Inflammasome signaling in colorectal cancer

An overview of potential of natural compounds to regulate epigenetic modifications in colorectal cancer: a recent update

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains an alarming global health concern despite advancements in treatment modalities over recent decades. Among the various factors contributing to CRC, this review emphasizes the critical role of epigenetic mechanisms in its pathogenesis and progression. This review also describes the potential role of natural compounds in altering the epigenetic landscape, focused mainly on DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs. Publications from the previous five years were searched and retrieved using well-known search engines and databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Keywords like CRC/colorectal cancer, CAC/Colitis associated CRC, inflammasomes, epigenetic modulation, genistein, curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, anthocyanins, sulforaphane, and epigallocatechin-3-gallate were used in various combinations during the search. These natural compounds predominantly affect pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB, and PI3K/AKT to suppress CRC cell proliferation and oxidative stress and enhance anti-inflammation and apoptosis. However, their clinical use is restricted due to their low bioavailability. However, multiple methods exist to overcome challenges like this, including but not limited to structural modifications, nanoparticle encapsulations, bio-enhancers, and novel advanced delivery systems. These methods improve their potential as supportive therapies that target CRC progression epigenetically with fewer side effects. Current research focuses on enhancing epigenetic targeting to control CRC progression while minimizing side effects, emphasizing improved specificity, bioavailability, and efficacy as standalone or synergistic therapies.

Regulation of NLRP3/TRIM family signaling in gut inflammation and colorectal cancer

CRC (Colorectal cancer) ranks among the most prevalent tumors in humans and remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Numerous studies have highlighted the connection between inflammasome over-activation and the initiation and progression of CRC. The activation of the NLRP3 (NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3) inflammasome is dependent on the nuclear NF-kβ (Nuclear Factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) pathway, leading to the maturation and release of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1ß (Interleukin 1 beta) and IL-18 (Interleukin 18). While inflammation is crucial for defense mechanisms and tissue repair, excessive information can pose significant risks. Mounting evidence suggests that overactivation of the inflammasome contributes to the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. Consequently, there is a concerted effort to tightly regulate inflammasome activity and mitigate excessive inflammatory responses, particularly in conditions such as IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease), which includes Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease. The tripartite motif (TRIM) protein family, characterized by a conserved structure and rapid evolutionary diversification, includes members with critical roles in ubiquitination and other regulatory functions. Their importance in modulating inflammatory responses is widely acknowledged. This article aims to investigate the interplay between TRIM proteins and the NLRP3 Inflammasome in CRC and gut inflammation, offering insights for future research endeavors and potential therapeutic strategies.

The NLRP1 Emerges as a Promising Therapeutic Target and Prognostic Biomarker Across Multiple Cancer Types: A Comprehensive Pan-Cancer Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 1 (NLRP1) serves as the central component of the inflammasome complex and has emerged as a potential contributor to cancer development. Despite accumulating evidence, a comprehensive assessment of NLRP1 across various cancer types has yet to be undertaken.

METHODS

Several databases have evaluated NLRP1 expression across various cancer types in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Additionally, studies have investigated the correlation between NLRP1 and various survival metrics, infiltration of cancer-associated fibroblasts, genetic alterations, drug sensitivity, and promoter methylation. Furthermore, research has explored the potential roles of NLRP1 and its interactions with other proteins.

RESULTS

Our analysis revealed decreased expression of NLRP1 in BLCA, BRCA, KICH, LUAD, LUSC, PRAD, and UCEC tumor tissues compared to normal tissues. We identified a significant correlation between NLRP1 expression and various cancer survival parameters, genetic mutations, and immune infiltration of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Furthermore, we observed that NLRP1 expression is regulated by promoter DNA methylation in ESCA. Abnormal expression of NLRP1 was associated with decreased sensitivity to multiple anti-tumor drugs and small compounds. NLRP1 was found to be involved in pathways associated with T cell receptors and chemokines.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduced NLRP1 expression contributes to cancer progression and holds potential as a crucial biomolecular marker for diagnostic, prognostic, and personalized therapeutic interventions across different malignancies.

Association of interferon regulator factor 1 upregulation with pulmonary arterial hypertension

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a complex disease that is associated with a poor prognosis. Its pathogenesis is attributed to the inflammatory immune response. Interferon regulator factor 1 (IRF1) is a key downstream regulator of inflammation and cell death. Evidence suggests that IRF1 can promote the proliferation of smooth muscle cells and inhibit lung endothelial regeneration. However, proof for this relationship is lacking, and the exact nature of the potential mechanism underlying the link between IRF1 and PAH remains largely unknown. We aimed to find out whether IRF1 is associated with the progression of PAH.

Methods

The GSE144274 and GSE243193 datasets were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between PAH and healthy samples were identified and analyzed. Enrichment analysis was performed, and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed to identify the hub genes. The relative protein and gene levels of IRF1 were then validated in PAH animal models.

Results

A total of 271 DEGs were identified from the two data sets. ACTA2, HLA-DRA, HLA-A, PECAM1, HLA-C, IRF1, and CD74 were identified as the hub genes. In our subsequent experiments, we found that IRF1 was upregulated in both PAH rat and mouse models.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that IRF1 might be associated with pulmonary hypertension in lung tissue and may thus serve as a therapeutic target in PAH.

A surgical orthotopic xenograft approach with immune response for colorectal cancer research

The high morbidity and mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major challenge in clinical practice. Although a series of alternative research models of CRC have been developed, appropriate orthotopic animal models that reproduce the specific clinical response as well as pathophysiological immune features of CRC are still lacking. In the current study, we constructed a CRC orthotopic xenograft model by implanting the tumor tubes at the colorectum of mice and monitored the model development using bioluminescence imaging. This model successfully recapitulates the clinical chemotherapy efficacy, including reduced total flux, tumor weight, and the expression of Ki67 after treatment of the first-line chemotherapy regime of CRC (FOLFOX: oxaliplatin and 5-fluorouracil/calcium folinate). The model also reproduced the immunosuppressive effect of FOLFOX, indicated by decreased infiltration of macrophages and increased Treg cells in tumor. Additionally, the orthotopic xenograft approach may be applied in immunodeficient NCG/NSG mice for constructing patient-derived xenografts, and being used in clinical precision medicine and drug evaluation. We believe the current model is a successful surgical orthotopic xenograft approach for cancer research and deserves to be popularized, which will provide a convenient and efficient platform for in-depth mechanism exploration of CRC and preclinical drug evaluation.

IKZF1 promotes pyroptosis and prevents M2 macrophage polarization by inhibiting JAK2/STAT5 pathway in colon cancer

Pyroptosis and macrophage pro-inflammatory activation play an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. However, the specific regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. We identified pyroptosis-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) based on the GSE4183 and GSE44861 datasets as well as EVenn database. Expression levels of key genes were detected by qRT-PCR. IKZF1 was overexpressed in colon cancer cells and tumor-bearing mice, and its functions were assessed by various cell biology assays in vitro and in vivo. To investigate the interactions between IKZF1 and macrophages, a co-culture system was constructed. The activator RO8191 or inhibitor ruxolitinib of the JAK/STAT pathway was employed to confirm whether IKZF1 inhibited colon cancer development by regulating JAK2/STAT5 pathway. Pyroptosis-related hub genes RBBP7, HSP90AB1, and RBBP4 were highly expressed, while IKZF1, NLRP1, and PYCARD were lowly expressed. These hub genes had good performance in distinguishing colon cancer from controls. Furthermore, overexpression of IKZF1 inhibited tumor growth and promoted pyroptosis. Overexpression of IKZF1 suppressed cell proliferation, metastasis, and inactivated JAK2/STAT5 signaling pathway in colon cancer cells. Furthermore, upregulation of IKZF1 promoted M1 macrophage polarization while inhibiting M2 macrophage polarization in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT5 signaling pathway. This study identifies IKZF1 as a potential biomarker inactivating JAK2/STAT5 pathway for colon cancer.

