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Falquet M, Prezioso C, Ludvigsen M, Bruun JA, Passerini S, Sveinbjørnsson B, Pietropaolo V, Moens U. Regulation of Transcriptional Activity of Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Large T-Antigen by PKA-Mediated Phosphorylation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010895. [PMID: 36614338 PMCID: PMC9820997 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is the major cause of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), an aggressive skin cancer. MCPyV large T-antigen (LTag) and small T-antigen (sTag) are the main oncoproteins involved in MCPyV-induced MCC. A hallmark of MCPyV-positive MCC cells is the expression of a C-terminal truncated LTag. Protein kinase A (PKA) plays a fundamental role in a variety of biological processes, including transcription by phosphorylating and thereby regulating the activity of transcription factors. As MCPyV LTag has been shown to be phosphorylated and acts as a transcription factor for the viral early and late promoter, we investigated whether LTag can be phosphorylayted by PKA, and whether this affects the transcript activity of LTag. Using a phosphorylation prediction algorithm, serine 191, 203, and 265 were identified as putative phosphorylation sites for PKA. Mass spectrometry of in vitro PKA-phosphorylated peptides confirmed phosphorylation of S203 and S265, but not S191. Full-length LTag inhibited early and late promoter activity of MCPyV, whereas the truncated MKL2 LTag variant stimulated both promoters. Single non-phosphorylable, as well as phosphomimicking mutations did not alter the inhibitory effect of full-length LTag. However, the non-phosphorylable mutations abrogated transactivation of the MCPyV promoters by MKL2 LTag, whereas phosphomimicking substitutions restored the ability of MKL2 LTag to activate the promoters. Triple LTag and MKL2 LTag mutants had the same effect as the single mutants. Activation of the PKA signaling pathway did not enhance MCPyV promoter activity, nor did it affect LTag expression levels in MCPyV-positive Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) cells. Our results show that phosphorylation of truncated LTag stimulates viral promoter activity, which may contribute to higher levels of the viral oncoproteins LTag and sTag. Interfering with PKA-induced LTag phosphorylation/activity may be a therapeutic strategy to treat MCPyV-positive MCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mar Falquet
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Carla Prezioso
- Microbiology of Chronic Neuro-Degenerative Pathologies, IRCSS San Raffaele, 00163 Rome, Italy
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Ludvigsen
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jack-Ansgar Bruun
- Department of Medical Biology, Proteomics Platform, University of Tromsø-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Sara Passerini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Baldur Sveinbjørnsson
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Valeria Pietropaolo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (V.P.); (U.M.)
| | - Ugo Moens
- Microbiology of Chronic Neuro-Degenerative Pathologies, IRCSS San Raffaele, 00163 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (V.P.); (U.M.)
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Hueso L, Marques P, Morant B, Gonzalez-Navarro H, Ortega J, Real JT, Sanz MJ, Piqueras L. CCL17 and CCL22 chemokines are upregulated in human obesity and play a role in vascular dysfunction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1154158. [PMID: 37124725 PMCID: PMC10130371 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1154158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Chemokines are known to play critical roles mediating inflammation in many pathophysiological processes. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of chemokine receptor CCR4 and its ligands CCL17 and CCL22 in human morbid obesity. Methods Circulating levels of CCL17 and CCL22 were measured in 60 morbidly obese patients (mean age, 45 ± 1 years; body mass index/BMI, 44 ± 1 kg/m2) who had undergone bariatric bypass surgery, and 20 control subjects. Paired subcutaneous (SCAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VCAT) from patients were analysed to measure expression of CCR4 and its ligands by RT-PCR, western blot and immunohistochemical analysis. The effects of CCR4 neutralization ex vivo on leukocyte-endothelial cells were also evaluated. Results Compared with controls, morbidly obese patients presented higher circulating levels of CCL17 (p=0.029) and CCL22 (p<0.001) and this increase was positively correlated with BMI (p=0.013 and p=0.0016), and HOMA-IR Index (p=0.042 and p< 0.001). Upregulation of CCR4, CCL17 and CCL22 expression was detected in VCAT in comparison with SCAT (p<0.05). Using the parallel-plate flow chamber model, blockade of endothelial CCR4 function with the neutralizing antibody anti-CCR4 in morbidly obese patients significantly reduced leucocyte adhesiveness to dysfunctional endothelium, a key event in atherogenesis. Additionally, CCL17 and CCL22 increased activation of the ERK1/2 mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling pathway in human aortic endothelial cells, which was significantly reduced by CCR4 inhibition (p=0.016 and p<0.05). Conclusion Based on these findings, pharmacological modulation of the CCR4 axis could represent a new therapeutic approach to prevent adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Hueso
