Lipid raft interacting galectin 8 regulates primary ciliogenesis

Primary cilium is a specialized sensory organelle that transmits environmental information into cells. Its length is tightly controlled by various mechanisms such as the frequency or the cargo size of the intraflagellar transport trains which deliver the building materials such as tubulin subunits essential for the growing cilia. Here, we show the sialoglycan interacting galectin 8 regulates the process of primary ciliogenesis. As the epithelia become polarized, there are more galectin 8 being apically secreted and these extracellular galectin 8 molecules apparently bind to a lipid raft enriched domain at the base of the primary cilia through interacting with lipid raft components, such as GD3 ganglioside and scaffold protein caveolin 1. Furthermore, the binding of galectin 8 at this critical region triggers rapid growth of primary cilia by perturbing the barrier function of the transition zone (TZ). Our study also demonstrates the functionality of this barrier depends on intact organization of lipid rafts at the cilia as genetically knockout of Cav1 and pharmacologically inhibition of lipid raft both phenocopy the effect of apical addition of recombinant galectin 8; that is, rapid elongation of primary cilia and redistribution of cilia proteins from TZ to the growing axoneme. Indeed, as cilia elongated, endogenous galectin 8, caveolin 1, and TZ component, TMEM231, also transited from the TZ to the growing axoneme. We also noted that the interaction between caveolin 1 and TMEM231 could be perturbed by exogenous galectin 8. Taken together, we proposed that galectin 8 promoted primary cilia elongation through impeding the barrier function of the TZ by interfering with the interaction between caveolin 1 and TMEM231.

Acetylation regulates the nucleocytoplasmic distribution and oncogenic function of karyopherin alpha 2 in lung adenocarcinoma

Karyopherin subunit alpha 2 (KPNA2, importin α1) is a nucleoplasmic protein responsible for the nuclear import of proteins with classical nuclear localization signals. Aberrant nuclear accumulation of KPNA2 has been observed in numerous cancer tissues. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is involved in the phosphorylation and acetylation of KPNA2 in enterocytes. However, the impact of these post-translational modifications on modulating the nucleocytoplasmic distribution of KPNA2 and its oncogenic role remain unclear. Unlike nuclear accumulation of wild-type KPNA2, which promoted lung cancer cell migration, KPNA2 Lys22 acetylation-mimicking mutations (K22Q and K22Q/S105A) prevented nuclear localization of KPNA2 and reduced the cell migration ability. Cytosolic KPNA2 K22Q interacted with and restricted the nuclear entry of E2F transcription factor 1 (E2F1), an oncogenic cargo protein of KPNA2, in lung cancer cells. Intriguingly, the AMPK activator EX229 promoted the nuclear export of KPNA2 S105A. However, the CBP/p300 inhibitor CCS-1477 abolished this phenomenon, suggesting that CBP/p300-mediated acetylation of KPNA2 promoted KPNA2 nuclear export in lung cancer cells. Collectively, our findings suggest that the CBP/p300 positively regulates KPNA2 acetylation, which enhances its cytosolic localization and suppresses its oncogenic activity in lung cancer.

CRNDE acts as an epigenetic modulator of the p300/YY1 complex to promote HCC progression and therapeutic resistance

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common primary liver malignancies worldwide. The long-term prognosis for HCC remains extremely poor, with drug resistance being the major underlying cause of recurrence and mortality. The lncRNA colorectal neoplasia differentially expressed (CRNDE) is an epigenetic mediator and plays an important role to drive proliferation and drug resistance in HCC. However, CRNDE as an epigenetic regulator with influences sorafenib resistance in HCC is unclear. Thus, we explore the potential of targeting the CRNDE/p300/YY1 axis as a novel therapeutic strategy to overcome sorafenib resistance of HCC.

Method

Detection of the expression level of CRNDE and EGFR in clinical specimens of HCC. CRNDE, EGFR, p300, and YY1expression were altered in HCC cells through transfection with different plasmids, and cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and sorafenib resistance were subsequently observed. Immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, re-chromatin immunoprecipitation, site-directed mutagenesis, RNA Immunoprecipitation, immune fluorescence, qRT-PCR, and western blotting were performed to uncover the mechanisms of CRNDE regulation. The xenograft nude mice model was used to investigate the tumor growth and sorafenib resistance.

Results

In this study, we showed that CRNDE expression is significantly positively correlated with that of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in clinical specimens of HCC and induces proliferation and sorafenib resistance of HCC via EGFR-mediated signaling. Mechanistically, CRNDE stabilized the p300/YY1 complex at the EGFR promoter and simultaneously enhanced histone H3K9 and H3K27 acetylation, which serve as markers of relaxed chromatin. EGFR was positively upregulated by the epigenetic complex, p300/YY1, in a manner dependent on CRNDE expression, leading to enhanced tumor cell proliferation and sorafenib resistance. Furthermore, C646, a p300 inhibitor, suppressed EGFR transcriptional activity by decreasing chromatin relaxation and YY1 binding, which effectively reduced proliferation/sorafenib resistance and prolonged overall survival.

Conclusion

Our collective findings support the potential of targeting the CRNDE/p300/YY1 axis as a novel therapeutic strategy to overcome sorafenib resistance of HCC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13148-022-01326-3.

[Two cases of herpes simplex keratitis after trans-epithelial photorefractive keratectomy]

We herein report 2 cases of herpes simplex keratitis after trans-epithelial photorefractive keratectomy. Patients' medical histories, symptoms, signs, clinical examination results, diagnosis and treatment were showed in detail. Following precision diagnosis and medical intervention, including topical and systemic antiviral treatmented for 1 to 2 weeks. The two patients were cured with full reepithelialization without corneal scar.

Golgin Imh1 and GARP complex cooperate to restore the impaired SNARE recycling transport induced by ER stress

The accumulation of misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) induces the unfolded protein response (UPR), which acts through various mechanisms to reduce ER stress. While the UPR has been well studied for its effects on the ER, its impact on the Golgi is less understood. The Golgi complex receives transport vesicles from the endosome through two types of tethering factors: long coiled-coil golgin and the multisubunit Golgi-associated retrograde protein (GARP) complex. Here, we report that ER stress increases the phosphorylation of golgin Imh1 to maintain the GARP-mediated recycling of the SNAREs Snc1 and Tlg1. We also identify a specific function of the Golgi affected by ER stress and elucidate a homeostatic response to restore this function, which involves both an Ire1-dependent and a MAP kinase Slt2/ERK2-dependent mechanism. Furthermore, our findings advance a general understanding of how two different types of tethers act cooperatively to mediate a transport pathway.

