Novel Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) Inhibitors in Cancer Treatment

Isoxazolyl steroid blocks the Shh signaling pathway and the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in cervical carcinoma cell lines

Cervical cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. Matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 play a leading role in the processes of invasion and metastasis in cervical cancer. Research on the development of MMP inhibitors not yielded the expected results due to their serious side effects. Study of signaling pathways involved in regulation of MMPs expression is of great importance for search of new classes of therapeutic drugs. Aberrant activation of the Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway is associated with increased MMPs in many types of human cancer. This study investigated the inhibitory action of 17β-((3-butylisoxazol-5-yl)methyl)-androst-5-en-3β-ol on the Shh signaling pathway key genes (Ptch, Smo, Gli) expression and MMP-2, MMP-9 genes expression in human cervical carcinoma cell lines (SiHa and CaSki) and keratinocytes (HaCaT). Cyclopamine was used for comparative analysis. Gene expression analysis was performed using real-time PCR; the effects on survival and cell cycle were studied using the MTT test and flow cytometry method. 17β-((3-butylisoxazol-5-yl)methyl)-androst-5-en-3β-ol had higher cytotoxicity and more effectively blocked the Shh signaling pathway genes and MMP-2 and MMP-9 genes compared to cyclopamine in all cell lines. The results obtained demonstrate potential of 17β-((3-butylisoxazol-5-yl)methyl)-androst-5-en-3β-ol as the anticancer drug that simultaneously block the Shh signaling pathway and MMP expression. We are confident that the search for substances capable of simultaneously affecting several key components involved in tumor progression is of great importance for the creation of next-generation therapeutic agents.

Hyaluronic acid modified chuanxiong oil liposomes as a novel therapeutic agent for photoaging prevention

The gradual increase in ultraviolet B (UVB) health hazards to human skin, coupled with the irritation associated with existing sunscreen products, underscores the critical need for the development of natural sunscreens to combat UVB-induced photoaging. Chuanxiong oil (CXO) and hyaluronic acid (HA) possess excellent antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties, which are closely linked to the mechanisms of photoaging. In this study, a composite nano-system (HA-CXO-Lip) comprising chuanxiong oil (CXO) and hyaluronic acid (HA) was initially fabricated. Subsequently, both in vitro HaCaT cell models and in vivo murine photoaging models were established to systematically evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and mechanistic actions of HA-CXO-Lip against photoaging under controlled experimental conditions. The investigation encompassed comprehensive assessments of its pharmacological effects and underlying molecular mechanisms through multimodal experimental approaches. Vitro experiments showed HA-CXO-Lip significantly reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity. Furthermore, HA-CXO-Lip restored the levels of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT), and hydroxyproline (HYP), while also decreasing the levels of lipid metabolites such as 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and malondialdehyde (MDA). These findings indicate that HA-CXO-Lip effectively inhibits excessive oxidative stress. Additionally, HA-CXO-Lip inhibited apoptosis by reducing Bax levels and enhancing Bcl-2 expression in HaCaT cells. In vivo studies demonstrated that HA-CXO-Lip significantly reduced UVB irradiation-induced erythema and epidermal thickening in the backs of mice. It restored the orderly arrangement of collagen fibers and inhibited the activation of the core senescence pathway, AKT/mTOR, along with the downstream expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), resulting in a decrease in collagen I disassembly. Additionally, HA-CXO-Lip was shown to significantly decrease the number of apoptotic cells, as indicated by the expression of the apoptosis marker cleaved cysteine aspartic protease-3 (C-Caspase-3) and the surface type I transmembrane glycoprotein (CD44), thereby further inhibiting apoptosis. The findings of this study suggest that HA-CXO-Lip can exert anti-photoaging effects through its antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties, highlighting the synergistic efficacy of CXO and HA, which holds promise for the prevention and treatment of photoaging.

