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Jacksi M, Schad E, Tantos A. Morphological Changes Induced by TKS4 Deficiency Can Be Reversed by EZH2 Inhibition in Colorectal Carcinoma Cells. Biomolecules 2024; 14:445. [PMID: 38672463 PMCID: PMC11047920 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040445] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The scaffold protein tyrosine kinase substrate 4 (TKS4) undergoes tyrosine phosphorylation by the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway via Src kinase. The TKS4 deficiency in humans is responsible for the manifestation of a genetic disorder known as Frank-Ter Haar syndrome (FTHS). Based on our earlier investigation, the absence of TKS4 triggers migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-like phenomena while concurrently suppressing cell proliferation in HCT116 colorectal carcinoma cells. This indicates that TKS4 may play a unique role in the progression of cancer. In this study, we demonstrated that the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and the histone methyltransferase of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) are involved in the migration, invasion, and EMT-like changes in TKS4-deficient cells (KO). EZH2 is responsible for the maintenance of the trimethylated lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27me3). METHODS We performed transcriptome sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation, protein and RNA quantitative studies, cell mobility, invasion, and proliferation studies combined with/without the EZH2 activity inhibitor 3-deazanoplanocine (DZNep). RESULTS We detected an elevation of global H3K27me3 levels in the TKS4 KO cells, which could be reduced with treatment with DZNep, an EZH2 inhibitor. Inhibition of EZH2 activity reversed the phenotypic effects of the knockout of TKS4, reducing the migration speed and wound healing capacity of the cells as well as decreasing the invasion capacity, while the decrease in cell proliferation became stronger. In addition, inhibition of EZH2 activity also reversed most epithelial and mesenchymal markers. We investigated the wider impact of TKS4 deletion on the gene expression profile of colorectal cancer cells using transcriptome sequencing of wild-type and TKS4 knockout cells, particularly before and after treatment with DZNep. Additionally, we observed changes in the expression of several protein-coding genes and long non-coding RNAs that showed a recovery in expression levels following EZH2 inhibition. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that the removal of TKS4 causes a notable disruption in the gene expression pattern, leading to the disruption of several signal transduction pathways. Inhibiting the activity of EZH2 can restore most of these transcriptomics and phenotypic effects in colorectal carcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mevan Jacksi
- HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (M.J.); (E.S.)
- Doctoral School of Biology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1053 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Zakho, Duhok 42002, Iraq
| | - Eva Schad
- HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (M.J.); (E.S.)
| | - Agnes Tantos
- HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (M.J.); (E.S.)
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Pawlicka M, Gumbarewicz E, Błaszczak E, Stepulak A. Transcription Factors and Markers Related to Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Their Role in Resistance to Therapies in Head and Neck Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1354. [PMID: 38611032 PMCID: PMC11010970 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071354] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are heterogeneous and aggressive tumors of the upper aerodigestive tract. Although various histological types exist, the most common is squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The incidence of HNSCC is increasing, making it an important public health concern. Tumor resistance to contemporary treatments, namely, chemo- and radiotherapy, and the recurrence of the primary tumor after its surgical removal cause huge problems for patients. Despite recent improvements in these treatments, the 5-year survival rate is still relatively low. HNSCCs may develop local lymph node metastases and, in the most advanced cases, also distant metastases. A key process associated with tumor progression and metastasis is epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), when poorly motile epithelial tumor cells acquire motile mesenchymal characteristics. These transition cells can invade different adjacent tissues and finally form metastases. EMT is governed by various transcription factors, including the best-characterized TWIST1 and TWIST2, SNAIL, SLUG, ZEB1, and ZEB2. Here, we highlight the current knowledge of the process of EMT in HNSCC and present the main protein markers associated with it. This review focuses on the transcription factors related to EMT and emphasizes their role in the resistance of HNSCC to current chemo- and radiotherapies. Understanding the role of EMT and the precise molecular mechanisms involved in this process may help with the development of novel anti-cancer therapies for this type of tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andrzej Stepulak
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.P.); (E.G.); (E.B.)
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Du YQ, Yuan B, Ye YX, Zhou FL, Liu H, Huang JJ, Wei YF. Plumbagin Regulates Snail to Inhibit Hepatocellular Carcinoma Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in vivo and in vitro. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2024; 11:565-580. [PMID: 38525157 PMCID: PMC10960549 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s452924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Plumbagin (PL) has been shown to effe ctively inhibit autophagy, suppressing invasion and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of PL on tumor growth factor (TGF)-β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in HCC. Methods Huh-7 cells were cultured, and in vivo models of EMT and HCC-associated lung metastasis were developed through tail vein and in situ injections of tumor cells. In vivo imaging and hematoxylin and eosin staining were used to evaluate HCC modeling and lung metastasis. After PL intervention, the expression levels of Snail, vimentin, E-cadherin, and N-cadherin in the liver were evaluated through immunohistochemistry and Western blot. An in vitro TGF-β-induced cell EMT model was used to detect Snail, vimentin, E-cadherin, and N-cadherin mRNA levels through a polymerase chain reaction. Their protein levels were detected by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot. Results In vivo experiments demonstrated that PL significantly reduced the expression of Snail, vimentin, and N-cadherin, while increasing the expression of E-cadherin at the protein levels, effectively inhibiting HCC and lung metastasis. In vitro experiments confirmed that PL up-regulated epithelial cell markers, down-regulated mesenchymal cell markers, and inhibited EMT levels in HCC cells. Conclusion PL inhibits Snail expression, up-regulates E-cadherin expression, and down-regulates N-cadherin and vimentin expression, preventing EMT in HCC cells and reducing lung metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Qin Du
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530200, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Yuan
