KIF26B promotes cell proliferation and migration through the FGF2/ERK signaling pathway in breast cancer

Kinesin 26B modulates M2 polarization of macrophage by activating cancer-associated fibroblasts to aggravate gastric cancer occurrence and metastasis

BACKGROUND

The regulatory effects of KIF26B on gastric cancer (GC) have been confirmed, but the specific mechanism still needs further exploration. Pan-cancer analysis shows that the KIF26B expression is highly related to immune infiltration of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and CAFs promote macrophage M2 polarization and affect cancers’ progression.

AIM

To investigate the regulatory functions of KIF26B on immune and metastasis of GC.

METHODS

We analyzed genes’ mRNA levels by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Expression levels of target proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and Western blotting. We injected AGS cells into nude mice for the establishment of a xenograft tumor model and observed the occurrence and metastasis of GC. The degree of inflammatory infiltration in pulmonary nodes was observed through hematoxylin-eosin staining. Transwell and wound healing assays were performed for the evaluation of cell invasion and migration ability. Tube formation assay was used for detecting angiogenesis. M2-polarized macrophages were estimated by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

KIF26B was significantly overexpressed in cells and tissues of GC, and the higher expression of KIF26B was related to GC metastasis and prognosis. According to in vivo experiments, KIF26B promoted tumor formation and metastasis of GC. KIF26B expression was positively associated with CAFs’ degree of infiltration. Moreover, CAFs could regulate M2-type polarization of macrophages, affecting GC cells’ migration, angiogenesis, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition process.

CONCLUSION

KIF26B regulated M2 polarization of macrophage through activating CAFs, regulating the occurrence and metastasis of GC.

Redox signaling-mediated tumor extracellular matrix remodeling: pleiotropic regulatory mechanisms

BACKGROUND

The extracellular matrix (ECM), a fundamental constituent of all tissues and organs, is crucial for shaping the tumor microenvironment. Dysregulation of ECM remodeling has been closely linked to tumor initiation and progression, where specific signaling pathways, including redox signaling, play essential roles. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are risk factors for carcinogenesis whose excess can facilitate the oxidative damage of biomacromolecules, such as DNA and proteins. Emerging evidence suggests that redox effects can aid the modification, stimulation, and degradation of ECM, thus affecting ECM remodeling. These alterations in both the density and components of the ECM subsequently act as critical drivers for tumorigenesis. In this review, we provide an overview of the functions and primary traits of the ECM, and it delves into our current understanding of how redox reactions participate in ECM remodeling during cancer progression. We also discuss the opportunities and challenges presented by clinical strategies targeting redox-controlled ECM remodeling to overcome cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

The redox-mediated ECM remodeling contributes importantly to tumor survival, progression, metastasis, and poor prognosis. A comprehensive investigation of the concrete mechanism of redox-mediated tumor ECM remodeling and the combination usage of redox-targeted drugs with existing treatment means may reveal new therapeutic strategy for future antitumor therapies.

The role of kinesin family members in hepatobiliary carcinomas: from bench to bedside

As a major component of the digestive system malignancies, tumors originating from the hepatic and biliary ducts seriously endanger public health. The kinesins (KIFs) are molecular motors that enable the microtubule-dependent intracellular trafficking necessary for mitosis and meiosis. Normally, the stability of KIFs is essential to maintain cell proliferation and genetic homeostasis. However, aberrant KIFs activity may destroy this dynamic stability, leading to uncontrolled cell division and tumor initiation. In this work, we have made an integral summarization of the specific roles of KIFs in hepatocellular and biliary duct carcinogenesis, referring to aberrant signal transduction and the potential for prognostic evaluation. Additionally, current clinical applications of KIFs-targeted inhibitors have also been discussed, including their efficacy advantages, relationship with drug sensitivity or resistance, the feasibility of combination chemotherapy or other targeted agents, as well as the corresponding clinical trials. In conclusion, the abnormally activated KIFs participate in the regulation of tumor progression via a diverse range of mechanisms and are closely associated with tumor prognosis. Meanwhile, KIFs-aimed inhibitors also carry out a promising tumor-targeted therapeutic strategy that deserves to be further investigated in hepatobiliary carcinoma (HBC).

