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Zheng Y, Zhong G, He C, Li M. Targeted splicing therapy: new strategies for colorectal cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1222932. [PMID: 37664052 PMCID: PMC10470845 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1222932] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA splicing is the process of forming mature mRNA, which is an essential phase necessary for gene expression and controls many aspects of cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. Abnormal gene-splicing events are closely related to the development of tumors, and the generation of oncogenic isoform in splicing can promote tumor progression. As a main process of tumor-specific splicing variants, alternative splicing (AS) can promote tumor progression by increasing the production of oncogenic splicing isoforms and/or reducing the production of normal splicing isoforms. This is the focus of current research on the regulation of aberrant tumor splicing. So far, AS has been found to be associated with various aspects of tumor biology, including cell proliferation and invasion, resistance to apoptosis, and sensitivity to different chemotherapeutic drugs. This article will review the abnormal splicing events in colorectal cancer (CRC), especially the tumor-associated splicing variants arising from AS, aiming to offer an insight into CRC-targeted splicing therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chengcheng He
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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2
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Ebrahimi F, Hosseinimehr SJ. Homomultimer strategy for improvement of radiolabeled peptides and antibody fragments in tumor targeting. Curr Med Chem 2022; 29:4923-4957. [PMID: 35450521 DOI: 10.2174/0929867329666220420131836] [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: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A homomultimeric radioligand is composed of multiple identical ligands connected to the linker and radionuclide to detect a variety of overexpressed receptors on cancer cells. Multimer strategy holds great potential for introducing new radiotracers based on peptide and monoclonal antibody (mAb) derivatives in molecular imaging and therapy. It offers a reliable procedure for the preparation of biological-based targeting with diverse affinities and pharmacokinetics. In this context, we provide a useful summary and interpretation of the main results by a comprehensive look at multimeric radiopharmaceuticals in nuclear oncology. Therefore, there will be explanations for the strategy mechanisms and the main variables affecting the biodistribution results. The discussion is followed by highlights of recent work in the targeting of various types of receptors. The consequences are expressed based on comparing some parameters between monomer and multimer counterparts in each relevant section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Ebrahimi
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Seyed Jalal Hosseinimehr
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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3
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Zeng Q, Ou L, Wang W, Guo DY. Gastrin, Cholecystokinin, Signaling, and Biological Activities in Cellular Processes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:112. [PMID: 32210918 PMCID: PMC7067705 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The structurally-related peptides, gastrin and cholecystokinin (CCK), were originally discovered as humoral stimulants of gastric acid secretion and pancreatic enzyme release, respectively. With the aid of methodological advances in biochemistry, immunochemistry, and molecular biology in the past several decades, our concept of gastrin and CCK as simple gastrointestinal hormones has changed considerably. Extensive in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that gastrin and CCK play important roles in several cellular processes including maintenance of gastric mucosa and pancreatic islet integrity, neurogenesis, and neoplastic transformation. Indeed, gastrin and CCK, as well as their receptors, are expressed in a variety of tumor cell lines, animal models, and human samples, and might contribute to certain carcinogenesis. In this review, we will briefly introduce the gastrin and CCK system and highlight the effects of gastrin and CCK in the regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis in both normal and abnormal conditions. The potential imaging and therapeutic use of these peptides and their derivatives are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zeng
- Health Management Institute, People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Ou
- Health Management Institute, People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiamen Huli Guoyu Clinic, Co., Ltd., Xiamen, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Wang
| | - Dong-Yu Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiamen Huli Guoyu Clinic, Co., Ltd., Xiamen, China
- Dong-Yu Guo
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4
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Jiang P, Huang M, Qi W, Wang F, Yang T, Gao T, Luo C, Deng J, Yang Z, Zhou T, Zou Y, Gao G, Yang X. FUBP1 promotes neuroblastoma proliferation via enhancing glycolysis-a new possible marker of malignancy for neuroblastoma. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2019; 38:400. [PMID: 31511046 PMCID: PMC6737630 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1414-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Neuroblastoma (NB) is one of the deadliest paediatric solid tumours due to its rapid proliferative characteristics. Amplified copies of MYCN are considered the most important marker for the prediction of tumour relapse and progression in NB, but they were only detected in 20–30% of NB patients, indicating there might be other oncogenes in the development of NB. The far upstream element binding protein 1 (FUBP1) was first identified as a transcriptional regulator of the proto-oncogene MYC. However, the expression and role of FUBP1 in NB have not been documented. Methods FUBP1 expression was analysed from GEO database and verified by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blotting (WB) in NB tissues and cell lines. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by Cell Counting Kit-8, Colony formation assay, EDU, TUNEL staining and flow cytometric analysis. Several glycolytic metabolites production was confirmed by ELISA and oxygen consuming rate (OCR). Luciferase assay, WB, chromatin immunoprecipitation (CHIP) were used to explore the mechanisms of the effect of FUBP1 on NB. Results FUBP1 mRNA levels were increased along with the increase in International Neuroblastoma Staging System (INSS) stages. High expression of FUBP1 with low N-Myc expression accounted for 44.6% of NB patient samples (n = 65). In addition, FUBP1 protein levels were remarkably increased with NB malignancy in the NB tissue microarray (NB: n = 65; ganglioneuroblastoma: n = 31; ganglioneuroma: n = 27). Furthermore, FUBP1 expression was negatively correlated with patient survival rate but positively correlated with ki67 content. In vitro experiments showed that FUBP1 promotes NB cell proliferation and inhibits cell apoptosis via enhancing glycolysis and ATP production. Mechanistically, FUBP1 inhibited the degradation of HIF1α via downregulation of Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL), the E3 ligase for HIF1α, resulting in upregulation of lactate dehydrogenase isoform B (LDHB) expression to enhance glycolysis. Overexpressed or silenced N-Myc could not regulate FUBP1 or LDHB levels. Conclusions Taken together, our findings demonstrate for the first time that elevated FUBP1 promotes NB glycolysis and growth by targeting HIF1α rather than N-Myc, suggesting that FUBP1 is a novel and powerful oncogene in the development of NB independent of N-Myc and may have potential in the diagnosis and treatment of NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Jiang
