DNMT1-mediated methylation of BEX1 regulates stemness and tumorigenicity in liver cancer

Dendritic Poly(l-lysine)-Based Nanoparticle Loading with siDNMT1 to Alleviate Basal Cell Carcinoma Progression by Inhibiting Methylation of AXIN2

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a highly invasive and metastatic non-melanoma skin tumor. Traditional treatments, such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, often result in severe side effects. Recent advances in RNA interference (RNAi) have highlighted its potential in targeting cancer-causing genes. To address the complex pathology of BCC, we developed a multifunctional gene delivery system using benzylthio-modified dendritic polylysine nanoparticles loaded with siDNMT1 (siDNMT1@PDPs). This system exhibits excellent dispersibility, with over 85% of particles measuring between 50 and 80 nm, and high stability, with a zeta potential of +57.10 mV. This design enables efficient penetration into tumor cells and controlled release of siDNMT1 in the tumor microenvironment (TME), thereby improving therapeutic outcomes. Our results demonstrate that siDNMT1@PDPs significantly inhibit tumor progression and metastasis in BCC by reducing AXIN2 promoter methylation, thereby increasing AXIN2 expression. Compared to existing treatments, siDNMT1@PDPs exhibit superior biocompatibility, both in vitro and in vivo, and provide a more targeted and effective therapeutic approach. These findings suggest that siDNMT1@PDPs represent a promising advancement in RNAi-based therapies for BCC, offering potential clinical benefits over current treatment modalities.

Multifaceted roles of OCT4 in tumor microenvironment: biology and therapeutic implications

OCT4 (Octamer-binding transcription factor 4, encoded by the POU5F1 gene) is a master transcription factor for maintaining the self-renewal and pluripotency of pluripotent stem cells, as well as a pioneer factor regulating epigenetics-driven cell reprogramming and cell fate conversion. It is also detected in a variety of cancer tissues and particularly in a small subpopulation of cancer cells known as cancer stem cells (CSCs). Accumulating evidence has revealed that CSCs are a dynamic population, exhibiting shift between multipotency and differentiation states, or quiescence and proliferation states. Such cellular plasticity of CSCs is profoundly influenced by dynamic interplay between CSCs and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we review recent evidence showing that OCT4 expressed in CSCs plays a multifaceted role in shaping the TME by interacting with the cellular TME components, including cancer-associated fibroblasts, tumor endothelial cells, tumor-infiltrating immune cells, as well as the non-cellular TME components, such as extracellular matrix (ECM), metabolites, soluble factors (e.g., growth factors, cytokines and chemokines), and intra-tumoral microbiota. Together, OCT4 regulates crucial processes encompassing ECM remodeling, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metabolic reprogramming, angiogenesis, and immune responses. The complex and bidirectional interactions between OCT4-expressing CSCs and the TME create a supportive niche for tumor growth, invasion, and resistance to therapy. Better understanding OCT4's roles in such interactions can provide deeper insights into potential therapeutic strategies and targets for disrupting the supportive environment of tumors. The emerging therapies targeting OCT4 in CSCs might hold promise to resensitize therapeutic-resistant cancer cells, and to eradicate all cancer cells when combined with other therapies targeting the bulk of differentiated cancer cells as well as the TME.

Traditional Chinese medicine and natural products in management of hepatocellular carcinoma: Biological mechanisms and therapeutic potential

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), originating from hepatocytes, is the most common type of primary liver cancer. HCC imposes a significant global health burden with high morbidity and mortality, making it a critical public concern. Surgical interventions, including hepatectomy and liver transplantation, are pivotal in achieving long-term survival for patients with HCC. Additionally, ablation therapy, endovascular interventional therapy, radiotherapy, and systemic anti-tumor therapies are commonly employed. However, these treatment modalities are often associated with considerable challenges, including high postoperative recurrence rates and adverse effects. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and natural products have been utilized for centuries as a complementary approach in managing HCC and its complications, demonstrating favorable clinical outcomes. Various bioactive compounds derived from TCM and natural products have been identified and purified, and their mechanisms of action have been extensively investigated. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date evaluation of the clinical efficacy of TCM, natural products and their active constituents in the treatment and management of HCC. Particular emphasis is placed on elucidating the potential molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets of these agents, including their roles in inhibiting HCC cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis and pyroptosis, suppressing tumor invasion and metastasis, and restraining angiogenesis within HCC tissues.

Malignant Hepatoblast-Like Cells Sustain Stemness via IGF2-Dependent Cholesterol Accumulation in Hepatoblastoma

Hepatoblastoma, the most aggressive childhood liver tumor, poses significant challenges due to limited knowledge of its pathogenesis, particularly in poorly differentiated advanced tumors where the prognosis is dismal. Single-cell sequencing provides an in-depth exploration at the single-cell level and offers a deep understanding of tumor heterogeneity. Herein, single-cell transcriptomics analysis is used to identify a unique malignant-hepatoblast (HB)-like cell subpopulation as the possible origin of poorly differentiated hepatoblastoma. These cells are associated with an unfavorable clinical prognosis in hepatoblastoma patients. The malignant-HB-like cell subpopulation generated insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) to sustain stem-like features by promoting abnormal cholesterol accumulation via SREBF2. IGF2 also stimulated fibroblast 2 to secrete collagen 1, intensifying tumor malignancy via the collagen 1/integrin α1 signaling pathway. This suggests that targeting malignant HB-like cells by inhibiting IGF2-induced pathways can lead to promising treatments for hepatoblastoma. Additionally, serum IGF2 levels may serve as a diagnostic biomarker for advanced hepatoblastoma. In summary, these findings provide valuable insight into the genesis and malignancy of hepatoblastoma and a foundation for more effective diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for this challenging disease.

Endogenous protein S100A14 stabilizes glutaminase to render hepatocellular carcinoma resistant to sorafenib

BACKGROUND

Many cases of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are resistant to the widely used drug sorafenib, which worsens prognosis. While many studies have explored how acquired resistance emerges during drug exposure, the mechanism underlying primary resistance before treatment still remain elusive.

METHODS

Single-cell lineage tracing and RNA sequencing were performed to identify primary sorafenib-resistant lineages in HCC. Differential gene expression analysis was employed to identify the biomarkers of drug-resistant lineage cells. Cell viability and colony formation assays were adopted to assess the involvement of S100A14 on sorafenib resistance. Co-immunoprecipitation (CO-IP) and mass spectrometry analysis were conducted to uncover the downstream targets and regulatory mechanisms of S100A14 in primary resistance to sorafenib. In vivo mouse xenograft experiments were carried out to assess the effect of S100A14 or its interacting protein glutaminase (GLS) on primary resistance to sorafenib in HCC.

RESULTS

Single-cell lineage tracing identified a cluster of sorafenib primary resistant cells, and S100A14, a Ca2+-binding protein, was determined to be a critical biomarker for primary resistance to sorafenib. Knockdown of S100A14 significantly increases sorafenib treatment sensitivity in HCC cells. Mechanistically, S100A14 binds to GLS and blocks its phosphorylation at residues Y308 and S314, which in turn inhibits its ubiquitination and subsequent degradation. By stabilizing GLS, S100A14 reduces oxidative stress in HCC cells, thereby antagonizing sorafenib-induced apoptosis. Inhibiting S100A14 or GLS significantly improved sorafenib efficacy against xenograft tumors in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that S100A14 plays a pivotal role in promoting primary resistance to sorafenib by stabilizing GLS to reduce oxidative stress, and acts as a potential therapeutic target to enhance the efficacy of sorafenib in HCC patients.

DNA methyltransferase 1/miR-342-3p/Forkhead box M1 signaling axis promotes self-renewal in cervical cancer stem-like cells in vitro and nude mice models

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer (CC) stem cell-like cells (CCSLCs), defined by the capacity of differentiation and self-renewal and proliferation, play a significant role in the progression of CC. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating their self-renewal are poorly understood. Therefore, elucidation of the epigenetic mechanisms that drive cancer stem cell self-renewal will enhance our ability to improve the effectiveness of targeted therapies for cancer stem cells.

AIM

To explore how DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1)/miR-342-3p/Forkhead box M1 (FoxM1), which have been shown to have abnormal expression in CCSLCs, and their signaling pathways could stimulate self-renewal-related stemness in CCSLCs.

