1
|
Duan L, Huang J, Zhang Y, Pi G, Ying X, Zeng F, Hu D, Ma J. FOXK1 regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition and radiation sensitivity in nasopharyngeal carcinoma via the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway. Genes Genomics 2023; 45:749-761. [PMID: 37043129 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-023-01380-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is the most common head and neck tumor in China. Forkhead box (FOX) proteins have 19 subfamilies, which can maintain cell metabolism, regulate cell cycle and cell growth, etc. FOXK1 is a member of the FOX family, and studies have found that FOXK1 is closely related to tumors. OBJECTIVE This experiment aims to study the effects of FOXK1 interference on proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and radiosensitivity, by regulating the Janus kinas/signal translator and activator of the transfer 3 (JAK/STAT3) pathway. METHODS The expression of FOXK1 was detected via immunohistochemistry using clinical nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissues and adjacent tissues. The relationship between FOXK1 expression and tumor stage was subsequently evaluated. The colony formation rate was calculated through the colony formation experiment. Cell apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were detected using flow cytometry, while cell invasion was detected using the Transwell method. The number of cells in the nucleus of each group after 30 min, 4 h, and 24 h of radiotherapy with the 2 Gy dose was counted using immunofluorescence under γ-H2AX focal points of a laser confocal microscope. RESULTS FOXK1 is clearly expressed in the patients' cancer tissues. The expression of FOXK1 was significantly correlated with the patient's sex. FOXK1 interference or Peficitinib can upregulate the apoptosis rate of 5-8 F and CNE-2 cells; increase the G2 phase of cells; and inhibit the invasion, migration, and EMT of cells. At the same time, FOXK1 interference can downregulate the protein expression of p-JAK1, p-JAK2, and p-STAT3 in cells. Interference from FOXK1 or Peficitinib alone can reduce the rate of cell colony formation under different radiation doses, and enhance the green fluorescence intensity of γ-H2AX in the nucleus after 4 and 24 h of the 2 Gy dose of radiotherapy. These results are optimal when FOXK1 interference and Peficitinib are used together. CONCLUSION FOXK1 interference in NPC cells can regulate EMT through the JAK/STAT3 signal pathway, enhance the radiosensitivity of cells, and thus inhibit tumor cell progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Duan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinlong Huang
- Department of Cardiology, People's Hospital of Dongxihu District, Wuhan, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guoliang Pi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaofang Ying
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fanyu Zeng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Desheng Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yu M, Yu H, Mu N, Wang Y, Ma H, Yu L. The Function of FoxK Transcription Factors in Diseases. Front Physiol 2022; 13:928625. [PMID: 35903069 PMCID: PMC9314541 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.928625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Forkhead box (FOX) transcription factors play a crucial role in the regulation of many diseases, being an evolutionarily conserved superfamily of transcription factors. In recent years, FoxK1/2, members of its family, has been the subject of research. Even though FoxK1 and FoxK2 have some functional overlap, increasing evidence indicates that the regulatory functions of FoxK1 and FoxK2 are not the same in various physiological and disease states. It is important to understand the biological function and mechanism of FoxK1/2 for better understanding pathogenesis of diseases, predicting prognosis, and finding new therapeutic targets. There is, however, a lack of comprehensive and systematic analysis of the similarities and differences of FoxK1/2 roles in disease, prompting us to perform a literature review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mujun Yu
- School of Life Sciences, Yan'an University, Yan'an, China
| | - Haozhen Yu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Nan Mu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yishi Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Heng Ma
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lu Yu
- Department of Pathology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Huang X, Xu X, Ke H, Pan X, Ai J, Xie R, Lan G, Hu Y, Wu Y. microRNA-16-5p suppresses cell proliferation and angiogenesis in colorectal cancer by negatively regulating forkhead box K1 to block the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Eur J Histochem 2022; 66. [PMID: 35536149 PMCID: PMC9134092 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2022.3333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) have aroused increasing attention in colorectal cancer (CRC) therapy. This study is designed for a detailed analysis of the roles of miR-16-5p and forkhead box K1 (FOXK1) in cell angiogenesis and proliferation during CRC in addition to their underlying mechanisms. CRC tissues and colon cancer cell lines (SW620 and HCT8) were investigated. qRT-PCR and Western blot were utilized to evaluate miR-16-5p and FOXK1 expression. Following gain- and loss-of-function assays on miR-16-5p or FOXK1, the effects of miR-16-5p and FOXK1 were assessed on cell angiogenesis and proliferation in CRC cells. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was employed to evaluate the binding relationship of miR-16-5p and FOXK1. Western blot was used to determine the effects of miR-16-5p and FOXK1 on key molecules of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Highly expressed FOXK1 and lowly expressed miR-16-5p were observed in CRC cells and tissues. miR-16-5p overexpression or FOXK1 knockdown reduced CRC cell proliferation and angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells co-cultured with the supernatant of CRC cells, whereas miR-16-5p silencing or FOXK1 upregulation caused opposite trends. Additionally, miR-16-5p negatively modulated FOXK1 expression. The blockade of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway was triggered by miR-16-5p overexpression or FOXK1 silencing. In conclusion, miR-16-5p hampers cell angiogenesis and proliferation during CRC by targeting FOXK1 to block the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang.
