Cytotoxic activity of sunitinib and everolimus in Caki-1 renal cancer cells is accompanied by modulations in the expression of apoptosis-related microRNA clusters and BCL2 family genes

Enhanced anticancer efficacy of TRAIL-conjugated and odanacatib-loaded PLGA nanoparticles in TRAIL resistant cancer

Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) demonstrates unique characteristics in anticancer therapies as it selectively induces apoptosis in cancer cells. However, most cancer cells are TRAIL-resistant. Odanacatib (ODN), a cathepsin K inhibitor, is considered a novel sensitizer for cancer treatment. Combination therapy between TRAIL and sensitizers is considered a potent platform that improves TRAIL-based anticancer therapies beyond TRAIL monotherapy. Herein, we developed ODN loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic) nanoparticles conjugated to GST-TRAIL (TRAIL-ODN-PLGA-NPs) to target and treat TRAIL-resistant cancer. TRAIL-ODN-PLGA-NPs demonstrated a significant increase in cellular uptake via death receptors (DR5 and DR4) on surface of cancer cells. TRAIL-ODN-PLGA-NPs exposure destroyed more TRAIL-resistant cells compared to a single treatment with free drugs. The released ODN decreased the Raptor protein, thereby increasing damage to mitochondria by elevating reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Additionally, Bim protein stabilization improved TRAIL-resistant cell sensitization to TRAIL-induced apoptosis. The in vivo biodistribution study revealed that TRAIL-ODN-PLGA-NPs demonstrated high location and retention in tumor sites via the intravenous route. Furthermore, TRAIL-ODN-PLGA-NPs significantly inhibited xenograft tumor models of TRAIL-resistant Caki-1 and TRAIL-sensitive MDA-MB-231 cells.The inhibition was associated with apoptosis activation, Raptor protein stabilizing Bim protein downregulation, Bax accumulation, and mitochondrial ROS generation elevation. Additionally, TRAIL-ODN-PLGA-NPs affected the tumor microenvironment by increasing tumor necrosis factor-α and reducing interleukin-6. In conclusion, we evealed that our formulation demonstrated synergistic effects against TRAIL compared with the combination of free drug in vitro and in vivo models. Therefore, TRAIL-ODN-PLGA-NPs may be a novel candidate for TRAIL-induced apoptosis in cancer treatment.

Involvement of everolimus‑induced ABCB1 downregulation in drug‑drug interactions

Everolimus is an oral mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor used in cancer chemotherapy and transplantation. Due to its therapeutic properties, everolimus has been used long-term in clinical practice. Drug interactions with everolimus during gastrointestinal absorption can alter the oral bioavailability of everolimus and/or concomitant drugs. However, the effects of everolimus on gastrointestinal absorption remain unknown. The present study assessed the impact of continuous exposure to everolimus on expression and function of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter ABCB1 and ABCG2 using a Caco-2 intestinal cell model. Caco-2 subline, Caco/EV, was established by continuously exposing Caco-2 cells to 1 µM everolimus. Cell viability was evaluated using WST-1 assay. mRNA levels were measured by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Transport activity of ABCB1 was evaluated through the cellular accumulation of Rhodamin 123, a substrate for ABCB1. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for everolimus in Caco-2 and Caco/EV cells were 0.31 and 4.33 µM, respectively, indicating 14-fold resistance in Caco/EV cells. Sensitivity to paclitaxel and 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin, which are substrates for ABCB1 and ABCG2, respectively, was enhanced in Caco/EV, but not in Caco-2 cells. The IC50 values of cisplatin were comparable in both cell lines. Furthermore, mRNA expression levels of ABCB1 and ABCG2 were lower in Caco/EV cells than in Caco-2 cells, and the cellular accumulation of Rhodamine 123 was significantly higher in Caco/EV cells. These findings demonstrated that continuous exposure to everolimus suppressed the expression and function of ABCB1 and ABCG2, suggesting potential drug-drug interactions via the suppression of ABCB1 and ABCG2 in the intestinal tract.

