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Du J, Bai D, Gu C, Zhao J, Zhou C, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Lu N. Sorafenib-mediated cleavage of p62 initiates cellular senescence as a mechanism to evade its anti-hepatocellular carcinoma efficacy. Oncogene 2024:10.1038/s41388-024-03142-w. [PMID: 39232218 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03142-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as one of the most aggressively advancing and lethal malignancies. Sorafenib is presently endorsed as a primary therapy for advanced liver cancer, but its resistance presents a formidable challenge. Previous studies have implicated a connection between post-sorafenib discontinuation rebound and the development of drug resistance, yet the underlying mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we discerned that Sorafenib induced a senescent phenotype in HCC cells and caused a cleavage of ubiquitin-binding protein p62. Mechanistic studies establish that truncated p62 drives cellular senescence by promoting proteasome-dependent degradation of 4EBP1. Furthermore, truncated p62 induced specific ubiquitination of 4EBP1. Crucially, virtual drug screening uncovered that dacinostat inhibited cellular senescence by blocking sorafenib-induced p62 cleavage. In summary, our findings imply that truncated p62 from sorafenib cleavage promotes senescence via 4EBP1 degradation. The prevention of p62 cleavage could emerge as a crucial strategy for impeding the sorafenib-induced cellular senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Du
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongsheng Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunyang Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China.
| | - Na Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China.
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Wei T, Cheng J, Ji Y, Cao X, Ding S, Liu Q, Wang Z. Baculovirus-mediated endostatin and angiostatin activation of autophagy through the AMPK/AKT/mTOR pathway inhibits angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Open Life Sci 2024; 19:20220914. [PMID: 39091624 PMCID: PMC11291770 DOI: 10.1515/biol-2022-0914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly vascularized carcinoma, and targeting its neovascularization represents an effective therapeutic approach. Our previous study demonstrated that the baculovirus-mediated endostatin and angiostatin fusion protein (BDS-hEA) effectively inhibits the angiogenesis of vascular endothelial cells and the growth of HCC tumors. However, the mechanism underlying its anti-angiogenic effect remains unclear. Increasing evidence suggests that autophagy has a significant impact on the function of vascular endothelial cells and response to cancer therapy. Hence, the objective of this research was to investigate the correlation between BDS-hEA-induced angiogenesis inhibition and autophagy, along with potential regulatory mechanisms. Our results demonstrated that BDS-hEA induced autophagy in EA.hy926 cells, as evidenced by the increasing number of autophagosomes and reactive oxygen species, accompanied by an upregulation of Beclin-1, LC3-II/LC3-I, and p62 protein expression. Suppression of autophagy using 3-methyladenine attenuated the functions of BDS-hEA-induced EA.hy926 cells, including the viability, proliferation, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis. Moreover, BDS-hEA induced autophagy by downregulating the expression of CD31, VEGF, and VEGFR2, as well as phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-AKT) and phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR), while concurrently upregulating phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK). The in vivo results further indicated that inhibition of autophagy by chloroquine significantly impeded the ability of BDS-hEA to suppress HCC tumor growth in mice. Mechanistically, BDS-hEA prominently facilitated autophagic apoptosis in tumor tissues and decreased the levels of ki67, CD31, VEGF, MMP-9, p-AKT, and p-mTOR while simultaneously enhancing the p-AMPK expression. In conclusion, our findings suggest that BDS-hEA induces autophagy as a cytotoxic response by modulating the AMPK/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby exerting anti-angiogenic effects against HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Wei
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, 750001, P.R. China
| | - Jiajie Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, 750004, P. R. China
| | - Yonggan Ji
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, 750004, P. R. China
| | - Xue Cao
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, 750001, P.R. China
| | - Shuqin Ding
- School of Inspection, Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, 750004, P.R. China
| | - Quanxia Liu
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, 750001, P.R. China
| | - Zhisheng Wang
- School of Inspection, Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, 750004, P.R. China
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Wang B, Pareek G, Kundu M. ULK/Atg1: phasing in and out of autophagy. Trends Biochem Sci 2024; 49:494-505. [PMID: 38565496 PMCID: PMC11162330 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Autophagy - a highly regulated intracellular degradation process - is pivotal in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a fundamental mechanism regulating the formation and function of membrane-less compartments. Recent research has unveiled connections between LLPS and autophagy, suggesting that phase separation events may orchestrate the spatiotemporal organization of autophagic machinery and cargo sequestration. The Unc-51-like kinase (ULK)/autophagy-related 1 (Atg1) family of proteins is best known for its regulatory role in initiating autophagy, but there is growing evidence that the functional spectrum of ULK/Atg1 extends beyond autophagy regulation. In this review, we explore the spatial and temporal regulation of the ULK/Atg1 family of kinases, focusing on their recruitment to LLPS-driven compartments, and highlighting their multifaceted functions beyond their traditional role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, China