| | - Xuan Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang.
| | - Huajing Ke
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang.
| | - Xiaolin Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang.
| | - Jiaoyu Ai
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang.
| | - Ruyi Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang.
| | - Guilian Lan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang.
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang.
| | - Yao Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gene Expression Profiling and Biofunction Analysis of HepG2 Cells Targeted by Crocetin. Mediators Inflamm 2021; 2021:5512166. [PMID: 33867857 PMCID: PMC8035019 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5512166] [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: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocetin is a carotenoid extracted from Gardenia jasminoides, one of the most popular traditional Chinese medicines, which has been used in the prevention and treatment of various diseases. The present study is aimed at clarifying the effect of crocetin on gene expression profiling of HepG2 cells by RNA-sequence assay and further investigating the molecular mechanism underlying the multiple biofunctions of crocetin based on bioinformatics analysis and molecular evidence. Among a total 23K differential genes identified, crocetin treatment upregulated the signals of 491 genes (2.14% of total gene probes) and downregulated the signals of 283 genes (1.24% of total gene probes) by ≥2-fold. The Gene Ontology analysis enriched these genes mainly on cell proliferation and apoptosis (BRD4 and DAXX); lipid formation (EHMT2); cell response to growth factor stimulation (CYP24A1 and GCNT2); and growth factor binding (ABCB1 and ABCG1), metabolism, and signal transduction processes. The KEGG pathway analysis revealed that crocetin has the potential to regulate transcriptional misregulation, ABC transporters, bile secretion, alcoholism, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and other pathways, of which SLE was the most significantly disturbed pathway. The PPI network was constructed by using the STRING online protein interaction database and Cytoscape software, and 21 core proteins were obtained. RT-qPCR datasets serve as the solid evidence that verified the accuracy of transcriptome sequencing results with the same change trend. This study provides first-hand data for comprehensively understanding crocetin targeting on hepatic metabolism and its multiple biofunctions.
