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Xu H, Wang X, Zhu F, Guo S, Chao Z, Cao C, Lu Z, Zhu H, Wang M, Zhu F, Yang J, Zeng R, Yao Y. Comprehensive Pan-Cancer Analysis of Connexin 43 as a Potential Biomarker and Therapeutic Target in Human Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma (KIRC). MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:780. [PMID: 38792963 PMCID: PMC11123162 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60050780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Connexin 43 (Cx43) is involved in the transfer of small signaling molecules between neighboring cells, thereby exerting a major influence on the initiation and progression of tumorigenesis. However, there is a lack of systematic research on Cx43 expression and its predictive role in clinical diagnosis and prognosis in pan-cancer. Materials and Methods: Several biological databases were used to evaluate the expression levels of GJA1 (encoding Cx43) and its diagnostic and prognostic significance in pan-cancer. We targeted kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) and investigated the relationship between GJA1 expression and different clinical features of KIRC patients. Then, we performed cell-based experiments to partially confirm our results and predicted several proteins that were functionally related to Cx43. Results: The expression of GJA1 has a high level of accuracy in predicting KIRC. High GJA1 expression was remarkably correlated with a favorable prognosis, and this expression was reduced in groups with poor clinical features in KIRC. Cell experiments confirmed the inhibitory effects of increased GJA1 expression on the migratory capacity of human renal cancer (RCC) cell lines, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis predicted that CDH1 and CTNNB1 were closely related to Cx43. Conclusions: GJA1 could be a promising independent favorable prognostic factor for KIRC, and upregulation of GJA1 expression could inhibit the migratory capacity of renal cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huzi Xu
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Xiuru Wang
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Fan Zhu
- Wuhan Central Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China;
| | - Shuiming Guo
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Zheng Chao
- Division of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China;
| | - Chujin Cao
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Zhihui Lu
- Division of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China;
| | - Han Zhu
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Meng Wang
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Fengming Zhu
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Juan Yang
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Rui Zeng
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Ying Yao
- Division of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China; (H.X.); (X.W.); (S.G.); (C.C.); (H.Z.); (M.W.); (F.Z.); (J.Y.)
- Division of Nutrition, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, China
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Zoteva V, De Meulenaere V, Vanhove C, Leybaert L, Raedt R, Pieters L, Vral A, Boterberg T, Deblaere K. Integrating and optimizing tonabersat in standard glioblastoma therapy: A preclinical study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300552. [PMID: 38489314 PMCID: PMC10942024 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GB), a highly aggressive primary brain tumor, presents a poor prognosis despite the current standard therapy, including radiotherapy and temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy. Tumor microtubes involving connexin 43 (Cx43) contribute to glioma progression and therapy resistance, suggesting Cx43 inhibition as a potential treatment strategy. This research aims to explore the adjuvant potential of tonabersat, a Cx43 gap junction modulator and blood-brain barrier-penetrating compound, in combination with the standard of care for GB. In addition, different administration schedules and timings to optimize tonabersat's therapeutic window are investigated. The F98 Fischer rat model will be utilized to investigate tonabersat's impact in a clinically relevant setting, by incorporating fractionated radiotherapy (three fractions of 9 Gy) and TMZ chemotherapy (29 mg/kg). This study will evaluate tonabersat's impact on tumor growth, survival, and treatment response through advanced imaging (CE T1-w MRI) and histological analysis. Results show extended survival in rats receiving tonabersat with standard care, highlighting its adjuvant potential. Daily tonabersat administration, both preceding and following radiotherapy, emerges as a promising approach for maximizing survival outcomes. The study suggests tonabersat's potential to reduce tumor invasiveness, providing a new avenue for GB treatment. In conclusion, this preclinical investigation highlights tonabersat's potential as an effective adjuvant treatment for GB, and its established safety profile from clinical trials in migraine treatment presents a promising foundation for further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Luc Leybaert
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Robrecht Raedt
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Leen Pieters
- Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anne Vral
- Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tom Boterberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karel Deblaere
