Aluminium bioaccumulation in colon cancer, impinging on epithelial-mesenchymal-transition and cell death

PAX Family, Master Regulator in Cancer

PAX genes, known as master regulators, encode paired box (PAX) proteins that govern key processes in organ development and are widely expressed in normal tissues. Notably, PAX proteins also play a pivotal role in both promoting and suppressing tumorigenesis. They influence essential cellular functions such as survival, proliferation, fate determination, differentiation, invasion, metastasis, and the formation of oncogenic fusion proteins. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of these transcription factors. First, we provide a brief overview of their molecular structure, which underlies their classification into four subgroups. Then, we examine the expression patterns of each PAX gene across organ systems and explore their biological roles in the most relevant malignant neoplasms affecting human health. Additionally, we highlight their diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive significance in the context of cancer.

Mercury Bioaccumulation in Female Breast Cancer Is Associated to CXCR4 Expression

The growing incidence of breast cancer over time suggests that environmental factors might contribute to the underlying causes of the disease. Mercury, a toxic metal classified as a Substance of Very High Concern, accumulates in the body through contaminated food, air, water, and soil, raising concerns about its role in tumor biology. The main aim of this study was to identify the possible associations between in situ mercury bioaccumulation and the molecular features of breast cancer. To achieve this, a total of 26 breast cancer cases were analyzed using an integrated approach that combined DNA and RNA sequencing, histological analysis, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to assess mercury bioaccumulation. Mercury was detected in 72% of the cases. A significant positive correlation was found between mercury bioaccumulation and CXCR4 expression in breast cancer tissues. Bioinformatic analysis further revealed that CXCR4 expression was significantly higher in metastatic tissues compared to primary tumors. These findings suggest that mercury accumulation may influence tumor biology through the CXCR4-CXCL12 signaling pathway, highlighting a potential mechanism by which mercury contributes to breast cancer progression.

Formation of metal-microplastic complexes in lung adenocarcinoma is associated with increased risk of cancer progression

Metal-microplastic complexes (m-MPs) represent an emerging environmental health concern. However their presence and pathological implications in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remain underexplored. This study employed a multimodal approach to characterize m-MPs in 15 LUAD patients, integrating several techniques, including laser direct infrared imaging (LDIR), pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GCMS), inductively coupled plasma analysis (ICP), and Sequencing at the transcriptome level. Totally, 34 distinct microplastic types were identified in lung tissues, with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) predominant in tumor tissues. Notably, the levels of aluminum (Al) and calcium (Ca) exhibited strong positive correlations with microplastics (MPs) content in tumors (p < 0.05). In this study, a novel approach was applied to assess the influences of m-MPs on tumor, through which we found that m-MPs accumulation could activate pro-tumorigenic pathways, leading to reduced overall survival (HR=1.59, p = 0.002) and disease-specific survival (HR=1.64, p = 0.01). Moreover, SYNE1 and RORA genes were identified as diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers for the assessment of m-MPs exposure in LUAD. Our findings revealed that m-MPs have the capacity for promoting metal ion deposition and oncogenic signaling, thereby involved in LUAD progression. This work also provides evidence using human tissue to demonstrate the association of m-MPs with lung cancer outcomes and advocate the development and application of therapeutic strategies targeting m-MPs.

Cocaine-Induced Cardiac Alterations: Histological and Immunohistochemical Post-Mortem Analysis

Background: Cocaine abuse represents a serious health issue. The cardiovascular system is one of the main sites on which cocaine elicits its toxicity, as indicated by deadly events mainly related to myocardial infarction. The main aim of this study was to characterize the histological and immunohistochemical alterations related to cocaine abuse in cardiac tissue. Methods: Cardiac tissue samples derived from cocaine-related (n = 30) and not-cocaine-related deaths (n = 30). Histomorphology evaluations and immunohistochemistry for inflammatory biomarkers (CD45 and CD3) have been performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) cardiac tissue samples. Results: A higher frequency of cardiac alterations, such as wavy fibers, interstitial edema, fibrosis and hemorrhagic extravasation, were found in the group of cocaine users compared to the control group. Moreover, immunohistochemical analysis showed higher levels of inflammatory cells infiltrate within the cocaine-related deaths group. Conclusions: These data could shed new light on the complex relationship between cocaine use and cardiac alterations. Specifically, our data support the evidence that cocaine abuse is related to cardiac inflammation. Therefore, the generation of an inflammatory state could promote functional and structural cardiac alterations and lead ultimately to myocardial infarction. This would explain the high frequency of acute myocardial infarction in cocaine users.

