive tumors, has a dismal prognosis because of the low rates of early identification, fast progression, difficulties following surgery, and the ineffectiveness of current oncologic therapies. There are no imaging techniques or biomarkers that can accurately identify, categorize, or predict the biological behavior of this tumor. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that play a crucial rule in the progression, metastasis, and chemoresistance of pancreatic cancer. They have been verified to be potential biomarkers for pancreatic cancer management. Studying the role of exosomes in pancreatic cancer is substantial. Exosomes are secreted by most eukaryotic cells and participated in intercellular communication. The components of exosomes, including proteins, DNA, mRNA, microRNA, long non-coding RNA, circular RNA, etc., play a crucial role in regulating tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis in the process of cancer development, and can be used as a prognostic marker and/or grading basis for tumor patients. Hereby, in this concise review, we intend to summarize exosomes components and isolation, exosome secretion, function, importance of exosomes in the progression of pancreatic cancer and exosomal miRNAs as possible pancreatic cancer biomarkers. Finally, the application potential of exosomes in the treatment of pancreatic cancer, which provides theoretical supports for using exosomes to serve precise tumor treatment in the clinic, will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed El-Tanani
- Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, 19328, Jordan.
- Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, University of Bradford, Bradford, BD7 1DP, West Yorkshire, UK.
- Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.
| | - Hamdi Nsairat
- Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, 19328, Jordan
| | - Ismail I Matalka
- Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Alaa A A Aljabali
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, P.O. Box 566, Irbid, 21163, Jordan
| | - Vijay Mishra
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, India
| | - Yachana Mishra
- Department of Zoology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, India
| | - Gowhar A Naikoo
- Department of Mathematics and Sciences, College of Arts and Applied Sciences, Dhofar University, PC 211, Salalah, Oman
| | | | - Nitin B Charbe
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Center for Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology, University of Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Murtaza M Tambuwala
- Lincoln Medical School, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool Campus, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK.
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6
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Kong W, Zhu L, Li T, Chen J, Fan B, Ji W, Zhang C, Cai X, Hu C, Sun X, Cao P. Azeliragon inhibits PAK1 and enhances the therapeutic efficacy of AKT inhibitors in pancreatic cancer. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 948:175703. [PMID: 37028543 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a lethal malignancy for which there is currently no effective treatment strategy. We previously reported that p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) is aberrantly expressed in pancreatic cancer patients and that targeted inhibition of PAK1 significantly suppressed pancreatic cancer progression in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we identified the drug azeliragon as a novel inhibitor of PAK1. Cell experiments revealed that azeliragon abolished PAK1 activation and promoted apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells. Azeliragon was also found to significantly inhibit tumor growth in a pancreatic cancer xenograft model; when combined with afuresertib, an oral pan-AKT kinase inhibitor, azeliragon exhibited a strong synergistic effect against pancreatic cancer cells. Interestingly, afuresertib enhanced the antitumor efficacy of azeliragon in a xenograft mouse model. Collectively, our findings revealed previously unreported aspects of the drug azeliragon, and identified a novel combination strategy for the treatment of pancreatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weikang Kong
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Vocational College of Agriculture and Forestry, Jurong, China
| | - Lingxia Zhu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Tian Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiao Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Bo Fan
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenjing Ji
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunli Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xueting Cai
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunping Hu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Sun
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
| | - Peng Cao
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
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7
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Zhuo F, Luo S, He W, Feng Z, Hu Y, Xu J, Wang Z, Xu J. The Role of Signaling Pathways in Pancreatic Cancer Targeted Therapy. Am J Clin Oncol 2023; 46:121-128. [PMID: 36735511 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000000979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Signaling pathways play significant roles in the occurrence, development, and treatment of pancreatic cancer (PC). The main treatment options are surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, arterial infusion chemotherapy in interventional therapy, and immunotherapy. Many studies have shown that signaling pathways perform a function in the occurrence and development of PC, for instance, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT, nuclear factor-κB, Ras, interleukin (IL)-17B/IL-17RB, Wnt, and hepatocyte growth factor/c-MET, which play roles in the proliferation, metastasis, invasion, inhibition of apoptosis, promotion of angiogenesis, and drug resistance of PC. Interaction of signaling pathways has an impact on the biological behavior of PC; for example, activation of the neurotensin/NTSR1 pathway, which can activate mitogen-activated protein kinase, nuclear factor-κB, and other pathways related to PC stem cells, play an important role in PC, and an increase in their number is associated with the Wnt/β-catenin and PI3K pathways. Chemotherapy is the main method for the treatment of PC, but drug resistance limits its use. In addition, abnormal activation of IL-17B/IL-17RB signaling pathway is associated with drug resistance. This article discusses the signaling pathways that play different roles in the occurrence and development of PC, as well as current research on signaling pathways in PC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Zhuo
- National Joint Local Engineering Laboratory for Cell Engineering and Biomedicine Technique, Guizhou Province Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Key Laboratory of Adult Stem Cell Translational Research (Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences)
- Department of Clinical Medical College
| | - Shuang Luo
- National Joint Local Engineering Laboratory for Cell Engineering and Biomedicine Technique, Guizhou Province Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Key Laboratory of Adult Stem Cell Translational Research (Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences)
- Department of Clinical Medical College
| | - Wei He
- National Joint Local Engineering Laboratory for Cell Engineering and Biomedicine Technique, Guizhou Province Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Key Laboratory of Adult Stem Cell Translational Research (Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences)
- Department of Clinical Medical College
| | - Zhanhui Feng
- Neurological Department, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University
| | - Ya'nan Hu
- Department of Cell Biology, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jingxia Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University
| | - Zejun Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University
| | - Jianwei Xu
- National Joint Local Engineering Laboratory for Cell Engineering and Biomedicine Technique, Guizhou Province Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Key Laboratory of Adult Stem Cell Translational Research (Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences)
- Department of Clinical Medical College
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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8
