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Wang J, Yang B, Wang Y, Liu S, Ma C, Piao J, Ma S, Yu D, Wu W. CBX2 enhances the progression and TMZ chemoresistance of glioma via EZH2-mediated epigenetic silencing of PTEN expression. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1430891. [PMID: 39114365 PMCID: PMC11303140 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1430891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Chromobox (CBX) 2, a member of the CBX protein family and a crucial component of the polycomb repressive complex (PRC), exerts significant influence on the epigenetic regulation of tumorigenesis, including glioma. However, the precise role of CBX2 in glioma has remained elusive. In our study, we observed a substantial upregulation of CBX2 expression in glioma, which displayed a strong correlation with pathological grade, chemoresistance, and unfavorable prognosis. Through a series of in vivo and in vitro experiments, we established that heightened CBX2 expression facilitated glioma cell proliferation and bolstered resistance to chemotherapy. Conversely, CBX2 knockdown led to a significant inhibition of glioma cell growth and a reduction in chemoresistance. Notably, our investigation uncovered the underlying mechanism by which CBX2 operates, primarily by inhibiting PTEN transcription and activating the AKT/mTOR signalling pathway. Conversely, silencing CBX2 curtailed cell proliferation and attenuated chemoresistance by impeding the activation of the PTEN/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway. Delving deeper into the molecular intricacies, we discovered that CBX2 can recruit EZH2 and modulate the trimethylation of histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3) levels on the PTEN promoter, effectively suppressing PTEN transcription. Our research unveils a comprehensive understanding of how CBX2 impacts the tumorigenesis, progression, chemoresistance, and prognosis of glioma. Furthermore, it presents CBX2 as a promising therapeutic target for drug development and clinical management of glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wang
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yingzhao Wang
- Department of Neurology, Qianwei Hospital of Jilin Province, Changchun, China
| | - Shuhan Liu
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Changkai Ma
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianmin Piao
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shiqiang Ma
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Dehai Yu
- Core Facility, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Xu X, Lai C, Luo J, Shi J, Guo K, Hu J, Mulati Y, Xiao Y, Kong D, Liu C, Huang J, Xu K. The predictive significance of chromobox family members in prostate cancer in humans. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024:10.1007/s13402-024-00929-7. [PMID: 38427207 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00929-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The Chromobox (CBX) family proteins are crucial elements of the epigenetic regulatory machinery and play a significant role in the development and advancement of cancer. Nevertheless, there is limited understanding regarding the role of CBXs in development or progression of prostate cancer (PCa). Our objective is to develop a unique prognostic model associated with CBXs to improve the accuracy of predicting outcomes of patients with PCa. METHODS Data from TCGA and GEO databases were analyzed to assess differential expression, prognostic value, gene pathway enrichment, and immune cell infiltration. COX regression analysis was utilized to identify the independent prognostic factors that impact disease-free survival (DFS). The expression of CBX2 and FOXP3+ cells infiltration was verified by immunohistochemical staining of clinical tissue sections. In vitro proliferation, migration and invasion assay were conducted to examine the function of CBX2. RNA-seq was employed to examine the CBX2 related pathway enrichment. RESULTS CBX2, CBX3, CBX4, and CBX8 were upregulated, while CBX6 and CBX7 were downregulated in PCa tissues. CBXs expression varied by stage and grade. Elevated expression of CBX1, CBX2, CBX3, CBX4 and CBX8 is correlated with poor outcome. CBX2 expression, T stage, and Gleason score were independent prognostic factors. The expression level of CBX2 in PCa tissues was significantly higher than that in adjacent normal tissues. More Treg infiltration was observed in the group with high CBX2 expression. CBX2 expression affected PCa cell growth, migration, and invasion. CONCLUSIONS CBX2 is involved in the development and advancement of PCa, suggesting its potential as a reliable prognostic indicator for PCa patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Xu
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cong Lai
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiawen Luo
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Juanyi Shi
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaixuan Guo
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jintao Hu
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yelisudan Mulati
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunfei Xiao
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Degeng Kong
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Liu
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Urological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingang Huang
- Medical Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
| | - Kewei Xu
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Urological Diseases, Guangzhou, China.
