1
|
Zhang H, Li S, Wang D, Liu S, Xiao T, Gu W, Yang H, Wang H, Yang M, Chen P. Metabolic reprogramming and immune evasion: the interplay in the tumor microenvironment. Biomark Res 2024; 12:96. [PMID: 39227970 PMCID: PMC11373140 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00646-1] [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: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells possess complex immune evasion mechanisms to evade immune system attacks, primarily through metabolic reprogramming, which significantly alters the tumor microenvironment (TME) to modulate immune cell functions. When a tumor is sufficiently immunogenic, it can activate cytotoxic T-cells to target and destroy it. However, tumors adapt by manipulating their metabolic pathways, particularly glucose, amino acid, and lipid metabolism, to create an immunosuppressive TME that promotes immune escape. These metabolic alterations impact the function and differentiation of non-tumor cells within the TME, such as inhibiting effector T-cell activity while expanding regulatory T-cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Additionally, these changes lead to an imbalance in cytokine and chemokine secretion, further enhancing the immunosuppressive landscape. Emerging research is increasingly focusing on the regulatory roles of non-tumor cells within the TME, evaluating how their reprogrammed glucose, amino acid, and lipid metabolism influence their functional changes and ultimately aid in tumor immune evasion. Despite our incomplete understanding of the intricate metabolic interactions between tumor and non-tumor cells, the connection between these elements presents significant challenges for cancer immunotherapy. This review highlights the impact of altered glucose, amino acid, and lipid metabolism in the TME on the metabolism and function of non-tumor cells, providing new insights that could facilitate the development of novel cancer immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Zhang
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
- Department of Pediatrics, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shizhen Li
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Siyang Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tengfei Xiao
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Wangning Gu
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Hongmin Yang
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Hui Wang
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China.
| | - Minghua Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Pan Chen
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li L, Huang W, Ren X, Wang Z, Ding K, Zhao L, Zhang J. Unlocking the potential: advancements and future horizons in ROR1-targeted cancer therapies. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-024-2685-9. [PMID: 39145866 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2685-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
While receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is typically expressed at low levels or absent in normal tissues, its expression is notably elevated in various malignant tumors and conditions, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), breast cancer, ovarian cancer, melanoma, and lung adenocarcinoma. This distinctive feature positions ROR1 as an attractive target for tumor-specific treatments. Currently, several targeted drugs directed at ROR1 are undergoing clinical development, including monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T). Additionally, there are four small molecule inhibitors designed to bind to ROR1, presenting promising avenues for the development of PROTAC degraders targeting ROR1. This review offers updated insights into ROR1's structural and functional characteristics, embryonic development implications, cell survival signaling pathways, and evolutionary targeting strategies, all of which have the potential to advance the treatment of malignant tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Weixue Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Research Center of Chemical Kinomics, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaomei Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Research Center of Chemical Kinomics, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Research Center of Chemical Kinomics, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ke Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Research Center of Chemical Kinomics, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Linxiang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Jinwei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Research Center of Chemical Kinomics, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ma J, Gan L, Chen H, Chen L, Hu Y, Luan C, Chen K, Zhang J. Upregulated miR-374a-5p drives psoriasis pathogenesis through WIF1 downregulation and Wnt5a/NF-κB activation. Cell Signal 2024; 119:111171. [PMID: 38604345 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111171] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an abundant class of non-coding RNA molecules. Recent studies have shown that multiple miRNAs are abnormally expressed in patients with psoriasis. The upregulation of miR-374a-5p has been associated with psoriasis severity. However, the specific role of miR-374a-5p in the pathogenesis of psoriasis remain unclear. METHODS qRT-PCR was employed to validate the expression of miR-374a-5p in psoriatic lesions and in a psoriasis-like cell model constructed using a mixture of M5 (IL-17A, IL-22, OSM, IL-1α, and TNF-α). HaCaT cells were transfected with miR-374a-5p mimic/inhibitor, and assays including EdU, CCK-8, and flow cytometry were conducted to evaluate the effect of miR-374a-5p on cell proliferation. The expression of inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α was verified by qRT-PCR. Bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay were performed to detect the downstream target genes and upstream transcription factors of miR-374a-5p, followed by validation of their expression through qRT-PCR and Western blotting. A psoriasis-like mouse model was established using imiquimod cream topical application. The psoriasis area and severity index scoring, hematoxylin-eosin histology staining, and Ki67 immunohistochemistry were employed to validate the effect of miR-374a-5p on the psoriatic inflammation phenotype after intradermal injection of miR-374a-5p agomir/NC. Additionally, the expression of pathway-related molecules and inflammatory factors such as IL-1β, IL-17a, and TNF-α was verified by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Upregulation of miR-374a-5p was observed in psoriatic lesions and the psoriasis-like cell model. In vitro experiments demonstrated that miR-374a-5p not only promoted the proliferation of HaCaT cells but also upregulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. Furthermore, miR-374a-5p promoted skin inflammation and epidermal thickening in the Imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like mouse model. Mechanistic studies revealed that miR-374a-5p led to downregulation of WIF1, thereby activating the Wnt5a/NF-κB signaling pathway. The transcription factor p65 encoded by RELA, as a subunit of NF-κB, further upregulated the expression of miR-374a-5p upon activation. This positive feedback loop promoted keratinocyte proliferation and abnormal inflammation, thereby facilitating the development of psoriasis. CONCLUSION Our findings elucidate the role of miR-374a-5p upregulation in the pathogenesis of psoriasis through inhibition of WIF1 and activation of the Wnt5a/NF-κB pathway, providing new potential therapeutic targets for psoriasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Lu Gan
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongying Chen
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Lihao Chen
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Hu
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Chao Luan
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China.
| | - Kun Chen
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China.
| | - Jiaan Zhang
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Li Y, Sun H, Bai C, Hu Y, Tang J, Zhang Y, Chen J, Zhong Z, He Y, Hu K, Yang J. Dihydroartemisinin inhibits tumor progress via blocking ROR1-induced STAT3-activation in non-small cell lung cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 133:112157. [PMID: 38678671 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112157] [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: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), identifying a component with certain molecular targets can aid research on cancer treatment. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is a semisynthetic derivative of artemisinin which induced the anti-cancer effects via the STAT3 signaling pathway, but the underlying molecular mechanism is still elusive. In this study, we first proved that DHA prohibits the growth of tumors both in vitro and in vivo. Data from transcriptomics showed that DHA reduced the expression level of the genes involved in cell cycle-promoting and anti-apoptosis, and most importantly, DHA restricted the expression level of receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) which has been reported to have abnormal expression on tumor cells and had close interaction with STAT3 signaling. Then, we performed comprehensive experiments and found that DHA remarkably decreased the expression of ROR1 at both mRNA and protein levels and it also diminished the phosphorylation level of STAT3 in NSCLC cell lines. In addition, our data showed that exogenously introduced ROR1 could significantly enhance the phosphorylation of STAT3 while blocking ROR1 had the opposite effects indicating that ROR1 plays a critical role in promoting the activity of STAT3 signaling. Finally, we found that ROR1 overexpression could partially reverse the decreased activity of STAT3 induced by DHA which indicates that DHA-induced anti-growth signaling is conferred, at least in part, through blocking ROR1-mediated STAT3 activation. In summary, our study indicates that in NSCLC, ROR1 could be one of the critical molecular targets mediating DHA-induced STAT3 retardation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| | - Haoyi Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| | - Caihong Bai
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| | - Youfan Hu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| | - Jingyi Tang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| | - Yuxi Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| | - Jilan Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| | - Zhanqiong Zhong
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| | - Yuping He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| | - Kaifeng Hu
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| | - Jiahui Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wohlfarth J, Kosnopfel C, Faber D, Berthold M, Siedel C, Bernhardt M, Schlosser A, Aprati T, Liu D, Schrama D, Houben R, Schadendorf D, Goebeler M, Meierjohann S, Schilling B. Loss of p14 diminishes immunogenicity in melanoma via non-canonical Wnt signaling by reducing the peptide surface density. Mol Oncol 2024. [PMID: 38807304 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13660] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has achieved tremendous success in melanoma. However, only around 50% of advanced melanoma patients benefit from immunotherapy. Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A), encoding the two tumor-suppressor proteins p14ARF and p16INK4a, belongs to the most frequently inactivated gene loci in melanoma and leads to decreased T cell infiltration. While the role of p16INK4a has been extensively investigated, knowledge about p14ARF in melanoma is scarce. In this study, we elucidate the impact of reduced p14ARF expression on melanoma immunogenicity. Knockdown of p14ARF in melanoma cell lines diminished their recognition and killing by melanoma differentiation antigen (MDA)-specific T cells. Resistance was caused by a reduction of the peptide surface density of presented MDAs. Immunopeptidomic analyses revealed that antigen presentation via human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-I) molecules was enhanced upon p14ARF downregulation in general, but absolute and relative expression of cognate peptides was decreased. However, this phenotype is associated with a favorable outcome for melanoma patients. Limiting Wnt5a signaling reverted this phenotype, suggesting an involvement of non-canonical Wnt signaling. Taken together, our data indicate a new mechanism limiting MDA-specific T cell responses by decreasing both absolute and relative MDA-peptide presentation in melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Wohlfarth
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Kosnopfel
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany
| | - Dominic Faber
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marion Berthold
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Siedel
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany
| | - Melissa Bernhardt
- Rudolf-Virchow-Centre for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, University of Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Schlosser
- Rudolf-Virchow-Centre for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, University of Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tyler Aprati
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - David Liu
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - David Schrama
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany
| | - Roland Houben
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany
| | - Dirk Schadendorf
- Department of Dermatology, Comprehensive Cancer Center (Westdeutsches Tumorzentrum), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK, partner site Essen) and University Hospital Essen, Germany
| | - Matthias Goebeler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Bastian Schilling