Identification of miRNAs and Their Target Genes Associated with Sunitinib Resistance in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients

Sunitinib has greatly improved the survival of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) patients in recent years. However, 20-30% of treated patients do not respond. To identify miRNAs and genes associated with a response, comparisons were made between biopsies from responder and non-responder ccRCC patients. Using integrated transcriptomic analyses, we identified 37 miRNAs and 60 respective target genes, which were significantly associated with the NF-kappa B, PI3K-Akt and MAPK pathways. We validated expression of the miRNAs (miR-223, miR-155, miR-200b, miR-130b) and target genes (FLT1, PRDM1 and SAV1) in 35 ccRCC patients. High levels of miR-223 and low levels of FLT1, SAV1 and PRDM1 were associated with worse overall survival (OS), and combined miR-223 + SAV1 levels distinguished responders from non-responders (AUC = 0.92). Using immunohistochemical staining of 170 ccRCC patients, VEGFR1 (FLT1) expression was associated with treatment response, histological grade and RECIST (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors) score, whereas SAV1 and BLIMP1 (PRDM1) were associated with metachronous metastatic disease. Using in situ hybridisation (ISH) to detect miR-155 we observed higher tumoural cell expression in non-responders, and non-tumoural cell expression with increased histological grade. In summary, our preliminary analysis using integrated miRNA-target gene analyses identified several novel biomarkers in ccRCC patients that surely warrant further investigation.

EGFR Inhibitor CL-387785 Suppresses the Progression of Lung Adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the influence of the irreversible EGFR inhibitor CL-387785 on invasion, metastasis, and radiation sensitization of non-small cell lung cancer cells.

METHODS

The proliferation inhibitory rate at different time points was detected by MTT assay. The apoptosis of H1975 cells treated with CL-387785 was detected using flow cytometry. The invasion and migration of H1975 cells treated with CL-387785 were determined by Transwell assay and wound healing assay. The survival fraction (SF) of H1975 cells cultured with CL- 387785 under X-ray (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 Gy) was detected by cloning formation experiment, and the sensitization ratio (SER) was calculated by clicking the multi-target model to fit the cell survival curve.

RESULTS

CL-387785 restrained H1975 cell proliferation in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. CL-387785 promoted H1975 cell apoptosis and reduced cell migration distance and the number of transmembrane cells. The SF treated by different concentrations of CL-387785 (10, 25, 50, and 100 nM) was all below 0 nM. The radiation SER of CL-387785 (10, 25, 50 and 100 nM) were 1.17, 1.39, 2.88, and 3.64, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The invasion and metastasis of H1975 cells were restrained by irreversible EGFR inhibitor CL-387785. CL-387785 also exhibited the effect of radiotherapy sensitization.

Sunitinib versus Pazopanib Dilemma in Renal Cell Carcinoma: New Insights into the In Vitro Metabolic Impact, Efficacy, and Safety

Sunitinib and pazopanib are tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) used as first-line therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Although these TKIs are associated with similar survival outcomes, some differences have been reported in their safety profiles. In this work, traditional toxicological endpoints (cell viability and growth, oxidative stress, and nuclear morphology) and 1H NMR spectroscopy-based metabolomics analysis were used to provide new insights into the cytotoxicity and metabolic mechanisms underlying sunitinib and pazopanib treatments. Tumoral (Caki-1) and non-tumoral (HK-2) human renal cells were exposed to clinically relevant concentrations of sunitinib (2 µM) or pazopanib (50 µM). Sunitinib showed selectivity for cancer cells, inhibiting proliferation, and inducing apoptotic death of Caki-1 cells, whereas pazopanib had a similar cytotoxic effect in both tumoral and non-tumoral cells. 1H-NMR metabolomics unveiled a higher impact of sunitinib on the levels of intracellular metabolites of Caki-1 cells (seven dysregulated metabolites), suggesting dysregulations on amino acid, glutathione and glycerophospholipid metabolisms. In contrast, pazopanib had a higher impact on the levels of extracellular metabolites of Caki-1 cells (seven dysregulated metabolites in culture medium), unveiling alterations on amino acid and energetic metabolisms. In HK-2 cells, sunitinib caused only a minor increase in intracellular isoleucine levels, whereas pazopanib induced several alterations on the intracellular (three dysregulated metabolites) and extracellular (three dysregulated metabolites) compartments suggesting changes on amino acid, glycerophospholipid, and energy metabolisms. Our results demonstrate that these TKIs elicit distinct cellular and metabolic responses, with sunitinib showing better in vitro efficacy against target RCC cells and lesser nephrotoxic potential than pazopanib.

Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals spatiotemporal heterogeneity and malignant progression in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor

Aims: Using Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), we explored the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) and the underlying mechanism for malignant progression.