| | - Gautam Pareek
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Mondira Kundu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
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Shidoji Y. Induction of Hepatoma Cell Pyroptosis by Endogenous Lipid Geranylgeranoic Acid-A Comparison with Palmitic Acid and Retinoic Acid. Cells 2024; 13:809. [PMID: 38786033 PMCID: PMC11119665 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Research on retinoid-based cancer prevention, spurred by the effects of vitamin A deficiency on gastric cancer and subsequent clinical studies on digestive tract cancer, unveils novel avenues for chemoprevention. Acyclic retinoids like 4,5-didehydrogeranylgeranoic acid (4,5-didehydroGGA) have emerged as potent agents against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), distinct from natural retinoids such as all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). Mechanistic studies reveal GGA's unique induction of pyroptosis, a rapid cell death pathway, in HCC cells. GGA triggers mitochondrial superoxide hyperproduction and ER stress responses through Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling and modulates autophagy, ultimately activating pyroptotic cell death in HCC cells. Unlike ATRA-induced apoptosis, GGA and palmitic acid (PA) induce pyroptosis, underscoring their distinct mechanisms. While all three fatty acids evoke mitochondrial dysfunction and ER stress responses, GGA and PA inhibit autophagy, leading to incomplete autophagic responses and pyroptosis, whereas ATRA promotes autophagic flux. In vivo experiments demonstrate GGA's potential as an anti-oncometabolite, inducing cell death selectively in tumor cells and thus suppressing liver cancer development. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular mechanisms underlying GGA's anti-HCC effects and underscores its promising role in cancer prevention, highlighting its importance in HCC prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Shidoji
- Graduate School of Human Health Science, University of Nagasaki, Nagayo, Nagasaki 851-2195, Japan
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5
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Xu Y, Zhu C, Zhu C, Peng L, Ji D, Wu Q, Bai P, Bai Z, Da M. SQSTM1/p62 promotes the progression of gastric cancer through epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24409. [PMID: 38322900 PMCID: PMC10844054 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background SQSTM1/p62 is an autophagy-related receptor protein that participates in regulating tumorigenesis and multiple signaling pathways. Gastric cancer (GC) is a common tumor in the digestive tract and continues to pose a significant threat to human health. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the impact of p62 on gastric cancer. Methods Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting were employed to assess the expression level of the p62 protein in gastric cancer tissues and its correlation with prognosis. Subsequently, in vitro cell experiments were conducted to determine the role of p62 in gastric cancer cell proliferation, migration, and metastasis. Result The expression of p62 in gastric cancer tissues was significantly higher than in normal tissues. The expression of p62 was positively correlated with poor prognosis in gastric cancer patients. In vitro cell experiments indicated that p62 promotes gastric cancer cell proliferation and migration. Mechanistically, elevated p62 expression induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), leading to upregulation of E-cadherin and downregulation of N-cadherin and vimentin. Conclusion This study provides novel and robust evidence for the mechanism by which elevated p62 expression promotes the progression of gastric cancer. It offers promising therapeutic targets for anti-tumor treatment strategies in gastric cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou,730000, China
| | - Ciba Zhu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou,730000, China
| | - Chenglou Zhu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Lingzhi Peng
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Dandan Ji
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou,730000, China
| | - Qiong Wu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Pengwei Bai
- Clinical Medical College of Ningxia Medical University, 750000, Yinchuan, China
| | - Zhaozhao Bai
- Clinical Medical College of Ningxia Medical University, 750000, Yinchuan, China
| | - Mingxu Da
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China
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6
