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Goglia U, Hasballa I, Teti C, Boschetti M, Ferone D, Albertelli M. Ianus Bifrons: The Two Faces of Metformin. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1287. [PMID: 38610965 PMCID: PMC11011026 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The ancient Roman god Ianus was a mysterious divinity with two opposite faces, one looking at the past and the other looking to the future. Likewise, metformin is an "old" drug, with one side looking at the metabolic role and the other looking at the anti-proliferative mechanism; therefore, it represents a typical and ideal bridge between diabetes and cancer. Metformin (1,1-dimethylbiguanidine hydrochloride) is a drug that has long been in use for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, but recently evidence is growing about its potential use in other metabolic conditions and in proliferative-associated diseases. The aim of this paper is to retrace, from a historical perspective, the knowledge of this molecule, shedding light on the subcellular mechanisms of action involved in metabolism as well as cellular and tissue growth. The intra-tumoral pharmacodynamic effects of metformin and its possible role in the management of different neoplasms are evaluated and debated. The etymology of the name Ianus is probably from the Latin term ianua, which means door. How many new doors will this old drug be able to open?
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Affiliation(s)
- Umberto Goglia
- Endocrinology and Diabetology Unit, Local Health Authority CN1, 12100 Cuneo, Italy
| | - Iderina Hasballa
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy (M.B.); (D.F.); (M.A.)
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Claudia Teti
- Endocrinology and Diabetology Unit, Local Health Autorithy Imperia 1, 18100 Imperia, Italy;
| | - Mara Boschetti
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy (M.B.); (D.F.); (M.A.)
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Diego Ferone
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy (M.B.); (D.F.); (M.A.)
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Manuela Albertelli
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy (M.B.); (D.F.); (M.A.)
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
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2
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Mikhael S, Kurdi A, Khoueiry-Zgheib N, Tahtouh R, Nasr R, Hilal G. Evaluating synergistic effects of metformin and simvastatin on ovarian cancer cells. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298127. [PMID: 38489280 PMCID: PMC10942021 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian Cancer (OC) stands as the most lethal gynecological malignancy, presenting an urgent clinical challenge in the quest to improve response rates. One approach to address this challenge is through drug repurposing, exemplified by the investigation of metabolic-modulating drugs such as Metformin (MTF) and Simvastatin (SIM). This study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms contributing to the potential synergistic anti-cancer effects between MTF and SIM on ovarian cancer cells. METHODS We assessed the effects of the combination on the proliferation and viability of two cell lines OVCAR-3 and SKOV-3. IC50 concentrations of MTF and SIM were determined using a proliferation assay, followed by subtoxic concentrations to explore the potential synergistic effects on the viability of both cell lines. Transcriptomic analysis was conducted on OVCAR-3 treated cells, and the findings were validated by assessing the expression levels of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) through real-time PCR in both cell lines SK-OV-3 and OVCAR-3. RESULTS Cytotoxicity analysis guided the selection of treatment concentrations as such MTF 10 mM and SIM 5 μM. The combined treatment of MTF and SIM demonstrated a synergistic inhibition of proliferation and viability in both cell lines. In OVCAR-3, exclusive identification of 507 DEGs was seen in the combination arm. Upregulation of FOXO3, RhoA, and TNFα, along with downregulation of PIK3R1, SKP2, and ATP6V1D levels, was observed in OVCAR-3 treated cells. Real-time PCR validation confirmed the consistency of expression levels for the mentioned DEGs. CONCLUSION Our data strongly supports the presence of synergy between MTF and SIM in OC cells. The combination's effect is associated with the dysregulation of genes in the key regulators AMPK and mTOR alongside other interconnected pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Mikhael
- Laboratory of Cancer and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdullah Kurdi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie Khoueiry-Zgheib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Roula Tahtouh
- Laboratory of Cancer and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - George Hilal
- Laboratory of Cancer and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
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3
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Baldelli G, Natalucci V, Ferri Marini C, Sisti D, Annibalini G, Saltarelli R, Bocconcelli M, Gentilini V, Emili R, Rocchi MBL, Lucertini F, Barbieri E, Brandi G, De Santi M. A home-based lifestyle intervention program reduces the tumorigenic potential of triple-negative breast cancer cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2409. [PMID: 38287041 PMCID: PMC10824728 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52065-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Translational research for the evaluation of physical activity habits and lifestyle modifications based on nutrition and exercise has recently gained attention. In this study, we evaluated the effects of serum samples obtained before and after a 12-week home-based lifestyle intervention based on nutrition and exercise in breast cancer survivors in terms of modulation of the tumorigenic potential of breast cancer cells. The home-based lifestyle intervention proposed in this work consisted of educational counselling on exercise and nutritional behaviors and in 12 weeks of structured home-based exercise. Triple-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 was cultured in semi-solid medium (3D culture) with sera collected before (PRE) and after (POST) the lifestyle intervention program. Spheroid formation was evaluated by counting cell colonies after 3 weeks of incubation. Results show a slight but significant reduction of spheroid formation induced by serum collected POST in comparison to those obtained PRE. Moreover, statistical analyses aimed to find physiologic and metabolic parameters associated with 3D cell proliferation revealed the proliferative inducer IGF-1 as the only predictor of cell tumorigenic potential. These results highlight the importance of lifestyle changes for cancer progression control in a tertiary prevention context. Translational research could offer a useful tool to identify metabolic and physiological changes induced by exercise and nutritional behaviors associated with cancer progression and recurrence risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Baldelli
- Unit of Pharmacology and Hygiene, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Valentina Natalucci
- Division of Exercise and Health Sciences, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Carlo Ferri Marini
- Division of Exercise and Health Sciences, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Davide Sisti
- Unit of Pharmacology and Hygiene, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy.