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Wang D, Zhu J, Yang Y, Wang Z, Ying Z, Zhang H. The role of the miR-4306/PAK6 axis in degenerative nucleus pulposus cells in human intervertebral disc degeneration. Cell Signal 2023; 102:110528. [PMID: 36423859 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), characterized by degenerative changes that occur in intervertebral discs due to aging or structural injury, is thought to be the most common cause of lower back pain. Recent studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) have a critical role in the etiopathogenesis of IDD. In the current study, we aimed to determine the role of miRNAs in mediating the underlying mechanisms associated with IDD. First, differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were identified using the GEO database, and subsequently confirmed by RT-qPCR and in situ hybridization. We found that miR-4306 expression was significantly decreased in human nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues compared with healthy controls, and was negatively correlated with the patients' Pfirrmann grade. To determine the mechanism by which miR-4306 was involved in IDD pathogenesis, we examined the effects of overexpressing or silencing miR-4306 on extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis/degradation, proliferation, autophagy and apoptosis of human degenerated NP cells isolated from IDD patients. Next, we used dual-luciferase reporter assays to demonstrate that miR-4306 interacted with the 3'-untranslated regions of p21-activated kinase 6 (PAK6) mRNA, resulting in significant suppression of PAK6 expression. This effect was abolished by miR-4306 binding site mutations. Using miR-4306/PAK6 gain-of-function and loss-of-function studies in human degenerated NP cells, we demonstrated that miR-4306 promoted NP cell proliferation, ECM synthesis and autophagy, while inhibiting apoptosis and ECM degradation via PAK6. Thus, our findings indicate that miR-4306, acting via PAK6, has an important role in IDD and can be used as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with IDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China
| | - Ji Zhu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanqing Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China
| | - Zhizhou Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China
| | - Zhengran Ying
- Department of Orthopedics, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China
| | - Hailong Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China.
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9
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Li M, Zhou J, Zhang Z, Li J, Wang F, Ma L, Tian X, Mao Z, Yang Y. Exosomal miR-485-3p derived from pancreatic ductal epithelial cells inhibits pancreatic cancer metastasis through targeting PAK1. Chin Med J (Engl) 2022; 135:2326-2337. [PMID: 36535010 PMCID: PMC9771326 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cell competition is an important feature in pancreatic cancer (PC) progression, but the underlying mechanism remains elusive. This study aims to explore the role of exosomes derived from normal pancreatic ductal epithelial cells involved in PC progression. METHODS PC cells and pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) were treated with exosomes isolated from pancreatic ductal epithelial cells. Cell proliferation was assessed by CCK8 assays. Cell migration and invasion were assessed by Transwell assays. PC and matched adjacent non-tumor tissue specimens were obtained from 46 patients pathologically diagnosed with PC at Peking University First Hospital from 2013 to 2017. Tissue miR-485-3p and p21-activated kinase-1 (PAK1) expression was examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and the relationship of the two was analyzed using Pearman's product-moment correlation. The clinical significance of miR-485-3p was analyzed using the Chi-square test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and Fisher exact probability, respectively. The binding of miR-485-3p to PAK1 5'-untranslated region (5'-UTR) was examined by luciferase assay. PC cells were xenografted into nude mice as a PC metastasis model. RESULTS Exosomes from pancreatic ductal epithelial cells suppressed PC cell migration and invasion as well as the secretion and migration of PSCs. MiR-485-3p was enriched in the exosomes of pancreatic ductal epithelial cells but deficient in those of PC cells and PSCs, in accordance with the lower level in PSCs and PC cells than that in pancreatic ductal cells. And the mature miR-485-3p could be delivered into these cells by the exosomes secreted by normal pancreatic duct cells, to inhibit PC cell migration and invasion. Clinical data analysis showed that miR-485-3p was significantly decreased in PC tissues (P < 0.05) and was negatively associated with lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.044). As a direct target of miR-485-3p, PAK1 was found to exert an inhibitory effect on PC cells, and there was a significantly negative correlation between the expression levels of miR-485-3p and PAK1 (r = -0.6525, P < 0.0001) in PC tissues. Moreover, miR-485-3p could suppress PC metastasis in vivo by targeting p21-activated kinase-1. CONCLUSIONS Exosomal miR-485-3p delivered by normal pancreatic ductal epithelial cells into PC cells inhibits PC metastasis by directly targeting PAK1. The restoration of miR-485-3p by exosomes or some other vehicle might be a novel approach for PC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhe Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Zhengkui Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Jisong Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Ling Ma
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Peking University Ninth School of Clinical Medicine (Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University), Beijing 100038, China
| | - Xiaodong Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Zebin Mao
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yinmo Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
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Li X, Li F. p21-Activated Kinase: Role in Gastrointestinal Cancer and Beyond. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194736. [PMID: 36230657 PMCID: PMC9563254 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Gastrointestinal tumors are the most common tumors with a high mortality rate worldwide. Numerous protein kinases have been studied in anticipation of finding viable tumor therapeutic targets, including PAK. PAK is a serine/threonine kinase that plays an important role in the malignant phenotype of tumors. The function of PAK in tumors is highlighted in cell proliferation, survival, motility, tumor cell plasticity and the tumor microenvironment, therefore providing a new possible target for clinical tumor therapy. Based on the current research works of PAK, we summarize and analyze the PAK features and signaling pathways in cells, especially the role of PAK in gastrointestinal tumors, thereby hoping to provide a theoretical basis for both the future studies of PAK and potential tumor therapeutic targets. Abstract Gastrointestinal tumors are the most common tumors, and they are leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, but their mechanisms are still unclear, which need to be clarified to discover therapeutic targets. p21-activating kinase (PAK), a serine/threonine kinase that is downstream of Rho GTPase, plays an important role in cellular signaling networks. According to the structural characteristics and activation mechanisms of them, PAKs are divided into two groups, both of which are involved in the biological processes that are critical to cells, including proliferation, migration, survival, transformation and metabolism. The biological functions of PAKs depend on a large number of interacting proteins and the signaling pathways they participate in. The role of PAKs in tumors is manifested in their abnormality and the consequential changes in the signaling pathways. Once they are overexpressed or overactivated, PAKs lead to tumorigenesis or a malignant phenotype, especially in tumor invasion and metastasis. Recently, the involvement of PAKs in cellular plasticity, stemness and the tumor microenvironment have attracted attention. Here, we summarize the biological characteristics and key signaling pathways of PAKs, and further analyze their mechanisms in gastrointestinal tumors and others, which will reveal new therapeutic targets and a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of gastrointestinal cancer.
