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Zhou S, Lin N, Yu L, Su X, Liu Z, Yu X, Gao H, Lin S, Zeng Y. Single-cell multi-omics in the study of digestive system cancers. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:431-445. [PMID: 38223343 PMCID: PMC10787224 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Digestive system cancers are prevalent diseases with a high mortality rate, posing a significant threat to public health and economic burden. The diagnosis and treatment of digestive system cancer confront conventional cancer problems, such as tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance. Single-cell sequencing (SCS) emerged at times required and has developed from single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) to the single-cell multi-omics era represented by single-cell spatial transcriptomics (ST). This article comprehensively reviews the advances of single-cell omics technology in the study of digestive system tumors. While analyzing and summarizing the research cases, vital details on the sequencing platform, sample information, sampling method, and key findings are provided. Meanwhile, we summarize the commonly used SCS platforms and their features, as well as the advantages of multi-omics technologies in combination. Finally, the development trends and prospects of the application of single-cell multi-omics technology in digestive system cancer research are prospected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Zhou
- The Second Clinical Medical School of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China
- The Clinical Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Therapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Nanfei Lin
- The Clinical Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Therapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Liying Yu
- The Clinical Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Therapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Xiaoshan Su
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Respirology Medicine Centre of Fujian Province, Quanzhou, China
| | - Zhenlong Liu
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, & Division of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Xiaowan Yu
- Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Hongzhi Gao
- The Clinical Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Therapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Shu Lin
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Yiming Zeng
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Respirology Medicine Centre of Fujian Province, Quanzhou, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Lung Stem Cells, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
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Zhu DH, Su KK, Ou-Yang XX, Zhang YH, Yu XP, Li ZH, Ahmadi-Nishaboori SS, Li LJ. Mechanisms and clinical landscape of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification in gastrointestinal tract cancers. Mol Cell Biochem 2024:10.1007/s11010-024-05040-x. [PMID: 38856795 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-024-05040-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetics encompasses reversible and heritable chemical modifications of non-nuclear DNA sequences, including DNA and RNA methylation, histone modifications, non-coding RNA modifications, and chromatin rearrangements. In addition to well-studied DNA and histone methylation, RNA methylation has emerged as a hot topic in biological sciences over the past decade. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common and abundant modification in eukaryotic mRNA, affecting all RNA stages, including transcription, translation, and degradation. Advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies made it feasible to identify the chemical basis and biological functions of m6A RNA. Dysregulation of m6A levels and associated modifying proteins can both inhibit and promote cancer, highlighting the importance of the tumor microenvironment in diverse biological processes. Gastrointestinal tract cancers, including gastric, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers, are among the most common and deadly malignancies in humans. Growing evidence suggests a close association between m6A levels and the progression of gastrointestinal tumors. Global m6A modification levels are substantially modified in gastrointestinal tumor tissues and cell lines compared to healthy tissues and cells, possibly influencing various biological behaviors such as tumor cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. Exploring the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of m6A-related proteins is critical from a clinical standpoint. Developing more specific and effective m6A modulators offers new options for treating these tumors and deeper insights into gastrointestinal tract cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Hua Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Kun-Kai Su
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xiao-Xi Ou-Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yan-Hong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xiao-Peng Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Zu-Hong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | | | - Lan-Juan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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3
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Li YJ, Qiu YL, Li MR, Shen M, Zhang F, Shao JJ, Xu XF, Zhang ZL, Zheng SZ. New horizons for the role of RNA N6-methyladenosine modification in hepatocellular carcinoma. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1130-1141. [PMID: 38195693 PMCID: PMC11130213 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01214-3] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancy, presenting a formidable challenge to the medical community owing to its intricate pathogenic mechanisms. Although current prevention, surveillance, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment have achieved some success in preventing HCC and controlling overall disease mortality, the imperative to explore novel treatment modalities for HCC remains increasingly urgent. Epigenetic modification has emerged as pivotal factors in the etiology of cancer. Among these, RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification stands out as one of the most prevalent, abundant, and evolutionarily conserved post-transcriptional alterations in eukaryotes. The literature underscores that the dynamic and reversible nature of m6A modifications orchestrates the intricate regulation of gene expression, thereby exerting a profound influence on cell destinies. Increasing evidence has substantiated conspicuous fluctuations in m6A modification levels throughout the progression of HCC. The deliberate modulation of m6A modification levels through molecular biology and pharmacological interventions has been demonstrated to exert a discernible impact on the pathogenesis of HCC. In this review, we elucidate the multifaceted biological functions of m6A modifications in HCC, and concurrently advancing novel therapeutic strategies for the management of this malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jia Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yang-Ling Qiu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Meng-Ran Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Min Shen
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jiang-Juan Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xue-Fen Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zi-Li Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Shi-Zhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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Long D, Mao C, Huang Y, Xu Y, Zhu Y. Ferroptosis in ulcerative colitis: Potential mechanisms and promising therapeutic targets. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116722. [PMID: 38729051 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116722] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a complex immune-mediated chronic inflammatory bowel disease. It is mainly characterized by diffuse inflammation of the colonic and rectal mucosa with barrier function impairment. Identifying new biomarkers for the development of more effective UC therapies remains a pressing task for current research. Ferroptosis is a newly identified form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. As research deepens, ferroptosis has been demonstrated to be involved in the pathological processes of numerous diseases. A growing body of evidence suggests that the pathogenesis of UC is associated with ferroptosis, and the regulation of ferroptosis provides new opportunities for UC treatment. However, the specific mechanisms by which ferroptosis participates in the development of UC remain to be more fully and thoroughly investigated. Therefore, in this review, we focus on the research advances in the mechanism of ferroptosis in recent years and describe the potential role of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of UC. In addition, we explore the underlying role of the crosslinked pathway between ferroptosis and other mechanisms such as macrophages, neutrophils, autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and gut microbiota in UC. Finally, we also summarize the potential compounds that may act as ferroptosis inhibitors in UC in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Long
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chenhan Mao
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yingtao Huang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yin Xu
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Ying Zhu
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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5
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Xue Y, Ruan Y, Wang Y, Xiao P, Xu J. Signaling pathways in liver cancer: pathogenesis and targeted therapy. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2024; 5:20. [PMID: 38816668 PMCID: PMC11139849 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-024-00184-0] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide with high incidence and mortality rates. Due to its subtle onset, liver cancer is commonly diagnosed at a late stage when surgical interventions are no longer feasible. This situation highlights the critical role of systemic treatments, including targeted therapies, in bettering patient outcomes. Despite numerous studies on the mechanisms underlying liver cancer, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are the only widely used clinical inhibitors, represented by sorafenib, whose clinical application is greatly limited by the phenomenon of drug resistance. Here we show an in-depth discussion of the signaling pathways frequently implicated in liver cancer pathogenesis and the inhibitors targeting these pathways under investigation or already in use in the management of advanced liver cancer. We elucidate the oncogenic roles of these pathways in liver cancer especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), as well as the current state of research on inhibitors respectively. Given that TKIs represent the sole class of targeted therapeutics for liver cancer employed in clinical practice, we have particularly focused on TKIs and the mechanisms of the commonly encountered phenomena of its resistance during HCC treatment. This necessitates the imperative development of innovative targeted strategies and the urgency of overcoming the existing limitations. This review endeavors to shed light on the utilization of targeted therapy in advanced liver cancer, with a vision to improve the unsatisfactory prognostic outlook for those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangtao Xue
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Yeling Ruan
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Yali Wang
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Peng Xiao
- Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
| | - Junjie Xu
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
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Li S, Mehal WZ, Ouyang X. RNA modifications in the progression of liver diseases: from fatty liver to cancer. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-023-2494-x. [PMID: 38809498 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-023-2494-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as a prominent global health concern associated with high risk of metabolic syndrome, and has impacted a substantial segment of the population. The disease spectrum ranges from simple fatty liver to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is increasingly becoming a prevalent indication for liver transplantation. The existing therapeutic options for NAFLD, NASH, and HCC are limited, underscoring the urgent need for innovative treatment strategies. Insights into gene expression, particularly RNA modifications such as N6 methyladenosine (m6A), hold promising avenues for interventions. These modifications play integral roles in RNA metabolism and cellular functions, encompassing the entire NAFLD-NASH-HCC progression. This review will encompass recent insights on diverse RNA modifications, including m6A, pseudouridine (ψ), N1-methyladenosine (m1A), and 5-methylcytidine (m5C) across various RNA species. It will uncover their significance in crucial aspects such as steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and tumorigenesis. Furthermore, prospective research directions and therapeutic implications will be explored, advancing our comprehensive understanding of the intricate interconnected nature of these pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simiao Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Wajahat Z Mehal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Xinshou Ouyang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
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Shi Q, Xue C, Zeng Y, Yuan X, Chu Q, Jiang S, Wang J, Zhang Y, Zhu D, Li L. Notch signaling pathway in cancer: from mechanistic insights to targeted therapies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:128. [PMID: 38797752 PMCID: PMC11128457 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01828-x] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling, renowned for its role in regulating cell fate, organ development, and tissue homeostasis across metazoans, is highly conserved throughout evolution. The Notch receptor and its ligands are transmembrane proteins containing epidermal growth factor-like repeat sequences, typically necessitating receptor-ligand interaction to initiate classical Notch signaling transduction. Accumulating evidence indicates that the Notch signaling pathway serves as both an oncogenic factor and a tumor suppressor in various cancer types. Dysregulation of this pathway promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis in malignancies, closely linked to cancer proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Furthermore, the Notch signaling pathway contributes to maintaining stem-like properties in cancer cells, thereby enhancing cancer invasiveness. The regulatory role of the Notch signaling pathway in cancer metabolic reprogramming and the tumor microenvironment suggests its pivotal involvement in balancing oncogenic and tumor suppressive effects. Moreover, the Notch signaling pathway is implicated in conferring chemoresistance to tumor cells. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these biological processes is crucial for developing innovative therapeutic strategies targeting Notch signaling. This review focuses on the research progress of the Notch signaling pathway in cancers, providing in-depth insights into the potential mechanisms of Notch signaling regulation in the occurrence and progression of cancer. Additionally, the review summarizes pharmaceutical clinical trials targeting Notch signaling for cancer therapy, aiming to offer new insights into therapeutic strategies for human malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingmiao Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chen Xue
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yifan Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qingfei Chu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shuwen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jinzhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yaqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Danhua Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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8
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Cun Y, Guo W, Ma B, Okuno Y, Wang J. Decoding the specificity of m 6A RNA methylation and its implication in cancer therapy. Mol Ther 2024:S1525-0016(24)00337-X. [PMID: 38796701 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.05.035] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant endogenous modification in eukaryotic RNAs. It plays important roles in various biological processes and diseases, including cancers. More and more studies have revealed that the deposition of m6A is specifically regulated in a context-dependent manner. Here, we review the diverse mechanisms that determine the topology of m6A along RNAs and the cell-type-specific m6A methylomes. The exon junction complex (EJC) as well as histone modifications play important roles in determining the topological distribution of m6A along nascent RNAs, while the transcription factors and RNA-binding proteins, which usually bind specific DNAs and RNAs in a cell-type-specific manner, largely account for the cell-type-specific m6A methylomes. Due to the lack of specificity of m6A writers and readers, there are still challenges to target the core m6A machinery for cancer therapies. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underlying the specificity of m6A modifications in cancers would be important for future cancer therapies through m6A intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixian Cun
- Department of Medical Informatics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangdong 510080, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Wenbing Guo
- Department of Medical Informatics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangdong 510080, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Biao Ma
- RIKEN Center for Computational Science, 7-1-26 Minatojima-minami-machi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan
| | - Yasushi Okuno
- RIKEN Center for Computational Science, 7-1-26 Minatojima-minami-machi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan; Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawaharacho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Jinkai Wang
- Department of Medical Informatics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangdong 510080, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangdong 510080, China.
