Epithelial plasticity, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and the TGF-β family

Inhibiting the TGF-β1 Pathway Reduces the Aggressiveness of Intrahepatic CCA HuCCT1 CD90-Positive Cells

Molecular mechanisms responsible for the poor prognosis in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) are still unknown, but stem cell marker Cluster Differentiation 90 (CD90) has been reported to be associated with a more aggressive cancer phenotype. In this scenario, the TGF-β1 signaling pathway likely has a role as master gene regulator. Aim of the study is to investigate the role of CD90 in iCCA aggressiveness. The molecular profile of HuCCT1/CD90+ and HuCCT1/CD90- cells was obtained through transcriptomic analysis (NGS). Bioinformatic data were confirmed in both cell lines by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Cells were treated with Gemcitabine in monotherapy or in combination with Galunisertib, a selective inhibitor of TGF-βRI, in 2D and 3D models. HuCCT1/CD90+ cells are more proliferative, less migratory, and resistant to Gemcitabine treatment. HuCCT1/CD90+ cells also express lower levels of TGF-β1 compared to /CD90- cell lines. Finally, HuCCT1/CD90+ cells are resistant to Gemcitabine, while the combination of Gemcitabine and Galunisertib displays a synergistic effect on HuCCT1/CD90+ cell proliferation. These results underline that CD90-induced Gemcitabine resistance can be overcome by adding a TGFβ1 inhibitor such as Galunisertib, thereby moving further toward a precision medicine approach in patients with iCCA.

ncRNAs as Key Regulators in Gastric Cancer: From Molecular Subtyping to Therapeutic Targets

Gastric cancer (GC) poses a major global health challenge, underscoring the need for advanced diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), have emerged as pivotal regulators in GC, with their dysregulated expression driving key processes such as tumorigenesis, metastasis, immune evasion, and chemoresistance. The functional diversity of ncRNAs across different GC molecular subtypes highlights their potential as biomarkers for improved subtype classification and patient stratification. Beyond their diagnostic value, ncRNAs demonstrate critical regulatory functions in tumor biology, establishing these RNA molecules as promising targets for therapeutic development. Strategies based on RNA hold considerable promise for addressing critical challenges such as immune escape and drug resistance by modulating key signaling pathways. These approaches can enhance immune responses, reprogram the tumor microenvironment, and reverse resistance mechanisms that compromise treatment efficacy, thereby improving clinical outcomes. Although ncRNAs represent a promising frontier in GC precision medicine, further research is required to fully harness their clinical potential.

KMT2A facilitates the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and the progression of ovarian cancer

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays critical roles in cancer progression and metastasis. Thus, the exploration of the molecular mechanism regulating EMT would provide potential opportunities for the therapy of metastatic ovarian cancer (OC). Herein, we investigated the putative role of KMT2A in modulating EMT and metastasis in OC. The expression of KMT2A in OC was detected by Western blot and immunohistochemistry and its relationship with clinicopathological factors was analyzed. The effect of KMT2A on the biological behavior of OC cells was examined. Moreover, the expressions of EMT-associated proteins were detected in vivo and vitro by Western blot, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. KMT2A was highly expressed in OC cell lines and tissues and was positively correlated with advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage, pathological grade, and metastasis. KMT2A overexpression was correlated with poor prognosis. Suppression of KMT2A inhibited OC cells proliferation, migration, and invasion and induced their apoptosis in vitro and vivo. In contrast, the ectopic expression of KMT2A had the opposite effects. Furthermore, KMT2A knockdown inhibited TGF-β-induced EMT in OC and reduced the phosphorylation levels of Smad2. Taken together, these observations demonstrate that KMT2A could promote the malignant behavior of OC by activating TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and may be a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for OC.

Intervention of a Communication Between PI3K/Akt and β-Catenin by (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Suppresses TGF-β1-Promoted Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Invasive Phenotype of NSCLC Cells

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) assists in the acquisition of invasiveness, relapse, and resistance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and can be caused by the signaling of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) through Smad-mediated or Smad-independent pathways. (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a multifunctional cancer-preventing bioconstituent found in tea polyphenols, has been shown to repress TGF-β1-triggered EMT in the human NSCLC A549 cell line by inhibiting the activation of Smad2 and Erk1/2 or reducing the acetylation of Smad2 and Smad3. However, its impact on the Smad-independent pathway remains unclear. Here, we found that EGCG, similar to LY294002 (a specific inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase [PI3K]), downregulated Akt activation and restored the action of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), accompanied by TGF-β1-caused changes in hallmarks of EMT such as N-cadherin, E-cadherin, vimentin, and Snail in A549 cells. EGCG inhibited β-catenin expression and its nuclear localization caused by TGF-β1, suggesting that EGCG blocks the crosstalk between the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β route and β-catenin. Furthermore, it was shown that EGCG suppressed TGF-β1-elicited invasive phenotypes of A549 cells, including invading and migrating activities, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) secretion, cell adhesion, and wound healing. In summary, we suggest that EGCG inhibits the induction of EMT by TGF-β1 in NSCLC not only through a Smad-dependent pathway, but also through the regulation of the PI3K/Akt/β-catenin signaling axis.

The Role of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: From Pathogenesis to Diagnosis and Treatment

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive cancer of the pleural lining, primarily associated with asbestos exposure. Despite advancements in multimodal treatment, patient survival remains poor. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has emerged as a crucial process driving MPM pathogenesis, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. This review explores the molecular mechanisms underlying EMT in MPM, including key signaling pathways such as TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and PI3K/Akt. We also discuss the diagnostic and prognostic significance of EMT-related biomarkers and emerging targeted therapies aimed at reversing EMT or exploiting EMT-induced vulnerabilities. Additionally, recent clinical trials, including the MARS 2 trial, are reviewed to provide insight into the evolving treatment landscape.

Spermine attenuates TGF-β-induced EMT by downregulating fibronectin

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a highly dynamic cellular process that occurs in development, tissue repair, and cancer metastasis. As a master EMT inducer, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) can activate the EMT program by regulating the expression of key EMT-related genes and triggering other required cellular changes. However, it is unclear whether cell metabolism is involved in TGF-β-induced EMT. Here, we characterized early metabolic changes in response to transient TGF-β stimulation in HaCaT cells and discovered that TGF-β signaling significantly reduces the intracellular polyamine pool. Exogenous addition of spermine, but not other polyamines, attenuates TGF-β-induced EMT. Mechanistically, spermine downregulates the extracellular matrix protein fibronectin. Furthermore, we found that TGF-β activates extracellular signal-regulated kinase to enhance the expression of spermine oxidase, which is responsible for the reduced spermine concentration. This action of TGF-β on EMT via the polyamine metabolism provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying EMT and might be exploited as a way to target the EMT program for therapy.

Basal cell adhesion molecule (BCAM) promotes mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and tumor angiogenesis through paracrine signaling

BACKGROUND

High expression of basal cell adhesion molecule (BCAM) is a hallmark of ovarian cancer (OC) progression. BCAM facilitates transcoelomic dissemination by promoting mesothelial cell clearance at peritoneal attachment sites of tumor cell spheroids. We investigated how BCAM mediates this effect and potentially drives other pro-metastatic functions.

METHODS

The impact of BCAM on the tumor cell secretome and the mesothelial cell phenotype was analyzed by affinity proteomics, bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing, life-cell and multiphoton microscopy, biochemical and functional in vitro assays as well as a murine tumor model. BCAM manipulation involved ectopic overexpression, inducible expression and treatment with soluble BCAM.

RESULTS

All forms of BCAM enhanced the secretion of cytokines that impact cell motility, mesenchymal differentiation and angiogenesis, including AREG, CXCL family members, FGF2, TGFB2, and VEGF. Notably, their levels in OC ascites were correlated with BCAM expression, and recombinant BCAM-induced cytokines triggered mesothelial-mesenchymal transition (MMT). Mesothelial cells undergoing MMT exhibited enhanced motility away from attaching tumor spheroids, leading to mesothelial clearance at spheroid attachment sites. BCAM-mediated MMT-associated transcriptional changes were also observed in subpopulations of omental mesothelial cells from OC patients, and were associated with poor survival. Consistent with the secretome data, BCAM induced endothelial tube formation in vitro and markedly promoted tumor angiogenesis in a mouse model.