Ultrastructural studies distinguish skin diversities among Galápagos iguanas

Iguanas exhibit diverse colors and behaviors reflecting evolutionarily adaptation to various habitats; in particular, the Galápagos iguanas represent unique color morphologies with distinct ecological niches. While external coloration in iguanas has ecological implications, comprehensive studies on the histological and ultrastructural aspects of their skin can provide insight into their adaptation to extreme environments, such as high UV exposure. Starting from these considerations the present study investigates the histological, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical features to comprehensively characterize the skin in adults of three species of Galápagos iguanas (A. cristatus, C. subcristatus and C. marthae). Morphological analysis revealed significant differences among the species, with the black-colored skin of A. cristatus showing a melanin-rich but vessel-poor dermis, while C. subcristatus and C. marthae displayed varying distributions of melanosomes and melanocytes. Notably, the absence of iridophores was consistent across all samples due to the absence of birefringent material under the optical microscope. Morphometric evaluations highlighted interspecific differences in the stratum corneum thickness, particularly between black- and non-black-colored (irrespectively if yellowish or pink) skin. The ultrastructural investigation confirmed the absence of iridophores in all analyzed samples. The cytokeratin expression assessed by immunohistochemistry showed stratified epithelium in the epidermis of C. marthae non-black-colored (pink) skin. The presence of a thickened stratum corneum and the stratification of the epidermis in non-pigmented skin could help the pink iguana to cope with the extreme conditions of the Wolf volcano, especially in relation to UV exposure. These skin characteristics may reduce the penetration power of UV rays into the superficial loose dermis, thereby attenuating potential UV-related damage such as DNA breaks and ROS generation. These findings offer insights into the adaptive strategies of these iguanas.

Unveiling the molecular profile of a prostate carcinoma: implications for personalized medicine

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer is the most common diagnosed tumor and the fifth cancer related death among men in Europe. Although several genetic alterations such as ERG-TMPRSS2 fusion, MYC amplification, PTEN deletion and mutations in p53 and BRCA2 genes play a key role in the pathogenesis of prostate cancer, specific gene alteration signature that could distinguish indolent from aggressive prostate cancer or may aid in patient stratification for prognosis and/or clinical management of patients with prostate cancer is still missing. Therefore, here, by a multi-omics approach we describe a prostate cancer carrying the fusion of TMPRSS2 with ERG gene and deletion of 16q chromosome arm.

RESULTS

We have observed deletion of KDM6A gene, which may represent an additional genomic alteration to be considered for patient stratification. The cancer hallmarks gene signatures highlight intriguing molecular aspects that characterize the biology of this tumor by both a high hypoxia and immune infiltration scores. Moreover, our analysis showed a slight increase in the Tumoral Mutational Burden, as well as an over-expression of the immune checkpoints. The omics profiling integrating hypoxia, ROS and the anti-cancer immune response, optimizes therapeutic strategies and advances personalized care for prostate cancer patients.

CONCLUSION

The here data reported can lay the foundation for predicting a poor prognosis for the studied prostate cancer, as well as the possibility of targeted therapies based on the modulation of hypoxia, ROS, and the anti-cancer immune response.

Aluminum Concentration Is Associated with Tumor Mutational Burden and the Expression of Immune Response Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancers

Environmental pollution poses a significant risk to public health, as demonstrated by the bioaccumulation of aluminum (Al) in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to investigate the potential mutagenic effect of Al bioaccumulation in CRC samples, linking it to the alteration of key mediators of cancer progression, including immune response biomarkers. Aluminum levels in 20 CRC biopsy samples were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results indicated that Al bioaccumulation occurred in 100% of the cases. A correlation between Al levels and tumor mutation burden was observed. Furthermore, RNA sequencing revealed a significant association between Al concentration and the expression of the immune checkpoint molecule CTLA-4. Although correlations with PD-1 and PD-L1 were not statistically significant, a trend was observed. Additionally, a correlation between Al levels and both the presence of myeloid cells and IFNγ expression was detected, linking Al exposure to inflammatory responses within the tumor microenvironment. These findings suggested that Al can play a role in CRC progression by promoting both genetic mutations and immune evasion. Given the ubiquitous presence of Al in industrial and consumer products, dietary sources, and environmental pollutants, these results underscored the need for stricter regulatory measures to control Al exposure.

Impact of the environmental pollution on cardiovascular diseases: From epidemiological to molecular evidence

Environmental pollution poses a significant threat to human health, particularly concerning its impact on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review synthesizes epidemiological and molecular evidence to elucidate the intricate relationship between environmental pollutants and CVDs. Epidemiological studies highlight the association between exposure to air, water, and soil pollutants and increased CVD risk, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, and stroke. Furthermore, molecular investigations unravel the underlying mechanisms linking pollutant exposure to CVD pathogenesis, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and autonomic imbalance. Understanding these molecular pathways is crucial for developing targeted interventions and policy strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of environmental pollution on cardiovascular health. By integrating epidemiological and molecular evidence, this review provides insights into the complex interplay between environmental factors and CVDs, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive preventive measures and environmental policies to safeguard public health.

