1
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Dropmann A, Alex S, Schorn K, Tong C, Caccamo T, Godoy P, Ilkavets I, Liebe R, Gonzalez D, Hengstler JG, Piiper A, Quagliata L, Matter MS, Waidmann O, Finkelmeier F, Feng T, Weiss TS, Rahbari N, Birgin E, Rasbach E, Roessler S, Breuhahn K, Tóth M, Ebert MP, Dooley S, Hammad S, Meindl-Beinker NM. The TGF-β1 target WISP1 is highly expressed in liver cirrhosis and cirrhotic HCC microenvironment and involved in pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 732:150409. [PMID: 39033550 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION WNT1-inducible signalling pathway protein 1 (WISP1) promotes progression of several tumor entities often correlating with worse prognosis. Here its expression regulation and role in the progression of chronic liver diseases (CLD) was investigated. METHODS WISP1 expression was analyzed in human HCC datasets, in biopsies and serum samples and an HCC patient tissue microarray (TMA) including correlation to clinicopathological parameters. Spatial distribution of WISP1 expression was determined using RNAscope analysis. Regulation of WISP1 expression was investigated in cytokine-stimulated primary mouse hepatocytes (PMH) by array analysis and qRT-PCR. Outcome of WISP1 stimulation was analyzed by IncuCyte S3-live cell imaging, qRT-PCR, and immunoblotting in murine AML12 cells. RESULTS In a TMA, high WISP1 expression was positively correlated with early HCC stages and male sex. Highest WISP1 expression levels were detected in patients with cirrhosis as compared to healthy individuals, patients with early fibrosis, and non-cirrhotic HCC in liver biopsies, expression datasets and serum samples. WISP1 transcripts were predominantly detected in hepatocytes of cirrhotic rather than tumorous liver tissue. High WISP1 expression was associated with better survival. In PMH, AML12 and HepaRG, WISP1 was identified as a specific TGF-β1 target gene. Accordingly, expression levels of both cytokines positively correlated in human HCC patient samples. WISP1-stimulation induced the expression of Bcl-xL, PCNA and p21 in AML12 cells. CONCLUSIONS WISP1 expression is induced by TGF-β1 in hepatocytes and is associated with cirrhotic liver disease. We propose a crucial role of WISP1 in balancing pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects during premalignant stages of CLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Dropmann
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sophie Alex
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Katharina Schorn
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Chenhao Tong
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Tiziana Caccamo
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Patricio Godoy
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany; IfADo-Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Iryna Ilkavets
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Roman Liebe
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany; Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Leipziger Straße 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Gonzalez
- IfADo-Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Jan G Hengstler
- IfADo-Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Albrecht Piiper
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Luca Quagliata
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Basel, Schönbeinstrasse 40, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias S Matter
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Basel, Schönbeinstrasse 40, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Waidmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Fabian Finkelmeier
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Teng Feng
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Thomas S Weiss
- Children's University Hospital (KUNO), Center for Liver Cell Research, University Hospital Regensburg, Josef-Engert-Straße 9, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Nuh Rahbari
- Department of Surgery and European Center of Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany; Department of General and Visceral Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Emrullah Birgin
- Department of Surgery and European Center of Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany; Department of General and Visceral Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Erik Rasbach
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany; Department of Surgery, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stephanie Roessler
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kai Breuhahn
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marcell Tóth
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias P Ebert
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany; DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany; Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steven Dooley
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Seddik Hammad
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nadja M Meindl-Beinker
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany.
