Glucose transporter 4 promotes head and neck squamous cell carcinoma metastasis through the TRIM24-DDX58 axis

STAT3-mediated upregulation of TRIM6 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma invasion through the DDX58-Snail1 axis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis, driven by complex molecular mechanisms that remain inadequately understood. Among these, the ubiquitin-proteasome system plays a crucial role in regulating protein stability and function, with E3 ubiquitin ligases emerging as key players in cancer progression. Here, we identify Tripartite Motif-containing 6 (TRIM6), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, as a critical regulator of HCC metastasis. We demonstrate that TRIM6 is significantly upregulated in HCC tissues and correlates with poor overall survival. Mechanistically, we uncover that STAT3 directly regulates TRIM6 by binding to its promoter and enhancing its transcription. Functionally, TRIM6 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cell invasion by upregulating the key EMT transcription factor Snail1. Importantly, we reveal that TRIM6 interacts with and ubiquitinates DDX58 (RIG-I), leading to its proteasomal degradation. The degradation of DDX58 by TRIM6 alleviates its inhibitory effects on Snail1, thereby facilitating EMT and enhancing the invasive potential of HCC cells. These findings establish the STAT3-TRIM6-DDX58-Snail1 axis as a pivotal pathway in HCC progression, offering novel insights into the molecular underpinnings of HCC metastasis and highlighting TRIM6 as a potential therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker in HCC.

In-silico identification and validation of Silibinin as a dual inhibitor for ENO1 and GLUT4 to curtail EMT signaling and TNBC progression

The aberrant metabolic reprogramming endows TNBC cells with sufficient ATP and lactate required for survival and metastasis. Hence, the intervention of the metabolic network represents a promising avenue to alleviate the Warburg effect in TNBC cells to impair their invasive and metastatic potential. Multitudinous in-silico analysis identified Enolase1 (ENO1) and the surface transporter protein, GLUT4 to be the potential targets for the abrogation of the metabolic network. The expression profiles of ENO1 and GLUT4 genes showed anomalous expression in various cancers, including breast cancer. Subsequently, the functional and physiological interactions of the target proteins were analyzed from the protein-protein interaction network. The pathway enrichment analysis identified the prime cancer signaling pathways in which these proteins are involved. Further, docking results bestowed Silibinin as the concurrent inhibitor of ENO1 and GLUT4. Moreover, the stable interaction of Silibinin with both proteins deciphered the binding free energies values of -48.86 and -104.31 KJ/mol from MMPBSA analysis and MD simulation, respectively. Furthermore, the cell viability, ROS assay, and live-dead imaging underscored the pronounced cytotoxicity of Silibinin, illuminating its capacity to incur apoptosis within TNBC cells. Additionally, glycolysis assay and gene expression analysis demonstrated the silibinin-mediated inhibition of the glycolysis pathway. Eventually, a lipidomic reprogramming towards fatty acid metabolism was established from the elevated lipid droplet accumulation, exogenous fatty acid uptake and de-novo lipogenesis. Nevertheless, repression of EMT and Wnt pathway progression by Silibinin was perceived from the gene expression studies. Overall, the current study highlights the tweaking of intricate signaling crosstalk between glycolysis and the Wnt pathway in TNBC cells through inhibiting ENO1 and GLUT4.

Glucose Metabolism and Glucose Transporters in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma ranks seventh globally in malignancy prevalence, with persistent high mortality rates despite treatment advancements. Glucose, pivotal in cancer metabolism via the Warburg effect, enters cells via glucose transporters, notably GLUT proteins. Glycolysis, aerobic oxidation, and the pentose phosphate pathway in glucose metabolism significantly impact HNSCC progression. HNSCC exhibits elevated expression of glucose metabolism enzymes and GLUT proteins, correlating with prognosis. Heterogeneity in HNSCC yields varied metabolic profiles, influenced by factors like HPV status and disease stage. This review highlights glucose metabolism's role and potential as therapeutic targets and cancer imaging tracers in HNSCC.

Unraveling the rationale and conducting a comprehensive assessment of KD025 (Belumosudil) as a candidate drug for inhibiting adipogenic differentiation-a systematic review

Rho-associated kinases (ROCKs) are crucial during the adipocyte differentiation process. KD025 (Belumosudil) is a newly developed inhibitor that selectively targets ROCK2. It has exhibited consistent efficacy in impeding adipogenesis across a spectrum of in vitro models of adipogenic differentiation. Given the novelty of this treatment, a comprehensive systematic review has not been conducted yet. This systematic review aims to fill this knowledge void by providing readers with an extensive examination of the rationale behind KD025 and its impacts on adipogenesis. Preclinical evidence was gathered owing to the absence of clinical trials. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and the study's quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Checklist Critical Appraisal Tool for Systematic Reviews. In various in vitro models, such as 3T3-L1 cells, human orbital fibroblasts, and human adipose-derived stem cells, KD025 demonstrated potent anti-adipogenic actions. At a molecular level, KD025 had significant effects, including decreasing fibronectin (Fn) expression, inhibiting ROCK2 and CK2 activity, suppressing lipid droplet formation, and reducing the expression of proadipogenic genes peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα). Additionally, KD025 resulted in the suppression of fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4 or AP2) expression, a decrease in sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c) and Glut-4 expression. Emphasis must be placed on the fact that while KD025 shows potential in preclinical studies and experimental models, extensive research is crucial to assess its efficacy, safety, and potential therapeutic applications thoroughly and directly in human subjects.