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11
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Ma Y, Nikfarjam M, He H. The trilogy of P21 activated kinase, autophagy and immune evasion in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cancer Lett 2022; 548:215868. [PMID: 36027997 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDA) is one of the most lethal types of cancer with a dismal prognosis. KRAS mutation is a commonly identified oncogene in PDA tumorigenesis and P21-activated kinases (PAKs) are its downstream mediator. While PAK1 is more well-studied, PAK4 also attracted increasing interest. In PDA, PAK inhibition not only reduces cancer cell viability but also sensitises it to chemotherapy. While PDA remains resistant to existing immunotherapies, PAK inhibition has been shown to increase cancer immunogenicity of melanoma, glioblastoma and PDA. Furthermore, autophagy plays an important role in PDA immune evasion, and accumulating evidence has pointed to a connection between PAK and cancer cell autophagy. In this literature review, we aim to summarize currently available studies that have assessed the potential connection between PAK, autophagy and immune evasion in PDA biology to guide future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ma
- Department of Surgery, Austin Precinct, The University of Melbourne, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - Mehrdad Nikfarjam
- Department of Surgery, Austin Precinct, The University of Melbourne, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia; Department of Hepatopancreatic-Biliary Surgery, Austin Health, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - Hong He
- Department of Surgery, Austin Precinct, The University of Melbourne, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.
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12
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Shah K, Kazi JU. Phosphorylation-Dependent Regulation of WNT/Beta-Catenin Signaling. Front Oncol 2022; 12:858782. [PMID: 35359365 PMCID: PMC8964056 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.858782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
WNT/β-catenin signaling is a highly complex pathway that plays diverse roles in various cellular processes. While WNT ligands usually signal through their dedicated Frizzled receptors, the decision to signal in a β-catenin-dependent or -independent manner rests upon the type of co-receptors used. Canonical WNT signaling is β-catenin-dependent, whereas non-canonical WNT signaling is β-catenin-independent according to the classical definition. This still holds true, albeit with some added complexity, as both the pathways seem to cross-talk with intertwined networks that involve the use of different ligands, receptors, and co-receptors. β-catenin can be directly phosphorylated by various kinases governing its participation in either canonical or non-canonical pathways. Moreover, the co-activators that associate with β-catenin determine the output of the pathway in terms of induction of genes promoting proliferation or differentiation. In this review, we provide an overview of how protein phosphorylation controls WNT/β-catenin signaling, particularly in human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinjal Shah
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Julhash U. Kazi
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Julhash U. Kazi,
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13
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He H, Dumesny C, Ang CS, Dong L, Ma Y, Zeng J, Nikfarjam M. A novel PAK4 inhibitor suppresses pancreatic cancer growth and enhances the inhibitory effect of gemcitabine. Transl Oncol 2022; 16:101329. [PMID: 34973571 PMCID: PMC8724943 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 95% of Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDA) carry mutations in the oncogene KRas which has been proven to be a difficult drug target. P21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4), acts downstream of KRas, and is overexpressed in PDA contributing to its growth and chemoresistance, and thus becomes an attractive therapeutic target. We have developed a new PAK4 inhibitor, PAKib and tested its effect on pancreatic cancer (PC) cell growth in vitro and in a syngeneic mouse model of PC. PAKib suppressed PC cell growth by inducing cell death and cycle arrest. PAKib inhibited PC growth and enhanced the inhibition by gemcitabine of PC in cell culture and in PC mouse model. PAKib acted through multiple signaling pathways involved in cell cycle checkpoints, apoptosis, cell junction, and focal adhesion. These proof-of-concept studies demonstrated the anti-cancer effect of PAKib alone and in combination with gemcitabine and warrant a further clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong He
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, 145 Studley Rd., Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia.
| | - Chelsea Dumesny
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, 145 Studley Rd., Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Ching-Seng Ang
- Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Flemington Road, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Li Dong
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, 145 Studley Rd., Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Yi Ma
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, 145 Studley Rd., Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Jun Zeng
- Pakinax Pty. Ltd., Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mehrdad Nikfarjam
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, 145 Studley Rd., Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia.
