Wnt1-inducible signaling protein 1 regulates laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma glycolysis and chemoresistance via the YAP1/TEAD1/GLUT1 pathway

Warburg effect and lactylation in cancer: mechanisms for chemoresistance

In the clinical management of cancers, the emergence of chemoresistance represents a profound and imperative "pain point" that requires immediate attention. Understanding the mechanisms of chemoresistance is essential for developing effective therapeutic strategies. Importantly, existing studies have demonstrated that glucose metabolic reprogramming, commonly referred to as the Warburg effect or aerobic glycolysis, is a major contributor to chemoresistance. Additionally, lactate, a byproduct of aerobic glycolysis, functions as a signaling molecule that supports lysine lactylation modification of proteins, which also plays a critical role in chemoresistance. However, it is insufficient to discuss the role of glycolysis or lactylation in chemoresistance from a single perspective. The intricate relationship between aerobic glycolysis and lactylation plays a crucial role in promoting chemoresistance. Thus, a thorough elucidation of the mechanisms underlying chemoresistance mediated by aerobic glycolysis and lactylation is essential. This review provides a comprehensive overview of these mechanisms and further outlines that glycolysis and lactylation exert synergistic effects, promoting the development of chemoresistance and creating a positive feedback loop that continues to mediate this resistance. The close link between aerobic glycolysis and lactylation suggests that the application of glycolysis-related drugs or inhibitors in cancer therapy may represent a promising anticancer strategy. Furthermore, the targeted application of lactylation, either alone or in combination with other treatments, may offer new therapeutic avenues for overcoming chemoresistance.

Combating chemoresistance: Current approaches & nanocarrier mediated targeted delivery

Chemoresistance, a significant challenge in effective cancer treatment needs clear elucidation of the underlying molecular mechanism for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Alterations in transporter pumps, oncogenes, tumour suppressor genes, mitochondrial function, DNA repair processes, autophagy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cancer stemness, epigenetic modifications, and exosome secretion lead to chemoresistance. Despite notable advancements in targeted cancer therapies employing both small molecules and macromolecules success rates remain suboptimal due to adverse effects like drug efflux, target mutation, increased mortality of normal cells, defective apoptosis, etc. This review proposes an advanced nanotechnological technique precisely targeting molecular determinants of chemoresistance which holds promise for enhancing cancer treatment efficacy. Further, the review explores various cancer hallmarks and pathways implicated in chemoresistance, current therapeutic modalities, and their limitations. It advocates the combination of nanoparticle-conjugated conventional drugs and natural compounds to specifically target molecular pathways that can potentially reverse or minimize chemoresistance incidences in cancer patients.

Neurotoxicity of the antineoplastic drugs: "Doxorubicin" as an example

There is an increased prevalence of cancer, and chemotherapy is widely and routinely utilized to manage the majority of cancers; however, administration of chemotherapeutic drugs has faced limitations concerning the "off-target" cytotoxicity. Chemobrain and impairment of neurocognitive functions have been observed in a significant fraction of cancer patients or survivors and reduce their life quality; this could be ascribed to the ability of chemotherapeutic drugs to alter the structure and function of the brain. Doxorubicin (DOX), an FDA-approved chemotherapeutic drug with therapeutic effectiveness, is commonly used to treat several carcinomas clinically. DOX-triggered neurotoxicity is the most serious adverse reaction after DOX-induced cardiotoxicity which greatly limits its clinical application. DOX-induced neurotoxicity is a net of multiple mechanisms that have been verified in pre-clinical and clinical studies, such as oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial disruption, apoptosis, autophagy, disruption of neurotransmitters, and impairment of neurogenesis. There is a massive need for developing novel therapeutics for both cancer and DOX-associated neurotoxicity; therefore investigating the implicated mechanisms of DOX-induced chemobrain will reveal multi-targets for novel curative strategies. Recently, various neuroprotective mechanisms were employed to mitigate DOX-mediated neurotoxicity. For this purpose, therapeutic interventions using pharmacological compounds were developed to protect healthy "off-target" tissues from DOX-induced toxicity. In addition, nanoplatforms were used to enable target delivery of DOX; to prevent its deposition in non-cancerous tissues. The aim of the current review is to provide some reference value for the future management of DOX-induced neurotoxicity and to summarize the underlying mechanisms of DOX-mediated neurotoxicity and the potential therapeutic interventions.

Glucose Metabolism and Glucose Transporters in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma ranks seventh globally in malignancy prevalence, with persistent high mortality rates despite treatment advancements. Glucose, pivotal in cancer metabolism via the Warburg effect, enters cells via glucose transporters, notably GLUT proteins. Glycolysis, aerobic oxidation, and the pentose phosphate pathway in glucose metabolism significantly impact HNSCC progression. HNSCC exhibits elevated expression of glucose metabolism enzymes and GLUT proteins, correlating with prognosis. Heterogeneity in HNSCC yields varied metabolic profiles, influenced by factors like HPV status and disease stage. This review highlights glucose metabolism's role and potential as therapeutic targets and cancer imaging tracers in HNSCC.

