N6-methyladenosine modification of CENPF mRNA facilitates gastric cancer metastasis via regulating FAK nuclear export

Centromere Protein F in Tumor Biology: Cancer's Achilles Heel

BACKGROUND

Centromere protein F (CENP-F) is an important nuclear matrix protein that regulates mitosis and the cell cycle, and plays a crucial role in recruiting spindle checkpoint proteins to maintain the accuracy of chromosome segregation. Studies have shown that CENP-F is closely involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases, particularly in the development and progression of malignant tumors, where it exhibits significant oncogenic activity.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to systematically summarize the molecular structure, subcellular localization, expression regulation, intracellular transport mechanisms, biological functions, and carcinogenic mechanisms of CENP-F, as well as explore its potential value in cancer diagnosis and therapy.

METHODS

A comprehensive review and analysis of domestic and international research literature related to CENP-F were conducted, focusing on its role in tumorigenesis, development, and as a therapeutic target.

RESULTS

CENP-F acts as an oncogene and can maintain or promote the malignant phenotype of tumor cells through multiple mechanisms, including regulating signaling pathways related to cell proliferation and apoptosis, promoting metabolic reprogramming, angiogenesis, and tumor cell invasion and metastasis. Additionally, it plays an important role in the immune microenvironment and drug resistance regulation.

CONCLUSION

CENP-F plays a key, multidimensional role in tumor biology and is a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Further exploration of the core pathways through which CENP-F regulates tumorigenesis and its potential for clinical translation is needed.

Regulation and application of m6A modification in tumor immunity

The m6A modification is an RNA modification that impacts various processes of RNA molecules, including transcription, splicing, stability, and translation. Recently, researchers have discovered that the presence of m6A modification can influence the interaction between tumor cells and immune cells and also play a role in regulating the expression of immune response-related genes. Additionally, m6A modification is intricately involved in the regulation of tumor immune evasion and drug resistance. Specifically, certain tumor cells can manipulate the gene expression through m6A modification to evade immune system attacks. Therefore, it might be possible to enhance tumor immune surveillance and improve the effectiveness of immune-based therapies by manipulating m6A modification. This review systematically discusses the role of m6A modification in tumor immunity, specifically highlighting its regulation of immune cells and immune-related genes in tumor cells. Furthermore, we explore the potential of m6A modification inhibitors as anti-cancer therapies and the significance of m6A regulatory factors in predicting the efficacy of tumor immune therapy.

Centromere Protein F Is a Potential Prognostic Biomarker and Target for Cutaneous Melanoma

Background/Objectives: Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is a highly aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis, necessitating novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Centromere protein F (CENPF), a mitotic regulator, has been implicated in tumor progression, but its role in melanoma remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the clinical significance, biological function, and regulatory mechanisms of CENPF in melanoma. Methods: Public melanoma datasets (GSE46517, GSE3189, and GSE7553) were re-analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). CENPF expression was validated in clinical samples (n = 128), melanoma cell lines, and xenograft models. Functional assays (EdU, CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing, transwell, and flow cytometry) and bioinformatics analyses (GO, KEGG, GSEA, and SCENIC) were performed to assess proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and regulatory pathways. In vivo tumorigenesis and metastasis were evaluated in BALB/c nude mice. Results: CENPF was significantly upregulated in melanoma tissues and cell lines compared to controls (p < 0.05). High CENPF expression correlated with advanced Clark level (p = 0.006), ulceration (p = 0.04), and poor overall survival (p = 0.005). Knockdown of CENPF suppressed melanoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro, while inducing G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis. In vivo, CENPF silencing reduced tumor growth and lung metastasis. Mechanistically, CENPF was transcriptionally activated by E2F3, and the E2F3-CENPF axis promoted cell cycle progression via G2/M checkpoint activation and P53 pathway suppression. Conclusions: CENPF serves as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in melanoma. Its upregulation drives tumor progression through cell cycle dysregulation and immune evasion, while targeting the E2F3-CENPF axis may offer a novel strategy for melanoma treatment. These findings provide critical insights into melanoma pathogenesis and potential clinical applications.

CENPF interaction with PLA2G4A promotes glioma growth by modulating mTORC1 and NF-κB pathways

BACKGROUND

Glioma is the most common primary malignant tumor of the central nervous system, and due to the limited effectiveness of traditional single-target therapies, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic targets. Centromere protein F (CENPF) belongs to the centromere protein family and is mainly involved in the regulation of the cell cycle. CENPF has recently been found to play a key role in tumorigenesis and tumor progression, but its role in gliomas has not been well studied.