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14
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Shao JB, Luo XQ, Mo LH, Yang G, Liu ZQ, Liu JQ, Liu ZG, Liu DB, Yang PC. Twist1 sustains the apoptosis resistance in eosinophils in nasal mucosa of allergic rhinitis. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 702:108828. [PMID: 33741336 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Eosinophils (Eos) are the canonical effector cells in allergic rhinitis (AR) and many inflammatory diseases. The mechanism of eosinophilia occurring in the lesion sites is not fully understood yet. Twist1 protein (Twist, in short) is an apoptosis inhibitor that also has immune regulatory functions. This study aims to investigate the role of Twist in the pathogenesis of eosinophilia in AR. In this study, surgically removed human nasal mucosal samples were obtained from patients with chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps with AR (the AR group) or without AR (the nAR group). Eos were isolated from the samples by flow cytometry. We found that abundant Eos were obtained from the surgically removed nasal mucosa tissues of both nAR and AR groups. Significantly higher Ras activation was detected in AR Eos than that in nAR Eos. Ras activation was associated with the apoptosis resistance in AR Eos. The Twist (an apoptosis inhibitor) expression was higher in AR Eos, which was positively correlated with the Ras activation status. The sensitization to IgG induced Twist expression in Eos, in which Ras activated the MAPK-HIF-1α pathway, the latter promoted the Twist gene transcription. Twist bound Rac GTPase activating protein-1 to sustain the Ras activation in Eos. Ras activation sustained the apoptosis resistance in Eos. In conclusion, high Ras activation was detected in the AR nasal mucosal tissue-isolated Eos. IgG-sensitization induced Ras activation and Twist expression in Eos, that conferred Eos the apoptosis resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Bo Shao
- Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiang-Qian Luo
- Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li-Hua Mo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Shenzhen, China; Research Center of Allergy & Immunology, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Gui Yang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Longgang Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Liu
- Longgang ENT Hospital and Shenzhen ENT Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiang-Qi Liu
- Longgang ENT Hospital and Shenzhen ENT Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Liu
- Research Center of Allergy & Immunology, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Da-Bo Liu
- Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Ping-Chang Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Shenzhen, China; Research Center of Allergy & Immunology, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, China.
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15
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Wang W, Xu Z, Wang N, Yao R, Qin T, Lin H, Yue L. Prognostic value of eight immune gene signatures in pancreatic cancer patients. BMC Med Genomics 2021; 14:42. [PMID: 33546693 PMCID: PMC7863419 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-020-00868-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive tract, and it has a poor prognosis. Traditional methods are not effective to accurately assess the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer. Immunotherapy is a new promising approach for the treatment of pancreatic cancer; however, some patients do not respond well to immunotherapy, which may be related to tumor microenvironment regulation. In this study, we use gene expression database to mine important immune genes and establish a prognostic prediction model for pancreatic cancer patients. We hope to provide a feasible method to evaluate the prognosis of pancreatic cancer and provide valuable targets for pancreatic cancer immunotherapy. RESULTS We used univariate COX proportional hazard regression analysis, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, and multivariate COX regression analysis to screen 8 genes related to prognosis from the 314 immune-related genes, and used them to construct a new clinical prediction model in the TCGA pancreatic cancer cohort. Subsequently, we evaluated the prognostic value of the model. The Kaplan-Meier cumulative curve showed that patients with low risk scores survived significantly longer than patients with high risk scores. The area under the ROC curve (AUC value) of the risk score was 0.755. The univariate COX analysis showed that the risk score was significantly related to overall survival (HR 1.406, 95% CI 1.237-1.598, P < 0.001), and multivariate analysis showed that the risk score was an independent prognostic factor (HR 1.400, 95% CI 1.287-1.522, P < 0.001). Correlation analysis found that immune genes are closely related to tumor immune microenvironment. CONCLUSIONS Based on the TCGA-PAAD cohort, we identified immune-related markers with independent prognostic significance, validated, and analyzed their biological functions, to provide a feasible method for the prognosis of pancreatic cancer and provide potentially valuable targets for pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Wang
- Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, 5 Donghaizhong Road, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhijian Xu
- Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, 5 Donghaizhong Road, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Wang
- Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, 5 Donghaizhong Road, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruyong Yao
- Department of Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Qin
- Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, 5 Donghaizhong Road, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Lin
- Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, 5 Donghaizhong Road, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Yue
- Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, 5 Donghaizhong Road, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Xu L, Faruqu FN, Lim YM, Lim KY, Liam-Or R, Walters AA, Lavender P, Fear D, Wells CM, Tzu-Wen Wang J, Al-Jamal KT. Exosome-mediated RNAi of PAK4 prolongs survival of pancreatic cancer mouse model after loco-regional treatment. Biomaterials 2020; 264:120369. [PMID: 32977209 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
With a dismal survival rate, pancreatic cancer (PC) remains one of the most aggressive and devastating malignancies, predominantly due to the absence of a valid biomarker for diagnosis and limited therapeutic options for advanced diseases. Exosomes (Exo) as cell-derived vesicles, are widely used as natural nanocarriers for drug delivery. P21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) is oncogenic when overexpressed, promoting cell survival, migration and anchorage-independent growth. Herein we validated PAK4 as a therapeutic target in an in vivo PC tumour mouse model using Exo-mediated RNAi following intra-tumoural administration. PC derived Exo were firstly isolated by ultracentrifugation on sucrose cushion and characterised for their surface marker expression, size, number, purity and morphology. SiRNA was encapsulated into Exo via electroporation and dual uptake of Exo and siRNA was investigated by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. In vitro siPAK4 silencing in PC cells following uptake was assessed by flow cytometry, western blotting, and in vitro scratch assay. In vivo efficacy (tumour growth delay and mouse survival) of siPAK4 was evaluated in PC bearing NSG mouse model. Ex vivo tumours were examined using Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemistry. Results showed high quality PC-derived PANC-1 Exo were obtained. SiRNA was incorporated in Exo with 16.5% encapsulation efficiency. In vitro imaging confirmed Exo and siRNA co-localisation in cells. PAK4 knockdown was successful with 30 nM Exo-siPAK4 at 24 h post incubation in vitro. Intra-tumoural administration of Exo-siPAK4 (0.03 mg/kg siPAK4 and 6.1 × 1011 Exo, each dose, two doses) reduced PC tumour growth in vivo and enhanced mice survival (p < 0.001), with minimal toxicity observed compared to polyethylenimine (PEI) used as a commercial transfection reagent. H&E staining of tumours showed significant tissue apoptosis in siPAK4 treated groups. PAK4 knockdown prolongs survival of PC-bearing mice suggesting its potential as a new therapeutic target for PC. PANC-1 Exo demonstrated comparable efficacy but safer profile than PEI as in vivo RNAi transfection reagent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizhou Xu
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Farid N Faruqu
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Yau M Lim
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Kee Y Lim
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Revadee Liam-Or
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Adam A Walters
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Lavender
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, St. Thomas Street, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
| | - David Fear
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, St. Thomas Street, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
| | - Claire M Wells
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, New Hunts House, Guy's Campus, London, SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Tzu-Wen Wang
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Khuloud T Al-Jamal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, United Kingdom.
