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Kong L, He Q, Ma D, Shi W, Xin Q, Jiang C, Wu J. Ezetimibe inhibits the migration and invasion of triple-negative breast cancer cells by targeting TGFβ2 and EMT. FEBS Open Bio 2024; 14:831-842. [PMID: 38531630 PMCID: PMC11073500 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13797] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The important role of cholesterol in tumor metastasis has been widely studied in recent years. Ezetimibe is currently the only selective cholesterol uptake inhibitor on the market. Here, we explored the effect of ezetimibe on breast cancer metastasis by studying its impact on breast cancer cell migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Differential gene expression analysis and validation were also carried out to compare ezetimibe-treated and untreated breast cancer cells. Finally, breast cancer cells overexpressing TGFβ2 were constructed, and the effect of TGFβ2 on the migration and invasion of ezetimibe-treated breast cancer cells was examined. Our results show that ezetimibe treatment of breast cancer cells inhibited cell migration, invasion, and EMT, and it significantly suppressed the expression of TGFβ2. Overexpression of TGFβ2 reversed the inhibitory effect of ezetimibe on the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. Taken together, our results suggest that ezetimibe might be a potential candidate for the treatment of breast cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingkai Kong
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
| | - Qinyu He
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
| | - Ding Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
| | - Weiwei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
| | - Qilei Xin
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryChina
| | - Chunping Jiang
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
| | - Junhua Wu
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
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2
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Huang P, Wen F, Li Y, Li Q. The tale of SOX2: Focusing on lncRNA regulation in cancer progression and therapy. Life Sci 2024; 344:122576. [PMID: 38492918 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as influential contributors to diverse cellular processes, which regulate gene function and expression via multiple mechanistic pathways. Therefore, it is essential to exploit the structures and interactions of lncRNAs to comprehend their mechanistic functions within cells. A growing body of evidence has revealed that deregulated lncRNAs are involved in multiple regulations of malignant events including cell proliferation, growth, invasion, and metabolism. SRY-related high mobility group box (SOX)2, a well-recognized member of the SOX family, is commonly overexpressed in various types of cancer, contributing to tumor progression and maintenance of stemness. Emerging studies have shown that lncRNAs interact with SOX2 to remarkably contribute to carcinogenesis and disease states. This review elaborates on the crosstalk between the intricate and complicated functions of lncRNAs and SOX2 in the context of malignant diseases. We elucidate distinct molecular mechanisms that contribute to the onset/advancement of cancer, indicating that lncRNAs/SOX2 axes hold immense promise for potential therapeutic targets. Furthermore, we delve into the modalities of emerging feasible treatment options for targeting lncRNAs, highlighting the limitations of such therapies and providing novel insights into further ameliorations of targeted strategies of lncRNAs to promote the clinical implications. Translating current discoveries into clinical applications could ultimately boost improved survival and prognosis of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Huang
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Feng Wen
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - YiShan Li
- Thoracic Oncology Ward, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, West China School of Nursing, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Qiu Li
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.
