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Yang J, Qin L, Zhou S, Li J, Tu Y, Mo M, Liu X, Huang J, Qin X, Jiao A, Wei W, Yang P. Network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental study of CEP in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 323:117667. [PMID: 38159821 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The Stephania cephalantha Hayata is an important traditional medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine to treat cancer. Cepharanthine (CEP) was extracted from the roots of Stephania cephalantha Hayata. It has been found to exhibit anticancer activity in different types of cancer cells. Nevertheless, the activity of CEP against nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and its underlying mechanism warrant further investigation. AIMS OF THE STUDY NPC is an invasive and highly metastatic malignancy that affects the head and neck region. This research aimed to investigate the pharmacological properties and underlying mechanism of CEP against NPC, aiming to offer novel perspectives on treating NPC using CEP. MATERIALS AND METHODS In vitro, the pharmacological activity of CEP against NPC was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay. To predict and elucidate the anticancer mechanism of CEP against NPC, we employed network pharmacology, conducted molecular docking analysis, and performed Western blot experiments. In vivo validation was performed through a nude mice xenograft model of human NPC, Western blot and immunohistochemical (IHC) assays to confirm pharmacological activity and the mechanism. RESULTS In a dose-dependent manner, the proliferation and clonogenic capacity of NPC cells were significantly inhibited by CEP. Additionally, NPC cell migration was suppressed by CEP. The results obtained from network pharmacology experiments revealed that anti-NPC effect of CEP was associated with 8 core targets, including EGFR, AKT1, PIK3CA, and mTOR. By performing molecular docking, the binding capacity of CEP to the candidate core proteins (EGFR, AKT1, PIK3CA, and mTOR) was predicted, resulting in docking energies of -10.0 kcal/mol for EGFR, -12.4 kcal/mol for PIK3CA, -10.8 kcal/mol for AKT1, and -8.6 kcal/mol for mTOR. The Western blot analysis showed that CEP effectively suppressed the expression of EGFR and the phosphorylation levels of downstream signaling proteins, including PI3K, AKT, mTOR, and ERK. After CEP intervention, a noteworthy decrease in tumor size, without inducing any toxicity, was observed in NPC xenograft nude mice undergoing in vivo treatment. Additionally, IHC analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in the expression levels of EGFR and Ki-67 following CEP treatment. CONCLUSION CEP exhibits significant pharmacological effects on NPC, and its mechanistic action involves restraining the activation of the EGFR/PI3K/AKT pathway. CEP represents a promising pharmaceutical agent for addressing and mitigating NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangping Yang
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Liujie Qin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Shouchang Zhou
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Jixing Li
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Yu Tu
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Minfeng Mo
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Xuenian Liu
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Jinglun Huang
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Xiumei Qin
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Aijun Jiao
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China; Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.
| | - Wei Wei
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.
| | - Peilin Yang
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.
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Liao J, Qing X, Li X, Gan Y, Wang R, Han S, Li W, Song W. TRAF4 regulates ubiquitination-modulated survivin turnover and confers radioresistance. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:182-199. [PMID: 38164179 PMCID: PMC10750280 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.87180] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is the most common cancer originating in the nasopharynx. Despite continuous improvement in treatment strategies, recurrence or persistence of cancer after radiotherapy is still inevitable, highlighting the need to identify therapeutic resistance factors and develop effective methods for NPC treatment. Herein, we found that TRAF4 is overexpressed in NPC cells and tissues. Knockdown TRAF4 significantly increased the radiosensitivity of NPC cells, possibly by inhibiting the Akt/Wee1/CDK1 axis, thereby suppressing survivin phosphorylation and promoting its degradation by FBXL7. TRAF4 is positively correlated with p-Akt and survivin in NPC tissues. High protein levels of TRAF4 were observed in acquired radioresistant NPC cells, and knockdown of TRAF4 overcomes radioresistant in vitro and the xenograft mouse model. Altogether, our study highlights the TRAF4-survivin axis as a potential therapeutic target for radiosensitization in NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinzhuang Liao
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Xiang Qing
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaoying Li
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Gan
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Ruirui Wang
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Shuangze Han
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Song
- Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410005, China
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Li D, Peng X, He G, Liu J, Li X, Lin W, Fang J, Li X, Yang S, Yang L, Li H. Crosstalk between autophagy and CSCs: molecular mechanisms and translational implications. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:409. [PMID: 37422448 PMCID: PMC10329683 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05929-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells(CSCs) play a key role in regulating tumorigenesis, progression, as well as recurrence, and possess typical metabolic characteristics. Autophagy is a catabolic process that can aid cells to survive under stressful conditions such as nutrient deficiency and hypoxia. Although the role of autophagy in cancer cells has been extensively studied, CSCs possess unique stemness, and their potential relationship with autophagy has not been fully analyzed. This study summarizes the possible role of autophagy in the renewal, proliferation, differentiation, survival, metastasis, invasion, and treatment resistance of CSCs. It has been found that autophagy can contribute to the maintenance of CSC stemness, facilitate the tumor cells adapt to changes in the microenvironment, and promote tumor survival, whereas in some other cases autophagy acts as an important process involved in the deprivation of CSC stemness thus leading to tumor death. Mitophagy, which has emerged as another popular research area in recent years, has a great scope when explored together with stem cells. In this study, we have aimed to elaborate on the mechanism of action of autophagy in regulating the functions of CSCs to provide deeper insights for future cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Xueqiang Peng
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Guangpeng He
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Jiaxing Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Xian Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Weikai Lin
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Jianjun Fang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Liang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China.