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17
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Yang Q, Zhao Y, Chen Y, Chang Y, Huang A, Xu T, Li G, Wu G. PAK6 promotes cervical cancer progression through activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:2387-2395. [PMID: 32782556 PMCID: PMC7400107 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
p21-activated kinase 6 (PAK6), a member of the serine/threonine kinase family, has been reported to be involved in numerous types of cancers. The present study aimed to investigate the role of PAK6 in cervical cancer. In the present study, PAK6 expression was evaluated in tissue microarrays and cell lines by using immunohistochemistry and western blotting. The mRNA level of PAK6 was evaluated by reverse transcription quantitative PCR. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related protein expression was detected by western blotting following short hairpin (sh)RNA-mediated PAK6 knockdown or PAK6 overexpression. Cell proliferation was determined using Cell Countink Kit-8. Migration, invasion and colony formation were further assessed following PAK6 knockdown or overexpression. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and fluorescence colocalization microscopy were used to detect the interaction between PAK6 and GSK3β. The results from tissue microarray revealed that the expression levels of PAK6 in cervical cancer tissues were upregulated. The downregulation of PAK6 expression levels using shRNA not only decreased cell growth and proliferation, but it also inhibited the migration and invasion of HeLa cells. Conversely, the overexpression of PAK6 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of HeLa cells. In addition, the expression levels of proteins involved in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway were modified in the PAK6 knockdown group, including downregulation of GSK3β phosphorylation and Cyclin D1 protein, and upregulation of β-catenin phosphorylation and E-cadherin. In contrast, following the overexpression of PAK6, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was activated. Further investigation using fluorescence microscopy and Co-IP assays indicated that PAK6 may interact with GSK3β. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that PAK6 may serve a role in promoting cervical cancer through activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Yang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Yingchao Zhao
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Yeshan Chen
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Yu Chang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Ai Huang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Tie Xu
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Guiling Li
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Gang Wu
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
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Liu H, Shin SH, Chen H, Liu T, Li Z, Hu Y, Liu F, Zhang C, Kim DJ, Liu K, Dong Z. CDK12 and PAK2 as novel therapeutic targets for human gastric cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:6201-6215. [PMID: 32483448 PMCID: PMC7255043 DOI: 10.7150/thno.46137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Gastric cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related death, and the third in mortality due to lack of effective therapeutic targets for late stage cancer patients. This study aims to identify potential druggable target biomarkers as potential therapeutic options for patients with gastric cancer. Methods: Immunohistochemistry of human gastric tumor tissues was conducted to determine the expression level of cyclin-dependent kinase 12 (CDK12). Multiple in vitro and in vivo assays such as RNAi, mass spectrometry, computer docking models, kinase assays, cell xenograft NU/NU mouse models (CDXs) and patient-derived xenograft NOD/SCID mouse models (PDXs) were conducted to study the function and molecular interaction of CDK12 with p21 activated kinase 2 (PAK2), as well as to find CDK12 inhibitors as potential treatment options for human gastric cancer. Results: Here we identified that CDK12 is a driver gene in human gastric cancer growth. Mechanistically, CDK12 directly binds to and phosphorylates PAK2 at T134/T169 to activate MAPK signaling pathway. We further identified FDA approved clinical drug procaterol can serve as an effective CDK12 inhibitor, leading to dramatic restriction of cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth in human gastric cancer cells and PDXs. Conclusions: Our data highlight the potential of CDK12/PAK2 as therapeutic targets for patients with gastric cancer, and we propose procaterol treatment as a novel therapeutic strategy for human gastric cancer.
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19
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Wang K, He H. Pancreatic Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1296:243-257. [PMID: 34185297 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-59038-3_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) microenvironment is a diverse and complex milieu of immune, stromal, and tumor cells and is characterized by a dense stroma, which mediates the interaction between the tumor and the immune system within the tumor microenvironment (TME). The interaction between stromal and tumor cells signals and shapes the immune infiltration of TME. The desmoplastic compartment contains infiltrated immune cells including tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and large numbers of fibroblasts/myofibroblasts dominated by pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) which contribute to fibrosis. The highly fibrotic stroma with its extensive infiltration of immunosuppressive cells forms the major component of the pro-tumorigenic microenvironment (Laklai et al. Nat Med 22:497-505, 2016, Zhu et al. Cancer Res 74:5057-5069, 2014) provides a barrier to the delivery of cytotoxic agents and limits T-cell access to tumor cells (Feig et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 110:20212-20217, 2013, Provenzano et al Cancer Cell 21:418-429, 2012). Activated PSCs reduced infiltration of cytotoxic T cells to the juxtatumoral stroma (immediately adjacent to the tumor epithelial cells) of PDAC (Ene-Obong et al. Gastroenterology 145:1121-1132, 2013). M1 macrophages activate an immune response against tumor, but M2 macrophages are involved in immunosuppression promoting tumor progression (Noy and Pollard Immunity 41:49-61, 2014, Ruffell et al. Trends Immunol 33:119-126, 2012). The desmoplastic stroma is reported to protect tumor cells against chemotherapies, promoting their proliferation and migration. However, experimental depletion of the desmoplastic stroma has led to more aggressive cancers in animal studies (Nielsen et al. World J Gastroenterol 22:2678-2700, 2016). Hence reprogramming rather than simple depletion of the PDAC stroma has the potential for developing new therapeutic strategies for PC treatment. Modulation of PSCs/fibrosis and immune infiltration/inflammation composes the major aspects of TME reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Hong He
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia.
