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Zhang R, Li S, Schippers K, Eimers B, Niu J, Hornung BVH, van den Hout MCGN, van Ijcken WFJ, Peppelenbosch MP, Smits R. Unraveling the impact of AXIN1 mutations on HCC development: Insights from CRISPR/Cas9 repaired AXIN1-mutant liver cancer cell lines. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304607. [PMID: 38848383 PMCID: PMC11161089 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly aggressive liver cancer with significant morbidity and mortality rates. AXIN1 is one of the top-mutated genes in HCC, but the mechanism by which AXIN1 mutations contribute to HCC development remains unclear. METHODS In this study, we utilized CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to repair AXIN1-truncated mutations in five HCC cell lines. RESULTS For each cell line we successfully obtained 2-4 correctly repaired clones, which all show reduced β-catenin signaling accompanied with reduced cell viability and colony formation. Although exposure of repaired clones to Wnt3A-conditioned medium restored β-catenin signaling, it did not or only partially recover their growth characteristics, indicating the involvement of additional mechanisms. Through RNA-sequencing analysis, we explored the gene expression patterns associated with repaired AXIN1 clones. Except for some highly-responsive β-catenin target genes, no consistent alteration in gene/pathway expression was observed. This observation also applies to the Notch and YAP/TAZ-Hippo signaling pathways, which have been associated with AXIN1-mutant HCCs previously. The AXIN1-repaired clones also cannot confirm a recent observation that AXIN1 is directly linked to YAP/TAZ protein stability and signaling. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides insights into the effects of repairing AXIN1 mutations on β-catenin signaling, cell viability, and colony formation in HCC cell lines. However, further investigations are necessary to understand the complex mechanisms underlying HCC development associated with AXIN1 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruyi Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Chiral Functional Substance Research and Application, School of Chemistry & Environment, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kelly Schippers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Boaz Eimers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jiahui Niu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bastian V. H. Hornung
- Erasmus Center for Biomics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Maikel P. Peppelenbosch
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ron Smits
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Wang HY, Diao Y, Tan PZ, Liang H. Four centrosome-related genes to predict the prognosis and drug sensitivity of patients with colon cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:1908-1924. [PMID: 38764831 PMCID: PMC11099447 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i5.1908] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the primary microtubule organizing center in animal cells, centrosome abnormalities are involved in human colon cancer. AIM To explore the role of centrosome-related genes (CRGs) in colon cancer. METHODS CRGs were collected from public databases. Consensus clustering analysis was performed to separate the Cancer Genome Atlas cohort. Univariate Cox and least absolute shrinkage selection operator regression analyses were performed to identify candidate prognostic CRGs and construct a centrosome-related signature (CRS) to score colon cancer patients. A nomogram was developed to evaluate the CRS risk in colon cancer patients. An integrated bioinformatics analysis was conducted to explore the correlation between the CRS and tumor immune microenvironment and response to immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Single-cell transcriptome analysis was conducted to examine the immune cell landscape of core prognostic genes. RESULTS A total of 726 CRGs were collected from public databases. A CRS was constructed, which consisted of the following four genes: TSC1, AXIN2, COPS7A, and MTUS1. Colon cancer patients with a high-risk signature had poor survival. Patients with a high-risk signature exhibited decreased levels of plasma cells and activated memory CD4+ T cells. Regarding treatment response, patients with a high-risk signature were resistant to immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. COPS7A expression was relatively high in endothelial cells and fibroblasts. MTUS1 expression was high in endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and malignant cells. CONCLUSION We constructed a centrosome-related prognostic signature that can accurately predict the prognosis of colon cancer patients, contributing to the development of individualized treatment for colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Yan Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150086, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Yan Diao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Heilongjiang Province Hospital, Harbin 150000, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Pei-Zhu Tan
- Translational Medicine Center of Northern China, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Huan Liang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150086, Heilongjiang Province, China