- Sun Yat-sen University School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China.
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Sun R, Tu X, Chan S, Wang X, Ji Y, Wang Z, Yu Z, Zuo X, Zhang Q, Chen J, Han Q, Wang M, Zhao H, Zhang H, Chen W. CBX2 Deletion Suppresses Growth and Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer by Mettl3-p38/ERK MAPK Signalling Pathway. J Cancer 2024; 15:2123-2136. [PMID: 38495501 PMCID: PMC10937286 DOI: 10.7150/jca.92633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) seriously endangers human health owing to its high morbidity and mortality. Previous studies have suggested that high expression of CBX2 may be associated with poor prognosis in CRC patients. However, its functional role in CRC remains to be elucidated. Herein, we found that CBX2 overexpression in colorectal cancer tissue compared with adjacent tissues. Additionally, forest maps and the nomogram model indicated that elevated CBX2 expression was an independent prognostic factor in CRC. Moreover, we confirmed that the deletion of CBX2 markedly suppressed the proliferation and migration of CRC cells in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, downregulation of CBX2 promotes CRC cell apoptosis and hinders the cell cycle. Mechanistically, our data demonstrated that deletion of CBX2 inhibited the MAPK signaling pathway by regulating the protein levels of Mettl3. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that CBX2 is a vital tumor suppressor in CRC and could be a promising anti-cancer therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Sun
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xucan Tu
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Shixin Chan
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yizhong Ji
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Zhenglin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Zhen Yu
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xiaomin Zuo
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Metabolic Disease Research Center, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jiajie Chen
- Department of Dermatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Qijun Han
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Hu Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Huabing Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Metabolic Disease Research Center, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
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Li R, Chen Y, Yang B, Li Z, Wang S, He J, Zhou Z, Li X, Li J, Sun Y, Guo X, Wang X, Wu Y, Zhang W, Guo G. Integrated bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation identified CDCA families as prognostic biomarkers and sensitive indicators for rapamycin treatment of glioma. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295346. [PMID: 38181024 PMCID: PMC10769025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The cell division cycle associated (CDCA) genes regulate the cell cycle; however, their relationship with prognosis in glioma has been poorly reported in the literature. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was utilized to probe the CDCA family in relation to the adverse clinical features of glioma. Glioma single-cell atlas reveals specific expression of CDCA3, 4, 5, 8 in malignant cells and CDCA7 in neural progenitor cells (NPC)-like malignant cells. Glioma data from TCGA, the China Glioma Genome Atlas Project (CGGA) and the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database all demonstrated that CDCA2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8 are prognostic markers for glioma. Further analysis identified CDCA2, 5 and 8 as independent prognostic factors for glioma. Lasso regression-based risk models for CDCA families demonstrated that high-risk patients were characterized by high tumor mutational burden (TMB), low levels of microsatellite instability (MSI), and low tumor immune dysfunction and rejection (TIDE) scores. These pointed to immunotherapy for glioma as a potentially viable treatment option Further CDCA clustering suggested that the high CDCA subtype exhibited a high macrophage phenotype and was associated with a higher antigen presentation capacity and high levels of immune escape. In addition, hsa-mir-15b-5p was predicted to be common regulator of CDCA3 and CDCA4, which was validated in U87 and U251 cells. Importantly, we found that CDCAs may indicate response to drug treatment, especially rapamycin, in glioma. In summary, our results suggest that CDCAs have potential applications in clinical diagnosis and as drug sensitivity markers in glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ren Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Biao Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Ziao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Shule Wang
- Department of General and Vascular Surgery, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Jianhang He
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Zihan Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Xuepeng Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Jiayu Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yanqi Sun
- Department of Emergency, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiaolong Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiaogang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yongqiang Wu
- Department of Emergency, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Wenju Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Geng Guo
