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Yang HL, Chiu LW, Lin YA, Pandey S, Vadivalagan C, Liao JW, Gowrisankar YV, Chen HJ, Lin HY, Hseu YC. In vitro and in vivo anti-tumor activity of Coenzyme Q 0 against TWIST1-overexpressing HNSCC cells: ROS-mediated inhibition of EMT/metastasis and autophagy/apoptosis induction. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 465:116453. [PMID: 36914119 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
HNSCC (Head and Heck Squamous Cell Carcinoma) is a reasonably prevalent cancer with a high mortality rate. In this study, we tried to examine the anti-metastasis and apoptosis/autophagy actions of Coenzyme Q0 (CoQ0, 2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-1,4-benzoquinone), a derivative of Antrodia camphorata in HNCC TWIST1 overexpressing (FaDu-TWIST1) cells as well as in vivo tumor xenograft mice model. Using fluorescence based cellular assays, western blot and nude mice tumor xenografts, we determined that CoQ0 effectively reduced cell viability and displayed rapid morphological changes in FaDu-TWIST1 cells compared to FaDu cells. Non/sub-cytotoxic concentrations of CoQ0 treatment reduces the cell migration by downregulating TWIST1 and upregulating E-cadherin. Apoptosis produced by CoQ0 was mostly related with caspase-3 activation, PARP cleavage, and VDAC-1 expression. The FaDu-TWIST1 cells treated with CoQ0 exhibits autophagy-mediated LC3-II accumulation and acidic vesicular organelles (AVOs) formation. Pre-treatment with 3-MA and CoQ effectively prevented CoQ0-induced cell death and CoQ0-triggered autophagy in FaDu-TWIST cells as a death mechanism. CoQ0 induces ROS production in FaDu-TWIST1 cells and NAC pre-treatment significantly reduces anti-metastasis, apoptosis, and autophagy. Likewise, ROS-mediated AKT inhibition regulates CoQ0-induced apoptosis/autophagy in FaDu-TWIST1 cells. In vivo studies exhibit, CoQ0 effectively delays and reduces the tumor incidence and burden in FaDu-TWIST1-xenografted nude mice. Current findings display, CoQ0 exhibits a novel anti-cancer mechanism hence, it might be appropriate for anticancer therapy, and a new potent drug for HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Ling Yang
- Institute of Nutrition, College of Health Care, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wen Chiu
- Institute of Nutrition, College of Health Care, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Yi-An Lin
- Institute of Nutrition, College of Health Care, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Sudhir Pandey
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Chithravel Vadivalagan
- Department of Cosmeceutics, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Jiunn-Wang Liao
- Graduate Institute of Veterinary Pathology, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | - Hui-Jye Chen
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Hui-Yi Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
| | - You-Cheng Hseu
- Department of Cosmeceutics, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan; Department of Health and Nutrition Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan; Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan; Research Center of Chinese Herbal Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
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Yang HL, Lin YA, Pandey S, Liao JW, Way TD, Yeh YL, Chen SJ, Hseu YC. In vitro and in vivo anti-tumor activity of Antrodia salmonea against twist-overexpressing HNSCC cells: Induction of ROS-mediated autophagic and apoptotic cell death. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 172:113564. [PMID: 36563924 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.113564] [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: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a relatively common malignancy, characterized by lethal morbidity. Herein, we attempted to investigate the autophagy/apoptosis activities of the submerged fermented broths of Antrodia salmonea (AS) in HNSCC Twist-overexpressing (OECM-1 and FaDu-Twist) cells. AS (0-150 μg/mL) effectively reduced cell viability, colony formation, and downregulated Twist expression in OECM-1 and FaDu-Twist cells compared to FaDu cells. AS- induced apoptosis was mainly associated with activation of caspase-3, PARP cleavage, increased expression of VDAC-1 and disproportionation of Bax/Bcl-2. Annexin V/PI staining suggested late apoptosis induction by AS treatment. AS exhibits enhanced autophagy process mediated via LC3-I/II accumulation, increased acidic vesicular organelles (AVOs) formation and p62/SQSTM1 expression feeding into the apoptotic program. However, pre-treatment with autophagy blockers 3-MA and CQ significantly diminished AS-induced cell death. Additionally, suppression of AS-induced ROS release by treatment with antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) resulted in reduction of apoptotic and autophagic cell death. In vivo studies strengthened the above observations and showed that AS effectively reduced the tumor volume and tumor weight in OECM-1-xenografted nude mice. This study discovered that Antrodia salmonea exhibits a novel anti-cancer mechanism which could be harnessed as a new potent drug for HNSCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Ling Yang
- Institute of Nutrition, College of Health Care, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
| | - Yi-An Lin
- Institute of Nutrition, College of Health Care, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
| | - Sudhir Pandey
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Jiunn-Wang Liao
- Graduate Institute of Veterinary Pathology, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan
| | - Tzong-Der Way
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Biopharmaceutical and Food Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Lyu Yeh
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Asia University, Taichung, 41354, Taiwan
| | - Siang-Jyun Chen
- Institute of Nutrition, College of Health Care, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
| | - You-Cheng Hseu
- Department of Health and Nutrition Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, 41354, Taiwan; Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan; Research Center of Chinese Herbal Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan; Department of Cosmeceutics, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan.
