ROS-Nrf2 pathway mediates the development of TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition through the activation of Notch signaling

Modulation in NF-κB-p65/NLRP3, TXNIP-mediated signaling using an ethanolic fruit extract of Withania coagulans mitigates silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats

Withania coagulans encompasses many active phytoconstituents, which have been used to treat many ailments. Prior research has shown that fruit extract of Withania coagulans has anti-inflammatory properties and effectively reduces oxidative stress in various diseases. Nevertheless, its effects are not obscured in the silica (SiO2) induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF). In the current study, an ethanolic fruit extract of Withania coagulans (WCE) was prepared, and its effects and underlying mechanisms on SiO2-induced PF in rats were elucidated. LC-MS/MS analysis identified various bioactive phytoconstituents, secondary plant metabolites, and flavonoids in the WCE. In vitro, results showed that the WCE exhibited no toxicity towards A549 cells, reduced the production of reactive oxygen species, and inhibited cell migration. Further, WCE abrogated alveolar wall thickening, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, and maintained lung architecture. It also suppresses collagen accumulation and mucus production, abrogating inflammation by downregulating nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB-p65)/ NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) and cytokine levels. It suppresses oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by SiO2 by downregulating thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), and C/EBP Homologous Protein (CHOP) proteins. Additionally, WCE, by suppressing EMT and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)/Suppressor of Mothers against Decapentaplegic (Smad) pathway, mitigated PF in rats. Taken together, WCE via anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties inhibited SiO2-induced PF, and therefore, it can be envisaged as an effective antifibrotic agent to treat PF.

Molecular Targets of Oxidative Stress: Focus on Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 Function in Leukemia and Other Cancers

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that plays a central role in regulating cellular responses to oxidative stress. It governs the expression of a broad range of genes involved in antioxidant defense, detoxification, metabolism, and other cytoprotective pathways. In normal cells, the transient activation of Nrf2 serves as a protective mechanism to maintain redox homeostasis. However, the persistent or aberrant activation of Nrf2 in cancer cells has been implicated in tumor progression, metabolic reprogramming, and resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. These dual roles underscore the complexity of Nrf2 signaling and its potential as a therapeutic target. A deeper understanding of Nrf2 regulation in both normal and malignant contexts is essential for the development of effective Nrf2-targeted therapies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of Nrf2 regulation and function, highlighting its unique features in cancer biology, particularly its role in metabolic adaptation and drug resistance. Special attention is given to the current knowledge of Nrf2's involvement in leukemia and emerging strategies for its therapeutic modulation.

Comprehensive analysis of breast cancer oxidative stress related gene signature: a combination of bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing analysis

Oxidative stress influences the tumor microenvironment, driving breast cancer progression and drug resistance. This study aimed to develop a prognostic gene signature based on oxidative stress-related genes (OSRGs) to assess patient outcomes and immune status. UCSC Xena ( http://xena.ucsc.edu/ ) and GEO ( https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/ ) databases were used to obtain RNA-seq data and corresponding clinical information. The classification of OSRG subtypes was performed using consensus cluster. The oxidative stress related scoring (OSRS) model was established combining Lasso regression and multivariable Cox regression. The analysis of tumor mutation burden (TMB) and somatic mutation were carried out using the R package 'maftools'. Python package 'pySCENIC' was used to construct and analyze the transcription factor network. Additionally, immune infiltration was analyzed using R packages 'CIBERSORT' and 'ESTIMATE'. Three OSRG subgroups were identified and the Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) among them were enriched in humoral immunity, cytokine communication and drug metabolism pathways. OSRS model was established based on the DEGs and revealed association with patients' overall survival, somatic mutations, immune statuses, and drug resistance. Finally, transcription factor TFAP2B was identified as a key regulatory factor in high OSRS cells, and associated with a negative prognostic outcome in Basal-like breast cancer patients.

RBPJ Knockdown Promotes M2 Macrophage Polarization Through Mitochondrial ROS-mediated Notch1-Jagged1-Hes1 Signaling Pathway in Uveitis

Uveitis is an autoimmune eye disease that can be involved in the entire body and is one of the leading causes of blindness. Therefore, comprehending the mechanisms underlying the development and regulation of ocular immune responses in uveitis is crucial for designing effective therapeutic interventions. In this study, we investigated how RBPJ regulates macrophage polarization in uveitis. We demonstrated that targeted RBPJ knockdown (RBPJKD) promotes M2 macrophage polarization and ameliorates uveitis through the mtROS-mediated Notch1-Jagged1-Hes1 signaling pathway. Real-time quantitative (Q-PCR) analysis revealed that the Notch1-Jagged1-Hes1 signaling pathway was active in the eye tissues of experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) rats. Immunofluorescence double staining confirmed enhanced signaling primarily occurring in macrophages, establishing a correlation between the Notch1 signaling pathway and macrophages. Transmission electron microscopy evaluated the morphological and functional changes of mitochondria in each group's eye tissues. It demonstrated significant swelling and disorganization in the EAU group, which were effectively restored upon RBPJ knockdown intervention. Finally, by employing an antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) to eliminate mtROS in vivo, we observed a decrease in the M2 macrophage polarization level, which prevented the cytoprotective effect conferred by RBPJKD. These findings underscore the relevance of the Notch signaling pathway to the immune system while highlighting the potential role of mtROS as a therapeutic target for inflammation and other related diseases.

Repurposing Nano Curcumin: Unveiling its Therapeutic Potential in Diabetic Nephropathy

Currently, Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) stands as the predominant global cause of endstage renal disease. Many scientists believe that diabetes will eventually spread to pandemic levels due to the rising prevalence of the disease. While the primary factor leading to diabetic nephropathy is vascular dysfunction induced by hyperglycemia, several other pathological elements, such as fibrosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress, also contribute to the progression of the disease. The primary targets of current DN therapy approaches are the underlying abnormalities of hypertension and glucose. With several targets and fewer side effects, curcumin is a commonly utilized antioxidant in DN. The present study emphasizes the critical role of oxidative stress and inflammation in the development of diabetic nephropathy. It reveals how these factors induce damage in key kidney cell types, highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets for this disease. In addition, by concentrating on Nrf2, SIRT1, HMGB1, NF-κB, and NLRP3 of curcumin, has strong anti- inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics. This review describes the role of curcumin in the therapeutic application of diabetic nephropathy. In this attempt, we tried to elaborate on the bench-to-bedside aspects of curcumin in DN, including clinical and preclinical investigations. The rationales of curcumin's mechanisms in alleviating symptoms of the DN were discussed. Curcumin could serve as the potential therapeutic agent for the patient seeking to recover from DN.