[Efficacy of mitomycin C 0.02% for prevention of haze after transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy for mild and moderate myopia]

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of mitomycin C (MMC) 0.02% for prevention of haze after transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (Trans-PRK) for mild and moderate myopia. Methods: Retrospective cohort study. We reviewed medical records of 295 patients (588 eyes) who underwent Trans-PRK with or without use of MMC. There were 45 patients (90 eyes) in the mild myopia group (aged between 18 and 41 years; 37 males and 8 females; myopia diopter <3.00 D) and 250 patients (498 eyes) in the moderate myopia group (aged between 18 and 46 years; 168 males and 82 females; myopia diopter: 3.00 to 6.00 D). The two groups were divided into subgroups with MMC 0.02% and without MMC, respectively. The time of intraoperative application of MMC, if there was, was 15 s and 30 s in the mild myopia group and the moderate myopia group, respectively. The mean follow-up time was 6 months. Postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalent (SE) and haze were analyzed and compared using an independent Student t-test or Mann-Whitney U test between subgroups. Haze variables were compared using chi-square statistics. Results: Haze was quantified with Fantes from grade 0.5 to 4. In the mild myopia group, all haze grades were 0.5 within 3 months. The incidence of haze was 6.25% (2/32) in eyes treated with MMC and 8.62% (5/58) in eyes treated without MMC; there was no statistical significance (χ²=0.00, P>0.999). In the moderate myopia group, the incidence of haze was 9.19% (24/261) in eyes treated with MMC within 3 months; the grade was 0.5 in 91.67% (22/24) of eyes with haze and 1 in 8.33% (2/24). The incidence of haze was 29.53% (70/237) in eyes treated without MMC; the grade was 0.5 in 60.00% (42/70) of eyes with haze, 1 in 18.57% (13/70), and 2 in 5.71% (4/70) within 3 months, and 0.5 in 15.71% (11/70) after 3 months (χ²=12.36, P=0.002). In the mild myopia group, BCVA was 5.0(5.0, 5.1) versus 5.0(5.0, 5.1) in the subgroups with MMC and without MMC (Z=-0.34, P=0.733). In the moderate myopia group, BCVA was 5.0(5.0, 5.1) versus 5.0(5.0, 5.1) in the subgroups with and without MMC (Z=-2.05, P=0.040). In the mild myopia group, SE was (0.33±1.07) D versus (0.32±0.57) D in the subgroups with and without MMC (t=0.25, P=0.805). In the moderate myopia group, SE was (0.66±0.85) D versus (0.53±0.67) D in the subgroups with and without MMC (t=2.97, P=0.003). Conclusions: MMC 0.02% was effective in preventing haze after Trans-PRK in the treatment of moderate myopia. However, it was not effective in mild myopia.

Nuclear accumulation of KPNA2 impacts radioresistance through positive regulation of the PLSCR1-STAT1 loop in lung adenocarcinoma

Lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) is the predominant histological type of lung cancer, and radiotherapy is one of the current therapeutic strategies for lung cancer treatment. Unfortunately, biological complexity and cancer heterogeneity contribute to radioresistance development. Karyopherin α2 (KPNA2) is a member of the importin α family that mediates the nucleocytoplasmic transport of cargo proteins. KPNA2 overexpression is observed across cancer tissues of diverse origins. However, the role of KPNA2 in lung cancer radioresistance is unclear. Herein, we demonstrated that high expression of KPNA2 is positively correlated with radioresistance and cancer stem cell (CSC) properties in lung ADC cells. Radioresistant cells exhibited nuclear accumulation of KPNA2 and its cargos (OCT4 and c‐MYC). Additionally, KPNA2 knockdown regulated CSC‐related gene expression in radioresistant cells. Next‐generation sequencing and bioinformatic analysis revealed that STAT1 activation and nuclear phospholipid scramblase 1 (PLSCR1) are involved in KPNA2‐mediated radioresistance. Endogenous PLSCR1 interacting with KPNA2 and PLSCR1 knockdown suppressed the radioresistance induced by KPNA2 expression. Both STAT1 and PLSCR1 were found to be positively correlated with dysregulated KPNA2 in radioresistant cells and ADC tissues. We further demonstrated a potential positive feedback loop between PLSCR1 and STAT1 in radioresistant cells, and this PLSCR1‐STAT1 loop modulates CSC characteristics. In addition, AKT1 knockdown attenuated the nuclear accumulation of KPNA2 in radioresistant lung cancer cells. Our results collectively support a mechanistic understanding of a novel role for KPNA2 in promoting radioresistance in lung ADC cells.

Transcriptomic Analysis in Liquid Biopsy Identifies Circulating PCTAIRE-1 mRNA as a Biomarker in NSCLC

BACKGROUND/AIM

Circulating mRNA can be a useful source of cancer biomarkers. We took advantage of direct transcriptomic analysis in plasma RNA to identify novel mRNA markers for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Plasma RNA from NSCLC patients and healthy individuals was profiled with cDNA-mediated annealing, selection, extension and ligation (DASL) microarrays. The microarray results were further validated in plasma RNA.

RESULTS

Through RNA profiling and online database mining, four gene transcripts were filtered as candidate markers of NSCLC. After validation, the PCTAIRE-1 transcript was identified as a circulating mRNA marker. The diagnostic potential of PCTAIRE-1 was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, which gave a sensitivity and specificity of 60% and 85%, respectively. In addition, high plasma PCTK1 levels were also correlated with poor progression-free survival (p=0.008).

CONCLUSION

Circulating mRNA can be profiled with the DASL assay. From the profile, PCTAIRE-1 RNA in the plasma we discovered as a novel diagnostic/prognostic biomarker and an indicator of poor survival in NSCLC patients.

Integrative Omics Analysis Reveals Soluble Cadherin-3 as a Survival Predictor and an Early Monitoring Marker of EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Therapy in Lung Cancer

PURPOSE

EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKI) benefit patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) harboring activating EGFR mutations. We aimed to identify biomarkers to monitor and predict the progression of patients receiving EGFR-TKIs via a comprehensive omic analysis.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

We applied quantitative proteomics to generate the TKI resistance-associated pleural effusion (PE) proteome from patients with ADC with or without EGFR-TKI resistance. Candidates were selected from integrated genomic and proteomic datasets. The PE (n = 33) and serum (n = 329) levels of potential biomarkers were validated with ELISAs. Western blotting was applied to detect protein expression in tissues, PEs, and a cell line. Gene knockdown, TKI treatment, and proliferation assays were used to determine EGFR-TKI sensitivity. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were assessed to evaluate the prognostic values of the potential biomarkers.

RESULTS

Fifteen proteins were identified as potential biomarkers of EGFR-TKI resistance. Cadherin-3 (CDH3) was overexpressed in ADC tissues compared with normal tissues. CDH3 knockdown enhanced EGFR-TKI sensitivity in ADC cells. The PE level of soluble CDH3 (sCDH3) was increased in patients with resistance. The altered sCDH3 serum level reflected the efficacy of EGFR-TKI after 1 month of treatment (n = 43). Baseline sCDH3 was significantly associated with PFS and OS in patients with ADC after EGFR-TKI therapy (n = 76). Moreover, sCDH3 was positively associated with tumor stage in non-small cell lung cancer (n = 272).

CONCLUSIONS

We provide useful marker candidates for drug resistance studies. sCDH3 is a survival predictor and real-time indicator of treatment efficacy in patients with ADC treated with EGFR-TKIs.

Cooperative recruitment of Arl4A and Pak1 to the plasma membrane contributes to sustained Pak1 activation for cell migration

Cell migration requires the coordination of multiple signaling pathways involved in membrane dynamics and cytoskeletal rearrangement. The Arf-like small GTPase Arl4A has been shown to modulate actin cytoskeleton remodeling. However, evidence of the function of Arl4A in cell migration is insufficient. Here, we report that Arl4A acts with the serine/threonine protein kinase Pak1 to modulate cell migration through their cooperative recruitment to the plasma membrane. We first observed that Arl4A and its isoform Arl4D interact with Pak1 and Pak2 and showed that Arl4A recruits Pak1 and Pak2 to the plasma membrane. The fibronectin-induced Pak1 localization at the plasma membrane is reduced in Arl4A-depleted cells. Unexpectedly, we found that Pak1, but not Arl4A-binding-defective Pak1, can recruit a cytoplasmic myristoylation-deficient Arl4A-G2A mutant to the plasma membrane. Furthermore, we found that the Arl4A-Pak1 interaction, which is independent of Rac1 binding to Pak1, is required for Arl4A-induced cell migration. Thus, we infer that there is feedback regulation between Arl4A and Pak1, in which they mutually recruit each other to the plasma membrane for Pak1 activation, thereby modulating cell migration through direct interaction.