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9
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Qin Y, Han S, Yu Y, Qi D, Ran M, Yang M, Liu Y, Li Y, Lu L, Liu Y, Li Y. Lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma: Resistance mechanisms and strategies for improved efficacy. Liver Int 2024. [PMID: 38700443 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the most prevalent and destructive causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, approximately 70% of patients with HCC exhibit advanced disease at diagnosis, limiting the potential for radical treatment. For such patients, lenvatinib, a long-awaited alternative to sorafenib for first-line targeted therapy, has become a key treatment. Unfortunately, despite some progress, the prognosis for advanced HCC remains poor because of drug resistance development. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying lenvatinib resistance and ways to relief drug resistance in HCC are largely unknown and lack of systematic summary; thus, this review not only aims to explore factors contributing to lenvatinib resistance in HCC, but more importantly, summary potential methods to conquer or mitigate the resistance. The results suggest that abnormal activation of pathways, drug transport, epigenetics, tumour microenvironment, cancer stem cells, regulated cell death, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and other mechanisms are involved in the development of lenvatinib resistance in HCC and subsequent HCC progression. To improve the therapeutic outcomes of lenvatinib, inhibiting acquired resistance, combined therapies, and nano-delivery carriers may be possible approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqing Qin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Shisong Han
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yahan Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Ding Qi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Mengnan Ran
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Mingqi Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanyan Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunyi Li
- Department of Nephrology, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
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10
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Loh JJ, Ma S. Hallmarks of cancer stemness. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:617-639. [PMID: 38701757 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.04.004] [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: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stemness is recognized as a key component of tumor development. Previously coined "cancer stem cells" (CSCs) and believed to be a rare population with rigid hierarchical organization, there is good evidence to suggest that these cells exhibit a plastic cellular state influenced by dynamic CSC-niche interplay. This revelation underscores the need to reevaluate the hallmarks of cancer stemness. Herein, we summarize the techniques used to identify and characterize the state of these cells and discuss their defining and emerging hallmarks, along with their enabling and associated features. We also highlight potential future directions in this field of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Jian Loh
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Stephanie Ma
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China; Centre for Translational and Stem Cell Biology, Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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11
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Zhao H, Ling Y, He J, Dong J, Mo Q, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Yu H, Tang C. Potential targets and therapeutics for cancer stem cell-based therapy against drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Drug Resist Updat 2024; 74:101084. [PMID: 38640592 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2024.101084] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common digestive malignancyin the world, which is frequently diagnosed at late stage with a poor prognosis. For most patients with advanced HCC, the therapeutic options arelimiteddue to cancer occurrence of drug resistance. Hepatic cancer stem cells (CSCs) account for a small subset of tumor cells with the ability of self-renewal and differentiationin HCC. It is widely recognized that the presence of CSCs contributes to primary and acquired drug resistance. Therefore, hepatic CSCs-targeted therapy is considered as a promising strategy to overcome drug resistance and improve therapeutic outcome in HCC. In this article, we review drug resistance in HCC and provide a summary of potential targets for CSCs-based therapy. In addition, the development of CSCs-targeted therapeuticsagainst drug resistance in HCC is summarized in both preclinical and clinical trials. The in-depth understanding of CSCs-related drug resistance in HCC will favor optimization of the current therapeutic strategies and gain encouraging therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxing Zhao
- Department of Radiology, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yuhang Ling
- Central Laboratory, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Huzhou Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jie He
- Department of Hepatology, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jinling Dong
- Department of Hepatology, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qinliang Mo
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yao Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Central Laboratory, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Department of Hepatology, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hongbin Yu
- Department of General Surgery, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chengwu Tang
- Huzhou Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
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12
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Wu J, Yi T, Zhuo C, Wang D, Zhang M, Hu R, Wu D, Hou G, Xing Y. m 6A-induced TRIB3 regulates Hippo pathway through interacting with LATS1 to promote the progression of lung adenocarcinoma. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31220. [PMID: 38372068 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31220] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies have indicated that dysregulation of the Hippo/Yes-associated protein (YAP) axis is associated with tumor progression and therapy resistance in various cancer types, including lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Understanding the regulation of Hippo signaling in LUAD is of great significance. Elevated levels of TRIB3, a pseudo kinase, have been observed in certain lung malignancies and are associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Our research aims to investigate whether increased TRIB3 levels enhance the malignant characteristics of LUAD cells and tumor progression through its interaction with the Hippo signaling pathway. In this study, we reported a positive correlation between elevated expression of TRIB3 and LUAD progression. Additionally, TRIB3 has the ability to enhance TEAD luciferase function and suppress Hippo pathway activity. Moreover, TRIB3 increases total YAP protein levels and promotes YAP nuclear localization. Mechanistic experiments revealed that TRIB3 directly interacts with large tumor suppressor kinase 1 (LATS1), thereby suppressing Hippo signaling. Moreover, the decrease in METTL3-mediated N6-methyladenosine modification of TRIB3 results in a substantial elevation of its expression levels in LUAD cells. Collectively, our research unveils a novel discovery that TRIB3 enhances the growth and invasion of LUAD cells by interacting with LATS1 and inhibiting the Hippo signaling pathway. TRIB3 may serve as a potential biomarker for an unfavorable prognosis and a target for novel treatments in YAP-driven lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamei Wu
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Baicheng Medical College, Baicheng, Jilin, P. R. China
| | - Tingzhuang Yi
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of YouJiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi, P. R. China
- Guangxi Clinical Medical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Baise, Guangxi, P. R. China
| | - Chenyi Zhuo
- Guangxi Clinical Medical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Baise, Guangxi, P. R. China
| | - Duanduan Wang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Fifth Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Fifth Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen, China
| | - Rui Hu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Fifth Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen, China
| | - Dan Wu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Fifth Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen, China
| | - Guoxin Hou
- Department of Oncology, The First Hospital of Jiaxing, Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yutong Xing
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Fifth Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen, China
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13
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Feng Y, Shen J, Lin Z, Chen Z, Zhou M, Ma X. PXR Activation Relieves Deoxynivalenol-Induced Liver Oxidative Stress Via Malat1 LncRNA m 6A Demethylation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2308742. [PMID: 38654691 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a prevalent toxin causing severe liver damage through hepatocellular oxidative stress. However, the underlying mechanisms and effective therapeutic approaches remain unknown. Here, the unique role of the xenobiotic metabolism factor pregnane X receptor (PXR) in mediating DON-induced hepatocellular oxidative stress is investigated. Treatment with the PXR agonist 3-indole-propionic acid (IPA) alleviates DON-induced oxidative stress and liver injury both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, it is discovered for the first time that PXR agonist IPA directly transactivates the m6A demethylase FTO expression, leading to site-specific demethylation and decreased abundance of YTHDC1-bound Malat1 lncRNA at single-nucleotide resolution. The diminished m6A modification of Malat1 lncRNA reduces its stability and augments antioxidant pathways governed by NRF2, consequently mitigating DON-induced liver injury. Furthermore, Malat1 knockout mice exhibit decreased DON-induced liver injury, emphasizing the role of Malat1 lncRNA in oxidative stress. Collectively, the findings establish that PXR-mediated m6A-dependent Malat1 lncRNA expression determines hepatocyte oxidative stress via m6A demethylase FTO, providing valuable insights into the potential mechanisms underlying DON-induced liver injury and offers potential therapeutic strategies for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jiakun Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Zishen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Zeyi Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Min Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xi Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
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14
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Liu HY, Sun XJ, Xiu SY, Zhang XY, Wang ZQ, Gu YL, Yi CX, Liu JY, Dai YS, Yuan X, Liao HP, Liu ZM, Pang XC, Li TC. Frizzled receptors (FZDs) in Wnt signaling: potential therapeutic targets for human cancers. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024:10.1038/s41401-024-01270-3. [PMID: 38632318 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01270-3] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Frizzled receptors (FZDs) are key contributors intrinsic to the Wnt signaling pathway, activation of FZDs triggering the Wnt signaling cascade is frequently observed in human tumors and intimately associated with an aggressive carcinoma phenotype. It has been shown that the abnormal expression of FZD receptors contributes to the manifestation of malignant characteristics in human tumors such as enhanced cell proliferation, metastasis, chemotherapy resistance as well as the acquisition of cancer stemness. Given the essential roles of FZD receptors in the Wnt signaling in human tumors, this review aims to consolidate the prevailing knowledge on the specific status of FZD receptors (FZD1-10) and elucidate their respective functions in tumor progression. Furthermore, we delineate the structural basis for binding of FZD and its co-receptors to Wnt, and provide a better theoretical foundation for subsequent studies on related mechanisms. Finally, we describe the existing biological classes of small molecule-based FZD inhibitors in detail in the hope that they can provide useful assistance for design and development of novel drug candidates targeted FZDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Yu Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xiao-Jiao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Si-Yu Xiu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xiang-Yu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhi-Qi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yan-Lun Gu
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Chu-Xiao Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jun-Yan Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Yu-Song Dai
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xia Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hua-Peng Liao
- Yizhang County People's Hospital, Chenzhou, 424200, China
| | - Zhen-Ming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Xiao-Cong Pang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
| | - Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100034, China.