An overview of CCN4 (WISP1) role in human diseases

CCN4 (cellular communication network factor 4), a highly conserved, secreted cysteine-rich matricellular protein is emerging as a key player in the development and progression of numerous disease pathologies, including cancer, fibrosis, metabolic and inflammatory disorders. Over the past two decades, extensive research on CCN4 and its family members uncovered their diverse cellular mechanisms and biological functions, including but not limited to cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, wound healing, repair, and apoptosis. Recent studies have demonstrated that aberrant CCN4 expression and/or associated downstream signaling is key to a vast array of pathophysiological etiology, suggesting that CCN4 could be utilized not only as a non-invasive diagnostic or prognostic marker, but also as a promising therapeutic target. The cognate receptor of CCN4 remains elusive till date, which limits understanding of the mechanistic insights on CCN4 driven disease pathologies. However, as therapeutic agents directed against CCN4 begin to make their way into the clinic, that may start to change. Also, the pathophysiological significance of CCN4 remains underexplored, hence further research is needed to shed more light on its disease and/or tissue specific functions to better understand its clinical translational benefit. This review highlights the compelling evidence of overlapping and/or diverse functional and mechanisms regulated by CCN4, in addition to addressing the challenges, study limitations and knowledge gaps on CCN4 biology and its therapeutic potential.

Matricellular proteins: Potential biomarkers in head and neck cancer

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex network of diverse multidomain macromolecules, including collagen, proteoglycans, and fibronectin, that significantly contribute to the mechanical properties of tissues. Matricellular proteins (MCPs), as a family of non-structural proteins, play a crucial role in regulating various ECM functions. They exert their biological effects by interacting with matrix proteins, cell surface receptors, cytokines, and proteases. These interactions govern essential cellular processes such as differentiation, proliferation, adhesion, migration as well as multiple signal transduction pathways. Consequently, MCPs are pivotal in maintaining tissue homeostasis while orchestrating intricate molecular mechanisms within the ECM framework. The expression level of MCPs in adult steady-state tissues is significantly low; however, under pathological conditions such as inflammation and cancer, there is a substantial increase in their expression. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have focused on elucidating the role and significance of MCPs in the development and progression of head and neck cancer (HNC). During HNC progression, there is a remarkable upregulation in MCP expression. Through their distinctive structure and function, they actively promote tumor growth, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and lymphatic metastasis of HNC cells. Moreover, by binding to integrins and modulating various signaling pathways, they effectively execute their biological functions. Furthermore, MCPs also hold potential as prognostic indicators. Although the star proteins of various MCPs have been extensively investigated, there remains a plethora of MCP family members that necessitate further scrutiny. This article comprehensively examines the functionalities of each MCP and highlights the research advancements in the context of HNC, with an aim to identify novel biomarkers for HNC and propose promising avenues for future investigations.

Role of Phytoconstituents in Cancer Treatment: A Review

Over the years, natural compounds have become a significant advancement in cancer treatment, primarily due to their effectiveness, safety, bio-functionality, and wide range of molecular structures. They are now increasingly preferred in drug discovery due to these attributes. These compounds, whether occurring naturally or with synthetic modifications, find applications in various fields like biology, medicine, and engineering. While chemotherapy has been a successful method for treating cancer, it comes with systemic toxicity. To address this issue, researchers and medical practitioners are exploring the concept of combinational chemotherapy. This approach aims to reduce toxicity by using a mix of natural substances and their derivatives in clinical trials and prescription medications. Among the most extensively studied natural anticancer compounds are quercetin, curcumin, vincristine, and vinblastine. These compounds play crucial roles as immunotherapeutics and chemosensitizers, both as standalone treatments and in combination therapies with specific mechanisms. This review article provides a concise overview of the functions, potentials, and combinations of natural anticancer compounds in cancer treatment, along with their mechanisms of action and clinical applications.

PRI-724 and IWP-O1 Wnt Signaling Pathway Inhibitors Modulate the Expression of Glycolytic Enzymes in Tongue Cancer Cell Lines

The dysregulation of energetic metabolism is one of the hallmarks of cancer cells. Indeed, the growth of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells depends heavily on glycolytic activity, which can be considered a potential therapeutic target. Wnt signaling is one of the pathways that undergoes upregulation in HNSCC. Our previous studies have shown that Wnt signaling inhibitors-PRI-724 and IWP-O1-attenuate tongue SCC survival and reduce glucose uptake and lactate release. The aim of this research was to further evaluate the possible mechanisms of the previously observed effects. We assessed the effect of PRI-724 and IWP-O1 on the expression of selected glycolytic enzymes: phosphofructokinase M, pyruvate kinase M2, and lactate dehydrogenase. Relative transcript expression was assessed by real-time PCR, and protein levels by Western blot. Moreover, clinical data concerning mRNA and protein expression, gene promoter methylation, and HNSCC patients' survival time were analyzed by the UALCAN tool, and protein-protein interaction was assessed using the STRING database. Experimental and bioinformatic data confirmed the relation between Wnt signaling and glycolytic enzymes in tongue cancer cells and HNSCC clinical samples. Overall, the inhibition of glucose metabolism by Wnt signaling inhibitors is a promising mode of action against tongue cancer cells.

