EMT Transition States during Tumor Progression and Metastasis

Mutually exclusive teams-like patterns of gene regulation characterize phenotypic heterogeneity along the noradrenergic-mesenchymal axis in neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma is the most frequent extracranial pediatric tumor and leads to 15% of all cancer-related deaths in children. Tumor relapse and therapy resistance in neuroblastoma are driven by phenotypic plasticity and heterogeneity between noradrenergic (NOR) and mesenchymal (MES) cell states. Despite the importance of this phenotypic plasticity, the dynamics and molecular patterns associated with these bidirectional cell-state transitions remain relatively poorly understood. Here, we analyze multiple RNA-seq datasets at both bulk and single-cell resolution, to understand the association between NOR- and MES-specific factors. We observed that NOR-specific and MES-specific expression patterns are largely mutually exclusive, exhibiting a "teams-like" behavior among the genes involved, reminiscent of our earlier observations in lung cancer and melanoma. This antagonism between NOR and MES phenotypes was also associated with metabolic reprogramming and with immunotherapy targets PD-L1 and GD2 as well as with experimental perturbations driving the NOR-MES and/or MES-NOR transition. Further, these "teams-like" patterns were seen only among the NOR- and MES-specific genes, but not in housekeeping genes, possibly highlighting a hallmark of network topology enabling cancer cell plasticity.

eIf3a mediates malignant biological behaviors in colorectal cancer through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most common gastrointestinal malignancies worldwide. eIF3a is highly expressed in a variety of cancer types, yet its role in CRC remains unclear. We introduced ectopic eIF3a expression in CRC cells to investigate its relevance to various malignant behaviors. Further, we silenced eIF3a to explore its effect on tumor growth in a nude mouse tumor xenograft model. Finally, the molecular mechanisms through which eIF3a regulates malignancy in CRC cells were explored through bioinformatics analysis combined with the use of a specific PI3K inhibitor (LY294002). eIF3a was highly expressed in the peripheral blood and cancer tissue of CRC patients. Malignancy and tumor growth were significantly inhibited by silencing eIF3a, while overexpression promoted malignant behaviors, with a positive correlation between PI3K/AKT activation and eIF3a expression. Taken together, eIF3a plays an oncogenic role in CRC by regulating PI3K/AKT signaling and is a potential biomarker for CRC diagnosis and prognostic monitoring.

TET1 inhibits the migration and invasion of cervical cancer cells by regulating autophagy

Methylation modifications play pertinent roles in regulating gene expression and various biological processes. The silencing of the demethylase enzyme TET1 can affect the expressions of key oncogenes or tumour suppressor genes, thus contributing to tumour formation. Nonetheless, how TET1 affects the progression of cervical cancer is yet to be elucidated. In this study, we found that the expression of TET1 was significantly downregulated in cervical cancer tissues. Functionally, TET1 knockdown in cervical cancer cells can promote cell proliferation, migration, invasion, cervical xenograft tumour formation and EMT. On the contrary, its overexpression can reverse the aforementioned processes. Moreover, the autophagy level of cervical cancer cells can be enhanced after TET1 knockdown. Mechanistically, methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP)-sequencing and MeDIP quantitative real-time PCR revealed that TET1 mediates the methylation of autophagy promoter regions. These findings suggest that TET1 affects the autophagy of cervical cancer cells by altering the methylation levels of NKRF or HIST1H2AK, but the specific mechanism needs to be investigated further.

The F-actin bundler SWAP-70 promotes tumor metastasis

Dynamic rearrangements of the F-actin cytoskeleton are a hallmark of tumor metastasis. Thus, proteins that govern F-actin rearrangements are of major interest for understanding metastasis and potential therapies. We hypothesized that the unique F-actin binding and bundling protein SWAP-70 contributes importantly to metastasis. Orthotopic, ectopic, and short-term tail vein injection mouse breast and lung cancer models revealed a strong positive dependence of lung and bone metastasis on SWAP-70. Breast cancer cell growth, migration, adhesion, and invasion assays revealed SWAP-70's key role in these metastasis-related cell features and the requirement for SWAP-70 to bind F-actin. Biophysical experiments showed that tumor cell stiffness and deformability are negatively modulated by SWAP-70. Together, we present a hitherto undescribed, unique F-actin modulator as an important contributor to tumor metastasis.

Formosanin C inhibits pulmonary metastasis by targeting stearyl CoA desaturase-1

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin (DDP) as the first-line drug has been used in cancer therapy. However, side effects and drug resistance are the challenges of DDP. Disordered lipid metabolism is related to DDP resistance.

STUDY DESIGN

In this study, formosanin C (FC) as the main compound of Rhizoma Paridis saponins (RPS) inhibits pulmonary metastasis by targeting stearyl CoA desaturase-1.

METHODS AND RESULTS

RPS prolonged the survival period of mice, reduced pulmonary metastases and alleviated colon toxicity caused by DDP. FC as the main compound of RPS enhanced the anti-tumor and anti-metastatic effects of DDP. FC decreased the mRNA level of SCD1 and the content of lipid droplets (LDs) in lung cancer cells. Molecular dynamics and isothermal titration calorimetry verified the binding stability and spontaneously between FC and SCD1. SiSCD1 reduced the content of LDs in cell lines and increased mitochondria (mtROS), which was consistent with the results of FC treatment. The combination group decreased DNA repair associated protein as well as DDP resistance markers such as ERCC1 and 53bp1, and increased DNA damage marker like γH2AX, which indirectly confirmed the occurrence of mtROS. In addition, FC combination with DDP also affected epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related protein like VIM and CDH1 in vivo experiments, and thereby inhibited pulmonary metastasis.

CONCLUSION

Our research indicated that the FC as the main compound of RPS targeted the CY2 domain of SCD1, inhibited lipid metabolism in mice, and thereby suppressed cancer metastases. This provided support for use of FC to treat cancer based on lipid metabolism pathway.

DDX56 promotes EMT and cancer stemness via MELK-FOXM1 axis in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major global cause of death, with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cell (CSC)-like properties contributing to its metastasis. DEAD box helicase 56 (DDX56) is involved in carcinogenesis, but its role in EMT induction and stem phenotype maintenance is unclear. This study assessed the impact of DDX56 absence on HCC cell stemness and EMT. DDX56 was found to be overexpressed in HCC tissues, correlating with disease stage and prognosis. In vitro, DDX56 stimulated tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT, and stemness. It also enhanced maternal embryonic leucine-zipper kinase (MELK)-mediated forkhead box protein M1 (FOXM1) expression, regulating cancer stemness and malignant traits. In vivo, DDX56 knockdown in tumor-bearing mice reduced tumorigenicity and lung metastasis by modulating the MELK-FOXM1 signaling pathway. Collectively, DDX56 initiates stem cell-like traits in HCC and promotes EMT via MELK-FOXM1 activation, shedding light on HCC pathogenesis and suggesting a potential anti-cancer therapeutic target.

Study on the mechanism of S100A4-mediated cancer oncogenesis in uveal melanoma cells through the integration of bioinformatics and in vitro experiments

BACKGROUND

The elevated metastasis rate of uveal melanoma (UM) is intricately correlated with patient prognosis, significantly affecting the quality of life. S100 calcium-binding protein A4 (S100A4) has tumorigenic properties; therefore, the present study investigated the impact of S100A4 on UM cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion using bioinformatics and in vitro experiments.

METHODS

Bioinformatic analysis was used to screen S100A4 as a hub gene and predict its possible mechanism in UM cells, and the S100A4 silencing cell line was constructed. The impact of S100A4 silencing on the proliferative ability of UM cells was detected using the Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays. Annexin V-FITC/PI double fluorescence and Hoechst 33342 staining were used to observe the effects of apoptosis on UM cells. The effect of S100A4 silencing on the migratory and invasive capabilities of UM cells was assessed using wound healing and Transwell assays. Western blotting was used to detect the expression of related proteins.

RESULTS

The present study found that S100A4 is a biomarker of UM, and its high expression is related to poor prognosis. After constructing the S100A4 silencing cell line, cell viability, clone number, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein, and survivin expression were decreased in UM cells. The cell apoptosis rate and relative fluorescence intensity increased, accompanied by increased levels of Bax and caspase-3 and decreased levels of Bcl-2. Additionally, a decrease in the cell migration index and relative invasion rate was observed with increased E-cadherin expression and decreased N-cadherin and vimentin protein expression.

CONCLUSION

S100A4 silencing can inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion and synchronously induces apoptosis in UM cells.

