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Fahmy SA, Dawoud A, Zeinelabdeen YA, Kiriacos CJ, Daniel KA, Eltahtawy O, Abdelhalim MM, Braoudaki M, Youness RA. Molecular Engines, Therapeutic Targets, and Challenges in Pediatric Brain Tumors: A Special Emphasis on Hydrogen Sulfide and RNA-Based Nano-Delivery. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5244. [PMID: 36358663 PMCID: PMC9657918 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric primary brain tumors represent a real challenge in the oncology arena. Besides the psychosocial burden, brain tumors are considered one of the most difficult-to-treat malignancies due to their sophisticated cellular and molecular pathophysiology. Notwithstanding the advances in research and the substantial efforts to develop a suitable therapy, a full understanding of the molecular pathways involved in primary brain tumors is still demanded. On the other hand, the physiological nature of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) limits the efficiency of many available treatments, including molecular therapeutic approaches. Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S), as a member of the gasotransmitters family, and its synthesizing machinery have represented promising molecular targets for plentiful cancer types. However, its role in primary brain tumors, generally, and pediatric types, particularly, is barely investigated. In this review, the authors shed the light on the novel role of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) as a prominent player in pediatric brain tumor pathophysiology and its potential as a therapeutic avenue for brain tumors. In addition, the review also focuses on the challenges and opportunities of several molecular targeting approaches and proposes promising brain-delivery strategies for the sake of achieving better therapeutic results for brain tumor patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherif Ashraf Fahmy
- Chemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, R5 New Capital City, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Alyaa Dawoud
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Yousra Ahmed Zeinelabdeen
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt
- Faculty of Medical Sciences/UMCG, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline Joseph Kiriacos
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Kerolos Ashraf Daniel
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Omar Eltahtawy
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Miriam Mokhtar Abdelhalim
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Maria Braoudaki
- Clinical, Pharmaceutical, and Biological Science Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Rana A. Youness
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo 11835, Egypt
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Khattak S, Rauf MA, Khan NH, Zhang QQ, Chen HJ, Muhammad P, Ansari MA, Alomary MN, Jahangir M, Zhang CY, Ji XY, Wu DD. Hydrogen Sulfide Biology and Its Role in Cancer. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27113389. [PMID: 35684331 PMCID: PMC9181954 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27113389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an endogenous biologically active gas produced in mammalian tissues. It plays a very critical role in many pathophysiological processes in the body. It can be endogenously produced through many enzymes analogous to the cysteine family, while the exogenous source may involve inorganic sulfide salts. H2S has recently been well investigated with regard to the onset of various carcinogenic diseases such as lung, breast, ovaries, colon cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. H2S is considered an oncogenic gas, and a potential therapeutic target for treating and diagnosing cancers, due to its role in mediating the development of tumorigenesis. Here in this review, an in-detail up-to-date explanation of the potential role of H2S in different malignancies has been reported. The study summarizes the synthesis of H2S, its roles, signaling routes, expressions, and H2S release in various malignancies. Considering the critical importance of this active biological molecule, we believe this review in this esteemed journal will highlight the oncogenic role of H2S in the scientific community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saadullah Khattak
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (S.K.); (N.H.K.); (Q.-Q.Z.); (H.-J.C.)
| | - Mohd Ahmar Rauf
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Nazeer Hussain Khan
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (S.K.); (N.H.K.); (Q.-Q.Z.); (H.-J.C.)
| | - Qian-Qian Zhang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (S.K.); (N.H.K.); (Q.-Q.Z.); (H.-J.C.)
| | - Hao-Jie Chen
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (S.K.); (N.H.K.); (Q.-Q.Z.); (H.-J.C.)
| | - Pir Muhammad
- Henan-Macquarie University Joint Centre for Biomedical Innovation, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China;
| | - Mohammad Azam Ansari
- Department of Epidemic Disease Research, Institute for Research & Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohammad N. Alomary
- National Centre for Biotechnology, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Muhammad Jahangir
- Department of Psychiatric and Mental Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China;
| | - Chun-Yang Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Hami Central Hospital, Hami 839000, China
- Correspondence: (C.-Y.Z.); (X.-Y.J.); (D.-D.W.); Tel.: +86-371-67967151 (C.-Y.Z.); +86-371-23880585 (X.-Y.J.); +86-371-23880525 (D.-D.W.)
| | - Xin-Ying Ji
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (S.K.); (N.H.K.); (Q.-Q.Z.); (H.-J.C.)
- Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Infection and Biological Safety, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Correspondence: (C.-Y.Z.); (X.-Y.J.); (D.-D.W.); Tel.: +86-371-67967151 (C.-Y.Z.); +86-371-23880585 (X.-Y.J.); +86-371-23880525 (D.-D.W.)
| | - Dong-Dong Wu
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (S.K.); (N.H.K.); (Q.-Q.Z.); (H.-J.C.)
- School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Correspondence: (C.-Y.Z.); (X.-Y.J.); (D.-D.W.); Tel.: +86-371-67967151 (C.-Y.Z.); +86-371-23880585 (X.-Y.J.); +86-371-23880525 (D.-D.W.)
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Kaczor-Kamińska M, Kaminski K, Wróbel M. The Expression and Activity of Rhodanese, 3-Mercaptopyruvate Sulfurtransferase, Cystathionine γ-Lyase in the Most Frequently Chosen Cellular Research Models. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11121859. [PMID: 34944503 PMCID: PMC8699783 DOI: 10.3390/biom11121859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper provides information concerning the activity and expression levels of three sulfurtransferases (STRs): rhodanese (TST, EC: 2.8.1.1), 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (MPST, EC: 2.8.1.2) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CTH, EC: 4.4.1.1) in various cell lines. Since very limited data are available in the scientific literature on this subject, the available data are included in this paper. These shortages often force the researchers to carry out their own screening tests that allow them to choose an appropriate model for their further studies. This work supplements the existing deficiencies in this area and presents the activity and expression of STRs in the eight most frequently chosen cell lines: the mouse mammary gland cell line (NMuNG, ATCC: CRL-1636), mouse mammary gland tumor (4T1, ATCC: CRL-2539), mouse fibroblast (MEF, ATCC: SCRC-1008), mouse melanoma (B16-F1, ATCC: CRL-6323), human colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2, ATCC: HTB-37), human embryonic kidney (HEK-293, ATCC: CRL-1573), human osteosarcoma (MG-63, ATCC: CRL-1427) and rat myocardium (H9c2, ATCC: CRL-1446). Changes in STRs activity are directly related to the bioavailability of cysteine and the sulfane sulfur level, and thus the present authors also measured these parameters, as well as the level of glutathione (its reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) form) and the [GSH]/[GSSG] ratio that determines the antioxidant capacity of the cells. STRs demonstrate diverse functionality and clinical relevance; therefore, we also performed an analysis of genetic variation of STRs genes that revealed a large number of polymorphisms. Although STRs still provide challenges in several fields, responding to them could not only improve the understanding of various diseases, but may also provide a way to treat them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Kaczor-Kamińska
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical College, Chair of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University, Kopernika 7 St., 31-034 Krakow, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-12-422-7400
| | - Kamil Kaminski
- Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2 St., 30-387 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Maria Wróbel
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical College, Chair of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University, Kopernika 7 St., 31-034 Krakow, Poland;
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Hyaluronic Acid-Based Nanocapsules as Efficient Delivery Systems of Garlic Oil Active Components with Anticancer Activity. NANOMATERIALS 2021; 11:nano11051354. [PMID: 34065497 PMCID: PMC8160828 DOI: 10.3390/nano11051354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Diallyl disulfide (DADS) and diallyl trisulfide (DATS) are garlic oil compounds exhibiting beneficial healthy properties including anticancer action. However, these compounds are sparingly water-soluble with a limited stability that may imply damage to blood vessels or cells after administration. Thus, their encapsulation in the oil-core nanocapsules based on a derivative of hyaluronic acid was investigated here as a way of protecting against oxidation and undesired interactions with blood and digestive track components. The nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) technique was used to follow the oxidation processes. It was proved that the shell of the capsule acts as a barrier limiting the sulfur oxidation, enhancing the stability of C=C bonds in DADS and DATS. Moreover, it was shown that the encapsulation inhibited the lysis of the red blood cell membrane (mainly for DADS) and interactions with serum or digestive track components. Importantly, the biological functions and anticancer activity of DADS and DATS were preserved after encapsulation. Additionally, the nanocapsule formulations affected the migration of neoplastic cells—a desirable preliminary observation concerning the inhibition of migration. The proposed route of administration of these garlic extract components would enable reaching their higher concentrations in blood, longer circulation in a bloodstream, and thus, imply a better therapeutic effect.