- Program of Molecular Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Mao Huang
- Program of Molecular Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Weiwei Qi
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Fenghua Wang
- Program of Molecular Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianyou Yang
- Program of Molecular Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianxiao Gao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuanghua Luo
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jing Deng
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Zhonghan Yang
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Ti Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yan Zou
- Program of Molecular Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guoquan Gao
- Program of Molecular Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China. .,Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for Gene Manipulation and Biomacromolecular Products, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xia Yang
- Program of Molecular Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China. .,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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Stepanenko A, Dmitrenko V. HEK293 in cell biology and cancer research: phenotype, karyotype, tumorigenicity, and stress-induced genome-phenotype evolution. Gene 2015; 569:182-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.05.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Revised: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Liu Z, Zhang B, Wang XB, Li Y, Xi RG, Han F, Li WP, Fu L, Li Z, Jin F. Hypertonicity contributes to seawater aspiration-induced lung injury: Role of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α. Exp Lung Res 2015; 41:301-15. [DOI: 10.3109/01902148.2015.1030803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Distribution of cholecystokinin-B receptor genotype between patients with pancreatic cancer and controls and its impact on survival. Pancreas 2015; 44:236-42. [PMID: 25469546 PMCID: PMC4326549 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000000263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cholecystokinin (CCK) and gastrin stimulate growth of pancreatic cancer through the CCK-B receptor (CCK-BR). A splice variant of the CCK-BR that results from a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) has been identified. Because the splice variant receptor has an extended third intracellular loop, an area involved in cell signaling and growth, we hypothesized that this genetic variant could contribute to the poor prognosis and short survival of this malignancy. METHODS DNA from 931 patients with pancreatic cancer was evaluated for the SNP (C > A; rs1800843) in the CCK-BR gene. For statistical analysis, the Fisher exact test was used to compare the genotype and allele frequency between the cancer cohort and normal controls and the dependence of genotype on factors, such as stage of disease and age, was analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS Compared to the normal cohort, the frequency of the A-allele in pancreatic cancer subjects was increased (P = 0.01123; odds ratio, 2.283). Even after adjustment for stage of disease, survival of subjects with the minor allele was significantly shorter than those with the wild-genotype (hazard ratio, 1.83; P = 3.11 × 10(-11)). CONCLUSIONS The CCK-BR SNP predicts survival and should be studied as a candidate genetic biomarker for those at risk of pancreatic cancer.
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Wayua C, Low PS. Evaluation of a nonpeptidic ligand for imaging of cholecystokinin 2 receptor-expressing cancers. J Nucl Med 2014; 56:113-9. [PMID: 25500824 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.114.144998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Tumor-specific targeting ligands were recently exploited to deliver both imaging and therapeutic agents selectively to cancer tissues in vivo. Because the cholecystokinin 2 receptor (CCK2R) is overexpressed in various human cancers (e.g., lung, medullary thyroid, pancreatic, colon, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors) but displays limited expression in normal tissues, natural ligands of CCK2R were recently explored for use in the imaging of CCK2R-expressing cancers. Unfortunately, the results from these studies revealed not only that the peptidic CCK2R ligands were unstable in vivo but also that the ligands that mediated good uptake by tumor tissues also promoted a high level of retention of the radioimaging agent in the kidneys, probably because of capture of the conjugates by peptide-scavenging receptors. In an effort to reduce the normal organ retention of CCK2R-targeted drugs, we synthesized a nonpeptidic ligand of CCK2R and examined its specificity for CCK2R both in vitro and in vivo. METHODS Nonpeptidic agonists and antagonists of CCK2R described in the literature were evaluated for their affinities and specificities for CCK2R. Z-360, a benzodiazepine-derived CCK2R antagonist with subnanomolar affinity, was selected for complexation to (99m)Tc via multiple spacers. After synthesis and purification, 4 complexes with different physicochemical properties were evaluated for binding to CCK2R-transfected HEK 293 cells. The best conjugate, termed CRL-3-(99m)Tc, was injected into mice bearing CCK2R tumor xenografts and examined by γ scintigraphy and SPECT/CT. The uptake of the conjugate in various organs was also quantified by tissue resection and γ counting. RESULTS CRL-3-(99m)Tc was shown to bind with low nanomolar affinity to CCK2R in vitro and was localized to tumor tissues in athymic nu/nu mice implanted with CCK2R-expressing tumors. At 4 h after injection, tumor uptake was measured at 12.0 ± 2.0 percentage injected dose per gram of tissue. CONCLUSION Because the uptake of CRL-3-(99m)Tc by nonmalignant tissues was negligible and retention in the kidneys was only transient, we suggest that CRL-3-(99m)Tc may be a useful radioimaging agent for the detection, sizing, and monitoring of CCK2R-expressing tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charity Wayua
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Philip S Low
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
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9
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hTERT mediates norepinephrine-induced Slug expression and ovarian cancer aggressiveness. Oncogene 2014; 34:3402-12. [DOI: 10.1038/onc.2014.270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Revised: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Wayua C, Low PS. Evaluation of a cholecystokinin 2 receptor-targeted near-infrared dye for fluorescence-guided surgery of cancer. Mol Pharm 2013; 11:468-76. [PMID: 24325469 DOI: 10.1021/mp400429h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Surgical resection of malignant disease remains one of the most effective tools for treating cancer. Tumor-targeted near-infrared dyes have the potential to improve contrast between normal and malignant tissues, thereby enabling surgeons to more quantitatively resect malignant disease. Because the cholecystokinin 2 receptor (CCK2R and its tumor-specific splice variant CCK2i4svR) is overexpressed in cancers of the lungs, colon, thyroid, pancreas, and stomach, but absent or inaccessible to parenterally administered drugs in most normal tissues, we have undertaken to design a targeting ligand that can deliver attached near-infrared dyes to CCK2R+ tumors. We report here the synthesis and biological characterization of a CCK2R-targeted conjugate of the near-infrared dye, LS-288 (CRL-LS288). We demonstrate that CRL-LS288 binds selectively to CCK2R+ cancer cells with low nanomolar affinity (Kd = 7 × 10(-9) M). We further show that CRL-LS288 localizes primarily to CCK2R-expressing HEK 293 murine tumor xenografts and that dye uptake in these xenografts is significantly reduced when CCK2R are blocked by preinjection of excess ligand (CRL) or when mice are implanted with CCK2R-negative tumors. Because CRL-LS288 is also found to reveal the locations of distant tumor metastases, we suggest that CRL-LS288 has the potential to facilitate intraoperative identification of malignant disease during a variety of cancer debulking surgeries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charity Wayua
