Clinical significance of bax/bcl-2 ratio in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Combined effects of naringin and doxorubicin on the JAK/STAT signaling pathway reduce the development and spread of breast cancer cells

Breast cancer therapy options are limited due to its late diagnosis and poor prognosis. Doxorubicin is the fundamental therapy approach for this disease. Because chemotherapy has numerous adverse effects, the scope of the existing research was to appraise the synergetic effect of doxorubicin and naringin and explore the underlying mechanism. The cytotoxicity of doxorubicin and naringin on MCF-7 was monitored. Furthermore, the expression of STAT3 and JAK1 as well as the apoptotic and metastatic related genes (Bax, Bcl-2, Survivin, and VEGF) were conducted by immunoblotting assay and qRT-PCR. In addition, a wound healing test was utilized to appraise the migration and metastasis of MCF-7. Our results revealed that naringin and doxorubicin had a synergetic inhibitory influence on MCF-7 cells growth and migration. The synergetic action of doxorubicin and naringin effectively hindered the expression of STAT3, JAK1, Bcl-2, Survivin, and VEGF, with a boost in the level of Bax compared to cells treated with either doxorubicin or naringin. In conclusion, our findings imply that combining doxorubicin with naringin may be a favorable strategy for inhibiting the growth of breast cancer.

NOD2 silencing promotes cell apoptosis and inhibits drug resistance in chronic lymphocytic leukemia by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway

Recent years have witnessed increasing studies on the effect of epigenetic silencing of genes in the progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). This study investigates whether the nucleotide binding oligomerization domain containing 2 (NOD2) participates in the cell apoptosis and drug resistance of CLL cells. Cells were treated with adriamycin (ADR), etoposide, aclacinomycin and daunorubicin. After treatment, drug resistance and cell proliferation were examined to detect the inhibitory effect of ADR on cell proliferation; flow cytometry to identify ADR accumulation, the cell cycle distribution and apoptosis after transfection, and rhodamine 123 accumulation and efflux tests to assess P-glycoprotein (P-gp) function. NOD2 silencing or inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway suppressed the multidrug resistance level in CLL, the inhibition rate, and cell proliferation caused by ADR at concentrations of approximately 0.25-1.5 μmol/L. Greater accumulation of ADR was observed in the CLL-AAT cell line than in the CLL-AAT/A02 cell line, but NOD2 silencing or inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway further increased the accumulation of ADR drugs in the CLL-AAT cell line and inhibited the drug efflux pump function of P-gp. Additionally, NOD2 silencing or NF-κB signaling pathway inhibition increased the apoptotic rate. The results of this study indicate that NOD2 promotes cell apoptosis and reduces the drug resistance of CLL by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Novel circular RNAs of the apoptosis-related BAX and BCL2L12 genes identified in a chronic lymphocytic leukemia cell line using nanopore sequencing

Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a novel RNA type generated by back-splicing, are key regulators of gene expression, with deregulated expression and established involvement in leukemia. The products of BCL2 and its homologs, including BAX and BCL2L12, are implicated in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). However, to the best of our knowledge, nothing is known about circRNAs produced by these two genes and their role in CLL. We sought to further elucidate the contribution of BAX and BCL2L12 in CLL by unraveling the identity, localization, and potential role of their circRNAs. Therefore, total RNA from the EHEB cell line and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of CLL patients and non-leukemic blood donors was extracted and reverse-transcribed using random hexamers. Next, nested PCRs with divergent primers were performed and the purified PCR products were subjected to 3rd generation nanopore sequencing. Nested PCRs were also applied to first-strand cDNAs synthesized from total RNA extracts of PBMCs from CLL patients and non-leukemic blood donors. Lastly, a single-molecule resolution fluorescent in situ hybridization method called circFISH was used to visualize the circRNA distribution in EHEB cells. We discovered several novel circRNAs produced by BAX and BCL2L12, which were characterized by great exon structure diversity. In addition, intriguing findings regarding their formation emerged. Interestingly, visualization of the most abundant circRNAs showed distinct intracellular localization. Moreover, a complex BAX and BCL2L12 circRNA expression pattern was revealed in CLL patients and non-leukemic blood donors. Our data suggest a multifaceted role of BAX and BCL2L12 circRNAs in B-cell CLL.

Prolactin Regulates Ovine Ovarian Granulosa Cell Apoptosis by Affecting the Expression of MAPK12 Gene

Prolactin (PRL) has been reported to influence reproductive performance and cell apoptosis. However, its mechanism remains unclear. Hence, in the present study, ovine ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) were used as a cell model to investigate the relationship between PRL concentration and GC apoptosis, as well as its possible mechanisms. We examined the relationship between serum PRL concentration and follicle counts in sexually mature ewes. GCs were isolated from adult ewes and treated with different concentrations of PRL, while 500 ng/mL PRL was selected as the high concentration of prolactin (HPC). Then, we applied the transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq) combined with a gene editing approach to explore the HPC contributing to cell apoptosis and steroid hormones. The apoptosis of GCs gradually increased at PRL concentrations above 20 ng/mL, while 500 ng/mL PRL significantly decreased the secretion of steroid hormones and the expression of L-PRLR and S-PRLR. The results indicated that PRL regulates GC development and steroid hormones mainly through the target gene MAPK12. The expression of MAPK12 was increased after knocked-down L-PRLR and S-PRLR, while it decreased after overexpressed L-PRLR and S-PRLR. Cell apoptosis was inhibited and the secretion of steroid hormones increased after interfering with MAPK12, while the overexpression of MAPK12 showed the opposite trend. Overall, the number of follicles gradually decreased with increasing PRL concentration. HPCs promoted apoptosis and inhibited steroid hormone secretion in GCs by upregulating MAPK12 through reducing L-PRLR and S-PRLR.

Mechanisms behind therapeutic potentials of mesenchymal stem cell mitochondria transfer/delivery

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) perform their therapeutic effects through various mechanisms, including their ability to differentiate, producing different growth factors, immunomodulatory factors, and extracellular vesicles (EVs). In addition to the mentioned mechanisms, a new aspect of the therapeutic potential of MSCs has recently been noticed, which occurs through mitochondrial transfer. Various methods of MSCs mitochondria transfer have been used in studies to benefit from their therapeutic potential. Among these methods, mitochondrial transfer after MSCs transplantation in cell-to-cell contact, EVs-mediated transfer of mitochondria, and the use of MSCs isolated mitochondria (MSCs-mt) are well studied. Pathological conditions can affect the cells in the damaged microenvironment and lead to cells mitochondrial damage. Since the defect in the mitochondrial function of the cell leads to a decrease in ATP production and the subsequent cell death, restoring the mitochondrial content, functions, and hemostasis can affect the functions of the damaged cell. Various studies show that the transfer of MSCs mitochondria to other cells can affect vital processes such as proliferation, differentiation, cell metabolism, inflammatory responses, cell senescence, cell stress, and cell migration. These changes in cell attributes and behavior are very important for therapeutic purposes. For this reason, their investigation can play a significant role in the direction of the researchers'.