LncRNA AP000695.2 promotes glycolysis of lung adenocarcinoma via the miR-335-3p/TEAD1 axis

AP000695.2 is a novel long non-coding RNA (lncRNA). Its aberrant high expression is remarkably associated with poor prognosis of patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, its role and underlying mechanism in LUAD remains unclear. Previous bioinformatics analysis indicated that AP000695.2 may be closely related to the glycolysis of LUAD. This study aims to verify and explore the mechanism of AP000695.2 in glycolysis of LUAD. Overexpression plasmid and siRNA are used to construct cell models of upregulation and downregulation of AP000695.2, respectively. AP000695.2 is highly expressed in lung cancer cell lines as revealed by qPCR. Western blot analysis, FDG uptake, lactate production assay and ECAR determination results show that high expression of AP000695.2 facilitates glycolysis of LUAD cells. CCK-8, EdU staining, Transwell and wound healing assays show that high expression of AP000695.2 promotes cell growth and migration of LUAD. The relationship between AP000695.2 and miR-335-3p is confirmed by bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assays. Through the dual-luciferase reporter assay, TEA domain transcription factor 1 (TEAD1) is identified as a target gene of miR-335-3p. Rescue experiments are applied to verify the relationship among AP000695.2, miR-335-3p and TEAD1. Our study indicates that AP000695.2 is involved in the mechanism of LUAD through functioning as a ceRNA to competitively sponge miR-335-3p, thereby regulating the expression of TEAD1. In the in vivo models, AP000695.2 depletion restrains tumor growth and glycolysis. AP000695.2 promotes the glycolysis of LUAD by regulating the miR-335-3p/TEAD1 axis, and it may serve as a potential target of anti-tumor energy metabolism therapy.

Pepsin enhances glycolysis to promote malignant transformation of vocal fold leukoplakia epithelial cells with dysplasia

PURPOSE

The mechanism underlying malignant transformation of vocal fold leukoplakia (VFL) and the precise role of the expression of pepsin in VFL remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of acidified pepsin on VFL epithelial cell growth and migration, and also identify pertinent molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Immunochemistry and Western blotting were performed to measure glucose transporter type 1 (GLUT1), monocarboxylate transporters 4 (MCT4), and Hexokinase-II (HK-II) expressions. Cell viability, cell cycle, apoptosis, and migration were investigated by CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry and Transwell chamber assay, respectively. Glycolysis-related contents were determined using the corresponding kits. Mitochondrial HK-II was photographed under a confocal microscope using Mito-Tracker Red.

RESULTS

It was found: the expression of pepsin and proportion of pepsin+ cells in VFL increased with the increased dysplasia grade; acidified pepsin enhanced cell growth and migration capabilities of VFL epithelial cells, reduced mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I activity and oxidative phosphorylation, and enhanced aerobic glycolysis and GLUT1 expression in VFL epithelial cells; along with the transfection of GLUT1 overexpression plasmid, 18FFDG uptake, lactate secretion and growth and migration capabilities of VFL epithelial cell were increased; this effect was partially blocked by the glycolysis inhibitor 2-deoxy-glucose; acidified pepsin increased the expression of HK-II and enhanced its distribution in mitochondria of VFL epithelial cells.

CONCLUSION

It was concluded that acidified pepsin enhances VFL epithelial cell growth and migration abilities by reducing mitochondrial respiratory complex I activity and promoting metabolic reprogramming from oxidative phosphorylation to aerobic glycolysis.

Potential Roles of YAP/TAZ Mechanotransduction in Spaceflight-Induced Liver Dysfunction

Microgravity exposure during spaceflight causes the disordered regulation of liver function, presenting a specialized mechano-biological coupling process. While YAP/TAZ serves as a typical mechanosensitive pathway involved in hepatocyte metabolism, it remains unclear whether and how it is correlated with microgravity-induced liver dysfunction. Here, we discussed liver function alterations induced by spaceflight or simulated effects of microgravity on Earth. The roles of YAP/TAZ serving as a potential bridge in connecting liver metabolism with microgravity were specifically summarized. Existing evidence indicated that YAP/TAZ target gene expressions were affected by mechanotransductive pathways and phase separation, reasonably speculating that microgravity might regulate YAP/TAZ activation by disrupting these pathways via cytoskeletal remodeling or nuclear deformation, or disturbing condensates formation via diffusion limit, and then breaking liver homeostasis.

