The Emerging Role of MMP12 in the Oral Environment

Matrix metalloproteinase-12 (MMP12), or macrophage metalloelastase, plays important roles in extracellular matrix (ECM) component degradation. Recent reports show MMP12 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases. To date, this review represents the latest comprehensive overview of MMP12 in various oral diseases, such as periodontitis, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), orthodontic tooth movement (OTM), and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Furthermore, the current knowledge regarding the distribution of MMP12 in different tissues is also illustrated in this review. Studies have implicated the association of MMP12 expression with the pathogenesis of several representative oral diseases, including periodontitis, TMD, OSCC, OTM, and bone remodelling. Although there may be a potential role of MMP12 in oral diseases, the exact pathophysiological role of MMP12 remains to be elucidated. Understanding the cellular and molecular biology of MMP12 is essential, as MMP12 could be a potential target for developing therapeutic strategies targeting inflammatory and immunologically related oral diseases.

Synthetic lethal kinases in Ras/p53 mutant squamous cell carcinoma

The oncogene Ras and the tumor suppressor gene p53 are frequently co-mutated in human cancer and mutations in Ras and p53 can cooperate to generate a more malignant cell state. To discover novel druggable targets for cancers carrying co-mutations in Ras and p53, we performed arrayed, kinome focused siRNA and oncology drug phenotypic screening utilizing a set of syngeneic Ras mutant squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cell lines that also carried co-mutations in selected p53 pathway genes. These cell lines were derived from SCCs from carcinogen-treated inbred mice which harbored germline deletions or mutations in Trp53, p19Arf, Atm, or Prkdc. Both siRNA and drug phenotypic screening converge to implicate the phosphoinositol kinases, receptor tyrosine kinases, MAP kinases, as well as cell cycle and DNA damage response genes as targetable dependencies in SCC. Differences in functional kinome profiles between Ras mutant cell lines reflect incomplete penetrance of Ras synthetic lethal kinases and indicate that co-mutations cause a rewiring of survival pathways in Ras mutant tumors. This study describes the functional kinomic landscape of Ras/p53 mutant chemically-induced squamous cell carcinoma in both the baseline unperturbed state and following DNA damage and nominates candidate therapeutic targets, including the Nek4 kinase, for further development.

Applicability of pan-TRK immunohistochemistry for identification of NTRK fusions in lung carcinoma

In the last two decades, various therapies have been introduced for lung carcinoma patients, including tyrosine-kinase inhibitors for different mutations. While some of them are specific to specific tumor types, others, like NTRK1-3 fusions, are found in various solid tumors. The occurrence of an NTRK1,2 or 3 fusion acts as a biomarker for efficient treatment with NTRK inhibitors, irrespectively of the tumor type. However, the occurrence of the NTRK1-3 fusions in lung carcinomas is extremely rare. We performed a retrospective analysis to evaluate the applicability of immunohistochemistry with the pan-TRK antibody in the detection of NTRK fusions in lung carcinomas. The study cohort included 176 adenocarcinomas (AC), 161 squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), 31 large-cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (LCNEC), and 19 small cell lung carcinomas (SCLC). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed using the pan-TRK antibody (clone EPR17341, Ventana) on tissue microarrays, while confirmation for all positive cases was done using RNA-based Archer FusionPlex MUG Lung Panel. On IHC staining, 12/387 samples (3.1%) demonstrated a positive reaction. Ten SCC cases (10/161, 6.2%), and two LCNEC cases (2/31, 6.5%) were positive. Positive cases demonstrated heterogeneous staining of tumor cells, mostly membranous with some cytoplasmic and in one case nuclear pattern. RNA-based sequencing did not demonstrate any NTRK1-3 fusion in our patients' collective. Our study demonstrates that pan-TRK expression in lung carcinoma is very low across different histologic types. NTRK1-3 fusions using an RNA-based sequencing approached could not be detected. This stresses the importance of confirmation of immunohistochemistry results by molecular methods.

New Therapeutic Opportunities for the Treatment of Squamous Cell Carcinomas: A Focus on Novel Driver Kinases

Squamous cell carcinomas of the lung, head and neck, esophagus, and cervix account for more than two million cases of cancer per year worldwide with very few targetable therapies available and minimal clinical improvement in the past three decades. Although these carcinomas are differentiated anatomically, their genetic landscape shares numerous common genetic alterations. Amplification of the third chromosome's distal portion (3q) is a distinguishing genetic alteration in most of these carcinomas and leads to copy-number gain and amplification of numerous oncogenic proteins. This area of the chromosome harbors known oncogenes involved in squamous cell fate decisions and differentiation, including TP63, SOX2, ECT2, and PIK3CA. Furthermore, novel targetable oncogenic kinases within this amplicon include PRKCI, PAK2, MAP3K13, and TNIK. TCGA analysis of these genes identified amplification in more than 20% of clinical squamous cell carcinoma samples, correlating with a significant decrease in overall patient survival. Alteration of these genes frequently co-occurs and is dependent on 3q-chromosome amplification. The dependency of cancer cells on these amplified kinases provides a route toward personalized medicine in squamous cell carcinoma patients through development of small-molecules targeting these kinases.

Silencing DNA Polymerase β Induces Aneuploidy as a Biomarker of Poor Prognosis in Oral Squamous Cell Cancer

Most patients with oral squamous cell cancer (OSCC) have a locally advanced stage at diagnosis. The treatment strategies are diverse, including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Despite multimodality treatment, the response rate is unsatisfactory. DNA repair and genetic instability are highly associated with carcinogenesis and treatment outcomes in oral squamous cell cancer, affecting cell growth and proliferation. Therefore, focusing on DNA repair and genetic instability interactions could be a potential target for improving the outcomes of OSCC patients. DNA polymerase-β (POLB) is an important enzyme in base excision repair and contributes to gene instability, leading to tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis. The aim of our study was to confirm POLB regulates the growth of OSCC cells through modulation of cell cycle and chromosomal instability. We analyzed a tissue array from 133 OSCC patients and discovered that low POLB expression was associated with advanced tumor stage and poor overall survival. In multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, low POLB expression and advanced lymph node status were significantly associated with poor survival. By performing in vitro studies on model cell lines, we demonstrated that POLB silencing regulated cell cycles, exacerbated mitotic abnormalities and enhanced cell proliferation. After POLB depletion, OSCC cells showed chromosomal instability and aneuploidy. Thus, POLB is an important maintainer of karyotypic stability in OSCC cells.

Matrix metalloproteinases in keratinocyte carcinomas

The incidence of cutaneous keratinocyte-derived cancers is increasing globally. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common malignancy worldwide, and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the most common metastatic skin cancer. BCC can be classified into subtypes based on the histology, and these subtypes are classified further into low- and high-risk tumors. There is an increasing need to identify new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of unresectable and metastatic cSCC, and for aggressive BCC variants such as infiltrating, basosquamous or morpheaform BCCs. The most important risk factor for BCC and cSCC is solar UV radiation, which causes genetic and epigenetic alterations in keratinocytes. Similar gene mutations are noted already in sun-exposed normal skin emphasizing the role of the alterations in the tumor microenvironment in the progression of cSCC. Early events in cSCC progression are alterations in the composition of basement membrane and dermal extracellular matrix induced by influx of microbes, inflammatory cells and activated stromal fibroblasts. Activated fibroblasts promote inflammation and produce growth factors and proteolytic enzymes, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Transforming growth factor-β produced by tumor cells and fibroblasts induces the expression of MMPs by cSCC cells and promotes their invasion. Fibroblast-derived keratinocyte growth factor suppresses the malignant phenotype of cSCC cells by inhibiting the expression of several MMPs. These findings emphasize the importance of interplay of tumor and stromal cells in the progression of cSCC and BCC and suggest tumor microenvironment as a therapeutic target in cSCC and aggressive subtypes of BCC.

Overexpression of TC-PTP in murine epidermis attenuates skin tumor formation

T-cell protein tyrosine phosphatase (TC-PTP), encoded by Ptpn2, has been shown to function as a tumor suppressor during skin carcinogenesis. In the current study, we generated a novel epidermal-specific TC-PTP-overexpressing (K5HA.Ptpn2) mouse model to show that TC-PTP contributes to the attenuation of chemically induced skin carcinogenesis through the synergistic regulation of STAT1, STAT3, STAT5, and PI3K/AKT signaling. We found overexpression of TC-PTP increased epidermal sensitivity to DMBA-induced apoptosis and it decreased TPA-mediated hyperproliferation, coinciding with reduced epidermal thickness. Inhibition of STAT1, STAT3, STAT5, or AKT reversed the effects of TC-PTP overexpression on epidermal survival and proliferation. Mice overexpressing TC-PTP in the epidermis developed significantly reduced numbers of tumors during skin carcinogenesis and presented a prolonged latency of tumor initiation. Examination of human papillomas and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) revealed that TC-PTP expression was significantly reduced and TC-PTP expression was inversely correlated with the increased grade of SCCs. Our findings demonstrate that TC-PTP is a potential therapeutic target for the prevention of human skin cancer given that it is a major negative regulator of oncogenic signaling.

