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Zhao K, So HC, Lin Z. scParser: sparse representation learning for scalable single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis. Genome Biol 2024; 25:223. [PMID: 39152499 PMCID: PMC11328435 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-024-03345-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid rise in the availability and scale of scRNA-seq data needs scalable methods for integrative analysis. Though many methods for data integration have been developed, few focus on understanding the heterogeneous effects of biological conditions across different cell populations in integrative analysis. Our proposed scalable approach, scParser, models the heterogeneous effects from biological conditions, which unveils the key mechanisms by which gene expression contributes to phenotypes. Notably, the extended scParser pinpoints biological processes in cell subpopulations that contribute to disease pathogenesis. scParser achieves favorable performance in cell clustering compared to state-of-the-art methods and has a broad and diverse applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhao
- Department of Statistics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hon-Cheong So
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research of Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Margaret K.L. Cheung Research Centre for Management of Parkinsonism, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Brain and Mind Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Zhixiang Lin
- Department of Statistics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Liu Y, Liu H, Zhang J, Zhang Y. Temporin-GHaK Exhibits Antineoplastic Activity against Human Lung Adenocarcinoma by Inhibiting the Wnt Signaling Pathway through miRNA-4516. Molecules 2024; 29:2797. [PMID: 38930863 PMCID: PMC11206823 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29122797] [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: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: GHaK is derived from the antimicrobial peptide temporin-GHa by substituting the amino acid H with K to enhance its bactericidal activity. The present research aims to broaden the pharmacological potential of GHaK by exploring its antineoplastic activity against human lung adenocarcinoma. (2) Methods: The cell viability, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and cell cycle of A549 and PC-9 cells were tested after GHaK treatment. miRNA sequencing, RT-PCR, Western blotting, and luciferase reporter gene assay were further performed to reveal the potential mechanism. (3) Results: GHaK significantly suppressed cell viability, migration, and invasion; induced apoptosis; and caused cell cycle arrest in the G2/M and S phase in PC-9 and A549 cells, respectively. The miRNA sequencing results show a total of 161 up-regulated and 115 down-regulated miRNAs. Furthermore, the study identified six up-regulated miRNAs (miR-4516, miR-4284, miR-204-5p, miR-12136, miR-4463, and miR-1296-3p) and their inhibitory effects on the expressions of target genes (Wnt 8B, FZD2, DVL3, and FOSL1) caused by miR-4516 directly interacting with Wnt 8B. Western blotting revealed the down-regulation of p-GSK-3β, along with a decreased expressions of cyclin A1 and CDK2 in A549 cells and cyclin B1 and CDK1 in PC-9 cells. (4) Conclusions: Temporin-GHaK exhibits antineoplastic activity against human lung adenocarcinoma by inhibiting the Wnt signaling pathway through miRNA-4516.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueli Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of One Health, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China;
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Brain Science Research Transformation in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, School of Basic Medicine and Life Sciences, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (H.L.); (J.Z.)
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Brain Science Research Transformation in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, School of Basic Medicine and Life Sciences, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (H.L.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jiaxin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Brain Science Research Transformation in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, School of Basic Medicine and Life Sciences, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (H.L.); (J.Z.)
| | - Yingxia Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of One Health, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China;
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
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3
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Khedri A, Guo S, Ramar V, Hudson B, Liu M. FOSL1's Oncogene Roles in Glioma/Glioma Stem Cells and Tumorigenesis: A Comprehensive Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5362. [PMID: 38791400 PMCID: PMC11121637 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105362] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This review specifically examines the important function of the oncoprotein FOSL1 in the dimeric AP-1 transcription factor, which consists of FOS-related components. FOSL1 is identified as a crucial controller of invasion and metastatic dissemination, making it a potential target for therapeutic treatment in cancer patients. The review offers a thorough examination of the regulatory systems that govern the influence exerted on FOSL1. These include a range of changes that occur throughout the process of transcription and after the translation of proteins. We have discovered that several non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), play a significant role in regulating FOSL1 expression by directly interacting with its mRNA transcripts. Moreover, an investigation into the functional aspects of FOSL1 reveals its involvement in apoptosis, proliferation, and migration. This work involves a comprehensive analysis of the complex signaling pathways that support these diverse activities. Furthermore, particular importance is given to the function of FOSL1 in coordinating the activation of several cytokines, such as TGF-beta, and the commencement of IL-6 and VEGF production in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) that migrate into the tumor microenvironment. There is a specific emphasis on evaluating the predictive consequences linked to FOSL1. Insights are now emerging on the developing roles of FOSL1 in relation to the processes that drive resistance and reliance on specific treatment methods. Targeting FOSL1 has a strong inhibitory effect on the formation and spread of specific types of cancers. Despite extensive endeavors, no drugs targeting AP-1 or FOSL1 for cancer treatment have been approved for clinical use. Hence, it is imperative to implement innovative approaches and conduct additional verifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azam Khedri
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
| | - Shanchun Guo
- RCMI Cancer Research Center, Department of Chemistry, New Orleans, LA 70125, USA
| | - Vanajothi Ramar
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
| | - BreAnna Hudson
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
| | - Mingli Liu
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
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Chiang CY, Zhang M, Huang J, Zeng J, Chen C, Pan D, Yang H, Zhang T, Yang M, Han Q, Wang Z, Xiao T, Chen Y, Zou Y, Yin F, Li Z, Zhu L, Zheng D. A novel selective ERK1/2 inhibitor, Laxiflorin B, targets EGFR mutation subtypes in non-small-cell lung cancer. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:422-435. [PMID: 37816856 PMCID: PMC10789733 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01164-w] [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: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) are key members of multiple signaling pathways, including the ErbB axis. Ectopic ERK1/2 activation contributes to various types of cancer, especially drug resistance to inhibitors of RTK, RAF and MEK, and specific ERK1/2 inhibitors are scarce. In this study, we identified a potential novel covalent ERK inhibitor, Laxiflorin B, which is a herbal compound with anticancer activity. However, Laxiflorin B is present at low levels in herbs; therefore, we adopted a semi-synthetic process for the efficient production of Laxiflorin B to improve the yield. Laxiflorin B induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis via BAD activation in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, especially in EGFR mutant subtypes. Transcriptomic analysis suggested that Laxiflorin B inhibits amphiregulin (AREG) and epiregulin (EREG) expression through ERK inhibition, and suppressed the activation of their receptors, ErbBs, via a positive feedback loop. Moreover, mass spectrometry analysis combined with computer simulation revealed that Laxiflorin B binds covalently to Cys-183 in the ATP-binding pocket of ERK1 via the D-ring, and Cys-178 of ERK1 through non-inhibitory binding of the A-ring. In a NSCLC tumor xenograft model in nude mice, Laxiflorin B also exhibited strong tumor suppressive effects with low toxicity and AREG and EREG were identified as biomarkers of Laxiflorin B efficacy. Finally, Laxiflorin B-4, a C-6 analog of Laxiflorin B, exhibited higher binding affinity for ERK1/2 and stronger tumor suppression. These findings provide a new approach to tumor inhibition using natural anticancer compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Yao Chiang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Junrong Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Juan Zeng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Chunlan Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Dongmei Pan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Heng Yang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Tiantian Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Min Yang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Qiangqiang Han
- SpecAlly Life Technology Co., Ltd, Wuhan, 430075, China
- Wuhan Biobank Co., Ltd, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Zou Wang
- Wuhan Biobank Co., Ltd, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Tian Xiao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yangchao Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Yongdong Zou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Feng Yin
- Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen University Town, Xili, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Zigang Li
- Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen University Town, Xili, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Lizhi Zhu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Systems Biology and Synthetic Biology for Urogenital Tumors, Shenzhen, 518035, China.