METHODS

Sphere-forming cells derived from CC cell lines HeLa, SiHa and CaSki served as CCSLCs. Self-renewal-related stemness was identified by determining sphere and colony formation efficiency, CD133 and CD49f protein level, and SRY-box transcription factor 2 and octamer-binding transcription factor 4 mRNA level. The microRNA expression profiles between HeLa cells and HeLa-derived CCSLCs or mRNA expression profiles that HeLa-derived CCSLCs were transfected with or without miR-342-3p mimic were compared using quantitative PCR analysis. The expression levels of DNMT1 mRNA, miR-342-3p, and FoxM1 protein were examined by quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting. In vivo carcinogenicity was assessed using a mouse xenograft model. The functional effects of the DNMT1/miR-342-3p/FoxM1 axis were examined by in vivo and in vitro gain-of-activity and loss-of-activity assessments. Interplay among DNMT1, miR-342-3p, and FoxM1 was tested by methylation-specific PCR and a respective luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

CCSLCs derived from the established HeLa cell lines displayed higher self-renewal-related stemness, including enhanced sphere and colony formation efficiency, increased CD133 and CD49f protein level, and heightened transcriptional quantity of stemness-related factors SRY-box transcription factor 2 and octamer-binding transcription factor 4 in vitro as well as a stronger tumorigenic potential in vivo compared to their parental cells. Moreover, quantitative PCR showed that the miR-342-3p level was downregulated in HeLa-derived CCSLCs compared to HeLa cells. Its mimic significantly decreased DNMT1 and FoxM1 mRNA expression levels in CCSLCs. Knockdown of DNMT1 or miR-342-3p mimic transfection suppressed DNMT1 expression, increased miR-342-3p quantity by promoter demethylation, and inhibited CCSLC self-renewal. Inhibition of FoxM1 by shRNA transfection also resulted in the attenuation of CCSLC self-renewal but had little effect on the DNMT1 activity and miR-342-3p expression. Furthermore, the loss of CCSLC self-renewal exerted by miR-342-3p mimic was inverted by the overexpression of DNMT1 or FoxM1. Furthermore, DNMT1 and FoxM1 were recognized as straight targets by miR-342-3p in HeLa-derived CCSLCs.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggested that a novel DNMT1/miR-342-3p/FoxM1 signal axis promotes CCSLC self-renewal and presented a potential target for the treatment of CC through suppression of CCSLC self-renewal. However, this pathway has been previously implicated in CC, as evidenced by prior studies showing miR-342-3p-mediated downregulation of FoxM1 in cervical cancer cells. Additionally, research on liver cancer further supports the involvement of miR-342-3p in suppressing FoxM1 expression. While our study contributed to this body of knowledge, we did not present a completely novel axis but reinforced the therapeutic potential of targeting the DNMT1/miR-342-3p/FoxM1 axis to suppress CCSLC self-renewal in CC treatment.

The Impact of Tartrazine on DNA Methylation, Histone Deacetylation, and Genomic Stability in Human Cell Lines

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Tartrazine (TRZ), a synthetic red azo dye derived from coal tar, is widely used as a food colorant in various food products, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. This study aims to investigate the impact of TRZ on the expression levels of DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b) and histone deacetylases (HDAC5 and HDAC6). Additionally, we evaluate genomic DNA stability using the alkaline comet assay in three human cell lines: immortalized human keratinocyte (HaCaT), human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2), and human lung adenocarcinoma (A549). The research question focuses on whether TRZ exposure alters epigenetic regulation and DNA integrity, potentially implicating its role in carcinogenesis.

METHODS

The selected human cell lines were exposed to different concentrations of TRZ (20 µM, 40 µM, and 80 µM), with DMBA serving as a positive control. After treatment, we quantified the expression levels of DNMT1, DNMT3a, DNMT3b, HDAC5, and HDAC6 using quantitative real-time PCR. Additionally, we assessed DNA fragmentation via the alkaline comet assay to determine the extent of DNA damage resulting from TRZ exposure.

RESULTS

Our findings indicate that TRZ significantly upregulates the expression of HDAC5, HDAC6, DNMT1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b in comparison to the control group. Furthermore, TRZ exposure leads to a notable increase in DNA damage, as evidenced by elevated tail moments across all examined human cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that TRZ may play a role in carcinogenesis and epigenetic modifications. The observed upregulation of DNMTs and HDACs, coupled with increased DNA damage, highlights the potential risks associated with TRZ exposure. Further research is necessary to explore these mechanisms and assess their implications for human health.

Gut dysbiosis conveys psychological stress to activate LRP5/β-catenin pathway promoting cancer stemness

Psychological stress causes gut microbial dysbiosis and cancer progression, yet how gut microbiota determines psychological stress-induced tumor development remains unclear. Here we showed that psychological stress promotes breast tumor growth and cancer stemness, an outcome that depends on gut microbiota in germ-free and antibiotic-treated mice. Metagenomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that psychological stress markedly alters the composition and abundance of gut microbiota, especially Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila), and decreases short-chain fatty acid butyrate. Supplement of active A. muciniphila, butyrate or a butyrate-producing high fiber diet dramatically reversed the oncogenic property and anxiety-like behavior of psychological stress in a murine spontaneous tumor model or an orthotopic tumor model. Mechanistically, RNA sequencing analysis screened out that butyrate decreases LRP5 expression to block the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, dampening breast cancer stemness. Moreover, butyrate as a HDAC inhibitor elevated histone H3K9 acetylation level to transcriptionally activate ZFP36, which further accelerates LRP5 mRNA decay by binding adenine uridine-rich (AU-rich) elements of LRP5 transcript. Clinically, fecal A. muciniphila and serum butyrate were inversely correlated with tumoral LRP5/β-catenin expression, poor prognosis and negative mood in breast cancer patients. Altogether, our findings uncover a microbiota-dependent mechanism of psychological stress-triggered cancer stemness, and provide both clinical biomarkers and potential therapeutic avenues for cancer patients undergoing psychological stress.

Cancer stem cells and niches: challenges in immunotherapy resistance

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are central to tumor progression, metastasis, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance. Characterized by remarkable self-renewal and adaptability, CSCs can transition dynamically between stem-like and differentiated states in response to external stimuli, a process termed "CSC plasticity." This adaptability underpins their resilience to therapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell therapies (ACT). Beyond intrinsic properties, CSCs reside in a specialized microenvironment-the CSC niche-which provides immune-privileged protection, sustains their stemness, and fosters immune suppression. This review highlights the critical role of CSCs and their niche in driving immunotherapy resistance, emphasizing the need for integrative approaches to overcome these challenges.

Nucleolar NOL9 regulated by DNA methylation promotes hepatocellular carcinoma growth through activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Ribosome biogenesis (RiboSis) and ribosomal stress are critical in tumor progression, positioning RiboSis as a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment and for overcoming drug resistance. In this study, we examined the role of RiboSis in the progression from hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection to HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), focusing specifically on nucleolar protein 9 (NOL9) and its influence on HCC pathogenesis and therapeutic response. Our findings showed that NOL9 was significantly upregulated in HCC tissues, correlating with larger tumor sizes and more advanced pathological grades. High levels of NOL9 expression were associated with unfavorable prognosis in both the TCGA-LIHC and our HCC cohorts. Functional assays indicated that NOL9 regulated HCC cell proliferation and apoptosis; specifically, NOL9 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis, while overexpression enhanced these processes. In vivo studies confirmed that NOL9 depletion reduced tumor growth. Mechanistically, NOL9 expression was regulated by DNA methylation and the transcription factor ZNF384. Our DNA methylation analysis revealed an inverse correlation between NOL9 expression and methylation at specific CpG sites, implicating DNMT1 in its epigenetic regulation. Additionally, NOL9-mediated cell proliferation was dependent on activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. This study highlights the multifaceted role of NOL9 in HCC pathogenesis, underscoring its potential as a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target.

Identification and validation of a novel nine-gene prognostic signature of stem cell characteristic in hepatocellular carcinoma

Currently, cancer stem cells (CSCs) are regarded as the most promising target for cancer therapy due to their close association with tumor resistance, invasion, and recurrence. Thus, identifying CSCs-related genes and constructing a prognostic risk model associated with CSCs may be crucial for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) therapy. Xena Browser was used to download gene expression profiles and clinical data, while MSigDB was used to obtain genes associated with CSCs. Firstly, the non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) algorithm was used to cluster the HCC samples based on CSCs-related genes. To evaluate the predictive performance of the risk model, the receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) and Kaplan-Meier analysis were used. The R package "rms" was used to construct the final nomogram based on risk scores and clinical characteristics. Based on 449 CSCs-related genes, a total of 588 HCC samples from TCGA-LIHC and ICGC-LIRI_JP were classified into four molecular subtypes with marked differences in survival and mRNA stemness index (mRNAsi) between subtypes. Univariate Cox regression, multivariate Cox regression, and LASSO regression analyses were performed on a total of 1417 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between subtypes, and a nine-gene prognostic model was constructed with TTK, ST6GALNAC4, SPP1, SGCB, MEP1A, HTRA1, CD79A, C6, and ATP2A3. In both the training and testing sets and the external validation cohort, the risk model performed well in predicting HCC patients' survival. A nomogram was constructed and had high predictive efficacy in short-term survival. In comparison with the other two prognostic models, our nine-gene signature model performed best. We constructed a nine-gene signature model to predict the survival of HCC patients, which has good predictive efficacy and stability. The model may contribute to guiding the prognostic assessment of HCC patients in clinical practice.

