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Totland MZ, Knudsen LM, Rasmussen NL, Omori Y, Sørensen V, Elster VCW, Stenersen JM, Larsen M, Jensen CL, Zickfeldt Lade AA, Bruusgaard E, Basing S, Kryeziu K, Brech A, Aasen T, Lothe RA, Leithe E. The E3 ubiquitin ligase ITCH negatively regulates intercellular communication via gap junctions by targeting connexin43 for lysosomal degradation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:171. [PMID: 38597989 PMCID: PMC11006747 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05165-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Intercellular communication via gap junctions has a fundamental role in regulating cell growth and tissue homeostasis, and its dysregulation may be involved in cancer development and radio- and chemotherapy resistance. Connexin43 (Cx43) is the most ubiquitously expressed gap junction channel protein in human tissues. Emerging evidence indicates that dysregulation of the sorting of Cx43 to lysosomes is important in mediating the loss of Cx43-based gap junctions in cancer cells. However, the molecular basis underlying this process is currently poorly understood. Here, we identified the E3 ubiquitin ligase ITCH as a novel regulator of intercellular communication via gap junctions. We demonstrate that ITCH promotes loss of gap junctions in cervical cancer cells, which is associated with increased degradation of Cx43 in lysosomes. The data further indicate that ITCH interacts with and regulates Cx43 ubiquitination and that the ITCH-induced loss of Cx43-based gap junctions requires its catalytic HECT (homologous to E6-AP C-terminus) domain. The data also suggest that the ability of ITCH to efficiently promote loss of Cx43-based gap junctions and degradation of Cx43 depends on a functional PY (PPXY) motif in the C-terminal tail of Cx43. Together, these data provide new insights into the molecular basis underlying the degradation of Cx43 and have implications for the understanding of how intercellular communication via gap junctions is lost during cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Zachrisson Totland
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Lars Mørland Knudsen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Nikoline Lander Rasmussen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Faculty of Medicine, Oslo, Norway
| | - Yasufumi Omori
- Department of Molecular and Tumour Pathology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Vigdis Sørensen
- Department of Core Facilities, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
- Centre for Cancer Cell Reprogramming, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0379, Norway
| | - Vilde C Wivestad Elster
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Jakob Mørkved Stenersen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Mathias Larsen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Caroline Lunder Jensen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Anna A Zickfeldt Lade
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Emilie Bruusgaard
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Sebastian Basing
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Kushtrim Kryeziu
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Andreas Brech
- Department of Core Facilities, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Oslo, 0316, Norway
| | - Trond Aasen
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119-129, Barcelona, 08035, Spain
| | - Ragnhild A Lothe
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Oslo, 0316, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Edward Leithe
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
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2
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Moon DO. Interplay between paclitaxel, gap junctions, and kinases: unraveling mechanisms of action and resistance in cancer therapy. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:472. [PMID: 38551726 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09411-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
This comprehensive review elucidates the multifaceted roles of paclitaxel, a key chemotherapeutic agent, in cancer therapy, with a focus on its interactions with gap junctions and related kinases. Paclitaxel, with its complex diterpene structure, mediates its anticancer effects predominantly through specific interactions with β-tubulin, instigating cell cycle arrest and triggering various cell death pathways, including apoptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis. The paper systematically delineates the chemical attributes and action mechanisms of paclitaxel and its analogs, underscoring their capacity to disrupt microtubule dynamics, thereby leading to mitotic arrest and subsequent cell death induction. It also scrutinizes the pivotal role of gap junctions, composed of connexin proteins, in the modulation of cancer cell behavior and chemoresistance, especially in the milieu of paclitaxel administration. The review articulates how gap junctions can either suppress tumors or contribute to cancer progression, thereby influencing chemotherapy outcomes. Furthermore, the paper provides an in-depth analysis of how paclitaxel modulates gap junction-associated kinases via phosphorylation, influencing the drug's therapeutic efficacy and resistance profiles. By integrating insights from numerous key studies, the review offers a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between paclitaxel, gap junctions, and kinases, shedding light on potential approaches to augment paclitaxel's anti-tumor effectiveness and counteract chemoresistance in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Oh Moon
- Department of Biology Education, Daegu University, 201, Daegudae-ro, Gyeongsan-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, 38453, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Zoteva V, De Meulenaere V, Vanhove C, Leybaert L, Raedt R, Pieters L, Vral A, Boterberg T, Deblaere K. Integrating and optimizing tonabersat in standard glioblastoma therapy: A preclinical study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300552. [PMID: 38489314 PMCID: PMC10942024 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GB), a highly aggressive primary brain tumor, presents a poor prognosis despite the current standard therapy, including radiotherapy and temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy. Tumor microtubes involving connexin 43 (Cx43) contribute to glioma progression and therapy resistance, suggesting Cx43 inhibition as a potential treatment strategy. This research aims to explore the adjuvant potential of tonabersat, a Cx43 gap junction modulator and blood-brain barrier-penetrating compound, in combination with the standard of care for GB. In addition, different administration schedules and timings to optimize tonabersat's therapeutic window are investigated. The F98 Fischer rat model will be utilized to investigate tonabersat's impact in a clinically relevant setting, by incorporating fractionated radiotherapy (three fractions of 9 Gy) and TMZ chemotherapy (29 mg/kg). This study will evaluate tonabersat's impact on tumor growth, survival, and treatment response through advanced imaging (CE T1-w MRI) and histological analysis. Results show extended survival in rats receiving tonabersat with standard care, highlighting its adjuvant potential. Daily tonabersat administration, both preceding and following radiotherapy, emerges as a promising approach for maximizing survival outcomes. The study suggests tonabersat's potential to reduce tumor invasiveness, providing a new avenue for GB treatment. In conclusion, this preclinical investigation highlights tonabersat's potential as an effective adjuvant treatment for GB, and its established safety profile from clinical trials in migraine treatment presents a promising foundation for further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Luc Leybaert
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Robrecht Raedt
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Leen Pieters
- Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anne Vral
- Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tom Boterberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karel Deblaere
- Department of Radiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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4
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Ebrahim T, Ebrahim AS, Kandouz M. Diversity of Intercellular Communication Modes: A Cancer Biology Perspective. Cells 2024; 13:495. [PMID: 38534339 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
From the moment a cell is on the path to malignant transformation, its interaction with other cells from the microenvironment becomes altered. The flow of molecular information is at the heart of the cellular and systemic fate in tumors, and various processes participate in conveying key molecular information from or to certain cancer cells. For instance, the loss of tight junction molecules is part of the signal sent to cancer cells so that they are no longer bound to the primary tumors and are thus free to travel and metastasize. Upon the targeting of a single cell by a therapeutic drug, gap junctions are able to communicate death information to by-standing cells. The discovery of the importance of novel modes of cell-cell communication such as different types of extracellular vesicles or tunneling nanotubes is changing the way scientists look at these processes. However, are they all actively involved in different contexts at the same time or are they recruited to fulfill specific tasks? What does the multiplicity of modes mean for the overall progression of the disease? Here, we extend an open invitation to think about the overall significance of these questions, rather than engage in an elusive attempt at a systematic repertory of the mechanisms at play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanzeela Ebrahim
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Abdul Shukkur Ebrahim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Mustapha Kandouz
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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Li J, Wu Y, Liu C, Zhang S, Su X, Xie S, Yang F. A Modified Tridecapeptide Probe for Imaging Cell Junction. Molecules 2024; 29:1003. [PMID: 38474514 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29051003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell junctions, which are typically associated with dynamic cytoskeletons, are essential for a wide range of cellular activities, including cell migration, cell communication, barrier function and signal transduction. Observing cell junctions in real-time can help us understand the mechanisms by which they regulate these cellular activities. This study examined the binding capacity of a modified tridecapeptide from Connexin 43 (Cx43) to the cell junction protein zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). The goal was to create a fluorescent peptide that can label cell junctions. A cell-penetrating peptide was linked to the modified tridecapeptide. The heterotrimeric peptide molecule was then synthesized. The binding of the modified tridecapeptide was tested using pulldown and immunoprecipitation assays. The ability of the peptide to label cell junctions was assessed by adding it to fixed or live Caco-2 cells. The testing assays revealed that the Cx43-derived peptide can bind to ZO-1. Additionally, the peptide was able to label cell junctions of fixed cells, although no obvious cell junction labeling was observed clearly in live cells, probably due to the inadequate affinity. These findings suggest that labeling cell junctions using a peptide-based strategy is feasible. Further efforts to improve its affinity are warranted in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingrui Li
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China
| | - Yuhan Wu
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Chunyu Liu
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China
| | - Xin Su
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China
| | - Songbo Xie
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China
| | - Fengtang Yang
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China
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6
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Sheikhshabani SH, Modarres P, Ghafouri‐Fard S, Amini‐Farsani Z, Khodaee L, Shaygan N, Amini‐Farsani Z, Omrani MD. Meta-analysis of microarray data to determine gene indicators involved in cisplatin resistance in non-small cell lung cancer. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e1970. [PMID: 38351531 PMCID: PMC10864718 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer is a major cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with a 5-year survival rate of approximately 22%. Cisplatin is one of the standard first-line chemotherapeutic agents for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but its efficacy is often limited by the development of resistance. Despite extensive research on the molecular mechanisms of chemoresistance, the underlying causes remain elusive and complex. AIMS We analyzed three microarray datasets to find the gene signature and key pathways related to cisplatin resistance in NSCLC. METHODS AND RESULTS We compared the gene expression of sensitive and resistant NSCLC cell lines treated with cisplatin. We found 274 DEGs, including 111 upregulated and 163 downregulated genes, in the resistant group. Gene set enrichment analysis showed the potential roles of several DEGs, such as TUBB2B, MAPK7, TUBAL3, MAP2K5, SMUG1, NTHL1, PARP3, NTRK1, G6PD, PDK1, HEY1, YTHDF2, CD274, and MAGEA1, in cisplatin resistance. Functional analysis revealed the involvement of pathways, such as gap junction, base excision repair, central carbon metabolism, and Notch signaling in the resistant cell lines. CONCLUSION We identified several molecular factors that contribute to cisplatin resistance in NSCLC cell lines, involving genes and pathways that regulate gap junction communication, DNA damage repair, ROS balance, EMT induction, and stemness maintenance. These genes and pathways could be targets for future studies to overcome cisplatin resistance in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paratoo Modarres
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and TechnologyUniversity of IsfahanIsfahanIran
| | - Soudeh Ghafouri‐Fard
- Department of Medical GeneticsShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Zeinab Amini‐Farsani
- Department of Medical GeneticsShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Lavin Khodaee
- Department of Biotechnology and Plant BreedingIslamic Azad University Science and Research BranchTehranIran
| | - Nasibeh Shaygan
- Department of Medical GeneticsShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Zahra Amini‐Farsani
- Bayesian Imaging and Spatial Statistics Group, Institute of StatisticsLudwig‐Maximilian‐Universität MünchenMunichGermany
- Department of StatisticsLorestan UniversityKhorramabadIran
| | - Mir Davood Omrani
- Urogenital Stem Cell Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
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7
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Hanafy MS, Cui Z. Connexin-Containing Vesicles for Drug Delivery. AAPS J 2024; 26:20. [PMID: 38267725 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-024-00889-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Connexin is a transmembrane protein present on the cell membrane of most cell types. Connexins assemble into a hexameric hemichannel known as connexon that pairs with another hemichannel present on a neighboring cell to form gap junction that acts as a channel or pore for the transport of ions and small molecules between the cytoplasm of the two cells. Extracellular vesicles released from connexin-expressing cells could carry connexin hemichannels on their surface and couple with another connexin hemichannel on a distant recipient cell to allow the transfer of the intravesicular content directly into the cytoplasm. Connexin-containing vesicles can be potentially utilized for intracellular drug delivery. In this review, we introduced cell-derived, connexin-containing extracellular vesicles and cell-free connexin-containing liposomes, methods of preparing them, procedures to load cargos in them, factors regulating the connexin hemichannel activity, (potential) applications of connexin-containing vesicles in drug delivery, and finally the challenges and future directions in realizing the promises of this platform delivery system for (intracellular) drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud S Hanafy
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Zhengrong Cui
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA.
