Dynamic EMT: a multi-tool for tumor progression

Developments in the connection between epithelial‑mesenchymal transition and endoplasmic reticulum stress (Review)

Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and epithelial‑mesenchymal transition (EMT) have important roles in fibrosis and tumour development. Moderate ERS activates cellular defence mechanisms in response to noxious stimuli; however, sustained or overly strong ERS induces apoptosis. In this disease process, EMT induces epithelial cells to acquire the ability to migrate and invade. Reportedly, ERS directly or indirectly regulates EMT processes through multiple mechanisms (such as key transcription factors, signalling pathways, ferroptosis, autophagy and oxidative stress), and both processes form a complex network of interactions. Given the critical roles of ERS and EMT in disease, targeted intervention of these two processes has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy. In the present study, the molecular interaction mechanism of ERS and EMT was systematically explored, research progress in fibrotic and neoplastic diseases was reviewed and the potential application prospects of related targeted therapies were examined, which may provide new ideas for the development of drugs to reverse fibrosis and treat tumours.

RPF2 regulates the protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway in the pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori

BACKGROUND

RPF2 is a crucial factor in ribosome synthesis, which has been linked to the development of several cancers. However, the mechanism of RPF2 in gastric carcinogenesis is unclear.

AIM

To explore the role and mechanism of RPF2 in the pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

METHODS

GES-1 was co-cultured with H. pylori in vitro to detect changes in the expression of RPF2. Overexpression and silencing of RPF2 were performed. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR) and Western blot (WB) were used to determine mRNA and protein expression of RPF2, protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related factors MMP2 and MMP9; cell counting kit 8 and wound healing assays were utilized to evaluate cell viability and migratory capacity; q-PCR, WB, and immunohistochemistry were employed to establish RPF2 expression in cancer tissues.

RESULTS

H. pylori facilitated RPF2 expression and triggered AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Functional experiments showed that RPF2 overexpression could promote a series of malignant transformations such as cell proliferation, cell migration and invasion, and further enhance AKT/mTOR signaling pathway activation. RPF2 knockdown had the opposite effect. In addition, RPF2 expression was higher in gastric cancer tissues than in adjacent tissues.

CONCLUSION

RPF2 plays a significant role in the pathogenic mechanism of H. pylori infection and may be useful in the detection and management of gastric cancer caused by H. pylori infection.

Silencing of STX4 inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of ovarian cancer cells via EMT/MMP2/ CCND1 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common malignant tumors of the female reproductive system and 55-75% of patients relapse after surgery and standard postoperative chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Syntaxin4 (STX4) is localized in the plasma membrane and plays a role in the occurrence, development, invasion and metastasis of cancer cells.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the changes in the biological behavior and effects of STX4 gene silencing on the invasion and metastasis of OC cell lines.

METHODS

The proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of two groups of OC cell lines SK-OV-3 and CAOV-3 constructed with an interfering plasmid (pLVX-shRNA1-STX4-shRNA) and a negative control plasmid (pLVX-shRNA1-nonspecific-shRNA), were examined via Cell Counting Kit-8, Transwell and scratch assays. The EMT markers vimentin and E-cadherin, MMPs (MMP1, MMP2 and MMP9) and CCND1 were used to explore the possible molecular mechanism of STX4 by which STX4 affects OC cells behavior, after which the effect of STX4 gene silencing on the proliferation of OC cells in vivo was tested.

RESULTS

After STX4 silencing, the biological behaviors of ovarian cancer cells including proliferation, migration and invasion, were significantly weakened. The results revealed that the E-cadherin, MMP2 and CCND1 levels of both OC cell lines were decreased after STX4 gene silencing. Animal models of STX4 gene silencing showed the tumorigenicity of tumor cells was reduced.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated for the first time that STX4, an important regulator of OC progression, was associated with the growth and metastasis of OC cells through correlations with EMT, MMP2, and CCND1, suggesting its potential as a new therapeutic target for OC.

Non-Invasive Tumor Budding Evaluation and Correlation with Treatment Response in Bladder Cancer: A Multi-Center Cohort Study

The clinical benefits of neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy (NACI) are demonstrated in patients with bladder cancer (BCa); however, more than half fail to achieve a pathological complete response (pCR). This study utilizes multi-center cohorts of 2322 patients with pathologically diagnosed BCa, collected between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2023, to explore the correlation between tumor budding (TB) status and NACI response and disease prognosis. A deep learning model is developed to noninvasively evaluate TB status based on CT images. The deep learning model accurately predicts the TB status, with area under the curve values of 0.932 (95% confidence interval: 0.898-0.965) in the training cohort, 0.944 (0.897-0.991) in the internal validation cohort, 0.882 (0.832-0.933) in external validation cohort 1, 0.944 (0.908-0.981) in the external validation cohort 2, and 0.854 (0.739-0.970) in the NACI validation cohort. Patients predicted to have a high TB status exhibit a worse prognosis (p < 0.05) and a lower pCR rate of 25.9% (7/20) than those predicted to have a low TB status (pCR rate: 73.9% [17/23]; p < 0.001). Hence, this model may be a reliable, noninvasive tool for predicting TB status, aiding clinicians in prognosis assessment and NACI strategy formulation.

Machine learning predictions of tumor progression: How reliable are we?

BACKGROUND

Cancer continues to pose significant challenges in healthcare due to the complex nature of tumor progression. In this digital era, artificial intelligence has emerged as a powerful tool that can potentially transform multiple aspects of cancer care.

METHODS

In the current study, we conducted a comprehensive literature search across databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and IEEE Xplore. Studies published between 2014 and 2024 were considered. The selection process involved a systematic screening based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies were included if they focused on applying machine learning techniques for tumor progression modeling, diagnosis, or prognosis, were published in peer-reviewed journals or conference proceedings, were available in English, and presented experimental results, simulations, or real-world applications. In total, 87 papers were included in this review, ensuring a diverse and representative analysis of the field. A workflow is included to illustrate the procedure followed to achieve this aim.

RESULTS

This review delves into the cutting-edge applications of machine learning (ML), including supervised learning methods like Support Vector Machines and Random Forests, as well as advanced deep learning (DL). It focuses on the integration of ML into oncological research, particularly its application in tumor progression through the tumor microenvironment, genetic data, histopathological data, and radiological data. This work provides a critical analysis of the challenges associated with the reliability and accuracy of ML models, which limit their clinical integration.

CONCLUSION

This review offers expert insights and strategies to address these challenges in order to improve the robustness and applicability of ML in real-world oncology settings. By emphasizing the potential for personalized cancer treatment and bridging gaps between technology and clinical needs, this review serves as a comprehensive resource for advancing the integration of ML models into clinical oncology.

Effects of NaV1.5 and Rac1 on the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a disease that seriously endangers the health of women. However, it is difficult to treat due to the emergence of metastasis and drug resistance. Exploring the metastasis mechanism of breast cancer is helpful to aim for the appropriate target. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important mechanism of breast cancer metastasis. Sodium channel 1.5(NaV1.5) and the GTPase Rac1 are factors related to the degree of malignancy of breast tumors. The expression of NaV1.5 and the activation of Rac1 are both involved in EMT. In addition, NaV1.5 can change the plasma membrane potential (Vm) by promoting the inflow of Na+ to depolarize the cell membrane, induce the activation of Rac1 and produce a cascade of reactions that lead to EMT in breast cancer cells; this sequence of events further induces the movement, migration and invasion of tumor cells and affects the prognosis of breast cancer patients. In this paper, the roles of NaV1.5 and Rac1 in EMT-mediated breast cancer progression were reviewed.

Fn14 Controls the SIRT2-Mediated Deacetylation of Slug to Inhibit the Metastasis of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Metastatic spread of cancer is the leading cause of death in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), and elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying this process is a major focus of cancer research. Fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) has been shown to regulate wound repair, inflammation, angiogenesis, and chemoresistance, but its functional role in metastasis in EOC is still unknown. Here it is reported that Fn14 is identified as a cancer metastasis suppressor that inhibits the migratory and invasive potential of EOC cells by down-regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Mechanistically, it is identified that Fn14 promotes acetylation-dependent protein degradation of Slug, a key transcriptional factor associated with EMT. The deacetylase Sirtuin 2 (SIRT2) has been reported to be involved in the deacetylation of Slug protein to stabilize it and then prevent its degradation in the nucleus. The results showed that Fn14 alters the subcellular localization of (SIRT2) by interacting with SIRT2, leading to reduced SIRT2 shuttling into the nucleus and subsequently promoting the acetylated degradation of Slug. Collectively, the work has demonstrated for the first time that Fn14 inhibits EOC metastasis by regulating SIRT2-mediated Slug deacetylation, providing a new perspective and method for the development of future novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of EOC metastasis.