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3
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Ding K, Zhu Y, Yan L, Zhu L, Zhang TT, Zhang R, Li Q, Xie B, Ding L, Shang L, Wang Y, Xu P, Zhu T, Chen C, Zhu Y. Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes-Reprogrammed Macrophages Facilitate Breast Cancer Metastasis via NBR2/TBX1 Axis. ACS NANO 2024; 18:11103-11119. [PMID: 38623806 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c11651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, carbon nanotubes have emerged as a widely used nanomaterial, but their human exposure has become a significant concern. In our former study, we reported that pulmonary exposure of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) promoted tumor metastasis of breast cancer; macrophages were key effectors of MWCNTs and contributed to the metastasis-promoting procedure in breast cancer, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be explored. As a follow-up study, we herein demonstrated that MWCNT exposure in breast cancer cells and macrophage coculture systems promoted metastasis of breast cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo; macrophages were skewed into M2 polarization by MWCNT exposure. LncRNA NBR2 was screened out to be significantly decreased in MWCNTs-stimulated macrophages through RNA-seq; depletion of NBR2 led to the acquisition of M2 phenotypes in macrophages by activating multiple M2-related pathways. Specifically, NBR2 was found to positively regulate the downstream gene TBX1 through H3k27ac activation. TBX1 silence rescued NBR2-induced impairment of M2 polarization in IL-4 & IL-13-stimulated macrophages. Moreover, NBR2 overexpression mitigated the enhancing effects of MWCNT-exposed macrophages on breast cancer metastasis. This study uncovered the molecular mechanisms underlying breast cancer metastasis induced by MWCNT exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keshuo Ding
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China
| | - Yaling Zhu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Lang Yan
- Department of Health Toxicology, Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Linyan Zhu
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Tian-Tian Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Rumeng Zhang
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Qiushuang Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Bin Xie
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Lin Ding
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Limeng Shang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Panpan Xu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, Anhui China
| | - Chunying Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety & CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100190, China
| | - Yong Zhu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
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Wang H, Wang R, Shen K, Huang R, Wang Z. Biological Roles and Clinical Applications of Exosomes in Breast Cancer: A Brief Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4620. [PMID: 38731840 PMCID: PMC11083446 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094620] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a global health risk for women and has a high prevalence rate. The drug resistance, recurrence, and metastasis of BC affect patient prognosis, thus posing a challenge to scientists. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (EVs) that originate from various cells; they have a double-layered lipid membrane structure and contain rich biological information. They mediate intercellular communication and have pivotal roles in tumor development, progression, and metastasis and drug resistance. Exosomes are important cell communication mediators in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Exosomes are utilized as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for estimating the treatment efficacy of BC and have the potential to function as tools to enable the targeted delivery of antitumor drugs. This review introduces recent progress in research on how exosomes influence tumor development and the TME. We also present the research progress on the application of exosomes as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers and drug delivery tools.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Renhong Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Comprehensive Breast Health Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; (H.W.); (R.W.); (K.S.)
| | - Zheng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Comprehensive Breast Health Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; (H.W.); (R.W.); (K.S.)
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Rodrigues-Junior DM, Moustakas A. Unboxing the network among long non-coding RNAs and TGF-β signaling in cancer. Ups J Med Sci 2024; 129:10614. [PMID: 38571882 PMCID: PMC10989219 DOI: 10.48101/ujms.v129.10614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Deeper analysis of molecular mechanisms arising in tumor cells is an unmet need to provide new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat tumors. The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling has been steadily featured in tumor biology and linked to poor prognosis of cancer patients. One pro-tumorigenic mechanism induced by TGF-β is the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which can initiate cancer dissemination, enrich the tumor stem cell population, and increase chemoresistance. TGF-β signals via SMAD proteins, ubiquitin ligases, and protein kinases and modulates the expression of protein-coding and non-coding RNA genes, including those encoding larger than 500 nt transcripts, defined as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Several reports have shown lncRNAs regulating malignant phenotypes by directly affecting epigenetic processes, transcription, and post-transcriptional regulation. Thus, this review aims to update and summarize the impact of TGF-β signaling on the expression of lncRNAs and the function of such lncRNAs as regulators of TGF-β signaling, and how these networks might impact specific hallmarks of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Yang F, Yang Y, Qiu Y, Tang L, Xie L, Guan X. Long Non-Coding RNAs as Regulators for Targeting Breast Cancer Stem Cells and Tumor Immune Microenvironment: Biological Properties and Therapeutic Potential. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:290. [PMID: 38254782 PMCID: PMC10814583 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020290] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) is a subpopulation of cancer cells with self-renewal and differentiation capacity, have been suggested to give rise to tumor heterogeneity and biologically aggressive behavior. Accumulating evidence has shown that BCSCs play a fundamental role in tumorigenesis, progression, and recurrence. The development of immunotherapy, primarily represented by programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors, has greatly changed the treatment landscape of multiple malignancies. Recent studies have identified pervasive negative associations between cancer stemness and anticancer immunity. Stemness seems to play a causative role in the formation of cold tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). The multiple functions of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in regulating stemness and immune responses has been recently highlighted in breast cancer. The review focus on lncRNAs and keys pathways involved in the regulation of BCSCs and TIME. Potential clinical applications using lncRNAs as biomarkers or therapies will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Yang
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (F.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.Q.)