Prognostic significance of TNFRSF4 expression and development of a pathomics model to predict expression in hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

TNFRSF4 plays a significant role in cancer progression, especially in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aims to investigate the prognostic value of TNFRSF4 expression in patients with HCC and to develop a predictive pathomics model for its expression.

Methods

A cohort of patients with HCC retrieved from the TCGA database was analyzed using RNA-seq analysis to determine TNFRSF4 expression and its impact on overall survival (OS). Additionally, hematoxylin-eosin staining analysis was performed to construct a pathomics model for predicting TNFRSF4 expression. Then, pathway enrichment analysis was conducted, immune checkpoint markers were investigated, and immune cell infiltration was examined to explore the underlying biological mechanism of the pathomics score.

Results

TNFRSF4 expression was significantly higher in tumor tissues than in normal tissues. TNFRSF4 expression also exhibited significant correlations with various clinical variables, including pathologic stage III/IV and R1/R2/RX residual tumor. Furthermore, elevated TNFRSF4 expression was associated with unfavorable OS. Interestingly, in the subgroup analysis, elevated TNFRSF4 expression was identified as a significant risk factor for OS in male patients. The newly developed pathomics model successfully predicted TNFRSF4 expression with good performance and revealed a significant association between high pathomics scores and worse OS. In male patients, high pathomics scores were also associated with a higher risk of mortality. Moreover, pathomics scores were also involved in specific hallmarks, immune-related characteristics, and apoptosis-related genes in HCC, such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition, Tregs, and BAX expression.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that TNFRSF4 expression and the newly devised pathomics scores hold potential as prognostic markers for OS in patients with HCC. Additionally, gender influenced the association between these markers and patient outcomes.

Biological role and expression of translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) in tumorigenesis and development and its potential for targeted tumor therapy

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP), also known as histamine-releasing factor (HRF) or fortilin, is a highly conserved protein found in various species. To date, multiple studies have demonstrated the crucial role of TCTP in a wide range of cellular pathophysiological processes, including cell proliferation and survival, cell cycle regulation, cell death, as well as cell migration and movement, all of which are major pathogenic mechanisms of tumorigenesis and development. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the functional role of TCTP in tumor initiation and progression, with a particular focus on cell proliferation, cell death, and cell migration. It will highlight the expression and pathological implications of TCTP in various tumor types, summarizing the current prevailing therapeutic strategies that target TCTP.

N6-methyladenosine modification and post-translational modification of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Traditionally, colorectal cancer has been recognized as a disease caused by genetic mutations. However, recent studies have revealed the significant role of epigenetic alterations in the progression of colorectal cancer. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition, a critical step in cancer cell metastasis, has been found to be closely associated with the tumor microenvironment and immune factors, thereby playing a crucial role in many kinds of biological behaviors of cancers. In this review, we explored the impact of N6-methyladenosine and post-translational modifications (like methylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, glycosylation, etc.) on the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer and the epigenetic regulation for the transcription factors and pathways correlated to epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, we emphasized that the complex regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition by epigenetics can provide new strategies for overcoming drug resistance and improving treatment outcomes. This review aims to provide important scientific evidence for the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer based on epigenetic modifications.

Alpha-6 integrin deletion delays the formation of Brca1/p53-deficient basal-like breast tumors by restricting luminal progenitor cell expansion

BACKGROUND

The aberrant amplification of mammary luminal progenitors is at the origin of basal-like breast cancers associated with BRCA1 mutations. Integrins mediate cell-matrix adhesion and transmit mechanical and chemical signals that drive epithelial stem cell functions and regulate tumor progression, metastatic reactivation, and resistance to targeted therapies. Consistently, we have recently shown that laminin-binding integrins are essential for the expansion and differentiation of mammary luminal progenitors in physiological conditions. As over-expression of the laminin-binding α6 integrin (Itgα6) is associated with poor prognosis and reduced survival in breast cancer, we here investigate the role of Itgα6 in mammary tumorigenesis.

METHODS

We used Blg-Cre; Brca1F/F; Trp53F/F mice, a model that phenocopies human basal-like breast cancer with BRCA1 mutations. We generated mutant mice proficient or deficient in Itgα6 expression and followed tumor formation. Mammary tumors and pretumoral tissues were characterized by immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, RT-qPCR, Western blotting and organoid cultures. Clonogenicity of luminal progenitors from preneoplastic glands was studied in 3D Matrigel cultures.

RESULTS

We show that Itga6 deletion favors activation of p16 cell cycle inhibitor in the preneoplastic tissue. Subsequently, the amplification of luminal progenitors, the cell of origin of Brca1-deficient tumors, is restrained in Itgα6-deficient gland. In addition, the partial EMT program operating in Brca1/p53-deficient epithelium is attenuated in the absence of Itgα6. As a consequence of these events, mammary tumor formation is delayed in Itgα6-deficient mice. After tumor formation, the lack of Itgα6 does not affect tumor growth but rather alters their differentiation, resulting in reduced expression of basal cell markers.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that Itgα6 has a pro-tumorigenic role in Blg-Cre; Brca1F/F; Trp53F/F mice developing basal-like mammary tumors. In particular, we reveal that Itgα6 is required for the luminal progenitor expansion and the aberrant partial EMT program that precedes the formation of BRCA1 deficient tumors.

LncRNA PVT1 facilitates the growth and metastasis of colorectal cancer by sponging with miR-3619-5p to regulate TRIM29 expression

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is involved in many malignant tumors. This study aimed to clarify the role of the lncRNA plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) in CRC growth and metastasis.

METHODS

Differentially expressed lncRNAs in CRC were analyzed using the Cancer Genome Atlas. Gene expression profiling interactive analysis and a comprehensive resource for lncRNAs from cancer arrays databases were used to analyze lncRNA PVT1 expression and CRC prognosis, respectively. Cell counting kit-8, wound healing, colony formation, Transwell, and immunofluorescence assays were used to evaluate CRC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), respectively. Tumor growth and metastasis models were used to explore the PVT1 effect on the growth and metastasis of CRC in vivo.

RESULTS

PVT1 was highly expressed in CRC, associated with a poor prognosis of CRC, and showed good diagnostic value. Transfection of sh-PVT1 or pcDNA3.1-PVT1 reduced or increased the proliferation, wound healing rate, colony formation, invasion, and EMT of CRC cells. PVT1 and miR-3619-5p were co-expressed in CRC cytoplasm, and PVT1 acted as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by sponging miR-3619-5p to up-regulate tripartite motif containing 29 (TRIM29) expression. MiR-3619-5p overexpression and TRIM29 knockdown reduced proliferation, wound healing rate, invasion, and EMT of CRC cells. However, simultaneous PVT1 and miR-3619-5p overexpression or knockdown of miR-3619-5p and TRIM29 knockdown rescued the malignant phenotype of CRC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

We first clarified the ceRNA mechanism of PVT1 in CRC, which induced growth and metastasis by sponging with miR-3619-5p to regulate TRIM29.

Wnt/β-catenin signalling, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and crosslink signalling in colorectal cancer cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC), with its significant incidence and metastatic rates, profoundly affects human health. A common oncogenic event in CRC is the aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway, which drives both the initiation and progression of the disease. Persistent Wnt/β-catenin signalling facilitates the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which accelerates CRC invasion and metastasis. This review provides a summary of recent molecular studies on the role of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling axis in regulating EMT in CRC cells, which triggers metastatic pathogenesis. We present a comprehensive examination of the EMT process and its transcriptional controllers, with an emphasis on the crucial functions of β-catenin, EMT transcription factors (EMT-TFs). We also review recent evidences showing that hyperactive Wnt/β-catenin signalling triggers EMT and metastatic phenotypes in CRC via "Destruction complex" of β-catenin mechanisms. Potential therapeutic and challenges approache to suppress EMT and prevent CRC cells metastasis by targeting Wnt/β-catenin signalling are also discussed. These include direct β-catenin inhibitors and novel targets of the Wnt pathway, and finally highlight novel potential combinational treatment options based on the inhibition of the Wnt pathway.

Cervical cancer cell-derived Tie1 expression via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway promotes tumor progression

BACKGROUND

Tie1 orphan receptor has become a focus of research, Tie1 can form a polymer with Tie2, regulate the Ang/Tie2 pathway and play a vital role in pathological angiogenesis and tumor progression, the function of Tie1 has remained uncertain in the progression of cervical cancer (CC). Here, we investigated the functional influences of Tie1 overexpress on CC in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

We used Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis to detect the relative expression of Tie1 in CC, and we analyzed its connection with the overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS)of CC patients. To prove the role of Tie1 in cell proliferation and metastatic, Tie1 expression in CC cell lines was upregulated by lentivirus.

