Comparative matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 expression and activity during endotheliochorial and hemochorial trophoblastic invasiveness

To establish a functional placenta, its development needs adequate trophoblastic invasiveness. The intricate and complex morphological and molecular aspects regulating trophoblastic invasion during endotheliochorial placentation of domestic carnivores and their similarities and differences with the hemochorial placenta are still poorly understood. During placentation processes, from the time of implantation, trophoblast cells invade the uterine endometrium where they achieve extensive degradation and remodeling of extracellular matrix components; in this process, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), particularly MMP-2 and 9, have an essential role in rebuilding, cell migration, and invasiveness. This review provides an overview of comparative trophoblast invasive events and the expression and activity of MMP-2 and 9 during endotheliochorial and hemochorial placentation, emphasizing dog and mouse placental models. Understanding of trophoblastic invasiveness in two models of placentation, the intermediately invasive domestic carnivore endotheliochorial placenta, and the more highly invasive mouse hemochorial placenta, contributes to deepen knowledge of the trophoblast invasive processes and their diverse and complex human placental alterations, such as preeclampsia.

Sea Anemone Heteractis crispa Actinoporin Demonstrates In Vitro Anticancer Activities and Prevents HT-29 Colorectal Cancer Cell Migration

Actinoporins are the most abundant group of sea anemone cytolytic toxins. Their membranolytic activity is of high interest for the development of novel anticancer drugs. However, to date the activity of actinoporins in malignant cells has been poorly studied. Here, we report on recombinant analog of Hct-S3 (rHct-S3), belonging to the combinatory library of Heteractis crispa actinoporins. rHct-S3 exhibited cytotoxic activity against breast MDA-MB-231 (IC₅₀ = 7.3 µM), colorectal HT-29 (IC₅₀ = 6.8 µM), and melanoma SK-MEL-28 (IC₅₀ = 8.3 µM) cancer cells. The actinoporin effectively prevented epidermal growth factor -induced neoplastic transformation of JB6 Cl41 cells by 34% ± 0.2 and decreased colony formation of HT-29 cells by 47% ± 0.9, MDA-MB-231 cells by 37% ± 1.2, and SK-MEL-28 cells by 34% ± 3.6. Moreover, rHct-S3 decreased proliferation and suppressed migration of colorectal carcinoma cells by 31% ± 5.0 and 99% ± 6.4, respectively. The potent anti-migratory activity was proposed to mediate by decreased matrix metalloproteinases-2 and -9 expression. In addition, rHct-S3 induced programmed cell death by cleavage of caspase-3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, as well as regulation of Bax and Bcl-2. Our results indicate rHct-S3 to be a promising anticancer drug with a high anti-migratory potential.

Functional expression and purification of the untagged C-terminal domain of MMP-2 from Escherichia coli inclusion bodies

The C-terminal domain (CTD) of MMP-2, which includes a hemopexin-like domain, has been increasingly studied as an alternative target in developing selective intervention strategies towards MMP-2. Moreover, The CTD itself has been implicated in a growing number of biological events, either MMP-dependent or -independent. The production of CTD, however, has been mostly based on the uncontrolled lysis of the latent ProMMP-2 or fusion protein expression that leaves a fusion tag. In this work we present a facile production of the untagged CTD in E. coli. The target protein was expressed as inclusion bodies, and we established an efficient wash and refolding strategy that allows us to obtain the target protein in extremely high purity. The yield was established at ~6 mg/L of the culture medium, which would greatly facilitate the production and hence the biological study of CTD. The method described herein might also prove useful for related (domain) proteins in MMP family and beyond.

Immunohistochemical Profiles of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Overexpression in the Antoni B Area of Vestibular Schwannomas

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical manifestations of cystic vestibular schwannomas (VSs), investigate the immunohistochemical profiles of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in Antoni A and B areas, and speculate the pathogenesis of cystic formation and intratumoral hemorrhage.

METHODS

Clinical features and outcomes of 24 cases of cystic VSs and 38 cases of solid VSs were retrospectively compared. Immunohistochemical studies were conducted to evaluate the characteristics of MMPs and VEGF in cystic and solid VSs.

RESULTS

The tumor size was 38.92 ± 1.86 mm and 31.95 ± 1.74 mm in the cystic and solid VSs group, respectively (P = 0.011). Cystic VSs were rich in the Antoni B area. MMP-9 expression was low in the Antoni A and B areas. MMP-2 was moderately expressed. No significant difference in MMP-2 expression existed between the Antoni A and B areas (P > 0.05). VEGF and MMP-14 expression were moderate in the Antoni A area and intense in the Antoni B area, and the expression of both was significantly greater in the Antoni B area than in the Antoni A area (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

MMP-14 and VEGF expression were significantly greater in the Antoni B area than in the Antoni A area. Upregulated MMP-14 may degrade loose collagen in the Antoni B area and contribute to cystic formation. MMP-14 can enhance VEGF activity, which may induce extravasation of a plasma ultrafiltrate, cystic expansion, and intratumoral hemorrhage. Therefore, MMP-14 inhibition may be a therapeutic strategy for treating cystic VSs.

DNA methylation and mRNA expression of IGF-1 and MMP-2 after form-deprivation myopia in guinea pigs

PURPOSE

The molecular mechanism of form-deprivation myopia is unclear. This study was aimed to investigate the roles of scleral DNA methylation and mRNA expression of IGF-1 and MMP-2 in a guinea pig model of form-deprivation myopia.

METHODS

Seventy 2-week-old male guinea pigs were assigned to three groups: (1) zero week group that was used to collect baseline data; (2) monocular deprivation treatment (MDT) group, in which a thin slice of opaque latex glove was placed over the right eyes of the animals for four weeks, and the left eyes were untreated and served as the monocular contralateral control (MCC) group; (3) control group (CG), in which the animals grew four weeks, but received no manipulation. Animals in each group were evenly divided for DNA methylation assay and quantitative PCR (qPCR). After eye enucleation, the sclerae were harvested for DNA methylation assay and qPCR. The DNA methylation pattern in the promoter and exon regions of IGF-1 and MMP-2, along with the mRNA expression level of them, were determined by base-specific cleavage and mass spectrometry and qPCR, respectively.

RESULTS

After four weeks of form-deprivation, DNA methylation at 4/8 cytosine-guanine sites in the IGF-1 promoter was significantly lower in the MDT eyes than in the MCC or CG eyes. In addition, the level of IGF-1 mRNA was moderately higher in MDT eyes compared to the MCC eyes and CG eyes. DNA methylation at 4/14 cytosine-guanine sites in the MMP-2 gene was very low, and no significant change was observed between the MDT eyes and the MCC or CG ones. However, the level of MMP-2 mRNA in MDT eyes was significant higher compared with MCC eyes and CG eyes, with an increase of 217% and 222%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In our guinea pig model of form-deprivation myopia, the methylation of four cytosine-guanine sites in the IGF-1 gene promoter was significantly lower in the sclera after four weeks of MDT, and the transcription level of scleral IGF-1 was moderately higher. Hence, the IGF-1 gene methylation might play a role in the pathogenesis of form-deprivation myopia in guinea pigs. The level of MMP-2 mRNA in the sclera of MDT eyes was significantly higher, but not regulated by the methylation pathway, as the methylation status of MMP-2 was unchanged.

Matrix metalloproteinases MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-13 are overexpressed in primary nodular melanoma

BACKGROUND

The spread and invasion of malignant melanoma cells involve degradation and reorganization of the extracellular matrix by the activation of several matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). This study analyzed the expression of MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-13 proteins in primary nodular melanoma (NM) and dysplastic nevi (DN) as a significant risk factor for melanoma development. The secondary goal was to analyze the correlation of MMPs protein expression in NM with tumor invasion, BRAF V600 mutation status, and overall survival.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry for MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-13 was performed on nodular melanoma (n = 52) and dysplastic nevi (n = 28) on tissue microarray (TMA). BRAF V600 mutation analysis on NM samples was performed by the Sanger sequencing method.

RESULTS

A high level of MMPs expression in NM samples (>30%) compared with DN (<8%) was statistically significant (P < 0.001). BRAF V600 mutations were detected in 15 of 39 (38.5%) NM samples. This study revealed an interesting finding that MMP-1 and MMP-13 protein expression in the BRAF V600 mutated melanomas were significantly lower than in the BRAF V600 wild type (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Cox analysis revealed that Clark categories, Breslow thickness, and MMP-1 high protein expression are predictive factors for shorter overall survival (P < 0.05).

Presence of metalloproteinases 2 and 9 and 8-OHdG in the fibrotic process in skeletal muscle of Mdx mice

Inflammation and oxidative stress occurs in muscle of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The relationship between a panel of biomarkers and the DMD outcome is necessary to indicate of disease progression and response to rehabilitation programs. The aim was to analyze the connective tissue of muscle of Mdx mice and immunoexpression of MMP-2, MMP-9, and 8-OHdG, which signalizes oxidative stress related to DNA damage. Biceps brachii of male C57BL/10 and C57BL/10-Dmd^mdx mice was submitted to Hematoxylin-Eosin, Sirius red and immunohistochemistry (MMP-2, MMP-9 and 8-OHdG) analysis. Mdx showed focal lesions with intense inflammation and fibrosis related to immunoexpression of MMP-2 and MMP-9, proving the hypothesis that these MMPs are linked to muscular tissue degeneration, which can be regenerated by their inhibition, improving the treatment of DMD carriers. Histopathological findings related to centralized nuclei increase were related to higher 8-OHdG immunomarked nuclei in Mdx, which signalizes oxidative stress associated with DNA damage provoked by DMD. Such result shows that the evaluation of 8-OHdG during the evolution of the disease could be a method to evaluate DMD disease progression.

