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Sun R, Lee EJ, Lee S, Kim G, Kim J. KPT6566 induces apoptotic cell death and suppresses the tumorigenicity of testicular germ cell tumors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1220179. [PMID: 38020885 PMCID: PMC10652286 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1220179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) frequently affect adolescent and young adult males. Although TGCT is more responsive to cisplatin-based chemotherapy than other solid tumors, some patients are nonresponders, and following treatment, many patients continue to experience acute and long-term cytotoxic effects from cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Consequently, it is imperative to develop new therapeutic modalities for treatment-resistant TGCTs. Peptidyl-prolyl isomerase (Pin1) regulates the activity and stability of many cancer-associated target proteins. Prior findings suggest that Pin1 contributes to the pathogenesis of multiple human cancers. However, the specific function of Pin1 in TGCTs has not yet been elucidated. TGCT cell proliferation and viability were examined using cell cycle analysis and apoptosis assays following treatment with KPT6566, a potent, selective Pin1 inhibitor that covalently binds to the catalytic domain of Pin1. A xenograft mouse model was used to assess the effect of KPT6566 on tumor growth in vivo. KPT6566 effectively suppressed cell proliferation, colony formation, and ATP production in P19 and NCCIT cells. Further, KPT6566 induced apoptotic cell death by generating cellular reactive oxygen species and downregulating the embryonic transcription factors Oct-4 and Sox2. Finally, KPT6566 treatment significantly reduced tumor volume and mass in P19 cell xenografts. The Pin1 inhibitor KPT6566 has significant antiproliferative and antitumor effects in TGCT cells. These findings suggest that Pin1 inhibitors could be considered as a potential therapeutic approach for TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jungho Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Life Science, Sogang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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2
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Silveira DA, Gupta S, da Cunha Jaeger M, Brunetto de Farias C, Mombach JCM, Sinigaglia M. A logical model of Ewing sarcoma cell epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition supports the existence of hybrid cellular phenotypes. FEBS Lett 2023; 597:2446-2460. [PMID: 37597508 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a highly aggressive pediatric tumor driven by the RNA-binding protein EWS (EWS)/friend leukemia integration 1 transcription factor (FLI1) chimeric transcription factor, which is involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT stabilizes a hybrid cell state, boosting metastatic potential and drug resistance. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying the maintenance of this hybrid phenotype in ES remain elusive. Our study proposes a logical EMT model for ES, highlighting zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2), miR-145, and miR-200 circuits that maintain hybrid states. The model aligns with experimental findings and reveals a previously unknown circuit supporting the mesenchymal phenotype. These insights emphasize the role of ZEB2 in the maintenance of the hybrid state in ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daner A Silveira
- Children's Cancer Institute, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children's Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology - INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Mariane da Cunha Jaeger
- Children's Cancer Institute, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children's Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology - INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Caroline Brunetto de Farias
- Children's Cancer Institute, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children's Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology - INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Marialva Sinigaglia
- Children's Cancer Institute, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children's Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology - INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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3
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Boylan J, Byers E, Kelly DF. The Glioblastoma Landscape: Hallmarks of Disease, Therapeutic Resistance, and Treatment Opportunities. MEDICAL RESEARCH ARCHIVES 2023; 11:10.18103/mra.v11i6.3994. [PMID: 38107346 PMCID: PMC10723753 DOI: 10.18103/mra.v11i6.3994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Malignant brain tumors are aggressive and difficult to treat. Glioblastoma is the most common and lethal form of primary brain tumor, often found in patients with no genetic predisposition. The median life expectancy for individuals diagnosed with this condition is 6 months to 2 years and there is no known cure. New paradigms in cancer biology implicate a small subset of tumor cells in initiating and sustaining these incurable brain tumors. Here, we discuss the heterogenous nature of glioblastoma and theories behind its capacity for therapy resistance and recurrence. Within the cancer landscape, cancer stem cells are thought to be both tumor initiators and major contributors to tumor heterogeneity and therapy evasion and such cells have been identified in glioblastoma. At the cellular level, disruptions in the delicate balance between differentiation and self-renewal spur transformation and support tumor growth. While rapidly dividing cells are more sensitive to elimination by traditional treatments, glioblastoma stem cells evade these measures through slow division and reversible exit from the cell cycle. At the molecular level, glioblastoma tumor cells exploit several signaling pathways to evade conventional therapies through improved DNA repair mechanisms and a flexible state of senescence. We examine these common evasion techniques while discussing potential molecular approaches to better target these deadly tumors. Equally important, the presented information encourages the idea of augmenting conventional treatments with novel glioblastoma stem cell-directed therapies, as eliminating these harmful progenitors holds great potential to modulate tumor recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Boylan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Center for Structural Oncology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Biosciences Graduate Program, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Elizabeth Byers
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Biosciences Graduate Program, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Deborah F. Kelly
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Center for Structural Oncology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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4
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Stevanovic M, Kovacevic-Grujicic N, Petrovic I, Drakulic D, Milivojevic M, Mojsin M. Crosstalk between SOX Genes and Long Non-Coding RNAs in Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076392. [PMID: 37047365 PMCID: PMC10094781 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) continues to be the most devastating primary brain malignancy. Despite significant advancements in understanding basic GBM biology and enormous efforts in developing new therapeutic approaches, the prognosis for most GBM patients remains poor with a median survival time of 15 months. Recently, the interplay between the SOX (SRY-related HMG-box) genes and lncRNAs (long non-coding RNAs) has become the focus of GBM research. Both classes of molecules have an aberrant expression in GBM and play essential roles in tumor initiation, progression, therapy resistance, and recurrence. In GBM, SOX and lncRNAs crosstalk through numerous functional axes, some of which are part of the complex transcriptional and epigenetic regulatory mechanisms. This review provides a systematic summary of current literature data on the complex interplay between SOX genes and lncRNAs and represents an effort to underscore the effects of SOX/lncRNA crosstalk on the malignant properties of GBM cells. Furthermore, we highlight the significance of this crosstalk in searching for new biomarkers and therapeutic approaches in GBM treatment.
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5
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Xiang G, Huang L, Zhang X, Wang N, Wang H, Mu Y, Li K, Liu Z. Molecular Characteristics and Promoter Analysis of Porcine COL1A1. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:1971. [PMID: 36360208 PMCID: PMC9689670 DOI: 10.3390/genes13111971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
COL1A1 encodes the type I collagen α1 chain, which shows the highest abundance among members of the collagen family and is widely expressed in different mammalian cells and tissues. However, its molecular characteristics are not completely elucidated. In this study, the molecular profiles of COL1A1 and characteristics of the COL1A1 protein were investigated using a promoter activity assay and multiple bioinformatics tools. The results showed that the 5' flanking region of porcine COL1A1 contained two CpG islands, five core promoter sequences, and twenty-six transcription factor-binding sites. In the luciferase assay, the upstream 294 bp region of the initiation codon of COL1A1 showed the highest activity, confirming that this section is the core region of the porcine COL1A1 promoter. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that COL1A1 is a negatively charged, hydrophilic secreted protein. It does not contain a transmembrane domain and is highly conserved in humans, mice, sheep, and pigs. Protein interaction analysis demonstrated that the interaction coefficient of COL1A1 with COL1A2, COL3A1, ITGB1, and ITGA2 was greater than 0.9, suggesting that this protein plays a crucial role in collagen structure formation and cell adhesion. These results provide a theoretical basis for further investigation of the functions of porcine COL1A1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangming Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Lei Huang
- Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
| | - Xiuling Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yulian Mu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Kui Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
- Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
| | - Zhiguo Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
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Dissecting Stemness in Aggressive Intracranial Meningiomas: Prognostic Role of SOX2 Expression. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911690. [PMID: 36232992 PMCID: PMC9570252 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Meningiomas are mostly benign tumors that, at times, can behave aggressively, displaying recurrence despite gross-total resection (GTR) and progression to overt malignancy. Such cases represent a clinical challenge, particularly because they are difficult to recognize at first diagnosis. SOX2 (Sex-determining region Y-box2) is a transcription factor with a key role in stem cell maintenance and has been associated with tumorigenesis in a variety of cancers. The purpose of the present work was to dissect the role of SOX2 in predicting the aggressiveness of meningioma. We analyzed progressive/recurrent WHO grade 1−2 meningiomas and WHO grade 3 meningiomas; as controls, non-recurring WHO grade 1 and grade 2 meningioma patients were enrolled. SOX2 expression was evaluated using both immunohistochemistry (IHC) and RT-PCR. The final analysis included 87 patients. IHC was able to reliably assess SOX2 expression, as shown by the good correlation with mRNA levels (Spearman R = 0.0398, p = 0.001, AUC 0.87). SOX2 expression was an intrinsic characteristic of any single tumor and did not change following recurrence or progression. Importantly, SOX2 expression at first surgery was strongly related to meningioma clinical behavior, histological grade and risk of recurrence. Finally, survival data suggest a prognostic role of SOX2 expression in the whole series, both for overall and for recurrence-free survival (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively). Thus, SOX2 assessment could be of great help to clinicians in informing adjuvant treatments during follow-up.
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Al-Jumayli M, Brown SL, Chetty IJ, Extermann M, Movsas B. The Biological Process of Aging and the Impact of Ionizing Radiation. Semin Radiat Oncol 2022; 32:172-178. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2021.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Papavassiliou KA, Papavassiliou AG. Transcription factors in glioblastoma - Molecular pathogenesis and clinical implications. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1877:188667. [PMID: 34894431 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2021.188667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma, also known as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), is one of the most lethal human cancers, however, the molecular mechanisms driving GBM remain largely elusive. Recent studies have revealed that transcription factors are significantly involved in GBM biology. Transcription factors (TFs), which are proteins that bind DNA to regulate gene expression, have critical roles at focal points in signaling pathways, orchestrating many cellular processes, such as cell growth and proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, immune responses, and metabolism. Dysregulated or mutated TFs are common in GBM, resulting in aberrant gene expression that promotes tumor initiation, progression, and resistance to conventional therapies. In the present Review, we focus on TFs that are implicated in GBM pathogenesis, highlighting their oncogenic or tumor suppressive functions and describing the molecular mechanisms underlying their effect on GBM cells. We also discuss their use as biomarkers for GBM prognosis and therapeutic response, as well as their targeting with drugs for GBM treatment. Deciphering the role of TFs in the biology of GBM will provide new insights into the pathological mechanisms and reveal novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kostas A Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 11527, Athens, Greece.
