ADAM10 Sheddase Activity is a Potential Lung-Cancer Biomarker

Revolutionizing lung cancer treatment: harnessing exosomes as early diagnostic biomarkers, therapeutics and nano-delivery platforms

Lung cancer, known for its high morbidity and mortality rates, remains one of the most critical health challenges globally. Conventional treatment options, such as chemotherapy and surgery, are often limited by high costs, significant side effects, and often yield a poor prognosis. Notably, recent research has shed light on the potential therapeutic roles of exosomes, which essentially influence lung cancer's development, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Exosomes have been revealed for their exceptional properties, including natural intercellular communication, excellent biocompatibility, minimal toxicity, prolonged blood circulation ability, and biodegradability. These unique characteristics position exosomes as highly effective drug delivery systems, nanotherapeutics, and potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in lung cancer. This review provides a comprehensive review of the physiological and pathological roles of exosomes in lung cancer, emphasizing their potential as innovative diagnostic biomarkers, therapeutics, and delivery platforms. By harnessing their unique properties, exosomes are poised to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, offering a promising avenue for more personalized and effective therapies.

ADAM10 is a key player in the diagnosis, prognosis and metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 10 (ADAM10) plays critical roles in various cancer-associated biological events, such as cell multiplication, migration, and metastasis. This study employs both the TCGA database and patient samples to demonstrate that ADAM10 is highly expressed in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) compared with normal tissue at different stages. Increased ADAM10 expression is positively correlated with decreased overall and recurrence-free survival. On the functional front, overexpression of ADAM10 promotes lung cancer cell progression, migration, and invasion, whereas downregulation of ADAM10 inhibits these processes. Mechanically, ADAM10 modulates the expression of Notch1, MMP9 and EMT markers such as Vimentin, N-cadherin, and E-cadherin. Overall, our findings suggest that ADAM10 may be a promising therapeutic and prognostic marker for NSCLC, emphasizing the importance of regulating its expression.

Exploring the association of ADAM17 expression with survival in patients with non-small cell lung cancer

The A disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM) family is involved in many vital cellular events, from proliferation to migration, and accumulated evidence suggests its increased expression in malignant tumors. In this study, we investigated ADAM17 expression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and its relationship with clinicopathological factors and survival. Immunohistochemical staining of ADAM expression was performed in 108 patients with NSCLC and in 54 control cases with no known malignant diagnosis. Association between ADAM17 expression, clinicopathological factors, and survival were analyzed. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis. ADAM17 was lowly expressed in 89 (82.4%) and highly expressed in 19 (17.6%) of the patients with NSCLC. In univariate analysis, high ADAM17 expression, lymphovascular invasion, stage, and treatment response significantly affected progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis also showed that high ADAM17 expression, lymphovascular invasion, stage, and treatment response were important prognostic factors for PFS and OS (p < 0.05). Our study revealed that high ADAM17 expression significantly associated with OS and PFS in patients with NSCLC. ADAM17 may potentially be the area of a new targeted treatment strategy in NSCLC. Thus, routine evaluation of ADAM17 expression in patients with NSCLC may be a future consideration.

Proteomic profiling of tumor microenvironment and prognosis risk prediction in stage I lung adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVES

With the increasing popularity of CT screening, more cases of early-stage lung cancer are being diagnosed. However, 24.5% of stage I non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients still experience treatment failure post-surgery. Biomarkers to predict lung cancer patients at high risk of recurrence are needed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We collected protein mass spectrometry data from the Taiwan Lung Cancer Moonshot Project and performed bioinformatics analysis on proteins with differential expressions between tumor and adjacent normal tissues in 74 stage I lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cases, aiming to explore the tumor microenvironment related prognostic biomarkers. Findings were further validated in 6 external cohorts.

RESULTS

The analysis of differentially expressed proteins revealed that the most enriched categories of diseases and biological functions were cellular movement, immune cell trafficking, and cancer. Utilizing proteomic profiling of the tumor microenvironment, we identified five prognostic biomarkers (ADAM10, MIF, TEK, THBS2, MAOA). We then developed a risk score model, which independently predicted recurrence-free survival and overall survival in stage I LUAD. Patients with high risk scores experienced worse recurrence-free survival (adjusted hazard ratio = 8.28, p < 0.001) and overall survival (adjusted hazard ratio = 6.88, p = 0.013). Findings had been also validated in the external cohorts.

CONCLUSION

The risk score model derived from proteomic profiling of tumor microenvironment can be used to predict recurrence risk and prognosis of stage I LUAD.