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530200, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi-Xian Ye
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530200, People’s Republic of China
| | - Feng-ling Zhou
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530200, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Liu
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530200, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing-Jing Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan-Fei Wei
- Department of Physiology, Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530200, People’s Republic of China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Treating High-Incidence Infectious Diseases with Integrative Medicine, Nanning, 530200, People’s Republic of China
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Greier MDC, Runge A, Dudas J, Hartl R, Santer M, Dejaco D, Steinbichler TB, Federspiel J, Seifarth C, Konschake M, Sprung S, Sopper S, Randhawa A, Mayr M, Hofauer BG, Riechelmann H. Cytotoxic response of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes of head and neck cancer slice cultures under mitochondrial dysfunction. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1364577. [PMID: 38515569 PMCID: PMC10954813 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1364577] [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: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) are highly heterogeneous tumors. In the harsh tumor microenvironment (TME), metabolic reprogramming and mitochondrial dysfunction may lead to immunosuppressive phenotypes. Aerobic glycolysis is needed for the activation of cytotoxic T-cells and the absence of glucose may hamper the full effector functions of cytotoxic T-cells. To test the effect of mitochondrial dysfunction on cytotoxic T cell function, slice cultures (SC) of HNSCC cancer were cultivated under different metabolic conditions. Methods Tumor samples from 21 patients with HNSCC were collected, from which, SC were established and cultivated under six different conditions. These conditions included high glucose, T cell stimulation, and temporarily induced mitochondrial dysfunction (MitoDys) using FCCP and oligomycin A with or without additional T cell stimulation, high glucose and finally, a control medium. Over three days of cultivation, sequential T cell stimulation and MitoDys treatments were performed. Supernatant was collected, and SC were fixed and embedded. Granzyme B was measured in the supernatant and in the SC via immunohistochemistry (IHC). Staining of PD1, CD8/Ki67, and cleaved-caspase-3 (CC3) were performed in SC. Results Hematoxylin eosin stains showed that overall SC quality remained stable over 3 days of cultivation. T cell stimulation, both alone and combined with MitoDys, led to significantly increased granzyme levels in SC and in supernatant. Apoptosis following T cell stimulation was observed in tumor and stroma. Mitochondrial dysfunction alone increased apoptosis in tumor cell aggregates. High glucose concentration alone had no impact on T cell activity and apoptosis. Apoptosis rates were significantly lower under conditions with high glucose and MitoDys (p=0.03). Conclusion Stimulation of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in SC was feasible, which led to increased apoptosis in tumor cells. Induced mitochondrial dysfunction did not play a significant role in the activation and function of TILs in SC of HNSCC. Moreover, high glucose concentration did not promote cytotoxic T cell activity in HNSCC SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria do Carmo Greier
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Annette Runge
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jozsef Dudas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Roland Hartl
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Matthias Santer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Daniel Dejaco
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Julia Federspiel
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christof Seifarth
- Institute for Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University Innsbruck (MUI), Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Marko Konschake
- Institute for Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University Innsbruck (MUI), Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Susanne Sprung
- INNPATH GmbH, Institute for Pathology, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sieghart Sopper
- Clinic for Internal Medicine V, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Avneet Randhawa
- Department of Otolaryngology, Rutgers University Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | | | - Benedikt Gabriel Hofauer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Herbert Riechelmann
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Federspiel J, Greier MDC, Ladányi A, Dudas J. p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Inhibition of Mesenchymal Transdifferentiated Tumor Cells in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3301. [PMID: 38137525 PMCID: PMC10741606 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
High mortality in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is due to recurrence, metastasis, and radiochemotherapy (RCT) resistance. These phenomena are related to the tumor cell subpopulation undergoing partial epithelial to mesenchymal transition (pEMT). Repeated transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta-1) treatment via the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) signaling pathway induces pEMT in SCC-25 HNSCC cells, and activates and stabilizes the pro-EMT transcription factor Slug. We investigated the growth inhibitory, cisplatin-sensitizing, and pro-apoptotic effects of p38 MAPK inhibition in cisplatin-resistant (SCC-25) and -sensitive (UPCI-SCC090) HNSCC cell lines, using two specific p38 MAPK inhibitors, SB202190 and ralimetinib. Cell viability was measured by MTT assay; cell cycle distribution and cell death were evaluated by flow cytometry; p38 MAPK phosphorylation, Slug protein stabilization, and p38 MAPK downstream targets were investigated by Western blot. p-p38 inhibitors achieved sustained phosphorylation of p38 MAPK (Thr180/Tyr182) and inhibition of its function, which resulted in decreased phosphorylation (Thr69/71) of the downstream target pATF2 in pEMT cells. Subsequently, the p-p38 inhibition resulted in reduced Slug protein levels. In accordance, p-p38 inhibition led to sensitization of pEMT cells to cisplatin-induced cell death; moreover, p-p38 inhibitor treatment cycles significantly decreased the viability of cisplatin-surviving cells. In conclusion, clinically relevant p38 inhibitors might be effective for RCT-resistant pEMT cells in HNSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Federspiel
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria and University Hospital of Tyrol, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.F.); (M.d.C.G.)
| | - Maria do Carmo Greier
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria and University Hospital of Tyrol, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.F.); (M.d.C.G.)
| | - Andrea Ladányi
- Department of Surgical and Molecular Pathology and the National Tumor Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, 1122 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Jozsef Dudas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria and University Hospital of Tyrol, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.F.); (M.d.C.G.)