| | - Duo Zheng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Genome Instability and Human Disease Prevention, International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shenzhen University Medical School; College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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5
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Li Z, Cai H, Zheng J, Chen X, Liu G, Lv Y, Ye H, Cai G. Mitochondrial-related genes markers that predict survival in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma affect immunomodulation through hypoxia, glycolysis, and angiogenesis pathways. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:10347-10369. [PMID: 37796226 PMCID: PMC10599748 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205081] [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: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria play a crucial role in the occurrence and development of tumors. We used mitochondria-related genes for consistent clustering to identify three stable molecular subtypes of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with different prognoses, mutations, and immune characteristics. Significant differences were observed in clinical characteristics, immune microenvironment, immune cell infiltration, and immune cell scores. TP53 was the most significantly mutated; cell cycle-related pathways and tumorigenesis-related pathways were activated in different subtypes. Risk modeling was conducted using a multifactor stepwise regression method, and nine genes were identified as mitochondria-related genes affecting prognosis (DKK1, EFNB2, ITGA5, AREG, EPHX3, CHGB, P4HA1, CCND1, and JCHAIN). Risk score calculations revealed significant differences in prognosis, immune cell scores, immune cell infiltration, and responses to conventional chemotherapy drugs. Glycolysis, angiogenesis, hypoxia, and tumor-related pathways were positively correlated with the RiskScore. Clinical samples were subjected to qPCR to validate the results. In this work, we constructed a prognostic model based on the mitochondrial correlation score, which well reflects the risk and positive factors for the prognosis of patients with HNSCC. This model can be used to guide individualized adjuvant and immunotherapy in patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghua Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Quanzhou First Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Haoxi Cai
- School of Stomatology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Jinyang Zheng
- Department of Pathology, Quanzhou First Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Xun Chen
- Department of Oral Surgery, Quanzhou First Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Guancheng Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Hospital Affiliated of Guilin Medical College, Guilin 541000, China
| | - Yunxia Lv
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital to Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Hui Ye
- Haicang Hospital Affiliated of Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen 361026, China
| | - Gengming Cai
- Haicang Hospital Affiliated of Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen 361026, China
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 361026, China
- The Graduate School of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 361026, China
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6
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Rose-John S, Jenkins BJ, Garbers C, Moll JM, Scheller J. Targeting IL-6 trans-signalling: past, present and future prospects. Nat Rev Immunol 2023; 23:666-681. [PMID: 37069261 PMCID: PMC10108826 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-023-00856-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 90.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a key immunomodulatory cytokine that affects the pathogenesis of diverse diseases, including autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammatory conditions and cancer. Classical IL-6 signalling involves the binding of IL-6 to the membrane-bound IL-6 receptor α-subunit (hereafter termed 'mIL-6R') and glycoprotein 130 (gp130) signal-transducing subunit. By contrast, in IL-6 trans-signalling, complexes of IL-6 and the soluble form of IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R) signal via membrane-bound gp130. A third mode of IL-6 signalling - known as cluster signalling - involves preformed complexes of membrane-bound IL-6-mIL-6R on one cell activating gp130 subunits on target cells. Antibodies and small molecules have been developed that block all three forms of IL-6 signalling, but in the past decade, IL-6 trans-signalling has emerged as the predominant pathway by which IL-6 promotes disease pathogenesis. The first selective inhibitor of IL-6 trans-signalling, sgp130, has shown therapeutic potential in various preclinical models of disease and olamkicept, a sgp130Fc variant, had promising results in phase II clinical studies for inflammatory bowel disease. Technological developments have already led to next-generation sgp130 variants with increased affinity and selectivity towards IL-6 trans-signalling, along with indirect strategies to block IL-6 trans-signalling. Here, we summarize our current understanding of the biological outcomes of IL-6-mediated signalling and the potential for targeting this pathway in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Rose-John
- Biochemical Institute, Medical Faculty, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Brendan J Jenkins
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christoph Garbers
- Department of Pathology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Medical Faculty, Magdeburg, Germany
- Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC:I3), Otto-von-Guericke-University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Health and Medical Prevention (CHaMP), Otto-von-Guericke-University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jens M Moll
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jürgen Scheller
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Zhang S, Li P, Li J, Gao J, Qi Q, Dong G, Liu X, Jiao Q, Wang Y, Du L, Zhan H, Xu S, Wang C. Chromatin accessibility uncovers KRAS-driven FOSL2 promoting pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma progression through up-regulation of CCL28. Br J Cancer 2023; 129:426-443. [PMID: 37380804 PMCID: PMC10403592 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02313-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epigenetic mechanisms involved in the progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to identify key transcription factors (TFs) through multiomics sequencing to investigate the molecular mechanisms of TFs that play critical roles in PDAC. METHODS To characterise the epigenetic landscape of genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) of PDAC with or without KRAS and/or TP53 mutations, we employed ATAC-seq, H3K27ac ChIP-seq, and RNA-seq. The effect of Fos-like antigen 2 (FOSL2) on survival was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method and multivariate Cox regression analysis for PDAC patients. To study the potential targets of FOSL2, we performed Cleavage Under Targets and Tagmentation (CUT&Tag). To explore the functions and underlying mechanisms of FOSL2 in PDAC progression, we employed several assays, including CCK8, transwell migration and invasion, RT-qPCR, Western blotting analysis, IHC, ChIP-qPCR, dual-luciferase reporter, and xenograft models. RESULTS Our findings indicated that epigenetic changes played a role in immunosuppressed signalling during PDAC progression. Moreover, we identified FOSL2 as a critical regulator that was up-regulated in PDAC and associated with poor prognosis in patients. FOSL2 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Importantly, our research revealed that FOSL2 acted as a downstream target of the KRAS/MAPK pathway and recruited regulatory T (Treg) cells by transcriptionally activating C-C motif chemokine ligand 28 (CCL28). This discovery highlighted the role of an immunosuppressed regulatory axis involving KRAS/MAPK-FOSL2-CCL28-Treg cells in the development of PDAC. CONCLUSION Our study uncovered that KRAS-driven FOSL2 promoted PDAC progression by transcriptionally activating CCL28, revealing an immunosuppressive role for FOSL2 in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujun Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 250033, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Peilong Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 250033, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 250033, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jie Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 250033, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qiuchen Qi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 250033, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Guoying Dong
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 250033, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qinlian Jiao
- Shandong Institute of Medical Device and Pharmaceutical Packaging Inspection, 15166 Century Avenue, 250101, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yunshan Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lutao Du
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 250033, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hanxiang Zhan
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Shuo Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Chuanxin Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 250033, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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8
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Liu G, Wang H, Ran R, Wang Y, Li Y. FOSL1 transcriptionally regulates PHLDA2 to promote 5-FU resistance in colon cancer cells. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 246:154496. [PMID: 37178619 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor drug resistance is a leading cause of tumor treatment failure. To date, the association between FOS-Like antigen-1 (FOSL1) and chemotherapy sensitivity in colon cancer is unclear. The present study investigated the molecular mechanism of FOSL1 regulating 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) resistance in colon cancer. METHODS FOSL1 expression in colon cancer was analyzed by bioinformatics methods, and its downstream regulatory factors were predicted. Pearson correlation analyzed the expression of FOSL1 and downstream regulatory gene. Meanwhile, the expression of FOSL1 and its downstream factor Pleckstrin Homology-Like Domain Family A Member 2 (PHLDA2) in colon cancer cell lines was measured by qRT-PCR and western blot. The regulatory relationship between FOSL1 and PHLDA2 was verified by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay and dual-luciferase reporter assay. The effects of the FOSL1/PHLDA2 axis on the resistance in colon cancer cells to 5-FU were analyzed by cell experiments. RESULTS FOSL1 expression was evidently up-regulated in colon cancer and 5-FU resistant cells. FOSL1 was positively correlated with PHLDA2 in colon cancer. In vitro cell assays showed that low expression of FOSL1 significantly enhanced 5-FU sensitivity in colon cancer cells, significantly suppressed the proliferation of cancer cells, and induced apoptosis. Overexpression of FOSL1 presented the opposite regulatory trend. Mechanistically, FOSL1 activated PHLDA2 and up-regulated its expression. Moreover, by activating glycolysis, PHLDA2 promoted 5-Fu resistance and cell proliferation, and reduced cell apoptosis in colon cancer. CONCLUSION Down-regulated FOSL1 expression could enhance the 5-FU sensitivity of colon cancer cells, and FOSL1/PHLDA2 axis may be an effective target for overcoming chemotherapy resistance in colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangyi Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Huan Wang
- Department of Health Management Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Rui Ran
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yicheng Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China.