- Department of Emergency, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
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Li T, Tian L, Cao J, Liu M. Cancer-associated fibroblasts secret extracellular vesicles to support cell proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Cell Probes 2023; 72:101934. [PMID: 37777021 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2023.101934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
As the critical components of tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) support the development of various type of cancers, including laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), but the detailed molecular mechanisms by which cancer-associated fibroblasts interact with LSCC cells to facilitate its progression have not been fully uncovered. In the present study, by analyzing the contents from normal fibroblasts (NFs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) with Real-Time qPCR analysis, we found that the tumor-initiating LncRNA TUC338 was significantly upregulated in the cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived extracellular vesicles, compared to the normal fibroblasts-secreted extracellular vesicles. Further experiments confirmed that cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived extracellular vesicles promoted cell proliferation, colony formation abilities, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tumorigenesis of LSCC cells via delivering LncRNA TUC338. The mechanical experiments verified that LncRNA TUC338 was stabilized by METTL3/YTHDF1-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications, and elevated LncRNA TUC338 sponged miR-8485 to upregulate chromobox homolog 2 (CBX2) in LSCC cells in a competing endogenous RNA mechanisms-dependent manner. Moreover, our rescue experiments evidenced that cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived LncRNA TUC338-containing extracellular vesicles-induced supportive effects in LSCC aggressiveness were all abrogated by overexpressing miR-8485 and silencing CBX2. Collectively, this study is the first to identify a novel m6A/LncRNA TUC338/miR-8485/CBX2 axis in CAFs-EVs-mediated LSCC development, and to show its potential as a diagnostic biomarker for LSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Li
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Yiyuan Street No. 37, Nangang District, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Linli Tian
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Xuefu Road No. 246, Nangang District, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Xuefu Road No. 246, Nangang District, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Xuefu Road No. 246, Nangang District, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China.
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6
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Chen H, Su Y, Yang L, Xi L, Li X, Lan B, Liu M, Xuan C. CBX8 promotes lung adenocarcinoma growth and metastasis through transcriptional repression of CDKN2C and SCEL. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:2710-2723. [PMID: 37733753 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of polycomb group (PcG) proteins that mediate epigenetic gene silencing contributes to tumorigenesis. As core components of the polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1), chromobox (CBX) proteins recognize H3K27me3 to recruit PRC1 to maintain a repressive transcriptional state. However, the individual biological functions of these CBX proteins in tumorigenesis warrant in-depth investigation. In this study, we analyzed the mRNA expression of CBX family genes across multiple cancers using The Cancer Genome Atlas data and found different expression patterns of the five CBX genes in different types of cancer. This analyses together with the result of immunohistochemistry indicated that CBX8 expression was significantly higher in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) tissues compared to adjacent nontumor tissues. Overexpression approaches demonstrated that CBX8 facilitated LUAD cell proliferation and migration in vitro. Consistently, CBX8 knockdown reduced LUAD cell proliferation and migration in both cell culture and mouse models. RNA sequencing combined with real-time RT-PCR assays revealed CDKN2C and SCEL as target genes of CBX8. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays indicated that CBX8 directly bound to the promoters of CDKN2C and SCEL to establish H2AK119ub. CBX8 depletion reduced the enrichment of H2AK119ub on CDKN2C and SCEL promoters. Moreover, depletion of CDKN2C and SCEL restored the repressed growth and invasion ability of LUAD cells caused by CBX8 knockdown. These findings demonstrate that CBX8 promotes LUAD growth and metastasis through the transcriptional repression of CDKN2C and SCEL. Our study uncovers the oncogenic role of CBX8 in LUAD progression and provides a new target for the diagnosis and therapy of LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yijie Su
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lihong Yang
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lishan Xi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuanyuan Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Bei Lan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Min Liu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chenghao Xuan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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7