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Brenda Morant
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Herminia Gonzalez-Navarro
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- CIBERDEM: Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases Networking Biomedical Research- Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Joaquin Ortega
- Surgery Service, University Clinic Hospital of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Surgery, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - José T. Real
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
- CIBERDEM: Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases Networking Biomedical Research- Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, University Clinic Hospital of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Laura Piqueras, ; María J Sanz, ; José T. Real,
| | - María J Sanz
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
- CIBERDEM: Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases Networking Biomedical Research- Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Laura Piqueras, ; María J Sanz, ; José T. Real,
| | - Laura Piqueras
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
- CIBERDEM: Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases Networking Biomedical Research- Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Laura Piqueras, ; María J Sanz, ; José T. Real,
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Ouyang K, Zheng DX, Agak GW. T-Cell Mediated Immunity in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246058. [PMID: 36551547 PMCID: PMC9775569 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and frequently lethal skin cancer with neuroendocrine characteristics. MCC can originate from either the presence of MCC polyomavirus (MCPyV) DNA or chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure that can cause DNA mutations. MCC is predominant in sun-exposed regions of the body and can metastasize to regional lymph nodes, liver, lungs, bone, and brain. Older, light-skinned individuals with a history of significant sun exposure are at the highest risk. Previous studies have shown that tumors containing a high number of tumor-infiltrating T-cells have favorable survival, even in the absence of MCPyV DNA, suggesting that MCPyV infection enhances T-cell infiltration. However, other factors may also play a role in the host antitumor response. Herein, we review the impact of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), mainly the CD4+, CD8+, and regulatory T-cell (Tregs) responses on the course of MCC, including their role in initiating MCPyV-specific immune responses. Furthermore, potential research avenues related to T-cell biology in MCC, as well as relevant immunotherapies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Ouyang
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - David X. Zheng
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - George W. Agak
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence:
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Tian Q, Gao H, Ma Y, Zhu L, Zhou Y, Shen Y, Wang B. The regulatory roles of T helper cells in distinct extracellular matrix characterization in breast cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:871742. [PMID: 36159822 PMCID: PMC9493030 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.871742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tumors are characterized by extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and stiffening. The ECM has been recognized as an important determinant of breast cancer progression and prognosis. Recent studies have revealed a strong link between ECM remodeling and immune cell infiltration in a variety of tumor types. However, the landscape and specific regulatory mechanisms between ECM and immune microenvironment in breast cancer have not been fully understood. Methods Using genomic data and clinical information of breast cancer patients obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases, we conducted an extensive multi-omics analysis to explore the heterogeneity and prognostic significance of the ECM microenvironment. Masson and Sirius red staining were applied to quantify the contents of collagen in the ECM microenvironment. Tissue immunofluorescence (IF) staining was applied to identify T helper (Th) cells. Results We classified breast cancer patients into two ECM-clusters and three gene-clusters by consensus clustering. Significant heterogeneity in prognosis and immune cell infiltration have been found in these distinct clusters. Specifically, in the ECM-cluster with better prognosis, the expression levels of Th2 and regulatory T (Treg) cells were reduced, while the Th1, Th17 and T follicular helper (Tfh) cells-associated activities were significantly enhanced. The correlations between ECM characteristics and Th cells infiltration were then validated by clinical tissue samples from our hospital. The ECM-associated prognostic model was then constructed by 10 core prognostic genes and stratified breast cancer patients into two risk groups. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the overall survival (OS) of breast cancer patients in the high-risk group was significantly worse than that of the low-risk group. The risk scores for breast cancer patients obtained from our prognostic model were further confirmed to be associated with immune cell infiltration, tumor mutation burden (TMB) and stem cell indexes. Finally, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of antitumor agents for patients in different risk groups were calculated to provide references for therapy targeting distinct ECM characteristics. Conclusion Our findings identify a novel strategy for breast cancer subtyping based on the ECM characterization and reveal the regulatory roles of Th cells in ECM remodeling. Targeting ECM remodeling and Th cells hold potential to be a therapeutic alternative for breast cancer in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Tian
- Department of Radiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Huan Gao
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yingying Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Lizhe Zhu
- Department of Breast Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yanwei Shen
- Department of Surgery Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Yanwei Shen, ; Bo Wang,
| | - Bo Wang
- Center for Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Yanwei Shen, ; Bo Wang,
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Fromme JE, Zigrino P. The Role of Extracellular Matrix Remodeling in Skin Tumor Progression and Therapeutic Resistance. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:864302. [PMID: 35558554 PMCID: PMC9086898 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.864302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix remodeling in the skin results from a delicate balance of synthesis and degradation of matrix components, ensuring tissue homeostasis. These processes are altered during tumor invasion and growth, generating a microenvironment that supports growth, invasion, and metastasis. Apart from the cellular component, the tumor microenvironment is rich in extracellular matrix components and bound factors that provide structure and signals to the tumor and stromal cells. The continuous remodeling in the tissue compartment sustains the developing tumor during the various phases providing matrices and proteolytic enzymes. These are produced by cancer cells and stromal fibroblasts. In addition to fostering tumor growth, the expression of specific extracellular matrix proteins and proteinases supports tumor invasion after the initial therapeutic response. Lately, the expression and structural modification of matrices were also associated with therapeutic resistance. This review will focus on the significant alterations in the extracellular matrix components and the function of metalloproteinases that influence skin cancer progression and support the acquisition of therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia E. Fromme
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Mildred Scheel School of Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Düsseldorf (MSSO ABCD), Cologne, Germany
| | - Paola Zigrino
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- *Correspondence: Paola Zigrino,
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The Merkel Cell Polyomavirus T-Antigens and IL-33/ST2-IL1RAcP Axis: Possible Role in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073702. [PMID: 35409061 PMCID: PMC8998536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a causal factor in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). The oncogenic potential is mediated through its viral oncoproteins large T-antigen (LT) and small T-antigen (sT). Cytokines produced by tumor cells play an important role in cancer pathogenesis, and viruses affect their expression. Therefore, we compared human cytokine and receptor transcript levels in virus positive (V+) and virus negative (V−) MCC cell lines. Increased expression of IL-33, a potent modulator of tumor microenvironment, was observed in V+ MCC cell lines when compared to V− MCC-13 cells. Transient transfection studies with luciferase reporter plasmids demonstrated that LT and sT stimulated IL-33, ST2/IL1RL1 and IL1RAcP promoter activity. The induction of IL-33 expression was confirmed by transfecting MCC-13 cells with MCPyV LT. Furthermore, recombinant human cytokine domain IL-33 induced activation of MAP kinase and NF-κB pathways, which could be blocked by a ST2 receptor antibody. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated a significantly stronger IL-33, ST2, and IL1RAcP expression in MCC tissues compared to normal skin. Of interest, significantly higher IL-33 and IL1RAcP protein levels were observed in MCC patient plasma compared to plasma from healthy controls. Previous studies have demonstrated the implication of the IL-33/STL2 pathway in cancer. Because our results revealed a T-antigens-dependent induction of the IL-33/ST2 axis, IL-33/ST2 may play a role in the tumorigenesis of MCPyV-positive MCC. Therefore, neutralizing the IL-33/ST2 axis may present a novel therapeutic approach for MCC patients.