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Singh K, Oladipupo SS. An overview of CCN4 (WISP1) role in human diseases. J Transl Med 2024; 22:601. [PMID: 38937782 PMCID: PMC11212430 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05364-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
CCN4 (cellular communication network factor 4), a highly conserved, secreted cysteine-rich matricellular protein is emerging as a key player in the development and progression of numerous disease pathologies, including cancer, fibrosis, metabolic and inflammatory disorders. Over the past two decades, extensive research on CCN4 and its family members uncovered their diverse cellular mechanisms and biological functions, including but not limited to cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, wound healing, repair, and apoptosis. Recent studies have demonstrated that aberrant CCN4 expression and/or associated downstream signaling is key to a vast array of pathophysiological etiology, suggesting that CCN4 could be utilized not only as a non-invasive diagnostic or prognostic marker, but also as a promising therapeutic target. The cognate receptor of CCN4 remains elusive till date, which limits understanding of the mechanistic insights on CCN4 driven disease pathologies. However, as therapeutic agents directed against CCN4 begin to make their way into the clinic, that may start to change. Also, the pathophysiological significance of CCN4 remains underexplored, hence further research is needed to shed more light on its disease and/or tissue specific functions to better understand its clinical translational benefit. This review highlights the compelling evidence of overlapping and/or diverse functional and mechanisms regulated by CCN4, in addition to addressing the challenges, study limitations and knowledge gaps on CCN4 biology and its therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirti Singh
- Biotherapeutic Enabling Biology, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, 46225, USA
| | - Sunday S Oladipupo
- Biotherapeutic Enabling Biology, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, 46225, USA.
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Chang KS, Chen ST, Sung HC, Hsu SY, Lin WY, Hou CP, Lin YH, Feng TH, Tsui KH, Juang HH. WNT1 Inducible Signaling Pathway Protein 1 Is a Stroma-Specific Secreting Protein Inducing a Fibroblast Contraction and Carcinoma Cell Growth in the Human Prostate. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911437. [PMID: 36232736 PMCID: PMC9570503 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The WNT1 inducible signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP1), a member of the connective tissue growth factor family, plays a crucial role in several important cellular functions in a highly tissue-specific manner. Results of a RT-qPCR indicated that WISP1 expressed only in cells of the human prostate fibroblasts, HPrF and WPMY-1, but not the prostate carcinoma cells in vitro. Two major isoforms (WISP1v1 and WISP1v2) were identified in the HPrF cells determined by RT-PCR and immunoblot assays. The knock-down of a WISP1 blocked cell proliferation and contraction, while treating respectively with the conditioned medium from the ectopic WISP1v1- and WISPv2-overexpressed 293T cells enhanced the migration of HPrF cells. The TNFα induced WISP1 secretion and cell contraction while the knock-down of WISP1 attenuated these effects, although TNFα did not affect the proliferation of the HPrF cells. The ectopic overexpression of WISP1v1 but not WISP1v2 downregulated the N-myc downstream regulated 1 (NDRG1) while upregulating N-cadherin, slug, snail, and vimentin gene expressions which induced not only the cell proliferation and invasion in vitro but also tumor growth of prostate carcinoma cells in vivo. The results confirmed that WISP1 is a stroma-specific secreting protein, enhancing the cell migration and contraction of prostate fibroblasts, as well as the proliferation, invasion, and tumor growth of prostate carcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang-Shuo Chang
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Syue-Ting Chen
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Ching Sung
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Yuan Hsu
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Yin Lin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Pang Hou
- Department of Urology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsiang Lin
- Department of Urology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Tsui-Hsia Feng
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Ke-Hung Tsui
- Department of Urology, Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City 235041, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Urology and Kidney, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (K.-H.T.); (H.-H.J.); Tel.: +886-3-2118800 (ext. 5071) (H.-H.J.); Fax: +886-3-2118112 (H.-H.J.)
| | - Horng-Heng Juang
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (K.-H.T.); (H.-H.J.); Tel.: +886-3-2118800 (ext. 5071) (H.-H.J.); Fax: +886-3-2118112 (H.-H.J.)
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4
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Kubota S, Kawata K, Hattori T, Nishida T. Molecular and Genetic Interactions between CCN2 and CCN3 behind Their Yin-Yang Collaboration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23115887. [PMID: 35682564 PMCID: PMC9180607 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular communication network factor (CCN) 2 and 3 are the members of the CCN family that conduct the harmonized development of a variety of tissues and organs under interaction with multiple biomolecules in the microenvironment. Despite their striking structural similarities, these two members show contrastive molecular functions as well as temporospatial emergence in living tissues. Typically, CCN2 promotes cell growth, whereas CCN3 restrains it. Where CCN2 is produced, CCN3 disappears. Nevertheless, these two proteins collaborate together to execute their mission in a yin–yang fashion. The apparent functional counteractions of CCN2 and CCN3 can be ascribed to their direct molecular interaction and interference over the cofactors that are shared by the two. Recent studies have revealed the mutual negative regulation systems between CCN2 and CCN3. Moreover, the simultaneous and bidirectional regulatory system of CCN2 and CCN3 is also being clarified. It is of particular note that these regulations were found to be closely associated with glycolysis, a fundamental procedure of energy metabolism. Here, the molecular interplay and metabolic gene regulation that enable the yin–yang collaboration of CCN2 and CCN3 typically found in cartilage development/regeneration and fibrosis are described.
