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Zeng J, Li X, Zhang Y, Zhang B, Wang H, Bao S, Zu L, Zhang H, Cheng Y, Tang Q, Xu X, Xu S, Song Z. GJB3: a comprehensive biomarker in pan-cancer prognosis and immunotherapy prediction. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:7647-7667. [PMID: 38728250 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A wide range of connexins are situated between normal-normal cells, cancer-cancer cells, and cancer-normal cells. Abnormalities in connexin expression are typically accompanied by cancer development; however, no systematic studies have examined the role of Gap Junction Protein Beta 3 (GJB3) in the context of tumor progression and immunity, especially when considering a broad range of cancer types. METHODS In this study, data on GJB3 expression were gathered from Genotype-Tissue Expression, Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia, and The Cancer Genome Atlas databases. Then, we analyzed the relationship between GJB3 expression and tumor characteristics. In vitro experiments using colony formation, EdU, CCK8, transwell migration assays, immunohistochemistry and western blot were performed to investigate the function of GJB3 in tumor progression of various cell lines. A drug sensitivity analysis of GJB3 was performed using the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer database. RESULT Our findings demonstrate that GJB3 is widely expressed in various cancers and correlates significantly with disease stages, patient survival, immunotherapy response, and pharmaceutical guidance. Additionally, GJB3 plays a role in different cancer pathways, as well as in different immune and molecular subtypes of cancer. Co-expression of GJB3 with immune checkpoint genes was observed. Further experiments showed that knockdown of GJB3 inhibited the PI3K/AKT pathway and resulted in reduced proliferation, migration, and viability of different cancer cells. CONCLUSION Overall, GJB3 shows potential as a molecular biomarker and therapeutic target for various cancers, particularly lung adenocarcinomas, mesothelioma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Thus, GJB3 may represent a new therapeutic target for a wide range of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingtong Zeng
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xianjie Li
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hanqing Wang
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Shihao Bao
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Lingling Zu
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuan Cheng
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Quanying Tang
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaohong Xu
- Colleges of Nursing, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Song Xu
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zuoqing Song
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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Papadakos SP, Chatzikalil E, Arvanitakis K, Vakadaris G, Stergiou IE, Koutsompina ML, Argyrou A, Lekakis V, Konstantinidis I, Germanidis G, Theocharis S. Understanding the Role of Connexins in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Molecular and Prognostic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1533. [PMID: 38672615 PMCID: PMC11048329 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081533] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Connexins, a family of tetraspan membrane proteins forming intercellular channels localized in gap junctions, play a pivotal role at the different stages of tumor progression presenting both pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects. Considering the potential role of connexins as tumor suppressors through multiple channel-independent mechanisms, their loss of expression may be associated with tumorigenic activity, while it is hypothesized that connexins favor the clonal expansion of tumor cells and promote cell migration, invasion, and proliferation, affecting metastasis and chemoresistance in some cases. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), characterized by unfavorable prognosis and limited responsiveness to current therapeutic strategies, has been linked to gap junction proteins as tumorigenic factors with prognostic value. Notably, several members of connexins have emerged as promising markers for assessing the progression and aggressiveness of HCC, as well as the chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity of hepatocellular tumor cells. Our review sheds light on the multifaceted role of connexins in HCC pathogenesis, offering valuable insights on recent advances in determining their prognostic and therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Elena Chatzikalil
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Vakadaris
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
| | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.); (M.-L.K.)
| | - Maria-Loukia Koutsompina
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.); (M.-L.K.)
| | - Alexandra Argyrou
- Academic Department of Gastroenterology, Laikon General Hospital, Athens University Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (V.L.)
| | - Vasileios Lekakis
- Academic Department of Gastroenterology, Laikon General Hospital, Athens University Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (V.L.)