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15
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Zhang Q, Liu L. Novel insights into small open reading frame-encoded micropeptides in hepatocellular carcinoma: A potential breakthrough. Cancer Lett 2024; 587:216691. [PMID: 38360139 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216691] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Traditionally, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are regarded as a class of RNA transcripts that lack encoding capability; however, advancements in technology have revealed that some ncRNAs contain small open reading frames (sORFs) that are capable of encoding micropeptides of approximately 150 amino acids in length. sORF-encoded micropeptides (SEPs) have emerged as intriguing entities in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) research, shedding light on this previously unexplored realm. Recent studies have highlighted the regulatory functions of SEPs in the occurrence and progression of HCC. Some SEPs exhibit inhibitory effects on HCC, but others facilitate its development. This discovery has revolutionized the landscape of HCC research and clinical management. Here, we introduce the concept and characteristics of SEPs, summarize their associations with HCC, and elucidate their carcinogenic mechanisms in HCC metabolism, signaling pathways, cell proliferation, and metastasis. In addition, we propose a step-by-step workflow for the investigation of HCC-associated SEPs. Lastly, we discuss the challenges and prospects of applying SEPs in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. This review aims to facilitate the discovery, optimization, and clinical application of HCC-related SEPs, inspiring the development of early diagnostic, individualized, and precision therapeutic strategies for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiangnu Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), 518020, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liping Liu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), 518020, Shenzhen, China.
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16
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Wang T, Jin Y, Wang M, Chen B, Sun J, Zhang J, Yang H, Deng X, Cao X, Wang L, Tang Y. SALL4 in gastrointestinal tract cancers: upstream and downstream regulatory mechanisms. Mol Med 2024; 30:46. [PMID: 38584262 PMCID: PMC11000312 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00812-z] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Effective therapeutic targets and early diagnosis are major challenges in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancers. SALL4 is a well-known transcription factor that is involved in organogenesis during embryonic development. Previous studies have revealed that SALL4 regulates cell proliferation, survival, and migration and maintains stem cell function in mature cells. Additionally, SALL4 overexpression is associated with tumorigenesis. Despite its characterization as a biomarker in various cancers, the role of SALL4 in GIT cancers and the underlying mechanisms are unclear. We describe the functions of SALL4 in GIT cancers and discuss its upstream/downstream genes and pathways associated with each cancer. We also consider the possibility of targeting these genes or pathways as potential therapeutic options for GIT cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tairan Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Yan Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Mengyao Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Boya Chen
- First Clinical Medical College, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jinyu Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jiaying Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Hui Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Xinyao Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Xingyue Cao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Lidong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment and Henan Key, Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Tang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
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17
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Bao Q, Zeng Y, Lou Q, Feng X, Jiang S, Lu J, Ruan B. Clinical significance of RNA methylation in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:204. [PMID: 38566136 PMCID: PMC10986096 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01595-w] [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: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver malignancy with high mortality rates and poor prognosis. Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatic technologies have greatly enhanced the understanding of the genetic and epigenetic changes in liver cancer. Among these changes, RNA methylation, the most prevalent internal RNA modification, has emerged as a significant contributor of the development and progression of HCC. Growing evidence has reported significantly abnormal levels of RNA methylation and dysregulation of RNA-methylation-related enzymes in HCC tissues and cell lines. These alterations in RNA methylation play a crucial role in the regulation of various genes and signaling pathways involved in HCC, thereby promoting tumor progression. Understanding the pathogenesis of RNA methylation in HCC would help in developing prognostic biomarkers and targeted therapies for HCC. Targeting RNA-methylation-related molecules has shown promising potential in the management of HCC, in terms of developing novel prognostic biomarkers and therapies for HCC. Exploring the clinical application of targeted RNA methylation may provide new insights and approaches for the management of HCC. Further research in this field is warranted to fully understand the functional roles and underlying mechanisms of RNA methylation in HCC. In this review, we described the multifaceted functional roles and potential mechanisms of RNA methylation in HCC. Moreover, the prospects of clinical application of targeted RNA methylation for HCC management are discussed, which may provide the basis for subsequent in-depth research on RNA methylation in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongling Bao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Yifan Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Qizhuo Lou
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Xuewen Feng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Shuwen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Juan Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China.
| | - Bing Ruan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China.
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18
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Zhao Z, Cui T, Wei F, Zhou Z, Sun Y, Gao C, Xu X, Zhang H. Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma: pathogenic role and therapeutic target. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1367364. [PMID: 38634048 PMCID: PMC11022604 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1367364] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignant liver tumor and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway is a highly conserved pathway involved in several biological processes, including the improper regulation that leads to the tumorigenesis and progression of cancer. New studies have found that abnormal activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway is a major cause of HCC tumorigenesis, progression, and resistance to therapy. New perspectives and approaches to treating HCC will arise from understanding this pathway. This article offers a thorough analysis of the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway's function and its therapeutic implications in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zekun Zhao
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tenglu Cui
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Radiotherapy Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Fengxian Wei
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhiming Zhou
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yuan Sun
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chaofeng Gao
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Xu
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huihan Zhang
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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19
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Li X, Su H, Tang W, Shu S, Zhao L, Sun J, Fan H. Targeting LEF1-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition reverses lenvatinib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Invest New Drugs 2024; 42:185-195. [PMID: 38372948 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-024-01426-2] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Acquired resistance is a significant hindrance to clinical application of lenvatinib in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Further in-depth investigation of resistance mechanisms can help to develop additional therapeutic strategies to overcome or delay resistance. In our study, two lenvatinib-resistant (LR) HCC cell lines were established by treatment with gradient increasing concentration of lenvatinib, named Hep3B-LR and HepG2-LR. Interestingly, continuous lenvatinib treatment reinforced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell migration, and cell invasion. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) enrichment analysis of RNA-sequencing from Hep3B-LR and corresponding parental cells revealed that activation of Wnt signaling pathway was involved in this adaptive process. Active β-catenin and its downstream target lymphoid enhancer binding factor 1 (LEF1) were significantly elevated in LR HCC cells, which promoted lenvatinib resistance through mediating EMT-related genes. Data analysis based on Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) databases suggests that LEF1, as a key regulator of EMT, was a novel molecular target linked to lenvatinib resistance and poor prognosis in HCC. Using a small-molecule specific inhibitor ICG001 and knocking down LEF1 showed that targeting LEF1 restored the sensitivity of LR HCC cells to lenvatinib. Our results uncover upregulation of LEF1 confers lenvatinib resistance by facilitating EMT, cell migration, and invasion of LR HCC cells, indicating that LEF1 is a novel therapeutic target for overcoming acquired lenvatinib resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxiu Li
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongmeng Su
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenqing Tang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shihui Shu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Luyu Zhao
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinghan Sun
- School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Fan
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.
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Ma H, Hong Y, Xu Z, Weng Z, Yang Y, Jin D, Chen Z, Yue J, Zhou X, Xu Z, Fei F, Li J, Song W. N 6-methyladenosine (m 6A) modification in hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116365. [PMID: 38452654 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116365] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest cancers of human, the tumor-related death of which ranks third among the common malignances. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, the most abundant internal modification of RNA in mammals, participates in the metabolism of mRNA and interrelates with ncRNAs. In this paper, we overviewed the complex function of m6A regulators in HCC, including regulating the tumorigenesis, progression, prognosis, stemness, metabolic reprogramming, autophagy, ferroptosis, drug resistance and tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Furthermore, we elucidated the interplay between m6A modification and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs). Finally, we summarized the potential of m6A regulators as diagnostic biomarkers. What's more, we reviewed the inhibitors targeting m6A enzymes as promising therapeutic targets of HCC. We aimed to help understand the function of m6A methylation in HCC systematically and comprehensively so that more effective strategies for HCC treatment will be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hehua Ma
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yuxin Hong
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhenzhen Xu
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zuyi Weng
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yuanxun Yang
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Dandan Jin
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhiyou Chen
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jing Yue
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zhi Xu
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Fei Fei
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Juan Li
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China.
| | - Wei Song
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China.
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21
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Berggren KA, Schwartz RE, Kleiner RE, Ploss A. The impact of epitranscriptomic modifications on liver disease. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2024; 35:331-346. [PMID: 38212234 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2023.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
RNA modifications have emerged as important mechanisms of gene regulation. Developmental, metabolic, and cell cycle regulatory processes are all affected by epitranscriptomic modifications, which control gene expression in a dynamic manner. The hepatic tissue is highly metabolically active and has an impressive ability to regenerate after injury. Cell proliferation, differentiation, and metabolism, which are all essential to the liver response to injury and regeneration, are regulated via RNA modification. Two such modifications, N6-methyladenosine (m6A)and 5-methylcytosine (m5C), have been identified as prognostic disease markers and potential therapeutic targets for liver diseases. Here, we describe progress in understanding the role of RNA modifications in liver biology and disease and discuss specific areas where unexpected results could lead to improved future understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith A Berggren
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Robert E Schwartz
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ralph E Kleiner
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Alexander Ploss
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
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22
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Prasad M, Tamil Selvan S, Shanmugam R, Murugan R, Fareed M. Analysing the Anticancer Properties of Pterostilbene Through Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME) and Molecular Docking Studies. Cureus 2024; 16:e58425. [PMID: 38756274 PMCID: PMC11097614 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58425] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim The aim of this study is to examine the possible therapeutic effect of pterostilbene (PTS), a chemical present in grapes and blueberries, in the treatment of liver cancer by analysing its interactions with important proteins linked to the wingless/integrated (Wnt) signaling system. Objective Using computational techniques like molecular docking and absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) studies, this research focuses on examining the pharmacokinetics and molecular interactions of PTS with proteins such as vimentin (Vim), glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3-β), epithelial cadherin (E-cadherin), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and Wnt, all of which are connected to the Wnt signaling pathway in liver cancer. Methods The study includes the synthesis of proteins and ligands, ADME investigations for PTS, and AutoDock Vina molecular docking simulations to evaluate binding affinities and interactions. PTS is obtained from PubChem, while protein structures are obtained from the Protein Data Bank. Results Strong binding affinities between PTS and essential proteins in the Wnt signaling cascade are shown by molecular docking, which also highlights noteworthy hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and electrostatic contacts. According to an ADME study, PTS has advantageous pharmacokinetic properties, such as moderate solubility, membrane permeability, and a minimal chance of drug interactions. Conclusion The extensive study highlights PTS's potential as a viable treatment option for liver cancer. The study promotes its investigation in cutting-edge liver cancer therapy approaches and urges more investigation into the molecular mechanisms, underpinning its anticancer properties. This paper sheds important light on the role of natural chemicals in cancer therapy and emphasizes the need for computational methods in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monisha Prasad
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, IND
| | - Silambarasan Tamil Selvan
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, IND
| | - Rajeshkumar Shanmugam
- Nanobiomedicine Lab, Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, IND
| | - Ramadurai Murugan
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, IND
| | - Mohammad Fareed
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, IND
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23
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Zeng Y, Yu T, Lou Z, Chen L, Pan L, Ruan B. Emerging function of main RNA methylation modifications in the immune microenvironment of digestive system tumors. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 256:155268. [PMID: 38547773 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155268] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Digestive system tumors have been reported in more than 25% of all cancer cases worldwide, bringing a huge burden on the healthcare system. RNA methylation modification-an important post-transcriptional modification-has become an active research area in gene regulation. It is a dynamic and reversible process involving several enzymes, such as methyltransferases, demethylases, and methylation reader proteins. This review provides insights into the role of three major methylation modifications, namely m6A, m5C, and m1A, in the development of digestive system tumors, specifically in the development of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of these malignancies. Abnormal methylation modification affects immunosuppression and antitumor immune response by regulating the recruitment of immune cells and the release of immune factors. Understanding the mechanisms by which RNA methylation regulates digestive system tumors will be helpful in exploring new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Tao Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Zhuoqi Lou
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Lin Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Liya Pan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Bing Ruan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China.