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5
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Jia Q, Zhang Y, Xu B, Liao X, Bu Y, Xu Z, Duan X, Zhang Q. Dual roles of WISP2 in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma: implications of the fibroblast infiltration into the tumor microenvironment. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:21216-21231. [PMID: 34497155 PMCID: PMC8457598 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The dismal outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients is attributable to high frequency of metastasis and. Identification of effective biomarkers is a key strategy to inform prognosis and improve survival. Previous studies reported inconsistent roles of WISP2 in carcinogenesis, while the role of WISP2 in HCC progression also remains unclear. In this study, we confirmed that WISP2 was downregulated in HCC tissues, and WISP2 was acting as a protective factor, especially in patients without alcohol intake using multiple online datasets. In addition, we reported that upregulation of WISP2 in HCC was related to inhibition of the malignant phenotype in vitro, but these alterations were not observed in vivo. WISP2 also negatively correlated with tumour purity, and increased infiltration of fibroblasts promoted malignant progression in HCC tissues. The enhanced infiltration ability of fibroblasts was related to upregulated HMGB1 after overexpression of WISP2 in HCC. The findings shed light on the anticancer role of WISP2, and HMGB1 is one of the key factors involved in the inhibition of the efficiency of WISP2 through reducing the tumour purity with fibroblast infiltration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingan Jia
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Yaoyao Zhang
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Binghui Xu
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Xia Liao
- Department of Nutrition, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Yang Bu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, General Hospital, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750001, China
| | - Zihan Xu
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710068, China
| | - Xianglong Duan
- Second Department of General Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital Affiliated Hospital of Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710068, China
| | - Qiangbo Zhang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China.,Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
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6
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Jia Q, Xu B, Zhang Y, Ali A, Liao X. CCN Family Proteins in Cancer: Insight Into Their Structures and Coordination Role in Tumor Microenvironment. Front Genet 2021; 12:649387. [PMID: 33833779 PMCID: PMC8021874 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.649387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The crosstalk between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME), triggers a variety of critical signaling pathways and promotes the malignant progression of cancer. The success rate of cancer therapy through targeting single molecule of this crosstalk may be extremely low, whereas co-targeting multiple components could be complicated design and likely to have more side effects. The six members of cellular communication network (CCN) family proteins are scaffolding proteins that may govern the TME, and several studies have shown targeted therapy of CCN family proteins may be effective for the treatment of cancer. CCN protein family shares similar structures, and they mutually reinforce and neutralize each other to serve various roles that are tightly regulated in a spatiotemporal manner by the TME. Here, we review the current knowledge on the structures and roles of CCN proteins in different types of cancer. We also analyze CCN mRNA expression, and reasons for its diverse relationship to prognosis in different cancers. In this review, we conclude that the discrepant functions of CCN proteins in different types of cancer are attributed to diverse TME and CCN truncated isoforms, and speculate that targeting CCN proteins to rebalance the TME could be a potent anti-cancer strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingan Jia
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Binghui Xu
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yaoyao Zhang
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Arshad Ali
- School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xia Liao