Intricate confrontation: Research progress and application potential of TRIM family proteins in tumor immune escape

BACKGROUND

Tripartite motif (TRIM) family proteins have more than 80 members and are widely found in various eukaryotic cells. Most TRIM family proteins participate in the ubiquitin-proteasome degradation system as E3-ubiquitin ligases; therefore, they play pivotal regulatory roles in the occurrence and development of tumors, including tumor immune escape. Due to the diversity of functional domains of TRIM family proteins, they can extensively participate in multiple signaling pathways of tumor immune escape through different substrates. In current research and clinical contexts, immune escape has become an urgent problem. The extensive participation of TRIM family proteins in curing tumors or preventing postoperative recurrence and metastasis makes them promising targets.

AIM OF REVIEW

The aim of the review is to make up for the gap in the current research on TRIM family proteins and tumor immune escape and propose future development directions according to the current progress and problems.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

This up-to-date review summarizes the characteristics and biological functions of TRIM family proteins, discusses the mechanisms of TRIM family proteins involved in tumor immune escape, and highlights the specific mechanism from the level of structure-function-molecule-pathway-phenotype, including mechanisms at the level of protein domains and functions, at the level of molecules and signaling pathways, and at the level of cells and microenvironments. We also discuss the application potential of TRIM family proteins in tumor immunotherapy, such as possible treatment strategies for combination targeting TRIM family protein drugs and checkpoint inhibitors for improving cancer treatment.

Transcriptional co-activators: emerging roles in signaling pathways and potential therapeutic targets for diseases

Specific cell states in metazoans are established by the symphony of gene expression programs that necessitate intricate synergic interactions between transcription factors and the co-activators. Deregulation of these regulatory molecules is associated with cell state transitions, which in turn is accountable for diverse maladies, including developmental disorders, metabolic disorders, and most significantly, cancer. A decade back most transcription factors, the key enablers of disease development, were historically viewed as 'undruggable'; however, in the intervening years, a wealth of literature validated that they can be targeted indirectly through transcriptional co-activators, their confederates in various physiological and molecular processes. These co-activators, along with transcription factors, have the ability to initiate and modulate transcription of diverse genes necessary for normal physiological functions, whereby, deregulation of such interactions may foster tissue-specific disease phenotype. Hence, it is essential to analyze how these co-activators modulate specific multilateral processes in coordination with other factors. The proposed review attempts to elaborate an in-depth account of the transcription co-activators, their involvement in transcription regulation, and context-specific contributions to pathophysiological conditions. This review also addresses an issue that has not been dealt with in a comprehensive manner and hopes to direct attention towards future research that will encompass patient-friendly therapeutic strategies, where drugs targeting co-activators will have enhanced benefits and reduced side effects. Additional insights into currently available therapeutic interventions and the associated constraints will eventually reveal multitudes of advanced therapeutic targets aiming for disease amelioration and good patient prognosis.

Analysis of the relationship between GLUT family in the progression and immune infiltration of head and neck squamous carcinoma

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) causes much health and economic burden, and the therapeutic results must be improved. Glucose metabolism is an essential component of tumor metabolism and is instrumental in its development. Glucose transporter types (GLUTs) can uptake glucose from the extracellular matrix (ECM), regulating cellular metabolism in several cancers. However, the function of different GLUT proteins in HNSCC remains unclear. To clarify the role of GLUTs in HNSCC, several open-access online databases (Oncomine, GEPIA, Kaplan-Meier, cBioPortal, GeneMANIA, and TIMER) were used to evaluate the differential expression, clinical significance, genetic alteration, and relative immune cell infiltration. The expression of GLUTs was detected in clinical patient samples by immunohistochemistry. The mRNA level of SLC2A1/3 significantly increased in HNSCC, while SLC2A4 reduced. SLC2A3 was related to the advanced clinical stage and short overall survival (OS) in HNSCC. Also, higher SLC2A1/2 mRNA expression was related to shorter OS in HNSCC patients. The expression of GLUTs was related to diverse immune cells, including B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages, and Treg cells in HNSCC. Moreover, the high expression of GLUTs was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry in patient tissues. GLUTs might have a potential role in HNSCC's progression and development. Therefore, the current findings might offer a novel perception for selecting GLUT family prognostic markers and treatment for HNSCC patients.

Glucose transporter 4: Insulin response mastermind, glycolysis catalyst and treatment direction for cancer progression

The glucose transporter family (GLUT) consists of fourteen members. It is responsible for glucose homeostasis and glucose transport from the extracellular space to the cell cytoplasm to further cascade catalysis. GLUT proteins are encoded by the solute carrier family 2 (SLC2) genes and are members of the major facilitator superfamily of membrane transporters. Moreover, different GLUTs also have their transporter kinetics and distribution, so each GLUT member has its uniqueness and importance to play essential roles in human physiology. Evidence from many studies in the field of diabetes showed that GLUT4 travels between the plasma membrane and intracellular vesicles (GLUT4-storage vesicles, GSVs) and that the PI3K/Akt pathway regulates this activity in an insulin-dependent manner or by the AMPK pathway in response to muscle contraction. Moreover, some published results also pointed out that GLUT4 mediates insulin-dependent glucose uptake. Thus, dysfunction of GLUT4 can induce insulin resistance, metabolic reprogramming in diverse chronic diseases, inflammation, and cancer. In addition to the relationship between GLUT4 and insulin response, recent studies also referred to the potential upstream transcription factors that can bind to the promoter region of GLUT4 to regulating downstream signals. Combined all of the evidence, we conclude that GLUT4 has shown valuable unknown functions and is of clinical significance in cancers, which deserves our in-depth discussion and design compounds by structure basis to achieve therapeutic effects. Thus, we intend to write up a most updated review manuscript to include the most recent and critical research findings elucidating how and why GLUT4 plays an essential role in carcinogenesis, which may have broad interests and impacts on this field.