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Okano LM, Fonseca LMMD, Erthal ID, Malta TM. Epigenomic integrative analysis pinpoint master regulator transcription factors associated with tumorigenesis in squamous cell carcinoma of oral tongue. Genet Mol Biol 2023; 46:e20220358. [PMID: 37338302 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2022-0358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) is a heterogeneous group of cancers, which includes cancers arising in the oral cavity, nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx. Epidemiological studies have revealed that several factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, exposure to environmental pollutants, viral infection, and genetic factors are risk factors for developing HNC. The squamous cell carcinoma of oral tongue (SCCOT), which is significantly more aggressive than the other forms of oral squamous cell carcinoma, presents a propensity for rapid local invasion and spread, and a high recurrence rate. Dysregulation in the epigenetic machinery of cancer cells might help uncover the mechanisms of SCOOT tumorigenesis. Here, we used DNA methylation changes to identify cancer-specific enhancers that were enriched for specific transcription factor binding sites (TFBS), and potential master regulator transcription factors (MRTF) associated with SCCOT. We identified the activation of MRTFs associated with increased invasiveness, metastasis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, poor prognosis, and stemness. On the other hand, we found the downregulation of MRTFs associated with tumor suppression. The identified MRTFs should be further investigated to clarify their role in oral cancer tumorigenesis and for their potential use as biological markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Miyuki Okano
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Isabela Dias Erthal
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Tathiane Maistro Malta
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Subhadarshini S, Markus J, Sahoo S, Jolly MK. Dynamics of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Plasticity: What Have Single-Cell Investigations Elucidated So Far? ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:11665-11673. [PMID: 37033874 PMCID: PMC10077445 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c07989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) is a key driver of cancer metastasis and therapeutic resistance, through which cancer cells can reversibly and dynamically alter their molecular and functional traits along the epithelial-mesenchymal spectrum. While cells in the epithelial phenotype are usually tightly adherent, less metastatic, and drug-sensitive, those in the hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal and/or mesenchymal state are more invasive, migratory, drug-resistant, and immune-evasive. Single-cell studies have emerged as a powerful tool in gaining new insights into the dynamics of EMP across various cancer types. Here, we review many recent studies that employ single-cell analysis techniques to better understand the dynamics of EMP in cancer both in vitro and in vivo. These single-cell studies have underlined the plurality of trajectories cells can traverse during EMP and the consequent heterogeneity of hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal phenotypes seen at both preclinical and clinical levels. They also demonstrate how diverse EMP trajectories may exhibit hysteretic behavior and how the rate of such cell-state transitions depends on the genetic/epigenetic background of recipient cells, as well as the dose and/or duration of EMP-inducing growth factors. Finally, we discuss the relationship between EMP and patient survival across many cancer types. We also present a next set of questions related to EMP that could benefit much from single-cell observations and pave the way to better tackle phenotypic switching and heterogeneity in clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joel Markus
- Centre
for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Sarthak Sahoo
- Centre
for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Centre
for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
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Savic D, Steinbichler TB, Ingruber J, Negro G, Aschenbrenner B, Riechelmann H, Ganswindt U, Skvortsov S, Dudás J, Skvortsova II. Erk1/2-Dependent HNSCC Cell Susceptibility to Erastin-Induced Ferroptosis. Cells 2023; 12:336. [PMID: 36672272 PMCID: PMC9856753 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020336] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Unfavorable clinical outcomes mean that cancer researchers must attempt to develop novel therapeutic strategies to overcome therapeutic resistance in patients with HNSCC. Recently, ferroptosis was shown to be a promising pathway possessing druggable targets, such as xCT (SLC7A11). Unfortunately, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying the susceptibility of HNSCC cells to ferroptosis. The goal of this study was to determine whether HNSCC cells with activated Erk1/2 are vulnerable to ferroptosis induction. Our results have shown that xCT (SLC7A11) was overexpressed in malignant tissues obtained from the patients with HNSCC, whereas normal mucosa demonstrated weak expression of the protein. In order to investigate the role of Erk1/2 in the decrease in cell viability caused by erastin, xCT-overexpressing FaDu and SCC25 HNSCC cells were used. The ravoxertinib-dependent inhibition of Erk1/2 signaling led to the decrease in erastin efficacy due to the effect on ROS production and the upregulation of ROS scavengers SOD1 and SOD2, resulting in repressed lipid peroxidation. Therefore, it was concluded that the erastin-dependent activation of ferroptosis seems to be a promising approach which can be further developed as an additional strategy for the treatment of HNSCC. As ferroptosis induction via erastin is strongly dependent on the expression of Erk1/2, this MAP kinase can be considered as a predictor for cancer cells' response to erastin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragana Savic
- Laboratory for Experimental and Translational Research on Radiation Oncology (EXTRO-Lab), Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI), A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Teresa Bernadette Steinbichler
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- University Hospital of Tyrol, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Julia Ingruber
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- University Hospital of Tyrol, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Giulia Negro
- Laboratory for Experimental and Translational Research on Radiation Oncology (EXTRO-Lab), Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI), A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Herbert Riechelmann
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ute Ganswindt
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sergej Skvortsov
- Laboratory for Experimental and Translational Research on Radiation Oncology (EXTRO-Lab), Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI), A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - József Dudás
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ira-Ida Skvortsova
- Laboratory for Experimental and Translational Research on Radiation Oncology (EXTRO-Lab), Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI), A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