Dysregulation of hexosamine biosynthetic pathway wiring metabolic signaling circuits in cancer

Metabolite sensing, a fundamental biological process, plays a key role in metabolic signaling circuit rewiring. Hexosamine biosynthetic pathway (HBP) is a glucose metabolic pathway essential for the synthesis of uridine diphosphate N-acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc), which senses key nutrients and integrally maintains cellular homeostasis. UDP-GlcNAc dynamically regulates protein N-glycosylation and O-linked-N-acetylglucosamine modification (O-GlcNAcylation). Dysregulated HBP flux leads to abnormal protein glycosylation, and contributes to cancer development and progression by affecting protein function and cellular signaling. Furthermore, O-GlcNAcylation regulates cellular signaling pathways, and its alteration is linked to various cancer characteristics. Additionally, recent findings have suggested a close association between HBP stimulation and cancer stemness; an elevated HBP flux promotes cancer cell conversion to cancer stem cells and enhances chemotherapy resistance via downstream signal activation. In this review, we highlight the prominent roles of HBP in metabolic signaling and summarize the recent advances in HBP and its downstream signaling, relevant to cancer.

Targeting glycolysis for cancer therapy using drug delivery systems

There is close crosstalk between cancer metabolism and immunity. Cancer metabolism regulation is a promising therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy. Warburg effect is characterized by abnormal glucose metabolism that includes common features of increased glucose uptake and lactate production. The aerobic glycolysis can reprogram the cancer cells and promote the formation of a suppressive immune microenvironment. As a case in point, lactate plays an essential role in tumorigenesis, which is the end product of glycolysis as well as serves as a fuel supporting cancer cell survival. Meanwhile, it is also an important immune regulator that drives immunosuppression in tumors. Immunometabolic therapy is to intervene tumor metabolism and regulate the related metabolites that participate in the innate and acquired immunity, thereby reinstalling the immune balance and eliciting anticancer immune responses. In this contribution to the Orations - New Horizons of the Journal of controlled Release I will provide an overview of glucose metabolism in tumors and its effects on drug resistance and tumor metastasis, and present the advance of glycolysis-targeting therapy strategies with drug delivery techniques, as well as discuss the challenges in glycolysis-targeting immunometabolic therapy.

Natural Products as Anticancer Agents: Current Status and Future Perspectives

Natural products have been an invaluable and useful source of anticancer agents over the years. Several compounds have been synthesized from natural products by modifying their structures or by using naturally occurring compounds as building blocks in the synthesis of these compounds for various purposes in different fields, such as biology, medicine, and engineering. Multiple modern and costly treatments have been applied to combat cancer and limit its lethality, but the results are not significantly refreshing. Natural products, which are a significant source of new therapeutic drugs, are currently being investigated as potential cytotoxic agents and have shown a positive trend in preclinical research and have prompted numerous innovative strategies in order to combat cancer and expedite the clinical research. Natural products are becoming increasingly important for drug discovery due to their high molecular diversity and novel biofunctionality. Furthermore, natural products can provide superior efficacy and safety due to their unique molecular properties. The objective of the current review is to provide an overview of the emergence of natural products for the treatment and prevention of cancer, such as chemosensitizers, immunotherapeutics, combinatorial therapies with other anticancer drugs, novel formulations of natural products, and the molecular mechanisms underlying their anticancer properties.

CAPRIN1 Enhances Chemoresistance and Glycolysis in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma via Regulation of ZIC5

Background

Cytoplasmic activation/proliferation-associated protein-1 (CAPRIN1) plays an important role in carcinogenesis, whereas its role in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma remains unclear. This study was designed to investigate the roles of CAPRIN1 in glycolysis and chemoresistance and its underlying mechanisms in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Methods

Cell viability was evaluated by using CCK-8 and colony formation assays. qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry were used to determine the expressions of target genes. Gene knockdown and overexpression cell lines were constructed by performing transfection of siRNAs and plasmids, respectively. Luciferase reporter assay, RNA pull-down, and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were applied to evaluate the RNA-protein interactions. The Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between gene expression and overall survival rate.

Results

An elevation of CAPRIN1 was identified to be associated with chemoresistance and poor prognosis in patients with laryngeal cancer. The increase of CAPRIN1 promoted glycolysis and chemoresistance, whereas the knockdown of CAPRIN1 inhibited glycolysis and chemoresistance in laryngeal cancer cells. The underlying mechanistic investigation revealed that CAPRIN1 promoted glycolysis and chemoresistance of laryngeal cancer cells by the regulation of Zic Family Member 5 (ZIC5).

Conclusion

CAPRIN1 promoted laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma glycolysis and chemoresistance by the regulation of ZIC5.

