1
|
Li X, Wang Y, Wang X, Shen Y, Yuan Y, He Q, Mao S, Wu C, Zhou M. Downregulation of SMAD4 protects HaCaT cells against UVB-induced damage and oxidative stress through the activation of EMT. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2024; 23:1051-1065. [PMID: 38684635 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-024-00574-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
As a member of the SMAD family, SMAD4 plays a crucial role in several cellular biological processes. However, its function in UVB radiation-induced keratinocyte damage is not yet clarified. Our study aims to provide mechanistic insight for the development of future UVB protective therapies and therapeutics involving SMAD4. HaCaT cells were treated with UVB, and the dose dependence and time dependence of UVB were measured. The cell function of UVB-treated HaCaT cells and the activity of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) after overexpression or silencing of SMAD4 was observed by flow cytometry, quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western Blots (WB). We found that a significant decrease in SMAD4 was observed in HaCaT cells induced by UVB. Our data confirm SMAD4 as a direct downstream target of miR-664. The down-regulation of SMAD4 preserved the viability of the UVB-treated HaCaT cells by inhibiting autophagy or apoptosis. Furthermore, the silencing of SMAD4 activated the EMT process in UVB-treated HaCaT cells. Down-regulation of SMAD4 plays a protective role in UVB-treated HaCaT cells via the activation of EMT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangzhi Li
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, 545000, China
- Taizhou Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Interventional Therapy & Artificial Intelligence, Taizhou Branch of Zhejiang Cancer Hospital (Taizhou Cancer Hospital), Taizhou, 317502, China
| | - Yimeng Wang
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Yancheng Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yancheng, 224000, China
| | - Xian Wang
- Department of Public Health and Management, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, China
| | - Yi Shen
- Department of Public Health and Management, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, China
| | - Yawen Yuan
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Qingquan He
- Taizhou Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Interventional Therapy & Artificial Intelligence, Taizhou Branch of Zhejiang Cancer Hospital (Taizhou Cancer Hospital), Taizhou, 317502, China
| | - Shuyi Mao
- Nuclear Medicine Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, 545006, China
| | - Cailian Wu
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, 545000, China
| | - Meijuan Zhou
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ali W, Xiao W, Jacobs D, Kajdacsy-Balla A. Survival and Enrichment Analysis of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Genes in Bladder Urothelial Carcinoma. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1899. [PMID: 37895248 PMCID: PMC10606556 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The escalating prevalence of bladder cancer, particularly urothelial carcinoma, necessitates innovative approaches for prognosis and therapy. This study delves into the significance of genes related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process inherently linked to carcinogenesis and comparatively better studied in other cancers. We examined 1184 EMT-related gene expression levels in bladder urothelial cancer cases through the TCGA dataset. Genes shown to be differentially expressed in relation to survival underwent further network and enrichment analysis to uncover how they might shape disease outcomes. Our in silico analysis revealed a subset of 32 genes, including those significantly represented in biological pathways such as VEGF signaling and bacterium response. In addition, these genes interact with genes involved in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Additionally, some of those 32 genes have been linked to immunomodulators such as chemokines CCL15 and CCL18, as well as to various immune cell infiltrates. Our findings highlight the prognostic utility of various EMT-related genes and identify possible modulators of their effect on survival, allowing for further targeted wet lab research and possible therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Waleed Ali
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (W.X.); (D.J.)
| | - Weirui Xiao
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (W.X.); (D.J.)
| | - Daniel Jacobs
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (W.X.); (D.J.)
| | - Andre Kajdacsy-Balla
- Professor of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60607, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Conza D, Mirra P, Fiory F, Insabato L, Nicolò A, Beguinot F, Ulianich L. Metformin: A New Inhibitor of the Wnt Signaling Pathway in Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:2182. [PMID: 37681914 PMCID: PMC10486775 DOI: 10.3390/cells12172182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The biguanide drug metformin is widely used in type 2 diabetes mellitus therapy, due to its ability to decrease serum glucose levels, mainly by reducing hepatic gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis. A considerable number of studies have shown that metformin, besides its antidiabetic action, can improve other disease states, such as polycystic ovary disease, acute kidney injury, neurological disorders, cognitive impairment and renal damage. In addition, metformin is well known to suppress the growth and progression of different types of cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Accordingly, several epidemiological studies suggest that metformin is capable of lowering cancer risk and reducing the rate of cancer deaths among diabetic patients. The antitumoral effects of metformin have been proposed to be mainly mediated by the activation of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). However, a number of signaling pathways, both dependent and independent of AMPK activation, have been reported to be involved in metformin antitumoral action. Among these, the Wingless and Int signaling pathway have recently been included. Here, we will focus our attention on the main molecular mechanisms involved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Conza
- URT Genomics of Diabetes, Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, National Research Council & Department of Translational Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (P.M.); (F.F.); (A.N.); (F.B.)