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Greier MDC, Runge A, Dudas J, Carpentari L, Schartinger VH, Randhawa A, Mayr M, Petersson M, Riechelmann H. Optimizing culturing conditions in patient derived 3D primary slice cultures of head and neck cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1145817. [PMID: 37064104 PMCID: PMC10101142 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1145817] [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: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Three-dimensional primary slice cultures (SC) of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNC) are realistic preclinical models. Until now, preserving structure and viability ex vivo for several days has been difficult. The aim of this study was to optimize cultivation conditions for HNC SC and analyze the added effects of platelet rich fibrin (PRF) on these conditions. Methods SC were prepared from the tumor biopsies of 9 HNC patients. Cultures were incubated for 1 and 7 days in three different media- Keratinocyte serum-free medium (SFM), RPMI-1640i, and 1:1 mix of both, with and without addition of PRF. After culturing, SC were fixated, embedded, and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) and cleaved caspase-3. In addition, triple immune fluorescence staining for cytokeratin, vimentin and CD45 was performed. Outcome parameters were cell count and cell density, viability and apoptosis, SC total area and proportions of keratinocytes, mesenchymal and immune cells. The effects of culture time, medium, and addition of PRF were calculated in an SPSS generalized linear model and using the Wald Chi-Squared test. Results Ninety-four slice cultures were analyzed. Viability remained stable for 7 days in culture. After addition of PRF, cell viability increased (p=0.05). SC total area decreased (0.44 ± 0.04 mm2 on day 1 (95% CI: 0.35 to 0.56) to 0.29 ± 0.03 mm2 on day 7 (95% CI: 0.22 to 0.36), but cell density and cell proportions remained stable. Differences in cultivation media had no significant impact on outcome parameters. Conclusion HNC SC can be preserved for up to 7 days using the tested cultivation media. Cell viability was best preserved with addition of PRF. HNC SC are a versatile experimental tool to study physiology and drug actions. Autologous PRF can help simulate realistic conditions in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria do Carmo Greier
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Annette Runge
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- *Correspondence: Annette Runge,
| | - Jozsef Dudas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Lukas Carpentari
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Volker Hans Schartinger
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Avneet Randhawa
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | | | | | - Herbert Riechelmann
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Ma H, Zhou Z, Chen L, Wang L, Muge Q. Anemoside B4 prevents chronic obstructive pulmonary disease through alleviating cigarette smoke-induced inflammatory response and airway epithelial hyperplasia. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 107:154431. [PMID: 36115169 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cigarette smoke (CS) is one of the major risk factors for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and increases the risk of lung cancer (LC). Anemoside B4 (B4) is the main bioactive ingredient in Pulsatilla chinensis (P. chinensis), a traditional medicinal herb for various diseases. It has a wide range of anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation and anti-cancer activities. However, in recent years, there is no relevant literature report on the therapeutic effect of B4 on COPD, and the anti-inflammatory and inhibitory effects of anemoside B4 on basal cell hyperplasia in CS-induced COPD have not been clearly established. PURPOSE In the present study, we investigated whether anemoside B4 could alleviate CS or cigarette smoke extract (CSE) induced inflammation of COPD and further prevent basal cell hyperplasia, hoping to find its possible mechanism. METHODS In this study, a COPD mouse model was established in C57BL mice by CS exposure 3 months. Bronchial pathology and basal cell hyperplasia were observed by HE staining and immunostaining. The contents of glutathione peroxidase catalase (GSH-PX), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (MPO) were determined by GSH-PX, MDA and SOD assay kits, respectively. 16HBE cells were cultured with 5% CSE with or without treatment with B4 (1, 10, 100 μM) or DEX (20 μM) in vitro. Cell viability was assessed by a cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was tested by DCFH-DA. Moreover, anti-inflammatory mechanism of anemoside B4 was further determined by pro-inflammatory cytokines production using RT-PCR. Protein expression levels of MAPK/AP-1/TGF-β signaling pathway were measured by western blot. RESULTS Anemoside B4 improved the lung function of mice, relieved lung inflammation and reduced the MDA, MPO and GSH-Px in the plasma. At the same time, B4 repressed the oxidative stress response and played a role in balancing the levels of protease and anti-protease. During the process of bronchial basal cell hyperplasia, B4 alleviated the degree of cell hyperplasia, and prevented further deterioration of hyperplasia through increased P53 and inhibited FHIT protein. In addition, B4 reduced ROS levels in human bronchial epithelial cells stimulated by CSE in vitro study. Meanwhile, B4 treatment also significantly attenuated increased IL-1β, TGF-β, IL-8 and TNF-α from CSE treated human bronchial epithelial cells. The expression of p-P38, AP-1(c-fos, and c-Jun), TGF-β proteins in MAPK/AP-1/TGF-β signaling pathway were decreased and the signal cascade reaction was blocked. CONCLUSION Anemoside B4 protects against CS-induced COPD. These findings indicated that B4 may have therapeutic potential for the prevention and treatment of COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimiao Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China; National Pharmaceutical Engineering Center for Solid Preparation of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Key Laboratory for evaluation on Anti-tumor Effect of Chinese Medicine by Strengthening Body Resistance to Eliminate Pathogenic Factors, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Ziye Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China; National Pharmaceutical Engineering Center for Solid Preparation of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Key Laboratory for evaluation on Anti-tumor Effect of Chinese Medicine by Strengthening Body Resistance to Eliminate Pathogenic Factors, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Lanying Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China; National Pharmaceutical Engineering Center for Solid Preparation of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Key Laboratory for evaluation on Anti-tumor Effect of Chinese Medicine by Strengthening Body Resistance to Eliminate Pathogenic Factors, Nanchang 330006, PR China.
| | - Lingling Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China; National Pharmaceutical Engineering Center for Solid Preparation of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Qi Muge
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China; National Pharmaceutical Engineering Center for Solid Preparation of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Key Laboratory for evaluation on Anti-tumor Effect of Chinese Medicine by Strengthening Body Resistance to Eliminate Pathogenic Factors, Nanchang 330006, PR China
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11
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Interplay between Partial EMT and Cisplatin Resistance as the Drivers for Recurrence in HNSCC. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102482. [PMID: 36289744 PMCID: PMC9598677 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the role of partial epithelial to mesenchymal transition (pEMT)-related proteins in modulating Cisplatin resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). SCC-25 cells were pre-treated with TGF-beta1 followed by transient Krüppel-like Factor 4 (KLF4)-overexpression and Cisplatin treatment. Cell growth, cell morphological changes and cell migration were assessed using Juli BR live cell video-microscopy. In addition, Ki-67 and Slug immunostaining and follow-up image cytometric analysis of primary and recurrent HNSCC tumors were performed to evaluate the proliferation index (PI) and the EMT-like phenotype. We observed that proliferating and Slug-positive tumor cells expand after therapy in HNSCC. Subsequently, protein analysis revealed the stabilization of Slug, upregulation of Vimentin and phospho-p38 (p-p38) in Cisplatin-resistant SCC-25 cells. Moreover, KLF4-overexpression contributed to Cisplatin sensitivity by reduction of Slug at the protein level. This work strongly suggests that an pEMT-like pathway is activated in recurrent and Cisplatin-resistant HNSCC. Finally, stable KLF4-overexpression might sensitize HNSCC tumor cells for Cisplatin treatment.
