1
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Zou Z, Luo T, Wang X, Wang B, Li Q. Exploring the interplay between triple-negative breast cancer stem cells and tumor microenvironment for effective therapeutic strategies. J Cell Physiol 2024. [PMID: 38807378 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31278] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive and metastatic malignancy with poor treatment outcomes. The interaction between the tumor microenvironment (TME) and breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) plays an important role in the development of TNBC. Owing to their ability of self-renewal and multidirectional differentiation, BCSCs maintain tumor growth, drive metastatic colonization, and facilitate the development of drug resistance. TME is the main factor regulating the phenotype and metastasis of BCSCs. Immune cells, cancer-related fibroblasts (CAFs), cytokines, mesenchymal cells, endothelial cells, and extracellular matrix within the TME form a complex communication network, exert highly selective pressure on the tumor, and provide a conducive environment for the formation of BCSC niches. Tumor growth and metastasis can be controlled by targeting the TME to eliminate BCSC niches or targeting BCSCs to modify the TME. These approaches may improve the treatment outcomes and possess great application potential in clinical settings. In this review, we summarized the relationship between BCSCs and the progression and drug resistance of TNBC, especially focusing on the interaction between BCSCs and TME. In addition, we discussed therapeutic strategies that target the TME to inhibit or eliminate BCSCs, providing valuable insights into the clinical treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoling Zou
- Queen Mary College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Tinglan Luo
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh People's Hospital of Chongqing (Affiliated Central Hospital of Chongqing University of Technology), Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyuan Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Chongqing Medicine University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh People's Hospital of Chongqing (Affiliated Central Hospital of Chongqing University of Technology), Chongqing, China
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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2
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Liu C, Li J, Xu F, Chen L, Ni M, Wu J, Zhao H, Wu Y, Li J, Wu X, Chen X. PARP1-DOT1L transcription axis drives acquired resistance to PARP inhibitor in ovarian cancer. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:111. [PMID: 38778348 PMCID: PMC11110363 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02025-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor (PARPi) resistance poses a significant challenge in ovarian carcinoma (OC). While the role of DOT1L in cancer and chemoresistance is acknowledged, its specific role in PARPi resistance remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate the molecular mechanism of DOT1L in PARPi resistance in OC patients. METHODS This study analyzed the expression of DOT1L in PARPi-resistant cell lines compared to sensitive ones and correlated it with clinical outcomes in OC patients. Comprehensive in vitro and in vivo functional experiments were conducted using cellular and mouse models. Molecular investigations, including RNA sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and Cleavage Under Targets and Tagmentation (CUT&Tag) assays, were employed to unravel the molecular mechanisms of DOT1L-mediated PARPi resistance. RESULTS Our investigation revealed a robust correlation between DOT1L expression and clinical PARPi resistance in non-BRCA mutated OC cells. Upregulated DOT1L expression in PARPi-resistant tissues was associated with diminished survival in OC patients. Mechanistically, we identified that PARP1 directly binds to the DOT1L gene promoter, promoting transcription independently of its enzyme activity. PARP1 trapping induced by PARPi treatment amplified this binding, enhancing DOT1L transcription and contributing to drug resistance. Sequencing analysis revealed that DOT1L plays a crucial role in the transcriptional regulation of PLCG2 and ABCB1 via H3K79me2. This established the PARP1-DOT1L-PLCG2/ABCB1 axis as a key contributor to PARPi resistance. Furthermore, we discovered that combining a DOT1L inhibitor with PARPi demonstrated a synergistic effect in both cell line-derived xenograft mouse models (CDXs) and patient-derived organoids (PDOs). CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that DOT1L is an independent prognostic marker for OC patients. The PARP1-DOT1L/H3K79me2-PLCG2/ABCB1 axis is identified as a pivotal contributor to PARPi resistance. Targeted inhibition of DOT1L emerges as a promising therapeutic strategy for enhancing PARPi treatment outcomes in OC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaohua Liu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiana Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lihua Chen
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengdong Ni
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiangchun Wu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haiyun Zhao
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yangjun Wu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiajia Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaohua Wu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaojun Chen
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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3
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Wu D, Zhang J, Jun Y, Liu L, Huang C, Wang W, Yang C, Xiang Z, Wu J, Huang Y, Meng D, Yang Z, Zhou X, Cheng C, Yang J. The emerging role of DOT1L in cell proliferation and differentiation: Friend or foe. Histol Histopathol 2024; 39:425-435. [PMID: 37706592 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Cell proliferation and differentiation are the basic physiological activities of cells. Mistakes in these processes may affect cell survival, or cause cell cycle dysregulation, such as tumorigenesis, birth defects and degenerative diseases. In recent years, it has been found that histone methyltransferase DOT1L is the only H3 lysine 79 methyltransferase, which plays an important role in the process of cell fate determination through monomethylation, dimethylation and trimethylation of H3K79. DOT1L has a pro-proliferative effect in leukemia cells; however, loss of heart-specific DOT1L leads to increased proliferation of cardiac tissue. Additionally, DOT1L has carcinogenic or tumor suppressive effects in different neoplasms. At present, some DOT1L inhibitors for the treatment of MLL-driven leukemia have achieved promising results in clinical trials, but completely blocking DOT1L will also bring some side effects. Thus, this uncertainty suggests that DOT1L has a unique function in cell physiology. In this review, we summarize the primary findings of DOT1L in regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. Correlations between DOT1L and cell fate specification might suggest DOT1L as a therapeutic target for diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University and Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, PR China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China.