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University , West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
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Abstract
For most of our 25,000 genes, the removal of introns by pre-messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) splicing represents an essential step toward the production of functional messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Alternative splicing of a single pre-mRNA results in the production of different mRNAs. Although complex organisms use alternative splicing to expand protein function and phenotypic diversity, patterns of alternative splicing are often altered in cancer cells. Alternative splicing contributes to tumorigenesis by producing splice isoforms that can stimulate cell proliferation and cell migration or induce resistance to apoptosis and anticancer agents. Cancer-specific changes in splicing profiles can occur through mutations that are affecting splice sites and splicing control elements, and also by alterations in the expression of proteins that control splicing decisions. Recent progress in global approaches that interrogate splicing diversity should help to obtain specific splicing signatures for cancer types. The development of innovative approaches for annotating and reprogramming splicing events will more fully establish the essential contribution of alternative splicing to the biology of cancer and will hopefully provide novel targets and anticancer strategies. Metazoan genes are usually made up of several exons interrupted by introns. The introns are removed from the pre-mRNA by RNA splicing. In conjunction with other maturation steps, such as capping and polyadenylation, the spliced mRNA is then transported to the cytoplasm to be translated into a functional protein. The basic mechanism of splicing requires accurate recognition of each extremity of each intron by the spliceosome. Introns are identified by the binding of U1 snRNP to the 5' splice site and the U2AF65/U2AF35 complex to the 3' splice site. Following these interactions, other proteins and snRNPs are recruited to generate the complete spliceosomal complex needed to excise the intron. While many introns are constitutively removed by the spliceosome, other splice junctions are not used systematically, generating the phenomenon of alternative splicing. Alternative splicing is therefore the process by which a single species of pre-mRNA can be matured to produce different mRNA molecules (Fig. 1). Depending on the number and types of alternative splicing events, a pre-mRNA can generate from two to several thousands different mRNAs leading to the production of a corresponding number of proteins. It is now believed that the expression of at least 70 % of human genes is subjected to alternative splicing, implying an enormous contribution to proteomic diversity, and by extension, to the development and the evolution of complex animals. Defects in splicing have been associated with human diseases (Caceres and Kornblihtt, Trends Genet 18(4):186-93, 2002, Cartegni et al., Nat Rev Genet 3(4):285-98, 2002, Pagani and Baralle, Nat Rev Genet 5(5):389-96, 2004), including cancer (Brinkman, Clin Biochem 37(7):584-94, 2004, Venables, Bioessays 28(4):378-86, 2006, Srebrow and Kornblihtt, J Cell Sci 119(Pt 13):2635-2641, 2006, Revil et al., Bull Cancer 93(9):909-919, 2006, Venables, Transworld Res Network, 2006, Pajares et al., Lancet Oncol 8(4):349-57, 2007, Skotheim and Nees, Int J Biochem Cell Biol 39:1432-1449, 2007). Numerous studies have now confirmed the existence of specific differences in the alternative splicing profiles between normal and cancer tissues. Although there are a few cases where specific mutations are the primary cause for these changes, global alterations in alternative splicing in cancer cells may be primarily derived from changes in the expression of RNA-binding proteins that control splice site selection. Overall, these cancer-specific differences in alternative splicing offer an immense potential to improve the diagnosis and the prognosis of cancer. This review will focus on the functional impact of cancer-associated alternative splicing variants, the molecular determinants that alter the splicing decisions in cancer cells, and future therapeutic strategies.
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Quattrone A, Dewaele B, Wozniak A, Bauters M, Vanspauwen V, Floris G, Schöffski P, Chibon F, Coindre JM, Sciot R, Debiec-Rychter M. Promoting role of cholecystokinin 2 receptor (CCK2R) in gastrointestinal stromal tumour pathogenesis. J Pathol 2012; 228:565-74. [PMID: 22786615 DOI: 10.1002/path.4071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2011] [Revised: 06/28/2012] [Accepted: 07/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The cholecystokinin 2 receptor (CCK2R/CCKBR) is expressed in gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs). We sought to investigate the role of CCK2R in GIST pathogenesis. Molecular characterization of CCK2R was performed on a heterogeneous cohort of 50 GISTs. In addition, CCK2R expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC), using tissue microarray (TMA) containing 292 GISTs, two cases of hyperplasia of interstitial Cajal's cells (ICC) and six gastric microscopic GISTs. Mono-allelic loss of the CCK2R/11p15 allele was identified in 13.7% of GISTs, having no impact on the level of CCK2R transcript expression. No CCK2R mutations were found. The CCK2Ri4sv, CCK2R splice variant with retention of intron 4 was detected in six of 20 tumours analysed. Wild-type CCK2R transcripts were commonly expressed (57.1% of cases) and this expression was highly correlated with gastric primary site of GISTs (p < 0.001). At the protein level, expression of CCK2R in incidental ICC hyperplasia and early stages of gastric GIST development was documented, and its gastric association was confirmed on GIST-TMA by IHC. To explore the in vivo effect of CCK2R activation on tumour growth, gastrin versus placebo was administered intraperitoneally in nude mice carrying human GIST xenografts. The tumour volume was followed for 10 weeks. The effect of this stimulation on tumour cell proliferation/apoptosis was assessed by IHC and KIT/PKC-θ signalling was evaluated by western blotting (WB). In vivo experiments showed a two-fold increase in the volume of tumours which were exposed to gastrin in comparison with non-exposed controls (p = 0.03), with a significant increase in mitotic activity (p = 0.04) and Ki-67 proliferation index (p = 0.008). By WB, gastrin stimulation resulted in hyper-activation of KIT and PKC-θ kinases, and in evident PI3K-AKT pathway over-activation. Our results indicate a promoting role of CCK2R on GIST tumourigenesis, particularly in tumours of gastric origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Quattrone
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven and University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium
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Drabkin HA, Gemmill RM. Cholesterol and the development of clear-cell renal carcinoma. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2012; 12:742-50. [PMID: 22939900 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2012.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2012] [Revised: 08/15/2012] [Accepted: 08/15/2012] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The majority of kidney cancers are clear-cell carcinomas (ccRCC), characterized by the accumulation of cholesterol, cholesterol esters, other neutral lipids and glycogen. Rather than being a passive bystander, the clear-cell phenotype is suggested to be a biomarker of deregulated cholesterol and lipid biosynthesis, which plays an important role in development of the disease. One clue to this relationship has come from the elucidation of the hereditary kidney cancer gene, TRC8, which functions partly to degrade key regulators of endogenous cholesterol and lipid biosynthesis. In addition, deregulation of the mevalonate pathway has been shown to play a key role in cellular transformation and invasion. These findings are supported by considerable epidemiologic data linking obesity and the deregulation of lipid biosynthesis to ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry A Drabkin