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Schneeweis C, Diersch S, Hassan Z, Krauß L, Schneider C, Lucarelli D, Falcomatà C, Steiger K, Öllinger R, Krämer OH, Arlt A, Grade M, Schmidt-Supprian M, Hessmann E, Wirth M, Rad R, Reichert M, Saur D, Schneider G. AP1/Fra1 confers resistance to MAPK cascade inhibition in pancreatic cancer. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:12. [PMID: 36534167 PMCID: PMC9763154 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04638-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Targeting KRAS downstream signaling remains an important therapeutic approach in pancreatic cancer. We used primary pancreatic ductal epithelial cells and mouse models allowing the conditional expression of oncogenic KrasG12D, to investigate KRAS signaling integrators. We observed that the AP1 family member FRA1 is tightly linked to the KRAS signal and expressed in pre-malignant lesions and the basal-like subtype of pancreatic cancer. However, genetic-loss-of-function experiments revealed that FRA1 is dispensable for KrasG12D-induced pancreatic cancer development in mice. Using FRA1 gain- and loss-of-function models in an unbiased drug screen, we observed that FRA1 is a modulator of the responsiveness of pancreatic cancer to inhibitors of the RAF-MEK-ERK cascade. Mechanistically, context-dependent FRA1-associated adaptive rewiring of oncogenic ERK signaling was observed and correlated with sensitivity to inhibitors of canonical KRAS signaling. Furthermore, pharmacological-induced degradation of FRA1 synergizes with MEK inhibitors. Our studies establish FRA1 as a part of the molecular machinery controlling sensitivity to MAPK cascade inhibition allowing the development of mechanism-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Schneeweis
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany ,Institute for Translational Cancer Research and Experimental Cancer Therapy, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Sandra Diersch
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Zonera Hassan
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Lukas Krauß
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Carolin Schneider
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Daniele Lucarelli
- Institute for Translational Cancer Research and Experimental Cancer Therapy, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Chiara Falcomatà
- Institute for Translational Cancer Research and Experimental Cancer Therapy, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Katja Steiger
- Comparative Experimental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, School of Medicine, Technical Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany ,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rupert Öllinger
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, TUM School of Medicine, TU München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Oliver H. Krämer
- Department of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Alexander Arlt
- Department for Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Klinikum Oldenburg AöR, 26133 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Marian Grade
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany ,CCC-N (Comprehensive Cancer Center Lower Saxony), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marc Schmidt-Supprian
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany ,Institute of Experimental Hematology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Hessmann
- CCC-N (Comprehensive Cancer Center Lower Saxony), Göttingen, Germany ,University Medical Center Göttingen Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology and Endocrinology, 37075 Göttingen, Germany ,Clinical Research Unit 5002, KFO5002, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Matthias Wirth
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Roland Rad
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany ,Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, TUM School of Medicine, TU München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Maximilian Reichert
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany ,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany ,Translational Pancreatic Research Cancer Center, Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Dieter Saur
- Institute for Translational Cancer Research and Experimental Cancer Therapy, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany ,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Günter Schneider
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany ,Institute for Translational Cancer Research and Experimental Cancer Therapy, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany ,Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany ,CCC-N (Comprehensive Cancer Center Lower Saxony), Göttingen, Germany
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10
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Dai D, Liu L, Guo Y, Shui Y, Wei Q. A Comprehensive Analysis of the Effects of Key Mitophagy Genes on the Progression and Prognosis of Lung Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:57. [PMID: 36612054 PMCID: PMC9817891 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of our study was to perform a comprehensive analysis of the gene expression, copy number variation (CNV) and mutation of key mitophagy genes in the progression and prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). We obtained the data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Clustering analysis was performed to stratify the mitophagy related groups. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) based cox model was used to select hub survival genes. An independent validation cohort was retrieved from Gene Expression Omnibus database. We found 24 out of 27 mitophagy genes were aberrantly expressed between tumor and normal samples. CNV gains were associated with higher expression of mitophagy genes in 23 of 27 mitophagy genes. The clustering analysis identified high and low risk mitophagy groups with distinct survival differences. The high risk mitophagy groups had higher tumor mutation burden, stemness phenotype, total CNVs and lower CD4+ T cells infiltration. Drugs targeted to high risk mitophagy groups were identified including the PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitor, HDAC inhibitor and chemotherapy agents such as cisplatin and gemcitabine. In addition, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between mitophagy groups. Further univariate Cox analysis of each DEG and subsequent LASSO-based Cox model revealed a mitophagy-related prognostic signature. The risk score model of this signature showed a strong ability to predict the overall survival of LUAD patients in training and validation datasets. In conclusion, the mitophagy genes played an important role in the progression and prognosis of LUAD, which might provide useful information for the treatment of LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Qichun Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China
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11
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Wang W, Liu W, Xu J, Jin H. MiR-33a targets FOSL1 and EN2 as a clinical prognostic marker for sarcopenia by glioma. Front Genet 2022; 13:953580. [PMID: 36061185 PMCID: PMC9428793 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.953580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
To determine the relationship between glioma and muscle aging and to predict prognosis by screening for co-expressed genes, this study examined the relationship between glioma and sarcopenia. The study identified eight co-downregulated miRNAs, three co-upregulated miRNAs, and seven genes associated with overall glioma survival, namely, KRAS, IFNB1, ALCAM, ERBB2, STAT3, FOSL1, and EN2. With a multi-factor Cox regression model incorporating FOSL1 and EN2, we obtained ROC curves of 0.702 and 0.709, respectively, suggesting that glioma prognosis can be predicted by FOSL1 and EN2, which are differentially expressed in both cancer and aged muscle. FOSL1 and EN2 were analyzed using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis to identify possible functional pathways. RT-qPCR and a dual-luciferase reporter gene system verified that hsa-miR-33a targets FOSL1 and EN2. We found that hsa-mir-33a co-targeting FOSL1 and EN2 has a good predictive value for glioblastoma and skeletal muscle reduction.
