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Hu R, Dun X, Singh L, Banton MC. Runx2 regulates peripheral nerve regeneration to promote Schwann cell migration and re-myelination. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1575-1583. [PMID: 38051902 PMCID: PMC10883509 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.387977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202407000-00038/figure1/v/2023-11-20T171125Z/r/image-tiff
Runx2 is a major regulator of osteoblast differentiation and function; however, the role of Runx2 in peripheral nerve repair is unclear. Here, we analyzed Runx2 expression following injury and found that it was specifically up-regulated in Schwann cells. Furthermore, using Schwann cell-specific Runx2 knockout mice, we studied peripheral nerve development and regeneration and found that multiple steps in the regeneration process following sciatic nerve injury were Runx2-dependent. Changes observed in Runx2 knockout mice include increased proliferation of Schwann cells, impaired Schwann cell migration and axonal regrowth, reduced re-myelination of axons, and a block in macrophage clearance in the late stage of regeneration. Taken together, our findings indicate that Runx2 is a key regulator of Schwann cell plasticity, and therefore peripheral nerve repair. Thus, our study shows that Runx2 plays a major role in Schwann cell migration, re-myelination, and peripheral nerve functional recovery following injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Hu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xinpeng Dun
- The Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lolita Singh
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
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2
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Ababneh H, Tóth A, Lente G, Balogh E, Csiki DM, Nagy B, Szöőr Á, Jeney V. High phosphate and calcium induce osteoblastic phenotype switching and calcification of corneal epithelial cells in a Runx2-dependent and synergistic manner; a possible mechanism of chronic kidney disease-associated corneal calcification. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167171. [PMID: 38631411 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) have elevated circulating calcium × phosphate product levels and exhibit soft tissue calcification. Besides the cardiovascular system, calcification is commonly observed in the cornea in CKD patients on hemodialysis. Cardiovascular calcification is a cell-mediated, highly regulated process, and we hypothesized that a similar regulatory mechanism is implicated in corneal calcification with the involvement of corneal epithelial cells (CECs). We established a mouse model of CKD-associated corneal calcification by inducing CKD in DBA/2J mice with an adenine and high phosphate diet. CKD was associated with aorta and corneal calcification as detected by OsteoSense staining and corneal Ca measurement (1.67-fold elevation, p < 0.001). In vitro, excess phosphate and Ca induced human CEC calcification in a dose-dependent and synergistic manner, without any influence on cell viability. High phosphate and Ca-containing osteogenic medium (OM; 2.5 mmol/L excess phosphate and 0.6 mmol/L excess Ca over control) increased the protein expression of Runx2 and induced its nuclear translocation. OM increased the expression of the bone-specific Ca-binding protein osteocalcin (130-fold increase, p < 0.001). Silencing of Runx2 attenuated OM-induced CEC calcification. Immunohistology revealed upregulation of Runx2 and overlapping between the Runx2 and the Alizarin red positive areas of calcification in the cornea of CKD mice. This work sheds light on the mechanism of CKD-induced corneal calcification and provides tools to test calcification inhibitors for the prevention of this detrimental process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haneen Ababneh
- MTA-DE Lendület Vascular Pathophysiology Research Group, Research Centre for Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Andrea Tóth
- MTA-DE Lendület Vascular Pathophysiology Research Group, Research Centre for Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gréta Lente
- MTA-DE Lendület Vascular Pathophysiology Research Group, Research Centre for Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enikő Balogh
- MTA-DE Lendület Vascular Pathophysiology Research Group, Research Centre for Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Dávid Máté Csiki
- MTA-DE Lendület Vascular Pathophysiology Research Group, Research Centre for Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Béla Nagy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Árpád Szöőr
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Viktória Jeney
- MTA-DE Lendület Vascular Pathophysiology Research Group, Research Centre for Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
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3
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Wu D, Thompson LU, Comelli EM. Cecal microbiota and mammary gland microRNA signatures are related and modifiable by dietary flaxseed with implications for breast cancer risk. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0229023. [PMID: 38059614 PMCID: PMC10783090 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02290-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. There is a growing interest in using dietary approaches, including flaxseed (FS) and its oil and lignan components, to mitigate breast cancer risk. Importantly, there is recognition that pubertal processes and lifestyle, including diet, are important for breast health throughout life. Mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Our research uncovers a link between mammary gland miRNA expression and the gut microbiota in young female mice. We found that this relationship is modifiable via a dietary intervention. Using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, we also show that the expression of miRNAs involved in these relationships is altered in breast cancer in humans. These findings highlight a role for the gut microbiome as a modulator, and thus a target, of interventions aiming at reducing breast cancer risk. They also provide foundational knowledge to explore the effects of early life interventions and mechanisms programming breast health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Wu
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lilian U. Thompson
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Canada
| | - Elena M. Comelli
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Canada
- Joannah and Brian Lawson Centre for Child Nutrition, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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4
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Stedile M, Lara Montero A, García Solá ME, Goddio MV, Beckerman I, Bogni E, Ayre M, Naguila Z, Coso OA, Kordon EC. Tristetraprolin promotes survival of mammary progenitor cells by restraining TNFα levels. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1265475. [PMID: 38274271 PMCID: PMC10808302 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1265475] [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: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Tristetraprolin (TTP) is an RNA binding protein that destabilizes mRNAs of factors involved in proliferation, invasiveness, and inflammation. Disruption of the gene that codes for TTP (Zfp36) led to severe arthritis, autoimmunity, cachexia and dermatitis in mice. It has been shown that these phenotypes were mostly due to excessive TNFα levels in the affected tissues. We have previously reported that TTP expression is required for lactation maintenance. Our results indicated that conditional MG TTP-KO female mice displayed early involution due to the untimely induction of pro-inflammatory pathways led mostly by TNFα overexpression. Here we show that reducing TTP levels not only affects the fully differentiated mammary gland, but also harms morphogenesis of this tissue by impairing the progenitor cell population. We found that Zfp36 expression is linked to mammary stemness in human and mice. In addition, diminishing TTP expression and activity induced apoptosis of stem-like mouse mammary cells, reduced its ability to form mammospheres in culture and to develop into complete glands when implanted into cleared mammary fat pads in vivo. Our results show that survival of the stem-like cells is compromised by increased levels of inflammatory cytokines and stimulation of signaling cascades involving NFκB, STAT3 and MAPK-p38 activation. Moreover, TNFα overexpression and the consequent p38 phosphorylation would be the leading cause of progenitor cell death upon TTP expression restriction. Taken together, our results reveal the relevance of TTP for the maintenance of the mammary progenitor cell compartment by maintaining local TNFα levels at bay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Stedile
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IFIBYNE-UBA-CONICET), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Angela Lara Montero
