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Huang H, Xue J, Xie ML, Xie T. Osthole inhibits GSK-3β/AMPK/mTOR pathway-controlled glycolysis and increases radiosensitivity of subcutaneous transplanted hepatocellular carcinoma in nude mice. Strahlenther Onkol 2024; 200:444-452. [PMID: 37963994 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-023-02173-8] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Osthole possesses anti-tumor activities. However, whether osthole can have a radiosensitization effect on hepatic cancer remains unclear. Here, an HCC-LM3 cells-inoculated subcutaneous transplanted tumor was adopted to explore the effect of osthole. METHODS The tumor-bearing mice were treated with 100 mg/kg osthole for 12 days, 4 Gy irradiation twice, or their combination. The tumor volume and weight, lactic acid content, glycolytic enzyme activities, and protein expression of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β), p‑GSK-3β, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), p‑mTOR, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), p‑AMPK, glucose transporter 1/3, and pyruvate kinase M2 were determined. The GSK-3β-overexpressed HCC-LM3 or SK-Hep‑1 cell models were also adopted to verify the effects of osthole on expression of these proteins. RESULTS The tumor volume and weight, lactic acid content, and glycolytic enzyme activities in tumor tissues were lower in the osthole + radiation group than in the radiation group. Moreover, osthole could reverse the radiation-induced increments of p‑GSK-3β/GSK-3β and p‑mTOR/mTOR protein ratios and the expression of glucose transporter 1/3 and pyruvate kinase M2 proteins in tumor tissues, and increase the protein ratio of p‑AMPK/AMPK. The effects of osthole on these glycolysis-related proteins were also observed in GSK-3β-overexpressed HCC-LM3 or SK-Hep‑1 cell models. CONCLUSION Osthole has a radiosensitizing effect on subcutaneous transplanted hepatocellular carcinoma, and its mechanism may be related to inhibition of GSK-3β/AMPK/mTOR pathway-controlled glycolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Huang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jie Xue
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Mei-Lin Xie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Tao Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.
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2
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Liu Y, Deng Y, Constanthin PE, Li F. Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction improves the suppression and magnetic resonance imaging of pancreatic cancer with polyethyleneimine nanogels. J Cancer 2024; 15:2880-2890. [PMID: 38706910 PMCID: PMC11064254 DOI: 10.7150/jca.93802] [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: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The chemoresistance of pancreatic cancer tumors urgently needs to be addressed. Pancreatic cancer is characterized by an abundant stroma, with significant fibrous connective tissue formation that encapsulates the tumor parenchyma and forms an interstitial microenvironment. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) play a crucial role in this microenvironment and specially secrete periosteal protein (periostin), which can promote tumor growth, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Therefore, periostin has become a specific target of chemotherapy resistance intervention methods. The proposed polyethyleneimine (PEI) nanogels have multiple modification and efficient drug-loading properties. Additionally, ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) supports the breakdown of the tough interstitial barrier of pancreatic cancer. A small interfering RNA (siRNA) can be used to downregulated the periostin gene, while sustained release of gemcitabine can promote killing of tumor cells. This method achieves a combination of gene silencing and chemotherapy. The imaging effect can be evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The ultimate goal of this work is to support individualized and effective therapeutic methods and help develop new strategies for pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanqiong Deng
- Department of Ultrasound, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Shanghai Jiading District, Shanghai, China
| | - Paul E Constanthin
- CHU Pellegrin, Service de Neurochirurgie B, Hôpital Pellegrin-Tripode, Place Amélie Raba-Léon, 33 076, Bordeaux Cedex, France
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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3
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Jiang W, Zhang Y, Wang Q. Exploring the molecular mechanisms network of breast cancer by multi-omics analysis. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2024. [PMID: 38477438 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.14052] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC), the most prevalent malignancy in women globally, still lacks comprehensive research on its molecular targets and necessitates further investigation into the underlying molecular mechanisms driving its initiation and progression. METHODS The GSE20685 Series Matrix File downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database was divided into a high-risk group (n = 49) and a low-risk group (n = 278) to construct the co-expression network. RESULTS Four hub genes were identified based on the Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes functional enrichment analyses were performed. Hub gene immune infiltration was investigated using the Tumor Immune Estimation Resource database, and CD4+ T cell expression levels were substantially correlated with hub gene expression. Based on the CancerRxGene database (Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer database), it was found that the hub genes were highly sensitive to common chemotherapy drugs such as AKT inhibitor VIII and Erlotinib. The expression of Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 1, melanoma-inhibiting activity (MIA), and Keratin 14 was related to tumor mutation burden, and the expression of MIA also affected the microsatellite instability of the tumor. This study employs multi-omics analysis to investigate the molecular network associated with the prognosis of BC, highlighting its intricate connection with the immune microenvironment. CONCLUSION These findings pinpoint four crucial genes in BC progression, offering targets for further research and therapy. Their connections to immune infiltration and chemotherapy sensitivity underscore complex interactions in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanjun Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiuqiong Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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4