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8
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Xu Y, Wang Y, Qi R, Li K, Wang X, Li X, Shi B. Role of connexin 32 in the directional differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells into hepatocytes. Int J Med Sci 2024; 21:508-518. [PMID: 38250613 PMCID: PMC10797672 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.83973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the role of connexin 32 (Cx32) in the directional differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into hepatocytes. Urine-derived epithelial cells were collected from the fresh urine of a healthy donor and transducted with reprogramming plasmid mixture to generate iPSCs. The iPSCs were then directionally differentiated into hepatocytes. During the differentiation, the upregulated and downregulated groups were treated with vitamin K2 (VK2) and 2-aminoethoxyboronate diphenylester (2-APB) to increase and inhibit Cx32 expression, respectively. The control group was not treated with the regulatory factor. Expression of Cx32 and hepatocyte-specific markers, including AFP, hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF-4α), albumin (ALB) and cytokeratin 18 (CK18) were detected. It indicated that Cx32 expression was not observed in iPSCs, but gradually increased during the process of hepatic differentiation from iPSCs. Upregulation of Cx32 expression by VK2 treatment promoted hepatocyte maturation and enhanced the expression of the aforementioned hepatic specific markers, whereas downregulation of Cx32 expression by 2-APB treatment had the opposite effects. In conclusion, urine-derived iPSCs could be directionally differentiated into hepatocytes. Up-regulation of Cx32 improves the efficiency and maturity of differentiation of iPSCs into hepatocytes, and Cx32 may be a promoting factor during the process of hepatic differentiation from iPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Ran Qi
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Kun Li
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Xiuyan Wang
- Department of Ultrasonography, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Xinbo Li
- Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, 97239, USA
| | - Baomin Shi
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, School of medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, 200025, China
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9
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Hosseindoost S, Dehpour AR, Dehghan S, Javadi SAH, Arjmand B, Fallah A, Hadjighassem M. Fluoxetine enhances the antitumor effect of olfactory ensheathing cell-thymidine kinase/ganciclovir gene therapy in human glioblastoma multiforme cells through upregulation of Connexin43 levels. Drug Dev Res 2023; 84:1739-1750. [PMID: 37769152 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most invasive form of primary brain astrocytoma, resulting in poor clinical outcomes. Herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase/ganciclovir (HSV-TK/GCV) gene therapy is considered a promising strategy for GBM treatment. Since Connexin43 (Cx43) expression is reduced in GBM cells, increasing Cx43 levels could enhance the effectiveness of gene therapy. The present study aims to examine the impact of fluoxetine on HSV-TK/GCV gene therapy in human GBM cells using human olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) as vectors. The effect of fluoxetine on Cx43 levels was assessed using the western blot technique. GBM-derived astrocytes and OECs-TK were Cocultured, and the effect of fluoxetine on the Antitumor effect of OEC-TK/GCV gene therapy was evaluated using MTT assay and flow cytometry. Our results showed that fluoxetine increased Cx43 levels in OECs and GBM cells and augmented the killing effect of OECs-TK on GBM cells. Western blot data revealed that fluoxetine enhanced the Bax/Bcl2 ratio and the levels of cleaved caspase-3 in the coculture of OECs-TK and GBM cells. Moreover, flow cytometry data indicated that fluoxetine increased the percentage of apoptotic cells in the coculture system. This study suggests that fluoxetine, by upregulating Cx43 levels, could strengthen the Antitumor effect of OEC-TK/GCV gene therapy on GBM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saereh Hosseindoost
- Pain Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad R Dehpour
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Dehghan
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Eye Research Center, The Five Senses Institute, Rassoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed A H Javadi
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neurosurgery Department, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Arjmand
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Metabolomics and Genomics Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Fallah
- Space Medicine B.V., Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Systems and Synthetic Biology Group, Mede Bioeconomy Company, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoudreza Hadjighassem
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Wang YF, Shen ZF, Xiang FY, Wang H, Zhang P, Zhang Q. The direct transfer approach for transcellular drug delivery. Drug Deliv 2023; 30:2288799. [PMID: 38037327 PMCID: PMC10987047 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2023.2288799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A promising paradigm for drug administration that has garnered increasing attention in recent years is the direct transfer (DT) of nanoparticles for transcellular drug delivery. DT requires direct cell-cell contact and facilitates unidirectional and bidirectional matter exchange between neighboring cells. Consequently, DT enables fast and deep penetration of drugs into the targeted tissues. This comprehensive review discusses the direct transfer concept, which can be delineated into the following three distinct modalities: membrane contact-direct transfer, gap junction-mediated direct transfer (GJ-DT), and tunneling nanotubes-mediated direct transfer (TNTs-DT). Further, the intercellular structures for each modality of direct transfer and their respective merits and demerits are summarized. The review also discusses the recent progress on the drugs or drug delivery systems that could activate DT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Fan Wang
- Graduate Department, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ze-Fan Shen
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fang-yue Xiang
- School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Heng Wang
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pu Zhang
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Graduate Department, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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11
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Lia A, Di Spiezio A, Vitalini L, Tore M, Puja G, Losi G. Ion Channels and Ionotropic Receptors in Astrocytes: Physiological Functions and Alterations in Alzheimer's Disease and Glioblastoma. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2038. [PMID: 37895420 PMCID: PMC10608464 DOI: 10.3390/life13102038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The human brain is composed of nearly one hundred billion neurons and an equal number of glial cells, including macroglia, i.e., astrocytes and oligodendrocytes, and microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain. In the last few decades, compelling evidence has revealed that glial cells are far more active and complex than previously thought. In particular, astrocytes, the most abundant glial cell population, not only take part in brain development, metabolism, and defense against pathogens and insults, but they also affect sensory, motor, and cognitive functions by constantly modulating synaptic activity. Not surprisingly, astrocytes are actively involved in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) and other neurological disorders like brain tumors, in which they rapidly become reactive and mediate neuroinflammation. Reactive astrocytes acquire or lose specific functions that differently modulate disease progression and symptoms, including cognitive impairments. Astrocytes express several types of ion channels, including K+, Na+, and Ca2+ channels, transient receptor potential channels (TRP), aquaporins, mechanoreceptors, and anion channels, whose properties and functions are only partially understood, particularly in small processes that contact synapses. In addition, astrocytes express ionotropic receptors for several neurotransmitters. Here, we provide an extensive and up-to-date review of the roles of ion channels and ionotropic receptors in astrocyte physiology and pathology. As examples of two different brain pathologies, we focus on Alzheimer's disease (AD), one of the most diffuse neurodegenerative disorders, and glioblastoma (GBM), the most common brain tumor. Understanding how ion channels and ionotropic receptors in astrocytes participate in NDs and tumors is necessary for developing new therapeutic tools for these increasingly common neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Lia
- Department Biomedical Science, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.L.); (A.D.S.)
| | - Alessandro Di Spiezio
- Department Biomedical Science, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.L.); (A.D.S.)
- Neuroscience Institute (CNR-IN), Padova Section, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Vitalini
- Department Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (L.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Manuela Tore
- Institute of Nanoscience (CNR-NANO), Modena Section, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Department Biomedical Science, Metabolic and Neuroscience, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Puja
- Department Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (L.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Gabriele Losi
- Institute of Nanoscience (CNR-NANO), Modena Section, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Department Biomedical Science, Metabolic and Neuroscience, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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12
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León-Fuentes IM, Salgado-Gil MG, Novoa MS, Retamal MA. Connexins in Cancer, the Possible Role of Connexin46 as a Cancer Stem Cell-Determining Protein. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1460. [PMID: 37892142 PMCID: PMC10604234 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a widespread and incurable disease caused by genetic mutations, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and metastasis. Connexins (Cx) are transmembrane proteins that facilitate intercellular communication via hemichannels and gap junction channels. Among them, Cx46 is found mostly in the eye lens. However, in pathological conditions, Cx46 has been observed in various types of cancers, such as glioblastoma, melanoma, and breast cancer. It has been demonstrated that elevated Cx46 levels in breast cancer contribute to cellular resistance to hypoxia, and it is an enhancer of cancer aggressiveness supporting a pro-tumoral role. Accordingly, Cx46 is associated with an increase in cancer stem cell phenotype. These cells display radio- and chemoresistance, high proliferative abilities, self-renewal, and differentiation capacities. This review aims to consolidate the knowledge of the relationship between Cx46, its role in forming hemichannels and gap junctions, and its connection with cancer and cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mauricio A. Retamal
- Programa de Comunicación Celular en Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, República de Honduras 12740, Las Condes, Santiago 7610496, Chile; (I.M.L.-F.); (M.G.S.-G.); (M.S.N.)