- Department of Radiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Li Y, Zhang Y, Dong Y, Akakuru OU, Yao X, Yi J, Li X, Wang L, Lou X, Zhu B, Fan K, Qin Z. Ablation of Gap Junction Protein Improves the Efficiency of Nanozyme-Mediated Catalytic/Starvation/Mild-Temperature Photothermal Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2210464. [PMID: 36964940 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202210464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated tumor catalytic therapy is typically hindered by gap junction proteins that form cell-to-cell channels to remove cytotoxic ROS, thereby protecting tumor cells from oxidative damage. In this work, a multifunctional nanozyme, FePGOGA, is designed and prepared by Fe(III)-mediated oxidative polymerization (FeP), followed by glucose oxidase (GOx) and GAP19 peptides co-loading through electrostatic and π-π interactions. The FePGOGA nanozyme exhibits excellent cascade peroxidase- and glutathione-oxidase-like activities that efficiently catalyze hydrogen peroxide conversion to hydroxyl radicals and convert reduced glutathione to oxidized glutathione disulfide. The loaded GOx starves the tumors and aggravates tumor oxidative stress through glucose decomposition, while GAP19 peptides block the hemichannels by inducing degradation of Cx43, thus increasing the accumulation of intracellular ROS, and decreasing the transport of intracellular glucose. Furthermore, the ROS reacts with primary amines of heat shock proteins to destroy their structure and function, enabling tumor photothermal therapy at the widely sought-after mild temperature (mildPTT, ≤45 °C). In vivo experiments demonstrate the significant antitumor effectof FePGOGA on cal27 xenograft tumors under near-infrared light irradiation. This study demonstrates the successful ablation of gap junction proteins to overcome resistance to ROS-mediated therapy, providing a regulator to suppress tumor self-preservation during tumor starvation, catalytic therapy, and mildPTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjuan Li
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
- Center of Infection and Immunity, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Ya Dong
- Center of Infection and Immunity, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Ozioma Udochukwu Akakuru
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Schulich School of Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Xiaohan Yao
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Jinmeng Yi
- Center of Infection and Immunity, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Xinyan Li
- Center of Infection and Immunity, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Xiaohan Lou
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Baoyu Zhu
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Kelong Fan
- Nanozyme Medical Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Nanozyme, Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceutical, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Datun Road, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Zhihai Qin
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
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Venkataramani V, Schneider M, Giordano FA, Kuner T, Wick W, Herrlinger U, Winkler F. Disconnecting multicellular networks in brain tumours. Nat Rev Cancer 2022; 22:481-491. [PMID: 35488036 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-022-00475-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells can organize and communicate in functional networks. Similarly to other networks in biology and sociology, these can be highly relevant for growth and resilience. In this Perspective, we demonstrate by the example of glioblastomas and other incurable brain tumours how versatile multicellular tumour networks are formed by two classes of long intercellular membrane protrusions: tumour microtubes and tunnelling nanotubes. The resulting networks drive tumour growth and resistance to standard therapies. This raises the question of how to disconnect brain tumour networks to halt tumour growth and whether this can make established therapies more effective. Emerging principles of tumour networks, their potential relevance for tumour types outside the brain and translational implications, including clinical trials that are already based on these discoveries, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Venkataramani
- Neurology Clinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | | | - Frank Anton Giordano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Thomas Kuner
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wick
- Neurology Clinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Herrlinger
- Division of Clinical Neurooncology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Frank Winkler
- Neurology Clinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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Tamai S, Ichinose T, Tsutsui T, Tanaka S, Garaeva F, Sabit H, Nakada M. Tumor Microenvironment in Glioma Invasion. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12040505. [PMID: 35448036 PMCID: PMC9031400 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A major malignant trait of gliomas is their remarkable infiltration capacity. When glioma develops, the tumor cells have already reached the distant part. Therefore, complete removal of the glioma is impossible. Recently, research on the involvement of the tumor microenvironment in glioma invasion has advanced. Local hypoxia triggers cell migration as an environmental factor. The transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) -1α, produced in tumor cells under hypoxia, promotes the transcription of various invasion related molecules. The extracellular matrix surrounding tumors is degraded by proteases secreted by tumor cells and simultaneously replaced by an extracellular matrix that promotes infiltration. Astrocytes and microglia become tumor-associated astrocytes and glioma-associated macrophages/microglia, respectively, in relation to tumor cells. These cells also promote glioma invasion. Interactions between glioma cells actively promote infiltration of each other. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy transform the microenvironment, allowing glioma cells to invade. These findings indicate that the tumor microenvironment may be a target for glioma invasion. On the other hand, because the living body actively promotes tumor infiltration in response to the tumor, it is necessary to reconsider whether the invasion itself is friend or foe to the brain.