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Xiao Y, Hu G, Xie N, Yin L, Pan Y, Liu C, Lou S, Zhu C. Development of a novel prognostic signature based on single-cell combined bulk RNA analysis in breast cancer. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3673. [PMID: 38404059 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3673] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC), a malignant tumor, is a significant cause of death and disability among women globally. Recent research indicates that copy number variation plays a crucial role in tumor development. In this study, we employed the Single-Cell Variational Aneuploidy Analysis (SCEVAN) algorithm to differentiate between malignant and non-malignant cells, aiming to identify genetic signatures with prognostic relevance for predicting patient survival. METHODS We analyzed gene expression profiles and associated clinical data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases. Using the SCEVAN algorithm, we distinguished malignant from non-malignant cells and investigated cellular interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). We categorized TCGA samples based on differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between these cell types. Subsequent Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis was conducted. Additionally, we developed polygenic models for the DEGs using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator-penalized Cox regression analysis. To assess the prognostic accuracy of these characteristics, we generated Kaplan-Meier and receiver operating characteristic curves from training and validation datasets. We also monitored the expression variations of prognostic genes across the pseudotime of malignant cells. Patients were divided into high-risk and low-risk groups based on median risk scores to compare their TME and identify potential therapeutic agents. Lastly, polymerase chain reaction was used to validate seven pivotal genes. RESULTS The SCEVAN algorithm identified distinct malignant and non-malignant cells in GSE180286. Cellchat analysis revealed significantly increased cellular communication, particularly between fibroblasts, endothelial cells and malignant cells. The DEGs were predominantly involved in immune-related pathways. TCGA samples were classified into clusters A and B based on these genes. Cluster A, enriched in immune pathways, was associated with poorer prognosis, whereas cluster B, predominantly involved in circadian rhythm pathways, showed better outcomes. We constructed a 14-gene prognostic signature, validated in a 1:1 internal TCGA cohort and external GEO datasets (GSE42568 and GSE146558). Kaplan-Meier analysis confirmed the prognostic signature's accuracy (p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated the predictive reliability of these prognostic features. Single-cell pseudotime analysis with monocle2 highlighted the distinct expression trends of these genes in malignant cells, underscoring the intratumoral heterogeneity. Furthermore, we explored the differences in TME between high- and low-risk groups and identified 16 significantly correlated drugs. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that the 14-gene prognostic signature could serve as a novel biomarker for forecasting the prognosis of BC patients. Additionally, the immune cells and pathways in different risk groups indicate that immunotherapy may be a crucial component of treatment strategies for BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xiao
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Jiangning Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ge Hu
- Hefei Cancer Hospital, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Ning Xie
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Jiangning Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Liang Yin
- Department of Breast Surgery, Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yaqiang Pan
- Department of Breast Surgery, Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Cong Liu
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Jiangning Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shihan Lou
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Jiangning Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cunzhi Zhu
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Tianyinshan Hospital & The First Affiliated Hospital of China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Uehara M, Domoto T, Takenaka S, Takeuchi O, Shimasaki T, Miyashita T, Minamoto T. Glycogen synthase kinase 3β: the nexus of chemoresistance, invasive capacity, and cancer stemness in pancreatic cancer. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2024; 7:4. [PMID: 38318525 PMCID: PMC10838383 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2023.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The treatment of pancreatic cancer remains a significant clinical challenge due to the limited number of patients eligible for curative (R0) surgery, failures in the clinical development of targeted and immune therapies, and the pervasive acquisition of chemotherapeutic resistance. Refractory pancreatic cancer is typified by high invasiveness and resistance to therapy, with both attributes related to tumor cell stemness. These malignant characteristics mutually enhance each other, leading to rapid cancer progression. Over the past two decades, numerous studies have produced evidence of the pivotal role of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)3β in the progression of over 25 different cancer types, including pancreatic cancer. In this review, we synthesize the current knowledge on the pathological roles of aberrant GSK3β in supporting tumor cell proliferation and invasion, as well as its contribution to gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer. Importantly, we discuss the central role of GSK3β as a molecular hub that mechanistically connects chemoresistance, tumor cell invasion, and stemness in pancreatic cancer. We also discuss the involvement of GSK3β in the formation of desmoplastic tumor stroma and in promoting anti-cancer immune evasion, both of which constitute major obstacles to successful cancer treatment. Overall, GSK3β has characteristics of a promising therapeutic target to overcome chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Uehara
- Division of Translational and Clinical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-0934, Japan
- Authors contributed equally
| | - Takahiro Domoto
- Division of Translational and Clinical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-0934, Japan
- Authors contributed equally
| | - Satoshi Takenaka
- Division of Translational and Clinical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-0934, Japan
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Toyama City Hospital, Toyama 939-8511, Japan