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13
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Qi C, Lavriha P, Bayraktar E, Vaithia A, Schuster D, Pannella M, Sala V, Picotti P, Bortolozzi M, Korkhov VM. Structures of wild-type and selected CMT1X mutant connexin 32 gap junction channels and hemichannels. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadh4890. [PMID: 37647412 PMCID: PMC10468125 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh4890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
In myelinating Schwann cells, connection between myelin layers is mediated by gap junction channels (GJCs) formed by docked connexin 32 (Cx32) hemichannels (HCs). Mutations in Cx32 cause the X-linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT1X), a degenerative neuropathy without a cure. A molecular link between Cx32 dysfunction and CMT1X pathogenesis is still missing. Here, we describe the high-resolution cryo-electron cryo-myography (cryo-EM) structures of the Cx32 GJC and HC, along with two CMT1X-linked mutants, W3S and R22G. While the structures of wild-type and mutant GJCs are virtually identical, the HCs show a major difference: In the W3S and R22G mutant HCs, the amino-terminal gating helix partially occludes the pore, consistent with a diminished HC activity. Our results suggest that HC dysfunction may be involved in the pathogenesis of CMT1X.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Qi
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Paul Scherrer Institute, Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Pia Lavriha
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Paul Scherrer Institute, Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Erva Bayraktar
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padua, Italy
- Department of Physics and Astronomy “G. Galilei”, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Anand Vaithia
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Paul Scherrer Institute, Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Dina Schuster
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Paul Scherrer Institute, Villigen, Switzerland
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Micaela Pannella
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padua, Italy
- Department of Physics and Astronomy “G. Galilei”, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Valentina Sala
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padua, Italy
| | - Paola Picotti
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mario Bortolozzi
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padua, Italy
- Department of Physics and Astronomy “G. Galilei”, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Volodymyr M. Korkhov
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Paul Scherrer Institute, Villigen, Switzerland
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14
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Cho SJ, Oh JH, Baek J, Shin Y, Kim W, Ko J, Jun E, Lee D, Kim SH, Sohn I, Sung CO. Intercellular cross-talk through lineage-specific gap junction of cancer-associated fibroblasts related to stromal fibrosis and prognosis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14230. [PMID: 37648762 PMCID: PMC10469165 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40957-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Stromal fibrosis in cancer is usually associated with poor prognosis and chemotherapy resistance. It is thought to be caused by fibroblasts; however, the exact mechanism is not yet well understood. The study aimed to identify lineage-specific cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) subgroup and their associations with extracellular matrix remodeling and clinical significances in various tumor types using single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing data. Through unsupervised clustering, six subclusters of CAFs were identified, including a cluster with exclusively high gap junction protein beta-2 (GJB2) expression. This cluster was named GJB2-positive CAF. It was found to be a unique subgroup of terminally differentiated CAFs associated with collagen gene expression and extracellular matrix remodeling. GJB2-positive CAFs showed higher communication frequency with vascular endothelial cells and cancer cells than GJB2-negative CAFs. Moreover, GJB2 was poorly expressed in normal tissues, indicating that its expression is dependent on interaction with other cells, including vascular endothelial cells and cancer cells. Finally, the study investigated the clinical significance of GJB2 signature score for GJB2-positive CAFs in cancer and found a correlation with poor prognosis. These results suggest that GJB2-positive CAF is a unique fibroblast subtype involved in extracellular matrix remodeling, with significant clinical implications in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Ju Cho
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
- Arontier Inc., Gangnam-Daero 241, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hye Oh
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olymphic-Ro 43-Gil, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehoon Baek
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
- Arontier Inc., Gangnam-Daero 241, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunsu Shin
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
- Arontier Inc., Gangnam-Daero 241, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonkyung Kim
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olymphic-Ro 43-Gil, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Junsu Ko
- Arontier Inc., Gangnam-Daero 241, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunsung Jun
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Ulsan University College of Medicine and Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dakeun Lee
- Department of Pathology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Seok-Hyung Kim
- Department of Pathology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea.
| | - Insuk Sohn
- Arontier Inc., Gangnam-Daero 241, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Chang Ohk Sung
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olymphic-Ro 43-Gil, Seoul, 05505, South Korea.
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Conformational changes in the human Cx43/GJA1 gap junction channel visualized using cryo-EM. Nat Commun 2023; 14:931. [PMID: 36805660 PMCID: PMC9938869 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36593-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexin family proteins assemble into hexameric hemichannels in the cell membrane. The hemichannels dock together between two adjacent membranes to form gap junction intercellular channels (GJIChs). We report the cryo-electron microscopy structures of Cx43 GJICh, revealing the dynamic equilibrium state of various channel conformations in detergents and lipid nanodiscs. We identify three different N-terminal helix conformations of Cx43-gate-covering (GCN), pore-lining (PLN), and flexible intermediate (FIN)-that are randomly distributed in purified GJICh particles. The conformational equilibrium shifts to GCN by cholesteryl hemisuccinates and to PLN by C-terminal truncations and at varying pH. While GJIChs that mainly comprise GCN protomers are occluded by lipids, those containing conformationally heterogeneous protomers show markedly different pore sizes. We observe an α-to-π-helix transition in the first transmembrane helix, which creates a side opening to the membrane in the FIN and PLN conformations. This study provides basic structural information to understand the mechanisms of action and regulation of Cx43 GJICh.
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16
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Krigers A, Demetz M, Moser P, Kerschbaumer J, Brawanski KR, Fritsch H, Thomé C, Freyschlag CF. Impact of GAP-43, Cx43 and actin expression on the outcome and overall survival in diffuse and anaplastic gliomas. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2024. [PMID: 36739296 PMCID: PMC9899260 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29298-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Distant intercellular communication in gliomas is based on the expansion of tumor microtubuli, where actin forms cytoskeleton and GAP-43 mediates the axonal conus growth. We aimed to investigate the impact of GAP-43 and actin expression on overall survival (OS) as well as crucial prognostic factors. FFPE tissue of adult patients with diffuse and anaplastic gliomas, who underwent first surgery in our center between 2010 and 2019, were selected. GAP-43, Cx43 and actin expression was analyzed using immunohistochemistry and semi-quantitatively ranked. 118 patients with a median age of 46 years (IqR: 35-57) were evaluated. 48 (41%) presented with a diffuse glioma and 70 (59%) revealed anaplasia. Tumors with higher expression of GAP-43 (p = 0.024, HR = 1.71/rank) and actin (p < 0.001, HR = 2.28/rank) showed significantly reduced OS. IDH1 wildtype glioma demonstrated significantly more expression of all proteins: GAP-43 (p = 0.009), Cx43 (p = 0.003) and actin (p < 0.001). The same was confirmed for anaplasia (GAP-43 p = 0.028, actin p = 0.029), higher proliferation rate (GAP-43 p = 0.016, actin p = 0.038), contrast-enhancement in MRI (GAP-43 p = 0.023, actin p = 0.037) and age (GAP-43 p = 0.004, actin p < 0.001; Cx43 n.s. in all groups). The intercellular distant communication network in diffuse and anaplastic gliomas formed by actin and GAP-43 is associated with a negative impact on overall survival and with unfavorable prognostic features. Cx43 did not show relevant impact on OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandrs Krigers
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Matthias Demetz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Patrizia Moser
- Department of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Innsbruck, Tirol Kliniken, Austria
| | - Johannes Kerschbaumer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Konstantin R Brawanski
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Helga Fritsch
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Claudius Thomé
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christian F Freyschlag
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
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17
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Zhang P, Wu G, Zhang D, Lai WF. Mechanisms and strategies to enhance penetration during intravesical drug therapy for bladder cancer. J Control Release 2023; 354:69-79. [PMID: 36603810 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BCa) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide. The effectiveness of intravesical therapy for bladder cancer, however, is limited due to the short dwell time and the presence of permeation barriers. Considering the histopathological features of BCa, the permeation barriers for drugs to transport across consist of a mucus layer and a nether tumor physiological barrier. Mucoadhesive delivery systems or mucus-penetrating delivery systems are developed to enhance their retention in or penetration across the mucus layer, but delivery systems that are capable of mucoadhesion-to-mucopenetration transition are more efficient to deliver drugs across the mucus layer. For the tumor physiological barrier, delivery systems mainly rely on four types of penetration mechanisms to cross it. This review summarizes the classical and latest approaches to intravesical drug delivery systems to penetrate BCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu Zhang
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Guoqing Wu
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Dahong Zhang
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China.
| | - Wing-Fu Lai
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China; Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
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18
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Andrade de Oliveira K, Sengupta S, Yadav AK, Clarke R. The complex nature of heterogeneity and its roles in breast cancer biology and therapeutic responsiveness. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1083048. [PMID: 36909339 PMCID: PMC9997040 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1083048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneity is a complex feature of cells and tissues with many interacting components. Depending on the nature of the research context, interacting features of cellular, drug response, genetic, molecular, spatial, temporal, and vascular heterogeneity may be present. We describe the various forms of heterogeneity with examples of their interactions and how they play a role in affecting cellular phenotype and drug responses in breast cancer. While cellular heterogeneity may be the most widely described and invoked, many forms of heterogeneity are evident within the tumor microenvironment and affect responses to the endocrine and cytotoxic drugs widely used in standard clinical care. Drug response heterogeneity is a critical determinant of clinical response and curative potential and also is multifaceted when encountered. The interactive nature of some forms of heterogeneity is readily apparent. For example, the process of metastasis has the properties of both temporal and spatial heterogeneity within the host, whereas each individual metastatic deposit may exhibit cellular, genetic, molecular, and vascular heterogeneity. This review describes the many forms of heterogeneity, their integrated activities, and offers some insights into how heterogeneity may be understood and studied in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla Andrade de Oliveira
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Universidade Federal do Piaui, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Surojeet Sengupta
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, United States
| | - Anil Kumar Yadav
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, United States
| | - Robert Clarke
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, United States
- *Correspondence: Robert Clarke,
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19
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Jaradat R, Li X, Chen H, Stathopulos PB, Bai D. The Hydrophobic Residues in Amino Terminal Domains of Cx46 and Cx50 Are Important for Their Gap Junction Channel Ion Permeation and Gating. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911605. [PMID: 36232905 PMCID: PMC9570504 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Lens gap junctions (GJs) formed by Cx46 and Cx50 are important to keep lens transparency. Functional studies on Cx46 and Cx50 GJs showed that the Vj-gating, single channel conductance (γj), gating polarity, and/or channel open stability could be modified by the charged residues in the amino terminal (NT) domain. The role of hydrophobic residues in the NT on GJ properties is not clear. Crystal and cryo-EM GJ structures have been resolved, but the NT domain structure has either not been resolved or has showed very different orientations depending on the component connexins and possibly other experimental conditions, making it difficult to understand the structural basis of the NT in Vj-gating and γj. Here, we generated missense variants in Cx46 and Cx50 NT domains and studied their properties by recombinant expression and dual whole-cell patch clamp experiments on connexin-deficient N2A cells. The NT variants (Cx46 L10I, N13E, A14V, Q15N, and Cx50 I10L, E13N, V14A, N15Q) were all able to form functional GJs with similar coupling%, except Cx46 N13E, which showed a significantly reduced coupling%. The GJs of Cx46 N13E, A14V and Cx50 E13N, N15Q showed a reduced coupling conductance. Vj-gating of all the variant GJs were similar to the corresponding wild-type GJs except Cx46 L10I. The γj of Cx46 N13E, A14V, Cx50 E13N, and N15Q GJs was reduced to 51%, 82%, 87%, and 74%, respectively, as compared to their wild-type γjs. Structural models of Cx46 L10I and A14V predicted steric clashes between these residues and the TM2 residues, which might be partially responsible for our observed changes in GJ properties. To verify the importance of hydrophobic interactions, we generated a variant, Cx50 S89T, which also shows a steric clash and failed to form a functional GJ. Our experimental results and structure models indicate that hydrophobic interactions between the NT and TM2 domain are important for their Vj-gating, γj, and channel open stability in these and possibly other GJs.