Methods: scRNA-seq was conducted on three tumor tissues (two primary tissues from different sites, one liver metastatic lesion), one normal liver tissue, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells from one patient with a metastatic G2 pNET, followed by bioinformatics analysis and validation in a pNETs cohort.

Results: The transcriptome data of 24.544 cells were obtained. We identified subpopulations of functional heterogeneity within malignant cells, immune cells, and fibroblasts. There were intra- and inter-heterogeneities of cell subpopulations for malignant cells, macrophages, T cells, and fibroblasts among all tumor sites. Cell trajectory analysis revealed several hallmarks of carcinogenesis, including the hypoxia pathway, metabolism reprogramming, and aggressive proliferation, which were activated at different stages of tumor progression. Evolutionary analysis based on mitochondrial mutations defined two dominant clones with metastatic capacity. Finally, we developed a gene signature (PCSK1 and SMOC1) defining the metastatic potential of the tumor and its prognostic value was validated in a cohort of thirty G1/G2 patients underwent surgical resection.

Conclusions: Our scRNA-seq analysis revealed intra- and intertumor heterogeneities in cell populations, transcriptional states, and intercellular communications among primary and metastatic lesions of pNETs. The single-cell level characterization of the spatiotemporal dynamics of malignant cell progression provided new insights into the search for potential novel prognostic biomarkers of pNETs.

MicroRNA-15a Carried by Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Inhibits the Immune Evasion of Colorectal Cancer Cells by Regulating the KDM4B/HOXC4/PD-L1 Axis

The relevance of microRNA-15a (miR-15a) to autoimmunity has been reported. Herein, we intended to probe the potential roles of miR-15a shuttled by adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (adMSCs)-derived extracellular vesicles (Evs) in colorectal cancer (CRC). Initially, CRC cells were treated with interferon gamma (IFN-γ) to screen out differentially expressed genes by transcriptome sequencing. Following a 24-h co-culture with 20 μM adMSCs-derived Evs, CRC cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis were assessed. After the determination of histone lysine demethylase 4B (KDM4B) as our target, its regulatory miRNA was predicted by the bioinformatics websites and verified by dual-luciferase and RNA pull-down assays. Intriguingly, KDM4B downregulated homeobox C4 (HOXC4) expression, while HOXC4 bound to the promoter sequence of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). Thus, we conducted rescue experiments to study the role of KDM4B and HOXC4. Finally, we evaluated the effects of adMSCs on CRC cell growth and immune evasion through in vivo tumorigenesis experiments. AdMSCs-derived Evs overexpressing miR-15a repressed proliferation, migration, and invasion, while it promoted the apoptosis of CRC cells via downregulation of KDM4B. These in vivo findings were reproduced in vitro on CRC immune evasion. Collectively, adMSCs-derived Evs overexpressing miR-15a restricted the immune evasion of CRC via the KDM4B/HOXC4/PD-L1 axis.

MicroRNAs: potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of different cancers

A thorough understanding of the tumor environment and underlying genetic factors helps in the better formulation of cancer management strategies. Availability of efficient diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers facilitates early detection and progression of the disease. MicroRNAs affect different biological processes participating in tumorigenesis through regulation of their target genes. An expanding list of unique RNAs and understanding of their regulatory role has opened up a new field in cancer research. Based on a comprehensive literature search, we identified 728 miRNAs dysregulated in sixteen cancer types namely bladder cancer (BC), breast cancer (BrC), cervical cancer (CC), colorectal cancer (CRC), esophageal cancer (EC), endometrial cancer (EnC), gastric cancer (GC), hepatocellular cancer (HCC), head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC), lung cancer (LC), ovarian cancer (OC), pancreatic cancer (PC), prostate cancer (PrC), renal cell cancer (RCC), skin cancer (SC), and thyroid cancer (TC). Expression of 43 miRNAs was either upregulated or downregulated in six or more of these cancers. Finally, seven miRNAs namely mir-18a, mir-21, mir-143/145, mir-210, mir-218, mir-221, showing maximum dysregulation, either up- or down-regulation in the majority of cancers, were selected for a detailed presentation of their expression and evaluation of their potential as biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of different cancers.