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China.
| | - Hangyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China.
- Shenyang Clinical Medical Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Health Management of Early Digestive Cancer, Shenyang, 110032, China.
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Wang W, Jiang XG, Bai YP, Li H, Gao LX, Zhang T, Dong FY, Ding WP, Zhang Y. SOV sensitizes gastric cancer cells to radiation by suppressing radiation-induced autophagy in vitro and in vivo. Tissue Cell 2023; 82:102109. [PMID: 37229935 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102109] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Vanadium is a transition metal that naturally occurs in the environment and has a variety of biological and physiological impacts on humans. Sodium orthovanadate (SOV), a well-known chemical compound of vanadium, has shown notable anti-cancer activity in various types of human malignancies. However, the effect of SOV on stomach cancer is yet undetermined. Furthermore, only a few studies have investigated the association of SOV and radiosensitivity with stomach cancer. Our study has investigated the ability of SOV to increase the sensitivity of gastric cancer cells to radiation. To detect autophagy triggered by ionizing radiation and the influence of SOV on cell radiosensitivity, the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) test, EDU staining experiment, colony formation assay, and immunofluorescence were performed. The possible synergistic effects of SOV and irradiation were examined in vivo using a xenograft mouse model of stomach cancer cells. Both in vitro and in vivo studies showed that SOV markedly reduced the growth of stomach cancer cells and improved their radiosensitivity. Our results showed that SOV increased gastric cancer cells' radiosensitivity, thereby blocking the radiation-induced autophagy-related protein, ATG10. Thus, SOV can be considered a potential agent for radiosensitizing gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, China; Department of Gastroenterology, The First Aflliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu 241001, China
| | - Xiao-Gan Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, China; Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Aflliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu 241001, China
| | - Ya-Ping Bai
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, China; College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241000, China
| | - Heng Li
- General Sugery Depatment, Shanghai Baoshan District Hospital of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Shanghai 201900, China
| | - Ling-Xi Gao
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, China; Department of Gastroenterology, The First Aflliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu 241001, China
| | - Teng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, China; Department of Gastroenterology, The First Aflliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu 241001, China
| | - Fang-Yi Dong
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Wen-Ping Ding
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, China; Department of Radiotherapy, The First Aflliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu 241001, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, China; Department of Gastroenterology, The First Aflliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu 241001, China.