| | - Yang Jun
- Department of Cardiology, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University and Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, PR China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Li Liu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Cuiyuan Huang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Wei Wang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Chaojun Yang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Zujin Xiang
- Department of Cardiology, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University and Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, PR China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Jingyi Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University and Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, PR China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Yifan Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University and Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, PR China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Di Meng
- Department of Cardiology, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University and Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, PR China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Zishu Yang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhou
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Chen Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University and Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, PR China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Cardiology, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University and Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, PR China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, PR China
- Hubei Clinical Research Center for Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Yichang, PR China.
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4
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Yu X, Zhao H, Wang R, Chen Y, Ouyang X, Li W, Sun Y, Peng A. Cancer epigenetics: from laboratory studies and clinical trials to precision medicine. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:28. [PMID: 38225241 PMCID: PMC10789753 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01803-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic dysregulation is a common feature of a myriad of human diseases, particularly cancer. Defining the epigenetic defects associated with malignant tumors has become a focus of cancer research resulting in the gradual elucidation of cancer cell epigenetic regulation. In fact, most stages of tumor progression, including tumorigenesis, promotion, progression, and recurrence are accompanied by epigenetic alterations, some of which can be reversed by epigenetic drugs. The main objective of epigenetic therapy in the era of personalized precision medicine is to detect cancer biomarkers to improve risk assessment, diagnosis, and targeted treatment interventions. Rapid technological advancements streamlining the characterization of molecular epigenetic changes associated with cancers have propelled epigenetic drug research and development. This review summarizes the main mechanisms of epigenetic dysregulation and discusses past and present examples of epigenetic inhibitors in cancer diagnosis and treatment, with an emphasis on the development of epigenetic enzyme inhibitors or drugs. In the final part, the prospect of precise diagnosis and treatment is considered based on a better understanding of epigenetic abnormalities in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyang Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, (Zhuhai People's Hospital Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Hao Zhao
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Yichang Central People's Hospital Affiliated with China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443000, China
| | - Ruiqi Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People's Hospital, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519000, China
| | - Yingyin Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, (Zhuhai People's Hospital Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Xumei Ouyang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, (Zhuhai People's Hospital Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Wenting Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, (Zhuhai People's Hospital Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Yihao Sun
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, (Zhuhai People's Hospital Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, China.
| | - Anghui Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, (Zhuhai People's Hospital Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, China.
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5
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Li D, Peng X, Hu Z, Li S, Chen J, Pan W. Small molecules targeting selected histone methyltransferases (HMTs) for cancer treatment: Current progress and novel strategies. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:115982. [PMID: 38056296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115982] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Histone methyltransferases (HMTs) play a critical role in gene post-translational regulation and diverse physiological processes, and are implicated in a plethora of human diseases, especially cancer. Increasing evidences demonstrate that HMTs may serve as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Thus, the development of HMTs inhibitor have been pursued with steadily increasing interest over the past decade. However, the disadvantages such as insufficient clinical efficacy, moderate selectivity, and propensity for acquired resistance have hindered the development of conventional HMT inhibitors. New technologies and methods are imperative to enhance the anticancer activity of HMT inhibitors. In this review, we first review the structure and biological functions of the several essential HMTs, such as EZH2, G9a, PRMT5, and DOT1L. The internal relationship between these HMTs and cancer is also expounded. Next, we mainly focus on the latest progress in the development of HMT modulators encompassing dual-target inhibitors, targeted protein degraders and covalent inhibitors from perspectives such as rational design, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and clinical status. Lastly, we also discuss the challenges and future directions for HMT-based drug discovery for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deping Li
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Xiaopeng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Zhihao Hu
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Shuqing Li
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 516000, PR China.
| | - Wanyi Pan
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China.
