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Sakurai K, Ando T, Sakai Y, Mori Y, Nakamura S, Kato T, Ito H. PROX1 is a regulator of neuroendocrine-related gene expression in lung carcinoid. Hum Cell 2024; 37:1559-1566. [PMID: 39066858 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-024-01109-3] [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: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Lung neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a diverse group of tumors characterized by neuroendocrine (NE) differentiation. Among lung NENs, lung carcinoid (LC) is a rare tumor with unique characteristics. Recent research has highlighted the importance of transcription factors (TFs) in establishing gene expression programs in lung NENs such as small cell lung carcinoma. However, the TFs that control the gene expression of LC are largely unknown. In this study, we report the expression and potential function of a TF called Prospero homeobox protein1 (PROX1) in LC. Publicly available transcriptome data suggested that PROX1 was highly expressed in LC tissues, which was confirmed by immunohistochemical analysis on a tissue microarray. Knockdown of PROX1 did not impact the cellular viability of an LC-derived cell line, NCI-H727. Meanwhile, transcriptome analysis revealed that PROX1 knockdown altered the expression of genes involved in NE differentiation. ASCL1, CHGA, CALCA, and LINC00261 were suggested as downstream genes of PROX1. These findings indicate that PROX1 may play an important role in the NE identity of LC by regulating the expression of key target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kouhei Sakurai
- Department of Joint Research Laboratory of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan.
| | - Tatsuya Ando
- Department of Joint Research Laboratory of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Sakai
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Mori
- School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | - Satoru Nakamura
- Department of Joint Research Laboratory of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
- Central Research Laboratory, Nitto Fuji Flour Milling Co., Ltd., Tokyo, 143-0001, Japan
| | - Taku Kato
- Department of Joint Research Laboratory of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | - Hiroyasu Ito
- Department of Joint Research Laboratory of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
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2
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Hong JY, Park SY, Park YL, You GR, Yoon JH, Joo YE, Choi SK, Cho SB. Impact of Prospero Homeobox-1 (PROX-1) οn the Oncogenic Phenotypes of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2024; 21:295-304. [PMID: 38670585 PMCID: PMC11059600 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20448] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Transcriptional factor prospero homeobox-1 (PROX-1) is crucial for the embryonic development of various organs and cell fate specification. It exhibits either an oncogenic or tumor suppressive activity depending on cancer types. However, the relationship between PROX-1 and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains obscure. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of PROX-1 on the invasive and oncogenic phenotypes of human HCC cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effect of PROX-1 on tumor cell behavior was investigated by using a pcDNA-myc vector and a small interfering RNA in HepG2 and Huh7 human HCC cell lines. Flow cytometry, migration, invasion, proliferation, and tube formation assays were performed. PROX-1 expression in human HCC cells was explored by western blotting. RESULTS PROX-1 overexpression enhanced tumor cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis and cell cycle arrest by modulating the activities of caspase-3, PARP, and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, including p21, p27, and p57 in HCC cells. After PROX-1 overexpression, the number of migrating and invading HCC cells significantly increased, and the expression levels of N-cadherin and Snail increased in HCC cells. PROX-1 overexpression enhanced angiogenesis through increased VEGF-A and VEGF-C expression and decreased angiostatin expression. PROX-1 overexpression also increased the phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) in HCC cells. After PROX-1 knockdown, their phosphorylation was reversed. CONCLUSION PROX-1 overexpression is associated with the invasive and oncogenic phenotypes of human HCC cells via GSK-3β and FOXO1 phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yun Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Young Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Lan Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ga-Ram You
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hyun Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Eun Joo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Kyu Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Bum Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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3
