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Morena F, Cabrera AR, Greene NP. Exploring heterogeneity: a dive into preclinical models of cancer cachexia. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 327:C310-C328. [PMID: 38853648 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00317.2024] [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: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Cancer cachexia (CC) is a multifactorial and complex syndrome experienced by up to 80% of patients with cancer and implicated in ∼40% of cancer-related deaths. Given its significant impact on patients' quality of life and prognosis, there has been a growing emphasis on elucidating the underlying mechanisms of CC using preclinical models. However, the mechanisms of cachexia appear to differ across several variables including tumor type and model and biologic variables such as sex. These differences may be exacerbated by variance in experimental approaches and data reporting. This review examines literature spanning from 2011 to March 2024, focusing on common preclinical models of CC, including Lewis Lung Carcinoma, pancreatic KPC, and colorectal colon-26 and Apcmin/+ models. Our analysis reveals considerable heterogeneity in phenotypic outcomes, and investigated mechanisms within each model, with particular attention to sex differences that may be exacerbated through methodological differences. Although searching for unified mechanisms is critical, we posit that effective treatment approaches are likely to leverage the heterogeneity presented by the tumor and pertinent biological variables to direct specific interventions. In exploring this heterogeneity, it becomes critical to consider methodological and data reporting approaches to best inform further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francielly Morena
- Cachexia Research Laboratory, Exercise Science Research Center, Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas, United States
| | - Ana Regina Cabrera
- Cachexia Research Laboratory, Exercise Science Research Center, Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas, United States
| | - Nicholas P Greene
- Cachexia Research Laboratory, Exercise Science Research Center, Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas, United States
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2
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Orlandi G, Roncucci L, Carnevale G, Sena P. Different Roles of Apoptosis and Autophagy in the Development of Human Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10201. [PMID: 37373349 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major life-threatening malignancy, despite numerous therapeutic and screening attempts. Apoptosis and autophagy are two processes that share common signaling pathways, are linked by functional relationships and have similar protein components. During the development of cancer, the two processes can trigger simultaneously in the same cell, causing, in some cases, an inhibition of autophagy by apoptosis or apoptosis by autophagy. Malignant cells that have accumulated genetic alterations can take advantage of any alterations in the apoptotic process and as a result, progress easily in the cancerous transformation. Autophagy often plays a suppressive role during the initial stages of carcinogenicity, while in the later stages of cancer development it can play a promoting role. It is extremely important to determine the regulation of this duality of autophagy in the development of CRC and to identify the molecules involved, as well as the signals and the mechanisms behind it. All the reported experimental results indicate that, while the antagonistic effects of autophagy and apoptosis occur in an adverse environment characterized by deprivation of oxygen and nutrients, leading to the formation and development of CRC, the effects of promotion and collaboration usually involve an auxiliary role of autophagy compared to apoptosis. In this review, we elucidate the different roles of autophagy and apoptosis in human CRC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Orlandi
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo, 71-41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Luca Roncucci
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo, 71-41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Gianluca Carnevale
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo, 71-41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Paola Sena
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo, 71-41124 Modena, Italy
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3
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Du YX, Mamun AA, Lyu AP, Zhang HJ. Natural Compounds Targeting the Autophagy Pathway in the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7310. [PMID: 37108476 PMCID: PMC10138367 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087310] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a highly conserved intracellular degradation pathway by which misfolded proteins or damaged organelles are delivered in a double-membrane vacuolar vesicle and finally degraded by lysosomes. The risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) is high, and there is growing evidence that autophagy plays a critical role in regulating the initiation and metastasis of CRC; however, whether autophagy promotes or suppresses tumor progression is still controversial. Many natural compounds have been reported to exert anticancer effects or enhance current clinical therapies by modulating autophagy. Here, we discuss recent advancements in the molecular mechanisms of autophagy in regulating CRC. We also highlight the research on natural compounds that are particularly promising autophagy modulators for CRC treatment with clinical evidence. Overall, this review illustrates the importance of autophagy in CRC and provides perspectives for these natural autophagy regulators as new therapeutic candidates for CRC drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ai-Ping Lyu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Y.-X.D.); (A.A.M.)
| | - Hong-Jie Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Y.-X.D.); (A.A.M.)