Genetic Influences in Cancer-Associated Myositis

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) comprise a heterogeneous group of rare immune-mediated disorders that primarily affect muscles but also lead to dysfunction in other organs. Five different clinical subphenotypes of IIM have been distinguished: dermatomyositis, polymyositis, inclusion body myositis, antisynthetase syndrome, and immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy. Excess mortality and morbidity associated with IIM are largely attributed to comorbidities, particularly cancer. The risk of malignancy is not equally distributed among IIM groups and is particularly high among patients with dermatomyositis. The cancer risk peaks around 3 years on either side of the IIM diagnosis and remains elevated even 10 years after the onset of the disease. Lung, colorectal, and ovarian neoplasms typically arise before the onset of IIM, whereas melanoma, cervical, oropharyngeal, and nonmelanoma skin cancers usually develop after IIM diagnosis. Given the close temporal proximity between IIM diagnosis and the emergence of malignancy, it has been proposed that IIM could be a consequence rather than a cause of cancer, a process known as a paramalignant phenomenon. Thus, a separate group of IIMs related to paramalignant phenomenon has been distinguished, known as cancer-associated myositis (CAM). Although the relationship between IIM and cancer is widely recognized, the pathophysiology of CAM remains elusive. Given that genetic factors play a role in the development of IIM, dissection of the molecular mechanisms shared between IIM and cancer presents an opportunity to examine the role of autoimmunity in cancer development and progression. In this review, the evidence supporting the contribution of genetics to CAM will be discussed.

Molecular Biomarkers of Malignant Transformation in Head and Neck Dysplasia

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and its treatments are associated with substantial morbidity, often resulting in cosmetic deformity and loss of physiologic functions including speech and swallowing. Despite advancements in treatment, 5-year survival rates for mucosal malignancies remain below 70%. Effective prevention of HNSCC demands an understanding of the molecular pathways of carcinogenesis. Specifically, defining features of pre-cancerous dysplastic lesions that indicate a better or worse prognosis is necessary to help identify patients who are likely to develop a carcinoma and allow a more aggressive approach to management. There remains a need for identification of biomarkers that can provide both early prognostic and predictive value in clinical decision-making by serving as both therapeutic targets as well as predictors of therapy response. Here, we comprehensively review the most frequently altered molecular biomarkers of malignant transformation in head and neck dysplasia. These markers are involved in a wide range of cellular processes in head and neck carcinogenesis, including extracellular matrix degradation, cell motility and invasion, cell-cell adhesion, solute transport, immortalization, metabolism, the cell cycle and apoptosis, transcription, and cell signaling.

Expression of GLUT4 and FAP in urothelial bladder carcinoma: correlation with angiogenesis and clinicopathological characteristics

Background

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is the most common type of bladder cancer. Glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) is one of glucose transporter proteins’ family which facilitates glucose transport inside the cells. It was found to be overexpressed in several malignant tumors. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are heterogeneous stromal cells located adjacent to cancer cells and are considered one of the most important tumor stromal cells. They have been associated with enhancing tumor growth and invasion. GLUT4 expression in malignant epithelial cells and fibroblast activation protein (FAP) expression in CAFs of UC in relation to angiogenesis and clinicopathological characteristics are studied in this work.

Materials and methods

The study was carried out on 72 paraffin blocks of UC (27 radical cystectomies and 45 transurethral resections). Immunohistochemical staining was performed with GLUT4, FAP, and CD34 antibodies. Expression of GLUT4 and FAP was classified according to the staining intensities and percentages into low and high groups. CD34-stained microvessels’ mean count in five microscopic fields (×200) was taken as the microvessel density (MVD).

Results

GLUT4 overexpression was detected in 32 UC. It was significantly associated with high-grade tumors, advanced primary tumor (pT) stage, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and regional lymph node invasion. High FAP expression was appreciated in 27 UC and was significantly linked to LVI and advanced TNM staging. Intratumor MVD significantly increased in UC with muscle invasion, LVI, and regional lymph node and/or distant metastasis. A significant positive correlation between GLUT4, FAP expression, and MVD was found.

Conclusion

GLUT4 and FAP expression was significantly associated with increased intratumor MVD and adverse clinicopathological factors.

TRIM24 is an insulin-responsive regulator of P-bodies

Insulin is a potent inducer of mRNA transcription and translation, contributing to metabolic regulation. Insulin has also been suggested to regulate mRNA stability through the processing body (P-body) molecular machinery. However, whether and how insulin regulates mRNA stability via P-bodies is not clear. Here we show that the E3-ligase TRIM24 is a critical factor linking insulin signalling to P-bodies. Upon insulin stimulation, protein kinase B (PKB, also known as Akt) phosphorylates TRIM24 and stimulates its shuttling from the nucleus into the cytoplasm. TRIM24 interacts with several critical components of P-bodies in the cytoplasm, promoting their polyubiquitylation, which consequently stabilises Pparγ mRNA. Inactivation of TRIM24 E3-ligase activity or prevention of its phosphorylation via knockin mutations in mice promotes hepatic Pparγ degradation via P-bodies. Consequently, both knockin mutations alleviate hepatosteatosis in mice fed on a high-fat diet. Our results demonstrate the critical role of TRIM24 in linking insulin signalling to P-bodies and have therapeutic implications for the treatment of hepatosteatosis.

STAT1 is regulated by TRIM24 and promotes immunosuppression in head and neck squamous carcinoma cells, but enhances T cell antitumour immunity in the tumour microenvironment

BACKGROUND

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a significant problem and is frequently resistant to current treatments. STAT1 is important in anti-tumour immune responses against HNSCC. However, the role of STAT1 expression by tumour cells and its regulation during HNSCC is unclear.

METHODS

We determined the effects of STAT1 inhibition on tumour development and immunity in CAL27 and UMSCC22A HNSCC cell lines in vitro and in a HNSCC carcinogen-induced model in vivo.

