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Manoharan S, Saha S, Murugesan K, Santhakumar A, Perumal E. Natural bioactive compounds and STAT3 against hepatocellular carcinoma: An update. Life Sci 2024; 337:122351. [PMID: 38103726 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a challenging and very fatal liver cancer. The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway is a crucial regulator of tumor development and are ubiquitously active in HCC. Therefore, targeting STAT3 has emerged as a promising approach for preventing and treating HCC. Various natural bioactive compounds (NBCs) have been proven to target STAT3 and have the potential to prevent and treat HCC as STAT3 inhibitors. Numerous kinds of STAT3 inhibitors have been identified, including small molecule inhibitors, peptide inhibitors, and oligonucleotide inhibitors. Due to the undesirable side effects of the conventional therapeutic drugs against HCC, the focus is shifted to NBCs derived from plants and other natural sources. NBCs can be broadly classified into the categories of terpenes, alkaloids, carotenoids, and phenols. Most of the compounds belong to the family of terpenes, which prevent tumorigenesis by inhibiting STAT3 nuclear translocation. Further, through STAT3 inhibition, terpenes downregulate matrix metalloprotease 2 (MMP2), matrix metalloprotease 9 (MMP9) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), modulating metastasis. Terpenes also suppress the anti-apoptotic proteins and cell cycle markers. This review provides comprehensive information related to STAT3 abrogation by NBCs in HCC with in vitro and in vivo evidences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suryaa Manoharan
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641 046, India
| | - Shreejit Saha
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641 046, India
| | - Krishnasanthiya Murugesan
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641 046, India
| | - Aksayakeerthana Santhakumar
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641 046, India
| | - Ekambaram Perumal
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641 046, India.
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2
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Tantawy SI, Timofeeva N, Sarkar A, Gandhi V. Targeting MCL-1 protein to treat cancer: opportunities and challenges. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1226289. [PMID: 37601693 PMCID: PMC10436212 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1226289] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Evading apoptosis has been linked to tumor development and chemoresistance. One mechanism for this evasion is the overexpression of prosurvival B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) family proteins, which gives cancer cells a survival advantage. Mcl-1, a member of the BCL-2 family, is among the most frequently amplified genes in cancer. Targeting myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL-1) protein is a successful strategy to induce apoptosis and overcome tumor resistance to chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Various strategies to inhibit the antiapoptotic activity of MCL-1 protein, including transcription, translation, and the degradation of MCL-1 protein, have been tested. Neutralizing MCL-1's function by targeting its interactions with other proteins via BCL-2 interacting mediator (BIM)S2A has been shown to be an equally effective approach. Encouraged by the design of venetoclax and its efficacy in chronic lymphocytic leukemia, scientists have developed other BCL-2 homology (BH3) mimetics-particularly MCL-1 inhibitors (MCL-1i)-that are currently in clinical trials for various cancers. While extensive reviews of MCL-1i are available, critical analyses focusing on the challenges of MCL-1i and their optimization are lacking. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge regarding clinically relevant MCL-1i and focus on predictive biomarkers of response, mechanisms of resistance, major issues associated with use of MCL-1i, and the future use of and maximization of the benefits from these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shady I. Tantawy
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Natalia Timofeeva
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Aloke Sarkar
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Varsha Gandhi
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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3
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Chen L, Jiang X, Gao S, Liu X, Gao Y, Kow ASF, Tham CL, Lee MT. Sensitization effect of kaempferol from persimmon leaves on HepG2 hepatoma cells with ABT-199 resistance and its molecular mechanisms. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1032069. [PMID: 36386146 PMCID: PMC9663918 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1032069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
