1
|
Wang Y, Li C, Jiang T, Yin Y, Wang Y, Zhao H, Yu L. A comprehensive exploration of twist1 to identify a biomarker for tumor immunity and prognosis in pan-cancer. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37790. [PMID: 38608058 PMCID: PMC11018223 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037790] [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: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Twist1 has been identified as a critical gene in tumor, but current study of this gene remains limitative. This study aims to investigate its roles and potential mechanisms across pan-cancer. The study used various databases and computational techniques to analyze twist's RNA expression, clinical data, gene mutations, tumor stemness, tumor microenvironment, immune regulation. Furthermore, the experimental method of fluorescence staining was carried out to identify twist1 expression in various tumor masses. After analyzing the protein-protein interaction of TWIST, enrichment analysis and predictive potential drugs were performed, and molecular docking was conducted to validate. We found that twist1 expression was significantly higher in various types of cancer and associated with tumor stage, grade, and poor prognosis in multiple cancers. Differential expression of twist1 was linked to gene mutation, RNA modifications, and tumor stemness. Additionally, twist1 expression was positively associated with tumor immunoregulation and immune checkpoint. Salinomycin, klugline, isocephaelince, manassantin B, and pimonidazole are predictive potential drugs targeting TWIST1. This study revealed that twist1 plays an important role in tumor, and might be a curial marker in tumor diagnose and prognosis. The study also highlighted twist1 as a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment and provided a foundation for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, The first affiliated hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chunhao Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Tianjiao Jiang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yiqiang Yin
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Pathology, Jinan Fourth People’s Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Yaowen Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, The first affiliated hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Linyi People’s Hospital, Linyi, China
| | - Liang Yu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mahdi-Esferizi R, Shiasi Z, Heidari R, Najafi A, Mahmoudi I, Elahian F, Tahmasebian S. Single-cell transcriptional signature-based drug repurposing and in vitro evaluation in colorectal cancer. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:371. [PMID: 38528462 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12142-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The need for intelligent and effective treatment of diseases and the increase in drug design costs have raised drug repurposing as one of the effective strategies in biomedicine. There are various computational methods for drug repurposing, one of which is using transcription signatures, especially single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data, which show us a clear and comprehensive view of the inside of the cell to compare the state of disease and health. METHODS In this study, we used 91,103 scRNA-seq samples from 29 patients with colorectal cancer (GSE144735 and GSE132465). First, differential gene expression (DGE) analysis was done using the ASAP website. Then we reached a list of drugs that can reverse the gene signature pattern from cancer to normal using the iLINCS website. Further, by searching various databases and articles, we found 12 drugs that have FDA approval, and so far, no one has reported them as a drug in the treatment of any cancer. Then, to evaluate the cytotoxicity and performance of these drugs, the MTT assay and real-time PCR were performed on two colorectal cancer cell lines (HT29 and HCT116). RESULTS According to our approach, 12 drugs were suggested for the treatment of colorectal cancer. Four drugs were selected for biological evaluation. The results of the cytotoxicity analysis of these drugs are as follows: tezacaftor (IC10 = 19 µM for HCT-116 and IC10 = 2 µM for HT-29), fenticonazole (IC10 = 17 µM for HCT-116 and IC10 = 7 µM for HT-29), bempedoic acid (IC10 = 78 µM for HCT-116 and IC10 = 65 µM for HT-29), and famciclovir (IC10 = 422 µM for HCT-116 and IC10 = 959 µM for HT-29). CONCLUSIONS Cost, time, and effectiveness are the main challenges in finding new drugs for diseases. Computational approaches such as transcriptional signature-based drug repurposing methods open new horizons to solve these challenges. In this study, tezacaftor, fenticonazole, and bempedoic acid can be introduced as promising drug candidates for the treatment of colorectal cancer. These drugs were evaluated in silico and in vitro, but it is necessary to evaluate them in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roohallah Mahdi-Esferizi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Zahra Shiasi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Razieh Heidari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Ali Najafi