Berberine inhibits LPS-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transformation by activating the Nrf2 signalling pathway in bovine endometrial epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

Gram-negative bacteria are the primary pathogens of endometritis in dairy cows. LPS, the primary pathogenic agent of gram-negative bacteria, triggers an ROS increase, ultimately causing epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT). Its significance in endometritis pathogenesis in dairy cows cannot be overlooked.

PURPOSE

Our previous studies showed that berberine could activate the Nrf2 signalling pathway, but whether it can inhibit the effect of LPS-induced EMT is uncharacterized.

METHODS

This research examined how berberine protects bovine endometrial epithelial cells (BEECs) by treating them with the compound for 2 h before exposing them to LPS to induce injury. Subsequently, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers in BEECs were quantified using the DCFH-DA probe, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting techniques.

RESULTS

Our investigation revealed that the triggering of the Nrf2 signal transduction pathway can effectively prevent LPS-induced EMT by reducing ROS levels in BEECs. Additionally, we found that berberine inhibits LPS-induced EMT by activating Nrf2 to reduce ROS levels.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that berberine reduces ROS levels by upregulating the Nrf2 pathway in BEECs stimulated with LPS.

Recent advances in reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive drug delivery systems for photodynamic therapy of cancer

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive drug delivery systems (DDSs) have garnered significant attention in cancer research because of their potential for precise spatiotemporal drug release tailored to high ROS levels within tumors. Despite the challenges posed by ROS distribution heterogeneity and endogenous supply constraints, this review highlights the strategic alliance of ROS-responsive DDSs with photodynamic therapy (PDT), enabling selective drug delivery and leveraging PDT-induced ROS for enhanced therapeutic efficacy. This review delves into the biological importance of ROS in cancer progression and treatment. We elucidate in detail the operational mechanisms of ROS-responsive linkers, including thioether, thioketal, selenide, diselencide, telluride and aryl boronic acids/esters, as well as the latest developments in ROS-responsive nanomedicines that integrate with PDT strategies. These insights are intended to inspire the design of innovative ROS-responsive nanocarriers for enhanced cancer PDT.

Exploring the cytoprotective role of mesenchymal stem Cell-Derived exosomes in chronic liver Fibrosis: Insights into the Nrf2/Keap1/p62 signaling pathway

Hepatic fibrosis is a common pathology present in most chronic liver diseases. Autophagy is a lysosome-mediated intracellular catabolic and recycling process that plays an essential role in maintaining normal hepatic functions. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor responsible for the regulation of cellular anti-oxidative stress response. This study was designed to assess the cytoprotective effect of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-exos) on endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in Carbon Tetrachloride (CCL4) induced liver fibrosis. Rats were treated with 0.1 ml of CCL4 twice weekly for 8 weeks, followed by administration of a single dose of MSC-exos. Rats were then sacrificed after 4 weeks, and liver samples were collected for gene expression analyses, Western blot, histological studies, immunohistochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy. Our results showed that MSC-exos administration decreased collagen deposition, apoptosis, and inflammation. Exosomes modulate the Nrf2/Keap1/p62 pathway, restoring autophagy and Nrf2 levels through modulation of the non-canonical pathway of Nrf2/Keap1/p62. Additionally, MSC-exos regulated miR-153-3p, miR-27a, miR-144 and miRNA-34a expression. In conclusion, the present study shed light on MSC-exos as a cytoprotective agent against EMT and tumorigenesis in chronic liver inflammation.

Ultrasound-mediated nanobubbles loaded with STAT6 siRNA inhibit TGF-β1-EMT axis in LUSC cells via overcoming the polarization of M2-TAMs

M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (M2-TAMs) are closely correlated with metastasis and poor clinical outcomes in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). Previous studies have demonstrated that STAT6 is an important signaling molecule involved in the polarization of M2-TAMs, EMT is the main way for TAMs to promote tumor progression. However, little attention has been paid to the effect of STAT6 inhibition on LUSC, and it is difficult to achieve an ideal gene silencing effect in immune cells using traditional gene transfection methods. Here, we investigated the optimal concentration of 12-myristic 13-acetate (PMA), lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for the induction of THP-1 into M1-TAMs and M2-TAMs. The expression of pSTAT6 and STAT6 was confirmed in three types of macrophages, and it was demonstrated that pSTAT6 can be used as a specific target of M2-TAMs derived from THP-1. Ultrasound-mediated nanobubble destruction (UMND) is a non-invasive and safe gene delivery technology. We also synthesized PLGA-PEI nanobubbles (NBs) to load and deliver STAT6 small interfering RNA (siRNA) into M2-TAMs via UMND. The results show that the NBs could effectively load with siRNA and had good biocompatibility. We found that UMND enhanced the transfection efficiency of siRNA, as well as the silencing effect of pSTAT6 and the inhibition of M2-TAMs. Simultaneously, when STAT6 siRNA entered M2-TAMs by UMND, proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in LUSC cells could be inhibited via the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) pathway. Therefore, our results confirm that UMND is an ideal siRNA delivery strategy, revealing its potential to inhibit M2-TAMs polarization and ultimately treat LUSC.