Elucidating Fibroblast Growth Factor-Induced Kinome Dynamics Using Targeted Mass Spectrometry and Dynamic Modeling

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are paracrine or endocrine signaling proteins that, activated by their ligands, elicit a wide range of health and disease-related processes, such as cell proliferation and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. The detailed molecular pathway dynamics that coordinate these responses have remained to be determined. To elucidate these, we stimulated MCF-7 breast cancer cells with either FGF2, FGF3, FGF4, FGF10, or FGF19. Following activation of the receptor, we quantified the kinase activity dynamics of 44 kinases using a targeted mass spectrometry assay. Our system-wide kinase activity data, supplemented with (phospho)proteomics data, reveal ligand-dependent distinct pathway dynamics, elucidate the involvement of not earlier reported kinases such as MARK, and revise some of the pathway effects on biological outcomes. In addition, logic-based dynamic modeling of the kinome dynamics further verifies the biological goodness-of-fit of the predicted models and reveals BRAF-driven activation upon FGF2 treatment and ARAF-driven activation upon FGF4 treatment.

Noncoding RNAs-based high KIF26B expression correlates with poor prognosis and tumor immune infiltration in colon cancer

BACKGROUND

The protein kinesin family member 26B (KIF26B) is aberrantly expressed in various cancers. However, its particular role and association with tumor immune infiltration in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) remain unclear.

METHODS

All original data were downloaded directly from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), UCSC Xena, and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases and processed with R 3.6.3. KIF26B expression was analyzed using Oncomine, TIMER, TCGA, GEO databases, and our clinical specimens. KIF26B expression at the protein level was explored with Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database. The upstream miRNAs and lncRNAs were predicted by StarBase and validated using RT-qPCR. Correlation of KIF26B expression with the expression of immune-related or immune checkpoint genes and GSEA analysis of KIF26B-related genes were investigated via R software. Relationship of KIF26B expression with immune biomarkers or tumor immune infiltration levels was studied through GEPIA2 and TIMER databases.

RESULTS

KIF26B was upregulated, and its overexpression was closely related to overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), progression-free interval (PFI), T stage, N stage, and CEA levels in COAD. MIR4435-2HG/hsa-miR-500a-3p/KIF26B axis was identified as the promising regulatory pathway of KIF26B. KIF26B expression was positively correlated with immune-related genes, tumor immune infiltration, and biomarker genes of immune cells in COAD, and KIF26B-related genes were significantly enriched in macrophage activation-related pathways. Expression of immune checkpoint genes, including PDCD1, CD274, and CTLA4, was also closely related to KIF26B expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results clarified that ncRNA-based increased KIF26B expression was associated with a worse prognosis and high tumor immune infiltration in COAD.

Development of an immune-related gene prognostic risk model and identification of an immune infiltration signature in the tumor microenvironment of colon cancer

BACKGROUND

Colon cancer is a common and highly malignant tumor. Its incidence is increasing rapidly with poor prognosis. At present, immunotherapy is a rapidly developing treatment for colon cancer. The aim of this study was to construct a prognostic risk model based on immune genes for early diagnosis and accurate prognostic prediction of colon cancer.

METHODS

Transcriptome data and clinical data were downloaded from the cancer Genome Atlas database. Immunity genes were obtained from ImmPort database. The differentially expressed transcription factors (TFs) were obtained from Cistrome database. Differentially expressed (DE) immune genes were identified in 473 cases of colon cancer and 41 cases of normal adjacent tissues. An immune-related prognostic model of colon cancer was established and its clinical applicability was verified. Among 318 tumor-related transcription factors, differentially expressed transcription factors were finally obtained, and a regulatory network was constructed according to the up-down regulatory relationship.

RESULTS

A total of 477 DE immune genes (180 up-regulated and 297 down-regulated) were detected. We developed and validated twelve immune gene models for colon cancer, including SLC10A2, FABP4, FGF2, CCL28, IGKV1-6, IGLV6-57, ESM1, UCN, UTS2, VIP, IL1RL2, NGFR. The model was proved to be an independent prognostic variable with good prognostic ability. A total of 68 DE TFs (40 up-regulated and 23 down-regulated) were obtained. The regulation network between TF and immune genes was plotted by using TF as source node and immune genes as target node. In addition, Macrophage, Myeloid Dendritic cell and CD4⁺ T cell increased with the increase of risk score.

