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Deng B, Liu F, Chen N, Li X, Lei J, Chen N, Wu J, Wang X, Lu J, Fang M, Chen A, Zhang Z, He B, Yan M, Zhang Y, Wang Z, Liu Q. AURKA emerges as a vulnerable target for KEAP1-deficient non-small cell lung cancer by activation of asparagine synthesis. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:233. [PMID: 38521813 PMCID: PMC10960834 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06577-x] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
AURKA is an established target for cancer therapy; however, the efficacy of its inhibitors in clinical trials is hindered by differential response rates across different tumor subtypes. In this study, we demonstrate AURKA regulates amino acid synthesis, rendering it a vulnerable target in KEAP1-deficient non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Through CRISPR metabolic screens, we identified that KEAP1-knockdown cells showed the highest sensitivity to the AURKA inhibitor MLN8237. Subsequent investigations confirmed that KEAP1 deficiency heightens the susceptibility of NSCLC cells to AURKA inhibition both in vitro and in vivo, with the response depending on NRF2 activation. Mechanistically, AURKA interacts with the eIF2α kinase GCN2 and maintains its phosphorylation to regulate eIF2α-ATF4-mediated amino acid biosynthesis. AURKA inhibition restrains the expression of asparagine synthetase (ASNS), making KEAP1-deficient NSCLC cells vulnerable to AURKA inhibitors, in which ASNS is highly expressed. Our study unveils the pivotal role of AURKA in amino acid metabolism and identifies a specific metabolic indication for AURKA inhibitors. These findings also provide a novel clinical therapeutic target for KEAP1-mutant/deficient NSCLC, which is characterized by resistance to radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Fang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Nana Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Xinhao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jie Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Ning Chen
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Jingjing Wu
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jie Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Mouxiang Fang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China
| | - Ailin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Zijian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Bin He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Min Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yuchen Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Zifeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Quentin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China.
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Song Y, Qu Y, Mao C, Zhang R, Jiang D, Sun X. Post-translational modifications of Keap1: the state of the art. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1332049. [PMID: 38259518 PMCID: PMC10801156 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1332049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway plays a crucial role in cellular defense against oxidative stress-induced damage. Its activation entails the expression and transcriptional regulation of several proteins involved in detoxification and antioxidation processes within the organism. Keap1, serving as a pivotal transcriptional regulator within this pathway, exerts control over the activity of Nrf2. Various post-translational modifications (PTMs) of Keap1, such as alkylation, glycosylation, glutathiylation, S-sulfhydration, and other modifications, impact the binding affinity between Keap1 and Nrf2. Consequently, this leads to the accumulation of Nrf2 and its translocation to the nucleus, and subsequent activation of downstream antioxidant genes. Given the association between the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway and various diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and diabetes, comprehending the post-translational modification of Keap1 not only deepens our understanding of Nrf2 signaling regulation but also contributes to the identification of novel drug targets and biomarkers. Consequently, this knowledge holds immense importance in the prevention and treatment of diseases induced by oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjia Song
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Ying Qu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Caiyun Mao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Deyou Jiang
- Department of Typhoid, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xutao Sun
- Department of Synopsis of the Golden Chamber, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
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3
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Lee YS, Kang J, Jung ES, Lee A. High Expression of NRF2 and Low Expression of KEAP1 Predict Worse Survival in Patients With Operable Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. J Breast Cancer 2023; 26:461-478. [PMID: 37926068 PMCID: PMC10625868 DOI: 10.4048/jbc.2023.26.e42] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive type of breast cancer. Currently, no effective treatment options for this condition exist. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), encoded by nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (NFE2L2) gene and its endogenous inhibitor, Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), both participate in cellular defense mechanisms against oxidative stress and contribute to chemoresistance and tumor progression in numerous types of cancers. This study aimed to evaluate the expression patterns of NRF2 and KEAP1 and their prognostic value in operable TNBC. METHODS Tissue microarrays were prepared using tumor tissues collected from 203 patients with TNBC who underwent surgery. Immunohistochemical staining analyses of NRF2 and KEAP1 were performed. The expression of each immunomarker was categorized into two groups (low or high) based on the median H-score. We analyzed the association between the expression of each immunomarker and clinicopathological information to predict survival. A total of 225 TNBC samples from the Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC) dataset were used to validate our results. RESULTS NRF2 immunoreactivity was detected in the nucleus and was associated with histologic grade and Ki-67 index, whereas KEAP1 immunoreactivity was detected in the cytoplasm and was associated with the Ki-67 index. Survival analyses showed that NRF2 and KEAP1 expressions were independent prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) (hazard ratio [HR], 2.45 and 0.30; p = 0.015 and 0.016, respectively) and disease-free survival (HR, 2.27 and 0.42; p = 0.019 and 0.022, respectively). NFE2L2 mRNA expression was an independent prognostic factor for OS (HR, 0.59; p = 0.009) in the METABRIC dataset. CONCLUSION High NRF2 and low KEAP1 expressions independently predicted poor survival in patients with operable TNBC. Further investigations are warranted to examine the possible therapeutic benefits of targeting the KEAP1-NRF2 pathway for TNBC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Sub Lee
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Eunpyeong St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jun Kang
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Sun Jung
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Eunpyeong St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ahwon Lee
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
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4
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Zhou X, An B, Lin Y, Ni Y, Zhao X, Liang X. Molecular mechanisms of ROS-modulated cancer chemoresistance and therapeutic strategies. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115036. [PMID: 37354814 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is the main obstacle to achieving a cure in many cancer patients. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are master regulators of cancer development that act through complex mechanisms. Remarkably, ROS levels and antioxidant content are typically higher in drug-resistant cancer cells than in non-resistant and normal cells, and have been shown to play a central role in modulating drug resistance. Therefore, determining the underlying functions of ROS in the modulation of drug resistance will contribute to develop therapies that sensitize cancer resistant cells by leveraging ROS modulation. In this review, we summarize the notable literature on the sources and regulation of ROS production and highlight the complex roles of ROS in cancer chemoresistance, encompassing transcription factor-mediated chemoresistance, maintenance of cancer stem cells, and their impact on the tumor microenvironment. We also discuss the potential of ROS-targeted therapies in overcoming tumor therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Zhou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Biao An
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Yi Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Yanghong Ni
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China.