IRF1 Negatively Regulates Oncogenic KPNA2 Expression Under Growth Stimulation and Hypoxia in Lung Cancer Cells

Purpose

Karyopherin alpha 2 (KPNA2) has been reported as an oncogenic protein in numerous human cancers and is currently considered a potential therapeutic target. However, the transcriptional regulation and physiological conditions underlying KPNA2 expression remain unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role and regulation of interferon regulatory factor-1 (IRF1) in modulating KPNA2 expression in lung adenocarcinoma (ADC).

Materials and methods

Bioinformatics tools and chromatin immunoprecipitation were used to analyze the transcription factor (TF) binding sites in the KPNA2 promoter region. We searched for a potential role of IRF1 in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using Oncomine and Kaplan-Meier Plotter datasets. qRT-PCR was applied to examine the role of IRF1 and signaling involved in regulating KPNA2 transcription. Western blotting was used to determine the effects of extracellular stimulation and intracellular signaling on the modulation of KPNA2-related TF expression.

Results

IRF1 was identified as a novel TF that suppresses KPNA2 gene expression. We observed that IRF1 expression was lower in cancerous tissues than in normal lung tissues and that its low expression was correlated with poor prognosis in NSCLC. Notably, both ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors reduced KPNA2 expression, which was accompanied by increased expression of IRF1 but decreased expression of E2F1, a TF that promotes KPNA2 expression in lung ADC cells. IRF1 knockdown restored the reduced levels of KPNA2 in ATM inhibitor-treated cells. We further demonstrated that epidermal growth factor (EGF)-activated mTOR and hypoxia-induced ATM suppressed IRF1 expression but promoted E2F1 expression, which in turn upregulated KPNA2 expression in lung ADC cells.

Conclusion

IRF1 acts as a potential tumor suppressor in NSCLC. EGF and hypoxia promote KPNA2 expression by simultaneously suppressing IRF1 expression and enhancing E2F1 expression in lung ADC cells. Our study provides new insights into targeted therapy for lung cancer.

N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase (GALNS), Similar to Glycodelin, Is a Potential General Biomarker for Multiple Malignancies

BACKGROUND/AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase (GALNS) as a new biomarker candidate for detecting lung cancer. Glycodelin or PAEP, the serum levels of which are known to be elevated in lung and other cancers, served as a benchmark for comparison.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 170 serum samples from healthy controls and patients with pneumonia, lung cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, liver cancer, and head and neck cancer were analyzed for the levels of GALNS and PAEP by ELISA.

RESULTS

The median serum levels of GALNS and PAEP in all cancer types as well as pneumonia patients were significantly higher than those of the healthy controls.

CONCLUSION

In addition to previously known cancers, the median serum levels of PAEP were also found to be higher in liver and head and neck cancer patients. GALNS and PAEP are promising general biomarkers for multiple cancers and deserve further evaluation.

Nanoparticle Formulation of Moxifloxacin and Intramuscular Route of Delivery Improve Antibiotic Pharmacokinetics and Treatment of Pneumonic Tularemia in a Mouse Model

Francisella tularensis causes a serious and often fatal infection, tularemia. We compared the efficacy of moxifloxacin formulated as free drug vs disulfide snap-top mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) in a mouse model of pneumonic tularemia. We found that MSN-formulated moxifloxacin was more effective than free drug and that the intramuscular and subcutaneous routes were markedly more effective than the intravenous route. Measurement of tissue silica levels and fluorescent flow cytometry assessment of colocalization of MSNs with infected cells revealed that the enhanced efficacy of MSNs and the intramuscular route of delivery was not due to better delivery of MSNs to infected tissues or cells. However, moxifloxacin blood levels demonstrated that the nanoparticle formulation and intramuscular route provided the longest half-life and longest time above the minimal inhibitory concentration. Thus, improved pharmacokinetics are responsible for the greater efficacy of nanoparticle formulation and intramuscular delivery compared with free drug and intravenous delivery.

[Clinical significance of continuous transfixion suture for nasal septum in septoplasty]

Objective:To systemically evaluate the clinical significance of continuous transfixion suture for nasal septum in septoplasty. Method:Forty patients with nasal septum deviation were randomly assigned to the suture group including 20 patients who underwent endoscopic septoplasty followed by continuous transfixion suture for nasal septum, or the nasal packing group including 20 patients who underwent endoscopic septoplasty followed by nasal packing. Two groups were compared for the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for postoperative rhinalgia, headache, lacrimation, dysphagia and sleep disorder, changes in mucociliary transport time (MTT) before and after surgery, and postoperative capillary hemorrhage. Patients were followed up for 2 weeks to observe the short-term postoperative complications. Result:Mean VAS scores for rhinalgia, headache, lacrimation, dysphagia and sleep disorder were all higher in nasal packing group than those in suture group (P<0.05); compared to suture group, there was greater prolongation of MTT before and after surgery in packing group (P<0.05); there was significant difference between two groups in postoperative capillary hemorrhage volume (P<0.05); in the nasal packing group, nasal synechia, nasal dryness and hyposmia were observed in 1, 3 and 2 patients, respectively, within 2 weeks postoperatively, whereas no short-term complications were observed in the suture group. Conclusion:Use of continuous transfixion suture in place of nasal packing following septoplasty can significantly improve the postoperative symptoms, protect nasal mucociliary clearance, and reduce short-term postoperative complications.

Glucose intake hampers PKA-regulated HSP90 chaperone activity

Aging is an intricate phenomenon associated with the gradual loss of physiological functions, and both nutrient sensing and proteostasis control lifespan. Although multiple approaches have facilitated the identification of candidate genes that govern longevity, the molecular mechanisms that link aging pathways are still elusive. Here, we conducted a quantitative mass spectrometry screen and identified all phosphorylation/dephosphorylation sites on yeast proteins that significantly responded to calorie restriction, a well-established approach to extend lifespan. Functional screening of 135 potential regulators uncovered that Ids2 is activated by PP2C under CR and inactivated by PKA under glucose intake. ids2Δ or ids2 phosphomimetic cells displayed heat sensitivity and lifespan shortening. Ids2 serves as a co-chaperone to form a complex with Hsc82 or the redundant Hsp82, and phosphorylation impedes its association with chaperone HSP90. Thus, PP2C and PKA may orchestrate glucose sensing and protein folding to enable cells to maintain protein quality for sustained longevity.

Thyroid hormone negatively regulates tumorigenesis through suppression of BC200

Thyroid hormone (T3) and its receptor (TR) are involved in cancer progression. While deregulation of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression has been detected in many tumor types, the mechanisms underlying specific involvement of lncRNAs in tumorigenicity remain unclear. Experiments from the current study revealed negative regulation of BC200 expression by T3/TR. BC200 was highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and effective as an independent prognostic marker. BC200 promoted cell growth and tumor sphere formation, which was mediated via regulation of cell cycle-related genes and stemness markers. Moreover, BC200 protected cyclin E2 mRNA from degradation. Cell growth ability was repressed by T3, but partially enhanced upon BC200 overexpression. Mechanistically, BC200 directly interacted with cyclin E2 and promoted CDK2-cyclin E2 complex formation. Upregulation of cell cycle-related genes in hepatoma samples was positively correlated with BC200 expression. Our collective findings support the utility of a potential therapeutic strategy involving targeting of BC200 for the treatment of HCC.