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yang DR, Wang MY, Zhang CL, Wang Y. Endothelial dysfunction in vascular complications of diabetes: a comprehensive review of mechanisms and implications. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1359255. [PMID: 38645427 PMCID: PMC11026568 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1359255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic vascular complications are prevalent and severe among diabetic patients, profoundly affecting both their quality of life and long-term prospects. These complications can be classified into macrovascular and microvascular complications. Under the impact of risk factors such as elevated blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol lipids, the vascular endothelium undergoes endothelial dysfunction, characterized by increased inflammation and oxidative stress, decreased NO biosynthesis, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, senescence, and even cell death. These processes will ultimately lead to macrovascular and microvascular diseases, with macrovascular diseases mainly characterized by atherosclerosis (AS) and microvascular diseases mainly characterized by thickening of the basement membrane. It further indicates a primary contributor to the elevated morbidity and mortality observed in individuals with diabetes. In this review, we will delve into the intricate mechanisms that drive endothelial dysfunction during diabetes progression and its associated vascular complications. Furthermore, we will outline various pharmacotherapies targeting diabetic endothelial dysfunction in the hope of accelerating effective therapeutic drug discovery for early control of diabetes and its vascular complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Rong Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathophysiology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Meng-Yan Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Cheng-Lin Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lu Y, Liu S, Wang P, Guo X, Qin Z, Hou H, Tao T. A novel microglia-targeting strategy based on nanoparticle-mediated delivery of miR-26a-5p for long-lasting analgesia in chronic pain. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:128. [PMID: 38519978 PMCID: PMC10960380 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02420-9] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence supports the notion that microglia play versatile roles in different chronic pain conditions. However, therapeutic strategies of chronic pain by targeting microglia remain largely overlooked. This study seeks to develop a miRNA-loaded nano-delivery system by targeting microglia, which could provide a decent and long-lasting analgesia for chronic pain. Surface aminated mesoporous silica nanoparticles were adopted to load miR-26a-5p, a potent analgesic miRNA, by electrostatic adsorption, which can avoid miR-26a-5p is rapidly released and degraded. Then, targeting peptide MG1 was modified on the surface of aminated mesoporous silica particles for microglia targeting. In peripheral nerve injury induced neuropathic pain model, a satisfactory anti-allodynia effect with about 6 weeks pain-relief duration were achieved through targeting microglia strategy, which decreased microglia activation and inflammation by Wnt5a, a non-canonical Wnt pathway. In inflammatory pain and chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathic pain, microglia targeting strategy also exhibited more efficient analgesia and longer pain-relief duration than others. Overall, we developed a microglia-targeting nano-delivery system, which facilitates precisely miR-26a-5p delivery to enhance analgesic effect and duration for several chronic pain conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yitian Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, National Health Commission and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangna Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zaisheng Qin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Honghao Hou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tao Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gajos-Michniewicz A, Czyz M. WNT/β-catenin signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma: The aberrant activation, pathogenic roles, and therapeutic opportunities. Genes Dis 2024; 11:727-746. [PMID: 37692481 PMCID: PMC10491942 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.02.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a liver cancer, highly heterogeneous both at the histopathological and molecular levels. It arises from hepatocytes as the result of the accumulation of numerous genomic alterations in various signaling pathways, including canonical WNT/β-catenin, AKT/mTOR, MAPK pathways as well as signaling associated with telomere maintenance, p53/cell cycle regulation, epigenetic modifiers, and oxidative stress. The role of WNT/β-catenin signaling in liver homeostasis and regeneration is well established, whereas in development and progression of HCC is extensively studied. Herein, we review recent advances in our understanding of how WNT/β-catenin signaling facilitates the HCC development, acquisition of stemness features, metastasis, and resistance to treatment. We outline genetic and epigenetic alterations that lead to activated WNT/β-catenin signaling in HCC. We discuss the pivotal roles of CTNNB1 mutations, aberrantly expressed non-coding RNAs and complexity of crosstalk between WNT/β-catenin signaling and other signaling pathways as challenging or advantageous aspects of therapy development and molecular stratification of HCC patients for treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gajos-Michniewicz
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz 92-215, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Czyz
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz 92-215, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Peri SS, Narayanaa Y K, Hubert TD, Rajaraman R, Arfuso F, Sundaram S, Archana B, Warrier S, Dharmarajan A, Perumalsamy LR. Navigating Tumour Microenvironment and Wnt Signalling Crosstalk: Implications for Advanced Cancer Therapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5847. [PMID: 38136392 PMCID: PMC10741643 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245847] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapeutics face significant challenges due to drug resistance and tumour recurrence. The tumour microenvironment (TME) is a crucial contributor and essential hallmark of cancer. It encompasses various components surrounding the tumour, including intercellular elements, immune system cells, the vascular system, stem cells, and extracellular matrices, all of which play critical roles in tumour progression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastasis, drug resistance, and relapse. These components interact with multiple signalling pathways, positively or negatively influencing cell growth. Abnormal regulation of the Wnt signalling pathway has been observed in tumorigenesis and contributes to tumour growth. A comprehensive understanding and characterisation of how different cells within the TME communicate through signalling pathways is vital. This review aims to explore the intricate and dynamic interactions, expressions, and alterations of TME components and the Wnt signalling pathway, offering valuable insights into the development of therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shraddha Shravani Peri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Krithicaa Narayanaa Y
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Therese Deebiga Hubert
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Roshini Rajaraman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Frank Arfuso
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia;
| | - Sandhya Sundaram
- Department of Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.); (B.A.)
| | - B. Archana
- Department of Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.); (B.A.)
| | - Sudha Warrier
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India;
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia;
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Lakshmi R. Perumalsamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tabrizian N, Nouruzi S, Cui CJ, Kobelev M, Namekawa T, Lodhia I, Talal A, Sivak O, Ganguli D, Zoubeidi A. ASCL1 is activated downstream of the ROR2/CREB signaling pathway to support lineage plasticity in prostate cancer. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112937. [PMID: 37552603 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112937] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Lineage plasticity is a form of therapy-induced drug resistance. In prostate cancer, androgen receptor (AR) pathway inhibitors potentially lead to the accretion of tumor relapse with loss of AR signaling and a shift from a luminal state to an alternate program. However, the molecular and signaling mechanisms orchestrating the development of lineage plasticity under the pressure of AR-targeted therapies are not fully understood. Here, a survey of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) identifies ROR2 as the top upregulated RTK following AR pathway inhibition, which feeds into lineage plasticity by promoting stem-cell-like and neuronal networks. Mechanistically, ROR2 activates the ERK/CREB signaling pathway to modulate the expression of the lineage commitment transcription factor ASCL1. Collectively, our findings nominate ROR2 as a potential therapeutic target to reverse the ENZ-induced plastic phenotype and potentially re-sensitize tumors to AR pathway inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nakisa Tabrizian
- Department of Urologic Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Shaghayegh Nouruzi
- Department of Urologic Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Cassandra Jingjing Cui
- Department of Urologic Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Maxim Kobelev
- Department of Urologic Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Takeshi Namekawa
- Department of Urologic Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Ishana Lodhia
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Amina Talal
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Olena Sivak
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | | | - Amina Zoubeidi
- Department of Urologic Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada; Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Heabah NAEG, Darwish SA, Eid AM. Evaluation of the prognostic significance of receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) in lung carcinoma and its relation to lymphangiogenesis and epithelial mesenchymal transition. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 248:154703. [PMID: 37481855 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Exploring the carcinogenic mechanisms of lung carcinoma helps to discover novel prognostic biomarkers and develop new therapeutic options to improve patient's survival. Receptor Tyrosine Kinase-Like Orphan Receptor 1 (ROR1), a transmembrane protein, contributes to cancer progression and metastasis; via stimulation of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and promotion of angiogenesis. This makes ROR1 an important target for tumor therapy. This study aimed to evaluate expression of ROR1, E-cadherin (a marker of EMT), and D2-40 (a marker of lymphangiogenesis) in lung carcinoma and associate their expressions with the available clinicopathological parameters and patients' survival. Immunohistochemical staining using ROR1, E-cadherin, and D2-40 was performed for 78 cases of lung carcinoma. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox-regression analysis were done. High ROR1 expression was detected in 46.2% of cases. Significant relations were found between high ROR1 expression and larger tumor size (P < 0.001), poorly differentiated tumors (P = 0.001), advanced tumor stages (P < 0.001), positive lymph nodal status (P < 0.001), decreased E-cadherin expression (P < 0.001), and high lymphovascular density (LVD) (P < 0.001). Patients' progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were shorter with high ROR1 expression. High ROR1 expression, high LVD, large tumor size, and adenocarcinoma histopathological type were independent risk factors for OS in lung carcinoma patients. High ROR1 expression is associated with poor prognostic parameters in lung carcinoma patients including higher grade, advanced stages, high LVD, epithelial mesenchymal transition, as well as decreased PFS and OS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara A Darwish
- Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Egypt
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
López-Ayllón BD, de Lucas-Rius A, Mendoza-García L, García-García T, Fernández-Rodríguez R, Suárez-Cárdenas JM, Santos FM, Corrales F, Redondo N, Pedrucci F, Zaldívar-López S, Jiménez-Marín Á, Garrido JJ, Montoya M. SARS-CoV-2 accessory proteins involvement in inflammatory and profibrotic processes through IL11 signaling. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1220306. [PMID: 37545510 PMCID: PMC10399023 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1220306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the cause of the COVID-19 pandemic, possesses eleven accessory proteins encoded in its genome. Their roles during infection are still not completely understood. In this study, transcriptomics analysis revealed that both WNT5A and IL11 were significantly up-regulated in A549 cells expressing individual accessory proteins ORF6, ORF8, ORF9b or ORF9c from SARS-CoV-2 (Wuhan-Hu-1 isolate). IL11 is a member of the IL6 family of cytokines. IL11 signaling-related genes were also differentially expressed. Bioinformatics analysis disclosed that both WNT5A and IL11 were involved in pulmonary fibrosis idiopathic disease and functional assays confirmed their association with profibrotic cell responses. Subsequently, data comparison with lung cell lines infected with SARS-CoV-2 or lung biopsies from patients with COVID-19, evidenced altered profibrotic gene expression that matched those obtained in this study. Our results show ORF6, ORF8, ORF9b and ORF9c involvement in inflammatory and profibrotic responses. Thus, these accessory proteins could be targeted by new therapies against COVID-19 disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Blanca D. López-Ayllón
- Molecular Biomedicine Department, Margarita Salas Center for Biological Research (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana de Lucas-Rius
- Molecular Biomedicine Department, Margarita Salas Center for Biological Research (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Mendoza-García
- Molecular Biomedicine Department, Margarita Salas Center for Biological Research (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Tránsito García-García
- Department of Genetics, Immunogenomics and Molecular Pathogenesis Group, UIC Zoonoses and Emergent Diseases ENZOEM, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Maimónides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), GA-14 Research Group, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Raúl Fernández-Rodríguez
- Department of Genetics, Immunogenomics and Molecular Pathogenesis Group, UIC Zoonoses and Emergent Diseases ENZOEM, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Maimónides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), GA-14 Research Group, Córdoba, Spain
| | - José M. Suárez-Cárdenas
- Department of Genetics, Immunogenomics and Molecular Pathogenesis Group, UIC Zoonoses and Emergent Diseases ENZOEM, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Maimónides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), GA-14 Research Group, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Fátima Milhano Santos
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, National Centre for Biotechnology (CNB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Corrales
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, National Centre for Biotechnology (CNB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Natalia Redondo
- Molecular Biomedicine Department, Margarita Salas Center for Biological Research (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital ‘12 de Octubre’, Institute for Health Research Hospital ‘12 de Octubre’ (imas12), Madrid, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research Network on Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Federica Pedrucci
- Molecular Biomedicine Department, Margarita Salas Center for Biological Research (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Zaldívar-López
- Department of Genetics, Immunogenomics and Molecular Pathogenesis Group, UIC Zoonoses and Emergent Diseases ENZOEM, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Maimónides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), GA-14 Research Group, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ángeles Jiménez-Marín
- Department of Genetics, Immunogenomics and Molecular Pathogenesis Group, UIC Zoonoses and Emergent Diseases ENZOEM, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Maimónides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), GA-14 Research Group, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan J. Garrido
- Department of Genetics, Immunogenomics and Molecular Pathogenesis Group, UIC Zoonoses and Emergent Diseases ENZOEM, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Maimónides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), GA-14 Research Group, Córdoba, Spain
| | - María Montoya
- Molecular Biomedicine Department, Margarita Salas Center for Biological Research (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Tufail M, Wu C. WNT5A: a double-edged sword in colorectal cancer progression. MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2023; 792:108465. [PMID: 37495091 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2023.108465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway is known to play a crucial role in cancer, and WNT5A is a member of this pathway that binds to the Frizzled (FZD) and Receptor Tyrosine Kinase-Like Orphan Receptor (ROR) family members to activate non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways. The WNT5A pathway is involved in various cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, migration, adhesion, and polarization. In the case of colorectal cancer (CRC), abnormal activation or inhibition of WNT5A signaling can lead to both oncogenic and antitumor effects. Moreover, WNT5A is associated with inflammation, metastasis, and altered metabolism in cancer cells. This article aims to discuss the molecular mechanisms and dual roles of WNT5A in CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Tufail
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China.
