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Lepore Signorile M, Fasano C, Forte G, De Marco K, Sanese P, Disciglio V, Di Nicola E, Pantaleo A, Simone C, Grossi V. Uncoupling p38α nuclear and cytoplasmic functions and identification of two p38α phosphorylation sites on β-catenin: implications for the Wnt signaling pathway in CRC models. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:223. [PMID: 38041178 PMCID: PMC10693086 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01175-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Activation of the Wnt pathway has been linked to colorectal cancer (CRC). Previous reports suggest that Wnt3a can activate p38. Besides, p38α feeds into the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway by inhibiting GSK3β through phosphorylation. Recently, we identified p38α as a new druggable member of β-catenin chromatin-associated kinase complexes in CRC. METHODS The functional relationship between p38α and β-catenin was characterized in CRC cells, patient-derived CRC stem cells, patient-derived tumor intestinal organoids, and in vivo models (C57BL/6-APCMin/+ mice). The role of p38α in β-catenin transcriptional activity was assessed by pharmacological inhibition with ralimetinib. RESULTS We used the GSK3β inhibitor TWS-119, which promotes the activation of Wnt signaling, to uncouple p38α nuclear/cytoplasmatic functions in the Wnt pathway. Upon GSK3β inhibition, nuclear p38α phosphorylates β-catenin at residues S111 and T112, allowing its binding to promoter regions of Wnt target genes and the activation of a transcriptional program implicated in cancer progression. If p38α is pharmacologically inhibited in addition to GSK3β, β-catenin is prevented from promoting target gene transcription, which is expected to impair carcinogenesis. CONCLUSIONS p38α seems to play a dual role as a member of the β-catenin destruction complex and as a β-catenin chromatin-associated kinase in CRC. This finding may help elucidate mechanisms contributing to human colon tumor pathogenesis and devise new strategies for personalized CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Lepore Signorile
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Ba), 70013, Bari, Italy
| | - Candida Fasano
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Ba), 70013, Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanna Forte
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Ba), 70013, Bari, Italy
| | - Katia De Marco
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Ba), 70013, Bari, Italy
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Sanese
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Ba), 70013, Bari, Italy
| | - Vittoria Disciglio
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Ba), 70013, Bari, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Di Nicola
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Ba), 70013, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonino Pantaleo
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Ba), 70013, Bari, Italy
| | - Cristiano Simone
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Ba), 70013, Bari, Italy.
- Medical Genetics, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Jonic Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Valentina Grossi
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Ba), 70013, Bari, Italy.
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Li J, Xian L, Zhu Z, Wang Y, Zhang W, Zheng R, Xue W, Li J. Role of CELF2 in ferroptosis: Potential targets for cancer therapy (Review). Int J Mol Med 2023; 52:88. [PMID: 37594127 PMCID: PMC10500222 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2023.5291] [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: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a novel form of regulated cellular necrosis that plays a critical role in promoting cancer progression and developing drug resistance. The main characteristic of ferroptosis is iron‑dependent lipid peroxidation caused by excess intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species. CUGBP ELAV‑like family number 2 (CELF2) is an RNA‑binding protein that is downregulated in various types of cancer and is associated with poor patient prognoses. CELF2 can directly bind mRNA to a variety of ferroptosis control factors; however, direct evidence of the regulatory role of CELF2 in ferroptosis is currently limited. The aim of the present review was to summarise the findings of previous studies on CELF2 and its role in regulating cellular redox homeostasis. The present review may provide insight into the possible mechanisms through which CELF2 affects ferroptosis and to provide recommendations for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Li
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Lei Xian
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Zifeng Zhu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Wenlei Zhang
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Ruipeng Zheng
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Wang Xue
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Jiarui Li
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
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Bou Antoun N, Chioni AM. Dysregulated Signalling Pathways Driving Anticancer Drug Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12222. [PMID: 37569598 PMCID: PMC10418675 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the leading causes of death worldwide, in both men and women, is cancer. Despite the significant development in therapeutic strategies, the inevitable emergence of drug resistance limits the success and impedes the curative outcome. Intrinsic and acquired resistance are common mechanisms responsible for cancer relapse. Several factors crucially regulate tumourigenesis and resistance, including physical barriers, tumour microenvironment (TME), heterogeneity, genetic and epigenetic alterations, the immune system, tumour burden, growth kinetics and undruggable targets. Moreover, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), Notch, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), integrin-extracellular matrix (ECM), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), phosphoinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR), wingless-related integration site (Wnt/β-catenin), Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) and RAS/RAF/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathways are some of the key players that have a pivotal role in drug resistance mechanisms. To guide future cancer treatments and improve results, a deeper comprehension of drug resistance pathways is necessary. This review covers both intrinsic and acquired resistance and gives a comprehensive overview of recent research on mechanisms that enable cancer cells to bypass barriers put up by treatments, and, like "satellite navigation", find alternative routes by which to carry on their "journey" to cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Athina-Myrto Chioni