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IFIBYNE-UBA-CONICET), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Martín Emilio García Solá
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IFIBYNE-UBA-CONICET), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Goddio
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IFIBYNE-UBA-CONICET), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Inés Beckerman
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IFIBYNE-UBA-CONICET), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Emilia Bogni
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IFIBYNE-UBA-CONICET), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marina Ayre
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IFIBYNE-UBA-CONICET), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Zaira Naguila
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Omar A. Coso
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IFIBYNE-UBA-CONICET), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Edith C. Kordon
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IFIBYNE-UBA-CONICET), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Química Biológica (DQB), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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5
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Vimalraj S, Sekaran S. RUNX Family as a Promising Biomarker and a Therapeutic Target in Bone Cancers: A Review on Its Molecular Mechanism(s) behind Tumorigenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3247. [PMID: 37370857 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor runt-related protein (RUNX) family is the major transcription factor responsible for the formation of osteoblasts from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, which are involved in bone formation. Accumulating evidence implicates the RUNX family for its role in tumor biology and cancer progression. The RUNX family has been linked to osteosarcoma via its regulation of many tumorigenicity-related factors. In the regulatory network of cancers, with numerous upstream signaling pathways and its potential target molecules downstream, RUNX is a vital molecule. Hence, a pressing need exists to understand the precise process underpinning the occurrence and prognosis of several malignant tumors. Until recently, RUNX has been regarded as one of the therapeutic targets for bone cancer. Therefore, in this review, we have provided insights into various molecular mechanisms behind the tumorigenic role of RUNX in various important cancers. RUNX is anticipated to grow into a novel therapeutic target with the in-depth study of RUNX family-related regulatory processes, aid in the creation of new medications, and enhance clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selvaraj Vimalraj
- Department of Prosthodontics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Saravanan Sekaran
- Department of Prosthodontics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
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6
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Khan AS, Campbell KJ, Cameron ER, Blyth K. The RUNX/CBFβ Complex in Breast Cancer: A Conundrum of Context. Cells 2023; 12:641. [PMID: 36831308 PMCID: PMC9953914 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Dissecting and identifying the major actors and pathways in the genesis, progression and aggressive advancement of breast cancer is challenging, in part because neoplasms arising in this tissue represent distinct diseases and in part because the tumors themselves evolve. This review attempts to illustrate the complexity of this mutational landscape as it pertains to the RUNX genes and their transcription co-factor CBFβ. Large-scale genomic studies that characterize genetic alterations across a disease subtype are a useful starting point and as such have identified recurring alterations in CBFB and in the RUNX genes (particularly RUNX1). Intriguingly, the functional output of these mutations is often context dependent with regards to the estrogen receptor (ER) status of the breast cancer. Therefore, such studies need to be integrated with an in-depth understanding of both the normal and corrupted function in mammary cells to begin to tease out how loss or gain of function can alter the cell phenotype and contribute to disease progression. We review how alterations to RUNX/CBFβ function contextually ascribe to breast cancer subtypes and discuss how the in vitro analyses and mouse model systems have contributed to our current understanding of these proteins in the pathogenesis of this complex set of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adiba S. Khan
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK; (A.S.K.); (K.J.C.)
- School of Cancer Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Kirsteen J. Campbell
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK; (A.S.K.); (K.J.C.)
| | - Ewan R. Cameron
- School of Biodiversity One Health & Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK;
| | - Karen Blyth
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK; (A.S.K.); (K.J.C.)
- School of Cancer Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
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7
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Ervin EH, French R, Chang CH, Pauklin S. Inside the stemness engine: Mechanistic links between deregulated transcription factors and stemness in cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 87:48-83. [PMID: 36347438 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Cell identity is largely determined by its transcriptional profile. In tumour, deregulation of transcription factor expression and/or activity enables cancer cell to acquire a stem-like state characterised by capacity to self-renew, differentiate and form tumours in vivo. These stem-like cancer cells are highly metastatic and therapy resistant, thus warranting a more complete understanding of the molecular mechanisms downstream of the transcription factors that mediate the establishment of stemness state. Here, we review recent research findings that provide a mechanistic link between the commonly deregulated transcription factors and stemness in cancer. In particular, we describe the role of master transcription factors (SOX, OCT4, NANOG, KLF, BRACHYURY, SALL, HOX, FOX and RUNX), signalling-regulated transcription factors (SMAD, β-catenin, YAP, TAZ, AP-1, NOTCH, STAT, GLI, ETS and NF-κB) and unclassified transcription factors (c-MYC, HIF, EMT transcription factors and P53) across diverse tumour types, thereby yielding a comprehensive overview identifying shared downstream targets, highlighting unique mechanisms and discussing complexities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egle-Helene Ervin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
| | - Rhiannon French
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
| | - Chao-Hui Chang
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
| | - Siim Pauklin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
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8
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Zheng Y, Karnoub AE. Endocrine regulation of cancer stem cell compartments in breast tumors. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 535:111374. [PMID: 34242715 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells within breast tumors exist within a hierarchy in which only a small and rare subset of cells is able to regenerate growths with the heterogeneity of the original tumor. These highly malignant cancer cells, which behave like stem cells for new cancers and are called "cancer stem cells" or CSCs, have also been shown to possess increased resistance to therapeutics, and represent the root cause underlying therapy failures, persistence of residual disease, and relapse. As >90% of cancer deaths are due to refractory tumors, identification of critical molecular drivers of the CSC-state would reveal vulnerabilities that can be leveraged in designing therapeutics that eradicate advanced disease and improve patient survival outcomes. An expanding and complex body of work has now described the exquisite susceptibility of CSC pools to the regulatory influences of local and systemic hormones. Indeed, breast CSCs express a plethora of hormonal receptors, which funnel hormonal influences over every aspect of breast neoplasia - be it tumor onset, growth, survival, invasion, metastasis, or therapy resistance - via directly impacting CSC behavior. This article is intended to shed light on this active area of investigation by attempting to provide a systematic and comprehensive overview of the available evidence directly linking hormones to breast CSC biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurong Zheng
- Department of Pathology and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Antoine E Karnoub
- Department of Pathology and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.