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20
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Li B, Liu B, Zhang X, Liu H, He L. KIF18B promotes the proliferation of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma via activating the expression of CDCA8. J Cell Physiol 2019; 235:4227-4238. [PMID: 31875977 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the malignant tumors with the worst prognosis, and the 5-year survival rate of this disease is less than 1%. About 90% of pancreatic cancer is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), and targeting therapy has become a promising treatment for PDAC in recent years. To improve the survival rate, novel therapeutic targets for PDAC are still urgently needed. KIF18B was initially identified as a member of the kinesin family and involved in multiple cellular processes, such as separation of chromosomes in mitosis. Recently, it was found that KIF18B was involved in the growth and development of multiple cancers. However, the potential link between KIF18B and PDAC is still unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that KIF18B was highly expressed in human PDAC tissues, and related with the poor prognosis and clinical features, such as tumor size (*p = .013) and pTNM stage (*p = .025), of patients with PDAC. We further found that KIF18B knockdown blocked the cell proliferation of PDAC in vitro and in vivo, and the cell cycle was arrested caused by KIF18B depletion. Additionally, we also found that KIF18B bound to the promoter region of the cell division cycle associated 8 and thus activated its transcription. Taken together, this study explored the molecular mechanism underlying KIF18B promoting PDAC and provided a novel therapeutic target of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Secondary Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Secondary Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xianglian Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The Secondary Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Secondary Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lijie He
- Department of General Surgery, The Secondary Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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21
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Inhibition of PAK1 suppresses pancreatic cancer by stimulation of anti-tumour immunity through down-regulation of PD-L1. Cancer Lett 2019; 472:8-18. [PMID: 31857154 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapies have not yielded significant clinical benefits for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) because of the existence of an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment (TME) characterized by a desmoplastic stroma containing infiltrated immune cells and activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). This study aims to investigate the involvement of PAK1 in anti-tumour immunity. In PDA patients, low PAK1 expression, low activation of PSC and high CD8+ T cell/PAK1 ratios correlated with longer overall survival. In a murine PDA model, PAK1 knockout increased intra-tumoral CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, inhibited PSCs activation and extended survival. Inhibition of PAK1 reduced PSC-stimulated PDA cell proliferation and migration, blocked PSC-mediated protection of PDA cells from killing by cytotoxic lymphocytes and decreased intrinsic and PSC-stimulated PD-L1 expression in PDA cells, which further sensitized PDA cells to cytotoxic lymphocytes. Inhibition of PAK1 stimulates anti-tumour immunity by increasing intra-tumoral CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and by sensitizing PDA cells to killing by cytotoxic lymphocytes via down-regulation of intrinsic and PSC-stimulated PD-L1 expression. PAK1 inhibitors, especially in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors may result in improved efficacy of immunotherapy of PDA.
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22
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Yamada K, Higashi K, Nagahori H, Saito K. Circulating natural antibodies against 3'-sialyllactose complement the diagnostic performance of CA19-9 for the early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cancer Biomark 2019; 27:121-128. [PMID: 31771041 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-190158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is a devastating malignancy with an extremely poor prognosis. Although the most widely used biomarker for pancreatic cancer is carbohydrate antigen CA19-9, it is elevated mainly in the late stage of pancreatic cancer. Some serum natural antibodies against carbohydrates have been shown to be possible diagnostic markers for cancer. OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to determine whether the level of natural antibodies against carbohydrates fluctuates in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. METHODS Serum from pancreatic cancer subjects (n= 55) and 43 subjects free of malignant disease were studied. The contents of natural antibodies against sialyl glycans and CA19-9 in serum were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS The level of serum anti-3'-sialyllactose antibodies in pancreatic cancer subjects was significantly lower than that in healthy controls. In contrast, the amounts of serum antibodies against other sialyl glycans were comparable between the two groups. Concentration of serum anti-3'-sialyllactose IgG provided excellent AUC of 0.86, with sensitivity 82%, specificity 81%, and accuracy 82%. The combination of serum anti-3'-sialyllactose IgG with CA19-9 improved the sensitivity of pancreatic cancer detection at an early stage. CONCLUSIONS Natural antibodies against 3'-sialyllactose constitute a promising biomarker for pancreatic cancer detection. The measurement of serum anti-3'-sialyllactose antibodies could play a supportive role in diagnostics and complement the performance of CA19-9 for the early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Yamada
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Ohtani University, Tondabayashi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Higashi
- Advanced Materials Development Laboratory, Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan
| | - Hirohisa Nagahori
- Environmental Health Science Laboratory, Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan
| | - Koichi Saito
- Advanced Materials Development Laboratory, Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan
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23
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Lu C, Jiang W, Hui B, Rong D, Fu K, Dong C, Tang W, Cao H. The circ_0021977/miR-10b-5p/P21 and P53 regulatory axis suppresses proliferation, migration, and invasion in colorectal cancer. J Cell Physiol 2019; 235:2273-2285. [PMID: 31595500 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
An in-depth understanding of circular RNAs (circRNAs) indicates that they are abundant in the eukaryotic transcriptome. Many circRNAs act as microRNA sponges; thus, they represent a new type of regulatory factor. However, the role of circRNA in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains largely unknown. Low circ_0021977 expression in patients with CRC is associated with higher tug-lymph node metastasis (TNM) stage and poorer prognosis compared with patients with high circ_0021977 expression. Moreover, miR-10b-5p was shown to be a target of circ_0021977, and p21 and p53 are suggested to be putative target genes of miR-10b-5p. The results showed that the circ_0021977/miR-10b-5p/p21&p53 regulatory axis suppresses proliferation, migration, and invasion by CRC cells. This evidence reveals new relationships and brings new highlights to the treatment of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,The Third Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,The Third Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bingqing Hui