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
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Willard MD, Lajiness ME, Wulur IH, Feng B, Swearingen ML, Uhlik MT, Kinzler KW, Velculescu VE, Sjöblom T, Markowitz SD, Powell SM, Vogelstein B, Barber TD. Somatic mutations in CCK2R alter receptor activity that promote oncogenic phenotypes. Mol Cancer Res 2012; 10:739-49. [PMID: 22516348 PMCID: PMC3904773 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-11-0483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The roles of cholecystokinin 2 receptor (CCK2R) in numerous physiologic processes in the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system are well documented. There has been some evidence that CCK2R alterations play a role in cancers, but the functional significance of these alterations for tumorigenesis is unknown. We have identified six mutations in CCK2R among a panel of 140 colorectal cancers and 44 gastric cancers. We show that these mutations increase receptor activity, activate multiple downstream signaling pathways, increase cell migration, and promote angiogenesis. Our findings suggest that somatic mutations in CCK2R may promote tumorigenesis through deregulated receptor activity and highlight the importance of evaluating CCK2R inhibitors to block both the normal and mutant forms of the receptor.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Cell Movement/genetics
- Cell Shape/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/metabolism
- Cells, Cultured
- Coculture Techniques
- Colorectal Neoplasms/genetics
- Colorectal Neoplasms/metabolism
- Colorectal Neoplasms/pathology
- DNA Mutational Analysis
- Endothelial Cells/metabolism
- Endothelial Cells/physiology
- HEK293 Cells
- Humans
- Immunoblotting
- Mice
- Microscopy, Fluorescence
- Mutation
- NIH 3T3 Cells
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/genetics
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/metabolism
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/physiopathology
- Neovascularization, Physiologic/genetics
- Neovascularization, Physiologic/physiology
- Phenotype
- RNA Interference
- Receptor, Cholecystokinin B/genetics
- Receptor, Cholecystokinin B/metabolism
- Receptor, Cholecystokinin B/physiology
- Stomach Neoplasms/genetics
- Stomach Neoplasms/metabolism
- Stomach Neoplasms/pathology
- Transfection
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda D. Willard
- Department of Translational Science, Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Mary E. Lajiness
- Department of Translational Science, Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Isabella H. Wulur
- Department of Translational Science, Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Bo Feng
- Department of Translational Science, Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | | | - Mark T. Uhlik
- Department of Cancer Angiogenesis, Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Kenneth W. Kinzler
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Victor E. Velculescu
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tobias Sjöblom
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sanford D. Markowitz
- Department of Medicine and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Steven M. Powell
- Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Bert Vogelstein
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Thomas D. Barber
- Department of Translational Science, Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, Indiana
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Smith JP, Harms JF, Matters GL, McGovern CO, Ruggiero FM, Liao J, Fino KK, Ortega EE, Gilius EL, Phillips JA. A single nucleotide polymorphism of the cholecystokinin-B receptor predicts risk for pancreatic cancer. Cancer Biol Ther 2012; 13:164-74. [PMID: 22277584 DOI: 10.4161/cbt.13.3.18698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
There currently are no tests available for early diagnosis or for the identification of patients at risk for development of pancreatic cancer. We report the discovery of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the cholecystokinin B receptor (CCKBR) gene predicts survival and risk of pancreatic cancer. Growth of human pancreatic cancer is stimulated by gastrin through the CCKBR and an alternatively spliced isoform of the CCKBR gene called CCKCR. One hundred and ten surgically resected benign and malignant pancreatic tissues as well as normal pancreas were prospectively evaluated for CCKBR genotype and protein expression. Analysis demonstrated the expression of the spliced isoform, CCKCR, was associated with a (SNP) (C > A) at position 32 of the intron 4 (IVS 4) of the CCKBR gene. Since the SNP is within an intron, it has not previously been identified in the GWAS studies. Only patients with the A/A or A/C genotypes, exhibited immunoreactivity to a selective CCKCR antibody. Survival among pancreatic cancer patients with the A-SNP was significantly shorter (p = 0.0001, hazard ratio = 3.63) compared with individuals with C/C genotype. Other variables such as surgical margins, lymph node status, histologic grade or adjuvant chemotherapy were not associated with survival. Furthermore, having one or two of the A-alleles was found to increase the risk of pancreatic adenocarcinoma by 174% (p = 0.0192) compared with the C/C wild type. Cancer cells transfected to overexpress the CCKCR demonstrated increased proliferation over controls. Genetic screening for this SNP may aid in early detection of pancreatic cancer in high risk subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill P Smith
- Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Medicine, Gastroenterology, Hershey, PA USA
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Menon R, Roy A, Mukherjee S, Belkin S, Zhang Y, Omenn GS. Functional implications of structural predictions for alternative splice proteins expressed in Her2/neu-induced breast cancers. J Proteome Res 2011; 10:5503-11. [PMID: 22003824 DOI: 10.1021/pr200772w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Alternative splicing allows a single gene to generate multiple mRNA transcripts, which can be translated into functionally diverse proteins. However, experimentally determined structures of protein splice isoforms are rare, and homology modeling methods are poor at predicting atomic-level structural differences because of high sequence identity. Here we exploit the state-of-the-art structure prediction method I-TASSER to analyze the structural and functional consequences of alternative splicing of proteins differentially expressed in a breast cancer model. We first successfully benchmarked the I-TASSER pipeline for structure modeling of all seven pairs of protein splice isoforms, which are known to have experimentally solved structures. We then modeled three cancer-related variant pairs reported to have opposite functions. In each pair, we observed structural differences in regions where the presence or absence of a motif can directly influence the distinctive functions of the variants. Finally, we applied the method to five splice variants overexpressed in mouse Her2/neu mammary tumor: anxa6, calu, cdc42, ptbp1, and tax1bp3. Despite >75% sequence identity between the variants, structural differences were observed in biologically important regions of these protein pairs. These results demonstrate the feasibility of integrating proteomic analysis with structure-based conformational predictions of differentially expressed alternative splice variants in cancers and other conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajasree Menon
- Center for Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, 100 Washtenaw Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2218, United States.