- Department of Nutrition, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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Mao A, Tang J, Tang D, Wang F, Liao S, Yuan H, Tian C, Sun C, Si J, Zhang H, Xia X. MicroRNA-29b-3p enhances radiosensitivity through modulating WISP1-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis in prostate cancer cells. J Cancer 2020; 11:6356-6364. [PMID: 33033519 PMCID: PMC7532503 DOI: 10.7150/jca.48216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is frequently applied for clinically localized prostate cancer while its efficacy could be significantly hindered by radioresistance. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators in mediating cellular responses to ionizing radiation (IR), and strongly associate with radiosensitivity in many cancers. In this study, enhancement of radiosensitivity by miR-29b-3p was demonstrated in prostate cancer cell line LNCaP in vitro. Results showed that miR-29b-3p expression was significantly upregulated in response to IR from both X-rays and carbon ion irradiations. Knockdown of miR-29b-3p resulted in radioresistance while overexpression of miR-29b-3p led to increased radiosensitivity (showing reduced cell viability, suppressed cell proliferation and decreased colony formation). In addition, miR-29b-3p was found to directly target Wnt1-inducible-signaling protein 1 (WISP1). Inhibition of WISP1 facilitated the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway through suppressing Bcl-XL expression while activating caspase-3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). The results indicated that miR-29b-3p was a radiosensitizing miRNAs and could enhance radiosensitivity of LNCaP cells by targeting WISP1. These findings suggested a novel treatment to overcome radioresistance in prostate cancer patients, especially those with higher levels of the WISP1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aihong Mao
- Gansu Provincial Academic Institute for Medical Research, Lanzhou, China.,Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jinzhou Tang
- Gansu Provincial Academic Institute for Medical Research, Lanzhou, China
| | - Deping Tang
- School of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070, PR China
| | - Fang Wang
- Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Shiqi Liao
- Gansu Provincial Academic Institute for Medical Research, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hongxia Yuan
- Gansu Provincial Academic Institute for Medical Research, Lanzhou, China
| | - Caiping Tian
- Gansu Provincial Academic Institute for Medical Research, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chao Sun
- Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jing Si
- Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaojun Xia
- Gansu Provincial Academic Institute for Medical Research, Lanzhou, China.,Gansu Provincial Cancer Hospital, Lanzhou, China
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8
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Liao X, Bu Y, Chang F, Jia F, Song G, Xiao X, Zhang M, Ning P, Jia Q. Remodeling of hepatic stellate cells orchestrated the stroma-derived oxaliplatin-resistance through CCN3 paracrine in hepatocellular carcinoma. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:1192. [PMID: 31805888 PMCID: PMC6896671 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-6362-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) have a key role in fibrogenesis and in the filtrates of the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stroma, in which they are remodeled and play a critical role in HCC progression. However, the precise role of HSCs trending, infiltration and paracrine in orchestrating the stroma-derived oxaliplatin-resistance in HCC is still vague. METHODS The chemo-resistant models were established to explore the correlation between HSC cells and the condition of chemoresistance. The HCC clinical samples were collected to confirm this phenomenon. Then, the relationship between secretory CCN3 from oxaliplatin-resistant HCC and the infiltration of HSCs in associated HCC microenvironment was evaluated. Finally, the role and mechanism of HSCs remodeling in the orchestration of oxaliplatin-resistant HCC were explored. RESULTS The increased infiltration of HSCs and collagen accumulation were found in the microenvironment of oxaliplatin-resistant HCC. The cDNA profiles of the oxaliplatin-resistant HCC was reanalyzed, and CCN3 was one of the significantly increased genes. In HCC clinical samples, the levels of CCN3 and α-SMA are positively correlated, and high expression of CCN3 and α-SMA are positively associated with malignant phenotype and poor prognosis. Then the enhanced abilities of migration and proliferation of HSCs, and elevation of the cytokines paracrine from HSCs relating to HCC malignancy were proved in vitro and in vivo, and which were related to CCN3-ERK signaling pathway activation. CONCLUSIONS HSCs remodeling are positively related to CCN3 paracrine in hepatocellular carcinoma, which orchestrated the stroma-derived resistance to chemotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Liao
- Department of Nutrition, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Yang Bu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, General Hospital, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750001, China
| | - Fan Chang
- Metabolite Research Center, Shaanxi Institute of Microbiology, Xi'an, 710043, China
| | - Fengan Jia
- Metabolite Research Center, Shaanxi Institute of Microbiology, Xi'an, 710043, China
| | - Ge Song
- Department of Nutrition, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Xuelian Xiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Mei Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Pengbo Ning
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qingan Jia
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, 710061, China.