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Liu Y, Pei Y, Zhu D, Liu X, Li W, Cheng F. H2S is synthesized via CBS/CSE pathway and triggered by cold conditions during Agaricus bisporus storage. ELECTRON J BIOTECHN 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejbt.2020.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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Identification of novel neuroblastoma biomarkers in urine samples. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4055. [PMID: 33603049 PMCID: PMC7892837 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83619-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Urine is a complex liquid containing numerous small molecular metabolites. The ability to non-invasively test for cancer biomarkers in urine is especially beneficial for screening child patients. This study attempted to identify neuroblastoma biomarkers by comprehensively analysing urinary metabolite samples from children. A total of 87 urine samples were collected from 54 participants (15 children with neuroblastoma and 39 without cancer) and used to perform a comprehensive analysis. Urine metabolites were extracted using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and analysed by Metabolon, Inc. Biomarker candidates were extracted using the Wilcoxon rank sum test, random forest method (RF), and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA). RF identified three important metabolic pathways in 15 samples from children with neuroblastoma. One metabolite was selected from each of the three identified pathways and combined to create a biomarker candidate (3-MTS, CTN, and COR) that represented each of the three pathways; using this candidate, all 15 cases were accurately distinguishable from the control group. Two cases in which known biomarkers were negative tested positive using this new biomarker. Furthermore, the predictive value did not decrease in cases with a low therapeutic effect. This approach could be effectively applied to identify biomarkers for other cancer types.
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Hipólito A, Nunes SC, Vicente JB, Serpa J. Cysteine Aminotransferase (CAT): A Pivotal Sponsor in Metabolic Remodeling and an Ally of 3-Mercaptopyruvate Sulfurtransferase (MST) in Cancer. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25173984. [PMID: 32882966 PMCID: PMC7504796 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25173984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic remodeling is a critical skill of malignant cells, allowing their survival and spread. The metabolic dynamics and adaptation capacity of cancer cells allow them to escape from damaging stimuli, including breakage or cross-links in DNA strands and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, promoting resistance to currently available therapies, such as alkylating or oxidative agents. Therefore, it is essential to understand how metabolic pathways and the corresponding enzymatic systems can impact on tumor behavior. Cysteine aminotransferase (CAT) per se, as well as a component of the CAT: 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (MST) axis, is pivotal for this metabolic rewiring, constituting a central mechanism in amino acid metabolism and fulfilling the metabolic needs of cancer cells, thereby supplying other different pathways. In this review, we explore the current state-of-art on CAT function and its role on cancer cell metabolic rewiring as MST partner, and its relevance in cancer cells' fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Hipólito
- CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School|Faculty of Medical Sciences, University NOVA of Lisbon, Campus dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.H.); (S.C.N.)
- Institute of Oncology Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sofia C. Nunes
- CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School|Faculty of Medical Sciences, University NOVA of Lisbon, Campus dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.H.); (S.C.N.)