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20
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Nanocarrier System: State-of-the-Art in Oral Delivery of Astaxanthin. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11091676. [PMID: 36139750 PMCID: PMC9495775 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11091676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Astaxanthin (3,3′-dihydroxy-4,4′-diketo-β-β carotene), which belongs to the xanthophyll class, has shown potential biological activity in in vitro and in vivo models including as a potent antioxidant, anti-lipid peroxidation and cardiovascular disease prevention agent. It is mainly extracted from an alga, Haematococcus pluvialis. As a highly lipid-soluble carotenoid, astaxanthin has been shown to have poor oral bioavailability, which limits its clinical applications. Recently, there have been several suggestions and the development of various types of nano-formulation, loaded with astaxanthin to enhance their bioavailability. The employment of nanoemulsions, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, chitosan-based and PLGA-based nanoparticles as delivery vehicles of astaxanthin for nutritional supplementation purposes has proven a higher oral bioavailability of astaxanthin. In this review, we highlight the pharmacological properties, pharmacokinetics profiles and current developments of the nano-formulations of astaxanthin for its oral delivery that are believed to be beneficial for future applications. The limitations and future recommendations are also discussed in this review.
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21
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Hua T, Shi H, Zhu M, Chen C, Su Y, Wen S, Zhang X, Chen J, Huang Q, Wang H. Glioma‑neuronal interactions in tumor progression: Mechanism, therapeutic strategies and perspectives (Review). Int J Oncol 2022; 61:104. [PMID: 35856439 PMCID: PMC9339490 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2022.5394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
An increasing body of evidence has become available to reveal the synaptic and functional integration of glioma into the brain network, facilitating tumor progression. The novel discovery of glioma-neuronal interactions has fundamentally challenged our understanding of this refractory disease. The present review aimed to provide an overview of how the neuronal activities function through synapses, neurotransmitters, ion channels, gap junctions, tumor microtubes and neuronal molecules to establish communications with glioma, as well as a simplified explanation of the reciprocal effects of crosstalk on neuronal pathophysiology. In addition, the current state of therapeutic avenues targeting critical factors involved in glioma-euronal interactions is discussed and an overview of clinical trial data for further investigation is provided. Finally, newly emerging technologies, including immunomodulation, a neural stem cell-based delivery system, optogenetics techniques and co-culture of neuron organoids and glioma, are proposed, which may pave a way towards gaining deeper insight into both the mechanisms associated with neuron- and glioma-communicating networks and the development of therapeutic strategies to target this currently lethal brain tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzhen Hua
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Huanxiao Shi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Mengmei Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Chao Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Yandong Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Shengjia Wen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Juxiang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Qilin Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, P.R. China
| | - Hongxiang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
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22
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Carvalho J. A computational model of organism development and carcinogenesis resulting from cells' bioelectric properties and communication. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9206. [PMID: 35654933 PMCID: PMC9163332 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13281-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A sound theory of biological organization is clearly missing for a better interpretation of observational results and faster progress in understanding life complexity. The availability of such a theory represents a fundamental progress in explaining both normal and pathological organism development. The present work introduces a computational implementation of some principles of a theory of organism development, namely that the default state of cells is proliferation and motility, and includes the principle of variation and organization by closure of constraints. In the present model, the bioelectric context of cells and tissue is the field responsible for organization, as it regulates cell proliferation and the level of communication driving the system’s evolution. Starting from a depolarized (proliferative) cell, the organism grows to a certain size, limited by the increasingly polarized state after successive proliferation events. The system reaches homeostasis, with a depolarized core (proliferative cells) surrounded by a rim of polarized cells (non-proliferative in this condition). This state is resilient to cell death (random or due to injure) and to limited depolarization (potentially carcinogenic) events. Carcinogenesis is introduced through a localized event (a spot of depolarized cells) or by random depolarization of cells in the tissue, which returns cells to their initial proliferative state. The normalization of the bioelectric condition can reverse this out-of-equilibrium state to a new homeostatic one. This simplified model of embryogenesis, tissue organization and carcinogenesis, based on non-excitable cells’ bioelectric properties, can be made more realistic with the introduction of other components, like biochemical fields and mechanical interactions, which are fundamental for a more faithful representation of reality. However, even a simple model can give insight for new approaches in complex systems and suggest new experimental tests, focused in its predictions and interpreted under a new paradigm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao Carvalho
- CFisUC, Department of Physics, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Glioblastoma Microenvironment and Cellular Interactions. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14041092. [PMID: 35205842 PMCID: PMC8870579 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This paper summarizes the crosstalk between tumor/non-tumor cells and other elements of the glioblastoma (GB) microenvironment. In tumor pathology, glial cells result in the highest number of cancers, and GB is considered the most lethal tumor of the central nervous system (CNS). The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex peritumoral hallo composed of tumor cells and several non-tumor cells (e.g., nervous cells, stem cells, fibroblasts, vascular and immune cells), which might be a key factor for the ineffective treatment since the microenvironment modulates the biologic status of the tumor with the increase in its evasion capacity. A deeper understanding of cell–cell interactions in the TME and with the tumor cells could be the basis for a more efficient therapy. Abstract The central nervous system (CNS) represents a complex network of different cells, such as neurons, glial cells, and blood vessels. In tumor pathology, glial cells result in the highest number of cancers, and glioblastoma (GB) is considered the most lethal tumor in this region. The development of GB leads to the infiltration of healthy tissue through the interaction between all the elements of the brain network. This results in a GB microenvironment, a complex peritumoral hallo composed of tumor cells and several non-tumor cells (e.g., nervous cells, stem cells, fibroblasts, vascular and immune cells), which might be the principal factor for the ineffective treatment due to the fact that the microenvironment modulates the biologic status of the tumor with the increase in its evasion capacity. Crosstalk between glioma cells and the brain microenvironment finally inhibits the beneficial action of molecular pathways, favoring the development and invasion of the tumor and its increasing resistance to treatment. A deeper understanding of cell–cell interactions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and with the tumor cells could be the basis for a more efficient therapy.
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Li M, Cao W, Huang B, Zhu Z, Chen Y, Zhang J, Cao G, Chen B. Establishment and Analysis of an Individualized Immune-Related Gene Signature for the Prognosis of Gastric Cancer. Front Surg 2022; 9:829237. [PMID: 35174205 PMCID: PMC8841693 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2022.829237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing number of studies have shown that immunity plays an important clinical role in the process of gastric cancer (GC). The purpose of this study was to explore the function of differentially expressed immune-related genes (DEIRGs) of GC, and construct a gene signature to predict the overall survival (OS) of patients. Gene expression profiles and clinical data of GC patients were downloaded from TCGA and GEO databases. Combined with immune-related genes (IRGs) downloaded from the ImmPort database, 357 DEIRGs in GC tissues and adjacent tissues were identified. Based on the analysis of Lasso and Cox in the training set, a prognostic risk scoring model consisting of 9 (RBP7, DES, CCR1, PNOC, SPP1, VIP, TNFRSF12A, TUBB3, PRKCG) DEIRGs was obtained. Functional analysis revealed that model genes may participate in the formation and development of tumor cells by affecting the function of cell gap junction intercellular communication (GJJC). According to the model score, the samples were divided into high-risk and low-risk groups. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, the risk score was an independent prognostic factor (HR = 1.674, 95% CI = 1.470–1.907, P < 0.001). Survival analysis showed that the OS of high-risk GC patients was significantly lower than that of low-risk GC patients (P < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) of the model was greater than other clinical indicators when verified in various data sets, confirming that the prediction model has a reliable accuracy. In conclusion, this study has explored the biological functions of DEIRGs in GC and discovered novel gene targets for the treatment of GC. The constructed prognostic gene signature is helpful for clinicians to determine the prognosis of GC patients and formulate personalized treatment plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengying Li
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Bingqian Huang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhipeng Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yaxin Chen
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jiawei Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Jiawei Zhang
| | - Guodong Cao
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Guodong Cao
| | - Bo Chen
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Bo Chen
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Fan LX, Tao L, Lai YC, Cai SY, Zhao ZY, Yang F, Su RY, Wang Q. Cx32 promotes autophagy and produces resistance to SN‑induced apoptosis via activation of AMPK signalling in cervical cancer. Int J Oncol 2022; 60:10. [PMID: 34970699 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2021.5300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The roles of gap junctions (GJs) and its components, connexins, in the autophagy of cervical cancer cells have been rarely investigated. Our previous study demonstrated that connexin 32 (Cx32) exerted an anti‑apoptotic effect on cervical cancer. However, as an important regulator of apoptosis, whether the autophagy is involved in the function of Cx32 on cervical cancer cells is not well defined. The present study aimed to investigate the role of Cx32 on autophagy and apoptosis inhibition in cervical cancer cells. The expression levels of Cx32 and the autophagy‑associated protein LC3‑Ⅱ in paracancerous cervical tissues (n=30) and cervical cancer (n=50) tissues were determined via western blotting. In total, 45 cervical cancer specimens were used to evaluate the clinical relevance of Cx32 and LC3‑Ⅱ. It was found that both Cx32 and LC3‑Ⅱ were upregulated in cervical cancer tissues compared with those in paracancerous cervical tissues. The effect of Cx32 on autophagy was examined by detecting the change of LC3‑Ⅱ using western blotting, transfection with enhanced green fluorescent protein‑LC3 plasmid and transmission electron microscopy analysis. Overexpression of Cx32 significantly enhanced autophagy in HeLa‑Cx32 cells, whereas knockdown of Cx32 suppressed autophagy in C‑33A cells. The flow cytometry results demonstrated that Cx32 inhibited the apoptosis of cervical cancer cells by promoting autophagy. Moreover, Cx32 triggered autophagy via the activation of the AMP‑activated protein kinase (AMPK) signalling, regardless of the presence or absence of GJs. Collectively, it was identified that Cx32 exerted its anti‑apoptotic effect by activating autophagy via the AMPK pathway in cervical cancer, which demonstrates a novel mechanism for Cx32 in human cervical cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Xia Fan
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Liang Tao
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Chang Lai
- Department of Urology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518033, P.R. China
| | - Shao-Yi Cai
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Zi-Yu Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Feng Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Ri-Ya Su
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