Inflammation in cancer: therapeutic opportunities from new insights

As one part of the innate immune response to external stimuli, chronic inflammation increases the risk of various cancers, and tumor-promoting inflammation is considered one of the enabling characteristics of cancer development. Recently, there has been growing evidence on the role of anti-inflammation therapy in cancer prevention and treatment. And researchers have already achieved several noteworthy outcomes. In the review, we explored the underlying mechanisms by which inflammation affects the occurrence and development of cancer. The pro- or anti-tumor effects of these inflammatory factors such as interleukin, interferon, chemokine, inflammasome, and extracellular matrix are discussed. Since FDA-approved anti-inflammation drugs like aspirin show obvious anti-tumor effects, these drugs have unique advantages due to their relatively fewer side effects with long-term use compared to chemotherapy drugs. The characteristics make them promising candidates for cancer chemoprevention. Overall, this review discusses the role of these inflammatory molecules in carcinogenesis of cancer and new inflammation molecules-directed therapeutic opportunities, ranging from cytokine inhibitors/agonists, inflammasome inhibitors, some inhibitors that have already been or are expected to be applied in clinical practice, as well as recent discoveries of the anti-tumor effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The advantages and disadvantages of their application in cancer chemoprevention are also discussed.

Caspases in PANoptosis

Recent studies prove that the three well-established cell death pathways-pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis-are not isolated but rather engage in extensive crosstalk. PANoptosis, a newly identified pathway of inflammatory regulated cell death (RCD), integrates characteristics of apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis. Caspases are a family of conserved cysteine proteases that play critical roles in pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis. Similarly, caspases also play a role in PANoptosis. In this paper, we review the molecular mechanisms of these three RCDs and the crosstalk between them. We also delineate the discovery of PANoptosis and its association with disease. Furthermore, we discuss the caspase function in PANoptosis, mainly focusing on caspase-6 and caspase-8 molecules. This review describes the key molecules, especially caspases, in the context of PANoptosis research, aiming to provide a foundation for targeted interventions in PANoptosis-associated diseases.

Balanced regulation of ROS production and inflammasome activation in preventing early development of colorectal cancer

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and inflammasome activation are the key components of the innate immune response to microbial infection and sterile insults. ROS are at the intersection of inflammation and immunity during cancer development. Balanced regulation of ROS production and inflammasome activation serves as the central hub of innate immunity, determining whether a cell will survive or undergo cell death. However, the mechanisms underlying this balanced regulation remain unclear. Mitochondria and NADPH oxidases are the two major sources of ROS production. Recently, NCF4, a component of the NADPH oxidase complex that primarily contributes to ROS generation in phagocytes, was reported to balance ROS production and inflammasome activation in macrophages. The phosphorylation and puncta distribution of NCF4 shifts from the membrane-bound NADPH complex to the perinuclear region, promoting ASC speck formation and inflammasome activation, which triggers downstream IL-18-IFN-γ signaling to prevent the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we review ROS signaling and inflammasome activation studies in colitis-associated CRC and propose that NCF4 acts as a ROS sensor that balances ROS production and inflammasome activation. In addition, NCF4 is a susceptibility gene for Crohn's disease (CD) and CRC. We discuss the evidence demonstrating NCF4's crucial role in facilitating cell-cell contact between immune cells and intestinal cells, and mediating the paracrine effects of inflammatory cytokines and ROS. This coordination of the signaling network helps create a robust immune microenvironment that effectively prevents epithelial cell mutagenesis and tumorigenesis during the early stage of colitis-associated CRC.

Identification of a pyroptosis-related prognostic model for colorectal cancer and validation of the core gene SPTBN5

BACKGROUND

Pyroptosis, an emerging type of programmed cell death. The mechanisms of pyroptosis mainly include inflammasome-activated pyroptosis and non-inflammasome-activated pyroptosis. Multiple prognostic scoring systems that utilize pyroptosis-related gene expression have been validated as effective predictors of patient outcomes. But the relationship between pyroptosis and colorectal cancer remains unclear. This study has established a gene signature associated with pyroptosis to forecast the prognosis of CRC patients.

METHODS

An analysis of 52 pyroptosis genes was conducted in both CRC and normal colorectal tissues, leading to the discovery of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Core pyroptosis-related genes were identified using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression to establish a prognostic risk score (PRS) for predicting CRC patient outcomes. The TCGA cohort was split into high-risk and low-risk groups based on the PRS, followed by Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analyses. Additionally, differences in the enrichment scores of 16 immune cell types and the activity of 13 immune-related pathways were compared. The role of SPTBN5, a core pyroptosis-related gene, was validated through functional experiments on human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (SW480).

RESULTS

40 differentially expressed genes were identified from 52 pyroptosis genes. A risk model was subsequently developed using 25 core pyroptosis-related genes identified through LASSO Cox regression analysis, and this model was validated in GEO cohorts. GO and KEGG pathway analyses showed that the DEGs are predominantly associated with mineral absorption, thyroid hormone synthesis, and pancreatic secretion. Functional experiments demonstrated that down-regulation of SPTBN5 expression through transfection led to significant decreases in the proliferation, migration, and clonogenicity of SW480 cells.

CONCLUSION

The PRS can identify high-risk CRC patient groups and predict patient prognosis. SPTBN5 may present a potential therapeutic target for CRC.

Inflammasomes in Intestinal Disease: Mechanisms of Activation and Therapeutic Strategies

NOD-like receptors (NLRs) are a family of cytosolic pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) implicated in the innate immune sensing of pathogens and damage signals. NLRs act as sensors in multi-protein complexes called inflammasomes. Inflammasome activity is necessary for the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis, although their aberrant activation contributes to the pathogenesis of several gastrointestinal diseases. In this review, we summarize the main features of the predominant types of inflammasomes involved in gastrointestinal immune responses and their implications in intestinal disease, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), celiac disease, and Colorectal Cancer (CRC). In addition, we report therapeutic discoveries that target the inflammasome pathway, highlighting promising novel therapeutic strategies in the treatment of intestinal diseases. Collectively, our understanding of the mechanisms of intestinal inflammasome activation and their interactions with other immune pathways appear to be not fully elucidated. Moreover, the clinical relevance of the efficacy of inflammasome inhibitors has not been evaluated. Despite these limitations, a greater understanding of the effectiveness, specificity, and reliability of pharmacological and natural inhibitors that target inflammasome components could be an opportunity to develop new therapeutic options for the treatment of intestinal disease.

Regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome and Caspase-3/4/11 by 2',4'-dihydroxychalcone contributes to anti-colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Chronic inflammation is closely related to the occurrence and progression of many cancers, especially colorectal cancer (CRC), which can be triggered by repeated and sustained induction of colitis in mice. CRC is a typical type of cancer that can be caused by inflammation and NLRP3 inflammasome dysregulation plays a certain role in the pathogenesis of CRC.

