Aspirin, cyclooxygenase inhibition and colorectal cancer

Acetylsalicylic acid and cancer: updates on the new potential of a nature-inspired drug

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), commonly known as aspirin, is an organic compound with the formula C9H8O4 obtained from the natural compound salicylic acid, recognized for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and anticancer properties. Its role in medicine and plant biology is well-established, but its emerging potential in cancer treatment has garnered increased attention. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic applications of ASA as an anticancer agent, focusing on its mechanisms, effectiveness, and role as an adjuvant therapy, preventive compound, and radioprotective agent. Recent research papers, including mechanistic studies, preclinical investigations, and clinical trials related to the effects of ASA on various cancer types, were reviewed. The review places particular emphasis on the enhancement of traditional chemotherapy drugs by ASA and considers toxicological aspects. The analysis of recent studies highlights the potential of ASA to improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy and its role in cancer inhibition through specific molecular pathways. Mechanistic insights suggest that ASA may influence cellular processes that contribute to cancer growth suppression and increased sensitivity to conventional treatments. ASA exhibits promising potential as an adjunct therapy in cancer treatment, with evidence supporting its benefits in improving therapeutic outcomes when used alongside conventional chemotherapy. Further studies are needed to clarify its mechanisms and ensure its safe and effective application in clinical settings.

Assessment of clot-lysing and membrane-stabilizing capacity of ascorbic acid: In vitro approach with molecular docking

This study aimed to evaluate the clot-lysing and membrane stabilizing capacities of ascorbic acid (AA) using in vitro and in silico methods. For this, we used in vitro clot lysis and hemolyzing tests to check the anti-atherothrombosis and membrane-stabilizing properties of AA, respectively. Additionally, molecular docking studies were performed to investigate AA's interactions with cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and plasminogen enzymes. Findings suggest that AA exhibited a concentration-dependent effect, with 43.95 ± 1.27 % clot lysis and 64.46 ± 0.01 % membrane stabilization at 100 µg/mL. The IC50 values for clot lysis and membrane stabilization were 215.19 ± 1.09 and 57.21 ± 2.11 µg/mL, respectively. In silico analysis showed strong binding affinities of AA with COX-1 (-6.2 kcal/mol) and plasminogen (-5.8 kcal/mol), supporting its observed clot lysis and membrane protection activities. Taken together, AA showed moderate clot-lysing and robust membrane-stabilizing effects, which may be due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. AA might be a good therapeutic agent for atherothrombosis and membrane damage, highlighting the need for further investigation into its underlying molecular mechanisms and potential clinical applications. AA shows promising clot-lysing and membrane-stabilizing effects, highlighting its therapeutic potential for atherothrombosis and membrane damage.

Interaction of microbiota, mucosal malignancies, and immunotherapy-Mechanistic insights

The microbiome has emerged as a crucial modulator of host-immune interactions and clearly impacts tumor development and therapy efficacy. The microbiome is a double-edged sword in cancer development and therapy as both pro-tumorigenic and anti-tumorigenic bacterial taxa have been identified. The staggering number of association-based studies in various tumor types has led to an enormous amount of data that makes it difficult to identify bacteria that promote tumor development or modulate therapy efficacy from bystander bacteria. Here we aim to comprehensively summarize the current knowledge of microbiome-host immunity interactions and cancer therapy in various mucosal tissues to find commonalities and thus identify potential functionally relevant bacterial taxa. Moreover, we also review recent studies identifying specific bacteria and mechanisms through which the microbiome modulates cancer development and therapy efficacy.

Platelet Contributions to the (Pre)metastatic Tumor Microenvironment

Alongside their conventional roles in thrombosis and hemostasis, platelets have long been associated with nonhemostatic pathologies, including tumor cell metastasis. Numerous mechanistic studies have since demonstrated that the direct binding of platelets to intravascular tumor cells promotes key hallmarks of metastasis, including survival in circulation and tumor cell arrest at secondary sites. However, platelets also interact with nonmalignant cells that make up the stromal and immune compartments within both primary and metastatic tumors. This review will first provide a brief historical perspective on platelet contributions to metastatic disease before discussing the emerging roles that platelets play in creating microenvironments that likely support successful tumor cell metastasis.

Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase using aspirin is a novel method to block schistosomiasis infection of the parasitic trematode, Schistosoma mansoni, in the intermediate snail host, Biomphalaria glabrata

Schistosomiasis is a major public health concern worldwide. Although praziquantel is currently available as the only treatment option for schistosomiasis, the absence of reliable diagnostic and prognostic tools highlights the need for the identification and characterization of new drug targets. Recently, we identified the B. glabrata homolog (accession number XP_013075832.1) of human CAXIV, showing 37% amino acid sequence identity, from a BLAST search in NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information). Carbonic Anhydrases (CAs) are metalloenzymes that catalyze the reversible hydration/dehydration of CO2/HCO3. These enzymes are associated with many physiological processes, and their role in tumorigenesis has been widely implicated. CAs create an acidic extracellular environment that facilitates the survival, metastasis, and growth of cancer cells. In this study, we investigated the role of CA inhibition in B. glabrata snails exposed to S. mansoni miracidia. We analyzed the expression of the B. glabrata CA encoding transcript in juvenile susceptible and resistant snails, with and without exposure to S. mansoni. Our results showed that the expression of the CA mRNA encoding transcript was upregulated during early and prolonged infection in susceptible snails (BBO2), but not in the resistant BS-90 stock. Notably, sodium salicylate, a form of aspirin, inhibited the expression of CA, post-exposure, to the parasite. Increasing research between parasites and cancer has shown that schistosomes and cancer cells share similarities in their capacity to proliferate, survive, and evade host immune mechanisms. Here, we show that this model system is a potential new avenue for understanding the role of CA in the metastasis and proliferation of cancer cells. Further studies are needed to explore the potential of CA as a biomarker for infection in other schistosomiasis-causing parasites, including S. japonicum and S. haematobium.

Spotlight on the Expanding Role of miR-647 in Human Cancers

MicroRNAs are a large group of small, non-coding ssRNAs (miRNAs) that have an epigenetically pivotal role in gene expression and other biological processes in cells and can be regarded as capable biomarkers for the early detection and management of cancer. The aim of the present review article is to summarize the evidence for recognizing the molecular mechanism, target genes, and clinical significance of miR-647 in different cancers. Multiple studies have demonstrated that aberrant expression of miR-647 could be found in a variety of malignancies, such as bladder cancer, cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, glioma, hepatocellular carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and prostate cancer have reported, notably, increase or decrease in expression of miR-647 so that it can function as a tumorigenic (oncomiR) or tumor suppressor gene. MiR-647 is effective in the proliferation, migration, and invasion of cancer cells by playing a function in cell cycle pathways. MiR-647 can be a valuable potential biomarker for assessing the extent of cancer, prognosis, and response to therapy and shows great therapeutic efficacy in different solid tumors. Moreover, serum concentrations of miR-647 are directly effective in decreasing overall survival and disease progression. So, an efficient therapeutic target can be the effect on miR-647 expression by antitumor drugs.