CONCLUSION

We have identified previously unknown functions of the BCAM-induced secretome potentially impacting distinct stages of OC metastasis. While BCAM's impact on MMT may facilitate initiation of micrometastases, neo-angiogenesis is essential for tumor growth. Taken together with the observed clinical adverse association, our findings underscore the potential of BCAM as a therapeutic target.

Regulation of epithelial growth factor receptors by the oncoprotein E5 during the HPV16 differentiation-dependent life cycle

Human papillomavirus (HPV) 16 infection initiates upon viral entry into the basal cells of the epithelium. The virus manipulates signaling pathways to complete its life cycle, which depends on cellular differentiation. The virus expresses the oncoproteins E5, E6, and E7 to promote immune evasion, cell cycle progression, apoptosis inhibition, and viral replication. The least studied viral oncoprotein is E5 (16E5), which can regulate epithelial growth factor receptor (GFR) signaling pathways. GFRs such as transforming growth factor-beta receptor (TGFBR), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and keratinocyte growth factor receptor (KGFR) have essential roles in cell growth, differentiation, and proliferation. These receptors obtain their ligands from the microenvironment, and once activated, regulate cellular behavior in the epithelium. GFRs therefore represent valuable targets for the virus to establish and maintain a cellular environment supportive of infection. The ability of 16E5 to regulate proliferation and differentiation varies through the differentiating epithelium, making it necessary to adequately describe the association between 16E5 and GFRs. Here we summarize the regulation of GFR signaling pathways by 16E5, discuss the roles of stromal growth factors, and outline unresolved questions over cellular differentiation and proliferation during the HPV life cycle.

Proteogenomic characterisation of primary oral cancer unveils extracellular matrix remodelling and immunosuppressive microenvironment linked to lymph node metastasis

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is an increasingly prevalent malignancy worldwide. This study aims to understand molecular alterations associated with lymph node metastasis of OSCC in order to improve treatment strategies. We analysed a cohort of 46 patients with primary OSCC, including 10 with lymph node metastasis and 36 without. Using a comprehensive multi-omics approach - encompassing genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, epigenetic, single-cell, and spatial analyses - we integrated data to delineate the molecular landscape of OSCC in the context of lymph node metastasis. Our genomic analysis identified significant mutations in key genes within the MAPK, TGF-β and WNT signalling pathways, which are essential for tumour development. The proteogenomic analysis highlighted pathways critical for lymph node dissemination and factors contributing to an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment. Elevated levels of POSTN were found to reorganise the extracellular matrix (ECM), interact with TGF-β, disrupt cell cycle regulation and suppress the immune response by reducing VCAM1 activity. Integrated analyses of single-cell and spatial transcriptome data revealed that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) secrete TGF-β1/2, promoting cancer cell metastasis through epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Our integrated multi-omics analysis provides a detailed understanding of molecular mechanisms driving lymph node metastasis of OSCC. These insights could lead to more precise diagnostics and targeted treatments. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

ERBB4 selectively amplifies TGF-β pro-metastatic responses

Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is well known to play paradoxical roles in tumorigenesis as it has both growth-inhibitory and pro-metastatic effects. However, the underlying mechanisms of how TGF-β drives the opposing responses remain largely unknown. Here, we report that ERBB4, a member of the ERBB receptor tyrosine kinase family, specifically promotes TGF-β's metastatic response but not its anti-growth response. ERBB4 directly phosphorylates Tyr162 in the linker region of SMAD4, which enables SMAD4 to achieve a higher DNA-binding ability and potentiates TGF-β-induced gene transcription associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell migration, and invasion without affecting the genes involved in growth inhibition. These selective effects facilitate lung cancer metastasis in mouse models. This discovery sheds light on the previously unrecognized role of SMAD4 as a substrate of ERBB4 and highlights the selective involvement of the ERBB4-SMAD4 regulatory axis in tumor metastasis.

Mechanisms of GPM6A in Malignant Tumors

BACKGROUND

Glycoprotein M6A (GPM6A) encodes a transmembrane protein, expressing in large quantities on the cell surface of central nervous system (CNS) neurons. GPM6A acts importantly in neurodevelopment by modulating neuronal differentiation, migration, axon growth, synaptogenesis, and spine formation, but its role in malignancy remains controversial and requires further research. This article reviewed the mechanisms of GPM6A in colorectal cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, glioblastoma, and other malignant tumors, and made a "one-stop" summary of the relevant mechanisms.

RECENT FINDINGS

Researches have indicated that GPM6A is related to malignant tumors. It affects epithelial-mesenchymal transition and induces the formation of filopodia, participating in the adhesion, migration, and metastasis of cancer cells. Its role in malignant tumors remains controversial, however. On the one hand, GPM6A may have carcinogenic properties and is related to poor prognosis of malignant tumors. It is highly expressed in lymphoblastic leukemia and is a potential oncogene. It also shows carcinogenic properties in colorectal cancer, glioblastoma, gonadotroph adenomas and so on. On the other hand, the expression of GPM6A decreases in lung adenocarcinoma, liver cancer, thyroid cancer, and so forth as the tumor progresses, and it can inhibit the progression of malignant tumors by inhibiting some signaling pathways, suggesting that it may be a tumor suppressor gene.

CONCLUSION

Carcinogenic or tumor suppressive? Although the biological function of GPM6A in the development of malignant tumors is still unclear, according to the current research progress, it is still expected to become an effective molecular marker for predicting tumor occurrence, metastasis and prognosis, as well as a new target for diagnosis and treatment.

Manipulating the EphB4-ephrinB2 axis to reduce metastasis in HNSCC

The EphB4-ephrinB2 signaling axis has been heavily implicated in metastasis across numerous cancer types. Our emerging understanding of the dichotomous roles that EphB4 and ephrinB2 play in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) poses a significant challenge to rational drug design. We find that EphB4 knockdown in cancer cells enhances metastasis in preclinical HNSCC models by augmenting immunosuppressive cells like T regulatory cells (Tregs) within the tumor microenvironment. EphB4 inhibition in cancer cells also amplifies their ability to metastasize through increased expression of genes associated with hallmark pathways of metastasis along with classical and non-classical epithelial-mesenchymal transition. In contrast, vascular ephrinB2 knockout coupled with radiation therapy (RT) enhances anti-tumor immunity, reduces Treg accumulation into the tumor, and decreases metastasis. Notably, targeting the EphB4-ephrinB2 signaling axis with the engineered ligands ephrinB2-Fc-His and Fc-TNYL-RAW-GS reduces local tumor growth and distant metastasis in a preclinical model of HNSCC. Our data suggests that targeted inhibition of vascular ephrinB2 while avoiding inhibition of EphB4 in cancer cells could be a promising strategy to mitigate HNSCC metastasis.

Computational Elucidation of Hub Genes and Pathways Correlated with the Development of 5-Fluorouracil Resistance in HCT 116 Colorectal Carcinoma Cell Line

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most deadly cancer diagnosed in both men and women. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) treatment frequently causes the CRC cells to become chemoresistance, which has a negative impact on prognosis. Using bioinformatic techniques, this work describes important genes and biological pathways linked to 5-FU resistance in CRC cells. In our studies, a 5-FU-resistant HCT 116 cell line exhibiting elevated TYMS was created and validated using various tests. Bioinformatic studies were conducted to determine which differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were responsible for the establishment of 5-FU resistance in the same cell line. After screening 3949 DEGs from the two public datasets (GSE196900 and GSE153412), 471 overlapping DEGs in 5-FU-resistant HCT 116 cells were chosen. These overlapping DEGs were used to build the PPI network, and a major cluster module containing 21 genes was found. Subsequently, using three topological analysis algorithms, 10 hub genes were identified, which included HLA-DRA, HLA-DRB1, CXCR4, MMP9, CDH1, SMAD3, VIM, SYK, ZEB1, and SELL. Their roles were ascertained by utilizing Gene Ontology keywords and pathway enrichment studies. Our results also demonstrated that the miRNA and transcription factors (TFs) that had the strongest connection with the hub genes were hsa-mir-26a-5p, hsa-mir-30a-5p, RELA, and NFKB1. Ultimately, 84 FDA-approved drugs that target those hub genes were found to potentially treat 5-FU resistance CRC. Our research's findings increase our understanding of the fundamental factors that contribute to the prevalence of 5-FU resistance CRC, which could ultimately assist in the identification of valuable malignancy biomarkers and targeted treatment approaches based on key regulatory pathways.