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Rasheed K, Sveinbjørnsson B, Moens U. Reciprocal transactivation of Merkel cell polyomavirus and high-risk human papillomavirus promoter activities and increased expression of their oncoproteins. Virol J 2021; 18:139. [PMID: 34217322 PMCID: PMC8254899 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-021-01613-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 15% of human cancers are attributed to viruses. Numerous studies have shown that high-risk human polyomaviruses (HR-HPV) and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) are two human tumor viruses associated with anogenetal and oropharyngeal cancers, and with Merkel cell carcinoma, respectively. MCPyV has been found in HR-HPV positive anogenetal and oropharyngeal tumors, suggesting that MCPyV can act as a co-factor in HR-HPV induced oncogenesis. This prompted us to investigate whether the oncoproteins large T-antigen (LT) and small antigen (sT) of MCPyV could affect the transcriptional activity HPV16 and HPV18 and vice versa whether HPV16 and HPV18 E6 and E7 oncoproteins affected the expression of MCPyV LT and sT. Reciprocal stimulation of these viral oncoproteinscould enhance the oncogenic processes triggered by these tumor viruses. METHODS Transient co-transfection studies using a luciferase reporter plasmid with the long control region of HPV16 or HPV18, or the early or late promoter of MCPyV and expression plasmids for LT and sT, or E6 and E7, respectively were performed in the HPV-negative cervical cancer cell line C33A, in the keratinocyte cell line HaCaT, and in the oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line HSC-3. Transfections were also performed with deletion mutants of all these promoters and with mutants of all four oncoproteins. Finally, the effect of E6 and E7 on LT and sT expression in the MCPyV-positive Merkel cell carcinoma cell line WaGa and the effect of LT and sT on the expression of E6 and E7 was monitored by Western blotting. RESULTS LT and sT stimulated the transcriptional activity of the HPV16 and HPV18 LCR and v.v. E6 and E7 potentiated the MCPyV early and late promoter in all cell lines. Induction by E6 and E7 was p53- and pRb-independent, and transactivation by LT did not require DNA binding, nuclear localization and HSC70/pRb interaction, whereas sT stimulated the HPV16/18 LCR activity in a PP2A- and DnaJ-independent manner. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that the co-infection of MCPyV may act as a co-factor in the initiation and/or progression of HPV-induced cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kashif Rasheed
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway.,Institute for Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NTNU Trondheim, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Baldur Sveinbjørnsson
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway.,Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 1176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ugo Moens
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway.
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Pietropaolo V, Prezioso C, Moens U. Merkel Cell Polyomavirus and Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1774. [PMID: 32635198 PMCID: PMC7407210 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses are the cause of approximately 15% of all human cancers. Both RNA and DNA human tumor viruses have been identified, with Merkel cell polyomavirus being the most recent one to be linked to cancer. This virus is associated with about 80% of Merkel cell carcinomas, a rare, but aggressive cutaneous malignancy. Despite its name, the cells of origin of this tumor may not be Merkel cells. This review provides an update on the structure and life cycle, cell tropism and epidemiology of the virus and its oncogenic properties. Putative strategies to prevent viral infection or treat virus-positive Merkel cell carcinoma patients are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pietropaolo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University, 00185 Rome, Italy; (V.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Carla Prezioso
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University, 00185 Rome, Italy; (V.P.); (C.P.)
- IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, Microbiology of Chronic Neuro-Degenerative Pathologies, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Ugo Moens
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø—The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
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Abdulsalam I, Rasheed K, Sveinbjørnsson B, Ehlers B, Moens U. Promoter activity of Merkel cell Polyomavirus variants in human dermal fibroblasts and a Merkel cell carcinoma cell line. Virol J 2020; 17:54. [PMID: 32306957 PMCID: PMC7168875 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-020-01317-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a human polyomavirus that establishes a life-long harmless infection in most individuals, with dermal fibroblasts believed to be the natural host cell. However, this virus is the major cause of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), an aggressive skin cancer. Several MCPyV variants with polymorphism in their promoter region have been isolated, but it is not known whether these differences affect the biological properties of the virus. Methods Using transient transfection studies in human dermal fibroblasts and the MCC cell line MCC13, we compared the transcription activity of the early and late promoters of the most commonly described non-coding control region MCPyV variant and six other isolates containing specific mutation patterns. Results Both the early and late promoters were significantly stronger in human dermal fibroblasts compared with MCC13 cells, and a different promoter strength between the MCPyV variants was observed. The expression of full-length large T-antigen, a viral protein that regulates early and late promoter activity, inhibited early and late promoter activities in both cell lines. Nonetheless, a truncated large T-antigen, which is expressed in virus-positive MCCs, stimulated the activity of its cognate promoter. Conclusion The promoter activities of all MCPyV variants tested was stronger in human dermal fibroblasts, a cell line that supports viral replication, than in MCC13 cells, which are not permissive for MCPyV. Truncated large T-antigen, but not full-length large T-antigen stimulated viral promoter activity. Whether, the difference in promoter strength and regulation by large T-antigen may affect the replication and tumorigenic properties of the virus remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Abdulsalam