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Zhang R, Li S, Schippers K, Li Y, Eimers B, Lavrijsen M, Wang L, Cui G, Chen X, Peppelenbosch MP, Lebbink JH, Smits R. Analysis of Tumor-Associated AXIN1 Missense Mutations Identifies Variants That Activate β-Catenin Signaling. Cancer Res 2024; 84:1443-1459. [PMID: 38359148 PMCID: PMC11063763 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-2268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
AXIN1 is a major component of the β-catenin destruction complex and is frequently mutated in various cancer types, particularly liver cancers. Truncating AXIN1 mutations are recognized to encode a defective protein that leads to β-catenin stabilization, but the functional consequences of missense mutations are not well characterized. Here, we first identified the GSK3β, β-catenin, and RGS/APC interaction domains of AXIN1 that are the most critical for proper β-catenin regulation. Analysis of 80 tumor-associated variants in these domains identified 18 that significantly affected β-catenin signaling. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments revealed that most of them lost binding to the binding partner corresponding to the mutated domain. A comprehensive protein structure analysis predicted the consequences of these mutations, which largely overlapped with the observed effects on β-catenin signaling in functional experiments. The structure analysis also predicted that loss-of-function mutations within the RGS/APC interaction domain either directly affected the interface for APC binding or were located within the hydrophobic core and destabilized the entire structure. In addition, truncated AXIN1 length inversely correlated with the β-catenin regulatory function, with longer proteins retaining more functionality. These analyses suggest that all AXIN1-truncating mutations at least partially affect β-catenin regulation, whereas this is only the case for a subset of missense mutations. Consistently, most colorectal and liver cancers carrying missense variants acquire mutations in other β-catenin regulatory genes such as APC and CTNNB1. These results will aid the functional annotation of AXIN1 mutations identified in large-scale sequencing efforts or in individual patients. SIGNIFICANCE Characterization of 80 tumor-associated missense variants of AXIN1 reveals a subset of 18 mutations that disrupt its β-catenin regulatory function, whereas the majority are passenger mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruyi Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Shanshan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kelly Schippers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yunlong Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Boaz Eimers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marla Lavrijsen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ling Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Guofei Cui
- Cancer Biology Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, Hawaii
| | - Xin Chen
- Cancer Biology Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, Hawaii
| | - Maikel P. Peppelenbosch
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joyce H.G. Lebbink
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Oncode Institute, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Radiotherapy, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ron Smits
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Rashid S, Sun Y, Ali Khan Saddozai U, Hayyat S, Munir MU, Akbar MU, Khawar MB, Ren Z, Ji X, Ihsan Ullah Khan M. Circulating tumor DNA and its role in detection, prognosis and therapeutics of hepatocellular carcinoma. Chin J Cancer Res 2024; 36:195-214. [PMID: 38751441 PMCID: PMC11090798 DOI: 10.21147/j.issn.1000-9604.2024.02.07] [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: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is considered the fifth most prevalent cancer among all types of cancers and has the third most morbidity value. It has the most frequent duplication time and a high recurrence rate. Recently, the most unique technique used is liquid biopsies, which carry many markers; the most prominent is circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). Varied methods are used to investigate ctDNA, including various forms of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) [emulsion PCR (ePCR), digital PCR (dPCR), and bead, emulsion, amplification, magnetic (BEAMing) PCR]. Hence ctDNA is being recognized as a potential biomarker that permits early cancer detection, treatment monitoring, and predictive data on tumor burden are subjective to therapy or surgery. Numerous ctDNA biomarkers have been investigated based on their alterations such as 1) single nucleotide variations (either insertion or deletion of a nucleotide) markers including TP53, KRAS, and CCND1; 2) copy number variations which include markers such as CDK6, EFGR, MYC and BRAF; 3) DNA methylation (RASSF1A, SEPT9, KMT2C and CCNA2); 4) homozygous mutation includes ctDNA markers as CDKN2A, AXIN1; and 5) gain or loss of function of the genes, particularly for HCC. Various researchers have conducted many studies and gotten fruitful results. Still, there are some drawbacks to ctDNA namely low quantity, fragment heterogeneity, less stability, limited mutant copies and standards, and differential sensitivity. However, plenty of investigations demonstrate ctDNA's significance as a polyvalent biomarker for cancer and can be viewed as a future diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic agent. This article overviews many conditions in genetic changes linked to the onset and development of HCC, such as dysregulated signaling pathways, somatic mutations, single-nucleotide polymorphisms, and genomic instability. Additionally, efforts are also made to develop treatments for HCC that are molecularly targeted and to unravel some of the genetic pathways that facilitate its early identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Rashid