Prognostic Value of PlGF Upregulation in Prostate Cancer

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in men worldwide, with metastasis, particularly to bone, being the primary cause of mortality. Currently, prognostic markers like PSA levels and Gleason classification are limited in predicting metastasis, emphasizing the need for novel clinical biomarkers. New molecules predicting tumor progression have been identified over time. Some, such as the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) PD-1/PD-L1, have become valid markers as theranostic tools essential for prognosis and drug target therapy. However, despite the success of ICIs as an anti-cancer therapy for solid tumors, their efficacy in treating bone metastases has mainly proven ineffective, suggesting intrinsic resistance to this therapy in the bone microenvironment. This study explores the potential of immunological intratumoral biomarkers, focusing on placental growth factor (PlGF), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 1 (VEGFR1), and Programmed Cell Death Protein 1 (PD-1), in predicting bone metastasis formation.

METHODS

we analyzed PCa samples from patients with and without metastasis by immunohistochemical analysis.

RESULTS

Results revealed that PlGF expression is significantly higher in primary tumors of patients that developed metastasis within five years from the histological diagnosis. Additionally, PlGF expression correlates with increased VEGFR1 and PD-1 levels, as well as the presence of intratumoral M2 macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that PlGF contributes to an immunosuppressive environment, thus favoring tumor progression and metastatic process. Results here highlight the potential of integrating these molecular markers with existing prognostic tools to enhance the accuracy of metastasis prediction in PCa. By identifying patients at risk for metastasis, clinicians can tailor treatment strategies more effectively, potentially improving survival outcomes and quality of life. This study underscores the importance of further research into the role of intratumoral biomarkers in PCa management.

Molecular profiling of a bladder cancer with very high tumour mutational burden

The increasing incidence of urothelial bladder cancer is a notable global concern, as evidenced by the epidemiological data in terms of frequency, distribution, as well as mortality rates. Although numerous molecular alterations have been linked to the occurrence and progression of bladder cancer, currently there is a limited knowledge on the molecular signature able of accurately predicting clinical outcomes. In this report, we present a case of a pT3b high-grade infiltrating urothelial carcinoma with areas of squamous differentiation characterized by very high tumor mutational burden (TMB), with up-regulations of immune checkpoints. The high TMB, along with elevated expressions of PD-L1, PD-L2, and PD1, underscores the rationale for developing a personalized immunotherapy focused on the use of immune-checkpoint inhibitors. Additionally, molecular analysis revealed somatic mutations in several other cancer-related genes, including TP53, TP63 and NOTCH3. Mutations of TP53 and TP63 genes provide mechanistic insights on the molecular mechanisms underlying disease development and progression. Notably, the above-mentioned mutations and the elevated hypoxia score make the targeting of p53 and/or hypoxia related pathways a plausible personalized medicine option for this bladder cancer, particularly in combination with immunotherapy. Our data suggest a requirement for molecular profiling in bladder cancer to possibly select appropriate immune-checkpoint therapy.

Long-term cadmium exposure induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer cells by activating CYP1B1-mediated glutamine metabolic reprogramming in BT474 cells and MMTV-Erbb2 mice

Cadmium (Cd) exposure is known to enhance breast cancer (BC) progression. Cd promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in BC cells, facilitating BC cell aggressiveness and invasion, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are unclear. Hence, transgenic MMTV-Erbb2 mice (6 weeks) were orally administered Cd (3.6 mg/L, approximately equal to 19.64 μΜ) for 23 weeks, and BC cells (BT474 cells) were exposed to Cd (0, 0.1, 1 or 10 μΜ) for 72 h to investigate the effect of Cd exposure on EMT in BC cells. Chronic Cd exposure dramatically expedited tumor metastasis to multiple organs; decreased E-cadherin density; and increased Vimentin, N-cadherin, ZEB1, and Twist density in the tumor tissues of MMTV-Erbb2 mice. Notably, transcriptomic analysis of BC tumors revealed cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1) as a key factor that regulates EMT progression in Cd-treated MMTV-Erbb2 mice. Moreover, Cd increased CYP1B1 expression in MMTV-Erbb2 mouse BC tumors and in BT474 cells, and CYP1B1 inhibition decreased Cd-induced BC cell malignancy and EMT in BT474 cells. Importantly, the promotion of EMT by CYP1B1 in Cd-treated BC cells was presumably controlled by glutamine metabolism. This study offers novel perspectives into the effect of environmental Cd exposure on driving BC progression and metastasis, and this study provides important guidance for comprehensively assessing the ecological and health risks of Cd.

pH-Sensitive Nanoparticles of Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate in Enhanced Colorectal Cancer Therapy

AIM

Encapsulating epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) in pH-sensitive polymeric nanoparticles for targeted delivery of drugs could revolutionize colorectal cancer treatment.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Nanoparticles were synthesized to release drugs at colon pH. Dynamic light scattering measured their average diameter and ζ-potential, while differential scanning calorimetry and x-ray diffraction assessed EGCG encapsulation.

RESULTS

The nanoparticles showed stability and bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract, efficiently encapsulating and releasing over 93% of EGCG at pH 7.2. They enhanced cytotoxicity against HT-29 cells and demonstrated antibacterial properties, increasing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest.

CONCLUSION

The study underscores the potential of nanoparticles in enhancing EGCG delivery for colorectal cancer therapy, aiming to minimize side effects and improve therapeutic outcomes.