Preliminary Mechanism of Glial Maturation Factor β on Pulmonary Vascular Remodeling in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Recent evidence suggests that glia maturation factor β (GMFβ) is important in the pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hpertension (PAH), but the underlying mechanism is unknown. To clarify whether GMFβ can be involved in pulmonary vascular remodeling and to explore the role of the IL-6-STAT3 pathway in this process, the expression of GMFβ in PAH rats is examined and the expression of downstream molecules including periostin (POSTN) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) is measured using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis. The location and expression of POSTN is also tested in PAH rats using immunofluorescence. It is proved that GMFβ is upregulated in the lungs of PAH rats. Knockout GMFβ alleviated the MCT-PAH by reducing right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP), and pulmonary vascular remodeling. Moreover, the inflammation of the pulmonary vasculature is ameliorated in PAH rats with GMFβ absent. In addition, the IL-6-STAT3 signaling pathway is activated in PAH; knockout GMFβ reduced POSTN and IL-6 production by inhibiting the IL-6-STAT3 signaling pathway. Taken together, these findings suggest that knockout GMFβ ameliorates PAH in rats by inhibiting the IL-6-STAT3 signaling pathway.

Single-cell analysis identified POSTN+ cells associated with the aggressive phenotype and risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Tumors are intricate and heterogeneous systems characterized by mosaic cancer cell populations with diverse expression profiles. Leveraging single-cell technologies, we employed the Scissor algorithm to delineate an epithelial subpopulation associated with the aggressive phenotype in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). This identified subpopulation exhibited elevated expression of genes involved in critical pathways, such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition and PI3K-Akt. Key signature genes within this subpopulation, namely CAV1, COL3A1, COL6A1, POSTN, and TAGLN, demonstrated significant upregulation concomitant with both tumorigenesis and tumor progression across independent single-cell datasets. Furthermore, we selected 1,450 expression quantitative trait loci of the top 62 signature genes of this cell subpopulation to investigate their potential in predicting ESCC risk. The results showed that the POSTN loci were predominantly associated with ESCC susceptibility. Through functional annotation and replication analyses, we identified that the rs1028728 in the POSTN promoter was significantly associated with increased ESCC risk in 7,049 ESCC cases and 8,063 controls (odds ratio = 1.29, 95% confidence interval: 1.18-1.42, p = 4.03 × 10-8). Subsequent biochemical experiments showed that the rs1028728[T] allele enhanced POSTN expression by affecting the binding of PRRX1 in the POSTN promoter. In summary, our meticulous single-cell analysis delineates an invasive epithelial subpopulation in ESCC, with POSTN emerging as an important marker for the aggressive phenotype. These findings offer more insights into potential strategies for the prevention and intervention of ESCC, enriching our understanding of this complex cancer landscape.

PTX3 activates POSTN and promotes the progression of glioblastoma via the MAPK/ERK signalling axis

BACKGROUND

Intrinsic brain tumours such as glioblastoma (GBM) are believed to develop from neuroglial stem or progenitor cells. GBM accounts for approximately half of gliomas. GBM has a poor prognosis and a low 5-year survival rate. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is overexpressed in GBM, but the potential mechanism is unclear.

METHODS

Glioblastoma data from the TCGA and CGGA databases were used to analyse PTX3 expression. Subsequently, in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to verify the effect of PTX3 silencing in glioma cells on EMT like process and GSC maintenance. The JASPAR database was used to predict the downstream genes of PTX3. POSTN is a novel target gene of PTX3 in gliomas, and this finding was validated using a luciferase reporter gene assay. Western blotting and KEGG enrichment analysis were used to predict the downstream pathway of POSTN, and it was found that the MAPK/ERK pathway might be related to the function of POSTN.

RESULTS

GBM tissues have higher levels of PTX3 expression than normal brain tissues (NBTs). In functional tests, PTX3 promoted the EMT like process of GBM cells while maintaining the stem cell characteristics of GBM stem cells and enhancing their self-renewal. Moreover, we performed a dual luciferase reporter experiment to confirm that PTX3 binds to the POSTN promoter region. In addition, the expression of key proteins in the MAPK/ERK signalling pathway was increased after PTX3 overexpression.

CONCLUSION

POSTN is a direct target of PTX3 that promotes GBM growth via the MAPK/ERK signalling pathway.

ALK upregulates POSTN and WNT signaling to drive neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor of childhood. While MYCN and mutant anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALKF1174L) cooperate in tumorigenesis, how ALK contributes to tumor formation remains unclear. Here, we used a human stem cell-based model of neuroblastoma. Mis-expression of ALKF1174L and MYCN resulted in shorter latency compared to MYCN alone. MYCN tumors resembled adrenergic, while ALK/MYCN tumors resembled mesenchymal, neuroblastoma. Transcriptomic analysis revealed enrichment in focal adhesion signaling, particularly the extracellular matrix genes POSTN and FN1 in ALK/MYCN tumors. Patients with ALK-mutant tumors similarly demonstrated elevated levels of POSTN and FN1. Knockdown of POSTN, but not FN1, delayed adhesion and suppressed proliferation of ALK/MYCN tumors. Furthermore, loss of POSTN reduced ALK-dependent activation of WNT signaling. Reciprocally, inhibition of the WNT pathway reduced expression of POSTN and growth of ALK/MYCN tumor cells. Thus, ALK drives neuroblastoma in part through a feedforward loop between POSTN and WNT signaling.

The comprehensive study on the role of POSTN in fetal congenital heart disease and clinical applications

BACKGROUND

Congenital heart defect (CHD) is the most common congenital abnormality, and it has long been a clinical and public health concern. Our previous findings have found Periostin (POSTN) and Pappalysin-1 (PAPPA) as potential biomarkers for fetal CHD. We aim to further elucidate POSTN's role in fetal heart development and explore the clinical applicability of POSTN and PAPPA as diagnostic marker for fetal CHD. This study is poised to establish a theoretical framework for mitigating the incidence of CHD and advance a novel approach for prenatal screening of fetal CHD.

METHODS

We verified differential expression of POSTN and PAPPA in gravida serum and fetal amniotic fluid based on our previous research. We established the Postn knockout mouse by CRISPR/Cas9 to investigate whether Postn deletion leads to cardiac abnormalities in mice. Besides, we explored the mechanism of POSTN on heart development through Postn knockout mouse model and cell experiments. Finally, we established the logistic regression model and decision curve analysis to evaluate the clinical utility of POSTN and PAPPA in fetal CHD.

RESULTS

We observed a significant decrease in POSTN and increase in PAPPA in the CHD group. Atrial septal defects occurred in Postn-/- and Postn± C57BL/6 fetal heart, while ventricular septal defects with aortic saddle were observed in Postn± C57BL/6 fetal heart. Disruption of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in cardiomyocytes and multiple abnormalities in cellular sub-organelles were observed in Postn knockout mice. POSTN may positively regulate cell behaviors and unsettle ECM via the TGFβ-Smad2/3 signaling pathway. The combination of serum biomarkers POSTN and PAPPA with Echocardiogram can enhance the diagnostic accuracy of CHD. Furthermore, the comprehensive model including POSTN, PAPPA, and two clinical indicators (NT and age) exhibits significantly higher predictive ability than the diagnosis group without the use of serum biomarkers or clinical indicators.

CONCLUSIONS

It is the first evidence that Postn deletion leads to cardiac developmental abnormalities in fetal mice. This may involve the regulation of the TGFβ signaling pathway. Importantly, POSTN and PAPPA possess clinical utility as noninvasive prenatal promising screening indicators of CHD.

Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics reveal POSTN+ cancer-associated fibroblasts correlated with immune suppression and tumour progression in non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are potential targets for cancer therapy. Due to the heterogeneity of CAFs, the influence of CAF subpopulations on the progression of lung cancer is still unclear, which impedes the translational advances in targeting CAFs.

METHODS

We performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on tumour, paired tumour-adjacent, and normal samples from 16 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. CAF subpopulations were analyzed after integration with published NSCLC scRNA-seq data. SpaTial enhanced resolution omics-sequencing (Stereo-seq) was applied in tumour and tumour-adjacent samples from seven NSCLC patients to map the architecture of major cell populations in tumour microenvironment (TME). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and multiplexed IHC (mIHC) were used to validate marker gene expression and the association of CAFs with immune infiltration in TME.

RESULTS

A subcluster of myofibroblastic CAFs, POSTN+ CAFs, were significantly enriched in advanced tumours and presented gene expression signatures related to extracellular matrix remodeling, tumour invasion pathways and immune suppression. Stereo-seq and mIHC demonstrated that POSTN+ CAFs were in close localization with SPP1+ macrophages and were associated with the exhausted phenotype and lower infiltration of T cells. POSTN expression or the abundance of POSTN+ CAFs were associated with poor prognosis of NSCLC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identified a myofibroblastic CAF subpopulation, POSTN+ CAFs, which might associate with SPP1+ macrophages to promote the formation of desmoplastic architecture and participate in immune suppression. Furthermore, we showed that POSTN+ CAFs associated with cancer progression and poor clinical outcomes and may provide new insights on the treatment of NSCLC.

Deficiency for scavenger receptors Stabilin-1 and Stabilin-2 leads to age-dependent renal and hepatic depositions of fasciclin domain proteins TGFBI and Periostin in mice

Stabilin-1 (Stab1) and Stabilin-2 (Stab2) are two major scavenger receptors of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells that mediate removal of diverse molecules from the plasma. Double-knockout mice (Stab-DKO) develop impaired kidney function and a decreased lifespan, while single Stabilin deficiency or therapeutic inhibition ameliorates atherosclerosis and Stab1-inhibition is subject of clinical trials in immuno-oncology. Although POSTN and TFGBI have recently been described as novel Stabilin ligands, the dynamics and functional implications of these ligands have not been comprehensively studied. Immunofluorescence, Western Blotting and Simple Western™ as well as in situ hybridization (RNAScope™) and qRT-PCR were used to analyze transcription levels and tissue distribution of POSTN and TGFBI in Stab-KO mice. Stab-POSTN-Triple deficient mice were generated to assess kidney and liver fibrosis and function in young and aged mice. TGFBI and POSTN protein accumulated in liver tissue in Stab-DKO mice and age-dependent in glomeruli of Stabilin-deficient mice despite unchanged transcriptional levels. Stab-POSTN-Triple KO mice showed glomerulofibrosis and a reduced lifespan comparable to Stab-DKO mice. However, alterations of the glomerular diameter and vascular density were partially normalized in Stab-POSTN-Triple KO. TGFBI and POSTN are Stabilin-ligands that are deposited in an age-dependent manner in the kidneys and liver due to insufficient scavenging in the liver. Functionally, POSTN might partially contribute to the observed renal phenotype in Stab-DKO mice. This study provides details on downstream effects how Stabilin dysfunction affects organ function on a molecular and functional level.

The Effect and Mechanism of POSTN and Its Alternative Splicing on the Apoptosis of Myocardial Cells in Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Study in Vitro

Our study aimed to investigate key molecular targets in the pathogenesis of AMI, and provide new strategy for the treatment. In this work, the myocardial ischemia and hypoxia model was constructed by using HL-1 mouse cardiomyocytes. The over-expressing POSTN wild-type, mutant and negative control lentiviruses (GV492-POSTNWT,GV492-POSTN-MUT, GV492-NC) was conducted and transfected. Cardiomyocytes were examined for cell proliferation and apoptosis to explore the effects of POSTN and its alternative splicing. The endoplasmic reticulum stess-related apoptosis proteins were selected and detected. We found that POSTN could promote the proliferation of normal and hypoxic cardiomyocytes and inhibit their apoptosis. The mechanism by which POSTN inhibited cardiomyocyte apoptosis may be through inhibiting the GRP78-eIF2α-ATF4-CHOP pathway of endoplasmic reticulum stress. Alternative splicing of POSTN could inhibit the apoptosis of ischemic and hypoxic cardiomyocytes, and its mechanism needs to be confirmed by further studies. We drawed the conclusion that POSTN might be a potential therapeutic target for AMI.

Increased Expression of POSTN Predicts Poor Prognosis: a Potential Therapeutic Target for Gastric Cancer

BACKGROUND

Periostin (POSTN) is involved in many biological processes and is associated with the occurrence and development of several cancers, while its role in gastric cancer is not clear. We aimed to demonstrate the relationship between POSTN and gastric cancer based on publicly available data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database.

METHODS

POSTN expression data and corresponding clinical information were downloaded from TCGA database. We compared the expression of POSTN in gastric cancer samples and normal samples. POSTN-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified for further functional enrichment analysis. In addition, the relationships between POSTN expression and clinicopathological features and survival in patients with gastric cancer were also investigated through univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Furthermore, a nomogram was constructed to predict the survival probability of gastric cancer patients.

RESULTS

POSTN expression in gastric cancer was significantly higher than that in normal gastric tissues (p < 0.001). High POSTN expression in gastric cancer was significantly related to poor prognostic features, including greater tumor extent (odds ratio [OR] = 1.638 for T3 and T4 vs. T1 and T2), worse histological type (OR = 0.329 for diffuse type vs. tubular type), and advanced histological grade (OR = 1.646 for grade 3 vs. grades 1 and 2) (all p < 0.05). The 118 identified DEGs were primarily enriched in pathways related to tumorigenesis and tumor progression, including the TGF-β signaling pathway, the WNT signaling pathway, and the signaling by VEGF. POSTN expression was positively correlated with the enrichment of the macrophages (r = 0.599, p < 0.001), helper T2 cells (r = 0.146, p = 0.005), and CD8 + T cells (r = 0.190, p < 0.001), but negatively correlated with the enrichment of Th17 cells (r =  - 0.130, p = 0.012) and NK CD56bright cells. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that high POSTN expression is associated with a short overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.54; p = 0.011). In the multivariate cox regression analysis, high POSTN expression was confirmed to be an independent predictor of poor overall survival (HR = 1.681; p = 0.017). The constructed nomogram can well predict the 1 and 3 years overall survival probability of patients with GC (0.696 [95% CI, 0.671-0.721]).

CONCLUSION

POSTN plays an important role in the progression and prognosis of gastric cancer, and it may serve as a useful biomarker to predict survival in gastric cancer patients.

