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Tavlas P, Nikou S, Geramoutsou C, Bosgana P, Tsaniras SC, Melachrinou M, Maroulis I, Bravou V. CUL4A Ubiquitin Ligase Is an Independent Predictor of Overall Survival in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2024; 21:166-177. [PMID: 38423594 PMCID: PMC10905276 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive malignancy with dismal prognosis. Genomic instability due to defects in cell-cycle regulation/mitosis or deficient DNA-damage repair is a major driver of PDAC progression with clinical relevance. Deregulation of licensing of DNA replication leads to DNA damage and genomic instability, predisposing cells to malignant transformation. While overexpression of DNA replication-licensing factors has been reported in several human cancer types, their role in PDAC remains largely unknown. We aimed here to examine the expression and prognostic significance of the DNA replication-licensing factors chromatin licensing and DNA replication factor 1 (CDT1), cell-division cycle 6 (CDC6), minichromosome maintenance complex component 7 (MCM7) and also of the ubiquitin ligase regulator of CDT1, cullin 4A (CUL4A), in PDAC. MATERIALS AND METHODS Expression levels of CUL4, CDT1, CDC6 and MCM7 were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 76 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens of PDAC patients in relation to DNA-damage response marker H2AX, clinicopathological parameters and survival. We also conducted bioinformatics analysis of data from online available databases to corroborate our findings. RESULTS CUL4A and DNA replication-licensing factors were overexpressed in patients with PDAC and expression of CDT1 positively correlated with H2AX. Expression of CUL4A and CDT1 positively correlated with lymph node metastasis. Importantly, elevated CUL4A expression was associated with reduced overall survival and was an independent indicator of poor prognosis on multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION Our findings implicate CUL4A, CDT1, CDC6 and MCM7 in PDAC progression and identify CUL4A as an independent prognostic factor for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Tavlas
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
- Department of Surgery, University General Hospital of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Christina Geramoutsou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Pinelopi Bosgana
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Spyridon Champeris Tsaniras
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, U.S.A
- International Institute of Anticancer Research, Kapandriti, Greece
| | - Maria Melachrinou
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Ioannis Maroulis
- Department of Surgery, University General Hospital of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece;
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2
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Petropoulos M, Champeris Tsaniras S, Nikou S, Maxouri S, Dionellis VS, Kalogeropoulou A, Karamichali A, Ioannidis K, Danalatos IR, Obst M, Naumann R, Delinasios GJ, Gorgoulis VG, Roukos V, Anastassiadis K, Halazonetis TD, Bravou V, Lygerou Z, Taraviras S. Cdt1 overexpression drives colorectal carcinogenesis through origin overlicensing and DNA damage. J Pathol 2023; 259:10-20. [PMID: 36210634 DOI: 10.1002/path.6017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Chromatin licensing and DNA replication factor 1 (CDT1), a protein of the pre-replicative complex, is essential for loading the minichromosome maintenance complex (MCM) helicases onto the origins of DNA replication. While several studies have shown that dysregulation of CDT1 expression causes re-replication and DNA damage in cell lines, and CDT1 is highly expressed in several human cancers, whether CDT1 deregulation is sufficient to enhance tumorigenesis in vivo is currently unclear. To delineate its role in vivo, we overexpressed Cdt1 in the mouse colon and induced carcinogenesis using azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate (AOM/DSS). Here, we show that mice overexpressing Cdt1 develop a significantly higher number of tumors with increased tumor size, and more severe dysplastic changes (high-grade dysplasia), compared with control mice under the same treatment. These tumors exhibited an increased growth rate, while cells overexpressing Cdt1 loaded greater amounts of Mcm2 onto chromatin, demonstrating origin overlicensing. Adenomas overexpressing Cdt1 showed activation of the DNA damage response (DDR), apoptosis, formation of micronuclei, and chromosome segregation errors, indicating that aberrant expression of Cdt1 results in increased genomic and chromosomal instability in vivo, favoring cancer development. In line with these results, high-level expression of CDT1 in human colorectal cancer tissue specimens and colorectal cancer cell lines correlated significantly with increased origin licensing, activation of the DDR, and microsatellite instability (MSI). © 2022 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michalis Petropoulos
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.,Department of General Biology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Styliani Maxouri
- Department of General Biology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mandy Obst
- Stem Cell Engineering, Biotechnology Center, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, University of Technology Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ronald Naumann
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Vassilis G Gorgoulis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Konstantinos Anastassiadis