Five-Gene Expression Signature Associated With Acquired FOLFIRI Resistance and Survival in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

FOLFIRI, a combination of folinic acid, 5-fluorouracil, and irinotecan, is one of the recommended first-line chemotherapeutic treatments for metastatic colorectal cancer. Unfortunately, acquired FOLFIRI resistance represents a common obstacle in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer patients. Thus, we aimed to identify mechanisms, gene alterations, and gene expression signatures contributing to acquired FOLFIRI resistance by mimicking this problem in a cell culture model and subsequent translation in clinical data sets. Three FOLFIRI-resistant colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines were established by continuous FOLFIRI treatment. Comparative mutation screening (161 genes) and transcriptomics (pathway and differential expression analyses) were performed in parental and resistant cells. Data reconciliation was performed in GSE62322, a clinical FOLFIRI responder data set (intrinsic resistance). Relapse-free survival (RFS) associations of identified differentially expressed genes and potential gene signatures were investigated in 8 clinical CRC data sets. No mutual genetic alterations were found in FOLFIRI-resistant derivatives. Resistant cell lines displayed activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase, immune response, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathways. Twelve differentially expressed genes, significantly differentially expressed in at least 2 of the 3 resistant cell lines, were identified. Comparison with GSE62322 and subsequent survival analyses revealed a 5-gene FOLFIRI signature comprised of CAV2, TNC, TACSTD2, SERPINE2, and PERP that was associated with RFS in multiple data sets including the cancer genome atlas CRC (hazard ratio [HR] =2.634, P = 4.53 × 10-6), in pooled samples of all data sets (all stages [N = 1981]: HR = 1.852, P = 6.44 × 10-13; stage IV [N = 260]: HR = 2.462, P = 5.22 × 10-9). A multivariate Cox regression analysis identified the 5-gene signature as an independent prognostic factor in the cancer genome atlas data set (HR = 1.89, P = .0202). Our analyses revealed a 5-gene FOLFIRI resistance signature associated with RFS that may help predict FOLFIRI resistance and thus avoid unnecessary ineffective treatment. Signature members might also represent targets to fight FOLFIRI resistance.

Oxaliplatin and 5-fluorouracil promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition via activation of KRAS/ERK/NF-κB pathway in KRAS-mutated colon cancer cells

Oxaliplatin (L-OHP) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) are used to treat colon cancer; however, resistance contributes to poor prognosis. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been induced in tumor tissues after administration of anticancer drugs and may be involved in drug resistance. We investigated the mechanism of EMT induction in colon cancer cells treated with 5-FU and L-OHP. We found that L-OHP and 5-FU at clinical steady-state concentrations induced EMT in LoVo and DLD-1 cells (KRAS G13D-mutated), but not in HT-29 and Caco-2 cells (KRAS wild type). L-OHP and 5-FU elevated vimentin, N-cadherin, Twist, Slug, and Snail and decreased E-cadherin expressions. Moreover, 5-FU- and L-OHP -induced EMT cells showed increased cell migration and decreased sensitivity to 5-FU and L-OHP. L-OHP and 5-FU treatment promoted KRAS, ERK1/2, and NF-κB activation. Combined administration with KRAS siRNA, MEK1/2 inhibitor trametinib, and NF-κB inhibitor dimethyl fumarate (DMF), suppressed L-OHP- and 5-FU-induced EMT. These results suggest that KRAS/ERK/NF-κB pathway activation is important for EMT induction by L-OHP and 5-FU treatment. Thus, MEK1/2 and NF-κB inhibitors may facilitate the resistance acquisition to L-OHP and 5-FU therapy in KRAS G13D-mutated colon cancer.

Leukemia Inhibitory Factor via JAK-STAT Signaling Drives Beryllium Sulfate-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in 16HBE Cells

Beryllium and its compounds are classified as carcinogens, and prolonged exposure can trigger chronic beryllium disease. The Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling is known to play a critical role in the development and progression of numerous diseases. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a key upstream cytokine of the JAK-STAT pathway, has been implicated in regulating inflammatory responses and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in various diseases. However, the specific involvement of the JAK-STAT pathway and LIF in beryllium sulfate (BeSO₄)-induced EMT in human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells remains unclear. To investigate the regulatory mechanisms, we examined the effects of BeSO₄ on 16HBE cells and targeted the JAK-STAT pathway using both pharmacological inhibition (niclosamide) and genetic silencing of LIF. Subsequently, we assessed cell morphology, proliferative capacity, inflammatory protein levels, and EMT marker expression. Our findings demonstrated that BeSO₄ exposure inhibited 16HBE cell proliferation and activated the JAK-STAT pathway. Pretreatment with niclosamide significantly mitigated cellular inflammation and the EMT process induced by BeSO₄. Additionally, silencing LIF markedly reduced JAK-STAT pathway activation and decreased the expression of EMT markers. This study uncovers a novel mechanism underlying BeSO₄-induced EMT in 16HBE cells, providing valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of toxicity induced by beryllium and its compounds.

Integrated mathematical and experimental modeling uncovers enhanced EMT plasticity upon loss of the DLC1 tumor suppressor

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an essential role in embryonic development, wound healing, and tumor progression. Partial EMT states have been linked to metastatic dissemination and drug resistance. Several interconnected feedback loops at the RNA and protein levels control the transition between different cellular states. Using a combination of mathematical modeling and experimental analyses in the TGFβ-responsive breast epithelial MCF10A cell model, we identify a central role for the tumor suppressor protein Deleted in Liver Cancer 1 (DLC1) during EMT. By extending a previous model of EMT comprising key transcription factors and microRNAs, our work shows that DLC1 acts as a positive regulator of TGFβ-driven EMT, mainly by promoting SNAIL1 expression. Our model predictions indicate that DLC1 loss impairs EMT progression. Experimental analyses confirm this prediction and reveal the acquisition of a partial EMT phenotype in DLC1-depleted cells. Furthermore, our model results indicate a possible EMT reversion to partial or epithelial states upon DLC1 loss in MCF10A cells induced toward mesenchymal phenotypes. The increased EMT plasticity of cells lacking DLC1 may explain its importance as a tumor suppressor.

ErbB2/HER2-targeted CAR-NK cells eliminate breast cancer cells in an organoid model that recapitulates tumor progression

Chimeric antigen receptor-engineered NK cells hold promise for adoptive cancer immunotherapy. In one such approach, the ErbB2 (HER2)-specific CAR-NK cell line NK-92/5.28.z is under investigation as an off-the-shelf therapy in a phase I trial in glioblastoma patients. To evaluate activity of NK-92/5.28.z cells against ErbB2-positive breast cancer, here we developed an organoid model derived from CKP mice that allows conditional activation of oncogenic driver mutations. Expression of ErbB2 and Cre recombinase in CKP mammary epithelial cells induced malignant transformation, with the resulting EC-CKP cells characterized by neoplastic morphology, loss of p53, and constitutive activation of the MAP kinase pathway. NK-92/5.28.z cells demonstrated potent CAR-mediated cytotoxicity against EC-CKP organoids, with tumor cell lysis dependent on exposure time and organoid size. In vivo passaging of EC-CKP organoids revealed cellular plasticity and induced an EMT phenotype associated with increased resistance to standard therapies. Importantly, NK-92/5.28.z cells retained high and specific cytotoxicity against these breast cancer cells in vitro and in an aggressive organoid-based in vivo mouse model that reflects advanced-stage disease. Our data highlight the therapeutic potential of NK-92/5.28.z cells against ErbB2-positive breast cancer, supporting their further development toward clinical application.