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Wang T, Rho O, Eguiarte-Solomon F, DiGiovanni J. Twist1 as a target for prevention of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:62-76. [PMID: 36373194 PMCID: PMC9772054 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23482] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) represents an important clinical problem requiring novel approaches for both prevention and treatment. The transcription factor, Twist-related protein 1 (Twist1), has been identified as having a key mechanistic role in the development and progression of cSCC. Studies in relevant mouse models of cSCC have shown that Twist1 regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness driving progression and metastasis of cSCC. In addition, further research has shown that Twist1 regulates the balance between keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation and therefore impacts earlier stages of cSCC development. Through use of keratinocyte specific Twist1 knockout models, a role for this gene in keratinocyte stem cell homeostasis has been revealed. As a transcription factor, Twist1 regulates a large number of genes both in a positive, as well as a negative manner across several interdependent pathways. Studies in keratinocyte specific knockout models have shown that Twist1 upregulates the expression of genes involved in proliferation, stemness, and EMT while downregulating the expression of genes associated with differentiation. Furthermore, a number of compounds, including naturally occurring compounds, have been identified that target Twist1 and can block its effects in cancer cells and in keratinocytes in vivo. Collectively, the current understanding of Twist1 function in cSCC development and progression suggests that it represents a potential target for prevention and treatment of cSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingzeng Wang
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
| | - Okkyung Rho
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
| | - Fernando Eguiarte-Solomon
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
| | - John DiGiovanni
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
- Livestrong Cancer Institutes, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
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RBM24 Mediates Lymph Node Metastasis and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Human Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Regulating Twist1. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:1205353. [PMID: 36213838 PMCID: PMC9536977 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1205353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective Despite the target RNA regulatory action of RBM24 (RNA Binding Motif 24), a protein implicated in multiple carcinomas, its role in HSCC remains unclear. Our study probed to understand the effect of RBM24 on HSCC. Materials and Methods A combination of qRT-PCR, IHC, and western blot was employed to assess the HSCC tissue level of RBM24. The colony formation and CCK-8 assays were performed to estimate cellular proliferative potential, whereas the transwell assay was conducted to examine invasive and metastatic potential. The FaDu cell motility was assessed via the scratch-wound assay and EMT (epithelial-mesenchymal transition) by adopting qRT-PCR in conjunction with western blot and IF (immunofluorescence). The in-vivo effect of RBM24 on HSCC was investigated through modeling metastasis to the popliteal LNs (lymph nodes). Results Among HSCC patients showing metastasis to LNs, prominent RBM24 downregulation was noted, with an intrinsic association between low RBM24 level and poor outcome. Knocking down RBM24 promoted cell multiplication, migration, and infiltration, while overexpression led to the opposite effects and inhibited the EMT. RBM24's suppressive action against the FaDu cell mobility and invasion was reversed by Twist1 overexpression. RBM24's suppressive actions against the tumor evolution and LN metastasis in HSCC in-vivo were also validated. Conclusion As a carcinoma inhibitor gene, RBM24 regulates Twist1 to achieve LN metastasis and EMT suppression in HSCC.