Description of an activity-based enzyme biosensor for lung cancer detection

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is associated with the greatest cancer mortality as it typically presents with incurable distributed disease. Biomarkers relevant to risk assessment for the detection of lung cancer continue to be a challenge because they are often not detectable during the asymptomatic curable stage of the disease. A solution to population-scale testing for lung cancer will require a combination of performance, scalability, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity.

METHODS

One solution is to measure the activity of serum available enzymes that contribute to the transformation process rather than counting biomarkers. Protease enzymes modify the environment during tumor growth and present an attractive target for detection. An activity based sensor platform sensitive to active protease enzymes is presented. A panel of 18 sensors was used to measure 750 sera samples from participants at increased risk for lung cancer with or without the disease.

RESULTS

A machine learning approach is applied to generate algorithms that detect 90% of cancer patients overall with a specificity of 82% including 90% sensitivity in Stage I when disease intervention is most effective and detection more challenging.

CONCLUSION

This approach is promising as a scalable, clinically useful platform to help detect patients who have lung cancer using a simple blood sample. The performance and cost profile is being pursued in studies as a platform for population wide screening.

IL-12p40 Monomer: A Potential Player in Macrophage Regulation

Macrophages are myeloid phagocytic leukocytes whose functions are to protect against infections, mediate T-cell responses, and maintain tissue homeostasis. IL-12p40 monomer is a cytokine that is largely produced by macrophages, and it has, for the longest time, been considered a largely non-functional cytokine of the IL-12 family. However, new research has emerged that demonstrates that this p40 monomer may play a bigger role in shaping immune environments. To shed light on the specific effects of p40 monomer on macrophages and their surrounding environment, we showed, through cell culture studies, qPCR, ELISA, and immunofluorescence analyses, that the direct administration of recombinant p40 monomer to RAW 264.7 cells and primary lung macrophages stimulated the production of both pro-inflammatory (TNFα) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) signals. Accordingly, p40 monomer prevented the full pro-inflammatory effects of LPS, and the neutralization of p40 monomer by mAb a3-3a stimulated the pro-inflammatory effects of LPS. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the intranasal administration of p40 monomer upregulated TNFα+IL-10+ macrophages in vivo in the lungs of mice. Collectively, these results indicate an important immunoregulatory function of p40 monomer in the upregulation of both pro- and anti-inflammatory molecules in macrophages.

Immunomodulatory role of metalloproteases in cancers: Current progress and future trends

Metalloproteinases (MPs) is a large family of proteinases with metal ions in their active centers. According to the different domains metalloproteinases can be divided into a variety of subtypes mainly including Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs), A Disintegrin and Metalloproteases (ADAMs) and ADAMs with Thrombospondin Motifs (ADAMTS). They have various functions such as protein hydrolysis, cell adhesion and remodeling of extracellular matrix. Metalloproteinases expressed in multiple types of cancers and participate in many pathological processes involving tumor genesis and development, invasion and metastasis by regulating signal transduction and tumor microenvironment. In this review, based on the current research progress, we summarized the structure of MPs, their expression and especially immunomodulatory role and mechanisms in cancers. Additionally, a relevant and timely update of recent advances and future directions were provided for the diagnosis and immunotherapy targeting MPs in cancers.

Message in the bottle: regulation of the tumor microenvironment via exosome-driven proteolysis

Exosomes comprise a subtype of extracellular vesicles involved in cell-to-cell communication, specifically by transporting biological molecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, to either local or more distant recipient cells, thus triggering distinct biological behaviors. Included in the exosome cargo is frequently a wide range of proteolytic enzymes, such as the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), the disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs), and the ADAM with thrombospondin-like motifs (ADAMTSs), whose functions contribute to the development and progression of cancer. In recent years, extensive research on the potential use of exosomes in diagnostic and therapeutic applications for personalized medicine has emerged, but the targeting of the proteolytic cargo of exosomes has not been fully exploited in this direction. In this review, we aim to explore both the mechanistic and the translational importance of proteolytic enzymes carried by the tumor cell-derived exosomes, as well as their role in the acquisition and support of certain hallmarks of cancer.