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12
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Zhou Z, Liu Q, Zhang G, Mohammed D, Amadou S, Tan G, Zhang X. HOXA11-AS1 Promotes PD-L1-Mediated Immune Escape and Metastasis of Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma by Facilitating PTBP1 and FOSL1 Association. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153694. [PMID: 35954358 PMCID: PMC9367556 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153694] [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: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The metastasis of hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC) is the main reason for the poor prognosis of patients. Increasing studies have shown that abnormally expressed lncRNAs play crucial roles in HSCC, providing new perspectives for exploring cancer pathogenesis and matastasis. The expressions of HOXA11-AS1 and PD-L1 were found to be closely related to the overall survival of HSCC patients. Subsequently, the potential target genes, namely PBTP1 and FOSL1, were identified by expression correlation analysis. Finally, HOXA11-AS1/FOSL1/PTBP1/PD-L1 axis was identified to be a novel pathway provided a feasible preliminary basis for the future application of immunotherapy or targeted therapies in HSCC. Abstract Background: The metastatic characteristics of hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC) lead to many diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, while functional long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can provide effective strategies for its diagnosis and treatment. Methods: RT-qPCR, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and an immunofluorescence assay were used to detect the related gene expression. Flow cytometry was used to measure the percentage of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. CCK-8 and transwell assays were performed to analyze the role of HOXA11-AS1. The targeted relationship of the FOSL1/PD-L1 promoter was measured by ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assays. RNA pulldown and RIP assays were used to measure the interaction between HOXA11-AS1, FOSL1, and PTBP1. A tumor xenograft study was used to analyze HOXA11-AS1 function in vivo. Results: HOXA11-AS1, PD-L1, and FOSL1 were upregulated in HSCC, and HOXA11-AS1 positively correlated with PD-L1. HOXA11-AS1 knockdown upregulated CD8+ T cells through an increase in IFN-γ concentration while decreasing the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HSCC cells. FOSL1 bound the PD-L1 promoter, increasing gene expression. HOXA11-AS1 enhanced the stability of FOSL1 mRNA by binding to PTBP1. HOXA11-AS1 or PTBP1 overexpression increased FOSL1 and PD-L1 expression. PD-L1 knockdown arrested the inhibiting function of HOXA11-AS1 overexpression on CD8+ T cell content. HOXA11-AS1 knockdown inhibited immune escape and metastasis through PD-L1 regulation by downregulating FOSL1 in vivo. Conclusion: HOXA11-AS1 promoted PD-L1 expression by upregulating FOSL1 levels through PTBP1, thereby facilitating immune escape, proliferation, and metastasis of HSCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhou
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck, Third Xiangya Hospital, Changsha 410013, China; (Z.Z.); (Q.L.); (G.Z.); (G.T.)
| | - Qian Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck, Third Xiangya Hospital, Changsha 410013, China; (Z.Z.); (Q.L.); (G.Z.); (G.T.)
| | - Gehou Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck, Third Xiangya Hospital, Changsha 410013, China; (Z.Z.); (Q.L.); (G.Z.); (G.T.)
| | - Diab Mohammed
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha 410008, China;
| | - Sani Amadou
- Department of ENT, Reference Hospital, Maradi 12481, Niger;
| | - Guolin Tan
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck, Third Xiangya Hospital, Changsha 410013, China; (Z.Z.); (Q.L.); (G.Z.); (G.T.)
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck, Third Xiangya Hospital, Changsha 410013, China; (Z.Z.); (Q.L.); (G.Z.); (G.T.)
- Correspondence:
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13
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Ma L, Zhang X, Zhang C, Hou B, Zhao H. FOSL1 knockdown ameliorates DSS‑induced inflammation and barrier damage in ulcerative colitis via MMP13 downregulation. Exp Ther Med 2022; 24:551. [PMID: 35978937 PMCID: PMC9366272 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lizhuan Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology, North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Xiujing Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Bingxu Hou
- Department of Gastroenterology, North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Hongtao Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
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14
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Zhu K, Yan A, Zhou F, Zhao S, Ning J, Yao L, Shang D, Chen L. A Pyroptosis-Related Signature Predicts Overall Survival and Immunotherapy Responses in Lung Adenocarcinoma. Front Genet 2022; 13:891301. [PMID: 35795208 PMCID: PMC9252528 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.891301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a highly malignant cancer with a bleak prognosis. Pyroptosis is crucial in LUAD. The present study investigated the prognostic value of a pyroptosis-related signature in LUAD.Methods: LUAD’s genomic data were downloaded from TCGA and GEO databases. K-means clustering was used to classify the data based on pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs). The features of tumor microenvironment were compared between the two subtypes. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between the two subtypes, and functional enrichment and module analysis were carried out. LASSO Cox regression was used to build a prognostic model. Its prognostic value was assessed.Results: In LUAD, genetic and transcriptional changes in PRGs were found. A total of 30 PRGs were found to be differentially expressed in LUAD tissues. Based on PRGs, LUAD patients were divided into two subgroups. Subtype 1 has a higher overall survival rate than subtype 2. The tumor microenvironment characteristics of the two subtypes differed significantly. Compared to subtype 1, subtype 2 had strong immunological infiltration. Between the two groups, 719 DEGs were discovered. WGCNA used these DEGs to build a co-expression network. The network modules were analyzed. A prognostic model based on seven genes was developed, including FOSL1, KRT6A, GPR133, TMPRSS2, PRDM16, SFTPB, and SFTA3. The developed model was linked to overall survival and response to immunotherapy in patients with LUAD.Conclusion: In LUAD, a pyroptosis-related signature was developed to predict overall survival and treatment responses to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaibin Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - An Yan
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Fucheng Zhou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Su Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Jinfeng Ning
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Lei Yao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Desi Shang
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Lantao Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Lantao Chen,
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15
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Islam MM, Goertzen A, Singh PK, Saha R. Exploring the metabolic landscape of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells using genome-scale metabolic modeling. iScience 2022; 25:104483. [PMID: 35712079 PMCID: PMC9194136 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a major research focus because of its poor therapy response and dismal prognosis. PDAC cells adapt their metabolism to the surrounding environment, often relying on diverse nutrient sources. Because traditional experimental techniques appear exhaustive to find a viable therapeutic strategy, a highly curated and omics-informed PDAC genome-scale metabolic model was reconstructed using patient-specific transcriptomics data. From the model-predictions, several new metabolic functions were explored as potential therapeutic targets in addition to the known metabolic hallmarks of PDAC. Significant downregulation in the peroxisomal beta oxidation pathway, flux modulation in the carnitine shuttle system, and upregulation in the reactive oxygen species detoxification pathway reactions were observed. These unique metabolic traits of PDAC were correlated with potential drug combinations targeting genes with poor prognosis in PDAC. Overall, this study provides a better understanding of the metabolic vulnerabilities in PDAC and will lead to novel effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mazharul Islam
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
| | - Andrea Goertzen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
| | - Pankaj K. Singh
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Rajib Saha
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