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Kato H, Seto K, Kobayashi N, Yoshinaga K, Meyer T, Takei M. CCK-2/gastrin receptor signaling pathway is significant for gemcitabine-induced gene expression of VEGF in pancreatic carcinoma cells. Life Sci 2011; 89:603-8. [PMID: 21839751 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2011.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Revised: 07/15/2011] [Accepted: 07/21/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIMS As activation and overexpression of the cholecystokinin-2 (CCK-2)/gastrin receptor can lead to carcinogenesis, it has been explored as a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer. We demonstrated that Z-360, a CCK-2/gastrin receptor antagonist, combined with gemcitabine prolonged survival and reduced gemcitabine-induced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in a pancreatic carcinoma orthotopic xenograft mouse. In this study, we investigated the role of the CCK-2/gastrin signaling pathway on gemcitabine-induced VEGF expression in PANC-1 human pancreatic carcinoma cells. MAIN METHODS In PANC-1 cells treated with Z-360, anti-gastrin IgG or kinase inhibitors, the gene expression levels were analyzed by quantitative real-time RT-PCR, and the protein levels of Akt and phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) in cellular extracts were measured by ELISA. KEY FINDINGS Gemcitabine-induced expression of VEGF and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1 alpha) were suppressed by the treatment with an anti-gastrin antibody. In addition, VEGF and HIF-1 alpha gene expression was inhibited by treatment with an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), which is involved in the downstream signaling pathway of the CCK-2/gastrin receptor, and was also suppressed by treatment with Z-360. Moreover, although Akt phosphorylation was increased by treatment with gemcitabine, this elevation was partially, but significantly, inhibited by an exposure of Z-360. SIGNIFICANCE Gemcitabine might induce gene expression of VEGF via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in the downstream of the CCK-2/gastrin receptor. The suppression of the CCK-2/gastrin signaling pathway by treatment with Z-360 could be a useful approach for potentiating prolonged survival of pancreatic cancer patients receiving gemcitabine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Kato
- Department of Clinical Research, Zeria Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
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Ryberg A, Borch K, Monstein HJ. Expression of multiple forms of 3'-end variant CCK2 receptor mRNAs in human pancreatic adenocarcinomas. BMC Res Notes 2011; 4:131. [PMID: 21504585 PMCID: PMC3094373 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-4-131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2010] [Accepted: 04/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Two main types of receptors for gastrin and cholecystokinin (CCK) have been cloned and identified. CCK1 (CCK-A) receptors are expressed in the pancreas, the gallbladder, and parts of the brain, while CCK2 (CCK-B/gastrin) receptors (CCK2R) are expressed in gastric glands and in most of the brain. A splice variant of the CCK2R designated CCKRi4sv (CCK-C), which is constitutively expressed in human pancreatic cancer cells, has also been described. The purpose of the present investigation was to study CCK2R, CCK2i4svR, and gastrin mRNA expression in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma on the assumption that co-expression of CCK2R and gastrin or constitutive CCK2i4svR mRNA expression plays a pivotal role in the progression of pancreatic cancer. Findings PCR amplification using CCK2R specific primer-pairs, followed by ethidium-bromide stained agarose gel electrophoresis revealed the expression of wild-type CCK2R mRNA in 12 of 17 biopsy specimens. A CCK2R intron 4 specific nested PCR assay revealed that CCK2i4svR mRNA was expressed in only one of the biopsy specimen. The authenticity of PCR amplicons was confirmed by cloning of selected amplicons and DNA sequence analysis. Moreover, we found that hitherto undescribed multiple forms of 3'-end variant CCK2R mRNAs with various deletions in the retained intron 4 and exon 5, tentatively generating truncated proteins, were expressed in the pancreatic adenocarcinomas. Conclusion Cloning and DNA sequencing of selected amplicons revealed that CCK2R and multiple CCK2i4svR-like mRNAs are expressed in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma. The originally described CCK2i4svR mRNA was only expressed in one of 17 tumours and appears to be rarely expressed in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. We report that CCK2R- and gastrin mRNA co-expression may play a role in a portion, but not in all of these tumours, and that aberrant splicing takes places in these tissues generating multiple forms of 3'-end variant CCK2R mRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ryberg
- Division of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Clinical Microbiology, County Council of Östergötland, S-581 85 Linköping, Sweden.
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Liu SH, Patel S, Gingras MC, Nemunaitis J, Zhou G, Chen C, Li M, Fisher W, Gibbs R, Brunicardi FC. PDX-1: demonstration of oncogenic properties in pancreatic cancer. Cancer 2010; 117:723-33. [PMID: 20886630 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.25629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2010] [Accepted: 08/06/2010] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic-duodenal homeobox 1 (PDX-1) is a transcription factor that regulates embryologic pancreas development and insulin expression in the adult islet; however, it is overexpressed in many types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of PDX-1 in tumorigenesis in human cells. METHODS In vitro cell proliferation, invasion, and transformation were performed in human embryonic kidney cell line (HEK 293), pancreatic cancer cell line MIA PaCa2, and human pancreatic ductal epithelial (HPDE) cells transiently or stably expressing PDX-1 or green fluorescent protein (GFP) PDX-1, with or without cotransfection of PDX-1 short hairpin RNA (shRNA). In vivo tumor formation was carried out in severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice with subcutaneous injection of HEK 293 and MIA PaCa2 stably transfected cells. Cell cycle was analyzed by Western blot or immunostaining. Microarray of RNA from pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells with and without PDX-1 shRNA was performed and analyzed. RESULTS Transient and stable expressing PDX-1 significantly increased cell proliferation and invasion in HEK 293, human pancreatic ductal epithelial (HPDE), and MIA PaCa2 cells versus controls (P < .05), human PDX-1 shRNA reversed these effects. Expression of PDX-1 significantly increased colony formation in HEK 293, HPDE, and MIA PaCa2 cells versus controls in vitro (P < .05). PDX-1 promoted HEK 293 and MIA PaCa2 tumor formation in SCID mice as compared with that of control (P < .05). PDX-1 overexpression disrupted cell cycles proteins. PDX-1 expression was confirmed by Western blot and tracked by viewing of GFP-PDX-1 expression. Microarray data support an oncogenic role of PDX-1 in pancreas cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS PDX-1 induced increased cell proliferation, invasion, and colony formation in vitro, and resulted in markedly increased HEK 293 and MIA PaCa2 tumor formation in SCID mice. These data suggest that PDX-1 is a potential oncogene that regulates tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-He Liu