[Value discussion of radical sinus surgery for difficult-to-treat rhinosinusitis]

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of radical sinus surgery (RSS) on difficult-to-treat rhinosinusitis(DTRS) with nasal polyps. Method: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 26 patients with DTRS that treated with RSS and patients who were not treated with RSS in our hospital from August 2013 to June 2017.The effect of RSS were evaluated by comparing the CT Lund-Kennery score,endoscope Lund-Kennery score,global VAS score and dysosmia VAS score before operation and 6 months after operation. Result: RSS group had more severe Lund-Kennery score,global VAS score and dysosmia VAS score than non-RSS group,and also had more previous surgeries,higher ratio of olfactory region polyps,and higher ratio of co-existing asthma and allergic rhinitis. However RSS group had a lower ratio with pus anot than non-RSS group. The eosinophil count in periheral blood between two groups had no statistical significance. Six months after RSS,the score of endoscope Lund-Kennery,global VAS and dysosmia VAS dependence. 14 patients were successfully cured(53.8%), 12 patients showed improvement(46.2%), no invalid cases. Conclusion: The global symptoms and olfaction of DTRS patients can be improved by RSS combine individual perioperative drug therapy.

[Research progress in therapeutic action of mesenchymal stem cell in allergic rhinitis]

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an allergic disease of nasal mucosa, currently the consensus has been reached that there is a Th1/Th2 imbalance in AR's pathogenesis, meanwhile there are defects in the number and/or function of Treg cells. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have characteristics of multiple differentiation potential, low immunogenicity and immunomodulation function, which can be migrated and implanted into the nasal inflammatory mucosal, recovering the Th1/Th2 immune balance and up-regulate the Treg cells by immunomodulatory function to improve AR. For the present, the treatment of AR by MSCs is basically at the animal experiment stage. This paper reviews the progress of MSCs in AR's treatment and provides a basis for the clinical treatment of MSCs.

Golgi tethering factor golgin-97 suppresses breast cancer cell invasiveness by modulating NF-κB activity

Background

Golgin-97 is a tethering factor in the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and is crucial for vesicular trafficking and maintaining cell polarity. However, the significance of golgin-97 in human diseases such as cancer remains unclear.

Methods

We searched for a potential role of golgin-97 in cancers using Kaplan-Meier Plotter (http://kmplot.com) and Oncomine (www.oncomine.org) datasets. Specific functions of golgin-97 in migration and invasion were examined in golgin-97-knockdown and golgin-97-overexpressing cells. cDNA microarray, pathway analysis and qPCR were used to identify gene profiles regulated by golgin-97. The role of golgin-97 in NF-κB signaling pathway was examined by using subcellular fractionation, luciferase reporter assay, western blot analysis and immunofluorescence assay (IFA).

Results

We found that low expression of golgin-97 correlated with poor overall survival of cancer patients and was associated with invasiveness in breast cancer cells. Golgin-97 knockdown promoted cell migration and invasion, whereas re-expression of golgin-97 restored the above phenotypes in breast cancer cells. Microarray and pathway analyses revealed that golgin-97 knockdown induced the expression of several invasion-promoting genes that were transcriptionally regulated by NF-κB p65. Mechanistically, golgin-97 knockdown significantly reduced IκBα protein levels and activated NF-κB, whereas neither IκBα levels nor NF-κB activity was changed in TGN46- or GCC185-knockdown cells. Conversely, golgin-97 overexpression suppressed NF-κB activity and restored the levels of IκBα in golgin-97-knockdown cells. Interestingly, the results of Golgi-disturbing agent treatment revealed that the loss of Golgi integrity was not involved in the NF-κB activation induced by golgin-97 knockdown. Moreover, both TGN-bound and cytosolic golgin-97 inhibited NF-κB activation, indicating that golgin-97 functions as an NF-κB suppressor regardless of its subcellular localization.

Conclusion

Our results collectively demonstrate a novel and suppressive role of golgin-97 in cancer invasiveness. We also provide a new avenue for exploring the relationship between the TGN, golgin-97 and NF-κB signaling in tumor progression.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12964-018-0230-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Association of overexpressed karyopherin alpha 2 with poor survival and its contribution to interleukin-1β-induced matrix metalloproteinase expression in oral cancer

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the clinicopathological associations and molecular mechanisms of karyopherin alpha 2 (KPNA2) in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) progression.

METHODS

The KPNA2 expressions were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 209 tissues and 181 saliva samples, respectively. The functions of KPNA2 in migration and invasion were examined in KPNA2-knowdown cells. The matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) levels were determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The subcellular fraction was used to obtain the nuclear distribution of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB).

RESULTS

The KPNA2 overexpression was associated with extranodal extension (P < .05) and poor disease-specific survival in patients with oral cavity SCC (P < .05). The salivary KPNA2 levels were elevated in patients with oral cavity SCC (P < .05). The KPNA2 knockdown reduced cell migration and invasion. This knockdown also suppressed the interleukin (IL)-1β-induced nuclear import of NF-κB and MMP (MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-9) transcription.

CONCLUSION

The KPNA2 overexpression is an independent biomarker for poor prognosis of oral cavity SCC and is required for MMP-mediated metastasis.

Large-scale screening and characterisation of Lemna aequinoctialis and Spirodela polyrhiza strains for starch production

Duckweed is considered a promising feedstock for bioethanol production due to its high biomass and starch production. Selection of duckweed strains with high starch accumulation is essential for application of duckweeds to bioethanol production. Geographic differentiation had a large influence on genetic diversity of duckweeds. Biomass production, starch content and starch amount in geographically isolated strains of 20 Lemna aequinoctialis and Spirodela polyrhiza were calculated to evaluate their potential for bioethanol production. The influence of different collection time, culture medium and NaCl concentration on starch accumulation of the best strains were analysed. The results showed that biomass production, starch content and starch production of duckweeds demonstrated clonal dependency. The best strain was L. aequinoctialis 6000, with biomass production of 15.38 ± 1.47 g m^-2 , starch content of 28.68 ± 1.10% and starch production of 4.39 ± 0.25 g m^-2 . Furthermore, starch content of L. aequinoctialis 6000 was highest after 8 h of light, tap water was the best medium for starch induction, and NaCl did not induce starch accumulation. This study suggests duckweed biomass production and starch production demonstrate clonal dependency, indicating that extensive clonal comparisons will be required to identify the most suitable isolates for duckweed selective breeding for bioethanol.

mTOR regulates proteasomal degradation and Dp1/E2F1- mediated transcription of KPNA2 in lung cancer cells

Karyopherin subunit alpha-2 (KPNA2) is overexpressed in various human cancers and is associated with cancer invasiveness and poor prognosis in patient. Nevertheless, the regulation of KPNA2 expression in cancers remains unclear. We herein applied epidermal growth factor (EGF) and five EGF receptor (EGFR)-related kinase inhibitors to investigate the role of EGFR signaling in KPNA2 expression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. We found that EGFR signaling, particularly the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) activity was positively correlated with KPNA2 protein levels in NSCLC cells. The mTOR inhibitors and mTOR knockdown reduced the protein and mRNA levels of KPNA2 in NSCLC and breast cancer cells. Specifically, rapamycin treatment induced proteasome-mediated KPNA2 protein decay and attenuated the transcriptional activation of KPNA2 by decreasing Dp1/E2F1 level in vivo. Immunoprecipitation assay further revealed that KPNA2 physically associated with the phospho-mTOR/mTOR and this association was abolished by rapamycin treatment. Collectively, our results show for the first time that KPNA2 is transcriptionally and post-translationally regulated by the mTOR pathway and provide new insights into targeted therapy for NSCLC.