- School of Life Sciences Pharmacy and Chemistry, Biomolecular Sciences Department, Kingston University London, Kingston-upon-Thames KT1 2EE, UK;
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Chen Y, Chen M, Deng K. Blocking the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway to treat colorectal cancer: Strategies to improve current therapies (Review). Int J Oncol 2022; 62:24. [PMID: 36579676 PMCID: PMC9854240 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2022.5472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumor types occurring in the digestive system. The incidence of CRC has exhibits yearly increases and the mortality rate among patients with CRC is high. The Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway, which is associated with carcinogenesis, is abnormally activated in CRC. Most patients with CRC have adenomatous polyposis coli mutations, while half of the remaining patients have β‑catenin gene mutations. Therefore, targeting the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway for the treatment of CRC is of clinical value. In recent years, with in‑depth research on the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway, inhibitors have been developed that are able to suppress or hinder the development and progression of CRC. In the present review, the role of the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway in CRC is summarized, the research status on Wnt/β‑catenin pathway inhibitors is outlined and potential targets for inhibition of this pathway are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiang Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China,The Laboratory of Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Mo Chen
- Department of Gerontology, Tibetan Chengdu Branch Hospital of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China,Department of Gerontology, Hospital of Chengdu Office of People's Government of Tibetan Autonomous Region, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China,Professor Mo Chen, Department of Gerontology, Tibetan Chengdu Branch Hospital of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 20 Ximianqiao Cross Street, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China, E-mail:
| | - Kai Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China,The Laboratory of Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China,Correspondence to: Professor Kai Deng, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China, E-mail:
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Yu YY, Zhu YJ, Xiao ZZ, Chen YD, Chang XS, Liu YH, Tang Q, Zhang HB. The pivotal application of patient-derived organoid biobanks for personalized treatment of gastrointestinal cancers. Biomark Res 2022; 10:73. [PMID: 36207749 PMCID: PMC9547471 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00421-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancers (GICs) occupy more than 30% of the cancer-related incidence and mortality around the world. Despite advances in the treatment strategies, the long-term overall survival has not been improved for patients with GICs. Recently, the novel patient-derived organoid (PDO) culture technology has become a powerful tool for GICs in a manner that recapitulates the morphology, pathology, genetic, phenotypic, and behavior traits of the original tumors. Excitingly, a number of evidences suggest that the versatile technology has great potential for personalized treatment, suppling the clinical application of molecularly guided personalized treatment. In the paper, we summarize the literature on the topics of establishing organoid biobanks of PDOs, and their application in the personalized treatment allowing for radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy selection for GICs. Despite the limitations of current organoid models, high-throughput drug screening of GIC PDO combined with next-generation sequencing technology represents a novel and pivotal preclinical model for precision medicine of tumors and has a great value in promoting the transformation from basic cancer research to clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ya Yu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan-Juan Zhu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Xiao
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ya-Dong Chen
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xue-Song Chang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi-Hong Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qing Tang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Clinical and Basic Research Team of TCM Prevention and Treatment of NSCLC, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai-Bo Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China. .,Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
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6
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Lepore Signorile M, Grossi V, Fasano C, Forte G, Disciglio V, Sanese P, De Marco K, La Rocca F, Armentano R, Valentini AM, Giannelli G, Simone C. c-MYC Protein Stability Is Sustained by MAPKs in Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194840. [PMID: 36230763 PMCID: PMC9562641 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common gastrointestinal tract malignancy. Previous reports have shown that cancerous phenotypes in the intestine are dependent on c-MYC target gene expression. Unfortunately, finding c-MYC inhibitors has proven difficult because c-MYC does not have a deep surface-binding pocket. Considering that c-MYC is maintained upregulated through β-catenin-mediated transcriptional activation and ERK-mediated post-translational stabilization, and since we have previously demonstrated that c-MYC transcriptional activation is affected by p38α as a β-catenin chromatin-associated kinase, here, we investigated p38α’s involvement in c-MYC protein stabilization in CRC. Interestingly, we found that p38α sustains c-MYC’s stability by preventing its ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Moreover, we showed that p38α