- Stem Cell Engineering, Biotechnology Center, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, University of Technology Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Zoi Lygerou
- Department of General Biology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Stavros Taraviras
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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Psilopanagioti A, Nikou S, Logotheti S, Arbi M, Chartoumpekis DV, Papadaki H. Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor in the Human Hypothalamus Is Associated with Body Mass Index and Colocalizes with the Anorexigenic Neuropeptide Nucleobindin-2/Nesfatin-1. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314899. [PMID: 36499229 PMCID: PMC9740138 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Data on animals emphasize the importance of the neuronal glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor (GLP-1R) for feeding suppression, although it is unclear whether astrocytes participate in the transduction of anorectic GLP-1R-dependent signals. In humans, the brain circuitry underlying these effects remains insufficiently investigated. The present study aimed to explore GLP-1R protein expression in the human hypothalamus and its correlation with body mass index (BMI). Sections of hypothalamus from 28 autopsy cases, 11 with normal weight (BMI < 25 kg/m2) and 17 with non-normal weight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2), were examined using immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence labeling. Prominent GLP-1R immunoexpression was detected in neurons of several hypothalamic nuclei, including paraventricular, supraoptic, and infundibular nuclei; the lateral hypothalamic area (LH); and basal forebrain nuclei. Interestingly, in the LH, GLP-1R was significantly decreased in individuals with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 compared with their normal weight counterparts (p = 0.03). Furthermore, GLP-1R was negatively correlated (τb = −0.347, p = 0.024) with BMI levels only in the LH. GLP-1R extensively colocalized with the anorexigenic and antiobesogenic neuropeptide nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 but not with the astrocytic marker glial fibrillary acidic protein. These data suggest a potential role for GLP-1R in the regulation of energy balance in the human hypothalamus. In the LH, an appetite- and reward-related brain region, reduced GLP-1R immunoexpression may contribute to the dysregulation of homeostatic and/or hedonic feeding behavior. Possible effects of NUCB2/nesfatin-1 on central GLP-1R signaling require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristea Psilopanagioti
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
- Correspondence:
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Souzana Logotheti
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Marina Arbi
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Dionysios V. Chartoumpekis
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Helen Papadaki
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
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4
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Petrou IG, Nikou S, Madduri S, Nifora M, Bravou V, Kalbermatten DF. The Role of Hippo Signaling Pathway and ILK in the Pathophysiology of Human Hypertrophic Scars and Keloids: An Immunohistochemical Investigation. Cells 2022; 11:3426. [PMID: 36359821 PMCID: PMC9657014 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Keloids and hypertrophic scars are characterized by abnormal fibroblast activation and proliferation. While their molecular pathogenesis remains unclear, myofibroblasts have been associated with their development. Hippo pathway effectors YAP/TAZ promote cell proliferation and matrix stiffening. Integrin-linked kinase (ILK), a central component of focal adhesions that mediates cell-matrix interactions, has been linked to tissue repair and fibrosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of key Hippo pathway molecules and ILK in hypertrophic scars and keloids. METHODS YAP/TAZ, TEAD4, ILK and a-SMA expression were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in keloids (n = 55), hypertrophic scars (n = 38) and normal skin (n = 14). RESULTS The expression of YAP/TAZ, TEAD4, ILK and a-SMA was higher in fibroblasts of keloids compared to hypertrophic scars while negative in normal skin. There was a significant positive correlation between the expression of ILK and Hippo pathway effectors. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the deregulation of Hippo signaling and ILK are implicated in keloid and hypertrophic scar formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias G. Petrou
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio Patras, Greece
| | - Srinivas Madduri
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Martha Nifora
- Department of Histopathology, “St.-Andrew” General Hospital of Patras, 26332 Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio Patras, Greece
| | - Daniel F. Kalbermatten
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
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5
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Geramoutsou C, Nikou S, Karavias D, Arbi M, Tavlas P, Tzelepi V, Lygerou Z, Maroulis I, Bravou V. Focal adhesion proteins in hepatocellular carcinoma: RSU1 a novel tumour suppressor with prognostic significance. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 235:153950. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.153950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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6