PKM2 enhances cancer invasion via ETS-1-dependent induction of matrix metalloproteinase in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed at investigating the molecular mechanism underlying PKM2-mediated cancer invasion.

MATERIALS & METHODS

To optimize the investigation of PKM2-specific effects, we used two immortalized oral cell lines. The two cell lines drastically differed in PKM2 expression level, particularly in the level of nuclear PKM2, and subsequently in glucose metabolism and tumorigenicity.

RESULTS

Knockdown of PKM2 reduced not only the glucose metabolism but also the invasive activity by curtailing the expressions of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP): PKM2 could modulate MMP-9 expression by regulating ETS-1 inside the nucleus. These results were further confirmed in an oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell line. In correspondence with in vitro findings, clinicopathological data from OSCC patients indicated strong association between PKM2 expression and poor survival rate. Additionally, upon analysis of public database, significant positive correlation was found between PKM2 and ETS-1 in OSCC.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, this study unveiled the molecular mechanism underlying PKM2-mediated cancer invasion, thereby providing novel targets for therapeutics development against invasive OSCC.

Role of matrix metalloproteinases in tumour invasion: immunohistochemistry of peritoneum from peritoneal carcinomatosis

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer. Spread of tumour to the peritoneal cavity may lead to seeding of cancer cells that adhere to and invade the peritoneal membrane causing peritoneal carcinomatosis. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play an essential role in cancer cell invasion and dissemination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphology and presence of matrix metalloproteinases in peritoneal carcinomatosis. Biopsy samples of the parietal peritoneum were taken from patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery for peritoneal carcinomatosis. The samples were fixed in formalin, dehydrated and embedded in paraffin prior to cutting into 4-µm slices. Staining with haematoxylin/eosin was used for morphology studies, and MMP-1, MMP-2 and TIMP-1 levels were evaluated using immunohistochemistry and light microscopy. The microscopically tumour-free areas of the peritoneal membrane were thin compared to the peripheral invasion zone and the areas invaded by tumour. Peritoneum invaded by tumour was richly vascularised and contained inflammatory cells. MMP-1 was expressed in tumour-free peritoneum and in the invasion zone between tumour and peritoneal tissue, but not in tumour-invaded areas. MMP-2 and TIMP-1 were mostly expressed in the proximity of blood vessels and inflammatory cells in tumour-invaded areas, but was not seen in tumour-free areas. MMPs play an important role in the process of cancer cell invasion of the peritoneum in peritoneal carcinomatosis. The peripheral zone of the tumour appears to be of importance for tumour invasion.

Expression of extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer and matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 in horses with chronic airway inflammation

OBJECTIVE To examine whether expression of extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) can be detected in equine lungs and whether it correlates with matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9 expression in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of horses with chronic inflammation of the lungs (ie, lower airway inflammation [LAI]). ANIMALS 29 horses with signs of chronic respiratory tract disease, which were classified as the LAI (n = 17) and LAI with respiratory distress (RDLAI [12]) groups, and 15 control horses. PROCEDURES BALF, tracheal aspirate, and blood samples were obtained, and EMMPRIN expression was determined from BALF cells and RBCs by use of western blotting. Activities of MMP-2 and -9 were determined with zymography. RESULTS Expression of EMMPRIN protein was identified in BALF cells of all horses. Expression of EMMPRIN protein was highest for the RDLAI group and was correlated with MMP-2 and -9 protein expression, MMP-9 gelatinolytic activity, and airway neutrophilia. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that EMMPRIN was involved in the pathophysiologic processes of asthma in horses. However, additional studies of horses and other species are warranted to elucidate the regulation of EMMPRIN expression in asthmatic lungs.

Homocysteine rapidly increases matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression and activity in cultured human vascular smooth muscle cells

In this study we aimed to test the hypothesis that in human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) homocysteine influences synthesis and release of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), which is deeply involved in vascular remodeling and atherosclerotic plaque instabilization. Experiments were carried out in cultured human VSMC exposed to 50–500 μmol/l homocysteine after a 24-hour culture with MEM containing 0.1% BSA. Both in supernatants and cell lysates we evaluated MMP-2 activity (gelatin zimography), MMP-2 and TIMP-2 protein synthesis (Western immunoblotting). Homocysteine effects were investigated also after cell exposure to i) specific MEK inhibitor PD98059 (30 μmol/l) to evaluate the involvement of Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) and ii) specific phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K) inhibitor LY294002 (100 μmol/l) to evaluate the involvement of PI3-K pathway. Gelatin zimography evidenced that MMP-2 activity is increased both in conditioned media and in cell lysates starting from 8-hour incubation with 100 μmol/l homocysteine. Western blot analysis evidenced increased MMP-2 levels in both conditioned media and cell lysates. Cell exposure to PD98059 and LY294002 prevented homocysteine effects on MMP-2 synthesis. Homocysteine, at concentrations associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events, increases MMP-2 activity, synthesis and secretion in VSMC through a mechanism involving the activation of MAPK and PI3-K pathways. These data suggest that homocysteine is directly involved in mechanisms leading to remodelling and instabilization of atherosclerotic plaques.

Differential expression of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in human and mouse lung development

Lung development is a highly orchestrated process characterized by timed expression and activation of growth factor and protease/antiprotease systems. This interplay is essential in regulating vasculogenesis, alveolarization, and epithelial to mesenchymal transition during lung development. Alterations in the proteolytic/antiproteolytic balance of the lung have been associated with several respiratory diseases characterized by changes in the lung extracellular matrix (ECM). Here, we characterized the expression pattern of matrix metalloproteases (MMP) and their inhibitors, the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteases (TIMP), in human and mouse lung development. Using MMP/TIMP expression arrays, RT-PCR, Western Blotting, and ELISA analyses, we demonstrate that fetal human lung is characterized by a dominant proteolytic profile with high MMP-2 and little TIMP-3 expression. Adult human lung, in contrast, exhibits a more anti-proteolytic profile with decreased MMP-2 and increasedTIMP-3 expression. MMP-14, MMP-20,TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 were constitutively expressed, irrespective of the developmental stage. Similar results were obtained using mouse lungs of different developmental stages, with the addition that in mouse lung, TIMP-2 and TIMP-3 were upregulated as lung development progressed. Exposure of neonatal mice to chronic hypoxia (10% O2), a stimulus that leads to an arrest of lung development, resulted in upregulation of MMP-2 with a concomitant downregulation of TIMP-2.These results provide a comprehensive analysis of MMP and TIMP expression during human and mouse lung development. MMP-2, TIMP-2, and TIMP-3 may be key regulatory enzymes during lung development, possibly through their complex action on ECM components, membrane receptor ectodomain shedding, and growth factor bioactivity.

Erythropoietin reduces hippocampus injury in neonatal rats with hypoxic ischemic brain damage via targeting matrix metalloprotein-2

OBJECTIVE

Erythropoietin (EPO), as a type of the tissue-protective cytokines, is a 30.4 kDa hematopoietic glycoprotein. The purpose of this study was to explore the neuroprotective effects of EPO on the neonatal hypoxic-ischemic-induced hippocampus injury and the MMP-2 expression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Neonatal Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into an untreated group (control) and two hypoxia-ischemia (HI) groups treated with saline control or EPO. Hippocampi were harvested at various times after return to normoxia (6 h, 24 h, 3 days and 7 days post-HI) for analyses of infarct areas and expression using histology, Western blot and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

EPO injections reduced the infarction and loss of brain tissue. HI group exhibited an enhanced MMP-2 positive staining compared to controls at 24 h, 3 and 7 days post-HI by immunohistochemistry. These results were confirmed by Western blot analysis of MMP-2 expression at 7 days post-HI. Levels of MMP-2 mRNA in the injured hippocampi increased significantly at 24 h and 7 days post-HI. In particular, the EPO treatment further significantly enhanced this increase.

CONCLUSIONS

EPO protected hypoxic-ischemic-induced neonatal brain damage by up-regulating the MMP-2 expression. Hence, systemic EPO may have potential utility for the treatment of HI injury in human newborns.

Clinical significance of SCCRO (DCUN1D1) in prostate cancer and its proliferation-inhibiting effect on Lncap cells

OBJECTIVE

  SCCRO/DCUN1D1/DCN1 (squamous cell carcinoma-related oncogene/defective in cullin neddylation 1 domain containing 1/defective in cullin neddylation) is considered as an oncogene, but its role in the prostate cancer (PC) is still not clear. The current study aims to investigate the expression of SCCRO in PC tumor tissues, further its clinical significance, and proliferation inhibiting effect on PC cells in vitro.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

RT-PCR was used to detect the expression of SCCRO in PC tissue and corresponding adjacent normal tissues from 160 cases, and its relationship with clinical pathological characteristics was analyzed. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) expression plasmid targeting SCCRO gene was constructed and transferred into PC cell line Lncap. The effect on proliferation was observed by CCK8 assay, and its influence on invasion and migration of Lncap cells was studied by Transwell Matrigel assay after SCCRO gene was silenced. The expression of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) influenced by SCCRO silencing were detected by Western blot.