| | | | - Georgios Germanidis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
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Leighton SE, Wong RS, Lucaciu SA, Hauser A, Johnston D, Stathopulos PB, Bai D, Penuela S, Laird DW. Cx31.1 can selectively intermix with co-expressed connexins to facilitate its assembly into gap junctions. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261631. [PMID: 38533727 PMCID: PMC11058089 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261631] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Connexins are channel-forming proteins that function to facilitate gap junctional intercellular communication. Here, we use dual cell voltage clamp and dye transfer studies to corroborate past findings showing that Cx31.1 (encoded by GJB5) is defective in gap junction channel formation, illustrating that Cx31.1 alone does not form functional gap junction channels in connexin-deficient mammalian cells. Rather Cx31.1 transiently localizes to the secretory pathway with a subpopulation reaching the cell surface, which is rarely seen in puncta reminiscent of gap junctions. Intracellular retained Cx31.1 was subject to degradation as Cx31.1 accumulated in the presence of proteasomal inhibition, had a faster turnover when Cx43 was present and ultimately reached lysosomes. Although intracellularly retained Cx31.1 was found to interact with Cx43, this interaction did not rescue its delivery to the cell surface. Conversely, the co-expression of Cx31 dramatically rescued the assembly of Cx31.1 into gap junctions where gap junction-mediated dye transfer was enhanced. Collectively, our results indicate that the localization and functional status of Cx31.1 is altered through selective interplay with co-expressed connexins, perhaps suggesting Cx31.1 is a key regulator of intercellular signaling in keratinocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E. Leighton
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Robert S. Wong
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Sergiu A. Lucaciu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Alexandra Hauser
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Danielle Johnston
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Peter B. Stathopulos
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Donglin Bai
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Silvia Penuela
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Western's Bone and Joint Institute, The Dr. Sandy Kirkley Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University Hospital, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada
- Division of Experimental Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
| | - Dale W. Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
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HU QIAN, WANG MENGYAO, WANG JINJIN, TAO YALI, NIU TING. Development of a cell adhesion-based prognostic model for multiple myeloma: Insights into chemotherapy response and potential reversal of adhesion effects. Oncol Res 2024; 32:753-768. [PMID: 38560563 PMCID: PMC10972724 DOI: 10.32604/or.2023.043647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematologic malignancy notorious for its high relapse rate and development of drug resistance, in which cell adhesion-mediated drug resistance plays a critical role. This study integrated four RNA sequencing datasets (CoMMpass, GSE136337, GSE9782, and GSE2658) and focused on analyzing 1706 adhesion-related genes. Rigorous univariate Cox regression analysis identified 18 key prognosis-related genes, including KIF14, TROAP, FLNA, MSN, LGALS1, PECAM1, and ALCAM, which demonstrated the strongest associations with poor overall survival (OS) in MM patients. To comprehensively evaluate the impact of cell adhesion on MM prognosis, an adhesion-related risk score (ARRS) model was constructed using Lasso Cox regression analysis. The ARRS model emerged as an independent prognostic factor for predicting OS. Furthermore, our findings revealed that a heightened cell adhesion effect correlated with tumor resistance to DNA-damaging drugs, protein kinase inhibitors, and drugs targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Nevertheless, we identified promising drug candidates, such as tirofiban, pirenzepine, erlotinib, and bosutinib, which exhibit potential in reversing this resistance. In vitro, experiments employing NCIH929, RPMI8226, and AMO1 cell lines confirmed that MM cell lines with high ARRS exhibited poor sensitivity to the aforementioned candidate drugs. By employing siRNA-mediated knockdown of the key ARRS model gene KIF14, we observed suppressed proliferation of NCIH929 cells, along with decreased adhesion to BMSCs and fibronectin. This study presents compelling evidence establishing cell adhesion as a significant prognostic factor in MM. Additionally, potential molecular mechanisms underlying adhesion-related resistance are proposed, along with viable strategies to overcome such resistance. These findings provide a solid scientific foundation for facilitating clinically stratified treatment of MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- QIAN HU
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - MENGYAO WANG
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - JINJIN WANG
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - YALI TAO
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - TING NIU
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
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Ebrahim T, Ebrahim AS, Kandouz M. Diversity of Intercellular Communication Modes: A Cancer Biology Perspective. Cells 2024; 13:495. [PMID: 38534339 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060495] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
From the moment a cell is on the path to malignant transformation, its interaction with other cells from the microenvironment becomes altered. The flow of molecular information is at the heart of the cellular and systemic fate in tumors, and various processes participate in conveying key molecular information from or to certain cancer cells. For instance, the loss of tight junction molecules is part of the signal sent to cancer cells so that they are no longer bound to the primary tumors and are thus free to travel and metastasize. Upon the targeting of a single cell by a therapeutic drug, gap junctions are able to communicate death information to by-standing cells. The discovery of the importance of novel modes of cell-cell communication such as different types of extracellular vesicles or tunneling nanotubes is changing the way scientists look at these processes. However, are they all actively involved in different contexts at the same time or are they recruited to fulfill specific tasks? What does the multiplicity of modes mean for the overall progression of the disease? Here, we extend an open invitation to think about the overall significance of these questions, rather than engage in an elusive attempt at a systematic repertory of the mechanisms at play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanzeela Ebrahim
