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Heindryckx F, Sjöblom M. Endoplasmic reticulum stress in the pathogenesis of chemotherapy-induced mucositis: Physiological mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024:e14188. [PMID: 38874396 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Chemotherapy is a common and effective treatment for cancer, but these drugs are also associated with significant side effects affecting patients' well-being. One such debilitating side effect is mucositis, characterized by inflammation, ulcerations, and altered physiological functions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract's mucosal lining. Understanding the mechanisms of chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucositis (CIM) is crucial for developing effective preventive measures and supportive care. Chemotherapeutics not only target cancer cells but also rapidly dividing cells in the GI tract. These drugs disrupt endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis, leading to ER-stress and activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) in various intestinal epithelial cell types. The UPR triggers signaling pathways that exacerbate tissue inflammation and damage, influence the differentiation and fate of intestinal epithelial cells, and compromise the integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier. These factors contribute significantly to mucositis development and progression. In this review, we aim to give an in-depth overview of the role of ER-stress in mucositis and its impact on GI function. This will provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms and highlighting potential therapeutic interventions that could improve treatment-outcomes and the quality of life of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Heindryckx
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Markus Sjöblom
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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2
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Jiang D, Guo Y, Wang T, Wang L, Yan Y, Xia L, Bam R, Yang Z, Lee H, Iwawaki T, Gan B, Koong AC. IRE1α determines ferroptosis sensitivity through regulation of glutathione synthesis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4114. [PMID: 38750057 PMCID: PMC11096184 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48330-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular sensitivity to ferroptosis is primarily regulated by mechanisms mediating lipid hydroperoxide detoxification. We show that inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1α), an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) resident protein critical for the unfolded protein response (UPR), also determines cellular sensitivity to ferroptosis. Cancer and normal cells depleted of IRE1α gain resistance to ferroptosis, while enhanced IRE1α expression promotes sensitivity to ferroptosis. Mechanistically, IRE1α's endoribonuclease activity cleaves and down-regulates the mRNA of key glutathione biosynthesis regulators glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) and solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11). This activity of IRE1α is independent of its role in regulating the UPR and is evolutionarily conserved. Genetic deficiency and pharmacological inhibition of IRE1α have similar effects in inhibiting ferroptosis and reducing renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in mice. Our findings reveal a previously unidentified role of IRE1α to regulate ferroptosis and suggests inhibition of IRE1α as a promising therapeutic strategy to mitigate ferroptosis-associated pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dadi Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Youming Guo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tianyu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yuelong Yan
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ling Xia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rakesh Bam
- Division of Radiation and Cancer Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Zhifen Yang
- Division of Radiation and Cancer Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Hyemin Lee
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Takao Iwawaki
- Division of Cell Medicine, Department of Life Science, Medical Research Institute, Kanazawa Medical University, Uchinada, Japan
| | - Boyi Gan
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Albert C Koong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA.
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3
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Hazari Y, Chevet E, Bailly-Maitre B, Hetz C. ER stress signaling at the interphase between MASH and HCC. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00844. [PMID: 38626349 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
HCC is the most frequent primary liver cancer with an extremely poor prognosis and often develops on preset of chronic liver diseases. Major risk factors for HCC include metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, a complex multifactorial condition associated with abnormal endoplasmic reticulum (ER) proteostasis. To cope with ER stress, the unfolded protein response engages adaptive reactions to restore the secretory capacity of the cell. Recent advances revealed that ER stress signaling plays a critical role in HCC progression. Here, we propose that chronic ER stress is a common transversal factor contributing to the transition from liver disease (risk factor) to HCC. Interventional strategies to target the unfolded protein response in HCC, such as cancer therapy, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younis Hazari
- Program of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Neuroscience Institute (BNI), University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Center for Geroscience, Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Eric Chevet
- Inserm U1242, University of Rennes, Rennes, France
- Centre de Lutte Contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, Rennes, France
| | - Béatrice Bailly-Maitre
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) UMR1065, Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire (C3M), 06204 Nice, France Team "Metainflammation and Hematometabolism", Metabolism Department, France
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, U1065, C3M, 06200 Nice, France
| | - Claudio Hetz
- Program of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Neuroscience Institute (BNI), University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Center for Geroscience, Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, California, USA
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4
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Yuan S, She D, Jiang S, Deng N, Peng J, Ma L. Endoplasmic reticulum stress and therapeutic strategies in metabolic, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Mol Med 2024; 30:40. [PMID: 38509524 PMCID: PMC10956371 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00808-9] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), due to genetic determinants and extrinsic environmental factors, leads to endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress). As ER stress ensues, the unfolded protein response (UPR), comprising three signaling pathways-inositol-requiring enzyme 1, protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase, and activating transcription factor 6 promptly activates to enhance the ER's protein-folding capacity and restore ER homeostasis. However, prolonged ER stress levels propels the UPR towards cellular demise and the subsequent inflammatory cascade, contributing to the development of human diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and diabetes. Notably, increased expression of all three UPR signaling pathways has been observed in these pathologies, and reduction in signaling molecule expression correlates with decreased proliferation of disease-associated target cells. Consequently, therapeutic strategies targeting ER stress-related interventions have attracted significant research interest. In this review, we elucidate the critical role of ER stress in cancer, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases, offering novel therapeutic approaches for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Yuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan She
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Shangming Jiang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Nan Deng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiayi Peng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China.