| | - Changxin Wu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Meyer-Arndt L, Kerkering J, Kuehl T, Infante AG, Paul F, Rosiewicz KS, Siffrin V, Alisch M. Inflammatory Cytokines Associated with Multiple Sclerosis Directly Induce Alterations of Neuronal Cytoarchitecture in Human Neurons. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2023; 18:145-159. [PMID: 36862362 PMCID: PMC10485132 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-023-10059-w] [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: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) coined by inflammation and neurodegeneration. The actual cause of the neurodegenerative component of the disease is however unclear. We investigated here the direct and differential effects of inflammatory mediators on human neurons. We used embryonic stem cell-derived (H9) human neuronal stem cells (hNSC) to generate neuronal cultures. Neurons were subsequently treated with tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interferon gamma (IFNγ), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin 17A (IL-17A) and interleukin 10 (IL-10) separately or in combination. Immunofluorescence staining and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were used to assess cytokine receptor expression, cell integrity and transcriptomic changes upon treatment. H9-hNSC-derived neurons expressed cytokine receptors for IFNγ, TNFα, IL-10 and IL-17A. Neuronal exposure to these cytokines resulted in differential effects on neurite integrity parameters with a clear decrease for TNFα- and GM-CSF-treated neurons. The combinatorial treatment with IL-17A/IFNγ or IL-17A/TNFα induced a more pronounced effect on neurite integrity. Furthermore, combinatorial treatments with two cytokines induced several key signalling pathways, i.e. NFκB-, hedgehog and oxidative stress signalling, stronger than any of the cytokines alone. This work supports the idea of immune-neuronal crosstalk and the need to focus on the potential role of inflammatory cytokines on neuronal cytoarchitecture and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lil Meyer-Arndt
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin und Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Lindenberger Weg 80, 13125, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humbolt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humbolt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Janis Kerkering
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin und Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Lindenberger Weg 80, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tess Kuehl
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin und Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Lindenberger Weg 80, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ana Gil Infante
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin und Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Lindenberger Weg 80, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin und Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Lindenberger Weg 80, 13125, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humbolt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kamil Sebastian Rosiewicz
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin und Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Lindenberger Weg 80, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Volker Siffrin
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin und Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Lindenberger Weg 80, 13125, Berlin, Germany.
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humbolt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Marlen Alisch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin und Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Lindenberger Weg 80, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Quezada MJ, Lopez-Bergami P. The signaling pathways activated by ROR1 in cancer. Cell Signal 2023; 104:110588. [PMID: 36621728 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is a receptor for WNT5A and related Wnt proteins, that play an important role during embryonic development by regulating cell migration, cell polarity, neural patterning, and organogenesis. ROR1 exerts these functions by transducing signals from the Wnt secreted glycoproteins to the intracellular Wnt/PCP and Wnt/Ca++ pathways. Investigations in adult human cells, particularly cancer cells, have demonstrated that besides these two pathways, the WNT5A/ROR1 axis can activate a number of signaling pathways, including the PI3K/AKT, MAPK, NF-κB, STAT3, and Hippo pathways. Moreover, ROR1 is aberrantly expressed in cancer and was associated with tumor progression and poor survival by promoting cell proliferation, survival, invasion, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and metastasis. Consequently, numerous therapeutic tools to target ROR1 are currently being evaluated in cancer patients. In this review, we will provide a detailed description of the signaling pathways regulated by ROR1 in cancer and their impact in tumor progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Josefina Quezada
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Buenos Aires 1405, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires 1425, Argentina
| | - Pablo Lopez-Bergami
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Buenos Aires 1405, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires 1425, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
L-Theanine alleviates MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease by targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling mediated by the MAPK signaling pathway. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 226:90-101. [PMID: 36502788 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We evaluated the neuroprotective effect of L-theanine in Parkinson's disease and the underlying mechanism focusing on WNT/β-catenin signaling mediated by the MAPK pathway. We treated MPTP-induced SH-SY5Y cells with various concentrations of L-theanine (50, 100, 200, and 500 μg/mL), and we also treated Parkinson's model mice with L-theanine. L-theanine treatment effectively reduced the immunohistochemical hallmarks of Parkinson's disease, particularly Lewy bodies and α-synuclein, and increased the number of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive cells. L-theanine also improved the motor dysfunction in MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease model mice as measured by the rotarod test. The levels of several pro-inflammatory mediators that are overexpressed in Parkinson's disease, namely TNF-α, IL-6, COX-2, and MAC-1, were reduced following L-theanine treatment, and the levels of the pro-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2, caspase-3, p53, and PARP-1 were significantly reduced. L-theanine regulated the oxidative stress-related factors SOD-1, GST, and NOX-4 by targeting several proteins related to WNT/β-catenin signaling, i.e., β-catenin, WNT-3a, WNT-5a, TCF1/TCF7, and LEF1, via the MAPK pathway (p-JNK, p-ERK, and p-p38). Our results indicate that L-theanine is neuroprotective and has anti-inflammatory effects that could be beneficial for treating Parkinson's disease.
Collapse
|
17
|
D’Arca D, Severi L, Ferrari S, Dozza L, Marverti G, Magni F, Chinello C, Pagani L, Tagliazucchi L, Villani M, d’Addese G, Piga I, Conteduca V, Rossi L, Gurioli G, De Giorgi U, Losi L, Costi MP. Serum Mass Spectrometry Proteomics and Protein Set Identification in Response to FOLFOX-4 in Drug-Resistant Ovarian Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020412. [PMID: 36672361 PMCID: PMC9856519 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is a highly lethal gynecological malignancy. Drug resistance rapidly occurs, and different therapeutic approaches are needed. So far, no biomarkers have been discovered to predict early response to therapies in the case of multi-treated ovarian cancer patients. The aim of our investigation was to identify a protein panel and the molecular pathways involved in chemotherapy response through a combination of studying proteomics and network enrichment analysis by considering a subset of samples from a clinical setting. Differential mass spectrometry studies were performed on 14 serum samples from patients with heavily pretreated platinum-resistant ovarian cancer who received the FOLFOX-4 regimen as a salvage therapy. The serum was analyzed at baseline time (T0) before FOLFOX-4 treatment, and before the second cycle of treatment (T1), with the aim of understanding if it was possible, after a first treatment cycle, to detect significant proteome changes that could be associated with patients responses to therapy. A total of 291 shared expressed proteins was identified and 12 proteins were finally selected between patients who attained partial response or no-response to chemotherapy when both response to therapy and time dependence (T0, T1) were considered in the statistical analysis. The protein panel included APOL1, GSN, GFI1, LCATL, MNA, LYVE1, ROR1, SHBG, SOD3, TEC, VPS18, and ZNF573. Using a bioinformatics network enrichment approach and metanalysis study, relationships between serum and cellular proteins were identified. An analysis of protein networks was conducted and identified at least three biological processes with functional and therapeutic significance in ovarian cancer, including lipoproteins metabolic process, structural component modulation in relation to cellular apoptosis and autophagy, and cellular oxidative stress response. Five proteins were almost independent from the network (LYVE1, ROR1, TEC, GFI1, and ZNF573). All proteins were associated with response to drug-resistant ovarian cancer resistant and were mechanistically connected to the pathways associated with cancer arrest. These results can be the basis for extending a biomarker discovery process to a clinical trial, as an early predictive tool of chemo-response to FOLFOX-4 of heavily treated ovarian cancer patients and for supporting the oncologist to continue or to interrupt the therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico D’Arca
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Leda Severi
- Department Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Ferrari
- Department Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Luca Dozza
- Seràgnoli Institute of Hematology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Bologna University School of Medicine, S. Orsola Malpighi Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Gaetano Marverti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Fulvio Magni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Clinical Proteomics and Metabolomics Unit, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Vedano al Lambro, Italy
| | - Clizia Chinello
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Clinical Proteomics and Metabolomics Unit, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Vedano al Lambro, Italy
| | - Lisa Pagani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Clinical Proteomics and Metabolomics Unit, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Vedano al Lambro, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Tagliazucchi
- Department Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM) Doctorate School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Villani
- Department of Physics, Informatics and Mathematics, Modena and Reggio Emilia University, Via Campi 213/A, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Gianluca d’Addese
- Department of Physics, Informatics and Mathematics, Modena and Reggio Emilia University, Via Campi 213/A, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Isabella Piga
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Clinical Proteomics and Metabolomics Unit, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Vedano al Lambro, Italy
| | - Vincenza Conteduca
- IRCCS Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST), 47014 Meldola, Italy
| | - Lorena Rossi
- IRCCS Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST), 47014 Meldola, Italy
| | - Giorgia Gurioli
- IRCCS Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST), 47014 Meldola, Italy
| | - Ugo De Giorgi
- IRCCS Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST), 47014 Meldola, Italy
| | - Lorena Losi
- Department Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.L.); (M.P.C.)
| | - Maria Paola Costi
- Department Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.L.); (M.P.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Tigue ML, Loberg MA, Goettel JA, Weiss WA, Lee E, Weiss VL. Wnt Signaling in the Phenotype and Function of Tumor-Associated Macrophages. Cancer Res 2023; 83:3-11. [PMID: 36214645 PMCID: PMC9812914 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-1403] [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: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) play an important role in supporting tumor growth and suppressing antitumor immune responses, and TAM infiltration has been associated with poor patient prognosis in various cancers. TAMs can be classified as pro-inflammatory, M1-like, or anti-inflammatory, M2-like. While multiple factors within the tumor microenvironment affect the recruitment, polarization, and functions of TAMs, accumulating evidence suggests that Wnt signaling represents an important, targetable driver of an immunosuppressive, M2-like TAM phenotype. TAM production of Wnt ligands mediates TAM-tumor cross-talk to support cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Targeting TAM polarization and the protumorigenic functions of TAMs through inhibitors of Wnt signaling may prove a beneficial treatment strategy in cancers where macrophages are prevalent in the microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan L Tigue
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Matthew A Loberg
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jeremy A Goettel
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.,Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - William A Weiss
- Departments of Neurology, Pediatrics, Neurosurgery, Brain Tumor Research Center, and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Ethan Lee
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Vivian L Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
van Santen VJB, Zandieh Doulabi B, Semeins CM, Hogervorst JMA, Bratengeier C, Bakker AD. Compressed Prostate Cancer Cells Decrease Osteoclast Activity While Enhancing Osteoblast Activity In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010759. [PMID: 36614201 PMCID: PMC9821660 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Once prostate cancer cells metastasize to bone, they perceive approximately 2 kPa compression. We hypothesize that 2 kPa compression stimulates the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of prostate cancer cells and alters their production of paracrine signals to affect osteoclast and osteoblast behavior. Human DU145 prostate cancer cells were subjected to 2 kPa compression for 2 days. Compression decreased expression of 2 epithelial genes, 5 out of 13 mesenchymal genes, and increased 2 mesenchymal genes by DU145 cells, as quantified by qPCR. Conditioned medium (CM) of DU145 cells was added to human monocytes that were stimulated to differentiate into osteoclasts for 21 days. CM from compressed DU145 cells decreased osteoclast resorptive activity by 38% but did not affect osteoclast size and number compared to CM from non-compressed cells. CM was also added to human adipose stromal cells, grown in osteogenic medium. CM of compressed DU145 cells increased bone nodule production (Alizarin Red) by osteoblasts from four out of six donors. Compression did not affect IL6 or TNF-α production by PC DU145 cells. Our data suggest that compression affects EMT-related gene expression in DU145 cells, and alters their production of paracrine signals to decrease osteoclast resorptive activity while increasing mineralization by osteoblasts is donor dependent. This observation gives further insight in the altered behavior of PC cells upon mechanical stimuli, which could provide novel leads for therapies, preventing bone metastases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor J. B. van Santen
- Department of Oral Cell Biology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, 1081 LA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Behrouz Zandieh Doulabi
- Department of Oral Cell Biology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, 1081 LA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis M. Semeins
- Department of Oral Cell Biology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, 1081 LA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jolanda M. A. Hogervorst
- Department of Oral Cell Biology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, 1081 LA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelia Bratengeier
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Astrid D. Bakker
- Department of Oral Cell Biology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, 1081 LA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-(0)20-5980224
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ma Z, Li X, Mao Y, Wei C, Huang Z, Li G, Yin J, Liang X, Liu Z. Interferon-dependent SLC14A1 + cancer-associated fibroblasts promote cancer stemness via WNT5A in bladder cancer. Cancer Cell 2022; 40:1550-1565.e7. [PMID: 36459995 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a role in response to cancer treatment and patient prognosis. CAFs show phenotypic and functional heterogeneity and differ widely in tumors of different tissue origin. Here, we use single-cell RNA sequencing of bladder cancer (BC) patient samples and report a CAF subpopulation characterized by overexpression of the urea transporter SLC14A1. This population is induced by interferon signaling and confers stemness to BC cells via the WNT5A paracrine pathway. Activation of cGAS-STING signaling in tumor cells drives interferon production, thereby revealing a link between cGAS-STING signaling and SLC14A1+ CAF differentiation. Furthermore, the inhibition of SLC14A1+ CAF formation via targeting of STAT1 or STING sensitizes tumor cells to chemotherapy. More important, BC patients with high proportions of intratumoral SLC14A1+ CAFs show cancer stage-independent poor outcome and a worse response rate to neoadjuvant chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zikun Ma
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China; Department of Urology, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xiangdong Li
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China; Department of Urology, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yize Mao
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China; Department of Pancreatobiliary Surgery, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Chen Wei
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhuoli Huang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China; College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guibo Li
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Single-Cell Omics, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518120, China
| | | | - Xiaoyu Liang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou 510060, China.