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Liu Y, Song Y, Ye M, Hu X, Wang ZP, Zhu X. The emerging role of WISP proteins in tumorigenesis and cancer therapy. J Transl Med 2019; 17:28. [PMID: 30651114 PMCID: PMC6335850 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-019-1769-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulated evidence has demonstrated that WNT1 inducible signaling pathway protein (WISP) genes, which belong to members of the CCN growth factor family, play a pivotal role in tumorigenesis and progression of a broad spectrum of human cancers. Mounting studies have identified that WISP proteins (WISP1-3) exert different biological functions in various human malignancies. Emerging evidence indicates that WISP proteins are critically involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and metastasis in cancers. Because the understanding of a direct function of WISP proteins in cancer development and progression has begun to emerge, in this review article, we describe the physiological function of WISP proteins in a variety of human cancers. Moreover, we highlight the current understanding of how the WISP protein is involved in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Furthermore, we discuss that targeting WISP proteins could be a promising strategy for the treatment of human cancers. Hence, the regulation of WISP proteins could improve treatments for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yizuo Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Miaomiao Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoli Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Z Peter Wang
- Center of Scientific Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China. .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Laboratory Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233030, Anhui, China. .,Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | - Xueqiong Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China.
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10
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Abstract
CCN proteins are secreted into the extracellular environment where they interact with both components of the extracellular matrix and with cell surface receptors to regulate cellular function. Through these interactions, CCNs act as extracellular ligands to activate intracellular signal transduction pathways. CCN4/WISP-1, like other CCNs, plays multiple physiologic roles in development and also participates in pathogenesis. CCN4 is of particular interest with respect to cancer, showing promise as a biomarker or prognostic factor as well as a potential therapeutic target. This review focuses on recent work addressing the role of CCN4 in cancer. While CCN4 has been identified as an oncogene in a number of cancers, where it enhances cell migration and promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition, there are other cancers where CCN4 appears to play an inhibitory role. The mechanisms underlying these differences in cellular response have not yet been delineated, but are an active area of investigation. The expression and activities of CCN4 splice variants are likewise an emerging area for study. CCN4 acts as an autocrine factor that regulates the cancer cells from which it is secreted. However, CCN4 is also a paracrine factor that is secreted by stromal fibroblasts, and can affect the function of vascular endothelial cells. In summary, current evidence is abundant in regard to establishing potential roles for CCN4 in oncogenesis, but much remains to be learned about the functions of this fascinating protein as both an autocrine and paracrine regulator in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary P Nivison
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA,
| | - Kathryn E Meier
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA,
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11
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Makino Y, Hikita H, Kodama T, Shigekawa M, Yamada R, Sakamori R, Eguchi H, Morii E, Yokoi H, Mukoyama M, Hiroshi S, Tatsumi T, Takehara T. CTGF Mediates Tumor-Stroma Interactions between Hepatoma Cells and Hepatic Stellate Cells to Accelerate HCC Progression. Cancer Res 2018; 78:4902-4914. [PMID: 29967264 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-17-3844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a matricellular protein related to hepatic fibrosis. This study aims to clarify the roles of CTGF in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which usually develops from fibrotic liver. CTGF was overexpressed in 93 human HCC compared with nontumorous tissues, primarily in tumor cells. Increased CTGF expression was associated with clinicopathologic malignancy of HCC. CTGF was upregulated in hepatoma cells in hepatocyte-specific Kras-mutated mice (Alb-Cre KrasLSL-G12D/+). Hepatocyte-specific knockout of CTGF in these mice (Alb-Cre KrasLSL-G12D/+ CTGFfl/fl) decreased liver tumor number and size. Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) were present in both human and murine liver tumors, and α-SMA expression, a marker of HSC activation, positively correlated with CTGF expression. Forced expression of CTGF did not affect growth of PLC/PRF/5 cells, a hepatoma cell line with little CTGF expression, but facilitated their growth in the presence of LX-2 cells, an HSC line. The growth of HepG2 cells, which express high levels of CTGF, was promoted by coculture with LX-2 cells compared with monoculture. Growth promotion by LX-2 cells was negated by an anti-CTGF antibody in both culture and xenografts. Coculturing LX-2 cells with HepG2 cells drove LX-2-derived production of IL6, which led to STAT-3 activation and proliferation of HepG2 cells. An anti-CTGF antibody reduced IL6 production in LX-2 cells and suppressed STAT-3 activation in HepG2 cells. In conclusion, our data identify tumor cell-derived CTGF as a keystone in the HCC microenvironment, activating nearby HSC that transmit progrowth signals to HCC cells, and this interaction is susceptible to inhibition by an anti-CTGF antibody.Significance: Protumor cross-talk between cancer cells and hepatic stellate cells presents an opportunity for therapeutic intervention against HCC.Graphical Abstract: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/78/17/4902/F1.large.jpg Cancer Res; 78(17); 4902-14. ©2018 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Makino
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hayato Hikita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takahiro Kodama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Minoru Shigekawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryoko Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryotaro Sakamori
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Eiichi Morii
- Department of Pathology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hideki Yokoi
- Department of Nephrology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masashi Mukoyama
- Department of Nephrology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Nephrology, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan
| | | | - Tomohide Tatsumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Takehara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.