Identification of Gravida Serum Biomarkers for Noninvasive Prenatal Diagnosis Fetal Congenital Heart Disease

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is well established as the most common congenital defect worldwide. Given the lack of biomarkers available, we aimed to identify new biomarkers for the noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of fetal CHD. This study used data-independent acquisition (DIA) to explore potential protein biomarkers that co-expressed in gravida serum (GS) and fetal amniotic fluid (AF). Next, parallel reaction monitoring (PRM), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, and the immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed to validate the potential biomarkers. Based on DIA and PRM proteomics and bioinformatics results, we identified POSTN and PAPPA in GS as candidate biomarkers. Their differential expression during ELISA and IHC were generally consistent with our proteomics results. POSTN combined with PAPPA in GS yield a good diagnose fetal CHD with sensitivity of 83.9%, specificity of 73.9%, and an area under curve (AUC) of 0.842. This is the first study showing that POSTN in GS and AF is associated with fetal CHD. POSTN and PAPPA have huge prospects for application as potential biomarkers in the noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of fetal CHD. Congenital heart disease (CHD) is well-established as the most common congenital defect worldwide. Given the lack of biomarkers available, we aimed to identify new biomarkers for the noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of fetal CHD. We used data independent acquisition (DIA) to explore potential protein biomarkers that co-expressed in gravida serum (GS) and fetal amniotic fluid (AF). Next, parallel reaction monitoring (PRM), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, and the immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed to validate the potential biomarkers. Based on DIA and PRM proteomics and bioinformatics results, we identified POSTN and PAPPA in GS as candidate biomarkers. Their differential expression during ELISA and IHC were generally consistent with our proteomics results. POSTN combined with PAPPA in GS yield a good diagnose fetal CHD with sensitivity of 83.9 %, specificity of 73.9%, and an area under curve (AUC) of 0.842. This is the first study showing that POSTN in GS and AF is associated with fetal CHD. POSTN and PAPPA have huge prospects for application as potential biomarkers in the noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of fetal CHD.

SPOCK1 and POSTN are valuable prognostic biomarkers and correlate with tumor immune infiltrates in colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Immune cells and stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment play a vital role in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). The study aimed to screen valuable prognostic biomarkers in CRC based on stromal and immune scores.

METHOD

The ESTIMATE algorithm was used to calculate the immune and stromal scores of CRC samples in TCGA. Then samples were divided into high and low score groups based on the median value of the scores. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with immune and stromal scores were screened. WGCNA and univariate COX regression analysis were performed to further identify key prognostic genes. Analysis of scRNA-seq for CRC was used for verifying the main source of the key genes. The prognostic value of they was validated based on The Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis and GSE17536 dataset. TIMER and CIBERSORT algorithms were applied to analyze the correlations among key genes and tumor-infiltrating immune cells. Several pairs of colon cancer tissue were used to be proven.

RESULT

1314 upregulated and 4 downregulated genes were identified, which were significantly enriched in immune-related biological processes and pathways. Among these DEGs, SPOCK1 and POSTN were identified as key prognostic genes and mainly expressed in cancer-associated fibroblasts for CRC. High expression of SPCOK1 and POSTN was associated with advanced clinical stage, T stage, N stage, and poor prognosis of CRC. The results from CIBERSORT and TIMER revealed that SPOCK1 and POSTN were associated with tumor-infiltrating immune cells, especially macrophages and neutrophils. Meanwhile, in several pairs of human colorectal tissue samples, SPOK1 and POSTN were found to be significantly overexpressed in colorectal tissue compared with para-cancer tissue, and macrophage surface markers CD68 (co-expressed by M1 and M2 macrophages) and CD206 (M2-specific macrophage expression) were also overexpressed in cancer tissue. Besides, SPOCK1 and POSTN expression were positively correlated with the expression of immune checkpoints.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our results indicate that SPOCK1 and POSTN associated with CAF may be novel prognostic biomarkers in CRC and correlate with immune infiltrates.

Periostin contributes to the adventitial remodeling of atherosclerosis by activating adventitial fibroblasts

Background and aims

Adventitial remodeling is an important pathological process of atherosclerosis, but cues implicated in adventitial remodeling are far from fully understood. Periostin (POSTN), a matricellular protein, has been demonstrated to have multiple roles in cardiovascular diseases. The aim of the study was to explore the function of POSTN in adventitial remodeling during atherosclerosis.

Methods

An atherosclerosis model was constructed based on ApoE-/- mice fed a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet. The expression of POSTN in the adventitia of mouse atherosclerotic vascular specimens was detected by immunohistochemical staining. The roles of POSTN in regulating adventitial fibroblast activation were assessed by cell contractility and activation marker α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression evaluation in adventitial fibroblasts overexpressing POSTN. In addition, we performed quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting to examine the expression of the proinflammatory chemokines transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP1), as well as some extracellular matrix (ECM)-related proteins, in POSTN-overexpressing adventitial fibroblasts. Finally, the integrin-related signaling pathway was detected upon POSTN overexpression in adventitial fibroblasts.

Results

POSTN was highly expressed in the adventitia of atherosclerotic aortae in the mouse atherosclerosis model and promoted the activation and contraction of adventitial fibroblasts. Meanwhile, POSTN also induced adventitial fibroblasts to express TGF-β1, monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP1), and ECM-related proteins and activated the phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Src.

Conclusions

Our results revealed that POSTN is elevated in adventitia during atherosclerosis and contributes to the adventitial remodeling of atherosclerosis by activating adventitial fibroblasts.

Periostin: biology and function in cancer

Periostin (POSTN), a member of the matricellular protein family, is a secreted adhesion-related protein produced in the periosteum and periodontal ligaments. Matricellular proteins are a nonstructural family of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins that regulate a wide range of biological processes in both normal and pathological conditions. Recent studies have demonstrated the key roles of these ECM proteins in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, periostin is an essential regulator of bone and tooth formation and maintenance, as well as cardiac development. Also, periostin interacts with multiple cell-surface receptors, especially integrins, and triggers signals that promote tumor growth. According to recent studies, these signals are implicated in cancer cell survival, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and metastasis. In this review, we will summarize the most current data regarding periostin, its structure and isoforms, expressions, functions, and regulation in normal and cancerous tissues. Emphasis is placed on its association with cancer progression, and also future potential for periostin-targeted therapeutic approaches will be explored.

N6-methyladenosine-mediated upregulation of LINC00520 accelerates breast cancer progression via regulating miR-577/POSTN axis and downstream ILK/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway

Various lncRNAs have been reported to be closely associated with cancer initiation and progression in breast cancer (BC), including LINC00520. However, the role and underlying mechanisms by which LINC00520 affects BC aggressiveness have not been fully delineated, and this study aimed to explore this issue. Through performing qRT-PCR analysis, we proved that LINC00520 was significantly upregulated in BC tissues and cells, compared with normal tissues and cells. Higher expression of LINC00520 was closely related to higher tumor grade, poor differentiation and shorter survival in BC patients. Next, the loss-of-function experiments evidenced that silencing LINC00520 suppressed BC cell proliferation, migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro, and inhibited tumorigenesis in vivo. Interestingly, we found that LINC00520 expression was positively regulated by METTL3-mediated N6-methyladenosine(m⁶A) modification in BC. Furthermore, we identified the tumor-suppressor miR-577 as the binding target of LINC00520 in BC. Mechanistically, LINC00520 elevated POSTN level via sponging miR-577, resulting in the activation of the downstream tumor-promoting ILK/Akt/mTOR pathway. Finally, the rescuing experiments evidenced that both POSTN knockdown and ILK/Akt/mTOR pathway inhibitor OSU-T315 abrogated the promoting effects of miR-577 ablation on the malignant phenotypes in BC. Collectively, this study firstly verified that LINC00520 acted as a ceRNA of miR-577 to advance BC aggressiveness in a m⁶A-dependent manner, providing novel biomarkers for BC diagnosis and therapy.