The role of 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase-3 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

6-phosphofructo-kinase-2/fructose diphosphatase-2 isoenzyme 3 (PFKFB3) is closely related to the growth of many types of cancer cells. Glycolysis not only provides Adenosine triphosphate for the growth of tumor cells, but also protects them from acid products, which is beneficial to the invasion and metastasis of tumors. However, PFKFB3 expression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has been scarcely reported. In this study, the role of PFKFB3 was studied in 120 ESCC samples using immunohistochemistry technique (IHC), western blotting, and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Both PFKFB3 protein and gene expression in ESCC tissues were significantly higher than in adjacent non-tumor tissues (P < .05). Single factor analysis showed that both PFKFB3 protein and gene expression are related to infiltration depth, stage, tumor metastasis, and the degree of tumor differentiation in ESCC. Multifactor Cox survival analysis revealed that PFKFB3 protein expression, tumor location, tumor metastasis, tumor differentiation degree, and tumor stage were independent factors affecting the overall survival of postoperative patients. Multivariate Cox survival analysis showed that PFKFB3 mRNA has a good performance for predicting 3-year survival of patients with ESCC 0.89 (0.79-0.99), with a sensitivity of 0.85 and specificity of 0.77. Encouragingly, the sensitivity and specificity of PFKFB3 in the diagnosis of early ESCC (stage I and stage II) can reach 87.8% and 91.5%. In conclusion, high PFKFB3 protein and gene expression may be associated with the occurrence, development, and prognosis of ESCC. PFKFB3 could be used to help develop new therapeutic and diagnostic strategies for ESCC patients.

The clinical significance of methylation of MAGE-A1 and-A3 promoters and expression of DNA methyltransferase in patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

Abnormal DNA methylation plays an important role in clinical diagnosis and prognosis of various tumors. DNA methylation is catalyzed by DNA methyltransferase (DNMT). However, the methylation status of MAGE-A1 and MAGE-A3 promoter regions in LSCC is unclear. To investigate the methylation levels of MAGE-A1, -A3 in LSCC and corresponding normal tissues. The expression of DNMTs (DNMT1, DNMT3a and DNMT3b) in LSCC and the relationship between the methylation status of MAGE-A1, -A3 were analyzed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We examined methylation status of MAGE-A1, -A3 in LSCC by using MSP. Meanwhile, the expression level of DNMTs in LSCC was detected by immunohistochemistry. And further analysis the correlation between DNMTs expression level and methylation status of MAGE-A1 and MAGE-A3.

RESULTS

The unmethylation rate of MAGE-A1, -A3 were 39.62% and 46.23%. The expression of DNMTs was 33.02% to 37.74%. The level of demethylation of MAGE-A1 and MAGE-A3 were negative related to DNMTs protein. MAGE-A1 and MAGE-A3 unmethylation status and DNMT3a expression were independent prognostic factors for LSCC.

CONCLUSIONS

The DNMTs may participate in the methylation process of MAGE-A1 and MAGE-A3, which may play an important role in the occurrence and development of LSCC.

Sodium Danshensu Inhibits Oral Cancer Cell Migration and Invasion by Modulating p38 Signaling Pathway

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) that comprises about 90% of all oral cancer cases is associated with poor prognosis due to its highly metastatic nature. The majority of OSCC treatment options are related detrimental side-effects. Hypothesis/Purpose: The present study aimed at deciphering the effects of a bioactive phytochemical, sodium danshensu, on human oral cancer cell metastasis. Methods and Results: The treatment of FaDu and Ca9-22 cells with different doses of sodium danshensu (25, 50, and 100 μM) caused a significant reduction in cellular motility, migration, and invasion, as compared to the untreated cells. This effect was associated with a reduced expression of MMP-2, vimentin and N-cadherin, together with an enhanced expression of E-cadherin and ZO-1. Further investigation on the molecular mechanism revealed that treatment with sodium danshensu caused significant reduction in p38 phosphorylation; however, phosphorylation of ERK1/2 significantly decreased only in FaDu cells, whereas p-JNK1/2 did not show any alteration. A combination of p38 and JNK1/2 inhibitors with sodium danshensu also reduced the migration in the FaDu and Ca9-22 cell lines. Conclusion: Collectively, the present study findings reveal that sodium danshensu execute anti-metastatic effect by suppressing p38 phosphorylation in human oral cancer. The study identifies sodium danshensu as a potential natural anticancer agent that can be used therapeutically to manage highly metastatic OSCC.

Peroxiredoxin 2 is highly expressed in human oral squamous cell carcinoma cells and is upregulated by human papillomavirus oncoproteins and arecoline, promoting proliferation

Peroxiredoxin 2 (PRDX2) is upregulated in various cancers including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). It is a known tumor promoter in some cancers, but its role in OSCC is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of arecoline, an alkaloid of the betel nut, and human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) E6/E7 oncoproteins on induction of PRDX2 expression, and also the effects of PRDX2 overexpression in oral cell lines. Levels of PRDX2 protein were determined using western blot analysis of samples of exfoliated normal oral cells (n = 75) and oral lesion cells from OSCC cases (n = 75). Some OSCC cases were positive for HPV infection and some patients had a history of betel quid chewing. To explore the level of PRDX2 by western blot, the proteins were extracted from oral cell lines that were treated with arecoline or retroviruses containing HPV16 E6 gene and HPV16 E6/E7 expressing vector. For analysis of PRDX2 functions, cell proliferation, cell-cycle progression, apoptosis and migration was compared between oral cells overexpressing PRDX2 and cells with PRDX2-knockdown. PRDX2 expression levels tended to be higher in OSCC samples that were positive for HPV infection and had history of betel quid chewing. Arecoline treatment in vitro at low concentrations and overexpression of HPV16 E6 or E6/E7 in oral cells induced PRDX2 overexpression. Interestingly, in oral cells, PRDX2 promoted cell proliferation, cell-cycle progression (G2/M phase), cell migration and inhibited apoptosis. Upregulation of PRDX2 in oral cells was induced by arecoline and HPV16 oncoproteins and promoted growth of OSCC cells.

ALC1 knockdown enhances cisplatin cytotoxicity of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells by inhibition of glycolysis through PI3K/Akt pathway

AIMS

Amplified in liver cancer 1 gene (ALC1), a recently identified oncogene, was reported to be overexpressed in esophageal cancer cell lines and identified as a target oncogene in esophageal cancer pathogenesis. However, little literature is available to illustrate its significance in cisplatin resistance of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of ALC1 on cisplatin cytotoxicity of ESCC cells and to study the potential mechanisms.

MAIN METHODS

ALC1 at mRNA and protein levels were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. Cell viability was evaluated using CCK-8 assay. Apoptosis was assessed using caspase-3/7 activity assay and flow cytometry analysis. Glycolysis level was evaluated by measuring glucose consumption and lactate production. The protein levels of p-protein kinase B (Akt) and Akt were determined by western blot.

KEY FINDINGS

ALC1 was highly expressed in ESCC cells compared with human normal esophageal epithelial Het-1A cells. ALC1 knockdown suppressed the viability, induced apoptosis and enhanced cisplatin cytotoxicity in ESCC cells. In addition, ALC1 knockdown inhibited glycolysis and inactivated the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway in ESCC cells. Mechanistically, activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway by 740Y-P blocked the effects of ALC1 knockdown on cisplatin cytotoxicity and glycolysis in ESCC cells. In contrast, inhibition of the PI3K/Akt pathway by LY294002 or glycolysis by 2-deoxyglucose resisted the effect of ALC1 overexpression on cisplatin cytotoxicity in ESCC cells.

SIGNIFICANCE

ALC1 knockdown enhanced cisplatin cytotoxicity of ESCC cells by inhibition of glycolysis through inactivation of the PI3K/Akt pathway.

Imbalance between Matrix Metalloproteinases and Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinases Promotes Invasion and Metastasis of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The balance between collagenolysis and its inhibition is critical during extracellular matrix remodeling in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). An imbalance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) plays a critical role in the development of tumor cell invasion and metastasis. The purpose of the study was to determine MMP-9/TIMP-1 and MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratios in the sera of patients with HNSCC in relation to clinicopathological parameters.