| | - Zhuowei Liu
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China; Department of Urology, Guangzhou 510060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Cui M, Liu Y, Cheng L, Li T, Deng Y, Liu D. Research progress on anti-ovarian cancer mechanism of miRNA regulating tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1050917. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1050917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most deadly malignancy among women, but its complex pathogenesis is unknown. Most patients with ovarian cancer have a poor prognosis due to high recurrence rates and chemotherapy resistance as well as the lack of effective early diagnostic methods. The tumor microenvironment mainly includes extracellular matrix, CAFs, tumor angiogenesis and immune-associated cells. The interaction between tumor cells and TME plays a key role in tumorigenesis, progression, metastasis and treatment, affecting tumor progression. Therefore, it is significant to find new tumor biomarkers and therapeutic targets. MicroRNAs are non-coding RNAs that post-transcriptionally regulate the expression of target genes and affect a variety of biological processes. Studies have shown that miRNAs regulate tumor development by affecting TME. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms by which miRNAs affect ovarian cancer by regulating TME and highlight the key role of miRNAs in TME, which provides new targets and theoretical basis for ovarian cancer treatment.
Collapse
|
22
|
Kudo-Saito C, Boku N, Hirano H, Shoji H. Targeting myeloid villains in the treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors in gastrointestinal cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1009701. [PMID: 36211375 PMCID: PMC9539086 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1009701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the clinical outcomes being extremely limited, blocking immune inhibitory checkpoint pathways has been in the spotlight as a promising strategy for treating gastrointestinal cancer. However, a distinct strategy for the successful treatment is obviously needed in the clinical settings. Myeloid cells, such as neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, and mast cells, are the majority of cellular components in the human immune system, but have received relatively less attention for the practical implementation than T cells and NK cells in cancer therapy because of concentration of the interest in development of the immune checkpoint blocking antibody inhibitors (ICIs). Abnormality of myeloid cells must impact on the entire host, including immune responses, stromagenesis, and cancer cells, leading to refractory cancer. This implies that elimination and reprogramming of the tumor-supportive myeloid villains may be a breakthrough to efficiently induce potent anti-tumor immunity in cancer patients. In this review, we provide an overview of current situation of the IC-blocking therapy of gastrointestinal cancer, including gastric, colorectal, and esophageal cancers. Also, we highlight the possible oncoimmunological components involved in the mechanisms underlying the resistance to the ICI therapy, particularly focusing on myeloid cells, including unique subsets expressing IC molecules. A deeper understanding of the molecular and cellular determinants may facilitate its practical implementation of targeting myeloid villains, and improve the clinical outcomes in the ICI therapy of gastrointestinal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chie Kudo-Saito
- Department of Immune Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Chie Kudo-Saito,
| | - Narikazu Boku
- Department of Oncology and General Medicine, Institute of Medical Science Hospital, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidekazu Hirano
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Shoji
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Katoh M, Katoh M. WNT signaling and cancer stemness. Essays Biochem 2022; 66:319-331. [PMID: 35837811 PMCID: PMC9484141 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stemness, defined as the self-renewal and tumor-initiation potential of cancer stem cells (CSCs), is a cancer biology property featuring activation of CSC signaling networks. Canonical WNT signaling through Frizzled and LRP5/6 receptors is transmitted to the β-catenin-TCF/LEF-dependent transcription machinery to up-regulate MYC, CCND1, LGR5, SNAI1, IFNG, CCL28, CD274 (PD-L1) and other target genes. Canonical WNT signaling causes expansion of rapidly cycling CSCs and modulates both immune surveillance and immune tolerance. In contrast, noncanonical WNT signaling through Frizzled or the ROR1/2 receptors is transmitted to phospholipase C, Rac1 and RhoA to control transcriptional outputs mediated by NFAT, AP-1 and YAP-TEAD, respectively. Noncanonical WNT signaling supports maintenance of slowly cycling, quiescent or dormant CSCs and promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition via crosstalk with TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β) signaling cascades, while the TGFβ signaling network induces immune evasion. The WNT signaling network orchestrates the functions of cancer-associated fibroblasts, endothelial cells and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment and fine-tunes stemness in human cancers, such as breast, colorectal, gastric and lung cancers. Here, WNT-related cancer stemness features, including proliferation/dormancy plasticity, epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity and immune-landscape plasticity, will be discussed. Porcupine inhibitors, β-catenin protein-protein interaction inhibitors, β-catenin proteolysis targeting chimeras, ROR1 inhibitors and ROR1-targeted biologics are investigational drugs targeting WNT signaling cascades. Mechanisms of cancer plasticity regulated by the WNT signaling network are promising targets for therapeutic intervention; however, further understanding of context-dependent reprogramming trajectories might be necessary to optimize the clinical benefits of WNT-targeted monotherapy and applied combination therapy for patients with cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Masaru Katoh
- M & M Precision Medicine
- Department of Omics Network, National Cancer Center, Japan
- Department of Clinical Genomics, National Cancer Center, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
WNT5A in tumor development and progression: A comprehensive review. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113599. [PMID: 36089446 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The investigation of tumor microenvironment (TME) is essential to better characterize the complex cellular crosstalk and to identify important immunological phenotypes and biomarkers. The niche is a crucial contributor to neoplasm initiation, maintenance and progression. Therefore, a deeper analysis of tumor surroundings could improve cancer diagnosis, prognosis and assertive treatment. Thus, the WNT family exerts a critical action in tumorigenesis of different types of neoplasms due to dysregulations in the TME. WNT5A, an evolutionary WNT member, is involved in several cellular and physiopathological processes, in addition to tissue homeostasis. The WNT5A protein exerts paradoxical effects while acting as both an oncogene or tumor suppressor by regulating several non-canonical signaling pathways, and consequently interfering in cell growth, cytoskeletal remodeling, migration and invasiveness. This review focuses on a thorough characterization of the role of WNT5A in neoplastic transformation and progression, which may help to understand the prognostic potentiality of WNT5A and its features as a therapeutic target in several cancers. Additionally, we herein summarized novel findings on the mechanisms by which WNT5A might favor tumorigenesis or suppression of cancer progression and discussed the recently developed treatment strategies using WNT5A as a protagonist.
Collapse
|
25
|
Barbero G, Castro MV, Quezada MJ, Lopez-Bergami P. Bioinformatic analysis identifies epidermal development genes that contribute to melanoma progression. Med Oncol 2022; 39:141. [PMID: 35834068 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-022-01734-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Several diagnostic and prognostic markers for melanoma have been identified in last few years. However, their actual contribution to melanoma progression have not been investigated in detail. This study was aimed to identify genes, biological processes, and signaling pathways implicated in melanoma progression by applying bioinformatics analysis. We identified nine differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (IL36RN, KRT6A, KRT6B, KRT16, S100A7, SPRR1A, SPRR1B, SPRR2B, and KLK7) that were upregulated in primary melanoma compared with metastatic melanoma in all five datasets analyzed. All these genes except IL36RN, both form a protein-protein interaction network and have cellular functions associated with constitutive processes of keratinocytes. Thus, they were generically termed Epidermal Development and Cornification (EDC) genes. The differential expression of these genes in primary and metastatic melanoma was confirmed in the TCGA-SKCM cohort. High expression of the EDC genes correlated with reduced tumor thickness in primary melanoma and shorter survival in metastatic melanoma. Analysis of DEGs from primary melanoma patients displaying high or low expression of all eight EDC revealed that the upregulated genes are enriched in biological process related to cell migration, extracellular matrix organization, invasion, and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. Further analysis of enriched curated oncogenic genesets together with RPPA data of phosphorylated proteins revealed the activation of MEK, ATF2, and EGFR pathways in tumors displaying high expression of EDC genes. Thus, EDC genes may contribute to melanoma progression by promoting the activation of MEK, ATF2, and EGFR pathways together with biological processes associated with tumor aggressiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gastón Barbero
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Buenos Aires, Argentina and Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Castro
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Buenos Aires, Argentina and Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Josefina Quezada
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Buenos Aires, Argentina and Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo Lopez-Bergami
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico (CEBBAD), Buenos Aires, Argentina and Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Pouliquen DL, Boissard A, Henry C, Coqueret O, Guette C. Curcuminoids as Modulators of EMT in Invasive Cancers: A Review of Molecular Targets With the Contribution of Malignant Mesothelioma Studies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:934534. [PMID: 35873564 PMCID: PMC9304619 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.934534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Curcuminoids, which include natural acyclic diarylheptanoids and the synthetic analogs of curcumin, have considerable potential for fighting against all the characteristics of invasive cancers. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a fundamental process for embryonic morphogenesis, however, the last decade has confirmed it orchestrates many features of cancer invasiveness, such as tumor cell stemness, metabolic rewiring, and drug resistance. A wealth of studies has revealed EMT in cancer is in fact driven by an increasing number of parameters, and thus understanding its complexity has now become a cornerstone for defining future therapeutic strategies dealing with cancer progression and metastasis. A specificity of curcuminoids is their ability to target multiple molecular targets, modulate several signaling pathways, modify tumor microenvironments and enhance the host’s immune response. Although the effects of curcumin on these various parameters have been the subject of many reviews, the role of curcuminoids against EMT in the context of cancer have never been reviewed so far. This review first provides an updated overview of all EMT drivers, including signaling pathways, transcription factors, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and tumor microenvironment components, with a special focus on the most recent findings. Secondly, for each of these drivers the effects of curcumin/curcuminoids on specific molecular targets are analyzed. Finally, we address some common findings observed between data reported in the literature and the results of investigations we conducted on experimental malignant mesothelioma, a model of invasive cancer representing a useful tool for studies on EMT and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel L. Pouliquen
- Inserm, CNRS, Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, Université d’Angers, Angers, France
- *Correspondence: Daniel L. Pouliquen,
| | - Alice Boissard
- ICO, Inserm, CNRS, Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, Université d’Angers, Angers, France
| | - Cécile Henry
- ICO, Inserm, CNRS, Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, Université d’Angers, Angers, France
| | - Olivier Coqueret
- Inserm, CNRS, Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, Université d’Angers, Angers, France
| | - Catherine Guette
- ICO, Inserm, CNRS, Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, Université d’Angers, Angers, France
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Sun J, Wang Z, Liu P, Hu Y, Li T, Yang J, Gao P, Xu Q. Exosomes Derived From Human Gingival Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuate the Inflammatory Response in Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells. Front Chem 2022; 10:863364. [PMID: 35464198 PMCID: PMC9019468 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.863364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the effects of exosomes derived from human gingival mesenchymal stem cells (GMSC-Exo) on the inflammatory response of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) in an inflammatory microenvironment in order to restore the regenerative potential of PDLSCs, which promotes periodontal tissue regeneration in patients with periodontitis. Periodontitis is a chronic infectious disease characterized by periodontal tissue inflammation and alveolar bone destruction. PDLSCs are regarded as promising seed cells for restoring periodontal tissue defects because of their ability to regenerate cementum/PDL-like tissue and alveolar bone. However, PDLSCs in the inflammatory environment show significantly attenuated regenerative potential. GMSC-Exo have been reported to have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. In this study, we investigated the effects of GMSC-Exo on the inflammatory response of PDLSCs induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS). LPS was used to simulate the inflammatory microenvironment of periodontitis in vitro. GMSC-Exo were extracted from the culture supernatant of GMSCs by ultracentrifugation. We found that GMSC-Exo attenuated the inflammatory response of PDLSCs induced by LPS. Furthermore, compared to treatment with LPS, treatment with GMSC-Exo attenuated the expression of NF-κB signaling and Wnt5a in LPS-induced PDLSCs. In conclusion, we confirmed that GMSC-Exo could suppress the inflammatory response of PDLSCs by regulating the expression of NF-κB signaling and Wnt5a, which paves the way for the establishment of a therapeutic approach for periodontitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiayao Sun