Proapoptotic and Antiproliferative Effects of the Desert Truffle Terfezia boudieri on Colon Cancer Cell Lines

Background

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality, and ranks third among cancers in terms of prevalence. Despite advances in early detection and treatment with chemotherapy and surgery, colon cancer continues to be associated with high recurrence rates, thereby resulting in a heavy disease burden. Moreover, the effectiveness of currently available treatment modalities is limited by the occurrence of toxic side effects. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop alternative treatments. Extracts from the black desert truffle Terfezia boudieri (T. boudieri) have shown promising anticancer properties. However, the cellular mechanisms underlying this activity remain poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, the colon cancer cell lines HCT-116 and Caco-2 were treated with either water or ethanolic extract of T. boudieri. Cell viability and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration were determined using MTT assays. Then, the activity of the more potent water extract was further verified using crystal violet assays, and its role in inhibiting colony formation and wound healing was investigated. Protein levels of p53, B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X (Bax), cyclin D1 (CCND1), and c-Myc were measured in cells treated with different doses of the water extract.

Results

Treatment with the water extract of T. boudieri reduced the capacity of cells for wound healing and colony formation in a dose-dependent manner. The Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and p53 expression were elevated in both cell lines. In contrast, the levels of cyclin D1 and c-Myc were suppressed.

Conclusion

T. boudieri water extract exerted a cytotoxic effect on colon cancer cells, and blocked colony formation and wound healing potentially through inhibition of proliferation. Mechanistically, these effects are attributed to influence the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis, proteins involved in cellular proliferation, and the cell cycle.

Circ_0000285 regulates nasopharyngeal carcinoma progression through miR-1278/FNDC3B axis

BACKGROUND

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is cancer with high mortality and poor prognosis. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified in a wide variety of cancers. But the functional mechanism of circ_000285 in NPC remains unclear.

PURPOSE

To decipher the biological function and molecular mechanism of circ_000285 in NPC.

METHODS

Quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was applied for detecting the expression of circ_0000285, miR-1278, and FNDC3B. Western blot was used to measure the protein levels of Fibronectin type III domain containing 3B (FNDC3B), Bcl2 associated X (Bax), and B cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl2). Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were analyzed by colony formation, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), and transwell assays. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry assays. ELISA assay was used to analyze Caspase-3 activity. Bioinformatics was used to predict, and the target relationship between miR-1278 and circ_0000285 or FNDC3B was verified by luciferase reporter assay. Tumor xenograft models were established to examine how circ_0000285 functions during the mediation of NPC tumor growth in vivo.

RESULTS

Increased circ_0000285 and FNDC3B expressions, and a decreased miR-1278 expression were observed in NPC tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of circ_0000285 inhibited NPC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and while promoting NPC cell apoptosis in vitro. Circ_0000285 knockdown-mediated anti-tumor effects in NPC cells could be largely reversed by silencing of miR-1278 or overexpression of FNDC3B. Circ_0000285 could up-regulate FNDC3B expression by sponging miR-1278 in NPC cells. Knockdown of circ_0000285 could inhibit tumor growth in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Circ_0000285 upregulates FNDC3B expression by adsorbing miR-1278 to promote NPC development.

Photoprotective activities of Lignosus rhinocerus in UV-irradiated human keratinocytes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lignosus rhinocerus, also known as Tiger Milk Mushroom has been used traditionally to treat a variety of human conditions, including asthma, diabetes, respiratory disease, skin allergy, and food poisoning. The reported activities of Lignosus rhinocerus extracts include anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-asthmatic, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, neuroprotection, and immune modulation effects. However, its effect on human skin is not well documented, including human skin exposed to ultraviolet light (UV). Exposure to UV can trigger various cellular responses, including inflammation, oxidative stress, DNA damage, cell death, and cellular aging.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study aims to investigate the effects of methanolic extract prepared from cultured Lignosus rhinocerus (herein referred to as TM02 and its methanol extract as TM02-ME) on UV-irradiated human keratinocytes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Powdered stock of TM02 was dissolved and sequentially extracted with different solvents to prepare the extracts and the methanol extract was subsequently characterized based on its bio-activities on HaCaT human keratinocytes. The keratinocytes were pre-treated with the methanol extract followed by UV-irradiation. Cellular responses of the HaCaT cells such as cell viability, DNA damage, as well as gene and protein expressions that were responsive to the treatments, were characterized by using bio-assays, including reverse-transcription based PCR, Western blot, cell viability, and mitochondrial Cytochrome C release assays.

RESULTS

TM02-ME protected HaCaT cells from UV-induced DNA damage and cell death in a dose-dependent manner. Pre-treatment of HaCaT cells with TM02-ME led to a 39% reduction of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPD) and up-regulated the gene expression of REV1 and SPINK5 in UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells when compared to the control. In addition, TM-02-ME treated HaCaT cells increased the expression of BCL-XL and BCL-2 proteins which coincided with the down-regulation of mitochondrial Cyt. C release in the UV-B irradiated HaCaT cells. The results were further supported by data that showed the stable clones of HaCaT cells stably expressed BCL-XL were resistant to UVB-induced cell death.

CONCLUSIONS

^__The results showed that TM02-ME confers photoprotective activities to UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells, leading to a reduction in DNA damage and cell death as well as up-regulated the expression of REV1 and SPINK5 which are involved in DNA repair and skin barrier function, respectively. The up-regulation of pro-survival members of the BCL-2 family by TM02-ME confers protection against UVB-induced cell death.

Immunomodulatory effects of two recombinant arginine kinases in Sarcoptes Scabiei on host peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Background

As an important zoonotic parasitic disease with global distribution, scabies causes serious public health and economic problems. Arginine kinase (AK) is involved in cell signal transduction, inflammation, and apoptosis. Two AKs were identified in Sarcoptes scabiei, but their functions in the host immune response remain unclear.

Methods

rSsAK-1 and rSsAK-2 were expressed, purified, and immunolocalized. The effects of rSsAK-1 and rSsAK-2 on rabbit PBMC proliferation, apoptosis, and migration; Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, Fas, Bax, and NF-κB transcription levels; and IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10, TGF-β1, and IL-17 secretion were detected.

Results

rSsAK-1 and rSsAK-2 were cloned and expressed successfully. Both enzymes were ~57 kDa and contained 17-kDa tagged proteins, and had good catalytic activity and immunoreactivity. The proteins were located in the S. scabiei exoskeleton, chewing mouthparts, legs, stomach, and intestine. SsAK-1 and SsAK-2 were secreted in the pool and epidermis of the skin lesions, which may be involved in S. scabiei–host interaction. rSsAK-1 and rSsAK-2 significantly promoted cell proliferation, induced cell migration, inhibited apoptosis, and increased Bcl-2, Bcl-xl and NF-κB (p65) transcription levels concentration-dependently, and inhibited IL-2, IFN-γ, and IL-10 secretion and promoted IL-4 and IL-17 secretion.

Conclusion

rSsAK-1 and rSsAK-2 might increase Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl expression by activating the NF-κB signaling pathway to promote cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis, which induced PBMC survival. By inducing PBMC migration to the infection site, rSsAK-1 and rSsAK-2 shifted the Th1/Th2 balance toward Th2 and changed the Th17/Treg balance, which indicated their immune role in S. scabiei allergic inflammation.