METHODS

Serum samples from seventy patients with HNSCC were measured by ELISA, before and 2 days after surgery. Forty healthy volunteers were selected as controls.

RESULTS

Preoperative MMP-9/TIMP-1 and MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratios were significantly higher in HNSCC patients than in the control group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively). Changes in MMP-9 concentration and MMP9/TIMP-1 ratio after surgery had a negative correlation with lymph node involvement (r = - 0.35, p = 0.021 and r = - 0.37, p = 0.013), while changes in TIMP-1 had a positive one (r = 0.45, p = 0.006). Histological grade was positively correlated with the changes in circulating TIMP-2 level (r = 0.39, p = 0.021). No significant correlation was discovered between MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio and tumor grade or any clinicopathological variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that an imbalance between MMP-9 and TIMP-1 could play an important role in metastatic spread via lymphatic pathways of HNSCC cells. MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio and, in particular, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, may represent suitable biomarkers for early diagnosis and detection of disease progression and dissemination in HNSCC patients.

N-Glycosylation in progression of skin cancer

Skin cancer can be classified as cutaneous malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Due to the high level of morbidity and mortality, skin cancer has become a global public health issue worldwide while the pathogenesis of skin cancer is still unclear. It is necessary to further identify the pathogenesis of skin cancer and find candidate targets to diagnose and treat skin cancer. A variety of factors are known to be associated with skin cancer including N-glycosylation, which partly explained the malignant behaviors of skin cancer. In this review, we retrieved databases such as PubMed and Web of Science to elucidate its relationship between glycosylation and skin cancer. We summarized some key glycosyltransferases and proteins during the process of N-glycosylation related to skin cancer, which was helpful to unmask the additional mechanism of skin cancer and find some novel targets of skin cancer.

Cell Type-Specific p38δ Targeting Reveals a Context-, Stage-, and Sex-Dependent Regulation of Skin Carcinogenesis

Activation and/or upregulated expression of p38δ are demonstrated in human skin malignancies including cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, suggesting a role for p38δ in skin carcinogenesis. We previously reported that mice with germline deletion of the p38δ gene are significantly protected from chemical skin carcinogenesis. Here, we investigated the effects of cell-selective targeted ablation of p38δ in keratinocytes and in immune (myeloid) cells on skin tumor development in a two-stage 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)/12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) chemical mouse skin carcinogenesis model. Conditional keratinocyte-specific p38δ ablation (p38δ-cKO^∆K) did not influence the latency, incidence, or multiplicity of chemically-induced skin tumors, but led to increased tumor volume in females during the TPA promotion stage, and reduced malignant progression in males and females relative to their wild-type counterparts. In contrast, conditional myeloid cell-specific p38δ deletion (p38δ-cKO^∆M) inhibited DMBA/TPA-induced skin tumorigenesis in male but not female mice. Thus, tumor onset was delayed, and tumor incidence, multiplicity, and volume were reduced in p38δ-cKO^∆M males compared with control wild-type males. Moreover, the percentage of male mice with malignant tumors was decreased in the p38δ-cKO^∆M group relative to their wild-type counterparts. Collectively, these results reveal that cell-specific p38δ targeting modifies susceptibility to chemical skin carcinogenesis in a context-, stage-, and sex-specific manner.

LUBAC determines chemotherapy resistance in squamous cell lung cancer

Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and adenocarcinoma (LADC) are the most common lung cancer subtypes. Molecular targeted treatments have improved LADC patient survival but are largely ineffective in LSCC. The tumor suppressor FBW7 is commonly mutated or down-regulated in human LSCC, and oncogenic KRasG12D activation combined with Fbxw7 inactivation in mice (KF model) caused both LSCC and LADC. Lineage-tracing experiments showed that CC10+, but not basal, cells are the cells of origin of LSCC in KF mice. KF LSCC tumors recapitulated human LSCC resistance to cisplatin-based chemotherapy, and we identified LUBAC-mediated NF-κB signaling as a determinant of chemotherapy resistance in human and mouse. Inhibition of NF-κB activation using TAK1 or LUBAC inhibitors resensitized LSCC tumors to cisplatin, suggesting a future avenue for LSCC patient treatment.

Caspase complex in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma

Caspases (cysteine-aspartic proteases) represent a family of enzymes that modify several functions crucial for cell homeostasis such as inflammation and apoptosis. According to their implication in the apoptotic pathways, caspases are characterized as initiators and executioners, respectively. In the first group have been inserted caspase-2,-8,-9, and -10, whereas caspase-3,-6, and-7 belong to the second category. All of these normal actions of the caspase complex that induce apoptosis are altered in carcinoma progression and establishment. In cancer tissues, programmed cell death is inhibited due to a deregulation in expression of apo- and anti-apoptotic proteins. This genetic imbalance drives the cancer cell to immortalization which reflects the aberrant tissue proliferation. For this reason, caspases and the other apoptotic molecules are considered as important targets for specific targeted therapeutic strategies for enhancing the apoptotic levels inside the malignant tumor cells cores. In the current review we explored the role of caspases deregulation in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). In malignancies -including LSCC- its deregulation leads the cells to immortalization due to apoptosis inhibition and telomerase overexpression. Caspase-dependent apoptotic rates are decreased in LSCC. For this reason, caspases are considered a very promising target for applying targeted therapeutic strategies in order to enhance apoptosis in the corresponding patients suffering of LSCC.

The COX2 genetic variants in oral squamous cell carcinoma in Turkish population

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common type of cancer that genetic and environmental factors also lifestyle habits, infections play important roles in the pathogenesis of disease. Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) is the inducible isoform of enzyme which convert arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. It was known that alterations in COX2 gene functions contribute to the inflammation process thus induce cancer progression, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, adhesion, invasion and metastasis. A total of 114 cases 165 healthy individuals were included in present study. We aimed to evaluate possible association between the COX2; -765, -1195 polymorphisms and the risk of OSCC. The genotypes were determined by using polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism techniques. In our study group the carriers of COX2 -765 C allele were statistically higher in patients compared with controls and individuals who had CC genotype had a 3,4 fold high risk for OSCC (p &lt;0,05). We also observed the COX2 -1195 AA genotype frequency was higher in cases that of healthy group and individuals who had AA genotype showed a 1,7 fold increased risk for OSCC (p &lt; 0,05). Haplotype analysis confirmed our result and revealed that the frequencies of COX2 -765C, -1195A haplotype frequencies were significantly higher in patients as compared with those of controls. In conclusion we suggest that COX2, -765, -1195 polymorphisms appear to be an important predictive factor and may be a prognostic biomarker for risk of OSCC. Further investigations with larger study groups are needed to fully elucidate the role of COX2 -765, -1195 variations in the development of OSCC.

The association between MTHFR gene polymorphisms (C677T, A1298C) and oral squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis

A consensus has not been reached regarding the association of MTHFR gene polymorphism and susceptibility to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). We performed a meta-analysis to better evaluate the association between MTHFR C677T, A1298C polymorphism and OSCC risk. The studies regarding the association of MTHFR C677T, A1298C polymorphisms and OSCC were identified in PubMed and EMBASE and Google Scholar. The pooled odd rates (ORs) with 95%CIs were estimated using a fixed-effect or random-effect model. The associations between MTHFR polymorphisms and OSCC risk were assessed under the dominant, recessive and additive models. A collective total of 1539 OSCC patients and 2131 normal controls were included across 13 studies. The minor T allele of MTHFR C677T was significantly associated with the increased risk of OSCC development(OR = 1.35, 95%CI 1.04-1.76). Individuals carrying the ''T" allele (TT+CT) had a nearly 43% increased risk for OSCC development when compared with CC (OR = 1.43, 95%CI 1.02-1.99). Under additive model, the results also showed that individuals with CT or TT genotype were more susceptible to OSCC than CC (OR = 1.45, 95%CI 1.02-2.08; OR = 1.79, 95%CI 1.28-2.50; respectively). The subgroup analysis by ethnicity revealed that significant difference in C677T allele distribution could be observed in European (OR = 1.33, 95%CI 1.02-1.75) rather than Asian (OR = 1.59, 95%CI 0.91-2.78). No significant association of MTHFR A1298C polymorphism and OSCC risk could be observed. The present study revealed that T allele and TT genotype of MTHFR C677T polymorphism were significantly associated with the increased risk of OSCC development.

