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Dawidowicz M, Kula A, Mielcarska S, Świętochowska E, Waniczek D. Prognostic Value of B7H4 Expression in Patients with Solid Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5045. [PMID: 38732263 PMCID: PMC11084412 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25095045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
V-set domain-containing T-cell activation inhibitor 1 (aliases VTCN1, B7H4) participates in tumour immune escape by delivering inhibitory signals to T cells. The purpose of this article was to assess the B7H4 prognostic value in solid cancers. Three databases were searched for relevant articles. The main endpoints were overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), progression-free survival (PFS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and disease-free survival (DFS). Appropriate hazard ratios (HRs) were pooled. The R studio software (version 4.0.3) was used for data analysis. Thirty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. High expression of B7H4 was associated with worse OS (HR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.37-1.68) but not with DSS (HR = 1.14, 95% CI: 0.49-2.63), RFS (HR = 1.77, 95% CI: 0.75-4.18), DFS (HR = 1.29, 95% CI: 0.8-2.09), or PFS (HR = 1.71, 95% CI: 0.91-3.2) in patients with solid cancers. High expression of B7H4 is associated with a poorer prognosis in patients with solid cancers. B7H4 is a promising prognostic biomarker and immunotherapeutic target for various solid cancers because of its activity in cancer immunity and tumourigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Dawidowicz
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-808 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Kula
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-808 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Sylwia Mielcarska
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; (S.M.); (E.Ś.)
| | - Elżbieta Świętochowska
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; (S.M.); (E.Ś.)
| | - Dariusz Waniczek
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-808 Katowice, Poland;
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Li C, Bie L, Chen M, Ying J. Therapeutic significance of tumor microenvironment in cholangiocarcinoma: focus on tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:1310-1327. [PMID: 38213535 PMCID: PMC10776604 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly aggressive type of adenocarcinoma distinguished by its invasiveness. Depending on specific anatomical positioning within the biliary tree, CCA can be categorized into intrahepatic CCA (ICCA), perihilar CCA (pCCA) and distal CCA (dCCA). In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the global prevalence of CCA. Unfortunately, many CCA patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, which makes surgical resection impossible. Although systemic chemotherapy is frequently used as the primary treatment for advanced or recurrent CCA, its effectiveness is relatively low. Therefore, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising avenue for advancing cancer treatment research. CCA exhibits a complex immune environment within the stromal tumor microenvironment (TME), comprising a multifaceted immune landscape and a tumor-reactive stroma. A deeper understanding of this complex TME is indispensable for identifying potential therapeutic targets. Thus, targeting tumor immune microenvironment holds promise as an effective therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqun Li
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary & Gastric Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Postgraduate training base Alliance of Wenzhou Medical University (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lei Bie
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Wuhan No.1 Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Muhua Chen
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary & Gastric Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jieer Ying
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary & Gastric Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310022, Zhejiang, China
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Gray E, Ulrich M, Epp A, Younan P, Sahetya D, Hensley K, Allred S, Huang LY, Hahn J, Gahnberg K, Treuting PM, Trueblood ES, Gosink JJ, Thurman R, Wo S, Spahr K, Haass EJ, Snead K, Miller D, Padilla M, Smith AJ, Frantz C, Schrum JP, Nazarenko N, Gardai SJ. SGN-B7H4V, an investigational vedotin ADC directed to the immune checkpoint ligand B7-H4, shows promising activity in preclinical models. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007572. [PMID: 37793853 PMCID: PMC10551938 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SGN-B7H4V is a novel investigational vedotin antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) comprising a B7-H4-directed human monoclonal antibody conjugated to the cytotoxic payload monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) via a protease-cleavable maleimidocaproyl valine citrulline (mc-vc) linker. This vedotin linker-payload system has been clinically validated in multiple Food and Drug Administration approved agents including brentuximab vedotin, enfortumab vedotin, and tisotumab vedotin. B7-H4 is an immune checkpoint ligand with elevated expression on a variety of solid tumors, including breast, ovarian, and endometrial tumors, and limited normal tissue expression. SGN-B7H4V is designed to induce direct cytotoxicity against target cells by binding to B7-H4 on the surface of target cells and releasing the cytotoxic payload MMAE upon internalization of the B7-H4/ADC complex. METHODS B7-H4 expression was characterized by immunohistochemistry across multiple solid tumor types. The ability of SGN-B7H4V to kill B7-H4-expressing tumor cells in vitro and in vivo in a variety of xenograft tumor models was also evaluated. Finally, the antitumor activity of SGN-B7H4V as monotherapy and in combination with an anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) agent was evaluated using an immunocompetent murine B7-H4-expressing Renca tumor model. RESULTS Immunohistochemistry confirmed B7-H4 expression across multiple solid tumors, with the highest prevalence in breast, endometrial, and ovarian tumors. In vitro, SGN-B7H4V killed B7-H4-expressing tumor cells by MMAE-mediated direct cytotoxicity and antibody-mediated effector functions including antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis. In vivo, SGN-B7H4V demonstrated strong antitumor activity in multiple xenograft models of breast and ovarian cancer, including xenograft tumors with heterogeneous B7-H4 expression, consistent with the ability of vedotin ADCs to elicit a bystander effect. In an immunocompetent murine B7-H4-expressing tumor model, SGN-B7H4V drove robust antitumor activity as a monotherapy that was enhanced when combined with an anti-PD-1 agent. CONCLUSION The immune checkpoint ligand B7-H4 is a promising molecular target expressed by multiple solid tumors. SGN-B7H4V demonstrates robust antitumor activity in preclinical models through multiple potential mechanisms. Altogether, these preclinical data support the evaluation of SGN-B7H4V as a monotherapy in the ongoing phase 1 study of SGN-B7H4V in advanced solid tumors (NCT05194072) and potential future clinical combinations with immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Serena Wo
- Seagen Inc, Bothell, Washington, USA
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Sheng X, Qin JM. Mechanism of postoperative recurrence and metastasis of intrahepatic cholangiocellular carcinoma and clinical prevention and treatment strategy. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2023; 31:753-765. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v31.i18.753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocellular carcinoma is a primary adenocarcinoma originating from intrahepatic bile duct epithelial cells. The tumor has no capsule. At the early stage of the tumor, there are infiltration and metastasis along the lymphatic vessels, blood vessels, perineural space, and loose fibrous connective tissue, which are characterized by lymph node metastasis. Due to the absence of characteristic clinical manifestations and the lack of specific molecular markers for early diagnosis, the surgical resection rate is low and the postoperative tumor recurrence and metastasis rate is high. Low efficacy of chemoradiotherapy, molecular targeted drugs, and immunotherapy results in the poor prognosis. Further research of molecular pathology, gene function, and imaging technology can help elucidate the occurrence, recurrence, and metastasis mechanism of intrahepatic cholangiocellular carcinoma to improve its early diagnosis rate and precise clinical staging. Individualized precision treatment and prevention for the risk factors to reduce the recurrence and metastasis rate postoperatively are key to improving the patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Sheng
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Jian-Min Qin
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Hospital Affiliated to Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai 201805, China
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Yu L, Ji Kim H, Kim B, Jung Byun H, Minh Nguyen T, Ji Kim E, Huy Phùng H, Hyeon Kim Y, Rahman M, Yun Jang J, Bae Rho S, Jin Kang G, Lee H, Lee K, Kyung Han H, Kyung Park M, Hoon Lee C. Ethacrynic acid suppresses B7-H4 expression involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition of lung adenocarcinoma cells via inhibiting STAT3 pathway. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 212:115537. [PMID: 37019184 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer is characterized by high incidence and mortality. 90% of cancer deaths are caused by metastases. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in cancer cells is a prerequisite for the metastatic process. Ethacrynic acid (ECA) is a loop diuretic that inhibits the EMT process in lung cancer cells. EMT has been related to the tumour immunemicroenvironment. However, the effect of ECA on immune checkpoint molecules in the context of cancer has not been fully identified. In the present study, we found that sphingosylphosphorylcholine (SPC) and TGF-β1, awell-known EMT inducer, induced the expression of B7-H4 in lung cancer cells. We also investigated the involvement of B7-H4 in the SPC-induced EMT process. Knockdown of B7-H4 suppressed SPC-induced EMT, while B7-H4 overexpression enhanced EMT of lung cancer cells. ECA inhibited SPC/TGF-β1-induced B7-H4 expression via suppression of STAT3 activation. Moreover, ECA inhibits the colonization of mice lung by tail vein-injected LLC1 cells. ECA-treated mice increased the CD4-positive T cells in lung tumour tissues. In summary, these results suggested that ECA inhibits B7-H4 expression via STAT3 inhibition, leading to SPC/TGF-β1-induced EMT. Therefore, ECA might be an immune oncological drug for B7-H4-positive cancer, especially lung cancer.