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16
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He W, Zhou X, Mao Y, Wu Y, Tang X, Yan S, Tang S. CircCRIM1 promotes nasopharyngeal carcinoma progression via the miR-34c-5p/FOSL1 axis. Eur J Med Res 2022; 27:59. [PMID: 35484574 PMCID: PMC9052594 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-022-00667-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a rare malignancy with multiple risk factors (Epstein-Barr virus, etc.) that seriously threatens the health of people. CircRNAs are known to regulate the tumorigenesis of malignant tumours, including NPC. Moreover, circCRIM1 expression is reported to be upregulated in NPC. Nevertheless, the impact of circCRIM1 on NPC progression is not clear. METHODS An MTT assay was performed to assess cell viability. In addition, cell invasion and migration were assessed by the transwell assay. Dual luciferase assays were performed to assess the association among circCRIM1, miR-34c-5p and FOSL1. Moreover, RT-qPCR was applied to assess mRNA levels, and protein levels were determined by Western blot. RESULTS CircCRIM1 and FOSL1 were upregulated in NPC cells, while miR-34c-5p was downregulated. Knockdown of circCRIM1 significantly decreased the invasion, viability and migration of NPC cells. The miR-34c-5p inhibitor notably promoted the malignant behaviour of NPC cells, while miR-34c-5p mimics exerted the opposite effect. Moreover, circCRIM1 could bind with miR-34c-5p, and FOSL1 was identified to be downstream of miR-34c-5p. Furthermore, circCRIM1 downregulation notably inhibited the proliferation and invasion of NPC cells, while this phenomenon was significantly reversed by FOSL1 overexpression. CONCLUSION Silencing circCRIM1 inhibited the tumorigenesis of NPC. Thus, circCRIM1 might be a novel target for NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weifeng He
- Oncology Department, The Second People's Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, 410007, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangqi Zhou
- Oncology Department, Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, No. 336 Dong Feng South Road, Hengyang, 421002, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yini Mao
- Oncology Department, The Second People's Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, 410007, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - YangJie Wu
- Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiyang Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Sijia Yan
- Oncology Department, Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, No. 336 Dong Feng South Road, Hengyang, 421002, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Sanyuan Tang
- Oncology Department, The Second People's Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, 410007, Hunan, People's Republic of China. .,Oncology Department, Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, No. 336 Dong Feng South Road, Hengyang, 421002, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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17
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Casalino L, Talotta F, Cimmino A, Verde P. The Fra-1/AP-1 Oncoprotein: From the "Undruggable" Transcription Factor to Therapeutic Targeting. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061480. [PMID: 35326630 PMCID: PMC8946526 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The genetic and epigenetic changes affecting transcription factors, coactivators, and chromatin modifiers are key determinants of the hallmarks of cancer. The acquired dependence on oncogenic transcriptional regulators, representing a major determinant of cancer cell vulnerability, points to transcription factors as ideal therapeutic targets. However, given the unavailability of catalytic activities or binding pockets for small-molecule inhibitors, transcription factors are generally regarded as undruggable proteins. Among components of the AP-1 complex, the FOS-family transcription factor Fra-1, encoded by FOSL1, has emerged as a prominent therapeutic target. Fra-1 is overexpressed in most solid tumors, in response to the BRAF-MAPK, Wnt-beta-catenin, Hippo-YAP, IL-6-Stat3, and other major oncogenic pathways. In vitro functional analyses, validated in onco-mouse models and corroborated by prognostic correlations, show that Fra-1-containing dimers control tumor growth and disease progression. Fra-1 participates in key mechanisms of cancer cell invasion, Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition, and metastatic spreading, by driving the expression of EMT-inducing transcription factors, cytokines, and microRNAs. Here we survey various strategies aimed at inhibiting tumor growth, metastatic dissemination, and drug resistance by interfering with Fra-1 expression, stability, and transcriptional activity. We summarize several tools aimed at the design and tumor-specific delivery of Fra-1/AP-1-specific drugs. Along with RNA-based therapeutics targeting the FOSL1 gene, its mRNA, or cognate regulatory circRNAs, we will examine the exploitation of blocking peptides, small molecule inhibitors, and innovative Fra-1 protein degraders. We also consider the possible caveats concerning Fra-1 inhibition in specific therapeutic contexts. Finally, we discuss a recent suicide gene therapy-based approach, aimed at selectively killing the Fra-1-overexpressing neoplastic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Casalino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, Consiglio Nazionale dele Ricerche (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (L.C.); (P.V.)
| | | | - Amelia Cimmino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, Consiglio Nazionale dele Ricerche (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Pasquale Verde
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, Consiglio Nazionale dele Ricerche (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (L.C.); (P.V.)
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18
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Kadur Lakshminarasimha Murthy P, Xi R, Arguijo D, Everitt JI, Kocak DD, Kobayashi Y, Bozec A, Vicent S, Ding S, Crawford GE, Hsu D, Tata PR, Reddy T, Shen X. Epigenetic basis of oncogenic-Kras-mediated epithelial-cellular proliferation and plasticity. Dev Cell 2022; 57:310-328.e9. [PMID: 35134344 PMCID: PMC8938988 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Oncogenic Kras induces a hyper-proliferative state that permits cells to progress to neoplasms in diverse epithelial tissues. Depending on the cell of origin, this also involves lineage transformation. Although a multitude of downstream factors have been implicated in these processes, the precise chronology of molecular events controlling them remains elusive. Using mouse models, primary human tissues, and cell lines, we show that, in Kras-mutant alveolar type II cells (AEC2), FOSL1-based AP-1 factor guides the mSWI/SNF complex to increase chromatin accessibility at genomic loci controlling the expression of genes necessary for neoplastic transformation. We identified two orthogonal processes in Kras-mutant distal airway club cells. The first promoted their transdifferentiation into an AEC2-like state through NKX2.1, and the second controlled oncogenic transformation through the AP-1 complex. Our results suggest that neoplasms retain an epigenetic memory of their cell of origin through cell-type-specific transcription factors. Our analysis showed that a cross-tissue-conserved AP-1-dependent chromatin remodeling program regulates carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preetish Kadur Lakshminarasimha Murthy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA. :
| | - Rui Xi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Center for Genomics and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Diana Arguijo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Jeffrey I Everitt
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Dewran D Kocak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Center for Genomics and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Yoshihiko Kobayashi
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Aline Bozec
- Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Silvestre Vicent
- University of Navarra, Center for Applied Medical Research, Program in Solid Tumors, Pamplona, Spain; University of Navarra, Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, Pamplona, Spain; IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Shengli Ding
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Center for Genomics and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Gregory E Crawford
- Center for Genomics and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - David Hsu
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Purushothama Rao Tata
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Timothy Reddy
- Center for Genomics and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Xiling Shen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Center for Genomics and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA.