Assessment of anticancer activity of Pulicaria undulata on hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cell line

Searching for new sources of safe nutraceuticals antitumor drugs is an important issue. Consequentially, this study designed to assess the antitumor activity of Pulicaria undulata extract in vitro in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cell line. Aerial parts of P. undulata plants were collected, used for phytochemical analysis, and assessed for anticancer activity. The antitumor activity was evaluated through studying the cell viability and apoptotic pathway. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry phytochemical analysis revealed that P. undulata is a promising new source of several known antioxidant and antitumor compounds which could participate in drug development and exploration of alternative strategies to the harmful synthetic antitumor drugs. P. undulata stifled HepG2 cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. Meanwhile, P. undulata tempted substantial apoptosis in HepG2 cells and enhanced the expression of miR-34a. However, the mRNA expression level of antiapoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2 was markedly decreased by P. undulata treatment. Moreover, P. undulata increased the protein expression of proapoptotic p53 and caspase 3/9 with reducing B-cell lymphoma-2 protein expression level. Thus, P. undulata induced apoptosis in the HepG2 cells by overexpression of miR-34a which regulates p53/B-cell lymphoma-2/caspases signaling pathway. These findings were well appreciated with morphological studies of cells treated with P. undulata. In conclusion, P. undulata could be a probable candidate agent for the initiation of cell apoptosis in HepG2 and thereby can serve as promising therapeutic agent for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma which should attract further studies.

Computational approaches in cancer multidrug resistance research: Identification of potential biomarkers, drug targets and drug-target interactions

Like physics in the 19th century, biology and molecular biology in particular, has been fertilized and enhanced like few other scientific fields, by the incorporation of mathematical methods. In the last decades, a whole new scientific field, bioinformatics, has developed with an output of over 30,000 papers a year (Pubmed search using the keyword "bioinformatics"). Huge databases of mass throughput data have been established, with ArrayExpress alone containing more than 2.7 million assays (October 2019). Computational methods have become indispensable tools in molecular biology, particularly in one of the most challenging areas of cancer research, multidrug resistance (MDR). However, confronted with a plethora of different algorithms, approaches, and methods, the average researcher faces key questions: Which methods do exist? Which methods can be used to tackle the aims of a given study? Or, more generally, how do I use computational biology/bioinformatics to bolster my research? The current review is aimed at providing guidance to existing methods with relevance to MDR research. In particular, we provide an overview on: a) the identification of potential biomarkers using expression data; b) the prediction of treatment response by machine learning methods; c) the employment of network approaches to identify gene/protein regulatory networks and potential key players; d) the identification of drug-target interactions; e) the use of bipartite networks to identify multidrug targets; f) the identification of cellular subpopulations with the MDR phenotype; and, finally, g) the use of molecular modeling methods to guide and enhance drug discovery. This review shall serve as a guide through some of the basic concepts useful in MDR research. It shall give the reader some ideas about the possibilities in MDR research by using computational tools, and, finally, it shall provide a short overview of relevant literature.

Potential tumor‑suppressive role of microRNA‑99a‑3p in sunitinib‑resistant renal cell carcinoma cells through the regulation of RRM2

Sunitinib is the most common primary molecular‑targeted agent for metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC); however, intrinsic or acquired sunitinib resistance has become a significant problem in medical practice. The present study focused on microRNA (miR)‑99a‑3p, which was significantly downregulated in clinical sunitinib‑resistant ccRCC tissues in previous screening analyses, and investigated the molecular network associated with it. The expression levels of miR‑99a‑3p and its candidate target genes were evaluated in RCC cells, including previously established sunitinib‑resistant 786‑o (SU‑R‑786‑o) cells, and clinical ccRCC tissues, using reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Gain‑of‑function studies demonstrated that miR‑99a‑3p significantly suppressed cell proliferation and colony formation in RCC cells, including the SU‑R‑786‑o cells, by inducing apoptosis. Based on in silico analyses and RNA sequencing data, followed by luciferase reporter assays, ribonucleotide reductase regulatory subunit‑M2 (RRM2) was identified as a direct target of miR‑99a‑3p in the SU‑R‑786‑o cells. Loss‑of‑function studies using small interfering RNA against RRM2 revealed that cell proliferation and colony growth were significantly inhibited via induction of apoptosis, particularly in the SU‑R‑786‑o cells. Furthermore, the RRM2 inhibitor Didox (3,4‑dihydroxybenzohydroxamic acid) exhibited anticancer effects in the SU‑R‑786‑o cells and other RCC cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating that miR‑99a‑3p directly regulates RRM2. Identifying novel genes targeted by tumor‑suppressive miR‑99a‑3p in sunitinib‑resistant RCC cells may improve our understanding of intrinsic or acquired resistance and facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Comparison of Cardiac miRNA Transcriptomes Induced by Diabetes and Rapamycin Treatment and Identification of a Rapamycin-Associated Cardiac MicroRNA Signature

