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Ubaid S, Kashif M, Laiq Y, Nayak AK, Kumar V, Singh V. Targeting HIF-1α in sickle cell disease and cancer: unraveling therapeutic opportunities and risks. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024; 28:357-373. [PMID: 38861226 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2367640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIF-1α, a key player in medical science, holds immense significance in therapeutic approaches. This review delves into its complex dynamics, emphasizing the delicate balance required for its modulation. HIF-1α stands as a cornerstone in medical research, its role extending to therapeutic strategies. This review explores the intricate interplay surrounding HIF-1α, highlighting its critical involvement and the necessity for cautious modulation. AREAS COVERED In sickle cell disease (SCD), HIF-1α's potential to augment fetal hemoglobin (HbF) production and mitigate symptoms is underscored. Furthermore, its role in cancer is examined, particularly its influence on survival in hypoxic tumor microenvironments, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The discussion extends to the intricate relationship between HIF-1α modulation and cancer risks in SCD patients, emphasizing the importance of balancing therapeutic benefits and potential hazards. EXPERT OPINION Managing HIF-1α modulation in SCD patients requires a nuanced approach, considering therapeutic potential alongside associated risks, especially in exacerbating cancer risks. An evolutionary perspective adds depth, highlighting adaptations in populations adapted to low-oxygen environments and aligning cancer cell metabolism with primitive cells. The role of HIF-1α as a therapeutic target is discussed within the context of complex cancer biology and metabolism, acknowledging varied responses across diverse cancers influenced by intricate evolutionary adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Ubaid
- Department of Biochemistry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Mohammad Kashif
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Yusra Laiq
- Department of Biotechnology, Era University, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Vipin Kumar
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Vivek Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
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Chen X, Wang L, Yang M, Zhao W, Tu J, Liu B, Yuan X. RUNX transcription factors: biological functions and implications in cancer. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:50. [PMID: 38430423 PMCID: PMC10908630 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01281-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Runt-related transcription factors (RUNX) are a family of transcription factors that are essential for normal and malignant hematopoietic processes. Their most widely recognized role in malignancy is to promote the occurrence and development of acute myeloid leukemia. However, it is worth noting that during the last decade, studies of RUNX proteins in solid tumors have made considerable progress, suggesting that these proteins are directly involved in different stages of tumor development, including tumor initiation, progression, and invasion. RUNX proteins also play a role in tumor angiogenesis, the maintenance of tumor cell stemness, and resistance to antitumor drugs. These findings have led to the consideration of RUNX as a tumor biomarker. All RUNX proteins are involved in the occurrence and development of solid tumors, but the role of each RUNX protein in different tumors and the major signaling pathways involved are complicated by tumor heterogeneity and the interacting tumor microenvironment. Understanding how the dysregulation of RUNX in tumors affects normal biological processes is important to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which RUNX affects malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Chen
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Mu Yang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Weiheng Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jingyao Tu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
| | - Xianglin Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
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Hashemi M, Nazdari N, Gholamiyan G, Paskeh MDA, Jafari AM, Nemati F, Khodaei E, Abyari G, Behdadfar N, Raei B, Raesi R, Nabavi N, Hu P, Rashidi M, Taheriazam A, Entezari M. EZH2 as a potential therapeutic target for gastrointestinal cancers. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 253:154988. [PMID: 38118215 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers continue to be a major cause of mortality and morbidity globally. Understanding the molecular pathways associated with cancer progression and severity is essential for creating effective cancer treatments. In cancer research, there is a notable emphasis on Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a key player in gene expression influenced by its irregular expression and capacity to attach to promoters and alter methylation status. This review explores the impact of EZH2 signaling on various GI cancers, such as colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, hepatocellular, esophageal, and cholangiocarcinoma. The primary function of EZH2 signaling is to facilitate the accelerated