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6
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Doustmihan A, Fathi M, Mazloomi M, Salemi A, Hamblin MR, Jahanban-Esfahlan R. Molecular targets, therapeutic agents and multitasking nanoparticles to deal with cancer stem cells: A narrative review. J Control Release 2023; 363:57-83. [PMID: 37739017 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that malignant tumors are initiated and maintained by a sub-population of tumor cells that have similar biological properties to normal adult stem cells. This very small population of Cancer Stem Cells (CSC) comprises tumor initiating cells responsible for cancer recurrence, drug resistance and metastasis. Conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, in addition to being potentially toxic and non-specific, may paradoxically increase the population, spread and survival of CSCs. Next-generation sequencing and omics technologies are increasing our understanding of the pathways and factors involved in the development of CSCs, and can help to discover new therapeutic targets against CSCs. In addition, recent advances in nanomedicine have provided hope for the development of optimal specific therapies to eradicate CSCs. Moreover, the use of artificial intelligence and nano-informatics can elucidate new drug targets, and help to design drugs and nanoparticles (NPs) to deal with CSCs. In this review, we first summarize the properties of CSCs and describe the signaling pathways and molecular characteristics responsible for the emergence and survival of CSCs. Also, the location of CSCs within the tumor and the effect of host factors on the creation and maintenance of CSCs are discussed. Newly discovered molecular targets involved in cancer stemness and some novel therapeutic compounds to combat CSCs are highlighted. The optimum properties of anti-CSC NPs, including blood circulation and stability, tumor accumulation and penetration, cellular internalization, drug release, endosomal escape, and aptamers designed for specific targeting of CSCs are covered. Finally, some recent smart NPs designed for therapeutic and theranostic purposes to overcome CSCs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abolfazl Doustmihan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Fathi
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - MirAhmad Mazloomi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aysan Salemi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa.
| | - Rana Jahanban-Esfahlan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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7
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Lin P, He L, Tian N, Qi X. The evaluation of six genes combined value in glioma diagnosis and prognosis. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:12413-12433. [PMID: 37439825 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05082-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Glioma is the most common and fatal type of brain tumour. Owing to its aggressiveness and lethality, early diagnosis and prediction of patient survival are very important. This study aimed to identify key genes and biomarkers for glioma that can guide clinicians in making rapid diagnosis and prognostication. METHODS Data mining of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA), Repository of Molecular Brain Neoplasia Data, and Genotype-Tissue Expression Project brain expression data revealed significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and the risk scores of individual patients were calculated. WGCNA was utilized to screen for genes most related to clinical diagnosis. Prognostic genes associated with glioma were selected via combining the LASSO regression with univariate and multivariate Cox regression and protein-protein interaction network analyses. Then, a nomogram was constructed. And CGGA dataset was utilized to validated. The protein expression levels of the signature were detected using the human protein atlas. Drug response prediction was carried out using the package "pRRophetic". RESULTS A six-gene signature (KLF6, CHI3L1, SERPINE1, ANGPT2, TGFBR1, and PTX3) was identified and used to stratify patients into low- and high-risk groups. Survival, ROC curve, and Cox analyses clarified that the six hub genes were a favourable independent prognostic factor for patients with glioma. A nomogram was set up by integrating clinical parameters with risk signatures, showing high precision for predicting 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-years survival. In addition, the expression of most genes was consistent with protein expression. Furthermore, the sensitivity to the top ten drugs in the GDSC database of the high-risk group was significantly higher than the low-risk group. CONCLUSION Based on genetic profiles and clinicopathological features, including age, grade, isocitrate dehydrogenase mutation status, we constructed a comprehensive prognostic model for patients with glioma. These signatures can be regarded as biomarkers to predict the prognosis of gliomas, possibly providing more therapeutic strategies for future clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Lin
- Department of Medical Research Center, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lingyan He
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Nan Tian
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xuchen Qi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China.
