Serum levels of E-selectin, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in colorectal cancer patients: correlations with clinicopathological features, patient survival and tumour surgery

The critical role of COL1A1 revealed by integrated bioinformatics analysis of differentially-expressed genes in colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease

PURPOSE

There is an urgent need to identify biomarkers of tumorigenesis for colitis-associated cancer (CAC) as early cancer detection remains crucial for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This in silico study examines the relationship between IBD and CAC, with particular regard to differentially-expressed genes (DEGs).

METHODS

Integrated bioinformatics tools and public databases were employed. Data from GEO (GSE102133, GSE48958, GSE9348, GSE83687, GSE138202) were processed using GEOexplorer. DEGs were then functionally annotated with DAVID, SRplot, and integrated analysis via Metascape. Validation used Oncopression and Human Protein Atlas. Survival analysis employed GEPIA2. miRNA interactions were studied via miRTargetLink 2.0. Immune infiltration was analyzed with TIMER 2.0. COL1A1 expression and mutations were examined using cBioPortal, Kaplan-Meier plotter, and DNA methylation was analyzed using MethSurv. Correlation of COL1A1 gene promoter methylation with tissue type and clinical data was performed using the UALCAN database. The ROC analysis of COL1A1 was conducted in the R environment.

RESULTS

Our analysis identified three potential hub genes (ICAM1, LAMC1, and COL1A1), which are overexpressed in IBD and cancer tissues compared to normal tissue, and hence may play a role in CAC. Furthermore, patients with lower COL1A1 expression had longer disease-free survival (p = 0.01) than those with higher expression. Therefore, this gene was chosen for further analysis and identified as the most crucial.

CONCLUSION

COL1A1 reveals significant immunohistochemistry, mutations, and methylation data. Further studies involving machine learning and clinical data are required to validate the results.

Identified VCAM1 as prognostic gene in gastric cancer by co-expression network analysis

The diffuse gastric cancer (DGC) is a malignant tumor distinct from intestinal gastric cancer (IGC). This study aims to identify genetic variances and potential diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for diverse types of gastric cancer utilizing an extensive dataset. Data from RNA sequencing and clinical pathological details were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. Co-expression gene modules were constructed via Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), followed by deciphering gene functions and protein-protein interaction networks within significantly associated modules. In total, analysis was conducted on 56,753 genes from 247 individuals with gastric cancer. Particularly, 621 genes from the green module exhibited strong associations with the Lauren type of gastric cancer. The prominent genes in the green module showed enrichment in processes such as signal transduction, immune response, and the positive regulation of GTPase activity. Noteworthy among these, VCAM1 was identified as the central gene linked to patients' prognosis. Moreover, 72 gastric cancer specimens were collected from The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated a significantly higher expression of VCAM1 in DGC compared to IGC (p = 0.019). Furthermore, it was confirmed that VCAM1 expression serves as a prognostic indicator for patients with DGC (p = 0.002), a correlation not observed in IGC (p = 0.760). In conclusion, this study identifies VCAM1 as a promising diagnostic and prognostic factor, suggesting novel avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in gastric cancer.

Clinical changes in serum intercellular adhesion molecule 1 in cervical cancer patients receiving radiotherapy

BACKGROUND

The levels of soluble intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) increased in cervical cancer patients and those patients with recurrence. However, the pattern of change in sICAM-1 and its association with prognosis in cervical cancer patients after radiotherapy remain unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

sICAM-1 level was detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in different patient groups. The predictive value of sICAM-1 for cervical cancer occurrence was evaluated using receiver operating characteristics analysis. The association of sICAM-1 with clinical pathology was analyzed using Fisher's exact test. Association of sICAM-1 with prognosis was evaluated by alteration of sICAM-1 level in cervical cancer patients with or without complete remission at pre-radiotherapy, post-radiotherapy, and post-follow-up. The survival rate of cervical cancer patients with low or high sICAM-1 was plotted using the Kaplan-Meier curve.

RESULTS

sICAM-1 level significantly increased in cervical cancer patients and could predict the occurrence of cervical cancer. sICAM-1 was closely associated with tumor size, differentiation, and radiotherapy effect. Importantly, the level of sICAM-1 gradually decreased in patients with complete remission after radiotherapy, while it remained unchanged in those without complete remission. Furthermore, the cervical cancer patients with high expression of sICAM-1 had a shorter survival time.

CONCLUSION

The level of sICAM-1 could predict the occurrence of cervical cancer and is closely related to the prognosis of cervical cancer patients after radiotherapy.

Proteomic and Metabolomic Analysis of Bone Marrow and Plasma from Patients with Extramedullary Multiple Myeloma Identifies Distinct Protein and Metabolite Signatures

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable haematological malignancy of plasma cells in the bone marrow. In rare cases, an aggressive form of MM called extramedullary multiple myeloma (EMM) develops, where myeloma cells enter the bloodstream and colonise distal organs or soft tissues. This variant is associated with refractoriness to conventional therapies and a short overall survival. The molecular mechanisms associated with EMM are not yet fully understood. Here, we analysed the proteome of bone marrow mononuclear cells and blood plasma from eight patients (one serial sample) with EMM and eight patients without extramedullary spread. The patients with EMM had a significantly reduced overall survival with a median survival of 19 months. Label-free mass spectrometry revealed 225 proteins with a significant differential abundance between bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMNCs) isolated from patients with MM and EMM. This plasma proteomics analysis identified 22 proteins with a significant differential abundance. Three proteins, namely vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1), pigment epithelium derived factor (PEDF), and hepatocyte growth factor activator (HGFA), were verified as the promising markers of EMM, with the combined protein panel showing excellent accuracy in distinguishing EMM patients from MM patients. Metabolomic analysis revealed a distinct metabolite signature in EMM patient plasma compared to MM patient plasma. The results provide much needed insight into the phenotypic profile of EMM and in identifying promising plasma-derived markers of EMM that may inform novel drug development strategies.

VCAM-1 complements CA-125 in detecting recurrent ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

Close to three-quarters of ovarian cancer cases are frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage, with more than 70% of them failing to respond to primary therapy and relapsing within 5 years. There is an urgent need to identify strategies for early detection of ovarian cancer recurrence, which may lead to earlier intervention and better outcomes.

METHODS

A customized magnetic bead-based 8-plex immunoassay was evaluated using a Bio-Plex 200 Suspension Array System. Target protein levels were analyzed in sera from 58 patients diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer (including 34 primary and 24 recurrent tumors) and 46 healthy controls. The clinical performance of these biomarkers was evaluated individually and in combination for their ability to detect recurrent ovarian cancer.

RESULTS

An 8-plex immunoassay was evaluated with high analytical performance suitable for biomarker validation studies. Logistic regression modeling selected a two-marker panel of CA-125 and VCAM-1 that improved the performance of CA-125 alone in detecting recurrent ovarian cancer (AUC: 0.813 versus 0.700). At a fixed specificity of 83%, the two-marker panel significantly improved sensitivity in separating primary from recurrent tumors (70.8% versus 37.5%, P = 0.004), demonstrating that VCAM-1 was significantly complementary to CA-125 in detecting recurrent ovarian cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

A two-marker panel of CA-125 and VCAM-1 showed strong diagnostic performance and improvement over the use of CA-125 alone in detecting recurrent ovarian cancer. The experimental results warrant further clinical validation to determine their role in the early detection of recurrent ovarian cancer.

An epigenetic signature of advanced colorectal cancer metastasis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The majority of CRC deaths are caused by tumor metastasis, even following treatment. There is strong evidence for epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, accompanying CRC metastasis and poorer patient survival. Earlier detection and a better understanding of molecular drivers for CRC metastasis are of critical clinical importance. Here, we identify a signature of advanced CRC metastasis by performing whole genome-scale DNA methylation and full transcriptome analyses of paired primary cancers and liver metastases from CRC patients. We observed striking methylation differences between primary and metastatic pairs. A subset of loci showed coordinated methylation-expression changes, suggesting these are potentially epigenetic drivers that control the expression of critical genes in the metastatic cascade. The identification of CRC epigenomic markers of metastasis has the potential to enable better outcome prediction and lead to the discovery of new therapeutic targets.