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19
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Sobolev VV, Khashukoeva AZ, Evina OE, Geppe NA, Chebysheva SN, Korsunskaya IM, Tchepourina E, Mezentsev A. Role of the Transcription Factor FOSL1 in Organ Development and Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:1521. [PMID: 35163444 PMCID: PMC8835756 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor FOSL1 plays an important role in cell differentiation and tumorigenesis. Primarily, FOSL1 is crucial for the differentiation of several cell lineages, namely adipocytes, chondrocytes, and osteoblasts. In solid tumors, FOSL1 controls the progression of tumor cells through the epithelial-mesenchymal transformation. In this review, we summarize the available data on FOSL1 expression, stabilization, and degradation in the cell. We discuss how FOSL1 is integrated into the intracellular signaling mechanisms and provide a comprehensive analysis of FOSL1 influence on gene expression. We also analyze the pathological changes caused by altered Fosl1 expression in genetically modified mice. In addition, we dedicated a separate section of the review to the role of FOSL1 in human cancer. Primarily, we focus on the FOSL1 expression pattern in solid tumors, FOSL1 importance as a prognostic factor, and FOSL1 perspectives as a molecular target for anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir V. Sobolev
- Center for Theoretical Problems in Physico-Chemical Pharmacology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 109029 Moscow, Russia; (I.M.K.); (E.T.)
| | - Asiat Z. Khashukoeva
- Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education, N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Olga E. Evina
- “JSC DK Medsi”, Medical and Diagnostics Center, 125284 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Natalia A. Geppe
- NF Filatov Clinical Institute of Children’s Health, I.M. Sechenov First MSMU, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.A.G.); (S.N.C.)
| | - Svetlana N. Chebysheva
- NF Filatov Clinical Institute of Children’s Health, I.M. Sechenov First MSMU, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.A.G.); (S.N.C.)
| | - Irina M. Korsunskaya
- Center for Theoretical Problems in Physico-Chemical Pharmacology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 109029 Moscow, Russia; (I.M.K.); (E.T.)
| | - Ekaterina Tchepourina
- Center for Theoretical Problems in Physico-Chemical Pharmacology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 109029 Moscow, Russia; (I.M.K.); (E.T.)
| | - Alexandre Mezentsev
- Center for Theoretical Problems in Physico-Chemical Pharmacology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 109029 Moscow, Russia; (I.M.K.); (E.T.)
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20
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ERK inhibitor ASN007 effectively overcomes acquired resistance to EGFR inhibitor in non-small cell lung cancer. Invest New Drugs 2022; 40:265-273. [PMID: 34973117 PMCID: PMC8993753 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-021-01121-6] [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: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of acquired resistance limits the long-term efficacy of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR TKIs). Thus, development of effective strategies to overcome resistance to EGFR TKI is urgently needed. Multiple mechanisms to reactivate ERK signaling have been successfully demonstrated in acquired resistance models. We found that in EGFR mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, acquired resistance to EGFR TKIs was accompanied by increased activation of ERK. Increased ERK activation was also found in in vitro models of acquired EGFR TKI resistance. ASN007 is a potent selective ERK1/2 inhibitor with promising antitumor activity in cancers with BRAF and RAS mutations. ASN007 treatment impeded tumor cell growth and the cell cycle in EGFR TKI-resistant cells. In addition, combination treatment with ASN007 and EGFR TKIs significantly decreased the survival of resistant cells, enhanced induction of apoptosis, and effectively inhibited the growth of erlotinib-resistant xenografts, providing the preclinical rationale for testing combinations of ASN007 and EGFR TKIs in EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients. This study emphasizes the importance of targeting ERK signaling in maintaining the long-term benefits of EGFR TKIs by overcoming acquired resistance.
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21
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Han P, Yue J, Kong K, Hu S, Cao P, Deng Y, Li F, Zhao B. Signature identification of relapse-related overall survival of early lung adenocarcinoma after radical surgery. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11923. [PMID: 34430085 PMCID: PMC8349519 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The widespread use of low-dose chest CT screening has improved the detection of early lung adenocarcinoma. Radical surgery is the best treatment strategy for patients with early lung adenocarcinoma; however, some patients present with postoperative recurrence and poor prognosis. Through this study, we hope to establish a model that can identify patients that are prone to recurrence and have poor prognosis after surgery for early lung adenocarcinoma. Materials and Methods We screened prognostic and relapse-related genes using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and the GSE50081 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The GSE30219 dataset was used to further screen target genes and construct a risk prognosis signature. Time-dependent ROC analysis, calibration degree analysis, and DCA were used to evaluate the reliability of the model. We validated the TCGA dataset, GSE50081, and GSE30219 internally. External validation was conducted in the GSE31210 dataset. Results A novel four-gene signature (INPP5B, FOSL2, CDCA3, RASAL2) was established to predict relapse-related survival outcomes in patients with early lung adenocarcinoma after surgery. The discovery of these genes may reveal the molecular mechanism of recurrence and poor prognosis of early lung adenocarcinoma. In addition, ROC analysis, calibration analysis and DCA were used to verify the genetic signature internally and externally. Our results showed that our gene signature had a good predictive ability for recurrence and prognosis. Conclusions We established a four-gene signature and predictive model to predict the recurrence and corresponding survival rates in patients with early lung adenocarcinoma after surgery. These may be helpful for reforumulating post-operative consolidation treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Han
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiaqi Yue
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Kangle Kong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shan Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Peng Cao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Deng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Bo Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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22
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Fosl1 is vital to heart regeneration upon apex resection in adult Xenopus tropicalis. NPJ Regen Med 2021; 6:36. [PMID: 34188056 PMCID: PMC8242016 DOI: 10.1038/s41536-021-00146-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the world due to losing regenerative capacity in the adult heart. Frogs possess remarkable capacities to regenerate multiple organs, including spinal cord, tail, and limb, but the response to heart injury and the underlying molecular mechanism remains largely unclear. Here we demonstrated that cardiomyocyte proliferation greatly contributes to heart regeneration in adult X. tropicalis upon apex resection. Using RNA-seq and qPCR, we found that the expression of Fos-like antigen 1 (Fosl1) was dramatically upregulated in early stage of heart injury. To study Fosl1 function in heart regeneration, its expression was modulated in vitro and in vivo. Overexpression of X. tropicalis Fosl1 significantly promoted the proliferation of cardiomyocyte cell line H9c2. Consistently, endogenous Fosl1 knockdown suppressed the proliferation of H9c2 cells and primary cardiomyocytes isolated from neonatal mice. Taking use of a cardiomyocyte-specific dominant-negative approach, we show that blocking Fosl1 function leads to defects in cardiomyocyte proliferation during X. tropicalis heart regeneration. We further show that knockdown of Fosl1 can suppress the capacity of heart regeneration in neonatal mice, but overexpression of Fosl1 can improve the cardiac function in adult mouse upon myocardium infarction. Co-immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter, and ChIP analysis reveal that Fosl1 interacts with JunB and promotes the expression of Cyclin-T1 (Ccnt1) during heart regeneration. In conclusion, we demonstrated that Fosl1 plays an essential role in cardiomyocyte proliferation and heart regeneration in vertebrates, at least in part, through interaction with JunB, thereby promoting expression of cell cycle regulators including Ccnt1.