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Nikou S, Arbi M, Dimitrakopoulos FID, Kalogeropoulou A, Geramoutsou C, Zolota V, Kalofonos HP, Taraviras S, Lygerou Z, Bravou V. Ras suppressor-1 (RSU1) exerts a tumor suppressive role with prognostic significance in lung adenocarcinoma. Clin Exp Med 2022:10.1007/s10238-022-00847-8. [PMID: 35729367 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-022-00847-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Ras suppressor-1 (RSU1), originally described as a suppressor of Ras oncogenic transformation, localizes to focal adhesions interacting with the ILK-PINCH-PARVIN (IPP) complex that exerts a well-established oncogenic role in cancer. However, RSU1 implication in lung cancer is currently unknown. Our study aims to address the role of RSU1 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUADC). We here show that RSU1 protein expression by immunohistochemistry is downregulated in LUADC human tissue samples and represents a significant prognostic indicator. In silico analysis of gene chip and RNA seq data validated our findings. Depletion of RSU1 by siRNA in lung cancer cells promotes anchorage-independent cell growth, cell motility and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Silencing of RSU1 also alters IPP complex expression in lung cancer cells. The p29 RSU1 truncated isoform is detected in lung cancer cells, and its expression is downregulated upon RSU1 silencing, whereas it is overexpressed upon ILK overexpression. These findings suggest that RSU1 exerts a tumor suppressive role with prognostic significance in LUADC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | - Marina Arbi
- Department of General Biology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | - Foteinos-Ioannis D Dimitrakopoulos
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | - Argiro Kalogeropoulou
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Christina Geramoutsou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Zolota
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece.,Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | - Haralabos P Kalofonos
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece.,Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras, 26504, Rio Patras, Greece
| | - Stavros Taraviras
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Zoi Lygerou
- Department of General Biology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece.
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7
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Kalogeropoulou A, Mougkogianni M, Iliadou M, Nikolopoulou E, Flordelis S, Kanellou A, Arbi M, Nikou S, Nieminuszczy J, Niedzwiedz W, Kardamakis D, Bravou V, Lygerou Z, Taraviras S. Intrinsic neural stem cell properties define brain hypersensitivity to genotoxic stress. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:1395-1410. [PMID: 35623353 PMCID: PMC9214316 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Impaired replication has been previously linked to growth retardation and microcephaly; however, why the brain is critically affected compared with other organs remains elusive. Here, we report the differential response between early neural progenitors (neuroepithelial cells [NECs]) and fate-committed neural progenitors (NPs) to replication licensing defects. Our results show that, while NPs can tolerate altered expression of licensing factors, NECs undergo excessive replication stress, identified by impaired replication, increased DNA damage, and defective cell-cycle progression, leading eventually to NEC attrition and microcephaly. NECs that possess a short G1 phase license and activate more origins than NPs, by acquiring higher levels of DNA-bound MCMs. In vivo G1 shortening in NPs induces DNA damage upon impaired licensing, suggesting that G1 length correlates with replication stress hypersensitivity. Our findings propose that NECs possess distinct cell-cycle characteristics to ensure fast proliferation, although these inherent features render them susceptible to genotoxic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Argyro Kalogeropoulou
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Basic Medical Sciences Building, 1 Asklepiou Str., University Campus, 26504, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Maria Mougkogianni
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Basic Medical Sciences Building, 1 Asklepiou Str., University Campus, 26504, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Marianna Iliadou
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Basic Medical Sciences Building, 1 Asklepiou Str., University Campus, 26504, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Eleni Nikolopoulou
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Basic Medical Sciences Building, 1 Asklepiou Str., University Campus, 26504, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Stefanos Flordelis
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Basic Medical Sciences Building, 1 Asklepiou Str., University Campus, 26504, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Alexandra Kanellou
- Department of General Biology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Marina Arbi
- Department of General Biology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | | | - Dimitrios Kardamakis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Zoi Lygerou
- Department of General Biology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Stavros Taraviras
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Basic Medical Sciences Building, 1 Asklepiou Str., University Campus, 26504, Rio, Patras, Greece.