A Comprehensive Study on Signal Transduction and Therapeutic Role of miR-877 in Human Cancers

MicroRNAs are a group of short non-coding RNAs (miRNAs), which are epigenetically involved in gene expression and other cellular biological processes and can be considered as potential biomarkers for cancer detection and support for treatment management. This review aims to amass the evidence in order to reach the molecular mechanism and clinical significance of miR-877 in different types of cancer. Dysregulation of miR-877 level in various types of malignancies as bladder cancer, cervical cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, colorectal cancer (CRC), gastric cancer, glioblastoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), hepatocellular carcinoma, laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), oral squamous cell carcinoma, ovarian cancer (OC), pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, and renal cell carcinoma (RCC) have reported, significantly increase or decrease in its level, which can be indicated to its function as oncogene or tumor suppressor. MiR-877 is involved in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through cell cycle pathways in cancer. MiR-877 could be potential a candidate as a valuable biomarker for prognosis in various cancers. Through this study, we proposed that miR-877 can potentially be a candidate as a prognostic marker for early detection of tumor development, progression, as well as metastasis.

Aspirin's effect on kinetic parameters of cells contributes to its role in reducing incidence of advanced colorectal adenomas, shown by a multiscale computational study

Aspirin intake has been shown to lead to significant protection against colorectal cancer, for example with an up to twofold reduction in colorectal adenoma incidence rates at higher doses. The mechanisms contributing to protection are not yet fully understood. While aspirin is an anti-inflammatory drug and can thus influence the tumor microenvironment, in vitro and in vivo experiments have recently shown that aspirin can also have a direct effect on cellular kinetics and fitness. It reduces the rate of tumor cell division and increases the rate of cell death. The question arises whether such changes in cellular fitness are sufficient to significantly contribute to the epidemiologically observed protection. To investigate this, we constructed a class of mathematical models of in vivo evolution of advanced adenomas, parameterized it with available estimates, and calculated population level incidence. Fitting the predictions to age incidence data revealed that only a model that included colonic crypt competition can account for the observed age-incidence curve. This model was then used to predict modified incidence patterns if cellular kinetics were altered as a result of aspirin treatment. We found that changes in cellular fitness that were within the experimentally observed ranges could reduce advanced adenoma incidence by a sufficient amount to account for age incidence data in aspirin-treated patient cohorts. While the mechanisms that contribute to the protective effect of aspirin are likely complex and multi-factorial, our study demonstrates that direct aspirin-induced changes of tumor cell fitness can significantly contribute to epidemiologically observed reduced incidence patterns.

Colorectal Cancer: A Review of Carcinogenesis, Global Epidemiology, Current Challenges, Risk Factors, Preventive and Treatment Strategies

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most deadly cancer. Global incidence and mortality are likely to be increased in the coming decades. Although the deaths associated with CRC are very high in high-income countries, the incidence and fatalities related to CRC are growing in developing countries too. CRC detected early is entirely curable by surgery and subsequent medications. However, the recurrence rate is high, and cancer drug resistance increases the treatment failure rate. Access to early diagnosis and treatment of CRC for survival is somewhat possible in developed countries. However, these facilities are rarely available in developing countries. Highlighting the current status of CRC, its development, risk factors, and management is crucial in creating public awareness. Therefore, in this review, we have comprehensively discussed the current global epidemiology, drug resistance, challenges, risk factors, and preventive and treatment strategies of CRC. Additionally, there is a brief discussion on the CRC development pathways and recommendations for preventing and treating CRC.

The prominent role of miR-942 in carcinogenesis of tumors

As a family of short noncoding RNAs, MicroRNAs have been identified as possible biomarkers for cancer discovery and assist in therapy control due to their epigenetic involvement in gene expression and other cellular biological processes. In the present review, the evidence for reaching the clinical effect and the molecular mechanism of miR-942 in various kinds of cancer is amassed. Dysregulation of miR-942 amounts in different kinds of malignancies, as bladder cancer, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, breast cancer, cervical cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, Kaposi's sarcoma, melanoma, Hepatocellular carcinoma, nonsmall-cell lung cancer, oral squamous cell carcinoma, osteosarcoma, ovarian cancer, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, and prostate cancer has stated a considerable increase or decrease in its level indicating its function as oncogene or tumor suppressor. MiR-942 is included in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through cell cycle pathways, including pathways of transforming growth factor-beta signaling pathways, Wnt pathway, JAK/STAT pathway, PI3K/AKT pathway, apoptosis pathway, hippo signaling pathway, lectin pathway, interferon-gamma signaling, signaling by G-protein coupled receptor, developmental genes, nuclear factor-kappa B pathway, Mesodermal commitment pathway, and T-cell receptor signaling in cancer. An important biomarker, MiR-942 is a potential candidate for prediction in several cancers. The present investigation introduced miR-942 as a prognostic marker for early discovery of tumor progression, metastasis, and development.

Potential anticancer effect of aspirin and 2'-hydroxy-2,3,5'-trimethoxychalcone-linked polymeric micelles against cervical cancer through apoptosis

Although early diagnosis and treatment of cancers in women are achievable through continuous diagnostic tests, cervical cancer (CVC) still has a high mortality rate. In the present study, we investigated whether certain nanoparticles (NPs), comprising aspirin conjugated 2′-hydroxy-2,3,5′-trimethoxychalcone chemicals, could induce the apoptosis of cancer cells. HeLa cells were treated with NPs and the cell viability was evaluated using WST-1 assay. Protein expression of Ki-67 was measured using immunocytochemistry. In addition, the apoptotic effect of NPs was determined using TUNEL assay. To investigate the apoptosis signaling pathways, reverse transcription quantitative PCR was performed and lipid accumulation was observed via holotomographic microscopy. The IC₅₀ value of the NPs was 4.172 µM in HeLa cells. Furthermore, 10 µM NPs significantly inhibited the cell proliferation and stimulated the apoptosis of HeLa cells. In addition, apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction were induced by the NPs through lipid accumulation in HeLa cells, leading to apoptotic signaling cascades. Taken together, the results from the present study demonstrated that the NPs developed promoted apoptosis though efficient lipid accumulation in HeLa cells, suggesting that they may provide a novel way to improve the efficacy of CVC anticancer treatment.