Collapse
|
5
|
Wu W, Chen Y, Ye S, Yang H, Yang J, Quan J. Transcription factor forkhead box K1 regulates miR-32 expression and enhances cell proliferation in colorectal cancer. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:407. [PMID: 33841568 PMCID: PMC8020380 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased microRNA (miR)-32 expression in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues enhances CRC cell proliferation, migration, invasion and attenuates CRC cell apoptosis by repressing the expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN). Forkhead box K1 (FOXK1) was identified as a potential interacting transcription factor using DNA pull-down assays and mass spectrometry. The present study aimed to elucidate the role of FOXK1 in regulating miR-32 expression in CRC. The expressions of FOXK1, miR-32, transmembrane protein 245 gene (TMEM245) and PTEN were compared between CRC and normal colonic tissues. Levels of miR-32, TMEM245, PTEN and the proliferation and apoptosis of CRC cells were studied using FOXK1-overexpression or knockdown, or by simultaneously interfering with FOXK1 and miR-32 expression. Direct FOXK1 binding to the miR-32 promoter was verified using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and dual-luciferase reporter assays. The results showed elevated FOXK1, miR-32 and TMEM245 expression, and significantly decreased PTEN expression in CRC, compared with normal colonic tissues. Correlations between the expressions of TMEM245 and miR-32, FOXK1 and miR-32, and FOXK1 and TMEM245 were positive and significant. FOXK1-knockdown led to decreased miR-32 and TMEM245 expression and increased PTEN expression, whereas FOXK1-overexpression had the opposite effect. Overexpressed FOXK1 promoted the malignancy of CRC cells in vitro by stimulating proliferation and reducing apoptosis; whereas FOXK1-depletion suppressed such malignancy and a miR-32 inhibitor partially reversed the effects of FOXK1. The results of ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assays indicated that FOXK1 directly binds to the promoter of TMEM245/miR-32. Thus, the FOXK1-miR-32-PTEN signaling axis may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis and development of CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weiyun Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Yongze Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Shicai Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Jianyun Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Juanhua Quan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Meng F, Liu J, Lu T, Zang L, Wang J, He Q, Zhou A. SNHG1 knockdown upregulates miR-376a and downregulates FOXK1/Snail axis to prevent tumor growth and metastasis in HCC. MOLECULAR THERAPY-ONCOLYTICS 2021; 21:264-277. [PMID: 34095464 PMCID: PMC8143978 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs), and genes are emerging players in cancer progression. In the present study, we explored the roles and interactions of oncogenic lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 1 (SNHG1), miR-376, forkhead box protein K1 (FOXK1), and Snail in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Expression of SNHG1, miR-376, and FOXK1 in HCC was characterized in clinical HCC tissues of 75 patients with HCC. The interactions between SNHG1 and miR-376 and between miR-376 and FOXK1 were predicted and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter gene and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. Overexpression and knockdown experiments were performed in HCC cells to examine the effects of the SNHG1/miR-376/FOXK1/Snail axis on viability, apoptosis, invasiveness, and migrating abilities. Their effects on tumor growth and metastasis were validated in nude mouse models. SNHG1 and FOXK1 were upregulated, and miR-376a was downregulated in HCC. SNHG1 knockdown contributed to suppression of HCC cell viability, invasion, and migration properties and promotion of apoptosis. SNHG1 could competitively bind to miR-376a to upregulate its target gene FOXK1, which upregulated Snail. SNHG1 knockdown delayed cancer progression both in vitro and in vivo by upregulating miR-376a and downregulating FOXK1 and Snail. SNHG1 knockdown exerts anti-tumor activity in HCC, suggesting a therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fanzhi Meng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi 276000, P.R. China.,Prof. Dr. Cai's Laboratory, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi 276000, P.R. China
| | - Jinghua Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi 276000, P.R. China.,Prof. Dr. Cai's Laboratory, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi 276000, P.R. China
| | - Tao Lu
- Shandong Coal Linyi Hot Spring Sanatorium, Linyi 276000, P.R. China
| | - Lanlan Zang
- Central Laboratory, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi 276000, P.R. China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Radiology, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi 276000, P.R. China
| | - Qiang He
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi 276000, P.R. China.,Prof. Dr. Cai's Laboratory, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi 276000, P.R. China
| | - Aijin Zhou
- Department of Emergency, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi 276000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Garry DJ, Maeng G, Garry MG. Foxk1 regulates cancer progression. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:1041. [PMID: 33145260 PMCID: PMC7575999 DOI: 10.21037/atm-2020-94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Garry
- Lillehei Heart Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Paul and Sheila Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Geunho Maeng
- Lillehei Heart Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Mary G Garry