Current Insights into the Role of UV Radiation-Induced Oxidative Stress in Melanoma Pathogenesis

Cutaneous melanoma accounts for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths, and its incidence increases each year. The growing number of melanoma cases, especially in advanced stages, poses a significant socio-medical challenge throughout the world. Extensive research on melanoma pathogenesis identifies UV radiation as the most important factor in melanocytic transformation. Oxidative effects of UV irradiation exert their influence on melanoma pathogenesis primarily through modification of nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids, further disrupting cellular signaling and cell cycle regulation. Its effects extend beyond melanocytes, leading to immunosuppression in the exposed skin tissue, which consequently creates conditions for immune surveillance evasion and further progression. In this review, we focus on the specific molecular changes observed in the UV-dependent oxidative stress environment and their biological consequences in the course of the disease, which have not been considered in previous reviews on melanoma. Nonetheless, data show that the exact role of oxidative stress in melanoma initiation and progression remains unclear, as it affects cancerous cells differently depending on the specific context. A better understanding of the pathophysiological basis of melanoma development holds promise for identifying potential targets, which could lead to effective melanoma prevention strategies.

The Complex Interplay of TGF-β and Notch Signaling in the Pathogenesis of Fibrosis

Fibrosis is a major medical challenge, as it leads to irreversible tissue remodeling and organ dysfunction. Its progression contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality worldwide, with limited therapeutic options available. Extensive research on the molecular mechanisms of fibrosis has revealed numerous factors and signaling pathways involved. However, the interactions between these pathways remain unclear. A comprehensive understanding of the entire signaling network that drives fibrosis is still missing. The TGF-β and Notch signaling pathways play a key role in fibrogenesis, and this review focuses on their functional interplay and molecular mechanisms. Studies have shown synergy between TGF-β and Notch cascades in fibrosis, but antagonistic interactions can also occur, especially in cardiac fibrosis. The molecular mechanisms of these interactions vary depending on the cell context. Understanding these complex and context-dependent interactions is crucial for developing effective strategies for treating fibrosis.

The interaction of ER stress and autophagy in trophoblasts: navigating pregnancy outcome†

The endoplasmic reticulum is a complex and dynamic organelle that initiates unfolded protein response and endoplasmic reticulum stress in response to the accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins within its lumen. Autophagy is a paramount intracellular degradation system that facilitates the transportation of proteins, cytoplasmic components, and organelles to lysosomes for degradation and recycling. Preeclampsia and intrauterine growth retardation are two common complications of pregnancy associated with abnormal trophoblast differentiation and placental dysfunctions and have a major impact on fetal development and maternal health. The intricate interplay between endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy and their impact on pregnancy outcomes, through mediating trophoblast differentiation and placental development, has been highlighted in various reports. Autophagy controls trophoblast regulation through a variety of gene expressions and signaling pathways while excessive endoplasmic reticulum stress triggers downstream apoptotic signaling, culminating in trophoblast apoptosis. This comprehensive review delves into the intricacies of placental development and explores the underlying mechanisms of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth retardation. In addition, this review will elucidate the molecular mechanisms of endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy, both individually and in their interplay, in mediating placental development and trophoblast differentiation, particularly highlighting their roles in preeclampsia and intrauterine growth retardation development. This research seeks to the interplay between endoplasmic reticulum stress and impaired autophagy in the placental trophoderm, offering novel insights into their contribution to pregnancy complications.

Research progress on the role of reactive oxygen species in the initiation, development and treatment of breast cancer

According to international cancer data, breast cancer (BC) is the leading type of cancer in women. Although significant progress has been made in treating BC, metastasis and drug resistance continue to be the primary causes of mortality for many patients. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a dual role in vivo: normal levels can maintain the body's normal physiological function; however, high levels of ROS below the toxicity threshold can lead to mtDNA damage, activation of proto-oncogenes, and inhibition of tumor suppressor genes, which are important causes of BC. Differences in the production and regulation of ROS in different BC subtypes have important implications for the development and treatment of BC. ROS can also serve as an important intracellular signal transduction factor by affecting the antioxidant system, activating MAPK and PI3K/AKT, and other signal pathways to regulate cell cycle and change the relationship between cells and the activity of metalloproteinases, which significantly impacts the metastasis of BC. Hypoxia in the BC microenvironment increases ROS production levels, thereby inducing the expression of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and forming "ROS- HIF-1α-ROS" cycle that exacerbates BC development. Many anti-BC therapies generate sufficient toxic ROS to promote cancer cell apoptosis, but because the basal level of ROS in BC cells exceeds that of normal cells, this leads to up-regulation of the antioxidant system, drug efflux, and apoptosis inhibition, rendering BC cells resistant to the drug. ROS crosstalks with tumor vessels and stromal cells in the microenvironment, increasing invasiveness and drug resistance in BC.

Hypoxia, oxidative stress, and the interplay of HIFs and NRF2 signaling in cancer

Oxygen is crucial for life and acts as the final electron acceptor in mitochondrial energy production. Cells adapt to varying oxygen levels through intricate response systems. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), including HIF-1α and HIF-2α, orchestrate the cellular hypoxic response, activating genes to increase the oxygen supply and reduce expenditure. Under conditions of excess oxygen and resulting oxidative stress, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) activates hundreds of genes for oxidant removal and adaptive cell survival. Hypoxia and oxidative stress are core hallmarks of solid tumors and activated HIFs and NRF2 play pivotal roles in tumor growth and progression. The complex interplay between hypoxia and oxidative stress within the tumor microenvironment adds another layer of intricacy to the HIF and NRF2 signaling systems. This review aimed to elucidate the dynamic changes and functions of the HIF and NRF2 signaling pathways in response to conditions of hypoxia and oxidative stress, emphasizing their implications within the tumor milieu. Additionally, this review explored the elaborate interplay between HIFs and NRF2, providing insights into the significance of these interactions for the development of novel cancer treatment strategies.