Regulation of the Soluble Amyloid Precursor Protein α (sAPPα) Levels by Acetylcholinesterase and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Lung Cancer Cell Media

In comparing two human lung cancer cells, we previously found lower levels of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and intact amyloid-β40/42 (Aβ), and higher levels of mature brain-derived neurotrophic factor (mBDNF) in the media of H1299 cells as compared to A549 cell media. In this study, we hypothesized that the levels of soluble amyloid precursor protein α (sAPPα) are regulated by AChE and mBDNF in A549 and H1299 cell media. The levels of sAPPα were higher in the media of H1299 cells. Knockdown of AChE led to increased sAPPα and mBDNF levels and correlated with decreased levels of intact Aβ40/42 in A549 cell media. AChE and mBDNF had opposite effects on the levels of Aβ and sAPPα and were found to operate through a mechanism involving α-secretase activity. Treatment with AChE decreased sAPPα levels and simultaneously increased the levels of intact Aβ40/42 suggesting a role of the protein in shifting APP processing away from the non-amyloidogenic pathway and toward the amyloidogenic pathway, whereas treatment with mBDNF led to opposite effects on those levels. We also show that the levels of sAPPα are regulated by protein kinase C (PKC), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2, phosphoinositide 3 Kinase (PI3K), but not by protein kinase A (PKA).

Extracellular vesicles and particles impact the systemic landscape of cancer

Intercellular cross talk between cancer cells and stromal and immune cells is essential for tumor progression and metastasis. Extracellular vesicles and particles (EVPs) are a heterogeneous class of secreted messengers that carry bioactive molecules and that have been shown to be crucial for this cell-cell communication. Here, we highlight the multifaceted roles of EVPs in cancer. Functionally, transfer of EVP cargo between cells influences tumor cell growth and invasion, alters immune cell composition and function, and contributes to stromal cell activation. These EVP-mediated changes impact local tumor progression, foster cultivation of pre-metastatic niches at distant organ-specific sites, and mediate systemic effects of cancer. Furthermore, we discuss how exploiting the highly selective enrichment of molecules within EVPs has profound implications for advancing diagnostic and prognostic biomarker development and for improving therapy delivery in cancer patients. Altogether, these investigations into the role of EVPs in cancer have led to discoveries that hold great promise for improving cancer patient care and outcome.

ADAM12 as a Clinical Prognostic Indicator Associated with Tumor Immune Infiltration in Lung Adenocarcinoma

Twenty-two functional α-disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs) have been identified in humans, 12 of which have proteolytic activity. The role of ADAMs in cancer has attracted increasing attention. However, the expression and significance of ADAMs in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remain unclear. Most recently, we investigated the transcriptional data of ADAMs and related overall survival in patients with LUAD based on several databases, including TCGA, cBioPortal, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, LinkedOmics, KEGG, TIMER, and TISIDB. Knockdown of ADAM12 was performed in vitro to verify its biological function. According to our findings, 10 ADAMs exhibited significant differential expression in LUAD compared with cancer-adjacent normal tissues. ADAM12 expression was significantly higher in LUAD tissues than in paracancerous tissues, and lower ADAM12 expression was associated with better survival. Genetic alterations of ADAM12 mainly included missense mutations, amplifications, and deep deletions. ADAM12 and positively correlated genes were mainly enriched in protein digestion and absorption, extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, and adhesion plaques. ADAM12 had a moderate correlation with immune cell markers EBIP1, CCNB1, EXO1, KNTC1, PRC1, and FAM198B. Prognostic model was established based on ADAM12 and immune-related genes. In vitro experiments revealed that knocking down ADAM12 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. ADAM12 potentially plays an important role in the occurrence of LUAD and may be utilized as an immunotherapy target and a valuable prognostic biomarker for LUAD.

Human B Cells Mediate Innate Anti-Cancer Cytotoxicity Through Concurrent Engagement of Multiple TNF Superfamily Ligands

The essential innate immunity effector cells, natural killer and dendritic cells, express multiple plasma membrane-associated tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily (TNFSF) ligands that, through simultaneous and synergistic engagement, mediate anti-cancer cytotoxicity. Here, we report that circulating B cells, mediators of adaptive humoral immunity, also mediate this innate anti-cancer immune mechanism. We show that resting human B cells isolated from peripheral blood induce apoptosis of, and efficiently kill a large variety of leukemia and solid tumor cell types. Single-cell RNA sequencing analyses indicate, and flow cytometry data confirm that B cells from circulation express transmembrane TNF, Fas ligand (FasL), lymphotoxin (LT) α1β2 and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). The cytotoxic activity can be inhibited by individual and, especially, combined blockade of the four transmembrane TNFSF ligands. B cells from tumor-bearing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients express lower levels of TNFSF ligands and are less cytotoxic than those isolated from healthy individuals. In conclusion, we demonstrate that B cells have the innate capacity to mediate anti-cancer cytotoxicity through concurrent activity of multiple plasma membrane-associated TNFSF ligands, that this mechanism is deficient in cancer patients and that it may be part of a general cancer immunosurveillance mechanism.