CONCLUSION

We developed and validated twelve immune gene models for colon cancer, including SLC10A2, FABP4, FGF2, CCL28, IGKV1-6, IGLV6-57, ESM1, UCN, UTS2, VIP, IL1RL2, NGFR. This model can be used as a tool variable to predict the prognosis of colon cancer.

BTN3A3 inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of ovarian cancer cells by regulating ERK1/2 phosphorylation

Butyrophilin Subfamily 3 Member A3 (BTN3A3) is a type I transmembrane protein belonging to the immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily, which is expressed in many cancers. Clinical data show that ovarian cancer patients with high expression of BTN3A3 have a longer survival time, but the mechanism of BTN3A3 in the occurrence and progression of ovarian cancer is still unclear. Here, we found that BTN3A3 knockdown can promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of ovarian cancer cells, while overexpression of BTN3A3 can inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of ovarian cancer cells. We analyzed the immunoprecipitated BTN3A3 complex by mass spectrometry and found that BTN3A3 binds to FGF2, and the overexpression of BTN3A3 leads to a decrease in the protein level of FGF2, which in turn leads to a decrease in the level of phosphorylation of ERK1/2. By increasing the protein level of FGF2, it was found that the level of ERK1/2 phosphorylation also increased. Finally, the cancer promotion phenomenon caused by BTN3A3 knockdown can be improved by using ERK1/2 inhibitor SCH772984. To sum up, BTN3A3 interacts with FGF2, which inhibits FGF2/ERK1/2 axis and ultimately inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of ovarian cancer cells. Our results suggest that BTN3A3 may be a prognostic marker and a potential therapeutic target for ovarian cancer.

Kinesin family member 15 can promote the proliferation of glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is one of the most dangerous tumors for patients in clinical practice at present, and since glioblastoma originates from the brain, it will have a serious impact on patients. Therefore, more effective clinical therapeutic targets are still needed at this stage. Kinesin family member 15 (KIF15) promotes proliferation in several cancers, but its effect on glioblastoma is unclear. In this study, differentially expressed gene analysis and network analysis were performed to identify critical genes affecting glioma progression. The samples were divided into a KIF15 high-expression group and KIF15 low-expression group, and the association between FIK15 expression level and clinical characteristics was summarized and analyzed by performing medical data analysis; the effect of KIF15 on glioblastoma cell proliferation was detected by employing colony formation and MTT assays. The effect of KIF15 on tumor growth in mice was determined. It was found that KIF15 was a potential gene affecting the progression of glioblastoma. In addition, KIF15 was highly expressed in glioblastoma tumor tissues, and KIF15 was correlated with tumor size, clinical stage and other clinical characteristics. After the KIF15 gene was knocked out, the proliferation ability of glioblastoma was significantly inhibited. KIF15 also contributed to the growth of glioblastoma tumors in mice. Therefore, we found KIF15 to be a promising clinical therapeutic target.

KIF26B in the Prognosis and Immune Biomarking of Various Cancers: A Pan-Cancer Study

KIF26B has been identified as an oncogene in several tumors; however, its utility as a prognostic indicator for various cancers has not yet been comprehensively evaluated. Here, we first examined how KIF26B intervenes in thirty-three cancers within the TCGA database, including potential immunological functions, and how it affects the prognosis. Based on the open databases TCGA, TIMER2, GEPIA2, GTEx, CPTAC, and HPA, we found that, when compared with normal tissues, KIF26B is overexpressed in 22 tumor tissues. Following a survival analysis, a relationship between the expression of KIF26B and the prognosis of various cancers was observed. Among the genetic alterations assessed, mutations were the most frequent. On the contrary, high phosphorylation levels of S977 were detected in breast cancer, KIRC, LUAD, and UCEC. We also found positive or negative correlations between KIF26B and the immune infiltration of endothelial cells and cancer-associated fibroblast infiltration. This could imply that patients may benefit from immunotherapy. Finally, KEGG pathways and GO enrichment analyses were implemented to identify the molecular mechanisms of KIF26B. This study illustrates the function of KIF26B from a pan-cancer perspective and offers a new horizon for cancer prognostic and immunotherapeutic investigations.

Establishment and validation of a novel invasion-related gene signature for predicting the prognosis of ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer (OC) is an invasive gynaecologic cancer with a high cancer-related death rate. The purpose of this study was to establish an invasion-related multigene signature to predict the prognostic risk of OC.