RESULTS

STAT1 siRNA knockdown in human HNSCC cells impaired their proliferation and expression of the immunosuppressive marker PD-L1. Stat1-deficient mice displayed increased oral lesion incidence and multiplicity during tumour carcinogenesis in vivo. Immunosuppressive markers PD-1 in CD8+ T cells and PD-L1 in monocytic MDSCs and macrophages were reduced in oral tumours and draining lymph nodes of tumour-bearing Stat1-deficient mice. However, STAT1 was required for anti-tumour functions of T cells during HNSCC in vivo. Finally, we identified TRIM24 to be a negative regulator of STAT1 that plays a similar tumorigenic function to STAT1 in vitro and thus may be a potential target when treating HNSCC.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that STAT1 activity plays an important role in tumorigenicity and immunosuppression during HNSCC development.

The RAL Enigma: Distinct Roles of RALA and RALB in Cancer

RALA and RALB are highly homologous small G proteins belonging to the RAS superfamily. Like other small GTPases, the RALs are molecular switches that can be toggled between inactive GDP-bound and active GTP-bound states to regulate diverse and critical cellular functions such as vesicle trafficking, filopodia formation, mitochondrial fission, and cytokinesis. The RAL paralogs are activated and inactivated by a shared set of guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) and GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) and utilize similar sets of downstream effectors. In addition to their important roles in normal cell biology, the RALs are known to be critical mediators of cancer cell survival, invasion, migration, and metastasis. However, despite their substantial similarities, the RALs often display striking functional disparities in cancer. RALA and RALB can have redundant, unique, or even antagonistic functions depending on cancer type. The molecular basis for these discrepancies remains an important unanswered question in the field of cancer biology. In this review we examine the functions of the RAL paralogs in normal cellular physiology and cancer biology with special consideration provided to situations where the roles of RALA and RALB are non-redundant.

The Effect of Disulfiram and Copper on Cellular Viability, ER Stress and ALDH Expression of Human Meningioma Cells

(1) Background: Meningiomas are the most common intracranial tumors in adults; currently there is no effective chemotherapy for malignant meningiomas. The effect of disulfiram (DSF)/Copper (Cu) on meningiomas remains unclear; (2) Methods: The impact of DSF/Cu on cell viability of meningioma adhesion cells (MgACs) and sphere cells (MgSCs) was assessed via MTS assay. The effects of DSF/Cu on intracellular Cu levels, cell senescence, and apoptosis were analyzed using CopperGreen, C12FDG, and Annexin V assays. Intracellular ALDH isoform expression and canonical pathway expression after DSF/Cu treatment were analyzed using mRNA microarray and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis, with further verification through qRT-PCR and immunoblotting; (3) Results: The viability of MgACs and MgSCs were inhibited by DSF/Cu. DSF/Cu increased intracellular Cu levels and cellular senescence. DSF/Cu also induced ER stress in MgACs and activated the PERK/eIF2 pathway for further adaptive response, apoptosis, and autophagy. Finally, DSF/Cu inhibited the expression of different ALDH isoforms in MgACs and MgSCs; (4) Conclusions: DSF/Cu exerts cytotoxic effects against both meningioma cells and stem-like cells and has treatment potential for meningioma.

Ivermectin accelerates autophagic death of glioma cells by inhibiting glycolysis through blocking GLUT4 mediated JAK/STAT signaling pathway activation

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the regulatory effect of ivermectin (IVM) on energy metabolism in glioma progression, and provide a reference for the treatment of glioma.

METHODS

Glioma cells were treated with IVM to measure cell viability, autophagy marker protein expression, ATP content, glucose uptake, pyruvate content, and expression of key enzymes of glycolysis. Glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) or siGLUT4 was transfected in IVM treated U87 cells to investigate the effect of GLUT4 on cellular glycolysis and autophagy. The JAK2 inhibitor AZD-1480 was introduced to explore the specific mechanism by which IVM regulates glycolysis and autophagy. Rat models of glioma xenograft were constructed and treated with 10 mg/kg IVM to observe tumor growth and examine the expression levels of GLUT4 and autophagy marker proteins in tumor tissues.

RESULTS

IVM inhibited glioma cell survival and promoted cell death. IVM promoted LC3-II protein expression and inhibited p62/SQSTM1 protein expression in glioma cells. IVM decreased adenosine-triphosphate (ATP) and pyruvate content, promoted glucose uptake, and reduced HK2 and PFK1 protein expression in U87 cells. IVM inhibited GLUT4 protein expression, and overexpression of GLUT4 promoted glycolysis and inhibited autophagic cell death in U87 cells. IVM inhibited glycolysis by blocking GLUT4 mediated the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway activation. IVM inhibited tumor growth in vivo, decreased the protein expression of GLUT4, JAK2, HK2, and PFK1 in tumor tissues, decreased the phosphorylation levels of STAT3/STAT5, and promoted the expression of autophagy marker proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

IVM accelerates autophagic death of glioma cells by inhibiting glycolysis through blocking GLUT4 mediated JAK/STAT signaling pathway activation.

LncRNA PVT1 promotes tumorigenesis of glioblastoma by recruiting COPS5 to deubiquitinate and stabilize TRIM24

LncRNA PVT1 has been implicated in numerous pathophysiological processes and diseases, especially cancers. However, the role and mechanism of PVT1 in the tumorigenesis of glioblastoma remain unclear. We investigated the alteration of PVT1 and its key functions in glioblastoma. PVT1 was upregulated and associated with poor prognosis in glioblastoma. We demonstrated that PVT1 silencing suppressed cell proliferation, colony formation, and orthotopic xenograft tumor growth. Mechanistic investigations found that PVT1 interacted with TRIM24 directly and increased its protein stability. PVT1 recruited COPS5 to deubiquitinate TRIM24; reciprocally, PVT1 depletion impaired the interaction between COPS5 and TRIM24, resulting in decreased expression of TRIM24. PVT1, TRIM24, and COPS5 coordinately contributed to the activation of STAT3 signaling and malignant phenotype of glioblastoma. Collectively, this study elucidates the essential role of PVT1 in the tumorigenesis of glioblastoma, which provides candidacy therapeutic target for glioblastoma treatment.