Rapamycin (Rap), an inhibitor of mTORC1, reduces obesity and improves lifespan in mice. However, hyperglycemia and lipid disorders are adverse side effects in patients receiving Rap treatment. We previously reported that diabetes induces pansuppression of cardiac cytokines in Zucker obese rats (ZO-C). Rap treatment (750 μg/kg/day for 12 weeks) reduced their obesity and cardiac fibrosis significantly; however, it increased their hyperglycemia and did not improve their cardiac diastolic parameters. Moreover, Rap treatment of healthy Zucker lean rats (ZL-C) induced cardiac fibrosis. Rap-induced changes in ZL-C's cardiac cytokine profile shared similarities with that of diabetes-induced ZO-C. Therefore, we hypothesized that the cardiac microRNA transcriptome induced by diabetes and Rap treatment could share similarities. Here, we compared the cardiac miRNA transcriptome of ZL-C to ZO-C, Rap-treated ZL (ZL-Rap), and ZO (ZO-Rap). We report that 80% of diabetes-induced miRNA transcriptome (40 differentially expressed miRNAs by minimum 1.5-fold in ZO-C versus ZL-C; p ≤ 0.05) is similar to 47% of Rap-induced miRNA transcriptome in ZL (68 differentially expressed miRNAs by minimum 1.5-fold in ZL-Rap versus ZL-C; p ≤ 0.05). This remarkable similarity between diabetes-induced and Rap-induced cardiac microRNA transcriptome underscores the role of miRNAs in Rap-induced insulin resistance. We also show that Rap treatment altered the expression of the same 17 miRNAs in ZL and ZO hearts indicating that these 17 miRNAs comprise a unique Rap-induced cardiac miRNA signature. Interestingly, only four miRNAs were significantly differentially expressed between ZO-C and ZO-Rap, indicating that, unlike the nondiabetic heart, Rap did not substantially change the miRNA transcriptome in the diabetic heart. In silico analyses showed that (a) mRNA-miRNA interactions exist between differentially expressed cardiac cytokines and miRNAs, (b) human orthologs of rat miRNAs that are strongly correlated with cardiac fibrosis may modulate profibrotic TGF-β signaling, and (c) changes in miRNA transcriptome caused by diabetes or Rap treatment include cardioprotective miRNAs indicating a concurrent activation of an adaptive mechanism to protect the heart in conditions that exacerbate diabetes.

Overexpression of microRNA-183 promotes apoptosis of substantia nigra neurons via the inhibition of OSMR in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of microRNA-183 (miR-183) on substantia nigra neurons by targeting oncostatin M receptor (OSMR) in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The positive expression rates of OSMR and the apoptosis of substantia nigra neurons were detected by immunohistochemistry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end-labeling, respectively. Substantia nigra neurons in normal and PD mice were cultured in vitro. The association between miR-183 and OSMR was verified using a dual luciferase reporter gene assay. The expression of miR-183 and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase-Akt signaling pathway-associated genes were detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis, respectively. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. OSMR is the target gene of miR-183. The number of OSMR-positive cells and the apoptotic rate of substantia nigra neurons were increased in the PD group. Neurons transfected with miR-183 mimic exhibited elevated expression levels of miR-183, B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein (Bax) and caspase-9 and increased apoptotic rate, and reduced expression levels of OSMR, Akt, phosphorylated (p-)Akt, glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3β), p-GSK-3β, Bcl-2, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and p-mTOR. The miR-183 inhibitor decreased the expression levels of miR-183, Bax and caspase-9 and the apoptotic rate; however, increased the expression of OSMR, Akt, p-Akt, GSK-3β, p-GSK-3β, Bcl-2, IGF-1, mTOR and p-mTOR. The results of the present study provide evidence that the overexpression of miR-183 promotes the apoptosis of substantia nigra neurons by inhibiting the expression of OSMR.