METHODS

We extracted 97 invasion-related genes from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Then, the ConsensusClusterPlus and limma packages were used to calculate differentially expressed genes (DEGs). To calculate the immune scores of the molecular subtypes, we used ESTIMATE to evaluate the stromal score, immune score and ESTIMATE score. MCP-counter and the GSVA package ssgsea were used to evaluate the types of infiltrating immune cells. Survival and nomogram analyses were performed to explore the prognostic value of the signature. Finally, qPCR, immunohistochemistry staining and functional assays were used to evaluate the expression and biological abilities of the signature genes in OC.

RESULTS

Based on the consistent clustering of invasion-related genes, cases in the OC datasets were divided into two subtypes. A significant difference was observed in prognosis between the two subtypes. Most genes were highly expressed in the C1 group. Based on the C1 group genes, we constructed an invasion-related 6-gene prognostic risk model. Furthermore, to verify the signature, we used the TCGA-test and GSE32062 and GSE17260 chip datasets for testing and finally obtained a good risk prediction effect in those datasets. Moreover, the results of the qPCR and immunohistochemistry staining assays revealed that KIF26B, VSIG4 and COL6A6 were upregulated and that FOXJ1, MXRA5 and CXCL9 were downregulated in OC tissues. The functional study showed that the expression of KIF26B, VSIG4, COL6A6, FOXJ1, MXRA5 and CXCL9 can regulate the migration and invasion abilities of OC cells.

CONCLUSION

We developed a 6-gene prognostic stratification system (FOXJ1, MXRA5, KIF26B, VSIG4, CXCL9 and COL6A6) that is independent of clinical features. These results suggest that the signature could potentially be used to evaluate the prognostic risk of OC patients.

ELK1-induced up-regulation of KIF26B promotes cell cycle progression in breast cancer

KIF26B is a member of the kinesin superfamily that is up-regulated in various tumors, including breast cancer (BC), which can promote tumor progression. This study aimed to investigate the potential function of KIF26B in BC, and the underlying mechanisms, focusing mainly on cell proliferation. KIF26B expression was examined in BC tissue samples obtained from 99 patients. Then, we performed MTS, EdU and flow cytometry assays to detect cell proliferation, and western blotting to measure the expression of cell cycle-related proteins in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells following KIF26B knockdown. Promoter analysis was used to study the upstream regulatory mechanism of KIF26B. KIF26B was upregulated in BC tissues. High expression of KIF26B was associated with clinicopathological parameters, such as positive lymph node metastasis, higher tumor grade, and higher proliferative index in BC. Furthermore, knockdown of KIF26B expression inhibited MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cell proliferation, arresting cells in the G₁ phase of the cell cycle in vitro. Similarly, KIF26B silencing decreased the expression levels of Wnt, β-catenin, and cell cycle-related proteins such as c-Myc, cyclin D1, and cyclin-dependent kinase 4, while increasing the expression of p27. Moreover, ELK1 could bind to the core promoter region of KIF26B and activate its transcription. KIF26B acts as an oncogene in BC by regulating multiple proteins involved in the cell cycle. ELK1 activates KIF26B transcription.

Ginsenoside Rh2 reduces m6A RNA methylation in cancer via the KIF26B-SRF positive feedback loop

Background

The underlying mechanisms of the potential tumor-suppressive effects of ginsenoside Rh2 are complex. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation is usually dysregulated in cancer. This study explored the regulatory effect of ginsenoside Rh2 on m6A RNA methylation in cancer.

Methods: m6A RNA quantification and gene-specific m6A RIP-qPCR assays were applied to assess total and gene-specific m6A RNA levels. Co-immunoprecipitation, fractionation western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining were performed to detect protein interactions and distribution. QRT-PCR, dual-luciferase, and ChIP-qPCR assays were conducted to check the transcriptional regulation.

Results

Ginsenoside Rh2 reduces m6A RNA methylation and KIF26B expression in a dose-dependent manner in some cancers. KIF26B interacts with ZC3H13 and CBLL1 in the cytoplasm of cancer cells and enhances their nuclear distribution. KIF26B inhibition reduces m6A RNA methylation level in cancer cells. SRF bound to the KIF26B promoter and activated its transcription. SRF mRNA m6A abundance significantly decreased upon KIF26B silencing. SRF knockdown suppressed cancer cell proliferation and growth both in vitro and in vivo, the effect of which was partly rescued by KIF26B overexpression.