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5
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Rubio K, Hernández-Cruz EY, Rogel-Ayala DG, Sarvari P, Isidoro C, Barreto G, Pedraza-Chaverri J. Nutriepigenomics in Environmental-Associated Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12030771. [PMID: 36979019 PMCID: PMC10045733 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Complex molecular mechanisms define our responses to environmental stimuli. Beyond the DNA sequence itself, epigenetic machinery orchestrates changes in gene expression induced by diet, physical activity, stress and pollution, among others. Importantly, nutrition has a strong impact on epigenetic players and, consequently, sustains a promising role in the regulation of cellular responses such as oxidative stress. As oxidative stress is a natural physiological process where the presence of reactive oxygen-derived species and nitrogen-derived species overcomes the uptake strategy of antioxidant defenses, it plays an essential role in epigenetic changes induced by environmental pollutants and culminates in signaling the disruption of redox control. In this review, we present an update on epigenetic mechanisms induced by environmental factors that lead to oxidative stress and potentially to pathogenesis and disease progression in humans. In addition, we introduce the microenvironment factors (physical contacts, nutrients, extracellular vesicle-mediated communication) that influence the epigenetic regulation of cellular responses. Understanding the mechanisms by which nutrients influence the epigenome, and thus global transcription, is crucial for future early diagnostic and therapeutic efforts in the field of environmental medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla Rubio
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Instituto de Ciencias, Ecocampus, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla 72570, Mexico
- Laboratoire IMoPA, Université de Lorraine, CNRS, UMR 7365, F-54000 Nancy, France
- Lung Cancer Epigenetics, Max-Planck-Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Estefani Y Hernández-Cruz
- Postgraduate in Biological Sciences, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico
| | - Diana G Rogel-Ayala
- Laboratoire IMoPA, Université de Lorraine, CNRS, UMR 7365, F-54000 Nancy, France
- Lung Cancer Epigenetics, Max-Planck-Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | | | - Ciro Isidoro
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Via Paolo Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Guillermo Barreto
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Instituto de Ciencias, Ecocampus, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla 72570, Mexico
- Laboratoire IMoPA, Université de Lorraine, CNRS, UMR 7365, F-54000 Nancy, France
- Lung Cancer Epigenetics, Max-Planck-Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - José Pedraza-Chaverri
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico
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6
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Soghli N, Yousefi H, Naderi T, Fallah A, Moshksar A, Darbeheshti F, Vittori C, Delavar MR, Zare A, Rad HS, Kazemi A, Bitaraf A, Hussen BM, Taheri M, Jamali E. NRF2 signaling pathway: A comprehensive prognostic and gene expression profile analysis in breast cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 243:154341. [PMID: 36739754 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154341] [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] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignant tumor in women and a major public health concern. NRF2 axis is a cellular protector signaling pathway protecting both normal and cancer cells from oxidative damage. NRF2 is a transcription factor that binds to the gene promoters containing antioxidant response element-like sequences. In this report, differential expression of NRF2 signaling pathway elements, as well as the correlation of NRF2 pathway mRNAs with various clinicopathologic characteristics, including molecular subtypes, tumor grade, tumor stage, and methylation status, has been investigated in breast cancer using METABRIC and TCGA datasets. In the current report, our findings revealed the deregulation of several NRF2 signaling elements in breast cancer patients. Moreover, there were negative correlations between the methylation of NRF2 genes and mRNA expression. The expression of NRF2 genes significantly varied between different breast cancer subtypes. In conclusion, substantial deregulation of NRF2 signaling components suggests an important role of these genes in breast cancer. Because of the clear associations between mRNA expression and methylation status, DNA methylation could be one of the mechanisms that regulate the NRF2 pathway in breast cancer. Differential expression of Hippo genes among various breast cancer molecular subtypes suggests that NRF2 signaling may function differently in different subtypes of breast cancer. Our data also highlights an interesting link between NRF2 components' transcription and tumor grade/stage in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negin Soghli
- Babol University of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Babol, Iran
| | - Hassan Yousefi
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, New Orleans, LA, USA; Stanley S. Scott Cancer Research Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tohid Naderi
- Department of Laboratory Hematology and Blood Bank, School of Allied Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aysan Fallah
- Department of hematology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Moshksar
- University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Interventional Radiology, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Farzaneh Darbeheshti
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Cecilia Vittori
- Stanley S. Scott Cancer Research Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Mahsa Rostamian Delavar
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ali Zare
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Habib Sadeghi Rad
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Abtin Kazemi
- Fasa University of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Fasa, Iran
| | - Amirreza Bitaraf
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
| | - Elena Jamali
- Skull Base Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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7
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Pouremamali F, Pouremamali A, Dadashpour M, Soozangar N, Jeddi F. An update of Nrf2 activators and inhibitors in cancer prevention/promotion. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:100. [PMID: 35773670 PMCID: PMC9245222 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00906-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) protein is a basic-region leucine zipper transcription factor that defends against endogenous or exogenous stressors. By inducing several cytoprotective and detoxifying gene expressions, Nrf2 can increase the sensitivity of the cells to oxidants and electrophiles. Transient Nrf2 activation, by its specific activators, has protective roles against carcinogenesis and cancer development. However, permanent activation of Nrf2 promotes various cancer properties, comprising malignant progression, chemo/radio resistance, and poor patient prognosis. Taken together, these findings suggest that reaching an optimal balance between paradoxical functions of Nrf2 in malignancy may render a selective improvement to identify therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment. In this review, we describe lately discovered Nrf2 inducers and inhibitors, and their chemopreventive and/or anticancer activities. The Nrf2 pathway signifies one of the most significant cell defense procedures against exogenous or endogenous stressors. Certainly, by increasing the expression of several cytoprotective genes, the transcription factor Nrf2 can shelter cells and tissues from multiple sources of damage including electrophilic, xenobiotic, metabolic, and oxidative stress. Notably, the aberrant activation or accumulation of Nrf2, a common event in many tumors, confers a selective advantage to cancer cells and is connected to malignant progression, therapy resistance, and poor prognosis. Therefore, lately, Nrf2 has arisen as a hopeful target in treatment of cancer, and many struggles have been made to detect therapeutic strategies intended at disrupting its pro-oncogenic role. By summarizing the outcomes from past and recent studies, this review provided an overview concerning the Nrf2 pathway and the molecular mechanisms causing Nrf2 hyperactivation in cancer cells. Finally, this paper also described some of the most promising therapeutic approaches that have been successfully employed to counteract Nrf2 activity in tumors, with a particular emphasis on the development of natural compounds and the adoption of drug repurposing strategies. Video abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhad Pouremamali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Pouremamali
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Dadashpour
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.,Cancer Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Narges Soozangar
- Digestive Diseases Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran. .,Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Farhad Jeddi
- Department of Genetics and Pathology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
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8
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Zhang S, Duan S, Xie Z, Bao W, Xu B, Yang W, Zhou L. Epigenetic Therapeutics Targeting NRF2/KEAP1 Signaling in Cancer Oxidative Stress. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:924817. [PMID: 35754474 PMCID: PMC9218606 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.924817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and its negative regulator kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) regulate various genes involved in redox homeostasis, which protects cells from stress conditions such as reactive oxygen species and therefore exerts beneficial effects on suppression of carcinogenesis. In addition to their pivotal role in cellular physiology, accumulating innovative studies indicated that NRF2/KEAP1-governed pathways may conversely be oncogenic and cause therapy resistance, which was profoundly modulated by epigenetic mechanism. Therefore, targeting epigenetic regulation in NRF2/KEAP1 signaling is a potential strategy for cancer treatment. In this paper, the current knowledge on the role of NRF2/KEAP1 signaling in cancer oxidative stress is presented, with a focus on how epigenetic modifications might influence cancer initiation and progression. Furthermore, the prospect that epigenetic changes may be used as therapeutic targets for tumor treatment is also investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunhao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sining Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhuojun Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanlin Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Xu
- Department of Stomatology, Panzhihua Central Hospital, Panzhihua, China
| | - Wenbin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Medical Affairs, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lingyun Zhou
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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9
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Pillai R, Hayashi M, Zavitsanou AM, Papagiannakopoulos T. NRF2: KEAPing Tumors Protected. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:625-643. [PMID: 35101864 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-0922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) pathway plays a physiologic protective role against xenobiotics and reactive oxygen species. However, activation of NRF2 provides a powerful selective advantage for tumors by rewiring metabolism to enhance proliferation, suppress various forms of stress, and promote immune evasion. Genetic, epigenetic, and posttranslational alterations that activate the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway are found in multiple solid tumors. Emerging clinical data highlight that alterations in this pathway result in resistance to multiple therapies. Here, we provide an overview of how dysregulation of the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway in cancer contributes to several hallmarks of cancer that promote tumorigenesis and lead to treatment resistance. SIGNIFICANCE: Alterations in the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway are found in multiple cancer types. Activation of NRF2 leads to metabolic rewiring of tumors that promote tumor initiation and progression. Here we present the known alterations that lead to NRF2 activation in cancer, the mechanisms in which NRF2 activation promotes tumors, and the therapeutic implications of NRF2 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ray Pillai
- Department of Pathology, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, New York, New York.,Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Makiko Hayashi
- Department of Pathology, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Anastasia-Maria Zavitsanou
- Department of Pathology, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Thales Papagiannakopoulos
- Department of Pathology, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York.
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10
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Gadwal A, Modi A, Khokhar M, Vishnoi JR, Choudhary R, Elhence P, Banerjee M, Purohit P. Critical appraisal of epigenetic regulation of galectins in cancer. Int J Clin Oncol 2021; 27:35-44. [PMID: 34652614 DOI: 10.1007/s10147-021-02048-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Galectins are defined as the glycan-binding protein containing either one or two carbohydrate-binding domains and participate in various biological functions such as developmental processes, vascularisation programs, cell migration, and immune-regulation and apoptosis. Galectins are also linked to many diseases, including cancer. They are widely spread in extracellular and intracellular spaces, and their altered expression in cancer leads to tumor progression, metastasis, angiogenesis and stemness through different signalling pathways. Promoter methylation, microRNA, and histone modification constitute the epigenetic changes that regulate galectin activity in cancer. Our review discusses the concept of epigenetics in cancer and how the aforementioned factors i.e., promoter methylation, histone modification, change in miRNAs expression affect the glycomic changes in malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashita Gadwal
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Basni Industrial Area, MIA 2nd Phase, Basni, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342005, India
| | - Anupama Modi
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Basni Industrial Area, MIA 2nd Phase, Basni, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342005, India
| | - Manoj Khokhar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Basni Industrial Area, MIA 2nd Phase, Basni, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342005, India
| | - Jeewan Ram Vishnoi
- Department of Oncosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Basni Industrial Area, MIA 2nd Phase, Basni, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342005, India
| | - Ramkaran Choudhary
- Department of General Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Basni Industrial Area, MIA 2nd Phase, Basni, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342005, India
| | - Poonam Elhence
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Basni Industrial Area, MIA 2nd Phase, Basni, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342005, India
| | - Mithu Banerjee
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Basni Industrial Area, MIA 2nd Phase, Basni, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342005, India
| | - Purvi Purohit
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Basni Industrial Area, MIA 2nd Phase, Basni, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342005, India.