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8
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Psilopanagioti A, Makrygianni M, Nikou S, Logotheti S, Papadaki H. Nucleobindin 2/nesfatin-1 expression and colocalisation with neuropeptide Y and cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript in the human brainstem. J Neuroendocrinol 2020; 32:e12899. [PMID: 32902020 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Feeding is a complex behaviour entailing elaborate interactions between forebrain, hypothalamic and brainstem neuronal circuits via multiple orexigenic and anorexigenic neuropeptides. Nucleobindin-2 (NUCB2)/nesfatin-1 is a negative regulator of food intake and body weight with a widespread distribution in rodent brainstem nuclei. However, its localisation pattern in the human brainstem is unknown. The present study aimed to explore NUCB2/nesfatin-1 immunoexpression in human brainstem nuclei and its possible correlation with body weight. Sections of human brainstem from 20 autopsy cases (13 males, seven females; eight normal weight, six overweight, six obese) were examined using immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence labelling. Strong immunoreactivity for NUCB2/nesfatin-1 was displayed in various brainstem areas, including the locus coeruleus, medial and lateral parabrachial nuclei, pontine nuclei, raphe nuclei, nucleus of the solitary tract, dorsal motor nucleus of vagus (10N), area postrema, hypoglossal nucleus, reticular formation, inferior olive, cuneate nucleus, and spinal trigeminal nucleus. NUCB2/nesfatin-1 was shown to extensively colocalise with neuropeptide Y and cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript in the locus coeruleus, dorsal raphe nucleus and solitary tract. Interestingly, in the examined cases, NUCB2/nesfatin-1 protein expression was lower in obese than normal weight subjects in the solitary tract (P = 0.020). The findings of the present study provide neuroanatomical support for a role for NUCB2/nesfatin-1 in feeding behaviour and energy balance. The widespread distribution of NUCB2/nesfatin-1 in the human brainstem nuclei may be indicative of its pleiotropic effects on autonomic, neuroendocrine and behavioural processes. In the solitary tract, a key integrator of energy status, altered neurochemistry may contribute to obesity. Further research is necessary to decipher human brainstem energy homeostasis circuitry, which, despite its importance, remains inadequately characterised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristea Psilopanagioti
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Maria Makrygianni
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Souzana Logotheti
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Helen Papadaki
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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9
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Nikou S, Arbi M, Dimitrakopoulos FID, Sirinian C, Chadla P, Pappa I, Ntaliarda G, Stathopoulos GT, Papadaki H, Zolota V, Lygerou Z, Kalofonos HP, Bravou V. Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) regulates KRAS, IPP complex and Ras suppressor-1 (RSU1) promoting lung adenocarcinoma progression and poor survival. J Mol Histol 2020; 51:385-400. [PMID: 32592097 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-020-09888-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) forms a heterotrimeric protein complex with PINCH and PARVIN (IPP) in Focal Adhesions (FAs) that acts as a signaling platform between the cell and its microenvironment regulating important cancer-related functions. We aimed to elucidate the role of ILK in lung adenocarcinoma (LUADC) focusing on a possible link with KRAS oncogene. We used immunohistochemistry on human tissue samples and KRAS-driven LUADC in mice, analysis of large scale publicly available RNA sequencing data, ILK overexpression and pharmacological inhibition as well as knockdown of KRAS in lung cancer cells. ILK, PINCH1 and PARVB (IPP) proteins are overexpressed in human LUADC and KRAS-driven LUADC in mice representing poor prognostic indicators. Genes implicated in ILK signaling are significantly enriched in KRAS-driven LUADC. Silencing of KRAS, as well as, overexpression and pharmacological inhibition of ILK in lung cancer cells provide evidence of a two-way association between ILK and KRAS. Upregulation of PINCH, PARVB and Ras suppressor-1 (RSU1) expression was demonstrated in ILK overexpressing lung cancer cells in addition to a significant positive correlation between these factors in tissue samples, while KRAS silencing downregulates IPP and RSU1. Pharmacological inhibition of ILK in KRAS mutant lung cancer cells suppresses cell growth, migration, EMT and increases sensitivity to platinum-based chemotherapy. ILK promotes an aggressive lung cancer phenotype with prognostic and therapeutic value through functions that involve KRAS, IPP complex and RSU1, rendering ILK a promising biomarker and therapeutic target in lung adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece
| | - Marina Arbi
- Department of General Biology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Chaido Sirinian
- Clinical and Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Rio, Greece
| | - Panagiota Chadla
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece
| | - Ioanna Pappa
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece
| | - Giannoula Ntaliarda
- Laboratory for Molecular Respiratory Carcinogenesis, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Patras, 2504, Rio, Achaia, Greece
| | - Georgios T Stathopoulos
- Laboratory for Molecular Respiratory Carcinogenesis, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Patras, 2504, Rio, Achaia, Greece.,Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) and Institute for Lung Biology and Disease (iLBD), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Helen Papadaki
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Zolota
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | - Zoi Lygerou
- Department of General Biology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | - Haralabos P Kalofonos
- Clinical and Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504, Rio, Greece.,Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras, 26504, Rio, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece.