RESULTS

The high expression of Tie1 in tumor cells of cervical cancer tissues is significantly correlated with FIGO stage, differentiated tumors, tumors with diameters, deep stromal invasion. We found that cell progression was promoted in Tie1-overexpress CC cell lines in vivo and in vitro. Tie1 potentially exerts a commanding influence on the expression of markers associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research indicates that Tie1 is highly connected to CC progression as it may play a role in the EMT process through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Scutellarin Alleviates Ovalbumin-Induced Airway Remodeling in Mice and TGF-β-Induced Pro-fibrotic Phenotype in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells via MAPK and Smad2/3 Signaling Pathways

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), inflammation, and remodeling. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an essential player in these alterations. Scutellarin is isolated from Erigeron breviscapus. Its vascular relaxative, myocardial protective, and anti-inflammatory effects have been well established. This study was designed to detect the biological roles of scutellarin in asthma and its related mechanisms. The asthma-like conditions were induced by ovalbumin challenges. The airway resistance and dynamic compliance were recorded as the results of AHR. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected and processed for differential cell counting. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, periodic acid-Schiff staining, and Masson staining were conducted to examine histopathological changes. The levels of asthma-related cytokines were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. For in vitro analysis, the 16HBE cells were stimulated with 10 ng/mL transforming growth beta-1 (TGF-β1). Cell migration was estimated by Transwell assays and wound healing assays. E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were analyzed by western blotting, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence staining, and immunohistochemistry staining. The underlying mechanisms of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Smad pathways were investigated by western blotting. In an ovalbumin-induced asthmatic mouse model, scutellarin suppressed inflammation and inflammatory cell infiltration into the lungs and attenuated AHR and airway remodeling. Additionally, scutellarin inhibited airway EMT (upregulated E-cadherin level and downregulated N-cadherin and α-SMA) in ovalbumin-challenged asthmatic mice. For in vitro analysis, scutellarin prevented the TGF-β1-induced migration and EMT in 16HBE cells. Mechanistically, scutellarin inhibits the phosphorylation of Smad2, Smad3, ERK, JNK, and p38 in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, scutellarin can inactivate the Smad/MAPK pathways to suppress the TGF-β1-stimulated epithelial fibrosis and EMT and relieve airway inflammation and remodeling in asthma. This study provides a potential therapeutic strategy for asthma.

Pterostilbene suppresses gastric cancer proliferation and metastasis by inhibiting oncogenic JAK2/STAT3 signaling: In vitro and in vivo therapeutic intervention

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer (GC) represents a significant health burden with dire prognostic implications upon metastasis and recurrence. Pterostilbene (PTE) has been proven to have a strong ability to inhibit proliferation and metastasis in other cancers, while whether PTE exhibits anti-GC activity and its potential mechanism remain unclear.

PURPOSE

To explore the efficacy and potential mechanism of PTE in treating GC.

METHODS

We employed a comprehensive set of assays, including CCK-8, EdU staining, colony formation, flow cytometry, cell migration, and invasion assays, to detect the effect of PTE on the biological function of GC cells in vitro. The xenograft tumor model was established to evaluate the in vivo anti-GC activity of PTE. Network pharmacology was employed to predict PTE's potential targets and pathways within GC. Subsequently, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry were utilized to analyze protein levels related to the cell cycle, EMT, and the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.

RESULTS

Our study demonstrated strong inhibitory effects of PTE on GC cells both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, PTE significantly induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 and S phases and suppressed proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells. In vivo, PTE led to a dose-dependent reduction in tumor volume and weight. Importantly, PTE exhibited notable safety, leaving mouse weight, liver function, and kidney function unaffected. The involvement of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway in PTE's anti-GC effect was predicted utilizing network pharmacology. PTE suppressed JAK2 kinase activity by binding to the JH1 kinase structural domain and inhibited the downstream STAT3 signaling pathway. Western blotting confirmed PTE's inhibition of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway and EMT-associated protein levels. The anti-GC effect was partially reversed upon STAT3 activation, validating the pivotal role of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in PTE's activity.

CONCLUSION

Our investigation validates the potent inhibitory effects of PTE on the proliferation and metastasis of GC cells. Importantly, we present novel evidence implicating the JAK2/STAT3 pathway as the key mechanism through which PTE exerts its anti-GC activity. These findings not only establish the basis for considering PTE as a promising lead compound for GC therapeutics but also contribute significantly to our comprehension of the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying its exceptional anti-cancer properties.

FOXS1 acts as an oncogene and induces EMT through FAK/PI3K/AKT pathway by upregulating HILPDA in prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a widespread global health concern characterized by elevated rates of occurrence, and there is a need for novel therapeutic targets to enhance patient outcomes. FOXS1 is closely linked to different cancers, but its function in PCa is still unknown. The expression of FOXS1, its prognostic role, clinical significance in PCa, and the potential mechanism by which FOXS1 affects PCa progression were investigated through bioinformatics analysis utilizing public data. The levels of FOXS1 and HILPDA were evaluated in clinical PCa samples using various methods, such as western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and qRT-PCR. To examine the function and molecular mechanisms of FOXS1 in PCa, a combination of experimental techniques including CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, wound-healing assay, Transwell assay, and Co-IP assay were employed. The FOXS1 expression levels were significantly raised in PCa, correlating strongly with tumor aggressiveness and an unfavorable prognosis. Regulating FOXS1 expression, whether upregulating or downregulating it, correspondingly enhanced or inhibited the growth, migration, and invasion capabilities of PCa cells. Mechanistically, we detected a direct interaction between FOXS1 and HILPDA, resulting in the pathway activation of FAK/PI3K/AKT and facilitation EMT in PCa cells. FOXS1 collaborates with HILPDA to initiate EMT, thereby facilitating the PCa progression through the FAK/PI3K/AKT pathway activation.

CILP2 is a potential biomarker for the prediction and therapeutic target of peritoneal metastases in colorectal cancer

Peritoneal metastases (PM) in colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with a dismal prognosis. Identifying and exploiting new biomarkers, signatures, and molecular targets for personalised interventions in the treatment of PM in CRC is imperative. We conducted transcriptomic profiling using RNA-seq data generated from the primary tissues of 19 CRC patients with PM. Using our dataset established in a previous study, we identified 1422 differentially expressed genes compared to non-metastatic CRC. The profiling demonstrated no differential expression in liver and lung metastatic CRC. We selected 12 genes based on stringent criteria and evaluated their expression patterns in a validation cohort of 32 PM patients and 84 without PM using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. We selected cartilage intermediate layer protein 2 (CILP2) because of high mRNA expression in PM patients in our validation cohort and its association with a poor prognosis in The Cancer Genome Atlas. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis in our validation cohort demonstrated that CRC patients with high CILP2 expression had significantly poor survival outcomes. Knockdown of CILP2 significantly reduced the proliferation, colony-forming ability, invasiveness, and migratory capacity and downregulated the expression of molecules related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition in HCT116 cells. In an in vivo peritoneal dissemination mouse knockdown of CILP2 also inhibited CRC growth. Therefore, CILP2 is a promising biomarker for the prediction and treatment of PM in CRC.

Poria acid inhibit the growth and metastasis of renal cell carcinoma by inhibiting the PI3K/akt/NF-κb signaling pathway

Background

Poria acid (PAC) is a triterpene compound found in Poria cocos, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The current study aims to explore the therapeutic effects and potential mechanisms of PAC on the migration and proliferation of human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cells as well as tumor growth in animal model.

Methods

Cell viability and proliferative capacity of normal renal cells and RCC cells were investigated by MTT assay. In addition, 786-O cells were divided into four groups and treated with different concentrations of PAC (0, 20, 40, and 60 μM) for 48 h. Cell scratch test and cell invasion assay were performed to evaluate the effects of PAC on the invasion and migration of RCC cells, respectively. The effects of PAC on apoptosis of RCC cells and expression levels of PI3K/Akt/NF-kB signaling pathway-related biomarkers were investigated using TUNEL staining and Western blotting methods, respectively. Effects of PAC on the inhibitory activity of RCC tumor in mice were evaluated in a 786-O CDX model.