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yiqi Yang
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (F.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.Q.)
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yuling Qiu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (F.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.Q.)
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Lin Tang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China;
| | - Li Xie
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (F.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.Q.)
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xiaoxiang Guan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
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Li S, He RC, Wu SG, Song Y, Zhang KL, Tang ML, Bei YR, Zhang T, Lu JB, Ma X, Jiang M, Qin LJ, Xu Y, Dong XH, Wu J, Dai X, Hu YW. LncRNA PSMB8-AS1 Instigates Vascular Inflammation to Aggravate Atherosclerosis. Circ Res 2024; 134:60-80. [PMID: 38084631 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.122.322360] [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: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing evidence suggests that long noncoding RNAs play significant roles in vascular biology and disease development. One such long noncoding RNA, PSMB8-AS1, has been implicated in the development of tumors. Nevertheless, the precise role of PSMB8-AS1 in cardiovascular diseases, particularly atherosclerosis, has not been thoroughly elucidated. Thus, the primary aim of this investigation is to assess the influence of PSMB8-AS1 on vascular inflammation and the initiation of atherosclerosis. METHODS We generated PSMB8-AS1 knockin and Apoe (Apolipoprotein E) knockout mice (Apoe-/-PSMB8-AS1KI) and global Apoe and proteasome subunit-β type-9 (Psmb9) double knockout mice (Apoe-/-Psmb9-/-). To explore the roles of PSMB8-AS1 and Psmb9 in atherosclerosis, we fed the mice with a Western diet for 12 weeks. RESULTS Long noncoding RNA PSMB8-AS1 is significantly elevated in human atherosclerotic plaques. Strikingly, Apoe-/-PSMB8-AS1KI mice exhibited increased atherosclerosis development, plaque vulnerability, and vascular inflammation compared with Apoe-/- mice. Moreover, the levels of VCAM1 (vascular adhesion molecule 1) and ICAM1 (intracellular adhesion molecule 1) were significantly upregulated in atherosclerotic lesions and serum of Apoe-/-PSMB8-AS1KI mice. Consistently, in vitro gain- and loss-of-function studies demonstrated that PSMB8-AS1 induced monocyte/macrophage adhesion to endothelial cells and increased VCAM1 and ICAM1 levels in a PSMB9-dependent manner. Mechanistic studies revealed that PSMB8-AS1 induced PSMB9 transcription by recruiting the transcription factor NONO (non-POU domain-containing octamer-binding protein) and binding to the PSMB9 promoter. PSMB9 (proteasome subunit-β type-9) elevated VCAM1 and ICAM1 expression via the upregulation of ZEB1 (zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1). Psmb9 deficiency decreased atherosclerotic lesion size, plaque vulnerability, and vascular inflammation in Apoe-/- mice in vivo. Importantly, endothelial overexpression of PSMB8-AS1-increased atherosclerosis and vascular inflammation were attenuated by Psmb9 knockout. CONCLUSIONS PSMB8-AS1 promotes vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis via the NONO/PSMB9/ZEB1 axis. Our findings support the development of new long noncoding RNA-based strategies to counteract atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (S.L., R.-C.H., Y.S., K.-L.Z., M.-L.T., T.Z., M.J., X.-H.D., J.W., Y.-W.H.)
| | - Run-Chao He
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (S.L., R.-C.H., Y.S., K.-L.Z., M.-L.T., T.Z., M.J., X.-H.D., J.W., Y.-W.H.)