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陶 若, 张 水, 郭 文, 闫 志. [Research Progress in the Role of Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation in Human Cancer]. SICHUAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF SICHUAN UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDITION 2024; 55:24-30. [PMID: 38322521 PMCID: PMC10839487 DOI: 10.12182/20240160503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a reversible process, during which biological macromolecules, including proteins and nucleic acids, condense into liquid membraneless organelles under the influence of weak multivalent interactions. Currently, fluorescence recovery after photobleaching is the primary method used to detect the phase separation of biological macromolecules. Recent studies have revealed the link between abnormal LLPS and the pathogenesis and development of various human cancers. Through phase separation or abnormal phase separation, tumor-related biological macromolecules, such as mRNA, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and tumor-related proteins, can affect transcriptional translation and DNA damage repair, regulate the autophagy and ferroptosis functions of cells, and thus regulate the development of various tumors. In this review, we summarized the latest research findings on the mechanism of LLPS in the pathogenesis and progression of tumors and elaborated on the promotion or inhibition of autophagy, tumor immunity, DNA damage repair, and cell ferroptosis after abnormal phase separation of biomolecules, including mRNA, lncRNA, and proteins, which subsequently affects the pathogenesis and progression of tumors. According to published findings, many biological macromolecules can regulate transcriptional translation, expression, post-transcriptional modification, cell signal transduction, and other biological processes through phase separation. Therefore, further expansion of the research field of phase separation and in-depth investigation of its molecular mechanisms and regulatory processes hold extensive research potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- 若琳 陶
- 郑州大学第一附属医院 肝胆胰外科 (郑州 450000)Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
- 河南省消化器官移植重点实验室 (郑州 450000)Henan Key Laboratory for Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - 水军 张
- 郑州大学第一附属医院 肝胆胰外科 (郑州 450000)Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
- 河南省消化器官移植重点实验室 (郑州 450000)Henan Key Laboratory for Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - 文治 郭
- 郑州大学第一附属医院 肝胆胰外科 (郑州 450000)Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
- 河南省消化器官移植重点实验室 (郑州 450000)Henan Key Laboratory for Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - 志平 闫
- 郑州大学第一附属医院 肝胆胰外科 (郑州 450000)Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
- 河南省消化器官移植重点实验室 (郑州 450000)Henan Key Laboratory for Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450000, China
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Alcober‐Boquet L, Zang T, Pietsch L, Suess E, Hartmann M, Proschak E, Gross LZF, Sacerdoti M, Zeuzem S, Rogov VV, Leroux AE, Piiper A, Biondi RM. The PB1 and the ZZ domain of the autophagy receptor p62/SQSTM1 regulate the interaction of p62/SQSTM1 with the autophagosome protein LC3B. Protein Sci 2024; 33:e4840. [PMID: 37984441 PMCID: PMC10751729 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4840] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy is a highly conserved cellular process that allows degradation of large macromolecules. p62/SQSTM1 is a key adaptor protein that interacts both with material to be degraded and with LC3 at the autophagosome, enabling degradation of cargos such as protein aggregates, lipid droplets and damaged organelles by selective autophagy. Dysregulation of autophagy contributes to the pathogenesis of many diseases. In this study, we investigated if the interaction of p62/SQSTM1 with LC3B could be regulated. We purified full-length p62/SQSTM1 and established an in vitro assay that measures the interaction with LC3B. We used the assay to determine the role of the different domains of p62/SQSTM1 in the interaction with LC3B. We identified a mechanism of regulation of p62/SQSTM1 where the ZZ and the PB1 domains regulate the exposure of the LIR-sequence to enable or inhibit the interaction with LC3B. A mutation to mimic the phosphorylation of a site on the ZZ domain leads to increased interaction with LC3B. Also, a small compound that binds to the ZZ domain enhances interaction with LC3B. Dysregulation of these mechanisms in p62/SQSTM1 could have implications for diseases where autophagy is affected. In conclusion, our study highlights the regulated nature of p62/SQSTM1 and its ability to modulate the interaction with LC3B through a LIR-sequence Accessibility Mechanism (LAM). Furthermore, our findings suggest the potential for pharmacological modulation of the exposure of LIR, paving the way for future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Alcober‐Boquet
- Goethe University FrankfurtMedical Clinic 1, Biomedical Research Laboratory, University HospitalFrankfurtGermany
| | - Tabea Zang
- Goethe University FrankfurtMedical Clinic 1, Biomedical Research Laboratory, University HospitalFrankfurtGermany
| | - Larissa Pietsch
- Goethe University FrankfurtMedical Clinic 1, Biomedical Research Laboratory, University HospitalFrankfurtGermany
- German Translational Cancer Network (DKTK)FrankfurtGermany
| | - Evelyn Suess
- Goethe University FrankfurtMedical Clinic 1, Biomedical Research Laboratory, University HospitalFrankfurtGermany
| | - Markus Hartmann
- Institut für Pharmazeutische ChemieGoethe‐Universität FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
| | - Ewgenij Proschak
- Institut für Pharmazeutische ChemieGoethe‐Universität FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
| | - Lissy Z. F. Gross
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA)—CONICET—Partner Institute of the Max Planck SocietyBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Mariana Sacerdoti
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA)—CONICET—Partner Institute of the Max Planck SocietyBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Stefan Zeuzem