High Expression of Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 8 (USP8) Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Patients with Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND Cervical cancer is one of the most common female malignancies in the world. The ubiquitin-specific protease 8 (USP8) functions by removing ubiquitin from protein substrates, and its potential role in cancer development was recently uncovered in lung cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and function of USP8 in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). MATERIAL AND METHODS Immunohistochemical staining and quantitative PCR were performed to explore the expression of USP8 in both CSCC tissues and adjacent normal cervical tissues. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to evaluate the clinical significance of USP8 in CSCC. Proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of 2 CSCC cell lines were assessed after overexpression or silencing USP8, respectively. RESULTS Both the RNA and protein levels of USP8 were upregulated in CSCC tissues compared to normal cervical tissues. High expression of USP8 was correlated with advanced tumor stage and high recurrence risk. Moreover, USP8 was identified as a novel independent prognostic factor for CSCC patients. Cellular studies showed that USP8 can enhance the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of CSCC cells, thereby promoting tumor progression. CONCLUSIONS High expression of USP8 is frequent in CSCC tissues, which promotes tumor proliferation and invasion, and is correlated with a poor overall survival. Targeting USP8 may be a novel direction for drug development for CSCC therapy.

Caffeic Acid Targets AMPK Signaling and Regulates Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle Anaplerosis while Metformin Downregulates HIF-1α-Induced Glycolytic Enzymes in Human Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma Lines

The small molecules, natural antioxidant Caffeic Acid (trans-3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid CA) and anti-diabetic drug Metformin (Met), activate 5&prime;-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and interfere with metabolic reprogramming in human cervical squamous carcinoma cells. Here, to gain more insight into the ability of CA, Met and the combination of both compounds to impair aerobic glycolysis (the &ldquo;Warburg effect&rdquo;) and disrupt bioenergetics of cancer cells, we employed the cervical tumor cell lines C-4I and HTB-35/SiHa. In epithelial C-4I cells derived from solid tumors, CA alleviated glutamine anaplerosis by downregulation of Glutaminase (GLS) and Malic Enzyme 1 (ME1), which resulted in the reduction of NADPH levels. CA treatment of the cells altered tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle supplementation with pyruvate via Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex (PDH), increased ROS formation and enhanced cell death. Additionally, CA and CA/Met evoked intracellular energetic stress, which was followed by activation of AMPK and the impairment of unsaturated FA de novo synthesis. In invasive HTB-35 cells, Met inhibited Hypoxia-inducible Factor 1 (HIF-1&alpha;) and suppressed the expression of the proteins involved in the &ldquo;Warburg effect&rdquo;, such as glucose transporters (GLUT1, GLUT3) and regulatory enzymes of glycolytic pathway Hexokinase 2 (HK2), 6-Phosphofructo-2-Kinase/Fructose-2,6-Biphosphatase 4 (PFKFB4), Pyruvate Kinase (PKM) and Lactate Dehydrogenase A (LDH). Met suppressed the expression of c-Myc, BAX and cyclin-D1 (CCND1) and evoked apoptosis in HTB-35 cells. In conclusion, both small molecules CA and Met are capable of disrupting energy homeostasis, regulating oxidative metabolism/glycolysis in cervical tumor cells in regard to specific metabolic phenotype of the cells. CA and Met may provide a promising approach in the prevention of cervical cancer progression.

Tissue and serum expression of TGM-3 may be prognostic marker in patients of oral squamous cell carcinoma undergoing chemo-radiotherapy

Radioresistance is one of the main determinants of treatment outcome in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), but its prediction is difficult. Several authors aimed to establish radioresistant OSCC cell lines to identify genes with altered expression in response to radioresistance. The development of OSCC is a multistep carcinogenic process that includes activation of several oncogenes and inactivation of tumour suppressor genes. TGM-3 is a tumour suppressor gene and contributes to carcinogenesis process. The aim of this study was to estimate serum and tissue expression of TGM-3 and its correlation with clinico-pathological factors and overall survival in patients of OSCC undergoing chemo-radiotherapy. Tissue expression was observed in formalin fixed tissue biopsies of 96 cases of OSCC and 32 healthy controls were subjected to immunohistochemistry (IHC) by using antibody against TGM-3 and serum level was estimated by ELISA method. mRNA expression was determined by using Real-Time PCR. Patients were followed for 2 year for chemo radiotherapy response. In OSCC, 76.70% cases and in controls 90.62% were positive for TGM-3 IHC expression. TGM-3 expression was cytoplasmic and nuclear staining expressed in keratinized layer, stratum granulosum and stratum spinosum in controls and tumour cells. Mean serum TGM-3 in pre chemo-radiotherapy OSCC cases were 1304.83±573.55, post chemo-radiotherapy samples were 1530.64±669.33 and controls were 1869.16±1377.36, but difference was significant in pre chemo-radiotherapy samples as compared to controls (p<0.018). This finding was also confirmed by real- time PCR analysis in which down regulation (-7.92 fold change) of TGM-3 in OSCC as compared to controls. TGM-3 expression was significantly associated with response to chemo-radiotherapy treatment (p<0.007) and overall survival (p<0.015). Patents having higher level of TGM-3 expression have good response to chemo-radiotherapy and also have better overall survival. TGM-3 may serve as a candidate biomarker for responsiveness to chemo-radiotherapy treatment in OSCC patients.

Expression of cytosolic malic enzyme (ME1) is associated with disease progression in human oral squamous cell carcinoma

Malic enzyme 1 (ME1) is a multifunctional protein involved in glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, NADPH production, glutamine metabolism, and lipogenesis. It is overexpressed in various cancers. We examined the expression of ME1 in 119 oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs) using immunohistochemistry. Malic enzyme 1 expression was moderate to strong in 57 (48%) OSCCs and correlated with pT, pN, clinical stage, and histological grade. In 37 cases with prognostic evaluation, moderate to strong ME1 expression indicated a worse prognosis than did weak ME1 expression. Malic enzyme 1 knockdown or inactivation by lanthanide inhibited cell proliferation and motility and suppressed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in HSC3 human OSCC cells. Knockdown of ME1 also shifted energy metabolism from aerobic glycolysis and lactate fermentation to mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, and the redox status from reductive to oxidative. In a mouse tumor model, lanthanide suppressed tumor growth and increased survival time. These findings reveal that ME1 is a valid target for molecular therapy in OSCC.

The vanillin derivative 6-bromine-5-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde induces aberrant mitotic progression and enhances radio-sensitivity accompanying suppression the expression of PLK1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the most common form of esophageal cancer in China. Since chemotherapy is the standard clinical intervention for advanced ESCC, the development of highly effective and minimal/non-toxic drugs is essential to improve the clinical outcome and prognosis of the patients. A novel derivative of vanillin, 6-bromine-5-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde (BVAN08), has been recently reported to activate different cell death pathways in cancer cells. In this study, we demonstrate that BVAN08 exhibits a potent anti-proliferation effect on ESCC cells (TE-1 and ECA-109) by inhibiting the expression of PLK1, an important mitotic kinase. Consistent with this, BVAN08 induces mitotic arrest and chromosomal misalignment in ESCC cells. The disruption of microtubule nucleation around centrosomes is also observed in BVAN08 treated ESCC cells. Furthermore, BVAN08 enhances radio-sensitivity of ESCC cells by prolonging DNA damage repair. These findings underscore the potential value of BVAN08 in cancer therapeutics and demonstrate the underlying mechanism by which BVAN08 induces mitotic catastrophe and enhances radio-sensitivity in ESCC cells.

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency and Lung Cancer: A Hospital Based Case-Control Study

A hospital based case-control study was conducted to test the hypothesis of a lower lung cancer risk in G6PD-deficient subjects. Cases were 156 male patients with lung cancer, admitted to « Binaghi » Hospital, Local Health Unit (USL) 20, Cagliari (Italy), between January 1984 and November 1986. Controls were 235 male patients, admitted to the same hospital In the same time period, for diseases other than cancer (all types) and hemolytic anemia. No decrease of the lung cancer risk was found in G6PD-deficient subjects. This result, in line with recent reports in the literature, suggests that the genetic condition of G6PD deficiency does not provide significant protection against the development of lung cancer in humans.