progression of cancer cells. Additionally, EZH2 has the capacity to modulate the reaction of GI cancers to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Numerous pathways, including long non-coding RNAs and microRNAs, serve as upstream regulators of EZH2 in these types of cancer. EZH2's enzymatic activity enables it to attach to target gene promoters, resulting in methylation that modifies their expression. EZH2 could be considered as an independent prognostic factor, with increased expression correlating with a worse disease prognosis. Additionally, a range of gene therapies including small interfering RNA, and anti-tumor agents are being explored to target EZH2 for cancer treatment. This comprehensive review underscores the current insights into EZH2 signaling in gastrointestinal cancers and examines the prospect of therapies targeting EZH2 to enhance patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Naghmeh Nazdari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghazaleh Gholamiyan
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahshid Deldar Abad Paskeh
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Moghadas Jafari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fateme Nemati
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elaheh Khodaei
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghazal Abyari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nazanin Behdadfar
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Buinzahra Branch, Islamic Azad University, Buinzahra, Iran
| | - Behnaz Raei
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasoul Raesi
- Department of Health Services Management, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Department of Urologic Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, V6H3Z6 Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Peng Hu
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maliheh Entezari
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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Roy A, Chauhan S, Bhattacharya S, Jakhmola V, Tyagi K, Sachdeva A, Wasai A, Mandal S. Runt-related transcription factors in human carcinogenesis: a friend or foe? J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023:10.1007/s00432-023-04769-0. [PMID: 37081242 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04769-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cancer is one of the deadliest pathologies with more than 19 million new cases and 10 million cancer-related deaths across the globe. Despite development of advanced therapeutic interventions, cancer remains as a fatal pathology due to lack of early prognostic biomarkers, therapy resistance and requires identification of novel drug targets. METHODS Runt-related transcription factors (Runx) family controls several cellular and physiological functions including osteogenesis. Recent literatures from PubMed was mined and the review was written in comprehensive manner RESULTS: Recent literature suggests that aberrant expression of Runx contributes to tumorigenesis of many organs. Conversely, cell- and tissue-specific tumor suppressor roles of Runx are also reported. In this review, we have provided the structural/functional properties of Runx isoforms and its regulation in context of human cancer. Moreover, in an urgent need to discover novel therapeutic interventions against cancer, we comprehensively discussed the reported oncogenic and tumor suppressive roles of Runx isoforms in several tumor types and discussed the discrepancies that may have risen on Runx as a driver of malignant transformation. CONCLUSION Runx may be a novel therapeutic target against a battery of deadly human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adhiraj Roy
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Sector 125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201303, India.
| | - Shivi Chauhan
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Sector 125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201303, India
| | - Sujata Bhattacharya
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Sector 125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201303, India
| | - Vibhuti Jakhmola
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Sector 125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201303, India
| | - Komal Tyagi
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Sector 125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201303, India
| | - Abha Sachdeva
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Sector 125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201303, India
| | - Abdul Wasai
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Sector 125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201303, India
| | - Supratim Mandal
- Department of Microbiology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, 741235, India