FAS receptor regulates NOTCH activity through ERK-JAG1 axis activation and controls oral cancer stemness ability and pulmonary metastasis

Pulmonary metastasis occurring via the colonization of circulating cancer stem cells is a major cause of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)-related death. Thus, understanding the mechanism of OSCC pulmonary metastasis may provide a new opportunity for OSCC treatment. FAS, a well-known apoptosis-inducing death receptor, has multiple nonapoptotic, protumorigenic functions. Previously, we found that SAS OSCC cells with FAS receptor knockout did not affect orthotopic tumor growth or cervical lymph node metastasis. However, FAS knockout cells could not colonize in distant organs to form metastases upon intravenous injection, which hinted at the cancer stemness function of the FAS receptor. Immunohistochemistry staining indicated that the FAS receptor serves as a poor prognosis marker in OSCC patients. FAS knockout inhibited in vitro cancer spheroid formation, migration and invasion, and prevented mesenchymal transition in OSCC cells and inhibited OSCC pulmonary metastasis in vivo. To determine the regulatory mechanism by which the FAS receptor exerts its oncogenic function, we utilized cDNA microarrays and phosphoprotein arrays to discover key candidate genes and signaling pathway regulators. JAG1 expression and NOTCH pathway activation were controlled by the FAS receptor through ERK phosphorylation. Both JAG1 and NOTCH1 silencing decreased in vitro cancer spheroid formation. In OSCC cells, FAS ligand or JAG1 protein treatment increased NOTCH pathway activity, which could be abolished by FAS receptor knockout. In FAS knockout cells, restoring the NOTCH1 intracellular domain stimulated cancer spheroid formation. Both JAG1 and NOTCH1 silencing decreased in vivo OSCC growth. In conclusion, we found a novel FAS-ERK-JAG1-NOTCH1 axis that may contribute to OSCC stemness and pulmonary metastasis.

Current Development and Application of Anaerobic Glycolytic Enzymes in Urothelial Cancer

Urothelial cancer is a malignant tumor with metastatic ability and high mortality. Malignant tumors of the urinary system include upper tract urothelial cancer and bladder cancer. In addition to typical genetic alterations and epigenetic modifications, metabolism-related events also occur in urothelial cancer. This metabolic reprogramming includes aberrant expression levels of genes, metabolites, and associated networks and pathways. In this review, we summarize the dysfunctions of glycolytic enzymes in urothelial cancer and discuss the relevant phenotype and signal transduction. Moreover, we describe potential prognostic factors and risks to the survival of clinical cancer patients. More importantly, based on several available databases, we explore relationships between glycolytic enzymes and genetic changes or drug responses in urothelial cancer cells. Current advances in glycolysis-based inhibitors and their combinations are also discussed. Combining all of the evidence, we indicate their potential value for further research in basic science and clinical applications.

A Transcriptomic Analysis of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas for Prognostic Indications

Survival analysis of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset is a well-known method for discovering gene expression-based prognostic biomarkers of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). A cutoff point is usually used in survival analysis for patient dichotomization when using continuous gene expression values. There is some optimization software for cutoff determination. However, the software's predetermined cutoffs are usually set at the medians or quantiles of gene expression values. There are also few clinicopathological features available in pre-processed datasets. We applied an in-house workflow, including data retrieving and pre-processing, feature selection, sliding-window cutoff selection, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and Cox proportional hazard modeling for biomarker discovery. In our approach for the TCGA HNSCC cohort, we scanned human protein-coding genes to find optimal cutoff values. After adjustments with confounders, clinical tumor stage and surgical margin involvement were found to be independent risk factors for prognosis. According to the results tables that show hazard ratios with Bonferroni-adjusted p values under the optimal cutoff, three biomarker candidates, CAMK2N1, CALML5, and FCGBP, are significantly associated with overall survival. We validated this discovery by using the another independent HNSCC dataset (GSE65858). Thus, we suggest that transcriptomic analysis could help with biomarker discovery. Moreover, the robustness of the biomarkers we identified should be ensured through several additional tests with independent datasets.

The Role of Glucose Transporters in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a prevalent malignancy associated with a poor prognosis. The Warburg effect can be observed in OSCCs, with tumours requiring a robust glucose supply. Glucose transporters (GLUTs) and sodium-glucose co-transporters (SGLTs) are overexpressed in multiple malignancies, and are correlated with treatment resistance, clinical factors, and poor overall survival (OS). We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the differences in GLUT/SGLT expression between OSCC and normal oral keratinocytes (NOK), as well as their role in the pathophysiology and prognosis of OSCC. A total of 85 studies were included after screening 781 papers. GLUT-1 is regularly expressed in OSCC and was found to be overexpressed in comparison to NOK, with high expression correlated to tumour stage, treatment resistance, and poor prognosis. No clear association was found between GLUT-1 and tumour grade, metastasis, and fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake. GLUT-3 was less thoroughly studied but could be detected in most samples and is generally overexpressed compared to NOK. GLUT-3 negatively correlated with overall survival (OS), but there was insufficient data for correlations with other clinical factors. Expression of GLUT-2/GLUT-4/GLUT-8/GLUT-13/SGLT-1/SGLT-2 was only evaluated in a small number of studies with no significant differences detected. GLUTs 7 and 14 have never been evaluated in OSCC. In conclusion, the data demonstrates that GLUT-1 and GLUT-3 have a role in the pathophysiology of OSCC and represent valuable biomarkers to aid OSCC diagnosis and prognostication. Other GLUTs are comparatively understudied and should be further analysed because they may hold promise to improve patient care.