Lipocalin-2, Matrix Metalloproteinase-9, and MMP-9/NGAL Complex in Upper Aerodigestive Tract Carcinomas: A Pilot Study

Upper aerodigestive tract (UADT) carcinomas have a high and rapidly increasing incidence, particularly in industrialized countries. The identification of diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers remains a key objective in oncological research. However, conflicting data have been reported regarding Lipocalin-2 (LCN-2 or NGAL), Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and the MMP-9/NGAL complex in UADT carcinomas. For this reason, the primary aim of this study was to investigate the involvement and modulation of the LCN-2 system in UADT cancer by selecting patients at first diagnosis and excluding any pharmacological or interventional treatments that could act as confounding factors. In this clinical retrospective pilot study, we investigated LCN-2 and MMP-9 tissue gene expression, as well as circulating levels of LCN-2, MMP-9, and the MMP-9/NGAL complex. Our findings revealed a downregulation of LCN-2 and an upregulation of MMP-9 gene expression in tumor tissues compared to healthy counterparts. A similar trend was observed in circulating levels, with decreased LCN-2 and increased MMP-9 in cancer patients compared to healthy controls. Additionally, serum levels of the MMP-9/NGAL complex were significantly elevated in UADT cancer patients relative to controls. Our study suggests a potentially distinct role for the free form of LCN-2 and its conjugated form (MMP-9/NGAL complex) in UADT tumors. These findings not only provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying tumor progression but also highlight the potential clinical relevance of these biomarkers. The differential expression patterns observed suggest that the LCN-2 and MMP-9/NGAL complex could serve as valuable tools for improving early diagnosis, monitoring disease progression, and potentially guiding therapeutic strategies. Further research is needed to validate their utility in clinical settings and to explore their prognostic and predictive value in personalized treatment approaches.

Neutrophils in BCR::ABL1 negative MPN: Contributors or bystanders of fibrosis?

BCR::ABL1 negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are a heterogenous group of disorders characterized by clonal proliferation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) within the bone marrow. Although the identification of somatic key driver mutations significantly increased both understanding and diagnostic accuracy of MPNs, many questions about the exact pathophysiology remain unanswered. Increased neutrophil count at diagnosis is a well-recognized predictor of worse disease evolution and survival, nonetheless the exact role of neutrophilic granulocytes within MPN pathophysiology is almost unexplored. As the majority of these cells are residing within the bone marrow, they represent a non-negligible entity within the bone marrow niche and its homeostasis. This review describes how neutrophils might contribute to the development of the inflammatory bone marrow niche, and hereby also fibrosis, associated with MPNs. The versatile functions and effects in different contexts emphasize the necessity for future research oriented to bone marrow in addition to peripheral blood.

Time to focus again on matrix metalloproteinases? Results of complex network analysis involving the pathophysiology of HER2-positive breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, with significant advances in understanding its multifactorial nature in recent years. The complex structure of molecular and cellular interactions in cancer pathophysiology presents challenges for developing effective treatments. One theoretical model used to study these interactions is the Graph model or Complex Networks, which uses mathematical methods to create graphical figures by connecting vertices (factors) through edges (interactions). This study uses the graph model to determine the complex interactions within the tumour microenvironment of HER2-positive breast cancer. Through a narrative review, 37 factors involved in the pathophysiology of HER2-positive breast cancer were identified and incorporated into a complex network design, starting with the HER2 vertex. The impact of each vertex was determined by calculating the relative error, and a knockout (KO) analysis of vertices was performed to identify their influences within the network. The Wilcoxon test was used to analyze the statistical significance of each KO. Significant alterations in the network structure were observed with the KOs of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPMMP2, MMP9, cyclin-dependent kinases 4/6, TWIST, vascular endothelial growth factor and transforming growth factor-beta. Notably, the KOs of (MMPs) MMP2 and MMP9 significantly impacted the network structure and downregulated the HER2 vertex. This raises questions about the potential applicability of targeting MMPs, including the option of HER2-directed antibody-drug conjugates. Could a metalloprotease inhibitor be a good choice for conjugation? Despite the theoretical nature of this model, the results suggest potential avenues for therapeutic intervention.

Novel transcripts of EMT driving the malignant transformation of oral submucous fibrosis

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a chronic, progressive, and fibrotic condition of the oral mucosa that carries an elevated risk of malignant transformation. We aimed to identify and validate novel genes associated with the regulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in OSF. Genes regulating EMT were identified through differential gene expression analysis, using a LogFC threshold of -1 and + 1 and a padj value < 0.05, based on data from GEO datasets and the TCGA-HNSC datasets. The curated EMT genes were correlated with functional cancer states and subjected to clustering to identify candidate genes. Integration of bioinformatics and proteomics led to the discovery of the EMT genes MMP9, SPARC, and ITGA5 as novel candidates. Comprehensive pathway and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed their roles in regulating EMT in OSF, oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and OSF-associated squamous cell carcinoma (OSFSCC). The significant roles of MMP9, SPARC, and ITGA5 in fibrosis and malignancy suggest a novel mechanism in which fibrosis-associated type 2 EMT undergoes transition to type 3 EMT, driving OSF towards malignancy.