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Gong YQ, Hou FT, Xiang CL, Li CL, Hu GH, Chen CW. The mechanisms and roles of melatonin in gastrointestinal cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1066698. [PMID: 36591447 PMCID: PMC9798083 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1066698] [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: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is a global health problem with wide lesions and numerous cases. The increased morbidity and mortality of GI cancer is a socio-economic challenge for decades to come. Melatonin, a nature indolamine, exerts a crucial role in molecular interactions involved in multiple functional and physiological processes. Increasing evidence indicates that melatonin can modulate GI tract, decrease the occurrence of GI cancer, and enhance the sensitivity to chemoradiotherapy. However, little is known about the exact role of melatonin in anti-carcinogenesis. In this review, we discuss the action of the beneficial effects of melatonin in GI carcinogenesis. Furthermore, we compile the understanding of the role of melatonin in GI cancer, including esophageal cancer (EC), gastric cancer (GC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), colorectal cancer (CRC), and pancreatic cancer (PC). In addition, the potential therapeutic application and clinical evaluation of melatonin in GI cancer are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Qiang Gong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fu-Tao Hou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Cai-Ling Xiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Cheng-Long Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Guo-Huang Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Digestive Surgery of Changsha, Affiliated Changsha Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China,*Correspondence: Guo-Huang Hu, ; Chao-Wu Chen,
| | - Chao-Wu Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China,*Correspondence: Guo-Huang Hu, ; Chao-Wu Chen,
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Feng Y, Wang C, Shi T, Liu W, Liu H, Zhu B, Gao F. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 exerts functions in gastric cancer development via modulating microRNA-222-3p methylation and WEE1 expression. Chem Biol Drug Des 2022; 100:320-333. [PMID: 35765903 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14110] [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: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has been studied in gastric cancer (GC), while the role of EZH2 in GC via binding to microRNA (miR)-222-3p remains obscure. This research aims to unravel the regulatory mechanism of EZH2 in GC progression via the modulation of miR-222-3p/WEE1 axis. METHODS Initially, EZH2, miR-222-3p and WEE1 levels in GC cells and tissues were examined. Thereafter, vectors altering EZH2, miR-222-3p or WEE1 expression were transfected into GC cells to determine the malignant behaviors involved in tumorigenesis of GC cells. Finally, the targeting relations among EZH2, miR-222-3p and WEE1 were validated. RESULTS EZH2 and WEE1 were up-regulated while miR-222-3p was down-regulated in GC tissues and cells. The decreased EZH2, silenced WEE1, or restored miR-222-3p constrained the malignant behaviors involved in tumorigenesis of GC cells. Deletion of miR-222-3p could reverse the effect of silenced EZH2 on suppressing the biological functions of GC cells. EZH2 could bind to the promoter of miR-222-3p, and there was a targeting relationship between miR-222-3p and WEE1. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that EZH2 promotes GC development via the modulation of miR-222-3p/WEE1 axis, thus providing promising therapeutic targets for GC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Chun Wang
- Department of Pathology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Tian Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Weidong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Bo Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi 830001, Xinjiang, China
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LINC00114 stimulates growth and glycolysis of esophageal cancer cells by recruiting EZH2 to enhance H3K27me3 of DLC1. Clin Epigenetics 2022; 14:51. [PMID: 35414117 PMCID: PMC9006613 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-022-01258-y] [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: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective LINC00114 could promote the development of colorectal cancer, but its mechanism has been rarely discussed in esophageal cancer (EC). Herein, we explored the molecular mechanism of LINC00114 via mediating enhancer of zeste homolog 2/deleted in liver cancer 1 (EZH2/DLC1) axis in EC.
Methods LINC00114, EZH2 and DLC1 expression in EC tissues and cells were tested. LINC00114, EZH2 and DLC1 expression were altered in EC cells through transfection with different constructs, and cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis and glycolysis were subsequently observed. The interaction between LINC00114 and EZH2 and that between EZH2 and DLC1 were explored. Tumor formation was also conducted to confirm the in vitro results. Results The expression levels of LINC00114 and EZH2 were elevated while those of DLC1 were reduced in EC. Inhibiting LINC00114 or reducing EZH2 blocked cell proliferation, migration, invasion and glycolysis and induce cell apoptosis in EC. LINC00114 promoted H3K27 trimethylation of DLC1 by recruiting EZH2. Knockdown of DLC1 stimulated cell growth and glycolysis in EC and even mitigated the role of LINC00114 inhibition in EC. In vivo experiment further confirmed the anti-tumor effect of LINC00114 inhibition in EC. Conclusion The data indicate that LINC00114 promotes the development of EC by recruiting EZH2 to enhance H3K27me3 of DLC1. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13148-022-01258-y.