Effects of dietary aspirin on high-LET radiation-induced prostaglandin E2 levels and gastrointestinal tumorigenesis in Apc1638N/+ mice

Inevitable exposure to high-LET ionizing radiation (IR) present in galactic cosmic radiation (GCR) could enhance gastrointestinal (GI) cancer incidence among astronauts undertaking deep space exploration and GI-cancer mortality has been predicted to far exceed NASA's limit of < 3% REID (Radiation exposure-induced death) from cancer. Therefore, the development of countermeasure agents against high-LET radiation-induced GI cancer is needed to safeguard astronauts during and after an outer space mission. The cyclooxygenase-2/prostaglandin E2 (COX2/PGE2) mediated activation of pro-inflammatory and oncogenic signaling has been reported to play an important role in persistent inflammation and GI-tumorigenesis after high-LET radiation exposure. Therefore, aspirin, a well-known inhibitor of the COX/PGE2 pathway, was evaluated as a potential countermeasure against ²⁸Si-induced PGE2 and tumorigenesis in Apc^1638N/+, a murine model of human GI-cancer. Animals were fed either standard or aspirin supplemented diet (75, 150, or 300 mg/day of human equivalent dose) starting at the age of 4 weeks and continued till the end of the study, while mice were exposed to ²⁸Si-ions (300 MeV/n; 69 keV/μm) at the age of 8 weeks. Serum PGE2 level, GI tumor size (>2mm²), number, and cluster (>5 adjoining tumors) were analyzed at 150 days post-exposure. Aspirin led to a significant reduction in PGE2 in a dose-dependent manner but did not reduce ²⁸Si-induced GI tumorigenesis even at the highest (300 mg/day) dose. In summary, this study suggests that aspirin could reduce high-LET IR-induced pro-inflammatory PGE2 levels, however, lacks the ability to reduce high-LET IR-induced GI tumorigenesis in Apc^1638N/+ mice.

The outstanding role of miR-132-3p in carcinogenesis of solid tumors

MicroRNAs are a group of short non-coding RNAs (miRNAs), which are epigenetically involved in gene expression and other cellular biological processes and can be considered as potential biomarkers for cancer detection and support for treatment management. This review aims to amass the evidence to reach the molecular mechanism and clinical significance of miR-132 in different types of cancer. Dysregulation of miR-132 level in various types of malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, osteosarcoma, pancreatic cancer, and ovarian cancer have reported, significantly decrease in its level, which can be indicated to its function as a tumor suppressor. miR-132 is involved in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through cell cycle pathways, such as PI3K, TGFβ or hippo signaling pathways, or on oncogenes such as Ras, AKT, mTOR, glycolysis. miR-132 could be potentially a candidate as a valuable biomarker for prognosis in various cancers. Through this study, we proposed that miR-132 can potentially be a candidate as a prognostic marker for early detection of tumor development, progression, as well as metastasis.

Nano-peroxidase a Promising Anti-inflammatory and Antibacterial Agent Against Bacteria and Inflammation Related to Colorectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common causes of cancer death in the world. Although genes are considered the most importantcauses that contribute to CRC, the intestinal microorganisms are an important player. Recently, various studies ensured the role of microbial infection and the ensuing inflammation in colon cancer initiation and progression. This present study tries to introduce a cheap nano-peroxidase (an antioxidant enzyme) produced from natural sources as efficient and safe antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent against bacteria and inflammation related to colorectal cancer.

METHODS

Silica nanoparticles were prepared from rice straw. Peroxidase extracted from the dry onion scales was then immobilized on the prepared nanosilica (nano-peroxidase). The antibacterial activity of the prepared nano-peroxidase was tested against the four horsemen bacteria in CRC, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Escherichia coli, Bacteroides fragilis, and Salmonella enterica. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of the prepared nano-peroxidase also tests through performing inhibition of albumin denaturation test.

RESULTS

The prepared nano-peroxidase showed high antibacterial activity against the tested bacteria in presence of very low concentration of H2O2. Immobilization increased the peroxidase stability and protected it from hydrolysis enzymes produced by the bacteria. The prepared nano-peroxidase interestingly showed significant higher anti-inflammatory activity than that of the standard (Aspirin).

CONCLUSION

Nano-peroxidase can be considered a promising safe anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent against bacteria and inflammation related to colorectal cancer.

Development of a Web-Based System for Exploring Cancer Risk With Long-term Use of Drugs: Logistic Regression Approach

Background

Existing epidemiological evidence regarding the association between the long-term use of drugs and cancer risk remains controversial.

Objective

We aimed to have a comprehensive view of the cancer risk of the long-term use of drugs.

Methods

A nationwide population-based, nested, case-control study was conducted within the National Health Insurance Research Database sample cohort of 1999 to 2013 in Taiwan. We identified cases in adults aged 20 years and older who were receiving treatment for at least two months before the index date. We randomly selected control patients from the patients without a cancer diagnosis during the 15 years (1999-2013) of the study period. Case and control patients were matched 1:4 based on age, sex, and visit date. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the association between drug exposure and cancer risk by adjusting potential confounders such as drugs and comorbidities.

Results

There were 79,245 cancer cases and 316,980 matched controls included in this study. Of the 45,368 associations, there were 2419, 1302, 662, and 366 associations found statistically significant at a level of P<.05, P<.01, P<.001, and P<.0001, respectively. Benzodiazepine derivatives were associated with an increased risk of brain cancer (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.379, 95% CI 1.138-1.670; P=.001). Statins were associated with a reduced risk of liver cancer (AOR 0.470, 95% CI 0.426-0.517; P<.0001) and gastric cancer (AOR 0.781, 95% CI 0.678-0.900; P<.001). Our web-based system, which collected comprehensive data of associations, contained 2 domains: (1) the drug and cancer association page and (2) the overview page.

Conclusions

Our web-based system provides an overview of comprehensive quantified data of drug-cancer associations. With all the quantified data visualized, the system is expected to facilitate further research on cancer risk and prevention, potentially serving as a stepping-stone to consulting and exploring associations between the long-term use of drugs and cancer risk.

NCTD elicits proapoptotic and antiglycolytic effects on colorectal cancer cells via modulation of Fam46c expression and inhibition of ERK1/2 signaling

Colorectal cancer is a digestive tract malignancy and the third leading cause of cancer‑related mortality worldwide. Norcantharidin (NCTD), the demethylated form of cantharidin, has been reported to possess anticancer properties. Family‑with‑sequence‑similarity‑46c (Fam46c), a non‑canonical poly(A) polymerase, has been reported to be critical in NCTD‑mediated effects in numerous types of cancer, including hepatoma. In the current study, it was found that Fam46c expression was reduced in colorectal cancer tissues and cells. Treatment with NCTD was observed to significantly enhance apoptosis and inhibit glycolysis in colorectal cancer cells. In addition, Fam46c and cleaved caspase 3 expression levels were found to be increased in response to NCTD treatment, in contrast to tumor‑specific pyruvate kinase M2 and phosphorylated ERK expression, which was reduced. Importantly, overexpression of Fam46c exerted similar effects as NCTD treatment on the apoptosis and glycolysis of colorectal cancer cells, whereas Fam46c knockdown strongly attenuated the effect of NCTD. Moreover, epidermal growth factor, which acts as an agonist of ERK1/2 signaling, weakened the effects of NCTD on colorectal cancer cells. Taken together, the results indicated that NCTD promotes apoptosis and suppresses glycolysis in colorectal cancer cells by possibly targeting Fam46c and inhibiting ERK1/2 signaling, hence suggesting that Fam46c may act as a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer. Thus, the present study identified a novel therapeutic target of NCTD in the clinical treatment of colorectal cancer.