Periostin-mediated activation of NF-κB signaling promotes tumor progression and chemoresistance in glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive form of diffuse glioma, characterized by high lethality. Temozolomide (TMZ)-based chemotherapy is a standard treatment for GBM, but development of chemoresistance poses a significant therapeutic challenge. Despite advances in understanding GBM biology, the mechanisms driving TMZ resistance remain unclear. Identifying vital molecular players involved in this resistance is crucial for developing new therapies. Our results indicated that periostin (POSTN) was significantly upregulated in GBM cell lines and patient samples, correlating with poorer clinical outcomes. POSTN overexpression enhanced GBM cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and chemoresistance, while lentiviral suppression of POSTN significantly reduced these behaviors. In vivo, bioluminescence imaging further confirmed the enhanced tumor growth associated with POSTN overexpression. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to explore the underlying molecular mechanism. The results revealed a strong correlation between POSTN and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process and the tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)-NF-κB signaling pathway. Moreover, exogenous POSTN silencing reduced IκB-kinase α (IKKα) phosphorylation, thereby decreasing NF-κB expression by limiting IκBα degradation. Collectively, our study demonstrated that POSTN-induced activation of NF-κB signaling and EMT processes promoted the malignancy and chemoresistance of GBM, suggesting that POSTN may serve as a reliable prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target for GBM.

Matrix metalloproteinase-driven epithelial-mesenchymal transition: implications in health and disease

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process in which epithelial cells, defined by apical-basal polarity and tight intercellular junctions, acquire migratory and invasive properties characteristic of mesenchymal cells. Under normal conditions, EMT directs essential morphogenetic events in embryogenesis and supports tissue repair. When dysregulated, EMT contributes to pathological processes such as organ fibrosis, chronic inflammation, and cancer progression and metastasis. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)-a family of zinc-dependent proteases that degrade structural components of the extracellular matrix-sit at the nexus of this transition by dismantling basement membranes, activating pro-EMT signaling pathways, and cleaving adhesion molecules. When normally regulated, MMPs promote balanced ECM turnover and support the cyclical remodeling necessary for proper development, wound healing, and tissue homeostasis. When abnormally regulated, MMPs drive excessive ECM turnover, thereby promoting EMT-related pathologies, including tumor progression and fibrotic disease. This review provides an integrated overview of the molecular mechanisms by which MMPs both initiate and sustain EMT under physiological and disease conditions. It discusses how MMPs can potentiate EMT through TGF-β and Wnt/β-catenin signaling, disrupt cell-cell junction proteins, and potentiate the action of hypoxia-inducible factors in the tumor microenvironment. It discusses how these pathologic processes remodel tissues during fibrosis, and fuel cancer cell invasion, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. Finally, the review explores emerging therapeutic strategies that selectively target MMPs and EMT, ranging from CRISPR/Cas-mediated interventions to engineered tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and demonstrates how such approaches may suppress pathological EMT without compromising its indispensable roles in normal biology.

Tricellulin facilitates colorectal cancer metastasis through activation of the TGFβ/SMAD2/3 signalling pathway

Background

Tricellulin belongs to the TAMP family of proteins and is primarily localized at the tricellular tight junctions. While its role in the progression of cancer has been reported, its importance in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the function and mechanism of tricellulin in CRC progression.

Methods

The proteins expression in cells and/or tissues was determined by Western blot, immunohistochemistry staining, and/or RT-qPCR analyses. The biological functions of tricellulin were investigated through in vitro assays (CCK-8, Transwell migration, and colony formation assays) and in vivo xenograft models. Tricellulin was significantly upregulated in CRC tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues. The expression of tricellulin was correlated with poor prognosis in patients with CRC.

Results

In vitro assays showed that tricellulin enhanced CRC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Mechanistically, tricellulin activated the TGFb1/SMAD2/3 pathway, while TGFb1 reciprocally controlled the expression of tricellulin. Also, tricellulin promotes CRC cell migration/invasion through EMT. In vivo models confirmed that the overexpression of tricellulin facilitated tumor growth and activated the TGFb1/ SMAD2/3 pathway in CRC.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate thatTricellulin promotes the metastasis of colorectal cancer by activating the TGF-β/SMAD2/3 signaling pathway, and TGF-β1 can reciprocally regulate the expression of tricellulin.We have revealed a novel mechanism by which tricellulin forms a positive feedback loop to promote the growth and metastasis of CRC. This mechanism provides novel insights into CRC progression and suggests potential therapeutic targets.

The Clinical Relevance of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Hallmarks: A Cut-Off-Based Approach in Healthy and Cancerous Cell Lines

The atypical activation of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition represents one of the main mechanisms driving cancer cell dissemination. It enables epithelial cancer cells to detach from the primary tumor mass and gain survival advantages in the bloodstream, significantly contributing to the spread of circulating tumor cells. Notably, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition is not a binary process but rather leads to the formation of a wide range of cell subpopulations characterized by the simultaneous expression of both epithelial and mesenchymal markers. Therefore, analyzing the modulation of EMT hallmarks during the conversion from healthy cells to metastatic cancer cells, which acquire stem mesenchymal characteristics, is of particular interest. This study investigates the expression of a panel of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-related genes in healthy cells, primary and metastatic cancer cells, and in mesenchymal cell lines, derived from various tissues, including the lung, colon, pancreas, skin, and neuro-ectoderm, with the aim of identifying potential cut-off values for assessing cancer aggressiveness. Interestingly, we found that the expression levels of CDH1, which encodes the epithelial marker E-cadherin, CDH5, encoding vascular endothelial cadherin, and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-transcription factor ZEB1, effectively distinguished primary from metastatic cancer cells. Additionally, our data suggest a tissue-specific signature in the modulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition markers during cancer progression. Overall, our results underscore the importance of investigating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition as a tissue-specific process to identify the most suitable markers acting as potential indicators of disease aggressiveness and therapeutic responsiveness.

The role of LncRNA-MANCR induced by HIF-1α drive the malignant progression of pancreatic cancer by targeting miRNA-494/SIRT1 signaling axis under hypoxic conditions

This study revealed the prospective biological role and fundamental mechanisms of hypoxia-induced lncRNA-MANCR (MANCR), which is notably upregulated in pancreatic cancer (PC). This work uncovered the potential biological function and underlying mechanisms of hypoxia-induced MANCR, which is significantly elevated in PC. Microarray assays confirmed MANCR expression in the tissues of patients with PC and patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP), which positively correlated with sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) mRNA levels. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase assays were employed to gauge binding within the hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α)/MANCR/miRNA-494/SIRT1 pathway. Additionally, the association between MANCR expression and the clinical outcomes of patients with PC was confirmed. MANCR is significantly upregulated in PC cells under hypoxic conditions, which is closely linked to poor prognosis in patients with PC. Depletion of MANCR repressed in vitro proliferation, migration, and invasion of PC cells and in vivo growth of PC xenograft tumours. We further demonstrated that MANCR is localised in the cytoplasm and competitively binds miR-494, which directly targets SIRT1. Mechanically, the overexpression of SIRT1 improved the stability of the HIF-1α protein through deacetylation, leading to enhanced HIF-1α assembly. Moreover, MANCR underwent transcriptional regulation by HIF-1α in a hypoxic setting. This modulation was ascribed to HIF-1α binding to hypoxia response elements present in the MANCR promoter sequence. Data revealed the potential possibility of feedback between MANCR and HIF-1α, which may be conducive to hypoxia-induced oncogenicity and PC tumorigenesis, thereby providing a suitable therapeutic target.

Dynamics of Single-Cell Protein Covariation during Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

Physiological processes, such as the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), are mediated by changes in protein interactions. These changes may be better reflected in protein covariation within a cellular cluster than in the temporal dynamics of cluster-average protein abundance. To explore this possibility, we quantified proteins in single human cells undergoing EMT. Covariation analysis of the data revealed that functionally coherent protein clusters dynamically changed their protein-protein correlations without concomitant changes in the cluster-average protein abundance. These dynamics of protein-protein correlations were monotonic in time and delineated protein modules functioning in actin cytoskeleton organization, energy metabolism, and protein transport. These protein modules are defined by protein covariation within the same time point and cluster and, thus, reflect biological regulation masked by the cluster-average protein dynamics. Thus, protein correlation dynamics across single cells offers a window into protein regulation during physiological transitions.