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9
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Li Y, Ge C, Franceschi RT. Role of Runx2 in prostate development and stem cell function. Prostate 2021; 81:231-241. [PMID: 33411419 PMCID: PMC7856111 DOI: 10.1002/pros.24099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND RUNX2, a critical transcription factor in bone development, is also expressed in prostate and breast where it has been linked to cancer progression and cancer stem cells. However, its role in normal prostate biology has not been previously examined. METHODS Selective growth of murine prostate epithelium under non-adherent conditions was used to enrich for stem cells. Expression of runt domain transcription factors, stem cell and prostate marker messenger RNAs (mRNAs) was determined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Effects of Runx2 loss and gain-of-function on prostate epithelial cells were assessed using cells isolated from Runx2loxp/loxp mice transduced with Adeno-Cre or by Adeno-Runx2 transduction of wild type cells. Cellular distribution of RUNX2 and prostate-associated proteins was assessed using immunofluorescence microscopy. In vivo Runx2 knock out was achieved by tamoxifen treatment of Nkx3.1CreERT; Runx2loxp/loxp mice. RESULTS Prostate epithelium-derived spheroids, which are enriched in stem cells, were shown to contain elevated levels of Runx2 mRNA. Spheroid formation required Runx2 since adenovirus-Cre mediated knockout of Runx2 in prostatic epithelial cells from Runx2loxp/loxp mice severely reduced spheroid formation and stem cell markers while Runx2 overexpression was stimulatory. In vivo, Runx2 was detected during early prostate development (E16.5) and in adult mice where it was present in basal and luminal cells of ventral and anterior lobes. Prostate-selective deletion of Runx2 in tamoxifen-treated Nkx3.1CreERT; Runx2loxp/loxp mice severely inhibited growth and maturation of tubules in the anterior prostate and reduced expression of stem cell markers and prostate-associated genes. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates an important role for Runx2 in prostate development that may be explained by actions in prostate epithelial stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Chunxi Ge
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Renny T. Franceschi
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan School of Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI
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10
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Fritz AJ, Hong D, Boyd J, Kost J, Finstaad KH, Fitzgerald MP, Hanna S, Abuarqoub AH, Malik M, Bushweller J, Tye C, Ghule P, Gordon J, Zaidi SK, Frietze S, Lian JB, Stein JL, Stein GS. RUNX1 and RUNX2 transcription factors function in opposing roles to regulate breast cancer stem cells. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:7261-7272. [PMID: 32180230 PMCID: PMC7415511 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are competent to initiate tumor formation and growth and refractory to conventional therapies. Consequently BCSCs are implicated in tumor recurrence. Many signaling cascades associated with BCSCs are critical for epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). We developed a model system to mechanistically examine BCSCs in basal-like breast cancer using MCF10AT1 FACS sorted for CD24 (negative/low in BCSCs) and CD44 (positive/high in BCSCs). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis comparing RNA-seq on the CD24-/low versus CD24+/high MCF10AT1 indicates that the top activated upstream regulators include TWIST1, TGFβ1, OCT4, and other factors known to be increased in BCSCs and during EMT. The top inhibited upstream regulators include ESR1, TP63, and FAS. Consistent with our results, many genes previously demonstrated to be regulated by RUNX factors are altered in BCSCs. The RUNX2 interaction network is the top significant pathway altered between CD24-/low and CD24+/high MCF10AT1. RUNX1 is higher in expression at the RNA level than RUNX2. RUNX3 is not expressed. While, human-specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction primers demonstrate that RUNX1 and CDH1 decrease in human MCF10CA1a cells that have grown tumors within the murine mammary fat pad microenvironment, RUNX2 and VIM increase. Treatment with an inhibitor of RUNX binding to CBFβ for 5 days followed by a 7-day recovery period results in EMT suggesting that loss of RUNX1, rather than increase in RUNX2, is a driver of EMT in early stage breast cancer. Increased understanding of RUNX regulation on BCSCs and EMT will provide novel insight into therapeutic strategies to prevent recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J. Fritz
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Deli Hong
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Joseph Boyd
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Jason Kost
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Kristiaan H. Finstaad
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Mark P. Fitzgerald
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Sebastian Hanna
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Alqassem H. Abuarqoub
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Miles Malik
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - John Bushweller
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville VA
| | - Coralee Tye
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Prachi Ghule
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Jonathan Gordon
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Sayyed K. Zaidi
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Seth Frietze
- Department of Biomedical and Health Sciences, College of Nursing and Health Sciences
| | - Jane B. Lian
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Janet L. Stein
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Gary S. Stein