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Abdul Shukkur Ebrahim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Mustapha Kandouz
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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Xiang D, Zhou L, Yang R, Yuan F, Xu Y, Yang Y, Qiao Y, Li X. Advances in Ferroptosis-Inducing Agents by Targeted Delivery System in Cancer Therapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:2091-2112. [PMID: 38476278 PMCID: PMC10929151 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s448715] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, cancer remains one of the most significant threats to human health. Treatment of most cancers remains challenging, despite the implementation of diverse therapies in clinical practice. In recent years, research on the mechanism of ferroptosis has presented novel perspectives for cancer treatment. Ferroptosis is a regulated cell death process caused by lipid peroxidation of membrane unsaturated fatty acids catalyzed by iron ions. The rapid development of bio-nanotechnology has generated considerable interest in exploiting iron-induced cell death as a new therapeutic target against cancer. This article provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements at the intersection of iron-induced cell death and bionanotechnology. In this respect, the mechanism of iron-induced cell death and its relation to cancer are summarized. Furthermore, the feasibility of a nano-drug delivery system based on iron-induced cell death for cancer treatment is introduced and analyzed. Secondly, strategies for inducing iron-induced cell death using nanodrug delivery technology are discussed, including promoting Fenton reactions, inhibiting glutathione peroxidase 4, reducing low glutathione levels, and inhibiting system Xc-. Additionally, the article explores the potential of combined treatment strategies involving iron-induced cell death and bionanotechnology. Finally, the application prospects and challenges of iron-induced nanoagents for cancer treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debiao Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Anti-Resistance Microbial Drugs, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
- The Clinical Application Research Institute of Antibiotics in Changsha, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lili Zhou
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fang Yuan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Anti-Resistance Microbial Drugs, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
- The Clinical Application Research Institute of Antibiotics in Changsha, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yilin Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuan Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong Qiao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Anti-Resistance Microbial Drugs, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
- The Clinical Application Research Institute of Antibiotics in Changsha, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Anti-Resistance Microbial Drugs, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
- The Clinical Application Research Institute of Antibiotics in Changsha, Changsha, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China
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Kumar P, Banik SP, Ohia SE, Moriyama H, Chakraborty S, Wang CK, Song YS, Goel A, Bagchi M, Bagchi D. Current Insights on the Photoprotective Mechanism of the Macular Carotenoids, Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Safety, Efficacy and Bio-Delivery. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN NUTRITION ASSOCIATION 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38393321 DOI: 10.1080/27697061.2024.2319090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Ocular health has emerged as one of the major issues of global health concern with a decline in quality of life in an aging population, in particular and rise in the number of associated morbidities and mortalities. One of the chief reasons for vision impairment is oxidative damage inflicted to photoreceptors in rods and cone cells by blue light as well as UV radiation. The scenario has been aggravated by unprecedented rise in screen-time during the COVID and post-COVID era. Lutein and Zeaxanthin are oxygenated carotenoids with proven roles in augmentation of ocular health largely by virtue of their antioxidant properties and protective effects against photobleaching of retinal pigments, age-linked macular degeneration, cataract, and retinitis pigmentosa. These molecules are characterized by their characteristic yellow-orange colored pigmentation and are found in significant amounts in vegetables such as corn, spinach, broccoli, carrots as well as fish and eggs. Unique structural signatures including tetraterpenoid skeleton with extensive conjugation and the presence of hydroxyl groups at the end rings have made these molecules evolutionarily adapted to localize in the membrane of the photoreceptor cells and prevent their free radical induced peroxidation. Apart from the benefits imparted to ocular health, lutein and zeaxanthin are also known to improve cognitive function, cardiovascular physiology, and arrest the development of malignancy. Although abundant in many natural sources, bioavailability of these compounds is low owing to their long aliphatic backbones. Under the circumstances, there has been a concerted effort to develop vegetable oil-based carriers such as lipid nano-emulsions for therapeutic administration of carotenoids. This review presents a comprehensive update of the therapeutic potential of the carotenoids along with the challenges in achieving an optimized delivery tool for maximizing their effectiveness inside the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawan Kumar
- R&D Department, Chemical Resources (CHERESO), Panchkula, India
| | - Samudra P Banik
- Department of Microbiology, Maulana Azad College, Kolkata, India
| | - Sunny E Ohia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hiroyoshi Moriyama
- Department of Scientific Affairs, The Japanese Institute for Health Food Standards, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sanjoy Chakraborty
- Department of Biological Sciences, New York City College of Technology/CUNY, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Chin-Kun Wang
- Department of Nutrition, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yong Sang Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Apurva Goel
- Regulation Department, Chemical Resources (CHERESO), Panchkula, India