| | - Shao-Guo Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Twelfth People's Hospital, Guangdong, China (S.-G.W.)
| | - Yu Song
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (S.L., R.-C.H., Y.S., K.-L.Z., M.-L.T., T.Z., M.J., X.-H.D., J.W., Y.-W.H.)
| | - Ke-Lan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (S.L., R.-C.H., Y.S., K.-L.Z., M.-L.T., T.Z., M.J., X.-H.D., J.W., Y.-W.H.)
| | - Mao-Lin Tang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (S.L., R.-C.H., Y.S., K.-L.Z., M.-L.T., T.Z., M.J., X.-H.D., J.W., Y.-W.H.)
| | - Yan-Rou Bei
- Laboratory Medicine Center (Y.-R.B.), Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (S.L., R.-C.H., Y.S., K.-L.Z., M.-L.T., T.Z., M.J., X.-H.D., J.W., Y.-W.H.)
| | - Jin-Bo Lu
- Department of Peripheral Vascular Surgery, Fuwai Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenzhen (J.-B.L.)
| | - Xin Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology (X.M.), Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Min Jiang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (S.L., R.-C.H., Y.S., K.-L.Z., M.-L.T., T.Z., M.J., X.-H.D., J.W., Y.-W.H.)
| | - Liang-Jun Qin
- Department of Pathology, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (L.J.Q.)
| | - Yudan Xu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China (Y.X.)
| | - Xian-Hui Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (S.L., R.-C.H., Y.S., K.-L.Z., M.-L.T., T.Z., M.J., X.-H.D., J.W., Y.-W.H.)
| | - Jia Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (S.L., R.-C.H., Y.S., K.-L.Z., M.-L.T., T.Z., M.J., X.-H.D., J.W., Y.-W.H.)
| | - Xiaoyan Dai
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (X.D.)
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, China (X.D.)
| | - Yan-Wei Hu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China (S.L., R.-C.H., Y.S., K.-L.Z., M.-L.T., T.Z., M.J., X.-H.D., J.W., Y.-W.H.)
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China (Y.-W.H.)
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Alsaikhan F. Hyaluronic acid-empowered nanotheranostics in breast and lung cancers therapy. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:116951. [PMID: 37633628 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Nanomedicine application in cancer therapy is an urgency because of inability of current biological therapies for complete removal of tumor cells. The development of smart and novel nanoplatforms for treatment of cancer can provide new insight in tumor suppression. Hyaluronic acid is a biopolymer that can be employed for synthesis of smart nanostructures capable of selective targeting CD44-overexpressing tumor cells. The breast and lung cancers are among the most malignant and common tumors in both females and males that environmental factors, lifestyle and genomic alterations are among the risk factors for their pathogenesis and development. Since etiology of breast and lung tumors is not certain and multiple factors participate in their development, preventative measures have not been completely successful and studies have focused on developing new treatment strategies for them. The aim of current review is to provide a comprehensive discussion about application of hyaluronic acid-based nanostructures for treatment of breast and lung cancers. The main reason of using hyaluronic acid-based nanoparticles is their ability in targeting breast and lung cancers in a selective way due to upregulation of CD44 receptor on their surface. Moreover, nanocarriers developed from hyaluronic acid or functionalized with hyaluronic acid have high biocompatibility and their safety is appreciated. The drugs and genes used for treatment of breast and lung cancers lack specific accumulation at cancer site and their cytotoxicity is low, but hyaluronic acid-based nanostructures provide their targeted delivery to tumor site and by increasing internalization of drugs and genes in breast and lung tumor cells, they improve their therapeutic index. Furthermore, hyaluronic acid-based nanostructures can be used for phototherapy-mediated breast and lung cancers ablation. The stimuli-responsive and smart kinds of hyaluronic acid-based nanostructures such as pH- and light-responsive can increase selective targeting of breast and lung cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia.