PURPOSE

As an edible Chinese medicine, Abrus cantoniensis Hance (ACH) has both anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activities. However, most research has focused on inflammation-related diseases, and less research has been done on its active ingredients and targets and its application in CRC. Here, this study deeply explored the target of 2',4'-DHC and its pharmacological mechanism in anti-colon cancer, and provided a new strategy for its drug development and treatment of colon cancer.

METHODS

The cytotoxicity of ACH's active ingredient in HT29 and CT26 cells was measured by CCK-8, clone formation, apoptosis, and cell cycle assay. The metastasis inhibition of CRC cells was determined by wound-healing assay. Western blotting was used to detect the NLRP3 inflammasome activation, pyroptosis, and apoptosis activation. Finally, the in vivo efficacy of 2',4'-DHC was verified by establishing CT26 and HT29 tumor transplant models in mice.

RESULTS

Here, our study firstly demonstrated that 2',4'-DHC inhibited the growth of CRC cells mainly by increasing CRC cell death and ameliorating tumor immunosuppressive environment, which is verified by inducing apoptosis and pyroptosis by regulating caspase-3/4/11, arresting cell cycle in G2/M phase, suppressing the migration of CRC cells, and inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation through inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, enhancing the anticancer immune response by increasing the infiltration of T cells and function of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells but decreasing the infiltration of CD11b+ CD206+ macrophages and function. Importantly, the administration of 2',4'-DHC decreased liver and spleen indexs to mice's normal levels and reduced the burden of CT26 and HT29 tumor-bearing in mice without pathological changes in the major organs.

CONCLUSION

2',4'-DHC inhibited CRC growth through various mechanisms, mainly by regulating NLRP3 inflammasome and caspase-3/4/11 activation. Considering the anti-tumor and immunomodulation roles of 2',4'-DHC, it might be a new direction for the development of new strategies to treat colorectal cancer.

Celecoxib inhibits NLRP1 inflammasome pathway in MDA-MB-231 Cells

NLRP1 is predominantly overexpressed in breast cancer tissue, and the evaluated activation of NLRP1 inflammasome is associated with tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Therefore, targeting NLRP1 activation could be a crucial strategy in anticancer therapy. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that NLRP1 pathway may contribute to the cytotoxic effects of celecoxib and nimesulide in MDA-MB-231 cells. First of all, IC50 values and inhibitory effects on the colony-forming ability of drugs were evaluated in cells. Then, the alterations in the expression levels of NLRP1 inflammasome components induced by drugs were investigated. Subsequently, the release of inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and the activity of caspase-1 in drug-treated cells were measured. According to our results, celecoxib and nimesulide selectively inhibited the viability of MDA-MB-231 cells. These drugs remarkably inhibited the colony-forming ability of cells. The expression levels of NLRP1 inflammasome components decreased in celecoxib-treated cells, accompanied by decreased caspase-1 activity and IL-1β release. In contrast, nimesulide treatment led to the upregulation of the related protein expressions with unchanged caspase-1 activity and increased IL-1β secretion. Our results indicated that the NLRP1 inflammasome pathway might contribute to the antiproliferative effects of celecoxib in MDA-MB-231 cells but is not a crucial mechanism for nimesulide.

Gasdermin D promotes development of intestinal tumors through regulating IL-1β release and gut microbiota composition

The interplay between gut microbiota and host is crucial for maintaining host health. When this balance is broken, various diseases can arise, including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the mechanism by which gut microbiota and host interactions mediate CRC development remains unclear. Here, we found that Gasdermin D (GSDMD), an inflammasome effector responsible for forming membrane pores to mediate cell pyroptosis, was upregulated in both human and mouse intestinal tumor samples. GSDMD deficiency significantly suppressed intestinal tumor development in Apcmin/+ mice, a spontaneous CRC mouse model. Apcmin/+Gsdmd-/- mice exhibited reduced IL-1β release in the intestine, and the administration of recombinant mouse IL-1β partially restored intestinal tumor development in Apcmin/+Gsdmd-/- mice. Moreover, 16s rRNA sequencing showed a substantial increase in Lactobacillus abundance in the feces of Apcmin/+Gsdmd-/- mice compared to Apcmin/+ mice. Concurrently, Kynurenine (Kyn), a metabolite derived from host tryptophan (Trp) metabolism, was significantly decreased in the feces of Apcmin/+Gsdmd-/- mice, as shown by metabolite analysis. Additionally, Kyn levels were inversely correlated with Lactobacillus abundance. Furthermore, the administration of exogenous Kyn also promoted intestinal tumor development in Apcmin/+Gsdmd-/- mice. Thus, GSDMD promotes spontaneous CRC development through increasing IL-1β release and Kyn production. Our data suggest an association between GSDMD, gut microbiota, the host Trp/Kyn pathway, and CRC development.

[Nlrp6 overexpression inhibits lipid synthesis to suppress proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by regulating the AMPK-Srebp1c axis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mechanism of Nlrp6 for regulating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression in light of lipid synthesis regulation.

METHODS

Nlrp6 expression level in HCC tissues of different pathological grades was investigated using RNA-seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, and its correlation with the patients' survival was analyzed with Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. HepG2 cells with adenovirus-mediated Nlrp6 overexpression or knockdown were treated with palmitic acid (PA), and the changes in lipid deposition and cell proliferation were evaluated using Oil Red O staining, CCK-8 assay, EdU staining, and colony formation assay. RT-qPCR and Western blotting were used to detect the changes in expression of lipid synthesis-related genes and the proteins in the AMPK-Srebp1c axis. In a mouse model of hepatic steatosis established in liver-specific Nlrp6 knockout mice by high-fat diet feeding for 24 weeks, liver fibrosis was examined with histological staining, and the changes in expressions of HCC markers and the AMPK-Srebp1c signaling pathway were detected.

RESULTS

Nlrp6 expression was significantly reduced in HCC tissues with negative correlations with the pathological grades and the patients' survival (P < 0.0001). In HepG2 cells, Nlrp6 overexpression significantly inhibited lipid deposition and cell proliferation, whereas Nlrp6 knockdown produced the opposite effects. Nlrp6 overexpression strongly suppressed the expression of lipid synthesis-related genes, promoted AMPK phosphorylation, and inhibited Srebp1c expression. The mice with liver-specific Nlrp6 knockout and high-fat feeding showed increased hepatic steatosis, collagen deposition, and AFP expression with reduced AMPK phosphorylation and increased Srebp1c expression.

CONCLUSION

Nlrp6 overexpression inhibits lipid synthesis in HCC cells by regulating the AMPK-Srebp1c axis, which might be a key pathway for suppressing HCC cell proliferation.

Impact of gut microbiota and its metabolites on immunometabolism in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is highly prevalent, accounting for approximately one-tenth of cancer cases and deaths globally. It stands as the second most deadly and third most common cancer type. Although the gut microbiota has been implicated in CRC carcinogenesis for the last several decades, it remains one of the least understood risk factors for CRC development, as the gut microbiota is highly diverse and variable. Many studies have uncovered unique microbial signatures in CRC patients compared with healthy matched controls, with variations dependent on patient age, disease stage, and location. In addition, mechanistic studies revealed that tumor-associated bacteria produce diverse metabolites, proteins, and macromolecules during tumor development and progression in the colon, which impact both cancer cells and immune cells. Here, we summarize microbiota's role in tumor development and progression, then we discuss how the metabolic alterations in CRC tumor cells, immune cells, and the tumor microenvironment result in the reprogramming of activation, differentiation, functions, and phenotypes of immune cells within the tumor. Tumor-associated microbiota also undergoes metabolic adaptation to survive within the tumor environment, leading to immune evasion, accumulation of mutations, and impairment of immune cells. Finally, we conclude with a discussion on the interplay between gut microbiota, immunometabolism, and CRC, highlighting a complex interaction that influences cancer development, progression, and cancer therapy efficacy.