- Institute of Oncology Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João B. Vicente
- Institute of Technology, Chemistry and Biology António Xavier (ITQB NOVA), Avenida da República (EAN), 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
- Correspondence: (J.B.V.); (J.S.)
| | - Jacinta Serpa
- CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School|Faculty of Medical Sciences, University NOVA of Lisbon, Campus dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.H.); (S.C.N.)
- Institute of Oncology Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisbon, Portugal
- Correspondence: (J.B.V.); (J.S.)
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Serpa J. Cysteine as a Carbon Source, a Hot Spot in Cancer Cells Survival. Front Oncol 2020; 10:947. [PMID: 32714858 PMCID: PMC7344258 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells undergo a metabolic rewiring in order to fulfill the energy and biomass requirements. Cysteine is a pivotal organic compound that contributes for cancer metabolic remodeling at three different levels: (1) in redox control, free or as a component of glutathione; (2) in ATP production, via hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production, serving as a donor to electron transport chain (ETC), and (3) as a carbon source for biomass and energy production. In the present review, emphasis will be given to the role of cysteine as a carbon source, focusing on the metabolic reliance on cysteine, benefiting the metabolic fitness and survival of cancer cells. Therefore, the interplay between cysteine metabolism and other metabolic pathways, as well as the regulation of cysteine metabolism related enzymes and transporters, will be also addressed. Finally, the usefulness of cysteine metabolic route as a target in cancer treatment will be highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta Serpa
- CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School - Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Lisbon, Portugal
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Zuhra K, Augsburger F, Majtan T, Szabo C. Cystathionine-β-Synthase: Molecular Regulation and Pharmacological Inhibition. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E697. [PMID: 32365821 PMCID: PMC7277093 DOI: 10.3390/biom10050697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS), the first (and rate-limiting) enzyme in the transsulfuration pathway, is an important mammalian enzyme in health and disease. Its biochemical functions under physiological conditions include the metabolism of homocysteine (a cytotoxic molecule and cardiovascular risk factor) and the generation of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a gaseous biological mediator with multiple regulatory roles in the vascular, nervous, and immune system. CBS is up-regulated in several diseases, including Down syndrome and many forms of cancer; in these conditions, the preclinical data indicate that inhibition or inactivation of CBS exerts beneficial effects. This article overviews the current information on the expression, tissue distribution, physiological roles, and biochemistry of CBS, followed by a comprehensive overview of direct and indirect approaches to inhibit the enzyme. Among the small-molecule CBS inhibitors, the review highlights the specificity and selectivity problems related to many of the commonly used "CBS inhibitors" (e.g., aminooxyacetic acid) and provides a comprehensive review of their pharmacological actions under physiological conditions and in various disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Zuhra
- Chair of Pharmacology, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, 1702 Fribourg, Switzerland; (K.Z.); (F.A.)
| | - Fiona Augsburger
- Chair of Pharmacology, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, 1702 Fribourg, Switzerland; (K.Z.); (F.A.)
| | - Tomas Majtan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA;
| | - Csaba Szabo
- Chair of Pharmacology, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, 1702 Fribourg, Switzerland; (K.Z.); (F.A.)