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RUNX3/H3K27me3 Co-Expression Defines a Better Prognosis in Surgically Resected Stage I and Postoperative Chemotherapy-Naive Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:5752263. [PMID: 35368900 PMCID: PMC8970863 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5752263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate the significance of RUNX3/H3K27me3 co-expression in surgically resected non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Using tissue microarray (TMA), immunohistochemistry, fluorescent double immunostaining, and western blotting, 208 NSCLC and 5 benign pulmonary patients were studied of their expression of runt-related transcription factor 3 (RUNX3), trimethylated histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3), enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), and Ki-67. Apoptotic index in cancerous tissue was evaluated via TdT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL). The correlation between clinicopathologic parameters and overall survival was determined by Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier survival estimates and log-rank test. GEPIA and KM plotter were used for validation of some survival analyses. As a result, together with other regular prognostic factors, RUNX3/H3K27me3 co-expression was found to be closely correlated with better prognosis in either pTNM-I or POCT-naive NSCLC patients, which might partially result from a higher cancerous apoptotic index. In conclusion, RUNX3/H3K27me3 co-expression defined some specific NSCLC population with better prognosis and longer OS and could probably be used as a biomarker in the prediction of better postoperative outcomes.
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Wang L, Wu X, Xu W, Gao L, Wang X, Li T. Combined Detection of RUNX3 and EZH2 in Evaluating Efficacy of Neoadjuvant Therapy and Prognostic Value of Middle and Low Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:713335. [PMID: 35280723 PMCID: PMC8907660 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.713335] [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: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This article investigated whether Runt-Related Transcription Factor 3 (RUNX3) and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) can be used to evaluate the clinical efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy and prognosis of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). Methods Eighty LARC patients admitted to the Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute/Hospital and First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University from Jan 2015 to Jan 2016 were enrolled. The patients were followed up for 60 months through hospital visits. All patients received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (long range radiotherapy + oral capecitabine) + total mesorecta excision (TME) surgery. The clinical efficacy of the treatments was evaluated through endoscopic, radiography, and tumor regression grade (TRG). In addition, expression level of RUNX3 and EZH2 was quantified via immunohistochemistry. The association of RUNX3 and EZH2 with clinicopathological characteristics of advanced tumors and efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy was explored. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of efficacy of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Survival curve was used to evaluate the impact of RUNX3 and EZH2 on the prognosis of LARC patients. Results A total of 80 patients diagnosed with LARC were enrolled in the study. Expression of RUNX3 was elevated in 25 (31.25%) patients, whereas expression of EZH2 was upregulated in 44 (55.00%) patients. Analysis of tumor regression identified 10 cases with TRG grade 0 (pathologic complete response, PCR), 24 cases with TRG grade 1, 35 cases with TRG grade 2, and 11 cases with TRG grade 3. Furthermore, 38 cases had significant down-staging, and 42 cases showed no significant down-staging as revealed by endoscopy and imaging. Patients with high expression of RUNX3 showed better tumor regression response and down-staging compared with those with low expression of RUNX3 (P < 0.001, P < 0.001). Moreover, patients with low EZH2 expression achieved TRG grade 0 and 1 response and down-staging effect compared with those with high expression of EZH2 (P < 0.001, P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that high expression of RUNX3, low expression of EZH2, and clinical N (cN) stage were good predictors of tumor regression response and down-staging. The 5-year disease free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were 48.75 (39/80) and 58.75% (47/80), respectively. The 5-year DFS and OS of patients with high RUNX3 expression were significantly higher than low RUNX3 expression, whereas the 5-year DFS and OS of patients with high EZH2 expression were significantly lower than low EZH2 expression (P < 0.001). Univariate survival analysis showed that RUNX3 expression, EZH2 expression, cN, clinical T (cT), pathological T (pT) and pathological N (pN) were significantly correlated with the 5-year DFS and 5-year OS. Multivariate survival analysis showed that EZH2 expression and PN were good predictors of 5-year DFS and 5-year OS, whereas RUNX3 was a good predictor of 5-year DFS but not 5-year OS. Conclusions Expression level of RUNX3 and EZH2 accurately predicts clinical efficacy of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and the prognosis of LARC patients, suggesting that RUNX3 and EZH2 can be used as pivotal clinical predictors for LARC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Likun Wang