ABT-199 (venetoclax) is the first-in-class selective B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) inhibitor, which is known to be ineffective towards liver cancer cells. Here, we investigated the efficacy and the underlying molecular processes of the sensitization effect of kaempferol isolated from persimmon leaves (KPL) on the ABT-199-resistant HepG2 cells. The effects of various doses of KPL coupled with ABT-199 on the proliferation of HepG2 cells and on the H22 liver tumor-bearing mouse model were examined, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Our findings showed that ABT-199 alone, in contrast to KPL, had no significant impact on hepatoma cell growth, both in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, the combination therapy showed significantly higher anti-hepatoma efficacy. Mechanistic studies revealed that combining KPL and ABT-199 may promote both early and late apoptosis, as well as decrease the mitochondrial membrane potential in HepG2 cells. Western blot analysis showed that combination of KPL and ABT-199 significantly reduced the expression of the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, and Mcl-1, raised the expression of Bax and cleaved caspase 3, and enhanced cytochrome C release and Bax translocation. Therefore, KPL combined with ABT-199 has a potential application prospect in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, China
| | - Xudong Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, China
| | - Si Gao
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, China
| | - Xueping Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, China
| | - Ying Gao
- International Ginseng Institute, School of Agriculture, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, United States
| | | | - Chau Ling Tham
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ming Tatt Lee
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,*Correspondence: Ming Tatt Lee,
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4
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Huang AT, Du J, Liu ZY, Zhang GC, Abuduwaili W, Yan JY, Sun JL, Xu RC, Liu TT, Shen XZ, Dong L, Zhu JM, Li Y. Sorafenib-Loaded Cu 2-xSe Nanoparticles Boost Photothermal-Synergistic Targeted Therapy against Hepatocellular Carcinoma. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:nano12183191. [PMID: 36144982 PMCID: PMC9505850 DOI: 10.3390/nano12183191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for the predominant form of liver malignancy and presents a leading cause of cancer-related death globally. Sorafenib (SOR), a first-line targeted drug for advanced HCC treatment, has a battery of untoward side effects. Photothermal therapy (PTT) has been utilized as an effective adjuvant in synergy with other approaches. However, little is known about the tumoricidal efficacy of combining SOR with PTT for HCC. Herein, a novel versatile nanoparticle, Cu2-xSe@SOR@PEG (CSP), that is based on a photothermal Cu2-xSe core and SOR for simultaneously reinforcing PTT and reducing the adverse effects of SOR was constructed. The synthesized CSP exhibited a remarkably enhanced therapeutic effect upon 808 nm laser irradiation via dampening HCC cell propagation and metastasis and propelling cell apoptosis. The intravenous administration of CSP substantially suppressed tumor growth in a xenograft tumor mouse model. It was noted that the CSP manifested low toxicity and excellent biocompatibility. Together, this work indicates a promising and versatile tool that is based on synergistic PTT and molecular-targeted therapy for HCC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Tian Huang
- Institute of Bismuth and Rhenium, School of Materials and Chemistry, Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center of Energy Therapy for Tumors, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jun Du
- Institute of Bismuth and Rhenium, School of Materials and Chemistry, Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center of Energy Therapy for Tumors, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Zhi-Yong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Guang-Cong Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Weinire Abuduwaili
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jia-Yan Yan
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jia-Lei Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ru-Chen Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Tao-Tao Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xi-Zhong Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ling Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ji-Min Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yuhao Li
- Institute of Bismuth and Rhenium, School of Materials and Chemistry, Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center of Energy Therapy for Tumors, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