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Psilopanagioti A, Makrygianni M, Nikou S, Logotheti S, Chartoumpekis D, Papadaki H. SAT-LB102 Obesity Is Associated With Reduced Expression of the Anorexigenic Neuropeptide Nucleobindin-2/Nesfatin-1 in the Human Nucleus of the Solitary Tract. J Endocr Soc 2020. [PMCID: PMC7209018 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa046.2073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Feeding is a complex behavior coordinated by interrelated forebrain, hypothalamic, and brainstem neuronal networks. Brainstem neurons constitute an important input for the neural circuitry integrating nutrient signals to control ingestive behavior. Orexigenic and anorexigenic neuropeptides act in concert to regulate energy balance. Data from animal models suggest that altered neuropeptidergic expression contributes to obesity. Nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1, an appetite-suppressing neuropeptide and negative regulator of body weight, is reduced in the hypothalamus of mouse obesity models. In obese and overweight humans, we have recently reported decreased nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 immunoexpression in the lateral hypothalamic area, which is critically involved in appetite and metabolic regulation and has extensive connections with brainstem feeding circuits. Objective: The present study explored nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 localization pattern as well as the association between nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 protein expression and body weight in human brainstem nuclei. Methods: Sections of 20 human brainstems (13 males, 7 females; 8 normal weight, 6 overweight, 6 obese) were examined by means of immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence labeling. Results: Nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 widespread distribution was observed in various brainstem areas, including nuclei with well-defined roles in energy homeostasis and in autonomic and behavioral processes, such as the nucleus of the solitary tract, dorsal motor nucleus of vagus, area postrema, inferior olive, raphe nuclei, reticular formation, locus coeruleus, parabrachial nuclei, and pontine nuclei, and in Purkinje cells of the cerebellum. Interestingly, nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 immunofluorescence signal extensively localized in neuronal subpopulations expressing neuropeptide Y and cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (peptides known to exert potent actions on food intake and energy balance) in nucleus of the solitary tract, inferior olive, locus coeruleus, and dorsal raphe nucleus. Of note, nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 immunoexpression was significantly lower in obese than normal weight subjects in the nucleus of the solitary tract (p<0.05). Conclusions: These data provide for the first time neuroanatomical support for the potential role of nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 in human brainstem circuits controlling energy homeostasis. In nucleus of the solitary tract, a key integrator of nutrient state signals and a neural substrate of food reward-related processes, altered neurochemistry such as nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 deficiency may contribute to dysregulation of homeostatic and/or hedonic feeding behavior and ultimately to obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sofia Nikou
- University of Patras, School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| | | | | | - Helen Papadaki
- University of Patras, School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
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Tsinias G, Nikou S, Mastronikolis N, Bravou V, Papadaki H. Expression and prognostic significance of YAP, TAZ, TEAD4 and p73 in human laryngeal cancer. Histol Histopathol 2020; 35:983-995. [PMID: 32378727 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Hippo signaling pathway plays a critical role in organ size control and tissue homeostasis and its perturbation is associated with tumorigenesis. YAP (Yes associated protein) and TAZ (transcriptional co-activator with PDZ- binding motif) are the major nuclear effectors of the Hippo pathway interacting with TEADs (TEA domain) and p73 transcriptional factors to regulate gene expression. Altered expression of the above proteins promotes tumor initiation, progression and metastasis in a variety of cancer types. This study addresses their expression and prognostic significance in human laryngeal carcinoma. METHODS Protein expression of YAP, TAZ, TEAD4 and p73 was examined by immunohistochemistry in 121 human laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas. Correlations with clinicopathological data and survival were evaluated. RESULTS All proteins were overexpressed in human laryngeal carcinomas compared to non-neoplastic adjacent epithelium. High expression of YAP, TAZ, TEAD4 and p73 correlated significantly with high grade, advanced stage, supraglottic location of tumor, nodal metastases and recurrence. Furthermore, high expression of all proteins was significantly associated with poor overall and disease- free survival. p73 expression proved to be an independent predictive factor of survival and YAP expression proved to be an independent predictive factor of disease recurrence. CONCLUSIONS Deregulation of the expression of the Hippo pathway proteins is implicated in human laryngeal carcinogenesis and YAP and p73 have prognostic significance in the outcome of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Tsinias
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University General Hospital of Patras, Patras, Greece.,Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| | - Nicholas Mastronikolis
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University General Hospital of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece.