Biological relevance of ZNF224 expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and its implication IN NF-kB pathway regulation

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a heterogeneous disease, whose presentation and clinical course are highly variable. Identification of novel prognostic factors may contribute to improving the CLL classification and providing indications for treatment options. The zinc finger protein ZNF224 plays a key role in cell transformation, through the control of apoptotic and survival pathways. In this study, we evaluated the potential application of ZNF224 as a novel marker of CLL progression and therapy responsiveness. To this aim, we analyzed ZNF224 expression levels in B lymphocytes from CLL patients at different stages of the disease and in patients showing different treatment outcomes. The expression of ZNF224 was significantly increased in disease progression and dramatically decreased in patients in complete remission after chemotherapy. Gene expression correlation analysis performed on datasets of CLL patients revealed that ZNF224 expression was well correlated with that of some prognostic and predictive markers. Moreover, bioinformatic analysis coupled ZNF224 to NF-κB pathway, and experimental data demonstrated that RNA interference of ZNF224 reduced the activity of the NF-κB survival pathway in CLL cells. Consistently with a pro-survival role, ZNF224 knockdown raised spontaneous and drug-induced apoptosis and inhibited the proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from CLL patients. Our findings provide evidence for the involvement of ZNF224 in the survival of CLL cells via NF-κB pathway modulation, and also suggest ZNF224 as a prognostic and predictive molecular marker of CLL disease.

Ultrastructural analysis of zinc oxide nanospheres enhances anti-tumor efficacy against Hepatoma

Zinc oxide nanomaterial is a potential material in the field of cancer therapy. In this study, zinc oxide nanospheres (ZnO-NS) were synthesized by Sol-gel method using yeast extract as a non-toxic bio-template and investigated their physicochemical properties through various techniques such as FTIR, XR, DLS, and TEM. Furthermore, free zinc ions released from the zinc oxide nanosphere suspended medium were evaluated by using the ICP-AS technique. Therefore, the cytotoxicity of ZnO nanospheres and released Zn ions on both HuH7 and Vero cells was studied using the MTT assay. The data demonstrated that the effectiveness of ZnO nanospheres on HuH7 was better than free Zn ions. Similarly, ZnO-Ns were significantly more toxic to HuH7 cell lines than Vero cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The cell cycle of ZnO-Ns against Huh7 and Vero cell lines was arrested at G2/M. Also, the apoptosis assay using Annexin-V/PI showed that apoptosis of HuH7 and Vero cell lines by ZnO nanospheres was concentration and time-dependent. Caspase 3 assay results showed that the apoptosis mechanism may be intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. The mechanism of apoptosis was determined by applying the RT-PCR technique. The results revealed significantly up-regulated Bax, P53, and Cytochrome C, while the Bcl2 results displayed significant down-regulation and the western blot data confirmed the RT-PCR data. There is oxidative stress of the ZnO nanospheres and free Zn+2 ions. Results indicated that the ZnO nanospheres and free Zn+2 ions induced oxidative stress through increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation. The morphology of the HuH7 cell line after exposure to ZnO nanospheres at different time intervals revealed the presence of the chromatin condensation of the nuclear periphery fragmentation. Interestingly, the appearance of canonical ultrastructure features of apoptotic morphology of Huh7, Furthermore, many vacuoles existed in the cytoplasm, the majority of which were lipid droplets, which were like foamy cells. Also, there are vesicles intact with membranes that are recognized as swollen mitochondria.

Protective Role of miR-34c in Hypoxia by Activating Autophagy through BCL2 Repression

Hypoxia leads to significant cellular stress that has diverse pathological consequences such as cardiovascular diseases and cancers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are one of regulators of the adaptive pathway in hypoxia. We identified a hypoxia-induced miRNA, miR-34c, that was significantly upregulated in hypoxic human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and in murine blood vessels on day 3 of hindlimb ischemia (HLI). miR-34c directly inhibited BCL2 expression, acting as a toggle switch between apoptosis and autophagy in vitro and in vivo. BCL2 repression by miR-34c activated autophagy, which was evaluated by the expression of LC3-II. Overexpression of miR-34c inhibited apoptosis in HUVEC as well as in a murine model of HLI, and increased cell viability in HUVEC. Importantly, the number of viable cells in the blood vessels following HLI was increased by miR-34c overexpression. Collectively, our findings show that miR-34c plays a protective role in hypoxia, suggesting a novel therapeutic target for hypoxic and ischemic diseases in the blood vessels.

The TΑp63/BCL2 Axis Represents A Novel Mechanism Of Clinical Aggressiveness In Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

High expression of TAp63 is linked to adverse clinical outcomes in CLL.

TAp63 contributes to the antiapoptotic phenotype of CLL cells, likely through modulating BCL2 protein expression.

The TA-isoform of the p63 transcription factor (TAp63) has been reported to contribute to clinical aggressiveness in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in a hitherto elusive way. Here, we sought to further understand and define the role of TAp63 in the pathophysiology of CLL. First, we found that elevated TAp63 expression levels are linked with adverse clinical outcomes, including disease relapse and shorter time-to-first treatment and overall survival. Next, prompted by the fact that TAp63 participates in an NF-κB/TAp63/BCL2 antiapoptotic axis in activated mature, normal B cells, we explored molecular links between TAp63 and BCL2 also in CLL. We documented a strong correlation at both the protein and the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels, alluding to the potential prosurvival role of TAp63. This claim was supported by inducible downregulation of TAp63 expression in the MEC1 CLL cell line using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system, which resulted in downregulation of BCL2 expression. Next, using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) sequencing, we examined whether BCL2 might constitute a transcriptional target of TAp63 and identified a significant binding profile of TAp63 in the BCL2 gene locus, across a genomic region previously characterized as a super enhancer in CLL. Moreover, we identified high-confidence TAp63 binding regions in genes mainly implicated in immune response and DNA-damage procedures. Finally, we found that upregulated TAp63 expression levels render CLL cells less responsive to apoptosis induction with the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax. On these grounds, TAp63 appears to act as a positive modulator of BCL2, hence contributing to the antiapoptotic phenotype that underlies clinical aggressiveness and treatment resistance in CLL.

Immunomolecular evaluation of dihydroartemisinin effects on apoptosis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cell lines

INTRODUCTION

Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a semi-synthetic derivative of artemisinin, has recently shown to induce apoptosis in many types of cancer cells. In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of DHA on apoptosis in human chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cell lines.

METHODS

The cells were treated separately and combined by DHA and Fludurabine (FLU) during 24, 48 and 72 hours. The cell viabilities determined by XTT method. Following separate and combined treatment of IC50 concentrations of DHA and FLU to the cells during 24 hours, the cells were analyzed by flow cytometry to determine the effects on apopotis staining with AnnexinV FITC and PI. mRNA and protein expression levels of TCTP, Mcl-1, Bcl-2, Bax and Caspase-3 were analyzed to find out the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis by using quantitative real-time PCR and flow cytometric methods.

RESULTS

Treatment with DHA alone or in combination with FLU induced apoptosis in a dose dependent manner in CLL cells. DHA alone was more effective than FLU alone or combined treatment with DHA and FLU. Our results suggest that Bcl-2 protein family member Bax was active in the apoptotic response of CLL cells after DHA treatment. Moreover, the apoptotic response induced by DHA was independent from the p53 mutation status of the CLL cells.

CONCLUSION

DHA might be a potential anti-cancer therapeutic for CLL.