METHODS

The expression level and clinical information of CENPF were obtained by analyzing the TCGA, CGGA and GEO databases. Immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis were used to quantitatively detect the expression of CENPF in glioma tissues and cell lines. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of TCGA and GSE16011 datasets was used to explore the molecular mechanism of the CENPF. CENPF-interacting proteins were detected by molecular docking and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). After silencing CENPF, CCK-8 assay, Transwell assay and flow cytometry were used to detect changes in cell proliferation, invasion, cell cycle and apoptosis, and Western blot was used to detect changes in signaling pathway protein levels.

RESULTS

Bioinformatics analysis showed that CENPF was generally highly expressed in gliomas and was associated with poor prognosis. This result was confirmed in glioma samples from our hospital. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that CENPF was an independent prognostic marker for gliomas. Western blot analysis in vitro showed that CENPF was overexpressed in the U251 and LN229 cell lines; therefore, these two cell lines were selected for subsequent experiments. GSEA analysis showed that CENPF was mainly involved in the G2/M phase-mediated cell cycle and P53 signaling pathway. Flow cytometry analysis confirmed that silencing CENPF induced G2/M phase arrest and increased apoptosis in glioma cells. Subsequent experiments confirmed that CENPF influences the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process through the mTORC1 signaling pathway. Molecular docking and Co-IP assay revealed that CENPF exerts its effects by interacting with PLA2G4A promoting the downstream signaling pathway. Finally, we found that silencing CENPF combined with a PLA2G4A inhibitor (AACOCF3) induced glioma cell apoptosis and exhibited anti-glioma effects.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that CENPF plays a key role in promoting tumorigenesis through its interaction with PLA2G4A. This study provides a theoretical foundation for advancing multi-targeted therapies in glioma and for developing strategies to overcome tumor drug resistance.

CENPF as a prognostic marker of glioma: unraveling the molecular mechanisms

OBJECTIVE

Glioma is the dominant primary intracranial malignancy. The roles of CENPF and the CENPF - p53 axis in glioma remain elusive. This study uses bioinformatics and animal experiments to clarify the relationship between CENPF and p53 in glioma. CENPF affects spindle assembly and chromosomal segregation, while p53 is a tumor-suppressor gene. Their dysregulation may interact and impact glioma development. Our research aims to uncover the underlying molecular mechanisms, offering new perspectives for glioma diagnosis and treatment.

METHOD

Gene expression data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database ( http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/ ) were retrieved, specifically datasets GSE50161, GSE104291, and GSE12249. Volcano plots were generated to visualize differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and intersecting DEGs were identified using Venn diagrams. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was employed to construct and analyze the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Additionally, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were conducted. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was utilized for comprehensive GO and KEGG analyses of the entire genome. Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) analysis was performed, and TargetScan was used to identify miRNAs regulating central DEGs. An animal model of glioma was established and analyzed via Western blot.

RESULT

A total of 501 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, from which eight significant modules were generated and ten core genes were extracted. These core genes exhibited differential expression patterns between glioma tumor and non-tumor samples. Expression analysis revealed that the ten core genes associated with glioma (CENPF, PBK, ASPM, KIF2C, KIF20A, CDC20, TOP2A, NUSAP1, TTK, KIF23) were significantly upregulated in tumor tissues (P < 0.05). They are primarily enriched in protein signal transduction, coated membrane structures, AP-type membrane coat adaptor complexes, and chloride channel activity. KEGG pathway analysis indicated that these target genes were mainly involved in nicotine addiction, arginine and proline metabolism, beta-alanine metabolism, and histidine metabolism. The mouse model confirmed that CENPF and CDK-1 were highly expressed in glioma tissues, while p53, p21, and Caspase9 were downregulated, leading to inhibition of the apoptosis pathway and exacerbation of glioma progression. Overexpression of CENPF further suppressed key molecules in the p53-mediated apoptosis pathway. Conversely, low expression of CENPF activated these key molecules, inducing apoptosis in glioma cells.

CONCLUSIONS

CENPF exhibits elevated expression levels in glioma, potentially inhibiting cell apoptosis via the p53 signaling pathway, consequently contributing to the onset and progression of glioma.