Characterisation of the Morphological, Functional and Molecular Changes in Sunitinib-Resistant Renal Cell Carcinoma Cells

Sunitinib resistance is a major clinical problem hampering the treatment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Studies on the comprehensive characterisation of morphological, functional and molecular changes in sunitinib-resistant RCC cells are lacking. The aim of the current study was to develop sunitinib resistance in four human RCC cell lines (786-0, Caki-1, Caki-2 and SN12K1), and to characterise the changed cell biology with sunitinib resistance. RCC cells were made resistant by continuous, chronic exposure to 10 μM of sunitinib over a period of 12 months. Cell proliferation, morphology, transmigration, and gene expression for interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Bcl-2 and Bax were studied. There was no significant difference in growth rate or transmigration between the parental and resistant cells. Sunitinib-resistant cells were significantly hypertrophic compared with parental cells as evidenced by increases in the surface areas of the whole cells and the nuclei. IL-6 was significantly increased in all resistant cells. IL-8 was increased in sunitinib-resistant Caki-2 and SN12K1 cells and decreased in 786-0 without any significant changes in Caki-1. VEGF was increased in resistant Caki-2 and SN12K1 cells but not in 786-0 and Caki-1. The Bcl2/Bax ratio was increased in Caki-1, Caki-2 and SN12K1 cells but decreased in 786-0 cells. The increased IL-6 may contribute to sunitinib resistance either via VEGF-mediated angiogenesis or through shifting of the Bcl2/Bax balance in favour of anti-apoptosis.

Potential clinical applications of microRNAs as biomarkers for renal cell carcinoma

Introduction

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) accounts for 3% of adult malignancies and more than 90% of kidney neoplasms. High rates of undiagnostic percutaneous kidney biopsies and difficulties in reliable pre-operative differentiation between malignant and benign renal tumors using contemporary imaging techniques result in large numbers of redundant surgeries. Absence of specific biomarkers for early detection and monitoring complicates on-time diagnosis of the disease and relapse. For the patients followed up after having a nephrectomy, a noninvasive and sensitive biomarker enabling early detection of disease relapse would be extremely useful.

Material and methods

The study is a review of recent knowledge regarding potential clinical applications of microRNAs (miRNAs) as biomarkers of RCC.

Results

MicroRNAs are essential regulators of various processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, development and death; they have been implicated in diverse biological and pathological processes in RCC. There is a class of miRNAs that promote RCC development (oncomirs) and a class of miRNAs that negatively regulate oncogenes, suppress tumor growth and invasion, and thus could be considered treatment agents (anti-oncomirs). Separate miRNAs and specific miRNAs expression profiles have been identified, enabling early detection of the disease, prediction of response to systemic therapy, or prognostication of biological behavior of the disease.

Conclusions

The miRNA network analysis and gene profiling may help to identify the most sensible molecular signatures of RCC that can be used for diagnostic purposes, as well as poor prognosis signatures and poor therapeutic response signatures in patients who undergo systemic therapy.

Everolimus inhibits breast cancer cell growth through PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies and the leading cause of cancer‑associated mortality in women worldwide and in China. Everolimus (C53H83NO14) is an efficient anti-cancer drug for breast cancer which targets mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). The present study investigated the inhibitory effects of everolimus on breast cancer cells and an MCF‑7‑bearing mouse model. The potential mechanism of the everolimus‑mediated decrease in growth and aggressiveness of breast cancer cells was reported. Results demonstrated that everolimus significantly inhibited breast cancer cell growth, migration and invasion. It was demonstrated that everolimus induced apoptosis through decreasing B cell lymphoma (Bcl)‑2 and Bcl‑w and increasing caspase‑3 and caspase‑8 expression levels in breast cancer cells. It was observed that everolimus decreased phosphoinositide 3‑kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (AKT) and mTOR expression levels in breast cancer cells. Results additionally demonstrated that PI3 K overexpression prevented that everolimus‑mediated inhibition of growth and aggressiveness in MCF‑7 cells. In vivo assays demonstrated that everolimus treatment markedly inhibited tumor growth in the MCF‑7 bearing mouse model. Overall, these data indicate that everolimus inhibits growth and aggressiveness of breast cancer cells through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways, suggesting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway may act as a therapeutic target for the treatment of human cancer.

miR-145 suppresses the proliferation, invasion and migration of NSCLC cells by regulating the BAX/BCL-2 ratio and the caspase-3 cascade