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Voigt E, Wallenburg M, Wollenzien H, Thompson E, Kumar K, Feiner J, McNally M, Friesen H, Mukherjee M, Afeworki Y, Kareta MS. Sox2 Is an Oncogenic Driver of Small-Cell Lung Cancer and Promotes the Classic Neuroendocrine Subtype. Mol Cancer Res 2021; 19:2015-2025. [PMID: 34593608 PMCID: PMC8642303 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-20-1006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Although many cancer prognoses have improved in the past 50 years due to advancements in treatments, there has been little improvement in therapies for small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). One promising avenue to improve treatment for SCLC is to understand its underlying genetic alterations that drive its formation, growth, and cellular heterogeneity. RB1 loss is one key driver of SCLC, and RB1 loss has been associated with an increase in pluripotency factors such as SOX2. SOX2 is highly expressed and amplified in SCLC and has been associated with SCLC growth. Using a genetically engineered mouse model, we have shown that Sox2 is required for efficient SCLC formation. Furthermore, genome-scale binding assays have indicated that SOX2 can regulate key SCLC pathways such as NEUROD1 and MYC. These data suggest that SOX2 can be associated with the switch of SCLC from an ASCL1 subtype to a NEUROD1 subtype. Understanding this genetic switch is key to understanding such processes as SCLC progression, cellular heterogeneity, and treatment resistance. IMPLICATIONS: Understanding the molecular mechanisms of SCLC initiation and development are key to opening new potential therapeutic options for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Voigt
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Genetics & Genomics Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| | - Madeline Wallenburg
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Genetics & Genomics Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| | - Hannah Wollenzien
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Genetics & Genomics Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota
| | - Ethan Thompson
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Genetics & Genomics Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| | - Kirtana Kumar
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Genetics & Genomics Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| | | | - Moira McNally
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Genetics & Genomics Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| | - Hunter Friesen
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Genetics & Genomics Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| | - Malini Mukherjee
- Functional Genomics & Bioinformatics Core, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| | - Yohannes Afeworki
- Functional Genomics & Bioinformatics Core, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| | - Michael S Kareta
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
- Genetics & Genomics Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota
- Functional Genomics & Bioinformatics Core, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Department of Chemistry Biochemistry, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota
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Aytatli A, Barlak N, Sanli F, Caglar HO, Gundogdu B, Tatar A, Ittmann M, Karatas OF. AZD4547 targets the FGFR/Akt/SOX2 axis to overcome paclitaxel resistance in head and neck cancer. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2021; 45:41-56. [PMID: 34837170 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-021-00645-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Development of chemoresistance is one of the major obstacles to the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The PI3K/Akt pathway, involved in drug resistance, has been found to be overactivated in > 90% of HNSCCs. Aberrant activation of the FGF receptors (FGFRs) has been reported to cause overactivation of the PI3K/Akt pathway and to be associated with the maintenance of stem cell features, which is controlled via SOX2 expression. In this study, we aimed at investigating the potential of using AZD4547, an orally bioavailable FGFR inhibitor, to overcome taxol-resistance by targeting the FGFR/Akt/SOX2 axis in HNSCC. METHODS We initially evaluated FGFR2 and SOX2 expression using in silico tools. We analyzed the FGFR/Akt/SOX2 axis in normal/tumor tissue pairs and in recombinant FGF2 treated HNSCC cells. Next, we explored the effects of AZD4547 alone and in combination with taxol on the proliferation, migration and colony forming capacities of parental/taxol-resistant cells using in vitro models. RESULTS We found that the p-FGFR, p-AKT, p-GSK-3β and SOX2 expression levels were higher in tumor tissues than in its corresponding normal tissues, and that AZD4547 effectively suppressed the expression of FGFR and its downstream targets in recombinant FGF2 treated HNSCC cells. We also found that AZD4547 diminished the viability, migration and colony forming capacity of HNSCC cells, and that co-treatment with taxol potentiated the impact of taxol on these cells. Finally, we found that AZD4547 inhibited the overexpressed FGFR/Akt/SOX2 axis and profoundly suppressed cancer-related phenotypes in taxol-resistant HNSCC cells. CONCLUSION From our data we conclude that AZD4547 may increase the impact of taxol during HNSCC treatment. We suggest AZD4547 as a therapeutic agent to overcome taxol-resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmelik Aytatli
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Erzurum Technical University, Omer Nasuhi Bilmen Mah. Havaalani Yolu Cad. No: 53 Yakutiye, Erzurum, Turkey
- Molecular Cancer Biology Laboratory, High Technology Application and Research Center, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Neslisah Barlak
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Erzurum Technical University, Omer Nasuhi Bilmen Mah. Havaalani Yolu Cad. No: 53 Yakutiye, Erzurum, Turkey
- Molecular Cancer Biology Laboratory, High Technology Application and Research Center, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Fatma Sanli
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Erzurum Technical University, Omer Nasuhi Bilmen Mah. Havaalani Yolu Cad. No: 53 Yakutiye, Erzurum, Turkey
- Molecular Cancer Biology Laboratory, High Technology Application and Research Center, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Hasan Onur Caglar
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Erzurum Technical University, Omer Nasuhi Bilmen Mah. Havaalani Yolu Cad. No: 53 Yakutiye, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Betul Gundogdu
- Department of Medical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Arzu Tatar
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Michael Ittmann
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VAMC, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Omer Faruk Karatas
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Erzurum Technical University, Omer Nasuhi Bilmen Mah. Havaalani Yolu Cad. No: 53 Yakutiye, Erzurum, Turkey.
- Molecular Cancer Biology Laboratory, High Technology Application and Research Center, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey.
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11
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Stevanovic M, Kovacevic-Grujicic N, Mojsin M, Milivojevic M, Drakulic D. SOX transcription factors and glioma stem cells: Choosing between stemness and differentiation. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:1417-1445. [PMID: 34786152 PMCID: PMC8567447 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i10.1417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common, most aggressive and deadliest brain tumor. Recently, remarkable progress has been made towards understanding the cellular and molecular biology of gliomas. GBM tumor initiation, progression and relapse as well as resistance to treatments are associated with glioma stem cells (GSCs). GSCs exhibit a high proliferation rate and self-renewal capacity and the ability to differentiate into diverse cell types, generating a range of distinct cell types within the tumor, leading to cellular heterogeneity. GBM tumors may contain different subsets of GSCs, and some of them may adopt a quiescent state that protects them against chemotherapy and radiotherapy. GSCs enriched in recurrent gliomas acquire more aggressive and therapy-resistant properties, making them more malignant, able to rapidly spread. The impact of SOX transcription factors (TFs) on brain tumors has been extensively studied in the last decade. Almost all SOX genes are expressed in GBM, and their expression levels are associated with patient prognosis and survival. Numerous SOX TFs are involved in the maintenance of the stemness of GSCs or play a role in the initiation of GSC differentiation. The fine-tuning of SOX gene expression levels controls the balance between cell stemness and differentiation. Therefore, innovative therapies targeting SOX TFs are emerging as promising tools for combatting GBM. Combatting GBM has been a demanding and challenging goal for decades. The current therapeutic strategies have not yet provided a cure for GBM and have only resulted in a slight improvement in patient survival. Novel approaches will require the fine adjustment of multimodal therapeutic strategies that simultaneously target numerous hallmarks of cancer cells to win the battle against GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Stevanovic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11042, Serbia
- Chair Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11158, Serbia
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Belgrade 11000, Serbia.
| | - Natasa Kovacevic-Grujicic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11042, Serbia
| | - Marija Mojsin
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11042, Serbia
| | - Milena Milivojevic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11042, Serbia
| | - Danijela Drakulic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11042, Serbia
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12
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Nayak C, Singh SK. In silico identification of natural product inhibitors against Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct4) to impede the mechanism of glioma stem cells. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255803. [PMID: 34613998 PMCID: PMC8494328 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct4) is a core regulator in the retention of stemness, invasive, and self-renewal properties in glioma initiating cells (GSCs) and its overexpression inhibits the differentiation of glioma cells promoting tumor cell proliferation. The Pit-Oct-Unc (POU) domain comprising POU-specific domain (POUS) and POU-type homeodomain (POUHD) subdomains is the most critical part of the Oct4 for the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells from somatic cells that lead to tumor initiation, invasion, posttreatment relapse, and therapeutic resistance. Therefore, the present investigation hunts for natural product inhibitors (NPIs) against the POUHD domain of Oct4 by employing receptor-based virtual screening (RBVS) followed by binding free energy calculation and molecular dynamics simulation (MDS). RBVS provided 13 compounds with acceptable ranges of pharmacokinetic properties and good docking scores having key interactions with the POUHD domain. More Specifically, conformational and interaction stability analysis of 13 compounds through MDS unveiled two compounds ZINC02145000 and ZINC32124203 which stabilized the backbone of protein even in the presence of linker and POUS domain. Additionally, ZINC02145000 and ZINC32124203 exhibited stable and strong interactions with key residues W277, R242, and R234 of the POUHD domain even in dynamic conditions. Interestingly, ZINC02145000 and ZINC32124203 established communication not only with the POUHD domain but also with the POUS domain indicating their incredible potency toward thwarting the function of Oct4. ZINC02145000 and ZINC32124203 also reduced the flexibility and escalated the correlations between the amino acid residues of Oct4 evidenced by PCA and DCCM analysis. Finally, our examination proposed two NPIs that can impede the Oct4 function and may help to improve overall survival, diminish tumor relapse, and achieve a cure not only in deadly disease GBM but also in other cancers with minimal side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chirasmita Nayak
- Computer-Aided Drug Design and Molecular Modeling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Karaikudi Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sanjeev Kumar Singh
- Computer-Aided Drug Design and Molecular Modeling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Karaikudi Tamil Nadu, India
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13
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BEX1 and BEX4 Induce GBM Progression through Regulation of Actin Polymerization and Activation of YAP/TAZ Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189845. [PMID: 34576008 PMCID: PMC8471324 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
GBM is a high-grade cancer that originates from glial cells and has a poor prognosis. Although a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy is prescribed to patients, GBM is highly resistant to therapies, and surviving cells show increased aggressiveness. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism underlying GBM progression after radiotherapy by establishing a GBM orthotopic xenograft mouse model. Based on transcriptomic analysis, we found that the expression of BEX1 and BEX4 was upregulated in GBM cells surviving radiotherapy. We also found that upregulated expression of BEX1 and BEX4 was involved in the formation of the filamentous cytoskeleton and altered mechanotransduction, which resulted in the activation of the YAP/TAZ signaling pathway. BEX1- and BEX4-mediated YAP/TAZ activation enhanced the tumor formation, growth, and radioresistance of GBM cells. Additionally, latrunculin B inhibited GBM progression after radiotherapy by suppressing actin polymerization in an orthotopic xenograft mouse model. Taken together, we suggest the involvement of cytoskeleton formation in radiation-induced GBM progression and latrunculin B as a GBM radiosensitizer.