Impaired nodal shrinkage and apoptosis define the independent adverse outcome of NOTCH1 mutated patients under ibrutinib therapy in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia

The introduction of agents inhibiting the B-cell receptor-associated kinases such as ibrutinib has dramatically changed treatments algorithms of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) as well as the role of different adverse prognosticators. We evaluated the efficacy of ibrutinib as a single agent, in a real-life context, in 180 patients with CLL mostly pretreated, recruited from three independent cohorts from Italy. Patients received 420 mg oral ibrutinib once daily until progression or occurrence of unacceptable side effects. Seventy-three patients discontinued ibrutinib for progression or for adverse events. NOTCH1 mutations (NOTCH1 M) were correlated with a reduced redistribution lymphocytosis, calculated at 3 months on ibrutinib (P=0.022). Moreover, NOTCH1 M patients showed inferior nodal response at 6 months on ibrutinib compared to NOTCH1 wild-type patients (P<0.0001). Significant shorter progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were observed in NOTCH1 M patients (P=0.00002 and P=0.001). Interestingly, NOTCH1 M plus a lower BAX/BCL-2 ratio identified a CLL subset showing the worst PFS and OS (P=0.0002 and P=0.005). In multivariate analysis of PFS and OS, NOTCH1 M were confirmed an independent prognosticator (P=0.00006 and P=0.0039). In conclusion, NOTCH1 M are strongly associated with a lower BAX/BCL-2 ratio, consistent with defective apoptosis, lower redistribution lymphocytosis and lower nodal shrinkage under ibrutinib treatment, this last paramter being responsible for partial responses, subsequent relapses, as well as shorter PFS and OS. Either new small molecule combination approaches or antibodies targeting NOTCH1 could be future therapeutic options for NOTCH1 M patients.

miR‑130b regulates PTEN to activate the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and attenuate oxidative stress‑induced injury in diabetic encephalopathy

Diabetic encephalopathy (DE) is one of the main chronic complications of diabetes, and is characterized by cognitive defects. MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are widely involved in the development of diabetes-related complications. The present study evaluated the role of miR-130b in DE and investigated its mechanisms of action. PC12 cells and hippocampal cells were exposed to a high glucose environment to induce cell injuries to mimic the in vitro model of DE. Cells were transfected with miR-130b mimic, miR-130b inhibitor and small interfering RNA (si)-phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) to evaluate the protective effect of the miR-130b/PTEN axis against oxidative stress in high glucose-stimulated cells involving Akt activity. Furthermore, the effect of agomir-130b was also assessed on rats with DE. The expression of miR-130b was reduced in the DE models in vivo and in vitro. The administration of miR-130b mimic increased the viability of high glucose-stimulated cells, prevented apoptosis, increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content, activated Akt protein levels and inhibited the mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway. The administration of miR-130b inhibitor exerted opposite effects, while si-PTEN reversed the effects of miR-130b inhibitor. In vivo, the administration of agomir-130b attenuated cognitive disorders and neuronal damage, increased SOD activity, reduced the MDA content, activated Akt protein levels and inhibited the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway in rats with DE. On the whole, these results suggest that miR-130b activates the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to exert protective effects against oxidative stress injury via the regulation of PTEN in rats with DE.

High Bax/Bcl-2 ratio is associated with good prognosis and better survival in patients with B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Determination of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio may be a good predictive tool to recognize chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients' outcome and prognosis to decide the time and type of therapy. This prospective study was carried out on 100 patients with newly diagnosed CLL. Bax and Bcl-2 expression in peripheral blood were measured by flow-cytometry. The association of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio with CLL laboratory markers, Rai stage, overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) at 18 months was investigated. The sensitivity and specificity of Bax/Bcl-2 in predicting survival was evaluated. The best cut-off value of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio to predict the survival, detected by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, was 1.2 with 80 % sensitivity and 60.86 % specificity. A ratio of ≤1.20 was detected in 78 % of patients and was associated with worse prognosis. A lower Bax/Bcl-2 ratio was associated with higher modified Rai stage at time of diagnosis and a significantly shorter both OS (64.1 % versus 90.9 %, p < 0.026) and PFS (66.7 % versus 90.9 %, p < 0.031) at 18 months. In multivariate analysis, bax/bcl-2 ≤ 1.2 was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival, (p = 0.025). We concluded that lower Bax /Bcl-2 ratios were associated with worse prognosis as evidenced by lower OS and PFS in CLL patients. It was also associated with markers of high tumor burden and unfavorable prognostic markers. Recognition of patients with low Bax /Bcl-2 ratio would make them good candidates for the novel Bcl-2 inhibitory targeted chemotherapy to avoid resistance to the traditional therapy.

Formaldehyde exposure and leukemia risk: a comprehensive review and network-based toxicogenomic approach

Formaldehyde is a widely used but highly reactive and toxic chemical. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies formaldehyde as a Group 1 carcinogen, based on nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia studies. However, the correlation between formaldehyde exposure and leukemia incidence is a controversial issue. To understand the association between formaldehyde exposure and leukemia, we explored biological networks based on formaldehyde-related genes retrieved from public and commercial databases. Through the literature-based network approach, we summarized qualitative associations between formaldehyde exposure and leukemia. Our results indicate that oxidative stress-mediated genetic changes induced by formaldehyde could disturb the hematopoietic system, possibly leading to leukemia. Furthermore, we suggested major genes that are thought to be affected by formaldehyde exposure and associated with leukemia development. Our suggestions can be used to complement experimental data for understanding and identifying the leukemogenic mechanism of formaldehyde.

Effect of Salinomycin on Expression Pattern of Genes Associated with Apoptosis in Endometrial Cancer Cell Line

Background

Salinomycin is part of a group of ionophore antibiotics characterized by an activity towards tumor cells. To this day, the mechanism through which salinomycin induces their apoptosis is not fully known yet. The goal of this study was to assess the expression pattern of genes and the proteins coded by them connected with the process of programmed cell death in an endometrial cancer cell Ishikawa culture exposed to salinomycin and compared to the control.

Materials and Methods

Analysis of the effect of salinomycin on Ishikawa endometrial cancer cells (ECACC 99040201) included a cytotoxicity MTT test (with a concentration range of 0.1-100 µM), assessment of the induction of apoptosis and necrosis by salinomycin at a concentration of 1 µM as well the assessment of the expression of the genes chosen in the microarray experiment (microarray HG-U 133A_2) and the proteins coded by them connected with apoptosis (RTqPCR, ELISA assay). The statistical significance level for all analyses carried out as part of this study was p<0.05.

Results

It was observed that salinomycin causes the death of about 50% of cells treated by it (50.74±0.80% of all cells) at a concentration of 1µM. The decrease in the number of living cells was determined directly after treatment of the cells with the drug (time 0). The average percent of late apoptotic cells was 1.65±0.24% and 0.57±0.01% for necrotic cells throughout the entire observation period.

Discussion

Microarray analysis indicated the following number of mRNA differentiating the culture depending on the time of incubation with the drug: H_12 vs C = 114 mRNA, H_8 vs C = 84 mRNA, H_48 vs. C = 27 mRNA, whereas 5 mRNAs were expressed differently at all times. During the whole incubation period of the cells with the drug, the following dependence of the expression profile of the analyzed transcripts was observed: Bax>p53>FASL>BIRC5>BCL2L.