Assessment of I-CAM1, V-CAM1, and E-selectin Serum Levels in Patients with Breast and Pelvic Cancer: A Case Control Study

Background: Breast and pelvic cancers are the most prevalent cancers among women globally. Several studies have reported on the effect of cell adhesion molecules on the growth, multiplication, invasion, and metastasis of tumor cells as well as inflammatory biomarkers, which are responsible for harmful inflammatory processes. Objectives: The purpose of the current study was to assess the serum levels of adhesion molecules intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and E-selectin in patients with cancer before and after radiotherapy, compare these with the levels of healthy subjects, and consider the relationship of these levels with the tumor origin. Methods: The present case-control study investigated 14 patients with breast cancer and 14 patients with pelvic cancer who had been referred to Omid Teaching Hospital’s oncology clinic, Mashhad, Iran between 2015 and 2017. Evaluated by the ELISA method for ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin were the serum samples of these 28 cancer patients before and after their course of radiotherapy treatment and the serum samples of the 28 healthy subjects who had no history of cancer, radiotherapy or the risk factor of coronary artery disease. Results: The ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin serum levels of all patients with cancer before and after a course of radiotherapy were significantly higher than those of the control group (P value ≤ 0.5). There was no significant difference between the two cancer groups before and after radiotherapy (P value ≥ 0.05). Conclusions: The current study demonstrated that the serum levels of adhesion molecules in patients with cancer before and after radiotherapy increase significantly regardless of the initial location of the tumor.

Preoperative Cancer Inflammation Prognostic Index as a Superior Predictor of Short- and Long-Term Outcomes in Patients with Stage I-III Colorectal Cancer after Curative Surgery

Inflammatory reactions play a crucial role in cancer progression and may contribute to systemic inflammation. In routine clinical practice, some inflammatory biomarkers can be utilized as valuable predictors for colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aims to determine the usefulness of a novel cancer-inflammation prognostic index (CIPI) marker derived from calculating carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) multiplied by the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) values established for non-metastatic CRCs. Between January 1995 and December 2018, 12,092 patients were diagnosed with stage I to III primary CRC and had radical resection—they were all included in this study for further investigation. There were 5996 (49.6%) patients in the low-CIPI group and 6096 (50.4%) patients in the high-CIPI group according to the cutoff value of 8. For long-term outcomes, the high-CIPI group had a significantly higher incidence of recurrence (30.6% vs. 16.0%, p < 0.001) and worse relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) rates (p < 0.001). High CIPI was an independent prognostic factor for RFS and OS in univariate and multivariate analyses. This research is the first to document the independent significance of CIPI as a prognostic factor for CRC. To ensure that it works, this CIPI needs to be tested on more CRC prediction models.

A phase II study to explore biomarkers for the use of mFOLFOX6/XELOX plus bevacizumab as a first-line chemotherapy in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (WJOG7612GTR)

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this prospective study was to assess the ability of plasma vascular endothelial growth factor-A short isoforms (pVEGF-Asi) to predict bevacizumab (BV) efficacy and to explore other circulating biomarkers in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients treated with modified FOLFOX6/XELOX plus BV (mFOLFOX6/XELOX + BV).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Pre-treatment plasma samples were collected from 100 mCRC patients receiving first-line chemotherapy with mFOLFOX6/XELOX + BV. The plasma levels of 11 angiogenesis-associated molecules, including pVEGF-Asi and 22 cancer-associated gene mutations in circulating tumor DNA, were analyzed. For the primary endpoint, we assumed that the hazard ratio (HR) for progression-free survival (PFS) calculated using a Cox proportional hazards model was <1.15, comparing patients with a high versus those with a low pVEGF-Asi level divided according to the median pVEGF-Asi value.

RESULTS

The median value of pVEGF-Asi was 37 (range 6.5-262) pg/ml. The HR for PFS between the high and low pVEGF-Asi patient groups was 1.3 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8-2.1; log rank, P = 0.25], which was larger than the predefined threshold of 1.15. The multivariate analysis demonstrated that PFS was significantly associated with plasma intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (pICAM-1) (≥190.0 versus <190.0 ng/ml; HR 2.1; 95% CI 1.3-3.5), RAS (mutant versus wild; HR 2.5; 95% CI 1.5-4.3), and FBXW7 (mutant versus wild; HR 2.8; 95% CI 1.2-6.8), whereas overall survival was significantly associated with pICAM-1 (HR 2.0; 95% CI 1.1-3.7) and RAS (HR 2.6; 95% CI 1.5-4.6).

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of BV was unable to compensate for the poor PFS associated with a high pVEGF-Asi level, suggesting that pVEGF-Asi is unlikely to be a good predictive biomarker of the efficacy of mFOLFOX6/XELOX + BV therapy. The clinical significance of circulating ICAM-1, mutant RAS, and mutant FBXW7 levels should be studied further.

Ectopic Tumor VCAM-1 Expression in Cancer Metastasis and Therapy Resistance

Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (VCAM-1; CD106) is a membrane protein that contributes critical physiologic functional roles in cellular immune response, including leukocyte extravasation in inflamed and infected tissues. Expressed as a cell membrane protein, VCAM-1 can also be cleaved from the cell surface into a soluble form (sVCAM-1). The integrin α4β1 (VLA-4) was identified as the first major ligand for VCAM-1. Ongoing studies suggest that, in addition to mediating physiologic immune functions, VCAM-1/VLA-4 signaling plays an increasingly vital role in the metastatic progression of various tumors. Additionally, elevated concentrations of sVCAM-1 have been found in the peripheral blood of patients with cancer, suggesting the tumor microenvironment (TME) as the source of sVCAM-1. Furthermore, over-expression of VLA-4 was linked to tumor progression in various malignancies when VCAM-1 was also up-regulated. This review explores the functional role of VCAM-1 expression in cancer metastasis and therapy resistance, and the potential for the disruption of VCAM-1/VLA-4 signaling as a novel immunotherapeutic approach in cancer, including osteosarcoma, which disproportionately affects the pediatric, adolescent and young adult population, as an unmet medical need.

Roles of intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in colorectal cancer: expression, functions, prognosis, tumorigenesis, polymorphisms and therapeutic implications

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health problem and one of the major causes of cancer-related death worldwide. It is very important to understand the pathogenesis of CRC for early diagnosis, prevention strategies and identification of new therapeutic targets. Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1, CD54) displays an important role in the the pathogenesis of CRC. It is a cell surface glycoprotein of the immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily and plays an essential role in cell-cell, cell-extracellular matrix interaction, cell signaling and immune process. It is also expressed by tumor cells and modulates their functions, including apoptosis, cell motility, invasion and angiogenesis. The interaction between ICAM-1 and its ligand may facilitate adhesion of tumor cells to the vascular endothelium and subsequently in the promotion of metastasis. ICAM-1 expression determines malignant potential of cancer. In this review, we will discuss the expression, function, prognosis, tumorigenesis, polymorphisms and therapeutic implications of ICAM-1 in CRC.

Circulating galectin-3 promotes tumor-endothelium-adhesion by upregulating ICAM-1 in endothelium-derived extracellular vesicles

The adhesion of tumor cells to vascular endothelial cells is an important process of tumor metastasis. Studies have shown that tumor could educate vascular endothelial cells to promote tumor metastasis through many ways. However, the effect of tumor cells on the functions of vascular endothelial cells-derived extracellular vesicles (H-EVs) and the mechanisms underlying their effects in tumor-endothelium adhesion in metastasis remain mysterious. In this study, we found that H-EVs promoted the adhesion of triple negative breast cancer cell to endothelial cells and cirGal-3 enhanced the adhesion-promoting effects of H-EVs. The underlying mechanism was related to the upregulation of glycolysis in endothelial cells induced by cirGal-3 which led to the increase of the ICAM-1 expression and its transmission to MDA-MB-231 cells by H-EVs. Targeting of cirGal-3 or glycolysis of vascular endothelium in breast cancer therefore represents a promising therapeutic strategy to reduce metastasis.