Biomedical application of small extracellular vesicles in cancer treatment

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are produced by almost all cell types in vivo or in vitro. Among them, exosomes are small nanovesicles with a lipid bilayer, proteins and RNAs actively involved in cellular communication, suggesting that they may be used both as biomarkers and for therapeutic purposes in diseases such as cancer. Moreover, the idea of using them as drug delivery vehicle arises as a promising field of study. Here, we reviewed recent findings showing the importance of EVs, with special focus in exosomes as biomarkers including the most relevant proteins found in different cancer types and it is discussed the FDA approved tests which use exosomes in clinical practice. Finally, we present an overview of the different chimeric EVs developed in the last few years, demonstrating that they can be conjugate to nanoparticles, biomolecules, cancer drugs, etc., and can be developed for a specific cancer treatment. Additionally, we summarized the clinical trials where EVs are used in the treatment of several cancer types aiming to improve the prognosis of these deadly diseases.

Exosomes: Small vesicles with big roles in cancer, vaccine development, and therapeutics

Cancer is a deadly disease that is globally and consistently one of the leading causes of mortality every year. Despite the availability of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery, a cure for cancer has not been attained. Recently, exosomes have gained significant attention due to the therapeutic potential of their various components including proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, miRNAs, and lncRNAs. Exosomes constitute a set of tiny extracellular vesicles with an approximate diameter of 30-100 nm. They are released from different cells and are present in biofluids including blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and urine. They perform crucial multifaceted functions in the malignant progression of cancer via autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine communications. The ability of exosomes to carry different cargoes including drug and molecular information to recipient cells make them a novel tool for cancer therapeutics. In this review, we discuss the major components of exosomes and their role in cancer progression. We also review important literature about the potential role of exosomes as vaccines and delivery carriers in the context of cancer therapeutics.

Inhibitors of gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) for the management of hematological malignancies

Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) are collectively known as gelatinases whereas MMP-2 is gelatinase-A and MMP-9 is termed as gelatinase-B. Gelatinases and other matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have long been associated with solid tumor invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis. However, there is paucity of data available regarding the role of gelatinases in hematological malignancies. Recent studies have shown that gelatinases activities or functions are correlated with hematological malignancies. Strategies for designing more specific gelatinase inhibitors like catalytic (CAT) domain inhibitors and hemopexin (PEX) domain inhibitors as well as signaling pathway based or gelatinase expression inhibitors had been reported against hematologic malignant cells. Several substrate based non-selective to non-substrate based relatively selective synthetic matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors (MMPIs) had been developed. Few MMPIs had reached in clinical trials during the period of 1990s-2000s. Unfortunately the anti-tumor and anti-metastatic efficacies of these MMPIs were not justified with patients having several advanced stage solid tumor cancers in any substantial number of clinical trials. Till date not a single MMPI passed phase III clinical trials designed for advanced metastatic cancers due to adverse events as well as lack of ability to show uniformity in disease prolongation. With the best of our knowledge no clinical trial study has been reported with small molecule synthetic inhibitors against hematological malignancies. This review looks at the outcome of clinical trials of MMPIs for advanced stage solid tumors. This can therefore, act as a learning experience for future development of successful gelatinase inhibitors for the management of hematological malignancies.

A highly expressed mRNA signature for predicting survival in patients with stage I/II non-small-cell lung cancer after operation

There is an urgent need to identify novel biomarkers that predict the prognosis of patients with NSCLC. In this study,we aim to find out mRNA signature closely related to the prognosis of NSCLC by new algorithm of bioinformatics. Identification of highly expressed mRNA in stage I/II patients with NSCLC was performed with the “Limma” package of R software. Survival analysis of patients with different mRNA expression levels was subsequently calculated by Cox regression analysis, and a multi-RNA signature was obtained by using the training set. Kaplan–Meier estimator, log-rank test and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to analyse the predictive ability of the multi-RNA signature. RT-PCR used to verify the expression of the multi-RNA signature, and Westernblot used to verify the expression of proteins related to the multi-RNA signature. We identified fifteen survival-related mRNAs in the training set and classified the patients as high risk or low risk. NSCLC patients with low risk scores had longer disease-free survival than patients with high risk scores. The fifteen-mRNA signature was an independent prognostic factor, as shown by the ROC curve. ROC curve also showed that the combined model of the fifteen-mRNA signature and tumour stage had higher precision than stage alone. The expression of fifteen mRNAs and related proteins were higher in stage II NSCLC than in stage I NSCLC. Multi-gene expression profiles provide a moderate prognostic tool for NSCLC patients with stage I/II disease.