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Role of 3-Mercaptopyruvate Sulfurtransferase in the Regulation of Proliferation, Migration, and Bioenergetics in Murine Colon Cancer Cells. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10030447. [PMID: 32183148 PMCID: PMC7175125 DOI: 10.3390/biom10030447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST) has emerged as one of the significant sources of biologically active sulfur species in various mammalian cells. The current study was designed to investigate the functional role of 3-MST’s catalytic activity in the murine colon cancer cell line CT26. The novel pharmacological 3-MST inhibitor HMPSNE was used to assess cancer cell proliferation, migration and bioenergetics in vitro. Methods included measurements of cell viability (MTT and LDH assays), cell proliferation and in vitro wound healing (IncuCyte) and cellular bioenergetics (Seahorse extracellular flux analysis). 3-MST expression was detected by Western blotting; H2S production was measured by the fluorescent dye AzMC. The results show that CT26 cells express 3-MST protein and mRNA, as well as several enzymes involved in H2S degradation (TST, ETHE1). Pharmacological inhibition of 3-MST concentration-dependently suppressed H2S production and, at 100 and 300 µM, attenuated CT26 proliferation and migration. HMPSNE exerted a bell-shaped effect on several cellular bioenergetic parameters related to oxidative phosphorylation, while other bioenergetic parameters were either unaffected or inhibited at the highest concentration of the inhibitor tested (300 µM). In contrast to 3-MST, the expression of CBS (another H2S producing enzyme which has been previously implicated in the regulation of various biological parameters in other tumor cells) was not detectable in CT26 cells and pharmacological inhibition of CBS exerted no significant effects on CT26 proliferation or bioenergetics. In summary, 3-MST catalytic activity significantly contributes to the regulation of cellular proliferation, migration and bioenergetics in CT26 murine colon cancer cells. The current studies identify 3-MST as the principal source of biologically active H2S in this cell line.
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Effect of S-Allyl -L-Cysteine on MCF-7 Cell Line 3-Mercaptopyruvate Sulfurtransferase/Sulfane Sulfur System, Viability and Apoptosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031090. [PMID: 32041330 PMCID: PMC7037078 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The S-Allyl-L-cysteine (SAC) component of aged garlic extract (AGE) is proven to have anticancer, antihepatotoxic, neuroprotective and neurotrophic properties. γ-Cystathionase (CTH), cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (MPST) are involved in H2S/sulfane sulfur endogenous formation from L-cysteine. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of SAC on MCF-7 cells survival and apoptosis, which is a widely known approach to reduce the number of cancer cells. An additional goal of this paper was to investigate the effect of SAC on the activity and expression of enzymes involved in H2S production. The experiments were carried out in the human breast adenocarcinoma cell line MCF-7. Changes in the cell viability were determined by MTT assay. Cell survival was determined by flow cytometry (FC). Changes in enzymes expression were analyzed using Western blot. After 24 h and 48 h incubation with 2245 µM SAC, induction of late apoptosis was observed. A decrease in cell viability was observed with increasing SAC concentration and incubation time. SAC had no significant cytotoxic effect on the MCF-7 cells upon all analyzed concentrations. CTH, MPST and CBS expression were confirmed in non-treated MCF-7 cells. Significant decrease in MPST activity at 2245 µM SAC after 24 h and 48 h incubation vs. 1000 µM SAC was associated with decrease in sulfane sulfur levels. The presented results show promising SAC effects regarding the deterioration of the MCF-7 cells’ condition in reducing their viability through the downregulation of MPST expression and sulfate sulfur level reduction.
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Lazarević M, Mazzon E, Momčilović M, Basile MS, Colletti G, Petralia MC, Bramanti P, Nicoletti F, Miljković Đ. The H₂S Donor GYY4137 Stimulates Reactive Oxygen Species Generation in BV2 Cells While Suppressing the Secretion of TNF and Nitric Oxide. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23112966. [PMID: 30441775 PMCID: PMC6278327 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23112966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
GYY4137 is a hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donor that has been shown to act in an anti-inflammatory manner in vitro and in vivo. Microglial cells are among the major players in immunoinflammatory, degenerative, and neoplastic disorders of the central nervous system, including multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and glioblastoma multiforme. So far, the effects of GYY4137 on microglial cells have not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, BV2 microglial cells were stimulated with interferon-gamma and lipopolysaccharide and treated with GYY4137. The agent did not influence the viability of BV2 cells in concentrations up to 200 μM. It inhibited tumor necrosis factor but not interleukin-6 production. Expression of CD40 and CD86 were reduced under the influence of the donor. The phagocytic ability of BV2 cells and nitric oxide production were also affected by the agent. Surprisingly, GYY4137 upregulated generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by BV2 cells. The effect was mimicked by another H2S donor, Na2S, and it was not reproduced in macrophages. Our results demonstrate that GYY4137 downregulates inflammatory properties of BV2 cells but increases their ability to generate ROS. Further investigation of this unexpected phenomenon is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milica Lazarević
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Strada Statale 113, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Miljana Momčilović
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia.