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition orchestrates tumor microenvironment: current perceptions and challenges

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical process in cancer progression, facilitating tumor cells to develop invasive traits and augmenting their migratory capabilities. EMT is primed by tumor microenvironment (TME)-derived signals, whereupon cancer cells undergoing EMT in turn remodel the TME, thereby modulating tumor progression and therapeutic response. This review discusses the mechanisms by which EMT coordinates TME dynamics, including secretion of soluble factors, direct cell contact, release of exosomes and enzymes, as well as metabolic reprogramming. Recent evidence also indicates that cells undergoing EMT may differentiate into cancer-associated fibroblasts, thereby establishing themselves as functional constituents of the TME. Elucidating the relationship between EMT and the TME offers novel perspectives for therapeutic strategies to enhance cancer treatment efficacy. Although EMT-directed therapies present significant therapeutic potential, the current lack of effective targeting approaches-attributable to EMT complexity and its microenvironmental context dependency-underscores the necessity for mechanistic investigations and translational clinical validation.

HDAC3 and Snail2 complex promotes melanoma metastasis by epigenetic repression of IGFBP3

The treatment of metastatic melanoma has long posed a complex challenge within clinical practice. Previous studies have found that EMT transcription factors are essential in the development of various cancers through their induction of EMT. Here, we demonstrate that Snail2 expression is dramatically increased in melanoma and is associated with an adverse prognosis. Elevated Snail2 in melanoma cells enhanced migratory and invasive capabilities in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, RNA-Seq analysis revealed a significant reduction of IGFBP3 expression in melanoma cells overexpressing Snail2. IGFBP3 might mitigate the Snail2's ability to promote melanoma metastasis via the PI3K-AKT pathway. Moreover, Snail2 and HDAC3 collaborate to suppress IGFBP3 transcription through H3K4 deacetylation and H4K5 delactylation. Additionally, the combination of HDAC3 and p-GSK-3β inhibitors significantly improved the treatment outcomes for lung metastasis in melanoma in vivo. The results of our study indicate that Snail2, HDAC3, and IGFBP3 play significant roles in melanoma progression and represent promising therapeutic targets.

Suppression of JAK2/STAT3 Pathway by Notoginsenoside R1 Reduces Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

It has bene reported that a novel saponin-notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) possesses strong anti-tumor activities. This study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of NGR1 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). NSCLC cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasiveness were assessed using the ex vivo assays. NSCLC xenograft mouse models were constructed to confirm the role of NGR1 in vivo. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins and key markers in the JAK2/STAT3 pathway were examined using immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry analyses. NGR1 treatment suppressed NSCLC cell growth ex vivo and in vivo. It also decreased the migratory and invasive capacities of NSCLC cells. Additionally, NGR1 increased E-cadherin expression and reduced N-cadherin, vimentin, and snail expression in TGF-β1-treated NSCLC cells and xenograft tumors. JAK2/STAT3 pathway was inhibited by NGR1. Moreover, a specific inhibitor of JAK2, AG490, or STAT3 silencing significantly enhanced the effects of NGR1 against the EMT process in NSCLC cells. NGR1 restrains EMT process in NSCLC by inactivating JAK2/STAT3 signaling, suggesting the potential of NGR1 in anti-NSCLC therapy.

EGFR-mediated local invasiveness and response to Cetuximab in head and neck cancer

BACKGROUND

Recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M-HNSCC) is a severe, frequently lethal condition. Oncogene addiction to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a hallmark of HNSCC, but the clinical efficacy of EGFR-targeted therapies remains low. Understanding molecular networks governing EGFR-driven progression is paramount to the exploration of (co)-treatment targets and predictive markers.

METHODS

We performed function-based mapping of differentially expressed genes in EGFR-mediated local invasion (fDEGs) using photoconvertible tracers and RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) in a cellular 3D-model.

RESULTS

Upon alignment with public single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) datasets and HNSCC-specific regulons, a gene regulatory network of local invasion (invGRN) was inferred from gene expression data, which was overrepresented in budding tumors. InvGRN comprises the central hubs inhibin subunit beta alpha (INHBA) and snail family transcriptional repressor 2 (SNAI2), and druggable fDEGs integrin subunit beta 4 (ITGB4), laminin 5 (LAMB3/LAMC2), and sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1). Blockade of INHBA repressed local invasion and was reverted by activin A, laminin 5, and sphingosine-1-phosphate, demonstrating a functional interconnectivity of the invGRN. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of malignant cells and the invGRN are induced by newly defined EGFR-activity subtypes with prognostic value that are promoted by amphiregulin (AREG) and epiregulin (EREG). Importantly, co-inhibition of SPHK1 showed synthetic effects on Cetuximab-mediated invasion blockade and high expression of selected fDEGs was associated with response to Cetuximab in patient-derived xenotransplantation (PDX) and R/M-HNSCC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

We describe an actionable network of EGFR-mediated local invasion and define druggable effectors with predictive potential regarding the response of R/M-HNSCC to Cetuximab.

Lysine Demethylase 1 Has Demethylase-Dependent and Non-Canonical Functions in Myofibroblast Activation in Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease of unknown aetiology characterised by vasculopathy with progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Tissue fibrosis is driven by activated fibroblasts (myofibroblasts) with exacerbated contractile and secretory properties. We previously reported that the long non-coding RNA HOTAIR is a key driver of SSc fibroblast activation. HOTAIR interacts with the chromatin modifiers, the polycomb repressor complex (PRC2) and coREST complex, promoting expression of pro-fibrotic genes. In this study, we show that acute activation of dermal fibroblasts from healthy subjects or SSc patients with transforming growth factor-β and other fibrotic stimuli requires the activity of the lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) subunit of the co-REST complex. Unexpectedly, LSD1 catalytic activity plays a minor role in fibrotic gene expression in HOTAIR-overexpressing fibroblasts and in maintenance of the stable myofibroblast phenotype of SSc fibroblasts. However, silencing of LSD1 in SSc fibroblasts has a profound effect on pro-fibrotic gene expression, supporting a non-canonical scaffolding function. Our study shows for the first time an essential non-canonical role for LSD1 in pro-fibrotic gene expression in SSc; however, given that this function is insensitive to LSD1 inhibitors, the therapeutic opportunities will depend on future identification of a targetable mediator.

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, inhibits oral squamous cell carcinoma growth through P38 MAPK signaling pathway

AIMS

Researches have shown that diabetes mellitus (DM) can promote the risk and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, is currently employed to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity. This study intends to explore the potential effects and mechanism of Semaglutide on OSCC.

METHODS

The expression of GLP-1R in OSCC cells and tissues was evaluated by qRT-PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry assays. Cell proliferation, invasion, migration and apoptosis abilities were determined by relevant experiments. Western blot was employed to verify the expression of relevant proteins and examine the effect of Semaglutide on the MAPK signaling pathway. The xenograft transplantation model of OSCC was established to examine the anti-cancer effects of Semaglutide in vivo and immunohistochemistry assays were performed on tumor tissues.

RESULTS

GLP-1R expression was elevated in OSCC cells and tissues as compared with that in normal. Semaglutide effectively inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of OSCC cells while concurrently promoting apoptosis. Moreover, Semaglutide specifically activated the P38 MAPK signaling pathway without significant influence on ERK1/2 or SAPK/JNK, and its pro-apoptotic effects in OSCC cells was related to P38 pathway activation. Animal experiments verified the inhibitory effect of Semaglutide on OSCC tumors in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Semaglutide exerts inhibitory actions on OSCC and may induce apoptosis in OSCC cells via the P38 MAPK signaling pathway. This study has significant implications for the treatment of patients with diabetes who are also afflicted by OSCC.

The Role of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Osteosarcoma Progression: From Biology to Therapy

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor, predominantly affecting children, adolescents, and young adults. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process in which epithelial cells lose their cell-cell adhesion and gain migratory and invasive properties, has been extensively studied in various carcinomas. However, its role in mesenchymal tumors like osteosarcoma remains less explored. EMT is increasingly recognized as a key factor in the progression of osteosarcoma, contributing to tumor invasion, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the molecular mechanisms driving EMT in osteosarcoma, highlighting the involvement of signaling pathways such as TGF-β, transcription factors like Snail, Twist, and Zeb, and the role of microRNAs in modulating EMT. Furthermore, we discuss how EMT correlates with poor prognosis and therapy resistance in osteosarcoma patients, emphasizing the potential of targeting EMT for therapeutic intervention. Recent advancements in understanding EMT in osteosarcoma have opened new avenues for treatment, including EMT inhibitors and combination therapies aimed at overcoming drug resistance. By integrating biological insights with clinical implications, this review underscores the importance of EMT as a critical process in osteosarcoma progression and its potential as a therapeutic target.