HBx Facilitates Drug Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma via CD133-regulated Self-renewal of Liver Cancer Stem Cells

Background and Aims

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection contributes to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumorigenesis, drug resistance, and recurrence, although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Recent studies suggest that HBV infection may be associated with liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs), but the exact mechanisms are yet to be resolved. In this study, we aimed to analyze the role of HBV infection in regulating the stemness of HCCs, which is closely linked to drug resistance.

Methods

Sphere formation assay and real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction quantification were used to isolate and confirm liver cancer stem cells. The inhibitory concentration values of sorafenib and regorafenib were calculated and compared using the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. HBV infection was used to assess the effect of HBV replication on LCSC markers. Co-immunoprecipitation assay was performed to detect the interaction between CD133 and SRC. Furthermore, we utilized the CRISPR-Cas9 system to knockout CD133 expression in HepG2.2.15 cells.

Results

LCSCs derived from HCCs exhibited high expression of stem cell markers and demonstrated reduced sensitivity to sorafenib and regorafenib. HBV replication promoted both drug resistance and stemness in hepatoma cells and clinical samples. Overexpression of HBx protein in HepG2 cells upregulated the expression of CD133, EpCAM, and CD24, enhancing resistance to sorafenib and regorafenib. Knockout of CD133 expression using the CRISPR-Cas9 system significantly inhibited drug resistance to both sorafenib and regorafenib in HepG2.2.15 cells. Mechanistically, HBV replication promoted CD133 expression, which in turn interacted with the SRC/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that HBV replication enhances the stemness and drug resistance of HCC, providing a strong theoretical foundation for the development of targeted and efficient treatments for HBV-infected HCCs.

ALOX15-Driven Ferroptosis: The key target in Dihydrotanshinone I's epigenetic Battle in hepatic stellate cells against liver fibrosis

BACKGROUND

It is known that ferroptosis promotes hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) inactivation. Arachidonate 15-Lipoxygenase (ALOX15), a ferroptosis driver gene, participates in disease progression.

PURPOSE

Dihydrotanshinone I (DHI), an active compound from Salvia miltiorrhiza, effectively regulates HSC inactivation. Nonetheless, there still needs to be clear understanding of how DHI affects HSC ferroptosis.

METHODS

This study primarily investigates DHI's protective effects on liver fibrosis in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, we explored the molecular mechanisms by which DHI promotes ferroptosis in HSCs. The relationship between ALOX15 level and methylation was examined. Molecular docking was performed to confirm the targeting between early growth response protein 1 (EGR1) and DHI.

RESULTS

DHI exhibited a mitigating effect on liver fibrosis in vivo. DHI-induced inactivation of HSC by promoting ferroptosis, accompanied by an elevation in intracellular iron and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Results of transcriptome sequencing and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) confirmed the elevation of ALOX15 (a ferroptosis driver gene) in HSCs with DHI. Loss of ALOX15 inhibited DHI-induced ferroptosis. Interestingly, DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), an essential DNA methyltransferase, was downregulated by DHI. Overexpression of DNMT1 resulted in decreased ALOX15 expression in cells with DHI. Notably, transcription factor EGR1 was demonstrated to regulate DNMT1 expression. EGR1 deficiency led to an increase in DNMT1 expression, which inhibited DHI-induced ferroptosis. Molecular docking confirmed that EGR1 could serve as a direct pharmacological target of DHI.

CONCLUSION

DHI upregulates EGR1 level, leading to decreased DNMT1 expression and increased ALOX15 demethylation, thereby promoting HSC ferroptosis and inactivation.

Predicting hepatocellular carcinoma outcomes and immune therapy response with ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling-related genes, highlighting MORF4L1 as a promising target

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) continues to be a major cause of cancer-related death worldwide, primarily due to delays in diagnosis and resistance to existing treatments. Recent research has identified ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling-related genes (ACRRGs) as promising targets for therapeutic intervention across various types of cancer. This development offers potential new avenues for addressing the challenges in HCC management.

METHODS

This study integrated bioinformatics analyses and experimental approaches to explore the role of ACRRGs in HCC. We utilized data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), applying machine learning algorithms to develop a prognostic model based on ACRRGs' expression. Experimental validation was conducted using quantitative real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blotting, and functional assays in HCC cell lines and xenograft models.

RESULTS

Our bioinformatics analysis identified four key ACRRGs-MORF4L1, HDAC1, VPS72, and RUVBL2-that serve as prognostic markers for HCC. The developed risk prediction model effectively distinguished between high-risk and low-risk patients, showing significant differences in survival outcomes and predicting responses to immunotherapy in HCC patients. Experimentally, MORF4L1 was demonstrated to enhance cancer stemness by activating the Hedgehog signaling pathway, as supported by both in vitro and in vivo assays.

CONCLUSION

ACRRGs, particularly MORF4L1, play crucial roles in modulating HCC progression, offering new insights into the molecular mechanisms driving HCC and potential therapeutic targets. Our findings advocate for the inclusion of chromatin remodeling dynamics in the strategic development of precision therapies for HCC.

DNMT1-driven methylation of RORA facilitates esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression under hypoxia through SLC2A3

BACKGROUND

The RAR-related orphan receptor alpha (RORA), a circadian clock molecule, is highly associated with anti-oncogenes. In this paper, we defined the precise action and mechanistic basis of RORA in ESCC development under hypoxia.

METHODS

Expression analysis was conducted by RT-qPCR, western blotting, immunofluorescence (IF), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays. The functions of RORA were assessed by detecting its regulatory effects on cell viability, motility, invasion, and tumor growth. DNA pull-down assay and proteomic analysis were employed to identify proteins bound to the RORA promoter. The promoter methylation level of RORA was detected by DNA pyrosequencing. RNA-seq analysis was performed to explore the downstream mechanisms of RORA, and the transcriptional regulation of RORA on SLC2A3 was verified by ChIP-qPCR and dual-luciferase reporter assay. Glycolysis was assessed by detecting the consumption of glucose and the production of lactic acid and ATP.

RESULTS

In vitro, RORA was shown to suppress ESCC cell viability, motility, and invasion under hypoxic condition. In vivo, increased RORA expression in mouse xenografts impeded tumor growth. DNMT1 was identified to widely exist in the RORA promoter, increasing DNA methylation and reducing RORA expression in hypoxia-induced KYSE150 ESCC cells. Mechanistically, RORA was found to inactivate the transcription of glucose transporter protein SLC2A3 by interacting with its promoter F1 region. Furthermore, rescue experiments revealed that RORA-mediated suppressive effects on ESCC cell migration and invasion were largely based on its negative regulation of SLC2A3 and glycolysis.

CONCLUSION

DNMT1-driven methylation of RORA promotes ESCC progression largely through affecting SLC2A3 transcription and glycolysis. These findings turn RORA into potential target of anti-cancer therapeutic agents.

Wnt Signaling in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Biological Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), characterized by significant morbidity and mortality rates, poses a substantial threat to human health. The expression of ligands and receptors within the classical and non-classical Wnt signaling pathways plays an important role in HCC. The Wnt signaling pathway is essential for regulating multiple biological processes in HCC, including proliferation, invasion, migration, tumor microenvironment modulation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), stem cell characteristics, and autophagy. Molecular agents that specifically target the Wnt signaling pathway have demonstrated significant potential for the treatment of HCC. However, the precise mechanism by which the Wnt signaling pathway interacts with HCC remains unclear. In this paper, we review the alteration of the Wnt signaling pathway in HCC, the mechanism of Wnt pathway action in HCC, and molecular agents targeting the Wnt pathway. This paper provides a theoretical foundation for identifying molecular agents targeting the Wnt pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Oncoprotein LAMTOR5-mediated CHOP silence via DNA hypermethylation and miR-182/miR-769 in promotion of liver cancer growth

C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) triggers the death of multiple cancers via endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. However, the function and regulatory mechanism of CHOP in liver cancer remain elusive. We have reported that late endosomal/lysosomal adapter, mitogen-activated protein kinase and mTOR activator 5 (LAMTOR5) suppresses apoptosis in various cancers. Here, we show that the transcriptional and posttranscriptional inactivation of CHOP mediated by LAMTOR5 accelerates liver cancer growth. Clinical bioinformatic analysis revealed that the expression of CHOP was low in liver cancer tissues and that its increased expression predicted a good prognosis. Elevated CHOP contributed to destruction of LAMTOR5-induced apoptotic suppression and proliferation. Mechanistically, LAMTOR5-recruited DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) to the CpG3 region (-559/-429) of the CHOP promoter and potentiated its hypermethylation to block its interaction with general transcription factor IIi (TFII-I), resulting in its inactivation. Moreover, LAMTOR5-enhanced miR-182/miR-769 reduced CHOP expression by targeting its 3'UTR. Notably, lenvatinib, a first-line targeted therapy for liver cancer, could target the LAMTOR5/CHOP axis to prevent liver cancer progression. Accordingly, LAMTOR5-mediated silencing of CHOP via the regulation of ER stress-related apoptosis promotes liver cancer growth, providing a theoretical basis for the use of lenvatinib for the treatment of liver cancer.