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Li JJ, Mao JX, Zhong HX, Zhao YY, Teng F, Lu XY, Zhu LY, Gao Y, Fu H, Guo WY. Multifaceted roles of lymphatic and blood endothelial cells in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma: A comprehensive review. World J Hepatol 2024; 16:537-549. [PMID: 38689749 PMCID: PMC11056903 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i4.537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is a complex network of cells, extracellular matrix, and signaling molecules that plays a critical role in tumor progression and metastasis. Lymphatic and blood vessels are major routes for solid tumor metastasis and essential parts of tumor drainage conduits. However, recent studies have shown that lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) and blood endothelial cells (BECs) also play multifaceted roles in the tumor microenvironment beyond their structural functions, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This comprehensive review summarizes the diverse roles played by LECs and BECs in HCC, including their involvement in angiogenesis, immune modulation, lymphangiogenesis, and metastasis. By providing a detailed account of the complex interplay between LECs, BECs, and tumor cells, this review aims to shed light on future research directions regarding the immune regulatory function of LECs and potential therapeutic targets for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jing Li
- Department of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Jia-Xi Mao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Han-Xiang Zhong
- Department of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Yuan-Yu Zhao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Fei Teng
- Department of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Xin-Yi Lu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Li-Ye Zhu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Hong Fu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Wen-Yuan Guo
- Department of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
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4
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Zhang HL, Li N, Dong L, Ma HX, Yang MC. Prox1 Suppresses Proliferation and Drug Resistance of Retinoblastoma Cells via Targeting Notch1. Curr Med Sci 2024; 44:223-231. [PMID: 38277016 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-023-2803-9] [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: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Retinoblastoma (RB) is a prevalent type of eye cancer in youngsters. Prospero homeobox 1 (Prox1) is a homeobox transcriptional repressor and downstream target of the proneural gene that is relevant in lymphatic, hepatocyte, pancreatic, heart, lens, retinal, and cancer cells. The goal of this study was to investigate the role of Prox1 in RB cell proliferation and drug resistance, as well as to explore the underlying Notch1 mechanism. METHODS Human RB cell lines (SO-RB50 and Y79) and a primary human retinal microvascular endothelial cell line (ACBRI-181) were used in this study. The expression of Prox1 and Notch1 mRNA and protein in RB cells was detected using quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting. Cell proliferation was assessed after Prox1 overexpression using the Cell Counting Kit-8 and the MTS assay. Drug-resistant cell lines (SO-RB50/vincristine) were generated and treated with Prox1 to investigate the role of Prox1 in drug resistance. We employed pcDNA-Notch1 to overexpress Notch1 to confirm the role of Notch1 in the protective function of Prox1. Finally, a xenograft model was constructed to assess the effect of Prox1 on RB in vivo. RESULTS Prox1 was significantly downregulated in RB cells. Overexpression of Prox1 effectively decreased RB cell growth while increasing the sensitivity of drug-resistant cells to vincristine. Notch1 was involved in Prox1's regulatory effects. Notch1 was identified as a target gene of Prox1, which was found to be upregulated in RB cells and repressed by increased Prox1 expression. When pcDNA-Notch1 was transfected, the effect of Prox1 overexpression on RB was removed. Furthermore, by downregulating Notch1, Prox1 overexpression slowed tumor development and increased vincristine sensitivity in vivo. CONCLUSION These data show that Prox1 decreased RB cell proliferation and drug resistance by targeting Notch1, implying that Prox1 could be a potential therapeutic target for RB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Li Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Lin Dong
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Hong-Xia Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Mo-Chi Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
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5
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Liang X, Lin X, Lin Z, Lin W, Peng Z, Wei S. Genes associated with cellular senescence favor melanoma prognosis by stimulating immune responses in tumor microenvironment. Comput Biol Med 2023; 158:106850. [PMID: 37031510 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.106850] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM), a malignant tumor from melanocytes, is the fifth most prevalent tumor. Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy improves prognosis of SKCM, but immune response varies for different populations. Cellular senescence in the tumor microenvironment (TME) promotes antitumor immunity, mediated by dendritic cells (DC) and CD8+ T cells. Therefore, we sought to explore the role of cellular senescence in the TME of SKCM through bioinformatics and machine learning. METHODS First, we obtained 93 cellular senescence-prognosis genes (CSPGs) by univariate survival analysis. Thereafter, 23 optimal CSPGs were obtained by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (lasso) analysis. Based on the riskscore obtained by lasso analysis and clinical information from multivariate cox, we obtained the nomogram of SKCM, which was validated in the validation cohort. Based on the riskscore, the patients were split into low- and high-risk groups. Functional differences between the two groups were analyzed using Metascape and GSEA, and immune infiltration differences were achieved by multiple algorithms. We obtained