Gut commensal Alistipes as a potential pathogenic factor in colorectal cancer

Although previous research has shown that inflammation is associated with development of colorectal cancer (CRC), questions remain about whether inflammatory factor-secreting bacteria play a crucial role in CRC development. The potential role of gut microbiota in secreting inflammatory factors involved in the carcinogenesis of CRC among Chinese patients was explored in this study. 16S rRNA sequencing was utilized to evaluate the distinct microbial characteristics between patients with CRC and colorectal adenoma. The serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10 were measured using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), while the expression of LRG1 and TGF-β1 in tissues was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The correlation between gut microbiota and inflammatory factor signaling was analyzed. Compared with the adenoma group, CRC patients exhibit distinct pathologies. Moreover, elevated levels of CEA, erythrocytes and haemoglobin in the blood of CRC patients were found. In addition, CRC patients have significantly higher levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, LRG1 and TGF-β1. Spearman correlation analysis revealed that LRG1 was positively related to IL-6 and TNF-α, respectively. The correlation analysis results of TGF-β1 were consistent with the above. The abundance of Blautia and Streptococcus was lower in CRC patients, while the relative abundance of Alistipes, Peptostreptococcus and Porphyromonas was significantly elevated. Moreover, positive correlations between Alistipes and inflammatory factor signaling were also found. Our results suggest that gut commensal Alistipes is a key bacterium with pro-inflammatory properties in the CRC carcinogenesis. TNF-α and IL-6 associated with Alistipes might activate LRG1/TGF-β1 signaling which contributed to the carcinogenesis of CRC.

Investigation of pre and postoperative Th1/Th2 cytokine balance and novel cytokines in colorectal cancer patients

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major health problem worldwide and is usually detected in advanced stages, although it is highly treatable with early detection. The aim of this study was to examine the serum levels of various cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of CRC. The study included 29 patients and 30 healthy volunteers. Blood samples were collected twice from the patient group, before and after surgery, and these samples were evaluated for interleukin (IL) 4, 10, 23r, 37, 38, 40 and interferon (IFN) gamma levels. The results showed that IL-4 and IL-38 levels were significantly lower in the preoperative serum samples of the patient group compared to the control group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.01, respectively), while IL-4, IL-10, IL-38 and IL-40 levels increased significantly in the postoperative period (p = 0.004, p = 0.02, p = 0.03 and p = 0.004, respectively). These findings may contribute to the development of immunotherapy agents in the treatment of CRC. However, comprehensive studies on larger patient groups are needed to fully understand the role of cytokines in CRC pathogenesis.

PANoptosis: bridging apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis in cancer progression and treatment

This comprehensive review explores the intricate mechanisms of PANoptosis and its implications in cancer. PANoptosis, a convergence of apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis, plays a crucial role in cell death and immune response regulation. The study delves into the molecular pathways of each cell death mechanism and their crosstalk within PANoptosis, emphasizing the shared components like caspases and the PANoptosome complex. It highlights the significant role of PANoptosis in various cancers, including respiratory, digestive, genitourinary, gliomas, and breast cancers, showing its impact on tumorigenesis and patient survival rates. We further discuss the interwoven relationship between PANoptosis and the tumor microenvironment (TME), illustrating how PANoptosis influences immune cell behavior and tumor progression. It underscores the dynamic interplay between tumors and their microenvironments, focusing on the roles of different immune cells and their interactions with cancer cells. Moreover, the review presents new breakthroughs in cancer therapy, emphasizing the potential of targeting PANoptosis to enhance anti-tumor immunity. It outlines various strategies to manipulate PANoptosis pathways for therapeutic purposes, such as targeting key signaling molecules like caspases, NLRP3, RIPK1, and RIPK3. The potential of novel treatments like immunogenic PANoptosis-initiated therapies and nanoparticle-based strategies is also explored.

Atractylenolide II combined with Interferon-γ synergistically ameliorates colorectal cancer progression in vivo and in vitro by blocking the NF-kB p65/PD-L1 pathway

Purpose: Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz is a widely used classical traditional Chinese herbal medicine, that has shown remarkable efficacy in cancers. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common malignant tumor globally. Interferon (IFN)-γ, a prominent cytokine involved in anti-tumor immunity that has cytostatic, pro-apoptotic, and immune-stimulatory properties for the detection and removal of transformed cells. Atractylenolides-II (AT-II) belongs to the lactone compound that is derived from Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz with anti-cancer activity. However, whether AT-II combined with IFN-γ modulates CRC progression and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The present study aimed to elucidate the efficacy and pharmaceutical mechanism of action of AT-II combined with IFN-γ synergistically against CRC by regulating the NF-kB p65/PD-L1 signaling pathway. Methods: HT29 and HCT15 cells were treated with AT-II and IFN-γ alone or in combination and cell viability, migration, and invasion were then analyzed using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and Transwell assays, respectively. Furthermore, the underlying mechanism was investigated through western blot assay. The role of AT-II combined with IFN-γ on tumor growth and lung metastases was estimated in vivo. Finally, the population of lymphocytes in tumor tissues of lung metastatic C57BL/6 mice and the plasma cytokine levels were confirmed by flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: AT-II or the combination IFN-γ significantly inhibited the growth and migration abilities of CRC cells in vitro and in vivo. The biological mechanisms behind the beneficial effects of AT-II combined with IFN-γ were also measured and inhibition of p38 MAPK, FAK, Wnt/β-catenin, Smad, and NF-kB p65/PD-L1 pathways was observed. Moreover, AT-II combined with IFN-γ significantly inhibited HCT15 xenograft tumor growth and lung metastases in C57BL/6 mice, which was accompanied by lymphocyte infiltration into the tumor tissues and inflammatory response inactivation. Conclusions: The results showed that the AT-II in combination with IFN-γ could be used as a potential strategy for tumor immunotherapy in CRC. More importantly, the mechanism by which AT-II suppressed CRC progressions was by inhibiting the NF-kB p65/PD-L1 signal pathway.

Effects of Lactococcus lactis on colorectal cancer in various terms: a narrative review

Introduction

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers with an increasing number of cases. Various studies have found an association between the gut microbiota balance and colorectal cancer incidence. Lactococcus lactis is a probiotic bacterium found in fermented foods, particularly yogurt and cheese. This probiotic has been shown to reduce various anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory agents that trigger cancer, such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-18, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and natural killer (NK) cells.

Methods

Full-text articles and original research published in the last ten years were used as references, and "Lactococcus and colorectal cancer" as keywords. The reference search is on several databases, such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, and Nature. Searching results obtained eleven articles.

Discussion

Lactococcus lactis does have a perfect role in suppressing cancer cells. Lactococcus lactis has anti-proliferative effects associated with decreased cyclin D1 expression in SW480 cell lines, decreased NK cells, reduced cancer cell viability, decreased IL-8 levels, and decreased IL-6.

Conclusion

Lactococcus lactis contains nisin, which can suppress various gene, protein, and cytokine expressions that play a role in cancer cell growth. Probiotics can inhibit colorectal cancer without significant side effects.