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24
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Zhang X, Su T, Wu Y, Cai Y, Wang L, Liang C, Zhou L, Wang S, Li XX, Peng S, Kuang M, Yu J, Xu L. N6-Methyladenosine Reader YTHDF1 Promotes Stemness and Therapeutic Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Enhancing NOTCH1 Expression. Cancer Res 2024; 84:827-840. [PMID: 38241695 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-1916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification is the most common and conserved epigenetic modification in mRNA and has been shown to play important roles in cancer biology. As the m6A reader YTHDF1 has been reported to promote progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), it represents a potential therapeutic target. In this study, we evaluated the clinical significance of YTHDF1 using human HCC samples and found that YTHDF1 was significantly upregulated in HCCs with high stemness scores and was positively associated with recurrence and poor prognosis. Analysis of HCC spheroids revealed that YTHDF1 was highly expressed in liver cancer stem cells (CSC). Stem cell-specific conditional Ythdf1 knockin (CKI) mice treated with diethylnitrosamine showed elevated tumor burden as compared with wild-type mice. YTHDF1 promoted CSCs renewal and resistance to the multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitors lenvatinib and sorafenib in patient-derived organoids and HCC cell lines, which could be abolished by catalytically inactive mutant YTHDF1. Multiomic analysis, including RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing, m6A methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing, ribosome profiling, and RNA sequencing identified NOTCH1 as a direct downstream of YTHDF1. YTHDF1 bound to m6A modified NOTCH1 mRNA to enhance its stability and translation, which led to increased NOTCH1 target genes expression. NOTCH1 overexpression rescued HCC stemness in YTHDF1-deficient cells in vitro and in vivo. Lipid nanoparticles targeting YTHDF1 significantly enhanced the efficacy of lenvatinib and sorafenib in HCC in vivo. Taken together, YTHDF1 drives HCC stemness and drug resistance through an YTHDF1-m6A-NOTCH1 epitranscriptomic axis, and YTHDF1 is a potential therapeutic target for treating HCC. SIGNIFICANCE Inhibition of YTHDF1 expression suppresses stemness of hepatocellular carcinoma cells and enhances sensitivity to targeted therapies, indicating that targeting YTHDF1 may be a promising therapeutic strategy for liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianhong Su
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Wu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Afliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhong Cai
- Center of Hepato-Pancreate-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lina Wang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cong Liang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shiyan Wang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Xing Li
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sui Peng
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Afliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Trials Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Kuang
- Center of Hepato-Pancreate-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Trials Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Lixia Xu
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Shi J, Lv Q, Miao D, Xiong Z, Wei Z, Wu S, Tan D, Wang K, Zhang X. HIF2α Promotes Cancer Metastasis through TCF7L2-Dependent Fatty Acid Synthesis in ccRCC. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2024; 7:0322. [PMID: 38390305 PMCID: PMC10882601 DOI: 10.34133/research.0322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies have highlighted the notable involvement of the crosstalk between hypoxia-inducible factor 2 alpha (HIF2α) and Wnt signaling components in tumorigenesis. However, the cellular function and precise regulatory mechanisms of HIF2α and Wnt signaling interactions in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remain elusive. To analyze the correlation between HIF2α and Wnt signaling, we utilized the Cancer Genome Atlas - Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma (TCGA-KIRC) public database, HIF2α RNA sequencing data, and conducted luciferase reporter assays. A Wnt-related gene set was employed to identify key regulators of Wnt signaling controlled by HIF2α in ccRCC. Furthermore, we assessed the biological effects of TCF7L2 on ccRCC metastasis and lipid metabolism in both in vivo and in vitro settings. Our outcomes confirm TCF7L2 as a key gene involved in HIF2α-mediated regulation of the canonical Wnt pathway. Functional studies demonstrate that TCF7L2 promotes metastasis in ccRCC. Mechanistic investigations reveal that HIF2α stabilizes TCF7L2 mRNA in a method based on m6A by transcriptionally regulating METTL3. Up-regulation of TCF7L2 enhances cellular fatty acid oxidation, which promotes histone acetylation. This facilitates the transcription of genes connected to epithelial-mesenchymal transition and ultimately enhances metastasis of ccRCC. These outcomes offer a novel understanding into the involvement of lipid metabolism in the signaling pathway regulation, offering valuable implications for targeted treatment in ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Shi
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Qingyang Lv
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Daojia Miao
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Zhiyong Xiong
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Zhihao Wei
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Songming Wu
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Diaoyi Tan
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Keshan Wang
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoping Zhang
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, P. R. China
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26
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Wang X, Yuan Z, Li Z, He X, Zhang Y, Wang X, Su J, Wu X, Li M, Du F, Chen Y, Deng S, Zhao Y, Shen J, Yi T, Xiao Z. Key oncogenic signaling pathways affecting tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma: basic principles and recent advances. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1354313. [PMID: 38426090 PMCID: PMC10902128 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1354313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks first among primary liver cancers, and its mortality rate exhibits a consistent annual increase. The treatment of HCC has witnessed a significant surge in recent years, with the emergence of targeted immune therapy as an adjunct to early surgical resection. Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) using tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) has shown promising results in other types of solid tumors. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the intricate interactions between different types of TILs and their impact on HCC, elucidate strategies for targeting neoantigens through TILs, and address the challenges encountered in TIL therapies along with potential solutions. Furthermore, this article specifically examines the impact of oncogenic signaling pathways activation within the HCC tumor microenvironment on the infiltration dynamics of TILs. Additionally, a concise overview is provided regarding TIL preparation techniques and an update on clinical trials investigating TIL-based immunotherapy in solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zijun Yuan
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zhengbo Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Longmatan District People’s Hospital, Luzhou, China
| | - Xinyu He
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yinping Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xingyue Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jiahong Su
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xu Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Mingxing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Fukuan Du
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Shuai Deng
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yueshui Zhao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Shen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Tao Yi
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhangang Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
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27
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Huang J, Li H, Yang Z, Liu R, Li Y, Hu Y, Zhao S, Gao X, Yang X, Wei J. SALL4 promotes cancer stem-like cell phenotype and radioresistance in oral squamous cell carcinomas via methyltransferase-like 3-mediated m6A modification. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:139. [PMID: 38355684 PMCID: PMC10866932 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06533-9] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Radioresistance imposes a great challenge in reducing tumor recurrence and improving the clinical prognosis of individuals having oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). OSCC harbors a subpopulation of CD44(+) cells that exhibit cancer stem-like cell (CSC) characteristics are involved in malignant tumor phenotype and radioresistance. Nevertheless, the underlying molecular mechanisms in CD44( + )-OSCC remain unclear. The current investigation demonstrated that methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) is highly expressed in CD44(+) cells and promotes CSCs phenotype. Using RNA-sequencing analysis, we further showed that Spalt-like transcription factor 4 (SALL4) is involved in the maintenance of CSCs properties. Furthermore, the overexpression of SALL4 in CD44( + )-OSCC cells caused radioresistance in vitro and in vivo. In contrast, silencing SALL4 sensitized OSCC cells to radiation therapy (RT). Mechanistically, we illustrated that SALL4 is a direct downstream transcriptional regulation target of METTL3, the transcription activation of SALL4 promotes the nuclear transport of β-catenin and the expression of downstream target genes after radiation therapy, there by activates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, effectively enhancing the CSCs phenotype and causing radioresistance. Herein, this study indicates that the METTL3/SALL4 axis promotes the CSCs phenotype and resistance to radiation in OSCC via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and provides a potential therapeutic target to eliminate radioresistant OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Huan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Zihui Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Rong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yahui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yating Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Shengnan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xinjie Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Jianhua Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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Xue M, Dong L, Zhang H, Li Y, Qiu K, Zhao Z, Gao M, Han L, Chan AKN, Li W, Leung K, Wang K, Pokharel SP, Qing Y, Liu W, Wang X, Ren L, Bi H, Yang L, Shen C, Chen Z, Melstrom L, Li H, Timchenko N, Deng X, Huang W, Rosen ST, Tian J, Xu L, Diao J, Chen CW, Chen J, Shen B, Chen H, Su R. METTL16 promotes liver cancer stem cell self-renewal via controlling ribosome biogenesis and mRNA translation. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:7. [PMID: 38302992 PMCID: PMC10835888 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01526-9] [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: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While liver cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a crucial role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) initiation, progression, recurrence, and treatment resistance, the mechanism underlying liver CSC self-renewal remains elusive. We aim to characterize the role of Methyltransferase 16 (METTL16), a recently identified RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase, in HCC development/maintenance, CSC stemness, as well as normal hepatogenesis. METHODS Liver-specific Mettl16 conditional KO (cKO) mice were generated to assess its role in HCC pathogenesis and normal hepatogenesis. Hydrodynamic tail-vein injection (HDTVi)-induced de novo hepatocarcinogenesis and xenograft models were utilized to determine the role of METTL16 in HCC initiation and progression. A limiting dilution assay was utilized to evaluate CSC frequency. Functionally essential targets were revealed via integrative analysis of multi-omics data, including RNA-seq, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP)-seq, and ribosome profiling. RESULTS METTL16 is highly expressed in liver CSCs and its depletion dramatically decreased CSC frequency in vitro and in vivo. Mettl16 KO significantly attenuated HCC initiation and progression, yet only slightly influenced normal hepatogenesis. Mechanistic studies, including high-throughput sequencing, unveiled METTL16 as a key regulator of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) maturation and mRNA translation and identified eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit a (eIF3a) transcript as a bona-fide target of METTL16 in HCC. In addition, the functionally essential regions of METTL16 were revealed by CRISPR gene tiling scan, which will pave the way for the development of potential inhibitor(s). CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the crucial oncogenic role of METTL16 in promoting HCC pathogenesis and enhancing liver CSC self-renewal through augmenting mRNA translation efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meilin Xue
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Lei Dong
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 7539, USA
| | - Honghai Zhang
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Yangchan Li
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Kangqiang Qiu
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Zhicong Zhao
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
- Department of Liver Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Min Gao
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Li Han
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Anthony K N Chan
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Keith Leung
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Kitty Wang
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Sheela Pangeni Pokharel
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Ying Qing
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Xueer Wang
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Lili Ren
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Hongjie Bi
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Chao Shen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Zhenhua Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Laleh Melstrom
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Hongzhi Li
- Department of Molecular Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Nikolai Timchenko
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Xiaolan Deng
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
| | - Wendong Huang
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
- Graduate School of Biological Science, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Steven T Rosen
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Jingyan Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Clinical Trial Center, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 7539, USA
| | - Jiajie Diao
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Chun-Wei Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Baiyong Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Rui Su
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, 91016, USA.