| | - Helen Papadaki
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece.
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Psilopanagioti A, Nikou S, Papadaki H. Nucleobindin-2/Nesfatin-1 in the Human Hypothalamus Is Reduced in Obese Subjects and Colocalizes with Oxytocin, Vasopressin, Melanin-Concentrating Hormone, and Cocaine- and Amphetamine-Regulated Transcript. Neuroendocrinology 2019; 108:190-200. [PMID: 30625474 DOI: 10.1159/000496731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Nesfatin-1, processed from nucleobindin-2 (NUCB2), is a potent anorexigenic peptide being expressed in rodent hypothalamic nuclei and involved in the regulation of feeding behavior and body weight in animals. The present study aimed to investigate NUCB2/nesfatin-1 protein expression in the human hypothalamus as well as its correlation with body weight. METHODS Sections of hypothalamus and adjacent cholinergic basal forebrain nuclei, including the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) and the diagonal band of Broca (DBB), from 25 autopsy cases (17 males, 8 females; 8 lean, 9 overweight, 8 obese) were examined using immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence labeling. RESULTS Prominent NUCB2/nesfatin-1 immunoexpression was detected in supraoptic, paraventricular, and infundibular nuclei, lateral hypothalamic area (LHA)/perifornical region, and NBM/DBB. NUCB2/nesfatin-1 was found to extensively colocalize with (a) oxytocin and vasopressin in paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei, (b) melanin-concentrating hormone in the LHA, and (c) cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript in infundibular and paraventricular nuclei and LHA. Interestingly, in the LHA, NUCB2/nesfatin-1 protein expression was significantly decreased in obese, compared with lean (p < 0.01) and overweight (p < 0.05) subjects. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the present study are suggestive of a potential role for NUCB2/nesfatin-1 as an integral regulator of food intake and energy homeostasis in the human hypothalamus. In the LHA, an appetite- and reward-related brain area, reduced NUCB2/nesfatin-1 immunoexpression may contribute to dysregulation of homeostatic and/or hedonic feeding behavior and obesity. NUCB2/nesfatin-1 localization in NBM/DBB might imply its participation in the neuronal circuitry controlling cognitive influences on food intake and give impetus towards unraveling additional biological actions of NUCB2/nesfatin-1 in human neuronal networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristea Psilopanagioti
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece,
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Helen Papadaki
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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Champeris Tsaniras S, Villiou M, Giannou AD, Nikou S, Petropoulos M, Pateras IS, Tserou P, Karousi F, Lalioti ME, Gorgoulis VG, Patmanidi AL, Stathopoulos GT, Bravou V, Lygerou Z, Taraviras S. Geminin ablation in vivo enhances tumorigenesis through increased genomic instability. J Pathol 2018; 246:134-140. [PMID: 29952003 DOI: 10.1002/path.5128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Geminin, a DNA replication licensing inhibitor, ensures faithful DNA replication in vertebrates. Several studies have shown that geminin depletion in vitro results in rereplication and DNA damage, whereas increased expression of geminin has been observed in human cancers. However, conditional inactivation of geminin during embryogenesis has not revealed any detectable DNA replication defects. In order to examine its role in vivo, we conditionally inactivated geminin in the murine colon and lung, and assessed chemically induced carcinogenesis. We show here that mice lacking geminin develop a significantly higher number of tumors and bear a larger tumor burden than sham-treated controls in urethane-induced lung and azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate-induced colon carcinogenesis. Survival is also significantly reduced in mice lacking geminin during lung carcinogenesis. A significant increase