Key Epigenetic Players in Etiology and Novel Combinatorial Therapies for Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of death in which the molecular tumorigenesis and cellular heterogeneity are poorly understood. The genetic principle that specific driver mutations in oncogenes, DNA repair genes, and tumor-suppressor genes can independently drive cancer development has been widely explored. Additionally, a repertory of harmful epigenetic modifications in DNA and chromatin—impacting the expression of genes involved in cellular proliferation, differentiation, genome stability, cell-cycle control, and DNA repair—are now acknowledged across various biological contexts that contribute to cancer etiology. Notably, the dynamic hypermethylation and hypomethylation in enhancer and promoter regions that promote activation or silencing of the master regulatory genes of the epigenetic programs is often altered in tumor cells due to mutation. Genome instability is one of the cancer hallmarks that contribute to transdifferentiation and intratumoral heterogeneity. Thus, it is broadly accepted that tumor tissue is dominated by genetically and epigenetically distinct sub-clones which display a set of genetic and epigenetic mutations. Here we summarize some functions of key genetic and epigenetic players and biochemical pathways leading to liver cell transformation. We discuss the role of the potential epigenetic marks in target genes thought to be involved in sequential events following liver lipid metabolism dysregulation, inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and finally hepatocellular carcinoma. We also briefly describe new findings showing how epigenetic drugs together with chemotherapy and immunotherapy can improve overall responses in patients with hepatic tumors.

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell ameliorates post-stroke enterobacterial translocation through liver-gut axis

BACKGROUND

Enterobacterial translocation is a leading contributor to fatal infection among patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS). Accumulative evidence suggests that mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) effectively ameliorates stroke outcomes. Whether MSC could inhibit post-stroke enterobacterial translocation remains elusive.

METHODS

Patients with AIS and healthy individuals were enrolled in the study. Mice subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion were treated with bone marrow-derived MSC (BM-MSC) right after reperfusion. Enterobacterial translocation was evaluated with Stroke Dysbiosis Index and circulating endotoxin. Thickness of mucus was assessed with Alcian blue staining. Hepatic glucocorticoid (GC) metabolism was analysed with expression of HSD11B2, HSD11B1 and SRD5A1.

RESULTS

We report that the gut mucus layer was attenuated after the stroke leading to pronounced enterobacterial translocation. The attenuation of the gut mucus was attributed to diminished mucin production by goblet cells in response to the elevated systemic GC after cerebral ischaemia. Transferred-BM-MSC restored the mucus thickness, thus preserving gut microbiota homeostasis and preventing enterobacterial invasion. Mechanistically, the transferred-BM-MSC stationed in the liver and enhanced peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ signalling in hepatocytes. Consequently, expression of HSD11B2 and SRD5A1 was increased while HSD11B1 expression was downregulated which promoted GC catabolism and subsequently restored mucin production.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings reveal that MSC transfer improves post-stroke gut barrier integrity and inhibits enterobacterial translocation by enhancing the hepatic GC metabolism thus representing a protective modulator of the liver-gut-brain axis in AIS.

The correlation between cancer stem cells and epithelial-mesenchymal transition: molecular mechanisms and significance in cancer theragnosis

The connections between cancer stem cells (CSCs) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is critical in cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, and therapy resistance, making it a focal point in cancer theragnosis. This review provides a panorama of associations and regulation pathways between CSCs and EMT, highlighting their significance in cancer. The molecular mechanisms underlined EMT are thoroughly explored, including the involvement of key transcription factors and signaling pathways. In addition, the roles of CSCs and EMT in tumor biology and therapy resistance, is further examined in this review. The clinical implications of CSCs-EMT interplay are explored, including identifying mesenchymal-state CSC subpopulations using advanced research methods and developing targeted therapies such as inhibitors and combination treatments. Overall, understanding the reciprocal relationship between EMT and CSCs holds excellent potential for informing the development of personalized therapies and ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The role of epigenetics in women's reproductive health: the impact of environmental factors

This paper explores the significant role of epigenetics in women's reproductive health, focusing on the impact of environmental factors. It highlights the crucial link between epigenetic modifications-such as DNA methylation and histones post-translational modifications-and reproductive health issues, including infertility and pregnancy complications. The paper reviews the influence of pollutants like PM2.5, heavy metals, and endocrine disruptors on gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms, emphasizing the need for understanding how dietary, lifestyle choices, and exposure to chemicals affect gene expression and reproductive health. Future research directions include deeper investigation into epigenetics in female reproductive health and leveraging gene editing to mitigate epigenetic changes for improving IVF success rates and managing reproductive disorders.

SNORD88B-mediated WRN nucleolar trafficking drives self-renewal in liver cancer initiating cells and hepatocarcinogenesis

Whether small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are involved in the regulation of liver cancer stem cells (CSCs) self-renewal and serve as therapeutic targets remains largely unclear. Here we show that a functional snoRNA (SNORD88B) is robustly expressed in Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumors and liver CSCs. SNORD88B deficiency abolishes the self-renewal of liver CSCs and hepatocarcinogenesis. Mechanistically, SNORD88B anchors WRN in the nucleolus, promoting XRCC5 interacts with STK4 promoter to suppress its transcription, leading to inactivation of Hippo signaling. Moreover, low expression of STK4 and high expression of XRCC5 are positively correlated with HCC poor prognosis. Additionally, snord88b knockout suppresses mouse liver tumorigenesis. Notably, co-administration of SNORD88B antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) with MST1 agonist adapalene (ADA) exert synergistic antitumor effects and increase overall murine survival. Our findings delineate that SNORD88B drives self-renewal of liver CSCs and accelerates HCC tumorigenesis via non-canonical mechanism, providing potential targets for liver cancer therapy by eliminating liver CSCs.

Development of stemness-related signature to optimize prognosis prediction and identify XMD8-85 as a novel therapeutic compound for glioma

Glioma is a highly invasive and aggressive type of brain cancer with poor treatment response. Stemness-related transcription factors form a regulatory network that sustains the malignant phenotype of gliomas. We conducted an integrated analysis of stemness-related transcription factors using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) datasets, established the characteristics of stemness-related transcription factors, including Octamer-Binding Protein 4 (OCT4), Meis Homeobox 1 (MEIS1), E2F Transcription Factor 1 (E2F1), Transcription Factor CP2 Like 1 (TFCP2L1), and RUNX Family Transcription Factor 1 (RUNX1). The characteristic of stemness-related transcription factors was identified as an independent prognostic factor for glioma patients. Patients in the high-risk group have a worse prognosis than those in the low-risk group. The glioma microenvironment in the high-risk group exhibited a more active immune status. Single-cell level analysis revealed that stem cell-like cells exhibited stronger intercellular communication than glioma cells. Meanwhile, patients in different risk stratification exhibited varying sensitivities to immunotherapy and small molecule drug therapy. XMD8-85 was more effective in the high-risk group, and its antitumor effects were validated both in vivo and in vitro. Our results indicate that this prognostic feature will assist clinicians in predicting the prognosis of glioma patients, guiding immunotherapy and personalized treatment, as well as the potential clinical application of XMD8-85 in glioma treatment, and helping to develop effective treatment strategies.

Gene expression asymmetry in Parkinson's Disease; variation of CCT and BEX gene expression levels are correlated with hemisphere specific severity

Parkinson's Disease (PD) develops unilaterally, which may be related to brain hemispheric differences in gene expression. Here we measured bulk RNA-seq levels in neuronal nuclei obtained from prefrontal cortex postmortem brain samples from males and females with PD and from healthy controls. Left and right hemispheres from each brain were related the side of symptom onset and compared. We employed two a priori approaches; first we identified genes differentially expressed between PD and controls and between left vs right PD brain hemispheres. Second, we examined the presence of, and correlates to, variable asymmetry seen in candidate PD differentially expressed genes. We found large variation among individuals with PD, and PD stratification by gene expression similarity was required for patterns of genetic asymmetry to emerge. For a subset of PD brains, hemispherical variation of CCT and BEX gene levels correlated with the side of PD symptom onset.

Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in carcinogenesis and cancer therapy

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, encompassing development, tissue homeostasis, and cell proliferation. Under normal physiological conditions, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is meticulously regulated. However, aberrant activation of this pathway and downstream target genes can occur due to mutations in key components of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, epigenetic modifications, and crosstalk with other signaling pathways. Consequently, these dysregulations contribute significantly to tumor initiation and progression. Therapies targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling transduction have exhibited promising prospects and potential for tumor treatment. An increasing number of medications targeting this pathway are continuously being developed and validated. This comprehensive review aims to summarize the latest advances in our understanding of the role played by the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in carcinogenesis and targeted therapy, providing valuable insights into acknowledging current opportunities and challenges associated with targeting this signaling pathway in cancer research and treatment.

Targeted silencing of SOCS1 by DNMT1 promotes stemness of human liver cancer stem-like cells

BACKGROUND

Human liver cancer stem-like cells (HLCSLCs) are widely acknowledged as significant factors in the recurrence and eradication of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The sustenance of HLCSLCs' stemness is hypothesized to be intricately linked to the epigenetic process of DNA methylation modification of genes associated with anticancer properties. The present study aimed to elucidate the stemness-maintaining mechanism of HLCSLCs and provide a novel idea for the clearance of HLCSLCs.

METHODS

The clinical relevance of DNMT1 and SOCS1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients was evaluated through the GEO and TCGA databases. Cellular immunofluorescence assay, methylation-specific PCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation were conducted to explore the expression of DNMT1 and SOCS1 and the regulatory relationship between them in HLCSLCs. Spheroid formation, soft agar colony formation, expression of stemness-associated molecules, and tumorigenicity of xenograft in nude mice were used to evaluate the stemness of HLCSLCs.

RESULTS

The current analysis revealed a significant upregulation of DNMT1 and downregulation of SOCS1 in HCC tumor tissues compared to adjacent normal liver tissues. Furthermore, patients exhibiting an elevated DNMT1 expression or a reduced SOCS1 expression had low survival. This study illustrated the pronounced expression and activity of DNMT1 in HLCSLCs, which effectively targeted the promoter region of SOCS1 and induced hypermethylation, consequently suppressing the expression of SOCS1. Notably, the stemness of HLCSLCs was reduced upon treatment with DNMT1 inhibitors in a concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, the overexpression of SOCS1 in HLCSLCs significantly mitigated their stemness. The knockdown of SOCS1 expression reversed the effect of DNMT1 inhibitor on the stemness of HLCSLCs. DNMT1 directly binds to the SOCS1 promoter. In vivo, DNMT1 inhibitors suppressed SOCS1 expression and inhibited the growth of xenograft.

CONCLUSION

DNMT1 targets the promoter region of SOCS1, induces hypermethylation of its CpG islands, and silences its expression, thereby promoting the stemness of HLCSLCs.

Machine learning-based identification and immune characterization of ferroptosis-related molecular clusters in osteoarthritis and validation

Osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative joint disease, involves synovial inflammation, subchondral bone erosion, and cartilage degeneration. Ferroptosis, a regulated non-apoptotic programmed cell death, is associated with various diseases. This study investigates ferroptosis-related molecular subtypes in OA to comprehend underlying mechanisms. The Gene Expression Omnibus datasets GSE206848, GSE55457, GSE55235, GSE77298 and GSE82107 were used utilized. Unsupervised clustering identified the ferroptosis-related gene (FRG) subtypes, and their immune characteristics were assessed. FRG signatures were derived using LASSO and SVM-RFE algorithms, forming models to evaluate OA's ferroptosis-related immune features. Three FRG clusters were found to be immunologically heterogeneous, with cluster 1 displaying robust immune response. Models identified nine key signature genes via algorithms, demonstrating strong diagnostic and prognostic performance. Finally, qRT-PCR and Western blot validated these genes, offering consistent results. In addition, some of these genes may have implications as new therapeutic targets and can be used to guide clinical applications.

Circ-0075305 hinders gastric cancer stem cells by indirectly disrupting TCF4-β-catenin complex and downregulation of SOX9

CircRNAs are covalently closed, single-stranded RNA that form continuous loops and play a crucial role in the initiation and progression of tumors. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are indispensable for cancer development; however, the regulation of cancer stem cell-like properties in gastric cancer (GC) and its specific mechanism remain poorly understood. We elucidate the specific role of Circ-0075305 in GC stem cell properties. Circ-0075305 associated with chemotherapy resistance was identified by sequencing GC cells. Subsequent confirmation in both GC tissues and cell lines revealed that patients with high expression of Circ-0075305 had significantly better overall survival (OS) rates than those with low expression, particularly when treated with postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy for GC. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that overexpression of Circ-0075305 can effectively reduce stem cell-like properties and enhance the sensitivity of GC cells to Oxaliplatin compared with the control group. Circ-0075305 promotes RPRD1A expression by acting as a sponge for corresponding miRNAs. The addition of LF3 (a β-catenin/TCF4 interaction antagonist) confirmed that RPRD1A inhibited the formation of the TCF4-β-catenin transcription complex through competitive to β-catenin and suppressed the transcriptional activity of stem cell markers such as SOX9 via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. This leads to the downregulation of stem cell-like property-related markers in GC. This study revealed the underlying mechanisms that regulate Circ-0075305 in GCSCs and suggests that its role in reducing β-catenin signaling may serve as a potential therapeutic candidate.

Hallmarks of cancer stemness

Cancer stemness is recognized as a key component of tumor development. Previously coined "cancer stem cells" (CSCs) and believed to be a rare population with rigid hierarchical organization, there is good evidence to suggest that these cells exhibit a plastic cellular state influenced by dynamic CSC-niche interplay. This revelation underscores the need to reevaluate the hallmarks of cancer stemness. Herein, we summarize the techniques used to identify and characterize the state of these cells and discuss their defining and emerging hallmarks, along with their enabling and associated features. We also highlight potential future directions in this field of research.

LARP4B promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression and impairs sorafenib efficacy by activating SPINK1-mediated EGFR pathway

La-related proteins (LARPs) regulate gene expression by binding to RNAs and exhibit critical effects on disease progression, including tumors. However, the role of LARP4B and its underlying mechanisms in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain largely unclear. In this study, we found that LARP4B expression is upregulated and correlates with poor prognosis in patients with HCC. Gain- and loss-of-function assays showed that LARP4B promotes stemness, proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, LARP4B inhibition enhances the antitumor effects of sorafenib and blocks the metastasis-enhancing effects of low sorafenib concentrations in HCC. Mechanistically, LARP4B expression is upregulated by METTL3-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-IGF2BP3-dependent modification in HCC. RNA- and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP)- sequencing uncovered that LARP4B upregulates SPINK1 by binding to SPINK1 mRNA via the La motif and maintaining mRNA stability. LARP4B activates the SPINK1-mediated EGFR signaling pathway, which supports stemness, progression and sorafenib resistance in HCC. Additionally, a positive feedback loop with the LARP4B/SPINK1/p-AKT/C/EBP-β axis is responsible for the sorafenib-therapeutic benefit of LARP4B depletion. Overall, this study demonstrated that LARP4B facilitates HCC progression, and LARP4B inhibition provides benefits to sorafenib treatment in HCC, suggesting that LARP4B might be a potential therapeutic target for HCC.

A prognostic and immune related risk model based on zinc homeostasis in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The dysfunction of zinc homeostasis participates in the early and advancing malignancy of HCC. However, the prognostic ability of zinc homeostasis in HCC has not been clarified yet. Here, we showed a zinc-homeostasis related risk model in HCC. Five signature genes including ADAMTS5, PLOD2, PTDSS2, KLRB1, and UCK2 were screened out via survival analyses and regression algorithms to construct the nomogram with clinical characteristics. Experimental researches indicated that UCK2 participated in the progression of HCC. Patients with higher risk scores always had worse outcomes and were more associated with immune suppression according to the analyses of immune related-pathway activation, cell infiltration, and gene expression. Moreover, these patients were likely to exhibit more sensitivity to sorafenib and other antitumor drugs. This study highlights the significant prognostic role of zinc homeostasis and suggests potential treatment strategies in HCC.