A role for serum cytokines and cell adhesion molecules in the non‑invasive diagnosis of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major cause of cancer-related mortality. Consequently, new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches are being investigated including the serum levels of cytokines and other molecules, although the results are often inconclusive. Thus, the present study aimed to determine whether serum level of cytokines, cell adhesion molecules or matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), alone or in combination, may contribute to the non-invasive diagnosis of CRC. The serum levels of nine cytokines [ILs; IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17, IL-22 and IL-33, and interferon (IFN)-γ], two cell adhesion molecules (intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and P-selectin) and an MMP-7 were measured by ELISA in 33 patients with CRC and 35 healthy controls. Combined capacity of all molecules to detect the presence of CRC was assessed by logistic regression. Molecules and molecule combinations were tested for all stages and tumor grades. A significant increase was identified for IL-8 in patients compared with healthy controls; IL-10 was found to be significantly decreased. The biomarker potential of each significantly modified molecule was tested: IL-8 had a sensitivity of 0.865, a specificity of 0.600 and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.777; for IL-10, sensitivity was 0.65, specificity was 0.69, with an AUC of 0.689. Logistic regression determined the best discriminative potential between patients and control groups for the combination IL-4 + IL-6 + IL-8 + IFN-γ, with 0.97 sensitivity and 0.58 specificity. For the early stages of CRC, the combination IL-6 + IL-8 + IL-22 showed good performance. It was concluded that increased IL-8 had potential as single biomarker in CRC. Cytokine combinations are superior to single cytokine analysis in showing the presence of CRC.

Serum and Pleural Soluble Cell Adhesion Molecules in Mesothelioma Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Mesothelioma, a malignant neoplasm of mesothelial cells, has overall poor prognosis. Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are proteins that contribute to the immune response. In this study the clinical utility and prognostic significance of serum and pleural fluid soluble CAM (sCAM) levels were assessed in patients with mesothelioma. Mesothelioma patients were retrospectively recruited (2016-2020). Clinical characteristics, serum and pleural sCAM levels (sE-cadherin, sE-selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM-1)) and histopathological characteristics were gathered. A total of 51 healthy controls were also recruited for a secondary cross-sectional analysis. 92 mesothelioma patients were analyzed (mean age 64.5 years, 87% males, performance status 0-2). Patients with increased pleural sE-cadherin had higher risk for disease progression (adjusted HR 1.11 (1.02, 1.20), p = 0.013). Serum and pleural sE-selectin were decreased in patients with high-grade mesothelioma. Patients with increased serum or pleural sE-selectin levels had lower risk for death (adjusted HR 0.88 (0.81, 0.96), p = 0.003; 0.90 (0.82, 0.99), p = 0.039, respectively). Serum sE-cadherin, sE-selectin and sICAM-1 levels were significantly increased in mesothelioma patients compared to healthy controls. Further studies are needed to indicate the clinical utility of serum and pleural sCAMs in mesothelioma patients.

Uncovering potential genes in colorectal cancer based on integrated and DNA methylation analysis in the gene expression omnibus database

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is major cancer-related death. The aim of this study was to identify differentially expressed and differentially methylated genes, contributing to explore the molecular mechanism of CRC.

Methods

Firstly, the data of gene transcriptome and genome-wide DNA methylation expression were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Secondly, functional analysis of differentially expressed and differentially methylated genes was performed, followed by protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis. Thirdly, the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset and in vitro experiment was used to validate the expression of selected differentially expressed and differentially methylated genes. Finally, diagnosis and prognosis analysis of selected differentially expressed and differentially methylated genes was performed.

Results

Up to 1958 differentially expressed (1025 up-regulated and 993 down-regulated) genes and 858 differentially methylated (800 hypermethylated and 58 hypomethylated) genes were identified. Interestingly, some genes, such as GFRA2 and MDFI, were differentially expressed-methylated genes. Purine metabolism (involved IMPDH1), cell adhesion molecules and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway were significantly enriched signaling pathways. GFRA2, FOXQ1, CDH3, CLDN1, SCGN, BEST4, CXCL12, CA7, SHMT2, TRIP13, MDFI and IMPDH1 had a diagnostic value for CRC. In addition, BEST4, SHMT2 and TRIP13 were significantly associated with patients’ survival.

Conclusions

The identified altered genes may be involved in tumorigenesis of CRC. In addition, BEST4, SHMT2 and TRIP13 may be considered as diagnosis and prognostic biomarkers for CRC patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09185-0.

Leptin and Vascular Cell Adhesion Protein 1 as Physiological Biomarkers in Serum of Women Suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis

BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis is defining as a common chronic and inflammatory disorder of systematic autoimmune disease. Leptin is a small peptide hormone involved in the inflammatory and immunomodulators processes of several diseases. AIM: The study aimed at evaluating the level of leptin and Vascular Cell Adhesion Protein 1 (VCAM-1) and proves that they act as vital markers in the serum of rheumatoid arthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 80 serum samples from women were obtains (56 serum samples were distributing for women with rheumatoid arthritis and 24 serum samples for uninfected women who were considered a healthy group). RESULTS: There are no significant difference in the concentration of the leptin hormone in the serum of both patients and healthy women, and that age, period, and severity of the disease had no effect on the level of leptin hormone. However, the results confirmed that at the probability level p < 0.05 the VCAM-1 concentration increased significantly in patients’ serum when compared with the healthy group, and demonstrated that age groups only affected the VCAM-1 biomarker level. CONCLUSIONS: Our current study concludes that leptin levels in the serum were not impacts by the inflammatory state in patients with rheumatism, whereas VCAM-1 level in rheumatic patients may be associate with inflammatory reactions.

TGF-β1 inhibits microvascular-like formation by decreasing VCAM1 and ICAM1 via the upregulation of SNAIL in human granulosa cells

Three major endothelial cell junctional adhesion molecules (VCAM1, ICAM1 and E-SELECTIN) play important roles in the process of angiogenesis, a progression of extensive physiological vascularization that occurs during the formation of the corpus luteum. Our previous studies demonstrated that TGF-β1 is a negative regulator of luteinization and progesterone production in luteinized human granulosa (hGL) cells. Whether TGF-β1 can regulate the expression of these endothelial cell adhesion molecules and subsequent angiogenesis in hGL cells remains to be elucidated. Using dual inhibition approaches (small molecular inhibitors and siRNA-based knockdown), we provided the first data showing that TGF-β1 significantly upregulates the expression of the SNAIL transcription factor, which in turn suppresses the expression of VCAM1 and ICAM1 in hGL cells. Additionally, we demonstrate that the suppressive effects on the expression of VCAM1 and ICAM1 induced by TGF-β1 treatment were most likely via an ALK5-mediated SMAD-dependent signaling pathway. Furthermore, functional studies showed that hGL cells cultured on Matrigel exhibited two typical endothelial cell phenotypes, microvascular-like formation and a sprouting microvascular pattern. Notably, these phenotypes were significantly suppressed by either TGF-β1 treatment or knockdown of VCAM1 and ICAM1. Our findings suggest that TGF-β1 plays a potential role in the inhibition of granulosa cell angiogenesis by downregulating the expression of VCAM1 and ICAM1 during follicular development and corpus luteum formation.

Diclofenac down-regulates COX-2 induced expression of CD44 and ICAM-1 in human HT29 colorectal cancer cells

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is expressed in a variety of human colorectal cancer cells and can contribute to carcinogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the effect of diclofenac (DCF), a selective COX-2 inhibitor, on cell adhesion molecules and apoptosis in human colon adenocarcinoma cells. Levels of homing cell adhesion molecule (H-CAM, CD44), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1, CD54), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1, CD106), and epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM, CD326) were evaluated in cancer cells overexpressing (HT29) or not expressing (HCT116) COX-2. Cell viability was determined by MTT assay, COX-2 protein levels and activity were assessed by immunofluorescence and fluorometric analysis, respectively. Endogenous levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) while expression of cell adhesion molecules was analyzed by flow cytometry. Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide-labelling and fluorometric caspase-3 activity measurements were carried out to determine apoptosis. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that the percentage of CD44 and ICAM-1 staining in HCT116 cells was significantly lower compared to HT29 cells. In HT29 cells, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) induced COX-2 expression and increased CD44 and ICAM-1 levels were down-regulated by diclofenac. Stimulation of COX-2 activity in HT29 cells via PMA significantly decreased diclofenac associated increase in PUFA levels. Treatment with both diclofenac and PMA significantly increased the number of apoptotic cells and caspase-3 activity in colon adenocarcinoma cells compared to control groups. In conclusion, diclofenac's effect to retard colorectal tumor growth and metastasis occurs in COX-2 overexpressing colon cancer cells by increased apoptosis and decreased expression of CD44 and ICAM-1.