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
| | - Yingchuan Sun
- Department of Internal Oncology (Section I), Xuchang Municipal Central Hospital, Xuchang 461000, China
| | - Umair Ali Khan Saddozai
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Sikandar Hayyat
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Usman Munir
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, the University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia
| | - Muhammad Usman Akbar
- Gomal Center of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan 29111, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Babar Khawar
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
- Applied Molecular Biology and Biomedicine Lab, Department of Zoology, University of Narowal, Narowal Punjab 51600, Pakistan
| | - Zhiguang Ren
- Kaifeng Municipal Key Laboratory for Infection and Biosafety, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Xinying Ji
- Faculty of Basic Medical Subjects, Shu-Qing Medical College of Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou 450064, China
- Department of Medicine, Huaxian County People’s Hospital, Huaxian 456400, China
| | - Malik Ihsan Ullah Khan
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
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Zhong K, Wang X, Zhang H, Chen N, Mai Y, Dai S, Yang L, Chen D, Zhong W. BIRC6 Modulates the Protein Stability of Axin to Regulate the Growth, Stemness, and Resistance of Renal Cancer Cells via the β-Catenin Pathway. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:7782-7792. [PMID: 38405482 PMCID: PMC10882609 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
The mechanism underlying the development of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains unclear, and effective prevention and therapeutic measures are lacking. BIRC6, a protein inhibitor of apoptosis, has attracted great interest. Our data indicated that overexpression of BIRC6 elevated cell growth, colony formation, migration, and invasion of cultured RCC cells, while siRNA knockdown of BIRC6 suppressed these processes. Additionally, BIRC6 was highly expressed in RCC clinical samples along with a downregulated level of Axin. Immunoprecipitation assays found that BIRC6 interacted with Axin and the two proteins colocalized within the cytoplasm of RCC cells. Overexpression of BIRC6 promoted the ubiquitination modification of Axin, while genetic knockdown of BIRC6 suppressed it. Furthermore, overexpression of BIRC6 significantly promoted the turnover of Axin, suggesting BIRC6's inhibitory effect on Axin protein stability. BIRC6 was also upregulated in cancer stem-like cells of RCC and increased the drug resistance of RCC cells against sunitinib. Western blotting assays showed that the overexpression of BIRC6 upregulated CXCR4 protein expression and activated the β-catenin pathway. Two cell lines were then constructed with BIRC6 overexpressed by lentiviruses. Pharmacological administration of a Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor, XAV-939, or genetic knockdown of β-catenin inhibited cell growth, tumor sphere formation, colony formation, migration, and invasion of BIRC6-overexpressed cells. In vivo administration of XAV-939 markedly suppressed the tumorigenesis of BIRC6-overexpressed RCC cells in nude mice. In conclusion, we propose that BIRC6 activates the β-catenin signaling pathway via mediating the ubiquitination and degradation of Axin, promoting the growth, stemness, and drug resistance of RCC cells. This project aims to elucidate the role of BIRC6 as a potential therapeutic target and provide new insights into the clinical treatment of RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaihua Zhong
- Department of Urology, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou 514031, China
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Heyuan Zhang
- Department of Urology, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou 514031, China
| | - Nanhui Chen
- Department of Urology, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou 514031, China
| | - Yang Mai
- Department of Urology, Guangzhou Twelfth People's Hospital, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Sipin Dai
- Department of Urology, Guangzhou Twelfth People's Hospital, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Lawei Yang
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524001, China
| | - Dong Chen
- Sun Yat-sen Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Weifeng Zhong
- Department of Urology, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou 514031, China
- Department of Urology, Guangzhou Twelfth People's Hospital, Guangzhou 510630, China