a risk prediction nomogram for the validated SKCM based on the lasso model by univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis. RESULTS In the low-risk group, immune responses were in an active state. NK, CD8+ T, DC, macrophages, and neutrophils were significantly upregulated, and ICI-relevant genes were notably upregulated. With the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and optimal CSPGs, we obtained the hub genes: NOX4, NTN4, PROX1, and TRPM8. The hub genes were mainly expressed by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and endothelial cells by single cell analysis, which were mainly associated with angiogenesis. CONCLUSION Genes associated with cellular senescence favor SKCM prognosis by stimulating immune responses in TME. Patients with high expression of cellular senescence associated genes in the TME might have better benefit from ICI immunotherapy. Cellular senescence functions as a pro-tumor agent in mesenchymal cells and needs further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Liang
- Zhujiang Hospital, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaobing Lin
- Zhujiang Hospital, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zien Lin
- Zhujiang Hospital, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiyi Lin
- Zhujiang Hospital, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhishen Peng
- Zhujiang Hospital, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanshan Wei
- Department of Dermatology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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6
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Liu D, Wang R, Wang Y, Wang Y, Wang L. Prospero homeobox 1 promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of osteosarcoma cells and its clinical significance. Bioengineered 2022; 13:2259-2271. [PMID: 35030967 PMCID: PMC8974179 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.2024330] [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] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor. Prospero homeobox 1 (PROX1) is a key transcription factor involved in some cancers, but the role of PROX1 in OS is unclear. This study aimed to explore the clinical and biology significance of PROX1 in OS. Fifty-four OS tissues and matched nontumor tissues were collected to explore the relationship between PROX1 expression and clinical characteristics and prognosis. qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry were used to investigate the expression patterns of PROX1 in OS tissues and cells. CCK-8, wound healing, and transwell assays were used to detect the effects of PROX1 on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OS cells. Transcriptome sequencing, bioinformatics analysis and qRT-PCR were used to explore the regulatory network of PROX1. PROX1 was significantly higher in OS tissues and cells compared to normal tissues and cell lines. In OS patients, high expression of PROX1 was associated with Enneking stage (P < 0.001) and M classification (P < 0.001). High PROX1 expression predicted a poorer overall survival (P = 0.0047). Compared with untreated cells, OS cells overexpressing PROX1 showed higher proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities, while knockdown of PROX1 suppressed these abilities. The results of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the down regulated genes were mainly enriched in TNF signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, and neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction. High PROX1 expression was significantly associated with poor overall survival in OS patients. PROX1 may be a promising prognostic marker and therapeutic target for OS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawei Liu
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ran Wang
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuefeng Wang
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ye Wang
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Pavia, Pavia (PV), Italy
| | - Liantang Wang
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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7
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Kwon S, Ban K, Hong YK, Sung JS, Choi I. PROX1, a Key Mediator of the Anti-Proliferative Effect of Rapamycin on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030446. [PMID: 35159256 PMCID: PMC8834064 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The MTOR signal is known to be activated in various cancer cells including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Rapamycin, a specific inhibitor of MTOR, has been widely used as an immunosuppressant in organ transplant patients, and its clinical application has been recently expanded to cancer therapy. In this study, the anti-proliferative effect of rapamycin was investigated in four different HCC cell lines. Rapamycin effectively inhibited the proliferation of Huh7 or Hep3B, but not that of HepG2 or SNU3160 cells. Interestingly, rapamycin increased Prospero-related homeobox 1 (PROX1) expression at the protein level, but did not affect its transcript in Huh7 as well as Hep3B cells. Moreover, immunoprecipitation assays showed that PROX1 ubiquitination was downregulated by rapamycin. Furthermore, PROX1 over-expression or siRNA knock-down in Huh7 and Hep3B cells reduced or increased proliferation, respectively. The effect of PROX1 over-expression on the sensitivity to rapamycin was not synergistic, but the effect of MTOR inhibition on cell proliferation was diminished by PROX1 siRNA. Finally, Huh7 cells were inoculated into the flanks of nude mice and rapamycin was injected daily for 14 days. The xenograft volume was decreased and PROX1 expression was increased by rapamycin. These results indicate that PROX1 plays a key role in the anti-proliferative effect of rapamycin and suggest that the increased PROX1 by MTOR inhibition can be used as a useful marker for predicting whether HCC cells can be affected by rapamycin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sora Kwon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Hoseo University, Asan 31499, Korea;