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- School of Stomatology of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhiguo Wang
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Quanchen Xu, ; Zhiguo Wang,
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Surgery, Qingdao West Coast New Area People’s Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Yingzhe Hu
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- School of Stomatology of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jianbo Yang
- Department of Stomatology, Weihai Stomatological Hospital, Weihai, China
| | - Pengyu Gao
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- School of Stomatology of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Quanchen Xu
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Quanchen Xu, ; Zhiguo Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Feng Y, Wang Y, Guo K, Feng J, Shao C, Pan M, Ding P, Liu H, Duan H, Lu D, Wang Z, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Han J, Li X, Yan X. The value of WNT5A as prognostic and immunological biomarker in pan-cancer. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 10:466. [PMID: 35571400 PMCID: PMC9096401 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-1317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Finding new immune-related biomarkers is one of the promising research directions for tumor immunotherapy. The WNT5A gene could stimulate the WNT pathway and regulate the progression of various tumors. Recent studies have partially revealed the relationship between WNT5A and tumor immunity, but the correlation and underlying mechanisms in pan-cancer remain obscure. Thus, we conducted this study aiming to characterize the prognostic value and immunological portrait of WNT5A in cancer. Methods The data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx), and Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) databases was utilized to analyze WNT5A expression levels by Kruskal-Wallis test and correlation to prognosis by Cox regression test and Kaplan-Meier test, while the data was also used to study the association between WNT5A expression and immune microenvironment, immune neoantigens, immune checkpoints, tumor mutational burden (TMB), and microsatellite instability (MSI) in pan-cancer. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was used to clarify the relevant signaling pathways. The R package was used for data analysis and to create the plots. Results The pan-cancer analysis revealed that the expression level of WNT5A is generally elevated in most tumors (19/34, 55.88%), and high WNT5A expression was correlated with poor prognosis in esophageal carcinoma (ESCA, P<0.05), low-grade glioma (LGG, P<0.01), adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC, P<0.01), pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD, P<0.01), and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC, P<0.05). In addition, WNT5A expression was positively associated with immune infiltration, stromal score, and immune checkpoints in most cancers, and correlated to immune neoantigens, TMB, and MSI. Finally, GSEA indicated that WNT5A is implicated in the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), Notch, and Hedgehog signaling pathways, which may be related to tumor immunity. Conclusions The expression of WNT5A is elevated in most tumors and associated with tumor prognosis. Furthermore, WNT5A is associated with tumor immunity and may be an immunological biomarker in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingtong Feng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The 71st Group Army Hospital of PLA/The Affiliated Huaihai Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yuanyong Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Kai Guo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Junjun Feng
- Department of Human Resource Management, The 71st Group Army Hospital of PLA/The Affiliated Huaihai Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Changjian Shao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Minghong Pan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Peng Ding
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Honggang Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongtao Duan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Di Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoyang Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yimeng Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yujing Zhang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The 71st Group Army Hospital of PLA/The Affiliated Huaihai Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jing Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaolong Yan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Wang F, Hou W, Li X, Lu L, Huang T, Zhu M, Miao C. SETD8 cooperates with MZF1 to participate in hyperglycemia-induced endothelial inflammation via elevation of WNT5A levels in diabetic nephropathy. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2022; 27:30. [PMID: 35350980 PMCID: PMC8962284 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-022-00328-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is regarded as the main vascular complication of diabetes mellitus, directly affecting the outcome of diabetic patients. Inflammatory factors were reported to participate in the progress of DN. Wingless-type family member 5 (WNT5A), myeloid zinc finger 1 (MZF1), and lysine methyltransferase 8 (SETD8) have also been reported to elevate inflammatory factor levels and activate the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway to induce endothelial dysfunction. In the current study, it was assumed that MZF1 associates with SETD8 to regulate WNT5A transcription, thus resulting in hyperglycemia-induced glomerular endothelial inflammation in DN. Methods The present study recruited 25 diagnosed DN patients (type 2 diabetes) and 25 control participants (nondiabetic renal cancer patients with normal renal function, stage I–II) consecutively. Moreover, a DN rat and cellular model was constructed in the present study. Immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were implemented to determine protein and messenger RNA (mRNA) levels. Coimmunoprecipitation (CoIP) and immunofluorescence were implemented in human glomerular endothelial cells (HGECs). Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays and dual luciferase assays were implemented to determine transcriptional activity. Results The results of this study indicated that levels of WNT5A expression, p65 phosphorylation (p-p65), and inflammatory factors were all elevated in DN patients and rats. In vitro, levels of p-p65 and inflammatory factors increased along with the increase of WNT5A expression in hyperglycemic HGECs. Moreover, high glucose increased MZF1 expression and decreased SETD8 expression. MZF1 and SETD8 inhibit each other under the stimulus of high glucose, but cooperate to regulate WNT5A expression, thus influencing p-p65 and endothelial inflammatory factors levels. Overexpression of MZF1 and silencing of SETD8 induced endothelial p-p65 and inflammatory factors levels, which can be reversed by si-WNT5A. Mechanistic research indicated that MZF1, SETD8, and its downstream target histone H4 lysine 20 methylation (H4K20me1) all occupied the WNT5A promoter region. sh-SETD8 expanded the enrichment of MZF1 on WNT5A promoter. Our in vivo study proved that SETD8 overexpression inhibited levels of WNT5A, p-p65 expression, and inflammatory factors in DN rats. Conclusions MZF1 links with SETD8 to regulate WNT5A expression in HGECs, thus elevating levels of hyperglycemia-mediated inflammatory factors in glomerular endothelium of DN patients and rats. Trial registration ChiCTR, ChiCTR2000029425. 2020/1/31, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=48548 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s11658-022-00328-6.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wenting Hou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xue Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lihong Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ting Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Minmin Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China.
| | - Changhong Miao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Banz-Jansen C, Helweg LP, Kaltschmidt B. Endometrial Cancer Stem Cells: Where Do We Stand and Where Should We Go? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063412. [PMID: 35328833 PMCID: PMC8955970 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases in women worldwide, with an incidence of 5.9%. Thus, it is the most frequent cancer of the female genital tract, with more than 34,000 women dying, in Europe and North America alone. Endometrial Cancer Stem Cells (CSC) might be drivers of carcinogenesis as well as metastatic and recurrent disease. Therefore, targeting CSCs is of high interest to improve prognosis of patients suffering of advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer. This review describes the current evidence of molecular mechanisms in endometrial CSCs with special emphasis on MYC and NF-κB signaling as well as mitochondrial metabolism. Furthermore, the current status of immunotherapy targeting PD-1 and PD-L1 in endometrial cancer cells and CSCs is elucidated. The outlined findings encourage novel therapies that target signaling pathways in endometrial CSCs as well as immunotherapy as a promising therapeutic approach in the treatment of endometrial cancer to impede cancer progression and prevent recurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Constanze Banz-Jansen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, and Perinatal Center, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Burgsteig 13, 33617 Bielefeld, Germany;
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33617 Bielefeld, Germany;
| | - Laureen P. Helweg
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33617 Bielefeld, Germany;
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Barbara Kaltschmidt
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33617 Bielefeld, Germany;
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
- Molecular Neurobiology, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Chang T, Yang J, Deng H, Chen D, Yang X, Tang ZH. Depletion and Dysfunction of Dendritic Cells: Understanding SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:843342. [PMID: 35265087 PMCID: PMC8898834 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.843342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncontrolled severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 infection is closely related to disorders of the innate immune and delayed adaptive immune systems. Dendritic cells (DCs) “bridge” innate immunity and adaptive immunity. DCs have important roles in defending against SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this review, we summarize the latest research concerning the role of DCs in SARS-CoV-2 infection. We focus on the complex interplay between DCs and SARS-CoV-2: pyroptosis-induced activation; activation of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system; and activation of dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule 3-grabbing non-integrin. We also discuss the decline in DC number, the impaired antigen-presentation capability, and the reduced production of type-I interferon of DCs in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. In addition, we discuss the potential mechanisms for pathological activation of DCs to understand the pattern of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Lastly, we provide a brief overview of novel vaccination and immunotherapy strategies based on DC targeting to overcome SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teding Chang
- Division of Trauma & Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji, China
| | - Jingzhi Yang
- Division of Trauma & Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji, China
| | - Hai Deng
- Division of Trauma & Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji, China
| | - Deng Chen
- Division of Trauma & Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji, China
| | - XiangPing Yang
- Department of Immunology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Tang
- Division of Trauma & Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Castro MV, Barbero GA, Máscolo P, Ramos R, Quezada MJ, Lopez-Bergami P. ROR2 increases the chemoresistance of melanoma by regulating p53 and Bcl2-family proteins via ERK hyperactivation. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2022; 27:23. [PMID: 35260073 PMCID: PMC8903712 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-022-00327-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background ROR2 is a tyrosine-kinase receptor whose expression is dysregulated in many human diseases. In cancer, ROR2 stimulates proliferation, survival, migration, and metastasis, and is associated with more aggressive tumor stages. The purpose of this work is to study the role of ROR2 in the chemoresistance of melanoma. Methods Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were used to study the biological function of ROR2 in melanoma. Cell death induced by chemotherapeutic drugs and BH-3 mimetics was evaluated using crystal violet cytotoxicity assays and annexin V/propidium iodide staining. Western blots were used to evaluate the expression of proteins implicated in cell death. The differences observed between cells with manipulation of ROR2 levels and control cells were evaluated using both Student’s t-test and ANOVA. Results We describe that ROR2 contributes to tumor progression by enhancing the resistance of melanoma cells to both chemotherapeutic drugs and BH-3 mimetics. We demonstrate that ROR2 reduced cell death upon treatment with cisplatin, dacarbazine, lomustine, camptothecin, paclitaxel, ABT-737, TW-37, and venetoclax. This effect was mediated by the inhibition of apoptosis. In addition, we investigated the molecular mechanisms implicated in this role of ROR2. We identified the MDM2/p53 pathway as a novel target of ROR2 since ROR2 positively regulates MDM2 levels, thus leading to p53 downregulation. We also showed that ROR2 also upregulates Mcl-1 and Bcl2-xL while it negatively regulates Bax and Bid expression. The effect of ROR2 on the expression of these proteins is mediated by the hyperactivation of ERK. Conclusions These results demonstrate that ROR2 contributes to melanoma progression by inhibiting apoptosis and increasing chemoresistance. These results not only position ROR2 as a marker of chemoresistance but also support its use as a novel therapeutic target in cancer. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s11658-022-00327-7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Victoria Castro