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Garrett S, Asada MC, Sun J. Axin1's mystique in manipulating microbiome amidst colitis. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2286674. [PMID: 38010886 PMCID: PMC10730173 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2286674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Classically, Axin1 is considered a regulator of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. However, Axin1's roles in host-microbial interactions have been unknown. Our recent study has demonstrated that deletion of intestinal epithelial Axin1 in epithelial cells and Paneth cells protects the host against colitis by enhancing Akkermansia muciniphila. Loss of intestinal epithelial or Paneth cell Axin1 results in increased Wnt/β-catenin signaling, proliferation, and cell migration. This is associated with morphologically altered goblet and Paneth cells, including increased Muc2 and decreased lysozyme. Axin1 deletion specifically enriched Akkermansia muciniphila. Akkermansia muciniphila in Axin1 knockout mice is the driver of protection against DSS-induced inflammation. Here, we feature several significant conceptual changes, such as differences between Axin1 and Axin2, Axin1 in innate immunity and microbial homeostasis, and Axin1 reduction of Akkermansia muciniphila. We discuss an important trend in the field related to Paneth cells and tissue-specific Axin1 manipulation of microbiome in health and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shari Garrett
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Monica C. Asada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jun Sun
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- UIC Cancer Center, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Medicine, Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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Quarshie JT, Fosu K, Offei NA, Sobo AK, Quaye O, Aikins AR. Cryptolepine Suppresses Colorectal Cancer Cell Proliferation, Stemness, and Metastatic Processes by Inhibiting WNT/β-Catenin Signaling. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1026. [PMID: 37513937 PMCID: PMC10383422 DOI: 10.3390/ph16071026] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Evidence shows that over 90% of CRC cases are initiated by a deregulated Wingless Integrated Type-1 (WNT)/β-catenin signaling pathway. The WNT/β-catenin pathway also promotes CRC cell proliferation, stemness, and metastasis. Therefore, modulators of the WNT/β-catenin pathway may serve as promising regimens for CRC. This study investigated the effect of cryptolepine-a plant-derived compound-on the WNT/β-catenin pathway in CRC. Two CRC cell lines, COLO205 and DLD1, were treated with cryptolepine or XAV 939 (a WNT inhibitor) in the presence or absence of WNT3a (a WNT activator). Using a tetrazolium-based assay, cryptolepine was found to reduce cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner and was a more potent inhibitor of viability than XAV 939. RT-qPCR analyses showed that cryptolepine reverses WNT3a-induced expression of β-catenin, c-MYC, and WISP1, suggesting that cryptolepine inhibits WNT3a-mediated activation of WNT/β-catenin signaling. Cryptolepine also repressed WNT3a-induced OCT4 and CD133 expression and suppressed colony formation of the cells, indicating that cryptolepine inhibits the stemness of CRC cells. Additionally, cryptolepine inhibited WNT3a-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition by reducing the expression of SNAI1 and TWIST1 genes. In a wound healing assay, cryptolepine was found to suppress cell migration under unstimulated and WNT3a-stimulated conditions. Moreover, cryptolepine downregulated WNT3a-induced expression of MMP2 and MMP9 genes, which are involved in cancer cell invasion. Altogether, cryptolepine suppresses CRC cell proliferation, stemness, and metastatic properties by inhibiting WNT3a-mediated activation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. These findings provide a rationale for considering cryptolepine as a potential WNT inhibitor in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude Tetteh Quarshie
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), Department of Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra P.O. Box LG 54, Ghana
| | - Kwadwo Fosu
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), Department of Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra P.O. Box LG 54, Ghana
| | - Nicholas Awuku Offei
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), Department of Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra P.O. Box LG 54, Ghana
| | - Augustine Kojo Sobo
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), Department of Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra P.O. Box LG 54, Ghana
| | - Osbourne Quaye
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), Department of Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra P.O. Box LG 54, Ghana
| | - Anastasia Rosebud Aikins
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), Department of Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra P.O. Box LG 54, Ghana
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Borlongan MC, Wang H. Profiling and targeting cancer stem cell signaling pathways for cancer therapeutics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1125174. [PMID: 37305676 PMCID: PMC10247984 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1125174] [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: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenic cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation of cells within the tumor that express genetic and phenotypic profiles and signaling pathways distinct from the other tumor cells. CSCs have eluded many conventional anti-oncogenic treatments, resulting in metastases and relapses of cancers. Effectively targeting CSCs' unique self-renewal and differentiation properties would be a breakthrough in cancer therapy. A better characterization of the CSCs' unique signaling mechanisms will improve our understanding of the pathology and treatment of cancer. In this paper, we