| | - Kiwon Ban
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Young-Kwon Hong
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Soutern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA;
| | - Jung-Suk Sung
- Department of Life Science, Dongguk University, Goyang 10326, Korea;
| | - Inho Choi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Hoseo University, Asan 31499, Korea;
- Correspondence:
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8
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Tuerxun K, Zhang S, Zhang Y. Downregulation of PITX2 inhibits the proliferation and migration of liver cancer cells and induces cell apoptosis. Open Life Sci 2022; 16:1322-1329. [PMID: 35071766 PMCID: PMC8724353 DOI: 10.1515/biol-2021-0133] [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: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Paired-like homeodomain 2 (PITX2) functions as a transcription factor to participate in vertebrate embryogenesis, and dysregulated PITX2 expression was associated with the progression of various cancers. The functional role of PITX2 in tumorigenesis of liver cancer remains unknown. Western blot analysis showed that expression levels of PITX2 were enhanced in the liver cancer tissues and cells. siRNAs targeting PITX2 induced downregulation of PITX2 in liver cancer cells. siRNA-induced knockdown of PITX2 decreased liver cancer cell viability and proliferation, while promoting cell apoptosis by increasing cleaved-PARP, cleaved caspase 3, and cleaved caspase 9. The knockdown of PITX2 repressed liver cancer cell migration and invasion. In conclusion, elevated PITX2 expression was associated with liver cancer progression through repression of cell apoptosis and promoting cell proliferation and metastasis, and silencing of PITX2 might serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kebinuer Tuerxun
- Department of Infection and Liver Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, Liyushan South Road, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830054, China
| | - Shufang Zhang
- Department of Infection and Liver Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, Liyushan South Road, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830054, China
| | - Yuexin Zhang
- Department of Infection and Liver Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, Liyushan South Road, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830054, China
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9
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Chang TM, Chu PY, Hung WC, Shan YS, Lin HY, Huang KW, Chang JS, Chen LT, Tsai HJ. c-Myc promotes lymphatic metastasis of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor through VEGFC upregulation. Cancer Sci 2020; 112:243-253. [PMID: 33128283 PMCID: PMC7780026 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (pNET) is a pancreatic neoplasm with neuroendocrine differentiation. pNET in early stage can be treated with surgical resection with long‐term survival, whereas the prognosis of pNET with locoregional or distant metastasis is relatively poor. Lymphangiogenesis is essential for tumor metastasis via the lymphatic system and may overhead distant metastasis. c‐Myc overexpression is involved in tumorigenesis. The role of c‐Myc in lymphangiogenesis is unclear. In this study, we evaluated the mechanism and effect of c‐Myc on lymphangiogenesis of pNET via interaction of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) and pNET cells. Lymph node metastasis was evaluated in pNET xenograft mice. Potential target agents to inhibit lymph node metastasis were evaluated in an animal model. We found that vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGFC) expression and secretion was increased in pNET cell lines with c‐Myc overexpression. c‐Myc transcriptionally upregulates VEGFC expression and the secretion of pNET cells by directly binding to the E‐box of the VEGFC promoter and enhances VEGF receptor 3 phosphorylation and the tube formation of LECs. c‐Myc overexpression is associated with lymph node metastasis in pNET xenograft mice. Combinational treatment with an mTOR inhibitor and c‐Myc inhibitor or VEGFC‐neutralizing chimera protein reduced lymph node metastasis in the mice with c‐Myc overexpression. The mTOR inhibitor acts on lymphangiogenesis by reducing VEGFC expression in pNET cells and inhibiting the tube formation of LECs. In conclusion, mTOR and c‐Myc are important for lymphangiogenesis of pNET and are potential therapeutic targets for prevention and treatment of lymph node metastasis in pNET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Ming Chang
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yi Chu
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Pathology, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chun Hung
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan.,School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yan-Shen Shan
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hui-You Lin
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Wei Huang
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jeffrey S Chang
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Li-Tzong Chen
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Jen Tsai