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Colletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Petralia
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Strada Statale 113, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Placido Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Strada Statale 113, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Đorđe Miljković
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia.
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13
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Vellecco V, Armogida C, Bucci M. Hydrogen sulfide pathway and skeletal muscle: an introductory review. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:3090-3099. [PMID: 29767441 PMCID: PMC6031874 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of the H2 S pathway in skeletal muscle (SKM) has recently been established. SKM expresses the three constitutive H2 S-generating enzymes in animals and humans, and it actively produces H2 S. The main, recognized molecular targets of H2 S, that is, potassium channels and PDEs, have been evaluated in SKM physiology in order to hypothesize a role for H2 S signalling. SKM dysfunctions, including muscular dystrophy and malignant hyperthermia, have also been evaluated as conditions in which the H2 S and transsulfuration pathways have been suggested to be involved. The intrinsic complexity of the molecular mechanisms involved in excitation-contraction (E-C) coupling together with the scarcity of preclinical models of SKM-related disorders have hampered any advances in the knowledge of SKM function. Here, we have addressed the role of the H2 S pathway in E-C coupling and the relative importance of cystathionine β-synthase, cistathionine γ-lyase and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase in SKM diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Vellecco
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Chiara Armogida
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Bucci
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, 80131, Italy
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14
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Kashfi K. The dichotomous role of H 2S in cancer cell biology? Déjà vu all over again. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 149:205-223. [PMID: 29397935 PMCID: PMC5866221 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.01.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) a gaseous free radical is one of the ten smallest molecules found in nature, while hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gas that bears the pungent smell of rotten eggs. Both are toxic yet they are gasotransmitters of physiological relevance. There appears to be an uncanny resemblance between the general actions of these two gasotransmitters in health and disease. The role of NO and H2S in cancer has been quite perplexing, as both tumor promotion and inflammatory activities as well as anti-tumor and antiinflammatory properties have been described. These paradoxes have been explained for both gasotransmitters in terms of each having a dual or biphasic effect that is dependent on the local flux of each gas. In this review/commentary, I have discussed the major roles of NO and H2S in carcinogenesis, evaluating their dual nature, focusing on the enzymes that contribute to this paradox and evaluate the pros and cons of inhibiting or inducing each of these enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khosrow Kashfi
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education, City University of New York School of Medicine, NY, USA.
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15
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Lomnytska M, Pinto R, Becker S, Engström U, Gustafsson S, Björklund C, Templin M, Bergstrand J, Xu L, Widengren J, Epstein E, Franzén B, Auer G. Platelet protein biomarker panel for ovarian cancer diagnosis. Biomark Res 2018; 6:2. [PMID: 29344361 PMCID: PMC5767003 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-018-0118-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Platelets support cancer growth and spread making platelet proteins candidates in the search for biomarkers. METHODS Two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis, Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA), Western blot, DigiWest. RESULTS PLS-DA of platelet protein expression in 2D gels suggested differences between the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stages III-IV of ovarian cancer, compared to benign adnexal lesions with a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 88%. A PLS-DA-based model correctly predicted 7 out of 8 cases of FIGO stages I-II of ovarian cancer after verification by western blot. Receiver-operator curve (ROC) analysis indicated a sensitivity of 83% and specificity of 76% at cut-off >0.5 (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.831, p < 0.0001) for detecting these cases. Validation on an independent set of samples by DigiWest with PLS-DA differentiated benign adnexal lesions and ovarian cancer, FIGO stages III-IV, with a sensitivity of 70% and a specificity of 83%. CONCLUSION We identified a group of platelet protein biomarker candidates that can quantify the differential expression between ovarian cancer cases as compared to benign adnexal lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Lomnytska
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academical Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
- Institute of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Centre Karolinska, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rui Pinto