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Peng Z, Wang Y, Fan R, Gao K, Xie S, Wang F, Zhang J, Zhang H, He Y, Xie Z, Jiang W. Treatment of Recurrent Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Sequential Challenge. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174111. [PMID: 36077648 PMCID: PMC9454547 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma is one of the major causes of death among NPC patients. However, there are no international guidelines for the treatment of patients with recurrent NPC now. In this article, we summarize past publications on clinical research and mechanistic studies related to recurrent NPC, combined with the experience and lessons learned by our institutional multidisciplinary team in the treatment of recurrent NPC. We propose an objective protocol for the treatment of recurrent NPC. Abstract Recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), which occurs in 10–20% of patients with primary NPC after the initial treatment modality of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), is one of the major causes of death among NPC patients. Patients with recurrent disease without distant metastases still have a chance to be saved, but re-treatment often carries more serious toxicities or higher risks. For this group of patients, both otolaryngologists and oncologists are committed to developing more appropriate treatment regimens that can prolong patient survival and improve survival therapy. Currently, there are no international guidelines for the treatment of patients with recurrent NPC. In this article, we summarize past publications on clinical research and mechanistic studies related to recurrent NPC, combined with the experience and lessons learned by our institutional multidisciplinary team in the treatment of recurrent NPC. We propose an objective protocol for the treatment of recurrent NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouying Peng
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Yumin Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Ruohao Fan
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Kelei Gao
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Shumin Xie
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Fengjun Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Junyi Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Yuxiang He
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Zhihai Xie
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Weihong Jiang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Correspondence:
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Ke Y, Liao CG, Zhao ZQ, Li XM, Lin RJ, Yang L, Zhang HL, Kong LM. Combining a CDK4/6 Inhibitor With Pemetrexed Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Metastasis in Human Lung Adenocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:880153. [PMID: 35686110 PMCID: PMC9172583 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.880153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent clinical trials of cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) in human lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) have not achieved satisfactory results. The disappointing results of single-drug treatments have prompted studies about synergistic therapies of CDK4/6i with other drugs. We aimed to test the anti-tumor effect of ribociclib (a CDK4/6i) combined with pemetrexed on LUAD and the potential mechanisms. Methods Cell lines were exposed to ribociclib and pemetrexed at different doses. Antitumor effects were measured using growth inhibition. Cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were evaluated using flow cytometry. Cell migration and invasion were measured using wound healing and transwell invasion assays, respectively. The expression levels of proteins were analyzed using western blotting. Mice xenograft models were used for validation in vivo. Results Synergism was associated with a combination of cell cycle effects from both agents. Cell cycle analysis revealed that pemetrexed blocked cells in the S phase, whereas ribociclib arrested cells in the G1 phase. Concomitant treatment with pemetrexed and ribociclib resulted in a significantly stronger antitumor ability than treatment alone. We also found that ribociclib strongly enhanced the pro-apoptotic activity of pemetrexed via the caspase/bcl-2 signaling pathway. In addition, we report for the first time that combination treatment with ribociclib and pemetrexed significantly inhibits the migration and invasion of LUAD cells. Conclusions Combining ribociclib and pemetrexed showed a powerful ability to inhibit cancer proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, and it holds potential as a novel effective combinative therapy for patients with LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Ke
- Department of Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Cheng-Gong Liao
- Department of Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zheng-Qing Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Min Li
- Department of Cell Biology, National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Rong-Jie Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Long Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - He-Long Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ling-Min Kong
- Department of Cell Biology, National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Xu Q, Zhang H, Liu H, Han Y, Qiu W, Li Z. Inhibiting autophagy flux and DNA repair of tumor cells to boost radiotherapy of orthotopic glioblastoma. Biomaterials 2021; 280:121287. [PMID: 34864449 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Radio-resistance of glioblastoma (GBM) remains a leading cause of radiotherapy failure because of the protective autophagy induced by X-Ray irradiation and tumor cells' strong capability of repairing damaged DNA. It is of great importance to overcome the radio-resistance for improving the efficacy of radiotherapy. Herein, we report the novel mechanism of core-shell copper selenide coated gold nanoparticles (Au@Cu2-xSe NPs) inhibiting the protective autophagy and DNA repair of tumor cells to drastically boost the radiotherapy efficacy of glioblastoma. We reveal that the core-shell Au@Cu2-xSe NPs can inhibit the autophagy flux by effectively alkalizing lysosomes. They can increase the SQSTM1/p62 protein levels of tumor cells without influencing their mRNA. We also reveal that Au@Cu2-xSe NPs can increase the ubiquitination of DNA repair protein Rad51, and promote the degradation of Rad51 by proteasomes to prevent the DNA repair. The simultaneous inhibition of protective autophagy and DNA repair significantly suppress the growth of orthotopic GBM by using radiotherapy and our novel Au@Cu2-xSe NPs. Our work provides a new insight and paradigm to significantly improve the efficacy of radiotherapy by rationally designing theranostic nano-agents to simultaneously inhibit protective autophagy and DNA repair of tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Xu
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, P.R. China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, P.R. China; College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, P.R. China.
| | - Hanghang Liu
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, P.R. China
| | - Yaobao Han
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, P.R. China
| | - Weibao Qiu
- Paul C. Lauterbur Research Center for Biomedical Imaging, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Li
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, P.R. China.