| | - Paola Mirra
- URT Genomics of Diabetes, Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, National Research Council & Department of Translational Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (P.M.); (F.F.); (A.N.); (F.B.)
| | - Francesca Fiory
- URT Genomics of Diabetes, Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, National Research Council & Department of Translational Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (P.M.); (F.F.); (A.N.); (F.B.)
| | - Luigi Insabato
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Antonella Nicolò
- URT Genomics of Diabetes, Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, National Research Council & Department of Translational Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (P.M.); (F.F.); (A.N.); (F.B.)
| | - Francesco Beguinot
- URT Genomics of Diabetes, Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, National Research Council & Department of Translational Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (P.M.); (F.F.); (A.N.); (F.B.)
| | - Luca Ulianich
- URT Genomics of Diabetes, Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, National Research Council & Department of Translational Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (P.M.); (F.F.); (A.N.); (F.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang D, Li S, Chen Y, Luo J, Li L, Wang B, Xu Y, Liang Y. Sodium thiosulfate inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition in melanoma via regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. J Dermatol Sci 2023; 109:89-98. [PMID: 36870927 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma is the most common form of skin cancer. Given its high metastasis and high recurrence, its therapies are constantly updated. OBJECTIVE The study aims to prove the efficacy of sodium thiosulfate (STS), an antidote to cyanide or nitroprusside poisoning, in melanoma treatment. METHODS We tested the effect of STS by culturing melanoma cells (B16 and A375) in vitro and establishing melanoma mouse models in vivo. The proliferation and viability of melanoma cells were measured by the CCK-8 test, cell cycle assay, apoptosis analysis, wound healing assay, and transwell migration assay. The expression of apoptosis-related molecules, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated molecules, and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related molecules were determined by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. RESULTS The high metastasis of melanoma is considered to be linked to the EMT process. The scratch assay using B16 and A375 cells also showed that STS could inhibit the EMT process of melanoma. We demonstrated that STS inhibited the proliferation, viability, and EMT process of melanoma by releasing H2S. STS-mediated weakening of cell migration was related to the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Mechanistically, we defined that STS inhibited the EMT process via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that the negative effect of STS on melanoma development is mediated by the reduction of EMT via the regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which provides a new clue to treating melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Wang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuheng Li
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yishan Chen
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jialiang Luo
- Department of Medical Laboratory, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Medical Laboratory, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Bocheng Wang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingping Xu
- Experimental Research Center, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunsheng Liang
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Di Bartolomeo L, Vaccaro F, Irrera N, Borgia F, Li Pomi F, Squadrito F, Vaccaro M. Wnt Signaling Pathways: From Inflammation to Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021575. [PMID: 36675086 PMCID: PMC9867176 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways are involved in cell differentiation and homeostasis, but also in tumorigenesis. In fact, an exaggerated activation of Wnt signaling may promote tumor growth and invasion. We summarize the most intriguing evidence about the role of Wnt signaling in cutaneous carcinogenesis, in particular in the pathogenesis of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). Wnt signaling is involved in several ways in the development of skin tumors: it may modulate the inflammatory tumor microenvironment, synergize with Sonic Hedgehog pathway in the onset of basal cell carcinoma, and contribute to the progression from precancerous to malignant lesions and promote the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in squamous cell carcinoma. Targeting Wnt pathways may represent an additional efficient approach in the management of patients with NMSC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Federico Vaccaro
- Department of Dermatology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Natasha Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Borgia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Federica Li Pomi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Mario Vaccaro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
van Gen Hassend PM, Pottikkadavath A, Delto C, Kuhn M, Endres M, Schönemann L, Schindelin H. RanBP9 controls the oligomeric state of CTLH complex assemblies. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:102869. [PMID: 36621627 PMCID: PMC9932110 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.102869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The CTLH (C-terminal to lissencephaly-1 homology motif) complex is a multisubunit RING E3 ligase with poorly defined substrate specificity and flexible subunit composition. Two key subunits, muskelin and Wdr26, specify two alternative CTLH complexes that differ in quaternary structure, thereby allowing the E3 ligase to presumably target different substrates. With the aid of different biophysical and biochemical techniques, we characterized CTLH complex assembly pathways, focusing not only on Wdr26 and muskelin but also on RanBP9, Twa1, and Armc8β subunits, which are critical to establish the scaffold of this E3 ligase. We demonstrate that the ability of muskelin to tetramerize and the assembly of Wdr26 into dimers define mutually exclusive oligomerization modules that compete with nanomolar affinity for RanBP9 binding. The remaining scaffolding subunits, Armc8β and Twa1, strongly interact with each other and with RanBP9, again with nanomolar affinity. Our data demonstrate that RanBP9 organizes subunit assembly and prevents higher order oligomerization of dimeric Wdr26 and the Armc8β-Twa1 heterodimer through its tight binding. Combined, our studies define alternative assembly pathways of the CTLH complex and elucidate the role of RanBP9 in governing differential oligomeric assemblies, thereby advancing our mechanistic understanding of CTLH complex architectures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pia Maria van Gen Hassend
- Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute of Structural Biology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Aparna Pottikkadavath
- Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute of Structural Biology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Carolyn Delto
- Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute of Structural Biology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Monika Kuhn
- Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute of Structural Biology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michelle Endres
- Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute of Structural Biology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Lars Schönemann
- Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute of Structural Biology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Schindelin
- Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute of Structural Biology, Würzburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Che N, Zhao N, Zhao X, Su S, Zhang Y, Bai X, Li F, Zhang D, Li Y. The expression and prognostic significance of PIK3CB in lung adenocarcinoma. Ann Diagn Pathol 2022; 60:152001. [PMID: 35780638 DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2022.152001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore the expression and prognostic significance of PIK3CB in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and to analyse the possible molecular mechanism that promotes LUAD development. METHODS Differences of PIK3CB expression at transcriptional level between LUAD and normal tissues were analysed with the Timer and UALCAN databases. Then, immunohistochemical staining was performed to investigate PIK3CB expression at the protein level, and relationships between PIK3CB and clinical characteristics were accessed. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression were performed to identify the independent prognostic risk factors for LUAD. Genetic alterations were analysed using the cBioPortal database. The main coexpressed genes and enrichment pathways of PIK3CB were estimated with the LinkedOmics database. RESULTS Compared with normal tissues, PIK3CB was higherly expressed in LUAD at the transcriptional level and protein level, respectively. PIK3CB expression was closely related to prognosis of LUAD patients, and PIK3CB protein expression was associated with lymph node metastasis and pathological differentiation, but not related to sex, age, pleural invasion, vascular invasion, tumour site, tumour size or clinical stage. PIK3CB and tumour size were independent risk factors for LUAD patients. The expression of PIK3CB was negatively correlated with AKT1 and AKT2, but there was no significant correlation with AKT3, and strong positive correlations with ARMC8, DNAJC13 and PIK3R4. The main enrichment pathways of PIK3CB and related genes included adherens junctions and the phosphatidylinositol signalling pathways, ErbB signalling pathways, Hedgehog signalling pathways, and C-type lectin receptor signalling pathways. Therefore, we hypothesized that PIK3CB expression did not promote LUAD development through the classical PI3K/AKT pathway. CONCLUSION High PIK3CB expression was associated with the development of LUAD and worse prognosis. PIK3CB was an independent risk factor for LUAD patients. Therefore, this study provides a reliable reference for the prognostic assessment and targeted therapy for LUAD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Che
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Nan Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Xiulan Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Shuai Su
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 300052, China
| | - Yanhui Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Xiaoyu Bai
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Danfang Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Yanlei Li
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Genenger B, Perry JR, Ashford B, Ranson M. A tEMTing target? Clinical and experimental evidence for epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the progression of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (a scoping systematic review). Discov Oncol 2022; 13:42. [PMID: 35666359 PMCID: PMC9170863 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-022-00510-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a disease with globally rising incidence and poor prognosis for patients with advanced or metastatic disease. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a driver of metastasis in many carcinomas, and cSCC is no exception. We aimed to provide a systematic overview of the clinical and experimental evidence for EMT in cSCC, with critical appraisal of type and quality of the methodology used. We then used this information as rationale for potential drug targets against advanced and metastatic cSCC. All primary literature encompassing clinical and cell-based or xenograft experimental studies reporting on the role of EMT markers or related signalling pathways in the progression of cSCC were considered. A screen of 3443 search results yielded 86 eligible studies comprising 44 experimental studies, 22 clinical studies, and 20 studies integrating both. From the clinical studies a timeline illustrating the alteration of EMT markers and related signalling was evident based on clinical progression of the disease. The experimental studies reveal connections of EMT with a multitude of factors such as genetic disorders, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and matrix remodelling via matrix metalloproteinases and urokinase plasminogen activator. Additionally, EMT was found to be closely tied to environmental factors as well as to stemness in cSCC via NFκB and β-catenin. We conclude that the canonical EGFR, canonical TGF-βR, PI3K/AKT and NFκB signalling are the four signalling pillars that induce EMT in cSCC and could be valuable therapeutic targets. Despite the complexity, EMT markers and pathways are desirable biomarkers and drug targets for the treatment of advanced or metastatic cSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Genenger