Low-Dose Aspirin Use Significantly Improves the Survival of Late-stage NPC: A Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study in Taiwan

Background: Aspirin use has been associated with improved survival rates in various cancers. However, it remains unclear if aspirin confers a survival benefit on patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The aim of this study was to assess the associations between aspirin use and survival in different stages of NPC. Methods: This is a 10-year retrospective cohort study of NPC patients. A total of 565 NPC patients were recruited after we performed a 1:4 propensity score match between aspirin users and non-users. Cox regression models with adjusted covariates were employed to evaluate factors that influence the survival rate of NPC patients. Results: The Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the overall survival (p < 0.0001) and disease-specific survival (p < 0.0001) rates of 180-day aspirin users increased. Increased survival rates were also observed in 180-day aspirin users with Stages III and IV, T, N1 and 2, and N3 categories. Cox regression models indicated that factors, including aspirin use (univariate: HR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.14-0.55, p < 0.001; multivariate: HR = 0.23, 95% CI = 0.12-0.46, p < 0.001), were independent prognostic factors for survival. Conclusions: Aspirin use for more than 180 days is associated with an increased survival rate and is a positive independent prognostic factor in NPC.

Comprehensive analysis of differentially expressed lncRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic markers for colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common type of cancer worldwide. Recent studies had revealed the important roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in a variety of human cancers, including CRC. However, the molecular mechanisms associated with CRC remain largely undetermined. In the current study, the GSE21510 dataset was analyzed to identify differentially expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs in CRC samples. The Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery was used to perform Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway bioinformatics analysis. Furthermore, protein-protein interaction networks were constructed to reveal interactions among differentially expressed proteins. Kaplan-Meier analysis was subsequently performed to determine the association between key lncRNA expression and the overall survival of patients with CRC. A total of 107 upregulated lncRNAs and 43 downregulated lncRNAs were identified in CRC. A lncRNA mediated co-expression network was also constructed in CRC. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that lncRNAs were associated with a series of biological processes, including 'xenobiotic glucuronidation', 'rRNA processing', 'sister chromatid cohesion', 'cell proliferation', 'mitotic nuclear division' and 'cell cycle regulation'. Furthermore, a higher expression of small nucleolar RNA host gene 17, tetratricopeptide repeat domain 2B-antisense RNA (AS) 1, erythrocyte membrane protein band 4.1 like 4A-AS2, deleted in lymphocytic leukemia 2, and a lower expression of muscle blind like splicing regulator 1-AS1 and LOC389332 were associated with shorter overall survival time in CRC samples. The present study provides useful information that can be used in the identification of novel biomarkers for CRC.

Graphene Oxide-Based Suppression of Nonspecificity in Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Enabling the Sensitive Detection of Cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA in Colorectal Cancer

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) mRNA represents a key biomarker for identifying subjects with colorectal cancer (CRC), while there is still no rapid and sensitive detection method for COX2 mRNA. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is extensively developed for the amplification of nucleic acids; however, its application is frequently hindered by serious nonspecific amplification. Herein, this work reported a graphene oxide (GO)-based LAMP method to enable the one-step detection of COX2 mRNA in cancer cells and serum samples. We found that GO greatly enhanced the specificity of LAMP through decreasing nonspecific hybridization and the fluorescence background signal because of the simultaneous adsorption of single-stranded primers and DNA staining dyes on GO. The detection limit of developed GO-based LAMP was 2 orders of magnitude more sensitive compared to that of classical LAMP. Then a GO-based reverse transcription (RT)-LAMP strategy was further developed and applied to detect COX2 mRNA in CRC cancer cells and serum samples with high specificity. The GO-based LAMP platform with advantages of low cost, simplicity, high specificity, and sensitivity holds considerable potential for real-time fluorescence monitoring of nucleic acid amplification in a wide range of fields.

Aspirin and its pleiotropic application

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), the oldest synthetic drug, was originally used as an anti-inflammatory medication. Being an irreversible inhibitor of COX (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase) enzymes that produce precursors for prostaglandins and thromboxanes, it has gradually found several other applications. Sometimes these applications are unrelated to its original purpose for example its use as an anticoagulant. Applications such as these have opened opportunities for new treatments. In this case, it has been tested in patients with cardiovascular disease to reduce the risk of myocardial infarct. Its function as an anticoagulant has also been explored in the prophylaxis and treatment of pre-eclampsia, where due to its anti-inflammatory properties, aspirin intake may be used to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. It is important to always consider both the risks and benefits of aspirin's application. This is especially important for proposed use in the prevention and treatment of neurologic ailments like Alzheimer's disease, or in the prophylaxis of myocardial infarct. In such cases, the decision if aspirin should be applied, and at what dose may be guided by specific molecular markers. In this revived paper, the pleiotropic application of aspirin is summarized.

PD-1 inhibitors dependent CD8+ T cells inhibit mouse colon cancer cell metastasis

Background

Colon cancer is a common digestive tract malignancy which ranks as the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. A current focus of anti-cancer research is harnessing the patient's own immune system for therapy. Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), an immune suppressor, is upregulated in various activated immune cells, such as T cells, and in viral infections and tumors.

Purpose

The objective of this study was to investigate the function of PD-1 inhibitor on the metastasisi of mouse colon cancer cells.

Patients and methods

In the present study, we established an in situ colon cancer mouse model using the CT26 cell line. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was performed to detect colon cancer cell metastasis. The levels of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-12 (IL-12) in serum and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) were detected by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). CD44^high CD62L^low memory T cells, CD4⁺ FoxP3⁺ regulatory T cells, and IFN-γ and TNF-α levels in MLNs and spleen were detected by flow cytometry (FCM).

Results

We found that anti-PD-1 therapy inhibited colon cancer cells metastasis to the small intestine, liver, and lung, and lengthened the survival time of mice. However, the depletion of CD8 suppressed the activity of anti-PD-1 antibodies. In response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy, the levels of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-12 (IL-12) in serum and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) were significantly increased, while IL-6, IL-17, and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were decreased. CD8 depletion had the opposite effect. In addition, anti-PD-1 treatment significantly increased CD44^high CD62L^low memory T cells, decreased CD4⁺ FoxP3⁺ regulatory T cells, and increased IFN-γ and TNF-α levels in MLNs and spleen. Furthermore, anti-PD-1 treatment cannot exert these roles when CD8 is depleted.

Conclusion

These results suggest that PD-1 inhibitors rely on CD8+ T cells to exert anti-tumor immunity in colon cancer.

Are Platelets the Primary Target of Aspirin's Remarkable Anticancer Activity?

Aspirin, when administered at low doses, has emerged as a powerful anticancer drug due to both chemopreventive activity against many forms of cancer and its ability to block metastases when administered postdiagnosis. Platelets, which are often elevated in circulation during the latter stages of cancer, are known to promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer cell growth, survival in circulation, and angiogenesis at sites of metastases. Low-dose aspirin has been demonstrated to block this procarcinogenic action of platelets. In this article, we present evidence that aspirin's unique ability to irreversibly inhibit platelet cyclooxygenase-1 is a key mechanism by which aspirin exerts anticancer activity.

Risk-reducing medications for primary breast cancer: a network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the most frequently occurring malignancy and the second cause of death for cancer in women. Cancer prevention agents (CPAs) are a promising approach to reduce the burden of breast cancer. Currently, two main types of CPAs are available: selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs, such as tamoxifen and raloxifene) and aromatase inhibitors (AIs, such as exemestane and anastrozole).