Although microRNA (miR)-145 has been identified to be a tumor suppressor in various types of tumor, it promotes the progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the precise underlying molecular mechanism of its action remains unclear. The present study investigated the effects of miR-145 on the proliferation, invasion, metastasis and apoptosis of the NSCLC A549 cell line and the underlying molecular mechanism of its action. In vitro cell proliferation, invasion, migration and apoptosis assays were employed, and the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9, B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), caspase-3and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) were evaluated by western blot analysis. The results demonstrated that ectopic expression of miR-145 inhibited the proliferation, invasion and migration of A549 cells, but promoted the apoptosis of A549 cells. Western blot analysis indicated that increased miR-145 levels led to a marked decrease in the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9 and Bcl-2. Upregulation of miR-145 expression increased the expression of Bax, thus increasing the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Additionally, the results indicated that miR-145 over expression promoted the cleavage of caspase-3 and PARP. Taken together, these results indicated that miR-145 suppresses the proliferative, invasive and migratory ability of A549 cells. Additionally, miR-145 upregulation induced apoptosis of A549 cells possibly by decreasing MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression, the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and the activity of the caspase-3 cascade.

Elucidating mechanisms of sunitinib resistance in renal cancer: an integrated pathological-molecular analysis

Upon sunitinib treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients eventually acquire resistance. Our aim was to investigate microRNAs behind sunitinib resistance.

We developed an in vivo xenograft and an in vitro model and compared morphological, immunhistochemical, transcriptomical and miRNome data changes during sunitinib response and resistance by performing next-generation mRNA and miRNA sequencing. Complex bioinformatics (pathway, BioFunction and network) analysis were performed. Results were validated by in vitro functional assays.

Our morphological, immunhistochemical, transcriptomical and miRNome data all pointed out that during sunitinib resistance tumor cells changed to migratory phenotype. We identified the downregulated miR-1 and miR-663a targeting FRAS1 (Fraser Extracellular Matrix Complex Subunit 1) and MDGA1 (MAM Domain Containing Glycosylphosphatidylinositol Anchor 1) in resistant tumors. We proved firstly miR-1-FRAS1 and miR-663a-MDGA1 interactions. We found that MDGA1 knockdown decreased renal cancer cell migration and proliferation similarly to restoration of levels of miR-1 and miR-663.

Our results support the central role of cell migration as an adaptive mechanism to secure tumor survival behind sunitinib resistance. MDGA1, FRAS1 or the targeting miRNAs can be potential adjuvant therapeutic targets, through inhibition of cancer cell migration, thus eliminating the development of resistance and metastasis.

Cytotoxicity and Proapoptotic Effects of Allium atroviolaceum Flower Extract by Modulating Cell Cycle Arrest and Caspase-Dependent and p53-Independent Pathway in Breast Cancer Cell Lines

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women and despite significant advances in therapy, it remains a critical health problem worldwide. Allium atroviolaceum is an herbaceous plant, with limited information about the therapeutic capability. We aimed to study the anticancer effect of flower extract and the mechanisms of action in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. The extract inhibits the proliferation of the cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The underlying mechanism involved the stimulation of S and G2/M phase arrest in MCF-7 and S phase arrest in MDA-MB-231 associated with decreased level of Cdk1, in a p53-independent pathway. Furthermore, the extract induces apoptosis in both cell lines, as indicated by the percentage of sub-G0 population, the morphological changes observed by phase contrast and fluorescent microscopy, and increase in Annexin-V-positive cells. The apoptosis induction was related to downregulation of Bcl-2 and also likely to be caspase-dependent. Moreover, the combination of the extract and tamoxifen exhibits synergistic effect, suggesting that it can complement current chemotherapy. LC-MS analysis displayed 17 major compounds in the extract which might be responsible for the observed effects. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential applications of Allium atroviolaceum extract as an anticancer drug for breast cancer treatment.

Systems biology combining human- and animal-data miRNA and mRNA data identifies new targets in ureteropelvic junction obstruction

Background

Although renal fibrosis and inflammation have shown to be involved in the pathophysiology of obstructive nephropathies, molecular mechanisms underlying evolution of these processes remain undetermined. In an attempt towards improved understanding of obstructive nephropathy and improved translatability of the results to clinical practice we have developed a systems biology approach combining omics data of both human and mouse obstructive nephropathy.