Conclusion

The analysis carried out indicated that salinomycin, at a concentration of 1 µM, stopped the proliferation of 50% of endometrial cancer cells, mainly by inducing the apoptotic process of the cells. The molecular exponent of the induction of programmed cell death was an observed increase in the transcriptional activity of pro-apoptotic genes: Bax;p53;FASL and a decrease in the expression of anti-apoptotic genes: BCL2L2; BIRC5.

Effect of Danggui-Shaoyao-San-Containing Serum on the Renal Tubular Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Diabetic Nephropathy

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effect of Danggui-Shaoyao-San (DSS)-containing serum on the renal tubular Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) of Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) in high glucose- induced HK-2 cells and its mechanism.

METHODS

20 rats were randomly divided into four groups: blank control group, DSS low dose group (DSS-L), DSS middle dose group (DSS-M), and DSS high dose group (DSS-H). DSS was administrated to the corresponding group (7g/kg/d, 14g/kg/d and 21g/kg/d) for 7 consecutive days, and the same volume of saline was given to the blank control group by gavage. The rat drug-containing serum was successfully prepared. HK-2 cells were divided into five groups: blank control group, model group, DSS-L, DSS-M, DSS-H, according to the corresponding drug and dose of each treatment group. Protein and mRNA levels of Jagged1, Notch1, Hes5, Notch Intracellular Domain (NICD), E-cadherin, alpha- Smooth Muscle Actin (α-SMA) and vimentin at 24h, 48h and 72h were detected by Western Blot and RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

The protein and mRNA levels of Jagged1, Notch1, Hes5, NICD, α-SMA and vimentin in the treatment groups were remarkably decreased compared with the model group (P<0.05), and the protein and mRNA levels of E-cadherin were notably increased (P<0.05) by Western Blot and RT-qPCR.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrated that DSS could prevent DN by ameliorating renal tubular EMT through inhibition of the Notch signaling pathway.

Introduction of hsa-miR-512-3p as a new regulator of HER2 signaling pathway in breast cancer

PURPOSE

Dysregulation of HER2 signaling pathway in breast cancer is well documented. Our bioinformatics analysis predicted hsa-miR-512-3p (miR-512-3p) as a bona fide regulator of HER2 as well as HER3, PIK3R2, and AKT1 genes. Then, we intended to examine the effect of miR-512-3p on the predicted target genes that are involved in HER2 signaling pathway.

METHODS AND RESULTS

RT-qPCR results indicated lower expression of miR-512-3p in breast cancer specimens, compared to their normal pairs. Overexpression of miR-512-3p resulted in HER2, HER3, PIK3R2, and AKT1 gene downregulation, detected by RT-qPCR and the result was confirmed by western analysis and ELIZA test against p-AKT, BAX, FADD, and HER2 proteins in SKBR3 cells, respectively. Then, dual-luciferase assay supported the direct interaction of miR-512-3p with 3'UTR sequences of HER2, HER3, PIK3R2, and AKT1 target genes. When miR-512-3p was overexpressed, BAX/BCL2 expression ratio and proportion of sub-G1 cell population were increased in transfected SKBR3 cells, detected by RT-qPCR and flow cytometry, respectively. These results were consistent with the decreased viability of transfected cells, documented by MTT assay. In addition, results were consistent with the upregulation of BAX, BAK, BOK, PTEN, P53, and P21 genes and downregulation of CCND1 gene in SKBR3 cells. Although the overexpression of miR-512 resulted in cell cycle arrest at Sub-G1 stage in MDA-MB-231 cells, this effect seemed independent of targeting HER2, HER3, PIK3R2, and AKT1 target genes.

CONCLUSION

Overall, results indicated that miR-512-3p acts as a cell-type-specific tumor suppressor, through targeting HER2, HER3, PIK3R2, and AKT1 transcripts. These results suggest miR-512-3p as a potential candidate marker for breast cancer diagnosis.

The IL-1 Antagonist Anakinra Attenuates Glioblastoma Aggressiveness by Dampening Tumor-Associated Inflammation

BACKGROUND

The recombinant IL-1 receptor antagonist anakinra-currently approved for the treatment of autoinflammatory diseases-blocks IL-1β-mediated inflammatory signaling. As inflammation is a major driver of cancer, we hypothesized that anakinra might be able to mitigate glioblastoma (GBM) aggressiveness.

METHODS

Primary GBM or T98G cells were incubated alone or with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and were subsequently treated with IL-1β and/or anakinra. T cells were obtained by magnetic bead isolation. Protein and mRNA expression were quantified by SDS-PAGE, qRT-PCR, and ELISA, respectively. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were analyzed via flow cytometry. Chemotaxis was studied via time-lapse microscopy.

RESULTS

Upon IL-1β stimulation, anakinra attenuated proinflammatory gene expression in both GBM cells and PBMCs, and mitigated tumor migration and proliferation. In a more lifelike model replacing IL-1β stimulation by GBM-PBMC co-culture, sole presence of PBMCs proved sufficient to induce a proinflammatory phenotype in GBM cells with enhanced proliferation and migration rates and attenuated apoptosis. Anakinra antagonized these pro-tumorigenic effects and, moreover, reduced inflammatory signaling in T cells without compromising anti-tumor effector molecules.

CONCLUSION

By dampening the inflammatory crosstalk between GBM and immune cells, anakinra mitigated GBM aggressiveness. Hence, counteracting IL-1β-mediated inflammation might be a promising strategy to pursue.

Novel nano-vehicle for delivery and efficiency of anticancer auraptene against colon cancer cells

The aim of this study is to devise, prepare and characterize nano encapsulated auraptene (AUR) and evaluate cytotoxic and apoptotic effects on HT-29 colon cancer cells. Herein, AUR nano formulations were prepared by triblock (PCL-PEG-PCL) and pentablock (PLA-PCL-PEG-PCL-PLA) biodegradable copolymers in order to increase AUR bioavailability as an anticancer agent. The preparation of nano particles (NPs) was done with rotor stator homogenization (RSH) and Ultrasonic homogenization (USH) methods. The physicochemical characteristics of prepared nanoparticles (NPs) were studied using HNMR, FTIR, GPC, DLS and SEM techniques. The smaller hydrodynamic size (110 nm) and polydispersity index (PDI: 0.288) as well as higher cellular uptake (89%) were observed in PB NPs rather than TB NPs. The highest cytotoxic and apoptotic effects were observed in AUR loaded PB NPs compared to AUR loaded TB NPs and free AUR obtained by MTT assay, cell cycle arrest, Annexin V-FITC, DAPI staining and RT-PCR techniques. Real time PCR results indicated that Bax /Bcl2 expression ratio as an apoptosis predicting criterion, in free AUR, AUR loaded TB and AUR loaded PB have increased 6, 9 and 13 times, respectively (p value < 0.05). In conclusion, using biodegradable nano-vehicles for sustained delivery of natural anti-cancer compounds may open new perspectives for treatment of cancer patients.