- Molecular Biology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Issa Mahmoudi
- Information Technology Department, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Elahian
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Shahram Tahmasebian
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Keuper K, Bartek J, Maya-Mendoza A. The nexus of nuclear envelope dynamics, circular economy and cancer cell pathophysiology. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151394. [PMID: 38340500 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The nuclear envelope (NE) is a critical component in maintaining the function and structure of the eukaryotic nucleus. The NE and lamina are disassembled during each cell cycle to enable an open mitosis. Nuclear architecture construction and deconstruction is a prime example of a circular economy, as it fulfills a highly efficient recycling program bound to continuous assessment of the quality and functionality of the building blocks. Alterations in the nuclear dynamics and lamina structure have emerged as important contributors to both oncogenic transformation and cancer progression. However, the knowledge of the NE breakdown and reassembly is still limited to a fraction of participating proteins and complexes. As cancer cells contain highly diverse nuclei in terms of DNA content, but also in terms of nuclear number, size, and shape, it is of great interest to understand the intricate relationship between these nuclear features in cancer cell pathophysiology. In this review, we provide insights into how those NE dynamics are regulated, and how lamina destabilization processes may alter the NE circular economy. Moreover, we expand the knowledge of the lamina-associated domain region by using strategic algorithms, including Artificial Intelligence, to infer protein associations, assess their function and location, and predict cancer-type specificity with implications for the future of cancer diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. Using this approach we identified NUP98 and MECP2 as potential proteins that exhibit upregulation in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (LAML) patients with implications for early diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Keuper
- DNA Replication and Cancer Group, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; Genome Integrity Group, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jiri Bartek
- Genome Integrity Group, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Genome Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, SciLifeLab, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Housini M, Dariya B, Ahmed N, Stevens A, Fiadjoe H, Nagaraju GP, Basha R. Colorectal cancer: Genetic alterations, novel biomarkers, current therapeutic strategies and clinical trials. Gene 2024; 892:147857. [PMID: 37783294 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly detected cancer with a serious global health issue. The rates for incidence and mortality for CRC are alarming, especially since the prognosis is abysmal when the CRC is diagnosed at an advanced or metastatic stage. Both type of (modifiable/ non-modifiable) types of risk factors are established for CRC. Despite the advances in recent technology and sophisticated research, the survival rate is still meager due to delays in diagnosis. Therefore, there is urgently required to identify critical biomarkers aiming at early diagnosis and improving effective therapeutic strategies. Additionally, a complete understanding of the dysregulated pathways like PI3K/Akt, Notch, and Wnt associated with CRC progression and metastasis is very beneficial in designing a therapeutic regimen. This review article focused on the dysregulated signaling pathways, genetics and epigenetics alterations, and crucial biomarkers of CRC. This review also provided the list of clinical trials targeting signaling cascades and therapies involving small molecules. This review discusses up-to-date information on novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies alongside specific clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Housini
- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States
| | - Begum Dariya
- Center for Drug Design, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 5545, United States
| | - Nadia Ahmed
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Alyssa Stevens
- Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, MO 64801, United States
| | - Hope Fiadjoe
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States
| | - Ganji Purnachandra Nagaraju
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States.