Serum IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 levels in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis correlate with clinical severity

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a group of heterogeneous diseases characterized by epithelial inflammation and tissue eosinophilic infiltration. IL-5, POSTN, and IL-33 are important factors that act as chemoattractants for eosinophils, and a tissue-remodeling protein positively correlated with eosinophils in blood and mediators of eosinophilic infiltration. The aim of the study was to determine the expression of IL-5, POSTN and IL-33, at the gene and protein levels, in eosinophilic CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), and to correlate this expression with clinical severity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 40 CRSwNP patients and 53 CRSsNP patients and 40 control subjects. The expression of IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 mRNA was determined in sinonasal mucosal samples and in nasal polyp tissue by real-time PCR. Protein levels in the serum of CRSwNP patients were measured by ELISA. Computed tomography was evaluated according to Lund-Mackay scores, and visual analog scale scores were assessed.

RESULTS

NP tissue demonstrated significantly higher IL-5 and POSTN mRNA expression than the sinonasal tissue in the CRSsNP and CRSwNP groups. CRS groups demonstrated elevated IL-33 mRNA expression in comparison to controls irrespective of the presence of NP. No correlation was found between IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 mRNA expression and disease severity. CRSwNP group demonstrated significantly higher serum IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 protein levels than controls, and this corresponds to disease severity.

CONCLUSION

Serum IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 levels may be important markers for classification of eosinophilic CRSwNP patients, along with disease severity.

miRNAs-mediated overexpression of Periostin is correlated with poor prognosis and immune infiltration in lung squamous cell carcinoma

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignancies with a high mortality rate worldwide. POSTN has been shown to be strongly correlated with the poor prognosis of lung cancer patients. However, the function and mechanism of action of POSTN in lung cancer remain unclear. Here, we carried out a pan-cancer analysis to assess the clinical prognostic value of POSTN based on the TCGA, TIMER, Oncomine, Kaplan-Meier, and UALCAN databases. We found that upregulated POSTN can be a promising biomarker to predict the prognosis of patients with lung cancer. High levels of POSTN correlated with immune cell infiltration in lung cancer, especially lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC), which was further confirmed based on the results from the TISIDB database. Moreover, the expression analysis, correlation analysis, and survival analysis revealed that POSTN-targeted miRNAs, downregulation of has-miR-144-3p and has-miR-30e-3p, were significantly linked to poor prognosis in patients with LUSC. Taken together, we identified that POSTN can act as a novel biomarker for determining the prognosis related to immune infiltration in patients with LUSC and deserves further research.

MYPT1/PP1-Mediated EZH2 Dephosphorylation at S21 Promotes Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Fibrosis through Control of Multiple Families of Genes

The methyltransferase EZH2 plays an important role in regulating chromatin conformation and gene transcription. Phosphorylation of EZH2 at S21 by AKT kinase suppresses its function. However, protein phosphatases responsible for the dephosphorylation of EZH2-S21 remain elusive. Here, it is demonstrated that EZH2 is highly expressed in the ocular lens, and AKT-EZH2 axis is important in TGFβ-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). More importantly, it is identified that MYPT1/PP1 dephosphorylates EZH2-S21 and thus modulates its functions. MYPT1 knockout accelerates EMT, but expression of the EZH2-S21A mutant suppresses EMT through control of multiple families of genes. Furthermore, the phosphorylation status and gene expression modulation of EZH2 are implicated in control of anterior subcapsular cataracts (ASC) in human and mouse eyes. Together, the results identify the specific phosphatase for EZH2-S21 and reveal EZH2 dephosphorylation control of several families of genes implicated in lens EMT and ASC pathogenesis. These results provide important novel information in EZH2 function and regulation.

Anti-POSTN and Anti-TIMP1 Autoantibodies as Diagnostic Markers in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Esophageal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed malignant gastrointestinal tumors. The aim of the study was to explore the diagnostic values of anti-POSTN and anti-TIMP1 autoantibodies in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with esophageal cancer were screened out by the LIMMA method in the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) platform. Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) was used to construct the protein-protein interaction (PPI) based on highly DEGs. The candidate hub genes were the intersection genes calculated based on degree and Maximal Clique Centrality (MCC) algorithms via Cytoscape. A total of 370 participants including 185 ESCC patients and 185 matched normal controls were enrolled in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect the expression levels of autoantibodies corresponding to POSTN and TIMP1 proteins. A total of 375 DEGs with high expression were obtained in esophageal cancer. A total of 20 hub genes were acquired using the cytoHubba plugin by degree and MCC algorithms. The expression levels of anti-POSTN and anti-TIMP1 autoantibodies were higher in the sera of ESCC patients (p < 0.05). Anti-POSTN autoantibody can diagnose ESCC patients with an AUC of 0.638 at the specificity of 90.27% and sensitivity of 27.57%, and anti-TIMP1 autoantibody can diagnose ESCC patients with an AUC of 0.585 at the specificity of 90.27% and sensitivity of 20.54% (p < 0.05). In addition, anti-POSTN and anti-TIMP1 autoantibodies can distinguish ESCC patients from normal controls in most clinical subgroups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, anti-POSTN and anti-TIMP1 autoantibodies may be considered the potential biomarkers in the clinical diagnosis of ESCC.

Protease activated receptor 2 signaling promotes self-renewal and metastasis in colorectal cancer through β-catenin and periostin

The maintenance and expansion of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) is necessary for metastasis. Although protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) is strongly associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) progression, it is unclear how it regulates distal metastasis, and no studies have shown the involvement of CSCs. In this study, we demonstrated that high PAR2 protein expression was correlated with metastatic CRC and poor prognosis in patients with stage III-IV CRC. CSCs from cell lines and patients showed higher levels of PAR2 than that of corresponding non-CSCs, and PAR2 inhibition reduced the CSC properties of the cell lines. Mechanistically, PAR2 inhibition switched the division mode of CSCs from symmetrical to asymmetrical via the ERK/GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway. We also identified periostin as a direct transcriptional target of β-catenin that mediates CSC self-renewal via PAR2 signaling. In a mouse xenograft model, PAR2 knockdown significantly attenuated liver metastasis. Finally, PAR2 expression was positively correlated with β-catenin and periostin in the primary sites of CRC with distant metastasis. Overall, our results indicate that PAR2 activation enhances CSC self-renewal and promotes metastasis through β-catenin and its target gene, periostin, in CRC.

A positive feedback loop between Periostin and TGFβ1 induces and maintains the stemness of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via AP-2α activation

Background

Liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs) play key roles in the metastasis, recurrence, and chemotherapeutic resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our previous research showed that the POSTN gene is closely related to the malignant progression and poor prognosis of HCC. This study aimed to elucidate the role of POSTN in generating LCSCs and maintaining their stemness as well as the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Human HCC tissues and matched adjacent normal tissues were obtained from 110 patients. Immunohistochemistry, western blotting (WB), and RT-PCR were performed to detect the expression of POSTN and stemness factors. The roles of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and AP-2α in the POSTN-induced stemness transformation of HCC cells were explored in vitro and in vivo using LCSCs obtained by CD133⁺ cell sorting.

Results

The high expression of POSTN was correlated with the expression of various stemness factors, particularly CD133, in our HCC patient cohort and in TCGA and ICGC datasets. Knockdown of POSTN expression decreased the abilities of HCC cell lines to form tumours in xenograft mouse models. Knockdown of POSTN expression also suppressed cell viability and clone formation, invasion, and sphere formation abilities in vitro. Knockdown of AP-2α attenuated the generation of CD133⁺ LCSCs and their malignant behaviours, indicating that AP-2α was a critical factor that mediated the POSTN-induced stemness transformation and maintenance of HCC cells. The role of AP-2α was verified by using a specific αvβ3 antagonist, cilengitide, in vitro and in vivo. Activation of POSTN could release TGFβ1 from the extracellular matrix and initiated POSTN/TGFβ1 positive feedback signalling. Furthermore, we found that the combined use of cilengitide and lenvatinib suppressed the growth of HCC cells with high POSTN expression more effectively than the use of lenvatinib alone in the patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mouse model.