Results

We have studied in parallel the urinary miRNome of infants with ureteropelvic junction obstruction and the kidney tissue miRNome and transcriptome of the corresponding neonatal partial unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mouse model. Several hundreds of miRNAs and mRNAs displayed changed abundance during disease. Combination of miRNAs in both species and associated mRNAs let to the prioritization of five miRNAs and 35 mRNAs associated to disease. In vitro and in vivo validation identified consistent dysregulation of let-7a-5p and miR-29-3p and new potential targets, E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase (DTX4) and neuron navigator 1 (NAV1), potentially involved in fibrotic processes, in obstructive nephropathy in both human and mice that would not be identified otherwise.

Conclusions

Our study is the first to correlate a mouse model of neonatal partial UUO with human UPJ obstruction in a comprehensive systems biology analysis. Our data revealed let-7a and miR-29b as molecules potentially involved in the development of fibrosis in UPJ obstruction via the control of DTX4 in both man and mice that would not be identified otherwise.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12918-017-0411-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Promotion of HepG2 cell apoptosis by flower of Allium atroviolaceum and the mechanism of action

Background

Liver cancer is a high incidence and fatal disease, the fifth most frequent cancer worldwide that is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage. The number of deaths from liver cancer has not declined even following various therapies. Plant secondary metabolites and their semi-synthetic derivatives play a principal role in anti-cancer drug therapy, since they are effective in the treatment of specific characteristics while also reducing side effects. Allium atroviolaceum, a plant of the genus Allium has been used in folk medicine to protect against several diseases. However, cytotoxicity and the anti-proliferative effect of Allium atroviolaceum remain unclear. This work aims to investigate the anticancer properties of Allium atroviolaceum and the mechanism of action.

Methods

To evaluate the in vitro cytotoxicity of flower of Allium atroviolaceum, methanol extract at a dose range from 100 to 3.12 μg/ml was assessed against the HepG2 hepatocarcinoma cell line, and also on normal 3T3 cells, by monitoring proliferation using the MTT assay method. A microscopy study was undertaken to observe morphological changes of HepG2 cells after treatment and cell cycle arrest and apoptosis were studied using flow cytometry. The apoptosis mechanism of action was assessed by the level of caspase-3 activity and expression of apoptosis related genes, Bcl-2, Cdk1 and p53. The combination effect of the methanolic extract with doxorubicin was also investigated by determination of a combination index.

Results

The results demonstrated growth inhibition of cells in both dose- and time-dependent manners, while no cytotoxic effect on normal cell 3T3 was found. The results revealed the occurrence of apoptosis, illustrated by sub-G0 cell cycle arrest, the change in morphological feature and annexin-V and propidium iodide staining, which is correlated with Bcl-2 downregulation and caspase-3 activity, but p53-independent. In addition, a combination of Allium atroviolaceum and doxorubicin led to a significant synergistic effect.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that Allium atroviolaceum flower extract has potential as a potent cytotoxic agent against HepG2 cell lines, as it has commendable anti-proliferative activities against human hepatocarcinoma and it can be considered as an effective adjuvant therapeutic agent after the clinical trials.

Sirolimus and Everolimus Pathway: Reviewing Candidate Genes Influencing Their Intracellular Effects

Sirolimus (SRL) and everolimus (EVR) are mammalian targets of rapamycin inhibitors (mTOR-I) largely employed in renal transplantation and oncology as immunosuppressive/antiproliferative agents. SRL was the first mTOR-I produced by the bacterium Streptomyces hygroscopicus and approved for several medical purposes. EVR, derived from SRL, contains a 2-hydroxy-ethyl chain in the 40th position that makes the drug more hydrophilic than SRL and increases oral bioavailability. Their main mechanism of action is the inhibition of the mTOR complex 1 and the regulation of factors involved in a several crucial cellular functions including: protein synthesis, regulation of angiogenesis, lipid biosynthesis, mitochondrial biogenesis and function, cell cycle, and autophagy. Most of the proteins/enzymes belonging to the aforementioned biological processes are encoded by numerous and tightly regulated genes. However, at the moment, the polygenic influence on SRL/EVR cellular effects is still not completely defined, and its comprehension represents a key challenge for researchers. Therefore, to obtain a complete picture of the cellular network connected to SRL/EVR, we decided to review major evidences available in the literature regarding the genetic influence on mTOR-I biology/pharmacology and to build, for the first time, a useful and specific “SRL/EVR genes-focused pathway”, possibly employable as a starting point for future in-depth research projects.