- Lillehei Heart Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Paul and Sheila Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang Y, Sun L, Qiu W, Qi W, Qi Y, Liu Z, Liu S, Lv J. Inhibiting Forkhead box K1 induces autophagy to reverse epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis in gastric cancer by regulating Myc-associated zinc finger protein in an acidic microenvironment. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:6129-6150. [PMID: 32268297 PMCID: PMC7185099 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Forkhead box K1 (FOXK1) is a transcription factor belonging to the Forkhead box (FOX) family and is closely related to the development of various cancers, but the functional mechanism through which FOXK1 regulates autophagy and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the acidic microenvironment of gastric cancer (GC) remains unclear. Results: Our results indicated that the inhibition of FOXK1 induced autophagy and thus exerted antimetastatic effects in an acidic microenvironment. The dual inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and FOXK1 enhanced autophagy and reversed EMT of acidic GC cells. In addition, FOXK1 activated transcription in conjunction with the MAZ promoter. Conclusion: Together, our results suggest that FOXK1 can be used as an independent prognostic indicator for GC patients. We also revealed a new strategy involving the cotargeting of FOXK1 and autophagy to reverse the effects of EMT. MAZ is involved in the development and progression of GC as a downstream target of FOXK1. Methods: Here, the cellular responses to the inhibition of FOXK1 in GC were studied in vivo and in vitro through wound healing assays, transwell assays, Western blotting, laser confocal microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The molecular mechanisms of FOXK1 and Myc-associated zinc finger protein (MAZ) were studied via chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq), bioinformatics, Western blotting, and quantitative real-time PCR (q-PCR).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Wang
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Libin Sun
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Wensheng Qiu
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Weiwei Qi
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Yaoyue Qi
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Zhao Liu
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Shihai Liu
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Lv
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yang X, Hu F, Liu JA, Yu S, Cheung MPL, Liu X, Ng IOL, Guan XY, Wong KKW, Sharma R, Lung HL, Jiao Y, Lee LTO, Cheung M. Nuclear DLC1 exerts oncogenic function through association with FOXK1 for cooperative activation of MMP9 expression in melanoma. Oncogene 2020; 39:4061-4076. [PMID: 32214200 PMCID: PMC7220869 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-1274-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
A Rho GTPase-activating protein (RhoGAP), deleted in liver cancer 1 (DLC1), is known to function as a tumor suppressor in various cancer types; however, whether DLC1 is a tumor-suppressor gene or an oncogene in melanoma remains to be clarified. Here we revealed that high DLC1 expression was detected in most of the melanoma tissues where it was localized in both the nuclei and the cytoplasm. Functional studies unveiled that DLC1 was both required and sufficient for melanoma growth and metastasis. These tumorigenic events were mediated by nuclear-localized DLC1 in a RhoGAP-independent manner. Mechanistically, mass spectrometry analysis identified a DLC1-associated protein, FOXK1 transcription factor, which mediated oncogenic events in melanoma by translocating and retaining DLC1 into the nucleus. RNA-sequencing profiling studies further revealed MMP9 as a direct target of FOXK1 through DLC1-regulated promoter occupancy for cooperative activation of MMP9 expression to promote melanoma invasion and metastasis. Concerted action of DLC1–FOXK1 in MMP9 gene regulation was further supported by their highly correlated expression in melanoma patients’ samples and cell lines. Together, our results not only unravel a mechanism by which nuclear DLC1 functions as an oncogene in melanoma but also suggest an unexpected role of RhoGAP protein in transcriptional regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xintao Yang
- Shenzhen Institute of Research and Innovation (HKU-SIRI), The University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Feng Hu
- Shenzhen Institute of Research and Innovation (HKU-SIRI), The University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jessica Aijia Liu
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shan Yu
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - May Pui Lai Cheung
- Shenzhen Institute of Research and Innovation (HKU-SIRI), The University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xuelai Liu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Irene Oi-Lin Ng
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research and Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xin-Yuan Guan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kelvin K W Wong
- Centre for PanorOmic Sciences, Proteomics and Metabolomics Core Facility, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Rakesh Sharma
- Centre for PanorOmic Sciences, Proteomics and Metabolomics Core Facility, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hong Lok Lung
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yufei Jiao
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Leo Tsz On Lee
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China.,Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Martin Cheung