Alterations of Mitochondria and Related Metabolic Pathways in Leukemia: A Narrative Review

Dysregulation of mitochondrial function often precedes malignant transformation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Mitochondria have a direct role in the maintenance of HSC functions. For example, D-2-hydroxyglutarate, generated due to the activity of mutated mitochondrial isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH), has been implicated in the pathogenesis of leukemia. Furthermore, disturbances in the fatty acid breakdown and pyruvate oxidation are often seen in leukemic cells. These and other abnormalities expedite leukemogenesis and chemoresistance of leukemic cells. However, it needs to be elucidated whether these aberrations are the result or cause of leukemogenesis. Accordingly, for this review, a search was carried out in PubMed and Google Scholar databases until June 2019 to assess the relationship between metabolic pathways in altered mitochondria and leukemia development. In the present review, an overview of mitochondria-related mechanisms and their abnormalities in leukemia is presented, with mitochondrial pathways and factors, such as mitophagy, intermediary metabolism enzymes, oncometabolites and reactive oxygen species' generation, discussed as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets in leukemia.

Liposomal encapsulation of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) improved nanoparticle uptake and induced redox imbalance to activate caspase-dependent apoptosis

Macrophages play a crucial role in several diseases' development and progression, such as in cancer and arthritis through ROS generation and inflammation. This makes macrophages a therapeutic target in these diseases. While silver nanoparticles (AgNP) have been widely used as an antibacterial and investigated as anticancer, its potential against macrophages may be limited due to its inherent oxidative mechanism. Here we encapsulated AgNP in a dipalmitoyl-phosphatidyl choline (DPPC) liposome (forming Lipo-AgNP) to suppress AgNP-induced ROS and enhance its cytotoxicity against THP1-differentiated macrophages (TDM). Our findings showed that while Lipo-AgNP had significantly more of a cytotoxic effect on TDMs (p < 0.01), it also significantly suppressed AgNP induced ROS generation and unexpectedly suppressed reduced glutathione (GSH) levels (p < 0.05) resulting in a redox imbalance in comparison to the unexposed control TDMs. Lipo-AgNP was also found to cause an increase DNA damage through H2AX histone phosphorylation and inhibition of Bcl-2 protein expression. This increased the Bax/Bcl2 ratio causing possible release of cytochrome C and subsequent caspase 3/7-dependent apoptosis. It was found that the difference between the mechanism of AgNP and Lipo-AgNP cytotoxicity may have been through the significantly increased Lipo-AgNP uptake by the TDMs as early as 30 min post-exposure (p < 0.05), changing the nanoparticle pharmacokinetic. In conclusion, the improved uptake of AgNP within the liposome caused ROS-independent caspase activation induced by Lipo-AgNP and this was facilitated by increased DNA damage, the induced redox imbalance and an increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio.

Individual Radiosensitivity in Oncological Patients: Linking Adverse Normal Tissue Reactions and Genetic Features

Introduction: Adverse effects of radiotherapy (RT) significantly affect patient's quality of life (QOL). The possibility to identify patient-related factors that are associated with individual radiosensitivity would optimize adjuvant RT treatment, limiting the severity of normal tissue reactions, and improving patient's QOL. In this study, we analyzed the relationships between genetic features and toxicity grading manifested by RT patients looking for possible biomarkers of individual radiosensitivity.

Methods: Early radiation toxicity was evaluated on 143 oncological patients according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE). An individual radiosensitivity (IRS) index defining four classes of radiosensitivity (highly radiosensitive, radiosensitive, normal, and radioresistant) was determined by a G₂-chromosomal assay on ex vivo irradiated, patient-derived blood samples. The expression level of 15 radioresponsive genes has been measured by quantitative real-time PCR at 24 h after the first RT fraction, in blood samples of a subset of 57 patients, representing the four IRS classes.

Results: By applying univariate and multivariate statistical analyses, we found that fatigue was significantly associated with IRS index. Interestingly, associations were detected between clinical radiation toxicity and gene expression (ATM, CDKN1A, FDXR, SESN1, XPC, ZMAT3, and BCL2/BAX ratio) and between IRS index and gene expression (BBC3, FDXR, GADD45A, and BCL2/BAX).

Conclusions: In this prospective cohort study we found that associations exist between normal tissue reactions and genetic features in RT-treated patients. Overall, our findings can contribute to the identification of biological markers to predict RT toxicity in normal tissues.

Identification of prognostic biomarkers for malignant melanoma using microarray datasets

Malignant melanoma is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. Efforts have been made to elucidate the pathology of malignant melanoma. However, its molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Therefore, the microarray datasets GSE3189, GSE4570 and GSE4587 from the Gene Expression Omnibus database were used for the elucidation of candidate genes involved in the initiation and progression of melanoma. Assessment of the microarray datasets led to the identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were subsequently used for function enrichment analysis. These data were utilized in the construction of the protein-protein interaction network and module analysis was conducted using STRING and Cytoscape software. The results of these analyses led to the identification of a total of 182 DEGs, including 52 downregulated and 130 upregulated genes. The functions and pathways found to be enriched in the DEGs were GTPase activity, transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter, apoptotic processes, cell adhesion, membrane related pathways, calcium signaling cascade and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. The identified genes were demonstrated to belong to a set of 10 hub genes biologically involved in proliferation, apoptosis, cytokinesis, adhesion and migration. Survival analysis and Oncomine database analysis revealed that the calmodulin gene family, BAX and VEGFA genes, may be associated with the initiation, invasion or recurrence of melanoma. In conclusion, the DEGs and hub genes identified in the present study may be used to understand the molecular pathways involved in the initiation and progression of malignant melanoma. Furthermore, the present study may aid in the identification of possible targets for the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma.

Effect of yellowing time on bioactive compounds in yellow tea and their antiproliferative capacity in HepG2 cells

Several studies have shown potent antineoplastic effects of tea, which can induce apoptosis and inhibit proliferation of cancer cells. Yellow tea is one of the six major types of tea, and yellowing time, a key factor in its processing, is known to improve its quality and bioactivity. However, the effects of yellowing on the composition of the bioactive substances of tea are poorly understood. We analyzed the biochemical composition and the antioxidant and anticancer activities of the extracts of yellow tea (EYTs) subjected to different yellowing durations. Prolonged yellowing increased the content of water extracts, amino acids, soluble sugars, theaflavins, and nonesterified catechins (p < 0.05, p < 0.01) and decreased that of polyphenols, flavonols, thearubigins, caffeine, GA, and esterified catechins (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). In addition, yellowing also slightly increased the antioxidant capacity of the EYTs, but did not significantly affect their ability to inhibit the proliferation of the hepatocarcinoma HepG2 cells. Mechanistically, the EYTs significantly downregulated the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT and upregulated the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in the HepG2 cells. Taken together, the yellowing time influences the bioactive components of yellow tea, and the resulting yellow tea may have more potent antioxidant and anticancer effects.

Bardet-Biedl syndrome obesity: BBS4 regulates cellular ER stress in early adipogenesis

BACKGROUND

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is an autosomal recessive ciliopathy, presenting with early obesity onset. The etiology of BBS obesity involves both central and peripheral defects, through mechanisms mostly yet to be deciphered. We previously showed BBS4 expression in adipogenesis, peaking at day 3 of differentiation. Obesity is characterized by cellular stress which promotes pathological consequences.

AIMS

We set out to test a possible role of BBS4 in adipocyte endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced unfolding protein response (UPR).

METHODS

BBS4 silenced (SiBBS4) and overexpressing (OEBBS4) pre-adipocyte murine cell lines were subjected to ER-stress induction (Tunicamycin, TM) during adipogenesis. ER-stress UPR was analyzed at the transcript, protein and biochemical levels (microscopy, immunocytochemistry, western blotting, quantitative RT-PCR and X-box binding protein 1 (XBP-1) splicing).