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8
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Joshi G, Basu A. Epigenetic control of cell signalling in cancer stem cells. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 383:67-88. [PMID: 38359971 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The self-renewing cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent one of the distinct cell populations occurring in a tumour that can differentiate into multiple lineages. This group of sparsely abundant cells play a vital role in tumour survival and resistance to different treatments during cancer. The lack of exclusive markers associated with CSCs makes diagnosis and prognosis in cancer patients extremely difficult. This calls for the identification of unique regulators and markers for CSCs. Various signalling pathways like the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, Hedgehog pathway, Notch pathway, and TGFβ/BMP play a major role in the regulation and maintenance of CSCs. Epigenetic regulatory mechanisms add another layer of complexity to control these signalling pathways. In this chapter, we discuss about the role of epigenetic mechanisms in regulating the cellular signalling pathways in CSCs. The epigenetic regulatory mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modification and microRNAs can modulate the diverse effectors of signalling pathways and consequently the growth, differentiation and tumorigenicity of CSCs. In the end, we briefly discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting these epigenetic regulators and their target genes in CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Joshi
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Mainz, Germany.
| | - Amitava Basu
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Mainz, Germany.
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9
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Elson D, Nguyen BD, Bernales S, Chakravarty S, Jang HS, Korjeff NA, Zhang Y, Wilferd SF, Castro DJ, Plaisier CL, Finlay D, Oshima RG, Kolluri SK. Induction of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor-Mediated Cancer Cell-Selective Apoptosis in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells by a High-Affinity Benzimidazoisoquinoline. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:1028-1042. [PMID: 37470014 PMCID: PMC10353065 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains a disease with a paucity of targeted treatment opportunities. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that is involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including the sensing of xenobiotics, immune function, development, and differentiation. Different small-molecule AhR ligands drive strikingly varied cellular and organismal responses. In certain cancers, AhR activation by select small molecules induces cell cycle arrest or apoptosis via activation of tumor-suppressive transcriptional programs. AhR is expressed in triple-negative breast cancers, presenting a tractable therapeutic opportunity. Here, we identify a novel ligand of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor that potently and selectively induces cell death in triple-negative breast cancer cells and TNBC stem cells via the AhR. Importantly, we found that this compound, Analog 523, exhibits minimal cytotoxicity against multiple normal human primary cells. Analog 523 represents a high-affinity AhR ligand with potential for future clinical translation as an anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel
J. Elson
- Cancer
Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United States
| | - Bach D. Nguyen
- Cancer
Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United States
| | - Sebastian Bernales
- Praxis
Biotech, San Francisco, California, 94158, United States
- Centro Ciencia
& Vida, Avda. Del
Valle Norte 725, Santiago, 8580702, Chile
| | | | - Hyo Sang Jang
- Cancer
Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United States
| | - Nicholas A. Korjeff
- Cancer
Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United States
| | - Yi Zhang
- Cancer
Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United States
| | - Sierra F. Wilferd
- School
of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - David J. Castro
- Sanford
Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, NCI Designated Cancer
Center, La Jolla, California, 92037, United States
- Oregon Health
& Science University, Portland, Oregon, 97239, United States
| | - Christopher L. Plaisier
- School
of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Darren Finlay
- Sanford
Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, NCI Designated Cancer
Center, La Jolla, California, 92037, United States
| | - Robert G. Oshima
- Sanford
Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, NCI Designated Cancer
Center, La Jolla, California, 92037, United States
| | - Siva K. Kolluri
- Cancer
Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United States
- Linus
Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United
States
- The
Pacific Northwest Center for Translational Environmental Health Research, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United States
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Jin ML, Jeong KW. Histone modifications in drug-resistant cancers: From a cancer stem cell and immune evasion perspective. Exp Mol Med 2023:10.1038/s12276-023-01014-z. [PMID: 37394580 PMCID: PMC10394043 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01014-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The development and immune evasion of cancer stem cells (CSCs) limit the efficacy of currently available anticancer therapies. Recent studies have shown that epigenetic reprogramming regulates the expression of characteristic marker proteins and tumor plasticity associated with cancer cell survival and metastasis in CSCs. CSCs also possess unique mechanisms to evade external attacks by immune cells. Hence, the development of new strategies to restore dysregulated histone modifications to overcome cancer resistance to chemotherapy and immunotherapy has recently attracted attention. Restoring abnormal histone modifications can be an effective anticancer strategy to increase the therapeutic effect of conventional chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic drugs by weakening CSCs or by rendering them in a naïve state with increased sensitivity to immune responses. In this review, we summarize recent findings regarding the role of histone modifiers in the development of drug-resistant cancer cells from the perspectives of CSCs and immune evasion. In addition, we discuss attempts to combine currently available histone modification inhibitors with conventional chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Li Jin