Despicable role of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer metastasis: Exhibiting de novo restorative regimens

Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent cancer in women globally. Anti-cancer advancements have enabled the killing of BC cells through various therapies; however, cancer relapse is still a major limitation and decreases patient survival and quality of life. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is responsible for tumor relapse in several cancers. This highly regulated event causes phenotypic, genetic, and epigenetic changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME). This review summarizes the recent advancements regarding EMT using de-differentiation and partial EMT theories. We extensively review the mechanistic pathways, TME components, and various anti-cancer adjuvant and neo-adjuvant therapies responsible for triggering EMT in BC tumors. Information regarding essential clinical studies and trials is also discussed. Furthermore, we also highlight the recent strategies targeting various EMT pathways. This review provides a holistic picture of BC biology, molecular pathways, and recent advances in therapeutic strategies.

Crosstalk of pyroptosis and cytokine in the tumor microenvironment: from mechanisms to clinical implication

In the realm of cancer research, the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in tumor initiation and progression, shaped by complex interactions between cancer cells and surrounding non-cancerous cells. Cytokines, as essential immunomodulatory agents, are secreted by various cellular constituents within the TME, including immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and cancer cells themselves. These cytokines facilitate intricate communication networks that significantly influence tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and immune suppression. Pyroptosis contributes to TME remodeling by promoting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and sustaining chronic inflammation, impacting processes such as immune escape and angiogenesis. However, challenges remain due to the complex interplay among cytokines, pyroptosis, and the TME, along with the dual effects of pyroptosis on cancer progression and therapy-related complications like cytokine release syndrome. Unraveling these complexities could facilitate strategies that balance inflammatory responses while minimizing tissue damage during therapy. This review delves into the complex crosstalk between cytokines, pyroptosis, and the TME, elucidating their contribution to tumor progression and metastasis. By synthesizing emerging therapeutic targets and innovative technologies concerning TME, this review aims to provide novel insights that could enhance treatment outcomes for cancer patients.

TGFβ family signaling in human stem cell self-renewal and differentiation

Human stem cells are undifferentiated cells with the capacity for self-renewal and differentiation into distinct cell lineages, playing important role in the development and maintenance of diverse tissues and organs. The microenvironment of stem cell provides crucial factors and components that exert significant influence over the determination of cell fate. Among these factors, cytokines from the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily, including TGFβ, bone morphogenic protein (BMP), Activin and Nodal, have been identified as important regulators governing stem cell maintenance and differentiation. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the pivotal roles played by TGFβ superfamily signaling in governing human embryonic stem cells, somatic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and cancer stem cells. Furthermore, we summarize the latest research and advancements of TGFβ family in various cancer stem cells and stem cell-based therapy, discussing their potential clinical applications in cancer therapy and regeneration medicine.

ADAMTS16 drives epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis through a feedback loop upon TGF-β1 activation in lung adenocarcinoma

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the major subtype of lung cancer. The poor prognosis of LUAD patients is attributed primarily to metastasis. ADAMTS16 is a crucial member of the ADAMTS family and is involved in tumor progression. However, its role and regulatory mechanism in LUAD remain unexplored. In this study, ADAMTS16 was identified as a crucial oncogene and survival predictor in LUAD via analyses of public datasets. Clinical specimens and tissue microarrays confirmed the differential expression and prognostic value of ADAMTS16 in LUAD patients. Transcriptome data and in vitro experiments demonstrated that ADAMTS16 was positively associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the migration abilities of LUAD cells. Knockdown of ADAMTS16 attenuated lung and pleural metastasis in an animal model. Mechanistically, the results of the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and western blot (WB) suggested that ADAMTS16 activated the TGF-β signaling pathway by facilitating the conversion of LAP-TGF-β1 to active TGF-β1. Co-Immunoprecipitation (co-IP) indicated an interaction between ADAMTS16 and LAP-TGF-β1. Inhibition of ADAMTS16 impaired EMT and aggressiveness of LUAD cells, while treatment with recombinant TGF-β1 reversed this inhibition. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and dual-luciferase reporter assays indicated that SOX4 acted as a transcriptional activator of ADAMTS16 and that TGF-β1 regulated the expression of ADAMTS16 by increasing the binding of SOX4 to the promoter of ADAMTS16. Suppressing the TGF-β signaling pathway inhibited ADAMTS16 expression, EMT, and lung metastasis, whereas overexpressing SOX4 reversed this inhibition. Therefore, ADAMTS16 forms a positive feedback loop with the TGF-β1/SOX4 axis to regulate EMT and metastasis, and disruption of this feedback loop inhibits tumor progression. These findings underscore the potential of ADAMTS16 as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in LUAD and offer novel insight into the mechanism of EMT and metastasis.

Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in the tumor microenvironment: Roles of transforming growth factor-β and matrix metalloproteins

Cancer is a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. Tumor cells grow in a complex microenvironment, comprising immune cells, stromal cells, and vascular cells, collaborating to support tumor growth and facilitate metastasis. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is a multipotent factor that can not only affect fibrosis promotion but also assume distinct roles in the early and late stages of the tumor. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) primarily function to degrade the extracellular matrix, a pivotal cellular player in tumor progression. Moreover, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), similar to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, is associated with cancer progression by promoting angiogenesis, disrupting the endothelial barrier, and leading to cancer-associated fibroblasts. Recent studies have underscored the pivotal roles of TGF-β and MMPs in EndMT. This review delves into the contributions of TGF-β and MMPs, as well as their regulatory mechanisms, within the tumor microenvironment. This collective understanding offers fresh insights into the potential for combined targeted therapies in the fight against cancer.

TGF-β and RAS jointly unmask primed enhancers to drive metastasis

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions (EMTs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling are distinct yet important processes during carcinoma invasion and metastasis. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and RAS, signaling through SMAD and RAS-responsive element-binding protein 1 (RREB1), jointly trigger expression of EMT and fibrogenic factors as two discrete arms of a common transcriptional response in carcinoma cells. Here, we demonstrate that both arms come together to form a program for lung adenocarcinoma metastasis and identify chromatin determinants tying the expression of the constituent genes to TGF-β and RAS inputs. RREB1 localizes to H4K16acK20ac marks in histone H2A.Z-loaded nucleosomes at enhancers in the fibrogenic genes interleukin-11 (IL11), platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGFB), and hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2), as well as the EMT transcription factor SNAI1, priming these enhancers for activation by a SMAD4-INO80 nucleosome remodeling complex in response to TGF-β. These regulatory properties segregate the fibrogenic EMT program from RAS-independent TGF-β gene responses and illuminate the operation and vulnerabilities of a bifunctional program that promotes metastatic outgrowth.

Columbianadin ameliorates rheumatoid arthritis by attenuating synoviocyte hyperplasia through targeted vimentin to inhibit the VAV2/Rac-1 signaling pathway

INTRODUCTION

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease pathologically characterized by synovial inflammation. The abnormal activation of synoviocytes seems to accompany the progression of RA. The role and exact molecular mechanism in RA of columbianadin (CBN) which is a natural coumarin is still unclear.

OBJECTIVES

The present research aimed to investigate the effect of vimentin on the abnormal growth characteristics of RA synoviocytes and the targeted regulatory role of CBN.

METHODS

Cell migration and invasion were detected using the wound healing and transwell method. Mechanistically, the direct molecular targets of CBN were screened and identified by activity-based protein profiling. The expression of relevant proteins and mRNA in cells and mouse synovium was detected by western blotting and qRT-PCR. Changes in the degree of paw swelling and body weight of mice were recorded. H&E staining, toluidine blue staining, and micro-CT were used to visualize the degree of pathological damage in the ankle joints of mice. Small interfering RNA and plasmid overexpression of vimentin were used to observe their effects on MH7A cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, and downstream molecular signaling.

RESULTS

The TNF-α-induced proliferation and migration of MH7A cells could be significantly repressed by CBN (25,50 μM), and the expression of apoptosis and autophagy-associated proteins could be modulated. Furthermore, CBN could directly bind to vimentin and inhibit its expression and function in synoviocytes, thereby ameliorating foot and paw swelling and joint damage in CIA mice. Silencing and overexpression of vimentin might be involved in developing RA synovial hyperplasia and invasive cartilage by activating VAV2 phosphorylation-mediated expression of Rac-1, which affects abnormal growth characteristics, such as synoviocyte invasion and migration.