| | - Riyaz Basha
- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang H, Liang Y, Zhao L, Deng J, Li Y, Zhao H, Zhang X, Zou F. miR-653-3p promotes genomic instability of colorectal cancer cells via targeting SIRT1/TWIST1 signaling pathway. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166821. [PMID: 37516255 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Development of colorectal cancer (CRC) accompanied with genomic instability. Genomic instability was promoted by microRNAs (miRNAs) inhibiting key genes in DNA damage repair and spindle assembly processes. Whether miR-653-3p affects genomic instability is unknown. The aim of this study is to explore the effect of miR-653-3p on genomic instability in CRC cells. Based on RT-qPCR analysis, miR-653-3p was highly expressed in CRC cells. Through single-cell electrophoresis assay and chromosome karyotype analysis, we determined ectopic expression of miR-653-3p induced increased DNA damage but inhibited apoptosis by promoting chromosomal instability. Mechanistically, luciferase assay identified the direct interaction of miR-653-3p with the 3' UTR of SIRT1, and western blot analysis indicated miR-653-3p inhibited SIRT1 and then promoted STAT3 phosphorylation and TWIST1 expression. The results of karyotype analysis showed that the upregulation of SIRT1 and the downregulation of TWIST1 caused by the downregulation of miR-653-3p suppressed chromosomal instability. Additionally, our evidence showed that miR-653-3p promoted CRC cell proliferation, migration, and 5-FU resistance, and miR-653-3p induced the development of CRC in the xenograft mice model. Altogether, our evidence suggests that miR-653-3p regulates SIRT1/TWIST1 signaling pathway and plays an important role in promoting genomic instability, proliferation, migration, and chemoresistance of CRC cells, which may serve as a promising therapeutic target for CRC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huani Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yutong Liang
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Lili Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Jiaqiang Deng
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Fangdong Zou
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Schuhwerk H, Brabletz T. Mutual regulation of TGFβ-induced oncogenic EMT, cell cycle progression and the DDR. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 97:86-103. [PMID: 38029866 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.11.009] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
TGFβ signaling and the DNA damage response (DDR) are two cellular toolboxes with a strong impact on cancer biology. While TGFβ as a pleiotropic cytokine affects essentially all hallmarks of cancer, the multifunctional DDR mostly orchestrates cell cycle progression, DNA repair, chromatin remodeling and cell death. One oncogenic effect of TGFβ is the partial activation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), conferring invasiveness, cellular plasticity and resistance to various noxae. Several reports show that both individual networks as well as their interface affect chemo-/radiotherapies. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly resolved. EMT often correlates with TGFβ-induced slowing of proliferation, yet numerous studies demonstrate that particularly the co-activated EMT transcription factors counteract anti-proliferative signaling in a partially non-redundant manner. Collectively, evidence piled up over decades underscore a multifaceted, reciprocal inter-connection of TGFβ signaling / EMT with the DDR / cell cycle progression, which we will discuss here. Altogether, we conclude that full cell cycle arrest is barely compatible with the propagation of oncogenic EMT traits and further propose that 'EMT-linked DDR plasticity' is a crucial, yet intricate facet of malignancy, decisively affecting metastasis formation and therapy resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harald Schuhwerk
- Department of Experimental Medicine 1, Nikolaus-Fiebiger Center for Molecular Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Thomas Brabletz
- Department of Experimental Medicine 1, Nikolaus-Fiebiger Center for Molecular Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zheng S, Guerrero-Haughton E, Foijer F. Chromosomal Instability-Driven Cancer Progression: Interplay with the Tumour Microenvironment and Therapeutic Strategies. Cells 2023; 12:2712. [PMID: 38067140 PMCID: PMC10706135 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232712] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal instability (CIN) is a prevalent characteristic of solid tumours and haematological malignancies. CIN results in an increased frequency of chromosome mis-segregation events, thus yielding numerical and structural copy number alterations, a state also known as aneuploidy. CIN is associated with increased chances of tumour recurrence, metastasis, and acquisition of resistance to therapeutic interventions, and this is a dismal prognosis. In this review, we delve into the interplay between CIN and cancer, with a focus on its impact on the tumour microenvironment-a driving force behind metastasis. We discuss the potential therapeutic avenues that have resulted from these insights and underscore their crucial role in shaping innovative strategies for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Zheng