Antihyperglycemic effect of an anthocyanin, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, is achieved by regulating GLUT-1 via the Wnt/β-catenin-WISP1 signaling pathway

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), an essential representative of anthocyanins, has been proved to possess a myriad of biological activities. However, the effects of C3G on glucose metabolism and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. The aim of the present study was to investigate the metabolic impact of C3G on db/db mice and to determine whether its consequent anti-diabetic effects were related to glucose transporter-1 (GLUT-1) by in vivo and in vitro studies. As a result, through diabetic db/db mice, C3G treatment was found to significantly reduce the fasting blood glucose level and increase glycogen synthesis, which were associated with upregulation of GLUT-1 expression in the liver of the mice. In addition, in liver cells of the HepG2 and L02 lines, we further discovered that C3G could effectively promote glucose consumption by regulating the Wnt/β-catenin-WISP1 signaling pathway. Nevertheless, such effects would be restricted when the expression of GLUT-1 was blocked by the inhibitor IWR-1. Meanwhile, molecular docking technology was applied to simulate the possible action sites of C3G at the molecular level, and the results indicated that C3G might bind to β-catenin. In conclusion, our study provided evidence of the antihyperglycemic effect of C3G in vivo and in vitro via regulating GLUT-1 expression and the related signaling pathways.

Overview on Molecular Biomarkers for Laryngeal Cancer: Looking for New Answers to an Old Problem

Laryngeal squamous cell cancer (LSCC) accounts for almost 25-30% of all head and neck squamous cell cancers and is clustered according to the affected districts, as this determines distinct tendency to recur and metastasize. A major role for numerous genetic alterations in driving the onset and progression of this neoplasm is emerging. However, major efforts are still required for the identification of molecular markers useful for both early diagnosis and prognostic definition of LSCC that is still characterized by significant morbidity and mortality. Non-coding RNAs appear the most promising as they circulate in all the biological fluids allowing liquid biopsy determination, as well as due to their quick and characteristic modulation useful for non-invasive detection and monitoring of cancer. Other critical aspects are related to recent progress in circulating tumor cells and DNA detection, in metastatic status and chemo-refractoriness prediction, and in the functional interaction of LSCC with chronic inflammation and innate immunity. We review all these aspects taking into account the progress of the technologies in the field of next generation sequencing.

The multifaceted role of Matricellular Proteins in health and cancer, as biomarkers and therapeutic targets

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is composed of a mesh of proteins, proteoglycans, growth factors, and other secretory components. It constitutes the tumor microenvironment along with the endothelial cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, adipocytes, and immune cells. The proteins of ECM can be functionally classified as adhesive proteins and matricellular proteins (MCP). In the tumor milieu, the ECM plays a major role in tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance. The current review encompasses thrombospondins, osteonectin, osteopontin, tenascin C, periostin, the CCN family, laminin, biglycan, decorin, mimecan, and galectins. The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are also discussed as they are an integral part of the ECM with versatile functions in the tumor stroma. In this review, the role of these proteins in tumor initiation, growth, invasion and metastasis have been highlighted, with emphasis on their contribution to tumor therapeutic resistance. Further, their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets based on existing evidence are discussed. Owing to the recent advancements in protein targeting, the possibility of agents to modulate MCPs in cancer as therapeutic options are discussed.

Cell Communication Network factor 4 promotes tumor-induced immunosuppression in melanoma

Cell Communication Network factor 4 (CCN4/WISP1) is a matricellular protein secreted by cancer cells that promotes metastasis by inducing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. While metastasis limits survival, limited anti-tumor immunity also associates with poor patient outcomes with recent work linking these two clinical correlates. Motivated by increased CCN4 correlating with dampened anti-tumor immunity in primary melanoma, we test for a direct causal link by knocking out CCN4 (CCN4 KO) in the B16F0 and YUMM1.7 mouse melanoma models. Tumor growth is reduced when CCN4 KO melanoma cells are implanted in immunocompetent but not in immunodeficient mice. Correspondingly, CD45⁺ tumor-infiltrating leukocytes are significantly increased in CCN4 KO tumors, with increased natural killer and CD8⁺ T cells and reduced myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). Among mechanisms linked to local immunosuppression, CCN4 suppresses IFN-gamma release by CD8⁺ T cells and enhances tumor secretion of MDSC-attracting chemokines like CCL2 and CXCL1. Finally, CCN4 KO potentiates the anti-tumor effect of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. Overall, our results suggest that CCN4 promotes tumor-induced immunosuppression and is a potential target for therapeutic combinations with ICB.

LINC00941 promotes glycolysis in pancreatic cancer by modulating the Hippo pathway

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of most lethal cancers and is projected to be the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States by 2030. The lack of effective treatment and increased incidence in PDAC encourage a deeper knowledge of PDAC progression. By analyzing a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) dataset, we found that increased LINC00941 expression led to poor outcomes in PDAC patients. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that LINC00941 promoted PDAC cancer cell growth by enhancing aerobic glycolysis. Mechanistically, LINC00941 was found to interact with mammalian STE20-like protein kinase 1 (MST1), which facilitated the protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A)-mediated dephosphorylation of MST1, resulting in Hippo pathway activation and consequently, enhanced glycolysis in PDAC. These results suggest that LINC00941 plays a key role in regulating PDAC tumorigenesis, potentially highlighting novel avenues for PDAC therapy.