Discovery of Potent and Selective MRCK Inhibitors with Therapeutic Effect on Skin Cancer

The myotonic dystrophy-related Cdc42-binding kinases MRCKα and MRCKβ contribute to the regulation of actin-myosin cytoskeleton organization and dynamics, acting in concert with the Rho-associated coiled-coil kinases ROCK1 and ROCK2. The absence of highly potent and selective MRCK inhibitors has resulted in relatively little knowledge of the potential roles of these kinases in cancer. Here, we report the discovery of the azaindole compounds BDP8900 and BDP9066 as potent and selective MRCK inhibitors that reduce substrate phosphorylation, leading to morphologic changes in cancer cells along with inhibition of their motility and invasive character. In over 750 human cancer cell lines tested, BDP8900 and BDP9066 displayed consistent antiproliferative effects with greatest activity in hematologic cancer cells. Mass spectrometry identified MRCKα S1003 as an autophosphorylation site, enabling development of a phosphorylation-sensitive antibody tool to report on MRCKα status in tumor specimens. In a two-stage chemical carcinogenesis model of murine squamous cell carcinoma, topical treatments reduced MRCKα S1003 autophosphorylation and skin papilloma outgrowth. In parallel work, we validated a phospho-selective antibody with the capability to monitor drug pharmacodynamics. Taken together, our findings establish an important oncogenic role for MRCK in cancer, and they offer an initial preclinical proof of concept for MRCK inhibition as a valid therapeutic strategy.Significance: The development of selective small-molecule inhibitors of the Cdc42-binding MRCK kinases reveals their essential roles in cancer cell viability, migration, and invasive character. Cancer Res; 78(8); 2096-114. ©2018 AACR.

Differential Expression Levels of Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator and Cathepsin D in Locally Advanced Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Clinical Implications

The expression levels and the prognostic impact of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) and cathepsin D (CD) were evaluated in patients with locally advanced laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). uPA and CD protein levels were determined by immunoluminometric or immunoenzymatic assays in the cytosol of paired sets of tumor tissues and corresponding adjacent normal mucosa (NLM) from 57 patients with stage III/IV LSCC and were correlated with a number of clinicobiological parameters of this tumor including anatomical site, tumor grade, nodal status, clinical stage, DNA ploidy, proliferation rate, and patient outcome. Median uPA levels were significantly higher in LSCC than in NLM (1.8 ng/mg of protein vs 0.3 ng/mg; p<0.001) whereas median CD levels were not significantly increased in tumor tissue compared to NLM (24 pmol/mg vs 19 pmol/mg, p=0.063). No significant correlation was observed between uPA and CD concentrations in tumor tissues (r=-0.1; p=0.4). Furthermore, the distribution analysis of uPA and CD in tumors showed no correlation between expression levels of these proteinases and the parameters mentioned above including patient outcome. However, when data were matched according to each parameter examined it was observed that the differences in uPA content between LSCC and NLM, expressed as uPA tumor/normal tissue ratio (T/M), were more marked in clinically advanced and/or aggressive forms of LSCC (i.e., node positive, stage IV, poorly and moderately differentated, aneuploid multiclonal, low S-phase, subglottis tumors). These data suggest that in such tumors altered regulation of uPA may occur to a greater extent than in less aggressive and less advanced forms of LSCC. This phenomenon was not observed for CD. However, in tumors with a high proliferation rate, in stage IV tumors as well as in those located in the supraglottis, CD levels were significantly higher than those found in the corresponding NLM (p=0.008, p=0.02 and p=0.03, respectively). In conclusion, uPA is highly expressed in locally advanced LSCC and appears to be implicated in some key events of progression of this tumor such as local invasion and/or nodal involvement, whereas CD does not seem to have a role in promoting these processes. Nevetheless, neither of these proteinases seem to be prognostically useful in patients with stage III/IV tumors.

Immunohistochemical expression of polo-like kinase 1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral submucous fibrosis

CONTEXT

Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) is a critical molecule in the proliferation of several human cancers. Overexpression of PLK1 has been correlated with cancer cell proliferation and lower overall survival rates. Although PLK1 has been studied in various tumors, information regarding its expression in oral cancer and precancer is limited. Aims: This study is aimed at evaluating the expression of PLK1 in a potentially malignant and malignant disorder of the oral cavity, namely, oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), respectively, using the immunohistochemistry technique. It also intended to evaluate the association of the various histological grades of OSCC with the intensity of PLK1 expression.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Thirty OSMF, thirty OSCC tissues, and thirty control tissues were obtained, and the expression of PLK1 was detected by immunohistochemistry using rabbit antihuman PLK1 polyclonal antibodies (Abcam Ab47867). The association between staining intensity and histological grade of OSCC was evaluated.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

Using SPSS 20 version, a test for proportions, nonparametric Chi-square/correlation analysis was used to compare differences in proportions of categorical variables of interest between groups. Results: PLK1 was positively expressed in 27 (90%) OSCC tissues. OSMF showed no detectable staining in 27 (90%) tissues and positive staining in 3 (10%) tissues. PLK1 showed no staining (0%) in normal tissues. Statistically significant associations were not found between staining intensity and histological grade of OSCC.

CONCLUSIONS

PLK1 could be a promising progression marker for OSCC. Therapeutically, targeting PLK1 may be a new approach to fight oral cancer.

Cytosolic Levels of Neuron-Specific Enolase in Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Lung

To study the behavior and possible correlations of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) with other clinicobiological parameters, we measured the cytosolic levels of this marker by means of an immunoradiometric assay (IRMA) in 95 squamous cell lung carcinoma samples. We also analyzed the levels of pS2, tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA), hyaluronic acid (HA), free beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (β-HCG), CYFRA 21.1 and CA 125 in cytosol. On the cell surface we analyzed the concentrations of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), HA, erbB-2 oncoprotein, CD44s, CD44v5 and CD44v6. Other parameters considered were clinical stage, lymph node involvement, histological grade (HG), ploidy and the cellular S-phase fraction measured by flow cytometry on nuclei obtained from fresh tissues.

In the 95 squamous cell carcinomas the cytosolic levels of NSE varied from 4.5 to 2235 ng/mg protein (median: 267) and were significantly higher (p<0.001) than those observed in 38 samples of normal pulmonary tissue obtained from the same patients (range: 56–657; median: 141.5). When classifying tumors according to the different parameters analyzed, we observed that the levels of NSE were higher in aneuploid than in diploid cases (p=0.046) and in those that were HG3 than in those that were HG2 (p<0.001). Tumors with high NSE levels (>422 ng/mg protein; 75th percentile) were more likely to have high S-phase values (p=0.012) and were more frequently aneuploid (p=0.038) and HG3 (p<0.001) than those with low levels of NSE (<180 ng/mg protein; 25th percentile).

These results lead us to the following conclusions: 1) the cytosolic concentrations of NSE are significantly higher in squamous cell carcinomas than in healthy pulmonary tissue, and 2) the cytosolic concentrations of NSE are not correlated with clinical stage or nodal involvement. However, in our study higher levels of the enzyme were statistically correlated with aneuploidy, histological grade 3 and S-phase. This may explain its association with poorer outcome and progression, but also the more favorable response of tumors with elevated NSE to chemotherapy, as suggested by other groups.

Thymidine phosphorylase and angiogenesis in early stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The relationship between thymidine phosphorylase (TP) and angiogenesis at the early stage of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma has been unclear.

METHODS

Using 14 samples of normal squamous epithelium, 11 samples of low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia, and 64 samples of superficial esophageal cancer, microvessel density (MVD) was estimated using immunostaining for CD34 and CD105. TP expression was also evaluated in both cancer cells and stromal monocytic cells (SMCs). We then investigated the correlation between MVD and TP expression in both cancer cells and SMCs.

RESULTS

On the basis of the above parameters, MVD was significantly higher in cancerous lesions than in normal squamous epithelium. In terms of CD34 and CD105 expression, MVD showed a gradual increase from normal squamous epithelium, to low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia, and then to M1 and M2 cancer, and M3 or deeper cancer. M1 and M2 cancer showed overexpression of TP in both cancer cells and SMCs. There was no significant correlation between TP expression in cancer cells and MVD estimated from CD34 (rS = 0.16, P = 0.21) or CD105 (rS = 0.05, P = 0.68) expression. Significant correlations were found between TP expression in SMCs and CD34-related (rS = 0.46, P < 0.001) and CD105-related (rS = 0.34, P < 0.01) MVD. In M3 or deeper cancers, there were no significant correlations between TP expression in cancer cells or SMCs and venous invasion, lymphatic invasion, and lymph node metastasis.

CONCLUSION

TP expression is activated in both cancer cells and stromal monocytic cells at the very early stage of ESCC progression. TP expression in SMCs, rather than in cancer cells, is significantly correlated with angiogenesis.

Serum Level of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is characterized by the upregulation of a large number of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The aim of the study was to investigate the level of MMP-9 in the sera of HNSCC patients and its relationship to clinicopathological features.

METHODS

Serum samples from sixty-five patients (56M/9F, 59.11 ± 9.02 years) with HNSCC were quantitatively measured by ELISA assay, before and two days after surgery. Forty healthy volunteers served as controls (29M/ 11F, 56.21 ± 12.13 years).