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8
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Wang B, Huang X, Liang H, Yang H, Guo Z, Ai M, Zhang J, Khan M, Tian Y, Sun Q, Mao Z, Zheng R, Yuan Y. PLK1 Inhibition Sensitizes Breast Cancer Cells to Radiation via Suppressing Autophagy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 110:1234-1247. [PMID: 33621661 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) is a protein kinase that is overexpressed in breast cancer and may represent an attractive target for breast cancer treatment. However, few studies have investigated the relationship between PLK1 and radiosensitivity in breast cancer. Here, we attempted to explore whether PLK1 inhibition could sensitize breast cancer cells to radiation. METHODS AND MATERIALS Breast cancer cells were treated with PLK1 small interference RNA or the PLK1-inhibitor, GSK461364. Cell proliferation was assessed using a colony formation assay. Cell cycle analyses were performed by flow cytometry. DNA damage, autophagy, and reactive oxygen species induced by ionizing radiation were detected by immunofluorescence, Western blot, and flow cytometry, respectively. Microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 alpha (LC3) puncta were detected using an immunofluorescence assay. A clonogenic survival assay was used to determine the effect of PLK1 inhibition on cell radiosensitivity. A xenograft mouse model of breast cancer cells was used to investigate the potential synergistic effects of PLK1 inhibition and irradiation in vivo. Finally, the expression of PLK1 and LC3 in the breast cancer tissues was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS PLK1 inhibition significantly suppressed the proliferation and increased the radiosensitivity of breast cancer cells. Pharmacologic inhibition of PLK1 by the selective inhibitor, GSK461364, enhanced the radiosensitivity of breast cancer cells in vivo (n = 4, P = .002). Mechanistically, PLK1 inhibition led to the downregulation of radiation-induced reactive oxygen species and autophagy, thereby increasing the radiosensitivity of breast cancer cells. Additionally, we detected a positive correlation between the expression of PLK1 and LC3 in human breast cancer samples (n = 102, R = 0.486, P = .005). CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that PLK1 inhibition enhances the radiosensitivity of breast cancer cells in a manner associated with the suppression of radiation-induced autophagy. The inhibition of PLK1 represents a promising strategy for radiosensitizing breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baiyao Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoting Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Huiping Liang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongli Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoze Guo
- Breast Center, Department of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Meiling Ai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Muhammad Khan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunhong Tian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Quanquan Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zixu Mao
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ronghui Zheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yawei Yuan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China.
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Brunel A, Bégaud G, Auger C, Durand S, Battu S, Bessette B, Verdier M. Autophagy and Extracellular Vesicles, Connected to rabGTPase Family, Support Aggressiveness in Cancer Stem Cells. Cells 2021; 10:1330. [PMID: 34072080 PMCID: PMC8227744 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Even though cancers have been widely studied and real advances in therapeutic care have been made in the last few decades, relapses are still frequently observed, often due to therapeutic resistance. Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) are, in part, responsible for this resistance. They are able to survive harsh conditions such as hypoxia or nutrient deprivation. Autophagy and Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) secretion are cellular processes that help CSC survival. Autophagy is a recycling process and EVs secretion is essential for cell-to-cell communication. Their roles in stemness maintenance have been well described. A common pathway involved in these processes is vesicular trafficking, and subsequently, regulation by Rab GTPases. In this review, we analyze the role played by Rab GTPases in stemness status, either directly or through their regulation of autophagy and EVs secretion.