miR-520d suppresses rapid pacing-induced apoptosis of atrial myocytes through mediation of ADAM10

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in various pathological processes like atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the mechanisms remain unclear. Herein, this study was undertaken to probe the roles of ADAM10 and its targeting miR-520d in rapid pacing-induced apoptosis in atrial myocytes. In this study, the atrial myocytes grew adherently with irregular morphology. Immunofluorescence showed that more than 90% of atrial myocytes were α-sarcomeric actin (α-SCA) positive, indicating that the primary cells were positive for α-SCA staining and atrial myocytes were successfully isolated. The pacing atrial myocyte model was established after rapid pacing stimulation and we found the rapid pacing stimulation caused elevated ADAM10 and suppressed miR-520d. CCK-8 assay was applied for evaluation of cell viability, TUNEL staining for assessment of cell apoptosis and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay for verification of the targeting relationship between miR-520d and ADAM10. Overexpression of miR-520d or silencing of ADAM10 could enhance cell viability and reduce cell apoptosis in the rapid pacing-induced atrial myocytes. ADAM10 was a target gene of miR-520d. MiR-520d negatively targeted ADAM10, thereby promoting cell viability and inhibiting apoptosis in rapid pacing atrial myocyte model. In summary, miR-520d enhances atrial myocyte viability and inhibits cell apoptosis in rapid pacing-induced AF mouse model through negative mediation of ADAM10.

Isolation and characterization of exosomes for cancer research

Exosomes are a subset of extracellular vesicles that carry specific combinations of proteins, nucleic acids, metabolites, and lipids. Mounting evidence suggests that exosomes participate in intercellular communication and act as important molecular vehicles in the regulation of numerous physiological and pathological processes, including cancer development. Exosomes are released by various cell types under both normal and pathological conditions, and they can be found in multiple bodily fluids. Moreover, exosomes carrying a wide variety of important macromolecules provide a window into altered cellular or tissue states. Their presence in biological fluids renders them an attractive, minimally invasive approach for liquid biopsies with potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, prediction, and surveillance. Due to their biocompatibility and low immunogenicity and cytotoxicity, exosomes have potential clinical applications in the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. Here, we summarize recent advances in various technologies for exosome isolation for cancer research. We outline the functions of exosomes in regulating tumor metastasis, drug resistance, and immune modulation in the context of cancer development. Finally, we discuss prospects and challenges for the clinical development of exosome-based liquid biopsies and therapeutics.

CircNFIX Acts as a miR-212-3p Sponge to Enhance the Malignant Progression of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer by Up-Regulating ADAM10

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains the most commonly diagnosed malignancy and the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been demonstrated to play critical roles in human carcinogenesis, including NSCLC. However, it is still unclear whether circRNA nuclear factor I X (circNFIX) is implicated in the molecular pathogenesis of NSCLC.

Methods

The expression levels of circNFIX, miR-212-3p and a disintegrin and metalloproteinases 10 (ADAM10) were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or Western blot. Cell viability was gauged by the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, and cell migration and invasion were determined by transwell assays. Glucose uptake and lactate product were determined using the assay kits. Targeted relationships among circNFIX, miR-212-3p and ADAM10 were verified by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pulldown assays. Additionally, the xenograft model assays were carried out to analyze the role of circNFIX in tumor growth in vivo.

Results

Our data revealed that circNFIX was overexpressed in NSCLC and predicted poor prognosis of NSCLC patients. CircNFIX knockdown suppressed NSCLC cell viability, migration, invasion and glycolysis in vitro and hampered tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, CircNFIX acted as a molecular sponge of miR-212-3p, and the repressive effect of circNFIX knockdown on NSCLC cell malignant progression was mediated by miR-212-3p. Moreover, ADAM10 was a direct target of miR-212-3p, and circNFIX influenced ADAM10 expression by sponging miR-212-3p in NSCLC cells. Furthermore, the silencing of ADAM10 hindered NSCLC cell viability, migration, invasion and glycolysis in vitro.

Conclusion

Our findings first identified that the knockdown of circNFIX, a highly expressed circRNA in NSCLC, exerted a repressive role in NSCLC malignant progression at least in part through targeting the miR-212-3p/ADAM10 axis, illuminating a novel understanding of circRNA regulation in NSCLC.