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Mukherjee A, Ha P, Wai KC, Naara S. The Role of ECM Remodeling, EMT, and Adhesion Molecules in Cancerous Neural Invasion: Changing Perspectives. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2022; 6:e2200039. [PMID: 35798312 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Perineural invasion (PNI) refers to the cancerous invasion of nerves. It provides an alternative route for metastatic invasion and can exist independently in the absence of lymphatic or vascular invasion. It is a prominent characteristic of specific aggressive malignancies where it correlates with poor prognosis. The clinical significance of PNI is widely recognized despite a lack of understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis. The interaction between the nerve and the cancer cells is the most pivotal PNI step which is mediated by the activation or inhibition of multiple signaling pathways that include chemokines, interleukins, nerve growth factors, and matrix metalloproteinases, to name a few. The nerve-cancer cell interaction brings about specific changes in the perineural niche, which not only affects the regular nerve functions, but also enhances the migratory, invasive, and adherent properties of the tumor cells. This review aims to elucidate the vital role of adhesion molecules, extracellular matrix, and epithelial-mesenchymal proteins that promote PNI, which may serve as therapeutic targets in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Mukherjee
- Department of Genetics and Developmental BiologyRappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 3525422, Israel
| | - Patrick Ha
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California-San Francisco, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Katherine C Wai
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California-San Francisco, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Shorook Naara
- Department of Genetics and Developmental BiologyRappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 3525422, Israel.,Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California-San Francisco, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
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Elucidated tumorigenic role of MAML1 and TWIST1 in gastric cancer is associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. Microb Pathog 2021; 162:105304. [PMID: 34818576 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105304] [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: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has a fundamental role in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. Helicobacter pylori (HP) induces EMT and thus causes gastric cancer (GC) by deregulating multiple signaling pathways involved in EMT. TWIST1 and MAML1 have been confirmed to be critical inducers of EMT via diverse signaling pathways such as Notch signaling. This study aimed to investigate for the first time possible associations between TWIST1/MAML1 mRNA expression levels, HP infection, and clinicopathological characteristics in GC patients. METHOD TWIST1 and MAML1 mRNA expression levels were evaluated in tumoral and adjacent normal tissues in 73 GC patients using the quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) method. PCR technique was also applied to examine the infection with HP in GC samples. RESULTS Upregulation of TWIST1 and MAML1 expression was observed in 35 (48%) and 34 (46.6%) of 73 tumor samples, respectively. Co-overexpression of these genes was found in 26 of 73 (35.6%) tumor samples; meanwhile, there was a significant positive correlation between MAML1 and TWIST1 mRNA expression levels (P < 0.001). MAML1 overexpression exhibited meaningful associations with advanced tumor stages (P = 0.006) and nodal metastases (P ˂ 0.001). 34 of 73 (46.6%) tumors tested positive for HP, and meanwhile, MAML1 expression was positively related with T (P = 0.05) and grade (P = 0.0001) in these HP-positive samples. Increased TWIST1 expression was correlated with patient sex (P = 0.035) and advanced tumor grade (P = 0.017) in HP-infected tumors. Furthermore, TWIST1 and MAML1 expression levels were inversely linked with histologic grade in HP-negative tumor samples (P = 0.021 and P = 0.048, respectively). CONCLUSION We propose TWIST1 and MAML1 as potential biomarkers of advanced-stage GC that determine the characteristics and aggressiveness of the disease. Based on accumulating evidence and our findings, they can be introduced as promising therapeutic targets to modify functional abnormalities in cells that promote GC progression. Moreover, HP may enhance GC growth and metastasis by disrupting TWIS1/MAML1 expression patterns and related pathways.
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Mahmoudian RA, Gharaie ML, Abbaszadegan MR, Alasti A, Forghanifard MM, Mansouri A, Gholamin M. Crosstalk between MMP-13, CD44, and TWIST1 and its role in regulation of EMT in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Cell Biochem 2021; 476:2465-2478. [PMID: 33604811 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04089-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play key roles in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) for the development of cancer cell invasion and metastasis. MMP-13 is an extracellular matrix (ECM)-degrading enzyme that plays crucial roles in angiogenesis, cell cycle regulation, niche maintenance, and transforming squamous epithelial cells in various tissues. CD44, a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed on esophageal tumor cells, is required for EMT induction and invasion in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The transcription factor TWIST1, as EMT and stemness marker, regulates MMPs expression and is identified as the downstream target of CD44. In this study, we aimed to investigate the probable interplay between the expression of key genes contributing to ESCC development, including MMP-13, TWIST1, and CD44 with clinical features for introducing novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets in the disease. The gene expression profiling of MMP-13, TWIST1, and CD44 was performed using quantitative real-time PCR in tumor tissues from 50 ESCC patients compared to corresponding margin non-tumoral tissues. Significant overexpression of MMP-13, CD44S, CD44V3, CD44V6, and TWIST1 were observed in 74%, 36%, 44%, 44%, and 52% of ESCC tumor samples, respectively. Overexpression of MMP-13 was associated with stage of tumor progression, metastasis, and tumor location (P < 0.05). There was a significant correlation between TWIST1 overexpression and grade (P < 0.05). Furthermore, overexpression of CD44 variants was associated with stage of tumor progression, grade, tumor invasion, and location (P < 0.05). The results indicated the significant correlation between concomitant expression of MMP-13/TWIST1, TWIST1/CD44, and CD44/MMP-13 with each other in a variety of clinicopathological traits, including depth of tumor invasion, tumor location, stage of tumor, and lymph node involvement in ESCC tissue samples (P < 0.05). Collectively, our results indicate that the TWIST1-CD44-MMP-13 axis is involved in tumor aggressiveness, proposing these genes as regulators of EMT, diagnostic markers, and therapeutic targets in ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maryam Lotfi Gharaie
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Division of Physiology, Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Ali Alasti
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Atena Mansouri
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Innovated Medical Research Center and Department of Immunology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehran Gholamin
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. .,Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, P.O.Box 345-91357, Mashhad, Iran.