Downregulation of PDZK1 by TGF-β1 promotes renal fibrosis via inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition of renal tubular cells

Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1)-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of renal tubular cells promotes renal fibrosis and the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). PDZ domain-containing 1 (PDZK1) is highly expressed in renal tubular epithelial cells; however, its role in TGF-β1-induced EMT remains poorly understood. The present study showed that PDZK1 expression was extremely downregulated in fibrotic mouse kidneys and its negative correlation with TGF-β1 expression and the degree of renal fibrosis. In addition, TGF-β1 downregulated the mRNA expression of PDZK1 in a time- and concentration-dependent manner in vitro. The downregulation of PDZK1 exacerbated TGF-β1-induced EMT upon oxidative stress, while the overexpression of PDZK1 had the converse effect. Subsequent investigations demonstrated that TGF-β1 downregulated PDZK1 expression via p38 MAPK or PI3K/AKT signaling in vitro, but independently of ERK/JNK MAPK signaling. Meanwhile, inhibition of the p38/JNK MAPK or PI3K/AKT signaling using chemical inhibitors restored the PDZK1 expression, mitigated renal fibrosis, and elevated renal levels of endogenous antioxidants carnitine and ergothioneine in adenine-induced CKD mice. These findings provide the first evidence suggesting a negative correlation between PDZK1 and renal fibrosis, and identifying PDZK1 as a novel suppressor of renal fibrosis in CKD through ameliorating oxidant stress.

Research Progress of Mitophagy in Alzheimer's Disease

The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasing as the elderly population, which hurts elderly people's cognition and capacity for self-care. The process of mitophagy involves the selective clearance of ageing and impaired mitochondria, which is required to preserve intracellular homeostasis and energy metabolism. Currently, it has been discovered that mitophagy abnormalities are intimately linked to the beginning and progression of AD. This article discusses the mechanism of mitophagy, abnormal mitophagy, and therapeutic effects in AD. The purpose is to offer fresh perspectives on the causes and remedies of AD.

Immune regulation and inflammation inhibition of Arctium lappa L. polysaccharides by TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in cells

Arctium lappa L. polysaccharides (ALP) are important active ingredients of burdocks with various bioactivities. In the present study, a crude polysaccharide was extracted from A. lappa L. roots and purified using DEAE-52 and Sephacryl™ S-400 columns to reach 99 % purity. This neutral polysaccharide contained fructose, glucose, galactose and arabinose in a ratio of 0.675:0.265:0.023:0.016 and had a Mw of 4256 Da. The immunomodulatory activity and intestinal inflammation inhibitory effects of ALP were investigated in in vitro models, including lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophage RAW264.7 and interleukin (IL)-1β-induced colon Caco-2 cells. The results revealed that ALP possessed both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by decreasing nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 mRNA expression and reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, ALP was found to have inhibitory effects on pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-8, IL-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α, as well as inflammatory cytokines, such as intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 by down-regulating the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/NF-κB (nuclear factor-kappa B signaling) pathway. It indicated that A. lappa L. was an ideal source of bioactive polysaccharides having potential to be developed as functional foods or nutraceuticals to improve immune system and prevent/treat intestinal inflammation.

Dysregulated coagulation system links to inflammation in diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a significant contributor to end-stage renal disease worldwide. Despite extensive research, the exact mechanisms responsible for its development remain incompletely understood. Notably, patients with diabetes and impaired kidney function exhibit a hypercoagulable state characterized by elevated levels of coagulation molecules in their plasma. Recent studies propose that coagulation molecules such as thrombin, fibrinogen, and platelets are interconnected with the complement system, giving rise to an inflammatory response that potentially accelerates the progression of DKD. Remarkably, investigations have shown that inhibiting the coagulation system may protect the kidneys in various animal models and clinical trials, suggesting that these systems could serve as promising therapeutic targets for DKD. This review aims to shed light on the underlying connections between coagulation and complement systems and their involvement in the advancement of DKD.

The Role of TGF-β during Pregnancy and Pregnancy Complications

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), a multifunctional cytokine, is one of the most important inflammatory cytokines closely related to pregnancy. It plays significant roles in hormone secretion, placental development, and embryonic growth during pregnancy. TGF-β is implicated in embryo implantation and inhibits the invasion of extraepithelial trophoblast cells. It also moderates the mother-fetus interaction by adjusting the secretion pattern of immunomodulatory factors in the placenta, consequently influencing the mother's immune cells. The TGF-β family regulates the development of the nervous, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems by regulating gene expression. Furthermore, TGF-β has been associated with various pregnancy complications. An increase in TGF-β levels can induce the occurrences of pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus, while a decrease can lead to recurrent miscarriage due to the interference of the immune tolerance environment. This review focuses on the role of TGF-β in embryo implantation and development, providing new insights for the clinical prevention and treatment of pregnancy complications.

Longitudinal assessment of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by evaluating TGF-β1/Smad2, Nrf2 signaling and metabolomic analysis in mice

INTRODUCTION

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is characterized by an increase in collagen synthesis and deposition of extracellular matrix. Several factors, including transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), mothers against decapentaplegic homolog family proteins (Smad), and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) trigger extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation, fibroblast to myofibroblasts conversion, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) leading to PF. However, the role of cellular defense mechanisms such as the role of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling during the onset and progression of PF is not understood completely.

AIM

The present study aims to analyze the involvement of TGF-β1/Smad signaling, and Nrf2 in the EMT and metabolic alterations that promote fibrosis in a time-dependent manner using bleomycin (BLM)-induced PF model in C57BL/6 mice.

KEY FINDINGS

Histopathological studies revealed loss of lung architecture and increased collagen deposition in BLM-exposed mice. BLM upregulated TGF-β1/Smad signaling and α-SMA at all time-points. The gradual increase in the accumulation of α-SMA and collagen implied the progression of PF. BLM exposure raises Nrf2 throughout each specified time-point, which suggests that Nrf2 activation might be responsible for TGF-β1-induced EMT and the development of PF. Further, metabolomic studies linked the development of PF to alterations in metabolic pathways. The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) was consistently enriched across all the time-points. Additionally, alterations in 22 commonly enriched pathways, associated with fatty acid (FA) and amino acid metabolism were observed in 30- and 60-days.

SIGNIFICANCE

This study elucidates the association of TGF-β1/Smad and Nrf2 signaling in the EMT and metabolic alterations associated with the etiology and progression of PF.