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xueliang Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Tianjin Medical University Nankai Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, China
| | - Wengui Xu
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Lei Gao
- Department of Ultrasound, Tianjin Medical University Nankai Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Ximo Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Tianjin Medical University Nankai Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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EZH2 as a new therapeutic target in brain tumors: Molecular landscape, therapeutic targeting and future prospects. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 146:112532. [PMID: 34906772 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors are responsible for high mortality and morbidity worldwide. The brain tumor treatment depends on identification of molecular pathways involved in progression and malignancy. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has obtained much attention in recent years in field of cancer therapy due to its aberrant expression and capacity in modulating expression of genes by binding to their promoter and affecting methylation status. The present review focuses on EZH2 signaling in brain tumors including glioma, glioblastoma, astrocytoma, ependymomas, medulloblastoma and brain rhabdoid tumors. EZH2 signaling mainly participates in increasing proliferation and invasion of cancer cells. However, in medulloblastoma, EZH2 demonstrates tumor-suppressor activity. Furthermore, EZH2 can regulate response of brain tumors to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Various molecular pathways can function as upstream mediators of EZH2 in brain tumors including lncRNAs and miRNAs. Owing to its enzymatic activity, EZH2 can bind to promoter of target genes to induce methylation and affects their expression. EZH2 can be considered as an independent prognostic factor in brain tumors that its upregulation provides undesirable prognosis. Both anti-tumor agents and gene therapies such as siRNA have been developed for targeting EZH2 in cancer therapy.
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Long non-coding RNA LINC01215 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and lymph node metastasis in epithelial ovarian cancer through RUNX3 promoter methylation. Transl Oncol 2021; 14:101135. [PMID: 34052627 PMCID: PMC8176367 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The study first reports the regulation of LINC01215 on methylation of RUNX3 promoter. LINC01215 is highly expressed while RUNX3 is reciprocal in EOC. LINC01215 overexpression promotes methylation of RUNX3 and reduces its expression. LINC01215 silencing suppresses LNM and EMT of EOC. This study may provide a new therapeutic target for EOC.
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) still remains the most lethal gynaecological malignancy in women, despite the recent progress in the management, including surgery and chemotherapy. According to the microarray data of the GSE18520 and GSE54388 datasets, LINC01215 was identified as an upregulated long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in EOC. Therefore, this study aimed to figure out the involvement of LINC01215 in the progression of EOC. RT-qPCR was conducted to select the EOC cell line with the highest expression of LINC01215. Methylation of RUNX3 was then examined in EOC cells by MS-PCR. Furthermore, the interaction between LINC01215 and methylation-related proteins was revealed according to the results of RIP and RNA pull down assays. Subsequently, the involvement of LINC01215 and RUNX3 in regulating biological behaviors of EOC cells was investigated. Finally, the effects of the ectopic expression of LINC01215 and RUNX3 on the tumor formation and lymph node metastasis (LNM) of EOC cells were assessed in the xenograft tumors of nude mice. Overexpressing LINC01215 contributed to downregulated levels of RUNX3, as demonstrated by the recruitment of methylation-related proteins. Silencing of LINC01215 elevated the expression of RUNX3, thus suppressing cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT and decreasing the expressions of MMP-2, MMP-9 and Vimentin, but increased the expression of E-cadherin. The tumor growth and LNM were suppressed by downregulated levels of LINC01215 through inducing the expression of RUNX3. Collectively, the down-regulating LINC01215 could upregulate the expression of RUNX3 by promoting its methylation, thus suppressing EOC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, EMT, tumor growth and LNM.