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23
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Tran MT. Overview of Ca2+ signaling in lung cancer progression and metastatic lung cancer with bone metastasis. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2021; 2:249-265. [PMID: 36046435 PMCID: PMC9400727 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2021.00045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular Ca2+ ions that are thought to be one of the most important second messengers for cellular signaling, have a substantial diversity of roles in regulating a plethora of fundamental cellular physiology such as gene expression, cell division, cell motility and apoptosis. It has been suggestive of the Ca2+ signaling-dependent cellular processes to be tightly regulated by the numerous types of Ca2+ channels, pumps, exchangers and sensing receptors. Consequently, dysregulated Ca2+ homeostasis leads to a series of events connected to elevated malignant phenotypes including uncontrolled proliferation, migration, invasion and metastasis, all of which are frequently observed in advanced stage lung cancer cells. The incidence of bone metastasis in patients with advanced stage lung cancer is estimated in a range of 30% to 40%, bringing about a significant negative impact on both morbidity and survival. This review dissects and summarizes the important roles of Ca2+ signaling transduction in contributing to lung cancer progression, and address the question: if and how Ca2+ signaling might have been engaged in metastatic lung cancer with bone metastasis, thereby potentially providing the multifaceted and promising solutions for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manh Tien Tran
- Department of Dental Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8525, Japan
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24
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Hachim MY, Elemam NM, Ramakrishnan RK, Bajbouj K, Olivenstein R, Hachim IY, Al Heialy S, Hamid Q, Busch H, Hamoudi R. Wnt Signaling Is Deranged in Asthmatic Bronchial Epithelium and Fibroblasts. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:641404. [PMID: 33791298 PMCID: PMC8006921 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.641404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Both canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathway alterations have been documented in pulmonary disease pathogenesis and progression; therefore, they can be an attractive target for pharmaceutical management of severe asthma. Wnt/β-catenin signaling was shown to link early embryonic lung development impairment to later in life asthmatic airway remodeling. Here we explored the changes in Wnt signaling associated with asthma initiation and progression in epithelial and fibroblasts using a comprehensive approach based on in silico analysis and followed by in vitro validation. In summary, the in silico analysis showed that the bronchial epithelium of severe asthmatic patients showed a deranged balance between Wnt enhancer and Wnt inhibitors. A Th2-high phenotype is associated with upregulated Wnt-negative regulators, while inflammatory and neutrophilic severe asthmatics showed higher canonical Wnt signaling member enrichment. Most of these genes are regulators of healthy lung development early in life and, if disturbed, can make people susceptible to developing asthma early in life and prone to developing a severe phenotype. Most of the Wnt members are secreted, and their effect can be in an autocrine fashion on the bronchial epithelium, paracrine on nearby adjacent structural cells like fibroblasts and smooth muscles, or systemic in blood. Our results showed that canonical Wnt signaling is needed for the proper response of cells to proliferative stimuli, which puts cells under stress. Cells in response to this proliferative stress will activate the senescence mechanism, which is also dependent on Wnt signaling. Inhibition of Wnt signaling using FH535 inhibits both proliferation and senescence markers in bronchial fibroblasts compared to DMSO-treated cells. In fibroblasts from asthmatic patients, inhibition of Wnt signaling did not show that effect as the Wnt signaling is deranged besides other pathways that might be non-functional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmood Yaseen Hachim
- College of Medicine, Mohammed bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noha Mousaad Elemam
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rakhee K Ramakrishnan
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Khuloud Bajbouj
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Ibrahim Yaseen Hachim
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saba Al Heialy
- College of Medicine, Mohammed bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.,Meakins-Christie Laboratories, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Qutayba Hamid
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Meakins-Christie Laboratories, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Hauke Busch
- Medical Systems Biology Group, Institute for Experimental Dermatology, Institute for Cardiogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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25
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Deng Y, Hong X, Yu C, Li H, Wang Q, Zhang Y, Wang T, Wang X. Preclinical analysis of novel prognostic transcription factors and immune-related gene signatures for bladder cancer via TCGA-based bioinformatic analysis. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:344. [PMID: 33747201 PMCID: PMC7967990 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BLCA) is a common malignancy of human urinary tract, whose prognosis is influenced by complex gene interactions. Immune response activity can act as a potential prognostic factor in BLCA. The present study established a prognostic model, based on the identification of tumor transcription factors (TFs) and immune-related genes (IRGs), and further explored their therapeutic potential in BLCA. The enrichment scores of 29 IRG sets, identified in The Cancer Genome Atlas BLCA tumor samples, were quantified by single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis. The abundance of infiltrated immune cells in tumor tissues was determined using the Estimating Relative algorithm. Tumor-related TFs and IRGs signatures were retrieved using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator Cox regression analysis. A prognostic gene network was built using Pearson's correlation analysis as a means of predicting the regulatory relationship between prognostic TFs and IRGs. A nomogram was devised to also predict the overall survival (OS) rate of patients with BLCA. Based on the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer data, potential therapeutic drugs were identified upon analyzing the relationship between the expression level of prognostic genes and respective IC50 values. In vitro experiments were implemented for further validation. Respective TF binding profiles were acquired from the JASPAR 2020 database. The elevated infiltration of CD8+ T Cells was correlated with an improved OS of patients with BLCA. An innovative prognostic model for BLCA was then constructed that composed of nine putative gene markers: CXCL13, prepronociceptin, microtubule-associated protein tau, major histocompatibility class I polypeptide-related sequence B, prostaglandin E2 receptor EP3 subtype, IL20RA, proepiregulin, early growth response protein 1 and FOS-related antigen 1 (FOSL1). Furthermore, a theoretical basis for the correlation between the prognostic TFs and IRGs was reported. For this, 10 potentially effective drugs targeting the TFs in the present model for patients with BLCA were identified. It was then verified that downregulation of FOSL1 can lead to an enhanced sensitivity of the TW37 in T24 bladder cancer cells. Overall, the present prognostic model demonstrated a robust capability of predicting OS of patients with BLCA. Hence, the gene markers identified could be applied for targeted therapies against BLCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyou Deng
- Department of Urology, Peking University International Hospital, Beijing 102206, P.R. China
| | - Xin Hong
- Department of Urology, Peking University International Hospital, Beijing 102206, P.R. China
| | - Chengfan Yu
- Department of Urology, Peking University International Hospital, Beijing 102206, P.R. China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Urology, Peking University International Hospital, Beijing 102206, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Urology, Peking University International Hospital, Beijing 102206, P.R. China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University International Hospital, Beijing 102206, P.R. China
| | - Tian Wang
- Department of Urology, Peking University International Hospital, Beijing 102206, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofeng Wang
- Department of Urology, Peking University International Hospital, Beijing 102206, P.R. China
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26
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Daisy PS, Shreyas KS, Anitha TS. Will CRISPR-Cas9 Have Cards to Play Against Cancer? An Update on its Applications. Mol Biotechnol 2021; 63:93-108. [PMID: 33386579 PMCID: PMC7775740 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-020-00289-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Genome editing employs targeted nucleases as powerful tools to precisely alter the genome of target cells and regulate functional genes. Various strategies have been risen so far as the molecular scissors-mediated genome editing that includes zinc finger nuclease, transcription activator-like effector nucleases, and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-CRISPR-related protein 9. These tools allow researchers to understand the basics of manipulating the genome, create animal models to study human diseases, understand host-pathogen interactions and design disease targets. Targeted genome modification utilizing RNA-guided nucleases are of recent curiosity, as it is a fast and effective strategy that enables the researchers to manipulate the gene of interest, carry out functional studies, understand the molecular basis of the disease and design targeted therapies. CRISPR-Cas9, a bacterial defense system employed against viruses, consists of a single-strand RNA-guided Cas9 nuclease connected to the corresponding complementary target sequence. This powerful and versatile tool has gained tremendous attention among the researchers, owing to its ability to correct genetic disorders. To help illustrate the potential of this gene editor in unexplored corners of oncology, we describe the history of CRISPR-Cas9, its rapid progression in cancer research as well as future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Precilla S Daisy
- Central Inter-Disciplinary Research Facility, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed To-Be University), Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute Campus, Pillaiyarkuppam, Puducherry, 607403, India
| | - Kuduvalli S Shreyas
- Central Inter-Disciplinary Research Facility, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed To-Be University), Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute Campus, Pillaiyarkuppam, Puducherry, 607403, India
| | - T S Anitha
- Central Inter-Disciplinary Research Facility, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed To-Be University), Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute Campus, Pillaiyarkuppam, Puducherry, 607403, India.