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5
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Khan SU, Fatima K, Aisha S, Malik F. Unveiling the mechanisms and challenges of cancer drug resistance. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:109. [PMID: 38347575 PMCID: PMC10860306 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01302-1] [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: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer treatment faces many hurdles and resistance is one among them. Anti-cancer treatment strategies are evolving due to innate and acquired resistance capacity, governed by genetic, epigenetic, proteomic, metabolic, or microenvironmental cues that ultimately enable selected cancer cells to survive and progress under unfavorable conditions. Although the mechanism of drug resistance is being widely studied to generate new target-based drugs with better potency than existing ones. However, due to the broader flexibility in acquired drug resistance, advanced therapeutic options with better efficacy need to be explored. Combination therapy is an alternative with a better success rate though the risk of amplified side effects is commonplace. Moreover, recent groundbreaking precision immune therapy is one of the ways to overcome drug resistance and has revolutionized anticancer therapy to a greater extent with the only limitation of being individual-specific and needs further attention. This review will focus on the challenges and strategies opted by cancer cells to withstand the current therapies at the molecular level and also highlights the emerging therapeutic options -like immunological, and stem cell-based options that may prove to have better potential to challenge the existing problem of therapy resistance. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Ullah Khan
- Division of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India.
| | - Kaneez Fatima
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
| | - Shariqa Aisha
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
| | - Fayaz Malik
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India.
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6
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Zhan K, Yang X, Li S, Bai Y. Correlation of endoplasmic reticulum stress patterns with the immune microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma: a prognostic signature analysis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1270774. [PMID: 38143739 PMCID: PMC10748430 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1270774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds The extended duration of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) can impact the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the efficacy of immunotherapies by interacting with immune cells that have infiltrated the tumor microenvironment (TME). Methods and results The study utilized a training cohort of 364 HCC patients with complete information from The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) database, and a validation cohort of 231 HCC patients from the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) database. The genes related to ERS exhibiting a strong correlation with overall survival (OS) were identified using univariate Cox regression analysis. A 13-gene predictive signature was then produced through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression approach. The data revealed that the ERS-associated gene signature effectively stratified patients into high- or low-risk groups regarding OS in both the training and validation cohorts (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.00029, respectively). Using the multivariate method, it is still an independent prognostic factor in both the training and validation cohorts (P < 0.001 and P = 0.008, respectively). Moreover, several metabolic pathways were identified to be enriched among the 13 genes in the predictive signature. When the ERS-associated gene signature was combined with the tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage, the ERS nomogram performed better than either the gene signature or the TNM stage alone (C-index values: 0.731, 0.729, and 0.573, respectively). Further analysis revealed that patients in the high-risk group exhibited increased infiltration of immune cells. Additionally, GP6 was downregulated in HCC tissues among these signature genes (P < 0.05), which was related to poor OS. Conclusions The data suggest that this novel ERS-associated gene signature could contribute to personalized cancer management for HCC. Moreover, targeting GP6 inhibition might be a potential method for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Jinshan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yang Bai
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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7
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Venkatesan N, Doskey LC, Malhi H. The Role of Endoplasmic Reticulum in Lipotoxicity during Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) Pathogenesis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1887-1899. [PMID: 37689385 PMCID: PMC10699131 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Perturbations in lipid and protein homeostasis induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Lipotoxic and proteotoxic stress can activate the unfolded protein response (UPR) transducers: inositol requiring enzyme1α, PKR-like ER kinase, and activating transcription factor 6α. Collectively, these pathways induce expression of genes that encode functions to resolve the protein folding defect and ER stress by increasing the protein folding capacity of the ER and degradation of misfolded proteins. The ER is also intimately connected with lipid metabolism, including de novo ceramide synthesis, phospholipid and cholesterol synthesis, and lipid droplet formation. Following their activation, the UPR transducers also regulate lipogenic pathways in the liver. With persistent ER stress, cellular adaptation fails, resulting in hepatocyte apoptosis, a pathological marker of liver disease. In addition to the ER-nucleus signaling activated by the UPR, the ER can interact with other organelles via membrane contact sites. Modulating intracellular communication between ER and endosomes, lipid droplets, and mitochondria to restore ER homeostasis could have therapeutic efficacy in ameliorating liver disease. Recent studies have also demonstrated that cells can convey ER stress by the release of extracellular vesicles. This review discusses lipotoxic ER stress and the central role of the ER in communicating ER stress to other intracellular organelles in MASLD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanditha Venkatesan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Luke C Doskey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Harmeet Malhi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
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8