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11
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Sharma A, Liu H, Herwig-Carl MC, Chand Dakal T, Schmidt-Wolf IGH. Epigenetic Regulatory Enzymes: mutation Prevalence and Coexistence in Cancers. Cancer Invest 2021; 39:257-273. [PMID: 33411587 DOI: 10.1080/07357907.2021.1872593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation is an important layer of transcriptional control with the particularity to affect the broad spectrum of genome. Over the years, largely due to the substantial number of recurrent mutations, there have been hundreds of novel driver genes characterized in various cancers. Additionally, the relative contribution of two dysregulated epigenomic entities (DNA methylation and histone modifications) that gradually drive the cancer phenotype remains in the research focus. However, a complex scenario arises when the disease phenotype does not harbor any relevant mutation or an abnormal transcription level. Although the cancer landscape involves the contribution of multiple genetic and non-genetic factors, herein, we discuss specifically the mutation spectrum of epigenetically-related enzymes in cancer. In addition, we address the coexistence of these two epigenetic entities in malignant human diseases, especially cancer. We suggest that the study of epigenetically-related somatic mutations in the early cellular differentiation stage of embryonic development might help to understand their later-staged footprints in the cancer genome. Furthermore, understanding the co-occurrence and/or inverse association of different disease types and redefining the general definition of "healthy" controls could provide insights into the genome reorganization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Sharma
- Department of Integrated Oncology, CIO Bonn, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Hongde Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science & Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | | | - Tikam Chand Dakal
- Department of Biotechnology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Rajasthan, India
| | - Ingo G H Schmidt-Wolf
- Department of Integrated Oncology, CIO Bonn, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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12
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Tang L, Zhu S, Peng W, Yin X, Tan C, Yang Y. Epigenetic identification of mitogen-activated protein kinase 10 as a functional tumor suppressor and clinical significance for hepatocellular carcinoma. PeerJ 2021; 9:e10810. [PMID: 33604188 PMCID: PMC7863782 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10810] [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: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mitogen-activated protein kinase 10 (Mapk10) is a member of the c-jun N-terminal kinases (jnk) subgroup in the MAPK superfamily, and was proposed as a tumor suppressor inactivated epigenetically. Its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not yet been illustrated. We aimed to investigate the expression and epigenetic regulation of mapk10 as well as its clinical significance in HCC. Results Mapk10 was expressed in almost all the normal tissues including liver, while we found that the protein expression of MAPK10 was significantly downregulated in clinical samples of HCC patients compared with these levels in adjacent normal tissues (29/46, P < 0.0001). Clinical significance of MAPK10 expression was then assessed in a cohort of 59 HCC cases, which indicated its negative expression was significantly correlated with advanced tumor stage (P = 0.001), more microsatellite nodules (P = 0.025), higher serum AFP (P = 0.001) and shorter overall survival time of HCC patients. Methylation was further detected in 58% of the HCC cell lines we tested and in 66% of primary HCC tissues by methylation-specific PCR (MSP), which was proved to be correlated with the silenced or downregulated expression of mapk10. To get the mechanisms more clear, the transcriptional silencing of mapk10 was reversed by pharmacological demethylation, and ectopic expression of mapk10 in silenced HCC cell lines significantly inhibited the colony formation ability, induced apoptosis, or enhanced the chemosensitivity of HCC cells to 5-fluorouracil. Conclusion Mapk10 appears to be a functional tumor suppressor gene frequently methylated in HCC, which could be a valuable biomarker or a new diagnosis and therapy target in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shasha Zhu
- The Center for Clinical Molecular Medical Detection, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Weiyan Peng
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuedong Yin
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cui Tan
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yaying Yang
- Department of Pathology, Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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13
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Fumonisin B 1 alters global m6A RNA methylation and epigenetically regulates Keap1-Nrf2 signaling in human hepatoma (HepG2) cells. Arch Toxicol 2021; 95:1367-1378. [PMID: 33496827 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-021-02986-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
FB1 is a common contaminant of cereal grains that affects human and animal health. It has become increasingly evident that epigenetic changes are implicated in FB1 toxicity. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most abundant post-transcriptional RNA modification, is influenced by fluctuations in redox status. Since oxidative stress is a characteristic of FB1 exposure, we determined if there is cross-talk between oxidative stress and m6A in FB1-exposed HepG2 cells. Briefly, HepG2 cells were treated with FB1 (0, 5, 50, 100, 200 µM; 24 h) and ROS, LDH and m6A levels were quantified. qPCR was used to determine the expression of m6A modulators, Nrf2, Keap1 and miR-27b, while western blotting was used to quantify Keap1 and Nrf2 protein expression. Methylation status of Keap1 and Nrf2 promoters was assessed and RNA immunoprecipitation quantified m6A-Keap1 and m6A-Nrf2 levels. FB1 induced accumulation of intracellular ROS (p ≤ 0.001) and LDH leakage (p ≤ 0.001). Elevated m6A levels (p ≤ 0.05) were accompanied by an increase in m6A "writers" [METLL3 (p ≤ 0.01) and METLL14 (p ≤ 0.01)], and "readers" [YTHDF1 (p ≤ 0.01), YTHDF2 (p ≤ 0.01), YTHDF3 (p ≤ 0.001) and YTHDC2 (p ≤ 0.01)] and a decrease in m6A "erasers" [ALKBH5 (p ≤ 0.001) and FTO (p ≤ 0.001)]. Hypermethylation and hypomethylation occurred at Keap1 (p ≤ 0.001) and Nrf2 (p ≤ 0.001) promoters, respectively. MiR-27b was reduced (p ≤ 0.001); however, m6A-Keap1 (p ≤ 0.05) and m6A-Nrf2 (p ≤ 0.01) levels were upregulated. This resulted in the ultimate decrease in Keap1 (p ≤ 0.001) and increase in Nrf2 (p ≤ 0.001) expression. Our findings reveal that m6A RNA methylation can be modified by exposure to FB1, and a cross-talk between m6A and redox regulators does occur.
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14
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Smolková K, Mikó E, Kovács T, Leguina-Ruzzi A, Sipos A, Bai P. Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 in Regulating Cancer Metabolism. Antioxid Redox Signal 2020; 33:966-997. [PMID: 31989830 PMCID: PMC7533893 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NFE2)-related factor 2 (NFE2L2, or NRF2) is a transcription factor predominantly affecting the expression of antioxidant genes. NRF2 plays a significant role in the control of redox balance, which is crucial in cancer cells. NRF2 activation regulates numerous cancer hallmarks, including metabolism, cancer stem cell characteristics, tumor aggressiveness, invasion, and metastasis formation. We review the molecular characteristics of the NRF2 pathway and discuss its interactions with the cancer hallmarks previously listed. Recent Advances: The noncanonical activation of NRF2 was recently discovered, and members of this pathway are involved in carcinogenesis. Further, cancer-related changes (e.g., metabolic flexibility) that support cancer progression were found to be redox- and NRF2 dependent. Critical Issues: NRF2 undergoes Janus-faced behavior in cancers. The pro- or antineoplastic effects of NRF2 are context dependent and essentially based on the specific molecular characteristics of the cancer in question. Therefore, systematic investigation of NRF2 signaling is necessary to clarify its role in cancer etiology. The biggest challenge in the NRF2 field is to determine which cancers can be targeted for better clinical outcomes. Further, large-scale genomic and transcriptomic studies are missing to correlate the clinical outcome with the activity of the NRF2 system. Future Directions: To exploit NRF2 in a clinical setting in the future, the druggable members of the NRF2 pathway should be identified. In addition, it will be important to study how the modulation of the NRF2 system interferes with cytostatic drugs and their combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarína Smolková
- Department of Mitochondrial Physiology, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IPHYS CAS), Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Edit Mikó
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.,MTA-DE Lendület Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tünde Kovács
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Alberto Leguina-Ruzzi
- Department of Mitochondrial Physiology, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IPHYS CAS), Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adrienn Sipos
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Péter Bai
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.,MTA-DE Lendület Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism, Debrecen, Hungary.,Faculty of Medicine, Research Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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15
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Cancer Metabolism: Phenotype, Signaling and Therapeutic Targets. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102308. [PMID: 33081387 PMCID: PMC7602974 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant metabolism is a major hallmark of cancer. Abnormal cancer metabolism, such as aerobic glycolysis and increased anabolic pathways, has important roles in tumorigenesis, metastasis, drug resistance, and cancer stem cells. Well-known oncogenic signaling pathways, such as phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT, Myc, and Hippo pathway, mediate metabolic gene expression and increase metabolic enzyme activities. Vice versa, deregulated metabolic pathways contribute to defects in cellular signal transduction pathways, which in turn provide energy, building blocks, and redox potentials for unrestrained cancer cell proliferation. Studies and clinical trials are being performed that focus on the inhibition of metabolic enzymes by small molecules or dietary interventions (e.g., fasting, calorie restriction, and intermittent fasting). Similar to genetic heterogeneity, the metabolic phenotypes of cancers are highly heterogeneous. This heterogeneity results from diverse cues in the tumor microenvironment and genetic mutations. Hence, overcoming metabolic plasticity is an important goal of modern cancer therapeutics. This review highlights recent findings on the metabolic phenotypes of cancer and elucidates the interactions between signal transduction pathways and metabolic pathways. We also provide novel rationales for designing the next-generation cancer metabolism drugs.