Conclusion: ginsenoside Rh2 reduces m6A RNA methylation via downregulating KIF26B expression in some cancer cells. KIF26B elevates m6A RNA methylation via enhancing ZC3H13/CBLL1 nuclear localization. KIF26B-SRF forms a positive feedback loop facilitating tumor growth.

Identification of Novel Molecular Therapeutic Targets and Their Potential Prognostic Biomarkers Among Kinesin Superfamily of Proteins in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma

Background

Kinesin superfamily of proteins (KIFs) has been broadly reported to play an indispensable role in the biological process. Recently, emerging evidence reveals its oncogenic role in various cancers. However, the prognostic, oncological, and immunological values of KIFs have not been comprehensively explored in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients. We aimed to illustrate the relationship between KIFs and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by using bioinformatical analysis.

Methods

We use GEPIA, Oncomine datasets, cBioPortal, LOGpc, TIMER, and STRING bioinformatics tools and web servers to investigate the aberrant expression, prognostic values, and oncogenic role of KIFs. The two-gene prognostic model and the correlation between KIFs and KRAS and TP53 mutation were performed using an R-based computational framework.

Results

Our results demonstrated that KIFC1/2C/4A/11/14/15/18A/18B/20B/23 (we name it prognosis-related KIFs) were upregulated and associated with unfavorable clinical outcome in pancreatic cancer patients. KIF21B overexpression is associated with better clinical outcome. The KIFC1/2C/4A/11/14/15/18A/18B/20B/23 profiles were significantly increased compared to grade 1 and grade 2/3. Besides, KIFC1/2C/4A/11/14/15/18A/18B/20B/23 was significantly associated with the mutation status of KRAS and TP53.Notably, most prognosis-related KIFs have strong correlations with tumor growth and myeloid-derived suppressor cells infiltration (MDSCs). A prognostic signature based on KIF20B and KIF21B showed a reliable predictive performance. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was employed to assess the predictive power of two-gene signature. Consequently, the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) showed that KIF20B and KIF21B’s overexpression was associated with the immunological and oncogenic pathway activation in pancreatic cancer. Finally, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was utilized to investigate the expression pattern of KIF20B and KIF21B in pancreatic cancer cell lines and normal pancreatic cell.

Conclusions

Knowledge of the expression level of the KIFs may provide novel therapeutic molecular targets and potential prognostic biomarkers to pancreatic cancer patients.

Role of NRP1 in Bladder Cancer Pathogenesis and Progression

Bladder urothelial carcinoma (BC) is a fatal invasive malignancy and the most common malignancy of the urinary system. In the current study, we investigated the function and mechanisms of Neuropilin-1 (NRP1), the co-receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor, in BC pathogenesis and progression. The expression of NRP1 was evaluated using data extracted from GEO and HPA databases and examined in BC cell lines. The effect on proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, migration, and invasion of BC cells were validated after NRP1 knockdown. After identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs) induced by NRP1 silencing, GO/KEGG and IPA^® bioinformatics analyses were performed and specific predicted pathways and targets were confirmed in vitro. Additionally, the co-expressed genes and ceRNA network were predicted using data downloaded from CCLE and TCGA databases, respectively. High expression of NRP1 was observed in BC tissues and cells. NRP1 knockdown promoted apoptosis and suppressed proliferation, angiogenesis, migration, and invasion of BC cells. Additionally, after NRP1 silencing the activity of MAPK signaling and molecular mechanisms of cancer pathways were predicted by KEGG and IPA^® pathway analysis and validated using western blot in BC cells. NRP1 knockdown also affected various biological functions, including antiviral response, immune response, cell cycle, proliferation and migration of cells, and neovascularisation. Furthermore, the main upstream molecule of the DEGs induced by NRP1 knockdown may be NUPR1, and NRP1 was also the downstream target of NUPR1 and essential for regulation of FOXP3 expression to activate neovascularisation. DCBLD2 was positively regulated by NRP1, and PPAR signaling was significantly associated with low NRP1 expression. We also found that NRP1 was a predicted target of miR-204, miR-143, miR-145, and miR-195 in BC development. Our data provide evidence for the biological function and molecular aetiology of NRP1 in BC and for the first time demonstrated an association between NRP1 and NUPR1, FOXP3, and DCBLD2. Specifically, downregulation of NRP1 contributes to BC progression, which is associated with activation of MAPK signaling and molecular mechanisms involved in cancer pathways. Therefore, NRP1 may serve as a target for new therapeutic strategies to treat BC and other cancers.