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Luna-Marco C, Ubink A, Kopsida M, Heindryckx F. Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Metabolism in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1377-1388. [PMID: 36309104 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2022.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer, accounting for 85% to 90% of all liver cancer cases. It is a hepatocyte-derived primary tumor, causing 550,000 deaths per year, ranking it as one of the most common cancers worldwide. The liver is a highly metabolic organ with multiple functions, including digestion, detoxification, breakdown of fats, and production of bile and cholesterol, in addition to storage of vitamins, glycogen, and minerals, and synthesizing plasma proteins and clotting factors. Due to these fundamental and diverse functions, the malignant transformation of hepatic cells can have a severe impact on the liver's metabolism. Furthermore, tumorigenesis is often accompanied by activation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathways, which are known to be highly intertwined with several metabolic pathways. Because HCC is characterized by changes in the metabolome and by an aberrant activation of the ER stress pathways, the aim of this review was to summarize the current knowledge that links ER stress and metabolism in HCC, thereby focusing on potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Luna-Marco
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Ubink
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Kopsida
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Femke Heindryckx
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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9
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Abbasi S, Rivand H, Eshaghi F, Moosavi MA, Amanpour S, McDermott MF, Rahmati M. Inhibition of IRE1 RNase activity modulates tumor cell progression and enhances the response to chemotherapy in colorectal cancer. Med Oncol 2023; 40:247. [PMID: 37480455 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02105-7] [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: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Drug resistance is one of the clinical challenges that limits the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Recent reports suggest that the unfolded protein response (UPR) and endoplasmic reticulum stress-adaptation signalling pathway, along with increased activation of its inositol-requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α) arm, may be contributors to the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we aimed to target the IRE1α/XBP1 pathway in order to sensitise CRC cells to the effects of chemotherapy. The CT26 colorectal cell line was treated with tunicamycin, and then was exposed to different concentrations of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), either alone and/or in combination with the IRE1α inhibitor, 4µ8C. An MTT assay, flow cytometry and RT-PCR were performed to determine cell growth, apoptosis and IRE1α activity, respectively. In vivo BALB/c syngeneic colorectal mice received chemotherapeutic drugs. Treatment responses, tumour sizes and cytotoxicity were assessed via a range of pathological tests. 4µ8C was found to inhibit the growth of CRC, at a concentration of 10 µg/ml, without detectable cytotoxic effects and also significantly enhanced the cytotoxic potential of 5-FU, in CRC cells. In vivo experiments revealed that 4µ8C, at a concentration of 50 µM/kg prevented tumour growth without any cytotoxic or metastatic effects. Interestingly, the combination of 4µ8C with 5-FU remarkably enhanced drug responses, up to 40-60% and also lead to significantly greater inhibition of tumour growth, in comparison to monotherapy, in CRC mice. Targeting the IRE1α/XBP1 axis of the UPR could enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy in both in vitro and in vivo models of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Abbasi
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Helia Rivand
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Eshaghi
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Moosavi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Medical Biotechnology (IMB), National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), P.O Box 14965/161, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Amanpour
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Michael F McDermott
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine (LIRMM), University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
| | - Marveh Rahmati
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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10
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Hendi Z, Asadi Sarabi P, Hay D, Vosough M. XBP1 as a novel molecular target to attenuate drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:1207-1215. [PMID: 38078890 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2293746] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite improvements in clinical management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), prognosis remains poor with a 5-year survival rate less than 40%. Drug resistance in HCC makes it challenging to treat; therefore, it is imperative to develop new therapeutic strategies. Higher expression of X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1) in tumor cells is highly correlated with poor prognosis. In tumor cells, XBP1 modulates the unfolded protein response (UPR) to restore homeostasis in endoplasmic reticulum. Targeting XBP1 could be a promising therapeutic strategy to overcome HCC resistance and improve the survival rate of patients. AREAS COVERED This review provides the recent evidence that indicates XBP1 is involved in HCC drug resistance via DNA damage response, drug inactivation, and inhibition of apoptosis. In addition, the potential roles of XBP1 in inducing resistance in HCC cells were highlighted, and we showed how its inhibition could sensitize tumor cells to controlled cell death. EXPERT OPINION Due to the diversity in molecular mechanism of multidrug-resistance, targeting one specific pathway is inadequate. XBP1 inhibition could be a potential therapeutic target to overcome verity of resistance mechanisms. The main function of this transcription factor in HCC treatment response is an attractive area for further studies and should be discussed more.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Hendi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
- Department of Animal Biology-Cell and Developmental, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pedram Asadi Sarabi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | - David Hay
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
- Experimental Cancer Medicine, Institution for Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital-Huddinge, Huddinge, Sweden
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11