CONCLUSION

CBN-targeted vimentin restrains the overactivation of RA synoviocytes thereby delaying the pathological process in CIA mice, which provides valuable targets and insights for understanding the pathological mechanisms of RA synovial hyperplasia.

Single-cell and spatial omics unravel the spatiotemporal biology of tumour border invasion and haematogenous metastasis

Solid tumours exhibit a well-defined architecture, comprising a differentiated core and a dynamic border that interfaces with the surrounding tissue. This border, characterised by distinct cellular morphology and molecular composition, serves as a critical determinant of the tumour's invasive behaviour. Notably, the invasive border of the primary tumour represents the principal site for intravasation of metastatic cells. These cells, known as circulating tumour cells (CTCs), function as 'seeds' for distant dissemination and display remarkable heterogeneity. Advancements in spatial sequencing technology are progressively unveiling the spatial biological features of tumours. However, systematic investigations specifically targeting the characteristics of the tumour border remain scarce. In this comprehensive review, we illuminate key biological insights along the tumour body-border-haematogenous metastasis axis over the past five years. We delineate the distinctive landscape of tumour invasion boundaries and delve into the intricate heterogeneity and phenotype of CTCs, which orchestrate haematogenous metastasis. These insights have the potential to explain the basis of tumour invasion and distant metastasis, offering new perspectives for the development of more complex and precise clinical interventions and treatments.

Heat shock proteins as hallmarks of cancer: insights from molecular mechanisms to therapeutic strategies

Heat shock proteins are essential molecular chaperones that play crucial roles in stabilizing protein structures, facilitating the repair or degradation of damaged proteins, and maintaining proteostasis and cellular functions. Extensive research has demonstrated that heat shock proteins are highly expressed in cancers and closely associated with tumorigenesis and progression. The "Hallmarks of Cancer" are the core features of cancer biology that collectively define a series of functional characteristics acquired by cells as they transition from a normal state to a state of tumor growth, including sustained proliferative signaling, evasion of growth suppressors, resistance to cell death, enabled replicative immortality, the induction of angiogenesis, and the activation of invasion and metastasis. The pivotal roles of heat shock proteins in modulating the hallmarks of cancer through the activation or inhibition of various signaling pathways has been well documented. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the roles of heat shock proteins in vital biological processes from the perspective of the hallmarks of cancer and summarizes the small-molecule inhibitors that target heat shock proteins to regulate various cancer hallmarks. Moreover, we further discuss combination therapy strategies involving heat shock proteins and promising dual-target inhibitors to highlight the potential of targeting heat shock proteins for cancer treatment. In summary, this review highlights how targeting heat shock proteins could regulate the hallmarks of cancer, which will provide valuable information to better elucidate and understand the roles of heat shock proteins in oncology and the mechanisms of cancer occurrence and development and aid in the development of more efficacious and less toxic novel anticancer agents.

Identification of ECM and EMT relevant genes involved in the progression of bladder cancer through bioinformatics analysis

BACKGROUND

Bladder cancer (BC) is very common among cancers of urinary system. It was usually categorized into two types: non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). NMIBC and MIBC groupings are heterogeneous and have different characteristics.

OBJECTIVES

The study was aimed to find some hub genes and related signal pathways which might be engaged in the progression of BC and to investigate the relationship with clinical stages and its prognostic significance.

METHODS

GSE37317 datasets were acquired from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. GEO2R on-line tool was selected to screen the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of the two different types of BC. Then, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and KOBAS-Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of these DEGs were conducted. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was employed to help us screen hub genes and find significant modules. Finally, we made analysis of gene expression and survival curve by GEPIA and Kaplan-Meier plotter database.

RESULTS

224 DEGs were screened in total, with 110 showing increased expression and 114 demonstrating decreased expression. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that DEGs were mostly involved in collagen fibril organization, extracellular matrix (ECM) structural constituent, bHLH transcription factor binding, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway and TGF-beta signaling pathway. Only 3 hub genes (DCN, JUN, THBS1) displayed significantly higher expression compared to those in the healthy controls. These hub genes were also strongly related to clinical stages as well as overall survival (OS) of BC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, most of hub genes involved in the progression of BC were related to ECM and EMT. In addition, 3 hub genes (DCN, JUN, THBS1) were strongly related with clinical stages and OS of BC patients. This study can enhance our comprehension of the progression of NMIBC and identify novel potential targets for MIBC.

Long-term severe hypoxia adaptation induces non-canonical EMT and a novel Wilms Tumor 1 (WT1) isoform

The majority of cancer deaths are caused by solid tumors, where the four most prevalent cancers (breast, lung, colorectal and prostate) account for more than 60% of all cases (1). Tumor cell heterogeneity driven by variable cancer microenvironments, such as hypoxia, is a key determinant of therapeutic outcome. We developed a novel culture protocol, termed the Long-Term Hypoxia (LTHY) time course, to recapitulate the gradual development of severe hypoxia seen in vivo to mimic conditions observed in primary tumors. Cells subjected to LTHY underwent a non-canonical epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) based on miRNA and mRNA signatures as well as displayed EMT-like morphological changes. Concomitant to this, we report production of a novel truncated isoform of WT1 transcription factor (tWt1), a non-canonical EMT driver, with expression driven by a yet undescribed intronic promoter through hypoxia-responsive elements (HREs). We further demonstrated that tWt1 initiates translation from an intron-derived start codon, retains proper subcellular localization and DNA binding. A similar tWt1 is also expressed in LTHY-cultured human cancer cell lines as well as primary cancers and predicts long-term patient survival. Our study not only demonstrates the importance of culture conditions that better mimic those observed in primary cancers, especially with regards to hypoxia, but also identifies a novel isoform of WT1 which correlates with poor long-term survival in ovarian cancer.

Ailanthone ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis by suppressing JUN-dependent MEOX1 activation

Pulmonary fibrosis poses a significant health threat with very limited therapeutic options available. In this study, we reported the enhanced expression of mesenchymal homobox 1 (MEOX1) in pulmonary fibrosis patients, especially in their fibroblasts and endothelial cells, and confirmed MEOX1 as a central orchestrator in the activation of profibrotic genes. By high-throughput screening, we identified Ailanthone (AIL) from a natural compound library as the first small molecule capable of directly targeting and suppressing MEOX1. AIL demonstrated the ability to inhibit both the activation of fibroblasts and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition of endothelial cells when challenged by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). In an animal model of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, AIL effectively mitigated the fibrotic process and restored respiratory functions. Mechanistically, AIL acted as a suppressor of MEOX1 by disrupting the interaction between the transcription factor JUN and the promoter of MEOX1, thereby inhibiting MEOX1 expression and activity. In summary, our findings pinpointed MEOX1 as a cell-specific and clinically translatable target in fibrosis. Moreover, we demonstrated the potent anti-fibrotic effect of AIL in pulmonary fibrosis, specifically through the suppression of JUN-dependent MEOX1 activation.

Renal tubular epithelial cell quality control mechanisms as therapeutic targets in renal fibrosis

Renal fibrosis is a devastating consequence of progressive chronic kidney disease, representing a major public health challenge worldwide. The underlying mechanisms in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis remain unclear, and effective treatments are still lacking. Renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) maintain kidney function, and their dysfunction has emerged as a critical contributor to renal fibrosis. Cellular quality control comprises several components, including telomere homeostasis, ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), autophagy, mitochondrial homeostasis (mitophagy and mitochondrial metabolism), endoplasmic reticulum (ER, unfolded protein response), and lysosomes. Failures in the cellular quality control of RTECs, including DNA, protein, and organelle damage, exert profibrotic functions by leading to senescence, defective autophagy, ER stress, mitochondrial and lysosomal dysfunction, apoptosis, fibroblast activation, and immune cell recruitment. In this review, we summarize recent advances in understanding the role of quality control components and intercellular crosstalk networks in RTECs, within the context of renal fibrosis.