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4
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Ahmadi-Dehlaghi F, Mohammadi P, Valipour E, Pournaghi P, Kiani S, Mansouri K. Autophagy: A challengeable paradox in cancer treatment. Cancer Med 2023. [PMID: 36760166 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autophagy is an intracellular degradation pathway conserved in all eukaryotes from yeast to humans. This process plays a quality-control role by destroying harmful cellular components under normal conditions, maintaining cell survival, and establishing cellular adaptation under stressful conditions. Hence, there are various studies indicating dysfunctional autophagy as a factor involved in the development and progression of various human diseases, including cancer. In addition, the importance of autophagy in the development of cancer has been highlighted by paradoxical roles, as a cytoprotective and cytotoxic mechanism. Despite extensive research in the field of cancer, there are many questions and challenges about the roles and effects suggested for autophagy in cancer treatment. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of the paradoxical roles of autophagy in different tumors and related cancer treatment options. METHODS In this study, to find articles, a search was made in PubMed and Google scholar databases with the keywords Autophagy, Autophagy in Cancer Management, and Drug Design. RESULTS According to the investigation, some studies suggest that several advanced cancers are dependent on autophagy for cell survival, so when cancer cells are exposed to therapy, autophagy is induced and suppresses the anti-cancer effects of therapeutic agents and also results in cell resistance. However, enhanced autophagy from using anti-cancer drugs causes autophagy-mediated cell death in several cancers. Because autophagy also plays roles in both tumor suppression and promotion further research is needed to determine the precise mechanism of this process in cancer treatment. CONCLUSION We concluded in this article, autophagy manipulation may either promote or hinder the growth and development of cancer according to the origin of the cancer cells, the type of cancer, and the behavior of the cancer cells exposed to treatment. Thus, before starting treatment it is necessary to determine the basal levels of autophagy in various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Ahmadi-Dehlaghi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.,Department of Biology, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Mohammadi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.,Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elahe Valipour
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Sarah Kiani
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Kamran Mansouri
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
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Foerster EG, Mukherjee T, Cabral-Fernandes L, Rocha JD, Girardin SE, Philpott DJ. How autophagy controls the intestinal epithelial barrier. Autophagy 2022; 18:86-103. [PMID: 33906557 PMCID: PMC8865220 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2021.1909406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 77.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Macroautophagy/autophagy is a cellular catabolic process that results in lysosome-mediated recycling of organelles and protein aggregates, as well as the destruction of intracellular pathogens. Its role in the maintenance of the intestinal epithelium is of particular interest, as several autophagy-related genes have been associated with intestinal disease. Autophagy and its regulatory mechanisms are involved in both homeostasis and repair of the intestine, supporting intestinal barrier function in response to cellular stress through tight junction regulation and protection from cell death. Furthermore, a clear role has emerged for autophagy not only in secretory cells but also in intestinal stem cells, where it affects their metabolism, as well as their proliferative and regenerative capacity. Here, we review the physiological role of autophagy in the context of intestinal epithelial maintenance and how genetic mutations affecting autophagy contribute to the development of intestinal disease.Abbreviations: AKT1S1: AKT1 substrate 1; AMBRA1: autophagy and beclin 1 regulator 1; AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase; APC: APC regulator of WNT signaling pathway; ATF6: activating transcription factor 6; ATG: autophagy related; atg16l1[ΔIEC] mice: mice with a specific deletion of Atg16l1 in intestinal epithelial cells; ATP: adenosine triphosphate; BECN1: beclin 1; bsk/Jnk: basket; CADPR: cyclic ADP ribose; CALCOCO2: calcium binding and coiled-coil domain 2; CASP3: caspase 3; CD: Crohn disease; CDH1/E-cadherin: cadherin 1; CF: cystic fibrosis; CFTR: CF transmembrane conductance regulator; CGAS: cyclic GMP-AMP synthase; CLDN2: claudin 2; CoPEC: colibactin-producing E. coli; CRC: colorectal cancer; CYP1A1: cytochrome P450 family 1 subfamily A member 1; DC: dendritic cell; DDIT3: DNA damage inducible transcript 3; DEPTOR: DEP domain containing MTOR interacting protein; DSS: dextran sulfate sodium; EGF: epidermal growth factor; EGFR: epidermal growth factor receptor; EIF2A: eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2A; EIF2AK3: eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 alpha kinase 3; EIF2AK4/GCN2: eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 alpha kinase 4; ER: endoplasmic reticulum; ERN1: endoplasmic reticulum to nucleus signaling 1; GABARAP: GABA type A receptor-associated protein; HMGB1: high mobility group box 1; HSPA5/GRP78: heat shock protein family A (Hsp70) member 5; IBD: inflammatory bowel disease; IEC: intestinal epithelial cell; IFN: interferon; IFNG/IFNγ:interferon gamma; IL: interleukin; IRGM: immunity related GTPase M; ISC: intestinal stem cell; LGR5: leucine rich repeat containing G protein-coupled receptor 5; LRRK2: leucine rich repeat kinase 2; MAP1LC3A/LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 alpha; MAPK/JNK: mitogen-activated protein kinase; MAPK14/p38 MAPK: mitogen-activated protein kinase 14; MAPKAP1: MAPK associated protein 1; MAVS: mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein; miRNA: microRNA; MLKL: mixed lineage kinase domain like pseudokinase; MLST8: MTOR associated protein, LST8 homolog; MNV: murine norovirus; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; NBR1: NBR1 autophagy cargo receptor; NLRP: NLR family pyrin domain containing; NOD: nucleotide binding oligomerization domain containing; NRBF2: nuclear receptor binding factor 2; OPTN: optineurin; OXPHOS: oxidative phosphorylation; P: phosphorylation; Patj: PATJ crumbs cell polarity complex component; PE: phosphatidyl-ethanolamine; PI3K: phosphoinositide 3-kinase; PIK3C3/VPS34: phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3; PIK3R4: phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 4; PPARG: peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma; PRR5: proline rich 5; PRR5L: proline rich 5 like; PtdIns3K: phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase; PtdIns3P: phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate; RB1CC1/FIP200: RB1 inducible coiled-coil 1; RER: rough endoplasmic reticulum; RHEB: Ras homolog, MTORC1 binding; RICTOR: RPTOR independent companion of MTOR complex 2; RIPK1: receptor interacting serine/threonine kinase 1; ROS: reactive oxygen species; RPTOR: regulatory associated protein of MTOR complex 1; RPS6KB1: ribosomal protein S6 kinase B1; SH3GLB1: SH3 domain containing GRB2 like, endophilin B1; SNP: single-nucleotide polymorphism; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; STAT3: signal transducer and activator of transcription 3; STING1: stimulator of interferon response cGAMP interactor 1; TA: transit-amplifying; TFEB: transcription factor EB; TFE3: transcription factor binding to IGHM enhancer 3; TGM2: transglutaminase 2; TJ: tight junction; TJP1/ZO1: tight junction protein 1; TNBS: 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid; TNF/TNFα: tumor necrosis factor; Tor: target of rapamycin; TRAF: TNF receptor associated factor; TRIM11: tripartite motif containing 11; TRP53: transformation related protein 53; TSC: TSC complex subunit; Ub: ubiquitin; UC: ulcerative colitis; ULK1: unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 1; USO1/p115: USO1 vesicle transport factor; UVRAG: UV radiation resistance associated; WIPI: WD repeat domain, phosphoinositide interacting; WNT: WNT family member; XBP1: X-box binding protein 1; ZFYVE1/DFCP1: zinc finger FYVE-type containing 1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tapas Mukherjee
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | | | - Stephen E. Girardin
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Dana J. Philpott
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Zhang X, Wang S, Zhu Y, Zhang M, Zhao Y, Yan Z, Wang Q, Li X. Double-edged effects of interferons on the regulation of cancer-immunity cycle. Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1929005. [PMID: 34262796 PMCID: PMC8253121 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1929005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Interferons (IFNs) are a large family of pleiotropic cytokines that regulate both innate and adaptive immunity and show anti-cancer effects in various cancer types. Moreover, it was revealed that IFN signaling plays critical roles in the success of cancer therapy strategies, thereby enhancing their therapeutic effects. However, IFNs have minimal or even adverse effects on cancer eradication, and mediate cancer immune escape in some instances. Thus, IFNs have a double-edged effect on the cancer immune response. Recent studies suggest that IFNs regulate each step of the cancer immunity-cycle, consisting of cancer antigen release, presentation of antigens and activation of T cells, trafficking and infiltration of effector T cells into the tumor microenvironment, and recognition and killing of cancer cells, which contributes to our understanding of the mechanisms of IFNs in regulating cancer immunity. In this review, we focus on IFNs and cancer immunity and elaborate on the roles of IFNs in regulating the cancer-immunity cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zhang
- Department of Stomatology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Song Wang
- Department of Pathology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Minghui Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Chifeng City Hospital, Chifeng, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Chifeng City Hospital, Chifeng, China
| | - Zhengbin Yan
- Department of Stomatology, the PeopIe's Hospital of Longhua, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiuxu Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaobo Li