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing (ERIBA), University Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Erika Guerrero-Haughton
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing (ERIBA), University Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Research in Sexual and Reproductive Health, Gorgas Memorial Institute for Health Studies, Panama City 0816-02593, Panama
- Sistema Nacional de Investigación, SENACYT, Panama City 0816-02593, Panama
| | - Floris Foijer
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing (ERIBA), University Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hughes CHK, Smith OE, Meinsohn MC, Brunelle M, Gévry N, Murphy BD. Steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1; Nr5a1) regulates the formation of the ovarian reserve. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2220849120. [PMID: 37494420 PMCID: PMC10410717 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2220849120] [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: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The ovarian follicle reserve, formed pre- or perinatally, comprises all oocytes for lifetime reproduction. Depletion of this reserve results in infertility. Steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1; Nr5a1) and liver receptor homolog 1 (LRH-1; Nr5a2) are two orphan nuclear receptors that regulate adult endocrine function, but their role in follicle formation is unknown. We developed models of conditional depletion of SF-1 or LRH-1 from prenatal ovaries. Depletion of SF-1, but not LRH-1, resulted in dramatically smaller ovaries and fewer primordial follicles. This was mediated by increased oocyte death, resulting from increased ovarian inflammation and increased Notch signaling. Major dysregulated genes were Iroquois homeobox 3 and 5 and their downstream targets involved in the establishment of the ovarian laminin matrix and oocyte-granulosa cell gap junctions. Disruptions of these pathways resulted in follicles with impaired basement membrane formation and compromised oocyte-granulosa communication networks, believed to render them more prone to atresia. This study identifies SF-1 as a key regulator of the formation of the ovarian reserve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camilla H. K. Hughes
- Centre de recherche en reproduction et fertilité, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QCJ2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Olivia E. Smith
- Centre de recherche en reproduction et fertilité, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QCJ2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Marie-Charlotte Meinsohn
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Mylène Brunelle
- Département de biologie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QCJ1K 0A5, Canada
| | - Nicolas Gévry
- Département de biologie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QCJ1K 0A5, Canada
| | - Bruce D. Murphy
- Centre de recherche en reproduction et fertilité, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QCJ2S 2M2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lee S, Kang E, Lee U, Cho S. Role of pelitinib in the regulation of migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via inhibition of Twist1. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:703. [PMID: 37495969 PMCID: PMC10373356 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11217-2] [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: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overexpression of Twist1, one of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition-transcription factors (EMT-TFs), is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) metastasis. Pelitinib is known to be an irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is used in clinical trials for colorectal and lung cancers, but the role of pelitinib in cancer metastasis has not been studied. This study aimed to investigate the anti-migration and anti-invasion activities of pelitinib in HCC cell lines. METHODS Using three HCC cell lines (Huh7, Hep3B, and SNU449 cells), the effects of pelitinib on cell cytotoxicity, invasion, and migration were determined by cell viability, wound healing, transwell invasion, and spheroid invasion assays. The activities of MMP-2 and -9 were examined through gelatin zymography. Through immunoblotting analyses, the expression levels of EMT-TFs (Snail1, Twist1, and ZEB1) and EMT-related signaling pathways such as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and Akt signaling pathways were measured. The activity and expression levels of target genes were analyzed by reporter assay, RT-PCR, quantitative RT-PCR, and immunoblotting analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA with Dunnett's Multiple comparison tests in Prism 3.0 to assess differences between experimental conditions. RESULTS In this study, pelitinib treatment significantly inhibited wound closure in various HCC cell lines, including Huh7, Hep3B, and SNU449. Additionally, pelitinib was found to inhibit multicellular cancer spheroid invasion and metalloprotease activities in Huh7 cells. Further investigation revealed that pelitinib treatment inhibited the migration and invasion of Huh7 cells by inducing Twist1 degradation through the inhibition of MAPK and Akt signaling pathways. We also confirmed that the inhibition of cell motility by Twist1 siRNA was similar to that observed in pelitinib-treated group. Furthermore, pelitinib treatment regulated the expression of target genes associated with EMT, as demonstrated by the upregulation of E-cadherin and downregulation of N-cadherin. CONCLUSION Based on our novel finding of pelitinib from the perspective of EMT, pelitinib has the ability to inhibit EMT activity of HCC cells via inhibition of Twist1, and this may be the potential mechanism of pelitinib on the suppression of migration and invasion of HCC cells. Therefore, pelitinib could be developed as a potential anti-cancer drug for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sewoong Lee