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Jia J, Che L, Cigliano A, Wang X, Peitta G, Tao J, Zhong S, Ribback S, Evert M, Chen X, Calvisi DF. Pivotal Role of Fatty Acid Synthase in c-MYC Driven Hepatocarcinogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228467. [PMID: 33187130 PMCID: PMC7696085 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a deadly form of liver malignancy with limited treatment options. Amplification and/or overexpression of c-MYC is one of the most frequent genetic events in human HCC. The mammalian target of Rapamycin Complex 1 (mTORC1) is a major functional axis regulating various aspects of cellular growth and metabolism. Recently, we demonstrated that mTORC1 is necessary for c-Myc driven hepatocarcinogenesis as well as for HCC cell growth in vitro. Among the pivotal downstream effectors of mTORC1, upregulation of Fatty Acid Synthase (FASN) and its mediated de novo lipogenesis is a hallmark of human HCC. Here, we investigated the importance of FASN on c-Myc-dependent hepatocarcinogenesis using in vitro and in vivo approaches. In mouse and human HCC cells, we found that FASN suppression by either gene silencing or soluble inhibitors more effectively suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis in the presence of high c-MYC expression. In c-Myc/Myeloid cell leukemia 1 (MCL1) mouse liver tumor lesions, FASN expression was markedly upregulated. Most importantly, genetic ablation of Fasn profoundly delayed (without abolishing) c-Myc/MCL1 induced HCC formation. Liver tumors developing in c-Myc/MCL1 mice depleted of Fasn showed a reduction in proliferation and an increase in apoptosis when compared with corresponding lesions from c-Myc/MCL1 mice with an intact Fasn gene. In human HCC samples, a significant correlation between the levels of c-MYC transcriptional activity and the expression of FASN mRNA was detected. Altogether, our study indicates that FASN is an important effector downstream of mTORC1 in c-MYC induced HCC. Targeting FASN may be helpful for the treatment of human HCC, at least in the tumor subset displaying c-MYC amplification or activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoyuan Jia
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (J.J.); (L.C.); (J.T.); (S.Z.)
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, the Second Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Li Che
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (J.J.); (L.C.); (J.T.); (S.Z.)
- Legend Biotech USA R&D Center, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Antonio Cigliano
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (A.C.); (G.P.); (M.E.)
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Xue Wang
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA;
| | - Graziella Peitta
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (A.C.); (G.P.); (M.E.)
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Junyan Tao
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (J.J.); (L.C.); (J.T.); (S.Z.)
| | - Sheng Zhong
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (J.J.); (L.C.); (J.T.); (S.Z.)
| | - Silvia Ribback
- Institute of Pathology, University of Greifswald, 17475 Greifswald, Germany;
| | - Matthias Evert
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (A.C.); (G.P.); (M.E.)
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (J.J.); (L.C.); (J.T.); (S.Z.)
- Correspondence: (X.C.); (D.F.C.); Tel.: +1-415-502-6526 (X.C.); +39-079-228306 (D.F.C.)
| | - Diego F. Calvisi
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
- Correspondence: (X.C.); (D.F.C.); Tel.: +1-415-502-6526 (X.C.); +39-079-228306 (D.F.C.)
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6
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Ali Hosseini Rad SM, Min Yi Tan G, Poudel A, He K, McLellan AD. Regulation of human Mcl-1 by a divergently-expressed antisense transcript. Gene 2020; 762:145016. [PMID: 32777522 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.145016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mcl-1 is a member of the Bcl-2 anti-apoptotic protein family with important roles in the development, lifespan and metabolism of lymphocytes, as well as oncogenesis. Mcl-1 displays the shortest half-life of all Bcl-2 family members, with miRNA interference and proteasomal degradation being major pathways for Mcl-1 downregulation. In this study, we have identified a previously undescribed control mechanism active at the RNA level. A divergently transcribed lncRNA LOC107985203 (named here mcl1-AS1) negatively modulated Mcl-1 expression resulting in downregulation of Mcl-1 at both mRNA and protein level in a time-dependent manner. Using reporter assays, we confirmed that the mcl1-AS1 lncRNA promoter was located within Mcl-1 coding region. We next placed mcl1-AS1 under tetracycline-inducible control and demonstrated decreased viability in HEK293 cells upon doxycycline induction. Inhibition of mcl1-AS1 with shRNA reversed drug sensitivity. Bioinformatics surveys predicted direct mcl1-AS1 lncRNA binding to Mcl-1 transcripts, suggesting its mechanism in Mcl-1 expression is at the transcriptional level, consistent with a common role for anti-sense transcripts. The identification of a bi-directional promoter and lncRNA controlling Mcl-1 expression will have implications for controlling Mcl-1 activity in cancer cells, or for the purpose of enhancing the lifespan and quality of anti-cancer T lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Ali Hosseini Rad
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9010, Otago, New Zealand.