- Department of Biochemistry and University of Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
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11
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Rooney N, Mason SM, McDonald L, Däbritz JHM, Campbell KJ, Hedley A, Howard S, Athineos D, Nixon C, Clark W, Leach JDG, Sansom OJ, Edwards J, Cameron ER, Blyth K. RUNX1 Is a Driver of Renal Cell Carcinoma Correlating with Clinical Outcome. Cancer Res 2020; 80:2325-2339. [PMID: 32156779 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-3870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The recurring association of specific genetic lesions with particular types of cancer is a fascinating and largely unexplained area of cancer biology. This is particularly true of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) where, although key mutations such as loss of VHL is an almost ubiquitous finding, there remains a conspicuous lack of targetable genetic drivers. In this study, we have identified a previously unknown protumorigenic role for the RUNX genes in this disease setting. Analysis of patient tumor biopsies together with loss-of-function studies in preclinical models established the importance of RUNX1 and RUNX2 in ccRCC. Patients with high RUNX1 (and RUNX2) expression exhibited significantly poorer clinical survival compared with patients with low expression. This was functionally relevant, as deletion of RUNX1 in ccRCC cell lines reduced tumor cell growth and viability in vitro and in vivo. Transcriptional profiling of RUNX1-CRISPR-deleted cells revealed a gene signature dominated by extracellular matrix remodeling, notably affecting STMN3, SERPINH1, and EPHRIN signaling. Finally, RUNX1 deletion in a genetic mouse model of kidney cancer improved overall survival and reduced tumor cell proliferation. In summary, these data attest to the validity of targeting a RUNX1-transcriptional program in ccRCC. SIGNIFICANCE: These data reveal a novel unexplored oncogenic role for RUNX genes in kidney cancer and indicate that targeting the effects of RUNX transcriptional activity could be relevant for clinical intervention in ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Rooney
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Susan M Mason
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Laura McDonald
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - J Henry M Däbritz
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsteen J Campbell
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ann Hedley
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Steven Howard
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Dimitris Athineos
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Colin Nixon
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - William Clark
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Joshua D G Leach
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Owen J Sansom
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Edwards
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ewan R Cameron
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Blyth
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom.
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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12
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Ran R, Harrison H, Syamimi Ariffin N, Ayub R, Pegg HJ, Deng W, Mastro A, Ottewell PD, Mason SM, Blyth K, Holen I, Shore P. A role for CBFβ in maintaining the metastatic phenotype of breast cancer cells. Oncogene 2020; 39:2624-2637. [PMID: 32005976 PMCID: PMC7082223 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-1170-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a dynamic process that drives cancer cell plasticity and is thought to play a major role in metastasis. Here we show, using MDA-MB-231 cells as a model, that the plasticity of at least some metastatic breast cancer cells is dependent on the transcriptional co-regulator CBFβ. We demonstrate that CBFβ is essential to maintain the mesenchymal phenotype of triple-negative breast cancer cells and that CBFβ-depleted cells undergo a mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET) and re-organise into acini-like structures, reminiscent of those formed by epithelial breast cells. We subsequently show, using an inducible CBFβ system, that the MET can be reversed, thus demonstrating the plasticity of CBFβ-mediated EMT. Moreover, the MET can be reversed by expression of the EMT transcription factor Slug whose expression is dependent on CBFβ. Finally, we demonstrate that loss of CBFβ inhibits the ability of metastatic breast cancer cells to invade bone cell cultures and suppresses their ability to form bone metastases in vivo. Together our findings demonstrate that CBFβ can determine the plasticity of the metastatic cancer cell phenotype, suggesting that its regulation in different micro-environments may play a key role in the establishment of metastatic tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Ran
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Hannah Harrison
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Nur Syamimi Ariffin
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Rahna Ayub
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Henry J Pegg
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Wensheng Deng
- Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Jishi Rd, Hongshan Qu, Wuhan Shi, Hubei Sheng, 430065, China
| | - Andrea Mastro
- Penn State University, 428 South Frear Laboratory, University Park, Philadelphia, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Penny D Ottewell
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK
| | - Susan M Mason
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Karen Blyth
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Ingunn Holen
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK.
| | - Paul Shore
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK.