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Cao J, Yang F, Zhou H, Fan D, Li H, Fan T, Sun P. Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell (BMSC)-Exosomes Overexpressing miR-141 Inhibit the Malignant Biological Behavior of Glioma Cells via Wnt Signaling. J BIOMATER TISS ENG 2022. [DOI: 10.1166/jbt.2022.2952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Our study explores whether BMSC-exosomes overexpressing miR-141 can regulate Wnt signal to inhibit the malignant biological behavior of glioma cells. Thirty healthy mice were selected to construct a glioma mouse model and assigned randomly into the control group, miR-141 NC group, and
miR-141 mimic group followed by analysis of cell proliferation, apoptosis, protein expression and mRNA expression by MTT method, flow cytometry, Western blot and RT-PCR methods. Compared with the other two groups, miR-141 mimic group showed reduced number of cell proliferation at 24 h and
48 h, decreased cell migration and invasion ability, and the increased cell apoptosis rate (P < 0.05). In miR-141 mimic group, the protein expression of miR-141 was the highest, while the protein expression of β-catenin, survivin and c-myc was the lowest (P <
0.05). In conclusion, BMSC-exosomes overexpressing miR-141 can inhibit the malignant biological behavior of GC cells possibly by inhibiting the activation of Wnt signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Cao
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Baoding Second Hospital, Baoding City, 071051, Hebei Province, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Baoding Second Hospital, Baoding City, 071051, Hebei Province, China
| | - Haiyan Zhou
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Baoding Second Hospital, Baoding City, 071051, Hebei Province, China
| | - Duojiao Fan
- Department of Science and Education, Baoding Second Hospital, Baoding City, 071051, Hebei Province, China
| | - Hengzhou Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Baoding Second Hospital, Baoding City, 071051, Hebei Province, China
| | - Tao Fan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Sanbo Brain Hospital of Capital Medical University, Beijing, 071051, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Baoding Second Hospital, Baoding City, 071051, Hebei Province, China
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Intercellular Communication in the Brain through Tunneling Nanotubes. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051207. [PMID: 35267518 PMCID: PMC8909287 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are a means of cell communication which have been recently discovered. They allow the intercellular trafficking of many types of cellular compounds ranging from ions, such as Ca2+, to whole organelles such as mitochondria. TNTs are found in many tissues, both in physiological and pathological conditions. They are also found in the brain where they contribute to brain development and function and also to degenerative diseases and glioma. Abstract Intercellular communication is essential for tissue homeostasis and function. Understanding how cells interact with each other is paramount, as crosstalk between cells is often dysregulated in diseases and can contribute to their progression. Cells communicate with each other through several modalities, including paracrine secretion and specialized structures ensuring physical contact between them. Among these intercellular specialized structures, tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are now recognized as a means of cell-to-cell communication through the exchange of cellular cargo, controlled by a variety of biological triggers, as described here. Intercellular communication is fundamental to brain function. It allows the dialogue between the many cells, including neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, glial cells, microglia, necessary for the proper development and function of the brain. We highlight here the role of TNTs in connecting these cells, for the physiological functioning of the brain and in pathologies such as stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, and gliomas. Understanding these processes could pave the way for future therapies.
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Liu H, Li Z, Sun H. MiR-493-5p inhibits the malignant development of gliomas via suppressing E2F3-mediated dysfunctions of P53 and PI3K/AKT pathways. Clin Transl Oncol 2021; 24:363-370. [PMID: 34460057 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-021-02698-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gliomas is a major challenge of current medical system, and thousands of people are struggling in the pain of this disease worldwide. In the last decade, the functions of miRNAs have been revealed by many studies, and the intervention on miRNA dysfunctions has been thought as a promising way to counter cancer. MiR-493-5p has been identified as a tumor inhibitor to suppress the progressions of several tumors while its role in gliomas remains unknown. Hence, the study investigated the expression levels of miR-493-5p in glioma tissues and cell lines. METHODS CCK-8 assay, transwell assay and flow cytometry assay were used to observe the effects of miR-493-5p on tumor cells. The downstream targets of miR-493-5p were also searched and verified with online databases and dual-luciferase reporter assay. Moreover, the activities of P53 and PI3K/AKT pathways were also explored by western blot to illustrate the regulation mechanism of miR-493-5p on glioma development. RESULTS The results showed that miR-493-5p was significantly downregulated in pathological tissues and glioma cell lines, and the increased miR-493-5p effectively inhibited the malignant behavior and promoted the apoptosis of glioma cells. CONCLUSIONS E2F3 was confirmed as a target of miR-493-5p, and the effects of miR-493-5p on the phenotype of glioma cells could be partly reversed by E2F3. Besides, it was also found that miR-493-5p could effectively suppress the expression of E2F3 and then improve the dysfunctions of the P53 and PI3K/AKT pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Liu
- Department of Oncology, Binzhou Center Hospital, Shandong, 251700, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, LinYi People's Hospital, Shandong, China
| | - Hu Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zibo Central Hospital, No. 54 West Communist Youth League Road, Shandong, 255000, China.