| | - Osamu Takeuchi
- Biomedical Laboratory, Department of Research, Kitasato University Kitasato Institute Hospital, Tokyo 108-8642, Japan
| | - Takeo Shimasaki
- Division of Translational and Clinical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-0934, Japan
- Medical Research Institute, Kanazawa Medical University, Uchinada 920-0293, Japan
| | - Tomoharu Miyashita
- Division of Translational and Clinical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-0934, Japan
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Toyama City Hospital, Toyama 939-8511, Japan
| | - Toshinari Minamoto
- Division of Translational and Clinical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-0934, Japan
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6
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Mukherjee AG, Wanjari UR, Gopalakrishnan AV, Bradu P, Biswas A, Ganesan R, Renu K, Dey A, Vellingiri B, El Allali A, Alsamman AM, Zayed H, George Priya Doss C. Evolving strategies and application of proteins and peptide therapeutics in cancer treatment. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114832. [PMID: 37150032 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114832] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Several proteins and peptides have therapeutic potential and can be used for cancer therapy. By binding to cell surface receptors and other indicators uniquely linked with or overexpressed on tumors compared to healthy tissue, protein biologics enhance the active targeting of cancer cells, as opposed to the passive targeting of cells by conventional small-molecule chemotherapeutics. This study focuses on peptide medications that exist to slow or stop tumor growth and the spread of cancer, demonstrating the therapeutic potential of peptides in cancer treatment. As an alternative to standard chemotherapy, peptides that selectively kill cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue are developing. A mountain of clinical evidence supports the efficacy of peptide-based cancer vaccines. Since a single treatment technique may not be sufficient to produce favourable results in the fight against cancer, combination therapy is emerging as an effective option to generate synergistic benefits. One example of this new area is the use of anticancer peptides in combination with nonpeptidic cytotoxic drugs or the combination of immunotherapy with conventional therapies like radiation and chemotherapy. This review focuses on the different natural and synthetic peptides obtained and researched. Discoveries, manufacture, and modifications of peptide drugs, as well as their contemporary applications, are summarized in this review. We also discuss the benefits and difficulties of potential advances in therapeutic peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Goutam Mukherjee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India.
| | - Pragya Bradu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Antara Biswas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Raja Ganesan
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, South Korea
| | - Kaviyarasi Renu
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMManD), Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai 600077 Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, West Bengal 700073, India
| | - Balachandar Vellingiri
- Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine/Translational Research, Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab (CUPB), Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Achraf El Allali
- African Genome Center, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben Guerir, Morocco.
| | - Alsamman M Alsamman
- Department of Genome Mapping, Molecular Genetics, and Genome Mapping Laboratory, Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hatem Zayed
- Department of Biomedical Sciences College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - C George Priya Doss
- Department of Integrative Biology, School of BioSciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
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7
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Xia J, Feng S, Zhou J, Zhang L, Shi D, Wang M, Zhu Y, Bu C, Xu D, Li T. GSK3 inhibitor suppresses cell growth and metabolic process in FLT3-ITD leukemia cells. Med Oncol 2023; 40:44. [PMID: 36481875 PMCID: PMC9732066 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-022-01899-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3 (GSK-3) was recently implicated in the dysregulated biology of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Low concentrations of GSK-3 inhibitors, SB216763 and BIO, suppressed the proliferation of AML cells with FLT3-ITD as early as 24 h after treatment. BIO was used in subsequent assays since it exhibited higher inhibitory effects than SB216763. BIO-induced G1 cell cycle arrest by regulating the expression of cyclin D2 and p21 in MV4-11 cells, and promoted apoptosis by regulating the cleaved-caspase3 signaling pathways. In vivo assays demonstrated that BIO suppressed tumor growth, while metabolomics assay showed that BIO reduced the levels of ATP and pyruvate in MV4-11 cells suggesting that it inhibited glycolysis. BIO markedly suppressed cell growth and induced apoptosis of AML cells with FLT3-ITD by partially inhibiting glycolysis, suggesting that BIO may be a promising therapeutic candidate for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xia
- Department of Pediatric Laboratory, The Affiliated Wuxi Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shuxian Feng
- Department of Hematology & Oncology, The Affiliated Wuxi Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Department of Pediatric Laboratory, The Affiliated Wuxi Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Hematology & Oncology, The Affiliated Wuxi Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dingfang Shi
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute for Reproductive Health and Genetic Diseases, The Affiliated Wuxi Matemity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mengjie Wang
- Department of Hematology & Oncology, The Affiliated Wuxi Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Department of Hematology & Oncology, The Affiliated Wuxi Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chaozhi Bu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute for Reproductive Health and Genetic Diseases, The Affiliated Wuxi Matemity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214002, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Daming Xu
- Department of Hematology & Oncology, The Affiliated Wuxi Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Tianyu Li
- Department of Hematology & Oncology, The Affiliated Wuxi Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China.