- Laboratory of Molecular and Pharmacological Cell Biology, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjeong Kang
- Laboratory of Molecular and Pharmacological Cell Biology, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Unju Lee
- Laboratory of Molecular and Pharmacological Cell Biology, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Sayeon Cho
- Laboratory of Molecular and Pharmacological Cell Biology, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bai H, Xia S, Zhu L, Dong Y, Liu C, Li N, Liu H, Xiao J. Altered polymerase theta expression promotes chromosomal instability in salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:3931-3949. [PMID: 35726713 PMCID: PMC9279586 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic instability (GIN) plays a key role in cancer progression. The disorders of polymerase theta (POLQ) were reported to contribute to GIN and progression in many cancers. Here, we found that POLQ over‐expression was related to salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC) progression and poor prognosis. Then, we investigated the role and mechanism of POLQ in the GIN in SACC. GIN was assessed by chromosome staining with DAPI and Giemsa, as well as qRT‐PCR of the mitosis‐related gene expression. Meanwhile, PCR‐SSCP was used to evaluate microsatellite instability. Modulation of POLQ expression increased chromosomal instability and enhanced the sensitivity to etoposide without impacting microsatellite stability. Mechanistically, POLQ regulated genome stability by promoting the expression of the error‐prone alt‐NHEJ‐related protein PARP1, and down‐regulating c‐NHEJ‐ and HR‐related proteins KU70 and RAD51. In vitro CCK, Transwell assays and in vivo murine xenograft models indicated that the PARP inhibitor olaparib suppressed SACC growth in the case of etoposide‐induced DNA damage. Bioinformatic analysis identified CEBPB as a potential POLQ‐regulating transcription factor. In summary, our research provides new insights into the mechanisms of SACC chromosomal instability and identifies new potential targets for SACC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han Bai
- College of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shilin Xia
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- College of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yan Dong
- College of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Chao Liu
- College of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Nan Li
- College of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Organism Microecology and Disease Control, Dalian, China
| | - Han Liu
- College of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Organism Microecology and Disease Control, Dalian, China
| | - Jing Xiao
- College of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Organism Microecology and Disease Control, Dalian, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Patil S, Jahagirdar S, Khot M, Sengupta K. Studying the Role of Chromosomal Instability (CIN) in GI Cancers Using Patient-derived Organoids. J Mol Biol 2021; 434:167256. [PMID: 34547328 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Chromosomal instability (CIN) is associated with the initiation and progression of gastrointestinal (GI) tract cancers. Cancers of the GI tract are typically characterized by altered chromosome numbers. While the dynamics of CIN have been extensively characterized in 2D monolayer cell cultures derived from GI tumors, the tumor microenvironment and 3D tumor architecture also contribute to the progression of CIN, which is not captured in 2D cell culture systems. To overcome these limitations, self-organizing cellular structures that retain organ-specific 3D architecture, namely organoids, have been derived from various tissues of the GI tract. Organoids derived from normal tissue and patient tumors serve as a useful paradigm to study the crosstalk between tumor cells in the context of a tissue microenvironment and its impact on chromosomal stability. Such a paradigm, therefore, has a considerable advantage over 2D cell culture systems in drug screening and personalized medicine. Here, we review the importance of patient-derived tumor organoids (PDTOs) as a model to study CIN in cancers of the GI tract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shalaka Patil
- Chromosome Biology Lab (CBL), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India. https://twitter.com/@ShalakaPatil11
| | - Sanika Jahagirdar
- Chromosome Biology Lab (CBL), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India. https://twitter.com/@SanikaJag
| | - Maithilee Khot
- Chromosome Biology Lab (CBL), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India. https://twitter.com/@MaithileeKhot
| | - Kundan Sengupta