Reversal of Chemotherapy Resistance to Cisplatin in NSCLC by miRNA-195-5p via Targeting the FGF2 Gene

Objective

To explore the mechanism of miR-195-5p in the pathogenesis non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and cisplatin resistance.

Methods

The function of miR-195-5p in NSCLC and cisplatin resistance were determined by MTT, scratch assay, transwell assay, and nude mice xenograft experiments. miR-195-5p target gene was identified by dual-luciferase reporter assays and real-time PCR analysis.

Results

miR-195-5p content was lower in A549/DDP than that in A549 cells, with reduced chemotherapy sensitivity and increased cell invasion and migration ability. The loss-of-function and gain-of-function assays illustrated that miR-195-5p might have increased the chemosensitivity to cisplatin in the A549/DDP cells and decreased cell migration and invasion. FGF2 is a negatively correlated action target of miR-195-5p. miR-195-5p might affect EMT by inhibiting FGF2. Overexpression of FGF2 resulted in enhanced cisplatin resistance in the cells, while miR-195-5p might have reversed this resistance.

Conclusion

Overall, miR-195-5p might target FGF2 to reduce cisplatin resistance in A549/DDP cells and enhance chemosensitivity.

Common and Rare Variants Genetic Association Analysis of Circulating Neutrophil Extracellular Traps

Introduction

Neutrophils contribute to host defense through different mechanisms, including the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). The genetic background and underlying mechanisms contributing to NET formation remain unclear.

Materials and Methods

We performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and exome-sequencing analysis to identify common and rare genetic variants associated with plasma myeloperoxidase (MPO)-DNA complex levels, a biomarker for NETs, in the population-based Rotterdam Study cohort. GWAS was performed using haplotype reference consortium(HRC)-imputed genotypes of common variants in 3,514 individuals from the first and 2,076 individuals from the second cohort of the Rotterdam Study. We additionally performed exome-sequencing analysis in 960 individuals to investigate rare variants in candidate genes.

Results

The GWAS yielded suggestive associations (p-value < 5.0 × 10^-6) of SNPs annotated to four genes. In the exome-sequencing analysis, a variant in TMPRSS13 gene was significantly associated with MPO-DNA complex levels (p-value < 3.06×10^-8). Moreover, gene-based analysis showed ten genes (OR10H1, RP11-461L13.5, RP11-24B19.4, RP11-461L13.3, KHDRBS1, ZNF200, RP11-395I6.1, RP11-696P8.2, RGPD1, AC007036.5) to be associated with MPO-DNA complex levels (p-value between 4.48 × 10^-9 and 1.05 × 10^-6). Pathway analysis of the identified genes showed their involvement in cellular development, molecular transport, RNA trafficking, cell-to-cell signaling and interaction, cellular growth and proliferation. Cancer was the top disease linked to the NET-associated genes.

Conclusion

In this first GWAS and exome-sequencing analysis of NETs levels, we found several genes that were associated with NETs. The precise mechanism of how these genes may contribute to neutrophil function or the formation of NETs remains unclear and should be further investigated in experimental studies.

Association of a Novel KIF26B Gene Polymorphism with Susceptibility to Schizophrenia and Breast Cancer: A Case-Control Study

Background

KIF26B gene is found to play essential roles in regulating different aspects of cell proliferation and development of the nervous system. We aimed to determine if rs12407427 T/C polymorphism could affect susceptibility to schizophrenia (SZN) and breast cancer (BC), the two genetically correlated diseases.

Methods

The current case-control study was performed from Aug 2018 to Dec 2018. Briefly, 159 female pathologically confirmed BC cases referring to Alzahra Hospital, Isfahan, Iran, and 102 psychologically confirmed SZN patients (60 males and 42 females) admitted to Baharan Hospital, Zahedan, Iran, were enrolled. Using the salting-out method, genomic DNA was extracted, and variants were genotyped using allele-specific amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR) method.