| | - Giosuè Annibalini
- Division of Exercise and Health Sciences, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy.
| | - Roberta Saltarelli
- Division of Exercise and Health Sciences, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Matteo Bocconcelli
- Division of Exercise and Health Sciences, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Veronica Gentilini
- Unit of Pharmacology and Hygiene, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Rita Emili
- Medical Oncology, Hospital Santa Maria della Misericordia di Urbino, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Marco Bruno Luigi Rocchi
- Unit of Pharmacology and Hygiene, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Francesco Lucertini
- Division of Exercise and Health Sciences, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Elena Barbieri
- Division of Exercise and Health Sciences, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Giorgio Brandi
- Unit of Pharmacology and Hygiene, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Mauro De Santi
- Unit of Pharmacology and Hygiene, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
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4
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Jaradat SK, Ayoub NM, Al Sharie AH, Aldaod JM. Targeting Receptor Tyrosine Kinases as a Novel Strategy for the Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2024; 23:15330338241234780. [PMID: 38389413 PMCID: PMC10894558 DOI: 10.1177/15330338241234780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) comprises a group of aggressive and heterogeneous breast carcinoma. Chemotherapy is the mainstay for the treatment of triple-negative tumors. Nevertheless, the success of chemotherapeutic treatments is limited by their toxicity and development of acquired resistance leading to therapeutic failure and tumor relapse. Hence, there is an urgent need to explore novel targeted therapies for TNBC. Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are a family of transmembrane receptors that are key regulators of intracellular signaling pathways controlling cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, and motility. Aberrant activity and/or expression of several types of RTKs have been strongly connected to tumorigenesis. RTKs are frequently overexpressed and/or deregulated in triple-negative breast tumors and are further associated with tumor progression and reduced survival in patients. Therefore, targeting RTKs could be an appealing therapeutic strategy for the treatment of TNBC. This review summarizes the current evidence regarding the antitumor activity of RTK inhibitors in preclinical models of TNBC. The review also provides insights into the clinical trials evaluating the use of RTK inhibitors for the treatment of patients with TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara K. Jaradat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), Irbid, Jordan
| | - Nehad M. Ayoub
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ahmed H. Al Sharie
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), Irbid, Jordan
| | - Julia M. Aldaod
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), Irbid, Jordan
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5
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Soni UK, Jenny L, Hegde RS. IGF-1R targeting in cancer - does sub-cellular localization matter? J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:273. [PMID: 37858153 PMCID: PMC10588251 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02850-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-1R) was among the most intensively pursued kinase targets in oncology. However, even after a slew of small-molecule and antibody therapeutics reached clinical trials for a range of solid tumors, the initial promise remains unfulfilled. Mechanisms of resistance to, and toxicities resulting from, IGF-1R-targeted drugs are well-catalogued, and there is general appreciation of the fact that a lack of biomarker-based patient stratification was a limitation of previous clinical trials. But no next-generation therapeutic strategies have yet successfully exploited this understanding in the clinic.Currently there is emerging interest in re-visiting IGF-1R targeted therapeutics in combination-treatment protocols with predictive biomarker-driven patient-stratification. One such biomarker that emerged from early clinical trials is the sub-cellular localization of IGF-1R. After providing some background on IGF-1R, its drugging history, and the trials that led to the termination of drug development for this target, we look more deeply into the correlation between sub-cellular localization of IGF-1R and susceptibility to various classes of IGF-1R - targeted agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Upendra K Soni
- Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Liam Jenny
- Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Rashmi S Hegde
- Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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Choksi EJ, Elsayed M, Kokabi N. Antitumor Activity of Metformin Combined with Locoregional Therapy for Liver Cancer: Evidence and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4538. [PMID: 37760509 PMCID: PMC10526211 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This article aimed to examine the effect of metformin use on improving outcomes after liver-directed therapy in patients with HCC and identify future directions with the adjuvant use of and potential therapeutic agents that operate on similar mechanistic pathways. Databases were queried to identify pertinent articles on metformin's use as an anti-cancer agent in HCC. Eleven studies were included, with five pre-clinical and six clinical studies. The mean overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival were both higher in the locoregional therapy (LRT) + metformin-treated groups. The outcome variables, including local tumor recurrence rate, reduction in HCC tumor growth and size, tumor growth, proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells, HCC cell apoptosis, DNA damage, and cell cycle arrest, showed favorable outcomes in the LRT + metformin-treated groups compared with LRT alone. This systemic review provides a strong signal that metformin use can improve the tumor response after locoregional therapy. Well-controlled prospective trials will be needed to elucidate the potential antitumor effects of metformin and other mTOR inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eshani J. Choksi
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Stratford, NJ 08084, USA;
| | - Mohammad Elsayed
- Interventional Radiology Service, Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Nima Kokabi
- Department of Radiology, Division of Interventional Radiology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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7
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Zhang C, Zhao X, Wang Z, Gong T, Zhao H, Zhang D, Niu Y, Li X, Zhao X, Li G, Dong X, Zhang L, Liu C, Xu J, Yu B. Dasatinib in combination with BMS-754807 induce synergistic cytotoxicity in lung cancer cells through inhibiting lung cancer cell growth, and inducing autophagy as well as cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Invest New Drugs 2023:10.1007/s10637-023-01360-9. [PMID: 37097369 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-023-01360-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Combination of drugs targeting independent signaling pathways would effectively block the proliferation of cancer cells with lower concentrations and stronger synergy effects. Dasatinib, a multi-targeted protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting BCR-ABL and kinases of SRC family, has been successfully applied in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). BMS-754807, an inhibitor targeting the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-IR) and insulin receptor (IR) family kinases, has been in phase I development for the treatment of a variety of human cancers. Herein, we demonstrated that dasatinib in combination with BMS-754807 inhibited lung cancer cell growth, while induced autophagy as well as cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Dasatinib in combination with BMS-754807 suppressed the expression of cell cycle marker proteins, Rb, p-Rb, CDK4, CDK6 and Cyclin D1, and the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Dasatinib in combination with BMS-754807 induced autophagy in lung cancer cells, evidenced by the upregulation of LC3B II and beclin-1, the downregulation of LC3B I and SQSTM1/p62, and the autophagic flux observed with a confocal fluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, dasatinib (18 mg/kg) in combination with BMS-754807 (18 mg/kg) inhibited the growth of tumors in NCI-H3255 xenografts without changing the bodyweight. Overall, our results suggest that dasatinib in combination with BMS-754807 inhibits the lung cancer cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in vitro, which indicates promising evidence for the application of the drug combination in lung cancer therapy.
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Grants
- 20210302124183, 201701D121165, 201901D111190 Natural Science Basic Project of Shanxi Province, China
- KLMEC/SXMU-202011 Open Fund from Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
- 1331KSC Shanxi '1331 Project' Key Subjects Construction, China
- 2019059 Scientific research project of Shanxi Provincial Health Commission, China
- 2020-194 and 2021-165 Research Project Supported by Shanxi Scholarship Council of China
- 30901821 and 81172136 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 201901D211547 Outstanding Youth Foundation of Shanxi Province, China
- 2021YZ03 "136" College-level open fund, China
- 2021L339 Scientific and Technological Innovation Programs of Higher Education Institutions in Shanxi
- 201801D221069 Natural Science Foundation for Young Scientists of Shanxi Province, China
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China
| | - Xinan Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Zifeng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Tao Gong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Yuhu Niu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Xiaoning Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Xuhua Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Gaopeng Li
- General Surgery Department, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China
| | - Xiushan Dong
- General Surgery Department, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, 046000, China.
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China.
| | - Baofeng Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China.