Unveiling the immunomodulatory dance: endothelial cells' function and their role in non-small cell lung cancer

The dynamic interactions between tumor endothelial cells (TECs) and the immune microenvironment play a critical role in the progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In general, endothelial cells exhibit diverse immunomodulatory properties, influencing immune cell recruitment, antigen presentation, and regulation of immune checkpoint expression. Understanding the multifaceted roles of TECs as well as assigning specific functional hallmarks to various TEC phenotypes offer new avenues for targeted development of therapeutic interventions, particularly in the context of advanced immunotherapy and anti-angiogenic treatments. This review provides insights into the complex interplay between TECs and the immune system in NSCLC including discussion of potential optimized therapeutic opportunities.

Zymography: A Simple and Powerful Tool for the Assessment of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in Pathological Conditions

Zymography is an electrophoretic technique to measure the proteolytic activity of native enzymes on a nonreducing sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel. It is a simple and powerful tool to assess the amount of various proteases present in both physiological and pathological conditions. The concerned protease degrades the protein substrate that is incorporated with the gel and resolves during the incubation period. Staining with Coomassie brilliant blue (CBB) reveals the sites of proteolysis as clear white bands. The intensity and area of the bands are linearly related to the amount of protease present in the loaded sample. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), also known as gelatinases, have the indigenous property to digest gelatin and several other protein molecules present in the extracellular matrix. Here, we describe the detailed protocols and methods of zymography, with a special emphasis on the determination of gelatinases present in conditioned culture media and tissue extracts.

Cancer and Secretomes: HLA-G and Cancer Puzzle

Among the mechanisms, cancer cells develop to elude immune system, immune regulation and the use of molecules that play important roles in immune escape stand out. One of these molecules, the human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G), plays an important role in the maintenance of immune tolerance and contributes to the progression of cancer by exerting an immunosuppressive effect. By creating an immunosuppressive field in the microscopic environment of the tumor, the aberrant expression of HLA-G facilitates the evading of cancer cells from the immune system and contributes to the progression of the disease. It is important to study how HLA-Gs interact with secretome components, especially at the level of specific components, to develop treatment strategies that prevent cancer cells evading the immune system. Cancer cells may be recognized and targeted by the immune system by reducing the inhibitory effect of HLA-G on immune cells and by neutralizing tumor-promoting components of the secretome. This review focuses on the interaction of specific cancer cell secretomes and HLA-G. Here we also investigate the role of this interaction in tumor immune escape strategies.

Coralyne Targets the Catalytic Domain of MMP9: An In Silico and In Vitro Investigation

Coralyne (COR) is a protoberberine-like isoquinoline alkaloid, and it is known for double-stranded (ds) DNA intercalation and topoisomerase inhibition. It can also sensitize cancer cells through various mechanisms. COR reduces the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells by inhibiting the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9). However, the mechanism involved in the inhibitory activity of COR on MMP9 is not known. In the present study, in silico docking studies showed that COR binds to the active site of MMP9 catalytic domain (MMP9-CD) with considerable affinity. The binding affinity of COR to the MMP9-CD, estimated by three different web servers: CB Dock, Seam Dock, and PyRx, was found to be either -7.4 or -7.5 kcal/mol. Another web server that is routinely used for docking studies, Docking Server, has predicted a binding affinity of -5.9 kcal/mol. All four docking servers predicted the same binding site for COR within the MMP9-CD. Corroborating our docking results, molecular dynamic simulation studies have also shown that COR interacts with the same key active site amino acid residues of the MMP9-CD that are essential for its proteolytic function. Molecular mechanics with generalized born and surface area (MMGBSA) calculations using Schrodinger's prime module have shown that the binding free energy with which COR binds to MMP9 is -50 kcal/mol. It inhibited activity of recombinant human MMP9 activity and induced significant cytotoxicity and reduced the proliferation of MDA-MB 468 cells. Overall, our in silico and in vitro experiments show that COR potentially inhibits the activity of MMP9 by directly binding to the active site of its catalytic domain and possibly inhibits proliferation of MDA-MB 468 cells.