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Zema S, Pelullo M, Nardozza F, Felli MP, Screpanti I, Bellavia D. A Dynamic Role of Mastermind-Like 1: A Journey Through the Main (Path)ways Between Development and Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:613557. [PMID: 33425921 PMCID: PMC7787167 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.613557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Major signaling pathways, such as Notch, Hedgehog (Hh), Wnt/β-catenin and Hippo, are targeted by a plethora of physiological and pathological stimuli, ultimately resulting in the modulation of genes that act coordinately to establish specific biological processes. Many biological programs are strictly controlled by the assembly of multiprotein complexes into the nucleus, where a regulated recruitment of specific transcription factors and coactivators on gene promoter region leads to different transcriptional outcomes. MAML1 results to be a versatile coactivator, able to set up synergistic interlinking with pivotal signaling cascades and able to coordinate the network of cross-talking pathways. Accordingly, despite its original identification as a component of the Notch signaling pathway, several recent reports suggest a more articulated role for MAML1 protein, showing that it is able to sustain/empower Wnt/β-catenin, Hh and Hippo pathways, in a Notch-independent manner. For this reason, MAML1 may be associated to a molecular “switch”, with the function to control the activation of major signaling pathways, triggering in this way critical biological processes during embryonic and post-natal life. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about the pleiotropic role played by MAML proteins, in particular MAML1, and we recapitulate how it takes part actively in physiological and pathological signaling networks. On this point, we also discuss the contribution of MAML proteins to malignant transformation. Accordingly, genetic alterations or impaired expression of MAML proteins may lead to a deregulated crosstalk among the pathways, culminating in a series of pathological disorders, including cancer development. Given their central role, a better knowledge of the molecular mechanisms that regulate the interplay of MAML proteins with several signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis may open up novel opportunities for an attractive molecular targeted anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Zema
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
| | - Maria Pelullo
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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Fahim Y, Yousefi M, Izadpanah MH, Forghanifard MM. TWIST1 correlates with Notch signaling pathway to develop esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Cell Biochem 2020; 474:181-188. [PMID: 32712748 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-020-03843-2] [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: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Notch signaling pathway mediates different biological processes including stem cell self-renewal, progenitor cell fate decision, and terminal differentiation. TWIST1 plays a key role in tumor development and metastasis through inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Expression of the core transcriptional complex of Notch pathway and its target genes, as well as TWIST1 overexpression, are closely related to the aggressive clinicopathological variables of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Here we aimed to functionally elucidate probable crosstalk between TWIST1 and Notch pathway in ESCCs. Correlation between TWIST1 and Notch target genes was analyzed in 50 ESCCs and corresponding normal tissues. Using retroviral system, enforced expression of TWIST1 was established in ESCC line KYSE-30 cells and expression of Notch signaling genes was assessed. Significant correlation between TWIST1 and HEY1/HEY2 expression was found in different pathological variable of ESCC poor prognosis. Induced expression of TWIST1 in KYSE-30 cells caused a noteworthy increase of Notch pathway genes expression revealing regulatory role of TWIST1 on Notch signaling genes in the cells. Based on existed correlations between expression of TWIST1 and Notch pathway genes in different pathological features of ESCC patients, as well as KYSE-30 cell line, we may extrapolate that TWIST1 is involved in aggressiveness of the disease through regulation of Notch signaling genes. To the best of knowledge, this is the first report describing the impact of TWIST1 on Notch cascade genes in ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasaman Fahim
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mozhgan Yousefi
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Cheshmeh-Ali Boulevard, Sa'dei Square, Damghan, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Mahdi Forghanifard
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Cheshmeh-Ali Boulevard, Sa'dei Square, Damghan, Iran.