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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10
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Jin Y, Weng Y, Wang Y, Lin J, Deng X, Shen B, Zhan Q, Lu X. miR-934 as a Prognostic Marker Facilitates Cell Proliferation and Migration of Pancreatic Tumor by Targeting PROX1. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:3389-3399. [PMID: 32368095 PMCID: PMC7183785 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s249662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic cancer is an extremely lethal digestive cancer with late diagnosis and poor prognosis. miR-934 has been reported to serve as an oncogene in multiple cancers, such as ovarian cancer and bladder cancer. However, its role in pancreatic cancer remains undiscovered. Materials and Methods The expression data of miR-934 were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and from our own patient samples. The clinicopathological data and corresponding follow-up data were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. CCK8 and colony formation assays were conducted to measure cell proliferation capacity in vitro. Wound healing and transwell assays were performed to detect the migration ability of pancreatic cancer cell. Results We found that miR-934 was significantly upregulated in pancreatic tumor samples and cell lines. The expression of miR-934 was related to pathological stages. Upregulated miR-934 was associated with poor prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer. Mir-934 inhibition reduced, while overexpression promoted, cell proliferation and migration. Mechanically, we found miR-934 could directly bind to 3'-UTR of PROX1 leading to mRNA derogation. Furthermore, increased cell proliferation and migration caused by miR-934 overexpression could be reversed by forced PROX1 expression. Conclusion miR-934 is an oncogene in pancreatic cancer and could serve as a prognosis indicator for patients with pancreatic cancer, suggesting that miR-934 is a promising therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangbing Jin
- Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.,Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanchi Weng
- Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.,Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Wang
- Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.,Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiewei Lin
- Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.,Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaxing Deng
- Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.,Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Baiyong Shen
- Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.,Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Zhan
- Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.,Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiongxiong Lu
- Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.,Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China
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11
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Homeobox Genes and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11050621. [PMID: 31058850 PMCID: PMC6562709 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11050621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common type of cancer, and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths each year. It involves a multi-step progression and is strongly associated with chronic inflammation induced by the intake of environmental toxins and/or viral infections (i.e., hepatitis B and C viruses). Although several genetic dysregulations are considered to be involved in disease progression, the detailed regulatory mechanisms are not well defined. Homeobox genes that encode transcription factors with homeodomains control cell growth, differentiation, and morphogenesis in embryonic development. Recently, more aberrant expressions of Homeobox genes were found in a wide variety of human cancer, including HCC. In this review, we summarize the currently available evidence related to the role of Homeobox genes in the development of HCC. The objective is to determine the roles of this conserved transcription factor family and its potential use as a therapeutic target in future investigations.
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12
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Yang L, Hou Y, Yuan J, Tang S, Zhang H, Zhu Q, Du YE, Zhou M, Wen S, Xu L, Tang X, Cui X, Liu M. Twist promotes reprogramming of glucose metabolism in breast cancer cells through PI3K/AKT and p53 signaling pathways. Oncotarget 2016; 6:25755-69. [PMID: 26342198 PMCID: PMC4694864 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.4697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Twist, a key regulator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), plays an important role in the development of a tumorigenic phenotype. Energy metabolism reprogramming (EMR), a newly discovered hallmark of cancer cells, potentiates cancer cell proliferation, survival, and invasion. Currently little is known about the effects of Twist on tumor EMR. In this study, we found that glucose consumption and lactate production were increased and mitochondrial mass was decreased in Twist-overexpressing MCF10A mammary epithelial cells compared with vector-expressing MCF10A cells. Moreover, these Twist-induced phenotypic changes were augmented by hypoxia. The expression of some glucose metabolism-related genes such as PKM2, LDHA, and G6PD was also found to be upregulated. Mechanistically, activated β1-integrin/FAK/PI3K/AKT/mTOR and suppressed P53 signaling were responsible for the observed EMR. Knockdown of Twist reversed the effects of Twist on EMR in Twist-overexpressing MCF10A cells and Twist-positive breast cancer cells. Furthermore, blockage of the β1-integrin/FAK/PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway by siRNA or specific chemical inhibitors, or rescue of p53 activation can partially reverse the switch of glucose metabolism and inhibit the migration of Twist-overexpressing MCF10A cells and Twist-positive breast cancer cells. Thus, our data suggest that Twist promotes reprogramming of glucose metabolism in MCF10A-Twist cells and Twist-positive breast cancer cells via activation of the β1-integrin/FAK/PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and inhibition of the p53 pathway. Our study provides new insight into EMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yang