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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Kobayashi N, Seto K, Orikawa Y, Hamano H, Yoshinaga K, Takei M. Z-360, a novel cholecystokinin-2/gastrin receptor antagonist, inhibits gemcitabine-induced expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor gene in human pancreatic cancer cells. Biol Pharm Bull 2010; 33:216-22. [PMID: 20118543 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.33.216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Z-360 is a novel cholecystokinin (CCK)-2/gastrin receptor antagonist that is being developed for the treatment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma in combination with gemcitabine. A previous study shows that the co-administration of Z-360 with gemcitabine significantly prolonged the survival of mice with orthotopically implanted human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell lines. To clarify the therapeutic effects of Z-360 in combined with gemcitabine, we analyzed gene expression. When gemcitabine was administered, CCK-2/gastrin receptor expression was induced in an orthotropic xenograft model; the result indicating that Z-360 could act on gemcitabine-sensitive cells. Both in vitro and in vivo studies showed that gemcitabine increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), a prognostic factor for survival in pancreatic cancer, while Z-360 suppressed this induction of VEGFA gene expression. These results help to explain how Z-360 prolongs survival when used in combination with gemcitabine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuyoshi Kobayashi
- Central Research Laboratories, Zeria Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, 2512-1 Oshikiri, Kumagaya, Saitama 360-0111, Japan
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22
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Lambert CM, Roy M, Meloche J, Robitaille GA, Agharazii M, Richard DE, Bonnet S. Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors as novel therapeutic tools for vascular remodeling diseases. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2010; 299:H995-1001. [PMID: 20709868 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00562.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Vascular remodeling diseases (VRDs) are characterized by enhanced inflammation and proliferative and apoptosis-resistant vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The sustainability of this phenotype has been attributed in part to the activation of the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). There is evidence that circulating cytokines can act as HIF-1 activators in a variety of tissues, including VSMCs. Increased circulating tumor necrosis factor (TNF) levels have been associated with vascular diseases, but the mechanisms involved remain unknown. We hypothesized that increased circulating levels of TNF promotes VRDs by the activation of HIF-1, resulting in VSMC proliferation and resistance to apoptosis. Circulating TNF levels were significantly increased in patients with vascular diseases (n = 19) compared with healthy donors (n = 15). Using human carotid artery smooth muscle cells (CASMCs), we demonstrated that TNF (100 ng/ml) activates HIF-1 (HIF-1α expression), leading to increased CASMC proliferation (Ki-67 and PCNA staining) and resistance to mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis [tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester perchlorate (TMRM), terminal deoxynucleotide transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), annexin-V staining]. In vivo, TNF inhibition using polyethylene glycol coupled with TNF membrane receptor 1 (PEGsTNFR1), a soluble TNF receptor inhibiting circulating TNF, prevented carotid artery postinjury media remodeling and neointima development in rats. This effect was associated with lowered HIF-1 activation and decreased CASMC proliferation. In conclusion, we demonstrate for the first time that the inhibition of the TNF/Akt/HIF-1 axis prevents vascular remodeling. TNF inhibitors may therefore represent new and interesting therapeutic tools against VRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Lambert
- Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, L'Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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Jin G, Kawsar HI, Hirsch SA, Zeng C, Jia X, Feng Z, Ghosh SK, Zheng QY, Zhou A, McIntyre TM, Weinberg A. An antimicrobial peptide regulates tumor-associated macrophage trafficking via the chemokine receptor CCR2, a model for tumorigenesis. PLoS One 2010; 5:e10993. [PMID: 20544025 PMCID: PMC2882331 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0010993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2009] [Accepted: 05/17/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) constitute a significant part of infiltrating inflammatory cells that are frequently correlated with progression and poor prognosis of a variety of cancers. Tumor cell-produced human beta-defensin-3 (hBD-3) has been associated with TAM trafficking in oral cancer; however, its involvement in tumor-related inflammatory processes remains largely unknown. METHODOLOGY The relationship between hBD-3, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), TAMs, and CCR2 was examined using immunofluorescence microscopy in normal and oral carcinoma in situ biopsy specimens. The ability of hBD-3 to chemoattract host macrophages in vivo using a nude mouse model and analysis of hBD-3 on monocytic cell migration in vitro, applying a cross-desensitization strategy of CCR2 and its pharmacological inhibitor (RS102895), respectively, was also carried out. CONCLUSIONS/FINDINGS MCP-1, the most frequently expressed tumor cell-associated chemokine, was not produced by tumor cells nor correlated with the recruitment of macrophages in oral carcinoma in situ lesions. However, hBD-3 was associated with macrophage recruitment in these lesions and hBD-3-expressing tumorigenic cells induced massive tumor infiltration of host macrophages in nude mice. HBD-3 stimulated the expression of tumor-promoting cytokines, including interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha), IL-6, IL-8, CCL18, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) in macrophages derived from human peripheral blood monocytes. Monocytic cell migration in response to hBD-3 was inhibited by cross-desensitization with MCP-1 and the specific CCR2 inhibitor, RS102895, suggesting that CCR2 mediates monocyte/macrophage migration in response to hBD-3. Collectively, these results indicate that hBD-3 utilizes CCR2 to regulate monocyte/macrophage trafficking and may act as a tumor cell-produced chemoattractant to recruit TAMs. This novel mechanism is the first evidence of an hBD molecule orchestrating an in vivo outcome and demonstrates the importance of the innate immune system in the development of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Jin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
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Lambert CM, Roy M, Robitaille GA, Richard DE, Bonnet S. HIF-1 inhibition decreases systemic vascular remodelling diseases by promoting apoptosis through a hexokinase 2-dependent mechanism. Cardiovasc Res 2010; 88:196-204. [PMID: 20498255 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvq152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Vascular remodelling diseases are characterized by the presence of proliferative and apoptosis-resistant vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). There is evidence that pro-proliferative and anti-apoptotic states are characterized by metabolic remodelling (a glycolytic phenotype with hyperpolarized mitochondria) involving Akt pathway activation by circulating growth factors. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is involved in different vascular diseases. Since this transcription factor is implicated in metabolic responses, we hypothesized that HIF-1 activity could be involved in vascular remodelling in response to arterial injury. METHODS AND RESULTS Our findings indicate that growth factors, such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), activate the Akt pathway (measured by immunoblot) in human carotid artery VSMC. Activation of this pathway increased HIF-1 activation (measured by immunoblot), leading to increased glycolysis in VSMC. Expression and mitochondrial activity of hexokinase 2 (HXK2), a primary initiator of glycolysis, are increased during HIF-1 activation. The mitochondrial activity of HXK2 in VSMC led to the hyperpolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential (measured by tetramethylrhodamine methyl-ester perchlorate) and the suppression of apoptosis (measured by TUNEL assay and 3 activity), effects that are blocked by HIF-1 inhibition. Additionally, HIF-1 inhibition also decreased VSMC proliferation (proliferating cell nuclear antigen and Ki-67 assays). In vivo, we demonstrate that localized HIF-1 inhibition, using a dominant-negative HIF-1α adenoviral construct, prevented carotid artery post-injury remodelling in rats. CONCLUSION We propose that HIF-1 is centrally involved in carotid artery remodelling in response to arterial injury and that localized inhibition of HIF-1 may be a novel therapeutic strategy to prevent carotid stenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Lambert