DNMT1/miR-152-3p/SOS1 signaling axis promotes self-renewal and tumor growth of cancer stem-like cells derived from non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

CSLCs(Cancer stem cell-like cells), which are central to tumorigenesis, are intrinsically influenced by epigenetic modifications. This study aimed to elucidate the underlying mechanism involving the DNMT1/miR-152-3p/SOS1 axis in regulating the self-renewal and tumor growth of LCSLCs (lung cancer stem-like cells).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Target genes of miR-152-3p were predicted using TargetScan Human 8.0. Self-renewal and tumor growth of LCSLC were compared in suspension-cultured non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines H460 and A549 cell-derived globe cells. Functional effects of the DNMT1/miR-152-3p/SOS1 axis were assessed through gain-of-function experiments in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, luciferase reporter assays were employed to analyze the interaction among DNMT1, miR-152-3p, and SOS1.

RESULTS

Our findings highlight a negative interaction between DNMT1 and miR-152-3p, resulting in reduced miR-152-3p level. This, in turn, leads to the alleviation of the inhibitory effect of miR-152-3p on the target gene SOS1, ultimately activating SOS1 and playing an essential role in self-renewal and tumor growth of LCSLC. However, the alteration of SOS1 does not affect DNMT1/miR-152-3p regulation. Therefore, it is reasonable to infer that the DNMT1/miR-152-3p negative feedback loop critically sustains self-renewal and tumor growth of LCSLC through SOS1.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals a novel mechanism underpinning self-renewal and tumor growth of CSLC (cancer stem cell) in NSCLC and identifies potential therapeutic targets for NSCLC treatment.

SALL4 in gastrointestinal tract cancers: upstream and downstream regulatory mechanisms

Effective therapeutic targets and early diagnosis are major challenges in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancers. SALL4 is a well-known transcription factor that is involved in organogenesis during embryonic development. Previous studies have revealed that SALL4 regulates cell proliferation, survival, and migration and maintains stem cell function in mature cells. Additionally, SALL4 overexpression is associated with tumorigenesis. Despite its characterization as a biomarker in various cancers, the role of SALL4 in GIT cancers and the underlying mechanisms are unclear. We describe the functions of SALL4 in GIT cancers and discuss its upstream/downstream genes and pathways associated with each cancer. We also consider the possibility of targeting these genes or pathways as potential therapeutic options for GIT cancers.

Transcriptional regulation of cancer stem cell: regulatory factors elucidation and cancer treatment strategies

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) were first discovered in the 1990s, revealing the mysteries of cancer origin, migration, recurrence and drug-resistance from a new perspective. The expression of pluripotent genes and complex signal regulatory networks are significant features of CSC, also act as core factors to affect the characteristics of CSC. Transcription is a necessary link to regulate the phenotype and potential of CSC, involving chromatin environment, nucleosome occupancy, histone modification, transcription factor (TF) availability and cis-regulatory elements, which suffer from ambient pressure. Especially, the expression and activity of pluripotent TFs are deeply affected by both internal and external factors, which is the foundation of CSC transcriptional regulation in the current research framework. Growing evidence indicates that regulating epigenetic modifications to alter cancer stemness is effective, and some special promoters and enhancers can serve as targets to influence the properties of CSC. Clarifying the factors that regulate CSC transcription will assist us directly target key stem genes and TFs, or hinder CSC transcription through environmental and other related factors, in order to achieve the goal of inhibiting CSC and tumors. This paper comprehensively reviews the traditional aspects of transcriptional regulation, and explores the progress and insights of the impact on CSC transcription and status through tumor microenvironment (TME), hypoxia, metabolism and new meaningful regulatory factors in conjunction with the latest research. Finally, we present opinions on omnidirectional targeting CSCs transcription to eliminate CSCs and address tumor resistance.

WNT/β-catenin signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma: The aberrant activation, pathogenic roles, and therapeutic opportunities

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a liver cancer, highly heterogeneous both at the histopathological and molecular levels. It arises from hepatocytes as the result of the accumulation of numerous genomic alterations in various signaling pathways, including canonical WNT/β-catenin, AKT/mTOR, MAPK pathways as well as signaling associated with telomere maintenance, p53/cell cycle regulation, epigenetic modifiers, and oxidative stress. The role of WNT/β-catenin signaling in liver homeostasis and regeneration is well established, whereas in development and progression of HCC is extensively studied. Herein, we review recent advances in our understanding of how WNT/β-catenin signaling facilitates the HCC development, acquisition of stemness features, metastasis, and resistance to treatment. We outline genetic and epigenetic alterations that lead to activated WNT/β-catenin signaling in HCC. We discuss the pivotal roles of CTNNB1 mutations, aberrantly expressed non-coding RNAs and complexity of crosstalk between WNT/β-catenin signaling and other signaling pathways as challenging or advantageous aspects of therapy development and molecular stratification of HCC patients for treatment.

Transcription factor BACH1 in cancer: roles, mechanisms, and prospects for targeted therapy

Transcription factor BTB domain and CNC homology 1 (BACH1) belongs to the Cap 'n' Collar and basic region Leucine Zipper (CNC-bZIP) family. BACH1 is widely expressed in mammalian tissues, where it regulates epigenetic modifications, heme homeostasis, and oxidative stress. Additionally, it is involved in immune system development. More importantly, BACH1 is highly expressed in and plays a key role in numerous malignant tumors, affecting cellular metabolism, tumor invasion and metastasis, proliferation, different cell death pathways, drug resistance, and the tumor microenvironment. However, few articles systematically summarized the roles of BACH1 in cancer. This review aims to highlight the research status of BACH1 in malignant tumor behaviors, and summarize its role in immune regulation in cancer. Moreover, this review focuses on the potential of BACH1 as a novel therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker. Notably, the mechanisms underlying the roles of BACH1 in ferroptosis, oxidative stress and tumor microenvironment remain to be explored. BACH1 has a dual impact on cancer, which affects the accuracy and efficiency of targeted drug delivery. Finally, the promising directions of future BACH1 research are prospected. A systematical and clear understanding of BACH1 would undoubtedly take us one step closer to facilitating its translation from basic research into the clinic.

DNMT1-mediated epigenetic suppression of FBXO32 expression promoting cyclin dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) survival and esophageal cancer cell growth

Esophageal cancer (EC) is a common and serious form of cancer, and while DNA methyltransferase-1 (DNMT1) promotes DNA methylation and carcinogenesis, the role of F-box protein 32 (FBXO32) in EC and its regulation by DNMT1-mediated methylation is still unclear. FBXO32 expression was examined in EC cells with high DNMT1 expression using GSE163735 dataset. RT-qPCR assessed FBXO32 expression in normal and EC cells, and impact of higher FBXO32 expression on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion was evaluated, along with EMT-related proteins. The xenograft model established by injecting EC cells transfected with FBXO32 was used to evaluate tumor growth, apoptosis, and tumor cells proliferation and metastasis. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay was employed to study the interaction between DNMT1 and FBXO32. HitPredict, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), and Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) pulldown assay analyzed the interaction between FBXO32 and cyclin dependent kinase 9 (CDK9). Finally, the ubiquitination assay identified CDK9 ubiquitination, and its half-life was measured using cycloheximide and confirmed through western blotting. DNMT1 negatively correlated with FBXO32 expression in esophageal cells. High FBXO32 expression was associated with better overall survival in patients. Knockdown of DNMT1 in EC cells increased FBXO32 expression and suppressed malignant phenotypes. FBXO32 repressed EC tumor growth and metastasis in mice. Enrichment of DNMT1 in FBXO32 promoter region led to increased DNA methylation and reduced transcription. Mechanistically, FBXO32 degraded CDK9 through promoting its ubiquitination.

Exploring the Impact of the β-Catenin Mutations in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An In-Depth Review

Liver cancer, primarily hepatocellular carcinoma, represents a major global health issue with significant clinical, economic, and psychological impacts. Its incidence continues to rise, driven by risk factors such as hepatitis B and C infections, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and various environmental influences. The Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway, frequently dysregulated in HCC, emerges as a promising therapeutic target. Critical genetic alterations, particularly in the CTNNB1 gene, involve mutations at key phosphorylation sites on β-catenin's N-terminal domain (S33, S37, T41, and S45) and in armadillo repeat domains (K335I and N387 K). These mutations impede β-catenin degradation, enhancing its oncogenic potential. In addition to genetic alterations, molecular and epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs, further influence β-catenin signaling and tumor progression. However, β-catenin activation alone is insufficient for hepatocarcinogenesis; additional genetic "hits" are required for tumor initiation. Mutations or alterations in genes such as Ras, c-Met, NRF2, and LKB1, when combined with β-catenin activation, significantly contribute to HCC development and progression. Understanding these cooperative mutations provides crucial insights into the disease and reveals potential therapeutic strategies. The complex interplay between genetic variations and the tumor microenvironment, coupled with novel therapeutic approaches targeting the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway, offers promise for improved treatment of HCC. Despite advances, translating preclinical findings into clinical practice remains a challenge. Future research should focus on elucidating how specific β-catenin mutations and additional genetic alterations contribute to HCC pathogenesis, leveraging genetically clengineered mouse models to explore distinct signaling impacts, and identifying downstream targets. Relevant clinical trials will be essential for advancing personalized therapies and enhancing patient outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of β-Catenin signaling in HCC, highlighting its role in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapeutic targeting, and identifies key research directions to improve understanding and clinical outcomes.