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| | - Jay R Perry
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Bruce Ashford
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Marie Ranson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Shi R, Zhang W, Zhang J, Yu Z, An L, Zhao R, Zhou X, Wang Z, Wei S, Wang H. CircESRP1 enhances metastasis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in endometrial cancer via the miR-874-3p/CPEB4 axis. J Transl Med 2022; 20:139. [PMID: 35317822 PMCID: PMC8939068 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03334-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Metastasis is critical for endometrial cancer (EC) progression and prognosis. Accumulating evidence suggests that circular RNAs (circRNAs) can operate as independent functional entities. However, the functional regulatory mechanisms of circRNAs in EC remain unclear. Methods The levels of circESRP1, miR-874-3p, and CPEB4 mRNA in EC tissues and cells were determined by qRT-PCR. Sanger sequencing, PCR with divergent primers, an actinomycin D assay, and RNase R treatment were applied to verify the circular properties. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and nuclear-cytoplasmic fractionation were used to determine the localization of circESRP1. CCK-8, EdU incorporation, colony formation, Transwell, and wound healing assays were applied to assess the effects of circESRP1 on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The mutual regulatory mechanism of ceRNAs was investigated using dual-luciferase reporter, RNA pulldown, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), and Western blot assays. The biological effects were further validated in vivo in nude mouse xenograft models. Results circESRP1 was highly expressed in EC tissues and cells and was mainly localized in the cytoplasm. Silencing circESRP1 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of EC cells in vitro and in vivo; however, overexpression of circESRP1 had the opposite effects. Mechanistically, circESRP1 sponged miR-874-3p to upregulate CPEB4 expression and ultimately contribute to EC cell proliferation and metastasis. Furthermore, circESRP1 regulated tumour growth in xenograft models. Conclusions CircESRP1 can interact with miR-874-3p to regulate EMT in endometrial cancer via the miR-874-3p/CPEB4 axis. CircESRP1 may serve as a promising therapeutic target for endometrial cancer. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-022-03334-6.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277# Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277# Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277# Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhicheng Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277# Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Lanfen An
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277# Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277# Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277# Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziwei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277# Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Sitian Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277# Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongbo Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277# Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li X, Yuan Y, Wang Y, Xie K, Lu S, Chen F, Zhou M, Zhen P. MicroRNA-486-3p promotes the proliferation and metastasis of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma by suppressing flotillin-2. J Dermatol Sci 2022; 105:18-26. [PMID: 34930675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysregulation of miR-486-3p was related to the growth and development of a variety of cancers, but the specific function of miR-486-3p in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is not to be confirmed yet. OBJECTIVE Our present study aimed to validate the potential molecular mechanisms of miR-486-3p in cSCC and the potential of miR-486-3p as a novel target for future treatment. METHODS Human cSCC samples and normal skin tissues were applied to determine the expression level of miR-486-3p and FLOT2 by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR), respectively. As well as BALB/C nude mouse tumor model, three cSCC cells lines including HSC-1, HSC-5 and A431 were utilized to demonstrate the potential function of miR-486-3p and FLOT2 in tumorigenesis. RESULTS Our experimental results showed that miR-486-3p was highly expressed both in tumor samples and cell lines of cSCC. Upregulation of miR-486-3p enhanced the proliferation and migration ability of cSCC cell lines and promoted tumorigenicity in vivo. Furthermore, we confirmed that FLOT2 was a direct targeted gene of miR-486-3p. In contrary to the expression level of miR-486-3p, FLOT2 was low expressed in cSCC patient specimens and cell lines. Knockdown of FLOT2 promoted tumorigenesis of cSCC; whereas FLOT2 reversed the tumor-promoting effect of miR-486-3p. CONCLUSION Our data exhibited that miR-486-3p exerted its effects on carcinogenesis as an oncogene in cSCC via suppression of FLOT2. This discovery will develop new therapeutic targets of cSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangzhi Li
- Jiangmen Central Hospital, Affiliated Jiangmen Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Jiangmen, China; Department of Radiation Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yawen Yuan
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yimeng Wang
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaisheng Xie
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, China
| | - Sheng Lu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - Fuqiang Chen
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meijuan Zhou
- Jiangmen Central Hospital, Affiliated Jiangmen Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Jiangmen, China; Department of Radiation Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Peilin Zhen
- Jiangmen Central Hospital, Affiliated Jiangmen Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Jiangmen, China.
| |
Collapse
|