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Biotecnológicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 1425, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gastón Alexis Barbero
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Biotecnológicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 1425, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paula Máscolo
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Biotecnológicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rocío Ramos
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Biotecnológicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Josefina Quezada
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Biotecnológicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 1425, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo Lopez-Bergami
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Biotecnológicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 1425, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Deng Y, Zhang X, Li R, Li Z, Yang B, Shi P, Zhang H, Wang C, Wen C, Li G, Bian L. Biomaterial-mediated presentation of wnt5a mimetic ligands enhances chondrogenesis and metabolism of stem cells by activating non-canonical Wnt signaling. Biomaterials 2021; 281:121316. [PMID: 34959028 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The presentation of development-relevant bioactive cues by biomaterial scaffolds is essential to the guided differentiation of seeded human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and subsequent tissue regeneration. Wnt5a is a critical non-canonical Wnt signaling ligand and plays a key role in the development of musculoskeletal tissues including cartilage. Herein we investigate the efficacy of biofunctionalizing the hyaluronic acid hydrogel with a synthetic Wnt5a mimetic ligand (Foxy5 peptide) to promote the chondrogenesis of hMSCs and the potential underlying molecular mechanism. Our findings show that the conjugation of Foxy5 peptide in the hydrogels activates non-canonical Wnt signaling of encapsulated hMSCs via the upregulation expression of PLCE1, CaMKII-β, and downstream NFATc1, leading to enhanced expression of chondrogenic markers such as SOX9. The decoration of Foxy5 peptide also promotes the metabolic activities of encapsulated hMSCs as evidenced by upregulated gene expression of mitochondrial complex components and glucose metabolism biomarkers, leading to enhanced ATP biosynthesis. Furthermore, the conjugation of Foxy5 peptide activates the non-canonical Wnt, PI3K-PDK-AKT and IKK/NF-κB signaling pathways, thereby inhibiting the hypertrophy of the chondrogenically induced hMSCs in the hydrogels under both in vitro and in vivo conditions. This enhanced chondrogenesis and attenuated hypertrophy of hMSCs by the biomaterial-mediated bioactive cue presentation facilitates the potential clinical translation of hMSCs for cartilage regeneration. Our work provides valuable guidance to the rational design of bio-inductive scaffolds for various applications in regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingrui Deng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Xiaoting Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA
| | - Zhuo Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Boguang Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Peng Shi
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou International Campus, Guangzhou, 511442, PR China; National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Honglu Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou International Campus, Guangzhou, 511442, PR China; National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Chunming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Macau SAR, China
| | - Chunyi Wen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, PR China.
| | - Liming Bian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, PR China; Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Castro MV, Barbero GA, Villanueva MB, Grumolato L, Nsengimana J, Newton-Bishop J, Illescas E, Quezada MJ, Lopez-Bergami P. ROR2 has a protective role in melanoma by inhibiting Akt activity, cell-cycle progression, and proliferation. J Biomed Sci 2021; 28:76. [PMID: 34774050 PMCID: PMC8590781 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-021-00776-w] [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: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 2 (ROR2) is a Wnt5a receptor aberrantly expressed in cancer that was shown to either suppress or promote carcinogenesis in different tumor types. Our goal was to study the role of ROR2 in melanoma. METHODS Gain and loss-of-function strategies were applied to study the biological function of ROR2 in melanoma. Proliferation assays, flow cytometry, and western blotting were used to evaluate cell proliferation and changes in expression levels of cell-cycle and proliferation markers. The role of ROR2 in tumor growth was assessed in xenotransplantation experiments followed by immunohistochemistry analysis of the tumors. The role of ROR2 in melanoma patients was assessed by analysis of clinical data from the Leeds Melanoma Cohort. RESULTS Unlike previous findings describing ROR2 as an oncogene in melanoma, we describe that ROR2 prevents tumor growth by inhibiting cell-cycle progression and the proliferation of melanoma cells. The effect of ROR2 is mediated by inhibition of Akt phosphorylation and activity which, in turn, regulates the expression, phosphorylation, and localization of major cell-cycle regulators including cyclins (A, B, D, and E), CDK1, CDK4, RB, p21, and p27. Xenotransplantation experiments demonstrated that ROR2 also reduces proliferation in vivo, resulting in inhibition of tumor growth. In agreement with these findings, a higher ROR2 level favors thin and non-ulcerated primary melanomas with reduced mitotic rate and better prognosis. CONCLUSION We conclude that the expression of ROR2 slows down the growth of primary tumors and contributes to prolonging melanoma survival. Our results demonstrate that ROR2 has a far more complex role than originally described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Victoria Castro
- grid.440480.c0000 0000 9361 4204Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, 1405 Buenos Aires, Argentina ,grid.423606.50000 0001 1945 2152Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 1425 Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gastón Alexis Barbero
- grid.440480.c0000 0000 9361 4204Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, 1405 Buenos Aires, Argentina ,grid.423606.50000 0001 1945 2152Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 1425 Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Belén Villanueva
- grid.440480.c0000 0000 9361 4204Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, 1405 Buenos Aires, Argentina ,grid.423606.50000 0001 1945 2152Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 1425 Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luca Grumolato
- grid.10400.350000 0001 2108 3034INSERM U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, University of Rouen, 76183 Rouen, France
| | - Jérémie Nsengimana
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Biostatistics Research Group, Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
| | | | - Edith Illescas
- grid.440480.c0000 0000 9361 4204Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, 1405 Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Josefina Quezada
- grid.440480.c0000 0000 9361 4204Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, 1405 Buenos Aires, Argentina ,grid.423606.50000 0001 1945 2152Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 1425 Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo Lopez-Bergami
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 1425, Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Biotecnológicos, Ambientales y Diagnóstico, Universidad Maimonides, Hidalgo 775, 6th Floor, Lab 602., 1405, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Rogers S, Scholpp S. Vertebrate Wnt5a - At the crossroads of cellular signalling. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 125:3-10. [PMID: 34686423 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Wnt signalling is an essential pathway in embryogenesis, differentiation, cell motility, development, and adult tissue homeostasis in vertebrates. The Wnt signalling network can activate several downstream pathways such as the β-catenin-dependent TCF/LEF transcription, the Wnt/planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway, and the Wnt/Calcium pathway. Wnt5a is a vertebrate Wnt ligand that is most often associated with the Wnt/PCP signalling pathway. Wnt5a/PCP signalling has a well-described role in embryogenesis via binding to a receptor complex of Frizzled and its co-receptors to initiate downstream activation of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signalling cascade and the Rho and Rac GTPases, Rho-Kinase (ROCK). This activation results in the cytoskeletal remodelling required for cell polarity, migration, and subsequently, tissue re-arrangement and organ formation. This review will focus on more recent work that has revealed new roles for Wnt5a ligands and consequently, an emerging broader function. This is partly due to our growing understanding of the crosstalk between the Wnt/PCP pathway with both the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and other signalling pathways, and in part due to the identification of novel atypical receptors for Wnt5a that demonstrate a far broader role for this ligand.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally Rogers
- Living Systems Institute, School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Steffen Scholpp
- Living Systems Institute, School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Sun S, Wang Y, Wang J, Bi J. Wnt pathway-related three-mRNA clinical outcome signature in bladder urothelial carcinoma: computational biology and experimental analyses. J Transl Med 2021; 19:409. [PMID: 34579753 PMCID: PMC8477531 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-03061-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Wnt signaling pathway is core to the growth of bladder tumors. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is significant for bladder tumor metastasis. Nevertheless, the relationship between the Wnt signaling pathway, outcomes of bladder cancer (BLCA), and the specific mechanisms driving immune infiltration have not been studied. METHODS We obtained Wnt pathway-related gene mRNA and clinicopathological data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We obtained 34 genes that were greatly correlated with outcome using univariate Cox regression analysis and conducted a completely randomized data t-test to perform clinical staging. According to the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), the weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was applied to identify relevant biological functions. Various subtypes were identified using consensus cluster analysis. Univariate Cox regression and least absolute shrinkage sum selection operator-Cox regression algorithm analysis were conducted on TCGA and Gene Expression Omnibus data to identify risk characteristics. The Kaplan-Meier method and receiver running feature curves were adopted to calculate overall survival. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was adopted for the assessment of the degree of immune infiltration. Then, we demonstrated the relationship between PPP2CB and EMT function in two cell lines. RESULTS Thirty-four Wnt signaling pathway-related genes were risk factors for BLCA outcome, and their expression levels differed by clinical stage. The co-expression of WGCNA showed the relationship between the Wnt signaling pathway and biological functions and was closely associated with EMT. We divided BLCA patients into two subtypes using consensus clustering. Survival curves and clinical analysis showed that the Wnt pathway enriched group had worse outcomes. The Wnt signature showed the significance of the outcome for MAPK10, PPP2CB, and RAC3. Based on these genes, the degree of immune infiltration was evaluated. Cell function experiments suggested that PPP2CB drives the proliferation and migration of BLCA cells. CONCLUSION We found that Wnt signaling pathway-related genes can be used as prognostic risk factors for BLCA, and the Wnt signaling pathway is a cancer-promoting signaling pathway associated with EMT. We identified three critical genes: MAPK10, RAC3, and PPP2CB. The genes in these three Wnt signaling pathways are associated with tumor cell EMT and immune cell infiltration. The most important finding was that these three genes were independent prognostic factors for BLCA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siqing Sun
- Department of Urology, China Medical University, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Yutao Wang
- Department of Urology, China Medical University, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Jianfeng Wang
- Department of Urology, China Medical University, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Jianbin Bi
- Department of Urology, China Medical University, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hu Y, Zheng M, Zhang D, Gou R, Liu O, Wang S, Lin B. Identification of the prognostic value of a 2-gene signature of the WNT gene family in UCEC using bioinformatics and real-world data. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:516. [PMID: 34565373 PMCID: PMC8474865 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02215-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The WNT gene family plays an important role in the occurrence and development of malignant tumors, but its involvement has not been systematically analyzed in uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC). This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of the WNT gene family in UCEC. Methods Pan-cancer transcriptome data of the UCSC Xena database and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) normal tissue data were downloaded to analyze the expression and prognosis of 19 WNT family genes in UCEC. A cohort from The Cancer Genome Atlas-Uterine Corpus Endometrial Carcinoma (TCGA-UCEC) was used to analyze the expression of the WNT gene family in different immune subtypes and clinical subgroups. The STRING database was used to analyze the interaction of the WNT gene family and its biological function. Univariate Cox regression analysis and Lasso cox analysis were used to identify the genes associated with significant prognosis and to construct multi signature prognosis model. An immunohistochemical assay was used to verify the predictive ability of the model. Risk score and the related clinical features were used to construct a nomogram. Results The expression levels of WNT2, WNT3, WNT3A, WNT5A, WNT7A, and WNT10A were significantly different among different immune subtypes and correlated with TP53 mutation. According to the WNT family genes related to the prognosis of UCEC, UCEC was classified into two subtypes (C1, C2). The prognosis of subtype C1 was significantly better than that of subtype C2. A 2-gene signature (WNT2 and WNT10A) was constructed and the two significantly prognostic groups can be divided based on median Risk score. These results were verified using real-world data, and the nomogram constructed using clinical features and Risk score had good prognostic ability. Conclusions The 2-gene signature including WNT2 and WNT10A can be used to predict the prognosis of patients with UCEC, which is important for clinical decision-making and individualized therapy for patients with UCEC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuexin Hu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Higher Education of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China