Comprehensive utilization of in silico approach and in vitro experiment to unveil the molecular mechanisms of mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-induced lung adenocarcinoma

Mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), the main bioactive metabolite of commonly used plasticizer Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, has received increasing attention due to its carcinogenic toxicity. This study aims to systematically explore the molecular mechanisms underlying MEHP-induced lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Firstly, network toxicology was employed to construct the interaction network of MEHP-targeted LUAD-related proteins and identify core proteins. Subsequently, functional analyses were used to determine the key pathways of these proteins enriched. Next, expression and survival analyses of multiple public datasets were conducted to emphasize the importance of core genes, and an optimized prognostic model was constructed based on independent prognostic genes to explore the relationship of gene risk with immune infiltration and immunotherapy. Ultimately, molecular docking and dynamics simulation were used to predict the binding modes and affinities of MEHP with core proteins, and surface plasmon resonance experiments were utilized to further validate their direct interactions. The findings demonstrated that MEHP targets 167 LUAD-related proteins, including 28 core target proteins. These proteins form the critical networks that regulate cancer and immune-associated pathways to induce the occurrence and development of LUAD, and further coordinate patient prognosis and treatment by altering the immune microenvironment. Most importantly, their direct interactions (especially PTGS2) lay the structural foundation of MEHP regulating core proteins, greatly supporting its LUAD toxicity. In conclusion, this study introduces a novel approach for evaluating the safety of plasticizers and elucidates the molecular mechanisms behind MEHP-induced LUAD, thus offering new and effective targets and strategies for cancer prevention and treatment.

Non-small cell lung cancer sensitisation to platinum chemotherapy via new thiazole-triazole hybrids acting as dual T-type CCB/MMP-9 inhibitors

Cisplatin remains the unchallenged standard therapy for NSCLC. However, it is not completely curative due to drug resistance and oxidative stress-induced toxicity. Drug resistance is linked to overexpression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and aberrant calcium signalling. We report synthesis of novel thiazole-triazole hybrids as MMP-9 inhibitors with T-type calcium channel blocking and antioxidant effects to sensitise NSCLC to cisplatin and ameliorate its toxicity. MTT and whole cell patch clamp assays revealed that 6d has a balanced profile of cytotoxicity (IC50 = 21 ± 1 nM, SI = 12.14) and T-type calcium channel blocking activity (⁓60% at 10 μM). It exhibited moderate ROS scavenging activity and nanomolar MMP-9 inhibition (IC50 = 90 ± 7 nM) surpassing NNGH with MMP-9 over -2 and MMP-10 over -13 selectivity. Docking and MDs simulated its receptor binding mode. Combination studies confirmed that 6d synergized with cisplatin (CI = 0.69 ± 0.05) lowering its IC50 by 6.89 folds. Overall, the study introduces potential lead adjuvants for NSCLC platinum-based therapy.

Unveiling the antimetastatic activity of monoterpene indole alkaloids targeting MMP9 in cancer cells, with a focus on pharmacokinetic and cellular insights

Distant metastasis, together with acquired resistance, limits the therapeutic impact of chemotherapy and molecularly targeted therapies. The properties of the tumor microenvironment determine how sensitive or resistant various cancers are to specific pharmacological treatments. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) is widely known for its ability to break down the extracellular matrix and it also modulates the motility of cancer cells. Here, our goal was to identify compounds that target MMP9 and evaluate their capacity to inhibit the motility of cancer cells. The antimetastatic effect of monoterpene indole alkaloids (MIAs) on cell viability and motility was evaluated by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay, migration assay, invasion assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, pathway-focused expression analysis, Western blotting, reporter assay, molecular docking simulation, and target prediction. MIA compounds target MMP9. MIAs inhibited the expression of phospho-epidermal growth factor receptor, phospho-Akt, phospho-JNK, and cyclin D1. Additionally, MIAs had predicted favorable pharmacokinetic profile and drug-like properties. Furthermore, among the MIA compounds, lyaloside and 5(S)-5-carbomethoxystrictosidine had low cytotoxicity and regulated cancer-related signaling, including cell migration, cell invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and immune evasion. Our findings demonstrated that the MIAs used in this study have potential antimetastasis properties that occur via MMP9-mediated regulation of cancer signaling and have the potential to be used therapeutically at safe doses.