Systematic Characterization of DNA Methyltransferases Family in Tumor Progression and Antitumor Immunity

Objective: DNA methylation is an essential epigenetic marker governed by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), which can influence cancer onset and progression. However, few studies have provided an integrated analysis of the relevance of DNMT family genes to cell stemness, the tumor microenvironment (TME), and immunotherapy biomarkers across diverse cancers. Methods: This study investigated the impact of five DNMTs on transcriptional profiles, prognosis, and their association with Ki67 expression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition signatures, stemness scores, the TME, and immunological markers across 31 cancer types from recognized public databases. Results: The results indicated that DNMT1/DNMT3B/DNMT3A expression increased, whereas TRDMT1/DNMT3L expression decreased in most cancer types. DNMT family genes were identified as prognostic risk factors for numerous cancers, as well as being prominently associated with immune, stromal, and ESTIMATE scores, as well as with immune-infiltrating cell levels. Expression of the well-known immune checkpoints, PDCD1 and CILA4, was noticeably related to DNMT1/DNMT3A/DNMT3B expression. Finally, we validated the role of DNMT1 in MCF-7 and HepG2-C3A cell lines through its knockdown, whereafter a decrease in cell proliferation and migration ability in vitro was observed. Conclusion: Our study comprehensively expounded that DNMT family genes not only behave as promising prognostic factors but also have the potential to serve as therapeutic targets in cancer immunotherapy for various types of cancer.

Targeting one-carbon metabolism for cancer immunotherapy

BACKGROUND

One-carbon (1C) metabolism is a metabolic network that plays essential roles in biological reactions. In 1C metabolism, a series of nutrients are used to fuel metabolic pathways, including nucleotide metabolism, amino acid metabolism, cellular redox defence and epigenetic maintenance. At present, 1C metabolism is considered the hallmark of cancer. The 1C units obtained from the metabolic pathways increase the proliferation rate of cancer cells. In addition, anticancer drugs, such as methotrexate, which target 1C metabolism, have long been used in the clinic. In terms of immunotherapy, 1C metabolism has been used to explore biomarkers connected with immunotherapy response and immune-related adverse events in patients.

METHODS

We collected numerous literatures to explain the roles of one-carbon metabolism in cancer immunotherapy.

RESULTS

In this review, we focus on the important pathways in 1C metabolism and the function of 1C metabolism enzymes in cancer immunotherapy. Then, we summarise the inhibitors acting on 1C metabolism and their potential application on cancer immunotherapy. Finally, we provide a viewpoint and conclusion regarding the opportunities and challenges of targeting 1C metabolism for cancer immunotherapy in clinical practicability in the future.

CONCLUSION

Targeting one-carbon metabolism is useful for cancer immunotherapy.

The Role of Cytokines in Activation of Tumour-promoting Pathways and Emergence of Cancer Drug Resistance

Scientists are constantly researching and launching potential chemotherapeutic agents as an irreplaceable weapon to fight the battle against cancer. Despite remarkable advancement over the past several decades to wipe out cancer through early diagnosis, proper prevention, and timely treatment, cancer is not ready to give up and leave the battleground. It continuously tries to find some other way to give a tough fight for its survival, either by escaping from the effect of chemotherapeutic drugs or utilising its own chemical messengers like cytokines to ensure resistance. Cytokines play a significant role in cancer cell growth and progression, and the present article highlights their substantial contribution to mechanisms of resistance toward therapeutic drugs. Multiple clinical studies have even described the importance of specific cytokines released from cancer cells as well as stromal cells in conferring resistance. Herein, we discuss the different mechanism behind drug resistance and the crosstalk between tumor development and cytokines release and their contribution to showing resistance towards chemotherapeutics. As a part of this review, different approaches to cytokines profile have been identified and employed to successfully target new evolving mechanisms of resistance and their possible treatment options.

ETS2 overexpression ameliorates cartilage injury in osteoarthritis by the ETS2/miR-155/STAT1/DNMT1 feedback loop pathway

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common irreversible chronic joint dysfunction disease, which is pathologically characterized by disturbance of articular cartilage homeostasis leading to subsequent inflammatory response and cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. Increasing evidence has demonstrated the dysregulation of transcription factors play crucial roles in the occurrence and development of osteoarthritis (OA), but the potential functions and mechanism of most transcription factors in OA has not been completely illuminated. In this study, we identified that transcription factor V-ets erythroblastosis virus E26 oncogene homolog 2 (ETS2) was significantly down-regulated in OA cartilage and IL-1β-induced OA chondrocytes. Functional experiments in vitro demonstrated that the overexpressed ETS2 strikingly enhanced proliferation, outstandingly suppressed apoptosis, and dramatically reduced inflammation and ECM degradation in IL-1β-induced OA chondrocytes, whereas the knockdown of ETS2 led to the opposite effects. Further in vivo studies have shown that up-regulated ETS2 dramatically ameliorates cartilage injury in DMM-induced OA mice. Mechanical studies have disclosed that DNMT1-mediated downregulation of ETS2 dramatically promotes STAT1 by inhibiting miR-155 transcription, and increased STAT1 initiates a feedback loop that may enhance DNMT1-mediated hypermethylation of ETS2 to inhibit ETS2 expression, thus forming a DNMT1/ETS2/miR-155/STAT1 feedback loop that inhibits MAPK signaling pathways and aggravates OA cartilage injury. In all, our results revealed that overexpression of ETS2 markedly ameliorated OA cartilage injury through the ETS2/miR-155/STAT1/DNMT1 feedback loop, providing a new perspective on the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies for OA.

F-box protein 43 promoter methylation as a novel biomarker for hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a high prevalence and poor prognosis worldwide. Therefore, it is urgent to find effective and timely diagnostic markers. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of F-box protein 43 promoter methylation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for HCC.

METHOD

A total of 247 participants were included in this study, comprising individuals with 123 hepatitis B virus-associated HCC, 79 chronic hepatitis B, and 45 healthy controls. F-box protein 43 methylation and mRNA levels in PBMCs were detected by MethyLight and quantitative real-time PCR.

RESULT

F-box protein 43 promoter methylation levels were significantly lower in HCC PBMCs than the chronic hepatitis B (P < 0.001) and healthy control PBMCs (P < 0.001). Relative mRNA expression levels of F-box protein 43 in HCC PBMCs were significantly higher than those in chronic hepatitis B (P < 0.001) and healthy control PBMCs (P < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic analysis of F-box protein 43 promoter methylation levels yielded an area under curve (AUC) of 0.793 with 76.42% sensitivity and 68.35% specificity when differentiating HCC from chronic hepatitis. These values for the F-box protein 43 promoter methylation level were superior to those of the alpha-fetoprotein serum (AFP) level (AUC: 0.780, sensitivity: 47.97%, and specificity: 96.20%), with increments in values for the combination of F-box protein 43 promoter methylation AFP levels (AUC: 0.888, sensitivity: 76.42%, and specificity: 86.08%).

CONCLUSION

Hypomethylation of the F-box protein 43 promoter in PBMCs is a promising biochemical marker for HBV-associated HCC.