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Brubaker LW, Backos DS, Nguyen VT, Reigan P, Yamamoto TM, Woodruff ER, Iwanaga R, Wempe MF, Kumar V, Persenaire C, Watson ZL, Bitler BG. Novel chromobox 2 inhibitory peptide decreases tumor progression. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37243607 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2218614] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Polycomb Repressor Complex 1 (PRC1) is an epigenetic regulator of differentiation and development, consisting of multiple subunits including RING1, BMI1, and Chromobox. The composition of PRC1 dictates its function and aberrant expression of specific subunits contributes to several diseases including cancer. Specifically, the reader protein Chromobox2 (CBX2) recognizes the repressive modifications including histone H3 lysine 27 tri-methylation (H3K27me3) and H3 lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me2). CBX2 is overexpressed in several cancers compared to the non-transformed cell counterparts, it promotes both cancer progression and chemotherapy resistance. Thus, inhibiting the reader function of CBX2 is an attractive and unique anti-cancer approach. RESEARCH DESIGN & METHODS Compared with other CBX family members, CBX2 has a unique A/T-hook DNA binding domain that is juxtaposed to the chromodomain (CD). Using a computational approach, we constructed a homology model of CBX2 encompassing the CD and A/T hook domain. We used the model as a basis for peptide design and identified blocking peptides that are predicted to directly bind the CD and A/T-hook regions of CBX2. These peptides were tested in vitro and in vivo models. CONCLUSION The CBX2 blocking peptide significantly inhibited both 2D and 3D growth of ovarian cancer cells, downregulated a CBX2 target gene, and blunted tumor growth in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay W Brubaker
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Donald S Backos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Vu T Nguyen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Philip Reigan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Tomomi M Yamamoto
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Elizabeth R Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ritsuko Iwanaga
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Michael F Wempe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Vijay Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Christianne Persenaire
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Zachary L Watson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Benjamin G Bitler
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- University of Colorado Comprehensive Cancer Center, Aurora, CO, USA
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8
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Ma Y, Liu L, Wei Z, Zhu M, Huang L, Wang S, Yi X, Ying F, Zhao S, Cai J, Wang Z, Sun S. Loss of CBX2 causes genomic instability and Wnt activation in high grade serous ovarian carcinoma cells. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:479-492. [PMID: 36621979 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23500] [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: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
High grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is lethal with insidious onset, rapid progression, poor prognosis, and limited treatment options. Polycomb repressor complexes (PRC) 1 and 2 are intimately involved in progression of many types of cancer including HGSOC. Unlike the consistent constitution of PRC2, PRC1 consists of diverse components whose clinical significance in HGSOC are not entirely clear. Here, prognosis-associated PRC1 components were identified through data-mining. CBX2 promoted proliferation and reduced apoptosis of HGSOC cell lines OVCAR4, OVCAR3, and CAOV3. Complete loss of CBX2 by CRISPR-cas9 editing (CBX2KO ) destabilized genome stability with increased spontaneous chromosomal breaks and tendency to polyploidy accompanied by disrupted cell cycle especially stalled G2/M transition and caused severe cell death. Wnt/β-catenin/LEF1/TCF7L1 was activated in surviving OVCAR4-CBX2KO clones to bypass the crisis caused by loss of CBX2. The relieve of TCF7L1 core-promoter region occupied by CBX2 might be one of the possible explanations to TCF7L1 increase in OVCAR4-CBX2KO clones. Subcutaneous tumor model further validated that depletion of CBX2 repressed HGSOC cell line derived tumor growth. High immunohistochemistry score of CBX2 in primary ovarian cancer tissue associated with advanced clinical stage (p = 0.033), poor overall survival (HR = 3.056, 95% CI: 1.024-9.123), and progression free survival (HR = 4.455, 95% CI: 1.513-13.118) in HGSOC. Overall, our results suggested that CBX2 was a promising prognostic factor and therapeutic target in HGSOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zheng Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengna Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lin Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoqing Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feiquan Ying