Soloxolone para-methylanilide effectively suppresses aggressive phenotype of glioblastoma cells including TGF-β1-induced glial-mesenchymal transition in vitro and inhibits growth of U87 glioblastoma xenografts in mice

Soloxolone amides are semisynthetic triterpenoids that can cross the blood-brain barrier and inhibit glioblastoma growth both in vitro and in vivo. Here we investigate the impact of these compounds on processes associated with glioblastoma invasiveness and therapy resistance. Screening of soloxolone amides against glioblastoma cells revealed the ability of compound 7 (soloxolone para-methylanilide) to inhibit transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1)-induced glial-mesenchymal transition Compound 7 inhibited morphological changes, wound healing, transwell migration, and expression of mesenchymal markers (N-cadherin, fibronectin, Slug) in TGF-β1-induced U87 and U118 glioblastoma cells, while restoring their adhesiveness. Confocal microscopy and molecular docking showed that 7 reduced SMAD2/3 nuclear translocation probably by direct interaction with the TGF-β type I and type II receptors (TβRI/II). In addition, 7 suppressed stemness of glioblastoma cells as evidenced by inhibition of colony forming ability, spheroid growth, and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity. Furthermore, 7 exhibited a synergistic effect with temozolomide (TMZ) on glioblastoma cell viability. Using N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and flow cytometry analysis of Annexin V-FITC-, propidium iodide-, and DCFDA-stained cells, 7 was found to synergize the cytotoxicity of TMZ by inducing ROS-dependent apoptosis. Further in vivo studies showed that 7, alone or in combination with TMZ, effectively suppressed the growth of U87 xenograft tumors in mice. Thus, 7 demonstrated promising potential as a component of combination therapy for glioblastoma, reducing its invasiveness and increasing its sensitivity to chemotherapy.

The Role of Neuromodulation and Potential Mechanism in Regulating Heterotopic Ossification

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a pathological process characterized by the aberrant formation of bone in muscles and soft tissues. It is commonly triggered by traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and burns. Despite a wide range of evidence underscoring the significance of neurogenic signals in proper bone remodeling, a clear understanding of HO induced by nerve injury remains rudimentary. Recent studies suggest that injury to the nervous system can activate various signaling pathways, such as TGF-β, leading to neurogenic HO through the release of neurotrophins. These pathophysiological changes lay a robust groundwork for the prevention and treatment of HO. In this review, we collected evidence to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of HO related to nerve injury, aiming to enhance our understanding of how neurological repair processes can culminate in HO.

RNA regulatory mechanisms controlling TGF-β signaling and EMT in cancer

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a major contributor to metastatic progression and is prominently regulated by TGF-β signalling. Both EMT and TGF-β pathway components are tightly controlled by non-coding RNAs - including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) - that collectively have major impacts on gene expression and resulting cellular states. While miRNAs are the best characterised regulators of EMT and TGF-β signaling and the miR-200-ZEB1/2 feedback loop plays a central role, important functions for lncRNAs and circRNAs are also now emerging. This review will summarise our current understanding of the roles of non-coding RNAs in EMT and TGF-β signaling with a focus on their functions in cancer progression.

Fractionated radiation therapy alters energy metabolism and induces cellular quiescence exit in patient-derived orthotopic xenograft models of high-grade glioma

Radiation is one of the standard therapies for pediatric high-grade glioma (pHGG), of which the prognosis remains poor. To gain an in-depth understanding of biological consequences beyond the classic DNA damage, we treated 9 patient-derived orthotopic xenograft (PDOX) models, including one with DNA mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency, with fractionated radiations (2 Gy/day x 5 days). Extension of survival time was noted in 5 PDOX models (P < 0.05) accompanied by γH2AX positivity in >95 % tumor cells in tumor core and >85 % in the invasive foci as well as ∼30 % apoptotic and mitotic catastrophic cell death. The model with DNA MMR (IC-1406HGG) was the most responsive to radiation with a reduction of Ki-67(+) cells. Altered metabolism, including mitochondria number elevation, COX IV activation and reactive oxygen species accumulation, were detected together with the enrichment of CD133+ tumor cells. The latter was caused by the entry of quiescent G0 cells into cell cycle and the activation of self-renewal (SOX2 and BMI1) and epithelial mesenchymal transition (fibronectin) genes. These novel insights about the cellular and molecular mechanisms of fractionated radiation in vivo should support the development of new radio-sensitizing therapies.

Exosomal miR-17-5p derived from epithelial cells is involved in aberrant epithelium-fibroblast crosstalk and induces the development of oral submucosal fibrosis

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a chronic and inflammatory mucosal disease caused by betel quid chewing, which belongs to oral potentially malignant disorders. Abnormal fibroblast differentiation leading to disordered collagen metabolism is the core process underlying OSF development. The epithelium, which is the first line of defense against the external environment, can convert external signals into pathological signals and participate in the remodeling of the fibrotic microenvironment. However, the specific mechanisms by which the epithelium drives fibroblast differentiation remain unclear. In this study, we found that Arecoline-exposed epithelium communicated with the fibrotic microenvironment by secreting exosomes. MiR-17-5p was encapsulated in epithelial cell-derived exosomes and absorbed by fibroblasts, where it promoted cell secretion, contraction, migration and fibrogenic marker (α-SMA and collagen type I) expression. The underlying molecular mechanism involved miR-17-5p targeting Smad7 and suppressing the degradation of TGF-β receptor 1 (TGFBR1) through the E3 ubiquitination ligase WWP1, thus facilitating downstream TGF-β pathway signaling. Treatment of fibroblasts with an inhibitor of miR-17-5p reversed the contraction and migration phenotypes induced by epithelial-derived exosomes. Exosomal miR-17-5p was confirmed to function as a key regulator of the phenotypic transformation of fibroblasts. In conclusion, we demonstrated that Arecoline triggers aberrant epithelium-fibroblast crosstalk and identified that epithelial cell-derived miR-17-5p mediates fibroblast differentiation through the classical TGF-β fibrotic pathway, which provided a new perspective and strategy for the diagnosis and treatment of OSF.

Mapping the landscape of histomorphological cancer phenotypes using self-supervised learning on unannotated pathology slides

Cancer diagnosis and management depend upon the extraction of complex information from microscopy images by pathologists, which requires time-consuming expert interpretation prone to human bias. Supervised deep learning approaches have proven powerful, but are inherently limited by the cost and quality of annotations used for training. Therefore, we present Histomorphological Phenotype Learning, a self-supervised methodology requiring no labels and operating via the automatic discovery of discriminatory features in image tiles. Tiles are grouped into morphologically similar clusters which constitute an atlas of histomorphological phenotypes (HP-Atlas), revealing trajectories from benign to malignant tissue via inflammatory and reactive phenotypes. These clusters have distinct features which can be identified using orthogonal methods, linking histologic, molecular and clinical phenotypes. Applied to lung cancer, we show that they align closely with patient survival, with histopathologically recognised tumor types and growth patterns, and with transcriptomic measures of immunophenotype. These properties are maintained in a multi-cancer study.

Multimodal decoding of human liver regeneration

The liver has a unique ability to regenerate1,2; however, in the setting of acute liver failure (ALF), this regenerative capacity is often overwhelmed, leaving emergency liver transplantation as the only curative option3-5. Here, to advance understanding of human liver regeneration, we use paired single-nucleus RNA sequencing combined with spatial profiling of healthy and ALF explant human livers to generate a single-cell, pan-lineage atlas of human liver regeneration. We uncover a novel ANXA2+ migratory hepatocyte subpopulation, which emerges during human liver regeneration, and a corollary subpopulation in a mouse model of acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver regeneration. Interrogation of necrotic wound closure and hepatocyte proliferation across multiple timepoints following APAP-induced liver injury in mice demonstrates that wound closure precedes hepatocyte proliferation. Four-dimensional intravital imaging of APAP-induced mouse liver injury identifies motile hepatocytes at the edge of the necrotic area, enabling collective migration of the hepatocyte sheet to effect wound closure. Depletion of hepatocyte ANXA2 reduces hepatocyte growth factor-induced human and mouse hepatocyte migration in vitro, and abrogates necrotic wound closure following APAP-induced mouse liver injury. Together, our work dissects unanticipated aspects of liver regeneration, demonstrating an uncoupling of wound closure and hepatocyte proliferation and uncovering a novel migratory hepatocyte subpopulation that mediates wound closure following liver injury. Therapies designed to promote rapid reconstitution of normal hepatic microarchitecture and reparation of the gut-liver barrier may advance new areas of therapeutic discovery in regenerative medicine.