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Comprehensive characterization of B7 family members in NSCLC and identification of its regulatory network. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4311. [PMID: 36922519 PMCID: PMC10017798 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-26776-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
B7 family members act as co-stimulatory or co-inhibitory molecules in the adaptive immune system. Thisstudy aimed to investigate the dysregulation, prognostic value and regulatory network of B7 family members in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Data for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) patients were extracted from public databases. Patient prognosis was determined by Kaplan-Meier analysis. The downstream signaling pathways of B7 family were identified via GO and KEGG analysis. The key B7 related genes were selected by network, correlation and functional annotation analysis. Most B7 family members were dysregulated in LUAD and LUSC. The expression of B7-1/2/H3 and B7-H5 were significantly associated with overall survival in LUAD and LUSC, respectively. The major pathway affected by B7 family was the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance and ErbB signaling pathway. MAPK1, MAPK3 and MAP2K1 were pivotal B7 related genes in both LUAD and LUSC. This study reveals an overall dysregulation of B7 family members in NSCLC and highlights the potential of combination use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors or MEK/ERK inhibitors with B7 member blockade for NSCLC treatment.
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Hwang C, Lee HJ, Na JY, Kim KH, Song YJ, Kim JY, Kim K, Shin DH, Park JY, Kim SY, Lee JH, Choi KU. The stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, cancer stemness, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and B7-H4 expression in ovarian serous carcinoma. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:3. [PMID: 36609273 PMCID: PMC9825048 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01076-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND B7-H4 is expressed in various types of cancers and its expression inversely correlates with the degree of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Studies have shown the relationship between B7-H4, cancer stem cell (CSC) properties, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in various cancers. However, very few studies have investigated the relationship between B7-H4, TILs, cancer stemness, and EMT in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). The present study aimed to elucidate whether B7-H4 is involved in immune evasion and examine whether B7-H4 is associated with cancer stemness or EMT in ovarian serous carcinoma, the most common type of EOC. The clinical significance of B7-H4 was also investigated to evaluate its potential as a therapeutic target. METHODS A total of 145 patients included in this study. The degree of stromal TILs was evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained slides. Immunohistochemical analysis of B7-H4, CSC-related biomarkers (CD24, CD44s, CD133, and ALDH1), and EMT-related biomarkers (E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and vimentin) was performed using tissue microarray. qRT-PCR for VTCN1, CD24, CD44, PROM1, ALDH1, CDH1, CDH2, and VIM genes was performed on 38 frozen tissue samples. The mRNA expression levels were analyzed using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) online analysis tool. RESULTS B7-H4 protein expression positively correlated with the degree of stromal TILs. CD24, CD44s, and CD133 expression showed a positive correlation with B7-H4 expression at both the protein and mRNA levels, but ALDH1 correlated only at the protein level. E-cadherin expression was positively correlated with B7-H4 expression at both the protein and mRNA levels. N-cadherin and vimentin expression was inversely related to B7-H4 expression only at the mRNA level. B7-H4 positive patients were associated with higher tumor grade and lower overall survival rate than B7-H4 negative patients, especially in ovarian serous carcinoma with low stromal TILs. CONCLUSIONS The present study demonstrates that B7-H4 may not be involved in the immune evasion mechanism, but is involved in cancer stemness and mesenchymal-epithelial transition. In addition, B7-H4 may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of ovarian serous carcinoma, especially with low stromal TILs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chungsu Hwang
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-Ro, Mulguem-Eup, Yangsan-Si, Gyeongsangnam-Do South Korea
| | - Hyun Jung Lee
- grid.412591.a0000 0004 0442 9883Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-Ro, Mulguem-Eup, Yangsan-Si, Gyeongsangnam-Do South Korea
| | - Ju-Young Na
- grid.412591.a0000 0004 0442 9883Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-Ro, Mulguem-Eup, Yangsan-Si, Gyeongsangnam-Do South Korea
| | - Ki Hyung Kim
- grid.412588.20000 0000 8611 7824Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pusan National University Hospital, 179 Gudeok-Ro, Seo-Gu, Busan, 49241 South Korea
| | - Yong Jung Song
- grid.412591.a0000 0004 0442 9883Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-Ro, Mulguem-Eup, Yangsan-Si, Gyeongsangnam-Do South Korea
| | - Jee Yeon Kim
- grid.412591.a0000 0004 0442 9883Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-Ro, Mulguem-Eup, Yangsan-Si, Gyeongsangnam-Do South Korea
| | - Kyungbin Kim
- grid.262229.f0000 0001 0719 8572Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Hospital and Pusan National University School of Medicine, 179 Gudeok-Ro, Seo-Gu, Busan, 49241 South Korea
| | - Dong Hoon Shin
- grid.412591.a0000 0004 0442 9883Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-Ro, Mulguem-Eup, Yangsan-Si, Gyeongsangnam-Do South Korea
| | - Joon Young Park
- grid.412591.a0000 0004 0442 9883Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-Ro, Mulguem-Eup, Yangsan-Si, Gyeongsangnam-Do South Korea
| | - So Young Kim
- grid.412591.a0000 0004 0442 9883Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-Ro, Mulguem-Eup, Yangsan-Si, Gyeongsangnam-Do South Korea
| | - Jung Hee Lee
- grid.412591.a0000 0004 0442 9883Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-Ro, Mulguem-Eup, Yangsan-Si, Gyeongsangnam-Do South Korea
| | - Kyung Un Choi
- grid.262229.f0000 0001 0719 8572Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Hospital and Pusan National University School of Medicine, 179 Gudeok-Ro, Seo-Gu, Busan, 49241 South Korea
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Yan X, Hong B, Feng J, Jin Y, Chen M, Li F, Qian Y. B7-H4 is a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in colorectal cancer and correlates with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1053. [PMID: 36217128 PMCID: PMC9549643 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10159-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As a negative co-stimulatory molecule of the B7 family, B7-H4 has recently attracted increased attention. However, the clinical value of B7-H4 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains controversial and requires further investigation. This study aimed to investigate the role of B7-H4 in the clinical diagnosis and survival prognosis of CRC. Methods The relationships between B7-H4 expression, immune cell infiltration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), clinicopathological features, and survival prognosis were determined through the TCGA database and verified in a large CRC cohort (n = 1118). Results The results showed the level of B7-H4 mRNA expression was significantly increased in the CRC tumor tissues compared with normal tissues (P < 0.001). Immunohistochemistry showed that B7-H4 protein expression was also up-regulated in CRC. The positive rate of B7-H4 in CRC tumor tissues was 76.38%, which was significantly higher than that in non-tumor tissues (P < 0.001). Overexpression of B7-H4 was positively correlated with lymph node metastasis, advanced TNM stage, and poor tumor differentiation (P = 0.012; 0.009; 0.014). Prognostic analysis showed high B7-H4 expression was associated with significantly shorter OS. Multivariate analysis demonstrated the risk of death in CRC patients with high B7-H4 expression is 1.487 times that of low B7-H4 expression. In addition, B7-H4 expression was negatively correlated with the epithelial marker E-cadherin (P < 0.001) and positively correlated with the mesenchymal marker vimentin (P < 0.001) in CRC tissues. However, B7-H4 expression was not associated with the immunosuppressive microenvironment in CRC. Conclusion B7-H4 may represent a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of CRC and enhance CRC invasion by promoting EMT. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-10159-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotian Yan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, 166 North Qiutao Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310006, China
| | - Bo Hong
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jie Feng
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yuanqing Jin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Mengting Chen
- School of Medical Technology and Information Engineering, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Fugang Li
- Shanghai Upper Bio Tech Pharma Company Limited, Shanghai, 201201, China
| | - Yun Qian
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, 166 North Qiutao Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310006, China.