- Chromosome Biology Lab (CBL), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yang Y, Feng M, Bai L, Liao W, Zhou K, Zhang M, Wu Q, Wen F, Lei W, Zhang P, Zhang N, Huang J, Li Q. Comprehensive analysis of EMT-related genes and lncRNAs in the prognosis, immunity, and drug treatment of colorectal cancer. J Transl Med 2021; 19:391. [PMID: 34526059 PMCID: PMC8444417 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-03065-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND EMT is an important biological process in the mechanism of tumor invasion and metastasis. However, there are still many unknowns about the specific mechanism of EMT in tumor. At present, a comprehensive analysis of EMT-related genes in colorectal cancer (CRC) is still lacking. METHODS All the data were downloaded from public databases including TCGA database (488 tumor samples and 52 normal samples) as the training set and the GEO database (GSE40967 including 566 tumor samples and 19 normal samples, GSE12945 including 62 tumor samples, GSE17536 including 177 tumor samples, GSE17537 including 55 tumor samples) as the validation sets. One hundred and sixty-six EMT-related genes (EMT-RDGs) were selected from the Molecular Signatures Database. Bioinformatics methods were used to analyze the correlation between EMT-RDGs and CRC prognosis, metastasis, drug efficacy, and immunity. RESULTS We finally obtained nine prognostic-related EMT-RDGs (FGF8, NOG, PHLDB2, SIX2, SNAI1, TBX5, TIAM1, TWIST1, TCF15) through differential expression analysis, Unicox and Lasso regression analysis, and then constructed a risk prognosis model. There were significant differences in clinical characteristics, 22 immune cells, and immune functions between the high-risk and low-risk groups and the different states of the nine prognostic-related EMT-RDGs. The methylation level and mutation status of nine prognostic-related EMT-RDGs all affect their regulation of EMT. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was also constructed by the methylation sites of nine prognostic-related EMT-RDGs. In addition, the expression of FGF8, PHLDB2, SIX2, and SNAIL was higher and the expression level of NOG and TWIST1 was lower in the non-metastasis CRC group. Nine prognostic-related EMT-RDGs also affected the drug treatment response of CRC. CONCLUSIONS Targeting these nine prognostic-related EMT-RDGs can regulate CRC metastasis and immune, which is beneficial for the prognosis of CRC patients, improve drug sensitivity in CRC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mingyang Feng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - LiangLiang Bai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Weiting Liao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Kexun Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mengxi Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiuji Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Feng Wen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wanting Lei
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaxing Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiu Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China. .,West China Biomedical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, No. 37, GuoXue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Brabletz S, Schuhwerk H, Brabletz T, Stemmler MP. Dynamic EMT: a multi-tool for tumor progression. EMBO J 2021; 40:e108647. [PMID: 34459003 PMCID: PMC8441439 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2021108647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 290] [Impact Index Per Article: 96.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is fundamental for embryonic morphogenesis. Cells undergoing it lose epithelial characteristics and integrity, acquire mesenchymal features, and become motile. In cancer, this program is hijacked to confer essential changes in morphology and motility that fuel invasion. In addition, EMT is increasingly understood to orchestrate a large variety of complementary cancer features, such as tumor cell stemness, tumorigenicity, resistance to therapy and adaptation to changes in the microenvironment. In this review, we summarize recent findings related to these various classical and non-classical functions, and introduce EMT as a true tumorigenic multi-tool, involved in many aspects of cancer. We suggest that therapeutic targeting of the EMT process will-if acknowledging these complexities-be a possibility to concurrently interfere with tumor progression on many levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Brabletz
- Department of Experimental Medicine 1Nikolaus‐Fiebiger Center for Molecular MedicineFriedrich‐Alexander University of Erlangen‐NürnbergErlangenGermany
| | - Harald Schuhwerk
- Department of Experimental Medicine 1Nikolaus‐Fiebiger Center for Molecular MedicineFriedrich‐Alexander University of Erlangen‐NürnbergErlangenGermany
| | - Thomas Brabletz
- Department of Experimental Medicine 1Nikolaus‐Fiebiger Center for Molecular MedicineFriedrich‐Alexander University of Erlangen‐NürnbergErlangenGermany
| | - Marc P. Stemmler
- Department of Experimental Medicine 1Nikolaus‐Fiebiger Center for Molecular MedicineFriedrich‐Alexander University of Erlangen‐NürnbergErlangenGermany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