ADAM10 promotes cell growth, migration, and invasion in osteosarcoma via regulating E-cadherin/β-catenin signaling pathway and is regulated by miR-122-5p

Background

Osteosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor. Increasing evidences have revealed that a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 10 (ADAM10) is implicated in tumor development. The main purpose of this study is to explore the effects of ADAM10 on osteosarcoma cell functions and the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

Western blot and quantitative real-time PCR were performed to detect the expression of ADAM10 in one osteoblast (hFOB 1.19) and six osteosarcoma cells (Saos-2, SW1353, HOS, U-2OS, MG63, and 143B). The biological functions of ADAM10 in osteosarcoma cells were measured by cell counting kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, wound healing assay, and transwell assay. The interaction between miR-122-5p and ADAM10 was validated using dual-luciferase reporter assay. The effect of ADAM10 on the tumorigenicity of osteosarcoma cells was evaluated in a nude mice model in vivo.

Results

We found that the expression of ADAM10 was relatively high in osteosarcoma cells compared with that in osteoblast. ADAM10 promoted osteosarcoma cell growth, migration, and invasion. Mechanism studies showed that knockdown of ADAM10 inactivated E-cadherin/β-catenin signaling pathway, as evidenced by increased the level of E-cadherin, reduced nuclear translocation of β-catenin, and decreased the levels of MMP-9, Cyclin D1, c-Myc, and Survivin. Downregulation of ADAM10 suppressed the tumorigenicity of osteosarcoma cells in vivo. Furthermore, ADAM10 was validated to be a downstream target of microRNA-122-5p (miR-122-5p). MiR-122-5p-induced inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and invasion was reversed by overexpression of ADAM10 in osteosarcoma cells.

Conclusions

Collectively, the key findings of this study are that ADAM10 promotes osteosarcoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by regulating E-cadherin/β-catenin signaling pathway, and miR-122-5p can target ADAM10, indicating that miR-122-5p/ADAM10 axis might serve as a therapeutic target of osteosarcoma.

Clinical significance and inflammatory landscapes of a novel recurrence-associated immune signature in early-stage lung adenocarcinoma

The prevalence of early-stage lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) has increased alongside increased implementation of lung cancer screenings. Robust discrimination criteria are urgently needed to identify those patients who might benefit from additional systemic therapy. Here, to develop a reliable, individualized immune gene-set-based signature to predict recurrence in early-stage LUAD, a novel recurrence-associated immune signature was identified using a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator model, and a stepwise Cox proportional hazards regression model with a training set comprised of 338 early-stage LUAD samples form TCGA, which was subsequently validated in 226 cases from GSE31210 and an independent set of 68 frozen tumor samples with qRT-PCR data. This new classification system remained strongly predictive of prognoses across clinical subgroups and mutation status. Further analysis revealed that samples from high-risk cases were characterized by active interferon signal transduction, distinctive immune cell proportions and immune checkpoint profiles. Moreover, the signature was identified as an independent prognostic factor. In conclusion, the signature is highly predictive of recurrence in patients with early-stage LUAD, which may serve as a powerful prognostic tool to further optimize immunotherapies for cancer.

Exosomes as a storehouse of tissue remodeling proteases and mediators of cancer progression

Rapidly increasing scientific reports of exosomes and their biological effects have improved our understanding of their cellular sources and their cell-to-cell communication. These nano-sized vesicles act as potent carriers of regulatory bio-macromolecules and can induce regulatory functions by delivering them from its source to recipient cells. The details of their communication network are less understood. Recent studies have shown that apart from delivering its cargo to the cells, it can directly act on extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and growth factors and can induce various remodeling events. More importantly, exosomes carry many surface-bound proteases, which can cleave different ECM proteins and carbohydrates and can shed cell surface receptors. These local extracellular events can modulate signaling cascades, which consequently influences the whole tissue and organ. This review aims to highlight the critical roles of exosomal proteases and their mechanistic insights within the cellular and extracellular environment.

Development of flow cytometry assays for measuring cell-membrane enzyme activity on individual cells

Background: Cell-membrane expressing enzymes such as ADAM (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase) superfamily members are thought to be key catalysts of vital cellular functions. To directly measure these enzymes and determine their association with particular cells and functions, individual-cell membrane-bound enzyme activity assays are required, but unavailable.

Methods: We developed two such assays, using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) peptide substrate (FPS) and flow cytometry. One assay measured live-cell natural processing of FPS and binding of its fluorescent product onto individual-cell membrane-bound enzymes. The other assay measured processing of specifically-bound and glutaraldehyde-crosslinked FPS, and consequent generation of its coupled fluorescent product onto individual-cell membrane-bound enzymes.