Brusatol inhibits laryngeal cancer cell proliferation and metastasis via abrogating JAK2/STAT3 signaling mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition

AIMS

This study aimed at investigating the role of Brusatol (BR) on human laryngeal squamous carcinoma cell (Hep-2) to study its underlying mechanism through in vitro and in vivo approaches.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

In the present research, we employed various cell-based assays, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle assessment, migration and invasion assays were used to examine the anti-tumor effect of BR on Hep-2 cells. Immunohistochemistry (IHC), qRT-PCR and Western blotting were performed to study the underlying molecular mechanisms. To validate our in vitro findings we used a subcutaneous tumor-bearing model of Balb/c mice with Hep-2 cells of laryngeal carcinoma (LC) to study the inhibitory effect of BR on Hep-2 cells in vivo.

KEY FINDINGS

The results indicated that BR markedly inhibited the viability, migration and invasion capacity of Hep-2 cells, with no significant toxic effect on normal Human bronchial epithelial cell line (BEAS-2B). Also, BR induced cellular apoptosis by blocking the cells in S phase to suppress cell proliferation. Immunohistochemistry results revealed that BR inhibited the protein expression levels of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related markers. Mechanistically, western blotting results exhibited that BR could suppress the protein expression of both JAK2/STAT3 and their phosphorylation levels. Our in vivo experiments further validated the anti-tumor effect of BR on Hep-2 cells in vitro, where BR suppressed the growth of xenograft laryngeal tumor without apparent toxicity.

SIGNIFICANCE

The present study highlights the anti-LC effect of BR by possibly abrogating JAK2/STAT3 signaling mediated EMT process. BR may be a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of LC.

The Mechanism of Warburg Effect-Induced Chemoresistance in Cancer

Although chemotherapy can improve the overall survival and prognosis of cancer patients, chemoresistance remains an obstacle due to the diversity, heterogeneity, and adaptability to environmental alters in clinic. To determine more possibilities for cancer therapy, recent studies have begun to explore changes in the metabolism, especially glycolysis. The Warburg effect is a hallmark of cancer that refers to the preference of cancer cells to metabolize glucose anaerobically rather than aerobically, even under normoxia, which contributes to chemoresistance. However, the association between glycolysis and chemoresistance and molecular mechanisms of glycolysis-induced chemoresistance remains unclear. This review describes the mechanism of glycolysis-induced chemoresistance from the aspects of glycolysis process, signaling pathways, tumor microenvironment, and their interactions. The understanding of how glycolysis induces chemoresistance may provide new molecular targets and concepts for cancer therapy.

Altered glycolysis results in drug-resistant in clinical tumor therapy

Cancer cells undergo metabolic reprogramming, including increased glucose metabolism, fatty acid synthesis and glutamine metabolic rates. These enhancements to three major metabolic pathways are closely associated with glycolysis, which is considered the central component of cancer cell metabolism. Increasing evidence suggests that dysfunctional glycolysis is commonly associated with drug resistance in cancer treatment, and aberrant glycolysis plays a significant role in drug-resistant cancer cells. Studies on the development of drugs targeting these abnormalities have led to improvements in the efficacy of tumor treatment. The present review discusses the changes in glycolysis targets that cause drug resistance in cancer cells, including hexokinase, pyruvate kinase, pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, glucose transporters, and lactate, as well the underlying molecular mechanisms and corresponding novel therapeutic strategies. In addition, the association between increased oxidative phosphorylation and drug resistance is introduced, which is caused by metabolic plasticity. Given that aberrant glycolysis has been identified as a common metabolic feature of drug-resistant tumor cells, targeting glycolysis may be a novel strategy to develop new drugs to benefit patients with drug-resistance.

E2F1-Induced FTH1P3 Promoted Cell Viability and Glycolysis Through miR-377-3p/LDHA Axis in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Background: Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) has poor prognosis, and the mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of LSCC remains unclear. Recently, study has shown that long nonprotein coding RNA ferritin heavy chain 1 pseudogene 3 (FTH1P3) plays a crucial role in tumor pathogenesis. This study aimed to explore the potential role of FTH1P3 in LSCC. Materials and Methods: The expression of E2F1 and FTH1P3 in LSCC was analyzed by quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction assay. The direct targets of FTH1P3 and miR-377-3p were predicted, followed by functional validation. The functional role of FTH1P3 was investigated in AMC-HN-8 and TU686 cells using 3-(4,5)-dimethylthiahiazo (-z-y1)-3,5-di-phenytetrazoliumromide assays and the measurement of glucose uptake and L-lactate production. Results: Their results found that overexpression of FTH1P3 promoted, but knockdown of FTH1P3 suppressed cell viability and glycolysis in LSCC cells. Besides, upregulated FTH1P3 was associated with increased E2F1 expression in LSCC patients. E2F1 was proved to induce FTH1P3 expression in LSCC cells. Mechanically, FTH1P3 modulated miR-377-3p expression by targeting miR-377-3p. Interestingly, LDHA was identified to be a target of miR-377-3p, and FTH1P3 promoted LDHA expression by suppressing miR-377-3p. In addition, knockdown of FTH1P3 mitigated E2F1-induced cell viability and glycolysis through miR-377-3p/LDHA in AMC-HN-8 cells. More importantly, knockdown of E2F1 inhibited tumor growth and FTH1P3 expression in vivo. Conclusion: In conclusion, these findings revealed that E2F1-induced FTH1P3 promoted cell viability and glycolysis through miR-377-3p/LDHA axis in LSCC, which could provide a promising novel strategy for LSCC treatment.