Results

The study found that PAC inhibited the viability of RCC cells in a dose-dependent manner, as demonstrated by in vitro cell assays (p < 0.05). However, PAC showed no significant inhibitory effect on normal renal cells (p > 0.05). PAC also significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of RCC via EMT/MMP signaling pathways (p < 0.05). Immunofluorescence and immunoblotting results showed that PAC induced the apoptosis of RCC, which was accompanied by changes in the expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins (p < 0.05). Moreover, PAC significantly downregulated the PI3K/Akt/NF-kB signaling pathway in a concentration-dependent manner (p < 0.05). The effect of PAC on RCC apoptosis was dramatically reversed by 740Y-P (PI3K agonist) (p < 0.05) but significantly enhanced in the presence of LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor) (p < 0.05). The results of in vivo experiment also demonstrated that the antitumor activity of PAC was achieved by affecting the PI3K/Akt/NF-kB signaling pathway.

Conclusions

PAC can effectively suppress the proliferation, invasion and migration of RCC cells, and exhibit anti-tumor effects in RCC model by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/NF-kB signaling pathway.

KLF4 Induces Colorectal Cancer by Promoting EMT via STAT3 Activation

OBJECTIVE

Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) has been demonstrated to exert a pro-carcinogenic effect in solid tissues. However, the precise biological function and underlying mechanisms in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains elucidated.

AIMS

To investigate whether KLF4 participates in the proliferation and invasion of CRC.

METHODS

The expression of KLF4 was investigated using immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting. The clinical significance of KLF4 was evaluated. Furthermore, the effect of inhibiting or overexpressing KLF4 on tumor was examined. Immunoblotting and qPCR were used to detect Epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related proteins levels. Additionally, the molecular function of KLF4 is related to the STAT3 signaling pathway and was determined through JASPAR, GSEA analysis, and in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

KLF4 exhibits down-regulated expression in CRC and is part of the vessel invasion, TNM stage, and worse prognosis. In vitro studies have shown that KLF4 promotes cellular proliferation and invasion, as well as EMT processes. Xenograft tumor models confirmed the oncogenic role of KLF4 in nude mice. Furthermore, GSEA and JASPAR databases analysis reveal that the binding of KLF4 to the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) promoter site induces activation of p-STAT3 signaling. Subsequent targeting of STAT3 confirmed its pivotal role in mediating the oncogenic effects exerted by KLF4.

CONCLUSION

The study suggests that KLF4 activates STAT3 signaling, inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition, thereby promoting CRC progression.

FAM3D regulation of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma behaviour through the EMT pathway

OBJECTIVES

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma present challenges in effective treatment, with 50%-60% of cases exhibiting recurrence or metastasis, often resistant to surgery alone. Immunotherapy, a promising approach, does not guarantee benefits for all patients. Thus, the imperative lies in identifying reliable biomarkers for predicting immunotherapy efficacy. FAM3D, a protein-coding gene known for its potent chemotactic activity in human peripheral blood monocytes and neutrophils, plays a crucial role in regulating tumour immune responses and holds promise as an immune biomarker.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We employed comprehensive database analysis to scrutinise FAM3D, evaluating its gene expression, mutation profiles and prognostic implications in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, along with its associations with clinical characteristics and immune cell infiltration. Complementary functional experiments were conducted to delve into the potential mechanisms governed by FAM3D.

RESULTS

Our findings establish a significant correlation between low FAM3D expression and the invasiveness and metastatic potential of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. FAM3D likely exerts its influence through the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition.

CONCLUSIONS

FAM3D emerges as a valuable biomarker for predicting the responsiveness of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to immunotherapy, holding substantial clinical diagnostic and therapeutic relevance.

Predicting the Prognosis of Bladder Cancer Patients Through Integrated Multi-omics Exploration of Chemotherapy-Related Hypoxia Genes

Bladder cancer is a prevalent malignancy with high mortality rates worldwide. Hypoxia is a critical factor in the development and progression of cancers. However, whether and how hypoxia-related genes (HRGs) could affect the development and the chemotherapy response of bladder cancer is still largely unexplored. This study comprehensively explored the complex molecular landscape associated with hypoxia in bladder cancer by analyzing 260 hypoxia genes based on transcriptomic and genomic data in 411 samples. Employing the 109 dysregulated hypoxia genes for consensus clustering, we delineated two distinct bladder cancer clusters characterized by disparate survival outcomes and distinct oncogenic roles. We defined a HPscore that was correlated with a variety of clinical features, including TNM stages and pathologic grades. Tumor immune landscape analysis identified three immune clusters and close interactions between hypoxia genes and the various immune cells. Utilizing a network-based method, we defined 129 HRGs exerting influence on apoptotic processes and critical signaling pathways in cancer. Further analysis of chemotherapy drug sensitivity identified potential drug-target HRGs. We developed a Risk Score model that was related to the overall survival of bladder cancer patients based on doxorubicin-target HRGs: ACTG2, MYC, PDGFRB, DHRS2, and KLRD1. This study not only enhanced our understanding of bladder cancer at the molecular level but also provided promising avenues for the development of targeted therapies, representing a significant step toward the identification of effective treatments and addressing the urgent need for advancements in bladder cancer management.

The emerging role of lactate in tumor microenvironment and its clinical relevance

In recent years, the significant impact of lactate in the tumor microenvironment has been greatly documented. Acting not only as an energy substance in tumor metabolism, lactate is also an imperative signaling molecule. It plays key roles in metabolic remodeling, protein lactylation, immunosuppression, drug resistance, epigenetics and tumor metastasis, which has a tight relation with cancer patients' poor prognosis. This review illustrates the roles lactate plays in different aspects of tumor progression and drug resistance. From the comprehensive effects that lactate has on tumor metabolism and tumor immunity, the therapeutic targets related to it are expected to bring new hope for cancer therapy.

Bone-metastatic lung adenocarcinoma cells bearing CD74-ROS1 fusion interact with macrophages to promote their dissemination

Approximately 40% of patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) often develop bone metastases during the course of their disease. However, scarcely any in vivo model of LUAD bone metastasis has been established, leading to a poor understanding of the mechanisms underlying LUAD bone metastasis. Here, we established a multiorgan metastasis model via the left ventricular injection of luciferase-labeled LUAD cells into nude mice and then screened out lung metastasis (LuM) and bone metastasis (BoM) cell subpopulations. BoM cells exhibited greater stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plasticity than LuM cells and initially colonized the bone and subsequently disseminated to distant organs after being reinjected into mice. Moreover, a CD74-ROS1 fusion mutation (C6; R34) was detected in BoM cells but not in LuM cells. Mechanistically, BoM cells bearing the CD74-ROS1 fusion highly secrete the C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5) protein by activating STAT3 signaling, recruiting macrophages in tumor microenvironment and strongly inducing M2 polarization of macrophages. BoM cell-activated macrophages produce a high level of TGF-β1, thereby facilitating EMT and invasion of LUAD cells via TGF-β/SMAD2/3 signaling. Targeting the CD74-ROS1/CCL5 axis with Crizotinib (a ROS1 inhibitor) and Maraviroc (a CCL5 receptor inhibitor) in vivo strongly impeded bone metastasis and secondary metastasis of BoM cells. Our findings reveal the critical role of the CD74-ROS1/STAT3/CCL5 axis in the interaction between LUAD bone metastasis cells and macrophages for controlling LUAD cell dissemination, highlighting the significance of the bone microenvironment in LUAD bone metastasis and multiorgan secondary metastasis, and suggesting that targeting CD74-ROS1 and CCL5 is a promising therapeutic strategy for LUAD bone metastasis.

CEACAM6 expression and function in tumor biology: a comprehensive review

Carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 6 (CEACAM6) is an immunoglobulin superfamily protein primarily expressed on epithelial surfaces and myeloid cells. It plays a significant role in cancer progression by inhibiting apoptosis, promoting drug resistance, and facilitating cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Overexpression of CEACAM6 has been observed in various cancers, including lung, breast, colorectal, and hepatocellular cancers, and is associated with poorer overall survival and disease-free survival. Its differential expression on tumor cell surfaces makes it a promising cancer marker. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of CEACAM6's role in different cancer types, its involvement in signaling pathways, and recent advancements in CEACAM6-targeted treatments.