| | - Mingjun Zheng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Higher Education of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Higher Education of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China
| | - Rui Gou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Higher Education of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China
| | - Ouxuan Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Higher Education of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Higher Education of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China
| | - Bei Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China. .,Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China. .,Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Higher Education of Liaoning Province, Benxi, China. .,4th Gynecological Ward, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao Street, Liaoning, 110004, Shenyang, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Niu Q, Shi J, Gao Q, Fu J. WNT5A Enhances LH-Mediated Expression of HAS2 in Granulosa Cells. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:1618-1629. [PMID: 34542891 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00736-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In adult ovary, WNT5A is involved in follicular responses to gonadotropins and necessary for ovarian follicle development. However, the mechanism by which gonadotropins regulate WNT5A and the role of WNT5A in modulating follicular responses to gonadotropins are unclear. In mice, we discovered that the expression of Wnt5a was increased in granulosa cells of mouse ovaries during ovulation, and regulated by gonadotropin-activated intra-ovarian cytokine interleukin 6 (IL6). Using human granulosa-like KGN cells, we confirmed that forskolin plus phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) which mimic the luteinizing hormone (LH) action induced the expression of WNT5A and cumulus expansion gene HAS2. However, this effect was suppressed by a NF-κB pathway inhibitor. Inhibition of NF-κB pathway also blocked the activation of WNT5A signaling components ROR2 and JNK. Moreover, exogenous WNT5A enhanced the expression of HAS2 in KGN cells through JNK and AKT signaling pathways. Knockdown of WNT5A expression by siRNA disrupted LH-mediated expression of HAS2. Our findings indicate that WNT5A could be a fine tuner for LH-induced HAS2 expression in ovarian granulosa cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qun Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jingjing Shi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qing Gao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jiang Fu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wu J, Wang Y, Yang Y, Liu F, Chen J, Jiang Z, Jiang Z. TNFSF9 promotes metastasis of pancreatic cancer through Wnt/Snail signaling and M2 polarization of macrophages. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:21571-21586. [PMID: 34517345 PMCID: PMC8457569 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Early metastasis of pancreatic cancer (PC) leads to high mortality, and the underlying mechanism of metastasis remains unclear. Tumor necrosis factor superfamily member 9 (TNFSF9) is associated with poor prognosis in PC. Here, we investigated the effect of TNFSF9 on PC proliferation and apoptosis, and focused on the effect of TNFSF9 on PC metastasis and its potential mechanism. We found that TNFSF9 promotes PC metastasis in vivo and in vitro, and may be partially dependent on the Wnt/Snail signaling pathway. In addition, TNFSF9 also regulates the release of cytokines IL-10 and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in pancreatic cancer cells through Wnt signaling to induce the M2 polarization of macrophages and promote the migration of PC cells. Overall, our study found that TNFSF9 may directly promote PC metastasis or indirectly promote PC metastasis through macrophage M2 polarization. Our study provides a new costimulatory target for the treatment of PC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Wu
- Departments of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yunpeng Wang
- Departments of Cardiovascular, Zigong First People's Hospital, Sichuan 643000, China
| | - Yichun Yang
- Departments of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Fuqiang Liu
- Departments of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Departments of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Zhongxiang Jiang
- Departments of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Zheng Jiang
- Departments of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Merikhian P, Eisavand MR, Farahmand L. Triple-negative breast cancer: understanding Wnt signaling in drug resistance. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:419. [PMID: 34376211 PMCID: PMC8353874 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02107-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is not as prevalent as hormone receptor or HER2-positive breast cancers and all receptor tests come back negative. More importantly, the heterogeneity and complexity of the TNBC on the molecular and clinical levels have limited the successful development of novel therapeutic strategies and led to intrinsic or developed resistance to chemotherapies and new therapeutic agents. Studies have demonstrated deregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in tumorigenesis which plays decisive roles at the low survival rate of patients and facilitates resistance to currently existing therapies. This review summarizes mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin signaling for resistance development in TNBC, the complex interaction between Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and the transactivated receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling pathways, lymphocytic infiltration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and induction of metastasis. Such associations and how these pathways interact in the development and progression of cancer have led to the careful analysis and development of new and effective combination therapies without generating significant toxicity and resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parnaz Merikhian
- Recombinant protein department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, 146, South Gandhi Ave., Vanak Circus, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Eisavand
- Recombinant protein department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, 146, South Gandhi Ave., Vanak Circus, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Farahmand
- Recombinant protein department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, 146, South Gandhi Ave., Vanak Circus, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
An Insight into Pathophysiological Features and Therapeutic Advances on Ependymoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133221. [PMID: 34203272 PMCID: PMC8269186 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Although biological information and the molecular classification of ependymoma have been studied, the treatment systems for ependymoma are still insufficient. In addition, because the disease occurs infrequently, it is difficult to obtain sufficient data to conduct large-scale or randomized clinical trials. Therefore, this study is intended to emphasize the importance of understanding its pathological characteristics and prognosis as well as developing treatments for ependymoma through multilateral studies. Abstract Glial cells comprise the non-sensory parts of the central nervous system as well as the peripheral nervous system. Glial cells, also known as neuroglia, constitute a significant portion of the mammalian nervous system and can be viewed simply as a matrix of neural cells. Despite being the “Nervenkitt” or “glue of the nerves”, they aptly serve multiple roles, including neuron repair, myelin sheath formation, and cerebrospinal fluid circulation. Ependymal cells are one of four kinds of glial cells that exert distinct functions. Tumorigenesis of a glial cell is termed a glioma, and in the case of an ependymal cell, it is called an ependymoma. Among the various gliomas, an ependymoma in children is one of the more challenging brain tumors to cure. Children are afflicted more severely by ependymal tumors than adults. It has appeared from several surveys that ependymoma comprises approximately six to ten percent of all tumors in children. Presently, the surgical removal of the tumor is considered a standard treatment for ependymomas. It has been conspicuously evident that a combination of irradiation therapy and surgery is much more efficacious in treating ependymomas. The main purpose of this review is to present the importance of both a deep understanding and ongoing research into histopathological features and prognoses of ependymomas to ensure that effective diagnostic methods and treatments can be developed.
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
The development of tumors requires an initiator event, usually exposure to DNA damaging agents that cause genetic alterations such as gene mutations or chromosomal abnormalities, leading to deregulated cell proliferation. Although the mere stochastic accumulation of further mutations may cause tumor progression, it is now clear that an inflammatory microenvironment has a major tumor-promoting influence on initiated cells, in particular when a chronic inflammatory reaction already existed before the initiated tumor cell was formed. Moreover, inflammatory cells become mobilized in response to signals emanating from tumor cells. In both cases, the microenvironment provides signals that initiated tumor cells perceive by membrane receptors and transduce via downstream kinase cascades to modulate multiple cellular processes and respond with changes in cell gene expression, metabolism, and morphology. Cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors are examples of major signals secreted by immune cells, fibroblast, and endothelial cells and mediate an intricate cell-cell crosstalk in an inflammatory microenvironment, which contributes to increased cancer cell survival, phenotypic plasticity and adaptation to surrounding tissue conditions. Eventually, consequent changes in extracellular matrix stiffness and architecture, coupled with additional genetic alterations, further fortify the malignant progression of tumor cells, priming them for invasion and metastasis. Here, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on the composition of the inflammatory tumor microenvironment, with an emphasis on the major signals and signal-transducing events mediating different aspects of stromal cell-tumor cell communication that ultimately lead to malignant progression.
Collapse
|
43
|
WNT5A inhibition alters the malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor microenvironment and enhances tumor growth. Oncogene 2021; 40:4229-4241. [PMID: 34079083 PMCID: PMC8217297 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01773-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) are aggressive soft-tissue sarcomas that cause significant mortality in adults with neurofibromatosis type 1. We compared gene expression of growth factors in normal human nerves to MPNST and normal human Schwann cells to MPNST cell lines. We identified WNT5A as the most significantly upregulated ligand-coding gene and verified its protein expression in MPNST cell lines and tumors. In many contexts WNT5A acts as an oncogene. However, inhibiting WNT5A expression using shRNA did not alter MPNST cell proliferation, invasion, migration, or survival in vitro. Rather, shWNT5A-treated MPNST cells upregulated mRNAs associated with the remodeling of extracellular matrix and with immune cell communication. In addition, these cells secreted increased amounts of the proinflammatory cytokines CXCL1, CCL2, IL6, CXCL8, and ICAM1. Versus controls, shWNT5A-expressing MPNST cells formed larger tumors in vivo. Grafted tumors contained elevated macrophage/stromal cells, larger and more numerous blood vessels, and increased levels of Mmp9, Cxcl13, Lipocalin-1, and Ccl12. In some MPNST settings, these effects were mimicked by targeting the WNT5A receptor ROR2. These data suggest that the non-canonical Wnt ligand WNT5A inhibits MPNST tumor formation by modulating the MPNST microenvironment, so that blocking WNT5A accelerates tumor growth in vivo.
Collapse
|
44
|
A novel prognostic risk score model based on immune-related genes in patients with stage IV colorectal cancer. Biosci Rep 2021; 40:226615. [PMID: 33034614 PMCID: PMC7584813 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20201725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aims of the present study were to explore immune-related genes (IRGs) in stage IV colorectal cancer (CRC) and construct a prognostic risk score model to predict patient overall survival (OS), providing a reference for individualized clinical treatment. METHODS High-throughput RNA-sequencing, phenotype, and survival data from patients with stage IV CRC were downloaded from TCGA. Candidate genes were identified by screening for differentially expressed IRGs (DE-IRGs). Univariate Cox regression, LASSO, and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to determine the final variables for construction of the prognostic risk score model. GSE17536 from the GEO database was used as an external validation dataset to evaluate the predictive power of the model. RESULTS A total of 770 candidate DE-IRGs were obtained, and a prognostic risk score model was constructed by variable screening using the following 12 genes: FGFR4, LGR6, TRBV12-3, NUDT6, MET, PDIA2, ORM1, IGKV3D-20, THRB, WNT5A, FGF18, and CCR8. In the external validation set, the survival prediction C-index was 0.685, and the AUC values were 0.583, 0.731, and 0.837 for 1-, 2- and 3-year OS, respectively. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses demonstrated that the risk score model was an independent prognostic factor for patients with stage IV CRC. High- and low-risk patient groups had significant differences in the expression of checkpoint coding genes (ICGs). CONCLUSION The prognostic risk score model for stage IV CRC developed in the present study based on immune-related genes has acceptable predictive power, and is closely related to the expression of ICGs.