will discuss CSC origin, followed by an in-depth review of CSC-associated signaling pathways. Particular emphasis is given on CSC signaling pathways' ligand-receptor engagement, upstream and downstream mechanisms, and associated genes, and molecules. Signaling pathways associated with regulation of CSC development stand as potential targets of CSC therapy, which include Wnt, TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β)/SMAD, Notch, JAK-STAT (Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription), Hedgehog (Hh), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Lastly, we will also discuss milestone discoveries in CSC-based therapies, including pre-clinical and clinical studies featuring novel CSC signaling pathway cancer therapeutics. This review aims at generating innovative views on CSCs toward a better understanding of cancer pathology and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia C. Borlongan
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Science College of Graduate Studies, Elk Grove, CA, United States
| | - Hongbin Wang
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Science College of Graduate Studies, Elk Grove, CA, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences College of Pharmacy, Elk Grove, CA, United States
- Department of Basic Science College of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA, United States
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Groenewald W, Lund AH, Gay DM. The Role of WNT Pathway Mutations in Cancer Development and an Overview of Therapeutic Options. Cells 2023; 12:cells12070990. [PMID: 37048063 PMCID: PMC10093220 DOI: 10.3390/cells12070990] [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: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well established that mutations in the canonical WNT-signalling pathway play a major role in various cancers. Critical to developing new therapeutic strategies is understanding which cancers are driven by WNT pathway activation and at what level these mutations occur within the pathway. Some cancers harbour mutations in genes whose protein products operate at the receptor level of the WNT pathway. For instance, tumours with RNF43 or RSPO mutations, still require exogenous WNT ligands to drive WNT signalling (ligand-dependent mutations). Conversely, mutations within the cytoplasmic segment of the Wnt pathway, such as in APC and CTNNB1, lead to constitutive WNT pathway activation even in the absence of WNT ligands (ligand-independent). Here, we review the predominant driving mutations found in cancer that lead to WNT pathway activation, as well as explore some of the therapeutic interventions currently available against tumours harbouring either ligand-dependent or ligand-independent mutations. Finally, we discuss a potentially new therapeutic avenue by targeting the translational apparatus downstream from WNT signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wibke Groenewald
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders H Lund
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David Michael Gay
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
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Molecular Alterations and Putative Therapeutic Targeting of Planar Cell Polarity Proteins in Breast Cancer. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12020411. [PMID: 36675340 PMCID: PMC9864096 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12020411] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment and outcomes of breast cancer, one of the most prevalent female cancers, have improved in recent decades. However, metastatic breast cancer remains incurable in most cases, and new therapies are needed to ameliorate prognosis. Planar cell polarity (PCP) is a characteristic of epithelial cells that form layers and is integral to the communication of these cells with neighboring cells. Dysfunction of PCP is observed in cancers and may confer a targetable vulnerability. METHODS The breast cancer cohorts from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the METABRIC study were interrogated for molecular alterations in genes of the PCP pathway. The groups with the most prevalent alterations were characterized, and survival was compared with counterparts not possessing PCP alterations. Breast cancer cell lines with PCP alterations from the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) were interrogated for sensitivity to drugs affecting PCP. RESULTS Among genes of the PCP pathway, VANGL2, NOS1AP and SCRIB display amplifications in a sizable minority of breast cancers. Concomitant up-regulation at the mRNA level can be observed mostly in basal cancers, but it does not correlate well with the amplification status of the genes, as it can also be observed in non-amplified cases. In an exploration of cell line models, two of the four breast cancer cell line models with amplifications in VANGL2, NOS1AP and SCRIB display sensitivity to drugs inhibiting acyl-transferase porcupine interfering with the WNT pathway. This sensitivity suggests a possible therapeutic role of these inhibitors in cancers bearing the amplifications. CONCLUSION Molecular alterations in PCP genes can be observed in breast cancers with a predilection for the basal sub-type. An imperfect correlation of copy number alterations with mRNA expression suggests that post-translational modifications are important in PCP regulation. Inhibitors of acyl-transferase porcupine may be rational candidates for combination therapy development in PCP-altered breast cancers.