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
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Zhou X, Chang L, Liang Q, Zhao R, Xiao Y, Xu Z, Yu L. The m6A methyltransferase METTL3 drives thyroid cancer progression and lymph node metastasis by targeting LINC00894. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:47. [PMID: 38291427 PMCID: PMC10826051 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03240-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are significant contributors to various human malignancies. The aberrant expression of lncRNA LINC00894 has been reported in various human malignancies. We aimed to illustrate the role of LINC00894 and its underlying mechanism in the development of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). METHODS We performed bioinformatics analysis of differentially expressed RNAs from TCGA and GEO datasets and selected the target lncRNA LINC00894. SRAMP analysis revealed abundant M6A modification sites in LINC00894. Further analysis of StarBase, GEPIA, and TCGA datasets was performed to identify the related differentially expressed genes METTL3. Colony formation and CCK-8 assays confirmed the relationship between LINC00894, METTL3, and the proliferative capacity of PTC cells. The analysis of AnnoLnc2, Starbase datasets, and meRIP-PCR and qRT‒PCR experiments confirmed the influence of METTL3-mediated m6A modification on LINC00894. The study employed KEGG enrichment analysis as well as Western blotting to investigate the impact of LINC00894 on the expression of proteins related to the Hippo signalling pathway. RESULTS LINC00894 downregulation was detected in PTC tissues and cells and was even further downregulated in PTC with lymphatic metastasis. LINC00894 inhibits the lymphangiogenesis of vascular endothelial cells and the proliferation of cancer cells. METTL3 enhances PTC progression by upregulating LINC00894 by enhancing LINC00894 mRNA stability through the m6A-YTHDC2-dependent pathway. LINC00894 may inhibit PTC malignant phenotypes through the Hippo signalling pathway. CONCLUSION The METTL3-YTHDC2 axis stabilizes LINC00894 mRNA in an m6A-dependent manner and subsequently inhibits tumour malignancy through the Hippo signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhou
- Head and neck surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lisha Chang
- Oncology department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing City, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaoqiao Liang
- Head and neck surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongjie Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, School of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Xiao
- Head and neck surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Xu
- Head and neck surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Leitao Yu
- Head and neck surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China.
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Mortezaee K. WNT/β-catenin regulatory roles on PD-(L)1 and immunotherapy responses. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:15. [PMID: 38280119 PMCID: PMC10822012 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01274-z] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Dysregulation of WNT/β-catenin is a hallmark of many cancer types and a key mediator of metastasis in solid tumors. Overactive β-catenin signaling hampers dendritic cell (DC) recruitment, promotes CD8+ T cell exclusion and increases the population of regulatory T cells (Tregs). The activity of WNT/β-catenin also induces the expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) on tumor cells and promotes programmed death-1 (PD-1) upregulation. Increased activity of WNT/β-catenin signaling after anti-PD-1 therapy is indicative of a possible implication of this signaling in bypassing immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. This review is aimed at giving a comprehensive overview of the WNT/β-catenin regulatory roles on PD-1/PD-L1 axis in tumor immune ecosystem, discussing about key mechanistic events contributed to the WNT/β-catenin-mediated bypass of ICI therapy, and representing inhibitors of this signaling as promising combinatory regimen to go with anti-PD-(L)1 in cancer immunotherapy. Ideas presented in this review imply the synergistic efficacy of such combination therapy in rendering durable anti-tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keywan Mortezaee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
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Su W, Che L, Liao W, Huang H. The RNA m 6A writer METTL3 in tumor microenvironment: emerging roles and therapeutic implications. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1335774. [PMID: 38322265 PMCID: PMC10845340 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1335774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a heterogeneous ecosystem comprising cancer cells, immune cells, stromal cells, and various non-cellular components, all of which play critical roles in controlling tumor progression and response to immunotherapies. Methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), the core component of N 6-methyladenosine (m6A) writer, is frequently associated with abnormalities in the m6A epitranscriptome in different cancer types, impacting both cancer cells and the surrounding TME. While the impact of METTL3 on cancer cells has been extensively reviewed, its roles in TME and anti-cancer immunity have not been comprehensively summarized. This review aims to systematically summarize the functions of METTL3 in TME, particularly its effects on tumor-infiltrating immune cells. We also elaborate on the underlying m6A-dependent mechanism. Additionally, we discuss ongoing endeavors towards developing METTL3 inhibitors, as well as the potential of targeting METTL3 to bolster the efficacy of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqi Su
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin Che
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenting Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huilin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
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Lin Q, Tang Z, Qin Y, Deng X, Wei C, Liu F, Pan X, Liu D, Zhan T, Fang M. Clonorchis sinensis infection amplifies hepatocellular carcinoma stemness, predicting unfavorable prognosis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011906. [PMID: 38285640 PMCID: PMC10824460 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive evidence links Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) to cholangiocarcinoma; however, its association with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is less acknowledged, and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study was designed to investigate the association between C. sinensis infection and HCC and reveal the relationship between C. sinensis infection and cancer stemness. METHODS A comprehensive analysis of 839 HCC patients categorized into C. sinensis (-) HCC and C. sinensis (+) HCC groups was conducted. Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to assess the association between C. sinensis infection and clinical factors. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate survival outcomes. Immunohistochemistry was used to determine CK19 and EpCAM expression in HCC specimens. RESULTS Compared to C. sinensis (-) HCC patients, C. sinensis (+) HCC patients exhibited advanced Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage, higher male prevalence and more liver cirrhosis as well as elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), eosinophil, complement 3 (C3), and complement 4 (C4) values. C. sinensis infection correlated with shorter overall survival (OS) (p < 0.05) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, Cox multivariate analysis revealed that C. sinensis infection was an independent prognostic factor for OS in HCC patients. Importantly, C. sinensis infection upregulated the expression of HCC cancer stem cell markers CK19 and EpCAM. CONCLUSION HCC patients with C. sinensis infection exhibit a poor prognosis following hepatectomy. Moreover, C. sinensis infection promotes the acquisition of cancer stem cell-like characteristics, consequently accelerating the malignant progression of HCC. AUTHOR SUMMARY Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) is a prominent food-borne parasite prevalent in regions such as China, particularly in Guangxi. C. sinensis has been associated with various hepatobiliary system injuries, encompassing inflammation, periductal fibrosis, cholangiocarcinoma and even hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A substantial body of evidence links C. sinensis to cholangiocarcinoma, However, the connection between C. sinensis and HCC and the intricate mechanisms underlying its contribution to HCC development remain incompletely elucidated. Our study demonstrates clear clinicopathological associations between C. sinensis and HCC, such as gender, BCLC stage, liver cirrhosis, MVI, AFP, CA19-9, circulating eosinophils and complements. Furthermore, we found that the co-occurrence of C. sinensis exhibited a significant association with shorter OS and RFS in patients diagnosed with HCC. A major finding was that C. sinensis infection promotes the acquisition of cancer stem cell-like characteristics, consequently accelerating the malignant progression of HCC. Our results provide a more comprehensive comprehension of the interplay between C. sinensis and HCC, shedding fresh light on the carcinogenic potential of C. sinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiumei Lin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zeli Tang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuling Qin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xueling Deng
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Caibiao Wei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fengfei Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaolan Pan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dengyu Liu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tingzheng Zhan
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Fang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
- Engineering Research Center for Tissue & Organ Injury and Repair Medicine, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
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Xiu Z, Yang Q, Xie F, Han F, He W, Liao W. Revolutionizing digestive system tumor organoids research: Exploring the potential of tumor organoids. J Tissue Eng 2024; 15:20417314241255470. [PMID: 38808253 PMCID: PMC11131411 DOI: 10.1177/20417314241255470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Digestive system tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite ongoing research, our understanding of their mechanisms and treatment remain inadequate. One promising tool for clinical applications is the use of gastrointestinal tract tumor organoids, which serve as an important in vitro model. Tumor organoids exhibit a genotype similar to the patient's tumor and effectively mimic various biological processes, including tissue renewal, stem cell, and ecological niche functions, and tissue response to drugs, mutations, or injury. As such, they are valuable for drug screening, developing novel drugs, assessing patient outcomes, and supporting immunotherapy. In addition, innovative materials and techniques can be used to optimize tumor organoid culture systems. Several applications of digestive system tumor organoids have been described and have shown promising results in related aspects. In this review, we discuss the current progress, limitations, and prospects of this model for digestive system tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhian Xiu
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fusheng Xie
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Feng Han
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Weiwei He
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Weifang Liao
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
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Liu Y, Wang H. Biomarkers and targeted therapy for cancer stem cells. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:56-66. [PMID: 38071088 PMCID: PMC10842814 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.11.006] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of cancer cells with capabilities of self-renewal, differentiation, and tumorigenicity, and play a critical role in driving tumor heterogeneity that evolves insensitivity to therapeutics. For these reasons, extensive efforts have been made to identify and target CSCs to potentially improve the antitumor efficacy of therapeutics. While progress has been made to uncover certain CSC-associated biomarkers, the identification of CSC-specific markers, especially the targetable ones, remains a significant challenge. Here we provide an overview of the unique signaling and metabolic pathways of CSCs, summarize existing CSC biomarkers and CSC-targeted therapies, and discuss strategies to further differentiate CSCs from non-stem cancer cells and healthy cells for the development of enhanced CSC-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusheng Liu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Cancer Center at Illinois (CCIL), Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Carle College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Materials Research Laboratory, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
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Zhu J, Wu Y, Zhang H, Yang J, An Y, Shao S, Xia N. Efficacy of Lenvatinib in Combination With PD-1 Monoclonal Antibody and Interventional Treatment for Intermediate-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Impact on Serum Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Levels: A Retrospective Study. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2024; 23:15330338241256812. [PMID: 38802996 PMCID: PMC11135109 DOI: 10.1177/15330338241256812] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To scrutinize the therapeutic efficiency and safety profile of lenvatinib, accompanied by the programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) monoclonal antibody, and interventional treatment in managing intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma. Methods: Retrospective analysis was performed on clinical data from 93 patients suffering from intermediate to advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, treated at our institution from May 2018 to April 2020. Patients were divided based on the therapeutic regimen: 43 cases constituted the control group receiving lenvatinib plus transhepatic artery chemoembolization (TACE), while the remaining 50 cases in the study group were managed with lenvatinib, PD-1 monoclonal antibody, and TACE. Outcome measures included therapeutic efficacy, tumor markers (carcinoembryonic antigen [CEA], alpha-fetoprotein [AFP], α-L-fucosidase [AFU], carbohydrate antigen 199 [CA199]), immune response indices (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD4+/CD8+ ratio), pertinent cytokine levels (vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF], matrix metalloproteinase-9 [MMP-9], basic fibroblast growth factor [aFGF], acidic fibroblast growth factor [bFGF]), quality of life (as per Quality of Life Assessment Scale for Cancer Patients [QOL-LC] scores), adverse effects, and survival rates. Results: The study group exhibited a significantly enhanced total effective rate compared to the control group (74.00% vs 53.49%, P < .05). Post-treatment levels of CEA, AFP, AFU, CA199, CD8+, VEGF, MMP-9, aFGF, and bFGF were notably lower in both groups, particularly in the study group. Contrastingly, CD3+, CD4+, CD4+/CD8+ratios, and QOL-LC scores were substantially elevated in the study group (P < .05). Adverse reaction prevalence was analogous between 2 groups (27.91% vs 26.00%; P > .05). Moreover, the study group reported significantly higher 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates than the control group (P < .05). Conclusion: The combined use of lenvatinib, PD-1 monoclonal antibody, and interventional treatment for intermediate to advanced hepatocellular carcinoma may have a definitive therapeutic efficacy. This regimen is effective in reducing tumor marker levels, enhancing immune function, modulating VEGF, MMP-9, and other related cytokine levels, and improving patients' quality of life without significantly augmenting adverse effects. This treatment paradigm also contributes to increased survival rates and promises favorable prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyong Zhu