RNA N 6-Methyladenosine in Cancer Metastasis: Roles, Mechanisms, and Applications

Cancer metastasis is a symptom of adverse prognosis, a prime origin of therapy failure, and a lethal challenge for cancer patients. N⁶-methyladenosine (m⁶A), the most prevailing modification in messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) of higher eukaryotes, has attracted increasing attention. Growing studies have verified the pivotal roles of m⁶A methylation in controlling mRNAs and ncRNAs in diverse physiological processes. Remarkably, recent findings have showed that aberrant methylation of m⁶A-related RNAs could influence cancer metastasis. In this review, we illuminate how m⁶A modifiers act on mRNAs and ncRNAs and modulate metastasis in several cancers, and put forward the clinical application prospects of m⁶A methylation.

Prognostic value of glycolysis markers in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a meta-analysis

Glycolysis markers including glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4), hexokinase 2 (HK2), pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) and glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) play vital roles in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, their prognostic value in HNSCC is still controversial. In this meta-analysis, we searched the PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases and included thirty-seven studies (3272 patients) that met the inclusion criteria. Higher expression levels of the glycolysis markers in tumor tissues correlated with poorer overall survival (OS; P < 0.001), disease-free survival (DFS; P = 0.03) and recurrence-free survival (RFS; P < 0.001) of HNSCC patients. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses demonstrated that higher expression levels of GLUT1 (P < 0.001), MCT4 (P = 0.002), HK2 (P = 0.002) and PKM2 (P < 0.001) correlated with poorer OS among HNSCC patients. Higher expression of MCT4 (P < 0.001) and PKM2 (P = 0.008) predicted poorer DFS among HNSCC patients. However, GLUT4 expression levels did not associate with clinical outcomes in HNSCC patients. These results demonstrate that glycolysis markers, such as GLUT1, MCT4, HK2 and PKM2, are potential prognostic predictors and therapeutic targets in HNSCC.

Insulin-Independent and Dependent Glucose Transporters in Brain Mural Cells in CADASIL

Typical cerebral autosomal-dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is caused by mutations in the human NOTCH3 gene. Cerebral autosomal-dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy is characterized by subcortical ischemic strokes due to severe arteriopathy and fibrotic thickening of small vessels. Blood regulating vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) appear as the key target in CADASIL but the pathogenic mechanisms remain unclear. With the hypothesis that brain glucose metabolism is disrupted in VSMCs in CADASIL, we investigated post-mortem tissues and VSMCs derived from CADASIL patients to explore gene expression and protein immunoreactivity of glucose transporters (GLUTs), particularly GLUT4 and GLUT2 using quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemical techniques. In vitro cell model analysis indicated that both GLUT4 and -2 gene expression levels were down-regulated in VSMCs derived from CADASIL patients, compared to controls. In vitro studies further indicated that the down regulation of GLUT4 coincided with impaired glucose uptake in VSMCs, which could be partially rescued by insulin treatment. Our observations on reduction in GLUTs in VSMCs are consistent with previous findings of decreased cerebral blood flow and glucose uptake in CADASIL patients. That impaired ability of glucose uptake is rescued by insulin is also consistent with previously reported lower proliferation rates of VSMCs derived from CADASIL subjects. Overall, these observations are consistent with the development of severe cerebral arteriopathy in CADASIL, in which VSMCs are replaced by widespread fibrosis.

Natural Agents Targeting Mitochondria in Cancer

Mitochondria are the key energy provider to highly proliferating cancer cells, and are subsequently considered one of the critical targets in cancer therapeutics. Several compounds have been studied for their mitochondria-targeting ability in cancer cells. These studies’ outcomes have led to the invention of “mitocans”, a category of drug known to precisely target the cancer cells’ mitochondria. Based upon their mode of action, mitocans have been divided into eight classes. To date, different synthetic compounds have been suggested to be potential mitocans, but unfortunately, they are observed to exert adverse effects. Many studies have been published justifying the medicinal significance of large numbers of natural agents for their mitochondria-targeting ability and anticancer activities with minimal or no side effects. However, these natural agents have never been critically analyzed for their mitochondria-targeting activity. This review aims to evaluate the various natural agents affecting mitochondria and categorize them in different classes. Henceforth, our study may further support the potential mitocan behavior of various natural agents and highlight their significance in formulating novel potential anticancer therapeutics.

Knockdown of TRIM24 suppresses growth and induces apoptosis in acute myeloid leukemia through downregulation of Wnt/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling

Tripartite motif-containing protein 24 (TRIM24) has currently emerged as a crucial cancer-related gene present in a wide range of human cancer types. However, the involvement of TRIM24 in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has not been well investigated. The present study aims to investigate the significance, cellular function, and potential regulatory mechanism of TRIM24 in AML. We found that TRIM24 expression was significantly upregulated in AML compared with normal tissues. AML patients with low expression of TRIM24 had higher survival rates than those expressing TRIM24 at higher levels. High expression of TRIM24 was also detected in AML cells and its knockdown markedly restricted proliferation and promoted apoptosis in AML cells. Further investigation revealed that TRIM24 contributed to the regulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which was associated with modulating the phosphorylation status of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β). Inactivation of GSK-3β partially reversed the TRIM24 knockdown-mediated antitumor effects observed in AML cells. Furthermore, knockdown of TRIM24 retarded the growth of AML-derived xenograft tumors in nude mice in vivo. Overall, these findings demonstrate that knockdown of TRIM24 impedes the AML tumor growth through the modulation of Wnt/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling. These findings highlight the potential TRIM24 as an attractive anticancer target to treat AML.