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Tice RR, Bassan A, Amberg A, Anger LT, Beal MA, Bellion P, Benigni R, Birmingham J, Brigo A, Bringezu F, Ceriani L, Crooks I, Cross K, Elespuru R, Faulkner DM, Fortin MC, Fowler P, Frericks M, Gerets HHJ, Jahnke GD, Jones DR, Kruhlak NL, Lo Piparo E, Lopez-Belmonte J, Luniwal A, Luu A, Madia F, Manganelli S, Manickam B, Mestres J, Mihalchik-Burhans AL, Neilson L, Pandiri A, Pavan M, Rider CV, Rooney JP, Trejo-Martin A, Watanabe-Sailor KH, White AT, Woolley D, Myatt GJ. In Silico Approaches In Carcinogenicity Hazard Assessment: Current Status and Future Needs. COMPUTATIONAL TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 20. [PMID: 35368437 DOI: 10.1016/j.comtox.2021.100191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Historically, identifying carcinogens has relied primarily on tumor studies in rodents, which require enormous resources in both money and time. In silico models have been developed for predicting rodent carcinogens but have not yet found general regulatory acceptance, in part due to the lack of a generally accepted protocol for performing such an assessment as well as limitations in predictive performance and scope. There remains a need for additional, improved in silico carcinogenicity models, especially ones that are more human-relevant, for use in research and regulatory decision-making. As part of an international effort to develop in silico toxicological protocols, a consortium of toxicologists, computational scientists, and regulatory scientists across several industries and governmental agencies evaluated the extent to which in silico models exist for each of the recently defined 10 key characteristics (KCs) of carcinogens. This position paper summarizes the current status of in silico tools for the assessment of each KC and identifies the data gaps that need to be addressed before a comprehensive in silico carcinogenicity protocol can be developed for regulatory use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond R Tice
- RTice Consulting, Hillsborough, North Carolina, 27278, USA
| | | | - Alexander Amberg
- Sanofi Preclinical Safety, Industriepark Höchst, 65926 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Lennart T Anger
- Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Marc A Beal
- Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Government of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0K9
| | | | | | - Jeffrey Birmingham
- GlaxoSmithKline, David Jack Centre for R&D, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0DP, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandro Brigo
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research & Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation, Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, CH-4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Lidia Ceriani
- Humane Society International, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ian Crooks
- British American Tobacco (Investments) Ltd, GR&D Centre, Southampton, SO15 8TL, United Kingdom
| | | | - Rosalie Elespuru
- Food and Drug Administration, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20993, USA
| | - David M Faulkner
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Marie C Fortin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08855, USA
| | - Paul Fowler
- FSTox Consulting (Genetic Toxicology), Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Gloria D Jahnke
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | | | - Naomi L Kruhlak
- Food and Drug Administration, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20993, USA
| | - Elena Lo Piparo
- Chemical Food Safety Group, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | - Juan Lopez-Belmonte
- Cuts Ice Ltd Chemical Food Safety Group, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | - Amarjit Luniwal
- North American Science Associates (NAMSA) Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55426, USA
| | - Alice Luu
- Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Government of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0K9
| | - Federica Madia
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Serena Manganelli
- Chemical Food Safety Group, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | | | - Jordi Mestres
- IMIM Institut Hospital Del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques and Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Doctor Aiguader 88, Parc de Recerca Biomèdica, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; and Chemotargets SL, Baldiri Reixac 4, Parc Científic de Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Louise Neilson
- Broughton Nicotine Services, Oak Tree House, Earby, Lancashire, BB18 6JZ United Kingdom
| | - Arun Pandiri
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | | | - Cynthia V Rider
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - John P Rooney
- Integrated Laboratory Systems, LLC., Morrisville, North Carolina, 27560, USA
| | | | - Karen H Watanabe-Sailor
- School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, West Campus, Glendale, Arizona, 85306, USA
| | - Angela T White
- GlaxoSmithKline, David Jack Centre for R&D, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0DP, United Kingdom
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Leroy K, Pieters A, Cooreman A, Van Campenhout R, Cogliati B, Vinken M. Connexin-Based Channel Activity Is Not Specifically Altered by Hepatocarcinogenic Chemicals. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11724. [PMID: 34769157 PMCID: PMC8584159 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin-based channels play key roles in cellular communication and can be affected by deleterious chemicals. In this study, the effects of various genotoxic carcinogenic compounds, non-genotoxic carcinogenic compounds and non-carcinogenic compounds on the expression and functionality of connexin-based channels, both gap junctions and connexin hemichannels, were investigated in human hepatoma HepaRG cell cultures. Expression of connexin26, connexin32, and connexin43 was evaluated by means of real-time reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, immunoblot analysis and in situ immunostaining. Gap junction functionality was assessed via a scrape loading/dye transfer assay. Opening of connexin hemichannels was monitored by measuring extracellular release of adenosine triphosphate. It was found that both genotoxic and non-genotoxic carcinogenic compounds negatively affect connexin32 expression. However, no specific effects related to chemical type were observed at gap junction or connexin hemichannel functionality level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaat Leroy
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (R.V.C.)
| | - Alanah Pieters
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (R.V.C.)
| | - Axelle Cooreman
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (R.V.C.)
| | - Raf Van Campenhout
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (R.V.C.)
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil;
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (R.V.C.)
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Cell Systems Bioelectricity: How Different Intercellular Gap Junctions Could Regionalize a Multicellular Aggregate. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215300. [PMID: 34771463 PMCID: PMC8582473 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Electric potential distributions can act as instructive pre-patterns for development, regeneration, and tumorigenesis in cell systems. The biophysical states influence transcription, proliferation, cell shape, migration, and differentiation through biochemical and biomechanical downstream transduction processes. A major knowledge gap is the origin of spatial patterns in vivo, and their relationship to the ion channels and the electrical synapses known as gap junctions. Understanding this is critical for basic evolutionary developmental biology as well as for regenerative medicine. We computationally show that cells may express connexin proteins with different voltage-gated gap junction conductances as a way to maintain multicellular regions at distinct membrane potentials. We show that increasing the multicellular connectivity via enhanced junction function does not always contribute to the bioelectrical normalization of abnormally depolarized multicellular patches. From a purely electrical junction view, this result suggests that the reduction rather than the increase of specific connexin levels can also be a suitable bioelectrical approach in some cases and time stages. We offer a minimum model that incorporates effective conductances ultimately related to specific ion channel and junction proteins that are amenable to external regulation. We suggest that the bioelectrical patterns and their encoded instructive information can be externally modulated by acting on the mean fields of cell systems, a complementary approach to that of acting on the molecular characteristics of individual cells. We believe that despite the limitations of a biophysically focused model, our approach can offer useful qualitative insights into the collective dynamics of cell system bioelectricity.
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The 3.0 Cell Communication: New Insights in the Usefulness of Tunneling Nanotubes for Glioblastoma Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164001. [PMID: 34439156 PMCID: PMC8392307 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Communication between cells helps tumors acquire resistance to chemotherapy and makes the struggle against cancer more challenging. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are long channels able to connect both nearby and distant cells, contributing to a more malignant phenotype. This finding might be useful in designing novel strategies of drug delivery exploiting these systems of connection. This would be particularly important to reach tumor niches, where glioblastoma stem cells proliferate and provoke immune escape, thereby increasing metastatic potential and tumor recurrence a few months after surgical resection of the primary mass. Along with the direct inhibition of TNT formation, TNT analysis, and targeting strategies might be useful in providing innovative tools for the treatment of this tumor. Abstract Glioblastoma (GBM) is a particularly challenging brain tumor characterized by a heterogeneous, complex, and multicellular microenvironment, which represents a strategic network for treatment escape. Furthermore, the presence of GBM stem cells (GSCs) seems to contribute to GBM recurrence after surgery, and chemo- and/or radiotherapy. In this context, intercellular communication modalities play key roles in driving GBM therapy resistance. The presence of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), long membranous open-ended channels connecting distant cells, has been observed in several types of cancer, where they emerge to steer a more malignant phenotype. Here, we discuss the current knowledge about the formation of TNTs between different cellular types in the GBM microenvironment and their potential role in tumor progression and recurrence. Particularly, we highlight two prospective strategies targeting TNTs as possible therapeutics: (i) the inhibition of TNT formation and (ii) a boost in drug delivery between cells through these channels. The latter may require future studies to design drug delivery systems that are exchangeable through TNTs, thus allowing for access to distant tumor niches that are involved in tumor immune escape, maintenance of GSC plasticity, and increases in metastatic potential.
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A bioelectric model of carcinogenesis, including propagation of cell membrane depolarization and reversal therapies. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13607. [PMID: 34193902 PMCID: PMC8245601 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92951-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
As the main theory of carcinogenesis, the Somatic Mutation Theory, increasingly presents difficulties to explain some experimental observations, different theories are being proposed. A major alternative approach is the Tissue Organization Field Theory, which explains cancer origin as a tissue regulation disease instead of having a mainly cellular origin. This work fits in the latter hypothesis, proposing the bioelectric field, in particular the cell membrane polarization state, and ionic exchange through ion channels and gap junctions, as an important mechanism of cell communication and tissue organization and regulation. Taking into account recent experimental results and proposed bioelectric models, a computational model of cancer initiation was developed, including the propagation of a cell depolarization wave in the tissue under consideration. Cell depolarization leads to a change in its state, with the activation and deactivation of several regulation pathways, increasing cell proliferation and motility, changing its epigenetic state to a more stem cell-like behavior without the requirement of genomic mutation. The intercellular communication via gap junctions leads, in certain circumstances, to a bioelectric state propagation to neighbor cells, in a chain-like reaction, till an electric discontinuity is reached. However, this is a reversible process, and it was shown experimentally that, by implementing a therapy targeted on cell ion exchange channels, it is possible to reverse the state and repolarize cells. This mechanism can be an important alternative way in cancer prevention, diagnosis and therapy, and new experiments are proposed to test the presented hypothesis.
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The advanced development of Cx43 and GAP-43 mediated intercellular networking in IDH1 wildtype diffuse and anaplastic gliomas with lower mitotic rate. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2021; 147:3003-3009. [PMID: 34173871 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-021-03711-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The biologic behavior and the therapeutic resistance of diffuse and anaplastic gliomas varies greatly. This may be explained by differences in cell-to-cell communication, determined by the Cx43-associated junctional activity and the microtubules-defined network, in which GAP-43 is the dominant structural component. We assessed the expression of these crucial communication proteins in samples of patients harboring WHO°II and III gliomas, graded according to the current 4th revised WHO classification. METHODS Tissue of adult patients with WHO°II and III gliomas, who underwent surgery between 2014 and 2018, were selected from our institutional biobank. GAP-43 and Cx43 expression was analyzed using IHC. Routine clinical and neuropathological findings were additionally retrieved from our institutional prospective database. RESULTS 43 (57%) males and 33 (43%) females with a median age of 47 (IqR: 35-61) years were selected. IDH1 wildtype tumors showed a significantly higher expression of Cx43 (p = 0.014) and a tendency for increased GAP-43 production. Advanced Cx43 expression significantly correlated with lower mitosis rate (p = 0.014): more in IDH1 wildtype (r = - 0.57, p = 0.003) than in mutated gliomas (r = - 0.37, p = 0.019). There was no difference in Cx43 or GAP-43 expression in relation to anaplastic phenotype, Gadolinum-contrasted enhancement (CE) on MRI and advanced EGFR or p53 expression. CONCLUSIONS Intercellular communication tends to be more relevant in slower proliferating, e.g. lower malignant tumors. They could have more time to establish this network, providing longitudinally acquired resistance against specific oncological therapy. This feature matches the unfavorable IDH1 wildtype status of glioma and supports the noted malignant behavior of these tumors in the upcoming 5th WHO classification of gliomas.