RESULTS

mRNA expression of SCCRO protein increased significantly in cancer tissues compared to adjacent normal tissue, especially for T3+T4, N+, and III+IV patients (p<0.05). SCCRO expression was an independent prognostic factor (p<0.05). After SCCRO gene was knocked down by siRNA, the SCCRO protein level decreased 78.4% in the siRNA-3 group. By CCK8 assay, knocking down SCCRO in Lncap significantly reduced the cell proliferation, as well as its migration and invasion capability compared to siRNA-control group (p<0.01) by transwell invasion and migration assay. The expression of FAK and MMP-2 also reduced in siRNA-3 group compared to siRNA control group (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

SCCRO is associated with progression and prognosis of PC. After SCCRO gene was transferred, the growth of Lncap cells was inhibited, and ability of invasion and migration decreased by reducing the expression of FAK and MMP-2. SCCRO has potential to become a new target for the treatment of PC.

MicroRNA-145 Mediates the Formation of Angiotensin II-Induced Murine Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

BACKGROUND

MicroRNA-145 (miR-145) has been implicated in vascular smooth muscle cell differentiation, but the underlying mechanisms have not been fully understood, especially their role in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) expansion. Here, we sought to explore and define the mechanisms of miR-145 function in the experimental AAA models in AngII-infused ApoE-/- mice.

METHODS

miR-145 was overexpressed in ApoE-/- mice via lentivirus infection, and then the incidence of AAA, maximum abdominal aortic diameter, elastin degradation and MMP2 activation were determined in AngII-infused ApoE-/- mice.

RESULTS

In vivo overexpression of miR-145 by lentivirus infection greatly decreased the incidence of AAA, maximum abdominal aortic diameter, and elastin degradation, accompanied with downregulation of MMP2 activation in AngII-infused ApoE-/- mice. Cell culture assays indicated that miR-145 inhibited AngII-induced upregulation of MMP2 gene expression. In contrast, deficiency of MMP2 abolished the effects of miR-145 on AngII-induced elastin and collagens degradations in ApoE-/- mice.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that regulation of expression of miR-145 may be a potential therapeutic option for vascular disease progression such as AAA expansion.

Effects of Compressive Loading on Human Synovium-derived Cells

Compressive stress may be involved in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) synovitis, but its mechanism has not been fully elucidated. We hypothesized that mechanical stress to the synovial cells of the TMJ potentially causes degenerative changes in temporomandibular joint disease. We examined the effect of cyclic compressive loading on three-dimensionally engineered constructs using human TMJ synovium-derived cells in vitro. Human TMJ synovium-derived cells were cultured onto collagen scaffolds, resulting in three-dimensional constructs. Cyclic compression loading was applied to the constructs by means of a custom-designed apparatus. DNA amount, apoptotic cells, and mRNA levels for inflammatory cytokines were analyzed. The protein expression and activity of MMPs were examined. DNA amount or apoptotic cell number was unchanged by loading. MMP-2, -3, and IL-8 mRNA expression was up-regulated by the compression, and both MMP-1 and -3 protein expression and MMP-2 activity were detected. Thus, compression of human TMJ synovium-derived cells appears to modulate inflammatory cytokines.

Red Grape Skin Polyphenols Blunt Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 and -9 Activity and Expression in Cell Models of Vascular Inflammation: Protective Role in Degenerative and Inflammatory Diseases

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are endopeptidases responsible for the hydrolysis of various components of extracellular matrix. MMPs, namely gelatinases MMP-2 and MMP-9, contribute to the progression of chronic and degenerative diseases. Since gelatinases' activity and expression are regulated by oxidative stress, we sought to evaluate whether supplementation with polyphenol-rich red grape skin extracts modulated the matrix-degrading capacity in cell models of vascular inflammation. Human endothelial and monocytic cells were incubated with increasing concentrations (0.5-25 μg/mL) of Negroamaro and Primitivo red grape skin polyphenolic extracts (NSPE and PSPE, respectively) or their specific components (0.5-25 μmol/L), before stimulation with inflammatory challenge. NSPE and PSPE inhibited, in a concentration-dependent manner, endothelial invasion as well as the MMP-9 and MMP-2 release in stimulated endothelial cells, and MMP-9 production in inflamed monocytes, without affecting tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-1 and TIMP-2. The matrix degrading inhibitory capacity was the same for both NSPE and PSPE, despite their different polyphenolic profiles. Among the main polyphenols of grape skin extracts, trans-resveratrol, trans-piceid, kaempferol and quercetin exhibited the most significant inhibitory effects on matrix-degrading enzyme activities. Our findings appreciate the grape skins as rich source of polyphenols able to prevent the dysregulation of vascular remodelling affecting degenerative and inflammatory diseases.

PTEN Insufficiency Increases Breast Cancer Cell Metastasis In Vitro and In Vivo in a Xenograft Zebrafish Model

BACKGROUND/AIM

Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) insufficiency is commonly found in breast cancer patients with metastasis. We investigated the mechanisms by which PTEN affects breast cancer metastatic behavior.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Migration and invasion assay, western blot, immunofluorescent staining and zebrafish animal model were applied.

RESULTS

We showed that PTEN insufficiency induced an increase in MCF-7 cell migration and invasion through induction of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which was triggered by up-regulation of the EMT-inducing transcriptional factors Zeb1, Zeb2, Snail, Slug and Twist. Simultaneously, E-cadherin expression was inhibited and P-cadherin was up-regulated. Further, WNT1 inducible signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP1) and lipocalin-2 (LCN2) expressions were increased after PTEN knockdown in MCF-7 cells, which also exhibited increased filamentous actin (F-actin) synthesis and extracellular matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 expression. We further showed that PTEN knockdown in MCF-7 cells could increase cell migration in the xenograft zebrafish model.

CONCLUSION

Our findings reveal new therapeutic targets for breast cancer patients with PTEN insufficiency.

Neurokinin-1 receptor mediated breast cancer cell migration by increased expression of MMP-2 and MMP-14

Breast cancer (BC) is a common reason of cancer-associated death in female. To develop novel strategy of therapeutics, it is crucial to comprehensively understand the receptor status of BC cells on the surface and inner, because chemical messengers can bind the receptors and promote tumorigenesis. Compared with normal and benign samples, BC cell lines and malignant biopsies showed higher expression of neurokinin-1 receptor (NK1). In current work, we examined the role and mechanism of NK1 receptor signaling in BC cell migration. Human hemokinin-1 (hHK-1) was the peripheral agonist of NK1 receptor. Our results showed that by activating NK1 receptor, hHK-1 promoted the migration of BC cells. Gelatin zymography and WB experiment showed that hHK-1 enhanced the levels of MMP-2 and MMP-14; inhibition of these two MMPs blocked hHK-1-induced cell migration. We further explored the underlying mechanism. hHK-1 incuced the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, JNK and Akt through PKC or PKA pathway. The phosphorylation of these kinases further regulated the activation of transcriptional factor AP-1 and NF-κB. Inhibition of AP-1 and NF-κB reduced the up-regulation of MMP-2 and MMP-14 by hHK-1. Taken together, we showed NK1 receptor was an important regulator of human BC cell migration and a potential target for BC treatment.

The expression and clinical significance of metastasis suppressor gene and matrix metalloproteinase-2 in esophageal squamous cell of carcinoma

To investigate the expression and clinical significance of metastasis suppressor gene and matrix metalloproteinase-2 in esophageal squamous cell of carcinoma. choose 30 cases of specimens of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma which are removed in surgery and confirmed by pathology and 30 cases of specimens of normal esophageal mucosa. Use immunohistochemistry SP method to detect the expression of nm23-H1, MMP-2 protein in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and normal esophageal mucosal. The positive rate of nm23-H1 protein in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was 43.3% (13/30), while that in normal esophageal mucosa was 100% (30/30), which has a significant difference between them (χ2=22. 083, P<0.05). The positive rate of MMP-2 protein in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was 90.0% (27/30), while that in normal esophageal mucosa was 33.3% (10/30), and there is a significant difference between them (χ2=28. 370, P<0.05); For the expression of nm23-H1 and MMP-2 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, there was nothing to do with sex, age and tumor size (P>0.05), but it was related to the degree of tumor differentiation, depth of invasion and lymph node metastasis (P<0.05); The expression of nm23-H1 is related to the cut end of residual cancer (P<0.05), while the expression of MMP-2 has nothing to do with the cut end of residual cancer (P>0.05); The expression of nm23-H1 and MMP-2 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was negatively correlated. nm23-H1 and MMP-2 have played a role in the development of esophageal cancer, which can promote the occurence of distant metastasis; The loss of expression of nm23-H1 may be related to cut end residual cancer; nm23-H1 and MMP-2 may be as an indicator for esophageal cancer metastasis and prognosis.