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Ajoolabady A, Kaplowitz N, Lebeaupin C, Kroemer G, Kaufman RJ, Malhi H, Ren J. Endoplasmic reticulum stress in liver diseases. Hepatology 2023; 77:619-639. [PMID: 35524448 PMCID: PMC9637239 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an intracellular organelle that fosters the correct folding of linear polypeptides and proteins, a process tightly governed by the ER-resident enzymes and chaperones. Failure to shape the proper 3-dimensional architecture of proteins culminates in the accumulation of misfolded or unfolded proteins within the ER, disturbs ER homeostasis, and leads to canonically defined ER stress. Recent studies have elucidated that cellular perturbations, such as lipotoxicity, can also lead to ER stress. In response to ER stress, the unfolded protein response (UPR) is activated to reestablish ER homeostasis ("adaptive UPR"), or, conversely, to provoke cell death when ER stress is overwhelmed and sustained ("maladaptive UPR"). It is well documented that ER stress contributes to the onset and progression of multiple hepatic pathologies including NAFLD, alcohol-associated liver disease, viral hepatitis, liver ischemia, drug toxicity, and liver cancers. Here, we review key studies dealing with the emerging role of ER stress and the UPR in the pathophysiology of liver diseases from cellular, murine, and human models. Specifically, we will summarize current available knowledge on pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions that may be used to target maladaptive UPR for the treatment of nonmalignant liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Ajoolabady
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute for Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Neil Kaplowitz
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- USC Research Center for Liver Disease, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Cynthia Lebeaupin
- Degenerative Diseases Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Université de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Inserm U1138, Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Institut Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Pôle de Biologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Randal J. Kaufman
- Degenerative Diseases Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Harmeet Malhi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Jun Ren
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute for Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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12
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Calitz C, Rosenquist J, Degerstedt O, Khaled J, Kopsida M, Fryknäs M, Lennernäs H, Samanta A, Heindryckx F. Influence of extracellular matrix composition on tumour cell behaviour in a biomimetic in vitro model for hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:748. [PMID: 36639512 PMCID: PMC9839216 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-27997-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor micro-environment (TME) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) consists out of cirrhotic liver tissue and is characterized by an extensive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins (ECM). The evolution from a reversible fibrotic state to end-stage of liver disease, namely cirrhosis, is characterized by an increased deposition of ECM, as well as changes in the exact ECM composition, which both contribute to an increased liver stiffness and can alter tumor phenotype. The goal of this study was to assess how changes in matrix composition and stiffness influence tumor behavior. HCC-cell lines were grown in a biomimetic hydrogel model resembling the stiffness and composition of a fibrotic or cirrhotic liver. When HCC-cells were grown in a matrix resembling a cirrhotic liver, they increased proliferation and protein content, compared to those grown in a fibrotic environment. Tumour nodules spontaneously formed outside the gels, which appeared earlier in cirrhotic conditions and were significantly larger compared to those found outside fibrotic gels. These tumor nodules had an increased expression of markers related to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), when comparing cirrhotic to fibrotic gels. HCC-cells grown in cirrhotic gels were also more resistant to doxorubicin compared with those grown in fibrotic gels or in 2D. Therefore, altering ECM composition affects tumor behavior, for instance by increasing pro-metastatic potential, inducing EMT and reducing response to chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlemi Calitz
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, Box 571, 75431, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jenny Rosenquist
- Polymer Chemistry, Department of Chemistry-Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Box 538, 75121, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Oliver Degerstedt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jaafar Khaled
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, Box 571, 75431, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Kopsida
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, Box 571, 75431, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mårten Fryknäs
- Department of Medical Sciences, Cancer Pharmacology and Computational Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hans Lennernäs
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ayan Samanta
- Polymer Chemistry, Department of Chemistry-Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Box 538, 75121, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Femke Heindryckx
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, Box 571, 75431, Uppsala, Sweden.
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13
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Orphan Nuclear Receptor Nur77 Mediates the Lethal Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Therapeutic Efficacy of Cryptomeridiol in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233870. [PMID: 36497127 PMCID: PMC9737475 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) commonly possesses chronical elevation of IRE1α-ASK1 signaling. Orphan nuclear receptor Nur77, a promising therapeutic target in various cancer types, is frequently silenced in HCC. In this study, we show that cryptomeridiol (Bkh126), a naturally occurring sesquiterpenoid derivative isolated from traditional Chinese medicine Magnolia officinalis, has therapeutic efficacy in HCC by aggravating the pre-activated UPR and activating the silenced Nur77. Mechanistically, Nur77 is induced to sense IRE1α-ASK1-JNK signaling and translocate to the mitochondria, which leads to the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm). The Bkh126-induced aggravation of ER stress and mitochondrial dysfunction result in increased cytotoxic product of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The in vivo anti-HCC activity of Bkh126 is superior to that of sorafenib, currently used to treat advanced HCC. Our study shows that Bkh126 induces Nur77 to connect ER stress to mitochondria-mediated cell killing. The identification of Nur77 as a molecular target of Bhk126 provides a basis for improving the leads for the further development of anti-HCC drugs.