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9
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He Q, Kong L, Shi W, Ma D, Liu K, Yang S, Xin Q, Jiang C, Wu J. Ezetimibe inhibits triple-negative breast cancer proliferation and promotes cell cycle arrest by targeting the PDGFR/AKT pathway. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21343. [PMID: 38027998 PMCID: PMC10651468 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21343] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol levels were strongly associated with tumor progression and metastasis. Targeted cholesterol metabolism has broad prospects in tumor treatment. Ezetimibe, the only FDA-approved inhibitor of cholesterol absorption, has been reported to be able to inhibit angiogenesis in liver cancer. However, the efficacy and specific mechanisms of Ezetimibe in the treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)have not been reported. Our research shows Ezetimibe inhibits TNBC cell proliferation and blocks the cell cycle in the G1 phase. Mechanistically, Ezetimibe inhibits the activation of PDGFRβ/AKT pathway, thereby promoting cell cycle arrest and inhibiting cell proliferation. By overexpressing PDGFRβ in TNBC cells, we found that PDGFRβ significantly reduced the inhibitory effect of Ezetimibe on TNBC cell proliferation and the cell cycle. Similarly, SC79, an AKT agonist, can reduce the proliferation inhibitory and cycle-blocking effects of Ezetimibe on TNBC cells. Furthermore, the AKT inhibitor MK2206 enhanced the inhibitory effect of Ezetimibe on the cell cycle and proliferation ability of TNBC cells overexpressing PDGFRβ. In xenograft tumor models, we also found that Ezetimibe inhibited TNBC growth, an effect that can be blocked by overexpression of PDGFR or activation of AKT. In summary, we have demonstrated that EZ inhibits the PDGFR/AKT pathway, thereby halting TNBC cycle progression and tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinyu He
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Lingkai Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Weiwei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Ding Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Kua Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Shuwei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Qilei Xin
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Shounuo City Light West Block, Qingdao Road 3716#, Huaiyin District, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chunping Jiang
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Shounuo City Light West Block, Qingdao Road 3716#, Huaiyin District, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Junhua Wu
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Shounuo City Light West Block, Qingdao Road 3716#, Huaiyin District, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
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10
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Wang M, Wang Y, Yang L, Du X, Li Q. Nuclear lncRNA NORSF reduces E2 release in granulosa cells by sponging the endogenous small activating RNA miR-339. BMC Biol 2023; 21:221. [PMID: 37858148 PMCID: PMC10588145 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01731-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: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functioning as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) is the main action mechanism of most cytoplasmic lncRNAs. However, it is not known whether this mechanism of action also exists in the nucleus. RESULTS We identified four nuclear lncRNAs that are presented in granulosa cells (GCs) and were differentially expressed during sow follicular atresia. Notably, similar to cytoplasmic lncRNAs, these nuclear lncRNAs also sponge miRNAs in the nucleus of GCs through direct interactions. Furthermore, NORSF (non-coding RNA involved in sow fertility), one of the nuclear lncRNA acts as a ceRNA of miR-339. Thereby, it relieves the regulatory effect of miR-339 on CYP19A1 encoding P450arom, a rate-limiting enzyme for E2 synthesis in GCs. Interestingly, miR-339 acts as a saRNA that activates CYP19A1 transcription and enhances E2 release by GCs through altering histone modifications in the promoter by directly binding to the CYP19A1 promoter. Functionally, NORSF inhibited E2 release by GCs via the miR-339 and CYP19A1 axis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight an unappreciated mechanism of nuclear lncRNAs and show it acts as a ceRNA, which may be a common lncRNA function in the cytoplasm and nucleus. We also identified a potential endogenous saRNA for improving female fertility and treating female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Liu Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xing Du
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Qifa Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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11