inhibitors exhibit a synthetic lethality effect when used in combination with MEK inhibitors in CRC cells. Our findings identify p38α as a promising therapeutic target that acts on the pharmacologically “undruggable” c-MYC protein, with implications for countering c-MYC-mediated CRC proliferation, metastasization, and chemoresistance. Abstract c-MYC is one of the most important factors involved in colorectal cancer (CRC) initiation and progression; indeed, it is found to be upregulated in up to 80% of sporadic cases. During colorectal carcinogenesis, c-MYC is maintained upregulated through β-catenin-mediated transcriptional activation and ERK-mediated post-translational stabilization. Our data demonstrate that p38α, a kinase involved in CRC metabolism and survival, contributes to c-Myc protein stability. Moreover, we show that p38α, like ERK, stabilizes c-MYC protein levels by preventing its ubiquitination. Of note, we found that p38α phosphorylates c-MYC and interacts with it both in vitro and in cellulo. Extensive molecular analyses in the cellular and in vivo models revealed that the p38α kinase inhibitors, SB202190 and ralimetinib, affect c-MYC protein levels. Ralimetinib also exhibited a synthetic lethality effect when used in combination with the MEK1 inhibitor trametinib. Overall, our findings identify p38α as a promising therapeutic target, acting directly on c-MYC, with potential implications for countering c-MYC-mediated CRC proliferation, metastatic dissemination, and chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Lepore Signorile
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (M.L.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (P.S.); (K.D.M.); (F.L.R.)
| | - Valentina Grossi
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (M.L.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (P.S.); (K.D.M.); (F.L.R.)
- Correspondence: (V.G.); (C.S.)
| | - Candida Fasano
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (M.L.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (P.S.); (K.D.M.); (F.L.R.)
| | - Giovanna Forte
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (M.L.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (P.S.); (K.D.M.); (F.L.R.)
| | - Vittoria Disciglio
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (M.L.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (P.S.); (K.D.M.); (F.L.R.)
| | - Paola Sanese
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (M.L.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (P.S.); (K.D.M.); (F.L.R.)
| | - Katia De Marco
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (M.L.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (P.S.); (K.D.M.); (F.L.R.)
| | - Francesca La Rocca
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (M.L.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (P.S.); (K.D.M.); (F.L.R.)
| | - Raffaele Armentano
- Department of Pathology, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (R.A.); (A.M.V.)
| | - Anna Maria Valentini
- Department of Pathology, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (R.A.); (A.M.V.)
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- Scientific Direction, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy;
| | - Cristiano Simone
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (M.L.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (P.S.); (K.D.M.); (F.L.R.)
- Medical Genetics, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence: (V.G.); (C.S.)
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Sokolov D, Sharda N, Giri B, Hassan MS, Singh D, Tarasiewicz A, Lohr C, von Holzen U, Kristian T, Waddell J, Reiter RJ, Ahmed H, Banerjee A. Melatonin and andrographolide synergize to inhibit the colospheroid phenotype by targeting Wnt/beta-catenin signaling. J Pineal Res 2022; 73:e12808. [PMID: 35619550 PMCID: PMC9288490 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
β-catenin signaling, and angiogenesis are associated with colospheroid (CSC), development. CSCs, spheroids derived from colon cancer cells, are responsible for metastasis, drug resistance, and disease recurrence. Whether dysregulating β-catenin and inhibiting angiogenesis reduce CSC growth is unknown. In this study, the molecular mechanism of CSC growth inhibition was evaluated using a novel combination of melatonin (MLT) and andrographolide (AGP). These drugs have anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, and antimetastatic properties. CSCs were obtained from two metastatic colon cancer cell lines (HT29 and HCT-15). The viability and stemness were monitored (FDA propidium iodide staining and immunoblot for CD44, CD133, Nanog, Sox2, and Oct4). The drug combination synergistically diminished stemness via increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP level. MLT + AGP induced cell death by inhibiting β-catenin expression and its downregulatory signals, Cyclin D1, c-Myc. MLT + AGP treated cells exhibited translocation of phospho-β-catenin to the nucleus and dephosphorylated-β-catenin. Downregulation of β-catenin activation and its transcription factors (TCF4 and LEF1) and GTP binding/G-protein related activity were found in the dual therapy. Angiogenic inhibition is consistent with downregulation of VEGF messenger RNA transcripts (VEGF189), phosphorylated VEGF receptor protein expression, matrigel invasion, and capillary tube inhibition. In vivo, the intravenous injection of MLT + AGP slowed HT29 metastatic colon cancer. Histopathology indicated significant reduction in microvascular density and tumor index. Immunohistochemistry for caspase 7, and β-catenin found increased apoptosis and downregulation of β-catenin signals. The mechanism(s) of decreased colospheroids growth were the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Our results provide a rationale for using MLT in combination with AGP for the inhibition of CRCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniil Sokolov
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Neha Sharda
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Banabihari Giri
- Division of Virology and Immunology, Maryland Department of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Md Sazzad Hassan
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN, U.S.A
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, South Bend, IN, U.S.A
| | - Damandeep Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Agnieszka Tarasiewicz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Charity Lohr
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Urs von Holzen