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16
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Fabrizio FP, Mazza T, Castellana S, Sparaneo A, Muscarella LA. Epigenetic Scanning of KEAP1 CpG Sites Uncovers New Molecular-Driven Patterns in Lung Adeno and Squamous Cell Carcinomas. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9090904. [PMID: 32971994 PMCID: PMC7554999 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9090904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The KEAP1/NRF2 (Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1/nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2) pathway modulates detoxification processes and participates in the resistance of solid tumors to therapy. Scientific evidence about the presence of genetic and epigenetic abnormalities of the KEAP1 gene was firstly reported in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and then described in other tumors. At present, the prognostic role of aberrant methylation at cytosine-guanine dinucleotide (CpG) sites of the KEAP1 gene promoter is debated in NSCLC, and its correlation with transcriptional changes and protein levels remains to be defined in large sample cohorts. Methods: We evaluated and compared multiple KEAP1 omics data (methylation, transcript, and protein expression levels) from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to explore the role of CpGs located in different portions of KEAP1 and the correlation between methylation, transcription, and protein levels. Data from two subsets of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD, n = 617) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC, n = 571) cohorts of NSCLC patients with different disease stages were evaluated. Results: We found that the methylation levels of many KEAP1 CpGs at various promoter and intragenic locations showed a significant inverse correlation with the transcript levels. Interestingly, these results were limited to the KRAS wild-type LUSC and LUAD cohorts, whereas in LUAD the effect of the epigenetic silencing of KEAP1 on its transcription was also observed in the EGFR mutated subpopulation. Conclusions: These results support the idea that the prognostic role of KEAP1 CpG sites warrants more in-depth investigation and that the impact of their changes in methylation levels may differ among specific NSCLC histologies and molecular backgrounds. Moreover, the observed impact of epigenetic silencing on KEAP1 expression in specific KRAS and EGFR settings may suggest a potential role of KEAP1 methylation as a predictive marker for NSCLC patients for whom anti-EGFR treatments are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Pio Fabrizio
- Laboratory of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, 71013 Foggia, Italy;
- Correspondence: (F.P.F.); (L.A.M.); Tel.: +39-08-8241-6278 (F.P.F. & L.A.M.)
| | - Tommaso Mazza
- Unit of Bioinformatics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, 71013 Foggia, Italy; (T.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Stefano Castellana
- Unit of Bioinformatics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, 71013 Foggia, Italy; (T.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Angelo Sparaneo
- Laboratory of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, 71013 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Lucia Anna Muscarella
- Laboratory of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, 71013 Foggia, Italy;
- Correspondence: (F.P.F.); (L.A.M.); Tel.: +39-08-8241-6278 (F.P.F. & L.A.M.)
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17
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Epigenetic Regulation of NRF2/KEAP1 by Phytochemicals. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9090865. [PMID: 32938017 PMCID: PMC7555619 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9090865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics has provided a new dimension to our understanding of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (human NRF2/KEAP1 and murine Nrf2/Keap1) signaling. Unlike the genetic changes affecting DNA sequence, the reversible nature of epigenetic alterations provides an attractive avenue for cancer interception. Thus, targeting epigenetic mechanisms in the corresponding signaling networks represents an enticing strategy for therapeutic intervention with dietary phytochemicals acting at transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational levels. This regulation involves the interplay of histone modifications and DNA methylation states in the human NFE2L2/KEAP1 and murine Nfe2l2/Keap1 genes, acetylation of lysine residues in NRF2 and Nrf2, interaction with bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) acetyl “reader” proteins, and non-coding RNAs such as microRNA (miRNA) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA). Phytochemicals documented to modulate NRF2 signaling act by reversing hypermethylated states in the CpG islands of NFE2L2 or Nfe2l2, via the inhibition of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs), through the induction of ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzymes, or by inducing miRNA to target the 3′-UTR of the corresponding mRNA transcripts. To date, fewer than twenty phytochemicals have been reported as NRF2 epigenetic modifiers, including curcumin, sulforaphane, resveratrol, reserpine, and ursolic acid. This opens avenues for exploring additional dietary phytochemicals that regulate the human epigenome, and the potential for novel strategies to target NRF2 signaling with a view to beneficial interception of cancer and other chronic diseases.
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18
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Nour Eldin EEM, Nour Eldein MM, El-Readi MZ, Mirza AA, Fatani SH, Al-Amodi HS, Althubiti MA, Al-Ezzi EM, Eid SY, Kamel HFM. Evaluation of the Diagnostic and Predicative Values of 8-Iso-Prostaglandin F2α as a Biomarker of Breast Cancer. Oncol Res Treat 2020; 43:506-517. [PMID: 32721979 DOI: 10.1159/000509671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC) is a commonly reported cancer that is widely prevalent among women. Its early detection improves patient survival and results in better outcomes. For diagnosis and follow-up care, tumor markers are one of the feasible investigations to be ordered. 8-Iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α) serves as a serum marker reflecting oxidative stress and subsequent damaging of DNA. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate both diagnostic and predictive values of 8-iso-PGF2α in BC patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Serum levels of 8-iso-PGF2α were assessed for 66 women with benign breast tumors and 65 women who had malignant BC. To compare the patients who had breast tumors with healthy individuals, 63 women free of breast diseases were selected as controls. RESULTS The serum level of 8-iso-PGF2α in the BC patients (57.92 pg/mL) was significantly higher compared to those with benign tumors (18.89 pg/mL) (p < 0.001). In addition, individuals with no breast diseases had less 8-iso-PGF2α (4.02 pg/mL) compared to those who had developed a tumor (p < 0.001). Serum 8-iso-PGF2α was found to be positively correlated with both carcinoembryonic antigen (r = 0.74, p < 0.001) and cancer antigen 15-3 (r = 0.80, p < 0.001). Furthermore, serum 8-iso-PGF2α showed high diagnostic performance in BC (AUC = 0.999, sensitivity = 100%, specificity = 99.2% at a cutoff value of 36.18 pg/mL). CONCLUSIONS Our study found that the high level of serum 8-iso-PGF2α helps to provide a non-invasive indicator to detect BC. Future work with a larger sample size and various phases of BC can confirm the current results which provide insights into the early detection of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamed Mahmoud Nour Eldein
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.,Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Zaki El-Readi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Ahmad A Mirza
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, .,Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,
| | - Sameer Hasan Fatani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hiba Saeed Al-Amodi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Esmail M Al-Ezzi
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Safaa Yehia Eid
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hala Fawzy Mohammed Kamel
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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19
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Kelch-like proteins: Physiological functions and relationships with diseases. Pharmacol Res 2019; 148:104404. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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20
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Kerins MJ, Liu P, Tian W, Mannheim W, Zhang DD, Ooi A. Genome-Wide CRISPR Screen Reveals Autophagy Disruption as the Convergence Mechanism That Regulates the NRF2 Transcription Factor. Mol Cell Biol 2019; 39:e00037-19. [PMID: 31010806 PMCID: PMC6580702 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00037-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The nuclear factor (erythroid 2)-like 2 (NRF2 or NFE2L2) transcription factor regulates the expression of many genes that are critical in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Its deregulation has been implicated in many diseases, including cancer and metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. While several mechanisms by which NRF2 can be activated have gradually been identified over time, a more complete regulatory network of NRF2 is still lacking. Here we show through a genome-wide clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) screen that a total of 273 genes, when knocked out, will lead to sustained NRF2 activation. Pathway analysis revealed a significant overrepresentation of genes (18 of the 273 genes) involved in autophagy. Molecular validation of a subset of the enriched genes identified 8 high-confidence genes that negatively regulate NRF2 activity irrespective of cell type: ATG12, ATG7, GOSR1, IFT172, NRXN2, RAB6A, VPS37A, and the well-known negative regulator of NRF2, KEAP1 Of these, ATG12, ATG7, KEAP1, and VPS37A are known to be involved in autophagic processes. Our results present a comprehensive list of NRF2 negative regulators and reveal an intimate link between autophagy and NRF2 regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Kerins
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Pengfei Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Wang Tian
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - William Mannheim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Donna D Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Aikseng Ooi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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21
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Methylation Density Pattern of KEAP1 Gene in Lung Cancer Cell Lines Detected by Quantitative Methylation Specific PCR and Pyrosequencing. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20112697. [PMID: 31159323 PMCID: PMC6600322 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. The KEAP1/NRF2 pathway is the key regulator of antioxidants and cellular stress responses, and is implicated in neoplastic progression and resistance of tumors to treatment. KEAP1 silencing by promoter methylation is widely reported in solid tumors as part of the complex regulation of the KEAP1/NRF2 axis, but its prognostic role remains to be addressed in lung cancer. Methods. We performed a detailed methylation density map of 13 CpGs located into the KEAP1 promoter region by analyzing a set of 25 cell lines from different histologies of lung cancer. The methylation status was assessed using quantitative methylation specific PCR (QMSP) and pyrosequencing, and the performance of the two assays was compared. Results. Hypermethylation at the promoter region of the KEAP1 was detected in one third of cell lines and its effect on the modulation KEAP1 mRNA levels was also confirmed by in vitro 5-Azacytidine treatment on lung carcinoid, small lung cancer and adenocarcinoma cell lines. QMSP and pyrosequencing showed a high rate of concordant results, even if pyrosequencing revealed two different promoter CpGs sub-islands (P1a and P1b) with a different methylation density pattern. Conclusions. Our results confirm the effect of methylation on KEAP1 transcription control across multiple histologies of lung cancer and suggest pyrosequencing as the best approach to investigate the pattern of CpGs methylation in the promoter region of KEAP1. The validation of this approach on lung cancer patient cohorts is mandatory to clarify the prognostic value of the epigenetic deregulation of KEAP1 in lung tumors.