Conclusions

The POSTN/TGFβ1 positive feedback pathway regulates the expression of stemness factors and the malignant progression of HCC cells by regulating the transcriptional activation of AP-2α. This pathway may serve as a new target for targeted gene therapy in HCC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-02011-8.

POSTN promotes proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in renal cell carcinoma through ILK/AKT/mTOR pathway

Periostin (POSTN) is an extracellular matrix (ECM) protein, involved in various diseases. This research focused on the detailed mechanisms study of periostin (POSTN) overexpression in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) invasion and migration. Western blot and RT-PCR were performed to explore POSTN expression in various RCC cells. Cells were transfected with siRNAs or lentivirus to regulate the expression of POSTN. The effects of POSTN on cell viability, apoptosis, migration, invasion and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of RCC cells were determined by CCK-8, flow cytometry, migration and invasion assay and Western blot analysis. POSTN expression was significantly enhanced in RCC cells compared with renal tubular epithelial cells. In vitro experiments showed that POSTN knockdown could dramatically inhibit RCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, while overexpression of POSTN could promote these biological behaviors. We further demonstrated that POSTN knockdown suppressed epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which was mediated via upregulation of E-cadherin and downregulation of N-cadherin and vimentin, through IKL/AKT/mTOR pathway. In contrast, overexpression of POSTN could promote EMT in RCC cells via the activation of IKL /AKT/mTOR pathway. Next, we demonstrated that higher POSTN expression promoted angiogenesis in vivo in an RCC xenograft tumor via activating IKL /AKT/mTOR pathway. Our study showed that POSTN could promote EMT through ILK/AKT/mTOR pathway and might be an alternative therapeutic strategy for RCC treatment.

POSTN Promotes the Proliferation of Spermatogonial Cells by Activating the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

The self-renewal of spermatogonial cells (SCs) provides the foundation for life-long spermatogenesis. To date, only a few growth factors have been used for the culture of SCs in vitro, and how to enhance proliferation capacity of SCs in vitro needs further research. This study aimed to explore the effects of periostin (POSTN) on the proliferation of human SCs. GC-1 spg cells were cultured in a medium with POSTN, cell proliferation was evaluated by MTS analysis and EdU assay, and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was examined. Thereafter, the proliferations of human SC were detected using immunofluorescence and RT-PCR. In this study, we found that CM secreted by human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) could enhance the proliferation capacity of mouse GC-1 spg cells. Label-free mass spectrometry and ELISA analysis demonstrated that high level of POSTN was secreted by hAMSCs. MTS and EdU staining showed that POSTN increased GC-1 spg cell proliferation, whereas CM from POSTN-silenced hAMSCs suppressed cell proliferation capacity. Then POSTN was found to activate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway to regulate the proliferation of GC-1 spg cells. XAV-939, a Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor, partially reversed the effects of POSTN on GC-1 spg cell proliferation. We then analyzed human SCs and found that POSTN promoted human SC proliferation in vitro. These findings provide insights regarding the role of POSTN in regulating SC proliferation via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and suggest that POSTN may serve as a cytokine for male infertility therapy.

POSTN promotes diabetic vascular calcification by interfering with autophagic flux

Autophagy is a lysosomal degradative process that is closely related to the pathogenesis of vascular calcification. Recent evidence suggests that periostin (POSTN) is a unique extracellular matrix protein that is associated with diabetic vascular complications. The aim of current study is to investigate the role of POSTN in diabetic vascular calcification and the underlying mechanisms. Results showed that POSTN was highly upregulated in both calcified arteries of diabetic rats and AGEs-BSA mediated vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) calcification. POSTN blocked autophagic flux during the diabetic calcification process, as evidenced by increased protein expression of Beclin1, LC3-II, and P62, as well as the co-localization of LC3-II and LAMP1. Inhibition of POSTN alleviated AGEs-BSA-induced autophagic flux blockade, thereby attenuating AGEs-BSA-induced VSMC calcification. Mechanistically, the upregulation of POSTN impaired the fusion of autophagosomes and lysosome and resulted in the autophagic flux blockade in AGEs-BSA-treated VSMC. Furthermore, this autophagic blockade was intracellular ROS-dependent. In summary, this study uncovered a novel mechanism of POSTN in autophagy regulation of diabetic vascular calcification.

Expression of Periostin in Cancer-associated Fibroblasts in Mammary Cancer in Female Dogs

BACKGROUND/AIM

Mammary neoplasms, like breast neoplasms in women, are one of the most common tumours in female dogs. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) found in the tumour stroma play a role in angiogenesis and increase cell migration, contributing to tumour growth and progression, as well as metastasis. The aim of our work was to determine the level of periostin (POSTN) expression in CAFs in mammary tumours of female dogs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The research material consisted of 77 carcinomas and 24 adenomas of the mammary ridge in female dogs. Immunohistochemistry tests were performed using antibodies directed against the antigens POSTN, Ki-67, ERB-B2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (HER2), vimentin, and alpha smooth muscle actin (αSMA). Expression of POSTN at the mRNA level was determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction methods in 20 cases of mammary neoplasms.

RESULTS

Expression of POSTN in CAFs was observed in 92% of mammary cancer samples and in 25% of mammary adenoma samples in female dogs. A statistically significant increase in POSNT expression in CAFs was found in the carcinomas compared with mammary adenomas in female dogs. Expression of POSTN in CAFs in mammary carcinomas in female dogs positively correlated with the histological malignancy grade of tumours and the expression of Ki-67 proliferative antigen.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest a role of POSTN on the pathogenesis of mammary tumours in female dogs. Moreover, POSTN may prove to be a useful marker in the evaluation of cancerous stroma of mammary tumours in female dogs, and may have prognostic significance.

Periostin Contributes to Immunoglobulin a Nephropathy by Promoting the Proliferation of Mesangial Cells: A Weighted Gene Correlation Network Analysis

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is a known cause of end-stage kidney disease, but the pathogenesis and factors affecting prognosis are not fully understood. In the present study, we carried out weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) to identify hub genes related to the occurrence of IgAN and validated candidate genes in experiments using mouse mesangial cells (MMCs) and clinical specimens (kidney tissue from IgAN patients and healthy controls). We screened the GSE37460 and GSE104948 differentially expressed genes common to both datasets and identified periostin (POSTN) as one of the five key genes using the cytoHubba plugin of Cytoscape software and by receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis. The top 25% of genes in the GSE93798 dataset showing variable expression between IgAN and healthy tissue were assessed by WGCNA. The royalblue module in WGCNA was closely related to creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in IgAN patients. POSTN had very high module membership and gene significance values for creatinine (0.82 and 0.66, respectively) and eGFR (0.82 and -0.67, respectively), indicating that it is a co-hub gene. In MMCs, POSTN was upregulated by transforming growth factor β1, and stimulation of MMCs with recombinant POSTN protein resulted in an increase in the level of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and a decrease in that of B cell lymphoma-associated X protein, which were accompanied by enhanced MMC proliferation. POSTN gene knockdown had the opposite effects. Immunohistochemical analysis of kidney tissue specimens showed that POSTN and PCNA levels were elevated, whereas the rate of apoptosis was reduced in IgAN patients relative to healthy controls. POSTN level in the kidney tissue of IgAN patients was positively correlated with creatinine level and negatively correlated with eGFR. Thus, POSTN promotes the proliferation of MCs to promote renal dysfunction in IgAN.