Proteolysis of TAM receptors in autoimmune diseases and cancer: what does it say to us?

Proteolytic processing of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases (RTKs) leads to the release of ectodomains in the extracellular space. These soluble ectodomains often retain the ligand binding activity and dampen canonical pathways by acting as decoy receptors. On the other hand, shedding the ectodomains may initiate new molecular events and diversification of signalling. Members of the TAM (TYRO3, AXL, MER) family of RTKs undergo proteolytic cleavage, and their soluble forms are present in the extracellular space and biological fluids. TAM receptors are expressed in professional phagocytes, mediating apoptotic cell clearance, and suppressing innate immunity. Enhanced shedding of TAM ectodomains is documented in autoimmune and some inflammatory conditions. Also, soluble TAM receptors are present at high levels in the biological fluids of cancer patients and are associated with poor survival. We outline the biology of TAM receptors and discuss how their proteolytic processing impacts autoimmunity and tumorigenesis. In autoimmune diseases, proteolysis of TAM receptors likely reflects reduced canonical signalling in professional phagocytes. In cancer, TAM receptors are expressed in the immune cells of the tumour microenvironment, where they control pathways facilitating immune evasion. In tumour cells, ectodomain shedding activates non-canonical TAM pathways, leading to epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastasis, and drug resistance.

Specific modulation of 28S_Um2402 rRNA 2'-O-ribose methylation as a novel epitranscriptomic marker of ZEB1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in different mammary cell contexts

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a dynamic transdifferentiation of epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells. EMT programs exhibit great diversity, based primarily on the distinct impact of molecular activities of the EMT transcription factors. Using a panel of cancer cell lines and a series of 71 triple-negative primary breast tumors, we report that the EMT transcription factor ZEB1 modulates site-specific chemical modifications of ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Overexpression of ZEB1 and ZEB2, but not TWIST1, decreased the level of 2'-O-ribose methylation (2'Ome) of 28S rRNA at position Um2402. ZEB1 overexpression specifically reduced the expression of the corresponding C/D box small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) SNORD143/144, which guide the rRNA 2'Ome complex at the 28S_Um2402 site. During ZEB1-induced EMT induction/reversion, the levels of both 2'Ome at 28S_Um2402 and SNORD143/144 were dynamically comodulated. Taken together, these data demonstrate that 2'Ome rRNA epitranscriptomics is a novel marker of ZEB1-induced EMT.

MAL2 and rab17 selectively redistribute invadopodia proteins to laterally-induced protrusions in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

MAL2 (myelin and lymphocyte protein 2) and rab17 have been identified as hepatocellular carcinoma tumor suppressors. However, little is known how their functions in hepatic polarized protein sorting/trafficking translate into how they function in the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and/or the mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition in metastases. To investigate this, we expressed MAL2 and rab17 alone or together in hepatoma-derived Clone 9 cells (that lack endogenous MAL2 and rab17). Like MAL2, we found that rab17 expression led to the formation of actin- and cholesterol-dependent protrusions that correlated to its anti-oncogenic properties. MAL2 or rab17 selectively promoted the redistribution of invadopodia proteins to the protrusion tips that correlated with decreased matrix degradation. MAL2-mediated redistribution required a putative EVH1 recognition motif whereas rab17-mediated redistribution was GTP dependent. We also determined that MAL2 and rab17 interaction was GTP dependent, but not dependent on the MAL2 EVH1 recognition motifs, and that protrusions formed by their combined expression shared features of those induced by either alone. Finally, we report that MAL2 or rab17 can redirect trafficking of newly synthesized membrane proteins from the Golgi to the induced protrusions and that the EVH1 recognition motif was required in MAL2 and that rab17-mediated trafficking was GTP dependent.

Chemical Tomography of Cancer Organoids and Cyto-Proteo-Genomic Development Stages Through Chemical Communication Signals

Organoids mimic human organ function, offering insights into development and disease. However, non-destructive, real-time monitoring is lacking, as traditional methods are often costly, destructive, and low-throughput. In this article, a non-destructive chemical tomographic strategy is presented for decoding cyto-proteo-genomics of organoid using volatile signaling molecules, hereby, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), to indicate metabolic activity and development of organoids. Combining a hierarchical design of graphene-based sensor arrays with AI-driven analysis, this method maps VOC spatiotemporal distribution and generate detailed digital profiles of organoid morphology and proteo-genomic features. Lens- and label-free, it avoids phototoxicity, distortion, and environmental disruption. Results from testing organoids with the reported chemical tomography approach demonstrate effective differentiation between cyto-proteo-genomic profiles of normal and diseased states, particularly during dynamic transitions such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Additionally, the reported approach identifies key VOC-related biochemical pathways, metabolic markers, and pathways associated with cancerous transformations such as aromatic acid degradation and lipid metabolism. This real-time, non-destructive approach captures subtle genetic and structural variations with high sensitivity and specificity, providing a robust platform for multi-omics integration and advancing cancer biomarker discovery.

Orchestrated desaturation reprogramming from stearoyl-CoA desaturase to fatty acid desaturase 2 in cancer epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis

BACKGROUND

Adaptative desaturation in fatty acid (FA) is an emerging hallmark of cancer metabolic plasticity. Desaturases such as stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) and fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2) have been implicated in multiple cancers, and their dominant and compensatory effects have recently been highlighted. However, how tumors initiate and sustain their self-sufficient FA desaturation to maintain phenotypic transition remains elusive. This study aimed to explore the molecular orchestration of SCD and FADS2 and their specific reprogramming mechanisms in response to cancer progression.

METHODS

The potential interactions between SCD and FADS2 were explored by bioinformatics analyses across multiple cancer cohorts, which guided subsequent functional and mechanistic investigations. The expression levels of desaturases were investigated with online datasets and validated in both cancer tissues and cell lines. Specific desaturation activities were characterized through various isomer-resolved lipidomics methods and sensitivity assays using desaturase inhibitors. In-situ lipid profiling was conducted using multiplex stimulated Raman scattering imaging. Functional assays were performed both in vitro and in vivo, with RNA-sequencing employed for the mechanism verification.

RESULTS

After integration of the RNA-protein-metabolite levels, the data revealed that a reprogramming from SCD-dependent to FADS2-dependent desaturation was linked to cancer epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and progression in both patients and cell lines. FADS2 overexpression and SCD suppression concurrently maintained EMT plasticity. A FADS2/β-catenin self-reinforcing feedback loop facilitated the degree of lipid unsaturation, membrane fluidity, metastatic potential and EMT signaling. Moreover, SCD inhibition triggered a lethal apoptosis but boosted survival plasticity by inducing EMT and enhancing FA uptake via adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase activation. Notably, this desaturation reprogramming increased transforming growth factor-β2, effectively sustaining aggressive phenotypes and metabolic plasticity during EMT.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings revealed a metabolic reprogramming from SCD-dependent to FADS2-dependent desaturation during cancer EMT and progression, which concurrently supports EMT plasticity. Targeting desaturation reprogramming represents a potential vulnerability for cancer metabolic therapy.

TClC effectively suppresses the growth and metastasis of NSCLC via polypharmacology

Despite significant advances in targeted therapies and immunotherapies, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) continues to present a global health challenge, with a modest five-year survival rate of 28 %, largely due to the emergence of treatment-resistant and metastatic tumors. In response, we synthesized a novel bioactive compound, ethyl 6-chlorocoumarin-3-carboxylyl L-theanine (TClC), which significantly inhibited NSCLC growth, epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration, and invasion in vitro and tumor growth and metastasis in vivo without inducing toxicity. TClC disrupts autocrine loops that promote tumor progression, particularly in stem-like CD133-positive NSCLC (CD133+ LC) cells, which are pivotal in tumor metastasis. Through targeted molecular assays, we identified direct binding targets of TClC, including Akt, NF-κB, β-catenin, EZH2, and PD-L1. This interaction not only suppresses the expression of oncogenic factors and cancer stem cell markers but also downregulates the expression of a multidrug resistance transporter, underscoring the compound's polypharmacological potential. These results position TClC as a promising candidate for NSCLC treatment, signaling a new era in the development of cancer therapies that directly target multiple critical cancer pathways.