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yixuan Hou
- Experimental Teaching Center of Basic Medicine Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jie Yuan
- Department of Endocrine and Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Shifu Tang
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Hailong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Qing Zhu
- Department of Endocrine and Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yan-e Du
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Mingli Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Siyang Wen
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Liyun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xi Tang
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiaojiang Cui
- Department of Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Manran Liu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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13
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Liu Q, Qiao L, Liang N, Xie J, Zhang J, Deng G, Luo H, Zhang J. The relationship between vasculogenic mimicry and epithelial-mesenchymal transitions. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 20:1761-9. [PMID: 27027258 PMCID: PMC4988285 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is a vascular‐like structure which can mimic the embryonic vascular network pattern to nourish the tumour tissue. As a unique perfusion way, VM is correlated with tumour progression, invasion, metastasis and lower 5‐year survival rate. Notably, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) regulators and EMT‐related transcription factors are highly up‐regulated in VM‐forming tumour cells, which demonstrated that EMT may play a crucial role in VM formation. Therefore, the up‐regulation of EMT‐associated adhesion molecules and other factors can also make a contribution in VM‐forming process. Depending on these discoveries, VM and EMT can be utilized as therapeutic target strategies for anticancer therapy. The purpose of this article is to explore the advance research in the relationship of EMT and VM and their corresponding mechanisms in tumorigenesis effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiqi Liu
- Department of Oncology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Pro, China
| | - Lili Qiao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Qianfoshan Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Pro, China
| | - Ning Liang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Qianfoshan Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Pro, China
| | - Jian Xie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Qianfoshan Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Pro, China
| | - Jingxin Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Qianfoshan Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Pro, China
| | - Guodong Deng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Qianfoshan Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Pro, China
| | - Hui Luo
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong Pro, China
| | - Jiandong Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Qianfoshan Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Pro, China
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14
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Shi C, Xu X. MiR-670-5p induces cell proliferation in hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting PROX1. Biomed Pharmacother 2015; 77:20-6. [PMID: 26796260 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2015.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
MiRNAs, as oncogenes or as anti-oncogenes, play critically regulated roles in human cancers at posttranscriptional level. A number of dysregulated miRNAs has been observed in HCC. However, the expression and function of miR-670-5p have not been evaluated in HCC to date. In this study, we examined and confirmed the over-expression of miR-670-5p in HCC and in hepatoma-derived cells Hep3B. At least 60% of HCC tissues showed a greater than three-fold enhance in the expression of miR-670-5p compared with paired adjacent non-cancerous tissues. Knockdown studies for miR-670-5p showed that the expression of miR-670-5p promoted cellular proliferation. In tissues and cells with high expression of miR-670-5p, decreased expression of PROX1, a miR-670-5p predicated target, was detected. It confirmed that PROX1 expression was obviously affected by the expression of miR-670-5p. Furthermore, overexpression of PROX1 greatly inhibitted cellular proliferation. Therefore, it was inferred that miR-670-5p may play important roles in enhancing proliferation activity that is associated with HCC by modulating PROX1 expression at posttranscriptional level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cailing Shi
- Shandong Jining NO.1 People's Hospital, Jining, PR China
| | - Xudong Xu
- Jining Medical University, Jining, PR China.