Gut microbial and metabolomics profiles reveal the potential mechanism of fecal microbiota transplantation in modulating the progression of colitis-associated colorectal cancer in mice

PURPOSE

Intestinal flora promotes the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC) through microorganisms and their metabolites. This study aimed to investigate the composition of intestinal flora in different stages of CRC progression and the effect of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on CRC mice.

METHODS

The fecal microbiome from healthy volunteers (HC), colorectal adenoma (CRA), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and CRC patients were analyzed by 16s rRNA gene sequencing. In an azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran-sulfate-sodium (DSS)-induced CRC mouse, the effect of FMT from HC, CRA, CRC, and IBD patients on CRC mice was assessed by histological analysis. Expression of inflammation- EMT-associated proteins and Wnt/β-catenin pathway were assessed using qRT-PCR and western blot. The ratio of the fecal microorganisms and metabolomics alteration after FMT were also assessed.

RESULT

Prevotella, Faecalibacterium, Phascolarctobacterium, Veillonella, Alistipes, Fusobacterium, Oscillibacter, Blautia, and Ruminococcus abundance was different among HC, IBD, CRC, and CRA patients. HC-FMT alleviated disease progression and inflammatory response in CRC mice, inhibited splenic T help (Th)1 and Th17 cell numbers, and suppressed the EMT and Wnt/β-catenin pathways in tumor tissues of CRC mice. IBD-FMT, CRA-FMT, and CRC-FMT played deleterious roles; the CRC-FMT mice exhibited the most malignant phenotype. Compared with the non-FMT CRC mice, Muribaculaceae abundance was lower after FMT, especially lowest in the IBD-FMT group; while Lactobacillus abundance was higher after FMT and especially high in HC-FMT. Akkermansia and Ileibacterium abundance increased after FMT-HC compared to other groups. Metabolite correlation analysis revealed that Muribaculaceae abundance was significantly correlated with metabolites such as Betaine, LysoPC, and Soyasaponin III. Lactobacillus abundance was positively correlated with Taurocholic acid 3-sulfate, and Ileibacterium abundance was positively correlated with Linoleoyl ethanolamide.

CONCLUSION

The different intestinal microbiota communities of HC, IBD, CRA, and CRC patients may be attributed to the different modulation effects of FMT on CRC mice. CRC-FMT promoted, while HC-FMT inhibited the progress of CRC. Increased linoleoyl ethanolamide levels and abundance of Muribaculaceae, Akkermansia, and Ileibacterium and reduced Fusobacterium might participate in inhibiting CRC initiation and development. This study demonstrated that FMT intervention could restore the intestinal microbiota and metabolomics of CRC mice, suggesting FMT as a potential strategy for CRC therapy.

CAP superfamily proteins in human: a new target for cancer therapy

The CAP (Cysteine-rich secretory protein, Antigen 5, and Pathogenesis-related protein 1) superfamily proteins (CAP proteins) are found in all kingdoms of life. The cysteine-rich secreted proteins are prevalent in human organs and tissues and serve as critical signaling molecules within cells, regulating a wide range of biochemical processes in the human body. Due to their involvement in numerous biological processes, CAP proteins have recently attracted significant attention, particularly in the context of tumorigenesis and cancer therapy. This review summarizes the expression patterns and roles of CAP proteins in various cancers. Additionally, it analyzes the mechanisms by which CAP proteins affect cancer cell proliferation and survival, regulate epithelial-mesenchymal transition, influence drug resistance, and regulate epigenetics. The review reveals that CAP proteins play distinct roles in various signaling pathways, such as the MAPK, PI3K-Akt, and p53 pathways, which are crucial for tumor progression. Furthermore, this review summarizes the tumor-inhibiting function of CAP proteins and their potential as cancer biomarkers. These findings suggest that CAP proteins represent a promising new target for innovative cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The Downregulation of MMP23B Facilitates the Suppression of Vitality and Induction of Apoptosis in Endometrial Cancer Cells