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13
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Sweeney K, Cameron ER, Blyth K. Complex Interplay between the RUNX Transcription Factors and Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway in Cancer: A Tango in the Night. Mol Cells 2020; 43:188-197. [PMID: 32041394 PMCID: PMC7057843 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2019.0310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells are designed to be sensitive to a myriad of external cues so they can fulfil their individual destiny as part of the greater whole. A number of well-characterised signalling pathways dictate the cell's response to the external environment and incoming messages. In healthy, well-ordered homeostatic systems these signals are tightly controlled and kept in balance. However, given their powerful control over cell fate, these pathways, and the transcriptional machinery they orchestrate, are frequently hijacked during the development of neoplastic disease. A prime example is the Wnt signalling pathway that can be modulated by a variety of ligands and inhibitors, ultimately exerting its effects through the β-catenin transcription factor and its downstream target genes. Here we focus on the interplay between the three-member family of RUNX transcription factors with the Wnt pathway and how together they can influence cell behaviour and contribute to cancer development. In a recurring theme with other signalling systems, the RUNX genes and the Wnt pathway appear to operate within a series of feedback loops. RUNX genes are capable of directly and indirectly regulating different elements of the Wnt pathway to either strengthen or inhibit the signal. Equally, β-catenin and its transcriptional co-factors can control RUNX gene expression and together they can collaborate to regulate a large number of third party co-target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerri Sweeney
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Glasgow G6 BD, UK
| | - Ewan R. Cameron
- Glasgow Veterinary School, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Karen Blyth
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Glasgow G6 BD, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
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14
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Phosphorylation independent eIF4E translational reprogramming of selective mRNAs determines tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer. Oncogene 2020; 39:3206-3217. [PMID: 32066877 PMCID: PMC7142019 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-1210-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) selectively promotes translation of mRNAs with atypically long and structured 5′-UTRs and has been implicated in drug resistance. Through genome-wide transcriptome and translatome analysis we revealed eIF4E overexpression could promote cellular activities mediated by ERα and FOXM1 signalling pathways. Whilst eIF4E overexpression could enhance the translation of both ERα and FOXM1, it also led to enhanced transcription of FOXM1. Polysome fractionation experiments confirmed eIF4E could modulate the translation of ERα and FOXM1 mRNA. The enhancement of FOXM1 transcription was contingent upon the presence of ERα, and it was the high levels of FOXM1 that conferred Tamoxifen resistance. Furthermore, tamoxifen resistance was conferred by phosphorylation independent eIF4E overexpression. Immunohistochemistry on 134 estrogen receptor (ER+) primary breast cancer samples confirmed that high eIF4E expression was significantly associated with increased ERα and FOXM1, and significantly associated with tamoxifen resistance. Our study uncovers a novel mechanism whereby phosphorylation independent eIF4E translational reprogramming in governing the protein synthesis of ERα and FOXM1 contributes to anti-estrogen insensitivity in ER+ breast cancer. In eIF4E overexpressing breast cancer, the increased ERα protein expression in turn enhances FOXM1 transcription, which together with its increased translation regulated by eIF4E, contributes to tamoxifen resistance. Coupled with eIF4E translational regulation, our study highlights an important mechanism conferring tamoxifen resistance via both ERα dependent and independent pathways.
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15
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Mevel R, Draper JE, Lie-A-Ling M, Kouskoff V, Lacaud G. RUNX transcription factors: orchestrators of development. Development 2019; 146:dev148296. [PMID: 31488508 DOI: 10.1242/dev.148296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
RUNX transcription factors orchestrate many different aspects of biology, including basic cellular and developmental processes, stem cell biology and tumorigenesis. In this Primer, we introduce the molecular hallmarks of the three mammalian RUNX genes, RUNX1, RUNX2 and RUNX3, and discuss the regulation of their activities and their mechanisms of action. We then review their crucial roles in the specification and maintenance of a wide array of tissues during embryonic development and adult homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renaud Mevel
- Cancer Research UK Stem Cell Biology Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Alderley Edge, Macclesfield SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Julia E Draper
- Cancer Research UK Stem Cell Biology Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Alderley Edge, Macclesfield SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Michael Lie-A-Ling
- Cancer Research UK Stem Cell Biology Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Alderley Edge, Macclesfield SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Valerie Kouskoff
- Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, The University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Georges Lacaud
- Cancer Research UK Stem Cell Biology Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Alderley Edge, Macclesfield SK10 4TG, UK
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16
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Pellacani D, Tan S, Lefort S, Eaves CJ. Transcriptional regulation of normal human mammary cell heterogeneity and its perturbation in breast cancer. EMBO J 2019; 38:e100330. [PMID: 31304632 PMCID: PMC6627240 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2018100330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammary gland in adult women consists of biologically distinct cell types that differ in their surface phenotypes. Isolation and molecular characterization of these subpopulations of mammary cells have provided extensive insights into their different transcriptional programs and regulation. This information is now serving as a baseline for interpreting the heterogeneous features of human breast cancers. Examination of breast cancer mutational profiles further indicates that most have undergone a complex evolutionary process even before being detected. The consequent intra-tumoral as well as inter-tumoral heterogeneity of these cancers thus poses major challenges to deriving information from early and hence likely pervasive changes in potential therapeutic interest. Recently described reproducible and efficient methods for generating human breast cancers de novo in immunodeficient mice transplanted with genetically altered primary cells now offer a promising alternative to investigate initial stages of human breast cancer development. In this review, we summarize current knowledge about key transcriptional regulatory processes operative in these partially characterized subpopulations of normal human mammary cells and effects of disrupting these processes in experimentally produced human breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Pellacani
- Terry Fox LaboratoryBritish Columbia Cancer AgencyVancouverBCCanada
| | - Susanna Tan
- Terry Fox LaboratoryBritish Columbia Cancer AgencyVancouverBCCanada
| | - Sylvain Lefort
- Terry Fox LaboratoryBritish Columbia Cancer AgencyVancouverBCCanada
| | - Connie J Eaves
- Terry Fox LaboratoryBritish Columbia Cancer AgencyVancouverBCCanada
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17
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Lupia M, Angiolini F, Bertalot G, Freddi S, Sachsenmeier KF, Chisci E, Kutryb-Zajac B, Confalonieri S, Smolenski RT, Giovannoni R, Colombo N, Bianchi F, Cavallaro U. CD73 Regulates Stemness and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Ovarian Cancer-Initiating Cells. Stem Cell Reports 2018; 10:1412-1425. [PMID: 29551673 PMCID: PMC5998305 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-initiating cells (CICs) have been implicated in tumor development and aggressiveness. In ovarian carcinoma (OC), CICs drive tumor formation, dissemination, and recurrence, as well as drug resistance, thus accounting for the high death-to-incidence ratio of this neoplasm. However, the molecular mechanisms that underlie such a pathogenic role of ovarian CICs (OCICs) remain elusive. Here, we have capitalized on primary cells either from OC or from its tissues of origin to obtain the transcriptomic profile associated with OCICs. Among the genes differentially expressed in OCICs, we focused on CD73, which encodes the membrane-associated 5′-ectonucleotidase. The genetic inactivation of CD73 in OC cells revealed that this molecule is causally involved in sphere formation and tumor initiation, thus emerging as a driver of OCIC function. Furthermore, functional inhibition of CD73 via either a chemical compound or a neutralizing antibody reduced sphere formation and tumorigenesis, highlighting the druggability of CD73 in the context of OCIC-directed therapies. The biological function of CD73 in OCICs required its enzymatic activity and involved adenosine signaling. Mechanistically, CD73 promotes the expression of stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition-associated genes, implying a regulation of OCIC function at the transcriptional level. CD73, therefore, is involved in OCIC biology and may represent a therapeutic target for innovative treatments aimed at OC eradication. CD73 is enriched in ovarian cancer-initiating cells (OCICs) CD73 orchestrates OCIC stemness and EMT OC initiation and growth require CD73 activity OCIC-associated CD73 is a therapeutic target useful for OC eradication
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Lupia
- Unit of Gynecological Oncology Research, European Institute of Oncology, Via G. Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milano, Italy
| | - Francesca Angiolini
- Unit of Gynecological Oncology Research, European Institute of Oncology, Via G. Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bertalot
- Molecular Medicine Program, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Freddi
- Molecular Medicine Program, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Elisa Chisci
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Roberto Giovannoni
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Colombo
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Bianchi
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology, Regenerative Medicine and Innovative Therapies, IRCCS-Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Ugo Cavallaro
- Unit of Gynecological Oncology Research, European Institute of Oncology, Via G. Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milano, Italy.