- Centre de recherche du CHUQ, L'Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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Chao C, Han X, Ives K, Park J, Kolokoltsov AA, Davey RA, Moyer MP, Hellmich MR. CCK2 receptor expression transforms non-tumorigenic human NCM356 colonic epithelial cells into tumor forming cells. Int J Cancer 2010; 126:864-75. [PMID: 19697327 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.24845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Expression of gastrin and cholecystokinin 2 (CCK(2)) receptor splice variants (CCK(2)R and CCK(2i4sv)R) are upregulated in human colonic adenomas where they are thought to contribute to tumor growth and progression. To determine the effects of ectopic CCK(2) receptor variant expression on colonic epithelial cell growth in vitro and in vivo, we employed the non-tumorigenic colonic epithelial cell line, NCM356. Receptor expression was induced using a retroviral expression vector containing cDNAs for either CCK(2i4sv)R or CCK(2)R. RT-PCR and intracellular Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)) imaging of RIE/CCK(2)R cells treated with conditioned media (CM) from NCM356 revealed that NCM356 cells express gastrin mRNA and secrete endogenous, biologically active peptide. NCM356 cells expressing either CCK(2)R or CCK(2i4sv)R (71 and 81 fmol/mg, respectively) grew faster in vitro, and exhibited an increase in basal levels of phosphorylated ERK (pERK), compared with vector. CCK(2) receptor selective antagonist, YM022, partially inhibited the growth of both receptor-expressing NCM356 cells, but not the control cells. Inhibitors of mitogen activated protein kinase pathway (MEK/ERK) or protein kinase C (PKC) isozymes partially inhibited the elevated levels of basal pERK and in vitro growth of receptor-expressing cells. Vector-NCM356 cells did not form tumors in nude mice, whereas, either CCK(2) receptor-expressing cells formed large tumors. Autocrine activation CCK(2) receptor variants are sufficient to increase in vitro growth and tumorigenicity of non-transformed NCM356 colon epithelial cells through a pathway involving PKC and the MEK/ERK axis. These findings support the hypothesis that expression of gastrin and its receptors in human colonic adenomas contributes to tumor growth and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Chao
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
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Körner M, Waser B, Reubi JC, Miller LJ. CCK(2) receptor splice variant with intron 4 retention in human gastrointestinal and lung tumours. J Cell Mol Med 2009; 14:933-43. [PMID: 19627395 PMCID: PMC2888751 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2009.00859.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The wild-type cholecystokinin type 2 (CCK2) receptor is expressed in many gastrointestinal and lung tumours. A splice variant of the CCK2 receptor with retention of intron 4 (CCK2Ri4sv) showing constitutive activity associated with increased tumour growth was described in few colorectal, pancreatic and gastric cancers. Given the potential functional and clinical importance of this spliceoform, its occurrence was quantitatively characterized in a broad collection of 81 gastrointestinal and lung tumours, including insulinomas, ileal carcinoids, gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST), gastric, colorectal and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, cholangiocellular and hepatocellular carcinomas, small cell lung cancers (SCLC), non-SCLC (nSCLC) and bronchopulmonary carcinoids, as well as 21 samples of corresponding normal tissues. These samples were assessed for transcript expression of total CCK2 receptor, wild-type CCK2 receptor and CCK2Ri4sv with end-point and real-time RT-PCR, and for total CCK2 receptor protein expression on the basis of receptor binding with in vitro receptor autoradiography. Wild-type CCK2 receptor transcripts were found in the vast majority of tumours and normal tissues. CCK2Ri4sv mRNA expression was present predominantly in insulinomas (incidence 100%), GIST (100%) and SCLC (67%), but rarely in pancreatic, colorectal and gastric carcinomas and nSCLC. It was not found in wild-type CCK2 receptor negative tumours or any normal tissues tested. CCK2Ri4sv transcript levels in individual tumours were low, ranging from 0.02% to 0.14% of total CCK2 receptor transcripts. In conclusion, the CCK2Ri4sv is a marker of specific gastrointestinal and lung tumours. With its high selectivity for and high incidence in SCLC and GIST, it may represent an attractive clinical target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike Körner
- Mayo Clinic, Cancer Center and Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA.
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Körner M, Miller LJ. Alternative splicing of pre-mRNA in cancer: focus on G protein-coupled peptide hormone receptors. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2009; 175:461-72. [PMID: 19574427 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2009.081135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Through alternative splicing, multiple different transcripts can be generated from a single gene. Alternative splicing represents an important molecular mechanism of gene regulation in physiological processes such as developmental programming as well as in disease. In cancer, splicing is significantly altered. Tumors express a different collection of alternative spliceoforms than normal tissues. Many tumor-associated splice variants arise from genes with an established role in carcinogenesis or tumor progression, and their functions can be oncogenic. This raises the possibility that products of alternative splicing play a pathogenic role in cancer. Moreover, cancer-associated spliceoforms represent potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. G protein-coupled peptide hormone receptors provide a good illustration of alternative splicing in cancer. The wild-type forms of these receptors have long been known to be expressed in cancer and to modulate tumor cell functions. They are also recognized as attractive clinical targets. Recently, splice variants of these receptors have been increasingly identified in various types of cancer. In particular, alternative cholecystokinin type 2, secretin, and growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor spliceoforms are expressed in tumors. Peptide hormone receptor splice variants can fundamentally differ from their wild-type receptor counterparts in pharmacological and functional characteristics, in their distribution in normal and malignant tissues, and in their potential use for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike Körner
- Institute of Pathology of the University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 31, CH-3010 Berne, Switzerland.