- Shenzhen Institute of Research and Innovation (HKU-SIRI), The University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China. .,School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wang Y, Qiu W, Liu N, Sun L, Liu Z, Wang S, Wang P, Liu S, Lv J. Forkhead box K1 regulates the malignant behavior of gastric cancer by inhibiting autophagy. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:107. [PMID: 32175400 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2019.12.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Forkhead box K1 (FOXK1) is a transcription factor that contributes to cancer development, but it is unclear how FOXK1 regulates the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer (GC) cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical significance, biological function, and molecular mechanisms of FOXK1 in GC. Methods We conducted bioinformatics assays and western blotting to assess FOXK1 expression. Then, we performed immunohistochemistry (IHC) with tissue microarrays (TMAs) to assess FOXK1 expression in order to identify an association between FOXK1 expression levels and clinical parameters. We used 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), wound healing and Transwell assays to determine whether FOXK1 promotes malignant behaviors in GC. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining, transmission electron microscopy and western blotting were used to verify an association between FOXK1 and autophagy. Results We observed high levels of FOXK1 expression in GC tissues, which were associated with the degree of malignancy in GC. FOXK1 promotes the malignant behavior of GC by regulating autophagy via activation of the class I phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway and inhibition of the expression of class III PI3K. Conclusions These findings provide a new target for the comprehensive treatment of GC by highlighting the relationship between FOXK1 and malignant behaviors in GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Wang
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Wensheng Qiu
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Libin Sun
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Zhao Liu
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Shasha Wang
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Yidu Central Hospital, Qingzhou 262500, China
| | - Shihai Liu
- Central Laboratory, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Jing Lv
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Milkina E, Ponomarenko A, Korneyko M, Lyakhova I, Zayats Y, Zaitsev S, Mischenko P, Eliseikina M, Khotimchenko Y, Shevchenko V, Sharma H, Bryukhovetskiy I. Interaction of hematopoietic CD34+ CD45+ stem cells and cancer cells stimulated by TGF‑β1 in a model of glioblastoma in vitro. Oncol Rep 2018; 40:2595-2607. [PMID: 30226551 PMCID: PMC6151884 DOI: 10.3892/or.2018.6671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority of modern treatment methods for malignant brain tumors are not sufficiently effective, with a median survival time varying between 9 and 14 months. Metastatic and invasive processes are the principal characteristics of malignant tumors. The most important pathogenic mechanism is epithelial‑mesenchymal transition (EMT), which causes epithelial cells to become more mobile, and capable of invading the surrounding tissues and migrating to distant organs. Transforming growth factor‑β1 (TGF‑β1) serves a key role in EMT‑inducing mechanisms. The current study presented the interaction between hematopoietic stem cells and glioblastoma cells stimulated by TGF‑β1 in vitro. The materials for the study were hematopoietic progenitor cell antigen CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and U87 glioblastoma cells. Cell culture methods, automated monitoring of cell‑cell interactions, confocal laser microscopy, flow cytometry and electron microscopy were used. It was demonstrated that U87 cells have a complex communication system, including adhesive intercellular contacts, areas of interdigitation with dissolution of the cytoplasm, cell fusion, communication microtubes and microvesicles. TGF‑β1 affected glioblastoma cells by modifying the cell shape and intensifying their exocrine function. HSCs migrated to glioblastoma cells, interacted with them and exchanged fluorescent tags. Stimulation of cancer cells with TGF‑β1 weakened the ability of glioblastoma cells to attract HSCs and exchange a fluorescent tag. This process stimulated cancer cell proliferation, which is an indication of the ability of HSCs to 'switch' the proliferation and invasion processes in glioblastoma cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Milkina
- School of Biomedicine of The Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091, Russia
| | - Arina Ponomarenko
- School of Biomedicine of The Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091, Russia
| | - Maria Korneyko
- School of Biomedicine of The Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091, Russia
| | - Irina Lyakhova
- School of Biomedicine of The Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091, Russia
| | - Yulia Zayats
- School of Biomedicine of The Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091, Russia
| | - Sergey Zaitsev
- School of Biomedicine of The Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091, Russia
| | - Polina Mischenko
- School of Biomedicine of The Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091, Russia
| | - Marina Eliseikina
- National Scientific Center of Marine Biology FEB RAS, Vladivostok 690041, Russia
| | - Yuri Khotimchenko
- School of Biomedicine of The Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091, Russia
| | - Valeryi Shevchenko
- School of Biomedicine of The Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091, Russia
| | - Hari Sharma
- International Experimental CNS Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Department of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE‑75185, Sweden
| | - Igor Bryukhovetskiy
- School of Biomedicine of The Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091, Russia
| |
Collapse
|