Antitumor and Radiosensitizing Effects of Zinc Oxide-Caffeic Acid Nanoparticles against Solid Ehrlich Carcinoma in Female Mice

This study aimed to evaluate the anticancer and radio-sensitizing efficacy of Zinc Oxide-Caffeic Acid Nanoparticles (ZnO-CA NPs). ZnO-CA NPs were formulated by the conjugation of Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) with caffeic acid (CA) that were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectra (FT-IR), X-ray Diffractometer (XRD), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). In vitro anticancer potential of ZnO-CA NPs was evaluated by assessing cell viability in the human breast (MCF-7) and hepatocellular (HepG2) carcinoma cell lines. In vivo anticancer and radio-sensitizing effects of ZnO-CA NPs in solid Ehrlich carcinoma-bearing mice (EC mice) were also assessed. Treatment of EC mice with ZnO-CA NPs resulted in a considerable decline in tumor size and weight, down-regulation of B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) gene expressions, decreased vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) level, downregulation of phosphorylated-extracellular-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (p-ERK1/2) protein expression, DNA fragmentation and a recognizable peak at sub-G0/G1 indicating dead cells' population in cancer tissues. Combined treatment of ZnO-CA NPs with γ-irradiation improved these effects. In conclusion: ZnO-CA NPs exhibit in-vitro as well as in-vivo antitumor activity, which is augmented by exposure of mice to γ-irradiation. Further explorations are warranted previous to clinical application of ZnO-CA NPs.

Evaluation of ICAM-1 rs5498 and rs3093030 Polymorphisms in Chinese Patients with Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common cancer threatening human health. Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1, CD54) displays a key role in carcinogenesis and previous studies have suggested that ICAM-1 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are predicted to increase the risk of CRC. However, the relationship of ICAM-1 SNPs with CRC susceptibility was controversial. We conducted a case-control study to clarify the association of ICAM-1 SNPs (rs5498 and rs3093030) with the CRC risk. A total of 1003 CRC patients and 1303 controls were recruited to determine ICAM-1 SNPs (rs5498 and rs3093030) by SNPscan method. In the case-control study, we found that ICAM-1 rs5498 polymorphism did not influence CRC risk (AG vs. AA: adjusted p = 0.179; GG vs. AA: adjusted p = 0.281, AG+GG vs. AA: adjusted p = 0.398; GG vs. AA+AG: adjusted p = 0.153), and ICAM-1 rs3093030 polymorphism did not influence CRC risk (CT vs. CC: adjusted p = 0.841; TT vs. CC: adjusted p = 0.175, CT+TT vs. CC: adjusted p = 0.574 and TT vs. CC+TT: adjusted p = 0.180). In a subgroup of age >61, ICAM-1 rs5498 decreased the risk of CRC (p = 0.047). Multivariate analysis revealed that smoking (p = 0.002; odds ratio [OR]: 1.76, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18-2.63), alcohol intake (p < 0.001; OR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.31-3.05), and body mass index <24 (p < 0.001; OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.06-2.26) increased the risk of CRC. Our findings showed that ICAM-1 rs3093030 was not correlated with the susceptibility of CRC, and ICAM-1 rs5498 increased the risk of CRC in the subgroup of age ≥61. In the future, larger and ethnically homogeneous populations are needed to confirm our results.

Soluble VCAM-1 promotes gemcitabine resistance via macrophage infiltration and predicts therapeutic response in pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is one of the malignant diseases with the worst prognosis. Resistance to chemotherapy is a major difficulty in treating the disease. We analyzed plasma samples from a genetically engineered mouse model of pancreatic cancer and found soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) increases in response to gemcitabine treatment. VCAM-1 was expressed and secreted by murine and human pancreatic cancer cells. Subcutaneous allograft tumors with overexpression or knock-down of VCAM-1, as well as VCAM-1-blocking treatment in the spontaneous mouse model of pancreatic cancer, revealed that sVCAM-1 promotes tumor growth and resistance to gemcitabine treatment in vivo but not in vitro. By analyzing allograft tumors and co-culture experiments, we found macrophages were attracted by sVCAM-1 to the tumor microenvironment and facilitated resistance to gemcitabine in tumor cells. In a clinical setting, we found that the change of sVCAM-1 in the plasma of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer was an independent prognostic factor for gemcitabine treatment. Collectively, gemcitabine treatment increases the release of sVCAM-1 from pancreatic cancer cells, which attracts macrophages into the tumor, thereby promoting the resistance to gemcitabine treatment. sVCAM-1 may be a potent clinical biomarker and a potential target for the therapy in pancreatic cancer.

The Role of Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells in the Axis of Inflammation and Cancer Within the Liver

Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) form a unique barrier between the liver sinusoids and the underlying parenchyma, and thus play a crucial role in maintaining metabolic and immune homeostasis, as well as actively contributing to disease pathophysiology. Whilst their endocytic and scavenging function is integral for nutrient exchange and clearance of waste products, their capillarisation and dysfunction precedes fibrogenesis. Furthermore, their ability to promote immune tolerance and recruit distinct immunosuppressive leukocyte subsets can allow persistence of chronic viral infections and facilitate tumour development. In this review, we present the immunological and barrier functions of LSEC, along with their role in orchestrating fibrotic processes which precede tumourigenesis. We also summarise the role of LSEC in modulating the tumour microenvironment, and promoting development of a pre-metastatic niche, which can drive formation of secondary liver tumours. Finally, we summarise closely inter-linked disease pathways which collectively perpetuate pathogenesis, highlighting LSEC as novel targets for therapeutic intervention.

Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Signaling and Metabolism in Chemoprevention and Chemoresistance in Colon Cancer

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite advances in prevention and treatment modalities for CRC, rapidly developing resistance to chemotherapy limits its effectiveness. For that reason, it is important to better understand the mechanisms that undergird the process of chemoresistance to enable design of novel anticancer agents specifically targeting malignant properties of cancer cells. Over recent decades, bioactive sphingolipid species have come under the spotlight for their recognized role in cancer development and progression, and the evidence has surfaced to support their role as regulators of anti-cancer drug resistance. Colon cancer is characterized by a shift in sphingolipid balance that favors the production and accumulation of oncogenic species such as sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P). S1P is known to govern the processes that facilitate cancer cell growth and progression including proliferation, survival, migration, invasion and inflammation. In this review paper, we will give a comprehensive overview of current literature findings on the molecular mechanisms by which S1P turnover, transport and signaling via receptor-dependent and independent pathways shape colon cancer cell behavior and influence treatment outcome in colon cancer. Combining available modulators of S1P metabolism and signaling with standard chemotherapy drugs could provide a rational approach to achieve enhanced therapeutic response, diminish chemoresistance development and improve the survival outcome in CRC patients.

Network of Mediators for Vascular Inflammation and Leakage Is Dysbalanced during Cytoreductive Surgery for Late-Stage Ovarian Cancer

Background

Cytoreductive surgery (CS) in late-stage ovarian cancer patients is often challenging due to extensive volume shifts, and high fluid intake may provoke postoperative complications. Expression of vasoactive mediators is altered in cancer patients, which may affect systemic vascular function. We sought to assess how serum levels of vasoactive markers and mediators change during CS in ovarian cancer.

Methods

Following IRB approval and informed consent, pre- and postoperative serum samples were analyzed in 26 late-stage ovarian cancer patients using multiplex protein arrays and ELISA.