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18
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Mümmler C, Burgy O, Hermann S, Mutze K, Günther A, Königshoff M. Cell-specific expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 contributes to pulmonary fibrosis. FASEB J 2018; 32:703-716. [PMID: 28986417 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201700482r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal lung disease with limited therapeutic options and unknown etiology. IPF is characterized by epithelial cell injury, impaired cellular crosstalk between epithelial cells and fibroblasts, and the formation of fibroblast foci with increased extracellular matrix deposition (ECM). We investigated the role of runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), a master regulator of bone development that has been linked to profibrotic signaling. RUNX2 expression was up-regulated in lung homogenates from patients with IPF and in experimental bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. The RUNX2 level correlated with disease severity as measured by decreased diffusing capacity and increased levels of the IPF biomarker, matrix metalloproteinase 7. Nuclear RUNX2 was observed in prosurfactant protein C-positive hyperplastic epithelial cells and was rarely found in myofibroblasts. We discovered an up-regulation of RUNX2 in fibrotic alveolar epithelial type II (ATII) cells as well as an increase of RUNX2-negative fibroblasts in experimental and human pulmonary fibrosis. Functionally, small interfering RNA-mediated RUNX2 knockdown decreased profibrotic ATII cell function, such as proliferation and migration, whereas fibroblasts displayed activation markers and increased ECM expression after RUNX2 knockdown. This study reveals that RUNX2 is differentially expressed in ATII cells vs. fibroblasts in lung fibrosis, which contributes to profibrotic cell function. Cell-specific targeting of RUNX2 pathways may represent a therapeutic approach for IPF.-Mümmler, C., Burgy, O., Hermann, S., Mutze, K., Günther, A., Königshoff, M. Cell-specific expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 contributes to pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Mümmler
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, University Hospital Grosshadern, Ludwig Maximilians University München, Munich, Germany
| | - Olivier Burgy
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Sarah Hermann
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, University Hospital Grosshadern, Ludwig Maximilians University München, Munich, Germany
| | - Kathrin Mutze
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, University Hospital Grosshadern, Ludwig Maximilians University München, Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas Günther
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Giessen Lung Center, Giessen, Germany
| | - Melanie Königshoff
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, University Hospital Grosshadern, Ludwig Maximilians University München, Munich, Germany.,Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado, USA
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19
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Geter PA, Ernlund AW, Bakogianni S, Alard A, Arju R, Giashuddin S, Gadi A, Bromberg J, Schneider RJ. Hyperactive mTOR and MNK1 phosphorylation of eIF4E confer tamoxifen resistance and estrogen independence through selective mRNA translation reprogramming. Genes Dev 2017; 31:2235-2249. [PMID: 29269484 PMCID: PMC5769768 DOI: 10.1101/gad.305631.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Geter et al. show that tamoxifen resistance involves selective mRNA translational reprogramming to an anti-estrogen state by Runx2 and other mRNAs. Tamoxifen-resistant translational reprogramming is shown to be mediated by increased expression of eIF4E and its increased availability by hyperactive mTOR and to require phosphorylation of eIF4E at Ser209 by increased MNK activity. The majority of breast cancers expresses the estrogen receptor (ER+) and is treated with anti-estrogen therapies, particularly tamoxifen in premenopausal women. However, tamoxifen resistance is responsible for a large proportion of breast cancer deaths. Using small molecule inhibitors, phospho-mimetic proteins, tamoxifen-sensitive and tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer cells, a tamoxifen-resistant patient-derived xenograft model, patient tumor tissues, and genome-wide transcription and translation studies, we show that tamoxifen resistance involves selective mRNA translational reprogramming to an anti-estrogen state by Runx2 and other mRNAs. Tamoxifen-resistant translational reprogramming is shown to be mediated by increased expression of eIF4E and its increased availability by hyperactive mTOR and to require phosphorylation of eIF4E at Ser209 by increased MNK activity. Resensitization to tamoxifen is restored only by reducing eIF4E expression or mTOR activity and also blocking MNK1 phosphorylation of eIF4E. mRNAs specifically translationally up-regulated with tamoxifen resistance include Runx2, which inhibits ER signaling and estrogen responses and promotes breast cancer metastasis. Silencing Runx2 significantly restores tamoxifen sensitivity. Tamoxifen-resistant but not tamoxifen-sensitive patient ER+ breast cancer specimens also demonstrate strongly increased MNK phosphorylation of eIF4E. eIF4E levels, availability, and phosphorylation therefore promote tamoxifen resistance in ER+ breast cancer through selective mRNA translational reprogramming
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip A Geter
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Amanda W Ernlund
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Sofia Bakogianni
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Amandine Alard
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Rezina Arju
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Shah Giashuddin
- New York Presbyterian-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, New York 11215, USA
| | - Abhilash Gadi
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Jacqueline Bromberg
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute, New York, New York 10016 USA.,Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016 USA
| | - Robert J Schneider
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA.,Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute, New York, New York 10016 USA.,Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016 USA
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20
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Chuang LSH, Ito K, Ito Y. Roles of RUNX in Solid Tumors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 962:299-320. [PMID: 28299665 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-3233-2_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
All RUNX genes have been implicated in the development of solid tumors, but the role each RUNX gene plays in the different tumor types is complicated by multiple interactions with major signaling pathways and tumor heterogeneity. Moreover, for a given tissue type, the specific role of each RUNX protein is distinct at different stages of differentiation. A regulatory function for RUNX in tissue stem cells points sharply to a causal effect in tumorigenesis. Understanding how RUNX dysregulation in cancer impinges on normal biological processes is important for identifying the molecular mechanisms that lead to malignancy. It will also indicate whether restoration of proper RUNX function to redirect cell fate is a feasible treatment for cancer. With the recent advances in RUNX research, it is time to revisit the many mechanisms/pathways that RUNX engage to regulate cell fate and decide whether cells proliferate, differentiate or die.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Shyue Huey Chuang
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, Center for Translational Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive #12-01, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Kosei Ito
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8588, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Ito
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, Center for Translational Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive #12-01, Singapore, 117599, Singapore.