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12
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Chen CT, Lee HL, Chiou HL, Chou CH, Wang PH, Yang SF, Chou YE. Impacts of WNT1-inducible signaling pathway protein 1 polymorphism on hepatocellular carcinoma development. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198967. [PMID: 29889892 PMCID: PMC5995385 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND WNT1-inducible signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP1) is a member of CCN protein family and a downstream target of β-catenin. Aberrant WISP1 expression is associated with carcinogenesis. In the current study, we focused on examining WISP1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to elucidate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) clinicopathologic characteristics. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The WISP1 SNPs rs2977530, rs2977537, rs2929973, rs2929970, rs62514004, and rs16893344 were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction in 332 patients with HCC and 664 cancer-free controls. RESULTS The patients with higher frequencies of WISP1 rs62514004 (AG + GG) and rs16893344 (CT + TT) variants revealed a lower risk to reach a later clinical stage compared with their wild-type carriers. Furthermore, individuals who carried WISP1 rs62514004 and rs16893344 haplotype G-T showed a greater synergistic effect combined with alcohol drinking on HCC development (AOR = 26.590, 95% CI = 9.780-72.295). CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrated that the HCC patients with WISP1 SNPs are associated with HCC development, and WISP1 SNPs may serve as markers or therapeutic targets for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Tien Chen
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Lin Lee
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ling Chiou
- School of Medical Laboratory and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hsuan Chou
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Hui Wang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shun-Fa Yang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Erh Chou
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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13
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CCN3 is a therapeutic target relating enhanced stemness and coagulation in hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13846. [PMID: 29061995 PMCID: PMC5653869 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-14087-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The general prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains extremely dismal, due to the high frequency of metastasis. Since 2003, our research group has explored the gene expression profiles of metastasized HCC tissue samples and identified a significant upregulation of CCN3. However, the role and precise pathological function of CCN3 remains elusive. We showed that CCN3 is associated with the poor prognosis of patients with HCC, the malignant phenotype of HCC, and vascular thrombosis. We further evaluated the negative roles of CCN3 in vitro and in vivo, and identified osteopontin (OPN), and coagulation factors tissue factor (TF) and thrombin as the leading genes downstream of CCN3, that are positively associated with HCC cell stemness. We demonstrated that overexpressed CCN3 in HCC cells leads to enhanced survival and increased number of pulmonary metastases in vivo. The elevated levels of OPN and TF were associated with signal activation of nuclear factor κB (NFκB) and extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK). Our findings suggest CCN3 is a potential therapeutic target that would affect the upregulation of OPN and coagulation factors, which would lead to an enhanced stemness and blood coagulation microenvironment in HCC tissue.
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14
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Talin-1 interaction network promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression. Oncotarget 2017; 8:13003-13014. [PMID: 28099903 PMCID: PMC5355072 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.14674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Talin-1 is a known oncogene-associated protein. In this study, we set out to determine its role and mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. We found Talin-1 to be highly expressed in HCC cells relative to non-cancer liver epithelial cells and to promote tumor growth and metastasis. We used Whole Human Genome Oligo Microarray analysis with HCC cells and HCC cells in which Talin-1 was knocked down using shRNA to identify transcripts regulated by Talin-1. Of the 40,000 tested genes, 3099 were differentially expressed after Talin-1 knockdown; expression of 1924 genes was increased, while expression of 2175 was decreased. Gene ontology (GO) profiling indicated that Talin-1 promotes many HCC progression-related activities, including ion transport and membrane depolarization, cell growth, and cell adhesion. We also characterized the network of gene transcripts regulated by Talin-1 and their role in promoting HCC progression. Our findings confirm the role of Talin-1 in carcinogenesis and provided a set of novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of HCC.