Bioinformatics analysis of coronary microvascular dysfunction in rats based on single-cell RNA sequencing

Coronary microvascular dysfunction serves as one of the etiological factors for ischemic heart disease and represents a novel therapeutic direction for coronary artery diseases; however, the research on its pathogenesis remains inconsistent. This study aims to explore the single-cell gene expression profiles in rats with coronary microvascular dysfunction using single-cell RNA sequencing, with a particular focus on the in-depth analysis of endothelial cell gene expression characteristics. By establishing a rat model of coronary microvascular dysfunction, we collected cardiac apical tissue to prepare single-cell suspensions and further analyzed them using bioinformatics methods. From a total of 55,419 cells, we identified 28 distinct cell clusters, with endothelial cells and fibroblasts being the predominant cell types. Compared to the NC group, the proportion of endothelial cells in the CMD group was significantly reduced, while the number of fibroblasts was significantly increased. Through further analysis of the endothelial cells, we classified them into normal phenotype endothelial cells, mesenchymal phenotype endothelial cells, proliferative phenotype endothelial cells, and lymphatic endothelial cells, with mesenchymal and proliferative endothelial cells originating from normal phenotype endothelial cells. Additionally, the CMD group exhibited an increase in immune cells, enhanced inflammatory response, and increased oxidative stress. These findings may provide novel potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of Coronary microvascular dysfunction.

The role of N6-methyladenosine modification in tumor angiogenesis

Tumor angiogenesis is a characteristics of malignant cancer progression that facilitates cancer cell growth, diffusion and metastasis, and has an indispensable role in cancer development. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is among the most prevalent internal modifications in eukaryotic RNAs, and has considerable influence on RNA metabolism, including its transcription, splicing, localization, translation, recognition, and degradation. The m6A modification is generated by m6A methyltransferases ("writers"), removed by m6A demethylases ("erasers"), and recognized by m6A-binding proteins ("readers"). There is accumulating evidence that abnormal m6A modification is involved in the pathogenesis of multiple diseases, including cancers, and promotes cancer occurrence, development, and progression through its considerable impact on oncoprotein expression. Furthermore, increasing studies have demonstrated that m6A modification can influence angiogenesis in cancers through multiple pathways to regulate malignant processes. In this review, we elaborate the role of m6A modification in tumor angiogenesis-related molecules and pathways in detail, providing insights into the interactions between m6A and tumor angiogenesis. Moreover, we describe how targeting m6A modification in combination with anti-angiogenesis drugs is expected to be a promising anti-tumor treatment strategy, with potential value for addressing the challenge of drug resistance.

m6A and beyond: RNA modifications shaping angiogenesis

RNA modifications are crucial post-transcriptional processes that significantly influence gene expression, RNA stability, nuclear transport, and translational capacity. Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is a physiological process that is dysregulated in many pathological conditions, including ocular diseases, immune disorders, and cancer. In this review, we compile the current understanding of the intricate relationship between various RNA modifications and angiogenic mechanisms, spotlighting emerging evidence that underscore their pivotal regulatory roles in both physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Furthermore, we delve into recent advances in innovative therapeutic approaches that target RNA modifications to modulate angiogenesis, offering insights into their potential as novel treatment modalities.

Modulation of host N6-methyladenosine modification by gut microbiota in colorectal cancer

As a research hotspot in the field of molecular biology, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification has made progress in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC), leukemia and other cancers. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the tumour microenvironment (TME) regulates the level of m6A modification in the host and activates a series of complex epigenetic signalling pathways through interactions with CRC cells, thus affecting the progression and prognosis of CRC. However, with the diversity in the composition of TME factors, this action is reciprocal and complex. Encouragingly, some studies have experimentally revealed that the intestinal flora can alter CRC cell proliferation by directly acting on m6A and thereby altering CRC cell proliferation. This review summarizes the data, supporting the idea that the intestinal flora can influence host m6A levels through pathways such as methyl donor metabolism and thus affect the progression of CRC. We also review the role of m6A modification in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognostic assessment of CRC and discuss the current status, limitations, and potential clinical value of m6A modification in this field. We propose that additional in-depth research on m6A alterations in CRC patients and their TME-related targeted therapeutic issues will lead to better therapeutic outcomes for CRC patients.