PARP1 controls KLF4-mediated telomerase expression in stem cells and cancer cells

Telomerase is highly expressed in cancer and embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and implicated in controlling genome integrity, cancer formation and stemness. Previous studies identified that Krüppel-like transcription factor 4 (KLF4) activates telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) expression and contributes to the maintenance of self-renewal in ESCs. However, little is known about how KLF4 regulates TERT expression. Here, we discover poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) as a novel KLF4-interacting partner. Knockdown of PARP1 reduces TERT expression and telomerase activity not only in cancer cells, but also in human and mouse ESCs. Recruitment of KLF4 to TERT promoter is reduced in PARP1-suppressed cells. The poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activity is dispensable, while the oligo(ADP-ribose) polymerase activity is required for the PARP1- and KLF4-mediated TERT activation. Repression of Parp1 in mouse ESCs decreases expression of pluripotent markers and induces differentiation. These results suggest that PARP1 recruits KLF4 to activate telomerase expression and stem cell pluripotency, indicating a positive regulatory role of the PARP1–KLF4 complex in telomerase expression in cancer and stem cells.

Telomere shortening triggers a feedback loop to enhance end protection

Telomere homeostasis is controlled by both telomerase machinery and end protection. Telomere shortening induces DNA damage sensing kinases ATM/ATR for telomerase recruitment. Yet, whether telomere shortening also governs end protection is poorly understood. Here we discover that yeast ATM/ATR controls end protection. Rap1 is phosphorylated by Tel1 and Mec1 kinases at serine 731, and this regulation is stimulated by DNA damage and telomere shortening. Compromised Rap1 phosphorylation hampers the interaction between Rap1 and its interacting partner Rif1, which thereby disturbs the end protection. As expected, reduction of Rap1–Rif1 association impairs telomere length regulation and increases telomere–telomere recombination. These results indicate that ATM/ATR DNA damage checkpoint signal contributes to telomere protection by strengthening the Rap1–Rif1 interaction at short telomeres, and the checkpoint signal oversees both telomerase recruitment and end capping pathways to maintain telomere homeostasis.

[RNA interference targeting DNA-PKcs inhibits glioma cells malignancies and enhances temozolomide sensitivity]

Objective: To investigate the effect of DNA dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) on glioma proliferation, invasion and temozolomide sensitivity, and also to explore the potential mechanisms. Methods: Human glioma cell lines H4 and U87 were chosen to carry out RNA interference transfection, and then divided into negative control group (blank group) and siRNA group (test group). The knockdown efficacy of DNA-PKcs siRNA was tested by quantitative PCR and Western blot. The MTS assay and Transwell assay were used to investigate the effect of DNA-PKcs knockdown on glioma cell growth and invasion, respectively. We also used MTS assay to investigate the IC(50) value of temozolomide in negative control group and siRNA groups. Result: Compared with blank group, DNA-PKcs specific siRNA significantly downregulated both mRNA and protein level of DNA-PKcs. MTS assay results demonstrated that 72-hours proliferation of test group were only 52.48%, 54.70% (H4) and 52.98%, 50.45% (U87) of the blank group's counterpart. Transwell assay results showed that the invasiveness abilities of blank and test groups were 1.00±0.03, 0.41±0.05, 0.39±0.04 (H4) and 1.00±0.02, 0.28±0.04, 0.27±0.04 (U87). Moreover, knockdown of DNA-PKcs significantly decreased the temozolomide IC(50) value (H4: 249±27, 97±39, 88±35; U87: 485±41, 86±49, 73±38). Further we applied the Western blot to reveal the mechanism of inhibitory effect of DNA-PKcs knockdown on glioma malignancies and temozolomide sensitivity. We found that downregulation of DNA-PKcs reduced the activity of AKT signal and the expression of its downstream effectors, such as c-Myc, MMP9, and Survivin. Conclusion: RNA interference targeting DNA-PKcs could inhibit glioma malignancies and enhance temozolomide sensitivity. The inhibitory effect of DNA-PKcs knockdown on those biological activities were mainly through inhibition of AKT signal and its downstream effectors.

Multiple activities of Arl1 GTPase in the trans-Golgi network

ADP-ribosylation factors (Arfs) and ADP-ribosylation factor-like proteins (Arls) are highly conserved small GTPases that function as main regulators of vesicular trafficking and cytoskeletal reorganization. Arl1, the first identified member of the large Arl family, is an important regulator of Golgi complex structure and function in organisms ranging from yeast to mammals. Together with its effectors, Arl1 has been shown to be involved in several cellular processes, including endosomal trans-Golgi network and secretory trafficking, lipid droplet and salivary granule formation, innate immunity and neuronal development, stress tolerance, as well as the response of the unfolded protein. In this Commentary, we provide a comprehensive summary of the Arl1-dependent cellular functions and a detailed characterization of several Arl1 effectors. We propose that involvement of Arl1 in these diverse cellular functions reflects the fact that Arl1 is activated at several late-Golgi sites, corresponding to specific molecular complexes that respond to and integrate multiple signals. We also provide insight into how the GTP-GDP cycle of Arl1 is regulated, and highlight a newly discovered mechanism that controls the sophisticated regulation of Arl1 activity at the Golgi complex.

[Comparison of the anterior corneal asphericity after small incision lenticule extraction and femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and compare the anterior corneal asphericity after small incision lenticule extraction(SMILE)and femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis(FS-LASIK).

METHODS

In this case-control study, 45 subjects who underwent SMILE operation comprised the study group, and 33 subjects with FS-LASIK operation comprised the control group. The asphericity coefficient Q-value of the right eyes in both groups was measured at diameters of 6, 7, 8 and 9 mm, respectively, before surgery and at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month and 6 months following surgery. The correlation between the variation of Q-value and the central cutting depth was analyzed.

RESULTS

The Q-value of anterior corneal surface was 0.85 ± 0.31, 0.80±0.28, 0.69±0.25 and 0.51±0.23 after SMILE, and 1.13±0.56, 1.01±0.47, 0.80±0.39 and 0.51±0.31 after FS-LASIK at 1 week. In both groups, the Q-value was significantly different before and after surgery(P< 0.05); there were interaction effects between the operation method and time; the difference between the two groups at 6-mm and 7-mm diameters was statistically significant(P<0.05). The variation of the Q-value before and after operation(ΔQ)showed significant difference(P6mm=0.004, P7mm=0.014)between the two groups at 6-mm and 7-mm diameters. The cap diameter of the SMILE group was smaller than that of the FS-LASIK group, but the cutting depth was larger. There was no correlation between ΔQ and the cap/disc diameter. It showed a linear relationship(P<0.05)between ΔQ and the central cutting depth at all examined diameters in the two groups, and the relation degree in the FS-LASIK group was superior to the SMILE group.