Oxidative Stress and Lung Fibrosis: Towards an Adverse Outcome Pathway

Lung fibrosis is a progressive fatal disease in which deregulated wound healing of lung epithelial cells drives progressive fibrotic changes. Persistent lung injury due to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are central features of lung fibrosis. Chronic cigarette smoking causes oxidative stress and is a major risk factor for lung fibrosis. The objective of this manuscript is to develop an adverse outcome pathway (AOP) that serves as a framework for investigation of the mechanisms of lung fibrosis due to lung injury caused by inhaled toxicants, including cigarette smoke. Based on the weight of evidence, oxidative stress is proposed as a molecular initiating event (MIE) which leads to increased secretion of proinflammatory and profibrotic mediators (key event 1 (KE1)). At the cellular level, these proinflammatory signals induce the recruitment of inflammatory cells (KE2), which in turn, increase fibroblast proliferation and myofibroblast differentiation (KE3). At the tissue level, an increase in extracellular matrix deposition (KE4) subsequently culminates in lung fibrosis, the adverse outcome. We have also defined a new KE relationship between the MIE and KE3. This AOP provides a mechanistic platform to understand and evaluate how persistent oxidative stress from lung injury may develop into lung fibrosis.

Pedunculoside inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition and overcomes Gefitinib-resistant non-small cell lung cancer through regulating MAPK and Nrf2 pathways

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is the primary cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide owing to its strong metastatic ability. EGFR-TKI (Gefitinib) has demonstrated efficacy in metastatic lung cancer therapy, but most patients ultimately develop resistance to Gefitinib, leading to a poor prognosis. Pedunculoside (PE), a triterpene saponin extracted from Ilex rotunda Thunb., has shown anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering and anti-tumor effects. Nevertheless, the therapeutic effect and potential mechanisms of PE on NSCLC treatment are unclear.

PURPOSE

To investigate the inhibitory effect and prospective mechanisms of PE on NSCLC metastases and Gefitinib-resistant NSCLC.

METHODS

In vitro, A549/GR cells were established by Gefitinib persistent induction of A549 cells with a low dose and shock with a high dose. The cell migratory ability was measured using wound healing and Transwell assays. Additionally, EMT-related Markers or ROS production were assessed by RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and flow cytometry assays in A549/GR and TGF-β1-induced A549 cells. In vivo, B16-F10 cells were intravenously injected into mice, and the effect of PE on tumor metastases were determined using hematoxylin-eosin staining, Caliper IVIS Lumina, DCFH₂-DA staining, and western blotting assays.

RESULTS

PE reversed TGF-β1-induced EMT by downregulating EMT-related protein expression through MAPK and Nrf2 pathways, decreasing ROS production, and inhibiting cell migration and invasion ability. Moreover, PE treatment enabled A549/GR cells to retrieve the sensitivity to Gefitinib and mitigate the biological characteristics of EMT. PE also significantly inhibited lung metastasis in mice by reversing EMT proteins expression, decreasing ROS production, and inhibiting MAPK and Nrf2 pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, this research presents a novel finding that PE can reverse NSCLC metastasis and improve Gefitinib sensitivity in Gefitinib-resistant NSCLC through the MAPK and Nrf2 pathways, subsequently suppressing lung metastasis in B16-F10 lung metastatic mice model. Our findings indicate that PE is a potential agent for inhibiting metastasis and improving Gefitinib resistance in NSCLC.

Quantitative Proteomics Reveals Transforming Growth Factor β Receptor Targeted by Resveratrol and Hesperetin Coformulation in Endothelial Cells

The endothelium is the frontline target of multiple metabolic stressors and pharmacological agents. As a consequence, endothelial cells (ECs) display highly dynamic and diverse proteome profiles. We describe here the culture of human aortic ECs from healthy and type 2 diabetic donors, the treatment with a small molecular coformulation of trans-resveratrol and hesperetin (tRES+HESP), followed by proteomic analysis of whole-cell lysate. A number of 3666 proteins were presented in all of the samples and thus further analyzed. We found that 179 proteins had a significant difference between diabetic ECs vs. healthy ECs, while 81 proteins had a significant change upon the treatment of tRES+HESP in diabetic ECs. Among them, 16 proteins showed a difference between diabetic ECs and healthy ECs and the difference was reversed by the tRES+HESP treatment. Follow-up functional assays identified activin A receptor-like type 1 and transforming growth factor β receptor 2 as the most pronounced targets suppressed by tRES+HESP in protecting angiogenesis in vitro. Our study has revealed the global differences in proteins and biological pathways in ECs from diabetic donors, which are potentially reversible by the tRES+HESP formula. Furthermore, we have identified the TGFβ receptor as a responding mechanism in ECs treated with this formula, shedding light on future studies for deeper molecular characterization.

A role for partial epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in enabling stemness in homeostasis and cancer

Stem cells have self-renewal capacities and the ability to give rise to differentiated cells thereby sustaining tissues during homeostasis and injury. This structural hierarchy extends to tumours which harbor stem-like cells deemed cancer stem cells that propagate the tumour and drive metastasis and relapse. The process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which plays an important role in development and cancer cell migration, was shown to be correlated with stemness in both homeostasis and cancer indicating that stemness can be acquired and is not necessarily an intrinsic trait. Nowadays it is experimentally proven that the activation of an EMT program does not necessarily drive cells towards a fully mesenchymal phenotype but rather to hybrid E/M states. This review offers the latest advances in connecting the EMT status and stem-cell state of both non-transformed and cancer cells. Recent literature clearly shows that hybrid EMT states have a higher probability of acquiring stem cell traits. The position of a cell along the EMT-axis which coincides with a stem cell-like state is known as the stemness window. We show how the original EMT-state of a cell dictates the EMT/MET inducing programmes required to reach stemness. Lastly we present the mechanism of stemness regulation and the regulatory feedback loops which position cells at a certain EMT state along the EMT axis.