| | - Grace Min Yi Tan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9010, Otago, New Zealand
| | - Aarati Poudel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9010, Otago, New Zealand
| | - Kevin He
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9010, Otago, New Zealand
| | - Alexander D McLellan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9010, Otago, New Zealand.
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Zhang H, Li G, Zhang Y, Shi J, Yan B, Tang H, Chen S, Zhang J, Wen P, Wang Z, Pang C, Li J, Guo W, Zhang S. Targeting BET Proteins With a PROTAC Molecule Elicits Potent Anticancer Activity in HCC Cells. Front Oncol 2020; 9:1471. [PMID: 31993368 PMCID: PMC6971110 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) family proteins are epigenetic regulators involved in human malignances. Targeting BET proteins for degradation using proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) recently has drawn increasing attention in the field of cancer therapeutics. BET proteins have been found to be overexpressed in HCC cells and tumor tissues. However, the biological activity of BET-PROTACs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. In this study, we investigated anti-HCC activity of BETd-260, a BET-PROTAC molecule using in vitro and in vivo models. Methods: BETd-260-mediated anti-HCC activity was investigated by cell viability, apoptosis assays. Efficacy was examined with a cell lines-derived HCC xenograft model in mice. Anticancer mechanism was investigated by RT-PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemical staining. Results: BETd-260 potently suppressed cell viability and robustly induced apoptosis in HCC cells. BETd-260 reciprocally modulated the expression of several apoptotic genes in HCC cells, i.e., suppressing the expression of anti-apoptotic Mcl-1, Bcl-2, c-Myc, and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP), whereas increasing the expression of pro-apoptotic Bad. BETd-260 treatment led to disruption of mitochondrial membrane integrity, and triggered apoptosis via intrinsic signaling in HCC cells. BETd-260 triggered apoptosis in HCC xenograft tissue and profoundly inhibited the growth of HCC xenograft tumors in mice. Conclusion: Our data suggest that pharmacological targeting of BET for degradation may be a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huapeng Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gongquan Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jihua Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bing Yan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongwei Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sanyang Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiakai Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Peihao Wen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhihui Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chun Pang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenzhi Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuijun Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
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8
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Models for Understanding Resistance to Chemotherapy in Liver Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111677. [PMID: 31671735 PMCID: PMC6896032 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of response to pharmacological treatment constitutes a substantial limitation in the handling of patients with primary liver cancers (PLCs). The existence of active mechanisms of chemoresistance (MOCs) in hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, and hepatoblastoma hampers the usefulness of chemotherapy. A better understanding of MOCs is needed to develop strategies able to overcome drug refractoriness in PLCs. With this aim, several experimental models are commonly used. These include in vitro cell-free assays using subcellular systems; studies with primary cell cultures; cancer cell lines or heterologous expression systems; multicellular models, such as spheroids and organoids; and a variety of in vivo models in rodents, such as subcutaneous and orthotopic tumor xenografts or chemically or genetically induced liver carcinogenesis. Novel methods to perform programmed genomic edition and more efficient techniques to isolate circulating microvesicles offer new opportunities for establishing useful experimental tools for understanding the resistance to chemotherapy in PLCs. In the present review, using three criteria for information organization: (1) level of research; (2) type of MOC; and (3) type of PLC, we have summarized the advantages and limitations of the armamentarium available in the field of pharmacological investigation of PLC chemoresistance.