- Gachon Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, 191 Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21936, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Won Jeong
- Gachon Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, 191 Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21936, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Guo R, Li J, Hu J, Fu Q, Yan Y, Xu S, Wang X, Jiao F. Combination of epidrugs with immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer immunotherapy: From theory to therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 120:110417. [PMID: 37276826 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110417] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized treatment strategies in multiple types of cancer. However, the resistance and relapse as associated with the extreme complexity of cancer-immunity interactions remain a major challenge to be resolved. Owing to the epigenome plasticity of cancer and immune cells, a growing body of evidence has been presented indicating that epigenetic treatments have the potential to overcome current limitations of immunotherapy, thus providing a rationalefor the combination of ICIs with epigenetic agents (epidrugs). In this review, we first make an overview about the epigenetic regulations in tumor biology and immunodevelopment. Subsequently, a diverse array of inhibitory agents under investigations targeted epigenetic modulators (Azacitidine, Decitabine, Vorinostat, Romidepsin, Belinostat, Panobinostat, Tazemetostat, Enasidenib and Ivosidenib, etc.) and immune checkpoints (Atezolizmab, Avelumab, Cemiplimab, Durvalumb, Ipilimumab, Nivolumab and Pembrolizmab, etc.) to increase anticancer responses were described and the potential mechanisms were further discussed. Finally, we summarize the findings of clinical trials and provide a perspective for future clinical studies directed at investigating the combination of epidrugs with ICIs as a treatment for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyu Guo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Jixia Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Jinxia Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Qiang Fu
- School of Pharmacology, Institute of Aging Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Yunfei Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Sen Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory & Health Service Training, 970 Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Yantai 264002, PR China.
| | - Fei Jiao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China.
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12
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Zhang Y, Zhang Q, Zhang Y, Han J. The Role of Histone Modification in DNA Replication-Coupled Nucleosome Assembly and Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054939. [PMID: 36902370 PMCID: PMC10003558 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Histone modification regulates replication-coupled nucleosome assembly, DNA damage repair, and gene transcription. Changes or mutations in factors involved in nucleosome assembly are closely related to the development and pathogenesis of cancer and other human diseases and are essential for maintaining genomic stability and epigenetic information transmission. In this review, we discuss the role of different types of histone posttranslational modifications in DNA replication-coupled nucleosome assembly and disease. In recent years, histone modification has been found to affect the deposition of newly synthesized histones and the repair of DNA damage, further affecting the assembly process of DNA replication-coupled nucleosomes. We summarize the role of histone modification in the nucleosome assembly process. At the same time, we review the mechanism of histone modification in cancer development and briefly describe the application of histone modification small molecule inhibitors in cancer therapy.
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13
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The Role of Patient-Derived Organoids in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Drug Screening. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030773. [PMID: 36979752 PMCID: PMC10045189 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive breast cancer subtypes, with a grave prognosis and few effective treatment options. Organoids represent revolutionary three-dimensional cell culture models, derived from stem or differentiated cells and preserving the capacity to differentiate into the cell types of their tissue of origin. The current review aims at studying the potential of patient-derived TNBC organoids for drug sensitivity testing as well as highlighting the advantages of the organoid technology in terms of drug screening. In order to identify relevant studies, a literature review was conducted using the MEDLINE and LIVIVO databases. The search terms “organoid” and “triple-negative breast cancer” were employed, and we were able to identify 25 studies published between 2018 and 2022. The current manuscript represents the first comprehensive review of the literature focusing on the use of patient-derived organoids for drug sensitivity testing in TNBC. Patient-derived organoids are excellent in vitro study models capable of promoting personalized TNBC therapy by reflecting the treatment responses of the corresponding patients and exhibiting high predictive value in the context of patient survival evaluation.