De Las Rivas J, Brozovic A, Izraely S, Casas-Pais A, Witz IP, Figueroa A. Cancer drug resistance induced by EMT: novel therapeutic strategies. Arch Toxicol 2021; 95:2279-2297. [PMID: 34003341 PMCID: PMC8241801 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-021-03063-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Over the last decade, important clinical benefits have been achieved in cancer patients by using drug-targeting strategies. Nevertheless, drug resistance is still a major problem in most cancer therapies. Epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) and tumour microenvironment have been described as limiting factors for effective treatment in many cancer types. Moreover, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has also been associated with therapy resistance in many different preclinical models, although limited evidence has been obtained from clinical studies and clinical samples. In this review, we particularly deepen into the mechanisms of which intermediate epithelial/mesenchymal (E/M) states and its interconnection to microenvironment influence therapy resistance. We also describe how the use of bioinformatics and pharmacogenomics will help to figure out the biological impact of the EMT on drug resistance and to develop novel pharmacological approaches in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier De Las Rivas
- Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics Group, Cancer Research Center (CiC-IBMCC, CSIC/USAL/IBSAL), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), University of Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Anamaria Brozovic
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička 54, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sivan Izraely
- Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Alba Casas-Pais
- Epithelial Plasticity and Metastasis Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña (CHUAC), Sergas, Spain.,Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Coruña, Spain
| | - Isaac P Witz
- Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Angélica Figueroa
- Epithelial Plasticity and Metastasis Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña (CHUAC), Sergas, Spain. .,Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Coruña, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rivera-Rivera Y, Marina M, Jusino S, Lee M, Velázquez JV, Chardón-Colón C, Vargas G, Padmanabhan J, Chellappan SP, Saavedra HI. The Nek2 centrosome-mitotic kinase contributes to the mesenchymal state, cell invasion, and migration of triple-negative breast cancer cells. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9016. [PMID: 33907253 PMCID: PMC8079711 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88512-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nek2 (NIMA-related kinase 2) is a serine/threonine-protein kinase that localizes to centrosomes and kinetochores, controlling centrosome separation, chromosome attachments to kinetochores, and the spindle assembly checkpoint. These processes prevent centrosome amplification (CA), mitotic dysfunction, and chromosome instability (CIN). Our group and others have suggested that Nek2 maintains high levels of CA/CIN, tumor growth, and drug resistance. We identified that Nek2 overexpression correlates with poor survival of breast cancer. However, the mechanisms driving these phenotypes are unknown. We now report that overexpression of Nek2 in MCF10A cells drives CA/CIN and aneuploidy. Besides, enhanced levels of Nek2 results in larger 3D acinar structures, but could not initiate tumors in a p53+/+ or a p53-/- xenograft model. Nek2 overexpression induced the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) while its downregulation reduced the expression of the mesenchymal marker vimentin. Furthermore, either siRNA-mediated downregulation or INH6's chemical inhibition of Nek2 in MDA-MB-231 and Hs578t cells showed important EMT changes and decreased invasion and migration. We also showed that Slug and Zeb1 are involved in Nek2 mediated EMT, invasion, and migration. Besides its role in CA/CIN, Nek2 contributes to breast cancer progression through a novel EMT mediated mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yainyrette Rivera-Rivera
- Division of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University/Ponce Research Institute, PO Box 7004, Ponce, 00716-2348, Puerto Rico
| | - Mihaela Marina
- MediTech Media, Two Ravinia Drive, Suite 605, Atlanta, GA, 30346, USA
| | - Shirley Jusino
- Division of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University/Ponce Research Institute, PO Box 7004, Ponce, 00716-2348, Puerto Rico
| | - Miyoung Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorder Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Jaleisha Vélez Velázquez
- Department of Biology, University of Puerto Rico-Ponce, 2151 Santiago de los Caballeros Avenue, Ponce, 00716, Puerto Rico
| | - Camille Chardón-Colón
- Division of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University/Ponce Research Institute, PO Box 7004, Ponce, 00716-2348, Puerto Rico
| | - Geraldine Vargas
- Division of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University/Ponce Research Institute, PO Box 7004, Ponce, 00716-2348, Puerto Rico
| | - Jaya Padmanabhan
- Department of Tumor Biology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Srikumar P Chellappan
- Department of Tumor Biology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Harold I Saavedra
- Division of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University/Ponce Research Institute, PO Box 7004, Ponce, 00716-2348, Puerto Rico.
| |
Collapse
|