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12
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Mitochondrial dysfunction and epithelial to mesenchymal transition in head neck cancer cell lines. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13255. [PMID: 35918485 PMCID: PMC9345891 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16829-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction promotes cancer aggressiveness, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. Similar traits are associated with epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). We questioned whether mitochondrial dysfunction induces EMT in head and neck cancer (HNC) cell lines. We induced mitochondrial dysfunction in four HNC cell lines with carbonyl cyanide-4(trifluoromethoxy)phenylhydrazone (FCCP), a mitochondrial electron transport chain uncoupling agent, and oligomycin, a mitochondrial ATP synthase inhibitor. Extracellular flux analyses and expression of the cystine/glutamate antiporter system xc (xCT) served to confirm mitochondrial dysfunction. Expression of the EMT-related transcription factor SNAI2, the mesenchymal marker vimentin and vimentin/cytokeratin double positivity served to detect EMT. In addition, holotomographic microscopy was used to search for morphological features of EMT. Extracellular flux analysis and xCT expression confirmed that FCCP/oligomycin induced mitochondrial dysfunction in all cell lines. Across the four cell lines, mitochondrial dysfunction resulted in an increase in relative SNAI2 expression from 8.5 ± 0.8 to 12.0 ± 1.1 (mean ± SEM; p = 0.007). This effect was predominantly caused by the CAL 27 cell line (increase from 2.2 ± 0.4 to 5.5 ± 1.0; p < 0.001). Similarly, only in CAL 27 cells vimentin expression increased from 2.2 ± 0.5 × 10-3 to 33.2 ± 10.2 × 10-3 (p = 0.002) and vimentin/cytokeratin double positive cells increased from 34.7 ± 5.1 to 67.5 ± 9.8% (p = 0.003), while the other 3 cell lines did not respond with EMT (all p > 0.1). Across all cell lines, FCCP/oligomycin had no effect on EMT characteristics in holotomographic microscopy. Mitochondrial dysfunction induced EMT in 1 of 4 HNC cell lines. Given the heterogeneity of HNC, mitochondrial dysfunction may be sporadically induced by EMT, but EMT does not explain the tumor promoting effects of mitochondrial dysfunction in general.
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13
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Ladányi A, Hegyi B, Balatoni T, Liszkay G, Rohregger R, Waldnig C, Dudás J, Ferrone S. HLA Class I Downregulation in Progressing Metastases of Melanoma Patients Treated With Ipilimumab. Pathol Oncol Res 2022; 28:1610297. [PMID: 35531074 PMCID: PMC9073691 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2022.1610297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Characterization of the molecular mechanisms underlying antitumor immune responses and immune escape mechanisms has resulted in the development of more effective immunotherapeutic strategies, including immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. ICIs can induce durable responses in patients with advanced cancer in a wide range of cancer types, however, the majority of the patients fail to respond to this therapy or develop resistance in the course of the treatment. Information about the molecular mechanisms underlying primary and acquired resistance is limited. Although HLA class I molecules are crucial in the recognition of tumor antigens by cytotoxic T lymphocytes, only a few studies have investigated the role of their expression level on malignant cells in ICI resistance. To address this topic, utilizing immunohistochemical staining with monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) we analyzed HLA class I expression level in pre-treatment and post-treatment tumor samples from melanoma patients treated with ipilimumab. Twenty-nine metastases removed from six patients were available for the study, including 18 pre-treatment and 11 post-treatment lesions. Compared to metastases excised before ipilimumab therapy, post-treatment lesions displayed a significantly lower HLA class I expression level on melanoma cells; HLA class I downregulation was most marked in progressing metastases from nonresponding patients. We also evaluated the level of infiltration by CD8+ T cells and NK cells but did not find consistent changes between pre- and post-treatment samples. Our results indicate the potential role of HLA class I downregulation as a mechanism of ICI resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ladányi
- Department of Surgical and Molecular Pathology, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Barbara Hegyi
- Department of Thoracic and Abdominal Tumors and Clinical Pharmacology, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.,Doctoral School of Pathological Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tímea Balatoni
- Department of Oncodermatology, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Liszkay
- Department of Oncodermatology, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Raphael Rohregger
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christoph Waldnig
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - József Dudás
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Soldano Ferrone
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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14
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Ingruber J, Dudás J, Savic D, Schweigl G, Steinbichler TB, Greier MDC, Santer M, Carollo S, Trajanoski Z, Riechelmann H. EMT-related transcription factors and protein stabilization mechanisms involvement in cadherin switch of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Exp Cell Res 2022; 414:113084. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2022.113084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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15
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Sahoo S, Ashraf B, Duddu AS, Biddle A, Jolly MK. Interconnected high-dimensional landscapes of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity and stemness in cancer. Clin Exp Metastasis 2022; 39:279-290. [PMID: 34993766 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-021-10139-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Establishing macrometastases at distant organs is a highly challenging process for cancer cells, with extremely high attrition rates. A very small percentage of disseminated cells have the ability to dynamically adapt to their changing micro-environments through reversibly switching to another phenotype, aiding metastasis. Such plasticity can be exhibited along one or more axes-epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) and cancer stem cells (CSCs) being the two most studied, and often tacitly assumed to be synonymous. Here, we review the emerging concepts related to EMP and CSCs across multiple cancers. Both processes are multi-dimensional in nature; for instance, EMP can be defined on morphological, molecular and functional changes, which may or may not be synchronized. Similarly, self-renewal, multi-lineage potential, and resistance to anoikis and/or therapy may not all occur simultaneously in CSCs. Thus, understanding the complexity in defining EMP and CSCs is essential if we are to understand their contribution to cancer metastasis. This will require a more comprehensive understanding of the non-linearity of these processes. These processes are dynamic, reversible, and semi-independent in nature; cells traverse the inter-connected high-dimensional EMP and CSC landscapes in diverse paths, each of which may exhibit a distinct EMP-CSC coupling. Our proposed model offers a potential unifying framework for elucidating the coupled decision-making along these dimensions and highlights a key set of open questions to be answered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarthak Sahoo
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering (BSSE), Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India.,UG Programme, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India
| | - Bazella Ashraf
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, India
| | - Atchuta Srinivas Duddu
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering (BSSE), Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India
| | - Adrian Biddle
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering (BSSE), Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India.