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Nguyen HM, Paulishak W, Oladejo M, Wood L. Dynamic tumor microenvironment, molecular heterogeneity, and distinct immunologic portrait of triple-negative breast cancer: an impact on classification and treatment approaches. Breast Cancer 2023; 30:167-186. [PMID: 36399321 DOI: 10.1007/s12282-022-01415-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the lack of a definite targetable receptor in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has carved a niche for this cancer as a particularly therapeutically challenging form of breast cancer. However, recent advances in high-throughput genomic analysis have provided new insights into the unique microenvironment and defining characteristics of various subsets of TNBC. This improved understanding has contributed to the development of novel therapeutic strategies including targeted therapies such as PARP inhibitors and CDK inhibitors. Moreover, the recent FDA approval of the immune checkpoint inhibitor against programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), pembrolizumab and atezolizumab, holds the promise of improving the quality of life and increasing the overall survival of TNBC patients. This recent approval is one of the many therapeutically novel strategies that are currently being exploited in clinical trials toward eventual contribution to the oncologist's toolbox against TNBC. In this review, we comprehensively discuss TNBC's distinct TME and its immunophenotype. Furthermore, we highlight the histological and molecular classification of this cancer. More importantly, we describe how these characteristics and classifications contribute to the current standards of care and how they steer the development of newer and more targeted therapies toward achieving peak therapeutic goals in the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-My Nguyen
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, TX, 79601, USA
| | - Wyatt Paulishak
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, TX, 79601, USA
| | - Mariam Oladejo
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, TX, 79601, USA
| | - Laurence Wood
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, TX, 79601, USA.
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15
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Liontis T, Verma K, Grishok A. DOT-1.1 (DOT1L) deficiency in C. elegans leads to small RNA-dependent gene activation. BBA ADVANCES 2023; 3:100080. [PMID: 37082252 PMCID: PMC10074844 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadva.2023.100080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylation of histone H3 at lysine 79 (H3K79) is conserved from yeast to humans and is accomplished by Dot1 (disruptor of telomeric silencing-1) methyltransferases. The C. elegans enzyme DOT-1.1 and its interacting partners are similar to the mammalian DOT1L (Dot1-like) complex. The C. elegans DOT-1.1 complex has been functionally connected to RNA interference. Specifically, we have previously shown that embryonic and larval lethality of dot-1.1 mutant worms deficient in H3K79 methylation was suppressed by mutations in the RNAi pathway genes responsible for generation (rde-4) and function (rde-1) of primary small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). This suggests that dot-1.1 mutant lethality is dependent on the enhanced production of some siRNAs. We have also found that this lethality is suppressed by a loss-of-function of CED-3, a conserved apoptotic protease. Here, we describe a comparison of gene expression and primary siRNA production changes between control and dot-1.1 deletion mutant embryos. We found that elevated antisense siRNA production occurred more often at upregulated than downregulated genes. Importantly, gene expression changes were dependent on RDE-4 in both instances. Moreover, the upregulated group, which is potentially activated by ectopic siRNAs, was enriched in protease-coding genes. Our findings are consistent with a model where in the absence of H3K79 methylation there is a small RNA-dependent activation of protease genes, which leads to embryonic and larval lethality. DOT1 enzymes' conservation suggests that the interplay between H3K79 methylation and small RNA pathways may exist in higher organisms.