Endometrial cancer is a malignant tumor that commonly occurs in the female reproductive system and its incidence is still increasing. The mechanism of the development of endometrial cancer has not yet been fully clarified, so we need to continuously study the relevant mechanisms of endometrial cancer and continue to explore its biomarkers in order to discover more precise and effective treatment methods for endometrial cancer. RT-qPCR (Real-Time quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction) experiments were used to detect the expression level of MMP23B (Matrix Metalloproteinase 23B) in endometrial cancer cells; the clinical data of the TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) database were downloaded, and gene expression profiles were analyzed to investigate the correlation between MMP23B (Matrix Metalloproteinase 23B) and the survival prognosis of endometrial cancer, and functional enrichment analysis was performed on MMP23B (Matrix Metalloproteinase 23B) related genes. After silencing MMP23B (Matrix Metalloproteinase 23B), CCK8 (Cell Counting Kit-8), RT-qPCR (Real-Time quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction), scratch assay, and transwell assay were used to detect cell viability, levels of apoptotic factors, migration rate, and invasion number of endometrial cancer, respectively. MMP23B (Matrix Metalloproteinase 23B) was highly expressed in endometrial cancer, which is closely related to a poor survival prognosis for endometrial cancer, and may act on endometrial cancer through apoptosis-related functions. The downregulation of MMP23B (Matrix Metalloproteinase 23B) reduced the cell viability of endometrial cancer cells, upregulated the expression levels of CASP3 (Caspase-3), CASP8 (Caspase-8) and CASP9 (Caspase-9) in cells, and inhibited cell migration and invasion.

[Aumolertinib combined with anlotinib inhibits proliferation of non-small cell lung cancer cells by down-regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the inhibitory effect of aumolertinib combined with anlotinib on proliferation of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells.

METHODS

CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, and flow cytometry were used to assess the effect of different concentrations of aumolertinib or anlotinib on proliferation, survival, and apoptosis of PC-9 and HCC827 cells, and their synergistic effect was evaluated using the SynergyFinder model. In PC-9 and HCC827 cells treated with aumolertinib combined with anlotinib, the changes in cell invasion and migration abilities were assessed with Transwell assay, and the expressions of apoptosis- and invasion/migration-related proteins (Bax, Bcl-2, E-cadherin, vimentin, MMP2, and MMP9) and the key PI3K-Akt pathway proteins were detected using Western blotting.

RESULTS

In PC-9 cells, the IC50 of aumolertinib and anlotinib was 1.701 μmol/L and 4.979 μmol/L, respectively, with a synergy score (ZIP) of 19.112; in HCC827 cells, their IC50 was 2.961 μmol/L and 7.934 μmol/L, respectively, with a ZIP of 12.325. Compared with aumolertinib and anlotinib used alone, their combined treatment more strongly inhibited the proliferation and survival, enhanced apoptosis and suppressed invasion and migration abilities of PC-9 and HCC827 cells. Western blotting showed that in both PC-9 and HCC827 cells, the combined treatment significantly upregulated the expressions of E-cadherin and Bax proteins, downregulated the expressions of Bcl-2, vimentin, MMP2, and MMP9 proteins, and reduced phosphorylation levels of PI3K and Akt.

CONCLUSION

Aumolertinib combined with anlotinib can effectively inhibit NSCLC cell proliferation by downregulating the PI3K-Akt pathway, suggesting a potentially new option for NSCLC treatment.

Substrate O-glycosylation actively regulates extracellular proteolysis

Extracellular proteolysis critically regulates cellular and tissue responses and is often dysregulated in human diseases. The crosstalk between proteolytic processing and other major post-translational modifications (PTMs) is emerging as an important regulatory mechanism to modulate protease activity and maintain cellular and tissue homeostasis. Here, we focus on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-mediated cleavages and N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc)-type of O-glycosylation, two major PTMs of proteins in the extracellular space. We investigated the influence of truncated O-glycan trees, also referred to as Tn antigen, following the inactivation of C1GALT1-specific chaperone 1 (COSMC) on the general and MMP9-specific proteolytic processing in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Quantitative assessment of the proteome and N-terminome using terminal amine isotopic labelling of substrates (TAILS) technology revealed enhanced proteolysis by MMP9 within the extracellular proteomes of MDA-MB-231 cells expressing Tn antigen. In addition, we detected substantial modifications in the proteome and discovered novel ectodomain shedding events regulated by the truncation of O-glycans. These results highlight the critical role of mature O-glycosylation in fine-tuning proteolytic processing and proteome homeostasis by modulating protein susceptibility to proteolytic degradation. These data suggest a complex interplay between proteolysis and O-GalNAc glycosylation, possibly affecting cancer phenotypes.