RESULTS

Median serum concentrations of MMP-9 were consistently upregulated in HNSCC patients both preoperatively (1593.0 ng/mL, IQR: 833.0 - 1942.0 ng/mL) and postoperatively (1382.0 ng/mL, IQR: 778.6 - 2062.0 ng/mL) in comparison to healthy controls (291.3 ng/mL, IQR: 223.8 - 330.5 ng/mL) (p < 0.001). Pretreatment levels of MMP-9 were related to the size of primary tumor (p = 0.018) and lymph node involvement (p = 0.045). No statistically significant association was found between serum MMP-9 concentrations and clinical stage or degree of differentiation of the tumor cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum MMP-9 level could be used as a diagnostic tool for early detection of HNSCC and for determining prognosis. Moreover, our results suggest that MMP-9 might be a good marker in evaluating the size of the primary tumor and lymph node involvement. Further studies are needed to show whether MMP-9 could serve as a marker for recurrence.

Ephrin-B2 reverse signaling regulates progression and lymph node metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common malignant tumor of the head and neck and frequently metastasizes to cervical lymph nodes. Aggressive local invasion and metastasis of OSCC are significant factors for poor prognosis. In this study, we investigated whether ephrin-B2 expressed in OSCC contributed to tumor progression and lymph node metastasis. Clinical specimens from patients with OSCC had robust ephrin-B2-positive tumor cells and ephrin-B2 protein level was associated with clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, and poor survival outcomes. We also determined that ephrin-B2 protein level was increased in OSCC cell lines compared to normal human oral keratinocytes and that its levels were associated with the migratory and invasive potential of OSCC cell lines. Transfection of an EFNB2-specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) into SAS-L1 cells significantly reduced proliferation, attachment, migration, and invasion through phosphorylation of the epidermal growth factor receptor, FAK, ERK1/2, p38, AKT, and JNK1/2 pathways. Furthermore, knockdown of EFNB2 significantly suppressed adhesion and transmigration of SAS-L1 cells toward human lymphatic endothelial cells. In addition, the growth rate of tumor xenografts and cervical lymph node metastases of OSCC were suppressed by local injection of EFNB2 siRNA. These results suggest that ephrin-B2 overexpression and activation of the ephrin-B2 reverse signaling pathway in tumor microenvironment in OSCC facilitates progression and lymph node metastasis via enhancement of malignant potential and interaction with surrounding cells.

Arecoline N-Oxide Upregulates Caspase-8 Expression in Oral Hyperplastic Lesions of Mice

Areca nut is strongly associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) occurrence. Arecoline N-oxide (ANO), a metabolite of the areca alkaloid arecoline, exhibits an oral fibrotic effect in NOD/SCID mice. Caspase-8, a cysteine protease encoded by the CASP8 gene, is a central mediator in the extrinsic apoptotic pathway via death receptors. Deregulation of caspase-8 in OSCC has been reported. This study investigates the regulation of caspase-8 in ANO-induced oral squamous epithelial hyperplasia that represents the initial highly proliferative stage of oral carcinogenesis. CASP8 somatic mutations were identified from whole-exome sequencing of OSCC samples. Immunohistochemical staining showed upregulation of caspase-8 in ANO-induced hyperplasia of both NOD-SCID and C57BL/6 mice. Levels of expression of CASP8, APAF-1, BAX, and BAD increased in ANO-treated DOK cells. Co-localization of increased caspase-8 and PCNA levels was detected in ANO-induced hyperplastic lesions, whereas no co-localization among γ-H2A.X, caspase-3, and upregulated caspase-8 was observed. The findings indicate that upregulation of caspase-8 is involved in cell proliferation rather than apoptosis during the initial stage of ANO-mediated oral tumorigenesis.

Prevalence of fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) amplification in squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck

BACKGROUND

FGFR1 is a receptor tyrosine kinases involved in tumor growth signaling, survival, and differentiation in many solid cancer types. There is growing evidence that FGFR1 amplification might predict therapy response to FGFR1 inhibitors in squamous cell lung cancers. To estimate the potential applicability of anti FGFR1 therapies in squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck, we studied patterns of FGFR1 amplification using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A tissue microarray was constructed from 453 primary treatment-naive squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck regions with histopathological and clinical follow-up data [including oral cavity (n = 222), oropharynx (n = 126), and larynx (n = 105)]. FGFR1 and centromere 8 copy numbers were assessed by dual-color FISH. FGFR1 amplification was defined as a copy number ratio FGFR1: centromere 8 ≥ 2.0. HPV sequencing and p16 immunohistochemistry (IHC) were applied to FGFR1-amplified cancers.

RESULTS

FISH analysis was successful in 297 (66%) of the 453 cancers. FGFR1 amplification was found in 6% of analyzable tumors, and was more frequent in tumors of the oral cavity (13/133 amplified, 10%), than cancers of other localizations (1/79 oropharynx, 4/85 larynx; p = 0.007 and 0.159, respectively). One out of 18 FGFR1 amplified cancers was HPV positive. No associations were found between FGFR1 amplification and tumor phenotype or p16 IHC.

CONCLUSIONS

Head and neck cancers are recurrently affected by FGFR1 amplification, with a predominance in cancers of the oral cavity. Finding only one HPV positive and FGFR1 amplified cancer argues against a causal relationship between HPV and FGFR1 amplifications.

Lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase as poor prognostic factors in lung cancer: A retrospective observational study

PURPOSE

Circulating molecules play important roles in lung cancer diagnosis. In addition, plasma lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) have been shown to be closely related to tumor progression in breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colonel cancer. However, the relationships between LDH and CK levels with metastasis occurrence and the survival status of lung cancer patients remain unclear.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

A total of 1142 lung cancer patients were enrolled in this study and were separated into negative or positive groups, according to the plasma levels of CK or LDH. Patients in both groups were assessed for clinical characteristics, metastasis occurrence, and survival status. The Cox regression model was then introduced to confirm whether CK and LDH could act as independent factors for predicting a poor prognosis.

RESULTS

The results indicated that CK had a close relationship with bone (p < 0.05) and lymph node (p < 0.05) metastases. In addition, LDH was strongly related with bone (p < 0.05), adrenal gland (p < 0.05), and lymph node (p < 0.05) metastases. CK and LDH were also correlated with the survival status of the lung cancer patients (all p < 0.001). According to specific histological classification analysis, it was found that CK was closely related to the survival status of adenocarcinoma (ADC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients, while LDH was only correlated with that of ADC patients. Cox regression analysis confirmed that CK and LDH could act as independent factors for predicting a poor prognosis in ADC but not SCC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

For the first time, our study confirmed the role of CK in metastasis occurrence and the survival status of lung cancer patients. In addition, it also demonstrated that CK and LDH could be used as independent factors to predict a poor prognosis in ADC patients. The identification of CK and LDH will play important roles in lung cancer diagnosis and poor outcome prediction in the future.

The expression of transglutaminase 2 (TG-2) in oral squamous cell carcinoma and its clinical significance

BACKGROUND

Glutamine has a very important role in the human body, including pH balance in an acidic environment, as well as supporting the TCA cycle in cancer cell growth. However, the expression of transglutaminase-2 (TG-2) in oral cancer growth related to renal function is unknown. Here we examined TG-2 and its expression as a prognostic tool.

METHODS

Fifty-six oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissues were collected with the inclusion of tumor in any region of oral area, and patients with creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) results. The tissues were stained using immunohistochemistry (IHC) with a TG-2 antibody [N3C3], then observed under the microscope. The staining were calculated using Adobe Photoshop CS software and statistical analyses using SPSS ver. 21.

RESULTS

We found that TG-2 expression showed a significant difference in the expression levels between tumor and the adjacent groups without disease-free survival, disease-specific survival, and recurrence between, with p < 0.05. The average staining intensity with 25^th percentile of TG-2 becomes a vital score for the diagnosis. Furthermore, our study demonstrates a good prognosis outcome if the intensity score showed a difference in TG-2 expression between the adjacent and tumor tissue.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the first clinical study on TG-2 expression in OSCC, and it demonstrates that TG-2 can serve as a predictor of tumorigenesis and prognosis outcome.

ERK expression and its correlation with STAT1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is one of leading causes of cancer-related deaths in Chaoshan region a high-risk region for esophageal cancer. Extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) usually play an important role in cell proliferation and differentiation. However, accumulating evidence has shown that the ERK was aberrantly expressed in cancers and correlated with STAT1 depression.