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8
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Effects of Berberine against Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Cancer. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27238630. [PMID: 36500723 PMCID: PMC9738201 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The pancreas is a glandular organ with endocrine and exocrine functions necessary for the maintenance of blood glucose homeostasis and secretion of digestive enzymes. Pancreatitis is characterized by inflammation of the pancreas leading to temporary or permanent pancreatic dysfunction. Inflammation and fibrosis caused by chronic pancreatitis exacerbate malignant transformation and significantly increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer, the world's most aggressive cancer with a 5-year survival rate less than 10%. Berberine (BBR) is a naturally occurring plant-derived polyphenol present in a variety of herbal remedies used in traditional medicine to treat ulcers, infections, jaundice, and inflammation. The current review summarizes the existing in vitro and in vivo evidence on the effects of BBR against pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer with a focus on the signalling mechanisms underlying the effects of BBR.
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Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β: A True Foe in Pancreatic Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214133. [PMID: 36430630 PMCID: PMC9696080 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214133] [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: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) is a serine/threonine protein kinase involved in multiple normal and pathological cell functions, including cell signalling and metabolism. GSK-3β is highly expressed in the onset and progression of multiple cancers with strong involvement in the regulation of proliferation, apoptosis, and chemoresistance. Multiple studies showed pro- and anti-cancer roles of GSK-3β creating confusion about the benefit of targeting GSK-3β for treating cancer. In this mini-review, we focus on the role of GSK-3β in pancreatic cancer. We demonstrate that the proposed anti-cancer roles of GSK-3β are not relevant to pancreatic cancer, and we argue why GSK-3β is, indeed, a very promising therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer.
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10
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Li Z, Ren D, Chen C, Sun L, Fang K. OSU-T315 and doxorubicin synergistically induce apoptosis via mitochondrial pathway in bladder cancer cells. Cell Biol Int 2022; 46:1672-1681. [PMID: 35830716 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11855] [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: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) is a common urological malignancy that still lacks an effective treatment. Doxorubicin (Dox) has been widely used in the treatment of various cancers, including BC. However, chemoresistance often hampers the clinical application of Dox, therefore, it is necessary to develop effective strategies to improve its efficacy. By using high-throughput screening, we identified OSU-T315, an integrin-linked kinase (ILK) inhibitor, that can augment the cytotoxicity of Dox against BC cells. We found that OSU-T315 and Dox synergistically induce apoptosis of BC cells via mitochondrial pathway in a caspase-dependent. Mechanically, it was found that OSU-T315 and Dox synergistically induced activation of Bax which is critical for the induction of apoptosis. Moreover, it was also found that the downregulation of BCL-2 and MCL-1 is essential for the activation of BAX induced by OSU-T315 and Dox. OSU-T315 was found to downregulate MCL-1 via the GSK-3β/FBXW7 axis in BC cells. Our findings suggest that combined treatment with OSU-T315 and Dox may be a promising strategy to treat BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Li
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital/Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine in Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Danhong Ren
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital/Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine in Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Leiming Sun
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital/Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine in Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kun Fang
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital/Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine in Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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McCubrey JA, Meher AK, Akula SM, Abrams SL, Steelman LS, LaHair MM, Franklin RA, Martelli AM, Ratti S, Cocco L, Barbaro F, Duda P, Gizak A. Wild type and gain of function mutant TP53 can regulate the sensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells to chemotherapeutic drugs, EGFR/Ras/Raf/MEK, and PI3K/mTORC1/GSK-3 pathway inhibitors, nutraceuticals and alter metabolic properties. Aging (Albany NY) 2022; 14:3365-3386. [PMID: 35477123 PMCID: PMC9085237 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