- Senior Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yintao Wu
- Senior Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Interventional Medicine, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yang An
- Senior Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shihan Shao
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Nianxin Xia
- Senior Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Li X, Wang J, Guo Z, Ma Y, Xu D, Fan D, Dai P, Chen Y, Liu Q, Jiao J, Fan J, Wu N, Li X, Li G. Copper metabolism-related risk score identifies hepatocellular carcinoma subtypes and SLC27A5 as a potential regulator of cuproptosis. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:15084-15113. [PMID: 38157255 PMCID: PMC10781498 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Dysregulated copper metabolism has been noticed in many types of cancer including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, a comprehensive understanding about this dysregulation still remains unclear in HCC. METHODS A set of bioinformatic tools was integrated to analyze the expression and prognostic significance of copper metabolism-related genes. A related risk score, termed as CMscore, was developed via univariate Cox regression, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression. Pathway enrichment analyses and tumor immune cell infiltration were further investigated in CMscore stratified HCC patients. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify potential regulator of cuproptosis. RESULTS Copper metabolism was dysregulated in HCC. HCC patients in the high-CMscore group showed a significantly lower overall survival (OS) and enriched in most cancer-related pathways. Besides, HCC patients with high CMscore had higher expression of pro-tumor immune infiltrates and immune checkpoints. Moreover, cancer patients with high CMscore from two large cohorts exhibited significantly prolonged survival time after immunotherapy. WGCNA and subsequently correlation analysis revealed that SLC27A5 might be a potential regulator of cuproptosis in HCC. In vitro experiments revealed that SLC27A5 inhibited cell proliferation and migration of HCC cells and could upregulate FDX1, the key regulator of cuproptosis. SIGNIFICANCE The CMscore is helpful in clustering HCC patients with distinct prognosis, gene mutation signatures, and sensitivity to immunotherapy. SLC27A5 might serve as a potential target in the induction of cuproptosis in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Shanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliate of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Department of Central Laboratory, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliate of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Jinping Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliate of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Zongliang Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital, Affiliated of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yong Ma
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital, Affiliated of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Dawei Xu
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Shanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliate of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Daguang Fan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliate of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Peng Dai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliate of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yifan Chen
- College of Management, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiongwen Liu
- College of Life Science and Agronomy, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, Henan, China
| | - Jinke Jiao
- College of Life Science and Agronomy, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, Henan, China
| | - Jinhan Fan
- College of Life Science and Agronomy, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, Henan, China
| | - Ningxue Wu
- College of Life Science and Agronomy, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, Henan, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliate of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Guoyin Li
- College of Life Science and Agronomy, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, Henan, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an, Shannxi, China
- Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Liu Y, Yang J, Li X, Chen S, Zhu C, Shi Y, Dang S, Zhang W, Li W. Pan-cancer analysis reveals the characteristics and roles of tooth agenesis mutant genes. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e36001. [PMID: 38115305 PMCID: PMC10727548 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036001] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Tooth development is regulated by numerous genes and signaling pathways. Some studies suggest that mutations in these genes may be associated with several cancer types. However, the tooth agenesis mutated genes role in the prognosis and their clinical therapeutic potentials in pan-cancer have not been elaborately explored. Moreover, the intrinsic correlation between tooth agenesis and cancers also needs to be further verified. We preliminarily analyzed expression levels and prognostic values of causative genes of tooth agenesis, and explored the correlation between the expression of tooth agenesis mutated genes and TME, Stemness score, clinical characteristic, immune subtype, and drug sensitivity in pan-cancer, which based on updated public databases and integrated some bioinformatics analysis methods. In addition, we conducted the enrichment analysis of tooth agenesis mutant genes from KOBAS database. We observed that TA mutant genes had significant gene expression differences in multiple cancer types compared with normal tissues. The expression of causative genes of TA is associated with the prognosis in several cancers from different databases. For example, AXIN2 and MSX1 were correlated to the overall survival (OS) of uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma. PAX9 and TP63 were related to OS of lung squamous cell carcinoma. And TP63 was associated with OS in breast invasive carcinoma and pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, the expression of TA mutant genes also has a significant correlation with stromal and immune scores, and RNA stemness score and DNA stemness score in pan-cancer. Besides, we observed that all causative genes of TA were significantly correlated with immune subtypes. Moreover, KEGG pathway analysis showed that causative genes of TA were associated with the development and progression of breast cancer, basal cell carcinoma, gastric cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Finally, AXIN2 expression has a significantly positive or negative correlation with drug sensitivity. Our study indicates the great potential of TA mutant genes as biomarkers for prognosis and provides valuable strategies for further investigation of TA mutant genes as potential therapeutic targets in cancers. Our study can further verify that there may be an intrinsic correlation between tooth agenesis and the occurrence of multiple cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yating Liu
- Cancer Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Peking University School of Stomatology, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Cancer Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shanshan Chen
- Cancer Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Changyu Zhu
- Cancer Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yijun Shi
- Cancer Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shoutao Dang
- Cancer Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Weitao Zhang
- Cancer Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Li
- Cancer Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Cen W, Yan Q, Zhou W, Mao M, Huang Q, Lin Y, Jiang N. miR-4739 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis in "driver gene-negative" non-small cell lung cancer via activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2023; 46:1821-1835. [PMID: 37500965 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00848-z] [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] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE "Driver gene-negative" non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) currently has no approved targeted drug, due to the lack of common actionable driver molecules. Even though miRNAs play crucial roles in various malignancies, their roles in "driver gene-negative" NSCLC keep unclear. METHODS miRNA expression microarrays were utilized to screen miRNAs associated with "driver gene-negative" NSCLC malignant progression. Quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) and in situ hybridization (ISH) were employed to validate the expression of miR-4739, and its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics was analyzed in tumor specimens using univariate and multivariate analyses. The biological functions and underlying mechanisms of miR-4739 were investigated both in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS our research demonstrated, for the first time, that miR-4739 was substantially increased in "driver gene-negative" NSCLC tumor tissues and cell lines, and overexpression of miR-4739 was related to clinical staging, metastasis, and unfavorable outcomes. Functional experiments discovered that miR-4739 dramatically enhanced tumor cell proliferation, migration, and metastasis by promoting the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Meanwhile, miR-4739 can be transported from cancer cells to the site of vascular epithelial cells through exosomes, consequently facilitating the proliferation and migration of vascular epithelial cells and inducing angiogenesis. Mechanistically, miR-4739 can activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling both in tumor cells and vascular epithelial cells by targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling antagonists APC2 and DKK3, respectively. CONCLUSION Our work identifies a valuable oncogene, miR-4739, that accelerates malignant progression in "driver gene-negative" NSCLC and serves as a potential therapeutic target for this group of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjian Cen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Qin Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China
- Department of Pathology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Wenpeng Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P. R. China
| | - Minjie Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Qitao Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China
- Department of Pathology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Yaobin Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China.
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, P. R. China.
| | - Neng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China.
- Department of Pathology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, P. R. China.
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Lou YX, Gu J, Zhu L, Sun SQ, Hao XL, Chen JP, Han F, Wang DD, Jiang X, Liu JY. TC2N Promotes Cell Proliferation and Metastasis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Targeting the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway. J Transl Med 2023; 103:100260. [PMID: 37839635 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100260] [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: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the most prevalent types of cancer worldwide, has an exceedingly poor prognosis. Tandem C2 domain nuclear protein (TC2N) has been implicated in tumorigenesis and serves as an oncogene or tumor suppressor in different types of cancer. Here, we explore the possible regulatory activities and molecular mechanisms of TC2N in HCC progression. However, TC2N expression was significantly upregulated in HCC tissues and hepatoma cell lines, and this upregulation was positively correlated with tumor progression in HCC patients. The ectopic overexpression of TC2N accelerated the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells, whereas its knockdown showed the opposite effects. Bioinformatics analysis showed that TC2N participates in the regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Mechanistically, TC2N activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by regulating the expression levels of β-catenin and its downstream targets CyclinD1, MMP7, c-Myc, c-Jun, AXIN2, and glutamine synthase. Furthermore, the deletion of β-catenin effectively neutralized the regulation of TC2N in HCC proliferation and metastasis. Overall, this study showed that TC2N promotes HCC proliferation and metastasis by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, indicating that TC2N might be a potential molecular target for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Xia Lou
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Gu
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Sheng-Qi Sun
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xiang-Lin Hao
- Department of Pathology, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jian-Ping Chen
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Fei Han
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dan-Dan Wang
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China; Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Henan Provincial Engineering Centre for Tumor Molecular Medicine, School of Basic Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xiao Jiang
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jin-Yi Liu
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.