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Lv C, Han S, Wu B, Liang Z, Li Y, Zhang Y, Lang Q, Zhong C, Fu L, Yu Y, Xu F, Tian Y. Novel immune scoring dynamic nomograms based on B7-H3, B7-H4, and HHLA2: Potential prediction in survival and immunotherapeutic efficacy for gallbladder cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:984172. [PMID: 36159808 PMCID: PMC9493478 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.984172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundGallbladder cancer (GBC) is a mortal malignancy with limited therapeutic strategies. We aimed to develop novel immune scoring systems focusing on B7-H3, B7-H4, and HHLA2. We further investigated their potential clinical effects in predicting survival and immunotherapeutic efficacy for GBC.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study in a single center that explored the expression characteristics of B7-H3, B7-H4, and HHLA2. The immune scoring nomograms for prognostic were developed via logistic regression analyses. Their performance was evaluated using the Harrell concordance index (C-index) and decision curves analysis (DCA), and validated with calibration curves.ResultsB7-H3, B7-H4, and HHLA2 manifested with a relatively high rate of co-expression patterns in GBC tissues. They were associated with worse clinicopathological stage, suppression of immune microenvironment, and unfavorable prognosis in postoperative survival. B7 stratification established based on B7-H3, B7-H4, and HHLA2 was an independent prognostic predictor (p<0.05 in both groups). Moreover, immune stratification was also successfully constructed based on B7 stratification and the density of CD8+ TILs (all p<0.001). The prediction models were developed based on B7-/or immune stratification combined with the TNM/or Nevin staging system. These novel models have excellent discrimination ability in predicting survival and immunotherapeutic efficacy for GBC patients by DCA and clinical impact plots. Finally, dynamic nomograms were developed for the most promising clinical prediction models (B7-TNM model and Immune-TNM model) to facilitate prediction.ConclusionsImmune scoring systems focusing on B7-H3, B7-H4, and HHLA2 may effectively stratify the prognosis of GBC. Prognostic nomograms based on novel immune scoring systems may potentially predict survival and immunotherapeutic efficacy in GBC. Further valid verification is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Lv
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Shukun Han
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Baokang Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhiyun Liang
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Yizhou Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Qi Lang
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Chongli Zhong
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Lei Fu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Surgery, Jinzhou Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Yu Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
- *Correspondence: Yu Tian,
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Yang SH, Hu S, Kang Q, Liu LX, Wei Q, Song ZM, Chen YH, Liao ZJ, Huan YF, Wang XJ, Zou H, Zhang XW. EIF5A2 promotes proliferation and invasion of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma cells. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2022; 46:101991. [PMID: 35792239 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2022.101991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) can invade and metastasize. EIF5A2 is involved in the invasive metastatic process of several digestive malignancies. However, its role in ICC is yet to be elucidated. METHODS Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blot (WB) were used to detect the level of EIF5A2 in the tumor specimens of ICC patients and evaluate the correlation between its expression and clinicopathological characteristics. The significance of EIF5A2 in the prognosis of ICC patients was further evaluated by Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis. In addition, CCK-8, EdU, Transwell invasion, and scratch assays were utilized to detect tumor cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Furthermore, the role of EIF5A2 in ICC cells was evaluated after modification of EIF5A2 expression. RESULTS The level of EIF5A2 protein was significantly higher in ICC than in adjacent tissues. This high expression in the tumor samples was significantly associated with malignant phenotypes, such as lymph node metastasis (LNM), microvascular or bile duct invasion, and poor differentiation. ICC patients with high expression of EIF5A2 had short overall survival and a high cumulative recurrence rate. The multifactorial analysis showed that EIF5A2 is an independent prognostic marker. Furthermore, high levels of EIF5A2 may activate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and upregulate Cyclin D1, Cyclin D3, MMP2, and MMP9 to promote ICC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. CONCLUSION The current study found that EIF5A2 promotes ICC progression and is a prognostic biomarker and candidate therapeutic target for ICC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Hua Yang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Sheng Hu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Qiang Kang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Li-Xin Liu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Qun Wei
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Zhi-Mei Song
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Yi-Hui Chen
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Zhou-Jun Liao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Yun-Feng Huan
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Xue-Jun Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Hao Zou
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Xiao-Wen Zhang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China.
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11
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John P, Pulanco MC, Galbo PM, Wei Y, Ohaegbulam KC, Zheng D, Zang X. The immune checkpoint B7x expands tumor-infiltrating Tregs and promotes resistance to anti-CTLA-4 therapy. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2506. [PMID: 35523809 PMCID: PMC9076640 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30143-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint molecules play critical roles in regulating the anti-tumor immune response, and tumor cells often exploit these pathways to inhibit and evade the immune system. The B7-family immune checkpoint B7x is widely expressed in a broad variety of cancer types, and is generally associated with advanced disease progression and poorer clinical outcomes, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here, we show that transduction and stable expression of B7x in multiple syngeneic tumor models leads to the expansion of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs). Mechanistically, B7x does not cause increased proliferation of Tregs in tumors, but instead promotes the conversion of conventional CD4+ T cells into Tregs. Further, we find that B7x induces global transcriptomic changes in Tregs, driving these cells to adopt an activated and suppressive phenotype. B7x increases the expression of the Treg-specific transcription factor Foxp3 in CD4+ T cells by modulating the Akt/Foxo pathway. B7x-mediated regulation of Tregs reduces the efficacy of anti-CTLA-4 treatment, a therapeutic that partially relies on Treg-depletion. However, combination treatment of anti-B7x and anti-CTLA-4 leads to synergistic therapeutic efficacy and overcomes the B7x-mediated resistance to anti-CTLA-4. Altogether, B7x mediates an immunosuppressive Treg-promoting pathway within tumors and is a promising candidate for combination immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter John
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Marc C Pulanco
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Phillip M Galbo
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Yao Wei
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Kim C Ohaegbulam
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Deyou Zheng
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Xingxing Zang
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.
- Department of Urology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.