RESULTS

The activated ERK downregulates STAT1 expression in ESCC cell lines and U0126 increases expression of STAT1. Our immunohistochemistry result also confirms that the expression of ERK inversely correlated with that of STAT1 in ESCC tumors. In addition, a significantly higher expression of ERK/p-ERK was found in ESCC tissues in comparison with case-matched normal esophageal tissues (p < 0.05). Moreover, the immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that ERK expression was paralleled with the differentiation and clinical stage. In 74 patients with follow-up data, those with ERKlow tumors survived significantly longer than those with ERKhigh tumors (p = 0.04); patients with ERKlow/STAT1high tumors had the longest survival (p = 0.001).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To investigate whether ERK can mediated STAT1 expression in ESCC, we used the MEK plasmid and U0126, a MEK inhibitor, to treat the cell. To further confirm our in-vitro study, we detected the ERK, p-ERK and STAT1 expression in 131 ESCC cases and 22 case-matched normal esophageal tissues adjacent to the tumors specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide pathological evidence that ERK/p-ERK is negatively correlated with STAT1 in ESCC. Our data suggests that inhibition of ERK and/or restoration of STAT1 expression maybe useful therapeutic strategies for ESCC.

Expression levels of cleaved caspase-3 and caspase-3 in tumorigenesis and prognosis of oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma

Apoptosis plays a dual role in cancer development and malignancy. The role of apoptosis-related caspases in cancer remains controversial, particularly in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC). In this study, we examined the protein levels of cleaved caspase-3, caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 on tissue microarrays consisting of samples from 246 OTSCC patients by immunohistochemistry. Wilcoxon signed-rank test indicated that the protein levels of cleaved caspase-3, caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 in tumor tissues were significantly higher compared to those in adjacent normal tissues (all p<0.001). The expression level of caspase-8 in tumors was elevated in patients with lymph node invasion. Moreover, positive expression of cleaved caspase-3 was associated with shorter disease-free survival (DFS) in OTSCC patients with moderate differentiation and lymph node invasion. Combination of either positive cleaved caspase-3 or higher caspase-3 expression or both was associated with poor DFS. Interestingly, stratification analysis showed that co-expression levels of positive cleaved caspase-3 or/and higher caspase-3 were associated with better disease-specific survival in patients with advanced stages of the disease, such as large tumor size and lymph node invasion, whereas it was associated with poor DFS in OTSCC patients with moderate cell differentiation and small tumor size. Taken together, cleaved caspase-3 and caspase-3/8/9 could be biomarkers for tumorigenesis in OTSCC patients. The co-expression level of cleaved caspase-3 and caspase-3 might be a prognostic biomarker for OTSCC patients, particular in those patients with certain tumor stages and cell differentiation status.

LncRNA MEG3 downregulation mediated by DNMT3b contributes to nickel malignant transformation of human bronchial epithelial cells via modulating PHLPP1 transcription and HIF-1α translation

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as key factors in various fundamental cellular biological processes, and many of them are likely to have functional roles in tumorigenesis. Maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) is an imprinted gene located at 14q32 that encodes a lncRNA, and the decreased MEG3 expression has been reported in multiple cancer tissues. However, nothing is known about the alteration and role of MEG3 in environmental carcinogen-induced lung tumorigenesis. Our present study, for the first time to the best of our knowledge, discovered that environmental carcinogen nickel exposure led to MEG3 downregulation, consequently initiating c-Jun-mediated PHLPP1 transcriptional inhibition and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) protein translation upregulation, in turn resulting in malignant transformation of human bronchial epithelial cells. Mechanistically, MEG3 downregulation was attributed to nickel-induced promoter hypermethylation via elevating DNMT3b expression, whereas PHLPP1 transcriptional inhibition was due to the decreasing interaction of MEG3 with its inhibitory transcription factor c-Jun. Moreover, HIF-1α protein translation was upregulated via activating the Akt/p70S6K/S6 axis resultant from PHLPP1 inhibition in nickel responses. Collectively, we uncover that nickel exposure results in DNMT3b induction and MEG3 promoter hypermethylation and expression inhibition, further reduces its binding to c-Jun and in turn increasing c-Jun inhibition of PHLPP1 transcription, leading to the Akt/p70S6K/S6 axis activation, and HIF-1α protein translation, as well as malignant transformation of human bronchial epithelial cells. Our studies provide a significant insight into understanding the alteration and role of MEG3 in nickel-induced lung tumorigenesis.

No significant association between PIK3CA mutation and survival of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: A meta-analysis

The prognostic value of phosphatidylinositol-4, 5-bisphosphate 3-kinase, catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is controversial. We aimed to investigate the prognostic significance of PIK3CA mutation in patients with ESCC. EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched from inception through Oct. 3, 2016. The hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random effects model for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). Seven studies enrolling 1505 patients were eligible for inclusion of the current meta-analysis. Results revealed that PIK3CA mutation was not significantly associated with OS (HR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.63-1.30, P=0.591), with a significant heterogeneity (I ²=65.7%, P=0.012). Additionally, subgroup analyses were further conducted according to various variables, such as types of specimen, the sample size, technique and statistical methodology. All results suggested that no significant relationship was found between PIK3CA mutation and OS in patients with ESCC. For DFS, there was no significant association between PIK3CA mutation and DFS in patients with ESCC (HR: 1.00, 95% CI=0.47-2.11, P=0.993, I ²=73.7%). Publication bias was not present and the results of sensitivity analysis were very stable in the current meta-analysis. Our findings suggest that PIK3CA mutation has no significant effects on OS and DFS in ESCC patients. More well-designed prospective studies with better methodology for PIK3CA assessment are required to clarify the prognostic significance of PIK3CA mutation in ESCC patients.

Elevated basal antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and high epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression predict favourable outcome in patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer treated with cetuximab and radiotherapy

BACKGROUND

Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) may contribute to the antitumor activity of cetuximab. However, the extent of this contribution is unclear. In this study, we investigated the impact of baseline ADCC on the outcome of patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma treated with cetuximab and radiotherapy.

METHODS

We determined baseline ADCC in 28 patients treated with cetuximab and radiotherapy and in 15 patients treated with chemoradiation. We linked the values observed with complete response and with overall survival. We also considered the role of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression and studied the combined effect of EGFR and ADCC.

RESULTS

We observed a wide range of baseline values of ADCC. Complete response did not correlate with either ADCC or EGFR expression. However, when ADCC and EGFR were considered together using a mixed score, they significantly correlated with achieving a complete response (p = 0.04). High baseline ADCC significantly correlated with outcome compared to low (p = 0.03), but not in patients treated without cetuximab. Patients showing high baseline levels of both ADCC and EGFR3+ achieved the best outcome compared to the others (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, patients treated with cetuximab and radiotherapy, showing high baseline of both ADCC and EGFR3+, have significant higher probability of achieving a complete response and a long overall survival compared to the others.

Mutations of the LIM protein AJUBA mediate sensitivity of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to treatment with cell-cycle inhibitors

The genomic alterations identified in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tumors have not resulted in any changes in clinical care, making the development of biomarker-driven targeted therapy for HNSCC a major translational gap in knowledge. To fill this gap, we used 59 molecularly characterized HNSCC cell lines and found that mutations of AJUBA, SMAD4 and RAS predicted sensitivity and resistance to treatment with inhibitors of polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), checkpoint kinases 1 and 2, and WEE1. Inhibition or knockdown of PLK1 led to cell-cycle arrest at the G2/M transition and apoptosis in sensitive cell lines and decreased tumor growth in an orthotopic AJUBA-mutant HNSCC mouse model. AJUBA protein expression was undetectable in most AJUBA-mutant HNSCC cell lines, and total PLK1 and Bora protein expression were decreased. Exogenous expression of wild-type AJUBA in an AJUBA-mutant cell line partially rescued the phenotype of PLK1 inhibitor-induced apoptosis and decreased PLK1 substrate inhibition, suggesting a threshold effect in which higher drug doses are required to affect PLK1 substrate inhibition. PLK1 inhibition was an effective therapy for HNSCC in vitro and in vivo. However, biomarkers to guide such therapy are lacking. We identified AJUBA, SMAD4 and RAS mutations as potential candidate biomarkers of response of HNSCC to treatment with these mitotic inhibitors.