Slit2 and Robo1 induce opposing effects on metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma Sk-hep-1 cells

The neural guidance molecular, Slit2, and its cognate receptor, Robo1, play critical roles in the development of the nervous system, nevertheless, their functions are not limited to this system. Numerous studies have shown decreased Slit2 expression in a wide variety of cancers, highlighting its potential as a tumor suppressor. However, the Slit2/Robo1 signaling axis was reported to induce either suppressive or stimulatory effects on tumor growth and metastasis, depending on cellular context. There is a paucity of information on the effects of the Slit2/Robo1 signaling axis on the growth and metastasis of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Large-scale data mining of the Oncomine database has revealed heterogeneous expression of Slit2 in HCC. We screened the Sk-hep-1, a cell line showing a relatively high level of Slit2, and low level of Robo1 expression. After Slit2 knockdown and Robo1 overexpression in these cells, we found Slit2 and Robo1 exerted opposing effects on tumor growth and metastasis both in in vitro and in vivo models. Slit2 knockdown and Robo1 overexpression in Sk-hep-1 cells promoted tumor growth and metastasis, suggesting a negative and positive role for Slit2 and Robo1, respectively, in tumor progression. Robo1 overexpression upregulated matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2, -9 and membrane-type1 MMP (MT1-MMP) expression, stimulated MMP2, but not MMP9 activation, and downregulated expression of TIMP1 and 2. The PI3K/Akt signaling pathway is of importance in regulating MMP2 expression in Sk-hep-1 cells, since Robo1 overexpression stimulated phosphorylation of Akt while the PI3K inhibitor LY294002, significantly inhibited the upregulation of MMP2 and also the enhanced cell invasion induced by Robo1 overexpression. We postulate that Robo1 promotes tumor invasion partly by the upregulation of MMP2 after activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Notably, Slit2 knockdown caused the upregulation of Robo1 expression both at the mRNA and protein levels. Thus, the stimulatory effects of Slit2 knockdown on tumor progression can be ascribed, at least in part, to the upregulation of Robo1 and its positive role in tumor progression.

Identification of Targets of a New Nutritional Mixture for Osteoarthritis Management Composed by Curcuminoids Extract, Hydrolyzed Collagen and Green Tea Extract

Objective

We have previously demonstrated that a mixture of curcuminoids extract, hydrolyzed collagen and green tea extract (COT) inhibited inflammatory and catabolic mediator’s synthesis by osteoarthritic human chondrocytes. The objective of this study was to identify new targets of COT using genomic and proteomic approaches.

Design

Cartilage specimens were obtained from 12 patients with knee osteoarthritis. Primary human chondrocytes were cultured in monolayer until confluence and then incubated for 24 or 48 hours in the absence or in the presence of human interleukin(IL)-1β (10^-11M) and with or without COT, each compound at the concentration of 4 μg/ml. Microarray gene expression profiling between control, COT, IL-1β and COT IL-1β conditions was performed. Immunoassays were used to confirm the effect of COT at the protein level.

Results

More than 4000 genes were differentially expressed between conditions. The key regulated pathways were related to inflammation, cartilage metabolism and angiogenesis. The IL-1β stimulated chemokine ligand 6, matrix metalloproteinase-13, bone morphogenetic protein-2 and stanniocalcin1 gene expressions and protein productions were down-regulated by COT. COT significantly decreased stanniocalcin1 production in basal condition. Serpin E1 gene expression and protein production were down-regulated by IL-1β. COT reversed the inhibitory effect of IL-1β. Serpin E1 gene expression was up-regulated by COT in control condition.

Conclusion

The COT mixture has beneficial effect on osteoarthritis physiopathology by regulating the synthesis of key catabolic, inflammatory and angiogenesis factors. These findings give a scientific rationale for the use of these natural ingredients in the management of osteoarthritis.

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 and -2 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2 in invasive pituitary adenomas: A systematic review and meta-analysis of case-control trials

The extracellular matrix is important for tumor invasion and metastasis. Normal function of the extracellular matrix depends on the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). The objective of this meta-analysis was to assess the relationship between expression of MMP-9, MMP-2, and TIMP-2 and invasion of pituitary adenomas.We searched Pubmed, Embase, and the Chinese Biomedical Database up to October 2015. RevMan 5.1 software (Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark) was used for statistical analysis. We calculated the standardized mean difference (SMD) for data expressed as mean ± standard deviation because of the difference in the detection method.Twenty-four studies (1320 patients) were included. MMP-9 expression was higher in the patients with invasive pituitary adenomas (IPAs) than patients with noninvasive pituitary adenomas (NIPAs) with detection methods of IHC [odds ratio (OR) = 5.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.61-11.50, P < 0.00001), and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (SMD = 2.28, 95% CI = 0.91-3.64, P = 0.001). MMP-2 expression was also increased in patients with IPAs at the protein level (OR = 3.58, 95% CI = 1.63-7.87, P = 0.001), and RNA level (SMD = 3.91, 95% CI = 1.52-6.29, P = 0.001). Meta-analysis showed that there was no difference in TIMP-2 expression between invasive and NIPAs at the protein level (OR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.06-2.26, P = 0.29). MMP-9 expression in prolactinomas and nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas was also no difference (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.48-2.20, P = 0.95).The results indicated that MMP-9 and -2 may be correlated with invasiveness of pituitary adenomas, although their relationship with functional status of pituitary adenomas is still not clear. TIMP-2 expression in IPAs needs to be investigated further.

HMGB1 promotes HCC progression partly by downregulating p21 via ERK/c-Myc pathway and upregulating MMP-2

High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) was found to be over-expressed in many kinds of human cancer, which binds with several receptors and activates RAGE-Ras-MAPK, Toll-like receptors, NF-κB, and Src family kinase signaling pathways and plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. However, the function and mechanism of HMGB1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of HMGB1 on HCC progression and explore new molecular mechanism. HMGB1 transient knockdown, stable knockdown, and re-expression were performed by transfection with specific siRNA, shRNA, or expression vector in HCCLM3 cells. Results showed that transient knockdown HMGB1 prevented cell proliferation, promoted apoptosis, induced S phase arrest, and inhibited migration and invasion in vitro, and stable knockdown HMGB1 inhibited xenograft growth in Balb/c athymic mice in vivo. Molecular mechanism investigation revealed that knockdown HMGB1 significantly reduced the activation of MAPKs, including ERK1/2, p38, SAPK/JNK, as well as MAPKKs (MEK1/2, SEK1) and its substrates (c-Jun, c-Myc); downregulated NF-κB/p65 expression and phosphorylation level; decreased MMP-2 expression and activity; and upregulated p21 expression. Interestingly, c-Myc was firstly found to be involved in the promoting function of HMGB1 on HCC progression, which provided a novel clue for the inhibitory effect of HMGB1 on p21 expression by a p53-independent pathway. Collectively, these findings indicated that HMGB1 promoted HCC progression partly by enhancing the ERK1/2 and NF-κB pathways, upregulating MMP-2, and downregulating p21 via an ERK/c-Myc pathway.

Visfatin Destabilizes Atherosclerotic Plaques in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice

Objectives

Although there is evidence that visfatin is associated with atherogenesis, the effect of visfatin on plaque stability has not yet been explored.

Methods

In vivo, vulnerable plaques were established by carotid collar placement in apolipoprotein E–deficient (ApoE^−/−) mice, and lentivirus expressing visfatin (lenti-visfatin) was locally infused in the carotid artery. The lipid, macrophage, smooth muscle cell (SMC) and collagen levels were evaluated, and the vulnerability index was calculated. In vitro, RAW264.7 cells were stimulated with visfatin, and the MMPs expressions were assessed by western blot and immunofluorescence. And the mechanism that involved in visfatin-induced MMP-8 production was investigated.

Results

Transfection with lenti-visfatin significantly promoted the expression of visfatin which mainly expressed in macrophages in the plaque. Lenti-visfatin transfection significantly promoted the accumulation of lipids and macrophages, modulated the phenotypes of smooth muscle cells and decreased the collagen levels in the plaques, which significantly decreased the plaque stability. Simultaneously, transfection with lenti-visfatin significantly up-regulated the expression of MMP-8 in vivo, as well as MMP-1, MMP-2 and MMP-9. Recombinant visfatin dose- and time-dependently up-regulated the in vitro expression of MMP-8 in macrophages. Visfatin promoted the translocation of NF-κB, and inhibition of NF-κB significantly reduced visfatin-induced MMP-8 production.

Conclusions

Visfatin increased MMP-8 expression, promoted collagen degradation and increased the plaques vulnerability index.