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and acceptability of single CPAs for the prevention of primary breast cancer, in unaffected women, at an above-average risk of developing breast cancer.Using a network meta-analysis, to rank single CPAs, based on their efficacy and acceptability (an endpoint that is defined as the inverse of CPA-related toxicity).

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Breast Cancer Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, World Health Organization's International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO ICTRP), and ClinicalTrials.gov on 17 August 2018. We handsearched reference lists to identify additional relevant studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that enrolled women without a personal history of breast cancer but with an above-average risk of developing a tumor. Women had to be treated with a CPA and followed up to record the occurrence of breast cancer and adverse events.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently extracted data and conducted risk of bias assessments of the included studies, and assessed the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. Outcome data included incidence of breast carcinoma (both invasive and in situ carcinoma) and adverse events (both overall and severe toxicity). We performed a conventional meta-analysis (for direct comparisons of a single CPA with placebo or a different CPA) and network meta-analysis (for indirect comparisons).

MAIN RESULTS

We included six studies enrolling 50,927 women randomized to receive one CPA (SERMs: tamoxifen or raloxifene, or AIs: exemestane or anastrozole) or placebo. Three studies compared tamoxifen and placebo, two studies compared AIs (exemestane or anastrozole) versus placebo, and one study compared tamoxifen versus raloxifene. The risk of bias was low for all RCTs.For the tamoxifen versus placebo comparison, tamoxifen likely resulted in a lower risk of developing breast cancer compared to placebo (risk ratio (RR) 0.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.62 to 0.76; 3 studies, 22,832 women; moderate-certainty evidence). In terms of adverse events, tamoxifen likely increased the risk of severe toxicity compared to placebo (RR 1.28, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.47; 2 studies, 20,361 women; moderate-certainty evidence). In particular, women randomized to receive tamoxifen experienced a higher incidence of both endometrial carcinoma (RR 2.26, 95% CI 1.52 to 3.38; high-certainty evidence) and thromboembolism (RR 2.10, 95% CI 1.14 to 3.89; high-certainty evidence) compared to women who received placebo.For the AIs versus placebo comparison, AIs (exemestane or anastrozole) reduced the risk of breast cancer by 53% (RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.63; 2 studies, 8424 women; high-certainty evidence). In terms of adverse events, AIs increased the risk of severe toxicity by 18% (RR 1.18, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.28; 2 studies, 8352 women; high-certainty evidence). These differences were sustained especially by endocrine (e.g. hot flashes), gastrointestinal (e.g. diarrhea), and musculoskeletal (e.g. arthralgia) adverse events, while there were no differences in endometrial cancer or thromboembolism rates between AIs and placebo.For the tamoxifen versus raloxifene comparison, raloxifene probably performed worse than tamoxifen in terms of breast cancer incidence reduction (RR 1.25, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.43; 1 study, 19,490 women; moderate-certainty evidence), but its use was associated with lower toxicity rates (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.80 to 0.95; 1 study, 19,490 women; moderate-certainty evidence), particularly relating to incidence of endometrial cancer and thromboembolism.An indirect comparison of treatment effects allowed us to compare the SERMs and AIs in this review. In terms of efficacy, AIs (exemestane or anastrozole) may have reduced breast cancer incidence slightly compared to tamoxifen (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.98; 5 RCTs, 31,256 women); however, the certainty of evidence was low. A lack of model convergence did not allow us to analyze toxicity data.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

For women with an above-average risk of developing breast cancer, CPAs can reduce the incidence of this disease. AIs appear to be more effective than SERMs (tamoxifen) in reducing the risk of developing breast cancer. AIs are not associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer and thromboembolic events. However, long-term data on toxicities from tamoxifen are available while the follow-up toxicity data on unaffected women taking AIs is relatively short. Additional data from direct comparisons are needed to fully address the issues of breast cancer prevention by risk-reducing medications, with special regards to acceptability (i.e. the benefit/harm ratio).

Comprehensive analysis of microarray expression profiles of circRNAs and lncRNAs with associated co-expression networks in human colorectal cancer

Increasing data demonstrate that circular RNAs (circRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in tumorigenesis. However, the mechanisms in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain unclear. Here, hundreds of significantly expressed circRNAs, and thousands of lncRNAs as well as mRNAs were identified. By qRT-PCR, one abnormal circRNA, lncRNA, and three mRNAs were verified in 24 pairs of tissues and blood samples, respectively. Then, by GO analysis, we found that the gene expression profile of linear counterparts of upregulated circRNAs in human CRC tissues preferred positive regulation of GTPase activity, cellular protein metabolic process, and protein binding, while that of downregulated circRNAs of CRC preferred positive regulation of cellular metabolic process, acetyl-CoA metabolic process, and protein kinase C activity. Moreover, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis showed that p53 signaling pathway was an important pathway in upregulated protein-coding genes, whereas cyclic guanosine monophosphate-protein kinase G (cGMP-PKG) signaling pathway was the top enriched KEGG pathway for downregulated transcripts. Furthermore, lncRNA-mRNA co-expression analysis demonstrated that downregulated lncRNA uc001tma.3 was negatively with CDC45 and positively with ELOVL4, BVES, FLNA, and HSPB8, while upregulated lncRNA NR_110882 was positively with FZD2. In addition, lncRNA-transcription factor (TF) co-expression analysis showed that the most relevant TFs were forkhead box protein A1 (FOXA1), transcription initiation factor TFIID submint 7 (TAF7), and adenovirus early region 1A(E1A)-associated protein p300 (EP300). Our findings offer a fresh view on circRNAs and lncRNAs and provide the foundation for further study on the potential roles of circRNAs and lncRNAs in colorectal cancer.

Relationship between polymorphisms of the lipid metabolism-related gene PLA2G16 and risk of colorectal cancer in the Chinese population

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between polymorphisms in the lipid metabolism-related gene PLA2G16 encoding Group XVI phospholipase A2 and the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in the Chinese population. A total of 185 patients with CRC and 313 healthy controls were enrolled. Thirteen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of PLA2G16 were genotyped with SNPscan™. Linkage disequilibrium and haplotypes were analysed using Haploview software. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the association between the various genotypes and CRC risk. We identified five PLA2G16 SNPs (rs11600655, rs3809072, rs3809073, rs640908 and rs66475048) that were associated with CRC risk after adjusting for age, sex and body mass index. Two haplotypes (CTC and GGA) of rs11600655, rs3809073 and rs3809072, were relevant to CRC risk. The rs11600655 polymorphism was also associated with lymph node metastasis and CRC staging, while rs3809073 and rs3809072 may affect transcriptional regulation of PLA2G16 by altering transcription factor binding. These findings suggest that PLA2G16 polymorphisms-especially CTC and GGA haplotypes-increase CRC susceptibility. Importantly, we showed that the rs11600655 CC, rs640908 CT and rs66475048 GA genotypes are independent risk factors for CRC in the Chinese population.