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Zhou Y, Gao L, Xia P, Zhao J, Li W, Zhou Y, Wei Q, Wu Q, Wu Q, Sun D, Gao K. Glycyrrhetinic Acid Protects Renal Tubular Cells against Oxidative Injury via Reciprocal Regulation of JNK-Connexin 43-Thioredoxin 1 Signaling. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:619567. [PMID: 33603672 PMCID: PMC7884636 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.619567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective: The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is steadily increasing. Although renal tubular epithelium injury is closely correlated with the prognosis of CKD, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood and therapeutic strategies are limited. The main bioactive component of the Chinese medicine herb, glycyrrhiza, is 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid (Ga), which is also a pharmacological inhibitor of gap junctions. Our previous studies indicated that Ga is able to ameliorate renal cell injury. The present study explored the regulatory role of Ga in redox signaling in renal tubular epithelial cells with oxidative injury. Methods: Rat renal tubular epithelial cells, NRK-52E, were incubated with Px-12, a thioredoxin inhibitor, to mimic thioredoxin deficiency and induce oxidative injury in vitro. A Cell Counting Kit-8 was used to analyze cell viability while a reactive oxygen species (ROS)/superoxide (O2 -) fluorescence probe was employed to determine oxidative stress. Apoptosis was evaluated using DT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling/4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining and cleaved caspase 3 protein analysis. Western blot analysis was used to analyze the expression of specific proteins while siRNA transfection was performed to downregulate targeted proteins. Results: Inhibition of thioredoxin 1 by Px-12 triggered renal tubular cell oxidative injury as evidenced by morphological change, loss of cellular viability, over production of ROS and O2 -, and appearance of cleaved caspase-3. Ga significantly attenuated cell oxidative injury, as indicated by the parameters mentioned above. Px-12 induced phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and subsequently the expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) in NRK-52E cells. Ga and the JNK inhibitor, sp600125, markedly suppressed Px-12-induced generation of intracellular ROS and O2 -. Inhibition of JNK improved Px-12-elicited NRK-52E cell injury. Moreover, sp600125 inhibited Cx43 expression. After downregulation of Cx43 via Cx43 siRNA transfection, the phosphorylation of JNK was markedly reduced. Furthermore, Ga restored the expression of thioredoxin 1 inhibited by Px-12. Conclusion: ROS-JNK-Cx43-thioredoxin 1 signaling plays a crucial role in renal tubular cell injury. JNK is involved in the regulation of thioredoxin 1 and Cx43, and Cx43 reciprocally regulates thioredoxin 1. Inhibition of gap junctions by Ga alleviated renal tubular oxidative injury via improvement of thioredoxin 1-mediated redox signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zhou
- Department of Pathophysiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,Division of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Leiping Gao
- Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Ping Xia
- Division of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Division of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Li
- Division of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yufeng Zhou
- Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Qingxue Wei
- Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Qijing Wu
- Division of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Wu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Dongdong Sun
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Kun Gao
- Division of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Harnessing the therapeutic potential of antibodies targeting connexin hemichannels. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166047. [PMID: 33418036 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.166047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Connexin hemichannels have been implicated in pathology-promoting conditions, including inflammation, numerous widespread human diseases, including cancer and diabetes, and several rare diseases linked to pathological point mutations. METHODS We analysed the literature focusing on antibodies capable of modulating hemichannel function, highlighting generation methods, applications to basic biomedical research and translational potential. RESULTS Anti-hemichannel antibodies generated over the past 3 decades targeted mostly connexin 43, with a focus on cancer treatment. A slow transition from relatively unselective polyclonal antibodies to more selective monoclonal antibodies resulted in few products with interesting characteristics that are under evaluation for clinical trials. Selection of antibodies from combinatorial phage-display libraries, has permitted to engineer a monoclonal antibody that binds to and blocks pathological hemichannels formed by connexin 26, 30 and 32. CONCLUSIONS All known antibodies that modulate connexin hemichannels target the two small extracellular loops of the connexin proteins. The extracellular region of different connexins is highly conserved, and few residues of each connexins are exposed. The search for new antibodies may develop an unprecedented potential for therapeutic applications, as it may benefit tremendously from novel whole-cell screening platforms that permit in situ selection of antibodies against membrane proteins in native state. The demonstrated efficacy of mAbs in reaching and modulating hemichannels in vivo, together with their relative specificity for connexins overlapping epitopes, should hopefully stimulate an interest for widening the scope of anti-hemichannel antibodies. There is no shortage of currently incurable diseases for which therapeutic intervention may benefit from anti-hemichannel antibodies capable of modulating hemichannel function selectively and specifically.