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8
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Chen Y, Qian FJ, Ye ZQ, Xie WX, He YD, Huang JR, Tian L, Gu DN. Anticancer Benefit of Metformin in Patients With Early-Stage Pancreatic Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2022; 21:15330338221138208. [PMID: 36583563 PMCID: PMC9806383 DOI: 10.1177/15330338221138208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Epidemiologic studies have produced conflicting results on the effects of metformin on pancreatic cancer. This study aimed to observe and analyze whether metformin use is associated with better prognosis in pancreatic cancer. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, all baseline data were retrieved from The Chinese Medicine Information Retrieval System (https://dc.wzhospital.cn/vpn/index.html) of The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University. Survival data were collected by follow-up visits and medical records. Overall survival was the primary endpoint, while progression-free survival and disease-free survival were secondary endpoints. Progression or recurrence was assessed with radiologic images. Results: Seventy-six metformin users and 92 metformin nonusers diagnosed with pancreatic cancer from 2012 to 2020 in this hospital were enrolled. The adjusted hazard ratio for overall survival for metformin users was 0.50 (95% confidence interval = 0.33-0.76), where median overall survival was 16.0 months for metformin users versus 11.5 months for metformin nonusers. The protective effect was also found by analyzing progression-free survival (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.39, 95% confidence interval = 0.18-0.86) and disease-free survival (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.30, 95% confidence interval = 0.14-0.68). In the subgroup analysis, metformin use had a statistically significant association with prolongation of survival in stage I to II pancreatic cancer patients (hazard ratio = 0.47, 95% confidence interval = 0.25-0.91), but not for advanced tumor stage (hazard ratio for IV stage = 0.62, 95% confidence interval = 0.33-1.19), after adjustment for other risk factors. Conclusion: Metformin use is related to favorable survival outcomes of pancreatic cancer, especially in early tumor stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Chen
- Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | | | - Zhi-qiang Ye
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | | | - You-di He
- Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | | | - Ling Tian
- Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,Ling Tian, Department of Central Laboratory, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China.
Dian-na Gu, Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.
| | - Dian-na Gu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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9
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Wang P, Mak VCY, Cheung LWT. Drugging IGF-1R in cancer: New insights and emerging opportunities. Genes Dis 2022; 10:199-211. [PMID: 37013053 PMCID: PMC10066341 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) axis plays important roles in cancer development and metastasis. The type 1 IGF receptor (IGF-1R) is a key member in the IGF axis and has long been recognized for its oncogenic role in multiple cancer lineages. Here we review the occurrence of IGF-1R aberrations and activation mechanisms in cancers, which justify the development of anti-IGF-1R therapies. We describe the therapeutic agents available for IGF-1R inhibition, with focuses on the recent or ongoing pre-clinical and clinical studies. These include antisense oligonucleotide, tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies which may be conjugated with cytotoxic drug. Remarkably, simultaneous targeting of IGF-1R and several other oncogenic vulnerabilities has shown early promise, highlighting the potential benefits of combination therapy. Further, we discuss the challenges in targeting IGF-1R so far and new concepts to improve therapeutic efficacy such as blockage of the nuclear translocation of IGF-1R.
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Nivetha R, Arvindhvv S, Baba AB, Gade DR, Gopal G, K C, Kallamadi KPR, Reddy GB, Nagini S. Nimbolide, a Neem Limonoid, Inhibits Angiogenesis in Breast Cancer by Abrogating Aldose Reductase Mediated IGF-1/PI3K/Akt Signaling. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2022; 22:2619-2636. [DOI: 10.2174/1871520622666220204115151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background & Objectives:
There is growing evidence to implicate the insulin/IGF-1R/PI3K/Akt signaling cascade in breast cancer development and the central role of aldose reductase (AR) in mediating the crosstalk between this pathway and angiogenesis. The current study was designed to investigate whether nimbolide, a neem limonoid, targets this oncogenic signaling network to prevent angiogenesis in breast cancer.
Methods:
Breast cancer cells (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231), EAhy926 endothelial cells, MDA-MB-231 xenografted nude mice, and tumour tissues from breast cancer patients were used for the study. Expression of AR and key players in IGF-1/PI3K/Akt signaling and angiogenesis was evaluated by qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, and immunohistochemistry. Molecular docking and simulation, overexpression, and knockdown experiments were performed to determine whether nimbolide targets AR and IGF-1R
Results:
Nimbolide inhibited AR with consequent blockade of the IGF-1/PI3K/Akt and HIF-1/VEGF signaling circuit by influencing the phosphorylation and intracellular localisation of key signaling molecules. Downregulation of DNMT-1, HDAC-6, miR-21, HOTAIR, and H19 with upregulation of miR-148a/miR-152 indicated that nimbolide regulates AR and IGF-1/PI3K/Akt signaling via epigenetic modifications. Coadministration of nimbolide with metformin and the chemotherapeutic drugs tamoxifen/cisplatin displayed higher efficacy than single agents in inhibiting IGF-1/PI3K/Akt/AR signaling. Grade-wise increases in IGF-1R and AR expression in breast cancer tissues underscore their value as biomarkers of progression.