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Simei Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zehua Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Si Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Niu X, Zhang L, Wu Y, Zong Z, Wang B, Liu J, Zhang L, Zhou F. Biomolecular condensates: Formation mechanisms, biological functions, and therapeutic targets. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e223. [PMID: 36875159 PMCID: PMC9974629 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates are cellular structures composed of membraneless assemblies comprising proteins or nucleic acids. The formation of these condensates requires components to change from a state of solubility separation from the surrounding environment by undergoing phase transition and condensation. Over the past decade, it has become widely appreciated that biomolecular condensates are ubiquitous in eukaryotic cells and play a vital role in physiological and pathological processes. These condensates may provide promising targets for the clinic research. Recently, a series of pathological and physiological processes have been found associated with the dysfunction of condensates, and a range of targets and methods have been demonstrated to modulate the formation of these condensates. A more extensive description of biomolecular condensates is urgently needed for the development of novel therapies. In this review, we summarized the current understanding of biomolecular condensates and the molecular mechanisms of their formation. Moreover, we reviewed the functions of condensates and therapeutic targets for diseases. We further highlighted the available regulatory targets and methods, discussed the significance and challenges of targeting these condensates. Reviewing the latest developments in biomolecular condensate research could be essential in translating our current knowledge on the use of condensates for clinical therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Niu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University Suzhou China.,MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network Life Sciences Institute Zhejiang University Hangzhou China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
| | - Yuchen Wu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The First School of Medicine Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
| | - Zhi Zong
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network Life Sciences Institute Zhejiang University Hangzhou China
| | - Bin Wang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network Life Sciences Institute Zhejiang University Hangzhou China
| | - Jisheng Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University Suzhou China
| | - Long Zhang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network Life Sciences Institute Zhejiang University Hangzhou China
| | - Fangfang Zhou
- Institutes of Biology and Medical Science Soochow University Suzhou China
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10
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A Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation-Related Index Associate with Biochemical Recurrence and Tumor Immune Environment of Prostate Cancer Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065515. [PMID: 36982591 PMCID: PMC10058551 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
To identify liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS)-related molecular clusters, and to develop and validate a novel index based on LLPS for predicting the prognosis of prostate cancer (PCa) patients. We download the clinical and transcriptome data of PCa from TCGA and GEO database. The LLPS-related genes (LRGs) were extracted from PhaSepDB. Consensus clustering analysis was used to develop LLPS-related molecular subtypes for PCa. The LASSO cox regression analysis was performed to establish a novel LLPS-related index for predicting biochemical recurrence (BCR)-free survival (BCRFS). Preliminary experimental verification was performed. We initially identified a total of 102 differentially expressed LRGs for PCa. Three LLPS related molecular subtypes were identified. Moreover, we established a novel LLPS related signature for predicting BCRFS of PCa patients. Compared to low-risk patients in the training cohort, testing cohort and validating cohort, high-risk populations meant a higher risk of BCR and significantly poorer BCRFS. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve were 0.728, 0.762, and 0.741 at 1 year in the training cohort, testing cohort and validating cohort. Additionally, the subgroup analysis indicated that this index was especially suitable for PCa patients with age ≤ 65, T stage III-IV, N0 stage or in cluster 1. The FUS, which was the potential biomarker related to PCa liquid–liquid phase separation, was preliminarily identified and verified. This study successfully developed three LLPS-related molecular subtypes and identified a novel LLPS related molecular signature, which performed well in predicting BCRFS of PCa.
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11