Classical and Alternative Activation of Cyanobacterium Oscillatoria sp. Lipopolysaccharide-Treated Rat Microglia in vitro

The purpose of this investigation was to test the hypothesis that an in vitro exposure to cyanobacterium Oscillatoria sp. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) might result in classical and alternative activation of rat neonatal microglia. Using Escherichia coli LPS-primed microglia as a positive control, this study revealed that treatment of rat microglia with Oscillatoria sp. LPS for 17 h in vitro resulted in both classical and alternative activation as well as concomitant pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediator release, in a concentration-dependent manner: (1) treatment with 0.1-10 000 ng/ml Oscillatoria sp. LPS resulted in minimal lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) release, induced concentration-dependent and statistically significant O2 (-) generation, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) release, generation of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and the chemokines macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2/CXCL2), interferon γ-induced protein 10 kDa (IP-10/CXCL-10), (MIP-1α/CCL3), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1/CCL2), regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES/CCL5), and the alternative activation cytokine IL-10; (3) in contrast, treatment with 100 000 ng/ml Oscillatoria sp. LPS appeared to damage the microglia cell membrane, because it resulted in minimal O2 (-) generation, statistically significant LDH release, and a decrease in the generation of all the cytokines and chemokines investigated, with the exception of IL-1α and cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant 1 (CINC-1/CXCL1) generation, which was increased. Thus, our results provide experimental support for our working hypothesis, namely that Oscillatoria sp. LPS induces classical and alternative activation of rat brain microglia in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner, namely 0.1-10 000 ng/ml Oscillatoria sp. LPS, when microglia cells were shown to be viable. Furthermore, should cyanobacterium Oscillatoria sp. LPS gain entry into the CNS, our findings suggest that classical and alternative activation of rat brain microglia in vivo, might lead to concomitant mediator release that could result in an interplay between neuroinflammation and neural repair in a concentration-dependent manner.

Potentially positive ageing-related variations of medial smooth muscle cells in the saphenous veins used as aortocoronary bypass grafts

INTRODUCTION

Currently, elderly people constitute a large proportion of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Activated smooth muscle cells in the tunica media of saphenous vein (SV) grafts are thought to play a key role in the formation of neointima and development of occluding atherosclerotic plaques. The aim of this study was to identify ageing-related variations in the expression of the smooth muscle cells pro-teins that may impact on patency rate of the grafts and the CABG outcomes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study involved 216 consecutive patients with the mean of 62.7 ± 8.4 years who underwent isolated CABG with at least one SV aortocoronary bypass graft. Expression of a-smooth muscle actin (a-SM actin), smooth muscle-myosin heavy chain (SM-MHC), calponin (CALP), cytokeratin 8 (CK-8), metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-2 and -3 (TIMP-2, TIMP-3) in the SV wall was assessed by immunohistochemistry and correlated with the age of patients.

RESULTS

Calponin and a-SM actin were expressed in all studied SV transplants. SM-MHC immunoreactivity was observed in SV segments in 68.5% of patients, whereas MMP-2a and TIMPs expression was found in 75% of cases. In more than 50% of analyzed SV transplants, no expression of cytokeratin-8 was found. Moderate correlations between preexisting expressions of either cytoskeletal or hemostatic proteins in the tunica media of the SV grafts and the age of CABG patients were demonstrated. They were positive for SM-MHC (r = 0.494), CALP (r = 0.548), TIMP-2 (r = 0.413) and TIMP-3 (r = 0.406) whereas negative for CK-8 (r = -0.528) and MMP-2 (r = -0.417).

CONCLUSIONS

Age-dependent decreases in the expression of MMP-2 and CK-8 accompanied by increases in expression of SM-MHC, TIMP-2 and TIMP-3 may promote SV graft patency and, thus, suggest a rationale for common use of SV grafts in the elderly.

RASSF4 is downregulated in nonsmall cell lung cancer and inhibits cancer cell proliferation and invasion

RASSF4 has been implicated as a tumor suppressor in several human cancers. Its clinical significance and biological characteristics in human nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have not been explored yet. In this study, we explored expression pattern of RASSF4 in 89 NSCLC specimens. The results showed that RASSF4 was downregulated in 36/89 NSCLC tissues compared with normal tissue. RASSF4 downregulation significantly associated with advanced TNM stage, positive nodal status, and poor prognosis. We examined RASSF4 protein expression in normal lung epithelial cell line and lung cancer lines. We found that RASSF4 expression was downregulated in four of seven lung cancer cell lines compared with normal bronchial epithelial cells. RASSF4 plasmid transfection was performed in H460 and A549 cell lines. RASSF4 overexpression inhibited proliferation, colony formation, and invading ability. In addition, we identified that RASSF4 could inhibit cell cycle progression with downregulation of cyclin D1. Expression of invasion-related protein MMP2, MMP9 was also decreased. In conclusion, the present study suggested that RASSF4 serves as an important tumor suppressor in NSCLC.

Association of MMP-2 expression and prognosis in osteosarcoma patients

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to investigate the MMP-2 expression and its prognostic value in osteosarcoma patients.

METHODS

We performed RT-qPCR to detect the expression of MMP-2 in 45 paired osteosarcoma tissues and adjacent noncancerous tissues. Immunohistochemical staining assay was used to verify the expression of MMP-2 protein in osteosarcoma patients. Independent-sample T test was used to analyze the difference of MMP-2 expression level between osteosarcoma and control groups. The relationship between clinicopathologic factors and MMP-2 expression was analyzed by chi-square test. Kaplan-Meier was performed to analyze the association of MMP-2 expression and overall survival rate. The prognostic value of clinicopathologic factors and MMP-2 was estimated via Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

RT-qPCR revealed that the expression of MMP-2 was up-regulated in osteosarcoma group compared with the control group. Besides MMP-2 expression was influenced by pulmonary metastasis (P<0.05) while gender, age, tumor site and Enneking stage showed no obvious impact (P>0.05). Kaplan-Meier curve revealed that patients with positive MMP-2 expression had a shorter survival time than those with negative MMP-2 expression, and the survival rates were 18.5% (5/27) and 44.4% (8/18), respectively. Cox regression analysis indicated that pulmonary metastasis and expression of MMP-2 gene were important factors in the prognosis of osteosarcoma.

CONCLUSION

The expression of MMP-2 was associated with pulmonary metastasis, and was related to the prognosis of osteosarcoma. MMP-2 could act as an independent prognostic marker in osteosarcoma patients.

A Follicle Rupture Assay Reveals an Essential Role for Follicular Adrenergic Signaling in Drosophila Ovulation

Ovulation is essential for the propagation of the species and involves a proteolytic degradation of the follicle wall for the release of the fertilizable oocyte. However, the precise mechanisms for regulating these proteolytic events are largely unknown. Work from our lab and others have shown that there are several parallels between Drosophila and mammalian ovulation at both the cellular and molecular levels. During ovulation in Drosophila, posterior follicle cells surrounding a mature oocyte are selectively degraded and the residual follicle cells remain in the ovary to form a corpus luteum after follicle rupture. Like in mammals, this rupturing process also depends on matrix metalloproteinase 2 (Mmp2) activity localized at the posterior end of mature follicles, where oocytes exit. In the present study, we show that Mmp2 activity is regulated by the octopaminergic signaling in mature follicle cells. Exogenous octopamine (OA; equivalent to norepinephrine, NE) is sufficient to induce follicle rupture when isolated mature follicles are cultured ex vivo, in the absence of the oviduct or ovarian muscle sheath. Knocking down the alpha-like adrenergic receptor Oamb (Octoampine receptor in mushroom bodies) in mature follicle cells prevents OA-induced follicle rupture ex vivo and ovulation in vivo. We also show that follicular OA-Oamb signaling induces Mmp2 enzymatic activation but not Mmp2 protein expression, likely via intracellular Ca²⁺ as the second messenger. Our work develops a novel ex vivo follicle rupture assay and demonstrates the role for follicular adrenergic signaling in Mmp2 activation and ovulation in Drosophila, which is likely conserved in other species.

Ovulation is the process of releasing fertilizable oocytes from the ovary and is essential for metazoan reproduction. Our recent work has demonstrated principles governing ovulation process that are highly conserved across species, such that both mammals and Drosophila utilize matrix metalloproteinase (Mmp) to degrade extracellular matrix and weaken the follicle wall for follicle rupture. However, a fundamental question remaining in the field is how Mmp activity is precisely regulated during ovulation. This paper reports that Drosophila octopamine (OA), the insect equivalent of norepinephrine (NE), is the signal to induce Mmp activity through activating its receptor Oamb on mature follicle cells and that this may induce ovulation. These findings allow us to develop the first ex vivo follicle rupture assay for Drosophila, which gives us unprecedented ability to characterize the entire follicle rupturing process ex vivo and to identify essential factors for ovulation. Furthermore, we show that NE partially fulfills OA’s role in inducing follicle rupture ex vivo, indicating that follicular adrenergic signal is a conserved signal to regulating Mmp activity and ovulation. Our work not only sheds light on the long-standing question of Mmp regulation, but also may lead to a better understanding of Mmp and NE linked pathological processes including cancer metastasis and polycystic ovary syndrome.