The colorectal cancer epidemic: challenges and opportunities for primary, secondary and tertiary prevention

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is both one of the most common and one of the most preventable cancers globally, with powerful but strongly missed potential for primary, secondary and tertiary prevention. CRC incidence has traditionally been the highest in affluent Western countries, but it is now increasing rapidly with economic development in many other parts of the world. CRC shares several main risk factors, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and being overweight, with other common diseases; therefore, primary prevention efforts to reduce these risk factors are expected to have multiple beneficial effects that extend beyond CRC prevention, and should have high public health impact. A sizeable reduction in the incidence and mortality of CRC can also be achieved by offering effective screening tests, such as faecal immunochemical tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy, in organised screening programmes which have been implemented in an increasing number of countries. Countries with early and high uptake rates of effective screening have exhibited major declines in CRC incidence and mortality, in contrast to most other countries. Finally, increasing evidence shows that the prognosis and quality of life of CRC patients can be substantially improved by tertiary prevention measures, such as the administration of low-dose aspirin and the promotion of physical activity.

Novel hybrids derived from aspirin and chalcones potently suppress colorectal cancer in vitro and in vivo

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths around the world despite the availability of many approved small molecules for treatment. The issues lie in the potency, selectivity and targeting of these compounds. Therefore, new strategies and targets are needed to optimize and develop novel treatments for CRC. Here, a group of novel hybrids derived from aspirin and chalcones were designed and synthesized based on recent reports of their individual benefits to CRC targeting and selectivity. The most active compound 7h inhibited proliferation of CRC cell lines with better potency compared to 5-fluorouracil, a currently used therapeutic agent for CRC. Importantly, 7h had 8-fold less inhibitory activity against non-cancer CCD841 cells. In addition, 7h inhibited CRC growth via the inhibition of the cell cycle in the G1 phase. Furthermore, 7h induced apoptosis by activating caspase 3 and PARP cleavage, as well as increasing ROS in CRC cells. Finally, 7h significantly retarded the CRC cell growth in a mouse xenograft model. These findings suggest that 7h may have potential to treat CRC.

Disruption of Chromosomal Architecture of cox2 Locus Sensitizes Lung Cancer Cells to Radiotherapy

Despite treatment of lung cancer with radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the survival rate of lung cancer patients remains poor. Previous studies demonstrated the importance of upregulation of inflammatory factors, such as cyclooxygenase 2 (cox2), in tumor tolerance. In the present study, we investigated the role of cox2 in radiosensitivity of lung cancer. Our results showed that the combination treatment of radiation with aspirin, an anti-inflammatory drug, induced a synergistic reduction of cell survival in A549 and H1299 lung cancer cells. In comparison with normal human lung fibroblasts (NHLFs), the cell viability was significantly decreased and the level of apoptosis was remarkably enhanced in A549 cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that the reduction of cox2 by aspirin in A549 and H1299 was caused by disruption of the chromosomal architecture of the cox2 locus. Moreover, the disruption of chromatin looping was mediated by the inhibition of nuclear translocation of p65 and decreased enrichment of p65 at cox2-regulatory elements. Importantly, disorganization of the chromosomal architecture of cox2 triggered A549 cells sensitive to γ-radiation by the induction of apoptosis. In conclusion, we present evidence of an effective therapeutic treatment targeting the epigenetic regulation of lung cancer and a potential strategy to overcome radiation resistance in cancer cells.

Novel cinnamaldehyde-based aspirin derivatives for the treatment of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Current treatments of CRC involve anti-cancer agents with relatively good efficacy but unselectively target both cancer and non-cancer cells. Thus, there is a need to discover and develop novel CRC therapeutics that have potent anti-cancer effects, but show reduced off-target cell effects. Here, a novel series of cinnamaldehyde-based aspirin derivatives were designed and synthesized. Biological evaluation indicated that the most active compound 1f exhibited more than 10-fold increase in the anti-proliferation efficacy in HCT-8 cells compared to the parent compounds. Its effects were similarly reproduced in another CRC cell line, DLD-1, but with 7- to 11-fold less inhibitory activity in non-tumorigenic colon cells. Flow cytometry analysis showed that 1f induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, which was further validated with immunoblot analysis of the relative protein levels of cleaved caspase 3 and PARP as well as the ROS production in CRC cells. More so, 1f significantly inhibited the growth of implanted CRC in vivo in mouse xenograft model. Taken together, our results show that cinnamaldehyde-based aspirin derivatives such as 1f show promise as novel anti-CRC agent for further pharmaceutical development.

Platelet Metabolism and Other Targeted Drugs; Potential Impact on Immunotherapy

The role of platelets in cancer progression has been well recognized in the field of cancer biology. Emerging studies are elaborating further the additional roles and added extent that platelets play in promoting tumorigenesis. Platelets release factors that support tumor growth and also form heterotypic aggregates with tumor cells, which can provide an immune-evasive advantage. Their most critical role may be the inhibition of immune cell function that can negatively impact the body’s ability in preventing tumor establishment and growth. This review summarizes the importance of platelets in tumor progression, therapeutic response, survival, and finally the notion of immunotherapy modulation being likely to benefit from the inclusion of platelet inhibitors.

Cancer and platelet crosstalk: opportunities and challenges for aspirin and other antiplatelet agents

Platelets have long been recognized as key players in hemostasis and thrombosis; however, growing evidence suggests that they are also significantly involved in cancer, the second leading cause of mortality worldwide. Preclinical and clinical studies showed that tumorigenesis and metastasis can be promoted by platelets through a wide variety of crosstalk between platelets and cancer cells. For example, cancer changes platelet behavior by directly inducing tumor-platelet aggregates, triggering platelet granule and extracellular vesicle release, altering platelet phenotype and platelet RNA profiles, and enhancing thrombopoiesis. Reciprocally, platelets reinforce tumor growth with proliferation signals, antiapoptotic effect, and angiogenic factors. Platelets also activate tumor invasion and sustain metastasis via inducing an invasive epithelial-mesenchymal transition phenotype of tumor cells, promoting tumor survival in circulation, tumor arrest at the endothelium, and extravasation. Furthermore, platelets assist tumors in evading immune destruction. Hence, cancer cells and platelets maintain a complex, bidirectional communication. Recently, aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) has been recognized as a promising cancer-preventive agent. It is recommended at daily low dose by the US Preventive Services Task Force for primary prevention of colorectal cancer. The exact mechanisms of action of aspirin in chemoprevention are not very clear, but evidence has emerged that suggests a platelet-mediated effect. In this article, we will introduce how cancer changes platelets to be more cancer-friendly and highlight advances in the modes of action for aspirin in cancer prevention. We also discuss the opportunities, challenges, and opposing viewpoints on applying aspirin and other antiplatelet agents for cancer prevention and treatment.

The BRAF activated non-coding RNA: A pivotal long non-coding RNA in human malignancies

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in the complex network of cancer and play an important role in tumourigenesis and progression. BRAF activated non-coding RNA (BANCR), a 4-exon transcript of 693-bp, was first discovered as an oncogenic long non-coding RNA in BRAF^V600E melanomas cells in 2012 and was related to melanoma cell migration. Besides melanoma, increasing evidence has explored the potential role of BANCR in the development and progression of multiple other human malignancies, such as retinoblastoma, lung cancer, gastric cancer etc. since its discovery. The expression pattern of BANCR varies in different types of cancers, either as a tumour suppressor or as an accelerator. Functional BANCR may serve as a promising biomarker for cancer diagnosis as well as prognosis evaluation. BANCR-targeted intervention may also become a valuable novel therapeutic tool against human malignancies. This review summarized the advanced research progresses concerning the expression and role of BANCR in different human malignancies.