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Buttell A, Qiu W. The action and resistance mechanisms of Lenvatinib in liver cancer. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:1918-1934. [PMID: 37671815 PMCID: PMC10840925 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Lenvatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that prevents the formation of new blood vessels namely by inhibiting tyrosine kinase enzymes as the name suggests. Specifically, Lenvatinib acts on vascular endothelial growth factor receptors 1-3 (VEGFR1-3), fibroblast growth factor receptors 1-4 (FGFR1-4), platelet-derived growth factor receptor-alpha (PDGFRα), tyrosine-kinase receptor (KIT), and rearranged during transfection receptor (RET). Inhibition of these receptors works to inhibit tumor proliferation. It is through these inhibition mechanisms that Lenvatinib was tested to be noninferior to Sorafenib. However, resistance to Lenvatinib is common, making the positive effects of Lenvatinib on a patient's survival null after resistance is acquired. Therefore, it is crucial to understand mechanisms related to Lenvatinib resistance. This review aims to piece together various mechanisms involved in Lenvatinib resistance and summarizes the research done so far investigating it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Buttell
- Departments of Surgery, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Wei Qiu
- Departments of Surgery, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
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Li Z, Caron de Fromentel C, Kim W, Wang WH, Sun J, Yan B, Utturkar S, Lanman NA, Elzey BD, Yeo Y, Zhang H, Kazemian M, Levrero M, Andrisani O. RNA helicase DDX5 modulates sorafenib sensitivity in hepatocellular carcinoma via the Wnt/β-catenin-ferroptosis axis. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:786. [PMID: 38036507 PMCID: PMC10689482 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06302-0] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Reduced expression of the RNA helicase DDX5 associated with increased hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumor grade and poor patient survival following treatment with sorafenib. While immunotherapy is the first-line treatment for HCC, sorafenib and other multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (mTKIs) are widely used when immunotherapy is contra-indicated or fails. Herein, we elucidate the role of DDX5 in sensitizing HCC to sorafenib, offering new therapeutic strategies. Treatment of various human HCC cell lines with sorafenib/mTKIs downregulated DDX5 in vitro and in preclinical HCC models. Conversely, DDX5 overexpression reduced the viability of sorafenib-treated cells via ferroptosis, suggesting a role for DDX5 in sorafenib sensitivity. RNAseq of wild-type vs. DDX5-knockdown cells treated with or without sorafenib identified a set of common genes repressed by DDX5 and upregulated by sorafenib. This set significantly overlaps with Wnt signaling genes, including Disheveled-1 (DVL1), an indispensable Wnt activator and prognostic indicator of poor survival for sorafenib-treated patients. DDX5-knockout (DDX5KO) HCC cells exhibited DVL1 induction, Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation, and ferroptosis upon inhibition of canonical Wnt signaling. Consistently, xenograft HCC tumors exhibited reduced growth by inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling via induction of ferroptosis. Significantly, overexpression of DDX5 in HCC xenografts repressed DVL1 expression and increased ferroptosis, resulting in reduced tumor growth by sorafenib. We conclude that DDX5 downregulation by sorafenib mediates adaptive resistance by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling, leading to ferroptosis escape. Conversely, overexpression of DDX5 in vivo enhances the anti-tumor efficacy of sorafenib by suppressing Wnt/β-catenin activation and induction of ferroptosis. Thus, DDX5 overexpression in combination with mTKIs is a promising therapeutic strategy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Li
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Claude Caron de Fromentel
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL) - INSERM U1052, CNRS5286, University Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, F69000, Lyon, France
| | - Woojun Kim
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Wen-Hung Wang
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Jiazeng Sun
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Bingyu Yan
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Sagar Utturkar
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Nadia Atallah Lanman
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Bennett D Elzey
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Yoon Yeo
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Hao Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Majid Kazemian
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Massimo Levrero
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL) - INSERM U1052, CNRS5286, University Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, F69000, Lyon, France.
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Service d'Hépatologie et Gastroentérologie, Groupement Hospitalier Lyon Nord, Lyon, France.
| | - Ourania Andrisani
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
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Wang X, Liu Y, Zhou M, Yu L, Si Z. m6A modified BACE1-AS contributes to liver metastasis and stemness-like properties in colorectal cancer through TUFT1 dependent activation of Wnt signaling. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:306. [PMID: 37986103 PMCID: PMC10661562 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02881-0] [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: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver metastasis is one of the most important reasons for high mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC). Growing evidence illustrates that lncRNAs play a critical role in CRC liver metastasis. Here we described a novel function and mechanisms of BACE1-AS promoting CRC liver metastasis. METHODS qRT-PCR and in situ hybridization were performed to examine the BACE1-AS level in CRC. IGF2BP2 binding to m6A motifs in BACE1-AS was determined by RIP assay and S1m-tagged immunoprecipitation. Transwell assay and liver metastasis mice model experiments were performed to examine the metastasis capabilities of BACE1-AS knockout cells. Stemness-like properties was examined by tumor sphere assay and the expression of stemness biomarkers. Microarray data were acquired to analyze the signaling pathways involved in BACE1-AS promoting CRC metastasis. RESULTS BACE1-AS is the most up-regulated in metastatic CRC associated with unfavorable prognosis. Sequence blast revealed two m6A motifs in BACE1-AS. IGF2BP2 binding to these two m6A motifs is required for BACE1-AS boost in metastatic CRC. m6A modified BACE1-AS drives CRC cells migration and invasion and liver metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, BACE1-AS maintains the stemness-like properties of CRC cells. Mechanically, BACE1-AS promoted TUFT1 expression by ceRNA network through miR-214-3p. CRC patients with such ceRNA network suffer poorer prognosis than ceRNA-negative patients. Depletion of TUFT1 mimics BACE1-AS loss. BACE1-AS activated Wnt signaling pathway in a TUFT1 dependent manner. BACE1-AS/miR-214-3p/TUFT1/Wnt signaling regulatory axis is essential for CRC liver metastasis. Pharmacologic inhibition of Wnt signaling pathway repressed liver metastasis and stemness-like features in BACE1-AS over-expressed CRC cells. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrated BACE1-AS as a novel target of IGF2BP2 through m6A modification. m6A modified BACE1-AS promotes CRC liver metastasis through TUFT1 dependent activation of Wnt signaling pathway. Thus, targeting BACE1-AS and its downstream Wnt signaling pathways may provide a new opportunity for metastatic CRC intervention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xidi Wang
- Central Laboratory of the Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, 247 Renmin Road, Jiangbei District, Ningbo, 315020, P. R. China.
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Jiangbei District, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China.
| | - Yu Liu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Jiangbei District, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Miao Zhou
- Central Laboratory of the Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, 247 Renmin Road, Jiangbei District, Ningbo, 315020, P. R. China
| | - Lei Yu
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Zizhen Si
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Jiangbei District, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China.
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Xie J, Mo T, Li R, Zhang H, Liang G, Ma T, Chen J, Xie H, Wen X, Hu T, Xian Z, Pan W. The m 7G Reader NCBP2 Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Progression by Upregulating MAPK/ERK Signaling. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5454. [PMID: 38001714 PMCID: PMC10670634 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
PDAC is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide. The difficulty of early diagnosis and lack of effective treatment are the main reasons for its poor prognosis. Therefore, it is urgent to identify novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets for PDAC patients. The m7G methylation is a common type of RNA modification that plays a pivotal role in regulating tumor development. However, the correlation between m7G regulatory genes and PDAC progression remains unclear. By integrating gene expression and related clinical information of PDAC patients from TCGA and GEO cohorts, m7G binding protein NCBP2 was found to be highly expressed in PDAC patients. More importantly, PDAC patients with high NCBP2 expression had a worse prognosis. Stable NCBP2-knockdown and overexpression PDAC cell lines were constructed to further perform in-vitro and in-vivo experiments. NCBP2-knockdown significantly inhibited PDAC cell proliferation, while overexpression of NCBP2 dramatically promoted PDAC cell growth. Mechanistically, NCBP2 enhanced the translation of c-JUN, which in turn activated MEK/ERK signaling to promote PDAC progression. In conclusion, our study reveals that m7G reader NCBP2 promotes PDAC progression by activating MEK/ERK pathway, which could serve as a novel therapeutic target for PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiancong Xie
- Department of General Surgery (Pancreatic Hepatobiliary Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (J.X.); (H.Z.); (T.M.)
| | - Taiwei Mo
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, China;
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
| | - Ruibing Li
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery (Pancreatic Hepatobiliary Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (J.X.); (H.Z.); (T.M.)
| | - Guanzhan Liang
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Tao Ma
- Department of General Surgery (Pancreatic Hepatobiliary Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (J.X.); (H.Z.); (T.M.)
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Hanlin Xie
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wen
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Tuo Hu
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Zhenyu Xian
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Weidong Pan
- Department of General Surgery (Pancreatic Hepatobiliary Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (J.X.); (H.Z.); (T.M.)
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Wang Z, Li H, Cai H, Liang J, Jiang Y, Song F, Hou C, Hou J. FTO Sensitizes Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma to Ferroptosis via Suppressing ACSL3 and GPX4. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16339. [PMID: 38003537 PMCID: PMC10671523 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216339] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a newly established form of regulated cell death characterized by intracellular lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation that may be a promising cancer treatment strategy. However, the function and therapeutic value of ferroptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remain inadequately understood. In the present study, we investigated the biological role of the fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) in ferroptosis in the context of OSCC. We found that OSCC had greater potential for ferroptosis, and FTO is associated with ferroptosis. Furthermore, higher FTO expression sensitized OSCC cells to ferroptosis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, FTO suppressed the expression of anti-ferroptotic factors, acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 3 (ACSL3) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), by demethylating the m6A modification on the mRNA of ACSL3 and GPX4 and decreasing their stability. Taken together, our findings revealed that FTO promotes ferroptosis through ACSL3 and GPX4 regulation. Thus, ferroptosis activation in OSCC with high FTO levels may serve as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Hongyu Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Hongshi Cai
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jianfeng Liang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yaoqi Jiang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Fan Song
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Chen Hou
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jinsong Hou
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
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Mao Z, Wang B, Zhang T, Cui B. The roles of m6A methylation in cervical cancer: functions, molecular mechanisms, and clinical applications. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:734. [PMID: 37951987 PMCID: PMC10640579 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06265-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Cervical cancer (CC) is a gynecological neoplasm with the highest incidence rate, primarily attributed to the persistent infection of high-risk Human papillomavirus (HPV). Despite extensive research, the pathogenesis of CC remains unclear. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, the most prevalent form of epigenetic modification in RNA, is intricately linked to cell proliferation, metastasis, metabolism, and therapeutic resistance within the tumor microenvironment (TME) of CC. The involvement of the writer, reader, and eraser in m6A modification impacts the advancement of tumors through the regulation of RNA stability, nuclear export, translation efficiency, and RNA degradation. Here, we discuss the biogenesis of m6A, the atypical expressions of m6A regulators, the mechanisms of molecular interactions, and their functions in CC. Furthermore, we elucidate m6A modification of non-coding RNA. In the context of precision medicine, and with the advancements of genomics, proteomics, and high-throughput sequencing technologies, we summarize the application of m6A in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of CC. Additionally, new perspectives on detection methods, immune regulation, and nano-drug development are presented, which lay the foundation for further research of m6A and provide new ideas for the clinical treatment of CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghao Mao
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan City, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Bingyu Wang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan City, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Teng Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, No. 107 Wenhua West Road, Jinan City, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Baoxia Cui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, No. 107 Wenhua West Road, Jinan City, 250012, Shandong Province, China.