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14
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Pavlović N, Heindryckx F. Targeting ER stress in the hepatic tumor microenvironment. FEBS J 2022; 289:7163-7176. [PMID: 34331743 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer. It currently ranks as one of the most aggressive and deadly cancers worldwide, with an increasing mortality rate and limited treatment options. An important hallmark of liver pathologies, such as liver fibrosis and HCC, is the accumulation of misfolded and unfolded proteins in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which induces ER stress and leads to the activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR). Upon accumulation of misfolded proteins, ER stress is sensed through three transmembrane proteins, IRE1α, PERK, and ATF6, which trigger the UPR to either alleviate ER stress or induce apoptosis. Increased expression of ER stress markers has been widely shown to correlate with fibrosis, inflammation, drug resistance, and overall HCC aggressiveness, as well as poor patient prognosis. While preclinical in vivo cancer models and in vitro approaches have shown promising results by pharmacologically targeting ER stress mediators, the major challenge of this therapeutic strategy lies in specifically and effectively targeting ER stress in HCC. Furthermore, both ER stress inducers and inhibitors have been shown to ameliorate HCC progression, adding to the complexity of targeting ER stress players as an anticancer strategy. More studies are needed to better understand the dual role and molecular background of ER stress in HCC, as well as its therapeutic potential for patients with liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataša Pavlović
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Sweden
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15
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Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Related Signature for Predicting Prognosis and Immune Features in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:1366508. [PMID: 36003068 PMCID: PMC9393196 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1366508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with cancer cells under endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has a poor prognosis. This study is aimed at discovering credible biomarkers for predicting the prognosis of HCC based on ER stress-related genes (ERSRGs). We constructed a novel four-ERSRG prognostic risk model, including PON1, AGR2, SSR2, and TMCC1, through a series of bioinformatic approaches, which can accurately predict survival outcomes in HCC patients. Higher risk scores were linked to later grade, recurrence, advanced TNM stage, later T stage, and HBV infection. In addition, 20 fresh frozen tumors and normal tissues from HCC patients were collected and used to validate the genes expressed in the signature by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemical (IHC) assays. Moreover, we found the ER stress-related signature could reflect the infiltration levels of different immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and forecast the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment. Finally, we created a nomogram incorporating this ER stress-related signature. In conclusion, our constructed four-gene risk model associated with ER stress can accurately predict survival outcomes in HCC patients, and the model's risk score is associated with the poor clinical classification.
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16
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Peng H, Zhu E, Zhang Y. Advances of cancer-associated fibroblasts in liver cancer. Biomark Res 2022; 10:59. [PMID: 35971182 PMCID: PMC9380339 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00406-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, it is ranked sixth in incidence and fourth in mortality. According to the distinct origin of malignant tumor cells, liver cancer is mainly divided into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Since most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, the prognosis of liver cancer is poor. Tumor growth depends on the dynamic interaction of various cellular components in the tumor microenvironment (TME). As the most abundant components of tumor stroma, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been involved in the progression of liver cancer. The interplay between CAFs and tumor cells, immune cells, or vascular endothelial cells in the TME through direct cell-to-cell contact or indirect paracrine interaction, affects the initiation and development of tumors. Additionally, CAFs are not a homogeneous cell population in liver cancer. Recently, single-cell sequencing technology has been used to help better understand the diversity of CAFs in liver cancer. In this review, we mainly update the knowledge of CAFs both in HCC and CCA, including their cell origins, chemoresistance, tumor stemness induction, tumor immune microenvironment formation, and the role of tumor cells on CAFs. Understanding the context-dependent role of different CAFs subsets provides new strategies for precise liver cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Peng
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Erwei Zhu
- The Second People's Hospital of Lianyungang (The Oncology Hospital of Lianyungang), Lianyungang, 222006, China
| | - Yewei Zhang
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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17
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Geinguenaud F, Catherine OS, Poirier F, Besnard V, Haddad O, Chaubet F, Lalatonne Y, Lutomski D, Sutton A, Motte L. Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Functionalized with Fucoidan: a Potential Theranostic Nanotool for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200265. [PMID: 35748603 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Fucoidan is a natural sulfated polysaccharide with a large range of biological activities including anticancer and anti-oxidation activities. Hepatocellular carcinoma is the fourth most common aggressive cancer type. The aim of this study was to investigate the bioactivity of free fucoidan versus its vectorization using nanoparticles (NPs) in human hepatoma cells, Huh-7. Iron oxide NPs were functionalized with fucoidan by a one-step surface complexation. NP cellular uptake was quantified by magnetic measurement at various extracellular iron concentrations. Cell invasion and migration were reduced with NPs while free fucoidan increases these events at low fucoidan concentration (≤ 0.5 mM). Concomitantly, a high decrease of reactive oxygen species production related with a decrease of the matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity and an increase of its expression was observed with NPs compared to free fucoidan. A proteomic analysis evidenced that some fucoidan regulated proteins appeared related to protein synthesis, N-glycan processing, and cellular stress. To our knowledge, this is the first study which reveals such activity induced by fucoidan. These results pave the way for USPIO-fucoidan-NPs as potential theranostic nanotool for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Y Lalatonne