Single-cell transcriptome profiles the heterogeneity of tumor cells and microenvironments for different pathological endometrial cancer and identifies specific sensitive drugs

Endometrial cancer (EC) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy characterized by varied pathology and prognoses, and the heterogeneity of its cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) remains poorly understood. We conducted single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on 18 EC samples, encompassing various pathological types to delineate their specific unique transcriptional landscapes. Cancer cells from diverse pathological sources displayed distinct hallmarks labeled as immune-modulating, proliferation-modulating, and metabolism-modulating cancer cells in uterine clear cell carcinomas (UCCC), well-differentiated endometrioid endometrial carcinomas (EEC-I), and uterine serous carcinomas (USC), respectively. Cancer cells from the UCCC exhibited the greatest heterogeneity. We also identified potential effective drugs and confirmed their effectiveness using patient-derived EC organoids for each pathological group. Regarding the TME, we observed that prognostically favorable CD8+ Tcyto and NK cells were prominent in normal endometrium, whereas CD4+ Treg, CD4+ Tex, and CD8+ Tex cells dominated the tumors. CXCL3+ macrophages associated with M2 signature and angiogenesis were exclusively found in tumors. Prognostically relevant epithelium-specific cancer-associated fibroblasts (eCAFs) and SOD2+ inflammatory CAFs (iCAFs) predominated in EEC-I and UCCC groups, respectively. We also validated the oncogenic effects of SOD2+ iCAFs in vitro. Our comprehensive study has yielded deeper insights into the pathogenesis of EC, potentially facilitating personalized treatments for its varied pathological types.

Role of N6-methyladenosine in tumor neovascularization

Tumor neovascularization is essential for the growth, invasion, and metastasis of tumors. Recent studies have highlighted the significant role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in regulating these processes. This review explores the mechanisms by which m6A influences tumor neovascularization, focusing on its impact on angiogenesis and vasculogenic mimicry (VM). We discuss the roles of m6A writers, erasers, and readers in modulating the stability and translation of angiogenic factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and their involvement in key signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT, MAPK, and Hippo. Additionally, we outline the role of m6A in vascular-immune crosstalk. Finally, we discuss the current development of m6A inhibitors and their potential applications, along with the contribution of m6A to anti-angiogenic therapy resistance. Highlighting the therapeutic potential of targeting m6A regulators, this review provides novel insights into anti-angiogenic strategies and underscores the need for further research to fully exploit m6A modulation in cancer treatment. By understanding the intricate role of m6A in tumor neovascularization, we can develop more effective therapeutic approaches to inhibit tumor growth and overcome treatment resistance. Targeting m6A offers a novel approach to interfere with the tumor's ability to manipulate its microenvironment, enhancing the efficacy of existing treatments and providing new avenues for combating cancer progression.

Intraglandular dissemination: a special pathological feature

Intraglandular dissemination is an important pathological feature of thyroid cancer, yet the biological characteristics of this phenomenon remain relatively underexplored. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of its biological behaviors, protein expressions, and identification methods. Several retrospective studies have found that thyroid cancers with intraglandular dissemination have higher rates of lymph node metastasis, capsule invasion, and vascular invasion, exhibiting more aggressive biological behavior. Immunohistochemistry results show abnormal expression of proteins such as FKBP5, CENPF, CX26, KIF11, PTK7, which are associated with poor prognosis in thyroid cancers with intraglandular dissemination, offering potential guidance for specific targeted therapy in the future. Moreover, adjunctive techniques including ultrasound, fine-needle aspiration, and genetic testing offer valuable support in accurately identifying these cases, facilitating moreproactive treatment and closer follow-up.

Investigation on the molecular mechanism of SPA interference with osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells

Binding of Staphylococcus aureus protein A (SPA) to osteoblasts induces apoptosis and inhibits bone formation. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have the ability to differentiate into bone, fat and cartilage. Therefore, it was important to analyze the molecular mechanism of SPA on osteogenic differentiation. We introduced transcript sequence data to screen out differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to SPA-interfered BMSC. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of DEGs was established to screen biomarkers associated with SPA-interfered BMSC. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was plotted to evaluate the ability of biomarkers to discriminate between two groups of samples. Finally, we performed GSEA and regulatory analysis based on biomarkers. We identified 321 DEGs. Subsequently, 6 biomarkers (Cenpf, Kntc1, Nek2, Asf1b, Troap and Kif14) were identified by hubba algorithm in PPI. ROC analysis showed that six biomarkers could clearly discriminate between normal differentiated and SPA-interfered BMSC. Moreover, we found that these biomarkers were mainly enriched in the pyrimidine metabolism pathway. We also constructed '71 circRNAs-14 miRNAs-5 mRNAs' and '10 lncRNAs-5 miRNAs-2 mRNAs' networks. Kntc1 and Asf1b genes were associated with rno-miR-3571. Nek2 and Asf1b genes were associated with rno-miR-497-5p. Finally, we found significantly lower expression of six biomarkers in the SPA-interfered group compared to the normal group by RT-qPCR. Overall, we obtained 6 biomarkers (Cenpf, Kntc1, Nek2, Asf1b, Troap, and Kif14) related to SPA-interfered BMSC, which provided a theoretical basis to explore the key factors of SPA affecting osteogenic differentiation.