CONCLUSIONS

Both SMILE and FS-LASIK operations can change the negative Q-value of the anterior corneal surface to the positive. The impact of SMILE on the asphericity is smaller than that of FS-LASIK. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2016, 52: 681-685).

SMYD3-Mediated H2A.Z.1 Methylation Promotes Cell Cycle and Cancer Proliferation

SMYD3 methyltransferase is nearly undetectable in normal human tissues but highly expressed in several cancers, including breast cancer, although its contributions to pathogenesis in this setting are unclear. Here we report that histone H2A.Z.1 is a substrate of SMYD3 that supports malignancy. SMYD3-mediated dimethylation of H2A.Z.1 at lysine 101 (H2A.Z.1K101me2) increased stability by preventing binding to the removal chaperone ANP32E and facilitating its interaction with histone H3. Moreover, a microarray analysis identified cyclin A1 as a target coregulated by SMYD3 and H2A.Z.1K101me2. The colocalization of SMYD3 and H2A.Z.1K101me2 at the promoter of cyclin A1 activated its expression and G₁-S progression. Enforced expression of cyclin A1 in cells containing mutant H2A.Z.1 rescued tumor formation in a mouse model. Our findings suggest that SMYD3-mediated H2A.Z.1K101 dimethylation activates cyclin A1 expression and contributes to driving the proliferation of breast cancer cells. Cancer Res; 76(20); 6043-53. ©2016 AACR.

[An analysis of changes in posterior corneal elevation and relevant factors after small incision lenticule extraction]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate changes in posterior corneal elevation after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and related factors.

METHODS

Retrospective case series study. Eighty-three eyes of 44 myopic patients undergoing SMILE were examined with the Pentacam preoperatively, and at 1 day, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively. Posterior corneal elevation at the corneal apex and 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270° and 325° points of the 2 mm and 6 mm diameter (total, 17 points) was analyzed.

RESULTS

The changes in posterior corneal elevation at 1 day, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months were(-1.72±2.59), (-0.98±2.37), (-0.45±1.81) and (-0.25±2.20) μm, respectively, at the corneal apex. The results were statistically significant (t=6.07, 3.75, 6.07; P<0.05), except 6 months. The changes in posterior corneal elevation were (-1.42±2.06),(-0.69±1.86), (-0.30±1.50) and(-0.22±1.58) μm, respectively, in the 2 mm circle. The results of 1 day and 1 month were statistically significant (t=6.28, 6.28, P<0.05). The changes in posterior corneal elevation were (1.48±1.47),(0.98±1.32),(0.90±1.31) and (0.90±1.16) μm, respectively, in the 6 mm circle .The results were totally statistically significant (t=6.28, 6.28, P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences between 1 month and 1 day postoperatively in the corneal apex, 2 mm and 6 mm circles. The changes were (0.75±2.55),(0.73±1.97) and(-0.50±1.60) μm. There were statistically significant differences between 3 months and 1 month postoperatively in the corneal apex and 2 mm circle. The changes were (0.53±2.22) and (0.39±1.80) μm. No significant change was found in the 6 mm circle. Between postoperative 6 months and 3 months, there were no statistically significant differences. The spherical equivalent, intraocular pressure, ablation depth, residual bed thickness, corneal hysteresis, and corneal resistance factor had no obvious correlation with the changes in posterior corneal elevation.

CONCLUSIONS

After SMILE, the surrounding cornea was slightly forward, while the central posterior cornea was slightly backwards, and returned gradually. The spherical equivalent, intraocular pressure, ablation depth, residual bed thickness, corneal hysteresis, and corneal resistance factor had no obvious correlation with the changes in posterior corneal elevation. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2016, 52: 494-498).

Overexpressed tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase, an angiostatic protein, enhances oral cancer cell invasiveness

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common neoplasms worldwide. Previously, we identified the angiostatic agent tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (TrpRS) as a dysregulated protein in OSCC based on a proteomics approach. Herein, we show that TrpRS is overexpressed in OSCC tissues (139/146, 95.2%) compared with adjacent normal tissues and that TrpRS expression positively correlates with tumor stage, overall TNM stage, perineural invasion and tumor depth. Importantly, the TrpRS levels were significantly higher in tumor cells from metastatic lymph nodes than in corresponding primary tumor cells. TrpRS knockdown or treatment with conditioned media obtained from TrpRS-knockdown cells significantly reduced oral cancer cell viability and invasiveness. TrpRS overexpression promoted cell migration and invasion. In addition, the extracellular addition of TrpRS rescued the invasion ability of TrpRS-knockdown cells. Subcellular fractionation and immunofluorescence staining further revealed that TrpRS was distributed on the cell surface, suggesting that secreted TrpRS promotes OSCC progression via an extrinsic pathway. Collectively, our results demonstrated the clinical significance and a novel role of TrpRS in OSCC.

Identification and Characterization of Potential Biomarkers by Quantitative Tissue Proteomics of Primary Lung Adenocarcinoma

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Both diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers are urgently needed to increase patient survival. In this study, we identified/quantified 1763 proteins from paired adenocarcinoma (ADC) tissues with different extents of lymph node (LN) involvement using an iTRAQ-based quantitative proteomic analysis. Based on a bioinformatics analysis and literature search, we selected six candidates (ERO1L, PABPC4, RCC1, RPS25, NARS, and TARS) from a set of 133 proteins that presented a 1.5-fold increase in expression in ADC tumors without LN metastasis compared with adjacent normal tissues. These six proteins were further verified using immunohistochemical staining and Western blot analyses. The protein levels of these six candidates were higher in tumor tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. The ERO1L and NARS levels were positively associated with LN metastasis. Importantly, ERO1L overexpression in patients with early-stage ADC was positively correlated with poor survival, suggesting that ERO1L overexpression in primary sites of early-stage cancer tissues indicates a high risk for cancer micrometastasis. Moreover, we found that knockdown of either ERO1L or NARS reduced the viability and migration ability of ADC cells. Our results collectively provide a potential biomarker data set for ADC diagnosis/prognosis and reveal novel roles of ERO1L and NARS in ADC progression.

Development of a magnetic bead-based method for the collection of circulating extracellular vesicles

Cells release different types of extracellular vesicles (EVs). These EVs contain biomolecules, including proteins and nucleic acids, from their parent cells, which can be useful for diagnostic applications. The aim of this study was to develop a convenient procedure to collect circulating EVs with detectable mRNA or other biomolecules. Magnetic beads coated with annexin A5 (ANX-beads), which bound to phosphatidylserine moieties on the surfaces of most EVs, were tested for their ability to capture induced apoptotic bodies in vitro and other phosphatidylserine-presenting vesicles in body fluids. Our results show that up to 60% of induced apoptotic bodies could be captured by the ANX-beads. The vesicles captured from cultured media or plasma contained amplifiable RNA. Suitable blood samples for EV collection included EDTA-plasma and serum but not heparin-plasma. In addition, EVs in plasma were labile to freeze-and-thaw cycles. In rodents xenografted with human cancer cells, tumor-derived mRNA could be detected in EVs captured from serum samples. Active proteins could be detected in EVs captured from ascites but not from plasma. In conclusion, we have developed a magnetic bead-based procedure for the collection of EVs from body fluids and proved that captured EVs contain biomolecules from their parent cells, and therefore have great potential for disease diagnosis.