Results

The proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines IL-6, IL-8, and CCL2 were significantly elevated after 24 hrs compared to the baseline values, with IL-6 and IL-8 being most prominently increased. While ANGPT1 remained unchanged after surgery, its competitive antagonist ANGPT2 was significantly increased. In contrast, serum levels of the ANGPT receptor TIE2 were decreased to 0.6 of the baseline values. While VEGF-D, E-selectin, P-selectin, ICAM-1, and PECAM-1 remained unchanged, serum activity of both thrombomodulin and syndecan-1 was significantly increased following surgery.

Conclusion

We identified a regulatory network of acute-phase reaction during CS in late-stage ovarian cancer. This suggests that IL-6 exerts positive regulation of other proinflammatory mediators and, by upregulating ANGPT2 and suppressing ANGPT1, induces a serum profile that promotes vascular leakage. This may contribute to the observed hemodynamic alterations during CS procedures.

The β-galactoside α2,6-sialyltranferase 1 (ST6GAL1) inhibits the colorectal cancer metastasis by stabilizing intercellular adhesion molecule-1 via sialylation

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequent malignancies of the digestive system. Elevated expression of β-galactoside α2,6-sialyltranferase 1 (ST6GAL1) has been observed in multiple cancers. But the mechanism of how ST6GAL1 might affect cancer cells remains to be clarified. Our previous study recognized intercellular adhesion molecule-1(ICAM-1) as a probable substrate of ST6GAL1 through mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. ICAM-1 is related to tumor metastasis in various cancers.

Methods: First, ST6GAL1 was overexpressed and knocked down to perform transwell and wound healing assays, and the results were further confirmed in vivo. Based on the results of MS, GO and KEGG analysis were applied to reveal the connection between ST6GAL1 and ICAM-1. Immunoblot and tissue microarrays were administered to investigate the expression of ICAM-1 in different stages of CRC. Next, PCR, lectin precipitation and cycloheximide (CHX) were used to demonstrate the mechanism of ST6GAL1 on ICAM-1. Moreover, we investigated the sialylation on soluble ICAM in serum and its connection to tumor staging.

Results: Overexpression of ST6GAL1 inhibited the migratory ability, while knockdown of ST6GAL1 cells had the reverse effect. Moreover, nude mice injected with ST6GAL1-knockdown cells harvested more liver metastases. Based on the GO and KEGG analysis, data from TCGA database showed a positive correlation between ST6GAL1 and ICAM-1. ICAM-1 also demonstrated a significant decrease in stage III/IV compared with stage I/II tumors. Our results revealed that ST6GAL1 could increase the stability of ICAM-1 through sialylation but had little influence on transcriptional level. Additionally, results of serum lectin precipitation revealed a correlation between the level of sialylation on soluble ICAM and CRC staging.

Conclusion: This study illustrated that ST6GAL1 inhibited the metastatic ability of CRC by stabilizing ICAM-1 via sialylation and demonstrated a correlation between CRC staging and the sialylation on soluble ICAM-1 in serum.

Dysregulated alveolar function and complications in smokers following oesophagectomy

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has a significant impact on post-operative morbidity and mortality following oesophagectomy. Smoking is a risk factor for the development of ARDS, although the mechanism is unclear. We examined the effect of smoking on alveolar and systemic inflammation, in addition to alveolar–capillary permeability, leading to ARDS in patients undergoing oesophagectomy.

We compared clinical, biomarker and PiCCO system data between current smokers (n=14) and ex-smokers (n=36) enrolled into a translational substudy of the BALTI-P (Beta Agonist Lung Injury Trial Prevention) trial.

Current smokers compared with ex-smokers had significantly higher numbers of circulating neutrophils, elevated bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) interleukin (IL)-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor-1 and pre-operative plasma soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and lower BAL vascular endothelial growth factor and post-operative plasma IL-17 (p<0.05). On post-operative day 1, current smokers had higher extravascular lung water index (9.80 versus 7.90; p=0.026) and pulmonary vascular permeability index (2.09 versus 1.70; p=0.013). Current smokers were more likely to develop ARDS (57% versus 25%; p=0.031) and had a significantly reduced post-operative median survival (421 versus 771 days; p=0.023).

Smoking prior to oesophagectomy is associated with dysregulated inflammation, with higher concentrations of inflammatory mediators and lower concentrations of protective mediators. This translates into a higher post-operative inflammatory alveolar oedema, greater risk of ARDS and poorer long-term survival.

Patients who smoke at the time of oesophagectomy have dysregulated immune function, greater post-operative alveolar oedema, higher incidence of ARDS and poorer long-term survivalhttp://ow.ly/EsEh30nbO0R

MT-12 inhibits the growth and metastasis of bladder cancer cells via suppressing tumor angiogenesis in vivo and in vitro

Background

Cobra venom membrane toxin (MT) has been defined as a major subset of cobra venom having cardiac toxicity and anticancer activity properties. In our previous study, cobra venom membrane toxin 12 (MT-12), isolated from the snake venom of Chinese Naja naja atra, was confirmed to selectively suppress the proliferation and invasion of the bladder cancer (BC) cell line EJ. However, the results have never been confirmed in other bladder cell lines, and the underlying mechanism by which MT-12 inhibits BC is still unknown. Thus, in this study, the effect of MT-12 on the proliferation, adhesion, and invasion of BC cells was explored in vitro and in vivo. As tumor angiogenesis is a prerequisite for tumor growth and metastasis, the factors involved, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), were tested in our study.

Methods

Using RT4 and T24 cells for experiments, CCK-8 assays were used to determine cell proliferation. Annexin V-FITC/PI was used to determine cell apoptosis status. Wound-healing assays were used to determine cell invasion. Cell adhesion experiments were used to determine cell adhesion. Gelatin zymography was used to determine the enzymatic activity of MMP-9 and MMP-2. RT-PCR, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry were used to determine the expression of VEGF, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1.

Results

MT-12 inhibited proliferation, invasion, and adhesion and promoted cell apoptosis in RT4 and T24 cells; this anticancer effect was concentration-dependent. In the BC xenograft mouse model, the results revealed that MT-12 might decrease tumor growth and weight. MT-12 was shown to have an inhibitory effect on MMP-9 activation and the expression of VEGF and ICAM-1 in BC cells in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions

The results of the present study, suggest that MT-12 could effectively inhibit BC cell growth and metastasis via inhibition of tumor angiogenesis. As a result, MT-12 may become a novel drug for BC.

Biomarkers Reflecting The Destruction Of The Blood-Brain Barrier Are Valuable In Predicting The Risk Of Lymphomas With Central Nervous System Involvement

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to identify the biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that facilitate the diagnosis of lymphomas with central nervous system (CNS) involvement.

METHODS

Four cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) patients with/without CNS involvement were enrolled respectively, and non-CNS tumor patients (n=3) were selected to be the controls. Lab biomarkers, cytokines, and tight junction proteins (TJs) in CSF and serum were measured.

RESULTS

When comparing the CNS to non-CNS group, cytokine including MMP-9 (15.24 vs 0.36 ng/mL), CCL-2 (1922.04 vs 490.68 pg/mL), and sVCAM-1 (61.36 vs 9.00 pg/mL), TJs including OCLN (6.68 vs 2.59 pg/mL), and ZO-1 (710.04 vs 182.98 pg/mL) in CSF were significantly higher in lymphomas patients with CNS involvement than those without CNS involvement. However, serum biomarkers were not significantly elevated. Contrary to the major findings, all conventional biomarkers and MRI results showed no significant change.

CONCLUSION

CSF biomarkers affecting BBB disruption are valuable in mirroring the risk of lymphoma CNS metastasis. Further study with a larger sample size is needed to verify these biomarkers in predicting lymphoma CNS involvement.

Soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 is a prognostic marker in colorectal carcinoma

PURPOSE

Serological tumor markers are routinely used to monitor tumor onset and progression. In colorectal carcinoma (CRC), the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is roughly elevated in 50% of patients at initial diagnosis. Soluble ICAM-1 (sICAM-1) is elevated in different cancers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic relevance of sICAM-1 combined with CEA in patients with CRC.

METHODS

In blood samples of 297 CRC patients, sICAM-1 was determined by ELISA and CEA by microparticle enzyme immunoassay the day before oncologic resection. Separation in patients with sICAM-1^high and sICAM-1^low was performed by minimum p value approach; separation in CEA normal and elevated was performed according to the established diagnostic cutoff. Clinical data were obtained from the prospective collected data from the Erlangen Registry for Colorectal Carcinomas.