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14
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Thomas MH, Gui Y, Garcia P, Karout M, Gomez Ramos B, Jaeger C, Michelucci A, Gaigneaux A, Kollmus H, Centeno A, Schughart K, Balling R, Mittelbronn M, Nadeau JH, Sauter T, Williams RW, Sinkkonen L, Buttini M. Quantitative trait locus mapping identifies a locus linked to striatal dopamine and points to collagen IV alpha-6 chain as a novel regulator of striatal axonal branching in mice. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2021; 20:e12769. [PMID: 34453370 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Dopaminergic neurons (DA neurons) are controlled by multiple factors, many involved in neurological disease. Parkinson's disease motor symptoms are caused by the demise of nigral DA neurons, leading to loss of striatal dopamine (DA). Here, we measured DA concentration in the dorsal striatum of 32 members of Collaborative Cross (CC) family and their eight founder strains. Striatal DA varied greatly in founders, and differences were highly heritable in the inbred CC progeny. We identified a locus, containing 164 genes, linked to DA concentration in the dorsal striatum on chromosome X. We used RNAseq profiling of the ventral midbrain of two founders with substantial difference in striatal DA-C56BL/6 J and A/J-to highlight potential protein-coding candidates modulating this trait. Among the five differentially expressed genes within the locus, we found that the gene coding for the collagen IV alpha 6 chain (Col4a6) was expressed nine times less in A/J than in C57BL/6J. Using single cell RNA-seq data from developing human midbrain, we found that COL4A6 is highly expressed in radial glia-like cells and neuronal progenitors, indicating a role in neuronal development. Collagen IV alpha-6 chain (COL4A6) controls axogenesis in simple model organisms. Consistent with these findings, A/J mice had less striatal axonal branching than C57BL/6J mice. We tentatively conclude that DA concentration and axonal branching in dorsal striatum are modulated by COL4A6, possibly during development. Our study shows that genetic mapping based on an easily measured Central Nervous System (CNS) trait, using the CC population, combined with follow-up observations, can parse heritability of such a trait, and nominate novel functions for commonly expressed proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie H Thomas
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.,Luxembourg Centre of Neuropathology (LCNP), Luxembourg
| | - Yujuan Gui
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine (DLSM), University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Pierre Garcia
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.,Luxembourg Centre of Neuropathology (LCNP), Luxembourg.,National Center of Pathology (NCP), Laboratoire National de Santé (LNS), Dudelange, Luxembourg
| | - Mona Karout
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Borja Gomez Ramos
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.,Department of Life Sciences and Medicine (DLSM), University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Christian Jaeger
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Alessandro Michelucci
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.,Neuro-Immunology Group, Department of Oncology (DONC), Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Anthoula Gaigneaux
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine (DLSM), University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Heike Kollmus
- Department of Infection Genetics, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Arthur Centeno
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Klaus Schughart
- Department of Infection Genetics, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany.,University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany.,Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rudi Balling
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Michel Mittelbronn
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.,Luxembourg Centre of Neuropathology (LCNP), Luxembourg.,Department of Life Sciences and Medicine (DLSM), University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg.,National Center of Pathology (NCP), Laboratoire National de Santé (LNS), Dudelange, Luxembourg.,Neuro-Immunology Group, Department of Oncology (DONC), Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Joseph H Nadeau
- Pacific Northwest Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine, USA
| | - Thomas Sauter
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine (DLSM), University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Robert W Williams
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Lasse Sinkkonen
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine (DLSM), University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Manuel Buttini
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.,Luxembourg Centre of Neuropathology (LCNP), Luxembourg
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15
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Mamun MA, Mannoor K, Cao J, Qadri F, Song X. SOX2 in cancer stemness: tumor malignancy and therapeutic potentials. J Mol Cell Biol 2021; 12:85-98. [PMID: 30517668 PMCID: PMC7109607 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjy080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2018] [Revised: 11/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a minor subpopulation of tumor bulks with self-renewal and seeding capacity to generate new tumors, posit a significant challenge to develop effective and long-lasting anti-cancer therapies. The emergence of drug resistance appears upon failure of chemo-/radiation therapy to eradicate the CSCs, thereby leading to CSC-mediated clinical relapse. Accumulating evidence suggests that transcription factor SOX2, a master regulator of embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, drives cancer stemness, fuels tumor initiation, and contributes to tumor aggressiveness through major drug resistance mechanisms like epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, ATP-binding cassette drug transporters, anti-apoptotic and/or pro-survival signaling, lineage plasticity, and evasion of immune surveillance. Gaining a better insight and comprehensive interrogation into the mechanistic basis of SOX2-mediated generation of CSCs and treatment failure might therefore lead to new therapeutic targets involving CSC-specific anti-cancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahfuz Al Mamun
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Kaiissar Mannoor
- Oncology Laboratory, Institute for Developing Science & Health Initiatives (ideSHi), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Jun Cao
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Firdausi Qadri
- Oncology Laboratory, Institute for Developing Science & Health Initiatives (ideSHi), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Xiaoyuan Song
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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16
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Targeting non-canonical activation of GLI1 by the SOX2-BRD4 transcriptional complex improves the efficacy of HEDGEHOG pathway inhibition in melanoma. Oncogene 2021; 40:3799-3814. [PMID: 33958721 PMCID: PMC8175236 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01783-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Despite the development of new targeted and immune therapies, the prognosis of metastatic melanoma remains bleak. Therefore, it is critical to better understand the mechanisms controlling advanced melanoma to develop more effective treatment regimens. Hedgehog/GLI (HH/GLI) signaling inhibitors targeting the central pathway transducer Smoothened (SMO) have shown to be clinical efficacious in skin cancer; however, several mechanisms of non-canonical HH/GLI pathway activation limit their efficacy. Here, we identify a novel SOX2-BRD4 transcriptional complex driving the expression of GLI1, the final effector of the HH/GLI pathway, providing a novel mechanism of non-canonical SMO-independent activation of HH/GLI signaling in melanoma. Consistently, we find a positive correlation between the expression of GLI1 and SOX2 in human melanoma samples and cell lines. Further, we show that combined targeting of canonical HH/GLI pathway with the SMO inhibitor MRT-92 and of the SOX2-BRD4 complex using a potent Proteolysis Targeted Chimeras (PROTACs)-derived BRD4 degrader (MZ1), yields a synergistic anti-proliferative effect in melanoma cells independently of their BRAF, NRAS, and NF1 mutational status, with complete abrogation of GLI1 expression. Combination of MRT-92 and MZ1 strongly potentiates the antitumor effect of either drug as single agents in an orthotopic melanoma model. Together, our data provide evidence of a novel mechanism of non-canonical activation of GLI1 by the SOX2-BRD4 transcriptional complex, and describe the efficacy of a new combinatorial treatment for a subset of melanomas with an active SOX2-BRD4-GLI1 axis.
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17
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Pietrobono S, Anichini G, Sala C, Manetti F, Almada LL, Pepe S, Carr RM, Paradise BD, Sarkaria JN, Davila JI, Tofani L, Battisti I, Arrigoni G, Ying L, Zhang C, Li H, Meves A, Fernandez-Zapico ME, Stecca B. ST3GAL1 is a target of the SOX2-GLI1 transcriptional complex and promotes melanoma metastasis through AXL. Nat Commun 2020; 11:5865. [PMID: 33203881 PMCID: PMC7673140 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19575-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the molecular events controlling melanoma progression is of paramount importance for the development of alternative treatment options for this devastating disease. Here we report a mechanism regulated by the oncogenic SOX2-GLI1 transcriptional complex driving melanoma invasion through the induction of the sialyltransferase ST3GAL1. Using in vitro and in vivo studies, we demonstrate that ST3GAL1 drives melanoma metastasis. Silencing of this enzyme suppresses melanoma invasion and significantly reduces the ability of aggressive melanoma cells to enter the blood stream, colonize distal organs, seed and survive in the metastatic environment. Analysis of glycosylated proteins reveals that the receptor tyrosine kinase AXL is a major effector of ST3GAL1 pro-invasive function. ST3GAL1 induces AXL dimerization and activation that, in turn, promotes melanoma invasion. Our data support a key role of the ST3GAL1-AXL axis as driver of melanoma metastasis, and highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting this axis to treat metastatic melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pietrobono
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Anichini
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Cesare Sala
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Luciana L Almada
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Sara Pepe
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Ryan M Carr
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Brooke D Paradise
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jann N Sarkaria
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jaime I Davila
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Lorenzo Tofani
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Ilaria Battisti
- Proteomics Center, University of Padova and Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, Via G. Oris 2B, 35129, Padova, Italy
| | - Giorgio Arrigoni
- Proteomics Center, University of Padova and Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, Via G. Oris 2B, 35129, Padova, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Li Ying
- Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Hu Li
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Alexander Meves
- Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Martin E Fernandez-Zapico
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Barbara Stecca
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy.