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12
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Zhou B, Lu Y, Zhao Z, Shi T, Wu H, Chen W, Zhang L, Zhang X. B7-H4 expression is upregulated by PKCδ activation and contributes to PKCδ-induced cell motility in colorectal cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:147. [PMID: 35410218 PMCID: PMC8996430 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02567-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction B7-H4 is overexpressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) and plays an important role in tumor growth and immunosuppression. However, the exact mechanism that regulates B7-H4 expression remains largely unknown. Here, we investigated whether protein kinase C δ (PKCδ) regulates the expression of B7-H4 in CRC. Methods By using immunohistochemical (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) staining, we analyzed the expression of B7-H4 and phospho-PKCδ (p-PKCδ) in 225 colorectal tumor samples and determined the clinical significance of the expression patterns. In vitro experiments were performed with the CRC cell lines HCT116 and SW620 to detect the effect of PKCδ activation on B7-H4 expression, and xenograft-bearing mice were treated with rottlerin to monitor the expression of B7-H4 and tumor metastasis. Results The B7-H4 expression level was significantly correlated with the p-PKCδ level (r = 0.378, P < 0.001) in tumor tissues. Coexpression of p-PKCδ and B7-H4 was significantly associated with moderate/poor differentiation (P = 0.024), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.001) and advanced Dukes’ stage (P = 0.002). Western blot analysis showed that Phorbol-12-Myristate-13-Acetate (TPA) increased B7-H4 expression in a concentration-dependent manner and that rottlerin abrogated the TPA-induced increase in B7-H4 expression. The protein levels of B7-H4 and p-STAT3 were significantly reduced by a PKCδ-specific siRNA. Moreover, the STAT3 inhibitor cryptotanshinone significantly decreased the B7-H4 protein level in CRC cells. Knockdown of B7-H4 or PKCδ suppressed cell migration and motility. Rottlerin also inhibited B7-H4 expression and tumor metastasis in vivo. Conclusion The B7-H4 expression level is significantly correlated with the p-PKCδ level and tumor metastasis in CRC samples. B7-H4 expression is upregulated by STAT3 activation via PKCδ and plays roles in PKCδ-induced cancer cell motility and metastasis, suggesting that the PKCδ/STAT3/B7-H4 axis may be a potential therapeutic target for CRC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-022-02567-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhou
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Tumor Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Youwei Lu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiming Zhao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tongguo Shi
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Tumor Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongya Wu
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Tumor Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weichang Chen
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Tumor Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Tumor Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China. .,College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xueguang Zhang
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Tumor Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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13
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Xu YP, Dong ZN, Zhou YQ, Zhao YJ, Zhao Y, Wang F, Huang XY, Guo CY. Role of eIF3C Overexpression in Predicting Prognosis of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma. Dig Dis Sci 2022; 67:559-568. [PMID: 33576946 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-021-06878-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elevated expression of eukaryotic initiation factor 3c (eIF3C) was recently uncovered to promote several types of cancer progression by inducing cell proliferation. Here, we aimed to assess the expression and prognostic value of eIF3C in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) patients. METHODS Expression of eIF3C was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in tissue microarrays (TMAs) containing 138 ICC and paired peritumoral tissues from ICC patients. Then, the roles of eIF3C in ICC cells were investigated by RNA interference, and the relationship between the eIF3C and KI67 expression was explored in ICC cells and tissues. Finally, the relation between the eIF3C level and clinicopathologic features of ICC was probed, and Kaplan-Meier and Cox's analyses were performed to assess the prognostic merit of eIF3C and KI67 in ICC patients. RESULTS The expression of eIF3C was elevated in ICC tissues compared to paired peritumoral tissues, which was consistent with the result from the GEPIA database. The downregulation of eIF3C in ICC cells impaired the cellular invasion, metastasis, colony formation, and proliferation. Moreover, we further found a positive relationship between the eIF3C and KI67 expression in ICC cells and tissues. The expression of eIF3C in ICC tissues was positively correlated with lymphatic metastasis (p = 0.049), and the high level of KI67 was frequently found in ICC patients with the large tumor (p = 0.028), high serum AFP (p = 0.019), or lymphatic metastasis (p = 0.039). Notably, patients with the eIF3C or KI67 overexpression had shorter overall survival and higher disease-free survival rates than those with low expression of eIF3C or KI67, and the combination of eIF3C or KI67 expression was an independent parameter for predicting the prognosis and recurrence of ICC patients. CONCLUSIONS Elevated eIF3C expression promotes ICC development, and combination of eIF3C and KI67 is a valuable predictor of the survival and recurrence of ICC patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ping Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Ze-Ning Dong
- Xiangya Medical College, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying-Qun Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Jie Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Yong Huang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuan-Yong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Zhu M, Zhang P, Yu S, Tang C, Wang Y, Shen Z, Chen W, Liu T, Cui Y. Targeting ZFP64/GAL-1 axis promotes therapeutic effect of nab-paclitaxel and reverses immunosuppressive microenvironment in gastric cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:14. [PMID: 34996504 PMCID: PMC8740411 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02224-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chemoresistance is a main obstacle in gastric cancer (GC) treatment, but its molecular mechanism still needs to be elucidated. Here, we aim to reveal the underlying mechanisms of nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel (nab-paclitaxel) resistance in GC. Methods We performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) on samples from patients who were resistant or sensitive to nab-paclitaxel, and identified Zinc Finger Protein 64 (ZFP64) as critical for nab-paclitaxel resistance in GC. CCK8, flow cytometry, TUNEL staining, sphere formation assays were performed to investigate the effects of ZFP64 in vitro, while subcutaneous tumor formation models were established in nude mice or humanized mice to evaluate the biological roles of ZFP64 in vivo. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (CHIP-seq) and double-luciferase reporter gene assay were conducted to reveal the underlying mechanism of ZFP64. Results ZFP64 overexpression was linked with aggressive phenotypes, nab-paclitaxel resistance and served as an independent prognostic factor in GC. As a transcription factor, ZFP64 directly binds to Galectin-1 (GAL-1) promoter and promoted GAL-1 transcription, thus inducing stem-cell like phenotypes and immunosuppressive microenvironment in GC. Importantly, compared to treatment with nab-paclitaxel alone, nab-paclitaxel plus GAL-1 blockade significantly enhanced the anti-tumor effect in mouse models, particularly in humanized mice. Conclusions Our data support a pivotal role for ZFP64 in GC progression by simultaneously promoting cellular chemotherapy resistance and tumor immunosuppression. Treatment with the combination of nab-paclitaxel and a GAL-1 inhibitor might benefit a subgroup of GC patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-02224-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxuan Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shan Yu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Cheng Tang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhenbin Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weidong Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianshu Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yuehong Cui
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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15
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Yin Y, Shi L, Yang J, Wang H, Yang H, Wang Q. B7 family member H4 induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition and promotes the proliferation, migration and invasion of colorectal cancer cells. Bioengineered 2021; 13:107-118. [PMID: 34818980 PMCID: PMC8805878 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.2009411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract, which has the second highest incidence among gastrointestinal tumors. At present, due to the limitations of current CRC treatment strategies, there is an urgent need for developing more effective therapies. B7 family member H4 (B7-H4) is associated with the progression of a wide spectrum of cancers, but its functional role in CRC is unknown. The purpose of this study is to clarify the role of B7-H4 in CRC and the underlying mechanisms in controlling the progression of CRC. Our data showed that B7-H4 expression in CRC tissues and cell lines was significantly upregulated as compared with normal tissues and normal cell lines. High B7-H4 expression was correlated with a poor prognosis of CRC patients. B7-H4 overexpression promoted the proliferation and invasion of CRC cells, which could be suppressed by Wnt signaling inhibitor. In a mouse xenograft model, silencing B7-H4 suppressed tumor growth and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) of CRC cells. Collectively, our study demonstrated the oncogenic roles of B7-H4 in regulating the proliferation, EMT as well as the migration of CRC cells through Wnt signaling pathway. The heightened expression of B7-H4 could serve as a prognostic marker for CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhen Yin
- Cancer Center, Jiangsu Shengze Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, Suzhou, China
| | - Lili Shi
- Department of Ultrasound, Jiangsu Shengze Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, Suzhou, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Cancer Center, Jiangsu Shengze Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, Suzhou, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hang Yang
- Cancer Center, Jiangsu Shengze Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, Suzhou, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Jiangsu Shengze Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, Suzhou, China
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16
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Prognostic Role of Immune Checkpoint Regulators in Cholangiocarcinoma: A Pilot Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10102191. [PMID: 34069452 PMCID: PMC8159105 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10102191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a hepatobiliary malignancy associated with steadily increasing incidence and poor prognosis. Ongoing clinical trials are assessing the effectiveness and safety of a few immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in CCA patients. However, these ICI treatments as monotherapies may be effective for a proportion of patients with CCA. The prevalence and distribution of other immune checkpoints (ICs) in CCA remain unclear. In this pilot study, we screened databases of CCA patients for the expression of 19 ICs and assessed the prognostic significance of these ICs in CCA patients. Notably, expression of immune modulator IDO1 and PD-L1 were linked with poor overall survival, while FASLG and NT5E were related to both worse overall survival and progression-free survival. We also identified immune modulators IDO1, FASLG, CD80, HAVCR2, NT5E, CTLA-4, LGALS9, VTCN1 and TNFRSF14 that synergized with PD-L1 and correlated with worse patient outcomes. In vitro studies revealed that the expression of ICs was closely linked with aggressive CCA subpopulations, such as cancer stem cells and cells undergoing TGF-β and TNF-α-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. These findings suggest that the aforementioned IC molecules may serve as potential prognostic biomarkers and drug targets in CCA patients, leading to lasting and durable treatment outcomes.