Mitigation of Cardiovascular Disease and Toxicity through NRF2 Signalling

Cardiovascular toxicity and diseases are phenomena that have a vastly detrimental impact on morbidity and mortality. The pathophysiology driving the development of these conditions is multifactorial but commonly includes the perturbance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) signalling, iron homeostasis and mitochondrial bioenergetics. The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NFE2)-related factor 2 (NRF2), a master regulator of cytoprotective responses, drives the expression of genes that provide resistance to oxidative, electrophilic and xenobiotic stresses. Recent research has suggested that stimulation of the NRF2 signalling pathway can alleviate cardiotoxicity and hallmarks of cardiovascular disease progression. However, dysregulation of NRF2 dynamic responses can be severely impacted by ageing processes and off-target toxicity from clinical medicines including anthracycline chemotherapeutics, rendering cells of the cardiovascular system susceptible to toxicity and subsequent tissue dysfunction. This review addresses the current understanding of NRF2 mechanisms under homeostatic and cardiovascular pathophysiological conditions within the context of wider implications for this diverse transcription factor.

Emerging Role of NRF2 Signaling in Cancer Stem Cell Phenotype

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small population of tumor cells characterized by self-renewal and differentiation capacity. CSCs are currently postulated as the driving force that induces intra-tumor heterogeneity leading to tumor initiation, metastasis, and eventually tumor relapse. Notably, CSCs are inherently resistant to environmental stress, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy due to high levels of antioxidant systems and drug efflux transporters. In this context, a therapeutic strategy targeting the CSC-specific pathway holds a promising cure for cancer. NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2; NFE2L2) is a master transcription factor that regulates an array of genes involved in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species/electrophiles. Accumulating evidence suggests that persistent NRF2 activation, observed in multiple types of cancer, supports tumor growth, aggressive malignancy, and therapy resistance. Herein, we describe the core properties of CSCs, focusing on treatment resistance, and review the evidence that demonstrates the roles of NRF2 signaling in conferring unique properties of CSCs and the associated signaling pathways.

Fresh Medium or L-Cystine as an Effective Nrf2 Inducer for Cytoprotection in Cell Culture

The Nrf2 gene encodes a transcription factor best known for regulating the expression of antioxidant and detoxification genes. A long list of small molecules has been reported to induce Nrf2 protein via Keap1 oxidation or alkylation. Many of these Nrf2 inducers exhibit off-target or toxic effects due to their nature as electrophiles. In searching for non-toxic Nrf2 inducers, we found that a culture medium change to fresh DMEM is capable of inducing Nrf2 protein in HeLa, HEK293, AC16 and MCF7 cells. Testing the components of DMEM led to the discovery of L-Cystine as an effective Nrf2 inducer. L-Cystine induces a dose-dependent increase of Nrf2 protein, from 0.1 to 1.6 mM. RNA-seq analyses and RT-PCR revealed an induction of multiple Nrf2 downstream genes, including NQO1, HMOX1, GCLC, GCLM, SRXN1, TXNRD1, AKR1C and OSGIN1 by 0.8 mM L-Cystine. The induction of Nrf2 protein was dependent on L-Cystine entering cells via the cystine/glutamate antiporter and the presence of Keap1. The half-life of Nrf2 protein increased from 19.4 min to 30.9 min with 0.8 mM L-Cystine treatment. L-Cystine was capable of eliciting cytoprotection by reducing ROS generation and protecting against oxidant- or doxorubicin-induced apoptosis. As an amino acid derivative, L-Cystine is considered a non-toxic Nrf2 inducer that exhibits the potential for protection against oxidative stress and tissue injury.

Receptor-Mediated Redox Imbalance: An Emerging Clinical Avenue against Aggressive Cancers

Cancer cells are more vulnerable to abnormal redox fluctuations due to their imbalanced antioxidant system, where cell surface receptors sense stress and trigger intracellular signal relay. As canonical targets of many targeted therapies, cell receptors sensitize the cells to specific drugs. On the other hand, cell target mutations are commonly associated with drug resistance. Thus, exploring effective therapeutics targeting diverse cell receptors may open new clinical avenues against aggressive cancers. This paper uses focused case studies to reveal the intrinsic relationship between the cell receptors of different categories and the primary cancer hallmarks that are associated with the responses to external or internal redox perturbations. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is examined as a promising redox modulation medium and highly selective anti-cancer therapeutic modality featuring dynamically varying receptor targets and minimized drug resistance against aggressive cancers.

The Promising Therapeutic Approaches for Radiation-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis: Targeting Radiation-Induced Mesenchymal Transition of Alveolar Type II Epithelial Cells

Radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis (RIPF) is a common consequence of radiation for thoracic tumors, and is accompanied by gradual and irreversible organ failure. This severely reduces the survival rate of cancer patients, due to the serious side effects and lack of clinically effective drugs and methods. Radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis is a dynamic process involving many complicated and varied mechanisms, of which alveolar type II epithelial (AT2) cells are one of the primary target cells, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of AT2 cells is very relevant in the clinical search for effective targets. Therefore, this review summarizes several important signaling pathways that can induce EMT in AT2 cells, and searches for molecular targets with potential effects on RIPF among them, in order to provide effective therapeutic tools for the clinical prevention and treatment of RIPF.

Breast Cancer Exosome-Derived miR-425-5p Induces Cancer-Associated Fibroblast-Like Properties in Human Mammary Fibroblasts by TGFβ1/ROS Signaling Pathway

The connection between the cellular microenvironment and tumor cells is crucial for tumor progression. However, the process by which normal fibroblasts (NFs) become cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) is unknown, and mounting evidence suggests that some microRNAs (miRNAs) have an important role in converting NFs into CAFs. Breast cancer (BC) has been proven to have enhanced miR-425-5p expression in order to support progression. We discovered that human mammary fibroblasts (HMFs) could uptake BC cell line-derived exosomes to change their properties, promoting the switch to the CAF phenotype and increasing cell motility, as evidenced by an increase in CAF activation-related marker protein expression and cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Transfection of exosomes is obtained from BC cells, and miR-425-5p inhibitors suppressed the aforementioned effects as well as lowered chemokine levels and gene expression related with proliferation and metastasis. By suppressing the expression of its target gene TGFβRII (TGFβ1 receptor), miR-425-5p enhanced the transition of HMFs to the CAF phenotype. MDA-MB-231 cells and CAFs stimulated by HMF absorption of MDA-MB-23-derived exosomes showed similar proliferation, invasion, migration, and expression of -SMA, FAP, CXCL1, IL-6, TGFβ1, P21, P27, Ki67, vimentin, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, α-catenin, fibronectin, and MMP-2. TGFβ1 overexpression enhanced ROS production. Finally, we found that HMFs transiently transfected with miR-425-5p can promote tumor growth in vivo. Finally, these findings provide fresh insight on miR-425-5p as an important mediator of the interaction between BC cells and stroma.