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18
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Barone C, Buccarelli M, Alessandrini F, Pagin M, Rigoldi L, Sambruni I, Favaro R, Ottolenghi S, Pallini R, Ricci-Vitiani L, Malatesta P, Nicolis SK. Sox2-dependent maintenance of mouse oligodendroglioma involves the Sox2-mediated downregulation of Cdkn2b, Ebf1, Zfp423, and Hey2. Glia 2020; 69:579-593. [PMID: 32975900 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) are essential for tumorigenesis. The transcription factor Sox2 is overexpressed in brain gliomas, and is essential to maintain CSC. In mouse high-grade glioma pHGG cells in culture, Sox2 deletion causes cell proliferation arrest and inability to reform tumors after transplantation in vivo; in Sox2-deleted cells, 134 genes are derepressed. To identify genes mediating Sox2 deletion effects, we overexpressed into pHGG cells nine among the most derepressed genes, and identified four genes, Ebf1, Hey2, Zfp423, and Cdkn2b, that strongly reduced cell proliferation in vitro and brain tumorigenesis in vivo. CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis of each gene, individually or in combination (Ebf1 + Cdkn2b), significantly antagonized the proliferation arrest caused by Sox2 deletion. The same genes also repressed clonogenicity in primary human glioblastoma-derived CSC-like lines. These experiments identify a network of critical tumor suppressive Sox2-targets whose inhibition by Sox2 is involved in glioma CSC maintenance, defining new potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Barone
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Mariachiara Buccarelli
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Alessandrini
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Genova, and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - Miriam Pagin
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Rigoldi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Sambruni
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Rebecca Favaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Sergio Ottolenghi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Pallini
- Institute of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Ricci-Vitiani
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Malatesta
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Genova, and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvia K Nicolis
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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19
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SOX2 and squamous cancers. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 67:154-167. [PMID: 32905832 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
SOX2 is a pleiotropic nuclear transcription factor with major roles in stem cell biology and in development. Over the last 10 years SOX2 has also been implicated as a lineage-specific oncogene, notably in squamous carcinomas but also neurological tumours, particularly glioblastoma. Squamous carcinomas (SQCs) comprise a common group of malignancies for which there are no targeted therapeutic interventions. In this article we review the molecular epidemiological and laboratory evidence linking SOX2 with squamous carcinogenesis, explore in detail the multifaceted impact of SOX2 in SQC, describe areas of uncertainty and highlight areas for potential future research.
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20
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Functional characterization of SOX2 as an anticancer target. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:135. [PMID: 32728033 PMCID: PMC7391717 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00242-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
SOX2 is a well-characterized pluripotent factor that is essential for stem cell self-renewal, reprogramming, and homeostasis. The cellular levels of SOX2 are precisely regulated by a complicated network at the levels of transcription, post-transcription, and post-translation. In many types of human cancer, SOX2 is dysregulated due to gene amplification and protein overexpression. SOX2 overexpression is associated with poor survival of cancer patients. Mechanistically, SOX2 promotes proliferation, survival, invasion/metastasis, cancer stemness, and drug resistance. SOX2 is, therefore, an attractive anticancer target. However, little progress has been made in the efforts to discover SOX2 inhibitors, largely due to undruggable nature of SOX2 as a transcription factor. In this review, we first briefly introduced SOX2 as a transcription factor, its domain structure, normal physiological functions, and its involvement in human cancers. We next discussed its role in embryonic development and stem cell-renewal. We then mainly focused on three aspects of SOX2: (a) the regulatory mechanisms of SOX2, including how SOX2 level is regulated, and how SOX2 cross-talks with multiple signaling pathways to control growth and survival; (b) the role of SOX2 in tumorigenesis and drug resistance; and (c) current drug discovery efforts on targeting SOX2, and the future perspectives to discover specific SOX2 inhibitors for effective cancer therapy.
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21
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SOX2 and p53 Expression Control Converges in PI3K/AKT Signaling with Versatile Implications for Stemness and Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21144902. [PMID: 32664542 PMCID: PMC7402325 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Stemness and reprogramming involve transcriptional master regulators that suppress cell differentiation while promoting self-renewal. A distinguished example thereof is SOX2, a high mobility group (HMG)-box transcription factor (TF), whose subcellular localization and turnover regulation in embryonic, induced-pluripotent, and cancer stem cells (ESCs, iPSCs, and CSCs, respectively) is mediated by the PI3K/AKT/SOX2 axis, a stem cell-specific branch of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Further effector functions associated with PI3K/AKT induction include cell cycle progression, cellular (mass) growth, and the suppression of apoptosis. Apoptosis, however, is a central element of DNA damage response (DDR), where it provides a default mechanism for cell clearance when DNA integrity cannot be maintained. A key player in DDR is tumor suppressor p53, which accumulates upon DNA-damage and is counter-balanced by PI3K/AKT enforced turnover. Accordingly, stemness sustaining SOX2 expression and p53-dependent DDR mechanisms show molecular–functional overlap in PI3K/AKT signaling. This constellation proves challenging for stem cells whose genomic integrity is a functional imperative for normative ontogenesis. Unresolved mutations in stem and early progenitor cells may in fact provoke transformation and cancer development. Such mechanisms are also particularly relevant for iPSCs, where genetic changes imposed through somatic cell reprogramming may promote DNA damage. The current review aims to summarize the latest advances in the understanding of PI3K/AKT/SOX2-driven stemness and its intertwined relations to p53-signaling in DDR under conditions of pluripotency, reprogramming, and transformation.
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22
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Lopez-Bertoni H, Kotchetkov IS, Mihelson N, Lal B, Rui Y, Ames H, Lugo-Fagundo M, Guerrero-Cazares H, Quiñones-Hinojosa A, Green JJ, Laterra J. A Sox2:miR-486-5p Axis Regulates Survival of GBM Cells by Inhibiting Tumor Suppressor Networks. Cancer Res 2020; 80:1644-1655. [PMID: 32094299 PMCID: PMC7165043 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-1624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and other solid malignancies are heterogeneous and contain subpopulations of tumor cells that exhibit stem-like features. Our recent findings point to a dedifferentiation mechanism by which reprogramming transcription factors Oct4 and Sox2 drive the stem-like phenotype in glioblastoma, in part, by differentially regulating subsets of miRNAs. Currently, the molecular mechanisms by which reprogramming transcription factors and miRNAs coordinate cancer stem cell tumor-propagating capacity are unclear. In this study, we identified miR-486-5p as a Sox2-induced miRNA that targets the tumor suppressor genes PTEN and FoxO1 and regulates the GBM stem-like cells. miR-486-5p associated with the GBM stem cell phenotype and Sox2 expression and was directly induced by Sox2 in glioma cell lines and patient-derived neurospheres. Forced expression of miR-486-5p enhanced the self-renewal capacity of GBM neurospheres, and inhibition of endogenous miR-486-5p activated PTEN and FoxO1 and induced cell death by upregulating proapoptotic protein BIM via a PTEN-dependent mechanism. Furthermore, delivery of miR-486-5p antagomirs to preestablished orthotopic GBM neurosphere-derived xenografts using advanced nanoparticle formulations reduced tumor sizes in vivo and enhanced the cytotoxic response to ionizing radiation. These results define a previously unrecognized and therapeutically targetable Sox2:miR-486-5p axis that enhances the survival of GBM stem cells by repressing tumor suppressor pathways. SIGNIFICANCE: This study identifies a novel axis that links core transcriptional drivers of cancer cell stemness to miR-486-5p-dependent modulation of tumor suppressor genes that feeds back to regulate glioma stem cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hernando Lopez-Bertoni
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, Maryland.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ivan S Kotchetkov
- Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Nicole Mihelson
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Bachchu Lal
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yuan Rui
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for NanoBioTechnology, and the Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Heather Ames
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Maria Lugo-Fagundo
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hugo Guerrero-Cazares
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Jordan J Green
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for NanoBioTechnology, and the Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Departments of Materials Science & Engineering and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - John Laterra
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, Maryland.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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23
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The Microrna-143/145 Cluster in Tumors: A Matter of Where and When. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12030708. [PMID: 32192092 PMCID: PMC7140083 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The establishment and spreading of cancer involve the acquirement of many biological functions including resistance to apoptosis, enhanced proliferation and the ability to invade the surrounding tissue, extravasate from the primary site, survive in circulating blood, and finally extravasate and colonize distant organs giving origin to metastatic lesions, the major cause of cancer deaths. Dramatic changes in the expression of protein coding genes due to altered transcription factors activity or to epigenetic modifications orchestrate these events, intertwining with a microRNA regulatory network that is often disrupted in cancer cells. microRNAs-143 and -145 represent puzzling players of this game, with apparently contradictory functions. They were at first classified as tumor suppressive due to their frequently reduced levels in tumors, correlating with cell survival, proliferation, and migration. More recently, pro-oncogenic roles of these microRNAs have been described, challenging their simplistic definition as merely tumor-suppressive. Here we review their known activities in tumors, whether oncogenic or onco-suppressive, and highlight how their expression and functions are strongly dependent on their complex regulation downstream and upstream of cytokines and growth factors, on the cell type of expression and on the specific tumor stage.