GPX4 transcriptionally promotes liver cancer metastasis via GRHL3/PTEN/PI3K/AKT axis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most fatal types of malignancy, with a high prevalence of relapse and limited treatment options. As a critical regulator of ferroptosis and redox homeostasis, glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) is commonly upregulated in HCC and is hypothesized to facilitate cancer metastasis, but this has not been fully explored in HCC. Here, we report that up-regulated GPX4 expression in HCC is strongly associated with tumor metastasis. FACS-based in vivo and in vitro analysis revealed that a cell subpopulation featuring lower cellular reactive oxygen species levels and ferroptosis resistance were involved in GPX4-mediated HCC metastasis. Mechanistically, GPX4 overexpressed in HCC tumor cells was enriched in the nucleus and transcriptionally silenced GRHL3 expression, thereby activating PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling and promoting HCC metastasis. Functional studies demonstrated that GPX4 amino acids 110-145 are a binding site that interacts with the GRHL3 promoter. As AKT is a downstream target of GPX4, we combined the AKT inhibitor, AKT-IN3, with lenvatinib to effectively inhibit HCC tumor cell metastasis. Overall, these results indicate that the GPX4/GRHL3/PTEN/PI3K/AKT axis controls HCC cell metastasis and lenvatinib combined with AKT-IN3 represents a potential therapeutic strategy for patients with metastatic HCC.

ARHGAP4 promotes colon cancer metastasis through the TGF-β signaling pathway and may be associated with T cell exhaustion

BACKGROUND

Colon cancer is a prevalent invasive neoplasm in the gastrointestinal system with a high degree of malignancy. Despite extensive research, the underlying mechanisms of its recurrence and metastasis remain elusive.Rho GTPase activating protein 4 (ARHGAP4), a member of the small GTPases protein family, may be closely related to tumor metastasis, and its expression is increased in colon cancer. However, the role of ARHGAP4 in colon cancer metastasis is uncertain. This study investigates the impact of ARHGAP4 on the metastasis of colon cancer cells. Our objective is to determine the role of ARHGAP4 in regulating the invasive behavior of colon cancer cells.

METHODS

We downloaded colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and performed differential analysis and survival analysis. By using the CIBERSORT algorithm, we evaluated the proportion of infiltrating immune cells in colon cancer. We further analyzed whether ARHGAP4 is associated with T cell exhaustion. Finally, we investigated the impact of ARHGAP4 knockdown on the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells through in vitro cell experiments. Additionally, we utilized western blotting to assess the expression of protein related to the TGF-β signaling pathway and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

RESULTS

We found that ARHGAP4 is upregulated in colon cancer. Subsequent survival analysis revealed that the high-expression group had significantly lower survival rates compared to the low-expression group. Immune infiltration analysis showed that ARHGAP4 was not only positively correlated with CD8+ T cells, but also positively correlated with T cell exhaustion markers programmed cell death 1 (PDCD-1), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), and lymphocyte activating 3 (LAG-3). In vitro cell experiments, the knockdown of ARHGAP4 inhibited the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. Among EMT-related proteins, when ARHGAP4 was knocked down, the expression of E-cadherin was increased, while the expression of N-cadherin and Vimentin was decreased. Meanwhile, the expression of TGF-β1, p-Smad2, and p-Smad3, which are associated with the TGF-β/Smad pathway, all decreased.

CONCLUSION

ARHGAP4 promotes colon cancer metastasis through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and may be associated with T cell exhaustion. It plays an important role in the progression of colon cancer and may serve as a potential target for diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer.

Softening the tumor matrix through cholesterol depletion breaks the physical barrier for enhanced antitumor therapy

The tumor develops defense tactics, including conversing the mechanical characteristics of tumor cells and their surrounding environment. A recent study reported that cholesterol depletion stiffens tumor cells, which could enhance adaptive T-cell immunotherapy. However, it remains unclear whether reducing the cholesterol in tumor cells contributes to re-educating the stiff tumor matrix, which serves as a physical barrier against drug penetration. Herein, we found that depleting cholesterol from tumor cells can demolish the intratumor physical barrier by disrupting the mechanical signal transduction between tumor cells and the extracellular matrix through the destruction of lipid rafts. This disruption allows nanoparticles (H/S@hNP) to penetrate deeply, resulting in improved photodynamic treatment. Our research also indicates that cholesterol depletion can inhibit the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and repolarize tumor-associated macrophages from M2 to M1, demonstrating the essential role of cholesterol in tumor progression. Overall, this study reveals that a cholesterol-depleted, softened tumor matrix reduces the difficulty of drug penetration, leading to enhanced antitumor therapeutics.

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and NF-kB pathways are promoted by a mutant form of DDB2, unable to bind PCNA, in UV-damaged human cells

BACKGROUND

DNA-Damaged Binding protein 2 (DDB2) is a protein involved in the early step of Nucleotide Excision Repair. Recently, it has been reported that DDB2 is involved in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), key process in tumour invasiveness and metastasis formation. However, its role is not completely known.

METHODS

Boyden chamber and cell adhesion assays, and ICELLigence analysis were performed to detect HEK293 adhesion and invasion. Western blotting and gelatine zymography techniques were employed to assess the EMT protein levels and MMP enzymatic activity. Immunofluorescence analysis and pull-down assays facilitated the detection of NF-kB sub-cellular localization and interaction.

RESULTS

We have previously demonstrated that the loss of DDB2-PCNA binding favours genome instability, and increases cell proliferation and motility. Here, we have investigated the phenotypic and molecular EMT-like changes after UV DNA damage, in HEK293 clones stably expressing DDB2Wt protein or a mutant form unable to interact with PCNA (DDB2PCNA-), as well as in HeLa cells transiently expressing the same DDB2 constructs. Cells expressing DDB2PCNA- showed morphological modifications along with a reduced expression of E-cadherin, an increased activity of MMP-9 and an improved ability to migrate, in concomitance with a significant upregulation of EMT-associated Transcription Factors (TFs), whose expression has been reported to favour tumour invasion. We observed a higher expression of c-Myc oncogene, NF-kB, both regulating cell proliferation and metastatic process, as well as ZEB1, a TF significantly associated with tumorigenic potential and cell migratory ability. Interestingly, a novel interaction of DDB2 with NF-kB was detected and found to be increased in cells expressing the DDB2PCNA-, suggesting a direct modulation of NF-kB by DDB2.

CONCLUSION

These results highlight the role of DDB2-PCNA interaction in counteracting EMT since DDB2PCNA- protein induces in HEK293 transformed cells a gain of function contributing to the acquisition of a more aggressive phenotype.

Photothermal-controlled NO-releasing Nanogels reverse epithelial-mesenchymal transition and restore immune surveillance against cancer metastasis

Metastasis leads to high mortality among cancer patients. It is a complex, multi-step biological process that involves the dissemination of cancer cells from the primary tumor and their systemic spread throughout the body, primarily through the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) program and immune evasion mechanisms. It presents a challenge in how to comprehensively treat metastatic cancer cells throughout the entire stage of the metastatic cascade using a simple system. Here, we fabricate a nanogel (HNO-NG) by covalently crosslinking a macromolecular nitric oxide (NO) donor with a photothermal IR780 iodide-containing hyaluronic acid derivative via a click reaction. This enables stable storage and tumor-targeted, photothermia-triggered release of NO to combat tumor metastasis throughout all stages. Upon laser irradiation (HNO-NG+L), the surge in NO production within tumor cells impairs the NF-κB/Snail/RKIP signaling loop that promotes the EMT program through S-nitrosylation, thus inhibiting cell dissemination from the primary tumor. On the other hand, it induces immunogenic cell death (ICD) and thereby augments anti-tumor immunity, which is crucial for killing both the primary tumor and systemically distributed tumor cells. Therefore, HNO-NG+L, by fully leveraging EMT reversal, ICD induction, and the lethal effect of NO, achieved impressive eradication of the primary tumor and significant prevention of lung metastasis in a mouse model of orthotropic 4T1 breast tumor that spontaneously metastasizes to the lungs, extending the NO-based therapeutic approach against tumor metastasis.

miR-200c-141 induces a hybrid E/M state and promotes collective cell migration in MDA-MB-231 cells

The microRNA-200 (miR-200) family is a potent suppressor of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). While its role as a tumor suppressor has been well documented, recent studies suggested that it can promote cancer progression in several stages. In this study, we investigated whether the miR-200 family members play a role in the acquisition of a hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal (E/M) state, which is reported to be associated with cancer malignancy, in mesenchymal MDA-MB-231 cells. Our results demonstrated that the induction of miR-200c-141, a cluster of the miR-200 family member, can induce the expression of epithelial gene and cell-cell junction while mesenchymal markers are retained. Moreover, induction of miR-200c-141 promoted collective migration accompanied by the formation of F-actin cables anchored by adherens junction. These results suggest that the miR-200 family can induce a hybrid E/M state and endows with the ability of collective cell migration in mesenchymal cancer cells.