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17
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Kgatle MM, Boshomane TMG, Lawal IO, Mokoala KMG, Mokgoro NP, Lourens N, Kairemo K, Zeevaart JR, Vorster M, Sathekge MM. Immune Checkpoints, Inhibitors and Radionuclides in Prostate Cancer: Promising Combinatorial Therapy Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4109. [PMID: 33921181 PMCID: PMC8071559 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging research demonstrates that co-inhibitory immune checkpoints (ICs) remain the most promising immunotherapy targets in various malignancies. Nonetheless, ICIs have offered insignificant clinical benefits in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer (PCa) especially when they are used as monotherapies. Current existing PCa treatment initially offers an improved clinical outcome and overall survival (OS), however, after a while the treatment becomes resistant leading to aggressive and uncontrolled disease associated with increased mortality and morbidity. Concurrent combination of the ICIs with radionuclides therapy that has rapidly emerged as safe and effective targeted approach for treating PCa patients may shift the paradigm of PCa treatment. Here, we provide an overview of the contextual contribution of old and new emerging inhibitory ICs in PCa, preclinical and clinical studies supporting the use of these ICs in treating PCa patients. Furthermore, we will also describe the potential of using a combinatory approach of ICIs and radionuclides therapy in treating PCa patients to enhance efficacy, durable cancer control and OS. The inhibitory ICs considered in this review are cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA4), programmed cell death 1 (PD1), V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA), indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), T cell Immunoglobulin Domain and Mucin Domain 3 (TIM-3), lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG-3), T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT), B7 homolog 3 (B7-H3) and B7-H4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mankgopo M. Kgatle
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (T.M.G.B.); (I.O.L.); (K.M.G.M.); (N.P.M.); (M.V.)
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Tebatso M. G. Boshomane
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (T.M.G.B.); (I.O.L.); (K.M.G.M.); (N.P.M.); (M.V.)
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Ismaheel O. Lawal
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (T.M.G.B.); (I.O.L.); (K.M.G.M.); (N.P.M.); (M.V.)
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Kgomotso M. G. Mokoala
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (T.M.G.B.); (I.O.L.); (K.M.G.M.); (N.P.M.); (M.V.)
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Neo P. Mokgoro
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (T.M.G.B.); (I.O.L.); (K.M.G.M.); (N.P.M.); (M.V.)
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Nico Lourens
- Department of Urology, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Kalevo Kairemo
- Departments of Molecular Radiotherapy & Nuclear Medicine, Docrates Cancer Center, 00180 Helsinki, Finland;
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jan Rijn Zeevaart
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- Radiochemistry, South African Nuclear Energy Corporation SOC (Necsa), Pelindaba 0001, South Africa
| | - Mariza Vorster
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (T.M.G.B.); (I.O.L.); (K.M.G.M.); (N.P.M.); (M.V.)
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Mike M. Sathekge
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (T.M.G.B.); (I.O.L.); (K.M.G.M.); (N.P.M.); (M.V.)
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
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18
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Depleting Tumor Cells Expressing Immune Checkpoint Ligands-A New Approach to Combat Cancer. Cells 2021; 10:cells10040872. [PMID: 33921301 PMCID: PMC8069236 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibodies against inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules (ICPMs), referred to as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), have gained a prominent place in cancer therapy. Several ICIs in clinical use have been engineered to be devoid of effector functions because of the fear that ICIs with preserved effector functions could deplete immune cells, thereby curtailing antitumor immune responses. ICPM ligands (ICPMLs), however, are often overexpressed on a sizeable fraction of tumor cells of many tumor types and these tumor cells display an aggressive phenotype with changes typical of tumor cells undergoing an epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Moreover, immune cells expressing ICPMLs are often endowed with immunosuppressive or immune-deviated functionalities. Taken together, these observations suggest that compounds with the potential of depleting cells expressing ICPMLs may become useful tools for tumor therapy. In this article, we summarize the current state of the art of these compounds, including avelumab, which is the only ICI targeting an ICPML with preserved effector functions that has gained approval so far. We also discuss approaches allowing to obtain compounds with enhanced tumor cell-depleting potential compared to native antibodies. Eventually, we propose treatment protocols that may be applied in order to optimize the therapeutic efficacy of compounds that deplete cells expressing ICPMLs.
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19
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Feng Y, Yang Z, Zhang C, Che N, Liu X, Xuan Y. B7-H4 induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition and promotes colorectal cancer stemness. Pathol Res Pract 2021; 218:153323. [PMID: 33429327 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2020.153323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
B7-H4 is a unique negative regulator of T cells that is typically significantly overexpressed in various carcinomas and is associated with poor prognosis. However, the effects of B7-H4 expression on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stemness of colorectal cancer (CRC) are not entirely clear. In the present study, we used tissue samples from 98 patients with CRC and CRC cell lines to determine the clinicopathological significance of B7-H4 in CRC and its effects on CRC stemness. We performed immunohistochemical staining; immunofluorescence imaging; western blotting; and tumor sphere formation, wound healing, transwell migration, and in vivo tumorigenesis assays. B7-H4 expression was upregulated in CRC tissues and was associated with lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, clinical stage, a shorter overall survival rate, and disease-free survival rate. Cox regression analyses indicated that B7-H4 is an independent poor prognostic factor for CRC. In addition, B7-H4 expression was correlated with the expression of EMT-related proteins and cancer stemness-related proteins. Moreover, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analyses revealed that B7-H4 was correlated with CD133 and CD44 expression levels in both CRC tissues and HT29 and HCT116 cell lines. Conversely, B7-H4 knockdown downregulated the expression of EMT- and cancer stemness-related proteins, while inhibiting tumor spheroid formation, cell migration, and invasion of CRC cell lines. These results indicate that B7-H4 can promote EMT and may be a novel stem cell marker, suggesting its potential as a prognostic biomarker for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Feng
- Department of Pathology, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China
| | - Zhaoting Yang
- Department of Pathology, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China
| | - Chengye Zhang
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China
| | - Nan Che
- Department of Pathology, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China
| | - Xingzhe Liu
- Department of Pathology, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China
| | - Yanhua Xuan
- Department of Pathology, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Yanbian University College of Medicine, Yanji, China.