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Forghanifard MM, Azaraz S, Ardalan Khales S, Morshedi Rad D, Abbaszadegan MR. MAML1 promotes ESCC aggressiveness through upregulation of EMT marker TWIST1. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:2659-2668. [PMID: 32180088 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05356-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mastermind-like 1 (MAML1) is the main transcriptional co-activator of Notch signaling pathway. It plays essential roles in several pathways including MEF2C, p53, Nf-кB and Wnt/β-catenin. TWIST1 is known as a regulator of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is considered as a primary step in promotion of tumor cell metastasis. Since concomitant expression of these genes was observed in tumors, our aim in this study was to elucidate the linkage between MAML1 and TWIST1 co-overexpression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). RESULTS While MAML1 silencing significantly down-regulated TWIST1, its ectopic expression up-regulated TWIST1 expression in both mRNA and protein levels in KYSE-30 cells. Expression of mesenchymal markers was increased significantly after MAML1 and TWIST1 ectopic expression, while epithelial markers expression was significantly decreased after silencing of both genes. Concomitant protein expression of MAML1 and TWIST1 was significantly observed in ESCC patients. Enforced expression of TWIST1 had no impact on MAML1 gene expression in KYSE-30 cells. CONCLUSION The results clearly suggest transcriptional regulation of TWIST1 by MAML1 transcription factor in ESCC cells KYSE-30. Since TWIST1 is known as an EMT inducing marker, our results may revealed the mastermind behind TWIST1 function and introduced MAML1 as an upstream master regulator of TWIST1 and EMT in KYSE-30 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shirin Azaraz
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sima Ardalan Khales
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Dorsa Morshedi Rad
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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11
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Golyan FF, Abbaszadegan MR, Forghanifard MM. TWIST1, MMP-21, and HLAG-1 co-overexpression is associated with ESCC aggressiveness. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:14838-14846. [PMID: 31016793 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most aggressive types of cancer, requiring reliable biomarkers for prognosis and therapeutic responsiveness. TWIST1, as an important factor responsible for metastasis of several cancers, is involved in tumor invasion and metastasis through indirectly regulation of MMP-21 expression. On the other hand, NF-ĸβ which is a regulator of HLAG-1 has direct interaction with TWIST1 protein. In this retrospective study we investigated the clinical significance of TWIST1, MMP-21, and HLAG-1 expression in ESCC, and the possible correlation between these genes and progression of the disease. The gene expression analyses of TWIST1, MMP-21, and HLA-G1 were performed by relative comparative real-time polymerase chain reaction in 58 ESCCs compared with corresponding margin-normal esophageal tissues. Significant overexpression of HLAG-1, TWIST1, and MMP-21 messenger RNA was observed in 22.4%, 41.4%, and 60.3% of tumor samples, respectively. Concomitant overexpression of TWIST1/MMP-21 and TWIST1/HLAG-1 were significantly correlated to each other in various clinicopathological features, including depth of tumor invasion, stage of tumor progression, lymphatic invasion, and grade of tumor cell differentiation ( P < 0.05). The current study is the first report of coexpression of TWIST1, MMP-21, and HLAG-1 in ESCC. Such findings suggest an oncogenic role for concomitant expression of these genes in ESCC invasion and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Fardi Golyan
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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12
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Zhao L, Chi W, Cao H, Cui W, Meng W, Guo W, Wang B. Screening and clinical significance of tumor markers in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma through bioinformatics analysis. Mol Med Rep 2018; 19:143-154. [PMID: 30431092 PMCID: PMC6297764 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.9639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to identify potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, and treatment targets for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), the present study obtained the gene expression profiles in HNSCC through public data mining, and core genes were identified using a series of bioinformatics analysis methods and databases. A total of nine hub genes (SPP1, ITGA6, TMPRSS11D, MMP1, LAMC2, FAT1, ACTA1, SERPINE1 and CEACAM1) were identified to be significantly correlated with HNSCC. Furthermore, overall survival analysis demonstrated that the expression values of hub genes were associated with overall survival in HNSCC. Furthermore, certain of the identified genes, including, TMPRSS11D, ACTA1 and CEACAM1, have not been thoroughly investigated in HNSCC previously. Taken together, the nine hub genes obtained by screening in the present study may serve as potential tumor markers and important prognostic indicators for HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Weiwei Chi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050031, P.R. China
| | - Huan Cao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Weina Cui
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Wenxia Meng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Laboratory of Pathology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050019, P.R. China
| | - Baoshan Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
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