Apigenin: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential against Cancer Spreading

Due to its propensity to metastasize, cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Thanks in part to their intrinsic low cytotoxicity, the effects of the flavonoid family in the prevention and treatment of various human cancers, both in vitro and in vivo, have received increasing attention in recent years. It is well documented that Apigenin (4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone), among other flavonoids, is able to modulate key signaling molecules involved in the initiation of cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, including JAK/STAT, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, NF-κB, and Wnt/β-catenin pathways, as well as the oncogenic non-coding RNA network. Based on these premises, the aim of this review is to emphasize some of the key events through which Apigenin suppresses cancer proliferation, focusing specifically on its ability to target key molecular pathways involved in angiogenesis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), maintenance of cancer stem cells (CSCs), cell cycle arrest, and cancer cell death.

Novel cancer-fighting role of ticagrelor inhibits GTSE1-induced EMT by regulating PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway in malignant glioma

Background

Glioma is the most common malignant brain tumor of the central nervous system. Despite of the improvement of therapeutic strategy, the prognosis of malignant glioma patients underwent by STUPP strategy is still unexpected. Previous studies have suggested that ticagrelor exerted chemotherapeutic effects by inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in various diseases including tumors. However, whether ticagrelor can exhibit the antitumor efficiency in glioma by affecting the EMT process is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the cancer-fighting role of ticagrelor and demonstrated its chemotherapeutic mechanism in glioma.

Materials and methods

The MTT assay was performed to detect the cytotoxicity of ticagrelor in glioma cells. We evaluated the expression of Ki67 in glioma cells by immunofluorescence assay after ticagrelor treatment. We conducted wound healing assay and transwell assay to determine the effects of ticagrelor on the migration and invasion of glioma cells. RNA-seq analysis was conducted to examine potential target genes and alternative signaling pathways for ticagrelor treatment. The expression levels of key EMT -related proteins were examined by Western blot experiment.

Results

Ticagrelor inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of glioma cells with a favorable toxicity profile in vitro. Ticagrelor downregulated the expression of GTSE1 in glioma cells. RNA-seq analysis explored that GTSE1 acted as the potential target gene for ticagrelor treatment. Upregulation of GTSE1 antagonized the inhibitory effect of ticagrelor on the invasion of glioma and EMT progression by regulation of PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway. And ticagrelor also exhibited the similar chemotherapeutic effect of glioma in vivo.

Conclusions

Ticagrelor as a potential chemotherapeutic option induced the inhibition of the GTSE1-induced EMT progression by regulation of PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Biological clock regulation by the PER gene family: a new perspective on tumor development

The Period (PER) gene family is one of the core components of the circadian clock, with substantial correlations between the PER genes and cancers identified in extensive researches. Abnormal mutations in PER genes can influence cell function, metabolic activity, immunity, and therapy responses, thereby promoting the initiation and development of cancers. This ultimately results in unequal cancers progression and prognosis in patients. This leads to variable cancer progression and prognosis among patients. In-depth studies on the interactions between the PER genes and cancers can reveal novel strategies for cancer detection and treatment. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest research on the role of the PER gene family in cancer.

MicroRNAs as the critical regulators of epithelial mesenchymal transition in pancreatic tumor cells

Pancreatic cancer (PC), as one of the main endocrine and digestive systems malignancies has the highest cancer related mortality in the world. Lack of the evident clinical symptoms and appropriate diagnostic markers in the early stages of tumor progression are the main reasons of the high mortality rate among PC patients. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the molecular pathways involved in the PC progression, in order to introduce novel early diagnostic methods. Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical cellular process associated with pancreatic tumor cells invasion and distant metastasis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are also important regulators of EMT process. In the present review, we discussed the role of miRNAs in regulation of EMT process during PC progression. It has been reported that the miRNAs mainly regulate the EMT process in pancreatic tumor cells through the regulation of EMT-specific transcription factors and several signaling pathways such as WNT, NOTCH, TGF-β, JAK/STAT, and PI3K/AKT. Considering the high stability of miRNAs in body fluids and their role in regulation of EMT process, they can be introduced as the non-invasive diagnostic markers in the early stages of malignant pancreatic tumors. This review paves the way to introduce a non-invasive EMT based panel marker for the early tumor detection among PC patients.

EVA1A reverses lenvatinib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma through regulating PI3K/AKT/p53 signaling axis

Lenvatinib is a commonly used first-line drug for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, its clinical efficacy is limited due to the drug resistance. EVA1A was a newly identified tumor suppressor, nevertheless, the impact of EVA1A on resistance to lenvatinib treatment in HCC and the potential molecular mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, the expression of EVA1A in HCC lenvatinib-resistant cells is decreased and its low expression was associated with a poor prognosis of HCC. Overexpression of EVA1A reversed lenvatinib resistance in vitro and in vivo, as demonstrated by its ability to promote cell apoptosis and inhibit cell proliferation, invasion, migration, EMT, and tumor growth. Silencing EVA1A in lenvatinib-sensitive parental HCC cells exerted the opposite effect and induced resistance to lenvatinib. Mechanistically, upregulated EVA1A inhibited the PI3K/AKT/MDM2 signaling pathway, resulting in a reduced interaction between MDM2 and p53, thereby stabilizing p53 and enhancing its antitumor activity. In addition, upregulated EVA1A suppressed the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and promoted autophagy, leading to the degradation of mutant p53 and attenuating its oncogenic impact. On the contrary, loss of EVA1A activated the PI3K/AKT/MDM2 signaling pathway and inhibited autophagy, promoting p53 proteasomal degradation and mutant p53 accumulation respectively. These findings establish a crucial role of EVA1A loss in driving lenvatinib resistance involving a mechanism of modulating PI3K/AKT/p53 signaling axis and suggest that upregulating EVA1A is a promising therapeutic strategy for alleviating resistance to lenvatinib, thereby improving the efficacy of HCC treatment.

Unveiling the characteristics of D4 and R4 aptamers for their future use in prostate cancer clinical practice

The DNA and RNA aptamers D4 and R4, respectively, emerged from the modification of PC-3 cell-binding aptamer A4. Our objective was to characterize the aptamers in silico and in vitro and begin to identify their target molecules. We represented their structures using computational algorithms; evaluated their binding to several prostate cell lines and their effects on the viability and migration of these cells; and determined their dissociation constant by flow cytometry. We analyzed circulating prostate tumor cells from patients using D4, R4, anti-CD133 and anti-CD44. Finally, the target proteins of both aptamers were precipitated and identified by mass spectrometry to simulate their in silico docking. The aptamers presented similar structures and bound to prostate tumor cells without modifying the cellular parameters studied, but with different affinities. The ligand cells for both aptamers were CD44+, indicating that they could identify cells in the mesenchymal stage of the metastatic process. The possible target proteins NXPE1, ADAM30, and MUC6 need to be further studied to better understand their interaction with the aptamers. These results support the development of new assays to determine the clinical applications of D4 and R4 aptamers in prostate cancer.

The multifaceted role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in colorectal cancer: metastasis, immune suppression, therapy resistance, and autophagy crosstalk

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid bilayer structures released by all cells and widely distributed in all biological fluids. EVs are implicated in diverse physiopathological processes by orchestrating cell-cell communication. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with metastasis being the leading cause of mortality in CRC patients. EVs contribute significantly to the advancement and spread of CRC by transferring their cargo, which includes lipids, proteins, RNAs, and DNAs, to neighboring or distant cells. Besides, they can serve as non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for early detection of CRC or be harnessed as effective carriers for delivering therapeutic agents. Autophagy is an essential cellular process that serves to remove damaged proteins and organelles by lysosomal degradation to maintain cellular homeostasis. Autophagy and EV release are coordinately activated in tumor cells and share common factors and regulatory mechanisms. Although the significance of autophagy and EVs in cancer is well established, the exact mechanism of their interplay in tumor development is obscure. This review focuses on examining the specific functions of EVs in various aspects of CRC, including progression, metastasis, immune regulation, and therapy resistance. Further, we overview emerging discoveries relevant to autophagy and EVs crosstalk in CRC.