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Yu H, Cao X, Li W, Liu P, Zhao Y, Song L, Chen J, Chen B, Yu W, Xu Y. Targeting connexin 43 provides anti-inflammatory effects after intracerebral hemorrhage injury by regulating YAP signaling. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:322. [PMID: 33115476 PMCID: PMC7594305 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01978-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the central nervous system (CNS), connexin 43 (Cx43) is mainly expressed in astrocytes and regulates astrocytic network homeostasis. Similar to Cx43 overexpression, abnormal excessive opening of Cx43 hemichannels (Cx43Hcs) on reactive astrocytes aggravates the inflammatory response and cell death in CNS pathologies. However, the role of excessive Cx43Hc opening in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) injury is not clear. Methods Hemin stimulation in primary cells and collagenase IV injection in C57BL/6J (B6) mice were used as ICH models in vitro and in vivo. After ICH injury, the Cx43 mimetic peptide Gap19 was used for treatment. Ethidium bromide (EtBr) uptake assays were used to measure the opening of Cx43Hcs. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to measure protein expression. qRT-PCR and ELISA were used to determine the levels of cytokines. Coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and the Duolink in situ proximity ligation assay (PLA) were applied to measure the association between proteins. Results In this study, Cx43 expression upregulation and excessive Cx43Hc opening was observed in mice after ICH injury. Delayed treatment with Gap19 significantly alleviated hematoma volume and neurological deficits after ICH injury. In addition, Gap19 decreased inflammatory cytokine levels in the tissue surrounding the hematoma and decreased reactive astrogliosis after ICH injury in vitro and in vivo. Intriguingly, Cx43 transcriptional activity and expression in astrocytes were significantly increased after hemin stimulation in culture. However, Gap19 treatment downregulated astrocytic Cx43 expression through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway without affecting Cx43 transcription. Additionally, our data showed that Gap19 increased Yes-associated protein (YAP) nuclear translocation. This subsequently upregulated SOCS1 and SOCS3 expression and then inhibited the TLR4-NFκB and JAK2-STAT3 pathways in hemin-stimulated astrocytes. Finally, the YAP inhibitor, verteporfin (VP), reversed the anti-inflammatory effect of Gap19 in vitro and almost completely blocked its protective effects in vivo after ICH injury. Conclusions This study provides new insight into potential treatment strategies for ICH injury involving astroglial Cx43 and Cx43Hcs. Suppression of abnormal astroglial Cx43 expression and Cx43Hc opening by Gap19 has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects after ICH injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailong Yu
- Affiliated of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical school of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Neurology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Cao
- Affiliated of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical school of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Pinyi Liu
- Affiliated of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical school of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Lilong Song
- Department of Neurology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Chen
- Affiliated of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical school of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Beilei Chen
- Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Neurology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenkui Yu
- Affiliated of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical school of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yun Xu
- Affiliated of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical school of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Hua D, Zhao Q, Yu Y, Yu H, Yu L, Zhou X, Wang Q, Sun C, Shi C, Luo W, Jiang Z, Wang W, Wang L, Zhang D, Tang S, Yu S. Eucalyptal A inhibits glioma by rectifying oncogenic splicing of MYO1B mRNA via suppressing SRSF1 expression. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 890:173669. [PMID: 33098832 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Glioma is the most common primary intracranial tumor, in which glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant and lethal. However, the current chemotherapy drugs are still unsatisfactory for GBM therapy. As the natural products mainly extracted from Eucalyptus species, phloroglucinol-terpene adducts have the potential to be anti-cancer lead compounds that attracted increasing attention. In order to discover the new lead compounds with the anti-GBM ability, we isolated Eucalyptal A with a phloroglucinol-terpene skeleton from the fruit of E. globulus and investigated its anti-GBM activity in vitro and in vivo. Functionally, we verified that Eucalyptal A could inhibit the proliferation, growth and invasiveness of GBM cells in vitro. Moreover, Eucalyptal A had the same anti-GBM activity in tumor-bearing mice as in vitro and prolonged the overall survival time by maintaining mice body weight. Further mechanism research revealed that Eucalyptal A downregulated SRSF1 expression and rectified SRSF1-guided abnormal alternative splicing of MYO1B mRNA, which led to anti-GBM activity through the PDK1/AKT/c-Myc and PAK/Cofilin axes. Taken together, we identified Eucalyptal A as an important anti-GBM lead compound, which represents a novel direction for glioma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Hua
- Department of Neuropathology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Injuries, Variations and Regeneration of the Nervous System, Tianjin, 300052, China; Key Laboratory of Post-trauma Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Department of Sports Injury and Arthroscopy, Tianjin University Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, 300221, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Tianjin Chest Hospital, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Huan Yu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics (Theranostics), School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Lin Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xuexia Zhou