- Department of Stomatology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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Sun SY, Hu XT, Yu XF, Zhang YY, Liu XH, Liu YH, Wu SH, Li YY, Cui SX, Qu XJ. Nuclear translocation of ATG5 induces DNA mismatch repair deficiency (MMR-D)/microsatellite instability (MSI) via interacting with Mis18α in colorectal cancer. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:2351-2369. [PMID: 33645631 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE It is well known that microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) is associated with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) resistance in colorectal cancer. MSI-H is the phenotype of DNA mismatch repair deficiency (MMR-D), mainly occurring due to hypermethylation of MLH1 promoter CpG island. However, the mechanisms of MMR-D/MSI-H are unclear. We aim to investigate the pathway of MMR-D/MSI-H involved in 5-FU resistance. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Human colorectal cancer specimens were diagnosed for MSI-H by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. Proteome microarray interactome assay was performed to screen nuclear proteins interacting with ATG5. Nuclear ATG5 and ATG5-Mis18α overexpression were analysed in ATG5high colorectal cancer bearing mice. The methylation assay determined the hypermethylation of hMLH1 promoter CpG island in freshly isolated human colorectal cancer tissue samples and HT29atg5 and SW480atg5 cancer cells. KEY RESULTS In ATG5high colorectal cancer patients, 5-FU-based therapy resulted in nuclear translocation of ATG5, leading to MSI-H. Colorectal cancer in Atg5 Tg mice demonstrated 5-FU resistance, compared to Atg5+/- and WT mice. Proteome microarray assay identified Mis18α, a protein localized on the centromere and a source for methylation of the underlying chromatin, which responded to the translocated nuclear ATG5 leading to ATG5-Mis18α conjugate overexpression. This resulted in MLH1 deficiency due to hypermethylation of hMLH1 promoter CpG island, while the deletion of nuclear Mis18α failed to induce ATG5-Mis18α complex and MMR-D/MSI-H. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Nuclear ATG5 resulted in MMR-D/MSI-H through its interaction with Mis18α in ATG5high colorectal cancer cells. We suggest that ATG5-Mis18α or Mis18α may be a therapeutic target for treating colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Yue Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Institute of Acu-moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Tao Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin-Feng Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yue-Ying Zhang
- Department of Experimental Pathology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan-Hang Liu
- Department of Pathology, Hospital of Bin Zhou Medical College, Binzhou, China
| | - Shu-Hua Wu
- Department of Pathology, Hospital of Bin Zhou Medical College, Binzhou, China
| | - Yang-Yang Li
- Department of Pathology, Hospital of Bin Zhou Medical College, Binzhou, China
| | - Shu-Xiang Cui
- Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xian-Jun Qu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Polymorphisms within Autophagy-Related Genes Influence the Risk of Developing Colorectal Cancer: A Meta-Analysis of Four Large Cohorts. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13061258. [PMID: 33809172 PMCID: PMC7998818 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary We investigated the influence of autophagy-related variants in modulating colorectal cancer (CRC) risk through a meta-analysis of genome-wide association study (GWAS) data from four large European cohorts. We found that genetic variants within the DAPK2 and ATG5 loci were associated with CRC risk. This study also shed some light onto the functional mechanisms behind the observed associations and demonstrated the impact of DAPK2rs11631973 and ATG5rs546456 polymorphisms on the modulation of host immune responses, blood derived-cell counts and serum inflammatory protein levels, which might be involved in promoting cancer development. No effect of the DAPK2 and ATG5 polymorphisms on the autophagy flux was observed. Abstract The role of genetic variation in autophagy-related genes in modulating autophagy and cancer is poorly understood. Here, we comprehensively investigated the association of autophagy-related variants with colorectal cancer (CRC) risk and provide new insights about the molecular mechanisms underlying the associations. After meta-analysis of the genome-wide association study (GWAS) data from four independent European cohorts (8006 CRC cases and 7070 controls), two loci, DAPK2 (p = 2.19 × 10−5) and ATG5 (p = 6.28 × 10−4) were associated with the risk of CRC. Mechanistically, the DAPK2rs11631973G allele was associated with IL1 β levels after the stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with Staphylococcus aureus (p = 0.002), CD24 + CD38 + CD27 + IgM + B cell levels in blood (p = 0.0038) and serum levels of en-RAGE (p = 0.0068). ATG5rs546456T allele was associated with TNF α and IL1 β levels after the stimulation of PBMCs with LPS (p = 0.0088 and p = 0.0076, respectively), CD14+CD16− cell levels in blood (p = 0.0068) and serum levels of CCL19 and cortisol (p = 0.0052 and p = 0.0074, respectively). Interestingly, no association with autophagy flux was observed. These results suggested an effect of the DAPK2 and ATG5 loci in the pathogenesis of CRC, likely through the modulation of host immune responses.