The usefulness of periostin determination in gynecology and obstetrics

Periostin (POSTN) is a multifunctional glycoprotein that belongs to the group of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Due to the molecular structure, cellular interactions, tissue locations as well functions of POSTN, we realize that its pivotal role is organization and regulation of ECM microenvironment. In available databases there is a lack of data summarizing current knowledge about POSTN expression in the field of gynecology and obstetrics. We conducted a search in PubMed of the National Library of Medicine and Google Scholar. Databases were extensively searched for all original and review articles/book chapters published in English until December 2019 and related to periostin expression. All relevant articles were reviewed and presented as appropriate. In the field of POSTN expression there is only one paper evaluating its involvement in cervical cancer cell metabolism and only two studies analyzing its myometrial commitment: maintenance during pregnancy and induction of parturition in physiology as well control of fibroids biology in pathology. Much more attention has been devoted to the expression of described protein in the endometriosis, and above all in ovarian cancer. Finally, a few studies carried out among pregnant women were presented. In this review study we presented current knowledge about periostin expression in the field of gynecology and obstetrics. Many achieved results are interesting and further studies are needed to verify some hypotheses. Structure, signaling pathways as well many functions of periostin are well-described. However, as it was clearly shown there is a lot of unknown issues which are waiting to be explored.

Periodontal ligament cells regulate osteogenesis via miR-299-5p in mesenchymal stem cells

BACKGROUND

The periodontal ligament contains periodontal ligament cells, which is a heterogeneous cell population, and includes progenitor cells that can differentiate into osteoblasts/cementoblasts. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into various cells and can be used for periodontal regenerative therapy. Therefore, transplanted MSCs can be affected by humoral factors from periodontal ligament cells via the transcription factors or microRNAs (miRNAs) of MSCs. In addition, periostin (POSTN) is secreted from HPL cells and can regulate periodontal regeneration and homeostasis. To clarify the regulatory mechanism of humoral factors from periodontal ligament cells, we attempted to identify key genes, specifically microRNAs, involved in this process.

METHODS

Human MSCs (hMSCs) were indirectly co-cultured with human periodontal ligament cells (HPL cells) and then evaluated for osteogenesis, undifferentiated MSCs markers, and miRNA profiles. Furthermore, hMSCs were indirectly co-cultured with HPL cells in the presence of anti-POSTN monoclonal antibody (anti-POSTN Ab) to block the effect of POSTN from HPL cells, and then evaluated for osteogenesis or undifferentiated MSC markers. Moreover, hMSCs showed alterations in miRNA expression or cultured with HPL were challenged with POSTN during osteogenesis, and cells were evaluated for osteogenesis or undifferentiated MSC markers.

RESULTS

hMSCs co-cultured with HPL cells showed suppressed osteogenesis and characteristic expression of SOX11, an undifferentiated MSC marker, as well as miR-299-5p. Overexpression of miR-299-5p regulated osteogenesis and SOX11 expression as observed with indirect co-culture with HPL cells. Furthermore, MSCs co-cultured with HPL cells were recovered from the suppression of osteogenesis and SOX11 mRNA expression by anti-POSTN Ab. However, POSTN induced miR-299-5p and SOX11 expression, and enhanced osteogenesis.

CONCLUSION

Humoral factors from HPL cells suppressed osteogenesis in hMSCs. The suppressive effect was mediated by miR-299-5p and SOX11 in hMSCs.

Prognostic value of periostin in multiple solid cancers: A systematic review with meta-analysis

Previous studies have shown that the expression of periostin (POSTN) is significantly correlated with prognosis in multiple solid cancers. However, the function of POSTN in tumorigenesis and its relationship with clinical outcomes have not been systematically summarized and analyzed. Thus, a meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the prognostic pertinence of POSTN in solid cancer. We conducted a systematic search in the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane library databases, and a total of 10 studies were used to assess the association of POSTN expression and patients' overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). The hazard ratio (HR) or odds ratio (OR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were further calculated to estimate the association between POSTN and relevant clinical parameters of solid cancer patients. The pooled results indicated that POSTN overexpression was associated with poor OS (HR = 2.35, 95% CI = 1.88-2.93, p < .00001) and DFS (HR = 2.70, 95% CI = 2.00-3.65, p < .00001) in a cohort of 993 patients with cancer. Subsequent analyses showed that the positive expression ratio of POSTN was evidently higher in cancer tissues than in normal tissues (OR = 7.44, 95% CI = 3.66-13.95, p < .00001). In addition, subgroup analysis showed that POSTN was related to microvascular invasion (OR = 5.09, 95% CI = 3.07-8.44, p < .00001), tumor differentiation (OR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.41-2.91, p = .0001), and lymph node metastasis (OR = 3.05, 95% CI = 2.01-4.64, p < .00001). These data showed that POSTN could be a credible prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target in human solid cancer.

MicroRNA-98-HMGA2-POSTN signal pathway reverses epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma

It has been widely considered that reversing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a potential access to restrain cancer progression and therapeutic resistance. Here, we aim to uncover the novel mechanisms by which we can reverse EMT and inhibit metastasis in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). We show that miR-98 is significantly reduced in both LSCC specimens and cell lines. Over-expression of miR-98 inhibits the EMT-related gene expression and metastasis and invasive behavior in LSCC in vitro, as well as reduces lung metastasis in mouse model. In the mechanistically study, miR-98 directly targets HMGA2 in mediating EMT. HMGA2 knock down by si-RNA method declines several EMT-related genes expression and LSCC migration and invasion. In parallel, overexpression of HMGA2 transforms LSCC cells to acquire stem cell-like features. Furthermore, we reveal that HMGA2-mediated EMT is closely linked with the expression of POSTN that inhibits EMT, as a tumor suppressor, by gene profiling analyses. POSTN is transcriptionally repressed by HMGA2. In clinic, the HMGA2 mRNA level is negatively correlated with the miR-98 level in LSCC patient cohort. In conclusion, our study confers a powerful signal: miR-98-HMGA-POSTN in LSCC, which is able to reverse EMT and inhibit metastasis, underlining the therapeutic potential of this signal.

Periostin plays role in force-induced stem cell potential by periodontal ligament stem cells

Mechanical stimuli have been shown to play an important role in directing stem cell fate and maintenance of tissue homeostasis. One of the functions of the mechanoresponsive tissue periodontal ligament (PDL) is to withstand the functional forces within the oral cavity. Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) derived from periodontal tissue have been demonstrated to be able to respond directly to mechanical forces. However, the mechanisms of action of mechanical force on PDLSCs are not totally understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms by which compressive force affects PDLSCs, especially their stemness properties. PDLSCs were established from extracted human third molars; their stem cell characteristics were validated by detecting the expression of stem cell markers and confirming their ability to differentiate into osteogenic and adipogenic lineages. PDLSCs were subjected to various magnitudes of static compressive force (0 [control], 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, or 2 g/cm² ). Application of 1.0 g/cm² compressive force significantly upregulated a panel of stem cell marker genes, including NANOG and OCT4. Conversely, higher force magnitudes downregulated these genes. Mechanical loading also upregulated periostin, a matrix protein that plays important roles in tissue morphogenesis. Interestingly, knockdown of periostin using siRNA abolished force-induced stem cell marker expression in PDLSCs. This study suggests a proper magnitude of compressive force could be one important factor involved in the modulation of the pluripotency of PDLSCs through the action of periostin. The precise mechanism by which periostin regulates stemness requires further detailed investigation.