Results

The results revealed a significant association between the KIF26B rs12407427 codominant CT (P=0.001), CC (P=0.0001), dominant CT+CC, and recessive CC (P=0.001) genotypes with the risk of developing SZN. Significant correlations were also found regarding rs12407427 and BC susceptibility in different inheritance models, including over-dominant CT (P=0.026), dominant CT+CC (P=0.001), recessive CC (P=0.009), and codominant CT and CC (P=0.001) genotypes. The over-presence of the C allele was also correlated with an increased risk for SZN (P=0.0001) and BC (P=0.0001). Finally, computational analysis predicted that T/C variation in this polymorphism could change the binding sites in proteins involved in splicing.

Conclusion

rs12407427 T/C as a de novo KIF26B variant might be a novel genetic biomarker for SZN and/or BC susceptibility in a sample of the Iranian population.

Involvement of the ERK/HIF-1α/EMT Pathway in XCL1-Induced Migration of MDA-MB-231 and SK-BR-3 Breast Cancer Cells

Chemokine–receptor interactions play multiple roles in cancer progression. It was reported that the overexpression of X-C motif chemokine receptor 1 (XCR1), a specific receptor for chemokine X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (XCL1), stimulates the migration of MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells. However, the exact mechanisms of this process remain to be elucidated. Our study found that XCL1 treatment markedly enhanced MDA-MB-231 cell migration. Additionally, XCL1 treatment enhanced epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) of MDA-MB-231 cells via E-cadherin downregulation and upregulation of N-cadherin and vimentin as well as increases in β-catenin nucleus translocation. Furthermore, XCL1 enhanced the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2. Notably, the effects of XCL1 on cell migration and intracellular signaling were negated by knockdown of XCR1 using siRNA, confirming XCR1-mediated actions. Treating MDA-MB-231 cells with U0126, a specific mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) 1/2 inhibitor, blocked XCL1-induced HIF-1α accumulation and cell migration. The effect of XCL1 on cell migration was also evaluated in ER^-/HER2⁺ SK-BR-3 cells. XCL1 also promoted cell migration, EMT induction, HIF-1α accumulation, and ERK phosphorylation in SK-BR-3 cells. While XCL1 did not exhibit any significant impact on the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9 expressions in MDA-MB-231 cells, it increased the expression of these enzymes in SK-BR-3 cells. Collectively, our results demonstrate that activation of the ERK/HIF-1α/EMT pathway is involved in the XCL1-induced migration of both MDA-MB-231 and SK-BR-3 breast cancer cells. Based on our findings, the XCL1–XCR1 interaction and its associated signaling molecules may serve as specific targets for the prevention of breast cancer cell migration and metastasis.

A first genetic linage map construction and QTL mapping for growth traits in Larimichthys polyactis

Larimichthys polyactis is a commercially important marine fish species in Eastern Asia, yet very few genetic resources exist. In particular, genetic linkage maps are critical tools for genetic breeding. In this study, we generated a high resolution linkage map from a family of 110 individuals and their parents by resequencing the individuals. 3,802 effective SNPs were mapped to 24 linkage groups (LGs). The map spanned 2,567.39 cm, with an average marker interval of 0.66 cm. We used the map to conduct QTL analysis for growth traits, and found 31 markers were significantly associated with growth-related traits. Specifically, three SNPs were identified for total length, nineteen SNPs for body length, and nine SNPs for body weight. The identified SNPs could explain 15.2-22.6% of the phenotypic variation. SNPs associated with growth traits were distributed on LG6 and LG11, and candidate genes included, kif26b, bat1, gna1, gbgt1, and amfr, which may regulate growth. The linkage map and mapped QTLs would be useful for improving the quality of L. polyactis via marker-assisted selection.

IL-1-conferred gene expression pattern in ERα+ BCa and AR+ PCa cells is intrinsic to ERα- BCa and AR- PCa cells and promotes cell survival

Background

Breast (BCa) and prostate (PCa) cancers are hormone receptor (HR)-driven cancers. Thus, BCa and PCa patients are given therapies that reduce hormone levels or directly block HR activity; but most patients eventually develop treatment resistance. We have previously reported that interleukin-1 (IL-1) inflammatory cytokine downregulates ERα and AR mRNA in HR-positive (HR⁺) BCa and PCa cell lines, yet the cells can remain viable. Additionally, we identified pro-survival proteins and processes upregulated by IL-1 in HR⁺ BCa and PCa cells, that are basally high in HR⁻ BCa and PCa cells. Therefore, we hypothesize that IL-1 confers a conserved gene expression pattern in HR⁺ BCa and PCa cells that mimics conserved basal gene expression patterns in HR⁻ BCa and PCa cells to promote HR-independent survival and tumorigenicity.