Mining expression and prognosis of topoisomerase isoforms in non-small-cell lung cancer by using Oncomine and Kaplan-Meier plotter

DNA topoisomerases are essential to modulate DNA topology during various cellular genetic processes. The expression and distinct prognostic value of topoisomerase isoforms in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is not well established. In the current study, we have examined the mRNA expression of topoisomerase isoforms by using Oncomine analysis and investigated their prognostic value via the Kaplan–Meier plotter database in NSCLC patients. Our analysis indicated that the expression level of topoisomerases in lung cancer was higher compared with normal tissues. Especially, high expression of two topoisomerase isoforms, TOP2A and TOP3A, was found to be correlated to worse overall survival (OS) in all NSCLC and lung adenocarcinoma (Ade) patients, but not in lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients. In a contrast, high expression of isoforms TOP1 and TOP2B indicated better OS in all NSCLC and Ade, but not in SCC patients. Meanwhile, high expression of TOP1MT and TOP3B was not correlated with OS in NSCLC patients. Furthermore, we also demonstrated a relationship between topoisomerase isoforms and the clinicopathological features for the NSCLC patients, such as grades, clinical stages, lymph node status, smoking status, gender, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. These results support that TOP2A and TOP3A are associated with worse prognosis in NSCLC patients. In addition, our study also shows that TOP1 and TOP2B contribute to favorable prognosis in NSCLC patients. The exact prognostic significance of TOP1MT and TOP3B need to be further elucidated. Comprehensive evaluation of expression and prognosis of topoisomerase isoforms will be a benefit for the better understanding of heterogeneity and complexity in the molecular biology of NSCLC, paving a way for more accurate prediction of prognosis and discovery of potential drug targets for NSCLC patients.

SQLE induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition by regulating of miR-133b in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Increasing evidence suggests that microRNAs, which control gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, are aberrantly expressed in cancers and play significant roles in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. In this study, we show differential miR-133b down-expression in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells and tissues. In addition, squalene epoxidase (SQLE), a key enzyme of cholesterol synthesis, is identified as the direct downstream target gene of miR-133b by luciferase gene reporter assay. Furthermore, ectogenic miR-133b expression and SQLE knockdown can inhibit proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, and diminish epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) traits of ESCC in vitro, implying that miR-133b-dependent SQLE can induce tumorigenicity and that SQLE is an EMT inducer. Xenograft experiment results also proved the biological function of SQLE in vivo. Therefore, we conclude that miR-133b-dependent SQLE plays a critical role in the potential metastasis mechanisms in ESCC.

Limited Clinical Significance of Dimeric Form of Pyruvate Kinase as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarker in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Metabolism of tumor tissue differs from the normal one by the intensity of protein synthesis and glycolysis. The dimeric pyruvate kinase (PKM2) is a specific enzyme for tumor glycolysis. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the activity of PKM2 and the type and stage of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A second objective was to compare the expression of PKM2 with disease progression and prognosis. We studied 65 patients divided into two groups: 45 patients with lung cancer and 20 non-cancer healthy subjects taken as control. The serum activity of PKM2 was assessed spectrophotometrically. We found that PKM2 activity was greater, on average, by 136 % for adenocarcinoma and for 126 % for squamous cell carcinoma compared with that present in control subjects. The higher PKM2 activity was associated only with Stage III of cancer (p < 0.001). Sensitivity of PKM2 as a cancer marker was 79 % for adenocarcinoma and 81 % for squamous cell carcinoma and specificity was 50 % for both cancer types. We conclude that PKM2 activity is higher in patients with NSCLC than in healthy subjects. The level of PKM2 activity is associated with advanced stage of cancer. Nonetheless, low specificity of PKM2 assessment makes it of limited utility in NSCLC diagnosis or evaluation of cancer progression.

Cyclooxygenase-2 Immunoreactivity in Equine Ocular Squamous-Cell Carcinoma

Squamous-cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common tumor in horses, and 40%-50% may occur in ocular and adnexal structures. Cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 is an inducible enzyme responsible for the production of prostaglandins that control cell growth and the development and progression of cancer. Mechanisms responsible for the initial upregulation of COX-2 in neoplasia are unclear; prolonged sunlight exposure and mutations in the p53 gene may be possibilities. Because the etiopathogenesis of ocular SCC in horses may involve ultraviolet sunlight and p53 mutations, the purpose of this study was to characterize the immunoreactivity of COX-2 in these tumors. Cyclooxygenase-2 expression was found in 6 of 22 (27%) paraffin-embedded equine SCCs. Cyclooxygenase-2 immunoreactivity was associated with the mitotic index ( P < 0.001). Strategies to inhibit COX-2 by the use of topical or systemic COX-2 inhibitors might prove to be a safe and economical treatment in some horses with SCC.

Genotype and Phenotype of Glutathione-S-Transferase in Patients with Head and Neck Carcinoma

OBJECTIVE: Association of glutathione-S-transferase M1 (GSTM1) polymorphisms and cancer has been demonstrated. Possible underlying mechanisms and genotype-phenotype correlations are not adequately investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the GSTM1-null-genotype on the level of GSTM enzyme concentration and on the enzyme activity of GST in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC).

METHODS: We investigated in 83 patients and 91 healthy controls the GSTM1 polymorphisms, GSTM1 protein concentration, GSTM1 protein in tumor tissues, and total GST enzyme activity.

RESULTS: Total GST enzyme activity was significantly lower in patients with HNC (208 ± 9 μmol/min1) than in controls (264 ± 11 μmol/min1, P < 0.0001) but did not depend on GSTM1-genotype ( P = 0.1). GSTM protein concentration in null-genotype patients (3.6 ± 2.5 μg/mL, mean ± SE) was significantly lower than in GSTM1 allele carriers (26.7 ± 9.6 μg/ml, P < 0.0001); GSTM protein expression did not depend on GSTM1-genotype ( P > 0.5).

CONCLUSION: GST enzyme activity in patients with HNC is suppressed, indicating impaired detoxification capacity of tobacco-smoke-related carcinogens. This suppression is not correlated with the GSTM1-genotype. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2004;130:718-25.)

Immunohistochemical expression of DNA methyltransferases 1, 3a, and 3b in actinic cheilitis and lip squamous cell carcinomas

BACKGROUND

Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation of tumor suppressor genes carried out by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), are important events in carcinogenesis. Although there are studies concerning to its expression in several cancer types, DNMTs expression pattern is not known in photoinduced lip carcinogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the immunoexpression of DNMTs 1, 3a, and 3b in lip precancerous lesion (actinic cheilitis) and cancer.

METHODS

Thirty cases of actinic cheilitis (AC), thirty cases of lip squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), and twenty cases of non-neoplastic tissue (NNT) were selected for immunohistochemical investigation of DNMTs 1, 3a, and 3b.

RESULTS

Nuclear DNMT 1 immunoreactivity was significantly higher in the LSCC group (68.6%) compared with NNT (47%), and nuclear DNMT 3b was higher in LSCC (70.9%) than in NNT (37.9%) and in AC (44%). Only DNMT 3a showed both higher nuclear and cytoplasmic expression in AC (35.9% and 35.5%, respectively) than in NNT (4.4% and 16.1%, respectively) and LSCC (8.8% and 13.2%, respectively) (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggested that DNMT 3a could play a key role in the methylation process of initial steps of UV carcinogenesis present in AC while DNMT 3b could be responsible for de novo methylation in already established lip cancer.

THBS1 is induced by TGFB1 in the cancer stroma and promotes invasion of oral squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

THBS1 (thrombospondin-1) is the extracellular matrix (ECM) protein that affects diverse cellular activities. It constitutes the tumor stroma, but the role of THBS1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) development is unclear. The aim of this study was to clarify the relevance of THBS1 in the pathogenesis of OSCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression of THBS1 was examined in 44 OSCC by immunohistochemical analysis and in 43 OSCC by cDNA microarray analysis. Cell culture experiments were conducted using human OSCC cell lines HSC3 and HO1N1 and mouse fibroblast ST2 cells to examine the effect of TGFB1 on THBS1 expression, and the effect of THBS1 on cellular behaviors.

RESULTS

THBS1 was specifically induced in the tumor microenvironment of OSCC. THBS1 appeared to be produced mainly by the stromal cells, but also by OSCC cells. TGFB1 stimulated THBS1 expression in ST2, primary fibroblasts, and the OSCC cells. THBS1 promoted migration and invasion of HSC3 and HO1N1 in transwell migration assays. THBS1 stimulated the expression of MMP3 (matrix metalloprotease 3), MMP9, MMP11, and MMP13 in ST2 cells and MMP3, MMP11, and MMP13 in HO1N1 cells. The RGD peptide suppressed the THBS1-stimulated migration and upregulation of MMP11 and MMP13.

CONCLUSIONS

THBS1 is a tumor-specific ECM protein that is induced by TGFB1 and promotes migration of cancer cells and stimulates the expression of MMPs partly through the integrin signaling, thereby favoring OSCC invasion.