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Vaidya M, Sugaya K. Differential sequences and single nucleotide polymorphism of exosomal SOX2 DNA in cancer. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229309. [PMID: 32092088 PMCID: PMC7039433 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common form of brain cancer, with an average life expectancy of fewer than two years post-diagnosis. We have previously reported that cancer cell originated exosomes, including GBM, have NANOG and NANOGP8 DNA associated with them. The exosomal NANOG DNA has certain differences as compared to its normal counterpart that are of immense importance as a potential cancer biomarker. NANOG has been demonstrated to play an essential role in the maintenance of embryonic stem cells, and its pseudogene, NANOGP8, is suggested to promote the cancer stem cell phenotype. Similarly, SOX2 is another stemness gene highly expressed in cancer stem cells with an intimate involvement in GBM progression and metastasis as well as promotion of tumorigenicity in Neuroblastoma (NB). Since exosomes are critical in intercellular communication with a role in dissipating hallmark biomolecules responsible for cancer, we conducted a detailed analysis of the association of the SOX2 gene with exosomes whose sequence modulations with further research and appropriate sample size can help to identify diagnostic markers for cancer. We have detected SOX2 DNA associated with exosomes and have identified some of the SNPs and nucleotide variations in the sequences from a GBM and SH-SY5Y sample. Although a further systematic investigation of exosomal DNA from GBM and NB patient's blood is needed, finding of SOX2 DNA in exosomes in the current study may have value in clinical research. SOX2 is known to be misregulated in cancer cells by changes in miRNA function, such as SNPs in the binding sites. Our finding of cancer-specific SNPs in exosomal SOX2 DNA sequence may reflect those changes in the cancer stem cells as well as cancer cells. A series of our study on embryonic stem cell gene analysis in exosomal DNA may lead to a minimally invasive exosome-based diagnosis, and give us a key in understanding the mechanisms of cancer formation, progression, and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjusha Vaidya
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, United States of America
| | - Kiminobu Sugaya
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, United States of America
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25
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Schaefer T, Lengerke C. SOX2 protein biochemistry in stemness, reprogramming, and cancer: the PI3K/AKT/SOX2 axis and beyond. Oncogene 2020; 39:278-292. [PMID: 31477842 PMCID: PMC6949191 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-0997-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Research of the past view years expanded our understanding of the various physiological functions the cell-fate determining transcription factor SOX2 exerts in ontogenesis, reprogramming, and cancer. However, while scientific reports featuring novel and exciting aspects of SOX2-driven biology are published in near weekly routine, investigations in the underlying protein-biochemical processes that transiently tailor SOX2 activity to situational demand are underrepresented and have not yet been comprehensively summarized. Largely unrecognizable to modern array or sequencing-based technology, various protein secondary modifications and concomitant function modulations have been reported for SOX2. The chemical modifications imposed onto SOX2 are inherently heterogeneous, comprising singular or clustered events of phosphorylation, methylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, PARPylation, and O-glycosylation that reciprocally affect each other and critically impact SOX2 functionality, often in a tissue and species-specific manner. One recurring regulatory principle though is the canonical PI3K/AKT signaling axis to which SOX2 relates in various entangled, albeit not exclusive ways. Here we provide a comprehensive review of the current knowledge on SOX2 protein modifications, their proposed relationship to the PI3K/AKT pathway, and regulatory influence on SOX2 with regards to stemness, reprogramming, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten Schaefer
- University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Department of Biomedicine, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Claudia Lengerke
- University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Department of Biomedicine, Basel, Switzerland
- University Hospital Basel, Division of Hematology, Basel, Switzerland
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26
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Ferro E, Enrico Bena C, Grigolon S, Bosia C. From Endogenous to Synthetic microRNA-Mediated Regulatory Circuits: An Overview. Cells 2019; 8:E1540. [PMID: 31795372 PMCID: PMC6952906 DOI: 10.3390/cells8121540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are short non-coding RNAs that are evolutionarily conserved and are pivotal post-transcriptional mediators of gene regulation. Together with transcription factors and epigenetic regulators, they form a highly interconnected network whose building blocks can be classified depending on the number of molecular species involved and the type of interactions amongst them. Depending on their topology, these molecular circuits may carry out specific functions that years of studies have related to the processing of gene expression noise. In this review, we first present the different over-represented network motifs involving microRNAs and their specific role in implementing relevant biological functions, reviewing both theoretical and experimental studies. We then illustrate the recent advances in synthetic biology, such as the construction of artificially synthesised circuits, which provide a controlled tool to test experimentally the possible microRNA regulatory tasks and constitute a starting point for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsi Ferro
- IIGM—Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, c/o IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Torino), Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Torino), Italy
| | - Chiara Enrico Bena
- IIGM—Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, c/o IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Torino), Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Torino), Italy
| | - Silvia Grigolon
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Carla Bosia
- IIGM—Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, c/o IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Torino), Italy
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy
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27
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Chaudhary S, Islam Z, Mishra V, Rawat S, Ashraf GM, Kolatkar PR. Sox2: A Regulatory Factor in Tumorigenesis and Metastasis. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2019; 20:495-504. [PMID: 30907312 DOI: 10.2174/1389203720666190325102255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor Sox2 plays an important role in various phases of embryonic development, including cell fate and differentiation. These key regulatory functions are facilitated by binding to specific DNA sequences in combination with partner proteins to exert their effects. Recently, overexpression and gene amplification of Sox2 has been associated with tumor aggression and metastasis in various cancer types, including breast, prostate, lung, ovarian and colon cancer. All the different roles for Sox2 involve complicated regulatory networks consisting of protein-protein and protein-nucleic acid interactions. Their involvement in the EMT modulation is possibly enabled by Wnt/ β-catenin and other signaling pathways. There are number of in vivo models which show Sox2 association with increased cancer aggressiveness, resistance to chemo-radiation therapy and decreased survival rate suggesting Sox2 as a therapeutic target. This review will focus on the different roles for Sox2 in metastasis and tumorigenesis. We will also review the mechanism of action underlying the cooperative Sox2- DNA/partner factors binding where Sox2 can be potentially explored for a therapeutic opportunity to treat cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zeyaul Islam
- Diabetes Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar
| | - Vijaya Mishra
- RASA Life science Informatics, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sakshi Rawat
- RASA Life science Informatics, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Prasanna R Kolatkar
- Diabetes Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar
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Kumar P, Mistri TK. Transcription factors in SOX family: Potent regulators for cancer initiation and development in the human body. Semin Cancer Biol 2019; 67:105-113. [PMID: 31288067 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) have a key role in controlling the gene regulatory network that sustains explicit cell states in humans. However, an uncontrolled regulation of these genes potentially results in a wide range of diseases, including cancer. Genes of the SOX family are indeed crucial as deregulation of SOX family TFs can potentially lead to changes in cell fate as well as irregular cell growth. SOX TFs are a conserved group of transcriptional regulators that mediate DNA binding through a highly conserved high-mobility group (HMG) domain. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that cell fate and differentiation in major developmental processes are controlled by SOX TFs. Besides; numerous reports indicate that both up- and down-regulation of SOX TFs may induce cancer progression. In this review, we discuss the involvement of key TFs of SOX family in human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasann Kumar
- The Division of Research and Development, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, 144411, India; The Department of Agronomy, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, 144411, India
| | - Tapan Kumar Mistri
- The Division of Research and Development, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, 144411, India; The Department of Chemistry, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, 144411, India.
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Kuan II, Lee CC, Chen CH, Lu J, Kuo YS, Wu HC. The extracellular domain of epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) enhances multipotency of mesenchymal stem cells through EGFR-LIN28-LET7 signaling. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:7769-7786. [PMID: 30926604 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.007386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely considered to be an attractive cell source for regenerative therapies, but maintaining multipotency and self-renewal in cultured MSCs is especially challenging. Hence, the development and mechanistic description of strategies that help promote multipotency in MSCs will be vital to future clinical use. Here, using an array of techniques and approaches, including cell biology, RT-quantitative PCR, immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and ChIP assays, we show that the extracellular domain of epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) (EpEX) significantly increases the levels of pluripotency factors through a signaling cascade that includes epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and Lin-28 homolog A (LIN28) and enhances the proliferation of human bone marrow MSCs. Moreover, we found that EpEX-induced LIN28 expression reduces the expression of the microRNA LET7 and up-regulates that of the transcription factor high-mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2), which activates the transcription of pluripotency factors. Surprisingly, we found that EpEX treatment also enhances osteogenesis of MSCs under differentiation conditions, as evidenced by increases in osteogenic markers, including Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2). Taken together, our results indicate that EpEX stimulates EGFR signaling and thereby context-dependently controls MSC states and activities, promoting cell proliferation and multipotency under maintenance conditions and osteogenesis under differentiation conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- I-I Kuan
- From the Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology and
| | - Chi-Chiu Lee
- From the Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology and
| | - Chien-Hsu Chen
- From the Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology and
| | - Jean Lu
- Genomic Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115 and
| | - Yuan-Sung Kuo
- the Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chung Wu
- From the Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology and .,Genomic Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115 and
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30
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Abdelrahman AE, Ibrahim HM, Elsebai EA, Ismail EI, Elmesallamy W. The clinicopathological significance of CD133 and Sox2 in astrocytic glioma. Cancer Biomark 2019; 23:391-403. [PMID: 30248046 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-181460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment strategies of astrocytoma have not changed considerably due to the restricted appreciation of its biology. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the expression of the stem cell-related proteins (CD133 and Sox2) and their prognostic value in astrocytic glioma. METHODS The immunohistochemical expression of CD133 and Sox2 in 40 patients with an astrocytic glioma of different grades was studied. The recorded data on the overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and the response to the therapeutic protocol were collected and lastly analyzed. RESULTS CD133 expression was observed in 87.5% of the cases, while positive Sox2 expression was found in all the studied cases. There was a significant association of CD133 expression with the histological grade and the tumor size (p< 0.001). A significant association of Sox2 with the histological grade and the tumor size was noted (p= 0.004, p= 0.006 respectively). Up-regulation of both CD133 and Sox2 had a significant association with poor clinical response to the therapy (p< 0.001 for each). Shorter OS and PFS were related to CD133 and Sox2 overexpression. CONCLUSIONS Astrocytoma with CD133 and Sox2 overexpression had an unfavorable prognosis and poor clinical response to the current therapeutic protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aziza E Abdelrahman
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Hanaa M Ibrahim
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Eman A Elsebai
- Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Eman I Ismail
- Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Wael Elmesallamy
- Neurosurgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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31
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The role of SOX family members in solid tumours and metastasis. Semin Cancer Biol 2019; 67:122-153. [PMID: 30914279 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a heavy burden for humans across the world with high morbidity and mortality. Transcription factors including sex determining region Y (SRY)-related high-mobility group (HMG) box (SOX) proteins are thought to be involved in the regulation of specific biological processes. The deregulation of gene expression programs can lead to cancer development. Here, we review the role of the SOX family in breast cancer, prostate cancer, renal cell carcinoma, thyroid cancer, brain tumours, gastrointestinal and lung tumours as well as the entailing therapeutic implications. The SOX family consists of more than 20 members that mediate DNA binding by the HMG domain and have regulatory functions in development, cell-fate decision, and differentiation. SOX2, SOX4, SOX5, SOX8, SOX9, and SOX18 are up-regulated in different cancer types and have been found to be associated with poor prognosis, while the up-regulation of SOX11 and SOX30 appears to be favourable for the outcome in other cancer types. SOX2, SOX4, SOX5 and other SOX members are involved in tumorigenesis, e.g. SOX2 is markedly up-regulated in chemotherapy resistant cells. The SoxF family (SOX7, SOX17, SOX18) plays an important role in angio- and lymphangiogenesis, with SOX18 seemingly being an attractive target for anti-angiogenic therapy and the treatment of metastatic disease in cancer. In summary, SOX transcription factors play an important role in cancer progression, including tumorigenesis, changes in the tumour microenvironment, and metastasis. Certain SOX proteins are potential molecular markers for cancer prognosis and putative potential therapeutic targets, but further investigations are required to understand their physiological functions.