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Potential Applications of NRF2 Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:8592348. [PMID: 31097977 PMCID: PMC6487091 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8592348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The NRF2/KEAP1 pathway represents one of the most important cell defense mechanisms against exogenous or endogenous stressors. Indeed, by increasing the expression of several cytoprotective genes, the transcription factor NRF2 can shelter cells and tissues from multiple sources of damage including xenobiotic, electrophilic, metabolic, and oxidative stress. Importantly, the aberrant activation or accumulation of NRF2, a common event in many tumors, confers a selective advantage to cancer cells and is associated to malignant progression, therapy resistance, and poor prognosis. Hence, in the last years, NRF2 has emerged as a promising target in cancer treatment and many efforts have been made to identify therapeutic strategies aimed at disrupting its prooncogenic role. By summarizing the results from past and recent studies, in this review, we provide an overview concerning the NRF2/KEAP1 pathway, its biological impact in solid and hematologic malignancies, and the molecular mechanisms causing NRF2 hyperactivation in cancer cells. Finally, we also describe some of the most promising therapeutic approaches that have been successfully employed to counteract NRF2 activity in tumors, with a particular emphasis on the development of natural compounds and the adoption of drug repurposing strategies.
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Zhang B, Wu J, Cai Y, Luo M, Wang B, Gu Y. TCF7L1 indicates prognosis and promotes proliferation through activation of Keap1/NRF2 in gastric cancer. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2019; 51:375-385. [PMID: 30811526 PMCID: PMC6460344 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmz015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Although significant progress has been made in the diagnosis and treatment for the cancer, less improvement has been made in overall survival rate. Thus, there is an urgent need for a better understanding of the biological aspects of the cancer. The transcription factor transcription factor 7-like 1 (TCF7L1) is an embryonic stem cell signature gene that is upregulated in multiple aggressive cancer types, but its role in gastric cancer has seldom been discussed. In the present study, by using the Cancer Genome Atlas dataset analysis, we demonstrated that patients with higher expression of TCF7L1 could be used to reflect prognosis. An examination of the mechanisms demonstrated that TCF7L1 could positively regulate antioxidant response in gastric cancer cells by positively regulating Keap1/NRF2 [Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1/nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2] pathway. Collectively, our data demonstrated that TCF7L1 is a novel marker for predicting overall survival of gastric cancer and provided the possible underlying molecular mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beili Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jugang Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yantao Cai
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Gu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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The Toxic Effects and Mechanisms of Nano-Cu on the Spleen of Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20061469. [PMID: 30909528 PMCID: PMC6471436 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20061469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Research has shown that nano-copper (nano-Cu) can cause damage to the spleen and immune system yet their mechanisms of cytotoxicity are poorly understood. Our aim is to explore the potential immunotoxicity in the spleen of rats after nano-Cu exposure. The results of hematologic parameters, lymphocyte subsets, immunoglobulins, and histopathology indicated that copper obviously changed the immune function of the spleen. The levels of antioxidants (SOD, CAT, GSH-Px), oxidants (iNOS, NO, MDA), and anti-oxidative signalling pathway of Nrf2 (Nrf2 and HO-1) were strongly induced by nano-Cu. The expression of mRNA and protein of pro-/anti-inflammatory (IFN-γ, TNF-α, MIP-1α, MCP-1, MIF, IL-1/-2/-4/-6) cytokines were increased by nano-Cu. The expression of regulatory signal pathways, MAPKs and PI3-K/Akt were activated, which might be involved in the inflammatory responses and immunomodulatory processes of sub-acute nano-Cu exposure. The immune function of the spleen was repressed by nano-Cu induced oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Huang H, Wu Y, Fu W, Wang X, Zhou L, Xu X, Huang F, Wu Y. Downregulation of Keap1 contributes to poor prognosis and Axitinib resistance of renal cell carcinoma via upregulation of Nrf2 expression. Int J Mol Med 2019; 43:2044-2054. [PMID: 30896860 PMCID: PMC6443340 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling has a protective effect on normal cells. A number of previous studies demonstrated that Keap1/Nrf2 signaling is associated with drug resistance in numerous tumors. The aim of the present study was to investigate the roles of Keap1 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and its effect on sensitivity to chemotherapy. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the mRNA expression of Keap1 in 45 cases of RCC tumors and adjacent normal tissues. A total of five randomly selected patients with RCC, five RCC cell lines and normal renal tubular cells were examined to detect the protein and mRNA expressions of Keap1. The 5-year survival rate was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier analysis. The cell viability was assessed by a Cell Counting kit-8 assay. The cell apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined by flow cytometry. The expressions of associated proteins were determined by western blot analysis. It was identified that in RCC tissues and RCC cell lines, the expression of Keap1 was downregulated, which was considered to be associated with poor prognosis. In total, 1 µM Axitinib significantly decreased cell viability, promoted ROS release and induced cell apoptosis in ACHN cells. Silencing Keap1 was able to reverse the inhibitory effect of Axitinib and enhance the protein expressions of Nrf2, NAD(P)H dehydrogenase [quinone] 1 and heme oxygenase 1. However, silencing Nrf2 increased the cell sensitivity to Axitinib. Under Axitinib condition, overexpressing Nrf2 was able to increase cell viability; however, overexpressing Keap1 resulted in an opposite effect. Keap1 serves as a tumor suppressor; its low expression was associated with poor prognosis and a decreased sensitivity of RCC cells to Axitinib. A possible mechanism underlying Axitinib resistance may involve Nrf2 overexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haipeng Huang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530007, P.R. China
| | - Yunhong Wu
- Medical Records Information Management Division, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530007, P.R. China
| | - Weijin Fu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530007, P.R. China
| | - Liquan Zhou
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530007, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolong Xu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530007, P.R. China
| | - Fu Huang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530007, P.R. China
| | - Yi Wu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530007, P.R. China
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Soozangar N, Sadeghi MR, Jeddi F, Samadi N, Hejazi MS, Azad M, Shirmohamadi M, Somi MH. Decreased expression of the Keap1 gene and its clinicopathological significance in gastric cancer: correlation with promoter DNA methylation. GAZZETTA MEDICA ITALIANA ARCHIVIO PER LE SCIENZE MEDICHE 2019. [DOI: 10.23736/s0393-3660.18.03799-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Gao L, Yuan F, Che G, Xiao X, Nie X, Wang Y, Jia J, Kong AN, Zhang L. Epigenetic modifications but not genetic polymorphisms regulate KEAP1 expression in colorectal cancer. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:12311-12320. [PMID: 30825237 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), as a negative regulator of nuclear factor erythroid 2 like 2 ( NRF2), plays a pivotal role in NRF2 signaling pathway and involves in tumorigenesis. Polymorphisms and methylation in gene promoter region may influence its expression and be related to cancer susceptibility. In this study, we examined the effect of the KEAP1-NRF2 interaction on the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). The polymorphisms of NRF2 and KEAP1 were genotyped using the improved multiplex ligase detection reaction assay. KEAP1 promoter methylation and histone modification were analyzed using bisulfite genome sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay, respectively. The KEAP1 rs1048290 CC genotype and C allele were associated with increased risks of CRC (CC vs GG: odds ratio [OR] = 1.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08-1.78; CC vs GG/GC: OR = 1.29; 95% CI, 1.05-1.58; C vs G: OR = 1.18; 95% CI, 1.04-1.34). The rs1048290-rs11545829 GT haplotype was associated with a reduced risk of CRC. KEAP1-NRF2 interaction analysis revealed that the rs6721961, rs35652124, rs1048290, and rs11545829 conferred the susceptibility to CRC. The hypermethylation of KEAP1 promoter resulted in lower levels of KEAP1 messenger RNA (mRNA). After treatment with 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine/trichostatin A, KEAP1 promoter methylation was decreased and KEAP1 mRNA levels were increased. ChIP-quantitative polymerase chain reaction results showed an enhanced enrichment of H3K4Me3 and H3K27Ac to the promoter of KEAP1. In vitro methylation analysis showed that the methylated plasmid decreased the transcriptional activity by 70%-84%. These findings suggest that the KEAP1- NRF2 pathway could potentially impact CRC risk and the downregulation of KEAP1 could be explained in part by epigenetic modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linbo Gao
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Fang Yuan
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanglu Che
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinwen Nie
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanyun Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Jia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ah-Ng Kong
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Lin Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
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Abstract
Cancer can be identified as a chaotic cell state, which breaks the rules that govern growth and reproduction, with main characteristics such as uncontrolled division, invading other tissues, usurping resources, and eventually killing its host. It was once believed that cancer is caused by a progressive series of genetic aberrations, and certain mutations of genes, including oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, have been identified as the cause of cancer. However, piling evidence suggests that epigenetic modifications working in concert with genetic mechanisms to regulate transcriptional activity are dysregulated in many diseases, including cancer. Cancer epigenetics explain a wide range of heritable changes in gene expression, which do not come from any alteration in DNA sequences. Aberrant DNA methylation, histone modifications, and expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key epigenetic mechanisms associated with tumor initiation, cancer progression, and metastasis. Within the past decade, cancer epigenetics have enabled us to develop novel biomarkers and therapeutic target for many types of cancers. In this review, we will summarize the major epigenetic changes involved in cancer biology along with clinical and preclinical results developed as novel cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Woo Park