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20
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Cui G, Wang H, Liu W, Xing J, Song W, Zeng Z, Liu L, Wang H, Wang X, Luo H, Leng X, Shen S. Glycogen Phosphorylase B Is Regulated by miR101-3p and Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Tumorigenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:566494. [PMID: 33324633 PMCID: PMC7723997 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.566494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glycogen metabolism plays a key role in tumorigenesis. High expression levels of glycogen phosphorylase B (PYGB) were reported in several cancers and might be served as a prognostic biomarker for cancer from precancerous lesions. Previous studies indicated the high expression of PYGB in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues. However, the detailed roles of PYGB in HCC, as well as the regulatory mechanisms, are still unclear. In this study, we confirmed that PYGB was overexpressed in HCC tissues. PYGB overexpression was significantly associated with an aggressive tumor phenotype and poor prognosis of HCC patients. Functionally, PYGB knockdown suppressed HCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro, as well as tumorigenesis and metastasis in vivo. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that PYGB overexpression might enhance epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in HCC. Moreover, miR-101-3p was identified to post-transcriptionally inhibit the expression of PYGB via binding to 3′-UTR of PYGB. Overexpression of PYGB antagonized the regulatory effect of miR-101-3p on cell proliferation, migration and invasion in HCC cells. In summary, our results suggest that miR-101-3p/PYGB axis has an important role in HCC and PYGB could be served as a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for improving the prognosis of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangying Cui
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huifen Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenli Liu
- Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Jiyuan Xing
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wengang Song
- Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Zhaohai Zeng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guangshan County People's Hospital, Xinyang, China
| | - Liwen Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Haiyu Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hong Luo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guangshan County People's Hospital, Xinyang, China
| | - Xiaoyang Leng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guangshan County People's Hospital, Xinyang, China
| | - Shen Shen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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21
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Yu A, Zhao L, Kang Q, Li J, Chen K, Fu H. Transcription factor HIF1α promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of cholangiocarcinoma via long noncoding RNA H19/microRNA-612/Bcl-2 axis. Transl Res 2020; 224:26-39. [PMID: 32505707 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2020.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma, which is the most common invasive malignant tumor of the biliary tract, has poor prognosis. There is evidence suggesting that hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) plays an important role in cholangiocarcinoma. Also, microRNA-612 (miR-612) is another key regulator of cholangiocarcinoma. In this study, we investigate the scantly documented interaction of HIF1α and miR-612 in cholangiocarcinoma. We first undertook microarray-based cholangiocarcinoma gene expression profiles to screen out the differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and genes. We used reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction to detect the expression of HIF1α in normal bile duct and cholangiocarcinoma tissues, and in corresponding cells lines. Cell counting kit 8, scratch, and Transwell assays were used to detect the proliferation, migration and invasion of cholangiocarcinoma cells. Cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. ChIP, dual luciferase reporter gene assay, RNA pull-down, and RNA immunoprecipitation were used to verify relationship between HIF1α and lncRNA H19, and lncRNA H19 and miR-612. We also monitored tumor formation in nude mice to verify the effect of HIF1α on cholangiocarcinoma. HIF1α expression was elevated in cholangiocarcinoma tissues and cells. Silencing HIF1α reduced proliferation, migration, and invasion of cholangiocarcinoma cells. HIF1α transcriptionally activated the expression of lncRNA H19. Overexpression of miR-612 could rescue the proliferation, migration and invasion of cholangiocarcinoma cells caused by lncRNA H19 overexpression. Taken together, HIF1α activated lncRNA H19-mediated miR-612/Bcl-2 pathway to promote cholangiocarcinoma, suggesting a promising therapeutic target for cholangiocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aijun Yu
- The First Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, P.R. China.
| | - Luwen Zhao
- The First Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, P.R. China
| | - Qingmin Kang
- The First Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, P.R. China
| | - Jian Li
- The First Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, P.R. China
| | - Kai Chen
- The First Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, P.R. China
| | - Hua Fu
- The First Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, P.R. China
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22
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Comprehensive Analysis of Immunoinhibitors Identifies LGALS9 and TGFBR1 as Potential Prognostic Biomarkers for Pancreatic Cancer. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2020; 2020:6138039. [PMID: 33062039 PMCID: PMC7545442 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6138039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most deadly cancers worldwide. To uncover the unknown novel biomarker used to indicate early diagnosis and prognosis in the molecular therapeutic field of PC is extremely of importance. Accumulative evidences indicated that aberrant expression or activation of immunoinhibitors is a common phenomenon in malignances, and significant associations have been noted between immunoinhibitors and tumorigenesis or progression in a wide range of cancers. However, the expression patterns and exact roles of immunoinhibitors contributing to tumorigenesis and progression of pancreatic cancer (PC) have not yet been elucidated clearly. In this study, we investigated the distinct expression and prognostic value of immunoinhibitors in patients with PC by analyzing a series of databases, including TISIDB, GEPIA, cBioPortal, and Kaplan-Meier plotter database. The mRNA expression levels of IDO1, CSF1R, VTCN1, KDR, LGALS9, TGFBR1, TGFB1, IL10RB, and PVRL2 were found to be significantly upregulated in patients with PC. Aberrant expression of TGFBR1, VTCN1, and LGALS9 was found to be associated with the worse outcomes of patients with PC. Bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that LGALS9 was involved in regulating the type I interferon signaling pathway, interferon-gamma-mediated signaling pathway, RIG-I-like receptor signaling pathway, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, cytosolic DNA-sensing pathway, and TNF signaling pathway. And TGFB1 was related to mesoderm formation, cell matrix adhesion, TGF-beta signaling pathway, and Hippo signaling pathway. These results suggested that LGALS9 and TGFBR1 might serve as potential prognostic biomarkers and targets for PC.
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23
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Li A, Zhang N, Zhao Z, Chen Y, Zhang L. Overexpression of B7-H4 promotes renal cell carcinoma progression by recruiting tumor-associated neutrophils via upregulation of CXCL8. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:1535-1544. [PMID: 32724395 PMCID: PMC7377185 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune checkpoint molecule B7 family member H4 (B7-H4) plays a similar role to programmed death-ligand 1 in tumor immune evasion by regulating T-cell-mediated immune responses. However, besides the role in T-cell immunity, B7-H4 also affects tumor cell biology by promoting tumor cell proliferation, metastasis and angiogenesis. In order to explore the effect of B7-H4 on tumor cell biology, it is necessary to investigate the gene expression profile when B7-H4 is overexpressed. In the present study, 786-O cells were transfected to stably express B7-H4. A microarray technique was subsequently used to screen B7-H4-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in B7-H4/786-O cells compared with negative control (NC)/786-O cells. The protein expression of the upregulated DEGs, including non-metastatic cells 5, NME/NM23 family member 5 (NME5), membrane metalloendopeptidase (MME), vascular non-inflammatory molecule 1 (VNN1), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 7, tumor necrosis factor, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL) 8, CXCL1 and C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL) 2, was investigated using western blotting. Kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma mRNA-sequencing data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas revealed that chemokines, including CXCL1/2/3, CXCL8, MMP7 and CCL20, were positively correlated with B7-H4 gene expression. Furthermore, 59 clinical renal cell carcinoma tissues were collected and analyzed by immunohistochemical staining. The results revealed the positive correlation of B7-H4 with CCL20 and CXCL8, and validated the DEGs identified in tumor cell lines. 786-O transfectants were inoculated into non-obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency mice, and tumor growth was investigated. B7-H4 overexpression promoted tumor growth and administration of anti-CXCL8 antibody reversed this effect. Furthermore, B7-H4 overexpression increased the number of tumor-infiltrating neutrophils while inhibition of CXCL8 abrogated this effect. These data indicated that recruitment of neutrophils in the tumor microenvironment by CXCL8 serves an important role in the tumor promotion effect of B7-H4. The present study revealed a novel mechanism of B7-H4 in tumor promotion in addition to T cell inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anqi Li
- Department of Biological Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
| | - Ningyue Zhang
- Department of Biological Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
| | - Zhiming Zhao
- Department of Biological Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
| | - Yali Chen
- Department of Biological Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Biological Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China.,Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Tumor Immunology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
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24