TP53 is a master regulator of many signaling and apoptotic pathways involved in: aging, cell cycle progression, gene regulation, growth, apoptosis, cellular senescence, DNA repair, drug resistance, malignant transformation, metastasis, and metabolism. Most pancreatic cancers are classified as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC). The tumor suppressor gene TP53 is mutated frequently (50-75%) in PDAC. Different types of TP53 mutations have been observed including gain of function (GOF) point mutations and various deletions of the TP53 gene resulting in lack of the protein expression. Most PDACs have point mutations at the KRAS gene which result in constitutive activation of KRas and multiple downstream signaling pathways. It has been difficult to develop specific KRas inhibitors and/or methods that result in recovery of functional TP53 activity. To further elucidate the roles of TP53 in drug-resistance of pancreatic cancer cells, we introduced wild-type (WT) TP53 or a control vector into two different PDAC cell lines. Introduction of WT-TP53 increased the sensitivity of the cells to multiple chemotherapeutic drugs, signal transduction inhibitors, drugs and nutraceuticals and influenced key metabolic properties of the cells. Therefore, TP53 is a key molecule which is critical in drug sensitivity and metabolism of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A. McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Akshaya K. Meher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Shaw M. Akula
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Stephen L. Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Linda S. Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Michelle M. LaHair
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Richard A. Franklin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Alberto M. Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Ratti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fulvio Barbaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Re.Mo.Bio.S. Laboratory, Anatomy Section, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Przemysław Duda
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Gizak
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
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12
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Abrams SL, Duda P, Akula SM, Steelman LS, Follo ML, Cocco L, Ratti S, Martelli AM, Montalto G, Emma MR, Cervello M, Rakus D, Gizak A, McCubrey JA. Effects of the Mutant TP53 Reactivator APR-246 on Therapeutic Sensitivity of Pancreatic Cancer Cells in the Presence and Absence of WT-TP53. Cells 2022; 11:794. [PMID: 35269416 PMCID: PMC8909756 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The TP53 tumor suppressor is mutated in ~75% of pancreatic cancers. The mutant TP53 protein in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC) promotes tumor growth and metastasis. Attempts have been made to develop molecules that restore at least some of the properties of wild-type (WT) TP53. APR-246 is one such molecule, and it is referred to as a mutant TP53 reactivator. To understand the potential of APR-246 to sensitize PDAC cells to chemotherapy, we introduced a vector encoding WT-TP53 into two PDAC cell lines, one lacking the expression of TP53 (PANC-28) and one with a gain-of-function (GOF) mutant TP53 (MIA-PaCa-2). APR-246 increased drug sensitivity in the cells containing either a WT or mutant TP53 protein with GOF activity, but not in cells that lacked TP53. The introduction of WT-T53 into PANC-28 cells increased their sensitivity to the TP53 reactivator, chemotherapeutic drugs, and signal transduction inhibitors. The addition of WT-TP53 to PDAC cells with GOF TP53 also increased their sensitivity to the drugs and therapeutics, indicating that APR-246 could function in cells with WT-TP53 and GOF TP53. These results highlight the importance of knowledge of the type of TP53 mutation that is present in cancer patients before the administration of drugs which function through the reactivation of TP53.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen L. Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA; (S.L.A.); (S.M.A.); (L.S.S.)
| | - Przemysław Duda
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Wrocław, 50-335 Wrocław, Poland; (P.D.); (D.R.); (A.G.)
| | - Shaw M. Akula
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA; (S.L.A.); (S.M.A.); (L.S.S.)
| | - Linda S. Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA; (S.L.A.); (S.M.A.); (L.S.S.)
| | - Matilde L. Follo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (M.L.F.); (L.C.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (M.L.F.); (L.C.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Stefano Ratti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (M.L.F.); (L.C.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Alberto M. Martelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (M.L.F.); (L.C.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Montalto
- Department of Health Promotion, Maternal and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (M.R.E.); (M.C.)
| | - Maria Rita Emma
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (M.R.E.); (M.C.)
| | - Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (M.R.E.); (M.C.)
| | - Dariusz Rakus
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Wrocław, 50-335 Wrocław, Poland; (P.D.); (D.R.); (A.G.)
| | - Agnieszka Gizak
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Wrocław, 50-335 Wrocław, Poland; (P.D.); (D.R.); (A.G.)
| | - James A. McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA; (S.L.A.); (S.M.A.); (L.S.S.)