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Wang J, Yang B, Zhang X, Liu S, Pan X, Ma C, Ma S, Yu D, Wu W. Chromobox proteins in cancer: Multifaceted functions and strategies for modulation (Review). Int J Oncol 2023; 62:36. [PMID: 36734270 PMCID: PMC9937689 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2023.5484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromobox (CBX) proteins are important epigenetic regulatory proteins and are widely involved in biological processes, such as embryonic development, the maintenance of stem cell characteristics and the regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis. Disorder and dysfunction of CBXs in cancer usually lead to the blockade or ectoptic activation of developmental pathways, promoting the occurrence, development and progression of cancer. In the present review, the characteristics and functions of CBXs were first introduced. Subsequently, the expression of CBXs in cancers and the relationship between CBXs and clinical characteristics (mainly cancer grade, stage, metastasis and relapse) and prognosis were discussed. Finally, it was described how CBXs regulate cell proliferation and self‑renewal, apoptosis and the acquisition of malignant phenotypes, such as invasion, migration and chemoresistance, through mechanisms involving epigenetic modification, nuclear translocation, noncoding RNA interactions, transcriptional regulation, posttranslational modifications, protein‑protein interactions, signal transduction and metabolic reprogramming. The study also focused on cancer therapies targeting CBXs. The present review provides new insight and a comprehensive basis for follow‑up research on CBXs and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wang
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Xiuhang Zhang
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Shuhan Liu
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoqiang Pan
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Changkai Ma
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Shiqiang Ma
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Dehai Yu
- Department of Public Research Platform, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China,Professor Dehai Yu, Public Research Platform, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China, E-mail:
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China,Correspondence to: Professor Wei Wu, Department of Neurovascular Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China, E-mail:
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12
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CBX Family Members in Two Major Subtypes of Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Comparative Bioinformatic Analysis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12102452. [PMID: 36292141 PMCID: PMC9600067 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12102452] [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: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological function and clinical values of Chromobox (CBX) family proteins in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) are still poorly investigated. This study aimed to compare the expression profiles and clinical relevance of CBXs between the two most frequent subtypes of RCC, clear cell renal cell carcinomas (ccRCC) and papillary renal cell carcinomas (pRCC), and to investigate whether CBXs would play a more or less similar role in the pathogenesis and progression of these RCC subtypes. Considering these two RCC populations in the TCGA database, we built a bioinformatics framework by integrating a computational pipeline with several online tools. CBXs showed a similar trend in ccRCC and pRCC tissues but with some features specific for each subtype. Specifically, the relative expressions of CBX3 and CBX2 were, respectively, the highest and lowest among all CBXs in both RCC subtypes. These data also found confirmation in cellular validation. Except for CBX4 and CBX8, all others were deregulated in the ccRCC subtype. CBX1, CBX6, and CBX7 were also significantly associated with the tumor stage. Further, low expression levels of CBX1, CBX5, CBX6, CBX7, and high expression of CBX8 were associated with poor prognosis. Otherwise, in the pRCC subtype, CBX2, CBX3, CBX7, and CBX8 were deregulated, and CBX2, CBX6, and CBX7 were associated with the tumor stage. In addition, in pRCC patients, low expression levels of CBX2, CBX4, and CBX7 were associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Similarly, CBX3, CBX6, and CBX7 presented the highest alteration rate in both subtypes and were found to be functionally related to histone binding, nuclear chromosomes, and heterochromatin. Furthermore, CBX gene expression levels correlated with immune cell infiltration, suggesting that CBXs might reflect the immune status of RCC subtypes. Our results highlight similarities and differences of CBXs within the two major RCC subtypes, providing new insights for future eligible biomarkers or possible molecular therapeutic targets for these diseases.
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Critical Roles of Polycomb Repressive Complexes in Transcription and Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179574. [PMID: 36076977 PMCID: PMC9455514 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycomp group (PcG) proteins are members of highly conserved multiprotein complexes, recognized as gene transcriptional repressors during development and shown to play a role in various physiological and pathological processes. PcG proteins consist of two Polycomb repressive complexes (PRCs) with different enzymatic activities: Polycomb repressive complexes 1 (PRC1), a ubiquitin ligase, and Polycomb repressive complexes 2 (PRC2), a histone methyltransferase. Traditionally, PRCs have been described to be associated with transcriptional repression of homeotic genes, as well as gene transcription activating effects. Particularly in cancer, PRCs have been found to misregulate gene expression, not only depending on the function of the whole PRCs, but also through their separate subunits. In this review, we focused especially on the recent findings in the transcriptional regulation of PRCs, the oncogenic and tumor-suppressive roles of PcG proteins, and the research progress of inhibitors targeting PRCs.