Intestinal Dysbiosis: Microbial Imbalance Impacts on Colorectal Cancer Initiation, Progression and Disease Mitigation

The human gastrointestinal tract houses a diverse range of microbial species that play an integral part in many biological functions. Several preclinical studies using germ-free mice models have demonstrated that the gut microbiome profoundly influences carcinogenesis and progression. Colorectal cancer appears to be associated with microbial dysbiosis involving certain bacterial species, including F. nucleatum, pks+ E. coli, and B. fragilis, with virome commensals also disrupted in patients. A dysbiosis toward these pro-carcinogenic species increases significantly in CRC patients, with reduced numbers of the preventative species Clostridium butyicum, Roseburia, and Bifidobacterium evident. There is also a correlation between Clostridium infection and CRC. F. nucleatum, in particular, is strongly associated with CRC where it is associated with therapeutic resistance and poor outcomes in patients. The carcinogenic mode of action of pathogenic bacteria in CRC is a result of genotoxicity, epigenetic alterations, ROS generation, and pro-inflammatory activity. The aim of this review is to discuss the microbial species and their impact on colorectal cancer in terms of disease initiation, progression, and metastasis. The potential of anticancer peptides as anticancer agents or adjuvants is also discussed, as novel treatment options are required to combat the high levels of resistance to current pharmaceutical options.

Role of the gut microbiota in tumorigenesis and treatment

The gut microbiota is a crucial component of the intricate microecosystem within the human body that engages in interactions with the host and influences various physiological processes and pathological conditions. In recent years, the association between dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and tumorigenesis has garnered increasing attention, as it is recognized as a hallmark of cancer within the scientific community. However, only a few microorganisms have been identified as potential drivers of tumorigenesis, and enhancing the molecular understanding of this process has substantial scientific importance and clinical relevance for cancer treatment. In this review, we delineate the impact of the gut microbiota on tumorigenesis and treatment in multiple types of cancer while also analyzing the associated molecular mechanisms. Moreover, we discuss the utility of gut microbiota data in cancer diagnosis and patient stratification. We further outline current research on harnessing microorganisms for cancer treatment while also analyzing the prospects and challenges associated with this approach.

Identification and validation of a pyroptosis-related prognostic model for colorectal cancer based on bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing data

BACKGROUND

Pyroptosis impacts the development of malignant tumors, yet its role in colorectal cancer (CRC) prognosis remains uncertain.

AIM

To assess the prognostic significance of pyroptosis-related genes and their association with CRC immune infiltration.

METHODS

Gene expression data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and single-cell RNA sequencing dataset GSE178341 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Pyroptosis-related gene expression in cell clusters was analyzed, and enrichment analysis was conducted. A pyroptosis-related risk model was developed using the LASSO regression algorithm, with prediction accuracy assessed through K-M and receiver operating characteristic analyses. A nomogram predicting survival was created, and the correlation between the risk model and immune infiltration was analyzed using CIBERSORTx calculations. Finally, the differential expression of the 8 prognostic genes between CRC and normal samples was verified by analyzing TCGA-COADREAD data from the UCSC database.

RESULTS

An effective pyroptosis-related risk model was constructed using 8 genes-CHMP2B, SDHB, BST2, UBE2D2, GJA1, AIM2, PDCD6IP, and SEZ6L2 (P < 0.05). Seven of these genes exhibited differential expression between CRC and normal samples based on TCGA database analysis (P < 0.05). Patients with higher risk scores demonstrated increased death risk and reduced overall survival (P < 0.05). Significant differences in immune infiltration were observed between low- and high-risk groups, correlating with pyroptosis-related gene expression.

CONCLUSION

We developed a pyroptosis-related prognostic model for CRC, affirming its correlation with immune infiltration. This model may prove useful for CRC prognostic evaluation.

Pyroptosis: a new insight into intestinal inflammation and cancer

Pyroptosis is an innate immune response triggered by the activation of inflammasomes by various influencing factors, characterized by cell destruction. It impacts the immune system and cancer immunotherapy. In recent years, the roles of pyroptosis and inflammasomes in intestinal inflammation and cancer have been continuously confirmed. This article reviews the latest progress in pyroptosis mechanisms, new discoveries of inflammasomes, mutual regulation between inflammasomes, and their applications in intestinal diseases. Additionally, potential synergistic treatment mechanisms of intestinal diseases with pyroptosis are summarized, and challenges and future directions are discussed, providing new ideas for pyroptosis therapy.

Five genes identified as prognostic markers for colorectal cancer through the integration of genome-wide association study and expression quantitative trait loci data

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prominent form of cancer globally, ranking second in terms of prevalence and serving as a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, but the underlying biological interpretation remains largely unknown. Methods: We used the summary data-based Mendelian randomization method to integrate CRC genome-wide association studies (ncase = 7062; ncontrol = 195,745) and expression quantitative trait loci summary data in peripheral whole blood (Consortium for Architecture of Gene Expression: n = 2765; Genotype-Tissue Expression [v8]: n = 755) and colon tissue (colon-transverse: n = 406; colon-sigmoid: n = 373) and identified related genes. Results: Genes ABTB1, CYP21A2, NLRP1, PHKG1 and PIP5K1C have emerged as significant prognostic markers for CRC patient survival. Functional analysis revealed their involvement in cancer cell migration and invasion mechanisms, providing valuable insights for the development of future anti-CRC drugs. Conclusion: We successfully identified five CRC risk genes, providing new insights and research directions for the effective mechanisms of CRC.

Activation of CHPF by transcription factor NFIC promotes NLRP3 activation during the progression of colorectal cancer

Given the role of chondroitin polymerizing factor (CHPF) in several cancers, we investigated its role in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) and its association with NLRP3 inflammasome activation. High expression of CHPF in CRC predicted poor patient prognosis. Using colony formation, EdU staining, wound healing, Transwell invasion, and flow cytometry assays, we revealed that the downregulation of CHPF inhibited the malignant behavior of CRC cells. CHPF promoted NLRP3 inflammasome activation by inducing the MAPK signaling pathway, as evidenced by enhanced expression of Phos-ERK1/2, Phos-MEK1, Phos-MEK2, and NLRP3. Additionally, nuclear factor 1 C-type (NFIC) was revealed as a potential upstream transcription factor of CHPF in the modulation of CRC, and the anti-tumor effects elicited through its knockdown were compromised by CHPF in vitro and in vivo. In summary, we demonstrated that NFIC promoted NLRP3 activation to support CRC development via the CHPF-mediated MAPK signaling.

SLC6A14 promotes ulcerative colitis progression by facilitating NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory condition with frequent relapse and recurrence. Evidence suggests the involvement of SLC6A14 in UC pathogenesis, but the central regulator remains unknown.

AIM

To explore the role of SLC6A14 in UC-associated pyroptosis.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), immunoblotting, and immunohistochemical were used to assess SLC6A14 in human UC tissues. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce inflammation in FHC and NCM460 cells and model enteritis, and SLC6A14 levels were assessed. Pyroptosis markers were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Western blotting, and qRT-PCR, and EdU incubation, CCK-8 assays and flow cytometry were used to examine proliferation and apoptosis. Mouse models of UC were used for verification.

RESULTS

SLC6A14 was increased and correlated with NLRP3 in UC tissues. LPS-induced FHC and NCM460 cells showed increased SLC6A14 levels. Reducing SLC6A14 increased cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis. Reducing SLC6A14 decreased pyroptosis-associated proteins (ASC, IL-1β, IL-18, NLRP3). NLRP3 overexpression counteracted the effects of sh-SLC6A14 on LPS-induced FHC and NCM460 cell pyroptosis. SLC6A14 improved the mucosa in mice with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis.