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN, U.S.A
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, South Bend, IN, U.S.A
- Goshen Center for Cancer Care, Goshen, Goshen, IN, U.S.A
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tibor Kristian
- VAMHCS, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
- Department of Anesthesiology and the Center for Shock, Trauma, and Anesthesiology Research (STAR)
| | - Jaylyn Waddell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Russel J. Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, U.S.A
| | | | - Aditi Banerjee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
- Corresponding author: Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bressler Research Building, 13-043, 655 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, Voice: (410) 706-1772, Fax: (410) 328-1072,
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8
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Zhao H, Ming T, Tang S, Ren S, Yang H, Liu M, Tao Q, Xu H. Wnt signaling in colorectal cancer: pathogenic role and therapeutic target. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:144. [PMID: 35836256 PMCID: PMC9281132 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01616-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 104.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Wnt signaling pathway is a complex network of protein interactions that functions most commonly in embryonic development and cancer, but is also involved in normal physiological processes in adults. The canonical Wnt signaling pathway regulates cell pluripotency and determines the differentiation fate of cells during development. The canonical Wnt signaling pathway (also known as the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway) is a recognized driver of colon cancer and one of the most representative signaling pathways. As a functional effector molecule of Wnt signaling, the modification and degradation of β-catenin are key events in the Wnt signaling pathway and the development and progression of colon cancer. Therefore, the Wnt signaling pathway plays an important role in the pathogenesis of diseases, especially the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC). Objective Inhibit the Wnt signaling pathway to explore the therapeutic targets of colorectal cancer. Methods Based on studying the Wnt pathway, master the biochemical processes related to the Wnt pathway, and analyze the relevant targets when drugs or inhibitors act on the Wnt pathway, to clarify the medication ideas of drugs or inhibitors for the treatment of diseases, especially colorectal cancer. Results Wnt signaling pathways include: Wnt/β-catenin or canonical Wnt signaling pathway, planar cell polarity (Wnt-PCP) pathway and Wnt-Ca2+ signaling pathway. The Wnt signaling pathway is closely related to cancer cell proliferation, stemness, apoptosis, autophagy, metabolism, inflammation and immunization, microenvironment, resistance, ion channel, heterogeneity, EMT/migration/invasion/metastasis. Drugs/phytochemicals and molecular preparations for the Wnt pathway of CRC treatment have now been developed. Wnt inhibitors are also commonly used clinically for the treatment of CRC. Conclusion The development of drugs/phytochemicals and molecular inhibitors targeting the Wnt pathway can effectively treat colorectal cancer clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Department of Pharmacology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Tianqi Ming
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Department of Pharmacology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Shun Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Department of Pharmacology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Shan Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Department of Pharmacology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Han Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Department of Pharmacology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Maolun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Department of Pharmacology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Qiu Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Department of Pharmacology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Haibo Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Department of Pharmacology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
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Jia Q, Tao L, Zhou Y, Song L, Wei Z, Lu T, Woodgett JR, Lu Y. Novel GSK-3 kinase inhibitor Pym-5 induces GSK-3β rather than GSK-3α-dependent melanogenesis in murine melanoma cells. J Dermatol Sci 2022; 106:170-180. [PMID: 35641396 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2022.05.003] [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: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) inhibitors are considered to activate Wnt/β-Catenin, which remains a controversial topic in melanoma treatment. OBJECTIVE Here, we have developed Pym-5, an attractive GSK-3 inhibitor. Using Pym-5 as a chemical tool to probe the GSK-3 biology, we aimed to investigate the potential of GSK-3 inhibition as a strategy of melanoma treatment and underlying mechanisms. METHODS Using pigment B16 and B16BL6 murine melanoma model in vitro and a zebrafish pigmentation model in vivo, we investigated Pym-5-meditaed activation of Wnt/β-Catenin, melanogenesis and antitumor response in melanoma treatment. RESULTS We found that Pym-5 delayed the growth and promoted melanogenesis of melanoma cells. Pym-5 activated the transcription of β-Catenin and responsive targets genes (AXIN2 and MITF), melanin biosynthesis genes (TYR, TYRP1 and TYRP2) and eventually elevated the production of melanin. Interestingly, genetic inactivation of GSK-3β, but not its paralogue GSK-3α, compromised Pym-5-mediated melanogenesis in B16 and B16BL6 cells. CONCLUSION These data provide insight into the potential therapeutic benefits obtained from activation of Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway and how Pym-5 can regulate melanin production and the rationale for future clinical application of GSK-3 inhibitor in melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Jia
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Tao
- College of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yinyin Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Song
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhonghong Wei
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, China.