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21
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RUNX transcription factors at the interface of stem cells and cancer. Biochem J 2017; 474:1755-1768. [PMID: 28490659 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20160632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The RUNX1 transcription factor is a critical regulator of normal haematopoiesis and its functional disruption by point mutations, deletions or translocations is a major causative factor leading to leukaemia. In the majority of cases, genetic changes in RUNX1 are linked to loss of function classifying it broadly as a tumour suppressor. Despite this, several recent studies have reported the need for a certain level of active RUNX1 for the maintenance and propagation of acute myeloid leukaemia and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia cells, suggesting an oncosupportive role of RUNX1. Furthermore, in solid cancers, RUNX1 is overexpressed compared with normal tissue, and RUNX factors have recently been discovered to promote growth of skin, oral, breast and ovarian tumour cells, amongst others. RUNX factors have key roles in stem cell fate regulation during homeostasis and regeneration of many tissues. Cancer cells appear to have corrupted these stem cell-associated functions of RUNX factors to promote oncogenesis. Here, we discuss current knowledge on the role of RUNX genes in stem cells and as oncosupportive factors in haematological malignancies and epithelial cancers.
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22
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Riggio AI, Blyth K. The enigmatic role of RUNX1 in female-related cancers - current knowledge & future perspectives. FEBS J 2017; 284:2345-2362. [PMID: 28304148 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Historically associated with the aetiology of human leukaemia, the runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) gene has in recent years reared its head in an assortment of epithelial cancers. This review discusses the state-of-the-art knowledge of the enigmatic role played by RUNX1 in female-related cancers of the breast, the uterus and the ovary. The weight of evidence accumulated so far is indicative of a very context-dependent role, as either an oncogene or a tumour suppressor. This is corroborated by high-throughput sequencing endeavours which report different genetic alterations affecting the gene, including amplification, deep deletion and mutations. Herein, we attempt to dissect that contextual role by firstly giving an overview of what is currently known about RUNX1 function in these specific tumour types, and secondly by delving into connections between this transcription factor and the physiology of these female tissues. In doing so, RUNX1 emerges not only as a gene involved in female sex development but also as a crucial mediator of female hormone signalling. In view of RUNX1 now being listed as a driver gene, we believe that greater knowledge of the mechanisms underlying its functional dualism in epithelial cancers is worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen Blyth
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Bearsden, Glasgow, UK
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23
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Runx Family Genes in Tissue Stem Cell Dynamics. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 962:117-138. [PMID: 28299655 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-3233-2_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The Runx family genes play important roles in development and cancer, largely via their regulation of tissue stem cell behavior. Their involvement in two organs, blood and skin, is well documented. This review summarizes currently known Runx functions in the stem cells of these tissues. The fundamental core mechanism(s) mediated by Runx proteins has been sought; however, it appears that there does not exist one single common machinery that governs both tissue stem cells. Instead, Runx family genes employ multiple spatiotemporal mechanisms in regulating individual tissue stem cell populations. Such specific Runx requirements have been unveiled by a series of cell type-, developmental stage- or age-specific gene targeting studies in mice. Observations from these experiments revealed that the regulation of stem cells by Runx family genes turned out to be far more complex than previously thought. For instance, although it has been reported that Runx1 is required for the endothelial-to-hematopoietic cell transition (EHT) but not thereafter, recent studies clearly demonstrated that Runx1 is also needed during the period subsequent to EHT, namely at perinatal stage. In addition, Runx1 ablation in the embryonic skin mesenchyme eventually leads to complete loss of hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) in the adult epithelium, suggesting that Runx1 facilitates the specification of skin epithelial stem cells in a cell extrinsic manner. Further in-depth investigation into how Runx family genes are involved in stem cell regulation is warranted.