- Goethe University FrankfurtMedical Clinic 1, Biomedical Research Laboratory, University HospitalFrankfurtGermany
| | - Vladimir V. Rogov
- Institut für Pharmazeutische ChemieGoethe‐Universität FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life SciencesGoethe UniversityFrankfurtGermany
| | - Alejandro E. Leroux
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA)—CONICET—Partner Institute of the Max Planck SocietyBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Albrecht Piiper
- Goethe University FrankfurtMedical Clinic 1, Biomedical Research Laboratory, University HospitalFrankfurtGermany
| | - Ricardo M. Biondi
- Goethe University FrankfurtMedical Clinic 1, Biomedical Research Laboratory, University HospitalFrankfurtGermany
- German Translational Cancer Network (DKTK)FrankfurtGermany
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA)—CONICET—Partner Institute of the Max Planck SocietyBuenos AiresArgentina
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Zhan K, Yang X, Li S, Bai Y. Correlation of endoplasmic reticulum stress patterns with the immune microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma: a prognostic signature analysis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1270774. [PMID: 38143739 PMCID: PMC10748430 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1270774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds The extended duration of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) can impact the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the efficacy of immunotherapies by interacting with immune cells that have infiltrated the tumor microenvironment (TME). Methods and results The study utilized a training cohort of 364 HCC patients with complete information from The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) database, and a validation cohort of 231 HCC patients from the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) database. The genes related to ERS exhibiting a strong correlation with overall survival (OS) were identified using univariate Cox regression analysis. A 13-gene predictive signature was then produced through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression approach. The data revealed that the ERS-associated gene signature effectively stratified patients into high- or low-risk groups regarding OS in both the training and validation cohorts (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.00029, respectively). Using the multivariate method, it is still an independent prognostic factor in both the training and validation cohorts (P < 0.001 and P = 0.008, respectively). Moreover, several metabolic pathways were identified to be enriched among the 13 genes in the predictive signature. When the ERS-associated gene signature was combined with the tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage, the ERS nomogram performed better than either the gene signature or the TNM stage alone (C-index values: 0.731, 0.729, and 0.573, respectively). Further analysis revealed that patients in the high-risk group exhibited increased infiltration of immune cells. Additionally, GP6 was downregulated in HCC tissues among these signature genes (P < 0.05), which was related to poor OS. Conclusions The data suggest that this novel ERS-associated gene signature could contribute to personalized cancer management for HCC. Moreover, targeting GP6 inhibition might be a potential method for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Jinshan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yang Bai
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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9
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Kakehashi A, Suzuki S, Wanibuchi H. Recent Insights into the Biomarkers, Molecular Targets and Mechanisms of Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis-Driven Hepatocarcinogenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4566. [PMID: 37760534 PMCID: PMC10527326 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and steatohepatitis (NASH) are chronic hepatic conditions leading to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. According to the recent "multiple-parallel-hits hypothesis", NASH could be caused by abnormal metabolism, accumulation of lipids, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stresses and is found in obese and non-obese patients. Recent translational research studies have discovered new proteins and signaling pathways that are involved not only in the development of NAFLD but also in its progression to NASH, cirrhosis, and HCC. Nevertheless, the mechanisms of HCC developing from precancerous lesions have not yet been fully elucidated. Now, it is of particular importance to start research focusing on the discovery of novel molecular pathways that mediate alterations in glucose and lipid metabolism, which leads to the development of liver steatosis. The role of mTOR signaling in NASH progression to HCC has recently attracted attention. The goals of this review are (1) to highlight recent research on novel genetic and protein contributions to NAFLD/NASH; (2) to investigate how recent scientific findings might outline the process that causes NASH-associated HCC; and (3) to explore the reliable biomarkers/targets of NAFLD/NASH-associated hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kakehashi
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Osaka Metropolitan University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-4-3 Asahi-machi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 545-8585, Japan; (S.S.); (H.W.)