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Wu R, Zhuang H, Mei YK, Sun JY, Dong T, Zhao LL, Fan ZN, Liu L. Systematic identification of key functional modules and genes in esophageal cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:134. [PMID: 33632229 PMCID: PMC7905886 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01826-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophageal cancer is associated with high incidence and mortality worldwide. Differential expression genes (DEGs) and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) are important methods to screen the core genes as bioinformatics methods. METHODS The DEGs and WGCNA were combined to screen the hub genes, and pathway enrichment analyses were performed on the hub module in the WGCNA. The CCNB1 was identified as the hub gene based on the intersection between DEGs and the greenyellow module in WGCNA. Expression levels and prognostic values of CCNB1 were verified in UALCAN, GEPIA2, HCMDB, Kaplan-Meier plotter, and TIMER databases. RESULTS We identified 1,044 DEGs from dataset GSE20347, 1,904 from GSE29001, and 2,722 from GSE111044, and 32 modules were revealed by WGCNA. The greenyellow module was identified as the hub module in the WGCNA. CCNB1 gene was identified as the hub gene, which was upregulated in tumour tissues. Moreover, esophageal cancer patients with higher expression of CCNB1 showed a worse prognosis. However, CCNB1 'might not play an important role in immune cell infiltration. CONCLUSIONS Based on DEGs and key modules related to esophageal cancer, CCNB1 was identified as the hub gene, which offered novel insights into the development and treatment of esophageal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wu
- Department of Digestive Endoscopy, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hao Zhuang
- Department of Digestive Endoscopy, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu-Kun Mei
- Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jin-Yu Sun
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Dong
- Department of Digestive Endoscopy, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li-Li Zhao
- Department of Digestive Endoscopy, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhi-Ning Fan
- Department of Digestive Endoscopy, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Digestive Endoscopy, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China.
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Song Y, Wang X, Wang F, Peng X, Li P, Liu S, Zhang D. Identification of four genes and biological characteristics of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by integrated bioinformatics analysis. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:123. [PMID: 33602210 PMCID: PMC7890804 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01814-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has become one of the most serious diseases affecting populations worldwide and is the primary subtype of esophageal cancer (EC). However, the molecular mechanisms governing the development of ESCC have not been fully elucidated. METHODS The robust rank aggregation method was performed to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in six datasets (GSE17351, GSE20347, GSE23400, GSE26886, GSE38129 and GSE77861) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database was utilized to extract four hub genes from the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Module analysis and disease free survival analysis of the four hub genes were performed by Cytoscape and GEPIA. The expression of hub genes was analyzed by GEPIA and the Oncomine database and verified by real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). RESULTS In total, 720 DEGs were identified in the present study; these genes consisted of 302 upregulated genes and 418 downregulated genes that were significantly enriched in the cellular component of the extracellular matrix part followed by the biological process of the cell cycle phase and nuclear division. The primary enriched pathways were hsa04110:Cell cycle and hsa03030:DNA replication. Four hub genes were screened out, namely, SPP1, MMP12, COL10A1 and COL5A2. These hub genes all exhibited notably increased expression in ESCC samples compared with normal samples, and ESCC patients with upregulation of all four hub genes exhibited worse disease free survival. CONCLUSIONS SPP1, MMP12, COL10A1 and COL5A2 may participate in the tumorigenesis of ESCC and demonstrate the potential to serve as molecular biomarkers in the early diagnosis of ESCC. This study may help to elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing ESCC and facilitate the selection of targets for early treatment and diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yexun Song
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.,Department of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Xianyao Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Fengjun Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaowei Peng
- Department of Oncology Plastic Surgery, Hunan Province Cancer Hospital, Changsha, 410007, Hunan, China
| | - Peiyu Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.,Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Shaojun Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.,Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Decai Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China. .,Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
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