Bioprinted Fibroblast Mediated Heterogeneous Tumor Microenvironment for Studying Tumor-Stroma Interaction and Drug Screening

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are crucial stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment, affecting cancer growth, angiogenesis, and matrix remodeling. Developing an effective in vitro tumor model that accurately recapitulates the dynamic interplay between tumor and stromal cells remains a challenge. In this study, a 3D bioprinted fibroblast - mediated heterogeneous breast tumor model was created, with tumor cells and fibroblasts in a bionic matrix. The impact of transforming growth factor-β （TGF-β） on the dynamic transformation of normal fibroblasts into CAFs and its subsequent influence on tumor cells is further investigated. These findings reveales a profound correlation between CAFs and several critical biological processes, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, gene expression profiles, and tumor progression. Furthermore, tumor models incorporating CAFs exhibits reduced drug sensitivity compared to models containing tumor cells alone or models co-cultured with normal fibroblasts. These results underscore the potential of the in vitro fibroblast-mediated heterogeneous tumor model to simulate real-life physiological conditions, thereby offering a more effective drug screening platform for elucidating tumor pathogenesis and facilitating drug design prior to animal and clinical trials. This model's establishment promotes the understanding of tumor-stromal interactions and their therapeutic implications.

Biological roles and molecular mechanism of circular RNAs in epithelial-mesenchymal transition of gastrointestinal malignancies

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are formed by splicing of precursor RNAs and covalently linked at the 5' and 3' ends. Dysregulated circRNAs are closely related to the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of gastrointestinal malignancies. CircRNAs, including circRNA_0008717, circGOT1, circ-DOCK5, circVPS33B, circPVT1, circMET, circ-OXCT1, circ_67835, circRTN4, circ_0087502, circFNDC38, circ_PTEN1, circPGPEP1, and circ-E-Cad are involved in the EMT process of gastrointestinal malignancies through a variety of mechanisms, such as regulating EMT-inducing transcription factors, signaling pathways, and tumor microenvironments. Gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies are common malignant tumors worldwide, and the heterogeneity and easy metastasis of gastrointestinal malignancies limit the effectiveness of medical treatments. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal malignancies is essential for clinical treatment. This article summarizes the biological roles and molecular mechanism of circRNAs in EMT of gastrointestinal malignancies, providing a theoretical basis for applying EMT-related circRNAs in targeted therapy.

Molecular mechanism of Gancao Xiexin Decoction regulating EMT and suppressing hepatic metastasis of gastric cancer via the TGF-β1/SMAD pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Gastric cancer (GC) is a highly malignant tumor of the digestive tract, posing a significant menace to human health. Gancao Xiexin Decoction (GCXXD), being a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a good effect on inhibiting the proliferation and metastasis of GC. However, its mechanisms still need further investigation.

AIM OF STUDY

To investigate the mechanism by which GCXXD inhibits GC metastasis through network pharmacology, and to verify through in vivo and in vitro experiments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The TCMSP and GEO databases, in combination with UPLC-MS/MS techniques, were employed to identify the hub genes, active ingredients, and critical pathways of GCXXD in the treatment of GC. Subsequently, molecular docking was conducted on both the hub genes and the core components. Finally, based on the results of the bioinformatics analysis, the role of GCXXD in inhibiting liver metastasis of GC was elucidated through in vivo and in vitro experiments, including scratch assays, Transwell assays, HE staining, immunohistochemistry, in vivo live imaging, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting.

RESULTS

Utilizing UPLC-MS/MS and network pharmacology, we identified 20 active ingredients and 5 hub targets in the treatment of GC by GCXXD. Through KEGG analyses, GCXXD treatment of GC could through the TGF-beta pathway. In vivo and in vitro experiments, GCXXD downregulated the mRNA and protein expression level of hub genes involved in the TGF-β1/SMAD pathway and the EMT process. Additionally, GCXXD significantly reduced the incidence of liver metastases in GC.

CONCLUSION

GCXXD inhibited EMT via blocking the TGF-β1/SMAD pathway, which suppressed GC cell growth and liver metastasis. This study provides data to support the treatment of liver metastasis in GC with TCM and holds significant importance for the research and development of new anticancer drugs.

SJB2-043, a USP1 Inhibitor, Suppresses A549 Cell Proliferation, Migration, and EMT via Modulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK, and Wnt Signaling Pathways

OBJECTIVE

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains one of the most significant contributors to cancer-related mortality. This investigation explores the influence and underlying mechanisms of the USP1 inhibitor SJB2-043 on A549 cells, with the aim of advancing the development of anti-NSCLC therapeutics.

METHODS

Publicly available databases were utilized to assess USP1 expression and its association with the progression of NSCLC. Gene expression variations were ascertained through RNA sequencing, followed by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and Gene Ontology pathway enrichment evaluations. Various doses of SJB2-043 were administered to A549 cells to evaluate its impact on cell multiplication, motility, apoptosis, and the cell cycle using CCK-8 assays, colony formation, wound healing, flow cytometry, and Western blotting (WB).

RESULTS

USP1 was found to be overexpressed in NSCLC specimens and linked to adverse prognosis. Treatment with SJB2-043 markedly inhibited A549 cell proliferation and migration, diminished clonogenic potential, and triggered apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Modifications in the cell cycle were observed, showing an elevated percentage of cells in the G2 phase while exhibiting a parallel decline in the G1 phase. WB examination demonstrated diminished protein levels of N-cadherin, CyclinB1, CDK1, C-myc, Bcl-2, p-ERK/ERK, p-p38/p38, p-JNK/JNK, p-AKT/AKT, and p-mTOR/mTOR, alongside an upregulation of E-cadherin, ZO-1, occludin, p53, Bax, p-β-catenin/β-catenin, and GSK3β.

CONCLUSIONS

SJB2-043 exerts a suppressive effect on A549 cell proliferation, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition while enhancing apoptosis. These cellular effects appear to be mediated through the inhibition of the MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling cascades, in addition to modulation of the cell cycle.

Molecular mechanisms altering cell identity in cancer

Intrinsic and extrinsic factors influence cancer cell identity throughout its lifespan. During tumor progression and metastasis formation, cancer cells are exposed to different environmental stimuli, resulting in a stepwise cellular reprogramming. Similar stepwise changes of cell identity have been shown as a major consequence of cancer treatment, as cells are exposed to extracellular stress that can result in the establishment of subpopulations exhibiting different epigenetic and transcriptional patterns, indicating a rapid adaptation mechanism of cellular identity by extrinsic stress factors. Both mechanisms, tumor progression-mediated changes and therapy response, rely on signaling pathways affecting the epigenetic and subsequent transcriptional landscape, which equip the cells with mechanisms for survival and tumor progression. These non-genetic alterations are propagated to the daughter cells, indicating a need for successful information propagation and transfer to the daughter generations, thereby allowing for a stepwise adaptation to environmental cues. However, the exact mechanisms how these cell identity changes are occurring, which context-specific mechanisms are behind and how this can be exploited for future therapeutic interventions is not yet fully understood and exploited. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on cell identity maintenance mechanisms intra- and intergenerational in development and disease and how these mechanisms are altered in cancer. We will as well address how cancer treatment might target these properties.

Cancer brain metastasis: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies

Brain metastases (BMs) are the most common intracranial tumors in adults and the major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. The occurrence of BMs varies according to the type of primary tumors with most frequence in lung cancer, melanoma and breast cancer. Among of them, lung cancer has been reported to have a higher risk of BMs than other types of cancers with 40 ~ 50% of such patients will develop BMs during the course of disease. BMs lead to many neurological complications and result in a poor quality of life and short life span. Although the treatment strategies were improved for brain tumors in the past decades, the prognosis of BMs patients is grim. Poorly understanding of the molecular and cellular characteristics of BMs and the complicated interaction with brain microenvironment are the major reasons for the dismal prognosis of BM patients. Recent studies have enhanced understanding of the mechanisms of BMs. The newly identified potential therapeutic targets and the advanced therapeutic strategies have brought light for a better cure of BMs. In this review, we summarized the mechanisms of BMs during the metastatic course, the molecular and cellular landscapes of BMs, and the advances of novel drug delivery systems for overcoming the obstruction of blood-brain barrier (BBB). We further discussed the challenges of the emerging therapeutic strategies, such as synergistic approach of combining targeted therapy with immunotherapy, which will provide vital clues for realizing the precise and personalized medicine for BM patients in the future.