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Basha S, Mukunda DC, Rodrigues J, Gail D'Souza M, Gangadharan G, Pai AR, Mahato KK. A comprehensive review of protein misfolding disorders, underlying mechanism, clinical diagnosis, and therapeutic strategies. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 90:102017. [PMID: 37468112 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Proteins are the most common biological macromolecules in living system and are building blocks of life. They are extremely dynamic in structure and functions. Due to several modifications, proteins undergo misfolding, leading to aggregation and thereby developing neurodegenerative and systemic diseases. Understanding the pathology of these diseases and the techniques used to diagnose them is therefore crucial for their effective management . There are several techniques, currently being in use to diagnose them and those will be discussed in this review. AIM/OBJECTIVES Current review aims to discuss an overview of protein aggregation and the underlying mechanisms linked to neurodegeneration and systemic diseases. Also, the review highlights protein misfolding disorders, their clinical diagnosis, and treatment strategies. METHODOLOGY Literature related to neurodegenerative and systemic diseases was explored through PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Medline databases. The keywords used for literature survey and analysis are protein aggregation, neurodegenerative disorders, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, systemic diseases, protein aggregation mechanisms, etc. DISCUSSION /CONCLUSION: This review summarises the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative and systemic disorders caused by protein misfolding and aggregation. The clinical diagnosis and therapeutic strategies adopted for the management of these diseases are also discussed to aid in a better understanding of protein misfolding disorders. Many significant concerns about the role, characteristics, and consequences of protein aggregates in neurodegenerative and systemic diseases are not clearly understood to date. Regardless of technological advancements, there are still great difficulties in the management and cure of these diseases. Therefore, for better understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of neurodegenerative and systemic diseases, more studies to identify novel drugs that may aid in their treatment and management are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaik Basha
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Jackson Rodrigues
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Meagan Gail D'Souza
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Gireesh Gangadharan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Aparna Ramakrishna Pai
- Department of Neurology, Kasturba Medical College - Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Krishna Kishore Mahato
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India.
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Salete-Granado D, Carbonell C, Puertas-Miranda D, Vega-Rodríguez VJ, García-Macia M, Herrero AB, Marcos M. Autophagy, Oxidative Stress, and Alcoholic Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Potential Clinical Applications. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1425. [PMID: 37507963 PMCID: PMC10376811 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12071425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Ethanol consumption triggers oxidative stress by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) through its metabolites. This process leads to steatosis and liver inflammation, which are critical for the development of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Autophagy is a regulated dynamic process that sequesters damaged and excess cytoplasmic organelles for lysosomal degradation and may counteract the harmful effects of ROS-induced oxidative stress. These effects include hepatotoxicity, mitochondrial damage, steatosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, and iron overload. In liver diseases, particularly ALD, macroautophagy has been implicated as a protective mechanism in hepatocytes, although it does not appear to play the same role in stellate cells. Beyond the liver, autophagy may also mitigate the harmful effects of alcohol on other organs, thereby providing an additional layer of protection against ALD. This protective potential is further supported by studies showing that drugs that interact with autophagy, such as rapamycin, can prevent ALD development in animal models. This systematic review presents a comprehensive analysis of the literature, focusing on the role of autophagy in oxidative stress regulation, its involvement in organ-organ crosstalk relevant to ALD, and the potential of autophagy-targeting therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Salete-Granado
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (D.S.-G.); (C.C.); (D.P.-M.); (V.-J.V.-R.); (M.G.-M.); (A.B.H.)
| | - Cristina Carbonell
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (D.S.-G.); (C.C.); (D.P.-M.); (V.-J.V.-R.); (M.G.-M.); (A.B.H.)
- Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Unidad de Medicina Molecular, Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - David Puertas-Miranda
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (D.S.-G.); (C.C.); (D.P.-M.); (V.-J.V.-R.); (M.G.-M.); (A.B.H.)
- Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Víctor-José Vega-Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (D.S.-G.); (C.C.); (D.P.-M.); (V.-J.V.-R.); (M.G.-M.); (A.B.H.)
- Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Marina García-Macia
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (D.S.-G.); (C.C.); (D.P.-M.); (V.-J.V.-R.); (M.G.-M.); (A.B.H.)
- Instituto de Biología Funcional y Genómica (IBFG), Universidad de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ana Belén Herrero
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (D.S.-G.); (C.C.); (D.P.-M.); (V.-J.V.-R.); (M.G.-M.); (A.B.H.)
- Unidad de Medicina Molecular, Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Miguel Marcos
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (D.S.-G.); (C.C.); (D.P.-M.); (V.-J.V.-R.); (M.G.-M.); (A.B.H.)
- Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Unidad de Medicina Molecular, Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
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12
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Akl MG, Li L, Baccetto R, Phanse S, Zhang Q, Trites MJ, McDonald S, Aoki H, Babu M, Widenmaier SB. Complementary gene regulation by NRF1 and NRF2 protects against hepatic cholesterol overload. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112399. [PMID: 37060561 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112399] [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: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic cholesterol overload promotes steatohepatitis. Insufficient understanding of liver stress defense impedes therapy development. Here, we elucidate the role of stress defense transcription factors, nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor-1 (NRF1) and -2 (NRF2), in counteracting cholesterol-linked liver stress. Using a diet that increases liver cholesterol storage, expression profiles and phenotypes of liver from mice with hepatocyte deficiency of NRF1, NRF2, or both are compared with controls, and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing is undertaken to identify target genes. Results show NRF1 and NRF2 co-regulate genes that eliminate cholesterol and mitigate inflammation and oxidative damage. Combined deficiency, but not deficiency of either alone, results in severe steatohepatitis, hepatic cholesterol overload and crystallization, altered bile acid metabolism, and decreased biliary cholesterol. Moreover, therapeutic effects of NRF2-activating drug bardoxolone require NRF1 and are supplemented by NRF1 overexpression. Thus, we discover complementary gene programming by NRF1 and NRF2 that counteract cholesterol-associated fatty liver disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- May G Akl
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Raquel Baccetto
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Sadhna Phanse
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
| | - Qingzhou Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
| | - Michael J Trites
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Sherin McDonald
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Hiroyuki Aoki
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
| | - Mohan Babu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
| | - Scott B Widenmaier
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
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13
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Chen H, Wu Y, Xie W, Chen J, Jin L. InP/ZnS quantum dots cause liver damage in rare minnow (Gobiocypris rarus) larvae. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2023; 266:109546. [PMID: 36717047 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2023.109546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
InP/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) are widely used in biomedical imaging and light-emitting component manufacturing industries, but there are few studies on their biological toxicity. In this study, we conducted experiments with rare minnow larvae and found that InP/ZnS QDs can cause liver damage. InP/ZnS QDs appeared only in the intestine of larvae and were not enriched in other parts of the larvae. The activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (AKP) increased, while the decrease in bile acid. InP/ZnS QDs caused hepatic cell nuclear lysis, abnormal cytoplasmic staining, and mitochondrial cristae reduction, swelling, and fragmentation. RNA-sequencing results revealed that InP/ZnS QDs exposure treatment affected the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism, sterol synthesis, bile acid synthesis and other pathways. The excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by InP/ZnS QDs may be the main source of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Southwest University School of Life Sciences, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yingyi Wu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Southwest University School of Life Sciences, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Weiwei Xie
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Southwest University School of Life Sciences, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Southwest University School of Life Sciences, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Li Jin
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Southwest University School of Life Sciences, Chongqing 400715, China.