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Clarithromycin inhibits autophagy in colorectal cancer by regulating the hERG1 potassium channel interaction with PI3K. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:161. [PMID: 32123164 PMCID: PMC7052256 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2349-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We have studied how the macrolide antibiotic Clarithromycin (Cla) regulates autophagy, which sustains cell survival and resistance to chemotherapy in cancer. We found Cla to inhibit the growth of human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells, by modulating the autophagic flux and triggering apoptosis. The accumulation of cytosolic autophagosomes accompanied by the modulation of autophagic markers LC3-II and p62/SQSTM1, points to autophagy exhaustion. Because Cla is known to bind human Ether-à-go-go Related Gene 1 (hERG1) K+ channels, we studied if its effects depended on hERG1 and its conformational states. By availing of hERG1 mutants with different gating properties, we found that fluorescently labelled Cla preferentially bound to the closed channels. Furthermore, by sequestering the channel in the closed conformation, Cla inhibited the formation of a macromolecular complex between hERG1 and the p85 subunit of PI3K. This strongly reduced Akt phosphorylation, and stimulated the p53-dependent cell apoptosis, as witnessed by late caspase activation. Finally, Cla enhanced the cytotoxic effect of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), the main chemotherapeutic agent in CRC, in vitro and in a xenograft CRC model. We conclude that Cla affects the autophagic flux by impairing the signaling pathway linking hERG1 and PI3K. Combining Cla with 5-FU might be a novel therapeutic option in CRC.
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10
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Colorectal cancer cells respond differentially to autophagy inhibition in vivo. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11316. [PMID: 31383875 PMCID: PMC6683171 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47659-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy has both tumor-promoting and -suppressing effects in cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC), with transformed cells often exhibiting high autophagic flux. In established tumors, autophagy inhibition can lead to opposite responses resulting in either tumor cell death or hyperproliferation. The functional mechanisms underlying these differences are poorly understood. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between the autophagic capacities of CRC cells and their sensitivities to autophagy inhibition. All studied CRC cell lines showed high basal autophagic flux. However, only HCT116 and Caco-2/15 cells displayed regulated autophagic flux upon starvation. Knockdown of ATG5 (which disrupts autophagosome elongation) or RAB21 (which decreases autophagosome/lysosome fusion) had little effect on CRC cell proliferation in vitro. Nonetheless, inhibition of autophagy in vivo had a substantial cell line-dependent impact on tumor growth, with some cells displaying decreased (HCT116 and Caco-2/15) or increased (SW480 and LoVo) proliferation. RNA sequencing and Western blot analyses in hyperproliferative SW480 tumors revealed that the mTORC2 and AKT pathways were hyperactivated following autophagy impairment. Inhibition of either mTOR or AKT activities rescued the observed hyperproliferation in autophagy-inhibited SW480 and reduced tumor growth. These results highlight that autophagy inhibition can lead, in specific cellular contexts, to compensatory mechanisms promoting tumor growth.