Collapse
|
45
|
Wan X, Guan S, Hou Y, Qin Y, Zeng H, Yang L, Qiao Y, Liu S, Li Q, Jin T, Qiu Y, Liu M. FOSL2 promotes VEGF-independent angiogenesis by transcriptionnally activating Wnt5a in breast cancer-associated fibroblasts. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:4975-4991. [PMID: 33754039 PMCID: PMC7978317 DOI: 10.7150/thno.55074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a predominant component of the tumor microenvironment, contribute to aggressive angiogenesis progression. In clinical practice, traditional anti-angiogenic therapy, mainly anti-VEGF, provides extremely limited beneficial effects to breast cancer. Here, we reveal that FOS-like 2 (FOSL2), a transcription factor in breast CAFs, plays a critical role in VEGF-independent angiogenesis in stromal fibroblasts. Methods: FOSL2 and Wnt5a expression was assessed by qRT-PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemistry in primary and immortalized CAFs and clinical samples. FOSL2- or Wnt5a-silenced CAFs and FOSL2-overexpressing NFs were established to explore their proangiogenic effects. Invasion, tubule formation, three-dimensional sprouting assays, and orthotopic xenografts were conducted as angiogenesis experiments. FZD5/NF-κB/ERK signaling activation was evaluated by western blotting after blocking VEGF/VEGFR with an anti-VEGF antibody and axitinib. Dual luciferase reporter assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation were performed to test the role of FOSL2 in regulating Wnt5a expression, and Wnt5a in the serum of the patients was measured to assess its clinical diagnostic value for breast cancer patients. Results: Enhanced FOSL2 in breast CAFs was significantly associated with angiogenesis and clinical progression in patients. The supernatant from CAFs highly expressing FOSL2 strongly promoted tube formation and sprouting of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in a VEGF-independent manner and angiogenesis as well as tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, the enhanced FOSL2 in CAFs was regulated by estrogen/cAMP/PKA signaling. Wnt5a, a direct target of FOSL2, specifically activated FZD5/NF-κB/ERK signaling in HUVECs to promote VEGF-independent angiogenesis. In addition, a high level of Wnt5a was commonly detected in the serum of breast cancer patients and closely correlated with microvessel density in breast tumor tissues, suggesting a promising clinical value of Wnt5a for breast cancer diagnostics. Conclusion: FOSL2/Wnt5a signaling plays an essential role in breast cancer angiogenesis in a VEGF-independent manner, and targeting the FOSL2/Wnt5a signaling axis in CAFs may offer a potential option for antiangiogenesis therapy.
Collapse
|
46
|
Targeting Oncoimmune Drivers of Cancer Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030554. [PMID: 33535613 PMCID: PMC7867187 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Residual metastasis is a major cause of cancer-associated death. Recent advances in understanding the molecular basis of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the related cancer stem cells (CSCs) have revealed the landscapes of cancer metastasis and are promising contributions to clinical treatments. However, this rarely leads to practical advances in the management of cancer in clinical settings, and thus cancer metastasis is still a threat to patients. The reason for this may be the heterogeneity and complexity caused by the evolutional transformation of tumor cells through interactions with the host environment, which is composed of numerous components, including stromal cells, vascular cells, and immune cells. The reciprocal evolution further raises the possibility of successful tumor escape, resulting in a fatal prognosis for patients. To disrupt the vicious spiral of tumor-immunity aggravation, it is important to understand the entire metastatic process and the practical implementations. Here, we provide an overview of the molecular and cellular links between tumors' biological properties and host immunity, mainly focusing on EMT and CSCs, and we also highlight therapeutic agents targeting the oncoimmune determinants driving cancer metastasis toward better practical use in the treatment of cancer patients.
Collapse
|
47
|
Yadav V, Jobe N, Mehdawi L, Andersson T. Targeting Oncogenic WNT Signalling with WNT Signalling-Derived Peptides. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2021; 269:279-303. [PMID: 34455485 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
WNT signalling is known to be a crucial regulator of embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. Aberrant expression of WNT signalling elements or their mutations has been implicated in carcinogenesis and/or the progression of several different cancer types. Investigations of how WNT signalling affects carcinogenesis and cancer progression have revealed that it has essential roles in the regulation of proliferation, apoptosis, and cancer stemness and in angiogenesis and metastasis. Consequently, WNT-targeted therapy has gained much attention and has resulted in the development of several small molecules, the majority of which act as inhibitors of different WNT signalling events. However, although numerous inhibitory WNT signalling drug candidates have been included in clinical trials, no significant breakthroughs have been made. This could possibly be due to problems with inefficient binding to the target, compensatory signalling mechanisms and toxicity towards normal cells. Therapeutic peptides targeting WNT signalling in cancer cells have been developed as an alternative approach, with the hope that they might overcome the limitations reported for small WNT inhibitory molecules. In this chapter, we describe recent developments made in the design and characterization of WNT signalling-derived peptides aiming at their use as alternative cancer therapeutics and/or combined adjuvant therapy to conventional therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Yadav
- Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Njainday Jobe
- Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Lubna Mehdawi
- Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Tommy Andersson
- Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Gong PJ, Shao YC, Yang Y, Song WJ, He X, Zeng YF, Huang SR, Wei L, Zhang JW. Analysis of N6-Methyladenosine Methyltransferase Reveals METTL14 and ZC3H13 as Tumor Suppressor Genes in Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2020; 10:578963. [PMID: 33363011 PMCID: PMC7757663 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.578963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Recently, an increasing number of studies have revealed that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) functions as a significant post-transcriptional modification which plays a critical role in the occurrence and progression of enriched tumors by regulating coding and non-coding RNA biogenesis. However, the biological function of m6A in breast cancer remains largely unclear. Materials and Methods In this study, we used a series of bioinformatic databases and tools to jointly analyze the expression of m6A methylation transferases (METTL3, METTL14, WTAP, RBM15, RBM15B and ZC3H13) and investigate the prognostic value of METTL14 and ZC3H13 in breast cancer. Besides, we analyzed the downstream carcinogenic molecular mechanisms related to METTL14 and ZC3H13 and their relationship with immune infiltration in breast tumor tissues. Results The results showed that METTL14 and ZC3H13 were the down-regulated m6A methylation transferases in breast cancer. Survival outcome analysis suggested that abnormally low expression of METTL14 and ZC3H13 could predict unfavorable prognosis in four breast cancer subtypes. Moreover, their down-regulation was associated with ER-, PR- and triple-negative breast cancer patients, as well as tumor progression (increased Scarff, Bloom and Richardson grade status and Nottingham Prognostic Index classification). Co-expression analysis revealed that METTL14 and ZC3H13 had a strong positive correlation with APC, an antagonist of the Wnt signaling pathway, indicating they might cooperate in regulating proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of tumor cells. METTL14, ZC3H13, and APC expression levels had significant positive correlation with infiltrating levels of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells, and negative correlation with Treg cells in breast cancer. Conclusions This study demonstrated that down-regulation of METTL14 and ZC3H13 which act as two tumor suppressor genes was found in breast cancer and predicted poor prognosis. Their abnormal expression promoted breast cancer invasion by affecting pathways related to tumor progression and mediating immunosuppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Ju Gong
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - You-Cheng Shao
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wen-Jing Song
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin He
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi-Fan Zeng
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Si-Rui Huang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Wei
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing-Wei Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Zhang L, Chen WX, Li LL, Cao YZ, Geng YD, Feng XJ, Wang AY, Chen ZL, Lu Y, Shen AZ. Paeonol Suppresses Proliferation and Motility of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cells by Disrupting STAT3/NF-κB Signaling. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:572616. [PMID: 33442382 PMCID: PMC7797776 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.572616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Targeting inflammatory microenvironment is a promising anti-tumor strategy. Paeonol is a phenolic compound with effective anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. However, the effects of paeonol on non-small cell carcinoma (NSCLC) have not been fully investigated. Here, we evaluated the effects of paeonol on proliferation and metastasis of NSCLC and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. Methods: The effects of paeonol on inflammatory cytokines were determined by cell proliferation and ELISA assays. Assays of wound healing, single cell migration and perforation invasion were used to evaluate migration and invasion of NSCLC cells. Expression of marker proteins in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family enzymes were detected by Western blot assays. Nude mouse A549 cells transplantation tumor model was used to study the anti-lung cancer effects of paeonol in vivo. TUNEL stanining were used to detect the apoptosis of tumor cells in A549 lung cancer mice, and Ki67 analysis was used to detect the proliferation of tumor cells in A549 lung cancer mice. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the effects of paeonol on signaling molecules in tumor tissues. Results: Paeonol inhibited A549 cancer cell migration and invasion in vitro. Paeonol inhibited secreaion of inflammatory cytokines in A549 cells, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. Paeonol altered the expression of marker proteins involved in EMT and MMP family enzymes. In addition, paeonol inhibited the transcriptional activity of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and phosphorylation of signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3). Paeonol inhibited the growth of A549 cells transplanted tumors in nude mice. Conclusion: Paeonol potently inhibited NSCLC cell growth, migration and invasion associated with disruption of STAT3 and NF-κB pathways, suggesting that it could be a promising anti-metastatic candidate for tumor chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wen-Xu Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Ling-Li Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yu-Zhu Cao
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Ya-Di Geng
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Feng
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ai-Yun Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhao-Lin Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yin Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ai-Zong Shen
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Parackova Z, Zentsova I, Bloomfield M, Vrabcova P, Smetanova J, Klocperk A, Mesežnikov G, Casas Mendez LF, Vymazal T, Sediva A. Disharmonic Inflammatory Signatures in COVID-19: Augmented Neutrophils' but Impaired Monocytes' and Dendritic Cells' Responsiveness. Cells 2020; 9:E2206. [PMID: 33003471 PMCID: PMC7600406 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, emerged as a pandemic disease posing a severe threat to global health. To date, sporadic studies have demonstrated that innate immune mechanisms, specifically neutrophilia, NETosis, and neutrophil-associated cytokine responses, are involved in COVID-19 pathogenesis; however, our understanding of the exact nature of this aspect of host-pathogen interaction is limited. Here, we present a detailed dissection of the features and functional profiles of neutrophils, dendritic cells, and monocytes in COVID-19. We portray the crucial role of neutrophils as drivers of hyperinflammation associated with COVID-19 disease via the shift towards their immature forms, enhanced degranulation, cytokine production, and augmented interferon responses. We demonstrate the impaired functionality of COVID-19 dendritic cells and monocytes, particularly their low expression of maturation markers, increased PD-L1 levels, and their inability to upregulate phenotype upon stimulation. In summary, our work highlights important data that prompt further research, as therapeutic targeting of neutrophils and their associated products may hold the potential to reduce the severity of COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Parackova
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and University Hospital in Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (I.Z.); (M.B.); (P.V.); (J.S.); (A.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Irena Zentsova
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and University Hospital in Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (I.Z.); (M.B.); (P.V.); (J.S.); (A.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Marketa Bloomfield
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and University Hospital in Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (I.Z.); (M.B.); (P.V.); (J.S.); (A.K.); (A.S.)
- Department of Pediatrics, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and Thomayer’s Hospital, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Vrabcova
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and University Hospital in Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (I.Z.); (M.B.); (P.V.); (J.S.); (A.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Jitka Smetanova
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and University Hospital in Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (I.Z.); (M.B.); (P.V.); (J.S.); (A.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Adam Klocperk
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and University Hospital in Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (I.Z.); (M.B.); (P.V.); (J.S.); (A.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Grigorij Mesežnikov
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital in Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Luis Fernando Casas Mendez
- Department of Pneumology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and University Hospital in Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Tomas Vymazal
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and University Hospital in Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Anna Sediva
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and University Hospital in Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (I.Z.); (M.B.); (P.V.); (J.S.); (A.K.); (A.S.)
| |
Collapse
|