- Universite Sorbonne Paris Nord, LVTS, FRANCE
| | | | - A Sutton
- Universite Sorbonne Paris Nord, LVTS, FRANCE
| | - Laurence Motte
- Université Paris 13, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 74 Rue Marcel Cachin, bobigny, FRANCE
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18
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Gao XX, Lin S, Jiang PY, Ye MY, Chen W, Hu CX, Chen YH. Gestational cholestasis induced intrauterine growth restriction through triggering IRE1α-mediated apoptosis of placental trophoblast cells. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22388. [PMID: 35639049 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101844rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological and animal experimental studies suggest an association between gestational cholestasis and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Here, we explored the mechanism through which gestational cholestasis induced IUGR. To establish gestational cholestasis model, pregnant mice were subcutaneously injected with 17α-Ethynylestradiol (E2) on gestational day 13 (GD13)-GD17. Some pregnant mice were intraperitoneally injected with 4μ8C on GD13-GD17. The results found that the apoptosis of trophoblast cells was elevated in placentas of mice with gestational cholestasis and in deoxycholic acid (DCA)-treated human trophoblast cell lines and primary mouse trophoblast cells. Correspondingly, the levels of placental cleaved caspase-3 and Bax were increased, while placental Bcl2 level was decreased in mice with gestational cholestasis and in DCA-treated trophoblast cells. Further analysis found that placental IRE1α pathway was activated in mice with gestational cholestasis and in DCA-treated trophoblast cells. Interestingly, 4μ8C, an IRE1α RNase inhibitor, significantly inhibited caspase-3 activity and apoptosis of trophoblast cells in vivo and in vitro. Importantly, 4μ8C rescued gestational cholestasis-induced placental insufficiency and IUGR. Furthermore, a case-control study demonstrated that placental IRE1α and caspase-3 pathways were activated in cholestasis cases. Our results provide evidence that gestational cholestasis induces placental insufficiency and IUGR may be via triggering IRE1α-mediated apoptosis of placental trophoblast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Xing Gao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Shuai Lin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Pei-Ying Jiang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Meng-Ying Ye
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chuan-Xiang Hu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuan-Hua Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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19
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Drug Resistance and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040632. [PMID: 35203283 PMCID: PMC8870354 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. It is usually diagnosed in an advanced stage and is characterized by a high intrinsic drug resistance, leading to limited chemotherapeutic efficacy and relapse after treatment. There is therefore a vast need for understanding underlying mechanisms that contribute to drug resistance and for developing therapeutic strategies that would overcome this. The rapid proliferation of tumor cells, in combination with a highly inflammatory microenvironment, causes a chronic increase of protein synthesis in different hepatic cell populations. This leads to an intensified demand of protein folding, which inevitably causes an accumulation of misfolded or unfolded proteins in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). This process is called ER stress and triggers the unfolded protein response (UPR) in order to restore protein synthesis or—in the case of severe or prolonged ER stress—to induce cell death. Interestingly, the three different arms of the ER stress signaling pathways have been shown to drive chemoresistance in several tumors and could therefore form a promising therapeutic target. This review provides an overview of how ER stress and activation of the UPR contributes to drug resistance in HCC.
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20
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Ebeling Barbier C, Heindryckx F, Lennernäs H. Limitations and Possibilities of Transarterial Chemotherapeutic Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222313051. [PMID: 34884853 PMCID: PMC8658005 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Because diagnostic tools for discriminating between hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and advanced cirrhosis are poor, HCC is often detected in a stage where transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the best treatment option, even though it provides a poor survival gain. Despite having been used worldwide for several decades, TACE still has many limitations. First, there is a vast heterogeneity in the cellular composition and metabolism of HCCs as well as in the patient population, which renders it difficult to identify patients who would benefit from TACE. Often the delivered drug does not penetrate sufficiently selectively and deeply into the tumour and the drug delivery system is not releasing the drug at an optimal clinical rate. In addition, therapeutic effectiveness is limited by the crosstalk between the tumour cells and components of the cirrhotic tumour microenvironment. To improve this widely used treatment of one of our most common and deadly cancers, we need to better understand the complex interactions between drug delivery, local pharmacology, tumour targeting mechanisms, liver pathophysiology, patient and tumour heterogeneity, and resistance mechanisms. This review provides a novel and important overview of clinical data and discusses the role of the tumour microenvironment and lymphatic system in the cirrhotic liver, its potential response to TACE, and current and possible novel DDSs for locoregional treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Femke Heindryckx
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Hans Lennernäs
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-18-471-4317; Fax: +46-18-471-4223
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21