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15
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Members of the Cyr61/CTGF/NOV Protein Family: Emerging Players in Hepatic Progenitor Cell Activation and Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2016; 2016:2313850. [PMID: 27829832 PMCID: PMC5088274 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2313850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Revised: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stem/progenitor cells (HPC) reside quiescently in normal biliary trees and are activated in the form of ductular reactions during severe liver damage when the replicative ability of hepatocytes is inhibited. HPC niches are full of profibrotic stimuli favoring scarring and hepatocarcinogenesis. The Cyr61/CTGF/NOV (CCN) protein family consists of six members, CCN1/CYR61, CCN2/CTGF, CCN3/NOV, CCN4/WISP1, CCN5/WISP2, and CCN6/WISP3, which function as extracellular signaling modulators to mediate cell-matrix interaction during angiogenesis, wound healing, fibrosis, and tumorigenesis. This study investigated expression patterns of CCN proteins in HPC and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Mouse HPC were induced by the biliary toxin 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC). Differential expression patterns of CCN proteins were found in HPC from DDC damaged mice and in human CCA tumors. In addition, we utilized reporter mice that carried Ccn2/Ctgf promoter driven GFP and detected strong Ccn2/Ctgf expression in epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM)+ HPC under normal conditions and in DDC-induced liver damage. Abundant CCN2/CTGF protein was also found in cytokeratin 19 (CK19)+ human HPC that were surrounded by α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)+ myofibroblast cells in intrahepatic CCA tumors. These results suggest that CCN proteins, particularly CCN2/CTGF, function in HPC activation and CCA development.
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16
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CCN family of proteins: critical modulators of the tumor cell microenvironment. J Cell Commun Signal 2016; 10:229-240. [PMID: 27517291 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-016-0346-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The CCN family of proteins consisting of CCN1 (Cyr61), CCN2 (CTGF), CCN3 (NOV), CCN4 (WISP-1), CCN5 (WISP-2) and CCN6 (WISP-3) are considered matricellular proteins operating essentially in the extracellular microenvironment between cells. Evidence has also been gradually building since their first discovery of additional intracellular roles although the major activity is triggered at the cell membrane. The proteins consist of 4 motifs, a signal peptide (for secretion} followed consecutively by the IGFBP, VWC, TSP1 and CT (C-terminal cysteine knot domain) motifs, which signify their potential binding partners and functional connections to a variety of key regulators of physiological processes. With respect to cancer it is now clear that, whereas certain members can facilitate tumor behavior and progression, others can competitively counter the process. It is therefore clear that the net outcome of biological interactions in the matrix and what gets signaled or inhibited can be a function of the interplay of these CCN 1-6 proteins. Because the CCN proteins further interact with other key proteins, like growth factors in the matrix, the balance is not only important but can vary dynamically with the physiological states of tumor cells and the surrounding normal cells. The tumor niche with its many cell players has surfaced as a critical determinant of tumor behavior, invasiveness, and metastasis. It is in this context that CCN proteins should be investigated with the potential of being recognized and validated for future therapeutic approaches.
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17
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Jia Q, Dong Q, Qin L. CCN: core regulatory proteins in the microenvironment that affect the metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma? Oncotarget 2016; 7:1203-14. [PMID: 26497214 PMCID: PMC4811454 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) results from an underlying chronic liver inflammatory disease, such as chronic hepatitis B or C virus infections, and the general prognosis of patients with HCC still remains extremely dismal because of the high frequency of HCC metastases. Throughout the process of tumor metastasis, tumor cells constantly communicate with the surrounding microenvironment and improve their malignant phenotype. Therefore, there is a strong rationale for targeting the tumor microenvironment as primary treatment of HCC therapies. Recently, CCN family proteins have emerged as localized multitasking signal integrators in the inflammatory microenvironment. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of CCN family proteins in inflammation and the tumor. We also propose that the CCN family proteins may play a central role in signaling the tumor microenvironment and regulating the metastasis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingan Jia
- Cancer Center, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University; Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiongzhu Dong
- Cancer Center, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lunxiu Qin
- Cancer Center, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University; Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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