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dawei Rong
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kai Fu
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chaoxi Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,The Third Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weiwei Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongyong Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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24
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p21-Activated kinase 3 promotes cancer stem cell phenotypes through activating the Akt-GSK3β-β-catenin signaling pathway in pancreatic cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2019; 456:13-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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25
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Wang K, Huynh N, Wang X, Pajic M, Parkin A, Man J, Baldwin GS, Nikfarjam M, He H. PAK inhibition by PF-3758309 enhanced the sensitivity of multiple chemotherapeutic reagents in patient-derived pancreatic cancer cell lines. Am J Transl Res 2019; 11:3353-3364. [PMID: 31312349 PMCID: PMC6614655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) remains the most lethal malignancy due to lack of an effective treatment. P21-activated kinases (PAKs) play a key role not only in cell proliferation and migration, but also in mediating chemo-resistance in PDA. The aim of this study was to investigate the combined effect of a PAK inhibitor PF-3758309 with multiple chemotherapeutic reagents on a panel of patient-derived PDA cell lines, and potential mechanisms involved. METHODS Cells were treated with PF-3758309 plus or minus gemcitabine, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or abraxane, and cell growth was determined using a cell proliferation assay kit. Protein expression profiles were measured by Western blot. PDA cells were subcutaneously injected into the flanks of SCID mice which were then treated with saline, gemcitabine, PF-3758309, gemcitabine plus PF-3758309 or abraxane. Tumour growth was measured by volume and weight. RESULTS PAK1 was correlated with CK19 expression, and PAK4 with α-SMA and palladin expression. Combination of PF-3758309 with 5-FU, gemcitabine or abraxane further suppressed cell growth of patient-derived PDA cell lines in vitro. The combination of PF-3758309 with gemcitabine maximally inhibited tumour growth in vivo by suppressing cell proliferation. PF-3758309 inhibited the expression of HIF-1α, palladin and α-SMA both in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSIONS PAK inhibitor PF-3758309 can enhance anti-tumour effects of multiple chemotherapeutic reagents on a panel of patient-derived PDA cell lines. Combination of PF-3758309 with gemcitabine achieves comparable efficacy to combination of gemcitabine with abraxane, and thus provides a potential targeted therapy in the management of PDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin HealthStudley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Nhi Huynh
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin HealthStudley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin HealthStudley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Marina Pajic
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, The Garvan Institute of Medical Research384 Victoria St, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSWAustralia
| | - Ashleigh Parkin
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, The Garvan Institute of Medical Research384 Victoria St, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Jennifer Man
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, The Garvan Institute of Medical Research384 Victoria St, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Graham S Baldwin
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin HealthStudley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Mehrdad Nikfarjam
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin HealthStudley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Hong He
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin HealthStudley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
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26
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Zhou Y, Zhang J, Wang J, Cheng M, Zhao D, Li F. Targeting PAK1 with the Small Molecule Drug AK963/40708899 Suppresses Gastric Cancer Cell Proliferation and Invasion by Downregulation of PAK1 Activity and PAK1‐Related Signaling Pathways. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2019; 302:1571-1579. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.24095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhou
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell BiologyMinistry of Education, China Medical University Shenyang China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell BiologyMinistry of Education, China Medical University Shenyang China
| | - Jian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure‐Based Drug Design and Discovery of Ministry of EducationShenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang China
| | - Mao‐Sheng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Structure‐Based Drug Design and Discovery of Ministry of EducationShenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang China
| | - Dong‐Mei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure‐Based Drug Design and Discovery of Ministry of EducationShenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell BiologyMinistry of Education, China Medical University Shenyang China
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27
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Park YL, Ha SY, Park SY, Choi JH, Jung MW, Myung DS, Kim HS, Joo YE. Reversine induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via upregulation of the Fas and DR5 signaling pathways in human colorectal cancer cells. Int J Oncol 2019; 54:1875-1883. [PMID: 30864676 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2019.4746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Reversine, a 2,6‑diamino‑substituted purine analogue, has been reported to be effective in tumor suppression via induction of cell growth arrest and apoptosis of cancer cells. However, it remains unclear whether reversine exerts anticancer effects on human colorectal cancer cells. In the present study, in vitro experiments were conducted to investigate the anticancer properties of reversine in human colorectal cancer cells. The effect of reversine on human colorectal cancer cell lines, SW480 and HCT‑116, was examined using a WST‑1 cell viability assay, fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, DNA fragmentation, small interfering RNA (siRNA) and western blotting. Reversine treatment demonstrated cytotoxic activity in human colorectal cancer cells. It also induced apoptosis by activating poly(ADP‑ribose) polymerase, caspase‑3, ‑7 and ‑8, and increasing the levels of the pro‑apoptotic protein second mitochondria‑derived activator of caspase/direct inhibitor of apoptosis‑binding protein with low pI. The pan‑caspase inhibitor Z‑VAD‑FMK attenuated these reversine‑induced apoptotic effects on human colorectal cancer cells. Additionally, reversine treatment induced cell cycle arrest in the subG1 and G2/M phases via increase in levels of p21, p27 and p57, and decrease in cyclin D1 levels. The expression of Fas and death receptor 5 (DR5) signaling proteins in SW480 and HCT116 cells was upregulated by reversine treatment. Reversine‑induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest were suppressed by inhibition of Fas and