Conclusions:
This study provides evidence for the anticancer effects of nimbolide in cellular and mouse models of breast cancer besides providing leads for new drug combinations. It has also opened up avenues for investigating potential molecules such as AR for therapeutic targeting of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Nivetha
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Soundararajan Arvindhvv
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abdul Basit Baba
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Deepak Reddy Gade
- Centre for Molecular Cancer Research, Vishnu Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Narsapur, India
| | - Gopisetty Gopal
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Institute (WIA), Adyar, Chennai 600020, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Chitrathara K
- Department of Surgical & Gynecologic Oncology, VPS Lakeshore Hospital, Nettoor, Maradu, Kochi, Kerala 682040
| | | | - G. Bhanuprakash Reddy
- Department of Biochemistry, ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad-500007, India
| | - Siddavaram Nagini
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608002, Tamil Nadu, India
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Wu Z, Zhang C, Najafi M. Targeting of the tumor immune microenvironment by metformin. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 16:333-348. [PMID: 34611852 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-021-00648-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Stimulating antitumor immunity is an attractive idea for suppressing tumors. CD4 + and CD8 + T cells as well as natural killer cells (NK) are the primary antitumor immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In contrast to these cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) release several molecules to suppress antitumor immunity and stimulate cancer cell invasion and proliferation. Adjuvant treatment with certain nontoxic agents is interesting to boost antitumor immunity. Metformin, which is known as an antidiabetes drug, can modulate both antitumor and protumor immune cells within TME. It has the ability to induce the proliferation of CD8 + T lymphocytes and NK cells. On the other hand, metformin attenuates polarization toward TAMs, CAFs, and Tregs. Metformin also may stimulate the antitumor activity of immune system cells, while it interrupts the positive cross-talk and interactions between immunosuppressive cells and cancer cells. The purpose of this review is to explain the basic mechanisms for the interactions and communications between immunosuppressive, anti-tumoral, and cancer cells within TME. Next, we discuss the modulating effects of metformin on various cells and secretions in TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihong Wu
- Department of Oncology, The NO.3 People's Hospital of Hubei Province, Jianghan University, Wuhan, 430033, Hubei, China
| | - Caidie Zhang
- Emergency Department, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430014, Hubei, China.
| | - Masoud Najafi
- Medical Technology Research Center, Institute of Health Technology, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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Yu H, Tian L, Yang L, Liu S, Wang S, Gong J. Knockdown of SNORA47 Inhibits the Tumorigenesis of NSCLC via Mediation of PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway. Front Oncol 2021; 11:620213. [PMID: 33816250 PMCID: PMC8017274 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.620213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a frequently diagnosed aggressive cancer all over the world. Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are a group of non-coding mediatory RNAs. A previous report indicated that small nucleolar RNA 47 (SNORA47) is upregulated in NSCLC. However, the role of SNORA47 in NSCLC is unclear. Material and Methods Cell proliferation was measured by immunofluorescence staining. Cell apoptosis and cycle of NSCLC were tested by flow cytometry and the protein expressions were investigated by Western-blot. Meanwhile, cell migration and invasion were detected by transwell assay. Xenograft mice model was established to detect the effect of SNORA47 knockdown on tumor growth of NSLC in vivo. Results Knockdown of SNORA47 significantly inhibited the proliferation of NSCLC cells via inducing cell apoptosis. Moreover, migration and invasion of NSCLC cells were notably decreased by SNORA47 shRNA. SNORA47 knockdown significantly induced G1 arrest in NSCLC cells via regulation of p27 Kip1, CDK2, and cyclin D1. Meanwhile, SNORA47 shRNA inhibited EMT process and PI3K/Akt signaling in NSCLC cells. Finally, silencing of SNORA47 significantly inhibited the tumor growth of NSCLC in vivo. Conclusion Knockdown of SNORA47 significantly inhibited the tumorigenesis of NSCLC via inhibition of PI3K/Akt signaling and EMT process. Thereby, our finding might shed a new light on exploring the strategies for the treatment of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqing Yu
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Ling Tian
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Liejun Yang
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Shihong Liu
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Sixiong Wang
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Juan Gong
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
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