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15
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Zhu QQ, Ma C, Wang Q, Song Y, Lv T. The role of TWIST1 in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cancers. Tumour Biol 2015; 37:185-97. [DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-4450-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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16
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Yokobori T, Bao P, Fukuchi M, Altan B, Ozawa D, Rokudai S, Bai T, Kumakura Y, Honjo H, Hara K, Sakai M, Sohda M, Miyazaki T, Ide M, Nishiyama M, Oyama T, Kuwano H. Nuclear PROX1 is Associated with Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1α Expression and Cancer Progression in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2015; 22 Suppl 3:S1566-73. [PMID: 26310281 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-015-4831-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcription factor prospero homeobox 1 (PROX1) has been identified as a master regulator of lymphangiogenesis associated with metastasis. Although PROX1 expression has been investigated in several cancers, its clinical significance remains controversial and needs further validation. In this study, we investigated the clinical and functional significance of PROX1 and PROX1 regulator hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). METHODS A total of 117 samples from ESCC patients were analyzed for PROX1, HIF1α, and E-cadherin expression by immunohistochemistry; correlation with clinicopathological characteristics was determined. PROX1 function was evaluated in PROX1 small interfering RNA (siRNA)-transfected human ESCC cells in vitro by assessing cell proliferation and migration. RESULTS PROX1 expression was higher in ESCC than in normal tissues. Patients with higher PROX1 expression (n = 26) had increased nuclear accumulation of HIF1α (p = 0.004) and more advanced metastasis, both lymph node (N factor; p = 0.09) and hematogenous (M factor; p = 0.04), than those with lower PROX1 expression (n = 91). In addition, high PROX1 and HIF1α expression correlated with low levels of E-cadherin, an epithelial cell marker. Analysis of overall and cancer-specific survival indicated that elevated PROX1 expression was significantly correlated with poor prognosis (p = 0.0064). PROX1 downregulation in ESCC cells inhibited cellular proliferation and migration (p < 0.05). Hypoxia restored PROX1 levels that were reduced by PROX1-specific siRNA. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that high expression of PROX1 in ESCC could be used as an indicator of poor prognosis, and that PROX1 is a promising candidate molecular target for ESCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takehiko Yokobori
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Oncology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan.
| | - Pinjie Bao
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Minoru Fukuchi
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan.
| | - Bolag Altan
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Daigo Ozawa
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Susumu Rokudai
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Oncology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Tuya Bai
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yuji Kumakura
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Honjo
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Keigo Hara
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Makoto Sakai
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Makoto Sohda
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Miyazaki
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Munenori Ide
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Masahiko Nishiyama
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Oncology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Tetsunari Oyama
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kuwano
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
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17
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Zou H, Feng X, Cao JG. Twist in hepatocellular carcinoma: pathophysiology and therapeutics. Hepatol Int 2015; 9:399-405. [DOI: 10.1007/s12072-015-9634-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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18
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Rodrigues MFSD, de Oliveira Rodini C, de Aquino Xavier FC, Paiva KB, Severino P, Moyses RA, López RM, DeCicco R, Rocha LA, Carvalho MB, Tajara EH, Nunes FD. PROX1 gene is differentially expressed in oral cancer and reduces cellular proliferation. Medicine (Baltimore) 2014; 93:e192. [PMID: 25526434 PMCID: PMC4603077 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000000192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Homeobox genes are a family of transcription factors that play a pivotal role in embryogenesis. Prospero homeobox 1 (PROX1) has been shown to function as a tumor suppressor gene or oncogene in various types of cancer, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). We have previously identified PROX1 as a downregulated gene in OSCC. The aim of this study is to clarify the underlying mechanism by which PROX1 regulates tumorigenicity of OSCC cells. PROX1 mRNA and protein expression levels were first investigated in 40 samples of OSCC and in nontumor margins. Methylation and amplification analysis was also performed to assess the epigenetic and genetic mechanisms involved in controlling PROX1 expression. OSCC cell line SCC9 was also transfected to stably express the PROX1 gene. Next, SCC9-PROX1-overexpressing cells and controls were subjected to proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion assays in vitro. OSCC samples showed reduced PROX1 expression levels compared with nontumor margins. PROX1 amplification was associated with better overall survival. PROX1 overexpression reduces cell proliferation and downregulates cyclin D1. PROX1-overexpressing cells also exhibited reduced CK18 and CK19 expression and transcriptionally altered the expression of WISP3, GATA3, NOTCH1, and E2F1. Our results suggest that PROX1 functions as a tumor suppressor gene in oral carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F S D Rodrigues
- From the Department of Estomatology (MFSDR, LAR, FDN), School of Dentistry; Department of Biochemistry (KBP), Chemistry Institute; Department of Head and Neck Surgery (RAM), School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (RML), Public Health; Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology (EHT), Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo; Albert Einstein Research and Education Institute (PS), Albert Einstein Israelita Hospital, Center for Experimental Research; Department of Head and Neck Surgery (RDC), Arnaldo Vieira de Carvalho Cancer Institute; Department of Head and Neck Surgery (MBC), Heliopolis Hospital Complex, São Paulo; Department of Estomatology (FCdAX), School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador; Department of Histology (CdOR), School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru; and Department of Molecular Biology (EHT), School of Medicine, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
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