Exosome-Derived Circ-PVT1 Contributes to Cisplatin Resistance by Regulating Autophagy, Invasion, and Apoptosis Via miR-30a-5p/YAP1 Axis in Gastric Cancer Cells

Background: Emerging studies manifested that exosomal RNAs had pivotal roles in human cancer therapies. This article aimed to research the regulatory mechanism of exosomal circRNA-plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (circ-PVT1) in cisplatin (DDP) resistance of gastric cancer (GC). Methods: Exosomes were isolated by ExoQuick^® method and ultracentrifugation and then identified through transmission electron microscope and the examination of exosome markers. Related proteins were detected using Western blot. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was applied for measuring circ-PVT1, microRNA-30a-5p (miR-30a-5p), and Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) expression. The half inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of DDP was assessed by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-y1)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT). Cell apoptosis and invasion were, respectively, determined using flow cytometry and transwell assay. Target relationship was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. The impact of circ-PVT1 on DDP resistance was explored via xenograft tumor assay. Results: Exosomal circ-PVT1 was upregulated while miR-30a-5p was downregulated in DDP-resistant GC serums and cells. Circ-PVT1 knockdown repressed DDP resistance in DDP-resistant GC cells via promoting apoptosis and decreasing invasion or autophagy by negatively targeting miR-30a-5p. YAP1 was a direct target of miR-30a-5p. MiR-30a-5p overexpression inhibited DDP resistance via reducing YAP1. Circ-PVT1 modulated YAP1 expression by targeting miR-30a-5p. Circ-PVT1 depression expedited DDP sensitivity of GC via miR-30a-5p/YAP1 axis in vivo. Conclusion: Exosomal circ-PVT1 facilitated DDP resistance via modulating autophagy, invasion and apoptosis by miR-30a-5p/YAP1 axis in GC cells. Exosomal circ-PVT1 might be a prospective indicator in DDP therapy of GC.

Targeting ERK-Hippo Interplay in Cancer Therapy

Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) is a part of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway which allows the transduction of various cellular signals to final effectors and regulation of elementary cellular processes. Deregulation of the MAPK signaling occurs under many pathological conditions including neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic syndromes and cancers. Targeted inhibition of individual kinases of the MAPK signaling pathway using synthetic compounds represents a promising way to effective anti-cancer therapy. Cross-talk of the MAPK signaling pathway with other proteins and signaling pathways have a crucial impact on clinical outcomes of targeted therapies and plays important role during development of drug resistance in cancers. We discuss cross-talk of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway with other signaling pathways, in particular interplay with the Hippo/MST pathway. We demonstrate the mechanism of cell death induction shared between MAPK/ERK and Hippo/MST signaling pathways and discuss the potential of combination targeting of these pathways in the development of more effective anti-cancer therapies.

Natural compounds as potential adjuvants to cancer therapy: Preclinical evidence

Traditional chemotherapy is being considered due to hindrances caused by systemic toxicity. Currently, the administration of multiple chemotherapeutic drugs with different biochemical/molecular targets, known as combination chemotherapy, has attained numerous benefits like efficacy enhancement and amelioration of adverse effects that has been broadly applied to various cancer types. Additionally, seeking natural-based alternatives with less toxicity has become more important. Experimental evidence suggests that herbal extracts such as Solanum nigrum and Claviceps purpurea and isolated herbal compounds (e.g., curcumin, resveratrol, and matairesinol) combined with antitumoral drugs have the potential to attenuate resistance against cancer therapy and to exert chemoprotective actions. Plant products are not free of risks: Herb adverse effects, including herb-drug interactions, should be carefully considered. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on The Pharmacology of Nutraceuticals. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.6/issuetoc.

Long noncoding RNA FOXD2-AS1 enhances chemotherapeutic resistance of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma via STAT3 activation

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is a common head and neck cancer. Despite recently improved management of LSCC, chemotherapy resistance of patients remains a challenge. In this study, we identified that long noncoding RNA FOXD2-AS1 regulates LSCC therapeutic resistance by augmenting LSCC stemness. LSCC chemotherapy-resistant patients showed increased FOXD2-AS1 expression compared with that in chemotherapy-sensitive patients, which predicted poor prognosis. Gain- or loss-of-function experiments showed that upregulated FOXD2-AS1 maintained cancer stemness, reducing the response to chemotherapy, while FOXD2-AS1 downregulation had the opposite effects. FOXD2-AS1 acted as a scaffold for STAT3 and PRMT5, promoting STAT3 transcriptional activity, which is essential to maintain cancer stemness and promote chemotherapeutic resistance. Interfering with FOXD2-AS1 using short hairpin RNA rescued LSCC’s chemotherapeutic sensitivity. Thus, FOXD2-AS1 promotes LSCC chemotherapeutic resistance and is an upstream activator of STAT3, making FOXD2-AS1 a potential therapeutic target to improve the chemotherapy effect in LSCC patients.