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14
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The Epigenetic Regulatory Protein CBX2 Promotes mTORC1 Signalling and Inhibits DREAM Complex Activity to Drive Breast Cancer Cell Growth. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143491. [PMID: 35884550 PMCID: PMC9321755 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromobox 2 (CBX2) is a chromatin-binding component of polycomb repressive complex 1, which causes gene silencing. CBX2 expression is elevated in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), for which there are few therapeutic options. Here, we aimed to investigate the functional role of CBX2 in TNBC. CBX2 knockdown in TNBC models reduced cell numbers, which was rescued by ectopic expression of wild-type CBX2 but not a chromatin binding-deficient mutant. Blocking CBX2 chromatin interactions using the inhibitor SW2_152F also reduced cell growth, suggesting CBX2 chromatin binding is crucial for TNBC progression. RNA sequencing and gene set enrichment analysis of CBX2-depleted cells identified downregulation of oncogenic signalling pathways, including mTORC1 and E2F signalling. Subsequent analysis identified that CBX2 represses the expression of mTORC1 inhibitors and the tumour suppressor RBL2. RBL2 repression, in turn, inhibits DREAM complex activity. The DREAM complex inhibits E2F signalling, causing cell senescence; therefore, inhibition of the DREAM complex via CBX2 may be a key oncogenic driver. We observed similar effects in oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, and analysis of patient datasets suggested CBX2 inhibits RBL2 activity in other cancer types. Therapeutic inhibition of CBX2 could therefore repress mTORC1 activation and promote DREAM complex-mediated senescence in TNBC and could have similar effects in other cancer types.
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15
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Liquid-liquid phase separation in tumor biology. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:221. [PMID: 35803926 PMCID: PMC9270353 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01076-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a novel principle for explaining the precise spatial and temporal regulation in living cells. LLPS compartmentalizes proteins and nucleic acids into micron-scale, liquid-like, membraneless bodies with specific functions, which were recently termed biomolecular condensates. Biomolecular condensates are executors underlying the intracellular spatiotemporal coordination of various biological activities, including chromatin organization, genomic stability, DNA damage response and repair, transcription, and signal transduction. Dysregulation of these cellular processes is a key event in the initiation and/or evolution of cancer, and emerging evidence has linked the formation and regulation of LLPS to malignant transformations in tumor biology. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the detailed mechanisms of biomolecular condensate formation and biophysical function and review the recent major advances toward elucidating the multiple mechanisms involved in cancer cell pathology driven by aberrant LLPS. In addition, we discuss the therapeutic perspectives of LLPS in cancer research and the most recently developed drug candidates targeting LLPS modulation that can be used to combat tumorigenesis.
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16
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Parreno V, Martinez AM, Cavalli G. Mechanisms of Polycomb group protein function in cancer. Cell Res 2022; 32:231-253. [PMID: 35046519 PMCID: PMC8888700 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-021-00606-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractCancer arises from a multitude of disorders resulting in loss of differentiation and a stem cell-like phenotype characterized by uncontrolled growth. Polycomb Group (PcG) proteins are members of multiprotein complexes that are highly conserved throughout evolution. Historically, they have been described as essential for maintaining epigenetic cellular memory by locking homeotic genes in a transcriptionally repressed state. What was initially thought to be a function restricted to a few target genes, subsequently turned out to be of much broader relevance, since the main role of PcG complexes is to ensure a dynamically choregraphed spatio-temporal regulation of their numerous target genes during development. Their ability to modify chromatin landscapes and refine the expression of master genes controlling major switches in cellular decisions under physiological conditions is often misregulated in tumors. Surprisingly, their functional implication in the initiation and progression of cancer may be either dependent on Polycomb complexes, or specific for a subunit that acts independently of other PcG members. In this review, we describe how misregulated Polycomb proteins play a pleiotropic role in cancer by altering a broad spectrum of biological processes such as the proliferation-differentiation balance, metabolism and the immune response, all of which are crucial in tumor progression. We also illustrate how interfering with PcG functions can provide a powerful strategy to counter tumor progression.