Targeting tumor suppressor p53 for organ fibrosis therapy

Fibrosis is a reparative and progressive process characterized by abnormal extracellular matrix deposition, contributing to organ dysfunction in chronic diseases. The tumor suppressor p53 (p53), known for its regulatory roles in cell proliferation, apoptosis, aging, and metabolism across diverse tissues, appears to play a pivotal role in aggravating biological processes such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell apoptosis, and cell senescence. These processes are closely intertwined with the pathogenesis of fibrotic disease. In this review, we briefly introduce the background and specific mechanism of p53, investigate the pathogenesis of fibrosis, and further discuss p53's relationship and role in fibrosis affecting the kidney, liver, lung, and heart. In summary, targeting p53 represents a promising and innovative therapeutic approach for the prevention and treatment of organ fibrosis.

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition contrast in the amputated tail and limb of the northern house gecko, Hemidactylus flaviviridis

The northern house gecko Hemidactylus flaviviridis exhibits appendage-specific responses to injuries. The autotomized tail regenerates, whereas the severed limb fails to regrow. Many site-specific cellular processes influence tail regeneration. Herein, we analyzed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition contrast in the lizard's amputated appendages (tail and limb). Morphological observations in the healing frame indicated the formation of regeneration blastema in the tail and scar formation in limb. Histology of the tail showed that epithelial cells closer to mesenchyme appeared less columnar and loosely packed, with little intercellular matrix. Whereas in the limb, the columnar epithelial cells remained tightly packed. Collagen deposition was seen in the limb at the intersection of wound epithelium and mesenchyme, favoring scarring by blocking the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Markers for epithelial-mesenchymal transition were assessed at transcript and protein levels. The regenerating tail showed upregulation of N-cadherin, vimentin, and PCNA, favoring epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cell migration, and proliferation, respectively. In contrast, the scarring limb showed persistently elevated levels of E-cadherin and EpCAM, indicating retention of epithelial characteristics. An attempt was made to screen the resident epithelial stem cell population in both appendages to check their potential role in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), hence the differential wound healing. Upregulation in transcript and protein levels of Nanog and Sox2 was observed in the regenerating tail. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) provided supporting evidence that the epithelial stem cell population in tail remained significantly higher than in limb. Thus, this study focuses on the mechanistic role of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in wound healing, highlighting the molecular details of regeneration and scarring events.

Mesenchymal stem cells derived from CHIR99021 and TGF‑β induction remained on the colicomentum and improved cardiac function of a rat model of acute myocardium infarction

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have been regarded as a potential stem cell source for cell therapy. However, the production of cells with mesenchymal potential from hiPSCs through spontaneous differentiation is time consuming and laborious. In the present study, the combined use of the GSK-3 inhibitor CHIR99021 and TGF-β was used to obtain mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-like cells from hiPSCs. During the induction process, the transcription of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes N-cadherin and Vimentin in the transformed cells was upregulated, whereas the transcription of E-cadherin and pluripotency-related transcription factors SOX2, OCT4 and NANOG did not change significantly. This indicated that whilst cells were pluripotent, EMT was initiated by the upregulation of transcription of EMT promoting genes. Both SMAD-dependent and independent signalling pathways were significantly activated by the combined induction treatment compared with the single factor induction. The hiPSC-derived MSC-like cells (hiPSC-MSCs) expressed MSC-related markers and acquired osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic differentiation potentials. After being injected into the peritoneal cavity of rats, the hiPSC-MSCs secreted angiogenic and immune-regulatory factors and remained on the colicomentum for 3 weeks. Within an 11-week period, four intraperitoneal hiPSC-MSC injections (1x107 cells/injection) into acute myocardial infarction (AMI) model rats significantly increased the left ventricular ejection fraction, left ventricular fractional shortening and angiogenesis and significantly reduced scar size and the extent of apoptosis in the infarcted area compared with that of the control PBS injection. Symptoms of hiPSC-MSC-induced immune reaction or tumour formation were not observed over the course of the experiment in the hiSPC-MSC treated rats. In conclusion, the CHIR99021 and TGF-β combined induction was a rapid and effective method to obtain MSC-like cells from hiPSCs and multiple high dose intraperitoneal injections of hiPSC-derived MSCs were safe and effective at restoring cardiac function in an AMI rat model.

Endothelial to mesenchymal transition in the interleukin-1 pathway during aortic aneurysm formation

OBJECTIVE

Endothelial to mesenchymal transition may represent a key link between inflammatory stress and endothelial dysfunction seen in aortic aneurysm disease. Endothelial to mesenchymal transition is regulated by interleukin-1β, and previous work has demonstrated an essential role of interleukin-1 signaling in experimental aortic aneurysm models. We hypothesize that endothelial to mesenchymal transition is present in murine aortic aneurysms, and loss of interleukin-1 signaling attenuates this process.

METHODS

Murine aortic aneurysms were created in novel CDH5-Cre lineage tracking mice by treating the intact aorta with peri-adventitial elastase. Endothelial to mesenchymal transition transcription factors as well as endothelial and mesenchymal cell markers were analyzed via immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence (n = 10/group). To determine the role of interleukin-1 signaling, endothelial-specific interleukin-1 receptor 1 knockout and wild-type mice (n = 10/group) were treated with elastase. Additionally, C57/BL6 mice were treated with the interleukin-1 receptor 1 antagonist Anakinra (n = 7) or vehicle (n = 8).

RESULTS

Elastase treatment yielded greater aortic dilation compared with controls (elastase 97.0% ± 34.0%; control 5.3% ± 4.8%; P < .001). Genetic deletion of interleukin-1 receptor 1 attenuated aortic dilation (control 126.7% ± 38.7%; interleukin-1 receptor 1 knockout 35.2% ± 14.7%; P < .001), as did pharmacologic inhibition of interleukin-1 receptor 1 with Anakinra (vehicle 146.3% ± 30.1%; Anakinra 63.5% ± 23.3%; P < .001). Elastase treatment resulted in upregulation of endothelial to mesenchymal transition transcription factors (Snail, Slug, Twist, ZNF) and mesenchymal cell markers (S100, alpha smooth muscle actin) and loss of endothelial cell markers (vascular endothelial cadherin, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, von Willebrand factor). These changes were attenuated by interleukin-1 receptor 1 knockout and Anakinra treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Endothelial to mesenchymal transition occurs in aortic aneurysm disease and is attenuated by loss of interleukin-1 signaling. Endothelial dysfunction through endothelial to mesenchymal transition represents a new and novel pathway in understanding aortic aneurysm disease and may be a potential target for future treatment.

Advances and Challenges in Targeting TGF-β Isoforms for Therapeutic Intervention of Cancer: A Mechanism-Based Perspective

The TGF-β family is a group of 25 kDa secretory cytokines, in mammals consisting of three dimeric isoforms (TGF-βs 1, 2, and 3), each encoded on a separate gene with unique regulatory elements. Each isoform plays unique, diverse, and pivotal roles in cell growth, survival, immune response, and differentiation. However, many researchers in the TGF-β field often mistakenly assume a uniform functionality among all three isoforms. Although TGF-βs are essential for normal development and many cellular and physiological processes, their dysregulated expression contributes significantly to various diseases. Notably, they drive conditions like fibrosis and tumor metastasis/progression. To counter these pathologies, extensive efforts have been directed towards targeting TGF-βs, resulting in the development of a range of TGF-β inhibitors. Despite some clinical success, these agents have yet to reach their full potential in the treatment of cancers. A significant challenge rests in effectively targeting TGF-βs' pathological functions while preserving their physiological roles. Many existing approaches collectively target all three isoforms, failing to target just the specific deregulated ones. Additionally, most strategies tackle the entire TGF-β signaling pathway instead of focusing on disease-specific components or preferentially targeting tumors. This review gives a unique historical overview of the TGF-β field often missed in other reviews and provides a current landscape of TGF-β research, emphasizing isoform-specific functions and disease implications. The review then delves into ongoing therapeutic strategies in cancer, stressing the need for more tools that target specific isoforms and disease-related pathway components, advocating mechanism-based and refined approaches to enhance the effectiveness of TGF-β-targeted cancer therapies.