- Department of Neuropathology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Injuries, Variations and Regeneration of the Nervous System, Tianjin, 300052, China; Key Laboratory of Post-trauma Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Neuropathology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Injuries, Variations and Regeneration of the Nervous System, Tianjin, 300052, China; Key Laboratory of Post-trauma Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Cuiyun Sun
- Department of Neuropathology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Injuries, Variations and Regeneration of the Nervous System, Tianjin, 300052, China; Key Laboratory of Post-trauma Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Cuijuan Shi
- Department of Neuropathology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Injuries, Variations and Regeneration of the Nervous System, Tianjin, 300052, China; Key Laboratory of Post-trauma Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Wenjun Luo
- Department of Neuropathology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Injuries, Variations and Regeneration of the Nervous System, Tianjin, 300052, China; Key Laboratory of Post-trauma Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Zhendong Jiang
- Department of Neuropathology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Injuries, Variations and Regeneration of the Nervous System, Tianjin, 300052, China; Key Laboratory of Post-trauma Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Weiting Wang
- Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Tianjin, 300301, China
| | - Lingli Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics (Theranostics), School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Dongli Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics (Theranostics), School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Shengan Tang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics (Theranostics), School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China.
| | - Shizhu Yu
- Department of Neuropathology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Injuries, Variations and Regeneration of the Nervous System, Tianjin, 300052, China; Key Laboratory of Post-trauma Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, 300052, China.
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13
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Hosseindoost S, Hashemizadeh S, Gharaylou Z, Dehpour AR, Javadi SAH, Arjmand B, Hadjighassem M. β2-Adrenergic Receptor Stimulation Upregulates Cx43 Expression on Glioblastoma Multiforme and Olfactory Ensheathing Cells. J Mol Neurosci 2020; 70:1451-1460. [PMID: 32506304 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-020-01542-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is described as an invasive astrocytic tumor in adults. Despite current standard treatment approaches, the outcome of GBM remains unfavorable. The downregulation of connexin 43 (Cx43) expression is one of the molecular transformations in GBM cells. The Cx43 levels and subsequently gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) have an important role in the efficient transfer of cytotoxic drugs to whole tumor cells. As shown in our previous study, the stimulation of the β2-adrenergic receptor (β2-AR) leads to the modulation of Cx43 expression level in the GBM cell line. Here we further examine the effect of clenbuterol hydrochloride as a selective β2-AR agonist on the Cx43 expression in human GBM-derived astrocyte cells and human olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) as a potent vector for future gene therapy. In this experiment, first we established a primary culture of astrocytes from GBM samples and verified the purity using immunocytofluorescent staining. Western blot analysis was performed to evaluate the Cx43 protein level. Our western blot findings reveal that clenbuterol hydrochloride upregulates the Cx43 protein level in both primary human astrocyte cells and human OECs. Conversely, ICI 118551 as a β2-AR antagonist inhibits these effects. Moreover, clenbuterol hydrochloride increases the Cx43 expression in primary human astrocyte cells and OECs co-culture systems, and ICI 118551 reverses these effects. To confirm the western blot results, immunocytofluorescent staining was performed to evaluate the β2-AR agonist effect on Cx43 expression. Our immunocytofluorescent results supported western blot analysis in primary human astrocyte cells and the OECs co-culture system. The results of this study suggest that the activation of β2-AR with regard to Cx43 protein levels enhancement in GBM cells and OECs might be a promising approach for GBM treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saereh Hosseindoost
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shiva Hashemizadeh
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Gharaylou
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Reza Dehpour
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Amir Hossein Javadi
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Neurosurgery department, Imam Khomeini hospital complex, TUMS, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Arjmand
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular- Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Metabolomics and Genomics Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoudreza Hadjighassem
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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14
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Ruff M, Kizilbash S, Buckner J. Further understanding of glioma mechanisms of pathogenesis: implications for therapeutic development. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2020; 20:355-363. [PMID: 32301635 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2020.1757440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Recent discoveries in the molecular makeup of gliomas, the relationship of certain molecular drivers, and the patient's response to therapy and overall prognosis have resulted in a paradigm shift and redefined our understanding of glioma and revealed potential vulnerabilities within this recalcitrant and lethal disease.Areas covered: We summarize the current classification of malignant glioma in the context of the historical background, current data-driven treatment strategies, and recent discoveries of the mechanisms of pathogenesis of this disease which recapitulates the developing brain. We describe the relationship to common genetic alterations found in glioma, and possible avenues to exploit these newly revealed mechanisms.Expert opinion: Improved understanding of the molecular underpinnings of this disease has been directly translated into treatment decisions and an improved ability to counsel patients regarding their prognosis. We are beginning to see the first glimmer of a return on the investment in regard to immunotherapy in malignant glioma, with further anticipated successful exploitations of the unique pathophysiology of glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ruff