Results: Confocal-microscopy imaging indicated that proteolytic processing of FPS selectively occurred on and labeled cell membrane of individual cells. The new assays measured specific increases of cell-associated FPS fluorescent product in substrate-concentration-, temperature- and time-dependent manners. A large proportion of processed FPS fluorescent products remained cell-associated after cell washing, indicating their binding to cell-membrane expressing enzymes. The assays measured higher levels of cell-associated FPS fluorescent product on wild-type than ADAM10-knockout mouse fibroblasts and on human monocytes than lymphocytes, which correlated with ADAM10 presence and expression levels on cell membrane, respectively. Furthermore, the enzyme activity assays could be combined with fluorescent anti-ADAM10 antibody staining to co-label and more directly associate enzyme activity and ADAM10 protein levels on cell membrane of individual cells.

Conclusions: We report on two novel assays for measuring cell-membrane anchored enzyme activity on individual cells, and their potential use to directly study specific biology of cell-surface-expressing proteases.

Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG) Improves Cognitive Deficits Aggravated by an Obesogenic Diet Through Modulation of Unfolded Protein Response in APPswe/PS1dE9 Mice

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a catechin found in green tea, has been previously investigated for its neuroprotective effects in vitro and in vivo. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate its possible beneficial effects in a well-established preclinical mixed model of familial Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) based on the use of transgenic APPswe/PS1dE9 (APP/PS1) mice fed with a high fat diet (HFD). C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) and APP/PS1 mice were used in this study. APP/PS1 mice were fed with a palmitic acid-enriched HFD (APP/PS1 HFD) containing 45% of fat mainly from hydrogenated coconut oil. Intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests (IP-GTT) and insulin tolerance tests (IP-ITT) were performed. Western blot analyses were performed to analyse protein expression, and water maze and novel object recognition test were done to evaluate the cognitive process. EGCG treatment improves peripheral parameters such as insulin sensitivity or liver insulin pathway signalling, as well as central memory deficits. It also markedly increased synaptic markers and cAMP response element binding (CREB) phosphorylation rates, as a consequence of a decrease in the unfolded protein response (UPR) activation through the reduction in the activation factor 4 (ATF4) levels and posterior downregulation of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B). Moreover, EGCG significantly decreased brain amyloid β (Aβ) production and plaque burden by increasing the levels of α-secretase (ADAM10). Also, it led to a reduction in neuroinflammation, as suggested by the decrease in astrocyte reactivity and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) levels. Collectively, evidence suggests that chronic EGCG prevents distinct neuropathological AD-related hallmarks. This study also provides novel insights into the metabolic and neurobiological mechanisms of EGCG against cognitive loss through its effects on UPR function, suggesting that this compound may be a promising disease-modifying treatment for neurodegenerative diseases.

Lactobacillus gasseri Suppresses the Production of Proinflammatory Cytokines in Helicobacter pylori-Infected Macrophages by Inhibiting the Expression of ADAM17

The ability of Helicobacter pylori to evade the host immune system allows the bacterium to colonize the host for a lifetime. Long-term infection with H. pylori causes chronic inflammation, which is the major risk factor for the development of gastric ulcers and gastric cancer. Lactobacilli are part of the human microbiota and have been studied as an adjunct treatment in H. pylori eradication therapy. However, the molecular mechanisms by which lactobacilli act against H. pylori infection have not been fully characterized. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of Lactobacillus strains upon coincubation of host macrophages with H. pylori. We found that Lactobacillus gasseri Kx110A1 (L. gas), a strain isolated from a human stomach, but not other tested Lactobacillus species, blocked the production of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF and IL-6 in H. pylori-infected macrophages. Interestingly, L. gas also inhibited the release of these cytokines in LPS or LTA stimulated macrophages, demonstrating a general anti-inflammatory property. The inhibition of these cytokines did not occur through the polarization of macrophages from the M1 (proinflammatory) to M2 (anti-inflammatory) phenotype or through the altered viability of H. pylori or host cells. Instead, we show that L. gas suppressed the release of TNF and IL-6 by reducing the expression of ADAM17 (also known as TNF-alpha-converting enzyme, TACE) on host cells. Our findings reveal a novel mechanism by which L. gas prevents the production of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF and IL-6 in host macrophages.