| | | | - Debasis Bagchi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, and Department of Psychology, Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY, USA
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Abu Bakar NFAB, Yeo ZL, Hussin F, Madhavan P, Lim V, Jemon K, Prabhakaran P. Synergistic effects of combined cisplatin and Clinacanthus nutans extract on triple negative breast cancer cells. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2023; 18:1220-1236. [PMID: 37250812 PMCID: PMC10209459 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2023.04.003] [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: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most invasive breast cancer subtype enriched with cancer stem cells. TNBCs do not express estrogen, progesterone, or human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) receptors, making them difficult to be targeted by existing chemotherapy treatments. In this study, we attempted to identify the effects of combined cisplatin and Clinacanthus nutans treatment on MDA-MD-231 and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells, which represent TNBC subtypes. Methods The phytochemical fingerprint of C. nutans ethanolic leaf extract was evaluated by LC-MS/MS analysis. We investigated the effects of cisplatin (0-15.23 μg/mL), C. nutans (0-50 μg/mL), and a combination of cisplatin (3.05 μg/mL) and C. nutans (0-50 μg/mL), on cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, mRNA expression in cancer stem cells (CD49f, KLF4), and differentiation markers (TUBA1A, KRT18) in TNBC cells. In addition, we also studied the interaction between cisplatin and C. nutans. Results Derivatives of fatty acids, carboxylic acid ester, and glycosides, were identified as the major bioactive compounds with potential anticancer properties in C. nutans leaf extract. Reductions in cell viability (0-78%) and proliferation (2-77%), as well as a synergistic anticancer effect, were identified in TNBC cells when treated with a combination of cisplatin and C. nutans. Furthermore, apoptotic induction via increased caspase-3/7 activity (MDA-MB-231: 2.73-fold; MDA-MB-468: 3.53-fold), and a reduction in cell invasion capacity to 36%, were detected in TNBC cells when compared to single cisplatin and C. nutans treatments. At the mRNA level, cisplatin and C. nutans differentially regulated specific genes that are responsible for proliferation and differentiation. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate that the combination of cisplatin and C. nutans represents a potential treatment for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhin Leng Yeo
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia
| | - Faisal Hussin
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia
| | - Priya Madhavan
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Vuanghao Lim
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Khairunadwa Jemon
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia
| | - Praseetha Prabhakaran
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia
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9
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Wang YF, Shen ZF, Xiang FY, Wang H, Zhang P, Zhang Q. The direct transfer approach for transcellular drug delivery. Drug Deliv 2023; 30:2288799. [PMID: 38037327 PMCID: PMC10987047 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2023.2288799] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A promising paradigm for drug administration that has garnered increasing attention in recent years is the direct transfer (DT) of nanoparticles for transcellular drug delivery. DT requires direct cell-cell contact and facilitates unidirectional and bidirectional matter exchange between neighboring cells. Consequently, DT enables fast and deep penetration of drugs into the targeted tissues. This comprehensive review discusses the direct transfer concept, which can be delineated into the following three distinct modalities: membrane contact-direct transfer, gap junction-mediated direct transfer (GJ-DT), and tunneling nanotubes-mediated direct transfer (TNTs-DT). Further, the intercellular structures for each modality of direct transfer and their respective merits and demerits are summarized. The review also discusses the recent progress on the drugs or drug delivery systems that could activate DT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Fan Wang
- Graduate Department, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ze-Fan Shen
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fang-yue Xiang
- School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Heng Wang
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pu Zhang
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Graduate Department, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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10
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Fotie J, Matherne CM, Mather JB, Wroblewski JE, Johnson K, Boudreaux LG, Perez AA. The Fundamental Role of Oxime and Oxime Ether Moieties in Improving the Physicochemical and Anticancer Properties of Structurally Diverse Scaffolds. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16854. [PMID: 38069175 PMCID: PMC10705934 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The present review explores the critical role of oxime and oxime ether moieties in enhancing the physicochemical and anticancer properties of structurally diverse molecular frameworks. Specific examples are carefully selected to illustrate the distinct contributions of these functional groups to general strategies for molecular design, modulation of biological activities, computational modeling, and structure-activity relationship studies. An extensive literature search was conducted across three databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scifinder, enabling us to create one of the most comprehensive overviews of how oximes and oxime ethers impact antitumor activities within a wide range of structural frameworks. This search focused on various combinations of keywords or their synonyms, related to the anticancer activity of oximes and oxime ethers, structure-activity relationships, mechanism of action, as well as molecular dynamics and docking studies. Each article was evaluated based on its scientific merit and the depth of the study, resulting in 268 cited references and more than 336 illustrative chemical structures carefully selected to support this analysis. As many previous reviews focus on one subclass of this extensive family of compounds, this report represents one of the rare and fully comprehensive assessments of the anticancer potential of this group of molecules across diverse molecular scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Fotie
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Southeastern Louisiana University, SLU 10878, Hammond, LA 70402-0878, USA; (C.M.M.); (J.B.M.); (J.E.W.); (K.J.); (L.G.B.); (A.A.P.)