Predicting potential therapeutic targets and small molecule drugs for early-stage lung adenocarcinoma

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) constituting the majority, and its main subtype being lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Despite substantial advances in LUAD diagnosis and treatment, early diagnostic biomarkers inadequately fulfill clinical requirements. Thus, we conducted bioinformatics analysis to identify potential biomarkers and corresponding therapeutic drugs for early-stage LUAD patients. Here we identified a total of 10 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with survival significance through the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Subsequently, we identified a promising small molecule drug, Aminopurvalanol A, based on the 10 key genes using the L1000FWD application, which was validated by molecular docking followed by in vivo and in vitro experiments. The results highlighted TOP2A, CDH3, ASPM, CENPF, SLC2A1, and PRC1 as potential detection biomarkers for early LUAD. We confirmed the efficacy and safety of Aminopurvalanol A, providing valuable insights for the clinical management of LUAD.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel benzothiazole derivatives as potential anticancer and antiinflammatory agents

Introduction: Cancer, a significant global health concern, necessitates innovative treatments. The pivotal role of chronic inflammation in cancer development underscores the urgency for novel therapeutic strategies. Benzothiazole derivatives exhibit promise due to their distinctive structures and broad spectrum of biological effects. This study aims to explore new anti-tumor small molecule drugs that simultaneously anti-inflammatory and anticancer based on the advantages of benzothiazole frameworks. Methods: The compounds were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), liquid chromatograph-mass spectrometer (LC-MS) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for structure as well as purity and other related physicochemical properties. The effects of the compounds on the proliferation of human epidermoid carcinoma cell line (A431) and human non-small cell lung cancer cell lines (A549, H1299) were evaluated by MTT method. The effect of compounds on the expression levels of inflammatory factors IL-6 and TNF-α in mouse monocyte macrophages (RAW264.7) was assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The effect of compounds on apoptosis and cell cycle of A431 and A549 cells was evaluated by flow cytometry. The effect of compounds on A431 and A549 cell migration was evaluated by scratch wound healing assay. The effect of compounds on protein expression levels in A431 and A549 cells was assessed by Western Blot assay. The physicochemical parameters, pharmacokinetic properties, toxicity and drug similarity of the active compound were predicted using Swiss ADME and admetSAR web servers. Results: Twenty-five novel benzothiazole compounds were designed and synthesized, with their structures confirmed through spectrogram verification. The active compound 6-chloro-N-(4-nitrobenzyl) benzo[d] thiazol-2-amine (compound B7) was screened through a series of bioactivity assessments, which significantly inhibited the proliferation of A431, A549 and H1299 cancer cells, decreased the activity of IL-6 and TNF-α, and hindered cell migration. In addition, at concentrations of 1, 2, and 4 μM, B7 exhibited apoptosis-promoting and cell cycle-arresting effects similar to those of the lead compound 7-chloro-N-(2, 6-dichlorophenyl) benzo[d] thiazole-2-amine (compound 4i). Western blot analysis confirmed that B7 inhibited both AKT and ERK signaling pathways in A431 and A549 cells. The prediction results of ADMET indicated that B7 had good drug properties. Discussion: This study has innovatively developed a series of benzothiazole derivatives, with a focus on compound B7 due to its notable dual anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. B7 stands out for its ability to significantly reduce cancer cell proliferation in A431, A549, and H1299 cell lines and lower the levels of inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α. These results position B7B7 as a promising candidate for dual-action cancer therapy. The study's mechanistic exploration, highlighting B7's simultaneous inhibition of the AKT and ERK pathways, offers a novel strategy for addressing both the survival mechanisms of tumor cells and the inflammatory milieu facilitating cancer progression.