Salicylic acid metabolites and derivatives inhibit CDK activity: Novel insights into aspirin's chemopreventive effects against colorectal cancer

Aspirin's potential as a drug continues to be evaluated for the prevention of colorectal cancer (CRC). Although multiple targets for aspirin and its metabolite, salicylic acid, have been identified, no unifying mechanism has been proposed to clearly explain its chemopreventive effects. Our goal here was to investigate the ability of salicylic acid metabolites, known to be generated through cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes, and its derivatives as cyclin dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors to gain new insights into aspirin's chemopreventive actions. Using in vitro kinase assays, for the first time, we demonstrate that salicylic acid metabolites, 2,3-dihydroxy-benzoic acid (2,3-DHBA) and 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,5-DHBA), as well as derivatives 2,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,4-DHBA), 2,6-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,6-DHBA), inhibited CDK1 enzyme activity. 2,3-DHBA and 2,6-DHBA did not inhibit CDK2 and 4; however, both inhibited CDK-6 activity. Interestingly, another derivative, 2,4,6-trihydroxybenzoic acid (2,4,6-THBA) was highly effective in inhibiting CDK1, 2, 4 and 6 activity. Molecular docking studies showed that these compounds potentially interact with CDK1. Immunoblotting experiments showed that aspirin acetylated CDK1, and pre-incubation with salicylic acid and its derivatives prevented aspirin-mediated CDK1 acetylation, which supported the data obtained from molecular docking studies. We suggest that intracellularly generated salicylic acid metabolites through CYP450 enzymes within the colonic epithelial cells, or the salicylic acid metabolites generated by gut microflora may significantly contribute to the preferential chemopreventive effect of aspirin against CRC through inhibition of CDKs. This novel hypothesis and mechanism of action in aspirin's chemopreventive effects opens a new area for future research. In addition, structural modification to salicylic acid derivatives may prove useful in the development of novel CDK inhibitors in cancer prevention and treatment.

Hypoxia-inducible factor 2α (HIF-2α) promotes colon cancer growth by potentiating Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) activity

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third-leading cause of cancer mortality in the United States and other industrialized countries. A hypoxic microenvironment is a hallmark for solid tumors. The hypoxia-induced signal transduction is transcriptionally mediated by hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF). Three major HIF isoforms, HIF-1α, HIF-2α, and HIF-3α, are present in the intestine. Our previous work demonstrates that HIF-2α is essential for CRC growth and progression. However, the mechanisms mediating cell proliferation after hypoxia or HIF-2α activation in CRC are unclear. Data mining of RNA-Seq experiments with mouse models of intestinal HIF-2α or Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) overexpression indicates a significant overlap of genes in these conditions. YAP1 is a transcriptional co-activator in the Hippo signaling pathway, and YAP1-induced transcriptional responses are essential in cancer cell proliferation. Here, we report that HIF-2α robustly increases YAP1 expression and activity in CRC-derived cell lines and in mouse models. The potentiation of YAP1 activity by HIF-2α was not via canonical signaling mechanisms such as Src (non-receptor tyrosine kinase), PI3K, ERK, or MAPK pathways. Moreover, we detected no direct interaction of HIF-2α with YAP1. Of note, YAP1 activation was critical for cancer cell growth under hypoxia. Our findings indicate that HIF-2α increases cancer cell growth by up-regulating YAP1 activity, suggesting that this pathway might be targeted in potential anti-cancer approaches for treating CRC patients.

Lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) reverses the amyloid state of fibrin seen in plasma of type 2 diabetics with cardiovascular co-morbidities

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) has many cardiovascular complications, including a thrombotic propensity. Many such chronic, inflammatory diseases are accompanied (and may be exacerbated, and possibly even largely caused) by amyloid fibril formation. Recognising that there are few strong genetic associations underpinning T2D, but that amyloidogenesis of amylin is closely involved, we have been seeking to understand what might trigger the disease. Serum levels of bacterial lipopolysaccharide are raised in T2D, and we recently showed that fibrin(ogen) polymerisation during blood clotting can be affected strongly by LPS. The selectivity was indicated by the regularisation of clotting by lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP). Since coagulopathies are a hallmark of T2D, we wondered whether they might too be caused by LPS (and reversed by LBP). We show here, using SEM and confocal microscopy, that platelet-poor-plasma from subjects with T2D had a much greater propensity for hypercoagulability and for amyloidogenesis, and that these could both be reversed by LBP. These data imply that coagulopathies are an important feature of T2D, and may be driven by ‘hidden’ LPS. Given the prevalence of amyloid formation in the sequelae of diabetes, this opens up novel strategies for both the prevention and treatment of T2D.

miR-34a mediates oxaliplatin resistance of colorectal cancer cells by inhibiting macroautophagy via transforming growth factor-β/Smad4 pathway

AIM

To investigate whether microRNA (miR)-34a mediates oxaliplatin (OXA) resistance of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells by inhibiting macroautophagy via the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/Smad4 pathway.

METHODS

miR-34a expression levels were detected in CRC tissues and CRC cell lines by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Computational search, functional luciferase assay and western blotting were used to demonstrate the downstream target of miR-34a in CRC cells. Cell viability was measured with Cell Counting Kit-8. Apoptosis and macroautophagy of CRC cells were analyzed by flow cytometry and transmission electron microscopy, and expression of beclin I and LC3-II was detected by western blotting.

RESULTS

Expression of miR-34a was significantly reduced while expression of TGF-β and Smad4 was increased in CRC patients treated with OXA-based chemotherapy. OXA treatment also resulted in decreased miR-34a levels and increased TGF-β and Smad4 levels in both parental cells and the OXA-resistant CRC cells. Activation of macroautophagy contributed to OXA resistance in CRC cells. Expression levels of Smad4 and miR-34a in CRC patients had a significant inverse correlation and overexpressing miR-34a inhibited macroautophagy activation by directly targeting Smad4 through the TGF-β/Smad4 pathway. OXA-induced downregulation of miR-34a and increased drug resistance by activating macroautophagy in CRC cells.

CONCLUSION

miR-34a mediates OXA resistance of CRC by inhibiting macroautophagy via the TGF-β/Smad4 pathway.