High-throughput detection of low abundance sialylated glycoproteins in human serum by TiO2 enrichment and targeted LC-MS/MS analysis: application to a prostate cancer sample set

Glycopeptide enrichment can be a strategy to allow the detection of peptides belonging to low abundance proteins in complex matrixes such as blood serum or plasma. Though several glycopeptide enrichment protocols have shown excellent sensitivities in this respect, few reports have demonstrated the applicability of these methods to relatively large sample cohorts. In this work, a fast protocol based on TiO₂ enrichment and highly sensitive mass spectrometric analysis by Selected Reaction Monitoring (SRM) has been applied to a cohort of serum samples from prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia patients in order to detect low abundance proteins in a single LC-MS/MS analysis in nanoscale format, without immunodepletion or peptide fractionation. A peptide library of over 700 formerly N-glycosylated peptides was created by data dependent analysis. Then, 16 medium to low abundance proteins were selected for detection by single injection LC-MS/MS based on selected-reaction monitoring. Results demonstrated the consistent detection of the low-level proteins under investigation. Following label-free quantification, four proteins (Adipocyte plasma membrane-associated protein, Periostin, Cathepsin D and Lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein 2) were found significantly increased in prostate cancer sera compared to the control group. Graphical abstract ᅟ.

Overexpression of Periostin in Tumor Biopsy Samples Is Associated With Prostate Cancer Phenotype and Clinical Outcome

BACKGROUND

Overexpression of periostin (POSTN) is associated with prostate cancer (PCa) aggressiveness. We investigated the prognostic significance of POSTN expression in tumor biopsy samples of patients with PCa.

METHODS

We scored POSTN expression by immunohistochemistry analysis on 215 PCa biopsy samples using an anti-POSTN-specific antibody. A total immunoreactive score (T-IRS) was calculated by adding the POSTN staining scores of stromal and epithelial tumor cells. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) progression/recurrence-free survival (PFS), radiographic progression/recurrence-free survival (rPFS), and overall survival (OS) were the study end points.

RESULTS

A total of 143 patients received therapy with radical attempt, whereas 72 had locally advanced or metastatic disease and received hormone therapy alone. Median T-IRS was 9 and 12 (range, 0-20), respectively (P = .001). Overall, we found a weak positive correlation of T-IRS with prebiopsy PSA levels (r = 0.166, P = .016) and Gleason score (r = 0.266, P < .000). T-IRS ≥ 8 independently predicted for shorter PSA-PFS and OS (hazard ratio [HR] [95% confidence interval (CI)] ≥ 8 versus < 8: 1.50 [1.06-2.14], P = .024 and 1.92 [1.20-3.07], P = .007, respectively). In the subgroup analysis, the association between T-IRS and patient outcome was retained in patients who received therapy with radical attempt (HR [95% CI] ≥ 8 vs. < 8: rPFS: 2.06 [1.18-3.58], P = .01; OS: 2.36 [1.24-4.50], P = .009) and in those with low to intermediate Gleason scores (HR [95% CI] ≥ 8 vs. < 8: PSA-PFS: 1.65 [1.06-2.59], P = .028; rPFS: 2.09 [1.14-3.87], P = .018; OS: 2.57 [1.31-5.04], P = .006).

CONCLUSION

POSTN T-IRS on PCa biopsy samples independently predicted the risk of recurrence, progression, and death in patients with localized disease and in those with low to intermediate Gleason scores.

Periostin promotes liver fibrogenesis by activating lysyl oxidase in hepatic stellate cells

Liver fibrosis arises from dysregulated wound healing due to persistent inflammatory hepatic injury. Periostin is a nonstructural extracellular matrix protein that promotes organ fibrosis in adults. Here, we sought to identify the molecular mechanisms in periostin-mediated hepatic fibrosis. Hepatic fibrosis in periostin^-/- mice was attenuated as evidenced by significantly reduced collagen fibril density and liver stiffness compared with those in WT controls. A single dose of carbon tetrachloride caused similar acute liver injury in periostin^-/- and WT littermates, and we did not detect significant differences in transaminases and major fibrosis-related hepatic gene expression between these two genotypes. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the major periostin-producing liver cell type. We found that in primary rat HSCs in vitro, periostin significantly increases the expression levels and activities of lysyl oxidase (LOX) and lysyl oxidase-like (LOXL) isoforms 1-3. Periostin also induced expression of intra- and extracellular collagen type 1 and fibronectin in HSCs. Interestingly, periostin stimulated phosphorylation of SMAD2/3, which was sustained despite short hairpin RNA-mediated knockdown of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) receptor I and II, indicating that periostin-mediated SMAD2/3 phosphorylation is independent of TGFβ receptors. Moreover, periostin induced the phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and AKT in HSCs. Notably, siRNA-mediated FAK knockdown failed to block periostin-induced SMAD2/3 phosphorylation. These results suggest that periostin promotes enhanced matrix stiffness in chronic liver disease by activating LOX and LOXL, independently of TGFβ receptors. Hence, targeting periostin may be of therapeutic benefit in combating hepatic fibrosis.

Periostin promotes migration, proliferation, and differentiation of human periodontal ligament mesenchymal stem cells

OVERVIEW

Periostin (POSTN) is critical to bone and dental tissue morphogenesis, postnatal development, and maintenance; however, its roles in tissue repair and regeneration mediated by human periodontal ligament mesenchymal stem cells (PDLSCs) remain unclear. The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of POSTN on hPDLSCs in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

hPDLSCs were isolated and characterized by their expression of the cell surface markers CD44, CD90, CD105, CD34, and CD45. Next, 100 ng/mL recombinant human POSTN protein (rhPOSTN) was used to stimulate the hPDLSCs. Lentiviral POSTN shRNA was used to knockdown POSTN. The cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) and scratch assay were used to analyze cell proliferation and migration, respectively. Osteogenic differentiation was investigated using an alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay, alizarin staining, and quantitative calcium analysis and related genes/protein expression assays.

RESULTS

Isolated hPDLSCs were positive for CD44, CD90, and CD105 and negative for CD34 and CD45. In addition, 100 ng/mL rhPOSTN significantly accelerated scratch closure, and POSTN-knockdown cells presented slower closure at 24 h and 48 h. Furthermore, the integrin inhibitor Cilengitide depressed the scratch closure that was enhanced by POSTN at 24 h. The CCK8 assay showed that 100 ng/mL rhPOSTN promoted hPDLSC proliferation. Moreover, 100 ng/mL rhPOSTN increased the expression of RUNX2, OSX, OPN, OCN, and VEGF and enhanced ALP activity and mineralization. POSTN silencing decreased the expression of RUNX2, OSX, OPN, OCN, and VEGF and inhibited ALP activity and mineralization.

CONCLUSIONS

POSTN accelerated the migration, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs.