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Lu S, Xu J, Xu Y, Liu Y, Shi D, Wang J, Qiu F. Glycyrol attenuates colon injury via promotion of SQSTM1/p62 ubiquitination and autophagy by inhibiting the ubiquitin-specific protease USP8. J Funct Foods 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2023.105492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
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15
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Akl MG, Widenmaier SB. Immunometabolic factors contributing to obesity-linked hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1089124. [PMID: 36712976 PMCID: PMC9877434 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1089124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major public health concern that is promoted by obesity and associated liver complications. Onset and progression of HCC in obesity is a multifactorial process involving complex interactions between the metabolic and immune system, in which chronic liver damage resulting from metabolic and inflammatory insults trigger carcinogenesis-promoting gene mutations and tumor metabolism. Moreover, cell growth and proliferation of the cancerous cell, after initiation, requires interactions between various immunological and metabolic pathways that provide stress defense of the cancer cell as well as strategic cell death escape mechanisms. The heterogenic nature of HCC in addition to the various metabolic risk factors underlying HCC development have led researchers to focus on examining metabolic pathways that may contribute to HCC development. In obesity-linked HCC, oncogene-induced modifications and metabolic pathways have been identified to support anabolic demands of the growing HCC cells and combat the concomitant cell stress, coinciding with altered utilization of signaling pathways and metabolic fuels involved in glucose metabolism, macromolecule synthesis, stress defense, and redox homeostasis. In this review, we discuss metabolic insults that can underlie the transition from steatosis to steatohepatitis and from steatohepatitis to HCC as well as aberrantly regulated immunometabolic pathways that enable cancer cells to survive and proliferate in the tumor microenvironment. We also discuss therapeutic modalities targeted at HCC prevention and regression. A full understanding of HCC-associated immunometabolic changes in obesity may contribute to clinical treatments that effectively target cancer metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- May G. Akl
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Scott B. Widenmaier
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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16
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Mitochondrial proteotoxicity: implications and ubiquitin-dependent quality control mechanisms. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:574. [DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04604-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Zhao C, Zhang Z, Jing T. A novel signature of combing cuproptosis- with ferroptosis-related genes for prediction of prognosis, immunologic therapy responses and drug sensitivity in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1000993. [PMID: 36249031 PMCID: PMC9562991 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1000993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundOur study aimed to construct a novel signature (CRFs) of combing cuproptosis-related genes with ferroptosis-related genes for the prediction of the prognosis, responses of immunological therapy, and drug sensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients.MethodsThe RNA sequencing and corresponding clinical data of patients with HCC were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC), GSE76427, GSE144269, GSE140580, Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE), and IMvigor210 cohorts. CRFs was constructed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm. The analyses involved in the prognosis, response to immunologic therapy, efficacy of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) therapy, and drug sensitivity were performed. Furthermore, the molecular function, somatic mutation, and stemness analyses were further performed between the low- and high-risk groups, respectively. In this study, the statistical analyses were performed by using the diverse packages of R 4.1.3 software and Cytoscape 3.8.0.ResultsCRFs included seven genes (G6PD, NRAS, RRM2, SQSTM1, SRXN1, TXNRD1, and ZFP69B). Multivariate Cox regression analyses demonstrated that CRFs were an independent risk factor for prognosis. In addition, these patients in the high-risk group presented with worse prognoses and a significant state of immunosuppression. Moreover, patients in the high-risk group might achieve greater outcomes after receiving immunologic therapy, while patients in the low-risk group are sensitive to TACE. Furthermore, we discovered that patients in the high-risk group may benefit from the administration of sunitinib. In addition, enhanced mRANsi and tumor mutation burden (TMB) yielded in the high-risk group. Additionally, the functions enriched in the low-risk group differed from those in the other group.ConclusionIn summary, CRFs may be regarded not only as a novel biomarker of worse prognosis, but also as an excellent predictor of immunotherapy response, efficacy of TACE and drug sensitivity in HCC, which is worthy of clinical promotion.
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Grb2 interacts with necrosome components and is involved in rasfonin-induced necroptosis. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:319. [PMID: 35831301 PMCID: PMC9279413 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-01106-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The underlying mechanism by which growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (Grb2) regulates necroptosis remains unexplored. In the present study, we found that rasfonin, a fungal natural product and an activator of necroptosis, enhanced Grb2 binding to receptor-interacting serine/threonine kinase 1 (RIP1), which plays a critical role in regulating programmed necrosis. Moreover, we observed that SQSTM/p62 (p62), a protein that can form necrosomes with RIP1, increased its interaction with Grb2 upon rasfonin challenge. Although it has been used as an activator of autophagy in our previous study, here we found that a high dose of rasfonin was able to inhibit autophagic process. Inhibition of RIP1 either chemically or genetically reversed the inhibition of rasfonin on autophagy, whereas knockdown of Grb2 markedly reduced rasfonin-induced necrosis. Additionally, we found that the compound failed to upregulate the expression of RIP1 in Grb2-deprived cells. In summary, our data revealed that Grb2 actively participated in rasfonin-induced necroptosis by interacting with the components of necrosome and mediating their expression.