RESULTS

In silico analysis showed that BBS4 harbors an ER localization sequences indicative of ER localization. We verified BBS4's ER localization in adipocytes by immunocytochemistry and cellular protein fractionation. Furthermore, we demonstrated that BBS4 expression is significantly up-regulated by ER-stress, as indicated by protein and transcript levels. SiBBS4 adipocytes exhibited swollen ER typical to ER-stress and significant XBP-1 down-regulation at day 3 of differentiation. Following ER-stress, SiBBS4 adipocytes exhibited XBP-1 ER retention, failure to translocate to the nucleus and depletion of the nuclear active cleaved ATF6α. BBS4 did not alter ATF6α processing by S1P and S2P in the Golgi. Notably, SiBBS4 cells demonstrated significant reduction in the downstream activated phospho-IRE1α, independent of ER-stress.

CONCLUSIONS

At day 3 of adipogenesis, coinciding with the timing of its peak expression, BBS4 is localized to the ER and is involved in the ER stress response and trafficking. BBS4 depletion results in swollen ER with impaired intracellular nucleus translocation of XBP-1 and ATF6α. Thus, BBS4 affects the ER stress response in early adipogenesis, altering ER stress responsiveness and the adipocyte ER phenotype.

Silica nanoparticles induce cardiomyocyte apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway in rats following intratracheal instillation

Diseases of the cardiac system caused by silicon dioxide exposure have captured wide public attention. Upon entering the blood circulation, ultrafine particles have the potential to influence cardiomyocytes, leading to myocardial ischemia or even cardiac failure, and the molecular mechanisms remain to be completely elucidated. In this study, the toxicity of ultrafine particles on cardiomyocytes from rats exposed to silica nanoparticles was observed. Rats were randomly divided into a normal saline control group and three exposure groups (2, 5 and 10 mg/kg·body weight) that were intratracheally treated with 60-nm silica nanoparticles. Alterations in body weight, routine blood factors and myocardial enzymes, histopathological and microstructural alterations, apoptosis and the expression of apoptosis-associated proteins were assessed at the end of the exposure period. The silicon levels in the heart and serum, and myocardial enzymes in exposed rats were significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, exposure to the silica nanoparticles caused notable histological and ultrastructural alterations in the hearts of these animals. Furthermore, a significant apoptotic effect was observed in the exposure groups. The present data suggest that silica nanoparticles may enter the circulatory system through the lungs, and are distributed to the heart causing cardiovascular injury. Silica nanoparticle-induced apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway may serve an important role in observed cardiac damage.

Systems modeling accurately predicts responses to genotoxic agents and their synergism with BCL-2 inhibitors in triple negative breast cancer cells

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive form of breast cancer which accounts for 15-20% of this disease and is currently treated with genotoxic chemotherapy. The BCL2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) family of proteins controls the process of mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP), which is required for the activation of the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway in response to genotoxic agents. We previously developed a deterministic systems model of BCL2 protein interactions, DR_MOMP that calculates the sensitivity of cells to undergo mitochondrial apoptosis. Here we determined whether DR_MOMP predicts responses of TNBC cells to genotoxic agents and the re-sensitization of resistant cells by BCL2 inhibitors. Using absolute protein levels of BAX, BAK, BCL2, BCL(X)L and MCL1 as input for DR_MOMP, we found a strong correlation between model predictions and responses of a panel of TNBC cells to 24 and 48 h cisplatin (R2 = 0.96 and 0.95, respectively) and paclitaxel treatments (R2 = 0.94 and 0.95, respectively). This outperformed single protein correlations (best performer BCL(X)L with R2 of 0.69 and 0.50 for cisplatin and paclitaxel treatments, respectively) and BCL2 proteins ratio (R2 of 0.50 for cisplatin and 0.49 for paclitaxel). Next we performed synergy studies using the BCL2 selective antagonist Venetoclax /ABT199, the BCL(X)L selective antagonist WEHI-539, or the MCL1 selective antagonist A-1210477 in combination with cisplatin. In silico predictions by DR_MOMP revealed substantial differences in treatment responses of BCL(X)L, BCL2 or MCL1 inhibitors combinations with cisplatin that were successfully validated in cell lines. Our findings provide evidence that DR_MOMP predicts responses of TNBC cells to genotoxic therapy, and can aid in the choice of the optimal BCL2 protein antagonist for combination treatments of resistant cells.

QuaDMutEx: quadratic driver mutation explorer

BACKGROUND

Somatic mutations accumulate in human cells throughout life. Some may have no adverse consequences, but some of them may lead to cancer. A cancer genome is typically unstable, and thus more mutations can accumulate in the DNA of cancer cells. An ongoing problem is to figure out which mutations are drivers - play a role in oncogenesis, and which are passengers - do not play a role. One way of addressing this question is through inspection of somatic mutations in DNA of cancer samples from a cohort of patients and detection of patterns that differentiate driver from passenger mutations.

RESULTS

We propose QuaDMutEx, a method that incorporates three novel elements: a new gene set penalty that includes non-linear penalization of multiple mutations in putative sets of driver genes, an ability to adjust the method to handle slow- and fast-evolving tumors, and a computationally efficient method for finding gene sets that minimize the penalty, through a combination of heuristic Monte Carlo optimization and exact binary quadratic programming. Compared to existing methods, the proposed algorithm finds sets of putative driver genes that show higher coverage and lower excess coverage in eight sets of cancer samples coming from brain, ovarian, lung, and breast tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Superior ability to improve on both coverage and excess coverage on different types of cancer shows that QuaDMutEx is a tool that should be part of a state-of-the-art toolbox in the driver gene discovery pipeline. It can detect genes harboring rare driver mutations that may be missed by existing methods. QuaDMutEx is available for download from https://github.com/bokhariy/QuaDMutEx under the GNU GPLv3 license.

The molecular mechanism of treating osteoarthritis with dipsacus saponins by inhibiting chondrocyte apoptosis

The present study aimed to determine the molecular mechanism of treating osteoarthritis with dipsacus saponins by inhibiting the apoptosis of chondrocytes. A total of 30 New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into 2 groups: A control group and a model group. The osteoarthritis model was established using the HULTH method. The success of the model establishment was determined by pathological morphology and measurement of inflammatory cytokine levels. Chondrocytes were isolated and divided into 4 groups treated with varying concentrations of dipsacus saponins: 0, 25, 50 and l00 µg/l dipsacus saponins. Cell cycle distribution was analyzed using flow cytometry. Changes in cyclin D1, cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) and p21 expression were detected by western blotting and changes in the levels of Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3 and caspase-9 mRNA were detected using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The osteoarthritis model was established successfully, indicated by a significant increase in the levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in the model group (P<0.05) compared with the control group. The viability of the chondrocytes increased following treatment with dipsacus saponins in a concentration-dependent manner. The number of chondrocytes in the G0/G1 phase decreased in the 50 and l00 µg/l groups while the number of chondrocytes in the G2/M phase increased in the 50 and l00 µg/l groups. Levels of cyclin D1 and CDK4 expression increased following treatment with dipsacus saponins. Levels of Bax, caspase-3 and caspase-9 expression decreased while Bcl-2 levels increased following treatment with dipsacus saponins. The viability of chondrocytes increased following treatment with dipsacus saponins in a concentration-dependent manner. Thus, dipsacus saponins inhibited the apoptosis of chondrocytes by up-regulating Bcl-2 and down-regulating caspase-9, caspase-3 and Bax expression.