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16
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Kałafut J, Czerwonka A, Anameriç A, Przybyszewska-Podstawka A, Misiorek JO, Rivero-Müller A, Nees M. Shooting at Moving and Hidden Targets-Tumour Cell Plasticity and the Notch Signalling Pathway in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:6219. [PMID: 34944837 PMCID: PMC8699303 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is often aggressive, with poor response to current therapies in approximately 40-50% of the patients. Current therapies are restricted to operation and irradiation, often combined with a small number of standard-of-care chemotherapeutic drugs, preferentially for advanced tumour patients. Only very recently, newer targeted therapies have entered the clinics, including Cetuximab, which targets the EGF receptor (EGFR), and several immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the immune receptor PD-1 and its ligand PD-L1. HNSCC tumour tissues are characterized by a high degree of intra-tumour heterogeneity (ITH), and non-genetic alterations that may affect both non-transformed cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and transformed carcinoma cells. This very high degree of heterogeneity likely contributes to acquired drug resistance, tumour dormancy, relapse, and distant or lymph node metastasis. ITH, in turn, is likely promoted by pronounced tumour cell plasticity, which manifests in highly dynamic and reversible phenomena such as of partial or hybrid forms of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and enhanced tumour stemness. Stemness and tumour cell plasticity are strongly promoted by Notch signalling, which remains poorly understood especially in HNSCC. Here, we aim to elucidate how Notch signal may act both as a tumour suppressor and proto-oncogenic, probably during different stages of tumour cell initiation and progression. Notch signalling also interacts with numerous other signalling pathways, that may also have a decisive impact on tumour cell plasticity, acquired radio/chemoresistance, and metastatic progression of HNSCC. We outline the current stage of research related to Notch signalling, and how this pathway may be intricately interconnected with other, druggable targets and signalling mechanisms in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kałafut
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Arkadiusz Czerwonka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Alinda Anameriç
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Alicja Przybyszewska-Podstawka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Julia O. Misiorek
- Department of Molecular Neurooncology, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Adolfo Rivero-Müller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Matthias Nees
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
- Western Finland Cancer Centre (FICAN West), Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20101 Turku, Finland
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TGF-β/activin signaling promotes CDK7 inhibitor resistance in triple-negative breast cancer cells through upregulation of multidrug transporters. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:101162. [PMID: 34481843 PMCID: PMC8498470 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 7 (CDK7) is a master regulatory kinase that drives cell cycle progression and stimulates expression of oncogenes in a myriad of cancers. Inhibitors of CDK7 (CDK7i) are currently in clinical trials; however, as with many cancer therapies, patients will most likely experience recurrent disease due to acquired resistance. Identifying targets underlying CDK7i resistance will facilitate prospective development of new therapies that can circumvent such resistance. Here we utilized triple-negative breast cancer as a model to discern mechanisms of resistance as it has been previously shown to be highly responsive to CDK7 inhibitors. After generating cell lines with acquired resistance, high-throughput RNA sequencing revealed significant upregulation of genes associated with efflux pumps and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways. Genetic silencing or pharmacological inhibition of ABCG2, an efflux pump associated with multidrug resistance, resensitized resistant cells to CDK7i, indicating a reliance on these transporters. Expression of activin A (INHBA), a member of the TGF-β family of ligands, was also induced, whereas its intrinsic inhibitor, follistatin (FST), was repressed. In resistant cells, increased phosphorylation of SMAD3, a downstream mediator, confirmed an increase in activin signaling, and phosphorylated SMAD3 directly bound the ABCG2 promoter regulatory region. Finally, pharmacological inhibition of TGF-β/activin receptors or genetic silencing of SMAD4, a transcriptional partner of SMAD3, reversed the upregulation of ABCG2 in resistant cells and phenocopied ABCG2 inhibition. This study reveals that inhibiting the TGF-β/Activin-ABCG2 pathway is a potential avenue for preventing or overcoming resistance to CDK7 inhibitors.