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Deng P, Wang J, Zhang X, Wu X, Ji N, Li J, Zhou M, Jiang L, Zeng X, Chen Q. AFF4 promotes tumorigenesis and tumor-initiation capacity of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells by regulating SOX2. Carcinogenesis 2019; 39:937-947. [PMID: 29741610 PMCID: PMC6031063 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgy046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Super elongation complex (SEC) controls gene transcription by releasing Pol II from pausing. Previous studies have shown that dysfunction of SEC was associated with multiple human cancers, such as leukemia and breast cancer. However, the role of SEC in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) development remains largely unknown. In this study, we found expression of AF4/FMR2 family member 4 (AFF4), the core component of SEC, was upregulated dramatically in HNSCC cell lines and tumor tissues. By using siRNA-mediated depletion and overexpression of AFF4, we demonstrated AFF4 promoted proliferation, migration and invasion of HNSCC cells. Moreover, we found AFF4 enhanced the aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity and sphere formatting activity and was required for the tumor-initiation capacity of stem-like cells in HNSCC cell lines. Mechanistically, we found the role of AFF4 in regulation of HNSCC cell behaviors was mainly mediated by sex-determining region Y box2 (SOX2), a critical regulator involved in development of several human cancers. SOX2 expression changed in parallel with AFF4 expression in response to depletion and overexpression of AFF4, respectively. More importantly, overexpression of SOX2 rescued the inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion and ALDH activity induced by knockdown of AFF4 in HNSCC cells, at least in part. Collectively, our findings indicate AFF4 may serve as a biomarker and a potential target of therapies for patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiongke Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xuefeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xingyu Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ning Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Min Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xin Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Qianming Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
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Wollenzien H, Voigt E, Kareta MS. Somatic Pluripotent Genes in Tissue Repair, Developmental Disease, and Cancer. SPG BIOMED 2018; 1. [PMID: 31172135 DOI: 10.32392/biomed.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Embryonic stem cells possess the ability to differentiate into all cell types of the body. This pliable developmental state is achieved by the function of a series of pluripotency factors, classically identified as OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG. These pluripotency factors are responsible for activating the larger pluripotency networks and the self-renewal programs which give ES cells their unique characteristics. However, during differentiation pluripotency networks become downregulated as cells achieve greater lineage specification and exit the cell cycle. Typically the repression of pluripotency is viewed as a positive factor to ensure the fidelity of cellular identity by restricting cellular pliancy. Consistent with this view, the expression of pluripotency factors is greatly restricted in somatic cells. However, there are examples whereby cells either maintain or reactivate pluripotency factors to preserve the increased potential for the healing of wounds or tissue homeostasis. Additionally there are many examples where these pluripotency factors become reactivated in a variety of human pathologies, particularly cancer. In this review, we will summarize the somatic repression of pluripotency factors, their role in tissue homeostasis and wound repair, and the human diseases that are associated with pluripotency factor misregulation with an emphasis on their role in the etiology of multiple cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Wollenzien
- Genetics and Genomics Group, Cellular Therapies and Stem Cell Biology Group, and the Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, 2301 East 60th Street North, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA.,Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, 414 E. Clark St. Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| | - Ellen Voigt
- Genetics and Genomics Group, Cellular Therapies and Stem Cell Biology Group, and the Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, 2301 East 60th Street North, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Michael S Kareta
- Genetics and Genomics Group, Cellular Therapies and Stem Cell Biology Group, and the Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, 2301 East 60th Street North, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA.,Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, 414 E. Clark St. Vermillion, SD 57069, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, 1400 W. 22nd St., Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, South Dakota State University, 1175 Medary Ave, Brookings, SD 57006, USA
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Huang C, Lu H, Li J, Xie X, Fan L, Wang D, Tan W, Wang Y, Lin Z, Yao T. SOX2 regulates radioresistance in cervical cancer via the hedgehog signaling pathway. Gynecol Oncol 2018; 151:533-541. [PMID: 30336948 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2018.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Resistance to radiotherapy accounts for most treatment failures in cervical cancer patients who receive radical radiation therapy. To discover the possible mechanism of radioresistance and improve the 5-year survival rate, we focused on how sex-determining region Y-box 2 (SOX2) mediates radioresistance in cervical cancer as well as on the interaction between SOX2 and the hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway in this study. METHODS We established the acquired radioresistant subclone cells Hela-RR and Siha-RR. RT-qPCR, Western blot analysis, IHC, clonogenic survival assay, CCK-8 assay, apoptosis analysis, cell cycle analysis and xenograft models were used to explore the relationship between SOX2 expression and radiation resistance and to determine how SOX2 mediates radioresistance in cervical cancer. Furthermore, luciferase reporter and ChIP-PCR assays were utilized to assess the interaction between SOX2 and the Hh signaling pathway. RESULTS Our research suggested that high expression of SOX2 was responsible for radioresistance in cervical cancer. SOX2 was observed to be closely related to irradiation-induced survival, proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle changes. The Hh signaling pathway was found to be activated in Hela-RR and Siha-RR, and the activation changed with SOX2 expression. IHC staining of SOX2 and Gli1 showed a close relationship between SOX2 and the Hh pathway. Luciferase reporter and ChIP-PCR assays demonstrated that SOX2 interacted with the Hh signaling pathway by occupying the HHAT promoter. CONCLUSIONS SOX2 is a potential therapeutic target of irradiation resistance in cervical cancer. It mediates radioresistance in cervical cancer via the Hh signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxian Huang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Huaiwu Lu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaofei Xie
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Fan
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongyan Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenliang Tan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China; Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaxian Wang
- Xiamen Cancer Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongqiu Lin
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tingting Yao
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, People's Republic of China.
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35
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Khan IN, Ullah N, Hussein D, Saini KS. Current and emerging biomarkers in tumors of the central nervous system: Possible diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic applications. Semin Cancer Biol 2018; 52:85-102. [PMID: 28774835 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ishaq N Khan
- PK-Neurooncology Research Group, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar 25100, Pakistan; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Najeeb Ullah
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar 25100, Pakistan.
| | - Deema Hussein
- Neurooncology Translational Group, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Kulvinder S Saini
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biotechnology, Eternal University, Baru Sahib, Himachal Pradesh 173101, India.
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36
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Lv K, Chen Z, Zhang X, Zhang Q, Liu L. Selective enrichment of CD133 +/SOX2 + glioblastoma stem cells via adherent culture. Oncol Lett 2018; 16:4567-4576. [PMID: 30197675 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.9154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Most of the brain tumors are malignant with an extremely poor survival rate. Recent progress in identifying cancer stem cells (CSCs) within the brain tumors is starting to revolutionize our understanding in the imitation and progression of tumors as well as relapse and the development of therapeutic strategies. Suspension spheroid body culture paradigm is a routine method in enriching CSCs. While, it was reported recently that CSCs within the brain tumor may also be enriched through adherent monolayer culture with optimized properties. In the present study, 18 surgically resected brain tumors were used for analyzing the feasibility of adherent enrichment of CSCs. The results indicated that 50% of glioblastomas were able to generate adherent CSCs, which were uniformly positive for Sox2, CD133, GFAP and Nestin. However, adherent culture paradigm failed to yield CSCs in secondary brain tumors, including neurocytomas, ependymomas, germ cell tumors or low-grade astrocytomas, which is most likely due to a lack of CD133+/Sox2+ cells within the original biopsies. Therefore, it was concluded that the adherent culture paradigm may serve as a reliable method in enriching brain CSCs, but this method is more suitable for enriching CD133+/Sox2+ CSCs in glioblastomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Lv
- Neurosurgical Department, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China.,Neuroregeneration Key Laboratory of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Zhenyu Chen
- Neuroregeneration Key Laboratory of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China.,Institute of Translational Research, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China.,The Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoqing Zhang
- Neuroregeneration Key Laboratory of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China.,Institute of Translational Research, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China.,The Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Quanbin Zhang
- Neurosurgical Department, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Ling Liu
- Neuroregeneration Key Laboratory of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China.,Institute of Translational Research, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
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37
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Goudarzi KM, Espinoza JA, Guo M, Bartek J, Nistér M, Lindström MS, Hägerstrand D. Reduced Expression of PROX1 Transitions Glioblastoma Cells into a Mesenchymal Gene Expression Subtype. Cancer Res 2018; 78:5901-5916. [PMID: 30135192 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-18-0320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The homeodomain transcription factor PROX1 has been linked to several cancer types, including gliomas, but its functions remain to be further elucidated. Here we describe a functional role and the prognostic value of PROX1 in glioblastoma. Low expression of PROX1 correlated with poor overall survival and the mesenchymal glioblastoma subtype signature. The latter finding was recapitulated in vitro, where suppression or overexpression of PROX1 in glioma cell cultures transitioned cells to a mesenchymal or to a nonmesenchymal glioblastoma gene expression signature, respectively. PROX1 modulation affected proliferation rates that coincided with changes in protein levels of CCNA1 and CCNE1 as well as the cyclin inhibitors CDKN1A, CDKN1B, and CDKN1C. Overexpression of SOX2 increased PROX1 expression, but treatment with a CDK2 inhibitor subsequently decreased PROX1 expression, which was paralleled by decreased SOX2 levels. The THRAP3 protein was a novel binding partner for PROX1, and suppression of THRAP3 increased both transcript and protein levels of PROX1. Together, these findings highlight the prognostic value of PROX1 and its role as a regulator of glioblastoma gene expression subtypes, intratumoral heterogeneity, proliferation, and cell-cycle control.Significance: These findings demonstrate the role and prognostic value of PROX1 in glioblastomas; low PROX1 levels correlate with a mesenchymal gene expression subtype and shorter survival in glioblastoma tumors. Cancer Res; 78(20); 5901-16. ©2018 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaveh M Goudarzi
- SciLifeLab, Division of Genome Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jaime A Espinoza
- SciLifeLab, Division of Genome Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Min Guo
- Cancer Center Karolinska, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital at Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jiri Bartek
- SciLifeLab, Division of Genome Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- The Danish Cancer Society Research Centre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Monica Nistér
- Cancer Center Karolinska, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital at Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael S Lindström
- SciLifeLab, Division of Genome Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniel Hägerstrand
- Cancer Center Karolinska, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital at Solna, Stockholm, Sweden.
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38
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Nguyen HS, Shabani S, Awad AJ, Kaushal M, Doan N. Molecular Markers of Therapy-Resistant Glioblastoma and Potential Strategy to Combat Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061765. [PMID: 29899215 PMCID: PMC6032212 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant tumor of the central nervous system. With its overall dismal prognosis (the median survival is 14 months), GBMs demonstrate a resounding resilience against all current treatment modalities. The absence of a major progress in the treatment of GBM maybe a result of our poor understanding of both GBM tumor biology and the mechanisms underlying the acquirement of treatment resistance in recurrent GBMs. A comprehensive understanding of these markers is mandatory for the development of treatments against therapy-resistant GBMs. This review also provides an overview of a novel marker called acid ceramidase and its implication in the development of radioresistant GBMs. Multiple signaling pathways were found altered in radioresistant GBMs. Given these global alterations of multiple signaling pathways found in radioresistant GBMs, an effective treatment for radioresistant GBMs may require a cocktail containing multiple agents targeting multiple cancer-inducing pathways in order to have a chance to make a substantial impact on improving the overall GBM survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha S Nguyen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
- Faculty of Neurosurgery, California Institute of Neuroscience, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360, USA.
| | - Saman Shabani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
| | - Ahmed J Awad
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus 11941, Palestine.
| | - Mayank Kaushal
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
| | - Ninh Doan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA.