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Sani Kizilbash
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jan Buckner
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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15
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Kirichenko EY, Salah M M S, Goncharova ZA, Nikitin AG, Filippova SY, Todorov SS, Akimenko MA, Logvinov AK. Ultrastructural evidence for presenсe of gap junctions in rare case of pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma. Ultrastruct Pathol 2020; 44:227-236. [PMID: 32148147 DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2020.1737609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The phenomenon of unstable expression of gap junction's proteins connexins remains a "visiting card" of astrocytic tumors with various degrees of malignancy. At the same time, it stays unclear what is detected by the positive expression of connexins in astrocytic tumors: gap junctions, hemi-channels, or connexin proteins in cytosol. In the present work, for the first time, we demonstrate an ultrastructural evidence of gap junctions in pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, a rare primary brain tumor, the intercellular characteristics of which are poorly studied and remain very discursive and controversial. The primary tumor mass was resected during craniotomy from a 57-old patient diagnosed with pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma Grade II based on the histopathological analysis. The immunohistochemical study was conducted with primary antibodies: Neurofilament, Myelin basic protein, Glial fibrillary acidic protein, and Synaptophysin. For electron microscopic examination fragments of tumor tissue were fixed in a glutaraldehyde, postfixed in a 1% OsO4, dehydrated and embedded into resin. After the detailed clinical, histological, and immunohistochemical study we revealed some ultrastructural characteristics of the tumor, as well as the first evidence of direct intercellular connection between the tumor cells via gap junctions. Regularly arranged gap junctions connected the somas of xanthastrocytes with dark cytoplasm containing lipid drops. Besides the localization between the cell bodies, from one to several gap junctions were found between the branches of xanthoastrocytoma in tumor intercellular space in close proximity to tumor cell. Our results may indicate gap junctions as a possible structure for intercellular communication between pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Aleksei G Nikitin
- Federal Scientific and Clinical Center for Specialized Types of Medical Care and Medical Technologies FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
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16
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Jung E, Alfonso J, Osswald M, Monyer H, Wick W, Winkler F. Emerging intersections between neuroscience and glioma biology. Nat Neurosci 2019; 22:1951-1960. [PMID: 31719671 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-019-0540-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The establishment of neuronal and glial networks in the brain depends on the activities of neural progenitors, which are influenced by cell-intrinsic mechanisms, interactions with the local microenvironment and long-range signaling. Progress in neuroscience has helped identify key factors in CNS development. In parallel, studies in recent years have increased our understanding of molecular and cellular factors in the development and growth of primary brain tumors. To thrive, glioma cells exploit pathways that are active in normal CNS progenitor cells, as well as in normal neurotransmitter signaling. Furthermore, tumor cells of incurable gliomas integrate into communicating multicellular networks, where they are interconnected through neurite-like cellular protrusions. In this Review, we discuss evidence that CNS development, organization and function share a number of common features with glioma progression and malignancy. These include mechanisms used by cells to proliferate and migrate, interact with their microenvironment and integrate into multicellular networks. The emerging intersections between the fields of neuroscience and neuro-oncology considered in this review point to new research directions and novel therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Jung
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, INF 400, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Julieta Alfonso
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Osswald
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, INF 400, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hannah Monyer
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Clinical Neurobiology, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wick
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, INF 400, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Winkler
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, INF 400, Heidelberg, Germany. .,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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17