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13
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McCubrey JA, Abrams SL, Steelman LS, Cocco L, Ratti S, Martelli AM, Lombardi P, Gizak A, Duda P. APR-246—The Mutant TP53 Reactivator—Increases the Effectiveness of Berberine and Modified Berberines to Inhibit the Proliferation of Pancreatic Cancer Cells. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020276. [PMID: 35204775 PMCID: PMC8961609 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common form of pancreatic cancer. In ~75% of PDAC, the tumor suppressor TP53 gene is mutated. Novel approaches to treat cancer involve compounds called mutant TP53 reactivators. They interact with mutant TP53 proteins and restore some of their growth suppressive properties, but they may also interact with other proteins, e.g., TP63 and TP73. We examined the ability of the TP53 reactivator APR-246 to interact with eleven modified berberine compounds (NAX compounds) in the presence and absence of WT-TP53 in two PDAC cell lines: the MIA-PaCa-2, which has gain of function (GOF) TP53 mutations on both alleles, and PANC-28, which lacks expression of the WT TP53 protein. Our results indicate the TP53 reactivator-induced increase in therapeutic potential of many modified berberines.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Andrew McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA; (S.L.A.); (L.S.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Stephen L. Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA; (S.L.A.); (L.S.S.)
| | - Linda S. Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA; (S.L.A.); (L.S.S.)
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Università di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.C.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Stefano Ratti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Università di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.C.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Alberto M. Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Università di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.C.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Paolo Lombardi
- Naxospharma, Via Giuseppe Di Vittorio 70, 20026 Novate Milanese, Italy;
| | - Agnieszka Gizak
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Wrocław, 50-335 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.G.); (P.D.)
| | - Przemysław Duda
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Wrocław, 50-335 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.G.); (P.D.)
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14
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Xuan DTM, Wu CC, Kao TJ, Ta HDK, Anuraga G, Andriani V, Athoillah M, Chiao CC, Wu YF, Lee KH, Wang CY, Chuang JY. Prognostic and immune infiltration signatures of proteasome 26S subunit, non-ATPase (PSMD) family genes in breast cancer patients. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:24882-24913. [PMID: 34839279 PMCID: PMC8660617 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The complexity of breast cancer includes many interacting biological processes that make it difficult to find appropriate therapeutic treatments. Therefore, identifying potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers is urgently needed. Previous studies demonstrated that 26S proteasome delta subunit, non-ATPase (PSMD) family members significantly contribute to the degradation of damaged, misfolded, abnormal, and foreign proteins. However, transcriptional expressions of PSMD family genes in breast cancer still remain largely unexplored. Consequently, we used a holistic bioinformatics approach to explore PSMD genes involved in breast cancer patients by integrating several high-throughput databases, including The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), cBioPortal, Oncomine, and Kaplan-Meier plotter. These data demonstrated that PSMD1, PSMD2, PSMD3, PSMD7, PSMD10, PSMD12, and PSMD14 were expressed at significantly higher levels in breast cancer tissue compared to normal tissues. Notably, the increased expressions of PSMD family genes were correlated with poor prognoses of breast cancer patients, which suggests their roles in tumorigenesis. Meanwhile, network and pathway analyses also indicated that PSMD family genes were positively correlated with ubiquinone metabolism, immune system, and cell-cycle regulatory pathways. Collectively, this study revealed that PSMD family members are potential prognostic biomarkers for breast cancer progression and possible promising clinical therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do Thi Minh Xuan
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Che Wu
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Jen Kao
- The Ph.D. Program for Neural Regenerative Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Hoang Dang Khoa Ta
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Gangga Anuraga
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science and Technology, PGRI Adi Buana University, Surabaya 60234, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Vivin Andriani
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas PGRI Adi Buana, Surabaya 60234, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Athoillah
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science and Technology, PGRI Adi Buana University, Surabaya 60234, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Chung-Chieh Chiao
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Fu Wu
- Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Kuen-Haur Lee
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Cancer Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yang Wang
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Jian-Ying Chuang
- The Ph.D. Program for Neural Regenerative Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan.,Cell Physiology and Molecular Image Research Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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15