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Maharati A, Moghbeli M. Long non-coding RNAs as the critical regulators of PI3K/AKT, TGF-β, and MAPK signaling pathways during breast tumor progression. J Transl Med 2023; 21:556. [PMID: 37596669 PMCID: PMC10439650 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04434-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) as one of the most common causes of human deaths among women, is always considered one of the global health challenges. Despite various advances in diagnostic and therapeutic methods, a significant percentage of BC patients have a poor prognosis due to the lack of therapeutic response. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms involved in BC progression can improve the therapeutic and diagnostic strategies in these patients. Cytokine and growth factor-dependent signaling pathways play a key role during BC progression. In addition to cytokines and growth factors, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have also important roles in regulation of such signaling pathways. Therefore, in the present review we discussed the role of lncRNAs in regulation of PI3K/AKT, MAPK, and TGF-β signaling pathways in breast tumor cells. It has been shown that lncRNAs mainly have an oncogenic role through the promotion of these signaling pathways in BC. This review can be an effective step in introducing the lncRNAs inhibition as a probable therapeutic strategy to reduce tumor growth by suppression of PI3K/AKT, MAPK, and TGF-β signaling pathways in BC patients. In addition, considering the oncogenic role and increased levels of lncRNAs expressions in majority of the breast tumors, lncRNAs can be also considered as the reliable diagnostic markers in BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhosein Maharati
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Meysam Moghbeli
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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12
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Mirzaei S, Ranjbar B, Tackallou SH, Aref AR. Hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) in breast cancer: The crosstalk with oncogenic and onco-suppressor factors in regulation of cancer hallmarks. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 248:154676. [PMID: 37454494 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Low oxygen level at tumor microenvironment leads to a condition, known as hypoxia that is implicated in cancer progression. Upon hypoxia, HIF-1α undergoes activation and due to its oncogenic function and interaction with other molecular pathways, promotes tumor progression. The HIF-1α role in regulating breast cancer progression is described, Overall, HIF-1α has upregulation in breast tumor and due to its tumor-promoting function, its upregulation is in favor of breast tumor progression. HIF-1α overexpression prevents apoptosis in breast tumor and it promotes cell cycle progression. Silencing HIF-1α triggers cycle arrest and decreases growth. Migration of breast tumor enhances by HIF-1α signaling and it mainly induces EMT in providing metastasis. HIF-1α upregulation stimulates drug resistance and radio-resistance in breast tumor. Furthermore, HIF-1α signaling induces immune evasion of breast cancer. Berberine and pharmacological intervention suppress HIF-1α signaling in breast tumor and regulation of HIF-1α by non-coding RNAs occurs. Furthermore, HIF-1α is a biomarker in clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Bijan Ranjbar
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
| | | | - Amir Reza Aref
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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13
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Jaiswal A, Kaushik N, Choi EH, Kaushik NK. Functional impact of non-coding RNAs in high-grade breast carcinoma: Moving from resistance to clinical applications: A comprehensive review. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188915. [PMID: 37196783 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Despite the recent advances in cancer therapy, triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are the most relapsing cancer sub-type. It is partly due to their propensity to develop resistance against the available therapies. An intricate network of regulatory molecules in cellular mechanisms leads to the development of resistance in tumors. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have gained widespread attention as critical regulators of cancer hallmarks. Existing research suggests that aberrant expression of ncRNAs modulates the oncogenic or tumor suppressive signaling. This can mitigate the responsiveness of efficacious anti-tumor interventions. This review presents a systematic overview of biogenesis and down streaming molecular mechanism of the subgroups of ncRNAs. Furthermore, it explains ncRNA-based strategies and challenges to target the chemo-, radio-, and immunoresistance in TNBCs from a clinical standpoint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apurva Jaiswal
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01897, Republic of Korea
| | - Neha Kaushik
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Engineering, The University of Suwon, Suwon 18323, Republic of Korea.
| | - Eun Ha Choi
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01897, Republic of Korea.