Circulating Messenger RNA Profiling with Microarray and Next-generation Sequencing: Cross-platform Comparison

BACKGROUND

Circulating mRNA is a less invasive and more easily accessed source of samples for biomedical research and clinical applications. However, it is of poor quality. We explored and compared the ability of two high-throughput platforms for the profiling of circulating mRNA regarding their ability to retrieve useful information out of this type of samples.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Circulating mRNAs from three non-small cell lung cancer patients and three healthy controls were analyzed by the cDNA-mediated annealing, selection, extension, and ligation (DASL) assay and high-throughput RNA sequencing (RSEQ). Twelve genes were selected for further confirmation by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

RESULTS

The overall expression profiles derived from the two platforms showed modest-to-moderate correlation. Genes with higher expression levels had higher cross-platform concordance than those of medium- and low-expression levels. In addition, the pathway signatures identified by gene set enrichment analysis from both platforms were in agreement. The RT-q PCR results for the selected genes correlated well with that of RSEQ.

CONCLUSION

Genes with higher expression levels have cross-platform concordance and can be potential biomarkers. Furthermore, RSEQ is a better tool for profiling circulating mRNAs.

Coagulation of β-conglycinin, glycinin and isoflavones induced by calcium chloride in soymilk

The coagulation of β-conglycinin (7S), glycinin (11S) and isoflavones induced by calcium chloride was investigated. Approximately 92.6% of the soymilk proteins were coagulated into the soymilk pellet fraction (SPF) after the addition of 5 mM calcium chloride. SDS-PAGE and two-dimensional electrophoresis analysis indicated that most of the 7S (α', α and β), 11S acidic (A1a, A1b, A2, A3 and A4) and 11S basic (B1a) proteins in the SSF were coagulated into the SPF after treatment with 5 mM calcium chloride. Isoflavones, including daidzein and genistein, were also coagulated into the SPF after the addition of 5 mM calcium chloride. The amounts of daidzein and genistein in the SSF decreased to 39.4 ± 1.6 and 11.8 ± 7.0%, respectively. HPLC analysis suggested that daidzein and genistein were bound with 7S and 11S proteins and then were coprecipitated into the SPF by 5 mM calcium chloride.

Arfaptin-1 negatively regulates Arl1-mediated retrograde transport

The small GTPase Arf-like protein 1 (Arl1) is well known for its role in intracellular vesicular transport at the trans-Golgi network (TGN). In this study, we used differential affinity chromatography combined with mass spectrometry to identify Arf-interacting protein 1b (arfaptin-1b) as an Arl1-interacting protein and characterized a novel function for arfaptin-1 (including the arfaptin-1a and 1b isoforms) in Arl1-mediated retrograde transport. Using a Shiga-toxin subunit B (STxB) transportation assay, we demonstrated that knockdown of arfaptin-1 accelerated the retrograde transport of STxB from the endosome to the Golgi apparatus, whereas Arl1 knockdown inhibited STxB transport compared with control cells. Arfaptin-1 overexpression, but not an Arl1 binding-defective mutant (arfaptin-1b-F317A), consistently inhibited STxB transport. Exogenous arfaptin-1 expression did not interfere with the localization of the Arl1-interacting proteins golgin-97 and golgin-245 to the TGN and vice versa. Moreover, we found that the N-terminal region of arfaptin-1 was involved in the regulation of retrograde transport. Our results show that arfaptin-1 acts as a negative regulator in Arl1-mediated retrograde transport and suggest that different functional complexes containing Arl1 form in distinct microdomains and are responsible for different functions.

In-depth proteomic analysis of six types of exudative pleural effusions for nonsmall cell lung cancer biomarker discovery

Pleural effusion (PE), a tumor-proximal body fluid, may be a promising source for biomarker discovery in human cancers. Because a variety of pathological conditions can lead to PE, characterization of the relative PE proteomic profiles from different types of PEs would accelerate discovery of potential PE biomarkers specifically used to diagnose pulmonary disorders. Using quantitative proteomic approaches, we identified 772 nonredundant proteins from six types of exudative PEs, including three malignant PEs (MPE, from lung, breast, and gastric cancers), one lung cancer paramalignant PE, and two benign diseases (tuberculosis and pneumonia). Spectral counting was utilized to semiquantify PE protein levels. Principal component analysis, hierarchical clustering, and Gene Ontology of cellular process analyses revealed differential levels and functional profiling of proteins in each type of PE. We identified 30 candidate proteins with twofold higher levels (q<0.05) in lung cancer MPEs than in the two benign PEs. Three potential markers, MET, DPP4, and PTPRF, were further verified by ELISA using 345 PE samples. The protein levels of these potential biomarkers were significantly higher in lung cancer MPE than in benign diseases or lung cancer paramalignant PE. The area under the receiver-operator characteristic curve for three combined biomarkers in discriminating lung cancer MPE from benign diseases was 0.903. We also observed that the PE protein levels were more clearly discriminated in effusions in which the cytological examination was positive and that they would be useful in rescuing the false negative of cytological examination in diagnosis of nonsmall cell lung cancer-MPE. Western blotting analysis further demonstrated that MET overexpression in lung cancer cells would contribute to the elevation of soluble MET in MPE. Our results collectively demonstrate the utility of label-free quantitative proteomic approaches in establishing differential PE proteomes and provide a new database of proteins that can be used to facilitate identification of pulmonary disorder-related biomarkers.

Isolated familial pneumothorax in a Taiwanese family with Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax usually occurs as a sporadic event, but may be clustered in certain families with an underlying inherited disorder. Birt-Hogg-Dubι (BHD) syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant disease accounting for familial pneumothorax. BHD syndrome, caused by mutation of the folliculin gene, is characterized by skin fibrofolliculoma, pulmonary cysts, pneumothorax, and renal cancer. We describe a BHD-affected Taiwanese family with clinical and genetic study. A rare mutation of the folliculin gene was detected in the patient and members with pulmonary cysts or pneumothorax, but no skin or renal lesions were found. This mutation was reported in a Taiwanese family and might indicate a pneumothorax-predominant phenotype. Isolated pneumothorax is an uncommon initial presentation of BHD syndrome. Family history should be carefully reviewed when managing a patient with pneumothorax.

Factors associated with adherence to low-tidal volume strategy for acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome and their impacts on outcomes: an observational study and propensity analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors affecting adherence to the low-tidal volume (LTV) strategy in acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and their impacts on outcomes.

METHODS

This prospective observational study included 111 patients with ALI/ARDS admitted to six intensive care units between March 2010 and February 2011. The patients were divided into the LTV group, which received a TV ≤7.5 mL/kg predicted body weight (PBW), and the non-LTV group, which received a TV >7.5 mL/kg PBW. We studied the association of selected clinical factors and adherence to the LTV strategy, and evaluated their impacts on 28-day mortality and 1-year mortality by the propensity-match process.

RESULTS

Adherence to the LTV strategy was only 44%, which was related to lung injury severity (odds ratio [OR]: 3.15, P=0.038), muscle relaxant use (OR: 3.28, P=0.031), and depth of sedation (OR: 0.65, P=0.008). Propensity score-based analysis showed that the LTV group had modestly better 28-day survival (P=0.081) and 1-year survival (P=0.067) than the non-LTV group. Moreover, muscle relaxant use was strongly associated with reducing the risk of death at both 28 days (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.122, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.027-0.542, P=0.006) and 1 year ([HR]: 0.111, 95% [CI]: 0.030-0.408, P=0.001).