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Abrams SL, Akula SM, Steelman LS, Follo ML, Cocco L, Ratti S, Martelli AM, Libra M, Falzone L, Candido S, Montalto G, Cervello M, Lombardi P, McCubrey JA. Effects of the MDM2 inhibitor Nutlin-3a on sensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells to berberine and modified berberines in the presence and absence of WT-TP53. Adv Biol Regul 2021; 83:100840. [PMID: 34866036 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2021.100840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Approaches to improve pancreatic cancer therapy are essential as this disease has a very bleak outcome. Approximately 80% of pancreatic cancers are pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC). A key regulatory gene frequently mutated (∼75%) in PDAC is the TP53 tumor suppressor gene which controls the transcription of multiple genes involved in cell cycle progression, apoptosis, cancer progression and other growth regulatory processes. The mouse double minute 2 homolog (MDM2) gene product is a nuclear-localized E3 ubiquitin ligase and negatively regulates the TP53 protein which results in its proteasomal degradation. Various MDM2 inhibitors have been isolated and examined in clinical trials, especially in patients with hematological malignancies. Nutlin-3a is one of the first MDM2 inhibitors isolated. Berberine (BBR) is a natural product found in many fruits and berries and used in traditional medicine for centuries. It has many biological effects, and some are anti-proliferative in nature. BBR may activate the expression of TP53 and inhibit cell cycle progression as well as other events important in cell growth. To understand more about the potential of compounds like BBR and chemical modified BBRs (NAX compounds) to sensitize PDAC cells to MDM2 inhibitors, we introduced either WT-TP53 or the pLXSN empty vector control into two PDAC cell lines, one lacking expression of TP53 (PANC-28) and one with gain-of-function mutant TP53 on both alleles (MIA-PaCa-2). Our results indicate that nutlin-3a was able to increase the sensitivity to BBR and certain NAX compounds. The effects of nutlin-3a were usually more substantial in those cells containing an introduced WT TP53 gene. These results highlight the importance of knowledge of the type of TP53 mutation that is present in cancer patients before the administration of drugs which function by stabilization of the TP53 protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen L Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27858, USA
| | - Shaw M Akula
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27858, USA
| | - Linda S Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27858, USA
| | - Matilde L Follo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Ratti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Libra
- Research Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer (PreDiCT), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Luca Falzone
- Research Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer (PreDiCT), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Saverio Candido
- Research Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer (PreDiCT), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Montalto
- Department of Health Promotion, Maternal and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Paolo Lombardi
- Naxospharma, Via Giuseppe di Vittorio 70, Novate Milanese, 20026, Italy
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27858, USA.
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16
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Anuraga G, Wang WJ, Phan NN, An Ton NT, Ta HDK, Berenice Prayugo F, Minh Xuan DT, Ku SC, Wu YF, Andriani V, Athoillah M, Lee KH, Wang CY. Potential Prognostic Biomarkers of NIMA (Never in Mitosis, Gene A)-Related Kinase (NEK) Family Members in Breast Cancer. J Pers Med 2021; 11:1089. [PMID: 34834441 PMCID: PMC8625415 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11111089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer remains the most common malignant cancer in women, with a staggering incidence of two million cases annually worldwide; therefore, it is crucial to explore novel biomarkers to assess the diagnosis and prognosis of breast cancer patients. NIMA-related kinase (NEK) protein kinase contains 11 family members named NEK1-NEK11, which were discovered from Aspergillus Nidulans; however, the role of NEK family genes for tumor development remains unclear and requires additional study. In the present study, we investigate the prognosis relationships of NEK family genes for breast cancer development, as well as the gene expression signature via the bioinformatics approach. The results of several integrative analyses revealed that most of the NEK family genes are overexpressed in breast cancer. Among these family genes, NEK2/6/8 overexpression had poor prognostic significance in distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) in breast cancer patients. Meanwhile, NEK2/6 had the highest level of DNA methylation, and the functional enrichment analysis from MetaCore and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) suggested that NEK2 was associated with the cell cycle, G2M checkpoint, DNA repair, E2F, MYC, MTORC1, and interferon-related signaling. Moreover, Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) results showed that the transcriptional levels of NEK2 were positively correlated with immune infiltration of B cells and CD4+ T Cell. Collectively, the current study indicated that NEK family genes, especially NEK2 which is involved in immune infiltration, and may serve as prognosis biomarkers for breast cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gangga Anuraga
- PhD Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (G.A.); (H.D.K.T.); (K.-H.L.)
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (F.B.P.); (D.T.M.X.); (S.-C.K.)
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas PGRI Adi Buana, Surabaya 60234, Indonesia;
| | - Wei-Jan Wang
- Research Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung 40604, Taiwan;
| | - Nam Nhut Phan
- Institute for Environmental Science, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (N.N.P.); (N.T.A.T.)
| | - Nu Thuy An Ton
- Institute for Environmental Science, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (N.N.P.); (N.T.A.T.)
| | - Hoang Dang Khoa Ta
- PhD Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (G.A.); (H.D.K.T.); (K.-H.L.)