MicroRNA-Gene Interactions Impacted by Toxic Metal(oid)s during EMT and Carcinogenesis

Chronic environmental exposure to toxic metal(loid)s significantly contributes to human cancer development and progression. It is estimated that approximately 90% of cancer deaths are a result of metastasis of malignant cells, which is initiated by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) during early carcinogenesis. EMT is regulated by many families of genes and microRNAs (miRNAs) that control signaling pathways for cell survival, death, and/or differentiation. Recent mechanistic studies have shown that toxic metal(loid)s alter the expression of miRNAs responsible for regulating the expression of genes involved in EMT. Altered miRNA expressions have the potential to be biomarkers for predicting survival and responses to treatment in cancers. Significantly, miRNAs can be developed as therapeutic targets for cancer patients in the clinic. In this mini review, we summarize key findings from recent studies that highlight chemical-miRNA-gene interactions leading to the perturbation of EMT after exposure to toxic metal(loid)s including arsenic, cadmium, nickel, and chromium.

Wound Healing versus Metastasis: Role of Oxidative Stress

Many signaling pathways, molecular and cellular actors which are critical for wound healing have been implicated in cancer metastasis. These two conditions are a complex succession of cellular biological events and accurate regulation of these events is essential. Apart from inflammation, macrophages-released ROS arise as major regulators of these processes. But, whatever the pathology concerned, oxidative stress is a complicated phenomenon to control and requires a finely tuned balance over the different stages and responding cells. This review provides an overview of the pivotal role of oxidative stress in both wound healing and metastasis, encompassing the contribution of macrophages. Indeed, macrophages are major ROS producers but also appear as their targets since ROS interfere with their differentiation and function. Elucidating ROS functions in wound healing and metastatic spread may allow the development of innovative therapeutic strategies involving redox modulators.

Experimental study of camptothecin combined with drug-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization in the rabbit VX2 liver tumor model

Drug-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) has been widely used in the treatment of liver cancer; however, the utilization rate of chemotherapeutic drugs after embolization is low. Chemotherapy resistance mediated by high nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) expression limits DEB-TACE efficacy. Camptothecin (CPT), an NRF2 inhibitor, exerts chemosensitizing effects. We designed a controlled experiment to determine the efficacy and feasibility of DEB-TACE combined with CPT for the treatment of rabbit VX2 hepatoma. DEB-TACE activated NRF2 expression in the tumor region. NRF2 activation could be inhibited by the combined use of CPT. After DEB-TACE alone, the tumor necrosis was incomplete, there were still highly active tumor residues, and the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value, which was negatively correlated with tumor activity observed by magnetic resonance imaging, remained low. After DEB-TACE combined with CPT, the relative necrosis of the tumor was more complete, the ADC value was higher, and the ADC change was greater. The single application of CPT did not result in evident liver function and physical burden to the rabbits. The combined use of CPT and DEB-TACE did not significantly increase DEB-TACE imaging of liver function and body. In conclusion, CPT can also inhibit high NRF2 expression after DEB-TACE treatment. Combining CPT with DEB-TACE can improve the sensitivity of DEB-TACE in the treatment of VX2 tumors, improve the therapeutic effect, and has no evident toxic and side effects. This study explored the methods for enhancing the efficacy of DEB-TACE in liver cancer from a new perspective and performed model experiments, which provided a theoretical basis for future clinical treatment.

Nrf2-Mediated Dichotomy in the Vascular System: Mechanistic and Therapeutic Perspective

Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcription factor, controls the expression of more than 1000 genes that can be clustered into different categories with distinct functions ranging from redox balance and metabolism to protein quality control in the cell. The biological consequence of Nrf2 activation can be either protective or detrimental in a context-dependent manner. In the cardiovascular system, most studies have focused on the protective properties of Nrf2, mainly as a key transcription factor of antioxidant defense. However, emerging evidence revealed an unexpected role of Nrf2 in mediating cardiovascular maladaptive remodeling and dysfunction in certain disease settings. Herein we review the role of Nrf2 in cardiovascular diseases with a focus on vascular disease. We discuss the negative effect of Nrf2 on the vasculature as well as the potential underlying mechanisms. We also discuss the clinical relevance of targeting Nrf2 pathways for the treatment of cardiovascular and other diseases.

Nrf2 Downregulation Contributes to Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Helicobacter pylori-Infected Cells

Simple Summary

Gastric cancer is mainly linked to Helicobacter pylori infection. It is therefore important to decipher the mechanisms involved in H. pylori-induced gastric carcinogenesis, and especially the early events. We have previously demonstrated that the infection leads to an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) favoring gastric carcinogenesis. H. pylori infection is also associated with high levels of oxidative stress. In this work, we aimed at investigating the modulation of Nrf2, a major regulator of cellular antioxidant response to oxidative stress, upon infection with H. pylori and to decipher its implication in EMT. We demonstrated that H. pylori-induced Nrf2 downregulation may participate in gastric cells’ EMT, one crucial tumorigenic event in gastric cancer. These results could pave the way for new therapeutic strategies using Nrf2 modulators to reduce gastric carcinogenesis associated with H. pylori infection.