CONCLUSION

SLC6A14 promotes UC pyroptosis by regulating NLRP3, suggesting the therapeutic potential of modulating the SLC6A14/NLRP3 axis.

Mechanisms and effects of NLRP3 in digestive cancers

Inflammasomes are thought to be important mediators of host defense against microbial pathogens and maintenance of gastrointestinal tract homeostasis. They can modulate caspase-1 to promote IL-18 and IL-1β secretion and promote phagocytosis induced by bacterial pathogens. NLRP3 is an inflammasome comprising a multiprotein complex assembled by pattern recognition receptors in the cell cytoplasm. It is a crucial component of the innate immune system. Dysregulation of NLRP3 may contribute to inflammatory diseases and intestinal cancers. Recent research suggests that NLRP3 plays an essential role in tumor development; therefore, intensive study of its mechanism is warranted as it could play a key role in the treatment of digestive system tumors. In this review, we discuss the mechanism and role of NLRP3 in tumors of the digestive system and response strategies to modulate NLRP3 for potential use in tumor treatment.

Potential molecular mechanisms of myrtenal against colon cancer: A systematic review

Colon cancer is a serious health problem across the globe with various dietary lifestyle modifications. It arises as an inflammation mediated crypts in the colon epithelial cells and undergoes uncontrolled cell division and proliferation. Bacterial enzymes contribute to a major outbreak in colon cancer development upon the release of toxic metabolites from the gut microflora. Pathogen associated molecular patterns and damage associated molecular patterns triggers the NLPR3 inflammasome pathways that releases pro-inflammatory cytokines to induce cancer of the colon. Contributing to this, specific chemokines and receptor complexes attribute to cellular proliferation and metastasis. Bacterial enzymes synergistically attack the colon mucosa and degenerate the cellular integrity causing lysosomal discharge. These factors further instigate the Tol like receptors (TLRs) and Nod like receptors (NLRs) to promote angiogenesis and supply nutrients for the cancer cells. Myrtenal, a monoterpene, is gaining more importance in recent times and it is being widely utilized against many diseases such as cancers, neurodegenerative diseases and diabetes. Based on the research data's, the reviews focus on the anticancer property of myrtenal by emphasizing its therapeutic properties which downregulate the inflammasome pathways and other signalling pathways. Combination therapy is gaining more importance as they can target every variant in the cellular stress condition. Clinical studies with compounds like myrtenal of the monoterpenes family is provided with positive results which might open an effective anticancer drug therapy. This review highlights myrtenal and its biological potency as a cost effective drug for prevention and treatment of colon cancer.

Role of Histone Deacetylase 6 and Histone Deacetylase 6 Inhibition in Colorectal Cancer

Histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6), by deacetylation of multiple substrates and association with interacting proteins, regulates many physiological processes that are involved in cancer development and invasiveness such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, motility, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis. Due to its ability to remove misfolded proteins, induce autophagy, and regulate unfolded protein response, HDAC6 plays a protective role in responses to stress and enables tumor cell survival. The scope of this review is to discuss the roles of HDCA6 and its implications for the therapy of colorectal cancer (CRC). As HDAC6 is overexpressed in CRC, correlates with poor disease prognosis, and is not essential for normal mammalian development, it represents a good therapeutic target. Selective inhibition of HDAC6 impairs growth and progression without inducing major adverse events in experimental animals. In CRC, HDAC6 inhibitors have shown the potential to reduce tumor progression and enhance the therapeutic effect of other drugs. As HDAC6 is involved in the regulation of immune responses, HDAC6 inhibitors have shown the potential to improve antitumor immunity by increasing the immunogenicity of tumor cells, augmenting immune cell activity, and alleviating immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, HDAC6 inhibitors may represent promising candidates to improve the effect of and overcome resistance to immunotherapy.

Sulforaphane Attenuates AOM/DSS-Induced Colorectal Tumorigenesis in Mice via Inhibition of Intestinal Inflammation

Sulforaphane (SFN) is a compound derived from cruciferous plants. It has received considerable attention in recent years due to its effectiveness in cancer prevention and anti-inflammatory properties. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antitumor potential of sulforaphane on colitis-associated carcinogenesis (CAC) through the establishment of a mouse model with AOM/DSS. First, AOM/DSS and DSS-induced model were established and administered SFN for 10 wk, and then the severity of colitis-associated colon cancer was examined macroscopically and histologically. Subsequently, immune cells and cytokines in the tumor microenvironment (TME) were quantified. Finally, the influence of sulforaphane was also investigated using different colon cell lines. We found that sulforaphane treatment decreased tumor volume, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) expansion, the expression of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β, and the level of IL-10 in serum. Also, it enhanced the antitumor activities of CD8+ T cells and significantly reduced tumorigenesis as induced by AOM/DSS. SFN also attenuated intestinal inflammation in DSS-induced chronic colitis by reshaping the inflammatory microenvironment. This work demonstrates that sulforaphane suppresses carcinogenesis-associated intestinal inflammation and prevents AOM/DSS-induced intestinal tumorigenesis and progression.

PANoptosis in cancer, the triangle of cell death

BACKGROUND

PANoptosis is a novel form of programmed cell death (PCD) found in 2019 that is regulated by the PANoptosome. PANoptosis combines essential features of pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis, forming a "death triangle" of cells. While apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis have been extensively studied for their roles in human inflammatory diseases and many other clinical conditions, historically they were considered as independent processes. However, emerging evidence indicates that these PCDs exhibit cross talk and interactions, resulting in the development of the concept of PANoptosis.

METHODS

In this review, we offer a concise summary of the fundamental mechanisms of apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis. We subsequently introduce the notion of PANoptosis and detail the assembly mechanism of the PANoptosome complex which is responsible for inducing cell death. We also describe some regulatory networks of PANoptosis.

RESULTS

PANoptosis now has been associated with various human diseases including cancer. Although the exact function of PANoptosis in each tumor is not fully understood, it represents a prospective avenue for cancer therapy, offering promise for advancements in cancer therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

In the future, in-depth study of PANoptosis will continue to help us in understanding the fundamental processes underlying cell death and provide scientific support for cancer research.

Recent updates on pyroptosis in tumors of the digestive tract

Pyroptosis is an inflammasome-dependent form of programmed cell death that is mediated by caspases-1, -4, -5, and -11, and the gasdermin protein family. It is characterized by the rupture of cell membrane and the subsequent release of cell contents and interleukins, leading to inflammatory reaction and activation of the immune system. Recent studies have suggested that pyroptosis plays a role in the development of gastrointestinal tumors, impeding tumor generation and progression as well as providing a favorable microenvironment for tumor growth. In this review we outlined the current knowledge regarding the implications of pyroptosis in gastrointestinal cancers.

Walnut Protein Peptides Ameliorate DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis Damage in Mice: An in Silico Analysis and in Vivo Investigation

Walnut (Juglans regia L.) is a food with food-medicine homology, whose derived protein peptides have been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. However, the effects and mechanisms of walnut protein peptides on ulcerative colitis (UC) in vivo have not been systematically and thoroughly investigated. In this study, we applied virtual screening and network pharmacology screening of bioactive peptides to obtain three novel WPPs (SHTLP, HYNLN, and LGTYP) that may alleviate UC through TLR4-MAPK signaling. In vivo studies have shown that WPPs improve intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction and reduce inflammation by inhibiting activation of the TLR4-MAPK pathway. In addition, WPPs restore intestinal microbial homeostasis by reducing harmful bacteria (Helicobacter and Bacteroides) and increasing the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria (Candidatus_Saccharimonas). Our study showed that the WPPs obtained by virtual screening were effective in ameliorating colitis, which has important implications for future screening of bioactive peptides from medicinal food homologues as drugs or dietary supplements.