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Singh-Gupta V, Zhang H, Banerjee S, Kong D, Raffoul JJ, Sarkar FH, Hillman GG. Radiation-induced HIF-1alpha cell survival pathway is inhibited by soy isoflavones in prostate cancer cells. Int J Cancer 2009; 124:1675-84. [PMID: 19101986 PMCID: PMC2670478 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.24015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We previously showed that treatment of prostate cancer cells with soy isoflavones and radiation resulted in greater cell killing in vitro, and caused downregulation of NF-kappaB and APE1/Ref-1. APE1/Ref-1 functions as a redox activator of transcription factors, including NF-kappaB and HIF-1alpha. These molecules are upregulated by radiation and implicated in radioresistance of cancer cells. We extended our studies to investigate the role of HIF-1alpha survival pathway and its upstream Src and STAT3 molecules in isoflavones and radiation interaction. Radiation induced phosphorylation of Src and STAT3 leading to induction of HIF-1alpha. Genistein, daidzein or a mixture of soy isoflavones did not activate this pathway. These data were observed both in PC-3 (AR-) and C4-2B (AR+) androgen-independent cell lines. Pretreatment with isoflavones inhibited Src/STAT3/HIF-1alpha activation by radiation and nuclear translocation of HIF-1alpha. These findings correlated with decreased expression of APE1/Ref-1 and DNA binding activity of HIF-1alpha and NF-kappaB. In APE1/Ref-1 cDNA transfected cells, radiation caused a greater increase in HIF-1alpha and NF-kappaB activities but this effect was inhibited by pretreatment with soy prior to radiation. Transfection experiments indicate that APE1/Ref-1 inhibition by isoflavones impairs the radiation-induced transcription activity of NF-kappaB and HIF-1alpha. This mechanism could result in the inhibition of genes essential for tumor growth and angiogenesis, as demonstrated by inhibition of VEGF production and HUVECs tube formation. Our novel findings suggest that the increased responsiveness to radiation mediated by soy isoflavones could be due to pleiotropic effects of isoflavones blocking cell survival pathways induced by radiation including Src/STAT3/HIF-1alpha, APE1/Ref-1 and NF-kappaB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinita Singh-Gupta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Sanjeev Banerjee
- Department of Pathology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Dejuan Kong
- Department of Pathology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Julian J. Raffoul
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Fazlul H. Sarkar
- Department of Pathology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Gilda G. Hillman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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Bibliography. Current world literature. Growth and development. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2008; 15:79-101. [PMID: 18185067 DOI: 10.1097/med.0b013e3282f4f084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Laverman P, Roosenburg S, Gotthardt M, Park J, Oyen WJG, de Jong M, Hellmich MR, Rutjes FPJT, van Delft FL, Boerman OC. Targeting of a CCK(2) receptor splice variant with (111)In-labelled cholecystokinin-8 (CCK8) and (111)In-labelled minigastrin. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2007; 35:386-92. [PMID: 17934729 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-007-0604-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2007] [Accepted: 09/04/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Radiolabelled cholecystokinin (CCK) and gastrin-derived peptides potentially can be used for peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). Recently, a splice variant version of the CCK2R has been identified, designated CCK2i4svR. Constitutive expression of this receptor has been demonstrated in human colorectal cancer and in pancreatic cancer, but not in normal tissue. So far, it has never been shown whether radiolabelled peptides can target the CCK2i4svR in vivo. In this paper, we investigated the potential of sulfated (111)In-labelled DOTA-CCK8 (sCCK8), a pan-CCKR-binding peptide, and [(111)In]DOTA-minigastrin (MG0), a CCK2R selective peptide, for the targeting of the CCK2i4svR. MATERIALS AND METHODS The receptor binding affinity of [(111)In]DOTA-sCCK8 and [(111)In]DOTA-MG0 for the CCK2R and CCK2i4svR was determined using stably transfected HEK293 cell lines, expressing either CCK2R or CCK2i4svR. Tumour targeting was studied in HEK293-CCK2i4svR tumour-bearing athymic mice. RESULTS [(111)In]DOTA-sCCK8 as well as [(111)In]DOTA-MG0 specifically bound both CCK2R and CCK2i4svR with affinities in the low nanomolar range. In vivo experiments revealed that accumulation of both peptides in CCK2i4svR-positive tumours was similar (3.21 +/- 0.77 and 3.01 +/- 0.67%ID/g, sCCK8 and MG0, respectively, 24 h p.i.). Kidney retention of [(111)In]DOTA-MG0 (32.4 +/- 7.5%ID/g, 24 h p.i.) was markedly higher than that of [(111)In]DOTA-sCCK8 (2.75 +/- 0.31%ID/g, 24 h p.i.). CONCLUSION We demonstrated that the CCK2i4svR is a potential target for PRRT using a radiolabelled sulfated CCK8 peptide. As this receptor is expressed on colorectal and pancreatic tumours, but not in normal tissue, these tumours are potentially new targets for PRRT with CCK8 and gastrin analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Laverman
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Grabowska AM, Watson SA. Role of gastrin peptides in carcinogenesis. Cancer Lett 2007; 257:1-15. [PMID: 17698287 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2007.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2007] [Revised: 06/25/2007] [Accepted: 06/28/2007] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Gastrin gene expression is upregulated in a number of pre-malignant conditions and established cancer through a variety of mechanisms. Depending on the tissue where it is expressed and the level of expression, differential processing of the polypeptide product leads to the production of different biologically active peptides. In turn, acting through the classical CCK-2R receptor, CCK-2R isoforms and alternative receptors, these peptides trigger signalling pathways which influence the expression of downstream genes that affect cell survival, angiogenesis and invasion. Here we review this network of events, highlighting the importance of cellular context for interpreting the role of gastrin peptides and a possible role for gastrin in supporting the early stage of carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Grabowska
- Division of Pre-Clinical Oncology, D Floor, West Block, Queen's Medical Centre, University Hospital, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
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