CLIP170 inhibits the metastasis and EMT of papillary thyroid cancer through the TGF-β pathway

Metastasis poses a significant challenge in combating tumors. Even in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), which typically exhibits a favorable prognosis, high recurrence rates are attributed to metastasis. Cytoplasmic linker protein 170 (CLIP170) functions as a classical microtubule plus-end tracking protein (+TIP) and has shown close association with cell migration. Nevertheless, the specific impact of CLIP170 on PTC cells remains to be elucidated. Our analysis of the GEO and TCGA databases unveiled an association between CLIP170 and the progression of PTC. To explore the impact of CLIP170 on PTC cells, we conducted various assays. We evaluated its effects through CCK-8, wound healing assay, and transwell assay after knocking down CLIP170. Additionally, the influence of CLIP170 on the cellular actin structure was examined via immunofluorescence; we further investigated the molecular expressions of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathways through Western blotting and RT-qPCR. These findings were substantiated through an in vivo nude mouse model of lung metastasis. We observed a decreased expression of CLIP170 in PTC in contrast to normal thyroid tissue. Functionally, the knockdown of CLIP170 (CLIP170KD) notably enhanced the metastatic potential and EMT of PTC cells, both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, CLIP170KD triggered the activation of the TGF-β pathway, subsequently promoting tumor cell migration, invasion, and EMT. Remarkably, the TGF-β inhibitor LY2157299 effectively countered TGF-β activity and significantly reversed tumor metastasis and EMT induced by CLIP170 knockdown. In summary, these findings collectively propose CLIP170 as a promising therapeutic target to mitigate metastatic tendencies in PTC.

LAMC2 regulates the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of gastric cancer via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway

OBJECTIVES

Gastric cancer (GC) is a prevalent malignant tumor widely distributed globally, exhibiting elevated incidence and fatality rates. The gene LAMC2 encodes the laminin subunit gamma-2 chain and is found specifically in the basement membrane of epithelial cells. Its expression is aberrant in multiple types of malignant tumors. This research elucidated a link between LAMC2 and the clinical characteristics of GC and investigated the potential involvement of LAMC2 in GC proliferation and advancement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

LAMC2 expressions were detected in GC cell lines and normal gastric epithelial cell lines via qRT-PCR. Silencing and overexpression of the LAMC2 were conducted by lentiviral transfection. A xenograft mouse model was also developed for in vivo analysis. Cell functional assays were conducted to elucidate the involvement of LAMC2 in cell growth, migration, and penetration. Further, immunoblotting was conducted to investigate the impact of LAMC2 on the activation of signal pathways after lentiviral transfection.

RESULTS

In the findings, LAMC2 expression was markedly upregulated in GC cell lines as opposed to normal gastric epithelial cells. In vitro analysis showed that sh-LAMC2 substantially inhibited GC cell growth, migration, and invasion, while oe-LAMC2 displayed a contrasting effect. Xenograft tumor models demonstrated that oe-LAMC2 accelerated tumor growth via high expression of Ki-67. Immunoblotting analysis revealed a substantial decrease in various signaling pathway proteins, PI3K, p-Akt, and Vimentin levels upon LAMC2 knockdown, followed by increased E-cadherin expression. Conversely, its overexpression exhibited contrasting effects. Besides, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was accelerated by LAMC2.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence indicating that LAMC2, by stimulating signaling pathways, facilitated EMT and stimulated the progression of GC cells in laboratory settings and mouse models. Research also explored that the abnormal LAMC2 expression acts as a biomarker for GC.

Actin Cytoskeleton Remodeling Accompanied by Redistribution of Adhesion Proteins Drives Migration of Cells in Different EMT States

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process during which epithelial cells lose epithelial characteristics and gain mesenchymal features. Here, we used several cell models to study migratory activity and redistribution of cell-cell adhesion proteins in cells in different EMT states: EGF-induced EMT of epithelial IAR-20 cells; IAR-6-1 cells with a hybrid epithelial-mesenchymal phenotype; and their more mesenchymal derivatives, IAR-6-1-DNE cells lacking adherens junctions. In migrating cells, the cell-cell adhesion protein α-catenin accumulated at the leading edges along with ArpC2/p34 and α-actinin. Suppression of α-catenin shifted cell morphology from fibroblast-like to discoid and attenuated cell migration. Expression of exogenous α-catenin in MDA-MB-468 cells devoid of α-catenin drastically increased their migratory capabilities. The Y654 phosphorylated form of β-catenin was detected at integrin adhesion complexes (IACs). Co-immunoprecipitation studies indicated that α-catenin and pY654-β-catenin were associated with IAC proteins: vinculin, zyxin, and α-actinin. Taken together, these data suggest that in cells undergoing EMT, catenins not participating in assembly of adherens junctions may affect cell migration.

Circulating Tumor Cell Phenotype Detection and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Tracking Based on Dual Biomarker Co-Recognition in an Integrated PDMS Chip

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are widely considered as a reliable and promising class of markers in the field of liquid biopsy. As CTCs undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), phenotype detection of heterogeneous CTCs based on EMT markers is of great significance. In this report, an integrated analytical strategy that can simultaneously capture and differentially detect epithelial- and mesenchymal-expressed CTCs in bloods of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLS) patients is proposed. First, a commercial biomimetic polycarbonate (PCTE) microfiltration membrane is employed as the capture interface for heterogenous CTCs. Meanwhile, differential detection of the captured CTCs is realized by preparing two distinct CdTe quantum dots (QDs) with red and green emissions, attached with EpCAM and Vimentin aptamers, respectively. For combined analysis, a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) chip with simple structure is designed, which integrates the membrane capture and QDs-based phenotype detection of CTCs. This chip not only implements the analysis of the number of CTCs down to 2 cells mL-1, but enables EMT process tracking according to the specific signals of the two QDs. Finally, this method is successfully applied to inspect the correlations of numbers or proportions of heterogenous CTCs in 94 NSCLS patients with disease stage and whether there is distant metastasis.

Single-cell and multi-omics analyses highlight cancer-associated fibroblasts-induced immune evasion and epithelial mesenchymal transition for smoking bladder cancer

Tobacco carcinogens are recognized as critical hazard factors for bladder tumorigenesis, affecting the prognosis of patients through aromatic amines components. However, the specific function of tobacco carcinogens and systematic assessment models in the prognosis of bladder cancer remains poorly elucidated. We retrieved bladder cancer specific tobacco carcinogens-related genes from Comparative Toxicogenomic Database, our Nanjing Bladder Cancer cohort and TCGA database. Gene×Gene interaction method was utilized to establish a prognostic signature. Integrative assessment of immunogenomics, tumor microenvironments and single-cell RNA-sequencing were performed to illustrate the internal relations of key events from different levels. Finally, we comprehensively identified 33 essential tobacco carcinogens-related genes to construct a novel prognostic signature, and found that high-risk patients were characterized by significantly worse overall survival (HR=2.25; Plog-rank < 0.01). Single-cell RNA-sequencing and multi-omics analysis demonstrated that cancer-associated fibroblasts mediated the crosstalk between epithelial-mesenchymal transition progression and immune evasion. Moreover, an adverse outcome pathway framework was established to facilitate our understanding to the tobacco carcinogens-triggered bladder tumorigenesis. Our study systematically provided immune microenvironmental alternations for smoking-induced adverse survival outcomes in bladder cancer. These findings facilitated the integrative multi-omics insights into risk assessment and toxic mechanisms of tobacco carcinogens.

APLN promotes the proliferation, migration, and glycolysis of cervical cancer through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway

Apelin (APLN) is an endogenous ligand of the G protein-coupled receptor APJ (APLNR). APLN has been implicated in the development of multiple tumours. Herein, we determined the effect of APLN on the biological behaviour and underlying mechanisms of cervical cancer. The expression and survival curves of APLN were determined using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis. The cellular functions of APLN were detected using CCK-8, clone formation, EdU, Transwell assays, flow cytometry, and seahorse metabolic analysis. The underlying mechanisms were elucidated using gene set enrichment analysis and Western blotting. APLN was upregulated in the samples of patients with cervical cancer and is associated with poor prognosis. APLN knockdown decreased the proliferation, migration, and glycolysis of cervical cancer cells. The opposite results were observed when APLN was overexpressed. Mechanistically, we determined that APLN was critical for activating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway via APLNR. APLN receptor inhibitor ML221 reversed the effect of APLN overexpression on cervical cancer cells. Treatment with LY294002, the PI3K inhibitor, drastically reversed the oncological behaviour of APLN-overexpressing C-33A cells. APLN promoted the proliferation, migration, and glycolysis of cervical cancer cells via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.

Deubiquitinase BRCC3 promotes the migration, invasion and EMT progression of colon adenocarcinoma by stabilizing MET expression

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein/breast cancer type 2 susceptibility protein-containing complex subunit 3 (BRCC3), a deubiquitinase (DUBs), is overexpressed in various cancers. However, the underlying biological roles of BRCC3 in adenocarcinoma colon (COAD) have yet to be decrypted.

OBJECTIVE

In this work, we explored the potential biological function of BRCC3 in the natural process of COAD cells.