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Ezhilarasan D. Hepatic stellate cells in the injured liver: Perspectives beyond hepatic fibrosis. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:436-449. [PMID: 34514599 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Over the last two decades, our understanding of the pathological role of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in fibrotic liver disease has increased dramatically. As HSCs are identified as the principal collagen-producing cells in the injured liver, several experimental and clinical studies have targeted HSCs to treat liver fibrosis. However, HSCs also play a critical role in developing nonfibrotic liver diseases such as cholestasis, portal hypertension, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, this review exclusively focuses on the role of activated HSCs beyond hepatic fibrosis. In cholestasis conditions, elevated bile salts and bile acids activate HSCs to secrete collagen and other extracellular matrix products, which cause biliary fibrosis and cholangitis. In the chronically injured liver, autocrine and paracrine signaling from liver sinusoidal endothelial cells activates HSCs to induce portal hypertension via endothelin-1 release. In the tumor microenvironment (TME), activated HSCs are the major source of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). The crosstalk between activated HSC/CAF and tumor cells is associated with tumor cell proliferation, migration, metastasis, and chemoresistance. In TME, activated HSCs convert macrophages to tumor-associated macrophages and induce the differentiation of dendritic cells (DCs) and monocytes to regulatory DCs and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, respectively. This differentiation, in turn, increases T cells proliferation and induces their apoptosis leading to reduced immune surveillance in TME. Thus, HSCs activation in chronically injured liver is a critical process involved in the progression of cholestasis, portal hypertension, and liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, The Blue Lab, Molecular Medicine and Toxicology Division, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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22
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Structural and molecular bases to IRE1 activity modulation. Biochem J 2021; 478:2953-2975. [PMID: 34375386 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20200919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Unfolded Protein response is an adaptive pathway triggered upon alteration of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis. It is transduced by three major ER stress sensors, among which the Inositol Requiring Enzyme 1 (IRE1) is the most evolutionarily conserved. IRE1 is an ER-resident type I transmembrane protein exhibiting an ER luminal domain that senses the protein folding status and a catalytic kinase and RNase cytosolic domain. In recent years, IRE1 has emerged as a relevant therapeutic target in various diseases including degenerative, inflammatory and metabolic pathologies and cancer. As such several drugs altering IRE1 activity were developed that target either catalytic activity and showed some efficacy in preclinical pathological mouse models. In this review, we describe the different drugs identified to target IRE1 activity as well as their mode of action from a structural perspective, thereby identifying common and different modes of action. Based on this information we discuss on how new IRE1-targeting drugs could be developed that outperform the currently available molecules.
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23
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Pavlović N, Heindryckx F. Exploring the Role of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Hepatocellular Carcinoma through mining of the Human Protein Atlas. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10070640. [PMID: 34356495 PMCID: PMC8301178 DOI: 10.3390/biology10070640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatocellular carcinoma is a highly deadly primary liver cancer. It is usually diagnosed at a late stage, when therapeutic options are scarce, and the lack of predictive biomarkers poses a challenge for early detection. A known hallmark of hepatocellular carcinoma is the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), known as ER-stress. Growing experimental evidence suggests that ER-stress is involved in liver cancer initiation and progression. However, it remains unclear if ER-stress markers can be used as therapeutic targets or biomarkers for patients with liver cancer. In this study, we evaluated the prognostic value of proteins involved in managing ER-stress in liver cancer by mining a publicly available patient-derived database, the Human Protein Atlas. We thereby identified 44 ER-stress-associated proteins as prognostic markers in liver cancer. Furthermore, we discussed the expression of these markers in relation to disease stage, age, sex, ethnicity, and tissue localization. Abstract Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and actors of unfolded protein response (UPR) have emerged as key hallmarks of hepatocarcinogenesis. Numerous reports have shown that the main actors in the UPR pathways are upregulated in HCC and contribute to the different facets of tumor initiation and disease progression. Furthermore, ER-stress inducers and inhibitors have shown success in preclinical HCC models. Despite the mounting evidence of the UPR’s involvement in HCC pathogenesis, it remains unclear how ER-stress components can be used safely and effectively as therapeutic targets or predictive biomarkers for HCC patients. In an effort to add a clinical context to these findings and explore the translational potential of ER-stress in HCC, we performed a systematic overview of UPR-associated proteins as predictive biomarkers in HCC by mining the Human Protein Atlas database. Aside from evaluating the prognostic value of these markers in HCC, we discussed their expression in relation to patient age, sex, ethnicity, disease stage, and tissue localization. We thereby identified 44 UPR-associated proteins as unfavorable prognostic markers in HCC. The expression of these markers was found to be higher in tumors compared to the stroma of the hepatic HCC patient tissues.
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24
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Park SM, Kang TI, So JS. Roles of XBP1s in Transcriptional Regulation of Target Genes. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9070791. [PMID: 34356855 PMCID: PMC8301375 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9070791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The spliced form of X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1s) is an active transcription factor that plays a vital role in the unfolded protein response (UPR). Under endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, unspliced Xbp1 mRNA is cleaved by the activated stress sensor IRE1α and converted to the mature form encoding spliced XBP1 (XBP1s). Translated XBP1s migrates to the nucleus and regulates the transcriptional programs of UPR target genes encoding ER molecular chaperones, folding enzymes, and ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD) components to decrease ER stress. Moreover, studies have shown that XBP1s regulates the transcription of diverse genes that are involved in lipid and glucose metabolism and immune responses. Therefore, XBP1s has been considered an important therapeutic target in studying various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. XBP1s is involved in several unique mechanisms to regulate the transcription of different target genes by interacting with other proteins to modulate their activity. Although recent studies discovered numerous target genes of XBP1s via genome-wide analyses, how XBP1s regulates their transcription remains unclear. This review discusses the roles of XBP1s in target genes transcriptional regulation. More in-depth knowledge of XBP1s target genes and transcriptional regulatory mechanisms in the future will help develop new therapeutic targets for each disease.