Shikonin Inhibits the Migration and Invasion of Human Glioblastoma Cells by Targeting Phosphorylated β-Catenin and Phosphorylated PI3K/Akt: A Potential Mechanism for the Anti-Glioma Efficacy of a Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine

Shikonin is an anthraquinone derivative extracted from the root of lithospermum. Shikonin is traditionally used in the treatment of inflammatory and infectious diseases such as hepatitis. Shikonin also inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in various tumors. However, the effect of shikonin on gliomas has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of shikonin on the migration and invasion of human glioblastoma cells as well as the underlying mechanisms. U87 and U251 human glioblastoma cells were treated with shikonin at 2.5, 5, and 7.5 μmol/L and cell viability, migration and invasiveness were assessed with CCK8, scratch wound healing, in vitro Transwell migration, and invasion assays. The expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and the expression of phosphorylated β-catenin (p-β-catenin) and phosphorylated PI3K/Akt were also checked. Results showed that shikonin significantly inhibited the cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in U87 and U251 cells. The expression of p-β-catenin showed contrary trends in two cell lines. It was significantly inhibited in U87 cells and promoted in U251 cells. Results in this work indicated that shikonin displayed an inhibitory effect on the migration and invasion of glioma cells by inhibiting the expression and activity of MMP-2 and -9. In addition, shikonin also inhibited the expression of p-PI3K and p-Akt to attenuate cell migration and invasion and MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression in both cell lines, which could be reversed by the PI3K/Akt pathway agonist, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1).

Orally Administered Chitosan-Coated Polycaprolactone Nanoparticles Containing Curcumin Attenuate Metastatic Melanoma in the Lungs

The study was aimed to evaluate the effect of orally administered chitosan-coated nanoparticles containing curcumin on metastatic melanoma. Chitosan-coated nanoparticles containing curcumin were prepared, and their antimetastatic activity was investigated both in vitro and in vivo. Curcumin decreased cell viability and induced apoptosis of B16F10 melanoma cells. We observed that curcumin significantly decreased the expression of metalloproteinases, which are known to be associated with migration and proliferation of cancer cells. Importantly, treatment with chitosan-coated nanoparticles containing curcumin decreased pulmonary tumor formation in a murine model of experimental metastasis. Histological analyses confirmed the macroscopic results in which lungs of mice treated with curcumin-loaded chitosan-coated polycaprolactone nanoparticles had only a few small nodules and most of them were free of melanoma. Our findings indicate that nanoparticles coated with the mucoadhesive polymer chitosan containing curcumin may be a promising approach and/or intervention for the treatment of malignant melanoma.

Matrix metalloproteinase 2 level in human follicular fluid is a reliable marker of human oocyte maturation in in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles

BACKGROUND

To determine whether matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2) in human follicular fluid, have any relationships with oocyte maturation in vivo and subsequent fertilization during in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles.

METHODS

The follicular fluids were obtained from 150 female patients undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles and a total of 1504 oocytes were retrieved for analysis. MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities were measured using zymography assay. TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 concentrations were quantitatively assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

Human follicular fluid MMP-2 level was significantly associated with the rate of maturity of oocytes (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the MMP-2 was significantly associated with the higher fertilization rate (P < 0.01). There was no significant correlation between follicular MMP-9 and the maturation rate of oocytes. The TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 also showed no correlation with the oocyte maturation rate.

CONCLUSIONS

The level of gelatinase MMP-2 in human follicular fluid might be a reliable marker of mature oocytes during IVF/ICSI cycles. Furthermore, the MMP-2 expression has a strong association with higher fertilization rate. Further studies are needed to support this theory.

Antineoplastic activity of Newcastle disease virus strain D90 in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Newcastle disease virus (NDV), an avian paramyxovirus, possesses the ability to kill tumor cells. Here, we report the effects of NDV strain D90, which was isolated in China, against oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells. In this study, we showed that the cell death induced by D90 was apoptotic. Furthermore, the apoptosis induced by D90 was dependent on the mitochondrial pathway, and the death receptor pathway may be not involved. Bax and Bcl-2 also played a role in the apoptosis induced by D90. Lymph node metastasis is a serious problem for oral cancer; we therefore evaluated the impact of D90 on the migration and invasion of OSCC cells. NDV D90 affected microtubules and microfilaments to inhibit the motility of OSCC prior to apoptosis. The effects of D90 on the migration and invasion rates of OSCC cells were evaluated by migration and invasion assays. Subsequently, the changes in sp1, RECK, MMP-2, and MMP-9 induced by a low concentration of D90 were detected by western blot and gelatin zymography. D90 significantly inhibited the invasion and metastasis of OSCC cells by decreasing the expression of sp1 and increasing the expression of RECK to suppress the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9.

Low-dose UVB irradiation prevents MMP2-induced skin hyperplasia by inhibiting inflammation and ROS

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of malignancy in the world. UV radiation is known as the primary environmental carcinogen responsible for skin cancer development. However, UV radiation is a ubiquitous substance existing in the environment and the physiological effect of UV radiation is consistently ignored. Therefore, in the present study, the physiological effect of UV radiation on inhibition of skin cancer was investigated. Normal mouse skin was processing by no pre-radiation or pre-radiation of low-dose UV before a medium or high dose of UV radiation. We found that the low-dose pre-radiated mouse skin tissue exhibited low skin inflammation, skin ROS production and consequently low skin epithelial hyperplasia after the medium-dose UV radiation compared with the no pre-radiated mouse. However, this inhibition was not indicated in the high-dose UV radiation group after low-dose pre-radiation. Furthermore, western blot analysis and gelatin zymography showed low expression and activation of MMP2 in the skin tissues processed following medium-dose radiation, but not in tissues treated with high-dose radiation after a low-dose pre-radiation. Further investigation of MMP2 inhibitors of TIMP2/TIMP4 showed an upregulated TIMP2 expression, but not TIMP4. Collectively, these data indicate that low-dose pre-radiation attenuates the skin inflammation and ROS production induced by medium-dose UV radiation and also elevates TIMP2 to withstand MMP2, therefore suppressing skin hyperplasia. The present study indicates a novel concept or prophylactic function of moderate UV radiation as a preventative strategy.

Systemic EP4 Inhibition Increases Adhesion Formation in a Murine Model of Flexor Tendon Repair

Flexor tendon injuries are a common clinical problem, and repairs are frequently complicated by post-operative adhesions forming between the tendon and surrounding soft tissue. Prostaglandin E2 and the EP4 receptor have been implicated in this process following tendon injury; thus, we hypothesized that inhibiting EP4 after tendon injury would attenuate adhesion formation. A model of flexor tendon laceration and repair was utilized in C57BL/6J female mice to evaluate the effects of EP4 inhibition on adhesion formation and matrix deposition during flexor tendon repair. Systemic EP4 antagonist or vehicle control was given by intraperitoneal injection during the late proliferative phase of healing, and outcomes were analyzed for range of motion, biomechanics, histology, and genetic changes. Repairs treated with an EP4 antagonist demonstrated significant decreases in range of motion with increased resistance to gliding within the first three weeks after injury, suggesting greater adhesion formation. Histologic analysis of the repair site revealed a more robust granulation zone in the EP4 antagonist treated repairs, with early polarization for type III collagen by picrosirius red staining, findings consistent with functional outcomes. RT-PCR analysis demonstrated accelerated peaks in F4/80 and type III collagen (Col3a1) expression in the antagonist group, along with decreases in type I collagen (Col1a1). Mmp9 expression was significantly increased after discontinuing the antagonist, consistent with its role in mediating adhesion formation. Mmp2, which contributes to repair site remodeling, increases steadily between 10 and 28 days post-repair in the EP4 antagonist group, consistent with the increased matrix and granulation zones requiring remodeling in these repairs. These findings suggest that systemic EP4 antagonism leads to increased adhesion formation and matrix deposition during flexor tendon healing. Counter to our hypothesis that EP4 antagonism would improve the healing phenotype, these results highlight the complex role of EP4 signaling during tendon repair.

Low-dose radiation pretreatment improves survival of human ceiling culture-derived proliferative adipocytes (ccdPAs) under hypoxia via HIF-1 alpha and MMP-2 induction

Poor survival is a major problem of adipocyte transplantation. We previously reported that VEGF and MMPs secreted from transplanted adipocytes are essential for angiogenesis and adipogenesis. Pretreatment with low-dose (5 Gy) radiation (LDR) increased VEGF, MMP-2, and HIF-1 alpha mRNA expression in human ceiling culture-derived proliferative adipocytes (hccdPAs). Gene expression after LDR differed between adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) and hccdPAs. Pretreatment with LDR improved the survival of hccdPAs under hypoxia, which is inevitable in the early stages after transplantation. Upregulation of VEGF and MMP-2 after LDR in hccdPAs is mediated by HIF-1 alpha expression. Our results suggest that pretreatment with LDR may improve adipocyte graft survival in a clinical setting through upregulation of VEGF and MMP-2 via HIF-1 alpha.

[Expression of P504S and matrix metalloproteinase-2 in circulating prostate cells disseminated as a result of transrectal ultrasound guided biopsy as determined by immunocytochemistry: Clinical implications]

OBJECTIVES

Surgical manipulation of cancer has been shown to increase blood borne cancer cell dissemination and increase the risk of metastasis. We present the effect of prostate biopsy on prostate cell dissemination and the phenotypic characteristics of these cells.

METHODS

50 men undergoing initial prostate biopsy for suspicion of prostate cancer were studied. Blood samples were taken immediately before, and 1 and 24 hours after biopsy for circulating prostate cells (CPC) determination and phenotypic characterization. CPCs were detected and counted using standard immunocytochemistry using anti-PSA and then characterized using anti-P504S and anti-matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2).