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16
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Zhang Y, Wang Y, Valdivia A, Huang H, Matei D. DOT1 L Regulates Ovarian Cancer Stem Cells by Activating β-catenin Signaling. Mol Cancer Res 2023; 21:140-154. [PMID: 36318113 PMCID: PMC9898143 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-22-0418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) represent a population of cancer cells responsible for tumor initiation, chemoresistance, and metastasis. Here, we identified the H3K79 methyltransferase disruptor of telomeric silencing-1-like (DOT1L) as a critical regulator of self-renewal and tumor initiation in ovarian CSCs. DOT1 L was upregulated in ovarian CSCs versus non-CSCs. shRNA-mediated DOT1 L knockdown decreased the aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH)+ cell population, impaired the tumor initiation capacity (TIC) of ovarian CSCs, and blocked the expression of stemness-associated genes. Inhibition of DOT1L's methyltransferase activity by the small-molecule inhibitor (DOT1Li) EPZ-5676 also effectively targeted ovarian CSCs. Integrated RNA-sequencing analyses of ovarian cancer cells in which DOT1 L was knocked down versus control cells and of ovarian CSCs versus non-CSCs, identified Wnt signaling as a shared pathway deregulated in both CSCs and in DOT1L-deficient ovarian cancer cells. β-catenin, a key transcription factor regulated by Wnt, was downregulated in ovarian cancer cells in which DOT1 L was knocked down and upregulated in DOT1 L overexpressing ovarian cancer cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) revealed enrichment of the H3K79Me3 mark at the β-catenin promoter, suggesting that its transcription is regulated by DOT1L. Our results suggest that DOT1 L is critical for the self-renewal and TIC of ovarian CSCs by regulating β-catenin signaling. Targeting DOT1 L in ovarian cancer could be a new strategy to eliminate CSCs. IMPLICATIONS This study found that the histone methyltransferase DOT1 L regulates the self-renewal and tumor initiation capacity of ovarian CSCs and suggests DOT1 L as a new cancer target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA,Driskill Graduate Training Program in Life Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Yinu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Andres Valdivia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Hao Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Daniela Matei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA,Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
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17
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Liao Q, Yang J, Ge S, Chai P, Fan J, Jia R. Novel insights into histone lysine methyltransferases in cancer therapy: From epigenetic regulation to selective drugs. J Pharm Anal 2023; 13:127-141. [PMID: 36908859 PMCID: PMC9999304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpha.2022.11.009] [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: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The reversible and precise temporal and spatial regulation of histone lysine methyltransferases (KMTs) is essential for epigenome homeostasis. The dysregulation of KMTs is associated with tumor initiation, metastasis, chemoresistance, invasiveness, and the immune microenvironment. Therapeutically, their promising effects are being evaluated in diversified preclinical and clinical trials, demonstrating encouraging outcomes in multiple malignancies. In this review, we have updated recent understandings of KMTs' functions and the development of their targeted inhibitors. First, we provide an updated overview of the regulatory roles of several KMT activities in oncogenesis, tumor suppression, and immune regulation. In addition, we summarize the current targeting strategies in different cancer types and multiple ongoing clinical trials of combination therapies with KMT inhibitors. In summary, we endeavor to depict the regulation of KMT-mediated epigenetic landscape and provide potential epigenetic targets in the treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qili Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Peiwei Chai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Jiayan Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Renbing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
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18
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Yang YB, Wu CY, Wang XY, Deng J, Cao WJ, Tang YZ, Wan CC, Chen ZT, Zhan WY, Shan H, Kuang DM, Wei Y. Targeting inflammatory macrophages rebuilds therapeutic efficacy of DOT1L inhibition in hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Ther 2023; 31:105-118. [PMID: 36183166 PMCID: PMC9840147 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.09.019] [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: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic reprogramming is a promising therapeutic strategy for aggressive cancers, but its limitations in vivo remain unclear. Here, we showed, in detailed studies of data regarding 410 patients with human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), that increased histone methyltransferase DOT1L triggered epithelial-mesenchymal transition-mediated metastasis and served as a therapeutic target for human HCC. Unexpectedly, although targeting DOT1L in vitro abrogated the invasive potential of hepatoma cells, abrogation of DOT1L signals hardly affected the metastasis of hepatoma in vivo. Macrophages, which constitute the major cellular component of the stroma, abrogated the anti-metastatic effect of DOT1L targeting. Mechanistically, NF-κB signal elicited by macrophage inflammatory response operated via a non-epigenetic machinery to eliminate the therapeutic efficacy of DOT1L targeting. Importantly, therapeutic strategy combining DOT1L-targeted therapy with macrophage depletion or NF-κB inhibition in vivo effectively and successfully elicited cancer regression. Moreover, we found that the densities of macrophages in HCC determined malignant cell DOT1L-associated clinical outcome of the patients. Our results provide insight into the crosstalk between epigenetic reprogramming and cancer microenvironments and suggest that strategies to influence the functional activities of inflammatory cells may benefit epigenetic reprogramming therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Bin Yang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Cai-Yuan Wu
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Xu-Yan Wang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jia Deng
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Wen-Jie Cao
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Yun-Zhi Tang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Chao-Chao Wan
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Zhi-Tian Chen
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Wan-Yu Zhan
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Hong Shan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China.