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Wang L, Hensley CR, Howell ME, Ning S. Bioinformatics-Driven Identification of p62 as A Crucial Oncogene in Liver Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:923009. [PMID: 35814476 PMCID: PMC9263135 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.923009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) is the major form of liver cancer that is the fourth most common cause of cancer death worldwide. It has been reported that the multifunctional protein p62 (also known as SQSTM1) plays a cancer-promoting role in LIHC, but the detailed mechanisms underlying p62 interaction with LIHC remains unclear. To gain a comprehensive understanding of p62 interaction with LIHC in clinical settings, we performed bioinformatic analyses using various online algorithms derived from high throughput profiling. Our results indicate that p62 expression is significantly upregulated, partially due to its promoter demethylation, rather than p62 gene mutation, in LIHC. Mutation of TP53, CTNNB1, or ALB significantly correlates with, and mutation of AXIN1 reversely correlates with, the p62 expression level. Its upregulation occurs as early as liver cirrhosis, and go through all stages of the carcinogenesis. HCV infection makes a significant contribution to p62 upregulation in LIHC. We further identified p62-associated molecular signatures in LIHC, including many genes that are involved in antioxidant stress and metabolism, such as SRX1 and TXNRD1. Regarding to the clinical outcome, p62 expression level reversely correlates with the survival of LIHC patients (p<0.01). Importantly, we experimentally validated that p62 depletion in liver cancer cell lines downregulates the expression of SRX1 and TXNRD1 at both transcriptional and translational levels, and reduces cell proliferation. As the potential mechanisms underlying the tumor-promoting role of p62, we show that p62 upregulation is remarkably associated with reprogramming of pathways mediated by p53, Wnt/β-catenin, and Keap1-NRF2, which are crucial for oncogenesis in many contexts. Our findings provide a comprehensive insight into the interaction between p62 and LIHC, offering valuable information for understanding of LIHC pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
- Center of Excellence for Inflammation, Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
- *Correspondence: Ling Wang,
| | - Culton R. Hensley
- Department of Internal Medicine, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Mary E. Howell
- Department of Internal Medicine, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Shunbin Ning
- Department of Internal Medicine, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
- Center of Excellence for Inflammation, Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
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The Bright and the Dark Side of TGF-β Signaling in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Mechanisms, Dysregulation, and Therapeutic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040940. [PMID: 35205692 PMCID: PMC8870127 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling is a preeminent regulator of diverse cellular and physiological processes. Frequent dysregulation of TGF-β signaling has been implicated in cancer. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, the autocrine and paracrine effects of TGF-β have paradoxical implications. While acting as a potent tumor suppressor pathway in the early stages of malignancy, TGF-β diverts to a promoter of tumor progression in the late stages, reflecting its bright and dark natures, respectively. Within this context, targeting TGF-β represents a promising therapeutic option for HCC treatment. We discuss here the molecular properties of TGF-β signaling in HCC, attempting to provide an overview of its effects on tumor cells and the stroma. We also seek to evaluate the dysregulation mechanisms that mediate the functional switch of TGF-β from a tumor suppressor to a pro-tumorigenic signal. Finally, we reconcile its biphasic nature with the therapeutic implications. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with genetic and nongenetic aberrations that impact multiple genes and pathways, including the frequently dysregulated transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling pathway. The regulatory cytokine TGF-β and its signaling effectors govern a broad spectrum of spatiotemporally regulated molecular and cellular responses, yet paradoxically have dual and opposing roles in HCC progression. In the early stages of tumorigenesis, TGF-β signaling enforces profound tumor-suppressive effects, primarily by inducing cell cycle arrest, cellular senescence, autophagy, and apoptosis. However, as the tumor advances in malignant progression, TGF-β functionally switches to a pro-tumorigenic signal, eliciting aggressive tumor traits, such as epithelial–mesenchymal transition, tumor microenvironment remodeling, and immune evasion of cancer cells. On this account, the inhibition of TGF-β signaling is recognized as a promising therapeutic strategy for advanced HCC. In this review, we evaluate the functions and mechanisms of TGF-β signaling and relate its complex and pleiotropic biology to HCC pathophysiology, attempting to provide a detailed perspective on the molecular determinants underlying its functional diversion. We also address the therapeutic implications of the dichotomous nature of TGF-β signaling and highlight the rationale for targeting this pathway for HCC treatment, alone or in combination with other agents.
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