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27
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Gao F, Li M, Zhou L, Liu W, Zuo H, Li W. Xanthohumol targets the ERK1/2‑Fra1 signaling axis to reduce cyclin D1 expression and inhibit non‑small cell lung cancer. Oncol Rep 2020; 44:1365-1374. [PMID: 32945473 PMCID: PMC7448415 DOI: 10.3892/or.2020.7697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
High expression of cyclin D1 has a crucial role in the maintenance of unlimited cell growth in human cancer cells. The present study indicated that cyclin D1 was overexpressed in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumor tissues and cell lines. Knockout of cyclin D1 suppressed NSCLC cell growth, colony formation and in vivo tumor growth. Of note, the natural product xanthohumol (Xanth) inhibited NSCLC cells via the downregulation of cyclin D1. A further mechanistic study revealed that Xanth suppressed ERK1/2 signaling and reduced the protein levels of FOS-related antigen 1 (Fra1), which eventually inhibited the transcriptional activity of activator protein-1 and decreased the mRNA level of cyclin D1. Furthermore, suppression of ERK1/2 impaired Fra1 phosphorylation and enhanced Xanth-induced Fra1 ubiquitination and degradation. In addition, the S265D mutation compromised Xanth-induced Fra1 degradation. Finally, the in vivo anti-tumor effect of Xanth was validated in a xenograft mouse model. In summary, the present results indicated that targeting ERK1/2-Fra1-cyclin D1 signaling is a promising anti-tumor strategy for NSCLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Gao
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Ming Li
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Li Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Wenbin Liu
- Department of Pathology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Huilan Zuo
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Wei Li
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
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28
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Talotta F, Casalino L, Verde P. The nuclear oncoprotein Fra-1: a transcription factor knocking on therapeutic applications' door. Oncogene 2020; 39:4491-4506. [PMID: 32385348 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-1306-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Among the FOS-related members of the AP-1 dimeric complex, the transcription factor Fra-1, encoded by FOSL1, is crucially involved in human tumor progression and metastasis, thus representing a promising therapeutic target. Here we review the state of the art and discuss the emerging topics and perspectives on FOSL1 and its gene product. First, we summarize the present knowledge on the FOSL1 transcriptional and epigenetic controls, driving Fra-1 accumulation in a variety of human solid tumors. We also present a model on the regulatory interactions between Fra-1, p53, and miRNAs. Then, we outline the multiple roles of Fra-1 posttranslational modifications and transactivation mechanisms of select Fra-1 target genes. In addition to summarizing the Fra-1-dependent gene networks controlling proliferation, survival, and epithelial-mesenchymal transitions (EMT) in multiple cancer cell types, we highlight the roles played by Fra-1 in nonneoplastic cell populations recruited to the tumor microenvironment, and in mouse models of tumorigenesis. Next, we review the prognostic power of the Fra-1-associated gene signatures, and envisage potential strategies aimed at Fra-1 therapeutic inhibition. Finally, we discuss several recent reports showing the emerging roles of Fra-1 in the mechanisms of both resistance and addiction to targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Talotta
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso" CNR, Naples, Italy.,ReiThera Srl, Castel Romano, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Casalino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso" CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Verde
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso" CNR, Naples, Italy.
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29
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Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM The prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is very dismal and the targeted drugs of HCC are limited. Studies of HCC prognostic biomarkers have made little progress, though many new techniques such as high-throughput sequencing have been applied. FOS-like antigen 1 (FOSL1) is generally accepted as a proto-oncogene but its clinical significance in HCC has never been elucidated. MATERIALS AND METHODS In our study, we investigated the expression of FOSL1 in 114 paraffin-embedded HCC tissues, and detected FOSL1 mRNA levels in 20 pairs of fresh HCC tissues and their corresponding tumor adjacent tissues. The correlations between FOSL1 expression and clinicopathological factors were analyzed and the prognostic significance of FOSL1 was evaluated with univariate and multivariate analysis. Moreover, we detected the function of FOSL1 in HCC proliferation with experiments in vitro. RESULTS FOSL1 mRNAs in HCCs were significantly higher than those in tumor adjacent tissues. The percentage of high expression and low expression of FOSL1 accounted for 46% (53/114) and 54% (61/114), respectively. High expression of FOSL1 was significantly associated with larger tumor size (P = 0.021), hepatitis B virus infection (P = 0.014), advanced T stage (P = 0.014), and tumor necrosis metastasis stage (P = 0.014). Moreover, high expression of FOSL1 was significantly correlated with poor prognosis of HCC and could be identified as an independent prognostic biomarker of HCC (hazard ratio = 5.60, 95% confidence interval = 3.00-10.45, P < 0.001). With in vitro function assay, we demonstrated that FOSL1 played an essential role in HCC proliferation. CONCLUSIONS High expression of FOSL1 is an independent risk factor of HCC predicting unfavorable prognosis, indicating that FOSL1 detection could stratify patients with high risk, and anti-FOSL1 therapy may be a promising way to treat HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Department of Radiotherapy, Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang City, Weifang, China
| | - Wenqi Zhang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang City, Weifang, China
| | - Shanshan Zhao
- Department of Intensive Medicine, Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang City, Weifang, China
| | - Mao Sun
- Department of Hepatobilliary Surgery, The PLA 404 Hospital, Weihai, Shandong, China
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30
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Expression and function of FRA1 protein in tumors. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 47:737-752. [PMID: 31612408 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-05123-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AP-1 is a dimeric complex that is composed of JUN, FOS, ATF and MAF protein families. FOS-related antigen 1 (FRA1) which encoded by FOSL1 gene, belongs to the FOS protein family, and mainly forms an AP-1 complex with the protein of the JUN family to exert an effect. Regulation of FRA1 occurs at levels of transcription and post-translational modification, and phosphorylation is the major post-translational modification. FRA1 is mainly regulated by the mitogen-activated protein kinases signaling pathway and is degraded by ubiquitin-independent proteasomes. FRA1 can affect biological functions, such as tumor proliferation, differentiation, invasion and apoptosis. Studies have demonstrated that FRA1 is abnormally expressed in many tumors and plays a relevant role, but the specific condition varies from the target organs. FRA1 is overexpressed in breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer, thyroid cancer and other tumors. However, the expression of FRA1 is decreased in cervical cancer, and the expression of FRA1 in ovarian cancer and oral squamous cell carcinoma is still controversial. In this review, we present a detailed description of the regulatory factors and functions of FRA1, also, the expression of FRA1 in various tumors and its function in relative tumor.
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Keshamouni VG. Excavation of FOSL1 in the Ruins of KRAS-Driven Lung Cancer. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2019; 58:551-552. [PMID: 29714634 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2017-0369ed] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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