in the total number and grade of lesions (hyperplasias, adenomas, and carcinomas) was also confirmed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Moreover, increased genomic aberrations, identified by increased ATR and γH2AX expression, was detected with immunohistochemistry analysis. In addition, we analyzed geminin expression in human colon cancer, and found increased expression, as well as a positive correlation with ATM/ATR levels and a non-monotonic association with γH2AX. Taken together, our data demonstrate that geminin acts as a tumor suppressor by safeguarding genome stability, whereas its overexpression is also associated with genomic instability. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Villiou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Anastassios D Giannou
- Laboratory for Molecular Respiratory Carcinogenesis, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Ioannis S Pateras
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Tserou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Foteini Karousi
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Maria-Eleni Lalioti
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Vassilis G Gorgoulis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Georgios T Stathopoulos
- Laboratory for Molecular Respiratory Carcinogenesis, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Zoi Lygerou
- Department of Biology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Stavros Taraviras
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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Akrida I, Nikou S, Gyftopoulos K, Argentou M, Kounelis S, Zolota V, Bravou V, Papadaki H. Expression of EMT inducers integrin-linked kinase (ILK) and ZEB1 in phyllodes breast tumors is associated with aggressive phenotype. Histol Histopathol 2018; 33:937-949. [PMID: 29608014 DOI: 10.14670/hh-11-987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Phyllodes tumors (PTs) of the breast constitute an uncommon group of mammary fibroepithelial lesions with ambiguous biologic behavior. Recent evidence suggests that epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), a driving force of cancer progression is implicated in PTs pathogenesis. Integrin-linked kinase (ILK), a focal adhesion kinase, has been implicated in cancer and EMT and represents a novel cancer therapeutic target. In this study, we aimed to investigate ILK and EMT markers expression in phyllodes breast tumors in relation to tumor grade. Expression of ILK and EMT markers E-cadherin, β-catenin, Ν-cadherin, vimentin, Snail, ZEB1 and Twist was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in paraffin-embedded tissue sections from 96 human phyllodes breast tumors (48 benign, 27 borderline, 21 malignant). Cytoplasmic and nuclear immunopositivity of ILK were observed in both the epithelial and the stromal component of phyllodes breast tumors and were significantly higher with increasing tumor grade. An EMT-related expression profile consisting of decreased membranous and increased nuclear/cytoplasmic immunoreactivity of E-cadherin and β-catenin and increased expression of N-cadherin, vimentin, Snail, ZEB1 and Twist was observed in tumor epithelial and stromal component and was significantly associated with malignant phyllodes breast tumor histopathology. Interestingly, there was a significant correlation of ILK expression with all of the EMT markers examined. Our results suggest that EMT significantly contributes to phyllodes tumor pathogenesis and originally implicate ILK and ZEB1 in phyllodes tumors malignant phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Akrida
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Marianna Argentou
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital of Patras, Rion Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Kounelis
- Department of Pathology, General Hospital "Elena Venizelou", Athens, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Zolota
- Department of Pathology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece.
| | - Helen Papadaki
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece.