CONCLUSION

Adherence to the LTV strategy was strongly associated with the lung injury score, muscle relaxant use, and depth of sedation. Propensity score-based analysis showed that the use of LTV ventilation and muscle relaxants reduced 28-day and 1-year mortality in ALI/ARDS patients.

Effect of the beta secretase-1 inhibitor on the amyloid C-terminal fragment of amyloid precursor protein processing in a hyperphosphorylated tau rat model

The amyloid C-terminal fragment (βCTF) of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) is the cleaved component of APP by beta secretase-1 (BACE1), which shows similar neurotoxicity as amyloid beta (Aβ) in many ways. Evidence suggested that in addition to Aβ, βCTF might also participate in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In recent years, the relationship between βCTF processing and hyperphosphorylated tau has attracted increasing research attention. In this study, we established an animal model of tau hyperphosphorylation with okadaic acid (OA) treatment, and analyzed βCTF processing in vivo. The βCTF level was found to increase in neurons, which was most likely caused by the induction of OA and BACE1 overexpression. Furthermore, these results provide the first evidence that βCTF can predominately accumulate in the axons of neurons in a hyperphosphorylated tau state in vivo, and suggested that the redistribution of βCTF is involved in the pathogenesis of AD. These results indicate that BACE1 could be a therapeutic target of AD by affecting the processing of βCTF.

Targeted proteomics pipeline reveals potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of metastatic lung cancer in pleural effusion

The ability to discriminate lung cancer malignant pleural effusion (LC-MPE) from benign pleural effusion has profound implications for the therapy and prognosis of lung cancer. Here, we established a pipeline to verify potential biomarkers for this purpose. In the discovery phase, label-free quantification was performed for the proteome profiling of exudative pleural effusion in order to select 34 candidate biomarkers with significantly elevated levels in LC-MPE. In the verification phase, signature peptides for 34 candidates were first confirmed by accurate inclusion mass screening (AIMS). To quantify the candidates in PEs, multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry (MRM-MS) with stable isotope-labeled standards (SIS) peptides was performed for the 34 candidate biomarkers using the QconCAT approach for the generation of the SIS peptides. The results of the MRM assay were used to prioritize candidates based on their discriminatory power in 82 exudative PE samples. The five potential biomarkers (ALCAM, CDH1, MUC1, SPINT1, and THBS4; AUC > 0.7) and one three-marker panel (SPINT1/SVEP1/THBS4; AUC = 0.95) were able to effectively differentiate LC-MPE from benign PE. Collectively, these results demonstrate that our pipeline is a feasible platform for verifying potential biomarkers for human diseases.

Proteomic analysis of osteoarthritic chondrocyte reveals the hyaluronic acid-regulated proteins involved in chondroprotective effect under oxidative stress

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common type of arthritis, is a degenerative joint disease. Oxidative stress is well known to play important roles in cartilage degradation and pathogenesis of OA. The intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (IAHA) is accepted as an effective clinical therapy for OA, but we do not yet fully understand the mechanisms underlying the effects of HA on OA chondrocytes under oxidative stress. Here, we show for the first time that IAHA significantly reduces the synovial fluid levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide (O2(-)) in patients with knee OA. We also demonstrate that HA suppresses H2O2-induced cell death in human OA chondrocytes. Proteomic approaches (2-DE combined with mass spectrometry) allowed us to identify 13 protein spots corresponding to 12 non-redundant proteins as HA-regulated proteins in OA chondrocytes under oxidative stress. The expression levels of three putative HA-regulated proteins (TALDO, ANXA1 and EF2) in control, H2O2-, HA- and HA/H2O2-treated OA chondrocytes were verified by Western blotting and the results indeed support the notion that HA acts in anti-oxidation, anti-apoptosis, and the promotion of cell survival. Our results collectively demonstrate the utility of proteomic approaches and provide new insights into the chondroprotective effects of HA on OA.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In the present study, we show for the first time that IAHA reduces the levels of H2O2 and O2(-) in synovial fluids from OA patients. We used primary cultured human OA chondrocytes as a model, treated cells with H2O2 to partly mimic their physiological conditions under oxidative stress, and examined the protection effects of HA. The proteomic approach allowed us to identify candidate proteins regulated by H2O2 and/or HA in OA chondrocytes. We found that proteins functioning in stress responses, apoptosis and protein synthesis were consistently regulated by HA in chondrocytes under oxidative stress. These novel results contribute to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying HA-mediated chondroprotection.

A genome-wide association study on chronic HBV infection and its clinical progression in male Han-Taiwanese

It is common to observe the clustering of chronic hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers in families. Intra-familial transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) could be the reason for the familial clustering of HBsAg carriers. Additionally, genetic and gender factors have been reported to be involved. We conducted a three-stage genome-wide association study to identify genetic factors associated with chronic HBV susceptibility. A total of 1,065 male controls and 1,623 male HBsAg carriers were included. The whole-genome genotyping was done on Illumina HumanHap550 beadchips in 304 healthy controls and HumanHap610 beadchips in 321 cases. We found that rs9277535 (HLA-DPB1, P = 4.87×10(-14)), rs9276370 (HLA-DQA2, P = 1.9×10(-12)), rs7756516 and rs7453920 (HLA-DQB2, P = 1.48×10(-11) and P = 6.66×10(-15) respectively) were significantly associated with persistent HBV infection. A novel SNP rs9366816 near HLA-DPA3 also showed significant association (P = 2.58×10(-10)). The "T-T-G-G-T" haplotype of the five SNPs further signified their association with the disease (P = 1.48×10(-12); OR = 1.49). The "T-T" haplotype composed of rs7756516 and rs9276370 was more prevalent in severe disease subgroups and associated with non-sustained therapeutic response (P = 0.0262). The "G-C" haplotype was associated with sustained therapeutic response (P = 0.0132; OR = 2.49). We confirmed that HLA-DPB1, HLA-DQA2 and HLA-DQB2 loci were associated with persistent HBV infection in male Taiwan Han-Chinese. In addition, the HLA-DQA2 and -DQB2 complex was associated with clinical progression and therapeutic response.

Elastase induced lung epithelial cell apoptosis and emphysema through placenta growth factor

Chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, however, the pathogenic factors and mechanisms are not fully understood. Pulmonary emphysema is one of the major components of COPD and is thought to result from oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, protease–antiprotease imbalance and lung epithelial (LE) cell apoptosis. In our previous studies, COPD patients were noted to have higher levels of placenta growth factor (PlGF) in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid than controls. In addition, transgenic mice overexpressing PlGF developed pulmonary emphysema and exposure to PlGF in LE cells induced apoptosis. Furthermore, intratracheal instillation of porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE) on to PlGF wild type mice induced emphysema, but not in PlGF knockout mice. Therefore, we hypothesized that PPE generates pulmonary emphysema through the upregulation of PlGF expression in LE cells. The elevation of PlGF then leads to LE cell apoptosis. In the present study, we investigated whether PPE induces PlGF expression, whether PlGF induces apoptosis and whether the downstream mechanisms of PlGF are related to LE cell apoptosis. We found that PPE increased PlGF secretion and expression both in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, PlGF-induced LE cell apoptosis and PPE-induced emphysema in the mice were mediated by c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) pathways. Given these findings, we suggest that the increase in PlGF and PlGF-induced JNK and p38 MAPK pathways contribute to PPE-induced LE cell apoptosis and emphysema. Regulatory control of PlGF and agents against its downstream signals may be potential therapeutic targets for COPD.