DR5 expression via siRNA. In conclusion, Reversine treatment suppressed tumor progression by the inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis via upregulation of the Fas and DR5 signaling pathways in human colorectal cancer cells. The present study indicated that reversine may be used as a novel anticancer agent in human colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Lan Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 501-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Yoon Ha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 501-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Young Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 501-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Ho Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 501-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Woo Jung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 501-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Seong Myung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 501-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Soo Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 501-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Eun Joo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 501-757, Republic of Korea
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28
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Symeonidis N, Lambropoulou M, Pavlidis E, Anagnostopoulos C, Tsaroucha A, Kotini A, Nikolaidou C, Kiziridou A, Simopoulos C. PAK1 Expression in Pancreatic Cancer: Clinicopathological Characteristics and Prognostic Significance. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-ONCOLOGY 2019; 13:1179554919831990. [PMID: 30799970 PMCID: PMC6379789 DOI: 10.1177/1179554919831990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Improvement of the management of pancreatic cancer requires a better
understanding of the genetic and molecular changes responsible for the
development of the disease. The family of p21-activated kinases (PAKs) and
especially PAK1 appears to mediate many cellular processes that contribute
to the development and progression of pancreatic cancer, but the clinical
relevance of PAK1 expression with the disease still remains unclear. Aim of
the study was to assess the clinical value and the potential prognostic
significance of PAK1 in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Methods: We investigated the relationship between the PAK1 expression and the clinical
and histopathologic characteristics of pancreatic cancer patients and the
potential significance of PAK1 on survival. We examined tissue samples from
51 patients operated for pancreatic cancer. PAK1 expression was investigated
with immunohistochemistry and correlated to clinicopathological
parameters. Results: PAK1 was detected in all tumor samples and high expression was found in most
patients. High PAK1 expression was also associated with younger age and
well-differentiated tumors, but no association was found between PAK1
expression and Tumor-Node-Metastasis stage as well as deceased or alive
status on follow-up. Moderate to high PAK1 expression favored higher 6-month
and 1-year survival and low PAK1 expression 2-year survival but without
statistical significance. Conclusions Our results indicate that PAK1 could potentially be used as a prognostic
marker in pancreatic cancer. Further studies could clarify whether
utilization of PAK1 in therapeutic protocols for the treatment of pancreatic
cancer will render them more effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Symeonidis
- Postgraduate Program in Hepatobiliary/Pancreatic Surgery, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.,2nd Surgical Propedeutic Department, Hippokratio General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Efstathios Pavlidis
- Postgraduate Program in Hepatobiliary/Pancreatic Surgery, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | - Alexandra Tsaroucha
- 2nd Department of Surgery and Laboratory of Experimental Surgery-Postgraduate Program in Hepatobiliary/Pancreatic Surgery, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Athanasia Kotini
- Laboratory of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christina Nikolaidou
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Anastasia Kiziridou
- Department of Pathology, Theagenio Anticancer Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Constantinos Simopoulos
- 2nd Department of Surgery and Laboratory of Experimental Surgery-Postgraduate Program in Hepatobiliary/Pancreatic Surgery, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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29
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Mu W, Wang Z, Zöller M. Ping-Pong-Tumor and Host in Pancreatic Cancer Progression. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1359. [PMID: 31921628 PMCID: PMC6927459 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is the main cause of high pancreatic cancer (PaCa) mortality and trials dampening PaCa mortality rates are not satisfying. Tumor progression is driven by the crosstalk between tumor cells, predominantly cancer-initiating cells (CIC), and surrounding cells and tissues as well as distant organs, where tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (TEX) are of major importance. A strong stroma reaction, recruitment of immunosuppressive leukocytes, perineural invasion, and early spread toward the peritoneal cavity, liver, and lung are shared with several epithelial cell-derived cancer, but are most prominent in PaCa. Here, we report on the state of knowledge on the PaCIC markers Tspan8, alpha6beta4, CD44v6, CXCR4, LRP5/6, LRG5, claudin7, EpCAM, and CD133, which all, but at different steps, are engaged in the metastatic cascade, frequently via PaCIC-TEX. This includes the contribution of PaCIC markers to TEX biogenesis, targeting, and uptake. We then discuss PaCa-selective features, where feedback loops between stromal elements and tumor cells, including distorted transcription, signal transduction, and metabolic shifts, establish vicious circles. For the latter particularly pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) are responsible, furnishing PaCa to cope with poor angiogenesis-promoted hypoxia by metabolic shifts and direct nutrient transfer via vesicles. Furthermore, nerves including Schwann cells deliver a large range of tumor cell attracting factors and Schwann cells additionally support PaCa cell survival by signaling receptor binding. PSC, tumor-associated macrophages, and components of the dysplastic stroma contribute to perineural invasion with signaling pathway activation including the cholinergic system. Last, PaCa aggressiveness is strongly assisted by the immune system. Although rich in immune cells, only immunosuppressive cells and factors are recovered in proximity to tumor cells and hamper effector immune cells entering the tumor stroma. Besides a paucity of immunostimulatory factors and receptors, immunosuppressive cytokines, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, regulatory T-cells, and M2 macrophages as well as PSC actively inhibit effector cell activation. This accounts for NK cells of the non-adaptive and cytotoxic T-cells of the adaptive immune system. We anticipate further deciphering the molecular background of these recently unraveled intermingled phenomena may turn most lethal PaCa into a curatively treatable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Mu
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Mu
| | - Zhe Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong, Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Margot Zöller
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong, Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
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