SMYD3 plays a pivotal role in mediating the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process in breast cancer

In previous reports, we highlighted the significant involvement of SMYD3, a histone methyltransferase (HMT), in various aspects of cancer progression, including cell adhesion, migration, and invasion. In this study, we delved deeper into understanding the relationship between SMYD3 and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) both in cell lines and clinical samples. Our investigation uncovered a notable correlation between heightened SMYD3 expression and the presence of EMT markers in human breast cancer tissues. We found that the induction of SMYD3 expression is facilitated by transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), which achieves this by suppressing miR-124, an inhibitor that targets SMYD3, through alterations in DNA methylation. Conversely, our experiments demonstrated that reducing SMYD3 levels through RNA interference impeded TGF-β1-induced EMT in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, our results revealed that SMYD3 alone has the capability to modulate the expression of markers associated with EMT. An intriguing aspect of our study is the revelation that SMYD3 influences the activation of vimentin by binding to its response elements within the core promoter region. Notably, this effect is independent of SMYD3's histone methyltransferase activity. These findings collectively underscore the pivotal role of SMYD3 in driving EMT, both in cell lines and primary cancer tissues, particularly emphasizing its significance in TGF-β1-induced EMT in breast cancer.

EBV-miR-BART14-3p Targets LACTB to Enhance Gastric Cancer Cell Proliferation and Migration

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), the first human virus identified with oncogenic properties, encodes a class of microRNAs known as miR-BART (BamHI-A rightward transcript microRNAs). This study investigates the pivotal role of EBV-miR-BART14-3p in the progression of gastric cancer, particularly focusing on its effects on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell proliferation, and migration. EBV-associated gastric cancer (EBVaGC) is distinguished by unique genomic and epigenomic characteristics, with EBV miRNAs significantly influencing tumor biology by regulating gene expression. Our research demonstrates that EBV-miR-BART14-3p facilitates gastric cancer cell migration and invasion by targeting the tumor suppressor gene LACTB, which in turn activates the Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway, a critical driver of EMT. The suppression of LACTB in EBVaGC highlights its crucial role in inhibiting tumor progression. These findings position EBV-miR-BART14-3p as a key player in gastric cancer development and underscore its potential as both a prognostic biomarker and a therapeutic target for EBVaGC.

Composition analysis and mechanism of Guizhi Fuling capsule in anti-cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer

OBJECTIVE

Cisplatin is the main chemotherapy drug for advanced ovarian cancer, but drug resistance often occurs. The aim of this study is to explore the molecular mechanism by which Guizhi Fuling capsule inhibits cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer.

METHODS

First, differences in cisplatin resistance, PA2G4 gene expression, migration, and invasion in A2780 cells and A2780/DDP cells were analyzed by qRT-PCR, scratch assay, transwell, immunofluorescence, and western blotting. Then, LC-MS/MS analysis of GFC chemical composition. qRT-PCR, scratch tests, transwell, pseudopodium formation, immunofluorescence, and western blotting were used to explore the mechanism by which GFC inhibited A2780/DDP cell migration and invasion. Finally, the anti-tumor efficacy of GFC was verified by in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

A2780/DDP cells had a greater ability to migrate and invade compared to their parents. Cell viability experiments showed that the migration and invasion ability of A278/DDP cells were significantly inhibited with the increase of GFC concentration. qRT-PCR results showed that compared with the blank control group, cisplatin group and GFC group, the transcription level of PA2G4 gene in the combination treatment group was significantly reduced. We also found that GFC combined with cisplatin inhibited the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β signaling pathway by targeting PA2G4 gene expression, inhibited the epithelial-mesenchymal transition signaling pathway, decreased cell adhesion and inhibited the formation of cell pseudopodias.

CONCLUSION

GFC combined with cisplatin can target PA2G4 gene to regulate PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β Signaling pathway, inhibiting the invasion and migration of cisplatin resistant A2780/DDP cells in ovarian cancer.

Loss of YTHDC1 m6A reading function promotes invasiveness in urothelial carcinoma of the bladder

Bladder cancer poses significant clinical challenges due to its high metastatic potential and poor prognosis, especially when it progresses to muscle-invasive stages. Here, we show that the m6A reader YTHDC1 is downregulated in muscle-invasive bladder cancer and is negatively correlated with the expression of epithelial‒mesenchymal transition genes. The functional inhibition or depletion of YTHDC1 increased the migration and invasion of urothelial cells. Integrative analysis of multimodal sequencing datasets provided detailed insights into the molecular mechanisms mediating YTHDC1-dependent phenotypes and identified SMAD6 as a key transcript involved in the invasiveness of urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. Notably, SMAD6 mRNA colocalized less with YTHDC1 in tumoral tissues than in paratumoral tissues, indicating disrupted binding during cancer progression. Our findings establish YTHDC1-dependent m6A reading as a critical epitranscriptomic mechanism regulating bladder cancer invasiveness and provide a paradigm for the epitranscriptomic deregulation of cancer-associated networks.

Frontiers in pancreatic cancer on biomarkers, microenvironment, and immunotherapy

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging malignancies to treat due to its late-stage diagnosis, aggressive progression, and high resistance to existing therapies. This review examines the latest advancements in early detection, and therapeutic strategies, with a focus on emerging biomarkers, tumor microenvironment (TME) modulation, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in data analysis. We highlight promising biomarkers, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), that offer enhanced sensitivity and specificity for early-stage diagnosis when combined with multi-omics panels. A detailed analysis of the TME reveals how components such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), immune cells, and the extracellular matrix (ECM) contribute to therapy resistance by creating immunosuppressive barriers. We also discuss therapeutic interventions that target these TME components, aiming to improve drug delivery and overcome immune evasion. Furthermore, AI-driven analyses are explored for their potential to interpret complex multi-omics data, enabling personalized treatment strategies and real-time monitoring of treatment response. We conclude by identifying key areas for future research, including the clinical validation of biomarkers, regulatory frameworks for AI applications, and equitable access to innovative therapies. This comprehensive approach underscores the need for integrated, personalized strategies to improve outcomes in pancreatic cancer.

Canonical and noncanonical NOTCH signaling in the nongenetic resistance of cancer: distinct and concerted control

Therapeutic resistance in cancer is responsible for numerous cancer deaths in clinical practice. While target mutations are well recognized as the basis of genetic resistance to targeted therapy, nontarget mutation resistance (or nongenetic resistance) remains poorly characterized. Despite its complex and unintegrated mechanisms in the literature, nongenetic resistance is considered from our perspective to be a collective response of innate or acquired resistant subpopulations in heterogeneous tumors to therapy. These subpopulations, e.g., cancer stem-like cells, cancer cells with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and drug-tolerant persisters, are protected by their resistance traits at cellular and molecular levels. This review summarizes recent advances in the research on resistant populations and their resistance traits. NOTCH signaling, as a central regulator of nongenetic resistance, is discussed with a special focus on its canonical maintenance of resistant cancer cells and noncanonical regulation of their resistance traits. This novel view of canonical and noncanonical NOTCH signaling pathways is translated into our proposal of reshaping therapeutic strategies targeting NOTCH signaling in resistant cancer cells. We hope that this review will lead researchers to study the canonical and noncanonical arms of NOTCH signaling as an integrated resistant mechanism, thus promoting the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.