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MicroRNA-302b Enhances the Sensitivity of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Lines to 5-FU via Targeting Mcl-1 and DPYD. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:23668-82. [PMID: 26457704 PMCID: PMC4632720 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161023668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MiR-302b is a member of miR-302-367 cluster. The miR-302-367 cluster played important roles in maintaining pluripotency in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and has been proved to be capable of suppressing cell growth in several types of cancer cell lines including Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Cell lines. However, the role that miR-302b plays in the 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) sensitivity of HCC has not been known. This study showed that miR-302b could enhance the sensitivity to 5-FU in HCC cell lines and verified its two putative targeted genes responsible for its 5-FU sensitivity.
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Koehler BC, Urbanik T, Vick B, Boger RJ, Heeger S, Galle PR, Schuchmann M, Schulze-Bergkamen H. TRAIL-induced apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells is augmented by targeted therapies. World J Gastroenterol 2009; 15:5924-35. [PMID: 20014456 PMCID: PMC2795179 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.15.5924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To analyze the effect of chemotherapeutic drugs and specific kinase inhibitors, in combination with the death receptor ligand tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL), on overcoming TRAIL resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to study the efficacy of agonistic TRAIL antibodies, as well as the commitment of antiapoptotic BCL-2 proteins, in TRAIL-induced apoptosis.
METHODS: Surface expression of TRAIL receptors (TRAIL-R1-4) and expression levels of the antiapoptotic BCL-2 proteins MCL-1 and BCL-xL were analyzed by flow cytometry and Western blotting, respectively. Knock-down of MCL-1 and BCL-xL was performed by transfecting specific small interfering RNAs. HCC cells were treated with kinase inhibitors and chemotherapeutic drugs. Apoptosis induction and cell viability were analyzed via flow cytometry and 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay.
RESULTS: TRAIL-R1 and -R2 were profoundly expressed on the HCC cell lines Huh7 and Hep-G2. However, treatment of Huh7 and Hep-G2 with TRAIL and agonistic antibodies only induced minor apoptosis rates. Apoptosis resistance towards TRAIL could be considerably reduced by adding the chemotherapeutic drugs 5-fluorouracil and doxorubicin as well as the kinase inhibitors LY294002 [inhibition of phosphoinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)], AG1478 (epidermal growth factor receptor kinase), PD98059 (MEK1), rapamycin (mammalian target of rapamycin) and the multi-kinase inhibitor Sorafenib. Furthermore, the antiapoptotic BCL-2 proteins MCL-1 and BCL-xL play a major role in TRAIL resistance: knock-down by RNA interference increased TRAIL-induced apoptosis of HCC cells. Additionally, knock-down of MCL-1 and BCL-xL led to a significant sensitization of HCC cells towards inhibition of both c-Jun N-terminal kinase and PI3K.
CONCLUSION: Our data identify the blockage of survival kinases, combination with chemotherapeutic drugs and targeting of antiapoptotic BCL-2 proteins as promising ways to overcome TRAIL resistance in HCC.
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Schulze-Bergkamen H, Ehrenberg R, Hickmann L, Vick B, Urbanik T, Schimanski CC, Berger MR, Schad A, Weber A, Heeger S, Galle PR, Moehler M. Bcl-x L and Myeloid cell leukaemia-1 contribute to apoptosis resistance of colorectal cancer cells. World J Gastroenterol 2008; 14:3829-40. [PMID: 18609706 PMCID: PMC2721439 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.14.3829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To explore the role of Bcl-xL and Myeloid cell leukaemia (Mcl)-1 for the apoptosis resistance of colorectal carcinoma (CRC) cells towards current treatment modalities.
METHODS: Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 mRNA and protein expression were analyzed in CRC cell lines as well as human CRC tissue by Western blot, quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 protein expression was knocked down or increased in CRC cell lines by applying specific siRNAs or expression plasmids, respectively. After modulation of protein expression, CRC cells were treated with chemotherapeutic agents, an antagonistic epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR1) antibody, an EGFR1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor, or with the death receptor ligand TRAIL. Apoptosis induction and cell viability were analyzed.