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11
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Ren J, Sui H, Fang F, Li Q, Li B. The application of Apc Min/+ mouse model in colorectal tumor researches. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2019; 145:1111-1122. [PMID: 30887153 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-019-02883-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE ApcMin/+ mouse is an excellent animal model bearing multiple intestinal neoplasia, used to simulate human familial adenomatous polyposis and colorectal tumors. The key point of this model is the mutation of Apc gene, which is a significant tumor-suppressor gene in the Wnt signaling pathway. There are also some other possible mechanisms responsible for the development of colorectal tumors in the ApcMin/+ mouse model, such as tumor-associated signaling pathways activation, the changes of tumor-related genes, and the involvement of some related proteins or molecules. METHODS The relevant literatures about ApcMin/+ mouse model from PUBMED databases are reviewed in this study. RESULTS In recent years, increasing studies have focused on the application of ApcMin/+ mouse model in colorectal tumor, trying to find effective therapeutic targets for further use. CONCLUSION This article will give a brief review on the related molecular mechanisms of the ApcMin/+ mouse model and its application in colorectal tumor researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junze Ren
- Changhai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Hua Sui
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Institute of Integrative Medicine, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Fanfu Fang
- Changhai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Qi Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Institute of Integrative Medicine, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Bai Li
- Changhai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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Gil J, Ramsey D, Pawlowski P, Szmida E, Leszczynski P, Bebenek M, Sasiadek MM. The Influence of Tumor Microenvironment on ATG4D Gene Expression in Colorectal Cancer Patients. Med Oncol 2018; 35:159. [PMID: 30374741 PMCID: PMC6208841 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-018-1220-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite great progress in research on the subject, the involvement of autophagy in colorectal cancer (CRC) pathogenesis (initiation, progression, metastasis) remains obscure and controversial. Autophagy is a catabolic process, fundamental to cell viability and connected with degradation/recycling of proteins and organelles. In this study, we aimed at investigating the relative expression level of mRNA via Real-Time PCR of 16 chosen genes belonging to Atg8 mammalian orthologs and their conjugation system, comprising GABARAP, GABARAPL1, GABARAPL2, MAP1LC3A, MAP1LC3B, MAP1LC3C, ATG3, ATG7, ATG10, ATG4A, ATG4B, ATG4C, ATG4D, and three genes encoding proteins building the multimeric ATG16L1 complex, namely ATG5, ATG12, and ATG16L1, in 73 colorectal tumors and paired adjacent normal colon mucosa. Our study demonstrated the relative downregulation of all examined genes in CRC tissues in comparison to adjacent noncancerous mucosa, with the highest rate of expression in both tumor and non-tumor tissues observed for GAPARBPL2 and the lowest for MAP1LC3C. Moreover, in patients with advanced-stage tumors and high values of regional lymph nodes, statistically significant downregulation of ATG4D expression in adjacent normal cells was observed. Our study confirms the role of autophagy genes as cancer suppressors in colorectal carcinogenesis. Furthermore, in regard to the ATG4D gene, we observed the influence of tumor microenvironments on gene expression in adjacent colon mucosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Gil
- Department of Genetics, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - David Ramsey
- Department of Operations Research, Wroclaw University of Technology, 50-372, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Pawel Pawlowski
- Department of Genetics, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Elzbieta Szmida
- Department of Genetics, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Przemyslaw Leszczynski
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-345, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marek Bebenek
- First Department of Surgical Oncology, Lower Silesian Oncology Center, 53-413, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Maria M Sasiadek
- Department of Genetics, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368, Wroclaw, Poland
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Yu S, Yin Y, Wang Q, Wang L. Dual gene deficient models of Apc Min/+ mouse in assessing molecular mechanisms of intestinal carcinogenesis. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 108:600-609. [PMID: 30243094 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.09.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The ApcMin/+ mouse, carrying an inactivated allele of the adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) gene, is a widely used animal model of human colorectal tumorigenesis. While crossed with other gene knockout or knock-in mice, these mice possess advantages in investigation of human intestinal tumorigenesis. Intestinal tumor pathogenesis involves multiple gene alterations; thus, various double gene deficiency models could provide novel insights into molecular mechanisms of tumor biology, as well as gene-gene interactions involved in intestinal tumor development and assessment of novel strategies for preventing and treating intestinal cancer. This review discusses approximately 100 double gene deficient mice and their associated intestinal tumor development and progression phenotypes. The dual gene knockouts based on the Apc mutation background consist of inflammation and immune-related, cell cycle-related, Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related, tumor growth factor (TGF)-signaling-related, drug metabolism-related, and transcription factor genes, as well as some oncogenes and tumor suppressors. Future studies should focus on conditional or inducible dual or multiple mouse gene knockout models to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying intestinal tumor development, as well as potential drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuwen Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Yanhui Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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Autophagic flux is essential for the downregulation of D-dopachrome tautomerase by atractylenolide I to ameliorate intestinal adenoma formation. J Cell Commun Signal 2018; 12:689-698. [PMID: 29368299 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-018-0454-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is generally believed to progress through an adenoma - carcinoma sequence. Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) mutations serve as the initiating event in adenoma formation. The ApcMin/+ mouse harbors a mutation in the APC gene, which is similar or identical to the mutation found in individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis and 70% of all sporadic CRC cases. Autophagy is a constitutive process required for proper cellular homeostasis. However, its role in intestinal adenoma formation is still controversial. Atractylenolide I (AT1) is a sesquiterpenoid that possesses various clinically relevant properties such as anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory activities. The role of AT1 on adenoma formation was tested in ApcMin/+ mice and its underlying mechanism in regulating autophagy was documented. D-dopachrome tautomerase (D-DT) was identified as a potential target of AT1 by an proteomics-based approach. The effects of p53 modification on autophgic flux was monitored in p53-/- and p53+/+ HCT116 cells. Small interfering RNA was used to investigate the function of Atg7 and D-DT on autophagy programme induce by AT1. AT1 effectively reduced the formation of adenoma and downregulated the tumorigenic proteins in ApcMin/+ mice. Importantly, AT1 stimulated autophagic flux through downregulating acetylation of p53. Activation of Sirt1 by AT1 was essential for the deacetylation of p53 and downregulation of D-DT. The lowered expression of COX-2 and β-catenin by AT1 were partly recovered by Atg7 knockdown. AT1 activates autophagy machinery to downregulate D-DT and reduce intestinal adenoma formation. This discovery provides evidence in vivo and in vitro that inducing autophagy by natural products maybe a potential therapy to ameliorate colorectal adenoma formation.