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Shao F, Gao Y, Wang W, He H, Xiao L, Geng X, Xia Y, Guo D, Fang J, He J, Lu Z. Silencing EGFR-upregulated expression of CD55 and CD59 activates the complement system and sensitizes lung cancer to checkpoint blockade. NATURE CANCER 2022; 3:1192-1210. [PMID: 36271172 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-022-00444-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The complement system is a critical immune component, yet its role in tumor immune evasion and CD8+ T cell activation is not clearly defined. Here, we demonstrate that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/Wnt signaling induces β-catenin-mediated long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) LINC00973 expression to sponge CD55-targeting miR-216b and CD59-targeting miR-150. The consequently upregulated CD55/CD59 expression suppresses the complement system and cytokine secretion required for CD8+ T cell activation. CD55/CD59-neutralizing antibody treatment or mutation of the LINC00973 promoter activates the complement and CD8+ T cells, inhibiting tumor growth. Importantly, combined anti-CD55/CD59 and anti-programmed death 1 (anti-PD-1) antibody treatments elicit a synergistic tumor-inhibiting effect. In addition, CD55/CD59 levels are inversely correlated with infiltration of M1 macrophages and CD8+ T cells in human lung cancer specimens and predict patient outcome. These findings underscore the critical role of EGFR/Wnt/β-catenin-upregulated CD55/CD59 expression in inhibiting the complement and CD8+ T cell activation for tumor immune evasion and immune checkpoint blockade resistance and identify a potential combination therapy to overcome these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Shao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, and Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yibo Gao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Central Laboratory, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Haiyan He
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liwei Xiao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Geng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Xia
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Dong Guo
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing Fang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, and Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
| | - Jie He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhimin Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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12
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Elkhadragy L, Dasteh Goli K, Totura WM, Carlino MJ, Regan MR, Guzman G, Schook LB, Gaba RC, Schachtschneider KM. Effect of CRISPR Knockout of AXIN1 or ARID1A on Proliferation and Migration of Porcine Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:904031. [PMID: 35669430 PMCID: PMC9163418 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.904031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive disease lacking effective treatment. Animal models of HCC are necessary for preclinical evaluation of the safety and efficacy of novel therapeutics. Large animal models of HCC allow testing image-guided locoregional therapies, which are widely used in the management of HCC. Models with precise tumor mutations mimicking human HCC provide valuable tools for testing precision medicine. AXIN1 and ARID1A are two of the most frequently mutated genes in human HCC. Here, we investigated the effects of knockout of AXIN1 and/or ARID1A on proliferation, migration, and chemotherapeutic susceptibility of porcine HCC cells and we developed subcutaneous tumors harboring these mutations in pigs. Gene knockout was achieved by CRISPR/Cas9 and was validated by Next Generation Sequencing. AXIN1 knockout increased the migration of porcine HCC cells but did not alter the cell proliferation. Knockout of ARID1A increased both the proliferation and migration of porcine HCC cells. Simultaneous knockout of AXIN1 and ARID1A increased the migration, but did not alter the proliferation of porcine HCC cells. The effect of gene knockout on the response of porcine HCC cells to two of the most commonly used systemic and locoregional HCC treatments was investigated; sorafenib and doxorubicin, respectively. Knockout of AXIN1 and/or ARID1A did not alter the susceptibility of porcine HCC cells to sorafenib or doxorubicin. Autologous injection of CRISPR edited HCC cells resulted in development of subcutaneous tumors in pigs, which harbored the anticipated edits in AXIN1 and/or ARID1A. This study elucidates the effects of CRISPR-mediated knockout of HCC-associated genes in porcine HCC cells, and lays the foundation for development and utilization of genetically-tailored porcine HCC models for in vivo testing of novel therapeutic approaches in a clinically-relevant large animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lobna Elkhadragy
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Kimia Dasteh Goli
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - William M. Totura
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | | | - Maureen R. Regan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Grace Guzman
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Lawrence B. Schook
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Ron C. Gaba
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Kyle M. Schachtschneider
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: Kyle M. Schachtschneider,
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13
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Yu M, Yang Y, Sykes M, Wang S. Small-Molecule Inhibitors of Tankyrases as Prospective Therapeutics for Cancer. J Med Chem 2022; 65:5244-5273. [PMID: 35306814 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c02139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Tankyrases are multifunctional poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerases that regulate diverse biological processes including telomere maintenance and cellular signaling. These processes are often implicated in a number of human diseases, with cancer being the most prevalent example. Accordingly, tankyrase inhibitors have gained increasing attention as potential therapeutics. Since the discovery of XAV939 and IWR-1 as the first tankyrase inhibitors over two decades ago, tankyrase-targeted drug discovery has made significant progress. This review starts with an introduction of tankyrases, with emphasis placed on their cancer-related functions. Small-molecule inhibitors of tankyrases are subsequently delineated based on their distinct modes of binding to the enzymes. In addition to inhibitors that compete with oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) for binding to the catalytic domain of tankyrases, non-NAD+-competitive inhibitors are detailed. This is followed by a description of three clinically trialled tankyrase inhibitors. To conclude, some of challenges and prospects in developing tankyrase-targeted cancer therapies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingfeng Yu
- Drug Discovery and Development, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
| | - Yuchao Yang
- Drug Discovery and Development, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
| | - Matthew Sykes
- Drug Discovery and Development, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
| | - Shudong Wang
- Drug Discovery and Development, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
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