Analysis of prognostic factors in different grades of histologic differentiation in colorectal cancer patients receiving preoperative neoadjuvant chemotherapy and establishment of prognostic nomograms for moderately differentiated grade

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to analyze the differences in independent prognostic factors of cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with different grades of histologic differentiation of colorectal cancer (CRC) who received preoperative neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and to establish a nomogram for predicting postoperative survival based on moderately differentiated CRC.

METHODS

We analyzed CRC patients from the SEER database who received NAC before operation between 2010 and 2015. The Kaplan-Meier curves were drawn to describe the differences in CSS and OS of CRC patients with different histologic grades of differentiation. Cox regression analysis was used to determine the independent prognostic factors. Nomograms were established to predict CSS and OS at 3 and 5 years by integrating independent prognostic factors. The calibration curve, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and C-index were used to verify nomograms.

RESULTS

A total of 6481 patients with CRC who received preoperative NAC were included in this study. Patients with different grades of histologic differentiation had significant differences in CSS and OS (P < 0.001), and the independent prognostic factors of different grades of histologic differentiation showed heterogeneity. In patients with moderately differentiated grade CRC, the independent prognostic factors for CSS and OS were age, race, marital status, serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level before treatment, site of primary tumor, histologic type, pT stage, pN stage, liver metastasis, and lung metastasis. Nomograms were established based on the independent prognostic factors of moderately differentiated grade CRC, and its calibration curves, area under the curve (AUC), and C-index showed good prediction accuracy.

CONCLUSIONS

The independent prognostic factors of CSS and OS are different in patients with different grades of histologic differentiation of CRC who received NAC before the operation. Nomograms can be used to predict the survival of patients with moderately differentiated grade CRC who received preoperative NAC and to assist clinicians in making clinical decisions.

NOD-like Receptor Signaling Pathway in Gastrointestinal Inflammatory Diseases and Cancers

Nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors (NLRs) are intracellular proteins with a central role in innate and adaptive immunity. As a member of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), NLRs sense specific pathogen-associated molecular patterns, trigger numerous signaling pathways and lead to the secretion of various cytokines. In recent years, cumulative studies have revealed the significant impacts of NLRs in gastrointestinal (GI) inflammatory diseases and cancers. Deciphering the role and molecular mechanism of the NLR signaling pathways may provide new opportunities for the development of therapeutic strategies related to GI inflammatory diseases and GI cancers. This review presents the structures and signaling pathways of NLRs, summarizes the recent advances regarding NLR signaling in GI inflammatory diseases and GI cancers and describes comprehensive therapeutic strategies based on this signaling pathway.

A new strategy for treating colorectal cancer: Regulating the influence of intestinal flora and oncolytic virus on interferon

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has the third highest incidence and the second highest mortality in the world, which seriously affects human health, while current treatments methods for CRC, including systemic therapy, preoperative radiotherapy, and surgical local excision, still have poor survival rates for patients with metastatic disease, making it critical to develop new strategies for treating CRC. In this article, we found that the gut microbiota can modulate the signaling pathways of cancer cells through direct contact with tumor cells, generate inflammatory responses and oxidative stress through interactions between the innate and adaptive immune systems, and produce diverse metabolic combinations to trigger specific immune responses and promote the initiation of systemic type I interferon (IFN-I) and anti-viral immunity. In addition, oncolytic virus-mediated immunotherapy for regulating oncolytic virus can directly lyse tumor cells, induce the immune activity of the body, interact with interferon, inhibit the anti-viral effect of IFN-I, and enhance the anti-tumor effect of IFN-II. Interferon plays an important role in the anti-tumor process. We put forward that exploring the effects of intestinal flora and oncolytic virus on interferon to treat CRC is a promising therapeutic option.

Effect of the β-glucan from Lentinus edodes on colitis-associated colorectal cancer and gut microbiota

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the world, and therapies with safety are in great need. In this study, the β-glucan isolated from Lentinus edodes was successfully fractionated into three fractions with different weight-average molecular weight (M_w) by ultrasonic degradation and used for the treatment of colorectal cancer. In our findings, the β-glucan was successfully degraded with the M_w decreased from 2.56 × 10⁶ Da to 1.41 × 10⁶ Da, exhibiting the triple helix structure without conformation disruption. The in vitro results indicate that β-glucan fractions inhibited colon cancer cell proliferation, induced colon cancer cell apoptosis, and reduced inflammation. The in vivo results based on Azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) mouse model demonstrate that the lower-molecular weight β-glucan fraction showed stronger anti-inflammatory and anti-colon cancer activities by reconstructing intestinal mucosal barrier, increasing short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) content, regulating metabolism of gut microbiota, and rebuilding the gut microbiota structure with the increased Bacteroides and the decreased Proteobacteria at the phylum level, as well as with the decreased Helicobacter and the increased Muribaculum at the genus level. These findings provide scientific basis for using the β-glucan to regulate gut microbiota as an alternative strategy in the clinical treatment of colon cancer.

PANoptosis-related molecular subtype and prognostic model associated with the immune microenvironment and individualized therapy in pancreatic cancer

Background

PANoptosis is an inflammatory type of programmed cell death regulated by PANopotosome. Mounting evidence has shown that PANoptosis could be involved in cancer pathogenesis and the tumor immune microenvironment. Nevertheless, there have been no studies on the mechanism of PANoptosis on pancreatic cancer (PC) pathogenesis.

Methods

We downloaded the data on transcriptomic and clinical features of PC patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. Additionally, the data on copy number variation (CNV), methylation and somatic mutations of genes in 33 types of cancers were obtained from TCGA. Next, we identified the PANoptosis-related molecular subtype using the consensus clustering analysis, and constructed and validated the PANoptosis-related prognostic model using LASSO and Cox regression analyses. Moreover, RT-qPCR was performed to determine the expression of genes involved in the model.

Results

We obtained 66 PANoptosis-related genes (PANRGs) from published studies. Of these, 24 PC-specific prognosis-related genes were identified. Pan-cancer analysis revealed complex genetic changes, including CNV, methylation, and mutation in PANRGs were identified in various cancers. By consensus clustering analysis, PC patients were classified into two PANoptosis-related patterns: PANcluster A and B. In PANcluster A, the patient prognosis was significantly worse compared to PANcluster B. The CIBERSORT algorithm showed a significant increase in the infiltration of CD8⁺ T cells, monocytes, and naïve B cells, in patients in PANcluster B. Additionally, the infiltration of macrophages, activated mast cells, and dendritic cells were higher in patients in PANcluster A. Patients in PANcluster A were more sensitive to erlotinib, selumetinib and trametinib, whereas patients in PANcluster B were highly sensitive to irinotecan, oxaliplatin and sorafenib. Moreover, we constructed and validated the PANoptosis-related prognostic model to predict the patient's survival. Finally, the GEPIA and Human Protein Atlas databases were analyzed, and RT-qPCR was performed. Compared to normal tissues, a significant increase in CXCL10 and ITGB6 (associated with the model) expression was observed in PC tissues.