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Zhang Q, Jia GJ, Zhang GB, Wang L, Wu Z, Jia W, Hao SY, Ni M, Li D, Wang K, Zhang JT. A Logistic Regression Model for Detecting the Presence of Malignant Progression in Atypical Meningiomas. World Neurosurg 2019; 126:e392-e401. [PMID: 30822595 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2019.02.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a method to distinguish atypical meningiomas (AMs) with malignant progression (MP) from primary AMs without a clinical history. METHODS The clinical, radiologic, and pathologic data of 33 previously Simpson grade I resected (if any) as well as no radiotherapy treated intracranial AMs between January 2008 and December 2015 were reviewed. Immunohistochemical staining for connexin 43 (Cx43) and Ki-67 was performed. Descriptive analysis and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore independent predictors of MP. A multivariable logistic model was developed to estimate the risk of MP, and its diagnostic value was determined from a receiver operating characteristic curve. RESULTS There were 11 AMs (33.3%) with histopathologically confirmed MP from benign meningiomas. The other 22 (66.7%) were initially diagnosed AMs with no histopathologically confirmed MP during a median 60.5 months (range, 42-126 months) of follow-up. Univariate and multivariate logistic analyses showed that irregular tumor shape (P = 0.010) and low Cx43 expression (P = 0.010) were independent predictors of the presence of MP, and the predicted probability was calculated by the following formula: P = 1/[1+exp.{1.218-(3.202×Shape)+(3.814×Cx43)}]. P > 0.5 for an irregularly shaped (score 1) AM with low Cx43 expression (score 0) indicated a high probability of MP. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and overall predictive accuracy were 63.6, 95.6, 87.5, 84.0, and 84.8%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Low Cx43 expression and irregular tumor shape were independent predictors of the presence of MP. The relevant logistic regression model was found to be effective in distinguishing MP-AMs from primary AMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Gui-Jun Jia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guo-Bin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wang Jia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu-Yu Hao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Ni
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Da Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Ting Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Abstract
The field of neuro-oncology has recently experienced a renaissance in the understanding of the molecular underpinnings and pathophysiology of glioma. Genetic markers have significant implications regarding treatment responsiveness and prognosis and are now the primary basis for classification. This article gives an updated understanding of the pathogenesis and mechanisms of resistance of glioma via discussion of 4 molecular and genetic markers: MGMT, IDH, 1p/19q, and TERT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Ruff
- From the Department of Neurology (M.W.R., J.U., E.B.) and Division of Medical Oncology (M.W.R., J.U.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
| | - Joon H Uhm
- From the Department of Neurology (M.W.R., J.U., E.B.) and Division of Medical Oncology (M.W.R., J.U.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Eduardo E Benarroch
- From the Department of Neurology (M.W.R., J.U., E.B.) and Division of Medical Oncology (M.W.R., J.U.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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19
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Disassembling a cancer puzzle: Cell junctions and plasma membrane as targets for anticancer therapy. J Control Release 2018; 286:125-136. [PMID: 30030181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite an enhanced permeability and retention effect typical of many solid tumors, drug penetration is not always sufficient. Possible strategies for the drug delivery improvement are a modification of the tumor cell-to-cell junctions and usage of cell membrane permeabilization proteins. In this review we discuss epithelial cell junctions as targets for a combined anticancer therapy and propose new possible sources of such agents. We suggest considering viral and bacterial pathogens disrupting epithelial layers as plentiful sources of new therapeutic agents for increasing tumor permeability for other effector agents. We also observe the application of pore forming proteins and peptides of different origin for cytoplasmic delivery of anti-cancer agents and consider the main obstacles of their use in vivo.
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20
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Grek CL, Sheng Z, Naus CC, Sin WC, Gourdie RG, Ghatnekar GG. Novel approach to temozolomide resistance in malignant glioma: connexin43-directed therapeutics. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2018; 41:79-88. [PMID: 29803991 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Resistance of malignant glioma, including glioblastoma (GBM), to the chemotherapeutic temozolomide (TMZ) remains a key obstacle in treatment strategies. The gap junction protein connexin43 (Cx43) has complex roles in the establishment, progression, and persistence of malignant glioma. Recent findings demonstrate that connexins play an important role in the microenvironment of malignant glioma and that Cx43 is capable of conferring chemotherapeutic resistance to GBM cells. Carboxyl-terminal Cx43 peptidomimetics show therapeutic promise in overcoming TMZ resistance via mechanisms that may include modulating junctional activity between tumor cells and peritumoral cells and/or downstream molecular signaling events mediated by Cx43 protein binding. High levels of intra-tumor and inter-tumor heterogeneity make it difficult to clearly define specific populations for Cx43-targeted therapy; hence, development of in vitro models that better mimic the microenvironment of malignant glioma, and the incorporation of patient-derived stem cells, could provide opportunities for patient-specific drug screening. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the roles of Cx43 in malignant glioma, with a special focus on tumor microenvironment, TMZ resistance, and therapeutic opportunity offered by Cx43 peptidomimetics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhi Sheng
- Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, Roanoke, VA, USA; Faculty of Health Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA; Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA, USA
| | - Christian C Naus
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Science, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Wun Chey Sin
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Science, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Robert G Gourdie
- Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, Roanoke, VA, USA; Faculty of Health Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Blacksburg, VA, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA, USA
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