Metabolic Remodeling as a Way of Adapting to Tumor Microenvironment (TME), a Job of Several Holders

The microenvironment depends and generates dependence on all the cells and structures that share the same niche, the biotope. The contemporaneous view of the tumor microenvironment (TME) agrees with this idea. The cells that make up the tumor, whether malignant or not, behave similarly to classes of elements within a living community. These elements inhabit, modify and benefit from all the facilities the microenvironment has to offer and that will contribute to the survival and growth of the tumor and the progression of the disease.The metabolic adaptation to microenvironment is a crucial process conducting to an established tumor able to grow locally, invade and metastasized. The metastatic cancer cells are reasonable more plastic than non-metastatic cancer cells, because the previous ones must survive in the microenvironment where the primary tumor develops and in addition, they must prosper in the microenvironment in the metastasized organ.The metabolic remodeling requires not only the adjustment of metabolic pathways per se but also the readjustment of signaling pathways that will receive and obey to the extracellular instructions, commanding the metabolic adaptation. Many diverse players are pivotal in cancer metabolic fitness from the initial signaling stimuli, going through the activation or repression of genes, until the phenotype display. The new phenotype will permit the import and consumption of organic compounds, useful for energy and biomass production, and the export of metabolic products that are useless or must be secreted for a further recycling or controlled uptake. In the metabolic network, three subsets of players are pivotal: (1) the organic compounds; (2) the transmembrane transporters, and (3) the enzymes.This chapter will present the "Pharaonic" intent of diagraming the interplay between these three elements in an attempt of simplifying and, at the same time, of showing the complex sight of cancer metabolism, addressing the orchestrating role of microenvironment and highlighting the influence of non-cancerous cells.

THUMP domain containing 2 protein possibly induces resistance to cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil in in vitro human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells as revealed by transposon activation mutagenesis

BACKGROUND

Although chemotherapy is a core treatment for esophageal cancer, some patients develop drug resistance. Gene screening with transposons (i.e. mobile genetic elements) is a novel procedure for identifying chemotherapy-resistant genes. Transposon insertion can randomly affect nearby gene expression. By identifying the affected genes, candidate genes can be found. The present study aimed to identify cisplatin (CDDP)/5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-resistant genes in in vitro human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma with transposons.

METHODS

After establishing transposon-tagged cells, we obtained CDDP/5-FU-resistant colonies. A polymerase chain reaction and sequencing were used to identify the transposon inserted site and candidate CDDP/5-FU resistant genes. Focusing on one candidate gene, we confirmed CDDP/5-FU resistance by comparing the IC50 between drug-resistant and wild-type cells. Furthermore, we investigated gene expression by a real-time polymerase chain reaction. Finally, we mediated the candidate gene level with small interfering RNA to confirm the resistance.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine candidate genes for CDDP/5-FU resistance were identified. Nineteen were for CDDP resistance and 27 were for 5-FU resistance. Seven genes, THUMP domain-containing protein 2 (THUMPD2), nuclear factor interleukin-3-regulated protein (NFIL3), tyrosine-protein kinase transmembrane receptor 2 (ROR2), C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4), thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing protein 2 (THSD7B) alpha-parvin (PARVA) and TEA domain transcription factor 1 (TEAD1), were detected as candidate genes in both colonies. Regarding THUMPD2, its expression was downregulated and knocking down THUMPD2 suggested drug resistance in both drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

Thirty-nine candidate genes were identified with transposons. The downregulation of THUMPD2 was suggested to play a role in multidrug resistance in in vitro esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Emetine Synergizes with Cisplatin to Enhance Anti-Cancer Efficacy against Lung Cancer Cells

Cisplatin is still the primary therapeutic choice for advanced lung cancers without driver mutations. The occurrence of cisplatin resistance is a major clinical problem in lung cancer treatment. The natural extracted agent emetine reportedly has anticancer effects. This study aimed to explore the possible role of emetine in cisplatin resistance. We used cell viability, Western blot, and Wnt reporter assays to show that emetine suppresses proliferation, β-catenin expression, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The synergism of emetine and cisplatin was assessed by constructing isobolograms and calculating combination index (CI) values using the Chou-Talalay method. Emetine effectively synergized with cisplatin to suppress the proliferation of cancer cells. Furthermore, nuclear β-catenin and cancer stem cell-related markers were upregulated in the cisplatin-resistant subpopulation of CL1-0 cells. Emetine enhanced the anticancer efficacy of cisplatin and synergized with cisplatin in the cisplatin-resistant subpopulation of CL1-0 cells. Taken together, these data suggest that emetine could suppress the growth of NSCLC cells through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and contribute to a synergistic effect in combination with cisplatin.