RESULTS

Cancer-related 5-year survival rate of patients with sICAM-1^low (< 290 ng/ml, n = 208) was significantly increased (83.4%) as compared to that of patients with sICAM-1^high (≥ 290 ng/ml, n = 89) (66.2%; p < 0.001). Patients with normal CEA concentrations (n = 199; 90.8%) showed a significantly (p < 0.001) improved cancer-related 5-year survival rate compared to patients with elevated CEA concentrations (n = 98; 52.1%). Moreover, high sICAM-1 was an independent risk factor (hazard ratio 1.6) in multivariate analysis. Of note, increased sICAM-1 levels, either within normal or within elevated CEA, allowed to identify high-risk subgroups, both for overall (p < 0.001) and cancer-related survival (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Application of a novel risk score combining CEA/sICAM-1 serum concentrations allows the identification of high-risk groups for poor survival in CRC patients.

Effects of exercise on circulating tumor cells among patients with resected stage I-III colon cancer

BACKGROUND

Physical activity is associated with a lower risk of disease recurrence among colon cancer patients. Circulating tumor cells (CTC) are prognostic of disease recurrence among stage I-III colon cancer patients. The pathways through which physical activity may alter disease outcomes are unknown, but may be mediated by changes in CTCs.

METHODS

Participants included 23 stage I-III colon cancer patients randomized into one of three groups: usual-care control, 150 min∙wk-1 of aerobic exercise (low-dose), and 300 min∙wk-1 of aerobic exercise (high-dose) for six months. CTCs from venous blood were quantified in a blinded fashion using an established microfluidic antibody-mediated capture device. Poisson regression models estimated the logarithmic counts of CTCs.

RESULTS

At baseline, 78% (18/23) of patients had ≥1 CTC. At baseline, older age (-0.12±0.06; P = 0.04), lymphovascular invasion (0.63±0.25; P = 0.012), moderate/poor histology (1.09±0.34; P = 0.001), body mass index (0.07±0.02; P = 0.001), visceral adipose tissue (0.08±0.04; P = 0.036), insulin (0.06±0.02; P = 0.011), sICAM-1 (0.04±0.02; P = 0.037), and sVCAM-1 (0.06±0.03; P = 0.045) were associated with CTCs. Over six months, significant decreases in CTCs were observed in the low-dose (-1.34±0.34; P<0.001) and high-dose (-1.18±0.40; P = 0.004) exercise groups, whereas no significant change was observed in the control group (-0.59±0.56; P = 0.292). Over six months, reductions in body mass index (-0.07±0.02; P = 0.007), insulin (-0.08±0.03; P = 0.014), and sICAM-1 (-0.07±0.03; P = 0.005) were associated with reductions in CTCs. The main limitations of this proof-of-concept study are the small sample size, heterogenous population, and per-protocol statistical analysis.

CONCLUSION

Exercise may reduce CTCs among stage I-III colon cancer patients. Changes in host factors correlated with changes in CTCs. Exercise may have a direct effect on CTCs and indirect effects through alterations in host factors. This hypothesis-generating observation derived from a small pilot study warrants further investigation and replication.

Identification of key pathways and biomarkers in sorafenib-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma using bioinformatics analysis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant types of cancer, with a high mortality rate. Sorafenib is the sole approved oral clinical therapy against advanced HCC. However, individual patients exhibit varying responses to sorafenib and the development of sorafenib resistance has been a new challenge for its clinical efficacy. The current study identified gene biomarkers and key pathways in sorafenib-resistant HCC using bioinformatics analysis. Gene dataset GSE73571 was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, including four sorafenib-acquired resistant and three sorafenib-sensitive HCC phenotypes. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using the web tool GEO2R. Functional and pathway enrichment of DEGs were analyzed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery and the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins and Cytoscape. A total of 1,319 DEGs were selected, which included 593 upregulated and 726 downregulated genes. Functional and pathway enrichment analysis revealed DEGs enriched in negative regulation of endopeptidase activity, cholesterol homeostasis, DNA replication and repair, coagulation cascades, insulin resistance, RNA transport, cell cycle and others. Eight hub genes, including kininogen 1, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, apolipoprotein C3, alpha 2-HS glycoprotein, erb-b2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2, secreted protein acidic and cysteine rich, vitronectin and vimentin were identified from the PPI network. In conclusion, the present study identified DEGs and key genes in sorafenib-resistant HCC, which further the knowledge of potential mechanisms in the development of sorafenib resistance and may provide potential targets for early diagnosis and new treatments for sorafenib-resistant HCC.

Dose-response Effects of Aerobic Exercise Among Colon Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Phase II Trial

BACKGROUND

Observational studies suggest that higher volumes of physical activity are associated with a lower risk of disease recurrence among survivors of colon cancer. However, the feasibility and safety of prescribing higher volumes of physical activity to survivors of colon cancer are unknown. Furthermore, the pathways through which exercise may reduce disease recurrence are unknown.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Survivors of stage I to III colon cancer were randomized to usual-care control, 150 minutes per week of aerobic exercise (low-dose), or 300 minutes per week of aerobic exercise (high-dose). Changes in soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular adhesion molecule-1 prognostic biomarkers were examined.

RESULTS

From January 2015 to February 2016, 39 patients were enrolled (n = 13 usual-care control; n = 14 low-dose; n = 12 high-dose), and 38 participants completed the study (97% follow-up). Over 6 months, the low-dose group completed 142 minutes per week (92.8% adherence), and the high-dose group completed 247 minutes per week (89.0% adherence) of exercise. Compared with the control group, changes in soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 were -134.9 ng/mL (95% confidence interval, -238.1 to -31.6 ng/mL) in the low-dose group and -114.8 ng/mL (95% confidence interval, -222.5 to -7.1 ng/mL) in the high-dose group (linear Ptrend = .023; nonlinear Ptrend = .044). No changes were observed for soluable vascular adhesion molecule-1 (linear Ptrend = .791; nonlinear Ptrend = .604). Non-serious adverse events occurred at similar rates among randomized groups. No serious adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSION

Higher volumes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, up to 300 minutes per week, are feasible, safe, and elicit favorable changes in prognostic biomarkers among patients recently treated for stage I to III colon cancer. These data can be used to guide clinical recommendations for patients, and inform future trials.

TRAF4 promotes lung cancer aggressiveness by modulating tumor microenvironment in normal fibroblasts

Normal fibroblasts surrounding tumor cells play a crucial role in cancer progression through formation of the tumor microenvironment. Because factors secreted from normal fibroblasts can modulate the tumor microenvironment, it is necessary to identify key factors associated with regulation of secreted factors and to investigate the molecular mechanisms contributing to the tumor microenvironment formation process. In this study, we found that radiation induced the expression and K63-linkage poly-ubiquitination of TRAF4 in normal lung fibroblasts. The K63-linkage poly-ubiquitinated TRAF4 formed complexes with NOX2 or NOX4 by mediating phosphorylated p47-phox in normal lung fibroblasts. Moreover, we showed that TRAF4 stabilized NOX complexes by decreasing lysosomal degradation of NOX2 and NOX4 after irradiation. NOX complexes increased endosomal ROS levels that were permeable into cytoplasm, leading to NF-κB-mediated ICAM1 up-regulation. Soluble ICAM1 was subsequently secreted into conditioned media of radiation-activated normal lung fibroblasts. The conditioned media from irradiated normal fibroblasts enhanced proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of non-small cell lung cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. These results demonstrate that TRAF4 in irradiated fibroblasts is positively associated with aggressiveness of adjacent cancer cells by altering the tumor microenvironment. Thus, we suggest that regulation of TRAF4 might be a promising strategy for cancer therapy.