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Voon DCC, Thiery JP. The Emerging Roles of RUNX Transcription Factors in Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 962:471-489. [PMID: 28299674 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-3233-2_28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an evolutionary conserved morphogenetic program necessary for the shaping of the body plan during development. It is guided precisely by growth factor signaling and a dedicated network of specialised transcription factors. These are supported by other transcription factor families serving auxiliary functions during EMT, beyond their general roles as effectors of major signaling pathways. EMT transiently induces in epithelial cells mesenchymal properties, such as the loss of cell-cell adhesion and a gain in cell motility. Together, these newly acquired properties enable their migration to distant sites where they eventually give rise to adult epithelia. However, it is now recognized that EMT contributes to the pathogenesis of several human diseases, notably in tissue fibrosis and cancer metastasis. The RUNX family of transcription factors are important players in cell fate determination during development, where their spatio-temporal expression often overlaps with the occurrence of EMT. Furthermore, the dysregulation of RUNX expression and functions are increasingly linked to the aberrant induction of EMT in cancer. The present chapter reviews the current knowledge of this emerging field and the common themes of RUNX involvement during EMT, with the intention of fostering future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Chih-Cheng Voon
- Institute for Frontier Science Initiative, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan.
- Division of Genetics, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan.
| | - Jean Paul Thiery
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A-STAR, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
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25
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Rooney N, Riggio AI, Mendoza-Villanueva D, Shore P, Cameron ER, Blyth K. Runx Genes in Breast Cancer and the Mammary Lineage. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 962:353-368. [PMID: 28299668 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-3233-2_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A full understanding of RUNX gene function in different epithelial lineages has been thwarted by the lethal phenotypes observed when constitutively knocking out these mammalian genes. However temporal expression of the Runx genes throughout the different phases of mammary gland development is indicative of a functional role in this tissue. A few studies have emerged describing how these genes impact on the fate of mammary epithelial cells by regulating lineage differentiation and stem/progenitor cell potential, with implications for the transformed state. The importance of the RUNX/CBFβ core factor binding complex in breast cancer has very recently been highlighted with both RUNX1 and CBFβ appearing in a comprehensive gene list of predicted breast cancer driver mutations. Nonetheless, the evidence to date shows that the RUNX genes can have dualistic outputs with respect to promoting or constraining breast cancer phenotypes, and that this may be aligned to individual subtypes of the clinical disease. We take this opportunity to review the current literature on RUNX and CBFβ in the normal and neoplastic mammary lineage while appreciating that this is likely to be the tip of the iceberg in our knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Rooney
- Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | | | | | - Paul Shore
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Ewan R Cameron
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Karen Blyth
- Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK.
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Neil JC, Gilroy K, Borland G, Hay J, Terry A, Kilbey A. The RUNX Genes as Conditional Oncogenes: Insights from Retroviral Targeting and Mouse Models. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 962:247-264. [PMID: 28299662 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-3233-2_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The observation that the Runx genes act as targets for transcriptional activation by retroviral insertion identified a new family of dominant oncogenes. However, it is now clear that Runx genes are 'conditional' oncogenes whose over-expression is growth inhibitory unless accompanied by another event such as concomitant over-expression of MYC or loss of p53 function. Remarkably, while the oncogenic activities of either MYC or RUNX over-expression are suppressed while p53 is intact, the combination of both neutralises p53 tumour suppression in vivo by as yet unknown mechanisms. Moreover, there is emerging evidence that endogenous, basal RUNX activity is important to maintain the viability and proliferation of MYC-driven lymphoma cells. There is also growing evidence that the human RUNX genes play a similar conditional oncogenic role and are selected for over-expression in end-stage cancers of multiple types. Paradoxically, reduced RUNX activity can also predispose to cell immortalisation and transformation, particularly by mutant Ras. These apparently conflicting observations may be reconciled in a stage-specific model of RUNX involvement in cancer. A question that has yet to be fully addressed is the extent to which the three Runx genes are functionally redundant in cancer promotion and suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C Neil
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK.
| | - Kathryn Gilroy
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Gillian Borland
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Jodie Hay
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Anne Terry
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Anna Kilbey
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
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Balogh E, Tóth A, Tolnai E, Bodó T, Bányai E, Szabó DJ, Petrovski G, Jeney V. Osteogenic differentiation of human lens epithelial cells might contribute to lens calcification. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2016; 1862:1724-31. [PMID: 27318027 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2016.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Calcification of the human lens has been described in senile cataracts and in young patients with congenital cataract or chronic uveitis. Lens calcification is also a major complication of cataract surgery and plays a role in the opacification of intraocular lenses. A cell-mediated process has been suggested in the background of lens calcification, but so far the exact mechanism remained unexplored. Lens calcification shares remarkable similarities with vascular calcification; in both pathological processes hydroxyapatite accumulates in the soft tissue. Vascular calcification is a regulated, cell-mediated process in which vascular cells undergo osteogenic differentiation. Our objective was to investigate whether human lens epithelial cells (HuLECs) can undergo osteogenic transition in vitro, and whether this process contributes to lens calcification. We used inorganic phosphate (Pi) and Ca to stimulate osteogenic differentiation of HuLECs. Osteogenic stimuli (2.5mmol/L Pi and 1.2mmol/L Ca) induced extracellular matrix mineralization and Ca deposition in HuLECs with the critical involvement of active Pi uptake. Osteogenic stimuli almost doubled mRNA expressions of osteo-/chondrogenic transcription factors Runx2 and Sox9, which was accompanied by a 1.9-fold increase in Runx2 and a 5.5-fold increase in Sox9 protein expressions. Osteogenic stimuli induced mRNA and protein expressions of alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin in HuLEC. Ca content was higher in human cataractous lenses, compared to non-cataractous controls (n=10). Osteocalcin, an osteoblast-specific protein, was expressed in 2 out of 10 cataractous lenses. We conclude that osteogenic stimuli induce osteogenic differentiation of HuLECs and propose that this mechanism might play a role in lens calcification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enikő Balogh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Andrea Tóth
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Emese Tolnai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tímea Bodó
- Department of Neurology, Bethesda Children's Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Emese Bányai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Dóra Júlia Szabó
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Center of Eye Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Viktória Jeney
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
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