| | - Dong-Ming Kuang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Yuan Wei
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, and The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
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Wu X, Xie Y, Zhao K, Lu J. Targeting the super elongation complex for oncogenic transcription driven tumor malignancies: Progress in structure, mechanisms and small molecular inhibitor discovery. Adv Cancer Res 2023; 158:387-421. [PMID: 36990537 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic transcription activation is associated with tumor development and resistance derived from chemotherapy or target therapy. The super elongation complex (SEC) is an important complex regulating gene transcription and expression in metazoans closely related to physiological activities. In normal transcriptional regulation, SEC can trigger promoter escape, limit proteolytic degradation of transcription elongation factors and increase the synthesis of RNA polymerase II (POL II), and regulate many normal human genes to stimulate RNA elongation. Dysregulation of SEC accompanied by multiple transcription factors in cancer promotes rapid transcription of oncogenes and induce cancer development. In this review, we summarized recent progress in understanding the mechanisms of SEC in regulating normal transcription, and importantly its roles in cancer development. We also highlighted the discovery of SEC complex target related inhibitors and their potential applications in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai, China; Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqiu Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai, China; Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Kehao Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai, China.
| | - Jing Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai, China.
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20
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Chemical biology and pharmacology of histone lysine methylation inhibitors. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2022; 1865:194840. [PMID: 35753676 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2022.194840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Histone lysine methylation is a post-translational modification that plays a key role in the epigenetic regulation of a broad spectrum of biological processes. Moreover, the dysregulation of histone lysine methyltransferases (KMTs) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases particularly cancer. Due to their pathobiological importance, KMTs have garnered immense attention over the last decade as attractive therapeutic targets. These endeavors have culminated in tens of chemical probes that have been used to interrogate many aspects of histone lysine methylation. Besides, over a dozen inhibitors have been advanced to clinical trials, including the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat approved for the treatment of follicular lymphoma and advanced epithelioid sarcoma. In this Review, we highlight the chemical biology and pharmacology of KMT inhibitors and targeted protein degraders focusing on the clinical development of EZH1/2, DOT1L, Menin-MLL, and WDR5-MLL inhibitors. We also briefly discuss the pharmacologic targeting of other KMTs.
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21
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Shan L, Hao C, Jun Z, Qinghe C. Histone methyltransferase Dot1L inhibits pancreatic cancer cell apoptosis by promoting NUPR1 expression. J Int Med Res 2022; 50:3000605221088431. [PMID: 35350907 PMCID: PMC8973069 DOI: 10.1177/03000605221088431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore functions of the histone H3 lysine 79 (K79) methyltransferase Dot1L in the development of pancreatic cancer and evaluate the possibility of targeting Dot1L to inhibit pancreatic cancer progression. Methods Patient samples were used to detect differences in Dot1L expression between tumor and adjacent tissues and to determine correlations between Dot1L expression in patients with different stages of pancreatic cancer. Lentiviral-mediated knockdown of Dot1L expression and flow cytometry were used to detect apoptosis in pancreatic cancer lacking Dot1L expression; chromatin immunoprecipitation and quantitative PCR were used to detect downstream target genes of Dot1L. Results We show that Dot1L is highly expressed in pancreatic cancer, and that its expression is related to pancreatic cancer stage. Knocking down Dot1L significantly promoted apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells, while overexpressing Dot1L inhibited apoptosis. Mechanistically, Dot1L regulated apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells by promoting NUPR1 expression. The enriched H3K79 trimethylation in the transcription initiation region of NUPR1 promoted its expression. Overexpressing NUPR1 inhibited the pancreatic cancer cell apoptosis caused by Dot1L knockdown. Conclusions Dot1L inhibits pancreatic cancer cell apoptosis by targeting NUPR1; thus, Dot1L is a promising target for pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Shan
- Affiliated Hospital of Putian University
| | - Chen Hao
- Affiliated Hospital of Putian University
| | - Zheng Jun
- Affiliated Hospital of Putian University
| | - Cai Qinghe
- Affiliated Hospital of Putian University
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