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, MRC-PHE Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, Norfolk Place, W2 1PG, London, England UK
| | - Susanne Becker
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Centre Karolinska, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulla Engström
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Ltd, Box 595, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sonja Gustafsson
- NeoProteomics AB, Cancer Centre Karolinska, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Markus Templin
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Jan Bergstrand
- Experimental Biomolecular Physics, Department of Applied Physics, Royal Institute of Technology, AlbaNova University Center, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lei Xu
- Experimental Biomolecular Physics, Department of Applied Physics, Royal Institute of Technology, AlbaNova University Center, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jerker Widengren
- Experimental Biomolecular Physics, Department of Applied Physics, Royal Institute of Technology, AlbaNova University Center, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabeth Epstein
- Institute of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, SE-118 83 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bo Franzén
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Centre Karolinska, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- NeoProteomics AB, Cancer Centre Karolinska, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gert Auer
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Centre Karolinska, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- NeoProteomics AB, Cancer Centre Karolinska, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Untereiner AA, Pavlidou A, Druzhyna N, Papapetropoulos A, Hellmich MR, Szabo C. Drug resistance induces the upregulation of H 2S-producing enzymes in HCT116 colon cancer cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2017; 149:174-185. [PMID: 29061341 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2017.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production in colon cancer cells supports cellular bioenergetics and proliferation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the alterations in H2S homeostasis during the development of resistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent. A 5-FU-resistant HCT116 human colon cancer cell line was established by serial passage in the presence of increasing 5-FU concentrations. The 5-FU-resistant cells also demonstrated a partial resistance to an unrelated chemotherapeutic agent, oxaliplatin. Compared to parental cells, the 5-FU-resistant cells rely more on oxidative phosphorylation than glycolysis for bioenergetic function. There was a significant increase in the expression of the drug-metabolizing cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP1A2 and CYP2A6 in 5-FU-resistant cells. The CYP450 inhibitor phenylpyrrole enhanced 5-FU-induced cytotoxicity in 5-FU-resistant cells. Two major H2S-generating enzymes, cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST) were upregulated in the 5-FU-resistant cells. 5-FU-resistant cells exhibited decreased sensitivity to the CBS inhibitor aminooxyacetate (AOAA) in terms of suppression of cell viability, inhibition of cell proliferation and inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation. However, 5FU-resistant cells remained sensitive to the antiproliferative effect of benserazide (a recently identified, potentially repurposable CBS inhibitor). Taken together, the current data suggest that 5-FU resistance in HCT116 cells is associated with the upregulation of drug-metabolizing enzymes and an enhancement of endogenous H2S production. The anticancer effect of prototypical H2S biosynthesis inhibitor AOAA is impaired in 5-FU-resistant cells, but benserazide remains efficacious. Pharmacological approaches aimed at restoring the sensitivity of 5-FU-resistant cells to chemotherapeutic agents may be useful in the formulation of novel therapeutic strategies against colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley A Untereiner
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.
| | - Athanasia Pavlidou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
| | - Nadiya Druzhyna
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Andreas Papapetropoulos
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece; Clinical, Experimental Surgery and Translational Research Center, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Greece
| | - Mark R Hellmich
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Csaba Szabo
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.
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17
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McBean GJ. Cysteine, Glutathione, and Thiol Redox Balance in Astrocytes. Antioxidants (Basel) 2017; 6:antiox6030062. [PMID: 28771170 PMCID: PMC5618090 DOI: 10.3390/antiox6030062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
This review discusses the current understanding of cysteine and glutathione redox balance in astrocytes. Particular emphasis is placed on the impact of oxidative stress and astrocyte activation on pathways that provide cysteine as a precursor for glutathione. The effect of the disruption of thiol-containing amino acid metabolism on the antioxidant capacity of astrocytes is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gethin J McBean
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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