Key target genes related to anti-breast cancer activity of ATRA: A network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental investigation

All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) has promising activity against breast cancer. However, the exact mechanisms of ATRA's anticancer effects remain complex and not fully understood. In this study, a network pharmacology and molecular docking approach was applied to identify key target genes related to ATRA's anti-breast cancer activity. Gene/disease enrichment analysis for predicted ATRA targets was performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID), the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD), and the Gene Set Cancer Analysis (GSCA) database. Protein-Protein Interaction Network (PPIN) generation and analysis was conducted via Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) and cytoscape, respectively. Cancer-associated genes were evaluated using MyGeneVenn from the CTD. Differential expression analysis was conducted using the Tumor, Normal, and Metastatic (TNM) Plot tool and the Human Protein Atlas (HPA). The Glide docking program was used to predict ligand-protein binding. Treatment response predication and clinical profile assessment were performed using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Plotter and OncoDB databases, respectively. Cytotoxicity and gene expression were measured using MTT/fluorescent assays and Real-Time PCR, respectively. Molecular functions of ATRA targets (n = 209) included eicosanoid receptor activity and transcription factor activity. Some enriched pathways included inclusion body myositis and nuclear receptors pathways. Network analysis revealed 35 hub genes contributing to 3 modules, with 16 of them were associated with breast cancer. These genes were involved in apoptosis, cell cycle, androgen receptor pathway, and ESR-mediated signaling, among others. CCND1, ESR1, MMP9, MDM2, NCOA3, and RARA were significantly overexpressed in tumor samples. ATRA showed a high affinity towards CCND1/CDK4 and MMP9. CCND1, ESR1, and MDM2 were associated with poor treatment response and were downregulated after treatment of the breast cancer cell line with ATRA. CCND1 and ESR1 exhibited differential expression across breast cancer stages. Therefore, some part of ATRA's anti-breast cancer activity may be exerted through the CCND1/CDK4 complex.

Inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 by Dietary Antioxidants in THP-1 Macrophages and Sera from Patients with Breast Cancer

Polyphenols, the main antioxidants of diet, have shown anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticarcinogenic activities. Here, we compared the effects of four polyphenolic compounds on ROS production and on the levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9, which represent important pathogenetic factors of breast cancer. THP-1 differentiated macrophages were activated by LPS and simultaneously treated with different doses of a green tea extract (GTE), resveratrol (RSV), curcumin (CRC) and an olive fruit extract (oliplus). By using the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, we found that all of the tested compounds showed antioxidant activity in vitro. In addition, GTE, RSV and CRC were able to counteract ROS production induced by H2O2 in THP-1 cells. As assessed by a zymographic analysis of THP-1 supernatants and by an "in-gel zymography" of a pool of sera from patients with breast cancer, the antioxidant compounds used in this study inhibited both the activity and expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 through different mechanisms related to their structures and to their ability to scavenge ROS. The results of this study suggest that the used antioxidants could be promising agents for the prevention and complementary treatment of breast cancer and other diseases in which MMPs play a pivotal role.

Differential Expression of SRY-Related HMG-Box Transcription Factor 2, Oligodendrocyte Lineage Transcription Factor 2, and Zinc Finger E-Box Binding Homeobox 1 in Serum-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: Implications for Mithramycin Sensitivity and Targeted Therapy in High-Grade Glioma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive type of glioma and is often resistant to traditional therapies. Evidence suggests that glioma stem cells (GSCs) contribute to this resistance. Mithramycin (Mit-A) targets GSCs and exhibits antitumor activity in GBM by affecting transcriptional targets such as SRY-related HMG-box transcription factor 2 (SOX2), oligodendrocyte lineage transcription factor 2 (OLIG2), and zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1). However, its clinical use has been limited by toxicity. This study explored the diagnostic potential of serum extracellular vesicles (EVs) to identify Mit-A responders. Serum EVs were isolated from 70 glioma patients, and targeted gene expression was analyzed using qRT-PCR. Using chemosensitivity assay, we identified 8 Mit-A responders and 17 nonresponders among 25 glioma patients. The M-score showed a significant correlation (p = 0.045) with isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 mutation but not other clinical variables. The genes SOX2 (p = 0.005), OLIG2 (p = 0.003), and ZEB1 (p = 0.0281) were found to be upregulated in the responder EVs. SOX2 had the highest diagnostic potential (AUC = 0.875), followed by OLIG2 (AUC = 0.772) and ZEB1 (AUC = 0.632).The combined gene panel showed significant diagnostic efficacy (AUC = 0.956) through logistic regression analysis. The gene panel was further validated in the serum EVs of 45 glioma patients. These findings highlight the potential of Mit-A as a targeted therapy for high-grade glioma based on differential gene expression in serum EVs. The gene panel could serve as a diagnostic tool to predict Mit-A sensitivity, offering a promising approach for personalized treatment strategies and emphasizing the role of GSCs in therapeutic resistance.