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Zefferino R, Piccoli C, Di Gioia S, Capitanio N, Conese M. How Cells Communicate with Each Other in the Tumor Microenvironment: Suggestions to Design Novel Therapeutic Strategies in Cancer Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052550. [PMID: 33806300 PMCID: PMC7961918 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexin- and pannexin (Panx)-formed hemichannels (HCs) and gap junctions (GJs) operate an interaction with the extracellular matrix and GJ intercellular communication (GJIC), and on account of this they are involved in cancer onset and progression towards invasiveness and metastatization. When we deal with cancer, it is not correct to omit the immune system, as well as neglecting its role in resisting or succumbing to formation and progression of incipient neoplasia until the formation of micrometastasis, nevertheless what really occurs in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which are the main players and which are the tumor or body allies, is still unclear. The goal of this article is to discuss how the pivotal players act, which can enhance or contrast cancer progression during two important process: "Activating Invasion and Metastasis" and the "Avoiding Immune Destruction", with a particular emphasis on the interplay among GJIC, Panx-HCs, and the purinergic system in the TME without disregarding the inflammasome and cytokines thereof derived. In particular, the complex and contrasting roles of Panx1/P2X7R signalosome in tumor facilitation and/or inhibition is discussed in regard to the early/late phases of the carcinogenesis. Finally, considering this complex interplay in the TME between cancer cells, stromal cells, immune cells, and focusing on their means of communication, we should be capable of revealing harmful messages that help the cancer growth and transform them in body allies, thus designing novel therapeutic strategies to fight cancer in a personalized manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Zefferino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (S.D.G.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0881-884673
| | - Claudia Piccoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (C.P.); (N.C.)
| | - Sante Di Gioia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (S.D.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Nazzareno Capitanio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (C.P.); (N.C.)
| | - Massimo Conese
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (S.D.G.); (M.C.)
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Tuffour A, Kosiba AA, Zhang Y, Peprah FA, Gu J, Shi H. Role of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) in cancer metastasis to bone: Identifying a potential therapeutic target. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1875:188528. [PMID: 33640382 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2021.188528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide due to its ability to evade immune surveillance and metastasize from its origin to a secondary point of contact. Though several treatment techniques have been developed to suppress or manage cancer spread, a strategy for total control over the disease continues to evade researchers. In considering ways to control or prevent cancer from metastasizing to the bone, we analyze the impact of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR), whose primary role is to maintain calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis in cellular and systemic physiological processes. CaSR is a pleiotropic receptor capable of enhancing the proliferation of some cancers such as breast, lung, prostate and kidney cancers at its primary site(s) and stimulating bone metastasis, while exerting a suppressive effect in others such as colon cancer. The activity of CaSR not only increases cancer cell proliferation, migration and suppression of apoptosis in the organs indicated, but also increases the secretion of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) and epiregulin, which induce osteolytic activity and osteoblastic suppression. In addition, released cytokines and Ca2+ from bone resorption are critical factors that further promote cancer proliferation. In this review, we seek to highlight previous viewpoints on CaSR, discuss its role in a new context, and consider its potential clinical application in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Tuffour
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China.
| | | | - Yao Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Frank Addai Peprah
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Jie Gu
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Haifeng Shi
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China.
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Ferrer AI, Trinidad JR, Sandiford O, Etchegaray JP, Rameshwar P. Epigenetic dynamics in cancer stem cell dormancy. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2021; 39:721-738. [PMID: 32394305 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-020-09882-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer remains one of the most challenging diseases despite significant advances of early diagnosis and therapeutic treatments. Cancerous tumors are composed of various cell types including cancer stem cells capable of self-renewal, proliferation, differentiation, and invasion of distal tumor sites. Most notably, these cells can enter a dormant cellular state that is resistant to conventional therapies. Thereby, cancer stem cells have the intrinsic potential for tumor initiation, tumor growth, metastasis, and tumor relapse after therapy. Both genetic and epigenetic alterations are attributed to the formation of multiple tumor types. This review is focused on how epigenetic dynamics involving DNA methylation and DNA oxidations are implicated in breast cancer and glioblastoma multiforme. The emergence and progression of these cancer types rely on cancer stem cells with the capacity to enter quiescence also known as a dormant cellular state, which dictates the distinct tumorigenic aggressiveness between breast cancer and glioblastomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra I Ferrer
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Jonathan R Trinidad
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Oleta Sandiford
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | | | - Pranela Rameshwar
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA.
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Gingrich J, Pu Y, Upham BL, Hulse M, Pearl S, Martin D, Avery A, Veiga-Lopez A. Bisphenol S enhances gap junction intercellular communication in ovarian theca cells. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:128304. [PMID: 33155548 PMCID: PMC7726030 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) is necessary for ovarian function, and it is temporospatially regulated during follicular development and ovulation. At outermost layer of the antral follicle, theca cells provide structural, steroidogenic, and vascular support. Inter- and extra-thecal GJIC is required for intrafollicular trafficking of signaling molecules. Because GJIC can be altered by hormones and endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), we tested if any of five common EDCs (bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol S (BPS), bisphenol F (BPF), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), and triphenyltin chloride (TPT)) can interfere with theca cell GJIC. Since most chemicals are reported to repress GJIC, we hypothesized that all chemicals tested, within environmentally relevant human exposure concentrations, will inhibit theca cell GJICs. To evaluate this hypothesis, we used a scrape loading/dye transfer assay. BPS, but no other chemical tested, enhanced GJIC in a dose- and time-dependent manner in ovine primary theca cells. A signal-protein inhibitor approach was used to explore the GJIC-modulatory pathways involved. Phospholipase C and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors significantly attenuated BPS-induced enhanced GJIC. Human theca cells were used to evaluate translational relevance of these findings. Human primary theca cells had a ∼40% increase in GJIC in response to BPS, which was attenuated with a MAPK inhibitor, suggestive of a conserved mechanism. Upregulation of GJIC could result in hyperplasia of the theca cell layer or prevent ovulation by holding the oocyte in meiotic arrest. Further studies are necessary to understand in vitro to in vivo translatability of these findings on follicle development and fertility outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Gingrich
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Yong Pu
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Brad L Upham
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Madeline Hulse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA
| | - Sarah Pearl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA
| | - Denny Martin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA
| | - Anita Avery
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Almudena Veiga-Lopez
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA; Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
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Mulkearns-Hubert EE, Reizes O, Lathia JD. Connexins in Cancer: Jekyll or Hyde? Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1654. [PMID: 33321749 PMCID: PMC7764653 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression, localization, and function of connexins, the protein subunits that comprise gap junctions, are often altered in cancer. In addition to cell-cell coupling through gap junction channels, connexins also form hemichannels that allow communication between the cell and the extracellular space and perform non-junctional intracellular activities. Historically, connexins have been considered tumor suppressors; however, they can also serve tumor-promoting functions in some contexts. Here, we review the literature surrounding connexins in cancer cells in terms of specific connexin functions and propose that connexins function upstream of most, if not all, of the hallmarks of cancer. The development of advanced connexin targeting approaches remains an opportunity for the field to further interrogate the role of connexins in cancer phenotypes, particularly through the use of in vivo models. More specific modulators of connexin function will both help elucidate the functions of connexins in cancer and advance connexin-specific therapies in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E. Mulkearns-Hubert
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (O.R.); (J.D.L.)
| | - Ofer Reizes
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (O.R.); (J.D.L.)
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College, Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Justin D. Lathia
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (O.R.); (J.D.L.)
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College, Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
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Connexins-Therapeutic Targets in Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239119. [PMID: 33266154 PMCID: PMC7730856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cx) are members of a protein family that forms intercellular channels localised in gap junction (GJ) plaques and single transmembrane channels called hemichannels. They participate in intercellular communication or communication between the intracellular and extracellular environments. Connexins affect cell homeostasis, growth and differentiation by enabling the exchange of metabolites or by interfering with various signalling pathways. Alterations in the functionality and the expression of connexins have been linked to the occurrence of many diseases. Connexins have been already linked to cancers, cardiac and brain disorders, chronic lung and kidney conditions and wound healing processes. Connexins have been shown either to suppress cancer tumour growth or to increase tumorigenicity by promoting cancer cell growth, migration and invasiveness. A better understanding of the complexity of cancer biology related to connexins and intercellular communication could result in the design of novel therapeutic strategies. The modulation of connexin expression may be an effective therapeutic approach in some types of cancers. Therefore, one important challenge is the search for mechanisms and new drugs, selectively modulating the expression of various connexin isoforms. We performed a systematic literature search up to February 2020 in the electronic databases PubMed and EMBASE. Our search terms were as follows: connexins, hemichannels, cancer and cancer treatment. This review aims to provide information about the role of connexins and gap junctions in cancer, as well as to discuss possible therapeutic options that are currently being studied.
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Khalil AA, Ilina O, Vasaturo A, Venhuizen JH, Vullings M, Venhuizen V, Bilos A, Figdor CG, Span PN, Friedl P. Collective invasion induced by an autocrine purinergic loop through connexin-43 hemichannels. J Cell Biol 2020; 219:e201911120. [PMID: 32777015 PMCID: PMC7659730 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201911120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Progression of epithelial cancers predominantly proceeds by collective invasion of cell groups with coordinated cell-cell junctions and multicellular cytoskeletal activity. Collectively invading breast cancer cells express the gap junction protein connexin-43 (Cx43), yet whether Cx43 regulates collective invasion remains unclear. We here show that Cx43 mediates gap-junctional coupling between collectively invading breast cancer cells and, via hemichannels, adenosine nucleotide/nucleoside release into the extracellular space. Using molecular interference and rescue strategies, we identify that Cx43 hemichannel function, but not intercellular communication, induces leader cell activity and collective migration through the engagement of the adenosine receptor 1 (ADORA1) and AKT signaling. Accordingly, pharmacological inhibition of ADORA1 or AKT signaling caused leader cell collapse and halted collective invasion. ADORA1 inhibition further reduced local invasion of orthotopic mammary tumors in vivo, and joint up-regulation of Cx43 and ADORA1 in breast cancer patients correlated with decreased relapse-free survival. This identifies autocrine purinergic signaling, through Cx43 hemichannels, as a critical pathway in leader cell function and collective invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine A. Khalil
- Department of Dermatology and Graduate School of Life Science, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Olga Ilina
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Angela Vasaturo
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jan-Hendrik Venhuizen
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Manon Vullings
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Victor Venhuizen
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Ab Bilos
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Carl G. Figdor
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Paul N. Span
- Radiotherapy and OncoImmunology Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Peter Friedl
- Department of Dermatology and Graduate School of Life Science, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- David H. Koch Center for Genitourinary Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- Cancer Genomics Center, Utrecht, Netherlands
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39
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Ion Channels in Cancer: Orchestrators of Electrical Signaling and Cellular Crosstalk. Rev Physiol Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 183:103-133. [PMID: 32894333 DOI: 10.1007/112_2020_48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Ion channels are pore-forming transmembrane proteins that govern ion flux to regulate a myriad of biological processes in development, physiology, and disease. Across various types of cancer, ion channel expression and activity are often dysregulated. We review the contribution of ion channels to multiple stages of tumorigenesis based on data from in vivo model systems. As intertumoral and intratumoral heterogeneities are major obstacles in developing effective therapies, we provide perspectives on how ion channels in tumor cells and their microenvironment represent targetable vulnerabilities in the areas of tumor-stromal cell interactions, cancer neuroscience, and cancer mechanobiology.