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39
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Doan NB, Nguyen HS, Alhajala HS, Jaber B, Al-Gizawiy MM, Ahn EYE, Mueller WM, Chitambar CR, Mirza SP, Schmainda KM. Identification of radiation responsive genes and transcriptome profiling via complete RNA sequencing in a stable radioresistant U87 glioblastoma model. Oncotarget 2018; 9:23532-23542. [PMID: 29805753 PMCID: PMC5955095 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The absence of major progress in the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM) is partly attributable to our poor understanding of both GBM tumor biology and the acquirement of treatment resistance in recurrent GBMs. Recurrent GBMs are characterized by their resistance to radiation. In this study, we used an established stable U87 radioresistant GBM model and total RNA sequencing to shed light on global mRNA expression changes following irradiation. We identified many genes, the expressions of which were altered in our radioresistant GBM model, that have never before been reported to be associated with the development of radioresistant GBM and should be concertedly further investigated to understand their roles in radioresistance. These genes were enriched in various biological processes such as inflammatory response, cell migration, positive regulation of epithelial to mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, apoptosis, positive regulation of T-cell migration, positive regulation of macrophage chemotaxis, T-cell antigen processing and presentation, and microglial cell activation involved in immune response genes. These findings furnish crucial information for elucidating the molecular mechanisms associated with radioresistance in GBM. Therapeutically, with the global alterations of multiple biological pathways observed in irradiated GBM cells, an effective GBM therapy may require a cocktail carrying multiple agents targeting multiple implicated pathways in order to have a chance at making a substantial impact on improving the overall GBM survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ninh B Doan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Ha S Nguyen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Hisham S Alhajala
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Basem Jaber
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Damascus, Damascus, Syria
| | - Mona M Al-Gizawiy
- Department of Radiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | | | - Wade M Mueller
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Christopher R Chitambar
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Shama P Mirza
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Kathleen M Schmainda
- Department of Radiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Biophysics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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40
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Wuebben EL, Rizzino A. The dark side of SOX2: cancer - a comprehensive overview. Oncotarget 2018; 8:44917-44943. [PMID: 28388544 PMCID: PMC5546531 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.16570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The pluripotency-associated transcription factor SOX2 is essential during mammalian embryogenesis and later in life, but SOX2 expression can also be highly detrimental. Over the past 10 years, SOX2 has been shown to be expressed in at least 25 different cancers. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the roles of SOX2 in cancer and focuses on two broad topics. The first delves into the expression and function of SOX2 in cancer focusing on the connection between SOX2 levels and tumor grade as well as patient survival. As part of this discussion, we address the developing connection between SOX2 expression and tumor drug resistance. We also call attention to an under-appreciated property of SOX2, its levels in actively proliferating tumor cells appear to be optimized to maximize tumor growth - too little or too much SOX2 dramatically alters tumor growth. The second topic of this review focuses on the exquisite array of molecular mechanisms that control the expression and transcriptional activity of SOX2. In addition to its complex regulation at the transcriptional level, SOX2 expression and activity are controlled carefully by microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and post-translational modifications. In the Conclusion and Future Perspectives section, we point out that there are still important unanswered questions. Addressing these questions is expected to lead to new insights into the functions of SOX2 in cancer, which will help design novels strategies for more effectively treating some of the most deadly cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L Wuebben
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Angie Rizzino
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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41
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Aboushousha T, Mamdouh S, Hamdy H, Helal N, Khorshed F, Safwat G, Seleem M. Immunohistochemical and Biochemical Expression Patterns of TTF-1, RAGE, GLUT-1 and SOX2 in HCV-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinomas. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2018; 19:219-227. [PMID: 29373917 PMCID: PMC5844622 DOI: 10.22034/apjcp.2018.19.1.219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the expression of TTF-1, RAGE, GLUT1 and SOX2 in HCV-associated HCCs and in surrounding non-tumorous liver tissue. Material and Methods: Tissue material from partial hepatectomy cases for HCC along with corresponding serum samples and 30 control serum samples from healthy volunteers were studied. Biopsies were classified into: non-tumor hepatic tissue (36 sections); HCC (33 sections) and liver cell dysplasia (LCD) (15 sections). All cases were positive for HCV. Immunohistochemistry (IHC), gene extraction and quantitative real-time reverse-transcription assays (qRT-PCR) were applied. Results: By IHC, LCD and HCC showed significantly high percentages of positive cases with all markers. SOX2 showed significant increase with higher HCC grades, while RAGE demonstrated an inverse relation and GLUT-1 and TTF-1 lacked any correlation. In nontumorous-HCV tissue, we found significantly high TTF-1, low RAGE and negative SOX2 expression. RAGE, GLUT-1 and SOX2 show non-significant elevation positivity in high grade HCV compared to low grade lesions. TTF-1, RAGE and SOX2 exhibited low expression in cirrhosis compared to fibrosis. Biochemical studies on serum and tissue extracts revealed significant down-regulation of RAGE, GLUT-1 and SOX2 genes, as well as significant up-regulation of the TTF-1 gene in HCC cases compared to controls. All studied genes show significant correlation with HCC grade. In non-tumor tissue, only TTF-1 gene expression had a significant correlation with the fibrosis score. Conclusion: Higher expression of TTF-1, RAGE, GLUT-1 and SOX2 in HCC and dysplasia compared to non-tumor tissues indicates up-regulation of these markers as early events during the development of HCV-associated HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Aboushousha
- Pathology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt.
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42
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Carelli S, Colli M, Vinci V, Caviggioli F, Klinger M, Gorio A. Mechanical Activation of Adipose Tissue and Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Novel Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19010267. [PMID: 29337886 PMCID: PMC5796213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The adipose tissue is a source of inflammatory proteins, such as TNF, IL-6, and CXCL8. Most of their production occurs in macrophages that act as scavengers of dying adipocytes. The application of an orbital mechanical force for 6-10 min at 97 g to the adipose tissue, lipoaspirated and treated according to Coleman procedures, abolishes the expression of TNF-α and stimulates the expression of the anti-inflammatory protein TNF-stimulated gene-6 (TSG-6). This protein had protective and anti-inflammatory effects when applied to animal models of rheumatic diseases. We examined biopsy, lipoaspirate, and mechanically activated fat and observed that in addition to the increased TSG-6, Sox2, Nanog, and Oct4 were also strongly augmented by mechanical activation, suggesting an effect on stromal cell stemness. Human adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs), produced from activated fat, grow and differentiate normally with proper cell surface markers and chromosomal integrity, but their anti-inflammatory action is far superior compared to those mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) obtained from lipoaspirate. The expression and release of inflammatory cytokines from THP-1 cells was totally abolished in mechanically activated adipose tissue-derived hADSCs. In conclusion, we report that the orbital shaking of adipose tissue enhances its anti-inflammatory properties, and derived MSCs maintain such enhanced activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephana Carelli
- Pediatric Clinical Research Center "Fondazione Romeo e Enrica Invernizzi", University of Milan, 20142 Milan, Italy.
| | - Mattia Colli
- Pediatric Clinical Research Center "Fondazione Romeo e Enrica Invernizzi", University of Milan, 20142 Milan, Italy.
| | - Valeriano Vinci
- Humanitas Research Hospital, Plastic Surgery Unit, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Italy.
| | - Fabio Caviggioli
- Multimedica San Giuseppe Hospital, Plastic Surgery Unit, Via San Vittore 12, 20123 Milan, Italy.
| | - Marco Klinger
- Humanitas Research Hospital, Plastic Surgery Unit, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Italy.
| | - Alfredo Gorio
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Via A. di Rudinì 8, 20142 Milan, Italy.
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43
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Xing Y, Ge Y, Liu C, Zhang X, Jiang J, Wei Y. ER stress inducer tunicamycin suppresses the self-renewal of glioma-initiating cell partly through inhibiting Sox2 translation. Oncotarget 2017; 7:36395-36406. [PMID: 27119230 PMCID: PMC5095008 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma-initiating cells possess tumor-initiating potential and are relatively resistant to conventional chemotherapy and irradiation. Therefore, their elimination is an essential factor for the development of efficient therapy. Here, we report that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress inducer tunicamycin inhibits glioma-initiating cell self-renewal as determined by neurosphere formation assay. Moreover, tunicamycin decreases the efficiency of glioma-initiating cell to initiate tumor formation. Although tunicamycin induces glioma-initiating cell apoptosis, apoptosis inhibitor z-VAD-fmk only partly abrogates the reduction in glioma-initiating cell self-renewal induced by tunicamycin. Indeed, tunicamycin reduces the expression of self-renewal regulator Sox2 at translation level. Overexpression of Sox2 obviously abrogates the reduction in glioma-initiating cell self-renewal induced by tunicamycin. Taken together, tunicamycin suppresses the self-renewal and tumorigenic potential of glioma-initiating cell partly through reducing Sox2 translation. This finding provides a cue to potential effective treatment of glioblastoma through controlling stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xing
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjuates Research, Ministry of Public Health, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Ge
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjuates Research, Ministry of Public Health, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Chanjuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjuates Research, Ministry of Public Health, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaobiao Zhang
- Division of Neurosurgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianhai Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjuates Research, Ministry of Public Health, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyan Wei
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjuates Research, Ministry of Public Health, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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44
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Sreekanth S, Rasheed VA, Soundararajan L, Antony J, Saikia M, Sivakumar KC, Das AV. miR Cluster 143/145 Directly Targets Nrl and Regulates Rod Photoreceptor Development. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 54:8033-8049. [PMID: 27878762 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0237-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Retinal histogenesis requires coordinated and temporal functioning of factors by which different cell types are generated from multipotent progenitors. Development of rod photoreceptors is regulated by multiple transcription factors, and Nrl is one of the major factors involved in their fate specification. Presence or absence of Nrl at the postnatal stages decides the generation of cone photoreceptors or other later retinal cells. This suggests the need for regulated expression of Nrl in order to accelerate the generation of other cell types during retinal development. We found that miR cluster 143/145, comprising miR-143 and miR-145, targets and imparts a posttranscriptional inhibition of Nrl. Expression of both miRNAs was differentially regulated during retinal development and showed least expression at PN1 stage in which most of the rod photoreceptors are generated. Downregulation of rod photoreceptor regulators and markers upon miR cluster 143/145 overexpression demonstrated that this cluster indeed negatively regulates rod photoreceptors. Further, we prove that Nrl positively regulates miR cluster 143/145, thus establishing a feedback loop regulatory mechanism. This may be one possible mechanism by which Nrl is posttranscriptionally regulated to facilitate the generation of other cell types in retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreekumaran Sreekanth
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, Kerala, India
| | - Vazhanthodi A Rasheed
- Neuro Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, Kerala, India
| | - Lalitha Soundararajan
- Neuro Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, Kerala, India
| | - Jayesh Antony
- Cancer Research Program-2, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, Kerala, India
| | - Minakshi Saikia
- Cancer Research Program-2, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, Kerala, India
| | | | - Ani V Das
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, Kerala, India.