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11
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Pericoli G, Galardi A, Paolini A, Petrilli LL, Pepe G, Palma A, Colletti M, Ferretti R, Giorda E, Levi Mortera S, Burford A, Carai A, Mastronuzzi A, Mackay A, Putignani L, Jones C, Pascucci L, Peinado H, Helmer-Citterich M, de Billy E, Masotti A, Locatelli F, Di Giannatale A, Vinci M. Inhibition of exosome biogenesis affects cell motility in heterogeneous sub-populations of paediatric-type diffuse high-grade gliomas. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:207. [PMID: 37957701 PMCID: PMC10641969 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01166-5] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paediatric-type diffuse High-Grade Gliomas (PDHGG) are highly heterogeneous tumours which include distinct cell sub-populations co-existing within the same tumour mass. We have previously shown that primary patient-derived and optical barcoded single-cell-derived clones function as interconnected networks. Here, we investigated the role of exosomes as a route for inter-clonal communication mediating PDHGG migration and invasion. RESULTS A comprehensive characterisation of seven optical barcoded single-cell-derived clones obtained from two patient-derived cell lines was performed. These analyses highlighted extensive intra-tumour heterogeneity in terms of genetic and transcriptional profiles between clones as well as marked phenotypic differences including distinctive motility patterns. Live single-cell tracking analysis of 3D migration and invasion assays showed that the single-cell-derived clones display a higher speed and longer travelled distance when in co-culture compared to mono-culture conditions. To determine the role of exosomes in PDHGG inter-clonal cross-talks, we isolated exosomes released by different clones and characterised them in terms of marker expression, size and concentration. We demonstrated that exosomes are actively internalized by the cells and that the inhibition of their biogenesis, using the phospholipase inhibitor GW4689, significantly reduced the cell motility in mono-culture and more prominently when the cells from the clones were in co-culture. Analysis of the exosomal miRNAs, performed with a miRNome PCR panel, identified clone-specific miRNAs and a set of miRNA target genes involved in the regulation of cell motility/invasion/migration. These genes were found differentially expressed in co-culture versus mono-culture conditions and their expression levels were significantly modulated upon inhibition of exosome biogenesis. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our study highlights for the first time a key role for exosomes in the inter-clonal communication in PDHGG and suggests that interfering with the exosome biogenesis pathway may be a valuable strategy to inhibit cell motility and dissemination for these specific diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Pericoli
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Galardi
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Paolini
- Multifactorial and Complex Phenotype Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Lisa Petrilli
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gerardo Pepe
- Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Palma
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Colletti
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Ferretti
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Ezio Giorda
- Core Facilities research laboratories, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Levi Mortera
- Multimodal Laboratory Medicine Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Burford
- Department of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Andrea Carai
- Oncological Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Mastronuzzi
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alan Mackay
- Department of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Lorenza Putignani
- Multimodal Laboratory Medicine Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Chris Jones
- Department of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Luisa Pascucci
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Hector Peinado
- Microenvironment & Metastasis Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Emmanuel de Billy
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Masotti
- Multifactorial and Complex Phenotype Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Di Giannatale
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Vinci
- Department of Onco-hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
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12
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Lia A, Di Spiezio A, Vitalini L, Tore M, Puja G, Losi G. Ion Channels and Ionotropic Receptors in Astrocytes: Physiological Functions and Alterations in Alzheimer's Disease and Glioblastoma. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2038. [PMID: 37895420 PMCID: PMC10608464 DOI: 10.3390/life13102038] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The human brain is composed of nearly one hundred billion neurons and an equal number of glial cells, including macroglia, i.e., astrocytes and oligodendrocytes, and microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain. In the last few decades, compelling evidence has revealed that glial cells are far more active and complex than previously thought. In particular, astrocytes, the most abundant glial cell population, not only take part in brain development, metabolism, and defense against pathogens and insults, but they also affect sensory, motor, and cognitive functions by constantly modulating synaptic activity. Not surprisingly, astrocytes are actively involved in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) and other