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Noguchi S, Hirano K, Tanimoto N, Shimada T, Akiyoshi H. SLUG is upregulated and induces epithelial mesenchymal transition in canine oral squamous cell carcinoma. Vet Comp Oncol 2021; 20:134-141. [PMID: 34310030 DOI: 10.1111/vco.12755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
SLUG, encoded by the Snai2 gene, is known to play a role in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which contributes to cell invasion and metastasis in some types of human carcinomas. However, the mechanisms and roles of EMT in canine squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) have not yet been elucidated. We have previously established canine oral SCC cell lines, including tonsillar SCC, and in this study, we evaluated the effects of SLUG on the phenotypes regarding EMT of canine SCC cells. First, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that SLUG is upregulated in canine oral SCC tissues compared to that in non-tumoural oral mucosa. Furthermore, gain-of-function and loss-of-function of SLUG revealed that SLUG partly contributed to migration and invasion of cells, as well as the upregulation of EMT markers such as vimentin and SNAIL. Thus, the current study suggests that SLUG promotes cell migration and invasion through EMT induction in canine oral SCC, as well as human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunsuke Noguchi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Radiology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazuya Hirano
- Laboratory of Veterinary Radiology, College of Life, Environment, and Advanced Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Nanami Tanimoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Radiology, College of Life, Environment, and Advanced Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Terumasa Shimada
- Veterinary Medical Center, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hideo Akiyoshi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, Japan
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González-González R, Ortiz-Sarabia G, Molina-Frechero N, Salas-Pacheco JM, Salas-Pacheco SM, Lavalle-Carrasco J, López-Verdín S, Tremillo-Maldonado O, Bologna-Molina R. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Associated with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas: A Review. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13123027. [PMID: 34204259 PMCID: PMC8234594 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are aggressive, recurrent, and metastatic neoplasms with a high occurrence around the world and can lead to death when not treated appropriately. Several molecules and signaling pathways are involved in the malignant conversion process. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been described in HNSCCs, a major type of aggressive carcinoma. EMT describes the development of epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells, which depends on several molecular interactions and signaling pathways that facilitate mesenchymal conversion. This is related to interactions with the microenvironment of the tumor, hypoxia, growth factors, matrix metalloproteinases, and the presence of viral infections. In this review, we focus on the main molecules related to EMT, their interactions with the tumor microenvironment, plasticity phenomena, epigenetic regulation, hypoxia, inflammation, their relationship with immune cells, and the inhibition of EMT in the context of HNSCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogelio González-González
- Department of Research, School of Dentistry, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango 34000, Mexico; (R.G.-G.); (G.O.-S.); (O.T.-M.)
| | - Gamaliel Ortiz-Sarabia
- Department of Research, School of Dentistry, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango 34000, Mexico; (R.G.-G.); (G.O.-S.); (O.T.-M.)
| | - Nelly Molina-Frechero
- Xochimilco Unit, Department of Health Care, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) Xochimilco, Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (N.M.-F.); (J.L.-C.)
| | - José Manuel Salas-Pacheco
- Scientific Research Institute, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Avenida Universidad S/N, Durango 34000, Mexico; (J.M.S.-P.); (S.M.S.-P.)
| | - Sergio Manuel Salas-Pacheco
- Scientific Research Institute, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Avenida Universidad S/N, Durango 34000, Mexico; (J.M.S.-P.); (S.M.S.-P.)
| | - Jesús Lavalle-Carrasco
- Xochimilco Unit, Department of Health Care, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) Xochimilco, Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (N.M.-F.); (J.L.-C.)
| | - Sandra López-Verdín
- Health Science Center, Dentistry Research Institute, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 4430, Mexico;
| | - Omar Tremillo-Maldonado
- Department of Research, School of Dentistry, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango 34000, Mexico; (R.G.-G.); (G.O.-S.); (O.T.-M.)
| | - Ronell Bologna-Molina
- Department of Research, School of Dentistry, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango 34000, Mexico; (R.G.-G.); (G.O.-S.); (O.T.-M.)
- Molecular Pathology Area, School of Dentistry, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11600, Uruguay
- Correspondence:
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Abstract
The HOXC10 gene, a member of the HOX genes family, plays crucial roles in mammalian physiological processes, such as limb morphological development, limb regeneration, and lumbar motor neuron differentiation. HOXC10 is also associated with angiogenesis, fat metabolism, and sex regulation. Additional evidence suggests that HOXC10 dysregulation is closely associated with various tumors. HOXC10 is an important transcription factor that can activate several oncogenic pathways by regulating various target molecules such as ERK, AKT, p65, and epithelial mesenchymal transition-related genes. HOXC10 also induces drug resistance in cancers by promoting the DNA repair pathway. In this review, we summarize HOXC10 gene structure and expression as well as the role of HOXC10 in different human cancer processes. This review will provide insight into the status of HOXC10 research and help identify novel targets for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyong Fang
- Department of Science and Education, Jinhua Guangfu Oncology Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Jianjun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Jinhua Guangfu Oncology Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Liangliang Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Medical School of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenxia Xu
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
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21
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Ingruber J, Savic D, Steinbichler TB, Sprung S, Fleischer F, Glueckert R, Schweigl G, Skvortsova II, Riechelmann H, Dudás J. KLF4, Slug and EMT in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030539. [PMID: 33802627 PMCID: PMC7998447 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is clinically relevant in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We hypothesized that EMT-transcription factors (EMT-TFs) and an anti-EMT factor, Krüppel-like-factor-4 (KLF4) regulate EMT in HNSCC. Ten control mucosa and 37 HNSCC tissue samples and three HNSCC cell lines were included for investigation of EMT-TFs, KLF4 and vimentin at mRNA and protein levels. Slug gene expression was significantly higher, whereas, KLF4 gene expression was significantly lower in HNSCC than in normal mucosa. In the majority of HNSCC samples, there was a significant negative correlation between KLF4 and Slug gene expression. Slug gene expression was significantly higher in human papilloma virus (HPV) negative HNSCC, and in tumor samples with irregular p53 gene sequence. Transforming-growth-factor-beta-1 (TGF- β1) contributed to downregulation of KLF4 and upregulation of Slug. Two possible regulatory pathways could be suggested: (1) EMT-factors induced pathway, where TGF-β1 induced Slug together with vimentin, and KLF4 was down regulated at the same time; (2) p53 mutations contributed to upregulation and stabilization of Slug, where also KLF4 could co-exist with EMT-TFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Ingruber
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, University Hospital of Tyrol, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.I.); (T.B.S.); (F.F.); (R.G.); (G.S.); (H.R.)
| | - Dragana Savic
- Laboratory for Experimental and Translational Research on Radiation Oncology (EXTRO-Lab), Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (D.S.); (I.-I.S.)