Molecular biomarkers of progression in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer - beyond conventional risk stratification

The global incidence of bladder cancer is more than half a million diagnoses each year. Bladder cancer can be categorized into non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), which accounts for ~75% of diagnoses, and muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Up to 45% of patients with NMIBC develop disease progression to MIBC, which is associated with a poor outcome, highlighting a clinical need to identify these patients. Current risk stratification has a prognostic value, but relies solely on clinicopathological parameters that might not fully capture the complexity of disease progression. Molecular research has led to identification of multiple crucial players involved in NMIBC progression. Identified biomarkers of progression are related to cell cycle, MAPK pathways, apoptosis, tumour microenvironment, chromatin stability and DNA-damage response. However, none of these biomarkers has been prospectively validated. Reported gene signatures of progression do not improve NMIBC risk stratification. Molecular subtypes of NMIBC have improved our understanding of NMIBC progression, but these subtypes are currently unsuitable for clinical implementation owing to a lack of prospective validation, limited predictive value as a result of intratumour subtype heterogeneity, technical challenges, costs and turnaround time. Future steps include the development of consensus molecular NMIBC subtypes that might improve conventional clinicopathological risk stratification. Prospective implementation studies of biomarkers and the design of biomarker-guided clinical trials are required for the integration of molecular biomarkers into clinical practice.

SHP2 promotes the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in triple negative breast cancer cells by regulating β-catenin

PURPOSE

Growing evidence suggests that the tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 is pivotal for tumor progression. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most lethal subtype of breast cancer, characterized by its high recurrence rate, aggressive metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy. Understanding the mechanisms of tumorigenesis and the underlying molecular pathways in TNBC could aid in identifying new therapeutic targets.

METHODS

In this study, we conducted bioinformatics analysis of the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases to examine PTPN11 (encoding SHP2) expression levels and perform survival analysis in TNBC. Additionally, we analyzed SHP2 levels in four TNBC cell lines and a normal breast epithelial cell line using Western blot. Furthermore, we knocked down SHP2 expression via RNA interference in three TNBC cell lines. To assess the impact of SHP2 on invasion and migration, we conducted transwell assays and wound healing experiments. An in vivo experiment utilizing a mouse xenograft model was also performed to evaluate tumor metastasis. Moreover, we detected the expression levels of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) biomarkers and investigated the mechanism between SHP2 and β-catenin using Western blot and immunofluorescence experiments.

RESULTS

We found that high SHP2 expression was associated with a poor prognosis in patients with TNBC. The migratory and invasive abilities of TNBC cells in vitro, as well as the metastatic potential of TNBC in mouse xenograft models, were reduced after SHP2 depletion. Downregulation of SHP2 also decreased the expression of mesenchymal markers but induced upregulation of the epithelial marker E-cadherin. Additionally, SHP2 promoted β-catenin stability by inhibiting its degradation via the proteasome. Furthermore, c-Myc expression and GSK3β and AKT phosphorylation, which are involved in β-catenin signaling, were decreased in SHP2-depleted TNBC cells.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that SHP2 is involved in migration, invasion, and EMT in TNBC cells by modulating β-catenin. Manipulating SHP2 expression or its target protein β-catenin may offer a novel approach to TNBC therapy.

Significance of Malic Enzyme 1 in Cancer: A Review

Malic enzyme 1 (ME1) plays a key role in promoting malignant phenotypes in various types of cancer. ME1 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and enhances stemness via glutaminolysis, energy metabolism reprogramming from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. As a result, ME1 promotes the malignant phenotypes of cancer cells and poor patient prognosis. In particular, ME1 expression is promoted in hypoxic environments associated with hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF1) α. ME1 is overexpressed in budding cells at the cancer invasive front, promoting cancer invasion and metastasis. ME1 also generates nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADPH), which, together with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH1), expands the NADPH pool, maintaining the redox balance in cancer cells, suppressing cell death by neutralizing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), and promoting stemness. This review summarizes the latest research insights into the mechanisms by which ME1 contributes to cancer progression. Because ME1 is involved in various aspects of cancer and promotes many of its malignant phenotypes, it is expected that ME1 will become a novel drug target in the near future.

Advances in understanding the role of squalene epoxidase in cancer prognosis and resistance

Recently, there has been burgeoning interest in the involvement of cholesterol metabolism in cancer. Squalene epoxidase (SQLE), as a critical rate-limiting enzyme in the cholesterol synthesis pathway, has garnered attention due to its overexpression in various cancer types, thereby significantly impacting tumor prognosis and resistance mechanisms. Firstly, SQLE contributes to unfavorable prognosis through diverse mechanisms, encompassing modulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, manipulation of the cancer microenvironment, and participation in ferroptosis. Secondly, directing efforts towards targeting SQLE, via mechanisms such as the PI3K/AKT pathway, presents promising avenues for overcoming resistance to conventional therapies such as endocrine cancer therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiotherapy. Moreover, the effectiveness of SQLE protein inhibitors in impeding cancer progression may either depend directly on SQLE inhibition or function through alternative pathways separate from SQLE. This mini-review offers insights into the intricate mechanisms through which SQLE affects the prognosis and resistance profiles across diverse cancer types, while succinctly elucidating the mechanisms underpinning the anticancer effects of SQLE protein inhibitors. Furthermore, this mini-review underscores the necessity for further investigations into the interplay between SQLE and cancer, proposing potential avenues for future research, with the aim of serving as a reference for exploring the mechanisms governing the role of SQLE in cancer regulation.

EFHD1 Activates SIK3 to Limit Colorectal Cancer Initiation and Progression via the Hippo Pathway

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers, with high rates of metastasis and lethality. EF-hand domain-containing protein D1 (EFHD1) and salt-inducible kinase 3 (SIK3) have been studied in several cancer types. Aberrant expression of EFHD1 and SIK3 has been observed in CRC, but little research has addressed their regulatory abilities and signaling pathways. In this study, we aimed to explore the efficacy of EFHD1 in inhibiting CRC proliferation and metastasis and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved in the upregulation of SIK3 expression. Cell viability, colony formation, wound healing, Transwell assay, orthotopic xenograft, and pulmonary metastasis mouse models were used to detect the antiproliferative and anti-metastatic effects of EFHD1 against CRC in vitro and in vivo. The Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) database was used to determine EFHD1 and SIK3 expression in CRC. The regulatory roles of EFHD1 and SIK3 in mediating anti-metastatic effects in CRC were measured using western blotting, immunohistochemical, and immunofluorescence analyses. The results showed that EFHD1 expression was significantly repressed in the clinical CRC samples. EFHD1 markedly suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and inhibited tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Analysis of the GEPIA database revealed that EFHD1 expression positively correlated with SIK3 expression. SIK3 overexpression inhibited the migration of CRC cells, and SIK3 knockdown partially eliminated the inhibitory effects of EFHD1 on CRC metastasis. EFHD1 exerted anti-metastatic effects against CRC via upregulating SIK3 and inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) processing through modulating the Hippo signaling pathway. Collectively, these findings identify EFHD1 as a potent SIK3 agonist and highlight the EFHD1-SIK3 axis as a key modulator of the Hippo signaling pathway in CRC. EFHD1 serves as a novel regulator and is worthy of further development as a novel therapeutic target in CRC.

PFDN5 plays a dual role in breast cancer and regulates tumor immune microenvironment: Insights from integrated bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation

BACKGROUND

Although the prognosis for patients with breast cancer has improved, breast cancer remains the leading cause of death for women worldwide. Prefoldin 5 (PFDN5), as a subunit of the prefoldin complex, plays a vital role in aiding the correct folding of newly synthesized proteins. However, the exact impact of PFDN5 on breast cancer development and its prognostic implications remain unclear.

METHODS

We conducted bioinformatics analysis to investigate the correlation between PFDN5 and patient survival, as well as various clinicopathological characteristics in breast cancer. Additionally, various assays were employed to validate the biological functions of PFDN5 in breast cancer. Finally, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was utilized to investigate the molecular mechanisms associated with PFDN5.

RESULTS

Compared to normal tissues, PFDN5 exhibited lower expression levels in breast cancer tissues, and lower expression of PFDN5 is associated with poorer prognosis. PFDN5 led to G2/M phase arrest in the cell cycle and reduced proliferative potential in breast cancer cells. However, PFDN5 also promoted migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. Also, RNA-seq analysis revealed an involvement of PFDN5 in the cell cycle and TGF-β signaling pathway. Furthermore, PFDN5 had a significant impact on tumor immune microenvironment by promoting macrophage polarization towards the M1 phenotype and exhibited a positive correlation with CD8+ T cell infiltration levels.

CONCLUSIONS

PFDN5 plays a dual role in breast cancer and serves as a key factor in tumor immune microenvironment. Therefore, PFDN5 holds promise as a valuable biomarker for predicting both metastatic and prognosis in breast cancer.