Conclusion

We first identified the PANoptosis-related molecular subtypes and established a PANoptosis-related prognostic model for predicting the survival of patients with PC. These results would aid in exploring the mechanisms of PANoptosis in PC pathogenesis.

The PANoptosis-related signature indicates the prognosis and tumor immune infiltration features of gliomas

Background

Gliomas are the most common primary tumors of the central nervous system, with high heterogeneity and highly variable survival rates. Accurate classification and prognostic assessment are key to the selection of treatment strategies. One hallmark of the tumor is resistance to cell death. PANoptosis, a novel mode of programmed cell death, has been frequently reported to be involved in the innate immunity associated with pathogen infection and played an important role in cancers. However, the intrinsic association of PANoptosis with glioma requires deeper investigation.

Methods

The genetics and expression of the 17 reported PANoptosome-related genes were analyzed in glioma. Based on these genes, patients were divided into two subtypes by consensus clustering analysis. After obtaining the differentially expressed genes between clusters, a prognostic model called PANopotic score was constructed after univariate Cox regression, LASSO regression, and multivariate Cox regression. The expression of the 5 genes included in the PANopotic score was also examined by qPCR in our cohort. The prognostic differences, clinical features, TME infiltration status, and immune characteristics between PANoptotic clusters and score groups were compared, some of which even extended to pan-cancer levels.

Results

Gene mutations, CNVs and altered gene expression of PANoptosome-related genes exist in gliomas. Two PANoptotic clusters were significantly different in prognosis, clinical features, immune characteristics, and mutation landscapes. The 5 genes included in the PANopotic score had significantly altered expression in glioma samples in our cohort. The high PANoptotic score group was inclined to show an unfavorable prognosis, lower tumor purity, worse molecular genetic signature, and distinct immune characteristics related to immunotherapy. The PANoptotic score was considered as an independent prognostic factor for glioma and showed superior prognostic assessment efficacy over several reported models. PANopotic score was included in the nomogram constructed for the potential clinical prognostic application. The associations of PANoptotic score with prognostic assessment and tumor immune characteristics were also reflected at the pan-cancer level.

Conclusion

Molecular subtypes of glioma based on PANoptosome-related genes were proposed and PANoptotic score was constructed with different clinical characteristics of anti-tumor immunity. The potential intrinsic association between PANoptosis and glioma subtypes, prognosis, and immunotherapy was revealed.

Genetic polymorphisms in genes regulating cell death and prognosis of patients with rectal cancer receiving postoperative chemoradiotherapy

OBJECTIVE

The identification of biomarkers for predicting chemoradiotherapy efficacy is essential to optimize personalized treatment. This study determined the effects of genetic variations in genes involved in apoptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis on the prognosis of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer receiving postoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

METHODS

The Sequenom MassARRAY was used to detect 217 genetic variations in 40 genes from 300 patients with rectal cancer who received postoperative CRT. The associations between genetic variations and overall survival (OS) were evaluated using hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) computed using a Cox proportional regression model. Functional experiments were performed to determine the functions of the arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase (ALOX5) gene and the ALOX5 rs702365 variant.

RESULTS

We detected 16 genetic polymorphisms in CASP3, CASP7, TRAILR2, GSDME, CASP4, HO-1, ALOX5, GPX4, and NRF2 that were significantly associated with OS in the additive model (P < 0.05). There was a substantial cumulative effect of three genetic polymorphisms (CASP4 rs571407, ALOX5 rs2242332, and HO-1 rs17883419) on OS. Genetic variations in the CASP4 and ALOX5 gene haplotypes were associated with a higher OS. We demonstrated, for the first time, that rs702365 [G] > [C] represses ALOX5 transcription and corollary experiments suggested that ALOX5 may promote colon cancer cell growth by mediating an inflammatory response.

CONCLUSIONS

Polymorphisms in genes regulating cell death may play essential roles in the prognosis of patients with rectal cancer who are treated with postoperative CRT and may serve as potential genetic biomarkers for individualized treatment.

Damage-associated molecular patterns and sensing receptors based molecular subtypes in malignant pleural mesothelioma and implications for immunotherapy

OBJECTIVES

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is characterized as an incredibly aggressive form of cancer with a dismal diagnosis and a dearth of specific biomarkers and therapeutic options. For MPM patients, the effectiveness of immunotherapy may be influenced by damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP)-induced immunogenic cell death (ICD).The objective of this work is to create a molecular profile associated with DAMPs to categorize MPM patients and predict their prognosis and response to immunotherapy.

METHODS

The RNA-seq of 397 patients (263 patients with clinical data, 57.2% male, 73.0% over 60 yrs.) were gathered from eight public datasets as a training cohort to identify the DAMPs-associated subgroups of MPMs using K-means analysis. Three validation cohorts of patients or murine were established from TCGA and GEO databases. Comparisons were made across each subtype's immune status, gene mutations, survival prognosis, and predicted response to therapy.

RESULTS

Based on the DAMPs gene expression, MPMs were categorized into two subtypes: the nuclear DAMPs subtype, which is classified by the upregulation of immune-suppressed pathways, and the inflammatory DAMPs subtype, which is distinguished by the enrichment of proinflammatory cytokine signaling. The inflammatory DAMPs subgroup had a better prognosis, while the nuclear DAMPs subgroup exhibited a worse outcome. In validation cohorts, the subtyping system was effectively verified. We further identified the genetic differences between the two DAMPs subtypes. It was projected that the inflammatory DAMPs subtype will respond to immunotherapy more favorably, suggesting that the developed clustering method may be implemented to predict the effectiveness of immunotherapy.

CONCLUSION

We constructed a subtyping model based on ICD-associated DAMPs in MPM, which might serve as a signature to gauge the outcomes of immune checkpoint blockades. Our research may aid in the development of innovative immunomodulators as well as the advancement of precision immunotherapy for MPM.

Mechanism of inflammasomes in cancer and targeted therapies

Inflammasomes, composed of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain(NOD)-like receptors (NLRs), are immune-functional protein multimers that are closely linked to the host defense mechanism. When NLRs sense pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), they assemble into inflammasomes. Inflammasomes can activate various inflammatory signaling pathways, including nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, and produce a large number of proinflammatory cytokines, which are closely associated with multiple cancers. They can also accelerate the occurrence and development of cancer by providing suitable tumor microenvironments, promoting tumor cell proliferation, and inhibiting tumor cell apoptosis. Therefore, the exploitation of novel targeted drugs against various inflammasomes and proinflammatory cytokines is a new idea for the treatment of cancer. In recent years, more than 50 natural extracts and synthetic small molecule targeted drugs have been reported to be in the research stage or have been applied to the clinic. Herein, we will overview the mechanisms of inflammasomes in common cancers and discuss the therapeutic prospects of natural extracts and synthetic targeted agents.

PANoptosis: A Cell Death Characterized by Pyroptosis, Apoptosis, and Necroptosis

PANoptosis is a new cell death proposed by Malireddi et al in 2019, which is characterized by pyroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis, but cannot be explained by any of them alone. The interaction between pyroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis is involved in PANoptosis. In this review, from the perspective of PANoptosis, we focus on the relationship between pyroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis, the key molecules in the process of PANoptosis and the formation of PANoptosome, as well as the role of PANoptosis in diseases. We aim to understand the mechanism of PANoptosis and provide a basis for targeted intervention of PANoptosis-related molecules to treat human diseases.