Breast cancer metastasis: Putative therapeutic role of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is a notable cause of cancer-related death in women worldwide. Metastasis to distant organs is responsible for ~90% of this death. Breast cells convert to malignant cancer cells after acquiring the capacity of invasion/intravasation into surrounding tissues and, finally, extravasation/metastasis to distant organs (i.e., lymph nodes, lungs, bone, brain). Metastasis to distant organs depends on interactions between disseminated tumor cells (DTCs) and the endothelium of blood vessels present in the tumor microenvironment. Among several known endothelial adhesion molecules, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) has been found to be involved in this process. It has been shown that VCAM-1 is aberrantly expressed in breast cancer cells and that it can bind to its natural ligand α4β1integrin, also denoted as very late antigen 4 (VLA-4). This binding appears to be responsible for the metastasis of breast cancer cells to lung, bone and brain. The α4β1 integrin - VCAM-1 interaction thus represents a potential therapeutic target for metastatic breast cancer cells. The development of inhibitors of this interaction may be instrumental for the clinical management of breast cancer patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study focuses on recent progress on the role of VCAM-1, an important glycoprotein belonging to the immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily of cell surface adhesion molecules in breast cancer angiogenesis, survival and metastasis. Targeting VCAM-1, expressed on the surface of breast cancer cells, and/or its specific ligand VLA-4/α4β1 integrin, expressed on cells at the site of metastasis, may be a useful strategy to reduce breast cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Various approaches to therapeutically target VCAM-1 and VLA-4 are also discussed.

The effect of ALA-PDT under normoxia and cobalt chloride (CoCl2)-induced hypoxia on adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1) secretion by colorectal cancer cells

BACKGROUND

The most fundamental problem in cancer biology research is to understand the mechanisms of cancer cell resistance to oncological therapies. Literature reports emphasize the important role of adhesion molecules: intercellular adhesion molecule 1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1 and VCAM-1) in cancer progression and resistance to treatment. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) could become the component of a personalized approach to colorectal cancer, therefore we examined the effects of ALA (δ-aminolevulinic) acid PDT in normoxia and under cobalt chloride (CoCl₂)-induced hypoxia on ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 secretion by colorectal cancer cells.

METHODS

Human colorectal cancer cells of different malignant potential SW480 and SW620 were used in the experiment. Cell lines were treated ALA, in order to achieve conditions comparable to in vivo hypoxia, CoCl₂ was added, then cells were irradiated both in normoxia and in hypoxia-like conditions. Cell viability was assessed using the LDH and MTT assays and apoptosis. ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 concentrations were determined with the Bio - Plex ProTM Assay and System.

RESULTS

The experiment revealed that ALA PDT under normoxia and CoCl₂-induced hypoxia had no significant effect on ICAM-1 and VCAM-1-dependent adhesion of colorectal cancer cells. The secretion of ICAM-1 by SW480 ell line was more pronounced compared to ICAM-1 secretion by SW620 cells.

CONCLUSION

Determination of tumor marker levels and especially adhesion molecules involved in metastatic spread is necessary. Our experiment reveals, that ALA PDT in normoxia and CoCl₂-induced hypoxia has no effect on adhesion molecules secretion by colon cancer cells in vitro.

Role of several cytokines and adhesion molecules in the diagnosis and prediction of survival of hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

There is still need for accurate markers for early diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and assessment of prognosis. The aim of this study is to investigate interleukin (IL)-32, IL-1 beta, IL-18, vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1, and epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) in the diagnosis and assessment of prognosis of HCC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty patients with HCC and 15 healthy volunteers were enroled into this prospective study. Serum samples were obtained at the first admission before any treatment was given. Serum IL-32, IL-1 beta, IL-18, VCAM-1, and EpCAM levels were determined using ELISA kits.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patient group and controls was 60±9years and 56±8years, respectively. The mean serum level of IL-32 was higher in patients with HCC than in the control subjects (65.1 vs. 14.1pg/mL; p<0.001). IL-18 levels were significantly higher in the HCC group (546.5 vs. 157.8pg/mL; p<0.001). EpCAM (20.3 vs. 1.5pg/mL; p<0.001) and VCAM (6.5 vs. 1.8μg/mL; p<0.001) levels were also higher in patients with HCC. The mean level of IL-1 beta in the HCC group was similar to that in the control subjects (1.9 vs. 1.9pg/mL; p=0.97). Fifty-eight per cent of the patients with HCC died at 7.3months (median). Cytokine levels except EpCAM did not correlate with survival (p>0.05). Alpha-foetoprotein, IL-32, IL-18, EpCAM, and VCAM had valuable cutoff levels to differentiate between patients with HCC and control group (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although cytokines can be a diagnostic marker for HCC, they did not have any significant prognostic value in patients with HCC. Only EpCAM may be used to determine the prognosis of HCC, thereby assisting with treatment management.

MRI detection of endothelial cell inflammation using targeted superparamagnetic particles of iron oxide (SPIO)

Background

There is currently no clinical imaging technique available to assess the degree of inflammation associated with atherosclerotic plaques. This study aims to develop targeted superparamagnetic particles of iron oxide (SPIO) as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) probe for detecting inflamed endothelial cells.

Methods

The in vitro study consists of the characterisation and detection of inflammatory markers on activated endothelial cells by immunocytochemistry and MRI using biotinylated anti-P-selectin and anti-VCAM-1 (vascular cell adhesion molecule 1) antibody and streptavidin conjugated SPIO.

Results

Established an in vitro cellular model of endothelial inflammation induced with TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor alpha). Inflammation of endothelial cells was confirmed with both immunocytochemistry and MRI. These results revealed both a temporal and dose dependent expression of the inflammatory markers, P-selectin and VCAM-1, on exposure to TNF-α.

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated the development of an in vitro model to characterise and detect inflamed endothelial cells by immunocytochemistry and MRI. This will allow the future development of contrast agents and protocols for imaging vascular inflammation in atherosclerosis. This work may form the basis for a translational study to provide clinicians with a novel tool for the in vivo assessment of atherosclerosis.

Relations of Serum Visfatin and Resistin Levels with Endometrial Cancer and Factors Associated with its Prognosis

BACKGROUND

The aims of this study were compare the serum visfatin and resistin levels between endometrial cancer (EC) patients and controls and evaluate their power to predict prognosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study was conducted between March 2013 to June 2014 on the Gynecologic Oncology Department of the University of Selcuk, Konya, Turkey. A total of 42 EC patients and 42 controls were included and assessed for differences in serum visfatin and resistin levels, along with prognostic factors.

RESULTS

Endometrial cancer patients had significantly higher visfatin levels than control s (p: 0.011), associated with deep myometrial invasion (p: 0.019). In contrast the serum level of resistin did not significantly differ between EC patients and controls (p: 0.362). However, high resistin level in EC patients was associated with increase lymph node metastasis (p: 0.009). On logistic regression analysis, we found that serum visfatin elevation was associated with risk of myometrial invasion (OR: 1,091; 95%CI: 1.021- 1.166; p: 0.010) and serum resistin with risk of lymph node metastasis (OR: 1.018; 95%CI: 1.000- 1.035; p: 0.046). For myometrial invasion prediction, a serum visfatin level greater than 26.8 ng/mL demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 66.6 % and 96.4%, respectively. For lymph node metastasis prediction, the best cut-off for serum resistin level was 599ng/mL. A serum resistin level greater than this demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 87.5% and 77.1%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that serum visfatin is elevated in patients with EC and serum visfatin and resistin levels could be used to predict the risk of advance stage lesions.

Significance of TNF-α and the Adhesion Molecules: L-Selectin and VCAM-1 in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma

Circulating levels of TNF-α and the adhesion molecules L-Selectin and VCAM-1 as well as their expression in the primary tumors of patients with benign thyroid diseases and papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) have been determined in this study. The serum levels of TNF-α, L-Selectin, and VCAM-1 were significantly higher in patients with both benign thyroid diseases and PTC as compared to the healthy individuals. However, the levels of only TNF-α and L-Selectin, and not VCAM-1, were significantly higher in patients with PTC in comparison to those observed in patients with benign thyroid diseases. Further the expression of TNF-α and L-Selectin was also significantly higher in the primary tumors of PTC patients, relative to the benign thyroid diseases. The expression of L-Selectin and VCAM-1 significantly correlated with aggressive tumor behavior. In PTC patients, the circulating TNF-α levels significantly positively correlated with the levels of L-Selectin, while TNF-α immunoreactivity was significantly associated with VCAM-1 expression. Serum TNF-α was found to be a significant prognosticator for OS in PTC patients. Overall the results signify that the interaction between TNF-α and the adhesion molecules may have a role in thyroid carcinogenesis and understanding this complexity may offer potential therapeutic targets for better management of thyroid cancer.