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Teresa Bernadette Steinbichler
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, University Hospital of Tyrol, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.I.); (T.B.S.); (F.F.); (R.G.); (G.S.); (H.R.)
| | - Susanne Sprung
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Felix Fleischer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, University Hospital of Tyrol, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.I.); (T.B.S.); (F.F.); (R.G.); (G.S.); (H.R.)
- Department of Restorative and Operative Dentistry, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Rudolf Glueckert
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, University Hospital of Tyrol, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.I.); (T.B.S.); (F.F.); (R.G.); (G.S.); (H.R.)
| | - Gabriele Schweigl
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, University Hospital of Tyrol, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.I.); (T.B.S.); (F.F.); (R.G.); (G.S.); (H.R.)
| | - Ira-Ida Skvortsova
- Laboratory for Experimental and Translational Research on Radiation Oncology (EXTRO-Lab), Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (D.S.); (I.-I.S.)
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Herbert Riechelmann
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, University Hospital of Tyrol, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.I.); (T.B.S.); (F.F.); (R.G.); (G.S.); (H.R.)
| | - József Dudás
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, University Hospital of Tyrol, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.I.); (T.B.S.); (F.F.); (R.G.); (G.S.); (H.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-512-5048-2475
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Riechelmann H, Steinbichler TB, Sprung S, Santer M, Runge A, Ganswindt U, Gamerith G, Dudas J. The Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transcription Factor Slug Predicts Survival Benefit of Up-Front Surgery in Head and Neck Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040772. [PMID: 33673269 PMCID: PMC7918715 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In preclinical studies, the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related transcription factor Slug indicated radio- and chemoresistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Here we show that Slug is a biomarker associated with treatment failure in HNSCC patients treated with primary radio- or radiochemotherapy, but not in patients undergoing upfront surgery and postoperative radio- or chemoradiotherapy. Slug may thus serve as a predictive biomarker to identify HNSCC patients who will benefit from upfront surgery. Slug status is an immunohistochemical (IHC) parameter that is easy to determine. If the predictive value observed here can be confirmed in validation studies with independent data, Slug immunohistochemistry may have significant clinical relevance in treatment planning for HNSCC patients. Abstract EMT promotes radio- and chemotherapy resistance in HNSCC in vitro. As EMT has been correlated to the transcription factor Slug in tumor specimens from HNSCC patients, we assessed whether Slug overexpression predicts radio- and chemotherapy resistance and favors upfront surgery in HNSCC patients. Slug expression was determined by IHC scoring in tumor specimens from patients with incident HNSCC. Patients were treated with either definitive radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy (primary RT/CRT) or upfront surgery with or without postoperative RT or CRT (upfront surgery/PORT). Treatment failure rates and overall survival (OS) were compared between RT/CRT and upfront surgery/PORT in Slug-positive and Slug-negative patients. Slug IHC was positive in 91/354 HNSCC patients. Primary RT/CRT showed inferior response rates (univariate odds ratio (OR) for treatment failure, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.7 to 7.9; p = 0.001) and inferior 5-year OS (univariate, p < 0.001) in Slug-positive patients. The independent predictive value of Slug expression status was confirmed in a multivariable Cox model (p = 0.017). Slug-positive patients had a 3.3 times better chance of survival when treated with upfront surgery/PORT versus primary RT/CRT. For HNSCC patients, Slug IHC represents a novel and feasible predictive biomarker to support upfront surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert Riechelmann
- Department for Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (H.R.); (M.S.); (A.R.); (J.D.)
| | - Teresa Bernadette Steinbichler
- Department for Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (H.R.); (M.S.); (A.R.); (J.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Susanne Sprung
- Institute of Pathology, Neuropathology and Molecular Pathology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Matthias Santer
- Department for Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (H.R.); (M.S.); (A.R.); (J.D.)
| | - Annette Runge
- Department for Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (H.R.); (M.S.); (A.R.); (J.D.)
| | - Ute Ganswindt
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Gabriele Gamerith
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Medical University Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Jozsef Dudas
- Department for Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (H.R.); (M.S.); (A.R.); (J.D.)
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Subbalakshmi AR, Sahoo S, Biswas K, Jolly MK. A Computational Systems Biology Approach Identifies SLUG as a Mediator of Partial Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT). Cells Tissues Organs 2021; 211:689-702. [PMID: 33567424 DOI: 10.1159/000512520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity comprises reversible transitions among epithelial, hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal (E/M) and mesenchymal phenotypes, and underlies various aspects of aggressive tumor progression such as metastasis, therapy resistance, and immune evasion. The process of cells attaining one or more hybrid E/M phenotypes is termed as partial epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). Cells in hybrid E/M phenotype(s) can be more aggressive than those in either fully epithelial or mesenchymal state. Thus, identifying regulators of hybrid E/M phenotypes is essential to decipher the rheostats of phenotypic plasticity and consequent accelerators of metastasis. Here, using a computational systems biology approach, we demonstrate that SLUG (SNAIL2) - an EMT-inducing transcription factor - can inhibit cells from undergoing a complete EMT and thus stabilize them in hybrid E/M phenotype(s). It expands the parametric range enabling the existence of a hybrid E/M phenotype, thereby behaving as a phenotypic stability factor. Our simulations suggest that this specific property of SLUG emerges from the topology of the regulatory network it forms with other key regulators of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity. Clinical data suggest that SLUG associates with worse patient prognosis across multiple carcinomas. Together, our results indicate that SLUG can stabilize hybrid E/M phenotype(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayalur R Subbalakshmi
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Sarthak Sahoo
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Kuheli Biswas
- Department of Physical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, India
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India,
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