Loss of ATOH1 in Pit Cell Drives Stemness and Progression of Gastric Adenocarcinoma by Activating AKT/mTOR Signaling through GAS1

Gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) are self-renewing tumor cells that govern chemoresistance in gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC), whereas their regulatory mechanisms remain elusive. Here, the study aims to elucidate the role of ATOH1 in the maintenance of GCSCs. The preclinical model and GAC sample analysis indicate that ATOH1 deficiency is correlated with poor GAC prognosis and chemoresistance. ScRNA-seq reveals that ATOH1 is downregulated in the pit cells of GAC compared with those in paracarcinoma samples. Lineage tracing reveals that Atoh1 deletion strongly confers pit cell stemness. ATOH1 depletion significantly accelerates cancer stemness and chemoresistance in Tff1-CreERT2; Rosa26Tdtomato and Tff1-CreERT2; Apcfl/fl ; p53fl/fl (TcPP) mouse models and organoids. ATOH1 deficiency downregulates growth arrest-specific protein 1 (GAS1) by suppressing GAS1 promoter transcription. GAS1 forms a complex with RET, which inhibits Tyr1062 phosphorylation, and consequently activates the RET/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway by ATOH1 deficiency. Combining chemotherapy with drugs targeting AKT/mTOR signaling can overcome ATOH1 deficiency-induced chemoresistance. Moreover, it is confirmed that abnormal DNA hypermethylation induces ATOH1 deficiency. Taken together, the results demonstrate that ATOH1 loss promotes cancer stemness through the ATOH1/GAS1/RET/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in GAC, thus providing a potential therapeutic strategy for AKT/mTOR inhibitors in GAC patients with ATOH1 deficiency.

Regulation and signaling pathways in cancer stem cells: implications for targeted therapy for cancer

Cancer stem cells (CSCs), initially identified in leukemia in 1994, constitute a distinct subset of tumor cells characterized by surface markers such as CD133, CD44, and ALDH. Their behavior is regulated through a complex interplay of networks, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional, epigenetic, tumor microenvironment (TME), and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) factors. Numerous signaling pathways were found to be involved in the regulatory network of CSCs. The maintenance of CSC characteristics plays a pivotal role in driving CSC-associated tumor metastasis and conferring resistance to therapy. Consequently, CSCs have emerged as promising targets in cancer treatment. To date, researchers have developed several anticancer agents tailored to specifically target CSCs, with some of these treatment strategies currently undergoing preclinical or clinical trials. In this review, we outline the origin and biological characteristics of CSCs, explore the regulatory networks governing CSCs, discuss the signaling pathways implicated in these networks, and investigate the influential factors contributing to therapy resistance in CSCs. Finally, we offer insights into preclinical and clinical agents designed to eliminate CSCs.

Targeting drug-tolerant cells: A promising strategy for overcoming acquired drug resistance in cancer cells

Drug resistance remains the greatest challenge in improving outcomes for cancer patients who receive chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Surmounting evidence suggests that a subpopulation of cancer cells could escape intense selective drug treatment by entering a drug-tolerant state without genetic variations. These drug-tolerant cells (DTCs) are characterized with a slow proliferation rate and a reversible phenotype. They reside in the tumor region and may serve as a reservoir for resistant phenotypes. The survival of DTCs is regulated by epigenetic modifications, transcriptional regulation, mRNA translation remodeling, metabolic changes, antiapoptosis, interactions with the tumor microenvironment, and activation of signaling pathways. Thus, targeting the regulators of DTCs opens a new avenue for the treatment of therapy-resistant tumors. In this review, we first provide an overview of common characteristics of DTCs and the regulating networks in DTCs development. We also discuss the potential therapeutic opportunities to target DTCs. Last, we discuss the current challenges and prospects of the DTC-targeting approach to overcome acquired drug resistance. Reviewing the latest developments in DTC research could be essential in discovering of methods to eliminate DTCs, which may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for preventing drug resistance in the future.

Norcantharidin potentiates sorafenib antitumor activity in hepatocellular carcinoma rat model through inhibiting IL-6/STAT3 pathway

In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), sorafenib (Sora) efficacy is limited by primary and/or acquired resistance. Emerging evidence shows that the inflammatory factor interleukin 6 (IL-6) plays a role in Sora resistance. Norcantharidin (NCTD), a derivative of cantharidine, was identified as a potent IL-6 inhibitor. Thus, in this study, we evaluated NCTD ability to improve the Sora efficacy in HCC and its underlying molecular mechanisms. Male Sprague Dawely rats were administered NCTD (0.1 mg/kg/day; orally) or Sora (10 mg/kg day; orally) or combination for 6 weeks after HCC induction using thioacetamide (200 mg/kg; ip; 2 times/wk) for 16 weeks. Our results showed that NCTD greatly enhanced Sora activity against HCC and potentiated Sora-induced oxidative stress. NCTD enhanced Sora-induced tumor immunity reactivation by decreasing both fibrinogen-like protein 1 level and increasing both tumor necrosis factor-α gene expression along with CD8+ T cells number. Also, NCTD augmented Sora attenuation activity against TAA-induced angiogenesis and metastasis by decreasing VEGFA, HIF-1α, serum lactate dehydrogenase enzyme, and vimentin levels. The combined use of NCTD/Sora suppressed drug resistance and stemness by downregulating ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2, neurogenic locus notch homolog protein, spalt-like transcription factor 4, and CD133. NCTD boosted Sora antiproliferative and apoptotic activities by decreasing Ccnd1 and BCL2 expressions along with increasing BAX and caspase-3 expressions. To our knowledge, this study represents the first study providing evidence for the potential novel therapeutic use of NCTD/Sora combination for HCC. Moreover, no previous studies have reported the effect of NCTD on FGL1.

OCTN2 enhances PGC-1α-mediated fatty acid oxidation and OXPHOS to support stemness in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The Metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells plays a vital role in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Organic cation/carnitine transporter 2 (OCTN2), a sodium-ion dependent carnitine transporter and a sodium-ion independent tetraethylammonium (TEA) transporter, has been reported to contribute tumor malignancies and metabolic dysregulation in renal and esophageal carcinoma. However, the role of lipid metabolism deregulation mediated by OCTN2 in HCC cells has not been clarified.

METHODS

Bioinformatics analyses and immunohistochemistry assay were employed to identify OCTN2 expression in HCC tissues. The correlation between OCTN2 expression and prognosis was elucidated through K-M survival analysis. The expression and function of OCTN2 were examined via the assays of western blotting, sphere formation, cell proliferation, migration and invasion. The mechanism of OCTN2-mediated HCC malignancies was investigated through RNA-seq and metabolomic analyses. Furthermore, xenograft tumor models based on HCC cells with different OCTN2 expression levels were conducted to analyze the tumorigenic and targetable role of OCTN2 in vivo.

RESULTS

We found that gradually focused OCTN2 was significantly upregulated in HCC and tightly associated with poor prognosis. Additionally, OCTN2 upregulation promoted HCC cells proliferation and migration in vitro and augmented the growth and metastasis of HCC. Moreover, OCTN2 promoted the cancer stem-like properties of HCC by increasing fatty acid oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation. Mechanistically, PGC-1α signaling participated in the HCC cancer stem-like properties mediated by OCTN2 overexpression, which is confirmed by in vitro and in vivo analyses. Furthermore, OCTN2 upregulation may be transcriptionally activated by YY1 in HCC. Particularly, treatment with mildronate, an inhibitor of OCTN2, showed a therapeutic influence on HCC in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that OCTN2 plays a critical metabolic role in HCC cancer stemness maintenance and HCC progression, providing evidence for OCTN2 as a promising target for HCC therapy.

BEX1 supports the stemness of hepatoblastoma by facilitating Warburg effect in a PPARγ/PDK1 dependent manner

BACKGROUND

Hepatoblastoma (HB) is a highly aggressive paediatric malignancy that exhibits a high presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which related to tumour recurrence and chemotherapy resistance. Brain expressed X-linked protein 1 (BEX1) plays a pivotal role in ciliogenesis, axon regeneration and differentiation of neural stem cells. However, the role of BEX1 in metabolic and stemness programs in HB remains unclear.

METHODS

BEX1 expression in human and mouse HB was analyzed using gene expression profile data from NCBI GEO and immunohistochemical validation. Seahorse extracellular flux analyzer, ultra-high-performance liquid-chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS), flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, Western Blot, sphere formation assay, and diluted xenograft tumour formation assay were used to analyze metabolic and stemness features.

RESULTS

Our results indicated that overexpression of BEX1 significantly enhanced the Warburg effect in HB cells. Furthermore, glycolysis inhibition largely attenuated the effects of BEX1 on HB cell growth and self-renewal, suggesting that BEX1 promotes stemness maintenance of HB cells by regulating the Warburg effect. Mechanistically, BEX1 enhances Warburg effect through the downregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ). Furthermore, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase isozyme 1 (PDK1) is required for PPARγ-induced inhibition of Warburg effect in HB. In addition, BEX1 supports the stemness of HB by enhancing Warburg effect in a PPARγ/PDK1 dependent manner.

CONCLUSIONS

HB patients with high BEX1 and PDK1 expression had a poor prognosis. BEX1 promotes the stemness maintenance of HB cells via modulating the Warburg effect, which depends on PPARγ/PDK1 axis. Pioglitazone could be used to target BEX1-mediated stemness properties in HB by upregulating PPARγ.