Abstract

Background: Gastric cancer, the fifth most common cancer worldwide, is mainly linked to Helicobacter pylori infection. H. pylori induces chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa associated with high oxidative stress. Our study aimed at assessing the implication of Nrf2, a major regulator of cellular redox homeostasis, in H. pylori-induced gastric carcinogenesis. Methods: Using three different gastric epithelial cell lines, a non-cancerous (HFE-145) and two different subtypes of gastric cancer (AGS and MKN74), we analyzed the modulation of Nrf2 expression over time. After invalidation of Nrf2 by CRISPR-cas9, we assessed its role in H. pylori-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Finally, we evaluated the expression of Nrf2 and ZEB1, a central EMT transcription factor, in human gastric tissues. Results: We first demonstrated that the Nrf2 signaling pathway is differentially regulated depending on the infection stage. Rapidly and transiently activated, Nrf2 was downregulated 24 h post-infection in a VacA-dependent manner. We then demonstrated that Nrf2 invalidation leads to increased EMT, which is even exacerbated after H. pylori infection. Finally, Nrf2 expression tended to decrease in human patients’ gastric mucosa infected with H. pylori. Conclusions: Our work supports the hypothesis that Nrf2 downregulation upon H. pylori infection participates in EMT, one of the most important events in gastric carcinogenesis.

3′5-Dimaleamylbenzoic Acid Attenuates Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Mice

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic lung disease characterized by parenchymal scarring, leading progressively to alveolar architecture distortion, respiratory failure, and eventually death. Currently, there is no effective treatment for IPF. Previously, 3′5-dimaleamylbenzoic acid (3′5-DMBA), a maleimide, demonstrated pro-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties; however, its potential therapeutic effects on IPF have not been addressed. Bleomycin (BLM) 100 U/kg was administered to CD1 mice through an osmotic minipump. After fourteen days of BLM administration, 3′5-DMBA (6 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg) and its vehicle carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) were administered intragastrically every two days until day 26. On day 28, all mice were euthanized. The 3′5-DMBA effect was assessed by histological and immunohistochemical staining, as well as by RT-qPCR. The redox status on lung tissue was evaluated by determining the glutathione content and the GSH/GSSG ratio. 3′5-DMBA treatment re-established typical lung histological features and decreased the expression of BLM-induced fibrotic markers: collagen, α-SMA, and TGF-β1. Furthermore, 3′5-DMBA significantly reduced the expression of genes involved in fibrogenesis. In addition, it decreased reduced glutathione and increased oxidized glutathione content without promoting oxidative damage to lipids, as evidenced by the decrease in the lipid peroxidation marker 4-HNE. Therefore, 3′5-DMBA may be a promising candidate for IPF treatment.

Self-Sustained Regulation or Self-Perpetuating Dysregulation: ROS-dependent HIF-YAP-Notch Signaling as a Double-Edged Sword on Stem Cell Physiology and Tumorigenesis

Organ development, homeostasis, and repair often rely on bidirectional, self-organized cell-niche interactions, through which cells select cell fate, such as stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. The niche contains multiplexed chemical and mechanical factors. How cells interpret niche structural information such as the 3D topology of organs and integrate with multiplexed mechano-chemical signals is an open and active research field. Among all the niche factors, reactive oxygen species (ROS) have recently gained growing interest. Once considered harmful, ROS are now recognized as an important niche factor in the regulation of tissue mechanics and topology through, for example, the HIF-YAP-Notch signaling pathways. These pathways are not only involved in the regulation of stem cell physiology but also associated with inflammation, neurological disorder, aging, tumorigenesis, and the regulation of the immune checkpoint molecule PD-L1. Positive feedback circuits have been identified in the interplay of ROS and HIF-YAP-Notch signaling, leading to the possibility that under aberrant conditions, self-organized, ROS-dependent physiological regulations can be switched to self-perpetuating dysregulation, making ROS a double-edged sword at the interface of stem cell physiology and tumorigenesis. In this review, we discuss the recent findings on how ROS and tissue mechanics affect YAP-HIF-Notch-PD-L1 signaling, hoping that the knowledge can be used to design strategies for stem cell-based and ROS-targeting therapy and tissue engineering.

α-Viniferin and ε-Viniferin Inhibited TGF-β1-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition, Migration and Invasion in Lung Cancer Cells through Downregulation of Vimentin Expression

Resveratrol has well-known anticancer properties; however, its oligomers, including α-viniferin, ε-viniferin, and kobophenol A, have not yet been well investigated. This is the first study examining the anti-epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) effects of α-viniferin and ε-viniferin on A549, NCI-H460, NCI-H520, MCF-7, HOS, and U2OS cells. The results showed that α-viniferin and ε-viniferin significantly inhibited EMT, invasion and migration in TGF-β1- or IL-1β-induced non-small cell lung cancer. α-Viniferin and ε-viniferin also reversed TGF-β1-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), MMP2, vimentin, Zeb1, Snail, p-SMAD2, p-SMAD3, and ABCG2 expression in A549 cells. Furthermore, ε-viniferin was found to significantly inhibit lung metastasis in A549 cell xenograft metastatic mouse models. In view of these findings, α-viniferin and ε-viniferin may play an important role in the prevention of EMT and cancer metastasis in lung cancer.

A Novel Small Molecular Inhibitor of DNMT1 Enhances the Antitumor Effect of Radiofrequency Ablation in Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a relatively new and effective therapeutic strategy for treating lung squamous cell carcinomas (LSCCs). However, RFA is rarely used in the clinic for LSCC which still suffers from a lack of effective comprehensive treatment strategies. In the present work, we investigate iDNMT, a novel small molecular inhibitor of DNMT1 with a unique structure. In clinical LSCC specimens, endogenous DNMT1 was positively associated with methylation rates of miR-27-3p's promoter. Moreover, endogenous DNMT1 was negatively correlated with miR-27-3p expression which targets PSEN-1, the catalytic subunit of γ-secretase, which mediates the cleavage and activation of the Notch pathway. We found that DNMT1 increased activation of the Notch pathway in clinical LSCC samples while downregulating miR-27-3p expression and hypermethylation of miR-27-3p's promoter. In addition of inhibiting activation of the Notch pathway by repressing methylation of the miR-27-3p promoter, treatment of LSCC cells with iDNMT1 also enhanced the sensitivity of LSCC tumor tissues to RFA treatment. These data suggest that iDNMT-induced inhibition of DNMT-1 enhances miR-27-3p expression in LSCC to inhibit activation of the Notch pathway. Furthermore, the combination of iDNMT and RFA may be a promising therapeutic strategy for LSCC.