MiR-449a regulates the cell migration and invasion of human non-small cell lung carcinoma by targeting ADAM10

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding small RNAs that have been shown to play a key role in the development of many tumors. However, its specific mechanism of action in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is not very clear. Purpose: This study was to identify the effect of miRNA-449a on NSCLC invasion and migration. Methods: We used quantitative real-time PCR experiments to demonstrate that miRNA-449a is down-regulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. We also used the Transwell assay to detect cell invasion and migration, and the Western Blot assay  was used to detect protein expression. The dual luciferase assay was used to detect the targeting relationship between miR-449a and A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinases 10 (ADAM10). Results: Our experiments demonstrated that miRNA-449a was down-regulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. When miRNA-449a was up-regulated in NSCLC cells, the invasion and migration ability of the cells was weakened, and the expression of ADAM10 was decreased. After down-regulation of miRNA-449a, the cell's invasion and migration ability was enhanced, and the expression of ADAM10 was increased. Through dual luciferase assays, we also found that miRNA-449a can target ADAM10 to delay the progression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and inhibit invasion and migration. Conclusion: Our experiments demonstrated that miRNA-449a acted as a tumor suppressor gene through inhibiting the expression of ADAM10 in NSCLC.

The critical role of exosomes in tumor biology

Exosomes are a type of extracellular vesicles (diameter, 30-160 nm), which contain multiple proteins, nucleic acids, lipid molecules, and other substances. Most types of cells can secrete exosomes, although the biogenesis, composition, and function is specific to different cell types. Recently, many studies have demonstrated that exosomes play a critical role in tumor development. In this review, we briefly summarize the biogenesis, composition, and function of exosomes. We also discuss the recent advances in the critical role of exosomes in tumor biology with a special focus on their application in tumor diagnosis and treatment.

Higher CXCL16 exodomain is associated with aggressive ovarian cancer and promotes the disease by CXCR6 activation and MMP modulation

Ovarian cancer (OvCa) is the leading cause of death from gynecological malignancies. Five-year survival rate of OvCa ranges from 30–92%, depending on the spread of disease at diagnosis. Role of chemokines is well appreciated in cancer, including OvCa. However, their precise role is understudied. Here, we show clinical and biological significance of CXCR6-CXCL16 and ADAM10 in OvCa. Expression of CXCR6 and N-terminal CXCL16 was significantly higher in serous carcinoma tissues compared to endometrioid. OvCa cells (SKOV-3 and OVCAR-3) also showed higher expression of CXCR6 than normal ovarian epithelial cells (IOSE-7576) while CXCL16 was higher in SKOV-3 than IOSE-7576. Furthermore, N-terminal CXCL16 was higher in conditioned media of OvCa cells than IOSE-7576. Compared to OVCAR-3, SKOV-3 cells, which had higher CXCL16, expressed significantly higher transcripts of ADAM10, a protease that cleaves CXCL16. OVCAR-3 cells showed higher CXCR6 specific migration whereas SKOV-3 cells showed more invasion. Difference in invasive potential of these cells was due to modulation of different MMPs after CXCL16 stimulation. Higher CXCR6 expression in serous papillary carcinoma tissues suggests its association with aggressive OvCa. Increased migration-invasion towards CXCL16 implies its role in metastatic spread. Therefore, CXCR6-CXCL16 axis could be used to differentiate between aggressive versus non-aggressive disease and as a target for better prognosis.

Extracellular Vesicles and Matrix Remodeling Enzymes: The Emerging Roles in Extracellular Matrix Remodeling, Progression of Diseases and Tissue Repair

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane enclosed micro- and nano-sized vesicles that are secreted from almost every species, ranging from prokaryotes to eukaryotes, and from almost every cell type studied so far. EVs contain repertoire of bioactive molecules such as proteins (including enzymes and transcriptional factors), lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids including DNA, coding and non-coding RNAs. The secreted EVs are taken up by neighboring cells where they release their content in recipient cells, or can sail through body fluids to reach distant organs. Since EVs transport bioactive cargo between cells, they have emerged as novel mediators of extra- and intercellular activities in local microenvironment and inter-organ communications distantly. Herein, we review the activities of EV-associated matrix-remodeling enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases, heparanases, hyaluronidases, aggrecanases, and their regulators such as extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducers and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases as novel means of matrix remodeling in physiological and pathological conditions. We discuss how such EVs act as novel mediators of extracellular matrix degradation to prepare a permissive environment for various pathological conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis and metabolic diseases. Additionally, the roles of EV-mediated matrix remodeling in tissue repair and their potential applications as organ therapies have been reviewed. Collectively, this knowledge could benefit the development of new approaches for tissue engineering.