- Research Center for Epigenome Regulation, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeung-Whan Han
- Research Center for Epigenome Regulation, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
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Kari E, Teppo HR, Haapasaari KM, Kuusisto MEL, Lemma A, Karihtala P, Pirinen R, Soini Y, Jantunen E, Turpeenniemi-Hujanen T, Kuittinen O. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factors 1 and 2 are able to define the worst prognosis group among high-risk diffuse large B cell lymphomas treated with R-CHOEP. J Clin Pathol 2019; 72:316-321. [PMID: 30755497 PMCID: PMC6580789 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2018-205584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzymes have previously been shown to have prognostic value and associate with adverse outcome in patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 1 (Nrf1) and factor 2 (Nrf2) are among the principal inducers of antioxidant enzyme production. Kelch ECH associating protein 1 (Keap1) is a negative regulator of Nrf2, and BTB (BR-C, ttk and bab) domain and CNC homolog 1 (Bach1) represses the function of both factors. Their significance in DLBCL prognosis is unknown. METHODS Diagnostic biopsy samples of 76 patients with high-risk DLBCL were retrospectively stained with immunohistochemistry for Nrf1, Nrf2, Keap1 and Bach1, and correlated with clinical data and outcome. RESULTS Nuclear Nrf2 and nuclear Bach1 expression were associated with adverse clinical features (anaemia, advanced stage, high IPI, high risk of neutropaenic infections), whereas cytoplasmic Nrf1 and Nrf2 were associated with favourable clinical presentation (normal haemoglobin level, no B symptoms, limited stage). None of the evaluated factors could predict survival alone. However, when two of the following parameters were combined: high nuclear score of Nrf2, low nuclear score of Nrf1, high cytoplasmic score of Nrf1 and low cytoplasmic score of Keap1 were associated with significantly worse overall survival. CONCLUSIONS Nrf1 and Nrf2 are relevant in disease presentation and overall survival in high-risk DLBCL. Low nuclear expression of Nrf1, high cytoplasmic expression of Nrf1, high nuclear expression of Nrf2 and low cytoplasmic expression of Keap1 are associated with adverse outcome in this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esa Kari
- Cancer Research and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland .,Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Hanna-Riikka Teppo
- Cancer Research and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Department of Pathology, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | | | - Milla Elvi Linnea Kuusisto
- Cancer Research and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Aurora Lemma
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Peeter Karihtala
- Cancer Research and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Risto Pirinen
- Department of Pathology, North Karelia Central Hospital, Joensuu, Finland
| | - Ylermi Soini
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Esa Jantunen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Taina Turpeenniemi-Hujanen
- Cancer Research and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Outi Kuittinen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Oncology, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
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30
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Urpilainen E, Kangaskokko J, Puistola U, Karihtala P. Metformin diminishes the unfavourable impact of Nrf2 in breast cancer patients with type 2 diabetes. Tumour Biol 2019; 41:1010428318815413. [DOI: 10.1177/1010428318815413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) is a major regulator of the oxidative stress response and it is negatively regulated by Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1). The Keap1–Nrf2 axis has a fundamental role in carcinogenesis. In previous studies, the widely used diabetes drug metformin has appeared to have a critical role in the regulation of Nrf2 function. In this study, we assessed the expression of Nrf2 and Keap1 immunohistochemically in 157 patients with type 2 diabetes who underwent breast cancer surgery with curative intent. In total, 78 (49.7%) of these patients were taking metformin alone or combined with other oral anti-diabetic medication at the time of breast cancer diagnosis. We found that high-level cytoplasmic Nrf2 expression predicted dismal overall survival and breast cancer–specific survival, but only in the patients who were not taking metformin at the time of diagnosis. Similarly, low-level nuclear Keap1 expression had an adverse prognostic value in terms of overall survival and breast cancer–specific survival in patients without metformin. On the other hand, high-level nuclear Keap1 expression was associated with prolonged overall survival and breast cancer–specific survival. The results may be explained in terms of non-functioning or displaced Keap1, although more mechanistic pre-clinical and prospective clinical studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Urpilainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, PEDEGO Research Unit and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jenni Kangaskokko
- Department of Pathology and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Ulla Puistola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, PEDEGO Research Unit and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Peeter Karihtala
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
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31
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Dodson M, de la Vega MR, Cholanians AB, Schmidlin CJ, Chapman E, Zhang DD. Modulating NRF2 in Disease: Timing Is Everything. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2019; 59:555-575. [PMID: 30256716 PMCID: PMC6538038 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010818-021856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 257] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a central regulator of redox, metabolic, and protein homeostasis that intersects with many other signaling cascades. Although the understanding of the complex nature of NRF2 signaling continues to grow, there is only one therapeutic targeting NRF2 for clinical use, dimethyl fumarate, used for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. The discovery of new therapies is confounded by the fact that NRF2 levels vary significantly depending on physiological and pathological context. Thus, properly timed and targeted manipulation of the NRF2 pathway is critical in creating effective therapeutic regimens. In this review, we summarize the regulation and downstream targets of NRF2. Furthermore, we discuss the role of NRF2 in cancer, neurodegeneration, and diabetes as well as cardiovascular, kidney, and liver disease, with a special emphasis on NRF2-based therapeutics, including those that have made it into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Dodson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA;
| | - Montserrat Rojo de la Vega
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA;
| | - Aram B Cholanians
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA;
| | - Cody J Schmidlin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA;
| | - Eli Chapman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA;
| | - Donna D Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA;
- Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85724, USA
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Zhang B, Ma Z, Tan B, Lin N. Targeting the cell signaling pathway Keap1-Nrf2 as a therapeutic strategy for adenocarcinomas of the lung. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2018; 23:241-250. [PMID: 30556750 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2019.1559824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Kelch-like ECH associated protein 1/Nuclear factor erythroid 2-like factor 2 (Keap1-Nrf2) signaling plays a pivotal role in response to oxidative stress in lung cancer. Mutations in KEAP1/NFE2L2 genes always cause persistent Nrf2 activation in lung cancer cells that confer therapeutic resistance and aggressive tumorigenic activity, dictating either poor prognosis or short duration of response to chemotherapy in clinical observations. Areas covered: We provide a review of the mechanisms underlying the regulation of Keap1-Nrf2 at different stages, including genetic mutations, epigenetic modifications, translational/post-translational alterations, and protein-protein interactions. Based on the current knowledge, we discuss the possibilities of intervening Keap1-Nrf2 in lung adenocarcinoma as a therapeutic target. Expert opinion: It is prevalently conceived that Keap1-Nrf2 signaling plays different roles at diverse stages of cancer. Although various Nrf2 or Keap1 inhibitors have been reported during the last decades, none of these inhibitors are currently under clinical studies or in clinical applications, suggesting that sole inhibition of Nrf2 might not be sufficient to suppress tumor growth. On the basis of current studies, we suggest that the rational combination of Nrf2 suppression with chemical agents which cause enhanced oxidative imbalance or abnormal metabolism would be promising in the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Zhang
- a Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital , Zhejiang University School of Medicine , Hangzhou , China.,b Translational Medicine Research Center, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital , Zhejiang University School of Medicine , Hangzhou , China
| | - Zhiyuan Ma
- a Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital , Zhejiang University School of Medicine , Hangzhou , China
| | - Biqin Tan
- a Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital , Zhejiang University School of Medicine , Hangzhou , China
| | - Nengming Lin
- a Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital , Zhejiang University School of Medicine , Hangzhou , China.,b Translational Medicine Research Center, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital , Zhejiang University School of Medicine , Hangzhou , China
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Darbandi M, Darbandi S, Agarwal A, Baskaran S, Sengupta P, Dutta S, Mokarram P, Saliminejad K, Sadeghi MR. Oxidative stress-induced alterations in seminal plasma antioxidants: Is there any association with keap1 gene methylation in human spermatozoa? Andrologia 2018; 51:e13159. [PMID: 30298637 DOI: 10.1111/and.13159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (keap1)-nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway is one of the master regulators of cellular defence against oxidative stress. Epigenetic alterations like hypermethylation of keap1 gene impair keap1-Nrf2 system in several oxidative stress-associated diseases. The objective of this study was to evaluate the epigenetic status of keap1 in sperm DNA of normozoospermic subjects, having different levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in seminal plasma. Semen samples were obtained from 151 apparently healthy male partners of couples who attended the Avicenna infertility clinic. Samples were categorised into four groups according to their ROS levels: group A (n = 39, ROS < 20 RLU/s per 106 spermatozoa), group B (n = 38, 20 ≤ ROS < 40 RLU/s per 106 spermatozoa), group C (n = 31, 40 ≤ ROS < 60 RLU/s per 106 spermatozoa) and group D; (n = 43, ROS ≥ 60 RLU/s per 106 spermatozoa). Keap1 methylation status was assessed using methylation-specific PCR along with seminal total antioxidant capacity. The results showed no significant alterations in keap1 methylation in any groups, whereas the total antioxidant capacity enhanced with increasing levels of ROS exposure. These results indicate that keap1 was not methylated during ROS elevation and oxidative stress, suggesting that the cells have adopted other mechanisms to elevate antioxidant level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Darbandi