RESULTS

14 (28%) men had cancer detected on biopsy. 13/14 had P504S (+) and MMP-2 (+) cells detected prior to biopsy. One hour after biopsy there was a mixture of P504S (+) and P504S (-) cells detected, as well as MMP-2 (+) and MMP-2 (-) cells detected. 24 hours after biopsy the same 13/14 men remained positive, although the number of CPCs increased 1 hour after biopsy and then the numbers decreased to pre-biopsy levels after 24 hours. In cancer negative men, P504S (-) and MMP-2 (-) cells were detected, some of these cells persisted 24 hours after biopsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Prostate biopsy causes dissemination of prostate cells into the circulation, both malignant and benign; the majority of them are cleared within 24 hours. There was no conversion of negative to positive result in men with cancer, this suggests that the inherent capacity of malignant CPCs to disseminate is more important than the effect of dissemination caused by prostate biopsy.

Combination Efficacy of Astragalus membranaceus and Curcuma wenyujin at Different Stages of Tumor Progression in an Imageable Orthotopic Nude Mouse Model of Metastatic Human Ovarian Cancer Expressing Red Fluorescent Protein

BACKGROUND/AIM

The present study determined the efficacy of extracts of Astragalus membranaceus (AM) and Curcuma wenyujin (CW), a traditional Chinese medicine herbal mixture, at different tumor stages of an orthotopic nude mouse model of human ovarian cancer expressing red fluorescent protein.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The tumor-bearing mice were treated with cisplatinum (CDDP), AM, CW, or a combination of AM and CW in each of three tumor stages, using the same regimen. Group 1 received saline as negative control. Group 2 received CDDP i.p. as positive control with a dose of 2 mg/kg, every three days. Group 3 received AM daily via oral gavage, at a dose of 9120 mg/kg. Group 4 received CW daily via oral gavage, at a dose of 4560 mg/kg. Groups 5, 6 and 7 received combinations of AM and CW daily via oral gavage at low (AM, 2280 mg/kg; CW, 1140 mg/kg), medium (AM, 4560 mg/kg; CW 2280 mg/kg), and high (AM, 9120 mg/kg; CW, 4560 mg/kg) doses. The expression of angiogenesis- and apoptosis-related genes in the tumors were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox-2), and by polymerase chain reaction for MMP-2, FGF-2 and Bcl-2.

RESULTS

CDDP, AM, and its combination with CW-induced significant growth inhibition of Stage I tumors. Strong efficacy of the combination of AM and CW at high dose was observed. Monotherapy with CDDP, AM, CW, and the combination treatments did not significantly inhibit Stage II and III tumors. The expression of MMP-2, VEGF, FGF-2, and Cox-2 was significantly reduced in Stage I tumors treated with AM, CW, and their combination, suggesting a possible role of these angiogenesis- and apoptosis-related genes in the observed efficacy of the agents tested.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first report on the efficacy of anticancer agents at different stages of ovarian cancer in an orthotopic mouse model. As the tumor progressed, it became treatment-resistant, similar to the clinical situation, further demonstrating the utility of the model and the need for agents acrtive in advanced-stage ovarian cancer.

HCG induces β1,4-GalT I expression and promotes embryo implantation

Embryo implantation is regarded as a critical physiological process for the success of pregnancy. There are so many reports on the research of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in artificial insemination, but the impact of HCG on endometrial receptivity has not been elucidated. Beta1, 4-Galactosyltransferase-I (β1,4-GalT-I) is ubiquitously expresses in human tissues with the exception of the brain. It not only transfers galactose from UDP-galactoside to GlcNAc to form Galβl,4-GlcNAc, but plays crucial role as cell adhesion molecule by recognizing and adhering other extracellular matrix and galactose of cell surface glycoprotein and glycolipid in cancer cells invasion and migration. The process of the embryos implantation is very similar to tumor invasion, so many biological factors participate in the tumor invasion also play a role in embryo implantation. We hypothesize that β1,4-GalT-I may take part in embryo implantation. In this study, we demonstrated that the over expression of β1,4-GalT-I was induced by HCG in RL95-2 cells. Moreover, the expression of some molecules, such as TIMP-1, LN and MMPs could be regulated by engineered expression of β1,4-GalT-I and therefore lead to the significantly alteration of adhesion capability of RL95-2 cells, even result in reduced adhesive ability between JAR cells and RL95-2 cells. Furthermore, our results indicated that HCG can obviously increase the EGFR signaling pathways-dependent molecular expression through β1,4-GalT-I, HCG also improved the adhesive ability between JAR cells and RL95-2 cells (P<0.01). Taken together, our data suggested that HCG provides a mechanism to bridge embryo to endometrium through β1,4-GalT.

Antimetastatic Therapies of the Polysulfide Diallyl Trisulfide against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) via Suppressing MMP2/9 by Blocking NF-κB and ERK/MAPK Signaling Pathways

BACKGROUND

Migration and invasion are two crucial steps of tumor metastasis. Blockage of these steps may be an effective strategy to reduce the risk. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of diallyl trisulfide (DATS), a natural organosulfuric compound with most sulfur atoms found in garlic, on migration and invasion in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. Molecular mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of DATS were further investigated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

MDA-MB-231 cells and HS 578t breast cancer cells were treated with different concentrations of DATS. DATS obviously suppressed the migration and invasion of two cell lines and changed the morphological. Moreover, DATS inhibited the mRNA/protein/ enzymes activities of MMP2/9 via attenuating the NF-κB pathway. DATS also inhibited ERK/MAPK rather than p38 and JNK.

CONCLUSION

DATS inhibits MMP2/9 activity and the metastasis of TNBC cells, and emerges as a potential anti-cancer agent. The inhibitory effects are associated with down-regulation of the transcriptional activities of NF-κB and ERK/MAPK signaling pathways.

Sp1 Mediates a Therapeutic Role of MiR-7a/b in Angiotensin II-Induced Cardiac Fibrosis via Mechanism Involving the TGF-β and MAPKs Pathways in Cardiac Fibroblasts

MicroRNA-7a/b (miR-7a/b) protects cardiac myocytes from apoptosis during ischemia/reperfusion injury; however, its role in angiotensin II (ANG II)-stimulated cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) remains unknown. Therefore, the present study investigated the anti-fibrotic mechanism of miR-7a/b in ANG II-treated CFs. ANG II stimulated the expression of specific protein 1 (Sp1) and collagen I in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and the overexpression of miR-7a/b significantly down-regulated the expression of Sp1 and collagen I stimulated by ANG II (100 nM) for 24 h. miR-7a/b overexpression effectively inhibited MMP-2 expression/activity and MMP-9 expression, as well as CF proliferation and migration. In addition, miR-7a/b also repressed the activation of TGF-β, ERK, JNK and p38 by ANG II. The inhibition of Sp1 binding activity by mithramycin prevented collagen I overproduction; however, miR-7a/b down-regulation reversed this effect. Further studies revealed that Sp1 also mediated miR-7a/b-regulated MMP expression and CF migration, as well as TGF-β and ERK activation. In conclusion, miR-7a/b has an anti-fibrotic role in ANG II-treated CFs that is mediated by Sp1 mechanism involving the TGF-β and MAPKs pathways.

Sorafenib inhibits migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells through suppression of matrix metalloproteinase expression

Sorafenib increases survival of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by inhibiting RAF kinase and receptor tyrosine kinase activity, but involvement of sorafenib in fibrosis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) remains unclear. To elucidate effects of sorafenib on EMT progression and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, levels of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and MMPs were evaluated in HepG2 human HCC cells induced by hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). Scratching cell migration assay, matrigel cell invasion assay, and immuno histochemistry were performed to examine effects of sorafenib on tumor metastasis and MMP expression. Sorafenib inhibited HGF-induced EMT and suppressed cell migration and invasion. Treatment with sorafenib significantly reduced HGF-enhanced expression of MMPs, suggesting that inhibition of MMP activity contributes to suppression of cellular motility and invasiveness of HepG2 cells. Neutralization of MMP activity by antibodies to MMP2/9, broad-spectrum MMP inhibitor or selective gelatinase inhibitor resulted in significant suppression of HGF-induced EMT and cell migration/invasion. Sorafenib treatment and MMP inactivation inhibited HGF-induced c-MET and MEK/ERK pathways. Sorafenib reduced MMP activity in this HGF-induced tumorigenic model of HCC. These findings provide in vitro evidence that sorafenib suppresses HGF-induced EMT and cell migration/invasion, as well as HGF-induced c-MET and MEK/ERK pathways.

Correlation and prognostic significance of MMP-2 and TFPI-2 differential expression in pancreatic carcinoma

Aberrant expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI)-2 not only correlate with tumorigenesis, but also with tumor invasion and metastasis. This study aims to investigate the correlation and prognostic significance of MMP-2 and TFPI-2 differential expression in pancreatic carcinoma. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate MMP-2 and TFPI-2 expression in tumor tissues and corresponding non-tumor tissues from 122 patients with pancreatic carcinoma. The results showed that the expression of MMP-2 was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in tumor tissues (78.7%) than in adjacent non-tumor tissues (27.9%), whereas the expression of TFPI-2 was significantly (P < 0.001) lower in tumor tissues (27.9%) than in adjacent non-tumor tissues (79.5%). Spearman's rank correlation test showed a negative correlation between MMP-2 and TFPI-2 expression (r = -0.346, P < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that high MMP-2 expression was significantly correlated with decreased disease-free survival (DFS) (P < 0.001) and overall survival (OS) (P < 0.001), while high TFPI-2 expression was significantly associated with increased DFS (P < 0.001) and OS (P < 0.001) of the patients. Multivariate analysis showed that high MMP-2 expression can act as an independent predictive factor for poor DFS (P = 0.01); and low TFPI-2 expression as an independent prognostic factor for poor DFS (P < 0.001) and OS (P < 0.001). In conclusion, our findings suggested that the differential expression of MMP-2 and TFPI-2 have a negative correlation in pancreatic carcinoma tissues; they may be considered as valuable biomarkers for prognosis of pancreatic carcinoma.