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Rees JS, Cheung LCC, Hamaia SW, Davies G, Sandercock A, Lilley KS, Tigue N, Jackson AP. Identification of the cis‑molecular neighbours of the immune checkpoint protein B7‑H4 in the breast cancer cell‑line SK‑BR‑3 by proteomic proximity labelling. Int J Oncol 2020; 57:87-99. [PMID: 32319587 PMCID: PMC7252456 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2020.5037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune checkpoint protein B7-H4 plays an important role in the positive as well as the negative regulation of immune T-cell responses. When expressed on cancer cells, B7-H4 inhibits T-cell activity, and numerous types of cancer cells use upregulation of B7-H4 as a survival strategy. Thus, B7-H4 is a potential target for anticancer drug therapy. Unfortunately, the cell biology of this molecule has yet to be fully elucidated. Even basic properties, such as the nature of B7-H4 interactors, are controversial. In particular, the cis-inter-actors of B7-H4 on cancer cell plasma membranes have not been investigated to date. The present study used a proteomic proximity-labelling assay to investigate the molecular neighbours of B7-H4 on the surface of the human breast cancer cells SK-BR-3. By comparison to a comprehensive proteome analysis of SK-BR-3 cells, the proximity method detected a relatively small number of low abundance plasma membrane proteins highly enriched for proteins known to modulate cell adhesion and immune recognition. It may be inferred that these molecules contribute to the immunosuppressive behaviour that is characteristic of B7-H4 on cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna S Rees
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
| | - Lawrence C C Cheung
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
| | - Samir W Hamaia
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth Davies
- Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, CB21 6GP, United Kingdom
| | - Alan Sandercock
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, CB21 6GP, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn S Lilley
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie Tigue
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, CB21 6GP, United Kingdom
| | - Antony P Jackson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
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25
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Xu X, Xiao Y, Hong B, Hao B, Qian Y. Combined detection of CA19-9 and B7-H4 in the diagnosis and prognosis of pancreatic cancer. Cancer Biomark 2020; 25:251-257. [PMID: 31282407 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-190067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There were no specific indicators for the early detection of pancreatic cancer. OBJECTIVE To analyze the diagnostic and prognostic value of CA19-9 plus B7-H4 detection in preoperative serum or surgical tissues of patients with pancreatic cancer. METHODS One hundred and eighty-eight patients with pancreatic cancer and 25 controls were recruited. Their preoperative serum CA19-9 level was detected chemiluminescently, and B7-H4 expression in pancreatic cancer tissues was assessed immunohistochemically. The diagnostic and prognostic utility of detecting CA19-9, B7-H4 and their combination was evaluated. RESULTS CA19-9 and B7-H4 levels were significantly upregulated in patients with pancreatic cancer compared with those in controls. The diagnostic value of combined CA19-9 plus B7-H4 detection was markedly better than that achieved from their separate detection analyzed with receiver operating characteristic curve. Sensitivity and specificity of the combined detection in the pancreatic cancer group was significantly increased compared with single detection. B7-H4 detection showed better prognostic value than detection of CA19-9. However, CA19-9 had high sensitivity and low specificity, while B7-H4 showed the opposite. The sensitivity of the combined prognosis was not significantly different to B7-H4 alone. CONCLUSION The combined detection of CA19-9 and B7-H4 could become a new method for the clinical diagnosis and prognosis of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangming Xu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yufei Xiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bo Hong
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bing Hao
- Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yun Qian
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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26
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Zhang A, Liu B, Xu D, Sun Y. Advanced intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma treated using anlotinib and microwave ablation: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e18435. [PMID: 31876723 PMCID: PMC6946271 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000018435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) accounts for 10% to 15% of all primary hepatic carcinomas. However, there are no effective drug treatment strategies against ICC, and surgery is currently the only curative treatment. Here, we present a case of ICC successfully treated with anlotinib, a novel oral agent. PATIENT CONCERNS The patient was a 66-year-old Han Chinese woman, and she was a retired worker. The patient had no history of hepatitis B infection or hypertension. Physical examination showed no abnormalities, and the patient showed no conscious discomfort. However, ultrasound revealed liver occupation. DIAGNOSIS Liver ultrasound and enhanced computed tomography (CT) indicated liver cancer with intrahepatic metastasis. Serum carbohydrate antigen 199 and alpha fetoprotein levels were high at 4270 and 1561 ng/mL, respectively. Pathologic findings of CT-guided liver biopsy revealed an adenocarcinoma. Owing to further immunohistochemical staining and clinical results, a diagnosis of ICC was made. INTERVENTIONS The patient had received 5 cycles of transhepatic arterial chemotherapy and embolization and 1 cycle of microwave ablation. Due to rapid tumor progression and loss of liver function, systemic chemotherapy was contraindicated. As second-line therapy, she received anlotinib, a novel tyrosine kinase inhibitor that inhibits tumor angiogenesis and proliferative signaling and has been used to treat refractory advanced non-small-cell lung cancer that shows progression despite treatment with ≥2 chemotherapy regimens. OUTCOMES This patient showed a partial response after 2 cycles of treatment with anlotinib (12 mg daily, days 1-14 of a 21-day cycle). Drug-related side effects, such as hypertension and hand foot skin reaction, were observed. After 4 cycles of anlotinib, the efficacy appeared to be stable, and the patient showed a progression-free survival period of almost 4 months. However, the patient's condition worsened and she died of liver failure 6 months after treatment (overall survival, almost 6 months). CONCLUSION Some cases of ICC may be responsive to the antiangiogenic drug, anlotinib, when combined with microwave ablation. Randomized clinical studies are required to further confirm the efficacy and safety of anlotinib in the clinical treatment of ICC.
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27
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Wang JY, Wang WP. B7-H4, a promising target for immunotherapy. Cell Immunol 2019; 347:104008. [PMID: 31733822 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2019.104008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The coinhibitory molecule B7-H4, an important member of the B7 family, is abnormally expressed in tumors, inflammation and autoimmune diseases. B7-H4 negatively regulates T cell immune response and promotes immune escape by inhibiting the proliferation, cytokine secretion, and cell cycle of T cells. Moreover, B7-H4 plays an extremely important role in tumorigenesis and tumor development including cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, anti-apoptosis, etc. In addition, B7-H4 has the other biological functions, such as protection against type 1 diabetes (T1D) and islet cell transplantation. Therefore, B7-H4 has been identified as a novel marker or a therapeutic target for the treatment of tumors, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and organ transplantation. Here, we summarized the expression profiles, physiological and pathological functions, and regulatory mechanisms of B7-H4, the signaling pathways involved, as well as B7-H4-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Yu Wang
- Center for Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Wei-Peng Wang
- Center for Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
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28
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The B7x Immune Checkpoint Pathway: From Discovery to Clinical Trial. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2019; 40:883-896. [PMID: 31677920 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
B7x (B7 homolog x, also known as B7-H4, B7S1, and VTCN1) was discovered by ourselves and others in 2003 as the seventh member of the B7 family. It is an inhibitory immune checkpoint of great significance to human disease. Tissue-expressed B7x minimizes autoimmune and inflammatory responses. It is overexpressed in a broad spectrum of human cancers, where it suppresses antitumor immunity. Further, B7x and PD-L1 tend to have mutually exclusive expression in cancer cells. Therapeutics targeting B7x are effective in animal models of cancers and autoimmune disorders, and early-phase clinical trials are underway to determine the efficacy and safety of targeting B7x in human diseases. It took 15 years moving from the discovery of B7x to clinical trials. Further studies will be necessary to identify its receptors, reveal its physiological functions in organs, and combine therapies targeting B7x with other treatments.
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29
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Dong L, Xie L, Li M, Dai H, Wang X, Wang P, Zhang Q, Liu W, Hu X, Zhao M. Downregulation of B7-H4 suppresses tumor progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14854. [PMID: 31619714 PMCID: PMC6795893 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51253-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
B7-H4, as a member of the B7 superfamily, was overexpressed in various types of cancers. However, the effects of B7-H4 on the aggressiveness of HCC and the underlying mechanisms have not yet been fully explored. For this purpose, B7-H4 expression was detected by Flow cytometry and Western blotting, it was highly expressed in several HCC cell lines but not in normal LO2 cell line. Knockdown B7-H4 expression induced HCC cells apoptosis by flow cytometry and colony formation assays and increased several apoptosis-related proteins, including survivin, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-7, and Bax, while the pro-growth protein survivin was reduced. Then the proliferation and cell cycle were suppressed after treated by siB7-H4. Moreover, the level of B7-H4 was significantly correlated with cell migration. In vivo, intra-tumor injection of siRNA targeting B7-H4 can significantly inhibited the growth of HepG2 cells in nude mice. Finally, regions of interest were manually traced on T1WI, T2WI, DWI and ADC of MR images. ADC values were increased in HCC xenografts after B7-H4 siRNA treatment. These data indicated that downregulation of B7-H4 suppressed the proliferation and migration and promoted apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. Blocking the B7-H4 channel might be a potential therapeutic strategy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijie Dong
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China.,Department of Radiology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, 256603, P.R. China
| | - Lulu Xie
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China
| | - Minjing Li
- Medicine & Pharmacy Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China
| | - Hanhan Dai
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China
| | - Xia Wang
- Department of Oral Pathology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China
| | - Peiyuan Wang
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Medicine & Pharmacy Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China
| | - Xuemei Hu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China.
| | - Mingdong Zhao
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China.