- Department of Embryology and Andrology, Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Darbandi
- Department of Embryology and Andrology, Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Saradha Baskaran
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Malaysia
| | - Sulagna Dutta
- Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Malaysia
| | - Pooneh Mokarram
- Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kioomars Saliminejad
- Department of Embryology and Andrology, Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Sadeghi
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute (ARI), ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Parrella
- Laboratory of Oncology, IRCCS ‘Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza’, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy
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Zhang J, Jiao Q, Kong L, Yu J, Fang A, Li M, Yu J. Nrf2 and Keap1 abnormalities in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and association with the effect of chemoradiotherapy. Thorac Cancer 2018; 9:726-735. [PMID: 29675925 PMCID: PMC5983206 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.12640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Keap1-Nrf2 pathway is a key antioxidant and redox signaling cascade. Pathway abnormalities enhance the reactive oxygen species scavenging ability of cancer cells; thus the pathway is involved in carcinogenesis and resistance to chemoradiotherapy (CRT). This retrospective study was conducted to examine the status of the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and to analyze its prognostic value in patients receiving CRT. METHODS Nrf2 and Keap1 expression were immunohistochemically examined in 152 ESCC and 31 normal esophageal mucosae. All ESCC specimens were obtained from patients with locally advanced ESCC who underwent CRT. RESULTS Strong staining of nuclear and cytoplasmic Nrf2 and limited or absent Keap1 expression was uncommon in normal tissues, but frequently observed in ESCC. Interaction between Nrf2 and Keap1 in normal mucosae is negatively correlated, while in tumors there is no negative correlation, indicating that there is little to no interaction between Nrf2 and Keap1 in ESCC. Positive Nrf2 expression in the nucleus was of diagnostic value for predicting ESCC from normal esophageal mucosae, and was significantly associated with poorer clinical response and poor progression-free survival after CRT. The value of Keap1 expression for diagnosis and predicting CRT outcomes was marginal. These different influences of Keap1 and Nrf2 on ESCC indicated that the signaling of this pathway was disturbed and displayed a Keap1-independent pattern. CONCLUSION Aberrant signaling via the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway was common in ESCC and was associated with response and survival after CRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingze Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Qinghua Jiao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Li Kong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Department of Pathology, Shandong Jiaotong Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Aiju Fang
- Department of Pathology, Shandong Jiaotong Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Minghuan Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Jinming Yu
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
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Epigenetic versus Genetic Deregulation of the KEAP1/NRF2 Axis in Solid Tumors: Focus on Methylation and Noncoding RNAs. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2018; 2018:2492063. [PMID: 29643973 PMCID: PMC5872633 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2492063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative and electrophilic changes in cells are mainly coordinated by the KEAP1/NRF2 (Kelch-like erythroid-derived cap-n-collar homology- (ECH-) associated protein-1/nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2) axis. The physical interaction between these two proteins promotes the expression of several antioxidant defense genes in response to exogenous and endogenous insults. Recent studies demonstrated that KEAP1/NRF2 axis dysfunction is also strongly related to tumor progression and chemo- and radiotherapy resistance of cancer cells. In solid tumors, the KEAP1/NRF2 system is constitutively activated by the loss of KEAP1 or gain of NFE2L2 functions that leads to its nuclear accumulation and enhances the transcription of many cytoprotective genes. In addition to point mutations, epigenetic abnormalities, as aberrant promoter methylation, and microRNA (miRNA) and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) deregulation were reported as emerging mechanisms of KEAP1/NRF2 axis modulation. This review will summarize the current knowledge about the epigenetic mechanisms that deregulate the KEAP1/NRF2 cascade in solid tumors and their potential usefulness as prognostic and predictive molecular markers.
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Abstract
The cellular response to external stress signals and DNA damage depends on the activity of ubiquitin ligases (E3s), which regulate numerous cellular processes, including homeostasis, metabolism and cell cycle progression. E3s recognize, interact with and ubiquitylate protein substrates in a temporally and spatially regulated manner. The topology of the ubiquitin chains dictates the fate of the substrates, marking them for recognition and degradation by the proteasome or altering their subcellular localization or assembly into functional complexes. Both genetic and epigenetic alterations account for the deregulation of E3s in cancer. Consequently, the stability and/or activity of E3 substrates are also altered, in some cases leading to downregulation of tumour-suppressor activities and upregulation of oncogenic activities. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying E3 regulation and function in tumorigenesis is expected to identify novel prognostic markers and to enable the development of the next generation of anticancer therapies. This Review summarizes the oncogenic and tumour-suppressor roles of selected E3s and highlights novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Senft
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92130, USA
| | - Jianfei Qi
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA
| | - Ze'ev A Ronai
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92130, USA
- Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology Faculty of Medicine, Haifa 31096, Israel
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Pasculli B, Barbano R, Parrella P. Epigenetics of breast cancer: Biology and clinical implication in the era of precision medicine. Semin Cancer Biol 2018; 51:22-35. [PMID: 29339244 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2018.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
In the last years, mortality from breast cancer has declined in western countries as a consequence of a more widespread screening resulting in earlier detection, as well as an improved molecular classification and advances in adjuvant treatment. Nevertheless, approximately one third of breast cancer patients will develop distant metastases and eventually die for the disease. There is now a compelling body of evidence suggesting that epigenetic modifications comprising DNA methylation and chromatin remodeling play a pivotal role since the early stages of breast cancerogenesis. In addition, recently, increasing emphasis is being placed on the property of ncRNAs to finely control gene expression at multiple levels by interacting with a wide array of molecules such that they might be designated as epigenetic modifiers. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about the involvement of epigenetic modifications in breast cancer, and provide an overview of the significant association of epigenetic traits with the breast cancer clinicopathological features, emphasizing the potentiality of epigenetic marks to become biomarkers in the context of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Pasculli
- Laboratory of Oncology, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", 71013, San Giovanni Rotondo, FG, Italy.
| | - Raffaela Barbano
- Laboratory of Oncology, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", 71013, San Giovanni Rotondo, FG, Italy.
| | - Paola Parrella
- Laboratory of Oncology, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", 71013, San Giovanni Rotondo, FG, Italy.
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Singla H, Ludhiadch A, Kaur RP, Chander H, Kumar V, Munshi A. Recent advances in HER2 positive breast cancer epigenetics: Susceptibility and therapeutic strategies. Eur J Med Chem 2017; 142:316-327. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2017.07.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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The Role of Redox-Regulating Enzymes in Inoperable Breast Cancers Treated with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2017; 2017:2908039. [PMID: 29348788 PMCID: PMC5733970 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2908039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2017] [Revised: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Although validated predictive factors for breast cancer chemoresistance are scarce, there is emerging evidence that the induction of certain redox-regulating enzymes may contribute to a poor chemotherapy effect. We investigated the possible association between chemoresistance and cellular redox state regulation in patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) for breast cancer. In total, 53 women with primarily inoperable or inflammatory breast cancer who were treated with NACT were included in the study. Pre-NACT core needle biopsies and postoperative tumor samples were immunohistochemically stained for nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), thioredoxin (Trx), and peroxiredoxin I (Prx I). The expression of all studied markers increased during NACT. Higher pre-NACT nuclear Prx I expression predicted smaller size of a resected tumor (p = 0.00052; r = −0.550), and higher pre-NACT cytoplasmic Prx I expression predicted a lower amount of evacuated nodal metastasis (p = 0.0024; r = −0.472). Pre-NACT nuclear Trx expression and pre-NACT nuclear Keap1 expression had only a minor prognostic significance as separate factors, but when they were combined, low expression for both antibodies before NACT predicted dismal disease-free survival (log-rank p = 0.0030). Our results suggest that redox-regulating enzymes may serve as potential prognostic factors in primarily inoperable breast cancer patients.