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Qian HR, Shi ZQ, Zhu HP, Gu LH, Wang XF, Yang Y. Interplay between apoptosis and autophagy in colorectal cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 8:62759-62768. [PMID: 28977986 PMCID: PMC5617546 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.18663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy and apoptosis are two pivotal mechanisms in mediating cell survival and death. Cross-talk of autophagy and apoptosis has been documented in the tumorigenesis and progression of cancer, while the interplay between the two pathways in colorectal cancer (CRC) has not yet been comprehensively summarized. In this study, we outlined the basis of apoptosis and autophagy machinery firstly, and then reviewed the recent evidence in cellular settings or animal studies regarding the interplay between them in CRC. In addition, several key factors that modulate the cross-talk between autophagy and apoptosis as well as its significance in clinical practice were discussed. Understanding of the interplay between the cell death mechanisms may benefit the translation of CRC treatment from basic research to clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Ran Qian
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Minimally Invasive, Surgery of Zhejiang University, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Zhao-Qi Shi
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Minimally Invasive, Surgery of Zhejiang University, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - He-Pan Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Minimally Invasive, Surgery of Zhejiang University, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Li-Hu Gu
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Minimally Invasive, Surgery of Zhejiang University, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Xian-Fa Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Minimally Invasive, Surgery of Zhejiang University, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310036, Zhejiang, PR China
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Zhou H, Yuan M, Yu Q, Zhou X, Min W, Gao D. Autophagy regulation and its role in gastric cancer and colorectal cancer. Cancer Biomark 2017; 17:1-10. [PMID: 27314289 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-160613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autophagy is associated with the occurrence, development, cellular adaptation, progression, treatment and prognosis of gastric cancer (GC) and colorectal cancer (CRC). The effect of autophagy in these two cancers has attracted our attention. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe the functional and regulatory mechanisms associated with autophagy in GC and CRC. METHODS We reviewed recent publications describing the role of autophagy in GC and CRC, including the functional characteristics, clinical significance and regulatory mechanisms. RESULTS Autophagy plays context-dependent dual roles in the development and progression of GC and CRC. It can either promote tumor growth and cell survival or can contribute to tumor suppression and promote cell death. Both of these effects employ complex regulatory networks, such as those mediated by p53, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Ras and microRNA. Among the cellular process associated with these pathways, autophagy is a potential target for anti-tumor therapy. CONCLUSION Autophagy is associated with both tumorigenic and protective effects in cancer. However, the role of autophagy in GC and CRC remains unclear. Although the translation of the basic science of autophagy into clinical practice is a long process, the modulation of autophagy as a potential therapeutic approach in GC and CRC merits further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huangyan Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Jiangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Institute of Immunotherapy, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Min Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qiongfang Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhou
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Weiping Min
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Jiangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Institute of Immunotherapy, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Dian Gao
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Jiangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Institute of Immunotherapy, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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Ke P, Shao BZ, Xu ZQ, Chen XW, Liu C. Intestinal Autophagy and Its Pharmacological Control in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Front Immunol 2017; 7:695. [PMID: 28119697 PMCID: PMC5220102 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal mucosal barrier, mainly composed of the intestinal mucus layer and the epithelium, plays a critical role in nutrient absorption as well as protection from pathogenic microorganisms. It is widely acknowledged that the damage of intestinal mucosal barrier or the disturbance of microorganism balance in the intestinal tract contributes greatly to the pathogenesis and progression of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which mainly includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved catabolic process that involves degradation of protein aggregates and damaged organelles for recycling. The roles of autophagy in the pathogenesis and progression of IBD have been increasingly studied. This present review mainly describes the roles of autophagy of Paneth cells, macrophages, and goblet cells in IBD, and finally, several potential therapeutic strategies for IBD taking advantage of autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Ke