| | - Nagendra Kumar Kaushik
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01897, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Kou Q, Huang Y, Su Y, Lu L, Li X, Jiang H, Huang R, Li J, Nie X. Erythrocyte membrane-camouflaged DNA-functionalized upconversion nanoparticles for tumor-targeted chemotherapy and immunotherapy. NANOSCALE 2023. [PMID: 37161583 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr00542a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
A synergistic combination of treatment with immunogenic cell death (ICD) inducers and immunoadjuvants may be a practical way to boost the anticancer response and successfully induce an immune response. The use of HR@UCNPs/CpG-Apt/DOX, new biomimetic drug delivery nanoparticles generated to combat breast cancer, is reported here as a unique strategy to produce immunogenicity and boost cancer immunotherapy. HR@UCNPs/CpG-Apt/DOX (HR-UCAD) consists of two parts. The core is composed of an immunoadjuvant CpG (a toll-like receptor 9 agonist) fused with a dendritic cell-specific aptamer sequence (CpG-Apt) to decorate upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) with the successful intercalation of doxorubicin (DOX) into the consecutive base pairs of Apt-CpG to construct an immune nanodrug UCNPs@CpG-Apt/DOX. The targeting molecule hyaluronic acid (HA) was inserted into a red blood cell membrane (RBCm) to form the shell (HR). HR-UCAD possessed a strong capacity to specifically induce ICD. Following DOX-induced ICD of cancer cells, sufficient exposure to tumor antigens and UCNPs@CpG-Apt (UCA) activated the tumor-specific immune response and reversed the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In addition, HR-UCAD has good biocompatibility and increases the active tumor-targeting effect. Furthermore, HR-UCAD exhibits excellent near-infrared upconversion luminescence emission at 804 nm under irradiation with a 980 nm laser, which has great potential in biomedical imaging. Thus, the RBCm-camouflaged drug delivery system is a promising targeted chemotherapy and immunotherapy nanocomplex that could be used for effective targeted breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinjie Kou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yufen Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yanrong Su
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Lu Lu
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Xisheng Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Haiye Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Rong Huang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Xinmin Nie
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center of Optoelectronic Health Detection, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China.
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15
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Huang Z, Zhang M, Li J, Lou C. Long non-coding RNA MAFG-AS1: A promising therapeutic target for human cancers. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114756. [PMID: 37105079 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are commonly known for their important characters in cancer progression. LncRNA MAFG-antisense 1 (AS1) (MAFG-AS1) has been discovered as a novel oncogenic lncRNA for several years. Accumulating data have demonstrated abnormal overexpression of MAFG-AS1 in various human cancers, including breast, bladder, liver, gastric, and lung. Importantly, through regulating various microRNAs and cell signaling pathways, MAFG-AS1 has been demonstrated to exhibit various biological effects, including proliferation, metastasis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Meanwhile, abnormal overexpression of MAFG-AS1 is closely linked with histological grade, TNM stage, extensive depth of invasion, poor OS, and lymph node metastasis (LNM). In the present review, the authors summarized the previous studies on the biological properties, molecular mechanisms, and clinicopathological characters of MAFG-AS1 in human cancers. In summary, MAFG-AS1 is a promising prognostic biological marker and potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Maoqing Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jiayue Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Chenghua Lou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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16
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Sorafenib Alleviates Inflammatory Signaling of Tumor Microenvironment in Precancerous Lung Injuries. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/ph16020221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
According to population-based studies, lung cancer is the prominent reason for cancer-related mortality worldwide in males and is also rising in females at an alarming rate. Sorafenib (SOR), which is approved for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma and renal cell carcinoma, is a multitargeted protein kinase inhibitor. Additionally, SOR is the subject of interest for preclinical and clinical trials in lung cancer. This study was designed to assess in vivo the possible effects of sorafenib (SOR) in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced lung carcinogenesis and examine its probable mechanisms of action. A total of 30 adult male rats were divided into three groups (1) control, (2) DEN, and (3) DEN + SOR. The chemical induction of lung carcinogenesis was performed by injection of DEN intraperitoneally at 150 mg/kg once a week for two weeks. The DEN-administered rats were co-treated with SOR of 10 mg/kg by oral gavage for 42 alternate days. Serum and lung tissue samples were analyzed to determine SRY-box transcription factor 2 (SOX-2) levels. The tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) levels were measured in lung tissue supernatants. Lung sections were analyzed for cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) histopathologically. In addition, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence methods, respectively. SOR reduced the level of SOX-2 that maintenance of cancer stemness and tumorigenicity, and TNF-α and IL-1β levels. Histopathological analysis demonstrated widespread inflammatory cell infiltration, disorganized alveolar structure, hyperemia in the vessels, and thickened alveolar walls in DEN-induced rats. The damage was markedly reduced upon SOR treatment. Further, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analysis also revealed increased expression of COX-2 and JNK expression in DEN-intoxicated rats. However, SOR treatment alleviated the expression of these inflammatory markers in DEN-induced lung carcinogenesis. These findings suggested that SOR inhibits DEN-induced lung precancerous lesions through decreased inflammation with concomitant in reduced SOX-2 levels, which enables the maintenance of cancer stem cell properties.