Inhibition of c-REL using siRNA increased apoptosis and decreased proliferation in pre-B ALL blasts: Therapeutic implications

The c-Rel transcription factor is a unique member of the NF-kB family that has a role in apoptosis, proliferation and cell survival. Overexpression of c-Rel is detected in many human B cell tumors, including B-cell leukemia and several cancers. The study aimed to investigate the effects of c-Rel siRNA on the proliferation and apoptosis of relapsed pre-B acute leukemia cells. The c-Rel siRNA was transfected into Leukemia cells using an Amaxa cell line Nucleofector kit L (Lonza). Quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot were done to measure the expression levels of mRNA and protein, respectively. The flow cytometry was used to analyze the effect of c-Rel siRNA on the apoptosis and proliferation of Leukemia cells. Observed c-Rel expression in the 5 pre-B Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients were higher than the normal cells. The c-Rel siRNA transfection significantly blocked the expression of c-Rel mRNA in a time-dependent manner, leading to a strong growth inhibition and enhanced apoptosis (P<0.05). Our results demonstrated that c-Rel plays a fundamental role in the survival. Therefore, c-Rel can be considered as an attractive target for gene therapy in ALL patients. Also siRNA-mediated silencing of this gene may be a novel strategy in ALL treatment.

Lutein Regulates the Expression of Apoptosis-related Genes and Stem Cell Markers in A549 Human Lung Cancer Cells

The BCL2 family has both pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic functions. Furthermore, stem cell markers such as Oct4, SOX2, and NANOG enhance cancer cells’ self-renewal, resistance to anti-cancer drugs and clonal growth. Therefore, selective inhibition of BCL2 genes and downregulated expression of stem cell markers should reduce the survival of cancer cells. Previous studies have reported that lutein, a carotenoid pigment present in fruits and vegetables, can inhibit cancer cells. However, the inhibitory effects of lutein on cancer cells have not been investigated sufficiently. In this study, we used gene expression analysis by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blotting to show that lutein regulates the expression of genes involved in apoptosis and several stem cell marker genes in a human lung cancer cell line, A549. Lutein induced gene expression of pro-apoptotic BAX and CAS3 and reduced the level of the anti-apoptotic gene BCL2. Furthermore, protein expression of BCL2 and BAX was regulated by treatment with lutein. Lutein also inhibited SOX2 and NANOG gene expression in A549, but not POU5F1. In addition, lutein reduced gene expression of SLCA11, but induced CD44 and CD133 gene expression. These results indicated that lutein inhibits several events associated with apoptosis regulation in a BCL2 family-dependent pathway.

'Did He Who Made the Lamb Make Thee?' New Developments in Treating the 'Fearful Symmetry' of Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Malignant cells must circumvent endogenous cell death pathways to survive and develop into cancers. Acquired cell death resistance also sets up malignant cells to survive anticancer therapies. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is an aggressive blood cancer characterized by high relapse rate and resistance to cytotoxic therapies. Recent collaborative profiling projects have led to a greater understanding of the 'fearful symmetry' of the genomic landscape of AML, and point to the development of novel potential therapies that can overcome factors linked to chemoresistance. We review here the most recent research in the genetics of AML and how these discoveries have led, or might lead, to therapies that specifically activate cell death pathways to substantially challenge this 'fearful' disease.

Combined Treatment with Stattic and Docetaxel Alters the Bax/Bcl-2 Gene Expression Ratio in Human Prostate Cancer Cells

Docetaxel, recognized as a stabilizing microtubule agent, is frequently administrated as a first line treatment for prostate cancers. Due to high side effects of monotherapy, however, combinations with novel adjuvants have emerged as an alternative strategy in cancer therapy protocols. Here, we investigated the combined effects of stattic and docetaxel on the DU145 prostate cancer cell line. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT assay. To understand molecular mechanisms of stattic action, apoptotic related genes including Bcl-2, Mcl-1, Survivin and Bax were evaluated by real-time RT-PCR. Alteration in the expression of pro-apoptotic Bax and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 genes and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio were investigated via the 2^ΔΔCT method. The IC₅₀ values for docetaxel and stattic were 3.7 ± 0.9 nM and 4.6±0.8 µM, respectively. Evaluation of key gene expression levels revealed a noticeable decrease in antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 along with an increase in pro-apoptotic Bax mRNA levels (p<0.05). Our results suggest that combination of a STAT3 inhibitor with doctaxel can be considered as a potent strategy for induction of apoptosis via increasing Bax mRNA expression.

Key Molecular Drivers of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is an adult neoplastic disease of B cells characterized by variable clinical outcomes. Although some patients have an aggressive form of the disease and often encounter treatment failure and short survival, others have more stable disease with long-term survival and little or no need for theraphy. In the past decade, significant advances have been made in our understanding of the molecular drivers that affect the natural pathology of CLL. The present review describes what is known about these key molecules in the context of their role in tumor pathogenicity, prognosis, and therapy.

Expression of Apoptosis-regulating Proteins Bcl-2 and Bax in Lymph Node Aspirates from Dogs with Lymphoma

Background

Dysregulated apoptosis is a hallmark of tumorigenesis, and is also involved in resistance to cytotoxic treatment, and might be relevant in lymphoma in dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

That Bcl‐2/Bax expression patterns differ between lymphoma immunophenotypes, and that Bcl‐2/Bax ratio is correlated with prognosis.

Animals

Fifty‐five client‐owned dogs with multicentric lymphoma and 5 healthy dogs.

Methods

Prospective, case–control study. We compared 3 methods (flow cytometry, qRT‐PCR, Western blot) for Bcl‐2 and Bax quantification in a subset of dogs. The effect of time on Bcl‐2/Bax ratios measured by flow cytometry was assessed in lymphoma cell lines. Immunophenotype and Bcl‐2/Bax expression by flow cytometry were determined in LN aspirates from all dogs with multicentric lymphoma compared to healthy dogs. Progression‐free survival (PFS) was retrospectively evaluated in a group of dogs all receiving similar treatment.

Results

Bcl‐2/Bax ratios remain consistent for at least 5 days after sample collection. Bcl‐2/Bax ratio was higher in dogs with T‐cell lymphoma (TCL; median 0.97, range 0.37–1.36) compared to B‐cell lymphoma (BCL; median 0.36, range 0.07–1.45) (P < .0001) and normal dogs (median 0.36, range 0.21–0.48) (P = .0006), respectively. Dogs with Bcl‐2/Bax ratios higher than the median of the group experienced a median PFS of 101 days and dogs with ratios equal and lower than the median had PFS of 130 days (P = .19).

Conclusions and clinical importance

Higher intrinsic resistance to apoptosis following cytotoxic treatment might contribute to the less favorable prognosis associated with multicentric TCL in dogs. Whether Bcl‐2/Bax will be helpful to identify canine BCL and TCL with more aggressive and more indolent behavior, respectively, should be evaluated in larger prospective clinical studies.