Intratracheal instillation of high dose adenoviral vectors is sufficient to induce lung injury and fibrosis in mice

RATIONALE

Replication deficient adenoviruses (Ad) vectors are common tools in gene therapy. Since Ad vectors are known to activate innate and adaptive immunity, we investigated whether intratracheal administration of Ad vectors alone is sufficient to induce lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis.

METHODS

We instilled Ad viruses ranging from 107 to 1.625×109 ifu/mouse as well as the same volume of PBS and bleomycin. 14 and 21 days after administration, we collected bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and mouse lung tissues. We measured the protein concentration, total and differential cell counts, and TGF-β1 production, performed Trichrome staining and Sircol assay, determined gene and protein levels of profibrotic cytokines, MMPs, and Wnt signaling proteins, and conducted TUNEL staining and co-immunofluorescence for GFP and α-SMA staining.

RESULTS

Instillation of high dose Ad vectors (1.625×109 ifu/mouse) into mouse lungs induced high levels of protein content, inflammatory cells, and TGF-β1 in BALF, comparable to those in bleomycin-instilled lungs. The collagen content and mRNA levels of Col1a1, Col1a2, PCNA, and α-SMA were also increased in the lungs. Instillation of both bleomycin and Ad vectors increased expression levels of TNFα and IL-1β but not IL-10. Instillation of bleomycin but not Ad increased the expression of IL-1α, IL-13 and IL-16. Treatment with bleomycin or Ad vectors increased expression levels of integrin α1, α5, and αv, MMP9, whereas treatment with bleomycin but not Ad vectors induced MMP2 expression levels. Both bleomycin and Ad vectors induced mRNA levels of Wnt2, 2b, 5b, and Lrp6. Intratracheal instillation of Ad viruses also induced DNA damages and Ad viral infection-mediated fibrosis is not limited to the infection sites.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that administration of Ad vectors induces an inflammatory response, lung injury, and pulmonary fibrosis in a dose dependent manner.

Cleaved CD147 shed from the surface of malignant melanoma cells activates MMP2 produced by fibroblasts

BACKGROUND

Cluster of differentiation 147 (CD147)/basigin on the malignant tumor cell surface is critical for tumor proliferation, invasiveness, metastasis, and angiogenesis. CD147 expressed on malignant melanoma cells can induce tumor cell invasion by stimulating the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) by surrounding fibroblasts. Membrane vesicles, microvesicles and exosomes have attracted attention, as vehicles of functional molecules and their association with CD147 has been reported. Cleaved CD147 fragments released from tumor cells were reported to interact with fibroblasts. We investigated the intercellular mechanisms by which CD147 stimulates fibroblasts to induce MMP2 activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CD147 was knocked-down using short hairpin RNA (shRNA). The stimulatory effect of CD147 in cell culture supernatants, microvesicles, and exosomes on the enzymatic activity of MMP2 was examined by gelatin zymography.

RESULTS

Supernatants from A375 control cells induced increased enzymatic activity of fibroblasts; such activity was significantly lower in CD147 knock-down cells.

CONCLUSION

Cleaved CD147 plays a pivotal role in stimulating fibroblasts to induce MMP2 activity.

[Key enzymes of degradation and angiogenesis as a factors of tumor progression in squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix]

A key role in tumor progression play two processes--the destruction and angiogenesis. Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) play a leading role during tissue degradation. Tissue collagenase--MMP-1 and MT1-MMP hydrolyze fibrillar collagens, which are the basis of connective tissue matrix, and ensure the development of an invasive process. Gelatinase A and B (MMP-2 and MMP-9) hydrolyze collagen type IV, which is the basis of the basal membrane, and facilitate the development of metastasis. Endogenous tissue inhibitors TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 are involved in the regulation of MMP expression and activity. It has been established that MMP-9 release vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) associated with the STM--the primary inductor angiogenesis. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) participates in the induction of VEGF synthesis. ACE--a key enzyme of the renin-angiotensin system, forms angiotensin II, which interactes with the receptor ATIR and induces VEGF synthesis, as well as stimulates endothelial cell proliferation. Our experimental studies devoted to the study of particularity expression of key enzymes of destruction and angiogenesis in squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix (SCC). It was studied: MMP-1, MT1-MMP, MMP-2 and MMP-9 and their endogenous regulators: TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and as well as ACE. Work was performed on clinical specimens containing the tumor tissue, taking into account the presence or absence of metastasis to regional lymph nodes and the specimens of adjacent morphologically normal tissue. It was shown that the increase of MMP-1, MT1-MMP and MMP-9 expression and low of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 expression makes the main contribution to the destructive (invasive) potential of SCC. The change of MMP-2 expression is not so significant and it is less influenced to the destructive potential. It was shown dramatic increasing of MMP-1 and MMP-9 activity in metastasizing tumor tissue ACE activity in a tumor in most of the samples was higher than the activity in normal tissues. It was established that the expression of key enzymes degradation and angiogenesis occurs not only in tumor but also in normal tissues. Data are important for understanding the mechanisms of tumor progression and have prognostic value and may affect the therapeutic strategy for patients.

A novel poly-naphthol compound ST104P suppresses angiogenesis by attenuating matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression in endothelial cells

Angiogenesis, the process of neovascularization, plays an important role in physiological and pathological conditions. ST104P is a soluble polysulfated-cyclo-tetrachromotropylene compound with anti-viral and anti-thrombotic activities. However, the functions of ST104P in angiogenesis have never been explored. In this study, we investigated the effects of ST104P in angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Application of ST104P potently suppressed the microvessels sprouting in aortic rings ex vivo. Furthermore, ST104P treatment significantly disrupted the vessels' development in transgenic zebrafish in vivo. Above all, repeated administration of ST104P resulted in delayed tumor growth and prolonged the life span of mice bearing Lewis lung carcinoma. Mechanistic studies revealed that ST104P potently inhibited the migration, tube formation and wound closure of human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs). Moreover, ST104P treatment inhibited the secretion and expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) in a dose-dependent manner. Together, these results suggest that ST104P is a potent angiogenesis inhibitor and may hold potential for treatment of diseases due to excessive angiogenesis including cancer.

11-epi-Sinulariolide acetate reduces cell migration and invasion of human hepatocellular carcinoma by reducing the activation of ERK1/2, p38MAPK and FAK/PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways

Cancer metastasis is one of the major causes of death in cancer. An active compound, 11-epi-sinulariolide acetate (11-epi-SA), isolated from the cultured soft coral Sinularia flexibilis has been examined for potential anti-cell migration and invasion effects on hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HCC). However, the molecular mechanism of anti-migration and invasion by 11-epi-SA on HCC, along with their corresponding effects, remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated anti-migration and invasion effects and the underlying mechanism of 11-epi-SA in HA22T cells, and discovered by trans-well migration and invasion assays that 11-epi-SA provided a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect on the migration of human HCC HA22T cells. After treatment with 11-epi-SA for 24 h, there were suppressed protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) in HA22T cells. Meanwhile, the expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) were increased in a concentration-dependent manner. Further investigation revealed that 11-epi-SA suppressed the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38MAPK. The 11-epi-SA also suppressed the expression of the phosphorylation of FAK/PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways.

Ablation of EIF5A2 induces tumor vasculature remodeling and improves tumor response to chemotherapy via regulation of matrix metalloproteinase 2 expression

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly vascularized tumor with poor clinical outcome. Our previous work has shown that eukaryotic initiation factor 5A2 (EIF5A2) over-expression enhances HCC cell metastasis. In this study, EIF5A2 was identified to be an independent risk factor for poor disease-specific survival among HCC patients. Both in vitro and in vivo assays indicated that ablation of endogenous EIF5A2 inhibited tumor angiogenesis by reducing matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) expression. Given that MMP-2 degrades collagen IV, a main component of the vascular basement membrane (BM), we subsequently investigated the effect of EIF5A2 on tumor vasculature remodeling using complementary approaches, including fluorescent immunostaining, transmission electron microscopy, tumor perfusion assays and tumor hypoxia assays. Taken together, our results indicate that EIF5A2 silencing increases tumor vessel wall continuity, increases blood perfusion and improves tumor oxygenation. Additionally, we found that ablation of EIF5A2 enhanced the chemosensitivity of HCC cells to 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). Finally, we demonstrated that EIF5A2 might exert these functions by enhancing MMP-2 activity via activation of p38 MAPK and JNK/c-Jun pathways.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights an important role of EIF5A2 in HCC tumor vessel remodeling and indicates that EIF5A2 represents a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of HCC.