neurological disorders like brain tumors, in which they rapidly become reactive and mediate neuroinflammation. Reactive astrocytes acquire or lose specific functions that differently modulate disease progression and symptoms, including cognitive impairments. Astrocytes express several types of ion channels, including K+, Na+, and Ca2+ channels, transient receptor potential channels (TRP), aquaporins, mechanoreceptors, and anion channels, whose properties and functions are only partially understood, particularly in small processes that contact synapses. In addition, astrocytes express ionotropic receptors for several neurotransmitters. Here, we provide an extensive and up-to-date review of the roles of ion channels and ionotropic receptors in astrocyte physiology and pathology. As examples of two different brain pathologies, we focus on Alzheimer's disease (AD), one of the most diffuse neurodegenerative disorders, and glioblastoma (GBM), the most common brain tumor. Understanding how ion channels and ionotropic receptors in astrocytes participate in NDs and tumors is necessary for developing new therapeutic tools for these increasingly common neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Lia
- Department Biomedical Science, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.L.); (A.D.S.)
| | - Alessandro Di Spiezio
- Department Biomedical Science, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.L.); (A.D.S.)
- Neuroscience Institute (CNR-IN), Padova Section, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Vitalini
- Department Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (L.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Manuela Tore
- Institute of Nanoscience (CNR-NANO), Modena Section, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Department Biomedical Science, Metabolic and Neuroscience, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Puja
- Department Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (L.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Gabriele Losi
- Institute of Nanoscience (CNR-NANO), Modena Section, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Department Biomedical Science, Metabolic and Neuroscience, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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13
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Holme JA, Vondráček J, Machala M, Lagadic-Gossmann D, Vogel CFA, Le Ferrec E, Sparfel L, Øvrevik J. Lung cancer associated with combustion particles and fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) - The roles of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 216:115801. [PMID: 37696458 PMCID: PMC10543654 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115801] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Air pollution is the leading cause of lung cancer after tobacco smoking, contributing to 20% of all lung cancer deaths. Increased risk associated with living near trafficked roads, occupational exposure to diesel exhaust, indoor coal combustion and cigarette smoking, suggest that combustion components in ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5), such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), may be central drivers of lung cancer. Activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) induces expression of xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes (XMEs) and increase PAH metabolism, formation of reactive metabolites, oxidative stress, DNA damage and mutagenesis. Lung cancer tissues from smokers and workers exposed to high combustion PM levels contain mutagenic signatures derived from PAHs. However, recent findings suggest that ambient air PM2.5 exposure primarily induces lung cancer development through tumor promotion of cells harboring naturally acquired oncogenic mutations, thus lacking typical PAH-induced mutations. On this background, we discuss the role of AhR and PAHs in lung cancer development caused by air pollution focusing on the tumor promoting properties including metabolism, immune system, cell proliferation and survival, tumor microenvironment, cell-to-cell communication, tumor growth and metastasis. We suggest that the dichotomy in lung cancer patterns observed between smoking and outdoor air PM2.5 represent the two ends of a dose-response continuum of combustion PM exposure, where tumor promotion in the peripheral lung appears to be the driving factor at the relatively low-dose exposures from ambient air PM2.5, whereas genotoxicity in the central airways becomes increasingly more important at the higher combustion PM levels encountered through smoking and occupational exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jørn A Holme
- Department of Air Quality and Noise, Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, PO Box PO Box 222 Skøyen, 0213 Oslo, Norway
| | - Jan Vondráček
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 61265 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Machala
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary Research Institute, 62100 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Dominique Lagadic-Gossmann
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), UMR_S 1085, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Christoph F A Vogel
- Department of Environmental Toxicology and Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Eric Le Ferrec
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), UMR_S 1085, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Lydie Sparfel
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), UMR_S 1085, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Johan Øvrevik
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, PO Box 1066 Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway; Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, PO Box 222 Skøyen, 0213 Oslo, Norway.