AKR1C1 controls cisplatin-resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma through cross-talk with the STAT1/3 signaling pathway

Background

Cisplatin is the first-line chemotherapy used against most upper aerodigestive tract carcinomas. In head and neck cancer, sensitivity to cisplatin remains the key issue in treatment response and outcome. Genetic heterogeneity and aberrant gene expression may be the intrinsic factors that cause primary cisplatin-resistance.

Methods

Combination of the HNSCC gene expression data and the cisplatin sensitivity results from public database. We found that aldo-keto reductase family 1 member C1 (AKR1C1) may be associated with cisplatin sensitivity in HNSCC treatment of naïve cells. We examined the AKR1C1 expression and its correlation with cisplatin IC₅₀ and prognosis in patients. The in vitro and in vivo AKR1C1 functions in cisplatin-resistance through overexpression or knockdown assays, respectively. cDNA microarrays were used to identify the upstream regulators that modulate AKR1C1-induced signaling in HNSCC. Finally, we used the cigarette metabolites to promote AKR1C1 expression and ruxolitinib to overcome AKR1C1-induced cisplatin-resistance.

Results

AKR1C1 positively correlates to cisplatin-resistance in HNSCC cells. AKR1C1 is a poor prognostic factor for recurrence and death of HNSCC patients. Silencing of AKR1C1 not only reduced in vitro IC₅₀ but also increased in vivo cisplatin responses and vise versa in overexpression cells. Cigarette metabolites also promote AKR1C1 expression. Transcriptome analyses revealed that STAT1 and STAT3 activation enable AKR1C1-induced cisplatin-resistance and can be overcome by ruxolitinib treatment.

Conclusions

AKR1C1 is a crucial regulator for cisplatin-resistance in HNSCC and also poor prognostic marker for patients. Targeting the AKR1C1-STAT axis may provide a new therapeutic strategy to treat patients who are refractory to cisplatin treatment.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13046-019-1256-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Resveratrol Action on Lipid Metabolism in Cancer

Cancer diseases have the leading position in human mortality nowadays. The age of oncologic patients is still decreasing, and the entire scientific society is eager for new ways to fight against cancer. One of the most discussed issues is prevention by means of natural substances. Resveratrol is a naturally occurring plant polyphenol with proven antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Tumor cells display specific changes in the metabolism of various lipids. Resveratrol alters lipid metabolism in cancer, thereby affecting storage of energy, cell signaling, proliferation, progression, and invasiveness of cancer cells. At the whole organism level, it contributes to the optimal metabolism extent with respect to the demands of the organism. Thus, resveratrol could be used as a preventive and anticancer agent. In this review, we focus on some of the plethora of lipid pathways and signal molecules which are affected by resveratrol during carcinogenesis.

The peculiarities of cancer cell metabolism: A route to metastasization and a target for therapy

The last decade has witnessed the peculiarities of metabolic reprogramming in tumour onset and progression, and their relevance in cancer therapy. Also, it has been indicated that the metastatic process may depend on the metabolic rewiring and adaptation of cancer cells to the pressure of tumour microenvironment and limiting nutrient availability. The present review gatherers the existent knowledge on the influence of tumour microenvironment and metabolic routes driving metastasis. A focus will be given to glycolysis, fatty acid metabolism, glutaminolysis, and amino acid handling. In addition, the role of metabolic waste driving metastasization will be explored. Finally, we discuss the status of cancer treatment approaches targeting metabolism. This knowledge revision will highlight the critical metabolic targets in metastasis and the chemicals already used in preclinical studies and clinical trials, providing clues that would be further exploited in medicinal chemistry research.

Effect of tumor microenvironment on pathogenesis of the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is comprised of many different cell populations, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts and various infiltrating immune cells, and non-cell components of extracellular matrix. These crucial parts of the surrounding stroma can function as both positive and negative regulators of all hallmarks of cancer development, including evasion of apoptosis, induction of angiogenesis, deregulation of the energy metabolism, resistance to the immune detection and destruction, and activation of invasion and metastasis. This review represents a summary of recent studies focusing on describing these effects of microenvironment on initiation and progression of the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, focusing on oral squamous cell carcinoma, since it is becoming clear that an investigation of differences in stromal composition of the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma microenvironment and their impact on cancer development and progression may help better understand the mechanisms behind different responses to therapy and help define possible targets for clinical intervention.

The role of Tannerella forsythia and Porphyromonas gingivalis in pathogenesis of esophageal cancer

Tannerella forsythia and Porphyromonas gingivalis are anaerobic, Gram-negative bacterial species which have been implicated in periodontal diseases as a part of red complex of periodontal pathogens. Esophageal cancer is the eight most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Higher rates of esophageal cancer cases may be attributed to lifestyle factors such as: diet, obesity, alcohol and tobacco use. Moreover, the presence of oral P. gingivalis and T. forsythia has been found to be associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer. Our review describes the role of P. gingivalis and T. forsythia in signaling pathways responsible for cancer development. It has been shown that T. forsythia may induce pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-6 by CD4 + T helper cells and TNF-α. Moreover, gingipain K produced by P. gingivalis, affects hosts immune system by degradation of immunoglobulins and complement system (C3 and C5 components). Discussed bacteria are responsible for overexpression of MMP-2, MMP-2 and GLUT transporters.