Fulvic Acid Attenuates Resistin-Induced Adhesion of HCT-116 Colorectal Cancer Cells to Endothelial Cells

A high level of serum resistin has recently been found in patients with a number of cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Hence, resistin may play a role in CRC development. Fulvic acid (FA), a class of humic substances, possesses pharmacological properties. However, the effect of FA on cancer pathophysiology remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of resistin on the endothelial adhesion of CRC and to determine whether FA elicits an antagonistic mechanism to neutralize this resistin effect. Human HCT-116 (p53-negative) and SW-48 (p53-positive) CRC cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used in the experiments. Treatment of both HCT-116 and SW-48 cells with resistin increases the adhesion of both cells to HUVECs. This result indicated that p53 may not regulate this resistin effect. A mechanistic study in HCT-116 cells further showed that this resistin effect occurs via the activation of NF-κB and the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1). Co-treating cells with both FA and resistin revealed that FA significantly attenuated the resistin-increased NF-κB activation and ICAM-1/VCAM-1 expression and the consequent adhesion of HCT-116 cells to HUVECs. These results demonstrate the role of resistin in promoting HCT-116 cell adhesion to HUVECs and indicate that FA might be a potential candidate for the inhibition of the endothelial adhesion of CRC in response to resistin.

Genetic basis of interindividual susceptibility to cancer cachexia: selection of potential candidate gene polymorphisms for association studies

Cancer cachexia is a complex and multifactorial disease. Evolving definitions highlight the fact that a diverse range of biological processes contribute to cancer cachexia. Part of the variation in who will and who will not develop cancer cachexia may be genetically determined. As new definitions, classifications and biological targets continue to evolve, there is a need for reappraisal of the literature for future candidate association studies. This review summarizes genes identified or implicated as well as putative candidate genes contributing to cachexia, identified through diverse technology platforms and model systems to further guide association studies. A systematic search covering 1986-2012 was performed for potential candidate genes / genetic polymorphisms relating to cancer cachexia. All candidate genes were reviewed for functional polymorphisms or clinically significant polymorphisms associated with cachexia using the OMIM and GeneRIF databases. Pathway analysis software was used to reveal possible network associations between genes. Functionality of SNPs/genes was explored based on published literature, algorithms for detecting putative deleterious SNPs and interrogating the database for expression of quantitative trait loci (eQTLs). A total of 154 genes associated with cancer cachexia were identified and explored for functional polymorphisms. Of these 154 genes, 119 had a combined total of 281 polymorphisms with functional and/or clinical significance in terms of cachexia associated with them. Of these, 80 polymorphisms (in 51 genes) were replicated in more than one study with 24 polymorphisms found to influence two or more hallmarks of cachexia (i.e., inflammation, loss of fat mass and/or lean mass and reduced survival). Selection of candidate genes and polymorphisms is a key element of multigene study design. The present study provides a contemporary basis to select genes and/or polymorphisms for further association studies in cancer cachexia, and to develop their potential as susceptibility biomarkers of cachexia.

Overexpression of TMEM158 contributes to ovarian carcinogenesis

Background

Transmembrane protein 158 (TMEM158) is a recently identified upregulated gene during Ras-induced senescence. Its association with various cancers has been recently reported. However, the expression and biological function of TMEM158 in ovarian cancer is still unclear. This study was aimed to elucidate the roles of TMEM158 in cell proliferation, adhesion and cell invasion of ovarian cancer cells.

Methods

We analyzed TMEM158 mRNA level in ovarian cancer tissues and adjacent no-tumorous tissues by real-time PCR. We then suppressed TMEM158 expression of ovarian cancer cells by RNA interference and examined the effects of TMEM158 knockdown on cancerous transformation of ovarian cancer cells.

Results

The RNA-sequencing data of the ovarian cancer cohort from The Cancer Genome Atlas project (TCGA) and our real-time PCR data showed that TMEM158 was overexpressed in ovarian cancer. Knockdown of TMEM158 by RNA interference in ovarian cancer cells significantly inhibited cell proliferation, which may be due to the increase of G1-phase arrest. Silencing of TMEM158 also inhibited cell adhesion, cell invasion as well as tumorigenicity in nude mice. Moreover, knockdown of TMEM158 notably repressed cell adhesion via down-regulating the expression intercellular adhesion molecule1 (ICAM1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule1 (VCAM1). Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway was also remarkably impaired by TMEM158 silencing.

Conclusions

Our data suggests that TMEM158 may work as an oncogene for ovarian cancer and that inhibition of TMEM158 may be a therapeutic strategy for ovarian cancer.

Biology of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is a serious health problem, a challenge for research, and a model for studying the molecular mechanisms involved in its development. According to its incidence, this pathology manifests itself in three forms: family, hereditary, and most commonly sporadic, apparently not associated with any hereditary or familial factor. For the types having inheritance patterns and a family predisposition, the tumours develop through defined stages ranging from adenomatous lesions to the manifestation of a malignant tumour. It has been established that environmental and hereditary factors contribute to the development of colorectal cancer, as indicated by the accumulation of mutations in oncogenes, genes which suppress and repair DNA, signaling the existence of various pathways through which the appearance of tumours may occur. In the case of the suppressive and mutating tracks, these are characterised by genetic disorders related to the phenotypical changes of the morphological progression sequence in the adenoma/carcinoma. Moreover, alternate pathways through mutation in BRAF and KRAS genes are associated with the progression of polyps to cancer. This review surveys the research done at the cellular and molecular level aimed at finding specific alternative therapeutic targets for fighting colorectal cancer.

The prognostic significance of serum and cerebrospinal fluid MMP-9, CCL2 and sVCAM-1 in leukemia CNS metastasis

Metastasis to the central nervous system (CNS) is the primary obstacle in leukemia treatment. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), chemokine ligand-2 (CCL2) and soluble vascular adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) play crucial roles in tumor cell adhesion, motivation and survival, but their roles in leukemia CNS metastasis remain to be elucidated. We investigated the prognostic significance of serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) MMP-9, CCL2 and sVCAM-1 in leukemia patients to explore their potential as predictive biomarkers of the development of CNS leukemia (CNSL). MMP-9, CCL2 and sVCAM-1 were measured in paired CSF and serum samples collecting from 33 leukemia patients with or without CNS metastasis. Other risk factors related to CNSL prognosis were also analyzed. sVCAM-1Serum and CCL2Serum/CSF were significantly higher in the CNSL group than in the non-CNSL group and the controls (p < 0.05). MMP-9Serum was insignificantly lower in the CNSL group than in the non-CNSL group and the controls (p > 0.05). No differences were found for the sVCAM-1Serum, CCL2Serum, and MMP-9Serum levels between non-CNSL patients and controls (p > 0.05). MMP-9CSF was significantly higher in the CNSL group than both the non-CNSL and the control groups (p < 0.05). The indexes of sVCAM-1, CCL2, and MMP-9 in the CNSL group were lower than in the controls (p < 0.05). Positive correlations were determined between the MMP-9CSF and the ALBCSF/BBB value/WBCCSF, between sVCAM-1Serum and the WBCCSF/BBB value. Negative correlations existed between MMP-9Serum and the ALBCSF/BBB value/WBCCSF, and between the CCL2 index and ALBCSF. sVCAM-1Serum was positively associated with event-free survival (EFS), and patients with higher levels of ALBCSF, MMP-9CSF/Serum, CCL2CSF/Serum, and sVCAM-1CSF/Serum had shorter EFS. MMP-9CSF, CCL2CSF and sVCAM-1CSF are the first three principal components analyzed by cluster and principal component analysis. Our data suggest that MMP-9, CCL2 and sVCAM-1 in the CSF may be more potent than serum in predicting the possibility of leukemia metastatic CNS and the outcome of CNSL patients.