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Keap1/Nrf2 pathway in kidney cancer: frequent methylation of KEAP1 gene promoter in clear renal cell carcinoma. Oncotarget 2017; 8:11187-11198. [PMID: 28061437 PMCID: PMC5355256 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.14492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Keap1/Nrf2 pathway is a master regulator of the cellular redox state through the induction of several antioxidant defence genes implicated in chemotherapeutic drugs resistance of tumor cells. An increasing body of evidence supports a key role for Keap1/Nrf2 pathway in kidney diseases and renal cell carcinoma (RCC), but data concerning the molecular basis and the clinical effect of its deregulation remain incomplete. Here we present a molecular profiling of the KEAP1 and NFE2L2 genes in five different Renal Cell Carcinoma histotypes by analysing 89 tumor/normal paired tissues (clear cell Renal Carcinoma, ccRCCs; Oncocytomas; Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma Type 1, PRCC1; Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma Type 2, PRCC2; and Chromophobe Cell Carcinoma). A tumor-specific DNA methylation of the KEAP1 gene promoter region was found as a specific feature of the ccRCC subtype (18/37, 48.6%) and a direct correlation with mRNA levels was confirmed by in vitro 5-azacytidine treatment. Analysis of an independent data set of 481 ccRCC and 265 PRCC tumors corroborates our results and multivariate analysis reveals a significant correlation among ccRCCs epigenetic KEAP1 silencing and staging, grading and overall survival. Our molecular results show for the the first time the epigenetic silencing of KEAP1 promoter as the leading mechanism for modulation of KEAP1 expression in ccRCCs and corroborate the driver role of Keap1/Nrf2 axis deregulation with potential new function as independent epigenetic prognostic marker in renal cell carcinoma.
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Jeddi F, Soozangar N, Sadeghi MR, Somi MH, Samadi N. Contradictory roles of Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway in cancer prevention/promotion and chemoresistance. DNA Repair (Amst) 2017; 54:13-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2017.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Revised: 03/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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The Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway: An update on its regulation and possible role in cancer prevention and treatment. Pharmacol Rep 2017; 69:393-402. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2016.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Basak P, Sadhukhan P, Sarkar P, Sil PC. Perspectives of the Nrf-2 signaling pathway in cancer progression and therapy. Toxicol Rep 2017; 4:306-318. [PMID: 28959654 PMCID: PMC5615147 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2017.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor2 (Nrf2), a master regulator of redox homoeostasis, is a key transcription factor regulating a wide array of genes for antioxidant and detoxification enzymes. It protects organs from various kinds of toxic insults. On the other hand, activation of Nrf2 is also correlated with cancer progression and chemoresistance. Downregulation of Nrf2 activity has attracted an increasing amount of attention as it may provide an alternative cancer therapy. In this review, we examine recent studies on roles of Nrf2 in several pathophysiological conditions emphasising cancer. We discuss elaborately the current knowledge on Nrf2 regulation including KEAP1-dependent and KEAP1-independent cascades. KEAP1/Nrf2 system is a master regulator of cellular response against a variety of environmental stresses. We also highlight several tightly controlled regulations of Nrf2 by numerous proteins, small molecules, toxic metals, etc. In addition, we evaluate the possible therapeutic approaches of increasing chemosensitivity via modulating Nrf2 signaling.
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Muscarella LA, Fazio VM. Keap1/Nrf2 impairing revised: are we missing the single nucleotide polymorphisms? J Thorac Dis 2016; 8:E1752-E1754. [PMID: 28149633 DOI: 10.21037/jtd.2016.12.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Anna Muscarella
- Laboratory of Oncology, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy
| | - Vito Michele Fazio
- Laboratory of Oncology, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy; ; Genetic and Clinical Pathology Unit, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Roma, Italy
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47
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Cheng D, Wu R, Guo Y, Kong ANT. Regulation of Keap1-Nrf2 signaling: The role of epigenetics. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2016; 1:134-138. [PMID: 29057383 DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2016.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)-nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NFE2L2/Nrf2) signaling pathway is a pivotal player in the antioxidant response to oxidative and electrophilic stress and can play a role in many human diseases. Activation or inhibition of Nrf2 has been an approach to treating many diseases such as cancer and regulation of this pathway has been thoroughly studied. Recently, epigenetics has emerged as another layer for regulating Keap1-Nrf2. Epigenetics modification is defined as heritable changes to gene expression without changing DNA sequence and various modifications have been found to be involved in regulating Keap1-Nrf2. Therefore, targeting these epigenetic changes on Keap1-Nrf2 provides a potential pathway for modulating Keap1-Nrf2 to treat disease. In this review, several important and recent findings on epigenetic regulation and perspectives on Keap1-Nrf2 are discussed and shared.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Cheng
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Renyi Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Yue Guo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Ah-Ng Tony Kong
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
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Yen CY, Huang HW, Shu CW, Hou MF, Yuan SSF, Wang HR, Chang YT, Farooqi AA, Tang JY, Chang HW. DNA methylation, histone acetylation and methylation of epigenetic modifications as a therapeutic approach for cancers. Cancer Lett 2016; 373:185-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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49
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Expression of the Nrf2 and Keap1 proteins and their clinical significance in osteosarcoma. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2016; 473:42-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.03.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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50
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Abu-Alainin W, Gana T, Liloglou T, Olayanju A, Barrera LN, Ferguson R, Campbell F, Andrews T, Goldring C, Kitteringham N, Park BK, Nedjadi T, Schmid MC, Slupsky JR, Greenhalf W, Neoptolemos JP, Costello E. UHRF1 regulation of the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway in pancreatic cancer contributes to oncogenesis. J Pathol 2016; 238:423-33. [PMID: 26497117 PMCID: PMC4738372 DOI: 10.1002/path.4665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The cellular defence protein Nrf2 is a mediator of oncogenesis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and other cancers. However, the control of Nrf2 expression and activity in cancer is not fully understood. We previously reported the absence of Keap1, a pivotal regulator of Nrf2, in ∼70% of PDAC cases. Here we describe a novel mechanism whereby the epigenetic regulator UHRF1 suppresses Keap1 protein levels. UHRF1 expression was observed in 20% (5 of 25) of benign pancreatic ducts compared to 86% (114 of 132) of pancreatic tumours, and an inverse relationship between UHRF1 and Keap1 levels in PDAC tumours (n = 124) was apparent (p = 0.002). We also provide evidence that UHRF1-mediated regulation of the Nrf2 pathway contributes to the aggressive behaviour of PDAC. Depletion of UHRF1 from PDAC cells decreased growth and enhanced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. UHRF1 depletion also led to reduced levels of Nrf2-regulated downstream proteins and was accompanied by heightened oxidative stress, in the form of lower glutathione levels and increased reactive oxygen species. Concomitant depletion of Keap1 and UHRF1 restored Nrf2 levels and reversed cell cycle arrest and the increase in reactive oxygen species. Mechanistically, depletion of UHRF1 reduced global and tumour suppressor promoter methylation in pancreatic cancer cell lines, and KEAP1 gene promoter methylation was reduced in one of three cell lines examined. Thus, methylation of the KEAP1 gene promoter may contribute to the suppression of Keap1 protein levels by UHRF1, although our data suggest that additional mechanisms need to be explored. Finally, we demonstrate that K-Ras drives UHRF1 expression, establishing a novel link between this oncogene and Nrf2-mediated cellular protection. Since UHRF1 over-expression occurs in other cancers, its ability to regulate the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway may be critically important to the malignant behaviour of these cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafa Abu-Alainin
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Thompson Gana
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Triantafillos Liloglou
- Roy Castle Lung Cancer Research Programme, Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Adedamola Olayanju
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Lawrence N Barrera
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Robert Ferguson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Fiona Campbell
- Department of Pathology, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, UK
| | - Timothy Andrews
- Department of Pathology, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, UK
| | | | - Neil Kitteringham
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Brian K Park
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Taoufik Nedjadi
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Michael C Schmid
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Joseph R Slupsky
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - William Greenhalf
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - John P Neoptolemos
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Eithne Costello
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
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