| | - James R Woodgett
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Yin Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Tang Y, Yang X, Wang Q, Huang H, Wang Q, Jiang M, Yuan C, Huang Y, Chen Y. ING4 Promotes Stemness Enrichment of Human Renal Cell Carcinoma Cells Through Inhibiting DUSP4 Expression to Activate the p38 MAPK/type I IFN-Stimulated Gene Signaling Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:845097. [PMID: 35496267 PMCID: PMC9046557 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.845097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) recurs frequently due to high metastatic spread, resulting in a high mortality. Cancer stem cells play a critical role in initiating the tumor metastasis. Inhibitor of growth 4 (ING4) is a member of the ING family, but its impact on cancer stem cells in RCC is still unknown. In this study, we found that ING4 significantly promoted the sphere-forming size and number of RCC cells under an ultralow-attachment culture condition in vitro, tumor growth and metastasis in vivo, and the expression of some stem-like or pluripotent biomarkers CD44, MYC, OCT4, and NANOG, indicating that ING4 increased the stemness enrichment of RCC cells. Mechanistically, the ING4-activated p38 MAPK pathway possibly upregulated the expression of type I IFN-stimulated genes to promote the formation of RCC stem cells. ING4 could inhibit the expression of DUSP4 to activate p38 MAPK. In addition, selective pharmacological p38 MAPK inhibitors could significantly inhibit stemness enrichment only in ING4-overexpressed RCC cells, suggesting that the p38 MAPK inhibitors might be effective in patients with high ING4 expression in RCC tissue. Taken together, our findings proposed that ING4 might serve as a potential therapeutic target for metastatic RCC, particularly RCC stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Tang
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xinyue Yang
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Haoyu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Qinzhi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Min Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Chunluan Yuan
- Department of Oncology, First People’s Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang, China
| | - Yefei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yansu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yansu Chen,
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Atypical p38 Signaling, Activation, and Implications for Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22084183. [PMID: 33920735 PMCID: PMC8073329 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) p38 is an essential family of kinases, regulating responses to environmental stress and inflammation. There is an ever-increasing plethora of physiological and pathophysiological conditions attributed to p38 activity, ranging from cell division and embryonic development to the control of a multitude of diseases including retinal, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and cancer. Despite the decades of intense investigation, a viable therapeutic approach to disrupt p38 signaling remains elusive. A growing body of evidence supports the pathological significance of an understudied atypical p38 signaling pathway. Atypical p38 signaling is driven by a direct interaction between the adaptor protein TAB1 and p38α, driving p38 autophosphorylation independent from the classical MKK3 and MKK6 pathways. Unlike the classical MKK3/6 signaling pathway, atypical signaling is selective for just p38α, and at present has only been characterized during pathophysiological stimulation. Recent studies have linked atypical signaling to dermal and vascular inflammation, myocardial ischemia, cancer metastasis, diabetes, complications during pregnancy, and bacterial and viral infections. Additional studies are required to fully understand how, when, where, and why atypical p38 signaling is induced. Furthermore, the development of selective TAB1-p38 inhibitors represents an exciting new opportunity to selectively inhibit pathological p38 signaling in a wide array of diseases.
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