Synthesis of Some New 1,3,4-Oxadiazole Derivatives and Evaluation of Their Anticancer Activity

In this work, some new 2-[(5-((2-acetamidophenoxy)methyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)thio]acetamide derivatives (4a-4l) were synthesized and studied for their anticancer activity. Twelve new compounds were tested on the A549 human lung cancer cell line, C6 rat glioma cell line, and L929 murine fibroblast cell line. Compounds 4f, 4i, 4k, and 4l (IC50: 1.59-7.48 μM), and especially 4h (IC50: <0.14 μM), exhibited excellent cytotoxic profile on A549 with selectivity. Compounds 4g and 4h showed remarkable antiproliferative activity on the C6 cell line with IC50 values of 8.16 and 13.04 μM, respectively. The compounds with the lowest IC50 value on the A549 cell line (4f, 4h, 4i, 4k, and 4l) were further studied to determine the mechanism of action. These compounds were found to induce apoptosis with a higher ratio (16.10-21.54%) than that of the standard drug cisplatin (10.07%). Compound 4f displayed mitochondrial membrane depolarization and caspase-3 activation at most, whereas compounds 4h (89.66%) and 4i (78.78%) had outstanding retention rates in the G0/G1phase of the cell cycle (cisplatin 74.75%). Compounds 4f, 4g, 4h, and 4l exhibited matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) inhibition higher than 75% at 100 μg/mL; even IC50 values were found to be 1.65 and 2.55 μM for 4h and 4l. In addition, in silico physicochemical properties of the compounds and molecular docking interaction of compound 4h on the MMP-9 enzyme were evaluated; the desired and expected results were obtained.

Identification of immune microenvironment changes, immune-related pathways and genes in male androgenetic alopecia

BACKGROUND

Although androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is classified as a non-inflammatory alopecia, histological evidence of microinflammation has long been recognized. However, changes in the immune microenvironment, immune-related pathways and the expression of immune-related genes (IRGs) involved in AGA remain unclear.

METHODS

The microarray gene expression data (GSE36169) from patients with male AGA were analyzed. gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) among statistically changed genes was done. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and Gene Ontology analyses among differentially expressed genes were performed. differentially expressed genes were screened to identify IRGs based on the ImmPort database. The cytohubba-MCC plugin of Cytoscape was applied to screen hub immune genes. The infiltration levels of 28 immune cells were quantified adopting single-sample GSEA (ssGSEA) algorithm. The microarray gene expression data (GSE90594) of male AGA was analyzed to validate hub IRGs genes and differential infiltrated immune cells.

RESULTS

The ssGSEA revealed γδT cell, central memory CD8+ T cell, mast cell, immature B cell, activated CD8+ T cell, effector memory CD4+ T cell, eosinophil and neutrophil were significantly increased infiltration in the bald scalp. GSEA showed statistically changed genes were most enriched in immune related pathways, including innate immune system, adaptive immune system, cytokine signaling, interferon-γ signaling, interferon signaling and interleukins signaling. The 4 hub IRGs, including matrix metallopeptidase 9, protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type C, bone morphogenetic protein 2, and thrombospondin 1, were enriched in the pathways of allograft rejection, coagulation and interferon-γ response.

CONCLUSION

In summary, we proposed that the increase in γδ T cells, central memory CD8+ T cells, activated CD8+ T cell as well as the infiltration of mast cells contributed to immune microenvironment changes in male AGA. The 4 hub IRGs may be involved in the development and progression of hair loss in male AGA through interferon-γ signal pathways.