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Present address: Tumor Biology Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Kashif Rasheed
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Baldur Sveinbjørnsson
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Bernhard Ehlers
- Division 12 Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Viruses Affecting Immunocompromised Patients, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ugo Moens
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
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Development of reporter gene assays to determine the bioactivity of biopharmaceuticals. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 39:107466. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2019.107466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rapidly progressing skin cancer, has poor prognosis. We reviewed the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of MCC, with a focus on recent therapeutic advancements. RECENT FINDINGS Risk factors for MCC, such as old age, immunosuppression, polyomavirus infection and exposure to UV radiation have already been identified, but the underlying mechanisms leading to carcinogenesis still need clarification. On the basis of recent advances, immunotherapy - in particular, inhibition targeting the programmed cell death protein 1/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD1)/PDL1) immune checkpoint blockade - is currently being investigated in the treatment of metastatic MCC. Avelumab, an anti-PDL1 antibody, was the first drug to be approved internationally as second-line monotherapy for patients with advanced MCC, based on results from the JAVELIN Merkel 200 clinical trial. Avelumab has also recently been approved as first-line treatment for advanced MCC in Europe. Pembrolizumab (anti-PD1) in first-line and nivolumab (anti-PD1) in first-line and second-line treatments are two other checkpoint inhibitors that are under investigation, and showing promising results. New innovative therapies are also in development. SUMMARY New insights concerning advances in MCC diagnosis and treatment have been highlighted. Immunotherapy for metastatic MCC constitutes a recent breakthrough in an unmet medical need, but alternative therapies should continue to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Véronique Del Marmol
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Hopital Erasme-Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Celeste Lebbé
- APHP, Department of Dermatology, Saint-Louis Hospital, Sorbonne Paris Cité Université, Paris Diderot, INSERM U976, Paris, France
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Moens U, Macdonald A. Effect of the Large and Small T-Antigens of Human Polyomaviruses on Signaling Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20163914. [PMID: 31408949 PMCID: PMC6720190 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20163914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [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: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses are intracellular parasites that require a permissive host cell to express the viral genome and to produce new progeny virus particles. However, not all viral infections are productive and some viruses can induce carcinogenesis. Irrespective of the type of infection (productive or neoplastic), viruses hijack the host cell machinery to permit optimal viral replication or to transform the infected cell into a tumor cell. One mechanism viruses employ to reprogram the host cell is through interference with signaling pathways. Polyomaviruses are naked, double-stranded DNA viruses whose genome encodes the regulatory proteins large T-antigen and small t-antigen, and structural proteins that form the capsid. The large T-antigens and small t-antigens can interfere with several host signaling pathways. In this case, we review the interplay between the large T-antigens and small t-antigens with host signaling pathways and the biological consequences of these interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Moens
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Andrew Macdonald
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
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Li J, Yang C, Yang J, Zou L. Down-regulation of CCL17 in cancer-associated fibroblasts inhibits cell migration and invasion of breast cancer through ERK1/2 pathway. Cancer Manag Res 2019; 11:7439-7453. [PMID: 31496803 PMCID: PMC6689663 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s211651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment are involved in cancer development and progression, including breast cancer (BC). Up-regulation of CCL17 was observed in BC and predicted a decrease in overall survival, suggesting an important role of CCL17 in BC development. Nonetheless, little is known about the role of CCL17 in the interaction between CAFs and BC. Materials and methods Real-time quantitative PCR, Western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were performed to examine C-C motif chemokine ligand 17 (CCL17) and C-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4) levels in BC tissues and CAFs. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of CAFs co-cultured with or without BC cell lines were measured by Cell Counting Kit-8 and Transwell analysis. Expression of CCL17, CCR4, dual specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6), matrix metallopeptidase 13 (MMP13), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, and phosphor-ERK1/2 (p-ERK1/2) in BC cell lines co-cultured with or without CAFs was measured by Western blotting. Results We found that BC tissues and CAFs demonstrated higher levels of CCL17 compared with adjacent-normal breast tissues and adjacent-normal fibroblasts (NFs), respectively. CCL17 expression is correlated with lymph nodes, TNM stage and tumor size of BC patients. CCL17 knockdown significantly inhibited CCL17 release, CCR4 expression, and the cell proliferation of CAFs, while CCL17 overexpression demonstrated an inverse effect in NFs. Co-culture with CAFs induced the increases in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and the expression of CCL17, CCR4, MMP13, and p-ERK1/2 in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were markedly reversed by CCL17 knockdown in CAFs. Meanwhile, co-culture with NFs induced the malignant phenotype of MCF-7 cells was markedly enhanced by CCL17 overexpression in NFs. Moreover, DUSP6, a negative regulator of ERK1/2, was dose-dependent decrease in response to recombinant CCL17 and inhibited cell migration, invasion, MMP13 expression, and ERK1/2 activation in MCF-7 cells. Conclusion The findings of this study suggest that CCL17 may function as a novel biomarker as well as potential therapeutic target against BC and CAF-secreted CCL17 promotes BC cell migration and invasion through the DUSP6-dependent ERK1/2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China.,Department of Breast Surgery, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunli Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingshi Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Liqun Zou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China
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14
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Bhattacharjee O, Ayyangar U, Kurbet AS, Ashok D, Raghavan S. Unraveling the ECM-Immune Cell Crosstalk in Skin Diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:68. [PMID: 31134198 PMCID: PMC6514232 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex network of proteins and proteoglycans secreted by keratinocytes, fibroblasts and immune cells. The function of the skin ECM has expanded from being a scaffold that provides structural integrity, to a more dynamic entity that is constantly remodeled to maintain tissue homeostasis. The ECM functions as ligands for cell surface receptors such as integrins, dystroglycans, and toll-like receptors (TLRs) and regulate cellular signaling and immune cell dynamics. The ECM also acts as a sink for growth factors and cytokines, providing critical cues during epithelial morphogenesis. Dysregulation in the organization and deposition of ECMs lead to a plethora of pathophysiological conditions that are exacerbated by aberrant ECM-immune cell interactions. In this review, we focus on the interplay between ECM and immune cells in the context of skin diseases and also discuss state of the art therapies that target the key molecular players involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oindrila Bhattacharjee
- School of Chemical and Biotechnology, Sastra University, Thanjavur, India
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, GKVK Campus, Bangalore, India
| | - Uttkarsh Ayyangar
- School of Chemical and Biotechnology, Sastra University, Thanjavur, India
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, GKVK Campus, Bangalore, India
| | - Ambika S. Kurbet
- School of Chemical and Biotechnology, Sastra University, Thanjavur, India
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, GKVK Campus, Bangalore, India
| | - Driti Ashok
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, GKVK Campus, Bangalore, India
| | - Srikala Raghavan
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, GKVK Campus, Bangalore, India
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15
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Higuchi T, Matsuo K, Hashida Y, Kitahata K, Ujihara T, Taniguchi A, Yoshie O, Nakayama T, Daibata M. Epstein-Barr virus-positive pyothorax-associated lymphoma expresses CCL17 and CCL22 chemokines that attract CCR4-expressing regulatory T cells. Cancer Lett 2019; 453:184-192. [PMID: 30953706 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.03.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphomas associated with chronic inflammation (DLBCL-CI) develop in patients with chronic inflammation but without any predisposing immunodeficiency. Given the expression of the EBV latent genes, DLBCL-CI should have mechanisms for evasion of host antitumor immunity. EBV-positive pyothorax-associated lymphoma (PAL) is a prototype of DLBCL-CI and may provide a valuable model for the study of immune evasion by DLBCL-CI. This study demonstrates that PAL cell lines express and secrete CCL17 and/or CCL22 chemokines, the ligands of C-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4), in contrast to EBV-negative DLBCL cell lines. Accordingly, culture supernatants of PAL cell lines efficiently attracted CCR4-positive regulatory T (Treg) cells in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. PAL cells injected into mice also attracted CCR4-expressing Treg cells. Furthermore, this study confirmed that CCR4-expressing Treg cells were abundantly present in primary PAL tissues. Collectively, these findings provide new insight into the mechanisms of immune evasion by PAL, and further studies are warranted on whether such mechanisms eventually lead to the development of DLBCL-CI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonori Higuchi
- Department of Microbiology and Infection, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, 783-8505, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Matsuo
- Division of Chemotherapy, Kindai University Faculty of Pharmacy, Higashi-Osaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Yumiko Hashida
- Department of Microbiology and Infection, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, 783-8505, Japan
| | - Kosuke Kitahata
- Division of Chemotherapy, Kindai University Faculty of Pharmacy, Higashi-Osaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Takako Ujihara
- Department of Microbiology and Infection, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, 783-8505, Japan; Science Research Center, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, 783-8505, Japan
| | - Ayuko Taniguchi
- Department of Hematology and Respiratory Medicine, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, 783-8505, Japan
| | - Osamu Yoshie
- The Health and Kampo Institute, Sendai, Miyagi, 981-3205, Japan
| | - Takashi Nakayama
- Division of Chemotherapy, Kindai University Faculty of Pharmacy, Higashi-Osaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Masanori Daibata
- Department of Microbiology and Infection, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, 783-8505, Japan.
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