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10
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Lin J, Ruan J, Zhu H, Chen Z, Chen J, Yu H. Tenacissoside H Induces Autophagy and Radiosensitivity of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells by PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway. Dose Response 2021; 19:15593258211011023. [PMID: 34035782 PMCID: PMC8127767 DOI: 10.1177/15593258211011023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Tenacissoside H (TEH), which has anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects, is a major active ingredient extracted from the stem of Marsdenia tenacissima. However, the effect of TEH on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as well as the underlying mechanisms are still indistinct. Presently, HCC cells (including Huh-7 and HepG2) were dealt with different concentrations of TEH. The proliferation and apoptosis of HCC cells were determined via Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay and flow cytometry. In addition, Western blot was conducted to evaluate the expressions of autophagy—and apoptosis-related proteins. Tissue immunofluorescence was carried out to evaluate LC3B expression in the tumor tissues. The data showed that TEH suppressed the growth of HCC cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Besides, TEH enhanced radiosensitivity and promoted the apoptosis of HCC cells. Moreover, the mRNA and protein levels of autophagy-related genes (LC3-II/LC2-I, ATG5, Beclin-1) were significantly promoted by TEH. Mechanistically, TEH attenuated the activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. However, inhibition of PI3 K pathway abolished the anti-tumor effects of TEH in HCC cells. Collectively, this study suggested that TEH increases the radiosensitivity of HCC cells via inducing autophagy and apoptosis through downregulating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiatian Lin
- Department of Minimally Invasive Intervention, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiyin Ruan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Intervention, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Hao Zhu
- Department of Minimally Invasive Intervention, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zaizhong Chen
- Department of Minimally Invasive Intervention, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Junhui Chen
- Department of Minimally Invasive Intervention, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongjian Yu
- Department of Minimally Invasive Intervention, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Luo Y, Fu Y, Huang Z, Li M. Transition metals and metal complexes in autophagy and diseases. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:7144-7158. [PMID: 33694161 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Transition metals refer to the elements in the d and ds blocks of the periodic table. Since the success of cisplatin and auranofin, transition metal-based compounds have become a prospective source for drug development, particularly in cancer treatment. In recent years, extensive studies have shown that numerous transition metal-based compounds could modulate autophagy, promising a new therapeutic strategy for metal-related diseases and the design of metal-based agents. Copper, zinc, and manganese, which are common components in physiological pathways, play important roles in the progression of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, enrichment of copper, zinc, or manganese can regulate autophagy. Thus, we summarized the current advances in elucidating the mechanisms of some metals/metal-based compounds and their functions in autophagy regulation, which is conducive to explore the intricate roles of autophagy and exploit novel therapeutic drugs for human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuping Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuanyuan Fu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiying Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Min Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Hypoxia-Induced Cancer Cell Responses Driving Radioresistance of Hypoxic Tumors: Approaches to Targeting and Radiosensitizing. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051102. [PMID: 33806538 PMCID: PMC7961562 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Some regions of aggressive malignancies experience hypoxia due to inadequate blood supply. Cancer cells adapting to hypoxic conditions somehow become more resistant to radiation exposure and this decreases the efficacy of radiotherapy toward hypoxic tumors. The present review article helps clarify two intriguing points: why hypoxia-adapted cancer cells turn out radioresistant and how they can be rendered more radiosensitive. The critical molecular targets associated with intratumoral hypoxia and various approaches are here discussed which may be used for sensitizing hypoxic tumors to radiotherapy. Abstract Within aggressive malignancies, there usually are the “hypoxic zones”—poorly vascularized regions where tumor cells undergo oxygen deficiency through inadequate blood supply. Besides, hypoxia may arise in tumors as a result of antiangiogenic therapy or transarterial embolization. Adapting to hypoxia, tumor cells acquire a hypoxia-resistant phenotype with the characteristic alterations in signaling, gene expression and metabolism. Both the lack of oxygen by itself and the hypoxia-responsive phenotypic modulations render tumor cells more radioresistant, so that hypoxic tumors are a serious challenge for radiotherapy. An understanding of causes of the radioresistance of hypoxic tumors would help to develop novel ways for overcoming this challenge. Molecular targets for and various approaches to radiosensitizing hypoxic tumors are considered in the present review. It is here analyzed how the hypoxia-induced cellular responses involving hypoxia-inducible factor-1, heat shock transcription factor 1, heat shock proteins, glucose-regulated proteins, epigenetic regulators, autophagy, energy metabolism reprogramming, epithelial–mesenchymal transition and exosome generation contribute to the radioresistance of hypoxic tumors or may be inhibited for attenuating this radioresistance. The pretreatments with a multitarget inhibition of the cancer cell adaptation to hypoxia seem to be a promising approach to sensitizing hypoxic carcinomas, gliomas, lymphomas, sarcomas to radiotherapy and, also, liver tumors to radioembolization.
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