RESULTS: Here we show that in human CRC tissue and various CRC cell lines both Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 are expressed. Bcl-xL expression was higher in CRC tissue than in surrounding non-malignant tissue, both on protein and mRNA level. Mcl-1 mRNA expression was significantly lower in malignant tissues. However, protein expression was slightly higher. Viability rates of CRC cells were significantly decreased after knock down of Bcl-xL expression, and, to a lower extent, after knock down of Mcl-1 expression. Furthermore, cells with reduced Bcl-xL or Mcl-1 expression was more sensitive towards oxaliplatin- and irinotecan-induced apoptosis, and in the case of Bcl-xL also towards 5-FU-induced apoptosis. On the other hand, upregulation of Bcl-xL by transfection of an expression plasmid decreased chemotherapeutic drug-induced apoptosis. EGF treatment clearly induced Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 expression in CRC cells. Apoptosis induction upon EGFR1 blockage by cetuximab or PD168393 was increased by inhibiting Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL expression. More strikingly, CD95- and TRAIL-induced apoptosis was increased by Bcl-xL knock down.
CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that Bcl-xL and, to a lower extent, Mcl-1, are important anti-apoptotic factors in CRC. Specific downregulation of Bcl-xL is a promising approach to sensitize CRC cells towards chemotherapy and targeted therapy.
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Chetoui N, Sylla K, Gagnon-Houde JV, Alcaide-Loridan C, Charron D, Al-Daccak R, Aoudjit F. Down-regulation of mcl-1 by small interfering RNA sensitizes resistant melanoma cells to fas-mediated apoptosis. Mol Cancer Res 2008; 6:42-52. [PMID: 18234961 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-07-0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Resistance of malignant melanoma cells to Fas-mediated apoptosis is among the mechanisms by which they escape immune surveillance. However, the mechanisms contributing to their resistance are not completely understood, and it is still unclear whether antiapoptotic Bcl-2-related family proteins play a role in this resistance. In this study, we report that treatment of Fas-resistant melanoma cell lines with cycloheximide, a general inhibitor of de novo protein synthesis, sensitizes them to anti-Fas monoclonal antibody (mAb)-induced apoptosis. The cycloheximide-induced sensitization to Fas-induced apoptosis is associated with a rapid down-regulation of Mcl-1 protein levels, but not that of Bcl-2 or Bcl-xL. Targeting Mcl-1 in these melanoma cell lines with specific small interfering RNA was sufficient to sensitize them to both anti-Fas mAb-induced apoptosis and activation of caspase-9. Furthermore, ectopic expression of Mcl-1 in a Fas-sensitive melanoma cell line rescues the cells from Fas-mediated apoptosis. Our results further show that the expression of Mcl-1 in melanoma cells is regulated by the mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and not by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT signaling pathway. Inhibition of ERK signaling with the mitogen-activated protein/ERK kinase-1 inhibitor or by expressing a dominant negative form of mitogen-activated protein/ERK kinase-1 also sensitizes resistant melanoma cells to anti-Fas mAb-induced apoptosis. Thus, our study identifies mitogen-activated protein kinase/ERK/Mcl-1 as an important survival signaling pathway in the resistance of melanoma cells to Fas-mediated apoptosis and suggests that its targeting may contribute to the elimination of melanoma tumors by the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nizar Chetoui
- Centre de Recherche en Rhumatologie et Immunologie, CHUQ Pavillon CHUL, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada
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Liu L, Cao Y, Chen C, Zhang X, McNabola A, Wilkie D, Wilhelm S, Lynch M, Carter C. Sorafenib blocks the RAF/MEK/ERK pathway, inhibits tumor angiogenesis, and induces tumor cell apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma model PLC/PRF/5. Cancer Res 2007; 66:11851-8. [PMID: 17178882 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-06-1377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1129] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis and signaling through the RAF/mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) kinase (MEK)/ERK cascade have been reported to play important roles in the development of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC). Sorafenib (BAY 43-9006, Nexavar) is a multikinase inhibitor with activity