METHODS

The expression levels of BRCC3 in COAD tissues and cell lines were investigated via quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analyses. Meanwhile, short hairpin RNAs targeting BRCC3 (sh-BRCC3) or mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (MET) (sh-MET) were used to investigate the biological function, including proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) progression in COAD cells. Furthermore, the expression levels of EMT-related biomarkers were detected with western blotting analysis. Furthermore, we also performed Co-IP assay to identify the correlation between BRCC3 and MET.

RESULTS

BRCC3 expression was increased in COAD tissues and cell lines. ShRNA-mediated downmodulation of BRCC3 in COAD cell lines induced EMT progression. BRCC3 knockdown resulted in decreased migration as well as invasion and increased apoptosis of SW480 and Lovo cells. Besides, MET was regulated by BRCC3 and involved in the migration, invasion, and EMT in SW480 and Lovo cells. Finally, we uncovered that the overexpressed MET reversed the effects of BRCC3 knockdown in COAD cell development.

CONCLUSIONS

BRCC3 acted as a critical factor in the development of COAD by deubiquitinating and stabilizing MET, which might provide an emerging biomarker for the therapeutic and diagnosis strategy of COAD.

microRNA-141-3p Suppressed the Progression of the Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma by Targeting Transforming Growth Factor Beta 2 Gene Expression

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is a malignant tumor of kidney epithelial cells, one of the most common tumors in the world. Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)1 is a crucial factor that induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer cells. microRNA-141-3p (miR-141-3p) is a microRNA that is considered a tumor suppressor. However, the role and mechanism of miR-141-3p in TGFβ1-induced ccRCC cells are not fully understood. This study investigated the roles of miR-141-3p and its target gene in regulating EMT in ccRCC development. 786-0 and Caki-1cells were treated with TGFβ1 to induce EMT. The levels of miR-141-3p and TGFβ2 were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. The progression of EMT was evaluated by E-cadherin detection by immunofluorescence, and E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and vimentin detection by Western blotting. Furthermore, migration and invasion capacities were assessed using a Transwell system. The direct binding of miR-141-3p with the target gene TGFβ2 was confirmed by dual luciferase reporter gene assay. Results indicated that TGFβ1 treatment decreased the protein abundance of E-cadherin while increasing the protein expression of N-cadherin and vimentin, indicating TGFβ1-induced EMT was constructed successfully. Moreover, TGFβ1 treatment repressed the expression of miR-141-3p. miR-141-3p mimics reversed the effect of TGFβ1 on the migration, invasion, and expression of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and vimentin. The miR-141-3p directly binds with the 3' untranslated region of TGFβ2 mRNA and suppresses its expression. Furthermore, TGFβ2 overexpression abrogated the above changes regulated by miR-141-3p mimics. Taken together, miR-141-3p inhibited TGFβ1-induced EMT by suppressing the migration and invasion of ccRCC cells via directly targeting TGFβ2 gene expression.

Loss of p53 epigenetically modulates epithelial to mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer

Epithelial to Mesenchymal transition (EMT) drives cancer metastasis and is governed by genetic and epigenetic alterations at multiple levels of regulation. It is well established that loss/mutation of p53 confers oncogenic function to cancer cells and promotes metastasis. Though transcription factors like ZEB1, SLUG, SNAIL and TWIST have been implied in EMT signalling, p53 mediated alterations in the epigenetic machinery accompanying EMT are not clearly understood. This work attempts to explore epigenetic signalling during EMT in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells with varying status of p53. Towards this, we have induced EMT using TGFβ on CRC cell lines with wild type, null and mutant p53 and have assayed epigenetic alterations after EMT induction. Transcriptomic profiling of the four CRC cell lines revealed that the loss of p53 confers more mesenchymal phenotype with EMT induction than its mutant counterparts. This was also accompanied by upregulation of epigenetic writer and eraser machinery suggesting an epigenetic signalling cascade triggered by TGFβ signalling in CRC. Significant agonist and antagonistic relationships observed between EMT factor SNAI1 and SNAI2 with epigenetic enzymes KDM6A/6B and the chromatin organiser SATB1 in p53 null CRC cells suggest a crosstalk between epigenetic and EMT factors. The observed epigenetic regulation of EMT factor SNAI1 correlates with poor clinical outcomes in 270 colorectal cancer patients taken from TCGA-COAD. This unique p53 dependent interplay between epigenetic enzymes and EMT factors in CRC cells may be exploited for development of synergistic therapies for CRC patients presenting to the clinic with loss of p53.

Decoding the interplay between genetic and non-genetic drivers of metastasis

Metastasis is a multistep process by which cancer cells break away from their original location and spread to distant organs, and is responsible for the vast majority of cancer-related deaths. Preventing early metastatic dissemination would revolutionize the ability to fight cancer. Unfortunately, the relatively poor understanding of the molecular underpinnings of metastasis has hampered the development of effective anti-metastatic drugs. Although it is now accepted that disseminating tumour cells need to acquire multiple competencies to face the many obstacles they encounter before reaching their metastatic site(s), whether these competencies are acquired through an accumulation of metastasis-specific genetic alterations and/or non-genetic events is often debated. Here we review a growing body of literature highlighting the importance of both genetic and non-genetic reprogramming events during the metastatic cascade, and discuss how genetic and non-genetic processes act in concert to confer metastatic competencies. We also describe how recent technological advances, and in particular the advent of single-cell multi-omics and barcoding approaches, will help to better elucidate the cross-talk between genetic and non-genetic mechanisms of metastasis and ultimately inform innovative paths for the early detection and interception of this lethal process.

IL-6 Accelerates the Proliferation and Metastasis of Pancreatic Cancer Cells via the miR-455-5p/IGF-1R Axis

Background: Pancreatic cancer (PaC) is a highly malignant gastrointestinal tumor with invasive and metastatic characteristics. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a negative prognostic marker, contributes to PaC progression. However, the mechanism of IL-6 in PaC is not yet fully understood. Methods: miR-455-5p levels were first tested by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in PaC tissues or cells. Subsequently, PaC cell-related functions were identified through CCK-8, Transwell, and Western blotting. Changes in miR-455-5p and IGF-1R expression were confirmed using RT-qPCR and Western blotting. miR-455-5p methylation was assessed by bisulfite sequencing PCR. Results: The authors discovered that miR-455-5p was expressed at low levels in PaC tissues and cells, and miR-455-5p expression was observably reduced by IL-6 in PaC cells. In addition, IL-6 dramatically induces miR-455-5p methylation in PaC cells. Functionally, the data revealed that IL-6 could facilitate the malignant properties of PaC cells, including proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and metastasis. The authors found that miR-455-5p could suppress the progression of PaC cells by downregulating IGF-1R in PaC cells. Mechanistically, IL-6 downregulated miR-455-5p and upregulated IGF-1R, and miR-455-5p reduced IGF-1R expression through targeted binding. Conclusions: The authors demonstrated that the miR-455-5p/IGF-1R axis is necessary for the induction of IL-6 in PaC progression. The results here may provide a theoretical basis for the application of the IL-6/miR-455-5p/IGF-1R axis in the clinical therapy of PaC.

ZEB1 controls a lineage-specific transcriptional program essential for melanoma cell state transitions

Cell plasticity sustains intra-tumor heterogeneity and treatment resistance in melanoma. Deciphering the transcriptional mechanisms governing reversible phenotypic transitions between proliferative/differentiated and invasive/stem-like states is required. Expression of the ZEB1 transcription factor is frequently activated in melanoma, where it fosters adaptive resistance to targeted therapies. Here, we performed a genome-wide characterization of ZEB1 transcriptional targets, by combining ChIP-sequencing and RNA-sequencing, upon phenotype switching in melanoma models. We identified and validated ZEB1 binding peaks in the promoter of key lineage-specific genes crucial for melanoma cell identity. Mechanistically, ZEB1 negatively regulates SOX10-MITF dependent proliferative/melanocytic programs and positively regulates AP-1 driven invasive and stem-like programs. Comparative analyses with breast carcinoma cells revealed lineage-specific ZEB1 binding, leading to the design of a more reliable melanoma-specific ZEB1 regulon. We then developed single-cell spatial multiplexed analyses to characterize melanoma cell states intra-tumoral heterogeneity in human melanoma samples. Combined with scRNA-Seq analyses, our findings confirmed increased ZEB1 expression in Neural-Crest-like cells and mesenchymal cells, underscoring its significance in vivo in both populations. Overall, our results define ZEB1 as a major transcriptional regulator of cell states transitions and provide a better understanding of lineage-specific transcriptional programs sustaining intra-tumor heterogeneity in melanoma.