Pharmacological assessment of ibuprofen arginate on platelet aggregation and colon cancer cell killing

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen, are amongst the most commonly used medications and produce their anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX)-2. These drugs also have the potential to prevent and treat cancer and some members of the class including ibuprofen can produce anti-platelet effects. Despite their utility, all NSAIDs are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular side effects which our recent work suggests could be mediated by increased levels of the endogenous NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) leading to reduced endothelial NOS activity and associated endothelial cell dysfunction. ADMA is a cardiotoxic hormone and biomarker of cardiovascular risk whose effects can be prevented by l-arginine. The ibuprofen salt, ibuprofen arginate (Spididol^®) was created to increase drug solubility but we have previously established that it not only effectively blocks COX-2 but also provides an arginine source able to reverse the effects of ADMA in vitro and in vivo. Here we have gone on to explore whether the formulation of ibuprofen with arginine influences the potency and efficacy of the parent molecule using a range of simple in vitro assays designed to test the effects of NSAIDs on (i) platelet aggregation and (iii) colon cancer cell killing. Our findings demonstrate that ibuprofen arginate retains these key functional effects of NSAIDs with similar or increased potency compared to ibuprofen sodium, further illustrating the potential of ibuprofen arginate as an efficacious drug with the possibility of improved cardiovascular safety.

Aspirin for cancer is no mere antiplatelet prototype. There is potential in its ancient roots

Aspirin (ASA), increasingly accepted as predominantly a cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 inhibitor, is a prodrug for salicylic acid (SA) which has no such activity. SA is widespread in nature, vital in plants, and present in drug free serum from animals and man. Evolutionary conserved SA receptors are found in human tissues. Very low doses of ASA will, on repeat dosing, produce near maximal platelet COX-1 inhibition. Evidence for cancer prophylaxis is based on ASA doses of at least 75mg/day. Pleiotropic mechanisms underlie low dose ASA's undoubted efficacy in preventive medicine but the key barrier to its more widespread use is gastrointestinal toxicity. ASA/SA combination formulations may improve the current risk/benefit ratio of chemo-prophylactic preparations. There is well established methodology for, and should be few regulatory barriers to, their evaluation.

Preventing aggressive prostate cancer with proven cardiovascular disease preventive methods

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been the number one cause of death in the U.S. for 114 of the last 115 years. Risk factors for prostate cancer have primarily mirrored risk proven risk factors for CVD, especially aggressive disease. Obesity, dyslipidemia, glucose intolerance, metabolic syndrome, unhealthy dietary habits or caloric excess, lack of physical activity, and inflammation are just some of these shared risk factors. The evidence also suggests proven CVD preventive measures are identical to prostate cancer preventive measures, especially in regard to aggressive disease. Thus, apart from lifestyle measures that can encourage optimal heart and prostate health there are potentially several dietary supplements that need to be avoided in healthy men because they may also increase the risk of prostate cancer. However, there are also several low-cost, generic, safe in the appropriate individuals, and naturally derived agents that could reduce prostate cancer risk, and these can be discussed and remembered utilizing the acronym S.A.M. (statins, aspirin, and/or metformin).

Long noncoding RNA expression profile analysis of colorectal cancer and metastatic lymph node based on microarray data

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as an important part of biological progress in cancers, yet the aberrant lncRNAs implicated in colorectal cancer (CRC) with lymph node metastasis remain unknown. In this study, a total of 390 lncRNA transcripts and 508 mRNA transcripts were dysregulated in tumor tissues compared with paired metastatic lymph nodes. Functional prediction showed that lots of lncRNAs might be involved in biological pathways related to CRC metastasis by cis-regulation and trans-regulation of coexpressed genes. As a representative, ENST00000430471 was associated with cell proliferation and invasion of CRC cells. These results provided support for further investigations of the metastatic pathogenesis of CRC.

The epigenetic effects of aspirin: the modification of histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation in the prevention of colon carcinogenesis in azoxymethane- and dextran sulfate sodium-treated CF-1 mice

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. Chronic inflammation appears to enhance the risk of CRC. Emerging evidence has suggested that epigenetic mechanisms play an important role in CRC. Aspirin [acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)] has been shown to prevent CRC; however, the epigenetic mechanisms of its action remain unknown. This study investigated the protective role of ASA in azoxymethane (AOM)-initiated and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-promoted colitis-associated colon cancer (CAC) and examined the epigenetic effects, particularly on histone 3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac), underlying the preventive effect of ASA. CF-1 mice were fed with AIN-93M diet with or without 0.02% ASA from 1 week prior to AOM initiation until the mice were killed 20 weeks after AOM injection. Our results showed that AOM/DSS + ASA significantly suppressed inflammatory colitis symptoms and tumor multiplicity. AOM/DSS + ASA reduced AOM/DSS-induced protein expression and the activity of histone deacetylases (HDACs) and globally restored H3K27ac. Furthermore, AOM/DSS + ASA inhibited AOM/DSS-induced enrichment of H3K27ac in the promoters of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) that corresponded to the dramatic suppression of the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels. Surprisingly, no significant changes in the H3K27ac abundance in the prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (Cox-2) promoters or in the Cox-2 mRNA and protein expression were observed. Collectively, our results suggest that a potential novel epigenetic mechanism underlies the chemopreventive effects of ASA, and this mechanism attenuates CAC in AOM/DSS-induced CF-1 mice via the inhibition of HDACs and the modification of H3K27ac marks that suppress iNOS, TNF-α and IL-6.

Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel Selenium (Se-NSAID) Molecules as Anticancer Agents

The synthesis and anticancer evaluation of novel selenium-nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (Se-NSAID) hybrid molecules are reported. The Se-aspirin analogue 8 was identified as the most effective agent in reducing the viability of different cancer cell lines, particularly colorectal cancer (CRC) cells, was more selective toward cancer cells than normal cells, and was >10 times more potent than 5-FU, the current therapy for CRC. Compound 8 inhibits CRC growth via the inhibition of the cell cycle in G1 and G2/M phases and reduces the cell cycle markers like cyclin E1 and B1 in a dose dependent manner; the inhibition of the cell cycle may be dependent on the ability of 8 to induce p21 expression. Furthermore, 8 induces apoptosis by activating caspase 3/7 and PARP cleavage, and its longer exposure causes increase in intracellular ROS levels in CRC cells. Taken together, 8 has the potential to be developed further as a chemotherapeutic agent for CRC.

Decreased sensitivity to aspirin is associated with altered polyamine metabolism in human prostate cancer cells

Aspirin is a well-known analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drug and is recognised as a chemopreventative agent in cardiovascular disease and, more recently, in colorectal cancer. Although several studies indicate that aspirin is capable of reducing the risk of developing cancers, there is a lack of convincing evidence that aspirin can prevent prostate cancer in man. In this study, aspirin was shown to be an effective inhibitor of the growth of human prostate cancer cells. In order to investigate the link between polyamine catabolism and the effects of aspirin we used a “Tet off” system that induced the activity of spermidine/spermine N¹-acetyltransferase (SSAT) in human prostate cancer cells (LNCap). Treatment with aspirin was found to decrease induced SSAT activity in these cells. A negative correlation was observed between increased polyamine catabolism via increased SSAT activity and the sensitivity to aspirin. In the presence of increased SSAT activity high amounts of N¹-acetylspermidine and putrescine were observed. These cells were also found to grow more slowly than the non-induced cells. The results indicate that SSAT and its related polyamine metabolism may play a key role in sensitivity of cancer cells to aspirin and possibly other NSAIDs and this may have implications for the development of novel chemopreventative agents.