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17
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Ciafrè SA, Russo M, Michienzi A, Galardi S. Long Noncoding RNAs and Cancer Stem Cells: Dangerous Liaisons Managing Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031828. [PMID: 36768150 PMCID: PMC9915130 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031828] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Decades of research have investigated the mechanisms that lead to the origin of cancer, striving to identify tumor-initiating cells. These cells, also known as cancer stem cells, are characterized by the ability to self-renew, to give rise to differentiated tumor populations, and on a larger scale, are deemed responsible not only for tumor initiation but also for recurrent tumors, often resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Long noncoding RNAs are RNA molecules longer than 200 nt, lacking the ability to code for proteins, with recognized roles as fine regulators of gene expression. They can exert these functions through a variety of mechanisms, acting at almost all steps of gene expression, from modulation of the epigenetic state of chromatin to modulation of protein stability. In all cases, lncRNAs do not work alone, but they always interact with other RNA molecules, either coding or non-coding, or with protein factors. In this review, we summarize the latest results obtained about the involvement of lncRNAs in the initiating cells of several types of tumors, and highlight the different mechanisms through which they work, while discussing how the modulation of a lncRNA can affect several aspects of tumor onset and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Anna Ciafrè
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.A.C.); (S.G.)
| | - Monia Russo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Michienzi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Galardi
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.A.C.); (S.G.)
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18
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Czerwinska P, Mackiewicz AA. Bromodomain (BrD) Family Members as Regulators of Cancer Stemness-A Comprehensive Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:995. [PMID: 36674511 PMCID: PMC9861003 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24020995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms involving DNA methylation and chromatin modifications have emerged as critical facilitators of cancer heterogeneity, substantially affecting cancer development and progression, modulating cell phenotypes, and enhancing or inhibiting cancer cell malignant properties. Not surprisingly, considering the importance of epigenetic regulators in normal stem cell maintenance, many chromatin-related proteins are essential to maintaining the cancer stem cell (CSC)-like state. With increased tumor-initiating capacities and self-renewal potential, CSCs promote tumor growth, provide therapy resistance, spread tumors, and facilitate tumor relapse after treatment. In this review, we characterized the epigenetic mechanisms that regulate the acquisition and maintenance of cancer stemness concerning selected epigenetic factors belonging to the Bromodomain (BrD) family of proteins. An increasing number of BrD proteins reinforce cancer stemness, supporting the maintenance of the cancer stem cell population in vitro and in vivo via the utilization of distinct mechanisms. As bromodomain possesses high druggable potential, specific BrD proteins might become novel therapeutic targets in cancers exhibiting de-differentiated tumor characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Czerwinska
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
- Department of Diagnostics and Cancer Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
| | - Andrzej Adam Mackiewicz
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
- Department of Diagnostics and Cancer Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
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