PALB2-mutated human mammary cells display a broad spectrum of morphological and functional abnormalities induced by increased TGFβ signaling

Heterozygous mutations in any of three major genes, BRCA1, BRCA2 and PALB2, are associated with high-risk hereditary breast cancer susceptibility frequently seen as familial disease clustering. PALB2 is a key interaction partner and regulator of several vital cellular activities of BRCA1 and BRCA2, and is thus required for DNA damage repair and alleviation of replicative and oxidative stress. Little is however known about how PALB2-deficiency affects cell function beyond that, especially in the three-dimensional setting, and also about its role during early steps of malignancy development. To answer these questions, we have generated biologically relevant MCF10A mammary epithelial cell lines with mutations that are comparable to certain clinically important PALB2 defects. We show in a non-cancerous background how both mono- and biallelically PALB2-mutated cells exhibit gross spontaneous DNA damage and mitotic aberrations. Furthermore, PALB2-deficiency disturbs three-dimensional spheroid morphology, increases the migrational capacity and invasiveness of the cells, and broadly alters their transcriptome profiles. TGFβ signaling and KRT14 expression are enhanced in PALB2-mutated cells and their inhibition and knock down, respectively, lead to partial restoration of cell functions. KRT14-positive cells are also more abundant with DNA damage than KRT14-negative cells. The obtained results indicate comprehensive cellular changes upon PALB2 mutations, even in the presence of half dosage of wild type PALB2 and demonstrate how PALB2 mutations may predispose their carriers to malignancy.

Effects of a proprietary mixture of extracts from Sabal serrulata fruits and Urtica dioica roots (WS® 1541) on prostate hyperplasia and inflammation in rats and human cells

Introduction: Phytotherapeutics, particularly extracts from Sabal serrulata (saw palmetto) fruit or Urtica dioica (stinging nettle) root, are popular for the treatment of male lower urinary symptoms in many countries, but their mechanism of action is poorly understood. We performed in vivo and in vitro studies to obtain deeper insight into the mechanism of action of WS® 1541, a proprietary combination of a Sabal serrulata fruit and an Urtica dioica root extract (WS® 1473 and WS® 1031, respectively) and its components. Methods: We used the sulpiride model of benign prostatic hyperplasia in rats and tested three doses of WS® 1541 in comparison to finasteride, evaluating weight of prostate and its individual lobes as well as aspects of inflammation, oxidative stress, growth and hyperplasia. In human BPH-1 cells, we studied the effect of WS® 1473, WS® 1031, WS® 1541 and finasteride on apoptosis, cell cycle progression and migrative capacity of the cells. Results: WS® 1541 did not reduce prostate size in sulpiride treated rats but attenuated the sulpiride-induced changes in expression of most analyzed genes and of oxidized proteins and abrogated the epithelial thickening. In vitro, WS® 1473 and WS® 1031 showed distinct profiles of favorable effects in BPH-1 cells including anti-oxidative, anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects, as well as inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal-transition. Conclusion: This data supports a beneficial effect of the clinically used WS® 1541 for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms associated with mild to moderate benign prostate syndrome and provides a scientific rationale for the combination of its components WS® 1473 and WS® 1031.

Targeting SMAD-Dependent Signaling: Considerations in Epithelial and Mesenchymal Solid Tumors

SMADs are the canonical intracellular effector proteins of the TGF-β (transforming growth factor-β). SMADs translocate from plasma membrane receptors to the nucleus regulated by many SMAD-interacting proteins through phosphorylation and other post-translational modifications that govern their nucleocytoplasmic shuttling and subsequent transcriptional activity. The signaling pathway of TGF-β/SMAD exhibits both tumor-suppressing and tumor-promoting phenotypes in epithelial-derived solid tumors. Collectively, the pleiotropic nature of TGF-β/SMAD signaling presents significant challenges for the development of effective cancer therapies. Here, we review preclinical studies that evaluate the efficacy of inhibitors targeting major SMAD-regulating and/or -interacting proteins, particularly enzymes that may play important roles in epithelial or mesenchymal compartments within solid tumors.

TGF-β1, pSmad-2/3, Smad-7, and β-Catenin Are Augmented in the Pulmonary Arteries from Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): Role in Driving Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EndMT)

Background: We have previously reported that endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is an active process in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) contributing to arterial remodelling. Here, we aim to quantify drivers of EndMT in IPF patients compared to normal controls (NCs). Methods: Lung resections from thirteen IPF patients and eleven NCs were immunohistochemically stained for EndMT drivers, including TGF-β1, pSmad-2/3, Smad-7, and β-catenin. Intima, media, and adventitia were analysed for expression of each EndMT driver in pulmonary arteries. Computer- and microscope-assisted Image ProPlus7.0 image analysis software was used for quantifications. Results: Significant TGF-β1, pSmad-2/3, Smad-7, and β-catenin expression was apparent across all arterial sizes in IPF (p < 0.05). Intimal TGF-β1, pSmad-2/3, Smad-7, and β-catenin were augmented in the arterial range of 100-1000 μm (p < 0.001) compared to NC. Intimal TGF-β1 and β-catenin percentage expression showed a strong correlation with the percentage expression of intimal vimentin (r' = 0.54, p = 0.05 and r' = 0.61, p = 0.02, respectively) and intimal N-cadherin (r' = 0.62, p = 0.03 and r' = 0.70, p = 0.001, respectively). Intimal TGF-β1 and β-catenin expression were significantly correlated with increased intimal thickness as well (r' = 0.52, p = 0.04; r' = 0.052, p = 0.04, respectively). Moreover, intimal TGF-β1 expression was also significantly associated with increased intimal elastin deposition (r' = 0.79, p = 0.002). Furthermore, total TGF-β1 expression significantly impacted the percentage of DLCO (r' = -0.61, p = 0.03). Conclusions: This is the first study to illustrate the involvement of active TGF-β/Smad-2/3-dependent and β-catenin-dependent Wnt signalling pathways in driving EndMT and resultant pulmonary arterial remodelling in patients with IPF. EndMT is a potential therapeutic target for vascular remodelling and fibrosis in general in patients with IPF.

How studies in developmental epithelial-mesenchymal transition and mesenchymal-epithelial transition inspired new research paradigms in biomedicine

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its reverse mechanism, mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET), are evolutionarily conserved mechanisms initially identified in studies of early metazoan development. EMT may even have been established in choanoflagellates, the closest unicellular relative of Metazoa. These crucial morphological transitions operate during body plan formation and subsequently in organogenesis. These findings have prompted an increasing number of investigators in biomedicine to assess the importance of such mechanisms that drive epithelial cell plasticity in multiple diseases associated with congenital disabilities and fibrosis, and, most importantly, in the progression of carcinoma. EMT and MET also play crucial roles in regenerative medicine, notably by contributing epigenetic changes in somatic cells to initiate reprogramming into stem cells and their subsequent differentiation into distinct lineages.

Interstitial flow potentiates TGF-β/Smad-signaling activity in lung cancer spheroids in a 3D-microfluidic chip

Within the tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer cells use mechanotransduction pathways to convert biophysical forces to biochemical signals. However, the underlying mechanisms and functional significance of these pathways remain largely unclear. The upregulation of mechanosensitive pathways from biophysical forces such as interstitial flow (IF), leads to the activation of various cytokines, including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). TGF-β promotes in part via a Smad-dependent signaling pathway the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer cells. The latter process is linked to increased cancer cell motility and invasion. Current research models have limited ability to investigate the combined effects of biophysical forces (such as IF) and cytokines (TGF-β) in a 3D microenvironment. We used a 3D-matrix based microfluidic platform to demonstrate the potentiating effect of IF on exogenous TGF-β induced upregulation of the Smad-signaling activity and the expression of mesenchymal marker vimentin in A549 lung cancer spheroids. To monitor this, we used stably integrated fluorescent based reporters into the A549 cancer cell genome. Our results demonstrate that IF enhances exogenous TGF-β induced Smad-signaling activity in lung cancer spheroids embedded in a matrix microenvironment. In addition, we observed an increased cell motility for A549 spheroids when exposed to IF and TGF-β. Our 3D-microfluidic model integrated with real-time imaging provides a powerful tool for investigating cancer cell signaling and motility associated with invasion characteristics in a physiologically relevant TME.