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25
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Balgoma D, Kullenberg F, Calitz C, Kopsida M, Heindryckx F, Lennernäs H, Hedeland M. Anthracyclins Increase PUFAs: Potential Implications in ER Stress and Cell Death. Cells 2021; 10:1163. [PMID: 34064765 PMCID: PMC8151859 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic and personalized interventions in cancer treatment require a better understanding of the relationship between the induction of cell death and metabolism. Consequently, we treated three primary liver cancer cell lines with two anthracyclins (doxorubicin and idarubin) and studied the changes in the lipidome. We found that both anthracyclins in the three cell lines increased the levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and alkylacylglycerophosphoethanolamines (etherPEs) with PUFAs. As PUFAs and alkylacylglycerophospholipids with PUFAs are fundamental in lipid peroxidation during ferroptotic cell death, our results suggest supplementation with PUFAs and/or etherPEs with PUFAs as a potential general adjuvant of anthracyclins. In contrast, neither the markers of de novo lipogenesis nor cholesterol lipids presented the same trend in all cell lines and treatments. In agreement with previous research, this suggests that modulation of the metabolism of cholesterol could be considered a specific adjuvant of anthracyclins depending on the type of tumor and the individual. Finally, in agreement with previous research, we found a relationship across the different cell types between: (i) the change in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and (ii) the imbalance between PUFAs and cholesterol and saturated lipids. In the light of previous research, this imbalance partially explains the sensitivity to anthracyclins of the different cells. In conclusion, our results suggest that the modulation of different lipid metabolic pathways may be considered for generalized and personalized metabochemotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Balgoma
- Analytical Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Fredrik Kullenberg
- Translational Drug Development and Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; (F.K.); (H.L.)
| | - Carlemi Calitz
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; (C.C.); (M.K.); (F.H.)
| | - Maria Kopsida
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; (C.C.); (M.K.); (F.H.)
| | - Femke Heindryckx
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; (C.C.); (M.K.); (F.H.)
| | - Hans Lennernäs
- Translational Drug Development and Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; (F.K.); (H.L.)
| | - Mikael Hedeland
- Analytical Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden;
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Wei J, Fang D. Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Signaling and the Pathogenesis of Hepatocarcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041799. [PMID: 33670323 PMCID: PMC7918477 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), also known as hepatoma, is a primary malignancy of the liver and the third leading cause of cancer mortality globally. Although much attention has focused on HCC, its pathogenesis remains largely obscure. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a cellular organelle important for regulating protein synthesis, folding, modification and trafficking, and lipid metabolism. ER stress occurs when ER homeostasis is disturbed by numerous environmental, physiological, and pathological challenges. In response to ER stress due to misfolded/unfolded protein accumulation, unfolded protein response (UPR) is activated to maintain ER function for cell survival or, in cases of excessively severe ER stress, initiation of apoptosis. The liver is especially susceptible to ER stress given its protein synthesis and detoxification functions. Experimental data suggest that ER stress and unfolded protein response are involved in HCC development, aggressiveness and response to treatment. Herein, we highlight recent findings and provide an overview of the evidence linking ER stress to the pathogenesis of HCC.
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Pavlović N, Kopsida M, Gerwins P, Heindryckx F. Inhibiting P2Y12 in Macrophages Induces Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Promotes an Anti-Tumoral Phenotype. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218177. [PMID: 33142937 PMCID: PMC7672568 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The P2Y12 receptor is an adenosine diphosphate responsive G protein-coupled receptor expressed on the surface of platelets and is the pharmacologic target of several anti-thrombotic agents. In this study, we use liver samples from mice with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma to show that P2Y12 is expressed by macrophages in the liver. Using in vitro methods, we show that inhibition of P2Y12 with ticagrelor enhances tumor cell phagocytosis by macrophages and induces an anti-tumoral phenotype. Treatment with ticagrelor also increases the expression of several actors of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathways, suggesting activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR). Inhibiting the UPR with tauroursodeoxycholic acid (Tudca) diminishes the pro-phagocytotic effect of ticagrelor, thereby indicating that P2Y12 mediates macrophage function through activation of ER stress pathways. This could be relevant in the pathogenesis of chronic liver disease and cancer, as macrophages are considered key players in these inflammation-driven pathologies.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cholagogues and Choleretics/pharmacology
- Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress/drug effects
- Humans
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/metabolism
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/prevention & control
- Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/prevention & control
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Purinergic P2Y Receptor Antagonists/pharmacology
- Receptors, Purinergic P2Y12/chemistry
- Receptors, Purinergic P2Y12/metabolism
- Taurochenodeoxycholic Acid/pharmacology
- Ticagrelor/pharmacology
- Unfolded Protein Response/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataša Pavlović
- Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, 75123 Uppsala, Sweden; (N.P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
| | - Maria Kopsida
- Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, 75123 Uppsala, Sweden; (N.P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
| | - Pär Gerwins
- Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, 75123 Uppsala, Sweden; (N.P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
- Radiology, Uppsala University Hospital, 75237 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Femke Heindryckx
- Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, 75123 Uppsala, Sweden; (N.P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
- Correspondence:
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