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High Mannose Binding Lectin (PFL) from Pseudomonas fluorescens Down-Regulates Cancer-Associated Integrins and Immune Checkpoint Ligand B7-H4. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11050604. [PMID: 31052260 PMCID: PMC6562446 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11050604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas fluorescens lectin (PFL), which belongs to the high mannose (HM)-binding OAAH (Oscillatoria agardhii agglutinin homologue) lectin family, induces cancer cell death. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying this process have not yet been elucidated. We found that PFL decreased various integrins as well as EGFR in cancer cells by promoting internalization and autophagic degradation of these molecules, subsequently inducing caspase-8 dependent cell apoptosis. As revealed by an ex vivo angiogenesis assay using the rat aortic model, PFL inhibited neovascularization in a dose-dependent manner, which was potentially mediated by down-regulation of endothelium integrins. Interestingly, PFL also down-regulated B7-H4 in cancer cells, which has been implicated as a negative regulator of T cell-mediated immunity. We found that B7-H4 co-localized with β3 integrin in MKN28 gastric cancer cells. siRNA silencing of B7-H4 in MKN28 cells decreased expression of β3 integrin, suggesting physical and functional association between these molecules. Direct interaction of PFL with integrin αvβ3 or B7-H4 was examined by surface plasmon resonance analysis, which detected high affinity glycan-dependent binding to PFL. These investigations suggest that PFL interaction with cell surface integrins is a key process for the anti-cancer activities of PFL.
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Peng R, Zhang PF, Yang X, Wei CY, Huang XY, Cai JB, Lu JC, Gao C, Sun HX, Gao Q, Bai DS, Shi GM, Ke AW, Fan J. Overexpression of RNF38 facilitates TGF-β signaling by Ubiquitinating and degrading AHNAK in hepatocellular carcinoma. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2019; 38:113. [PMID: 30836988 PMCID: PMC6402116 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1113-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND RING finger protein 38 (RNF38), a member of the RNF protein family, has just emerged as a vital driver of cancer progression. However, the oncogenic mechanisms of RNF38 remain unexplored. METHODS Using frozen tumor tissue and tissue microarray from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, we tried to probe the expression of RNF38 in HCC and its clinical value. Then the biological functions of RNF38 were analyzed in vivo and vitro. Stable isotope labeling with amino acids (SILAC) in cell culture and co-immunoprecipitation proteomic analyses were combined to reveal the potential mechanism of RNF38 in HCC progression. RESULTS We report that RNF38 expression was markedly higher in HCC tissues than in peritumor tissues. Correspondingly, RNF38 overexpression promoted the HCC cell migration and invasion and inhibited apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. And elevated RNF38 expression induced HCC cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition by facilitating transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling via ubiquitinating and degrading neuroblast differentiation-associated protein (AHNAK), a well-established inhibitor of TGF-β signaling. Furthermore, AHNAK interference restored the HCC cell invasion and metastasis deprived by RNF38 downregulation. Clinically, elevated RNF38 and transforming growth factor beta receptor 1 (TGFBR1) expression was related to short overall survival (OS) and high cumulative recurrence rates in HCC patients. CONCLUSIONS High levels of RNF38 promote HCC by facilitating TGF-β signaling and are a novel marker for predicting the prognosis of HCC patients and a potential therapeutic target in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Peng
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.,Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Peng-Fei Zhang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xuan Yang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuan-Yuan Wei
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Yong Huang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Bin Cai
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Cheng Lu
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Gao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai-Xiang Sun
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Gao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Dou-Sheng Bai
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guo-Ming Shi
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ai-Wu Ke
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jia Fan
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, 180 Feng lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China. .,Cancer Center, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, People's Republic of China.
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Xie L, Li M, Liu D, Wang X, Wang P, Dai H, Yang W, Liu W, Hu X, Zhao M. Secalonic Acid-F, a Novel Mycotoxin, Represses the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma via MARCH1 Regulation of the PI3K/AKT/β-catenin Signaling Pathway. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24030393. [PMID: 30678274 PMCID: PMC6385111 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24030393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is a very common and significant health problem. Therefore, powerful molecular targeting agents are urgently needed. Previously, we demonstrated that secalonic acid-F (SAF) suppresses the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells (HepG2), but the other anticancer biological functions and the underlying mechanism of SAF on HCC are unknown. In this study, we found that SAF, which was isolated from a fungal strain in our lab identified as Aspergillus aculeatus, could inhibit the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting MARCH1, which regulates the PI3K/AKT/β-catenin and antiapoptotic Mcl-1/Bcl-2 signaling cascades. First, we confirmed that SAF reduced the proliferation and colony formation of HCC cell lines (HepG2 and Hep3B), promoted cell apoptosis, and inhibited the cell cycle in HepG2 and Hep3B cells in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the migration and invasion of HepG2 and Hep3B cells treated with SAF were significantly suppressed. Western blot analysis showed that the level of MARCH1 was downregulated by pretreatment with SAF through the regulation of the PI3K/AKT/β-catenin signaling pathways. Moreover, knockdown of MARCH1 by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting MARCH1 also suppressed the proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion as well as increased the apoptotic rate of HepG2 and Hep3B cells. These data confirmed that the downregulation of MARCH1 could inhibit the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma and that the mechanism may be via PI3K/AKT/β-catenin inactivation as well as the downregulation of the antiapoptotic Mcl-1/Bcl-2. In vivo, the downregulation of MARCH1 by treatment with SAF markedly inhibited tumor growth, suggesting that SAF partly blocks MARCH1 and further regulates the PI3K/AKT/β-catenin and antiapoptosis Mcl-1/Bcl-2 signaling cascade in the HCC nude mouse model. Additionally, the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values, derived from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), were increased in tumors after SAF treatment in a mouse model. Taken together, our findings suggest that MARCH1 is a potential molecular target for HCC treatment and that SAF is a promising agent targeting MARCH1 to treat liver cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Xie
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Minjing Li
- Medicine and Pharmacy Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Desheng Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Xia Wang
- Department of Oral Pathology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Peiyuan Wang
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Hanhan Dai
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Xuemei Hu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Mingdong Zhao
- Department of Imaging, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
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Zhang PF, Wu J, Wu Y, Huang W, Liu M, Dong ZR, Xu BY, Jin Y, Wang F, Zhang XM. The lncRNA SCARNA2 mediates colorectal cancer chemoresistance through a conserved microRNA-342-3p target sequence. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:10157-10165. [PMID: 30443961 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in numerous physiological and pathological processes, including cancer development and progression. However, the role and molecular mechanism of lncRNAs in resistance to chemotherapy of colorectal cancer (CRC) remain enigmatic. Here, we found that lncRNA small Cajal body-specific RNA 2 (SCARNA2) is expressed higher in CRC tissues than in adjacent normal tissues, and a robust expression of SCARNA2 is correlated with a bad prognosis of CRC patients after surgery. SCARNA2 overexpression significantly promoted chemoresistance in CRC cells, and downregulation of SCARNA2 obviously inhibited chemoresistance in vitro. SCARNA2 promotes chemotherapy resistance via competitively binding miR-342-3p to facilitate epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) expression in CRC cells. Together, our results reveal a novel pathway that SCARNA2 regulates CRC chemoresistance through targeting miR-342-3p-EGFR/BCL2 pathway, providing a promising therapeutic target for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Fei Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji University School of Medicine Affiliated Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Wu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji University School of Medicine Affiliated Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yin Wu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji University School of Medicine Affiliated Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji University School of Medicine Affiliated Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji University School of Medicine Affiliated Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhao-Ru Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Bai-Ying Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Xuhui District Central Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji University School of Medicine Affiliated Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Mei Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji University School of Medicine Affiliated Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai, China
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