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Totland MZ, Omori Y, Sørensen V, Kryeziu K, Aasen T, Brech A, Leithe E. Endocytic trafficking of connexins in cancer pathogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023:166812. [PMID: 37454772 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions are specialized regions of the plasma membrane containing clusters of channels that provide for the diffusion of ions and small molecules between adjacent cells. A fundamental role of gap junctions is to coordinate the functions of cells in tissues. Cancer pathogenesis is usually associated with loss of intercellular communication mediated by gap junctions, which may affect tumor growth and the response to radio- and chemotherapy. Gap junction channels consist of integral membrane proteins termed connexins. In addition to their canonical roles in cell-cell communication, connexins modulate a range of signal transduction pathways via interactions with proteins such as β-catenin, c-Src, and PTEN. Consequently, connexins can regulate cellular processes such as cell growth, migration, and differentiation through both channel-dependent and independent mechanisms. Gap junctions are dynamic plasma membrane entities, and by modulating the rate at which connexins undergo endocytosis and sorting to lysosomes for degradation, cells rapidly adjust the level of gap junctions in response to alterations in the intracellular or extracellular milieu. Current experimental evidence indicates that aberrant trafficking of connexins in the endocytic system is intrinsically involved in mediating the loss of gap junctions during carcinogenesis. This review highlights the role played by the endocytic system in controlling connexin degradation, and consequently gap junction levels, and discusses how dysregulation of these processes contributes to the loss of gap junctions during cancer development. We also discuss the therapeutic implications of aberrant endocytic trafficking of connexins in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yasufumi Omori
- Department of Molecular and Tumour Pathology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | | | | | - Trond Aasen
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andreas Brech
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Centre for Cancer Cell Reprogramming, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Section for Physiology and Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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15
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Kneitz H, Frings V, Kircher S, Goebeler M. Expression of Connexin 43 in Granular Cell Tumors of the Skin, Tongue and Esophagus. Dermatopathology (Basel) 2023; 10:184-192. [PMID: 37366801 DOI: 10.3390/dermatopathology10020026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Granular cell tumors (GCT) are rare neoplasms of Schwann cell origin occurring in the skin and in other organs. The etiopathogenesis of GCT is yet poorly understood. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is the most broadly expressed gap junction protein in humans, the tumoral role of which has been investigated in several types of tumors. Its role in GCT of the skin, oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract is as yet unknown. METHODS Herein, we present a study on the immunohistochemical expression of Cx43 in GCT of the skin (n = 15), tongue (n = 4) and esophagus (n = 3). Immunolabeling was scored positive (weak (+), moderate (++) or strong (+++)). RESULTS Cx43 was expressed by all cases of GCT of the skin, tongue and esophagus (22/22), showing moderate to strong staining. All tissue sections of GCT were characterized by a diffuse, cytoplasmic staining pattern of the tumor cells. None of those showed membranous or nuclear staining. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that Cx43 probably plays an important role in the development of this rare tumor entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermann Kneitz
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Verena Frings
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Kircher
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Goebeler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
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How Warburg-Associated Lactic Acidosis Rewires Cancer Cell Energy Metabolism to Resist Glucose Deprivation. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051417. [PMID: 36900208 PMCID: PMC10000466 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactic acidosis, a hallmark of solid tumour microenvironment, originates from lactate hyperproduction and its co-secretion with protons by cancer cells displaying the Warburg effect. Long considered a side effect of cancer metabolism, lactic acidosis is now known to play a major role in tumour physiology, aggressiveness and treatment efficiency. Growing evidence shows that it promotes cancer cell resistance to glucose deprivation, a common feature of tumours. Here we review the current understanding of how extracellular lactate and acidosis, acting as a combination of enzymatic inhibitors, signal, and nutrient, switch cancer cell metabolism from the Warburg effect to an oxidative metabolic phenotype, which allows cancer cells to withstand glucose deprivation, and makes lactic acidosis a promising anticancer target. We also discuss how the evidence about lactic acidosis' effect could be integrated in the understanding of the whole-tumour metabolism and what perspectives it opens up for future research.
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