Methods

We performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) for HR⁺ BCa and PCa cell lines exposed to IL-1 and for untreated HR⁻ BCa and PCa cell lines. We confirmed expression patterns of select genes by RT-qPCR and used siRNA and/or drug inhibition to silence select genes in the BCa and PCa cell lines. Finally, we performed Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) and used the gene ontology web-based tool, GOrilla, to identify signaling pathways encoded by our RNA-seq data set.

Results

We identified 350 genes in common between BCa and PCa cells that are induced or repressed by IL-1 in HR⁺ cells that are, respectively, basally high or low in HR⁻ cells. Among these genes, we identified Sequestome-1 (SQSTM1/p62) and SRY (Sex-Determining Region Y)-Box 9 (SOX9) to be essential for survival of HR⁻ BCa and PCa cell lines. Analysis of publicly available data indicates that p62 and SOX9 expression are elevated in HR-independent BCa and PCa sublines generated in vitro, suggesting that p62 and SOX9 have a role in acquired hormone receptor independence and treatment resistance. We also assessed HR⁻ cell line viability in response to the p62-targeting drug, verteporfin, and found that verteporfin is cytotoxic for HR⁻ cell lines.

Conclusions

Our 350 gene set can be used to identify novel therapeutic targets and/or biomarkers conserved among acquired (e.g. due to inflammation) or intrinsic HR-independent BCa and PCa.

KIF20B promotes the progression of clear cell renal cell carcinoma by stimulating cell proliferation

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a common urinary system cancer with high morbidity and mortality rate. Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is a highly aggressive and common type of RCC. More and effective therapeutic targets are badly needed for the treatment of ccRCC. Kinesin family protein (KIF)20B, also named M-phase phosphoprotein 1, was reported as a microtubule-associated, plus-end-directed kinesin. KIF20B was involved in multiple cellular processes such as cytokinesis. Multiple studies indicated the oncogenic role for KIF20B in several types of tumors, including breast cancer and bladder cancer. However, the possible role of KIF20B in the progression of renal carcinoma is still unknown. Herein, our study demonstrated that KIF20B was relatively highly expressed in ccRCC tissues. In addition, KIF20B was inversely related to the clinical features including tumor size and T stage. We further found that inhibition of the KIF20B expression by a specific short hairpin RNA obviously reduces proliferation of ccRCC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Our study reveals the involvement of KIF20B in ccRCC progression. Generally, KIF20B is a promising novel therapeutic for the treatment of clear cell RCC.

miR-450b-5p loss mediated KIF26B activation promoted hepatocellular carcinoma progression by activating PI3K/AKT pathway

Background

Kinesin family member 26B (KIF26B) is unveiled acted as important role in many solid tumors, however, the function of KIF26B in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unclear.

Methods

The expression of KIF26B in HCC tissues and cell lines were measured with immunochemistry, real-time PCR and western blotting. The correlation between KIF26B expression and clinicopathological characteristics were analyzed by SPSS19.0. Functional experiments of KIF26B was conducted by CCK-8, transwell, EDU, colony formation in vitro and tumorigenesis in vivo. The gene set enrichment analysis was used to search the downstream pathway, luciferase reporter experiment was used to find the upstream regulatory factor of KIF26B.

Results

In this study, we found that KIF26B was overexpressed both in HCC tissues and cell lines. High expression of KIF26B was associated with poor overall survival (OS), late TNM stage and poor differentiation. Loss of function experiments showed that suppression of KIF26B could inhibit cell viability, proliferation rate and invasion ability of HCC cells. KEGG and GO analysis showed that expression of KIF26B was highly relevant with PI3K/AKT signal pathway, and suppression of KIF26B could decrease the expression of m-TOR, p-PI3K and p-AKT. Further study demonstrated that expression of KIF26B was negative correlated with miR-450b-5p level in HCC tissues, and miR-450b-5p could inhibit cell viability, proliferation rate and invasion ability of HCC cells via targeted inhibiting KIF26B.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that miR-450-5p/KIF26B/AKT axis is critical for progression of HCC, and might provide novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12935-019-0923-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.