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17
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Hu CY, Li X, Zeng T, Ye DM, Li YK, Yan HX. Significance of chromobox protein (CBX) expression in diffuse LBCL. Gene 2021; 813:146092. [PMID: 34896523 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.146092] [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: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the main pathological type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Chromobox (CBX) family proteins are classical components of polycomb group (PcG) complexes in many cancer types, resulting in accelerated carcinogenesis. Nevertheless, the prognostic, functional and expression significance of these CBX family members in DLBCL remain unclear and elusive. METHODS CBX transcriptional levels were confirmed using Oncomine, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) and Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) databases. The protein levels of CBX family members were analysed using The Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database. Information on the PPI network, functional enrichment, drug sensitivity, prognostic value, miRNA network, protein structure, genetic alteration and immune cell infiltration were generated using the GeneMANIA, Metascape, GSCALite, GEPIA, PDB, cBioPortal, and TIMER databases, and the correlation of these factors with CBX expression levels in DLBCL was assessed. RESULTS CBX1/2/3/5/6/8 mRNA levels were significantly enhanced in DLBCL tissues compared to corresponding normal tissues. CBX1/3/4/5/8 protein expression levels were obviously increased, whereas CBX7 was obviously decreased. This difference might be attributed to miRNA regulation based on the miRNA network. Overall survival (OS) analysis showed that CBX levels were not correlated with prognosis in DLBCL patients, indicating that CBXs are not good biomarkers for DLBCL patients. Furthermore, functional enrichment analyses indicated that CBXs were closely related to DNA duplex unwinding, covalent chromatin modification, and histone lysine methylation. The levels of CBXs were also significantly associated with diverse immune cell infiltration in DLBCL. CONCLUSIONS This study reveals that dysregulated CBXs are involved in DLBCL development and might represent potential therapeutic targets for DLBCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yan Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Xuan Li
- Department of Embryo Laboratory, Changsha Reproductive Medical Hospital, Changsha, Hunan 410000, PR China
| | - Tian Zeng
- Hengyang Medical College & Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study & Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, PR China
| | - Dong-Mei Ye
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital of Nanchang City, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330008, PR China
| | - Yu-Kun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Hong-Xia Yan
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China.
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Geng H, Liu G, Hu J, Li J, Wang D, Zou S, Xu X. HOXB13 suppresses proliferation, migration and invasion, and promotes apoptosis of gastric cancer cells through transcriptional activation of VGLL4 to inhibit the involvement of TEAD4 in the Hippo signaling pathway. Mol Med Rep 2021; 24:722. [PMID: 34396425 PMCID: PMC8383034 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common types of malignancy worldwide and is accompanied by both high mortality and morbidity rates. Homeobox B13 (HOXB13) has been reported to act as a tumor suppressor gene in multiple types of human cancer. The present study aimed to investigate the effects and potential underlying molecular mechanisms of HOXB13 in the progression of GC. The expression of HOXB13 in GC cells was first examined using the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia database and subsequently validated in a number of GC cell lines. Following HOXB13 overexpression (Ov-HOXB13), HGC-27 cell proliferation was evaluated by colony formation and Cell Counting Kit-8 assays. Wound healing and Matrigel assays were used to determine the migratory and invasive abilities, respectively. Additionally, cell apoptosis was assessed using TUNEL staining, and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins was detected by western blot analysis. Subsequently, TEA domain transcription factor 4 (TEAD4) was overexpressed to evaluate the effects on HGC-27 cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis following co-transfection with Ov-HOXB13. The potential binding sites of HOXB13 on the vestigial-like family member 4 (VGLL4) promoter were verified using chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual luciferase reporter assays. Moreover, the expression levels of proteins involved in the Hippo signaling pathway were analyzed using western blotting. The results revealed that the expression of HOXB13 was notably lower in GC cells compared with normal gastric cells. The overexpression of HOXB13 significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion, but promoted the apoptosis of HGC-27 cells. Moreover, Ov-HOXB13 downregulated TEAD4 expression. Notably, Ov-TEAD4 transfection partially reversed the effects of Ov-HOXB13 on the cellular behaviors of HGC-27 cells. HOXB13 was also confirmed to bind with the VGLL4 promoter. The knockdown of VGLL4 restored the inhibitory effects of Ov-HOXB13 on the expression levels of VGLL4 and Hippo pathway signaling proteins. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that Ov-HOXB13 may suppress the proliferation, migration and invasion, and promote the apoptosis of GC cells through the transcriptional activation of VGLL4 to inhibit the involvement of TEAD4 in the Hippo signaling pathway. These results may provide novel and potent targets for the treatment of GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Geng
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, P.R. China
| | - Guangli Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, P.R. China
| | - Jiandong Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, P.R. China
| | - Jianchao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, P.R. China
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, P.R. China
| | - Shenshan Zou
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, P.R. China
| | - Xintao Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, P.R. China
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