against Raf kinase and several receptor tyrosine kinases, including vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), FLT3, Ret, and c-Kit. In this study, we investigated the in vitro effects of sorafenib on PLC/PRF/5 and HepG2 HCC cells and the in vivo antitumor efficacy and mechanism of action on PLC/PRF/5 human tumor xenografts in severe combined immunodeficient mice. Sorafenib inhibited the phosphorylation of MEK and ERK and down-regulated cyclin D1 levels in these two cell lines. Sorafenib also reduced the phosphorylation level of eIF4E and down-regulated the antiapoptotic protein Mcl-1 in a MEK/ERK-independent manner. Consistent with the effects on both MEK/ERK-dependent and MEK/ERK-independent signaling pathways, sorafenib inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in both HCC cell lines. In the PLC/PRF/5 xenograft model, sorafenib tosylate dosed at 10 mg/kg inhibited tumor growth by 49%. At 30 mg/kg, sorafenib tosylate produced complete tumor growth inhibition. A dose of 100 mg/kg produced partial tumor regressions in 50% of the mice. In mechanism of action studies, sorafenib inhibited the phosphorylation of both ERK and eIF4E, reduced the microvessel area (assessed by CD34 immunohistochemistry), and induced tumor cell apoptosis (assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick end labeling) in PLC/PRF/5 tumor xenografts. These results suggest that the antitumor activity of sorafenib in HCC models may be attributed to inhibition of tumor angiogenesis (VEGFR and PDGFR) and direct effects on tumor cell proliferation/survival (Raf kinase signaling-dependent and signaling-independent mechanisms).
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- Department of Cancer Biology, Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, West Haven, Connecticut 06516, USA.
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Kern MA, Haugg AM, Koch AF, Schilling T, Breuhahn K, Walczak H, Fleischer B, Trautwein C, Michalski C, Schulze-Bergkamen H, Friess H, Stremmel W, Krammer PH, Schirmacher P, Müller M. Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibition Induces Apoptosis Signaling via Death Receptors and Mitochondria in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancer Res 2006; 66:7059-66. [PMID: 16849551 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-06-0325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 elicits chemopreventive and therapeutic effects in solid tumors that are coupled with the induction of apoptosis in tumor cells. We investigated the mechanisms by which COX-2 inhibition induces apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. COX-2 inhibition triggered expression of the CD95, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-R, and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)-R1 and TRAIL-R2 death receptors. Addition of the respective specific ligands further increased apoptosis, indicating that COX-2 inhibition induced the expression of functional death receptors. Overexpression of a dominant-negative Fas-associated death domain mutant reduced COX-2 inhibitor-mediated apoptosis. Furthermore, our findings showed a link between COX-2 inhibition and the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. COX-2 inhibition led to a rapid down-regulation of myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1), an antiapoptotic member of the Bcl-2 family, followed by translocation of Bax to mitochondria and cytochrome c release from mitochondria. Consequently, overexpression of Mcl-1 led to inhibition of COX-2 inhibitor-mediated apoptosis. Furthermore, blocking endogenous Mcl-1 function using a small-interfering RNA approach enhanced COX-2 inhibitor-mediated apoptosis. It is of clinical importance that celecoxib acted synergistically with chemotherapeutic drugs in the induction of apoptosis in HCC cells. The clinical relevance of these results is further substantiated by the finding that COX-2 inhibitors did not sensitize primary human hepatocytes toward chemotherapy-induced apoptosis. In conclusion, COX-2 inhibition engages different apoptosis pathways in HCC cells stimulating death receptor signaling, activation of caspases, and apoptosis originating from mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Kern
- Institute of Pathology and Department of General Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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N/A. N/A. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2006; 14:1755-1761. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v14.i18.1755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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