Serum levels of soluble CD163 and CXCL5 may be predictive markers for immune-related adverse events in patients with advanced melanoma treated with nivolumab: a pilot study

Antibodies against PD-1, such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab, are widely used in the treatment of various cancers including advanced melanoma. The anti-PD-1 Ab significantly prolongs survival in patients with metastatic melanoma, and its administration in combination with local or systemic therapy may also lead to improved outcomes. Although anti-PD-1 Ab-based combined therapy might be effective for the treatment of advanced melanoma, the associated risk of irAEs is an important consideration. Therefore, being able to predict irAEs is of great interest to oncologists. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the value of using serum levels of sCD163 and CXCL5 to predict irAEs in patients with advanced melanoma who were administered nivolumab. To this end, we analyzed these serum levels in 46 cases of advanced melanoma treated with nivolumab. In addition, the tumor stroma was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. We measured the serum levels of sCD163 and CXCL5 on day 0 (immediately before nivolumab administration) and day 42. The serum absolute levels of sCD163 were significantly increased in patients who developed AEs (p = 0.0018). Although there was no significant difference in serum levels of CXCL5, the absolute value of CXCL5 could at least be a supportive marker for the increased absolute levels of serum sCD163. This study suggests that sCD163 and CXCL5 may serve as possible prognostic biomarkers for irAEs in patients with advanced melanoma treated with nivolumab.

Proteomic profiling of TGFBI-null mouse corneas reveals only minor changes in matrix composition supportive of TGFBI knockdown as therapy against TGFBI-linked corneal dystrophies

TGFBIp is a constituent of the extracellular matrix in many human tissues including the cornea, where it is one of the most abundant proteins expressed. TGFBIp interacts with Type I, II, IV, VI, and XII collagens as well as several members of the integrin family, suggesting it plays an important role in maintaining structural integrity and possibly corneal transparency as well. Significantly, more than 60 point mutations within the TGFBI gene have been reported to result in aberrant TGFBIp folding and aggregation in the cornea, resulting in severe visual impairment and blindness. Several studies have focused on targeting TGFBIp in the cornea as a therapeutic approach to treat TGFBI-linked corneal dystrophies, but the effect of this approach on corneal homeostasis and matrix integrity remained unknown. In the current study, we evaluated the histological and proteomic profiles of corneas from TGFBI-deficient mice as well as potential redundant functions of the paralogous protein POSTN. The absence of TGFBIp in mouse corneas did not grossly affect the collagen scaffold, and POSTN is unable to compensate for loss of TGFBIp. Proteomic comparison of wild-type and TGFBI^-/- mice revealed 11 proteins were differentially regulated, including Type VI and XII collagens. However, as these alterations did not manifest at the macroscopic and behavioral levels, these data support partial or complete TGFBI knockdown as a potential therapy against TGFBI-linked corneal dystrophies. Lastly, in situ hybridization verified TGFBI mRNA in the epithelial cells but not in other cell types, supportive of a therapy directed specifically at this lineage.

Overexpression of POSTN in Tumor Stroma Is a Poor Prognostic Indicator of Colorectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Tumor microenvironment has recently drawn attention in that it is related with tumor prognosis. Cancer-associated fibroblast also plays a critical role in cancer invasiveness and progression in colorectal cancers. Periostin (POSTN), originally identified to be expressed in osteoblasts and osteoblast-derived cells, is expressed in cancer-associated fibroblasts in several tissue types of cancer. Recent studies suggest an association between stromal overexpression of POSTN and poor prognosis of cancer patients.

METHODS

We analyzed colorectal cancer cases for their expression status of POSTN in tumor stroma using immunohistochemistry and correlated the expression status with clinicopathological and molecular features.

RESULTS

High level of POSTN expression in tumor stroma was closely associated with tumor location in proximal colon, infiltrative growth pattern, undifferentiated histology, tumor budding, luminal necrosis, and higher TNM stage. High expression status of POSTN in tumor stroma was found to be an independent prognostic parameter implicating poor 5-year cancer-specific survival and 5-year progression-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that POSTN overexpression in tumor stroma of colorectal cancers could be a possible candidate marker for predicting poor prognosis in patients with colorectal cancers.

Periostin expression and its prognostic value for colorectal cancer

Integrin is important for cell growth, invasion and metastasis, which are frequently observed in malignant tumors. The periostin (POSTN) gene encodes the ligand for integrin, one of the key focal adhesion proteins contributing to the formation of a structural link between the extracellular matrix and integrins. High expression levels of the POSTN gene are correlated with numerous human malignancies. We examined POSTN protein in colorectal cancer specimens from 115 patients by strictly following up using immunohistochemistry. Cytoplasm immunohistochemical staining showed POSTN protein expression in colorectal cancers. The positive expression rate of POSTN protein (59.13%, 68/115) in colorectal cancers was significantly higher than that in adjacent normal colon mucosa (0.47%, 11/109). POSTN over-expression in colorectal cancers was positively correlated with tumor size, differentiation, lymph node metastasis, serosal invasion, clinical stage and five-year survival rates. Further analysis showed that patients with advanced stage colorectal cancer and high POSTN expression levels had lower survival rates than those with early stage colorectal cancer and low POSTN expression levels. Overall, our results showed that POSTN played an important role in the progression of colorectal cancers.

High preoparative levels of serum periostin are associated with poor prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatectomy

AIMS

Periostin (POSTN) is implicated in cancer development and progression. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic significance of serum POSTN in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) receiving curative surgery.

METHODS

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to determine serum POSTN levels in 69 healthy volunteers, 30 patients with hepatolithiasis, 27 patients with cirrhosis, and 56 HCC patients. The relationships between serum POSTN and clinicopathologic features were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristics analysis was used to calculate diagnostic accuracy of serum POSTN, serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and their combination. The prognostic impact of serum POSTN on overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) was also investigated.

RESULTS

The median serum POSTN level was significantly (P < 0.05) increased in HCC patients, compared to healthy controls, patients with hepatolithiasis, and patients with liver cirrhosis. Elevated serum POSTN was only significantly associated with Edmondson grade (P = 0.007). The combination of serum POSTN and AFP had a markedly higher area under the curve (0.805 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.677-0.932)) than POSTN (0.582 (95% CI: 0.427-0.736)) or AFP (0.655 (95% CI: 0.504-0.806)) alone. Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that elevated serum POSTN was associated with OS (P = 0.031) and RFS (P = 0.027). Moreover, multivariate analysis revealed elevated serum POSTN as an independent poor prognostic marker for OS and RFS.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative serum POSTN has limited diagnostic value in distinguishing HCC from non-malignant liver diseases, but serves as independent prognostic biomarker in HCC patients.

No association between genetic variants in angiogenesis and inflammation pathway genes and breast cancer survival among Chinese women

BACKGROUND

Angiogenesis and inflammation are implicated in breast cancer prognosis; however, the role of individual germline variation in related genes is unknown.

METHODS

A two-stage candidate pathway association study was conducted among 6983 Chinese women. Stage 1 included 2884 women followed for a median of 5.7 years; Stage 2 included 4099 women followed for a median of 4.0 years. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the effects of genetic variants on disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Stage 1 included genotyping of 506 variants in 22 genes; analysis was conducted for 370 common variants. Nominally significant associations with DFS and/or OS were found for 20 loci in ten genes in Stage 1; variants in 19 loci were successfully genotyped and evaluated in Stage 2. In analyses of both study stages combined, nominally significant associations were found for nine variants in seven genes; none of these associations surpassed a significance threshold level corrected for the total number of variants evaluated in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

No association with survival was found for 370 common variants in 22 angiogenesis and inflammation pathway genes among Chinese women with breast cancer.

IMPACT

Our data do not support a large role for common genetic variation in 22 genes in breast cancer prognosis; research on angiogenesis and inflammation genes should focus on common variation in other genes, rare host variants, or tumor alterations.