Altered cancer metabolism in mechanisms of immunotherapy resistance

Many metabolic alterations, including the Warburg effect, occur in cancer cells that influence the tumor microenvironment, including switching to glycolysis from oxidative phosphorylation, using opportunistic modes of nutrient acquisition, and increasing lipid biosynthesis. The altered metabolic landscape of the tumor microenvironment can suppress the infiltration of immune cells and other functions of antitumor immunity through the production of immune-suppressive metabolites. Metabolic dysregulation in cancer cells further affects the expression of cell surface markers, which interferes with immune surveillance. Immune checkpoint therapies have revolutionized the standard of care for some patients with cancer, but disease in many others is resistant to immunotherapy. Specific metabolic pathways involved in immunotherapy resistance include PI3K-Akt-mTOR, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), adenosine, JAK/STAT, and Wnt/Beta-catenin. Depletion of essential amino acids such as glutamine and tryptophan and production of metabolites like kynurenine in the tumor microenvironment also blunt immune cell function. Targeted therapies against metabolic checkpoints could work in synergy with immune checkpoint therapy. This combined strategy could be refined by profiling patients' mutation status before treatment and identifying the optimal sequencing of therapies. This personalized combinatorial approach, which has yet to be explored, may well pave the way for overcoming resistance to immunotherapy.

Circular RNA circAGO2 drives cancer progression through facilitating HuR-repressed functions of AGO2-miRNA complexes

Argonaute 2 (AGO2), the core component of microRNA (miRNA)-induced silencing complex, plays a compelling role in tumorigenesis and aggressiveness. However, the mechanisms regulating the functions of AGO2 in cancer still remain elusive. Herein, we indentify one intronic circular RNA (circRNA) generated from AGO2 gene (circAGO2) as a novel regulator of AGO2-miRNA complexes and cancer progression. CircAGO2 is up-regulated in gastric cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, and neuroblastoma, and is associated with poor prognosis of patients. CircAGO2 promotes the growth, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic studies reveal that circAGO2 physically interacts with human antigen R (HuR) protein to facilitate its activation and enrichment on the 3'-untranslated region of target genes, resulting in reduction of AGO2 binding and repression of AGO2/miRNA-mediated gene silencing associated with cancer progression. Pre-clinically, administration of lentivirus-mediated short hairpin RNA targeting circAGO2 inhibits the expression of downstream target genes, and suppresses the tumorigenesis and aggressiveness of xenografts in nude mice. In addition, blocking the interaction between circAGO2 and HuR by cell-penetrating inhibitory peptide represses the tumorigenesis and aggressiveness of cancer cells. Taken together, these results indicate that oncogenic circAGO2 drives cancer progression through facilitating HuR-repressed functions of AGO2-miRNA complexes.

Novel lymphoid enhancer-binding factor 1-cytoglobin axis promotes extravasation of osteosarcoma cells into the lungs

Lung metastasis is a major cause of mortality in patients with osteosarcoma (OS). A better understanding of the molecular mechanism of OS lung metastasis may facilitate development of new therapeutic strategies to prevent the metastasis. We have established high- and low-metastatic sublines (LM8-H and LM8-L, respectively) from Dunn OS cell line LM8 by using in vivo image-guided screening. Among the genes whose expression was significantly increased in LM8-H compared to LM8-L, the transcription factor lymphoid enhancer-binding factor 1 (LEF1) was identified as a factor that promotes LM8-H cell extravasation into the lungs. To identify downstream effectors of LEF1 that are involved in OS lung metastasis, 13 genes were selected based on LM8 microarray data and genomewide meta-analysis of a public database for OS patients. Among them, the cytoglobin (Cygb) gene was identified as a key effector in promoting OS extravasation into the lungs. CYGB overexpression increased the extravasation ability of LM8-L cells, whereas knocking out the Cygb gene in LM8-H cells reduced this ability. Our results showed a novel LEF1-CYGB axis in OS lung metastasis and may provide a new way of developing therapeutic strategies to prevent OS lung metastasis.

Roles of Aldolase Family Genes in Human Cancers and Diseases

The aldolase family members involved in metabolism and glycolysis are present in three isoforms: ALDOA, ALDOB, and ALDOC. Aldolases are differentially expressed in human tissues, and aberrant expression has been observed in several human diseases and cancer types. However, non-enzymatic functions through protein-protein interactions or epigenetic modifications have been reported in recent years. Using high-throughput screening and -omics database integration, aldolase has been validated as an independent clinical prognostic marker of human cancers. Therefore, the aim of this review was to provide potential clinical value from in silico predictions and also summarize well-known signaling axes or phenotypes in various cancer types. Finally, we discuss the role of aldolase in the treatment of human diseases and cancers.

Immunohistochemical Evaluation of GLUT-3 and GLUT-4 in Oral Epithelial Dysplasia and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Objectives

To evaluate immunohistochemically the expression of GLUT-3 and GLUT-4 in oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) and the oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and assess possible involvement in the malignant transformation of oral lesions.

Methods

Tissue samples of 15 cases of OSCC and 15 of OED were subjected to immunohistochemistry with anti-GLUT-3 and anti-GLUT-4 antibodies. Five fields of each case were analyzed, to provide percentages of positive cells at 400X magnification.

Result

GLUT-3 and GLUT-4 were positive in 100% of the analyzed samples, the percentage immunolabeling for GLUT-3 ranging from 19% to 73% in the OED group and 10% to 89% in the OSCC group. Positive immunolabeling for GLUT-4 ranged from 15.2% to 79.9% in the OSCC group and 27.1% to 92.6% in the OED group. Statistical analysis with the Mann-Whitney test revealed that there was a higher expression of GLUT-4 in the OED group than in the OSCC group (p=0.04) without any significant difference in the GLUT-3 expression (p=0.852).

Conclusion

GLUT-4 expression may indicate some role in oncogenic mechanisms which can determine a malignant phenotype. Thus, it is suggested that further studies on the role of GLUT-3 in oral carcinogenesis be conducted.