- Cancer Research Program-9, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, Kerala, India.
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45
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Otani Y, Ichikawa T, Kurozumi K, Inoue S, Ishida J, Oka T, Shimizu T, Tomita Y, Hattori Y, Uneda A, Matsumoto Y, Michiue H, Date I. Fibroblast growth factor 13 regulates glioma cell invasion and is important for bevacizumab-induced glioma invasion. Oncogene 2017; 37:777-786. [PMID: 29059154 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Revised: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma has the poorest prognosis, and is characterized by excessive invasion and angiogenesis. To determine the invasive mechanisms, we previously used two glioma cell lines (J3T-1 and J3T-2) with different invasive phenotypes. The J3T-1 showed abundant angiogenesis and tumor cell invasion around neovasculature, while J3T-2 showed diffuse cell infiltration into surrounding healthy parenchyma. Microarray analyses were used to identify invasion-related genes in J3T-2 cells, and the expressed genes and their intracellular and intratumoral distribution patterns were evaluated in J3T-2 cell lines, human glioma cell lines, human glioblastoma stem cells and human glioblastoma specimens. To determine the role of the invasion-related genes, invasive activities were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Fibroblast growth factor 13 (FGF13) was overexpressed in J3T-2 cells compared to J3T-1 cells, and in human glioma cell lines, human glioblastoma stem cells and human glioblastoma specimens, when compared to that of normal human astrocytes. Immunohistochemical staining and the RNA-seq (sequencing) data from the IVY Glioblastoma Atlas Project showed FGF13 expression in glioma cells in the invasive edges of tumor specimens. Also, the intracellular distribution was mainly in the cytoplasm of tumor cells and colocalized with tubulin. Overexpression of FGF13 stabilized tubulin dynamics in vitro and knockdown of FGF13 decreased glioma invasion both in vitro and in vivo and prolonged overall survival of several xenograft models. FGF13 was negatively regulated by hypoxic condition. Silencing of FGF13 also decreased in vivo bevacizumab-induced glioma invasion. In conclusion, FGF13 regulated glioma cell invasion and bevacizumab-induced glioma invasion, and could be a novel target for glioma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Otani
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - T Ichikawa
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - K Kurozumi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - S Inoue
- Department of Neurosurgery, Okayama City Hospital, Okayama, Japan
| | - J Ishida
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - T Oka
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - T Shimizu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Y Tomita
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Y Hattori
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - A Uneda
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Y Matsumoto
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - H Michiue
- Department of Physiology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - I Date
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
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Correia LL, Johnson JA, McErlean P, Bauer J, Farah H, Rassl DM, Rintoul RC, Sethi T, Lavender P, Rawlins EL, Littlewood TD, Evan GI, McCaughan FM. SOX2 Drives Bronchial Dysplasia in a Novel Organotypic Model of Early Human Squamous Lung Cancer. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2017; 195:1494-1508. [PMID: 28199128 PMCID: PMC5470746 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201510-2084oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Improving the early detection and chemoprevention of lung cancer are key to improving outcomes. The pathobiology of early squamous lung cancer is poorly understood. We have shown that amplification of sex-determining region Y-box 2 (SOX2) is an early and consistent event in the pathogenesis of this disease, but its functional oncogenic potential remains uncertain. We tested the impact of deregulated SOX2 expression in a novel organotypic system that recreates the molecular and microenvironmental context in which squamous carcinogenesis occurs. OBJECTIVES (1) To develop an in vitro model of bronchial dysplasia that recapitulates key molecular and phenotypic characteristics of the human disease; (2) to test the hypothesis that SOX2 deregulation is a key early event in the pathogenesis of bronchial dysplasia; and (3) to use the model for studies on pathogenesis and chemoprevention. METHODS We engineered the inducible activation of oncogenes in immortalized bronchial epithelial cells. We used three-dimensional tissue culture to build an organotypic model of bronchial dysplasia. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS We recapitulated human bronchial dysplasia in vitro. SOX2 deregulation drives dysplasia, and loss of tumor promoter 53 is a cooperating genetic event that potentiates the dysplastic phenotype. Deregulated SOX2 alters critical genes implicated in hallmarks of cancer progression. Targeted inhibition of AKT prevents the initiation of the dysplastic phenotype. CONCLUSIONS In the appropriate genetic and microenvironmental context, acute deregulation of SOX2 drives bronchial dysplasia. This confirms its oncogenic potential in human cells and affords novel insights into the impact of SOX2 deregulation. This model can be used to test therapeutic agents aimed at chemoprevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peter McErlean
- Department of Asthma, Allergy, and Lung Biology, Guy’s Hospital, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - Julien Bauer
- Cambridge Genomic Services, Department of Pathology, and
| | - Hassan Farah
- Department of Asthma, Allergy, and Lung Biology, Guy’s Hospital, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom; and
| | | | - Robert C. Rintoul
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Papworth Hospital Foundation National Health Service Trust, Papworth Everard, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Tariq Sethi
- Department of Asthma, Allergy, and Lung Biology, Guy’s Hospital, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - Paul Lavender
- Department of Asthma, Allergy, and Lung Biology, Guy’s Hospital, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom; and
| | | | | | | | - Frank M. McCaughan
- Department of Biochemistry
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Asthma, Allergy, and Lung Biology, Guy’s Hospital, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom; and
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An Integrative Developmental Genomics and Systems Biology Approach to Identify an In Vivo Sox Trio-Mediated Gene Regulatory Network in Murine Embryos. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017. [PMID: 28630873 PMCID: PMC5467288 DOI: 10.1155/2017/8932583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Embryogenesis is an intricate process involving multiple genes and pathways. Some of the key transcription factors controlling specific cell types are the Sox trio, namely, Sox5, Sox6, and Sox9, which play crucial roles in organogenesis working in a concerted manner. Much however still needs to be learned about their combinatorial roles during this process. A developmental genomics and systems biology approach offers to complement the reductionist methodology of current developmental biology and provide a more comprehensive and integrated view of the interrelationships of complex regulatory networks that occur during organogenesis. By combining cell type-specific transcriptome analysis and in vivo ChIP-Seq of the Sox trio using mouse embryos, we provide evidence for the direct control of Sox5 and Sox6 by the transcriptional trio in the murine model and by Morpholino knockdown in zebrafish and demonstrate the novel role of Tgfb2, Fbxl18, and Tle3 in formation of Sox5, Sox6, and Sox9 dependent tissues. Concurrently, a complete embryonic gene regulatory network has been generated, identifying a wide repertoire of genes involved and controlled by the Sox trio in the intricate process of normal embryogenesis.
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Bielecka-Wajdman AM, Lesiak M, Ludyga T, Sieroń A, Obuchowicz E. Reversing glioma malignancy: a new look at the role of antidepressant drugs as adjuvant therapy for glioblastoma multiforme. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2017; 79:1249-1256. [DOI: 10.1007/s00280-017-3329-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Ghanbari Safari M, Baesi K, Hosseinkhani S. An alternative approach in regulation of expression of a transgene by endogenous miR-145 in carcinoma and normal breast cell lines. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2017; 64:244-250. [PMID: 25923846 DOI: 10.1002/bab.1390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2014] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression by repressing translation of target cellular transcripts. Increasing evidences indicate that miRNAs have different expression profiles and play crucial roles in numerous cellular processes. Delivery and expression of transgenes for cancer therapy must be specific for tumors to avoid killing of healthy tissues. Many investigators have shown that transgene expression can be suppressed in normal cells using vectors that are responsive to microRNA regulation. To overcome this problem, miR-145 that exhibits downregulation in many types of cancer cells was chosen for posttranscriptional regulatory systems mediated by microRNAs. In this study, a psiCHECK-145T vector carrying four tandem copies of target sequences of miR-145 into 3'-UTR of the Renilla luciferase gene was constructed. Renilla luciferase activity from the psiCHECK-145T vector was 57% lower in MCF10A cells with high miR-145 expression as compared to a control condition. Additionally, overexpression of miR-145 in MCF-7 cells with low expression level of miR-145 showed more than 76% reduction in the Renilla luciferase activity from the psiCHECK-145T vector. Inclusion of miR-145 target sequences into the 3'-UTR of the Renilla luciferase gene is a feasible strategy for restricting transgene expression in a breast cancer cell line while sparing a breast normal cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghanbari Safari
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kazem Baesi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saman Hosseinkhani
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
Glioblastoma remains the most common and deadliest type of brain tumor and contains a population of self-renewing, highly tumorigenic glioma stem cells (GSCs), which contributes to tumor initiation and treatment resistance. Developmental programs participating in tissue development and homeostasis re-emerge in GSCs, supporting the development and progression of glioblastoma. SOX1 plays an important role in neural development and neural progenitor pool maintenance. Its impact on glioblastoma remains largely unknown. In this study, we have found that high levels of SOX1 observed in a subset of patients correlate with lower overall survival. At the cellular level, SOX1 expression is elevated in patient-derived GSCs and it is also higher in oncosphere culture compared to differentiation conditions in conventional glioblastoma cell lines. Moreover, genetic inhibition of SOX1 in patient-derived GSCs and conventional cell lines decreases self-renewal and proliferative capacity in vitro and tumor initiation and growth in vivo. Contrarily, SOX1 over-expression moderately promotes self-renewal and proliferation in GSCs. These functions seem to be independent of its activity as Wnt/β-catenin signaling regulator. In summary, these results identify a functional role for SOX1 in regulating glioma cell heterogeneity and plasticity, and suggest SOX1 as a potential target in the GSC population in glioblastoma.
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