- Department of Pharmacology, Second Military Medical University , Shanghai , China
| | - Bo-Zong Shao
- Department of Pharmacology, Second Military Medical University , Shanghai , China
| | - Zhe-Qi Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, Second Military Medical University , Shanghai , China
| | - Xiong-Wen Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Second Military Medical University , Shanghai , China
| | - Chong Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Second Military Medical University , Shanghai , China
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García-Fernández M, Karras P, Checinska A, Cañón E, Calvo GT, Gómez-López G, Cifdaloz M, Colmenar A, Espinosa-Hevia L, Olmeda D, Soengas MS. Metastatic risk and resistance to BRAF inhibitors in melanoma defined by selective allelic loss of ATG5. Autophagy 2016; 12:1776-1790. [PMID: 27464255 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2016.1199301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a paradigm of aggressive tumors with a complex and heterogeneous genetic background. Still, melanoma cells frequently retain developmental traits that trace back to lineage specification programs. In particular, lysosome-associated vesicular trafficking is emerging as a melanoma-enriched lineage dependency. However, the contribution of other lysosomal functions such as autophagy to melanoma progression is unclear, particularly in the context of metastasis and resistance to targeted therapy. Here we mined a broad spectrum of cancers for a meta-analysis of mRNA expression, copy number variation and prognostic value of 13 core autophagy genes. This strategy identified heterozygous loss of ATG5 at chromosome band 6q21 as a distinctive feature of advanced melanomas. Importantly, partial ATG5 loss predicted poor overall patient survival in a manner not shared by other autophagy factors and not recapitulated in other tumor types. This prognostic relevance of ATG5 copy number was not evident for other 6q21 neighboring genes. Melanocyte-specific mouse models confirmed that heterozygous (but not homozygous) deletion of Atg5 enhanced melanoma metastasis and compromised the response to targeted therapy (exemplified by dabrafenib, a BRAF inhibitor in clinical use). Collectively, our results support ATG5 as a therapeutically relevant dose-dependent rheostat of melanoma progression. Moreover, these data have important translational implications in drug design, as partial blockade of autophagy genes may worsen (instead of counteracting) the malignant behavior of metastatic melanomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- María García-Fernández
- a Melanoma Laboratory , Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Panagiotis Karras
- a Melanoma Laboratory , Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Agnieszka Checinska
- a Melanoma Laboratory , Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Estela Cañón
- a Melanoma Laboratory , Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Guadalupe T Calvo
- a Melanoma Laboratory , Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Gonzalo Gómez-López
- b Bioinformatics Unit , Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Metehan Cifdaloz
- a Melanoma Laboratory , Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Angel Colmenar
- a Melanoma Laboratory , Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Luis Espinosa-Hevia
- c Cytogenetics Unit , Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
| | - David Olmeda
- a Melanoma Laboratory , Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
| | - María S Soengas
- a Melanoma Laboratory , Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) , Madrid , Spain
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Burada F, Nicoli ER, Ciurea ME, Uscatu DC, Ioana M, Gheonea DI. Autophagy in colorectal cancer: An important switch from physiology to pathology. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2015; 7:271-284. [PMID: 26600927 PMCID: PMC4644850 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v7.i11.271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Revised: 06/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer death in both men and women worldwide. Among the factors and mechanisms that are involved in the multifactorial etiology of CRC, autophagy is an important transformational switch that occurs when a cell shifts from normal to malignant. In recent years, multiple hypotheses have been considered regarding the autophagy mechanisms that are involved in cancer. The currently accepted hypothesis is that autophagy has dual and contradictory roles in carcinogenesis, but the precise mechanisms leading to autophagy in cancer are not yet fully defined and seem to be context dependent. Autophagy is a surveillance mechanism used by normal cells that protects them from the transformation to malignancy by removing damaged organelles and aggregated proteins and by reducing reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial abnormalities and DNA damage. However, autophagy also supports tumor formation by promoting access to nutrients that are critical to the metabolism and growth of tumor cells and by inhibiting cellular death and increasing drug resistance. Autophagy studies in CRC have focused on several molecules, mainly microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3, beclin 1, and autophagy related 5, with conflicting results. Beneficial effects were observed for some agents that modulate autophagy in CRC either alone or, more often, in combination with other agents. More extensive studies are needed in the future to clarify the roles of autophagy-related genes and modulators in colorectal carcinogenesis, and to develop potential beneficial agents for the prognosis and treatment of CRC.
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