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Kalantari L, Ghotbabadi ZR, Gholipour A, Ehymayed HM, Najafiyan B, Amirlou P, Yasamineh S, Gholizadeh O, Emtiazi N. A state-of-the-art review on the NRF2 in Hepatitis virus-associated liver cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:318. [PMID: 37946175 PMCID: PMC10633941 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01351-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
According to a paper released and submitted to WHO by IARC scientists, there would be 905,700 new cases of liver cancer diagnosed globally in 2020, with 830,200 deaths expected as a direct result. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis D virus (HDV) all play critical roles in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), despite the rising prevalence of HCC due to non-infectious causes. Liver cirrhosis and HCC are devastating consequences of HBV and HCV infections, which are widespread worldwide. Associated with a high mortality rate, these infections cause about 1.3 million deaths annually and are the primary cause of HCC globally. In addition to causing insertional mutations due to viral gene integration, epigenetic alterations and inducing chronic immunological dysfunction are all methods by which these viruses turn hepatocytes into cancerous ones. While expanding our knowledge of the illness, identifying these pathways also give possibilities for novel diagnostic and treatment methods. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) activation is gaining popularity as a treatment option for oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and metabolic abnormalities. Numerous studies have shown that elevated Nrf2 expression is linked to HCC, providing more evidence that Nrf2 is a critical factor in HCC. This aberrant Nrf2 signaling drives cell proliferation, initiates angiogenesis and invasion, and imparts drug resistance. As a result, this master regulator may be a promising treatment target for HCC. In addition, the activation of Nrf2 is a common viral effect that contributes to the pathogenesis, development, and chronicity of virus infection. However, certain viruses suppress Nrf2 activity, which is helpful to the virus in maintaining cellular homeostasis. In this paper, we discussed the influence of Nrf2 deregulation on the viral life cycle and the pathogenesis associated with HBV and HCV. We summed up the mechanisms for the modulation of Nrf2 that are deregulated by these viruses. Moreover, we describe the molecular mechanism by which Nrf2 is modulated in liver cancer, liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs), and liver cancer caused by HBV and HCV. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Kalantari
- School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | | | - Arsalan Gholipour
- Nanotechnology Research Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, Babol Noshirvani University of Technology, Babol, Iran
| | | | - Behnam Najafiyan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Parsa Amirlou
- Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Nikoo Emtiazi
- Department of Pathology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Bharathiraja P, Yadav P, Sajid A, Ambudkar SV, Prasad NR. Natural medicinal compounds target signal transduction pathways to overcome ABC drug efflux transporter-mediated multidrug resistance in cancer. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 71:101004. [PMID: 37660590 PMCID: PMC10840887 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.101004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters such as ABCB1, ABCG2, and ABCC1 are the major players in drug efflux-mediated multidrug resistance (MDR), which severely affects the efficacy of chemotherapy. Several synthetic compounds block the drug transport by ABC transporters; however, they exhibit a narrow therapeutic window, and produce side effects in non-target normal tissues. Conversely, the downregulation of the expression of ABC drug transporters seems to be a promising strategy to reverse MDR in cancer cells. Several signaling pathways, such as NF-κB, STAT3, Gli, NICD, YAP/TAZ, and Nrf2 upregulate the expression of ABC drug transporters in drug-resistant cancers. Recently, natural medicinal compounds have gained importance to overcome the ABC drug-efflux pump-mediated MDR in cancer. These compounds target transcription factors and the associated signal transduction pathways, thereby downregulating the expression of ABC transporters in drug-resistant cancer cells. Several potent natural compounds have been identified as lead candidates to synergistically enhance chemotherapeutic efficacy, and a few of them are already in clinical trials. Therefore, modulation of signal transduction pathways using natural medicinal compounds for the reversal of ABC drug transporter-mediated MDR in cancer is a novel approach for improving the efficiency of the existing chemotherapeutics. In this review, we discuss the modulatory role of natural medicinal compounds on cellular signaling pathways that regulate the expression of ABC transporters in drug-resistant cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradhapsingh Bharathiraja
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Priya Yadav
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Andaleeb Sajid
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-4256, USA
| | - Suresh V Ambudkar
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-4256, USA.
| | - N Rajendra Prasad
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India.
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48
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Gao Q, Zhan Y, Sun L, Zhu W. Cancer Stem Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment in Tumor Drug Resistance. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2141-2154. [PMID: 37477773 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10593-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Although there has been some progress in the efficacy of anti-cancer drugs, drug resistance remains challenging. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are self-renewing and differentiate into cancer tissues with tumor heterogeneity. CSCs are associated with the progression of breast, colon, and lung cancers. Hence, recent studies have focused on the role of CSCs in resistance to anti-cancer drugs. Increasing evidence suggests that CSCs interact with components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as vascular and immune cells, as well as various cytokines, and are regulated by multiple signaling pathways, thereby promoting drug resistance in various cancers. Therefore, it is important to clarify the mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between CSCs and the TME for the development of targeted anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuzhi Gao
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013, China
| | - Yixiang Zhan
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215300, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013, China.
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Wang F, Gao Y, Xue S, Zhao L, Jiang H, Zhang T, Li Y, Zhao C, Wu F, Siqin T, Liu Y, Wu J, Yan Y, Yuan J, Jiang JD, Li K. SCARB2 drives hepatocellular carcinoma tumor initiating cells via enhanced MYC transcriptional activity. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5917. [PMID: 37739936 PMCID: PMC10517016 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41593-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
CSCs (Cancer stem cells) with distinct metabolic features are considered to cause HCC (hepatocellular carcinoma) initiation, metastasis and therapeutic resistance. Here, we perform a metabolic gene CRISPR/Cas9 knockout library screen in tumorspheres derived from HCC cells and find that deletion of SCARB2 suppresses the cancer stem cell-like properties of HCC cells. Knockout of Scarb2 in hepatocytes attenuates HCC initiation and progression in both MYC-driven and DEN (diethylnitrosamine)-induced HCC mouse models. Mechanistically, binding of SCARB2 with MYC promotes MYC acetylation by interfering with HDCA3-mediated MYC deacetylation on lysine 148 and subsequently enhances MYC transcriptional activity. Screening of a database of FDA (Food and Drug Administration)-approved drugs shows Polymyxin B displays high binding affinity for SCARB2 protein, disrupts the SCARB2-MYC interaction, decreases MYC activity, and reduces the tumor burden. Our study identifies SCARB2 as a functional driver of HCC and suggests Polymyxin B-based treatment as a targeted therapeutic option for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008, China
| | - Situ Xue
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
| | - Luyao Zhao
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
| | - Huimin Jiang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
| | - Yunxuan Li
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
| | - Chenxi Zhao
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Wu
- Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Tana Siqin
- Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
| | - Yechao Yan
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Yuan
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China.
| | - Jian-Dong Jiang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China.
| | - Ke Li
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, China.
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Lu G, Lin J, Song G, Chen M. Prognostic significance of CTNNB1 mutation in hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:9759-9778. [PMID: 37733676 PMCID: PMC10564414 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205047] [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: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant cancers in humans and has a high fatality rate. In recent years, researchers have verified that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway affects the clinicopathological features and prognosis of patients with HCC. Although many studies have investigated the relationship between Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and HCC, the prognostic value of β-catenin in HCC remains inconclusive. CTNNB1 (Catenin Beta-1) is an important factor in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. However, no consensus has been reached on the clinical and prognostic significance of CTNNB1 mutations in HCCs. METHODS Eligible studies and relevant data were obtained from PubMed, Web of Science, Elsevier, Cochrane Library, Ovid, and Embase databases. The correlation between CTNNB1 mutations and clinical/prognosis of patients were evaluated. A fixed- or random-effects model was used to calculate pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS Seventeen studies matched the selection criteria, and 1828 patients were included. This meta-analysis demonstrated that patients with HCC with CTNNB1 mutations had favorable clinicopathological features and survival. The combined ORs of 1-, 3- and 5-year overall survival were0.52 (n = 6 studies, 95% CI: 0.34-0.81, Z = 2.89, P =0.004, 0.28 (n =6 studies, 95% CI: 0.18-0.42, Z = 6.03, P<0.00001), -0.22 (n = 6 studies, 95% CI: 0.37-0.06, Z = 2.78, P = 0.005), respectively. Additionally, CTNNB1 mutation might be significantly associated with differentiation (OR = 0.54, 95% CI:0.36-0.81, Z = 2.98, P = 0.003), TMN stages (Tumor, Node, Metastasis staging classification) (OR = -0.25, 95% CI:-0.33--0.18, Z = 6.60, P<0.00001), liver cirrhosis (OR = 0.21, 95% CI:0.11-0.39, Z = 4.94, P< = 0.00001), and HBV (Hepatitis B Virus) infection (OR = 0.44, 95% CI:0.31-0.64, Z = 4.37, P<0.0001), but not with tumor size, metastasis, vascular invasion, and HCV infection. CONCLUSIONS CTNNB1 mutation can serve as an indicator of favorable prognosis as well as a novel target for treatment in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genlin Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Longyou People’s Hospital Affiliated with Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Quzhou 324400, China
| | - Jian Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Longyou People’s Hospital Affiliated with Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Quzhou 324400, China
| | - Guoqiang Song
- Department of Pulmonary, Department of Cancer Center, Changxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Huzhou 313100, China
| | - Min Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Longyou People’s Hospital Affiliated with Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Quzhou 324400, China
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