Smad4 sequestered in SFPQ condensates prevents TGF-β tumor-suppressive signaling

Loss of TGF-β growth-inhibitory responses is a hallmark of human cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the TGF-β resistance of cancer cells remain to be fully elucidated. Splicing factor proline- and glutamine-rich (SFPQ) is a prion-like RNA-binding protein that is frequently upregulated in human cancers. In this study, we identified SFPQ as a potent suppressor of TGF-β signaling. The ability of SFPQ to suppress TGF-β responses depends on its prion-like domain (PrLD) that drives liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Mechanistically, SFPQ physically restrained Smad4 in its condensates, which excluded Smad4 from the Smad complex and chromatin occupancy and thus functionally dampened Smad-dependent transcriptional responses. Accordingly, SFPQ deficiency or loss of phase separation activities rendered human cells hypersensitive to TGF-β responses. Together, our data identify an important function of SFPQ through LLPS that suppresses Smad transcriptional activation and TGF-β tumor-suppressive activity.

Inhibition of transforming growth factor-β signals suppresses tumor formation by regulation of tumor microenvironment networks

The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of cancer cells surrounded by stromal components including tumor vessels. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) promotes tumor progression by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer cells and stimulating tumor angiogenesis in the tumor stroma. We previously developed an Fc chimeric TGF-β receptor containing both TGF-β type I (TβRI) and type II (TβRII) receptors (TβRI-TβRII-Fc), which trapped all TGF-β isoforms and suppressed tumor growth. However, the precise mechanisms underlying this action have not yet been elucidated. In the present study, we showed that the recombinant TβRI-TβRII-Fc protein effectively suppressed in vitro EMT of oral cancer cells and in vivo tumor growth in a human oral cancer cell xenograft mouse model. Tumor cell proliferation and angiogenesis were suppressed in tumors treated with TβRI-TβRII-Fc. Molecular profiling of human cancer cells and mouse stroma revealed that K-Ras signaling and angiogenesis were suppressed. Administration of TβRI-TβRII-Fc protein decreased the expression of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and epiregulin (EREG) in the TME of oral cancer tumor xenografts. HB-EGF increased proliferation of human oral cancer cells and mouse endothelial cells by activating ERK1/2 phosphorylation. HB-EGF also promoted oral cancer cell-derived tumor formation by enhancing cancer cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis. In addition, increased expressions of IL-1β and EREG in oral cancer cells significantly enhanced tumor formation. These results suggest that TGF-β signaling in the TME controls cancer cell proliferation and angiogenesis by activating HB-EGF/IL-1β/EREG pathways and that TβRI-TβRII-Fc protein is a promising tool for targeting the TME networks.

The interplay of EMT and stemness driving malignant transformation of Oral Submucous Fibrosis

Background

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a persistent oral mucosal condition that carries an elevated risk of undergoing malignant transformation. Our objective was to elucidate the involvement of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in OSF and its progression to malignancy by studying a panel of EMT markers, thereby understanding the molecular mechanisms.

Methods

An immunohistochemical analysis was done to detect the presence of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, pan-cytokeratin (PanCK), vimentin, α-SMA (alpha-smooth muscle actin), and CD44 in a total of 100 tissue samples. These samples comprised 40 cases of OSF, 20 cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma associated with OSF (OSFSCC), and 40 cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). A whole transcriptomic analysis was performed on a group of seven matched samples encompassing NOM, OSF, OSFSCC, and OSCC.

Results

We observed significantly decreased expression of E-cadherin and PanCK, while N-cadherin, vimentin, α-SMA, and CD44 showed significantly higher expression in OSFSCC and OSCC as compared to OSF, both at protein and RNA levels. CD44 expression was noticeably higher in OSFSCC (p < 0.001) than in OSCC.

Conclusion

Downregulation of epithelial markers with concomitant upregulation of mesenchymal and stem cell markers suggests the potential role of EMT and stemness in accelerating the pathogenesis and malignant transformation of OSF. The high levels of CD44 expression seen in OSFSCC indicate a high propensity for aggressiveness and acquisition of stem-like characteristics by the cells undergoing EMT.

Hirsutella sinensis mycelium polysaccharides attenuate the TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in human intrahepatic bile duct epithelial cells

Hirsutella sinensis is the anamorph of Ophiocordyceps sinensis, and its mycelia has been used to effectively treat a variety of hepatobiliary diseases in clinical practice. In the present study, we performed a systematic study on the composition and structure of its polysaccharides, and then employed a TGF-β1-induced human intrahepatic bile duct epithelial cell-epithelial-mesenchymal transition (HIBEC-EMT) model to investigate their effects on treating primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) based on hepatic bile duct fibrosis. Four polysaccharide fractions were obtained from H. sinensis mycelia by hot-water extraction, DEAE-cellulose column and gradient ethanol precipitation separation. HSWP-1a was an α-(1,4)-D-glucan; HSWP-1b and HSWP-1d mainly consisted of mannoglucans with a backbone composed of 1,4-linked α-D-Glcp and 1,4,6-linked α-D-Manp residues branched at O-6 of the 1,4-linked α-D-Glcp with a 1-linked α-D-Glcp as a side chain; and HSWP-1c mainly contained galactomannoglucans. These polysaccharide fractions protected HIBECs from a TGF-β1-induced EMT, according to HIBEC morphological changes, cell viability, decreased E-cadherin and ZO-1 expression, and increased vimentin and collagen I expression. Furthermore, the effects of the polysaccharides might be mediated by inhibiting the activation of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, which attenuated hepatic bile duct fibrosis and potential PBC effects.

The Snail signaling branch downstream of the TGF-β/Smad3 pathway mediates Rho activation and subsequent stress fiber formation

Cancer cells acquire malignant phenotypes through an epithelial-mesenchymal transition, which is induced by environmental factors or extracellular signaling molecules, including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Among epithelial-mesenchymal transition-associated cell responses, cell morphological changes and cell motility are closely associated with remodeling of the actin stress fibers. Here, we examined the TGF-β signaling pathways leading to these cell responses. Through knockdown experiments in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells, we found that Smad3-mediated induction of Snail, but not that of Slug, is indispensable for morphological changes, stress fiber formation, and enhanced motility in cells stimulated with TGF-β. Ectopic expression of Snail in SMAD3-knockout cells rescued the defect in morphological changes and stress fiber formation by TGF-β, indicating that the role of Smad3 in these responses is to upregulate Snail expression. Mechanistically, Snail is required for TGF-β-induced upregulation of Wnt5b, which in turn activates RhoA and subsequent stress fiber formation in cooperation with phosphoinositide 3-kinase. However, ectopic expression of Snail in SMAD3-knockout cells failed to rescue the defect in cell motility enhancement by TGF-β, indicating that activation of the Smad3/Snail/Wnt5b axis is indispensable but not sufficient for enhancing cell motility; a Smad3-dependent but Snail-independent pathway to activate Rac1 is additionally required. Therefore, the Smad3-dependent pathway leading to enhanced cell motility has two branches: a Snail-dependent branch to activate RhoA and a Snail-independent branch to activate Rac1. Coordinated activation of these branches, together with activation of non-Smad signaling pathways, mediates enhanced cell motility induced by TGF-β.

HER2 Alterations in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Biologico-Clinical Consequences and Interest in Therapeutic Strategies

Lung cancer stands as the first cause of death by cancer in the world. Despite the improvement in patients' outcomes in the past decades through the development of personalized medicine approaches, a substantial portion of patients remains ineligible for targeted therapies due to the lack of a "druggable" molecular target. HER2, a receptor tyrosine kinase member of the EGFR/ErbB family, is known to show oncogenic properties. In this review, we focus on the different HER2 dysregulation mechanisms that have been observed in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): gene mutation, gene amplification, protein overexpression and protein hyper-phosphorylation, the latter suggesting that HER2 dysregulation can occur independently of any molecular aberration. These HER2 alterations inevitably have consequences on tumor biology. Here, we discuss how they are not only involved in abnormal proliferation and survival of cancer cells but also potentially in increased angiogenic properties, mesenchymal features and tumor immune escape. Finally, we review the impact of these HER2 alterations in various therapeutic approaches. While standard chemotherapy and groundbreaking immunotherapy seem rather ineffective for HER2-altered NSCLCs, the development of HER2-targeted therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, anti-HER2 antibodies and especially antibody-drug conjugates could provide new hopes for patients.