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Antagonistic Functions of Connexin 43 during the Development of Primary or Secondary Bone Tumors. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10091240. [PMID: 32859065 PMCID: PMC7565206 DOI: 10.3390/biom10091240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite research and clinical advances during recent decades, bone cancers remain a leading cause of death worldwide. There is a low survival rate for patients with primary bone tumors such as osteosarcoma and Ewing’s sarcoma or secondary bone tumors such as bone metastases from prostate carcinoma. Gap junctions are specialized plasma membrane structures consisting of transmembrane channels that directly link the cytoplasm of adjacent cells, thereby enabling the direct exchange of small signaling molecules between cells. Discoveries of human genetic disorders due to genetic mutations in gap junction proteins (connexins) and experimental data using connexin knockout mice have provided significant evidence that gap-junctional intercellular communication (Gj) is crucial for tissue function. Thus, the dysfunction of Gj may be responsible for the development of some diseases. Gj is thus a main mechanism for tumor cells to communicate with other tumor cells and their surrounding microenvironment to survive and proliferate. If it is well accepted that a low level of connexin expression favors cancer cell proliferation and therefore primary tumor development, more evidence is suggesting that a high level of connexin expression stimulates various cellular process such as intravasation, extravasation, or migration of metastatic cells. If so, connexin expression would facilitate secondary tumor dissemination. This paper discusses evidence that suggests that connexin 43 plays an antagonistic role in the development of primary bone tumors as a tumor suppressor and secondary bone tumors as a tumor promoter.
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Trementozzi AN, Hufnagel S, Xu H, Hanafy MS, Rosero Castro F, Smyth HDC, Cui Z, Stachowiak JC. Gap Junction Liposomes for Efficient Delivery of Chemotherapeutics to Solid Tumors. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:4851-4857. [PMID: 33455217 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c01047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chemotherapeutic delivery is limited by inefficient transport across cellular membranes. Here, we harness the cellular gap junction network to release therapeutic cargos directly into the cytosol. Specifically, cell-derived vesicles, termed connectosomes, contain gap junction transmembrane proteins that open a direct passageway to the cellular interior. Connectosomes were previously shown to substantially improve chemotherapeutic delivery in vitro. Here, we test connectosomes in vivo, using a murine breast tumor model. We demonstrate that connectosomes improve chemotherapeutic delivery to cellular targets within tumors by up to 16-fold, compared to conventional drug-loaded liposomes, suggesting an efficient alternative pathway for intracellular delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea N Trementozzi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Stephanie Hufnagel
- College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Haiyue Xu
- College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Mahmoud S Hanafy
- College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Felipe Rosero Castro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Hugh D C Smyth
- College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Zhengrong Cui
- College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Jeanne C Stachowiak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
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Hutchings C, Phillips JA, Djamgoz MBA. Nerve input to tumours: Pathophysiological consequences of a dynamic relationship. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1874:188411. [PMID: 32828885 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that tumours arising in different organs are innervated and that 'perineural invasion' (cancer cells escaping from the tumour by following the nerve trunk) is a negative prognostic factor. More surprisingly, increasing evidence suggests that the nerves can provide active inputs to tumours and there is two-way communication between nerves and cancer cells within the tumour microenvironment. Cells of the immune system also interact with the nerves and cancer cells. Thus, the nerve connections can exert significant control over cancer progression and modulating these (physically or chemically) can affect significantly the cancer process. Nerve inputs to tumours are derived mainly from the sympathetic (adrenergic) and the parasympathetic (cholinergic) systems, which are interactive. An important component of the latter is the vagus nerve, the largest of the cranial nerves. Here, we present a two-part review of the nerve inputs to tumours and their effects on tumorigenesis. First, we review briefly some relevant general issues including ultrastructural aspects, stemness, interactions between neurones and primary tumours, and communication between neurones and metastasizing tumour cells. Ultrastructural characteristics include synaptic vesicles, tumour microtubes and gap junctions enabling formation of cellular networks. Second, we evaluate the pathophysiology of the nerve input to five major carcinomas: cancers of prostate, stomach, colon, lung and pancreas. For each cancer, we present (i) the nerve inputs normally present in the cancer organ and (ii) how these interact and influence the cancer process. The best clinical evidence for the role of nerves in promoting tumorigenesis comes from prostate cancer patients where metastatic progression has been shown to be suppressed significantly in cases of spinal cord injury. The balance of the sympathetic and parasympathetic contributions to early versus late tumorigenesis varies amongst the different cancers. Different branches of the vagus provide functional inputs to several of the carcinomas and, in two-way interaction with the sympathetic nervous system, affect different stages of the cancer process. Overall, the impact of the vagus nerve can be 'direct' or 'indirect'. Directly, the effect of the vagus is primarily to promote tumorigenesis and this is mediated through cholinergic receptor mechanisms. Indirectly, pro- and anti-tumour effects can occur by stimulation or inhibition of the sympathetic nervous system, respectively. Less well understood are the 'indirect' anti-tumour effect of the vagus nerve via immunomodulation/inflammation, and the role of sensory innervation. A frequent occurrence in the nerve-tumour interactions is the presence of positive feedback driven by agents like nerve growth factor. We conclude that the nerve inputs to tumours can actively and dynamically impact upon cancer progression and are open to clinical exploitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Hutchings
- Imperial College London, Department of Life Sciences, Neuroscience Solutions to Cancer Research Group, Sir Alexander Fleming Building, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Jade A Phillips
- Imperial College London, Department of Life Sciences, Neuroscience Solutions to Cancer Research Group, Sir Alexander Fleming Building, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Mustafa B A Djamgoz
- Imperial College London, Department of Life Sciences, Neuroscience Solutions to Cancer Research Group, Sir Alexander Fleming Building, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK; Biotechnology Research Centre, Cyprus International University, Haspolat, Nicosia, TRNC, Mersin 10, Turkey.
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Therapy-Induced Evolution of Human Lung Cancer Revealed by Single-Cell RNA Sequencing. Cell 2020; 182:1232-1251.e22. [PMID: 32822576 PMCID: PMC7484178 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2020.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 318] [Impact Index Per Article: 79.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer mortality, exhibits heterogeneity that enables adaptability, limits therapeutic success, and remains incompletely understood. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of metastatic lung cancer was performed using 49 clinical biopsies obtained from 30 patients before and during targeted therapy. Over 20,000 cancer and tumor microenvironment (TME) single-cell profiles exposed a rich and dynamic tumor ecosystem. scRNA-seq of cancer cells illuminated targetable oncogenes beyond those detected clinically. Cancer cells surviving therapy as residual disease (RD) expressed an alveolar-regenerative cell signature suggesting a therapy-induced primitive cell-state transition, whereas those present at on-therapy progressive disease (PD) upregulated kynurenine, plasminogen, and gap-junction pathways. Active T-lymphocytes and decreased macrophages were present at RD and immunosuppressive cell states characterized PD. Biological features revealed by scRNA-seq were biomarkers of clinical outcomes in independent cohorts. This study highlights how therapy-induced adaptation of the multi-cellular ecosystem of metastatic cancer shapes clinical outcomes. scRNA-seq is feasible in metastatic human NSCLCs and reveals a rich tumor ecosystem Individual tumors and cancer cells exhibit substantial molecular diversity Cancer and tumor microenvironment cells exhibit marked therapy-induced plasticity scRNA-seq of metastatic NSCLCs unveils new opportunities to improve clinical outcomes
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Leroy K, Pieters A, Tabernilla A, Cooreman A, Van Campenhout R, Cogliati B, Vinken M. Targeting gap junctional intercellular communication by hepatocarcinogenic compounds. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2020; 23:255-275. [PMID: 32568623 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2020.1781010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions in liver, as in other organs, play a critical role in tissue homeostasis. Inherently, these cellular constituents are major targets for systemic toxicity and diseases, including cancer. This review provides an overview of chemicals that compromise liver gap junctions, in particular biological toxins, organic solvents, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, peroxides, metals and phthalates. The focus in this review is placed upon the mechanistic scenarios that underlie these adverse effects. Further, the potential use of gap junctional activity as an in vitro biomarker to identify non-genotoxic hepatocarcinogenic chemicals is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaat Leroy
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alanah Pieters
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Andrés Tabernilla
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Axelle Cooreman
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Raf Van Campenhout
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Cidade Universitária , São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
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Fan L, Zheng N, Peng F, Zhao Z, Fan D, Cai S, Tao L, Wang Q. Nitric oxide affects cisplatin cytotoxicity oppositely in A2780 and A2780-CDDP cells via the connexin32/gap junction. Cancer Sci 2020; 111:2779-2788. [PMID: 32342615 PMCID: PMC7419057 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance is a main obstacle in ovarian cancer therapy and new treatment strategies and further information regarding the mechanism of the medication cisplatin are urgently needed. Nitric oxide has a critical role in modulating the activity of chemotherapeutic drugs. Our previous work showed that connexin32 contributed to cisplatin resistance. However, whether nitric oxide is involved in connexin32-mediated cisplatin resistance remains unknown. In this study, using A2780 and A2780 cisplatin-resistant cells, we found that S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine, a nitric oxide donor, attenuated cisplatin toxicity by decreasing gap junctions in A2780 cells. Enhancement of gap junctions using retinoic acid reversed the effects of S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine on cisplatin toxicity. In A2780 cisplatin-resistant cells, however, S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine enhanced cisplatin toxicity by decreasing connexin32 expression. Downregulation of connexin32 expression by small interfering RNA exacerbated the effects of S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine on cisplatin cytotoxicity and upregulation of connexin32 expression by pcDNA transfection reversed the effects of S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine on cisplatin cytotoxicity. Our study suggests for the first time that combining cisplatin with nitric oxide in clinical therapies for ovarian cancer should be avoided before cisplatin resistance emerges. The present study provides a productive area of further study for increasing the efficacy of cisplatin by combining cisplatin with the specific inhibitors or enhancers of nitric oxide in clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Fan
- Department of PharmacologyZhongshan School of MedicineSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouPeople’s Republic of China
- Department of Basic Medicine and Biomedical EngineeringSchool of Stomatology and MedicineFoshan UniversityFoshanPeople’s Republic of China
| | - Ningze Zheng
- Department of PharmacologyZhongshan School of MedicineSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouPeople’s Republic of China
| | - Fuhua Peng
- Department of PharmacologyZhongshan School of MedicineSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouPeople’s Republic of China
| | - Ziyu Zhao
- Department of PharmacologyZhongshan School of MedicineSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouPeople’s Republic of China
| | - Di Fan
- Department of PharmacologyZhongshan School of MedicineSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouPeople’s Republic of China
| | - Shaoyi Cai
- Department of PharmacologyZhongshan School of MedicineSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouPeople’s Republic of China
| | - Liang Tao
- Department of PharmacologyZhongshan School of MedicineSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouPeople’s Republic of China
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of PharmacologyZhongshan School of MedicineSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouPeople’s Republic of China
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Dominiak A, Chełstowska B, Olejarz W, Nowicka G. Communication in the Cancer Microenvironment as a Target for Therapeutic Interventions. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1232. [PMID: 32422889 PMCID: PMC7281160 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12051232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex system composed of multiple cells, such as non-cancerous fibroblasts, adipocytes, immune and vascular cells, as well as signal molecules and mediators. Tumor cells recruit and reprogram other cells to produce factors that maintain tumor growth. Communication between cancerous and surrounding cells is a two-way process and engages a diverse range of mechanisms that, in consequence, can lead to rapid proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance, or can serve as a tumors-suppressor, e.g., through tumor-immune cell interaction. Cross-talk within the cancer microenvironment can be direct by cell-to-cell contact via adhesion molecules, electrical coupling, and passage through gap junctions, or indirect through classical paracrine signaling by cytokines, growth factors, and extracellular vesicles. Therapeutic approaches for modulation of cell-cell communication may be a promising strategy to combat tumors. In particular, integrative approaches targeting tumor communication in combination with conventional chemotherapy seem reasonable. Currently, special attention is paid to suppressing the formation of open-ended channels as well as blocking exosome production or ablating their cargos. However, many aspects of cell-to-cell communication have yet to be clarified, and, in particular, more work is needed in regard to mechanisms of bidirectional signal transfer. Finally, it seems that some interactions in TEM can be not only cancer-specific, but also patient-specific, and their recognition would help to predict patient response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Dominiak
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (W.O.); (G.N.)
- Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Chełstowska
- Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Laboratory of Hematology and Flow Cytometry, Military Institute of Medicine, 04-140 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Wioletta Olejarz
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (W.O.); (G.N.)
- Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grażyna Nowicka
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (W.O.); (G.N.)
- Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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Dash S, Aydin Y, Widmer KE, Nayak L. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Mechanisms Associated with Chronic HCV Infection and the Impact of Direct-Acting Antiviral Treatment. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2020; 7:45-76. [PMID: 32346535 PMCID: PMC7167284 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s221187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the major risk factor for liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The mechanisms of HCC initiation, growth, and metastasis appear to be highly complex due to the decade-long interactions between the virus, immune system, and overlapping bystander effects of host metabolic liver disease. The lack of a readily accessible animal model system for HCV is a significant obstacle to understand the mechanisms of viral carcinogenesis. Traditionally, the primary prevention strategy of HCC has been to eliminate infection by antiviral therapy. The success of virus elimination by antiviral treatment is determined by the SVR when the HCV is no longer detectable in serum. Interferon-alpha (IFN-α) and its analogs, pegylated IFN-α (PEG-IFN-α) alone with ribavirin (RBV), have been the primary antiviral treatment of HCV for many years with a low cure rate. The cloning and sequencing of HCV have allowed the development of cell culture models, which accelerated antiviral drug discovery. It resulted in the selection of highly effective direct-acting antiviral (DAA)-based combination therapy that now offers incredible success in curing HCV infection in more than 95% of all patients, including those with cirrhosis. However, several emerging recent publications claim that patients who have liver cirrhosis at the time of DAAs treatment face the risk of HCC occurrence and recurrence after viral cure. This remains a substantial challenge while addressing the long-term benefit of antiviral medicine. The host-related mechanisms that drive the risk of HCC in the absence of the virus are unknown. This review describes the multifaceted mechanisms that create a tumorigenic environment during chronic HCV infection. In addition to the potential oncogenic programming that drives HCC after viral clearance by DAAs, the current status of a biomarker development for early prediction of cirrhosis regression and HCC detection post viral treatment is discussed. Since DAAs treatment does not provide full protection against reinfection or viral transmission to other individuals, the recent studies for a vaccine development are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanta Dash
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.,Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA.,Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Yucel Aydin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Kyle E Widmer
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA
| | - Leela Nayak
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA
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Invernizzi M, Lopez G, Michelotti A, Venetis K, Sajjadi E, De Mattos-Arruda L, Ghidini M, Runza L, de Sire A, Boldorini R, Fusco N. Integrating Biological Advances Into the Clinical Management of Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema. Front Oncol 2020; 10:422. [PMID: 32300557 PMCID: PMC7142240 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) occurs in a significant number of breast cancer survivors as a consequence of the axillary lymphatics' impairment after therapy (mainly axillary surgery and irradiation). Despite the recent achievements in the clinical management of these patients, BCRL is often diagnosed at its occurrence. In most cases, it remains a progressive and irreversible condition, with dramatic consequences in terms of quality of life and on sanitary costs. There are still no validated pre-surgical strategies to identify individuals that harbor an increased risk of BCRL. However, clinical, therapeutic, and tumor-specific traits are recurrent in these patients. Over the past few years, many studies have unraveled the complexity of the molecular and transcriptional events leading to the lymphatic system ontogenesis. Additionally, molecular insights are coming from the study of the germline alterations involved at variable levels in BCRL models. Regrettably, there is a substantial lack of predictive biomarkers for BCRL, given that our knowledge of its molecular milieu remains extremely puzzled. The purposes of this review were (i) to outline the biology underpinning the ontogenesis of the lymphatic system; (ii) to assess the current state of knowledge of the molecular alterations that can be involved in BCRL pathogenesis and progression; (iii) to discuss the present and short-term future perspectives in biomarker-based patients' risk stratification; and (iv) to provide practical information that can be employed to improve the quality of life of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Invernizzi
- Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Piedmont "A. Avogadro", Novara, Italy
| | - Gianluca Lopez
- School of Pathology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Michelotti
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Konstantinos Venetis
- Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Divison of Pathology, IRCCS European Institute of Oncology (IEO), Milan, Italy
| | - Elham Sajjadi
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Michele Ghidini
- Division of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Letterio Runza
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro de Sire
- Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Piedmont "A. Avogadro", Novara, Italy.,Rehabilitation Unit, "Mons. L. Novarese" Hospital, Moncrivello, Italy
| | - Renzo Boldorini
- Pathology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, Novara Medical School, Novara, Italy
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Divison of Pathology, IRCCS European Institute of Oncology (IEO), Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Kirichenko EY, Salah M M S, Goncharova ZA, Nikitin AG, Filippova SY, Todorov SS, Akimenko MA, Logvinov AK. Ultrastructural evidence for presenсe of gap junctions in rare case of pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma. Ultrastruct Pathol 2020; 44:227-236. [PMID: 32148147 DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2020.1737609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The phenomenon of unstable expression of gap junction's proteins connexins remains a "visiting card" of astrocytic tumors with various degrees of malignancy. At the same time, it stays unclear what is detected by the positive expression of connexins in astrocytic tumors: gap junctions, hemi-channels, or connexin proteins in cytosol. In the present work, for the first time, we demonstrate an ultrastructural evidence of gap junctions in pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, a rare primary brain tumor, the intercellular characteristics of which are poorly studied and remain very discursive and controversial. The primary tumor mass was resected during craniotomy from a 57-old patient diagnosed with pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma Grade II based on the histopathological analysis. The immunohistochemical study was conducted with primary antibodies: Neurofilament, Myelin basic protein, Glial fibrillary acidic protein, and Synaptophysin. For electron microscopic examination fragments of tumor tissue were fixed in a glutaraldehyde, postfixed in a 1% OsO4, dehydrated and embedded into resin. After the detailed clinical, histological, and immunohistochemical study we revealed some ultrastructural characteristics of the tumor, as well as the first evidence of direct intercellular connection between the tumor cells via gap junctions. Regularly arranged gap junctions connected the somas of xanthastrocytes with dark cytoplasm containing lipid drops. Besides the localization between the cell bodies, from one to several gap junctions were found between the branches of xanthoastrocytoma in tumor intercellular space in close proximity to tumor cell. Our results may indicate gap junctions as a possible structure for intercellular communication between pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Aleksei G Nikitin
- Federal Scientific and Clinical Center for Specialized Types of Medical Care and Medical Technologies FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
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Xia C, Jiang H, Ye F, Zhuang Z. The Multifunction Of miR-218-5p-Cx43 Axis In Breast Cancer. Onco Targets Ther 2019; 12:8319-8328. [PMID: 31632081 PMCID: PMC6790128 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s218524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gemcitabine is proven to be the first-line standard treatment of breast cancers. Yet, little is known involving gemcitabine resistance and remains largely to be elucidated. Materials and methods We evaluated the expression of Cx43 in gemcitabine-resistant cells and parental cells by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot analyses. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was applied to examine the epigenetic regulator of Cx43. The role of miR-218-5p-Cx43 axis on cell cytotoxicity, cell proliferation, colony formation, chemoresistance and migration was detected via mammalian expression vector and small short RNA (shRNA) transfection in vitro. Results In this study, we found that Cx43 expression levels were significantly lower in gemcitabine-resistant cells than in the parental cells. On deep investigation of the epigenetic regulation of Cx43, a few miRNA candidates targeting Cx43 were derived. Through dual-luciferase reporter assay, Cx43 was proved to be a direct target of miR-218-5p. Besides, qPCR, Western blot demonstrated an inverse correlation between miR-218-5p and Cx43 expression in breast cancer cells, thus forming the miR-218-5p-Cx43 axis. Notably, miR-218-5p-Cx43 axis was found to be involved in the process of gemcitabine chemoresistance, cell proliferation and migration in breast cancer cells. Conclusion Our findings suggested that miR-218-5p-Cx43 axis was versatile and indicated significant potency in breast cancer cells. More importantly, miR-218-5p-Cx43 axis might be valuable in translational medicine, with therapeutic and prognostic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Xia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Unit, Hunan Cancer Hospital, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Medical Department, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Fugui Ye
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhigang Zhuang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200040, People's Republic of China
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