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Tsoumas D, Nikou S, Giannopoulou E, Champeris Tsaniras S, Sirinian C, Maroulis I, Taraviras S, Zolota V, Kalofonos HP, Bravou V. ILK Expression in Colorectal Cancer Is Associated with EMT, Cancer Stem Cell Markers and Chemoresistance. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2018; 15:127-141. [PMID: 29496692 PMCID: PMC5892607 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Revised: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cells (CSC) are critically implicated in cancer metastasis and chemoresistance. Herein, we investigated integrin-linked kinase (ILK)'s role in human colon cancer (CRC) progression and chemoresistance in relation to EMT and CSC markers. PATIENTS AND METHODS Expression of ILK, EMT and CSC markers were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 149 CRC samples. We also generated colon cancer cells resistant to 5-FU and oxaliplatin and studied the effect of ILK inhibition on drug response by MTT assay and on EMT and CSC markers' expression. RESULTS ILK expression in human CRC correlates with EMT and CSC markers and is associated with metastasis and chemoresistance. ILK inhibition increases sensitivity of resistant cells to 5-FU and oxaliplatin and reduces the levels of EMT and CSC markers in 5-FU resistant cells. CONCLUSION ILK overexpression in human CRC associates with EMT and CSC traits, contributing to tumor progression and chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Tsoumas
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | | | - Chaido Sirinian
- Clinical Oncology Laboratory, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Ioannis Maroulis
- Department of Surgery, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Stavros Taraviras
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Zolota
- Department of Pathology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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Aggelou H, Chadla P, Nikou S, Karteri S, Maroulis I, Kalofonos HP, Papadaki H, Bravou V. LIMK/cofilin pathway and Slingshot are implicated in human colorectal cancer progression and chemoresistance. Virchows Arch 2018; 472:727-737. [PMID: 29352327 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-018-2298-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cofilin phospho-regulation is important for actin filament turnover and is implicated in cancer. Phosphorylation of cofilin is mediated by LIM kinases (LIMKs) and dephosphorylation by Slingshot phosphatases (SSH). LIMKs and SSH promote cancer cell invasion and metastasis and represent novel anti-cancer targets. However, little is known regarding LIMK/cofilin and SSH in human colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we aimed to address their expression and significance in human CRC. We evaluated expression of non-phosphorylated (active) and phosphorylated cofilin, LIMK1, LIMK2, and SSH1 by immunohistochemistry in 143 human CRC samples in relation to clinicopathologic parameters, response of metastatic disease to chemotherapy, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers β-catenin, E-cadherin, and ZEB. We show that active cofilin, LIMK1, LIMK2, and SSH1 are overexpressed in human CRC and are associated with tumor progression parameters. SSH1 is an independent predictor of lymph node metastasis by multivariate analysis. LIMK1 and SSH1 expression is also higher in non-responders to chemotherapy, and SSH1 is shown by multivariate analysis to independently predict response of metastatic disease to chemotherapy. Active cofilin, LIMK1, LIMK2, and SSH1 also correlated with the EMT markers examined. In addition, immunofluorescence analysis showed increased expression of active cofilin, LIMK1, LIMK2, and SSH1 in HT29 colon cancer cells resistant to 5-fluorouracil compared to parental HT29 cells. Our results suggest that F-actin regulators LIMK/cofilin pathway and SSH1 are associated with CRC progression and chemoresistance representing promising tumor biomarkers and therapeutic targets in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Aggelou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece
| | - Panagiota Chadla
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Nikou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Karteri
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece
| | - Ioannis Maroulis
- Department of Surgery, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Helen Papadaki
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece.
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Bravou V, Antonacopoulou A, Papanikolaou S, Nikou S, Lilis I, Giannopoulou E, Kalofonos HP. Focal Adhesion Proteins α- and β-Parvin are Overexpressed in Human Colorectal Cancer and Correlate with Tumor Progression. Cancer Invest 2015; 33:387-97. [PMID: 26115385 DOI: 10.3109/07357907.2015.1047508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to address the role of focal adhesion proteins α- and β-parvin in human colorectal carcinoma (CRC). Expression of α- and β-parvin was examined by immunohistochemistry and real-time RT-PCR in a series of human CRC. Parvins were overexpressed in CRC and their expression correlated significantly with tumor invasion, lymph node metastasis, and disease stage. A significant positive correlation of parvins protein expression with overexpression of integrin-linked kinase, p-AKT, and nuclear β-catenin, as well as with downregulation of E-cadherin was also observed. In conclusion, overexpression of α- and β-parvin seems to be implicated in human colorectal cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Bravou
- a Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine , University of Patras , Rio , Patras , Greece
| | - Anna Antonacopoulou
- b Molecular Oncology Laboratory, School of Medicine , University of Patras , Rio , Patras , Greece
| | - Sofia Papanikolaou
- a Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine , University of Patras , Rio , Patras , Greece
| | - Sofia Nikou
- a Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine , University of Patras , Rio , Patras , Greece
| | - Ioannis Lilis
- a Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine , University of Patras , Rio , Patras , Greece
| | - Efstathia Giannopoulou
- c Clinical Oncology Laboratory, School of Medicine , University of Patras , Rio , Patras , Greece
| | - Haralabos P Kalofonos
- b Molecular Oncology Laboratory, School of Medicine , University of Patras , Rio , Patras , Greece.,c Clinical Oncology Laboratory, School of Medicine , University of Patras , Rio , Patras , Greece
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