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (F.B.P.); (D.T.M.X.); (S.-C.K.)
| | - Fidelia Berenice Prayugo
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (F.B.P.); (D.T.M.X.); (S.-C.K.)
| | - Do Thi Minh Xuan
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (F.B.P.); (D.T.M.X.); (S.-C.K.)
| | - Su-Chi Ku
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (F.B.P.); (D.T.M.X.); (S.-C.K.)
| | - Yung-Fu Wu
- Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan;
| | - Vivin Andriani
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas PGRI Adi Buana, Surabaya 60234, Indonesia;
| | - Muhammad Athoillah
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas PGRI Adi Buana, Surabaya 60234, Indonesia;
| | - Kuen-Haur Lee
- PhD Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (G.A.); (H.D.K.T.); (K.-H.L.)
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (F.B.P.); (D.T.M.X.); (S.-C.K.)
- Cancer Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yang Wang
- PhD Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (G.A.); (H.D.K.T.); (K.-H.L.)
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (F.B.P.); (D.T.M.X.); (S.-C.K.)
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17
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Pecoraro C, Faggion B, Balboni B, Carbone D, Peters GJ, Diana P, Assaraf YG, Giovannetti E. GSK3β as a novel promising target to overcome chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer. Drug Resist Updat 2021; 58:100779. [PMID: 34461526 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2021.100779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive malignancy with increasing incidence and poor prognosis due to its late diagnosis and intrinsic chemoresistance. Most pancreatic cancer patients present with locally advanced or metastatic disease characterized by inherent resistance to chemotherapy. These features pose a series of therapeutic challenges and new targets are urgently needed. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) is a conserved serine/threonine kinase, which regulates key cellular processes including cell proliferation, DNA repair, cell cycle progression, signaling and metabolic pathways. GSK3β is implicated in non-malignant and malignant diseases including inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes and cancer. GSK3β recently emerged among the key factors involved in the onset and progression of pancreatic cancer, as well as in the acquisition of chemoresistance. Intensive research has been conducted on key oncogenic functions of GSK3β and its potential as a druggable target; currently developed GSK3β inhibitors display promising results in preclinical models of distinct tumor types, including pancreatic cancer. Here, we review the latest findings about GSK-3β biology and its role in the development and progression of pancreatic cancer. Moreover, we discuss therapeutic agents targeting GSK3β that could be administered as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs to surmount chemoresistance. Several studies are also defining potential gene signatures to identify patients who might benefit from GSK3β-based therapeutic intervention. This detailed overview emphasizes the urgent need of additional molecular studies on the impact of GSK3β inhibition as well as structural analysis of novel compounds and omics studies of predictive biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Pecoraro
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Beatrice Faggion
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Beatrice Balboni
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Computational and Chemical Biology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genoa, Italy, and Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Carbone
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland
| | - Patrizia Diana
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Yehuda G Assaraf
- The Fred Wyszkowski Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 3200003, Israel
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme (Pisa), Italy.
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18
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Park R, Coveler AL, Cavalcante L, Saeed A. GSK-3β in Pancreatic Cancer: Spotlight on 9-ING-41, Its Therapeutic Potential and Immune Modulatory Properties. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10070610. [PMID: 34356465 PMCID: PMC8301062 DOI: 10.3390/biology10070610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta is a protein kinase implicated in the promotion and development of various cancers, including pancreatic cancer. In cell culture and animal studies, drugs targeting the inhibition of this protein show treatment potential in pancreatic cancer. Studies show targeting this protein for treatment may overcome resistance to conventional chemotherapy in pancreatic tumors. Early-stage clinical trials are currently studying small molecule inhibitors targeting glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta and interim results show favorable results. Recent studies also suggest that targeting this protein will create synergy with immunotherapy, such as checkpoint inhibitors. Future studies should aim to study new combination treatments involving glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta targeting drugs with chemotherapy and immunotherapy in pancreatic cancer. Abstract Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta is a ubiquitously and constitutively expressed molecule with pleiotropic function. It acts as a protooncogene in the development of several solid tumors including pancreatic cancer through its involvement in various cellular processes including cell proliferation, survival, invasion and metastasis, as well as autophagy. Furthermore, the level of aberrant glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta expression in the nucleus is inversely correlated with tumor differentiation and survival in both in vitro and in vivo models of pancreatic cancer. Small molecule inhibitors of glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta have demonstrated therapeutic potential in pre-clinical models and are currently being evaluated in early phase clinical trials involving pancreatic cancer patients with interim results showing favorable results. Moreover, recent studies support a rationale for the combination of glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta inhibitors with chemotherapy and immunotherapy, warranting the evaluation of novel combination regimens in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Park
- Department of Medicine, MetroWest Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Framingham, MA 01702, USA;
| | - Andrew L. Coveler
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109-1024, USA;
| | | | - Anwaar Saeed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Kansas University Cancer Center & Research Institute, Kansas, KS 66205, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-913-588-6077
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