Tumor suppressor DRD2 facilitates M1 macrophages and restricts NF-κB signaling to trigger pyroptosis in breast cancer

GTS-21 alleviates sepsis-induced atrial fibrillation susceptibility by modulating macrophage polarization and Neuregulin-1 secretion

OBJECTIVE

Sepsis-induced atrial fibrillation (AF) is driven by systemic inflammation and macrophage-mediated atrial remodeling, with proinflammatory M1 macrophages playing a key role. This study investigates whether GTS-21, an α7nAChR agonist, can reduce AF susceptibility by promoting macrophage polarization towards the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype.

METHODS

A mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (10 mg/kg)-induced sepsis was used to explore the relationship between atrial inflammation and AF. GTS-21 (20 mg/kg) was administered to assess its impact on 48-h survival and AF incidence. Cardiac function was evaluated using echocardiography. Markers of myocardial injury, including CK-MB, LDH, and cTnI, were measured. Macrophage polarization and atrial inflammation were assessed using immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, RT-qPCR, and western blotting. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial function were evaluated using reactive oxygen species (ROS) measurements, electron microscopy, and mitochondrial protein expression analysis. Calcium dynamics were studied using western blotting and confocal microscopy.

RESULTS

In LPS-induced septic mice, GTS-21 improved 48-h survival rates and reduced the induction rate and duration of AF (P < 0.05). Echocardiography showed a preserved left ventricular ejection fraction and enhanced diastolic function. Mechanistically, it promoted M2 macrophage polarization, inhibited the NF-κB P65/NLRP3/C-caspase 1 pathway to reduce IL-1β release, and alleviated oxidative stress. Additionally, mitochondrial structure was restored by reversing fission and promoting fusion, while calcium-handling proteins (NCX-1, RYR2, and SERCA2a) were regulated to prevent intracellular calcium overload, reducing AF susceptibility.

CONCLUSION

GTS-21 mitigated atrial inflammation and reduced the incidence of AF in mice with sepsis by regulating macrophage polarization, reducing oxidative stress, and preserving mitochondrial and calcium dynamics in cardiomyocytes. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of GTS-21 in treating sepsis-induced AF.

Therapeutic connections between pyroptosis and paclitaxel in anti-tumor effects: an updated review

As a form of inflammation-associated cell death, pyroptosis has gained widespread attention in recent years. Accumulating evidence indicates that pyroptosis regulates tumor growth and is associated with autoimmune disorders and inflammatory response. Paclitaxel, a traditional Chinese medicine, usually induces death of cancer cells as a chemotherapeutic agent. Previous studies have revealed that paclitaxel can exert an anti-tumor effect through a variety of cell death mechanisms, of which pyroptosis plays a pivotal role in inhibiting tumor growth and enhancing anti-tumor immunity. In this review, we summarize the current advances in therapeutic connections between pyroptosis and paclitaxel in anti-tumor effects.

Development and evaluation of an ovarian cancer prognostic model based on adaptive immune-related genes

The adaptive immune system plays a vital role in cancer prevention and control. However, research investigating the predictive value of adaptive immune-related genes (AIRGs) in ovarian cancer (OC) prognosis is limited. This study aims to explore the functional roles of AIRGs in OC. Transcriptomic, clinical-pathological, and prognostic data for OC were downloaded from public databases. Differential expression analysis, univariate, and Lasso Cox regression analyses were utilized to construct a risk signature. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, enrichment analysis, somatic mutation analysis, immune infiltration analysis, and drug sensitivity analysis were performed to characterize differences between high-risk and low-risk groups. Independent prognostic factors were identified through multivariate Cox regression analysis to construct a nomogram. Expression of signature-related AIRGs was validated using in OC cells and tissues. A total of 109 AIRGs significantly associated with overall survival (OS) in OC were identified, of which 15 were selected to construct the risk signature: AP1S2, AP2A1, ASB2, BTLA, BTN3A3, CALM1, CD3G, CD79A, EVL, FBXO4, FBXO9, HLA-DOB, LILRA2, MALT1, and PIK3CD. This signature stratified the OC cohort into high-risk and low-risk groups, which exhibited significant differences in prognosis, gene expression, mutation profiles, immunotherapy response, and drug sensitivity. Specifically, the low-risk group showed better prognosis, higher tumor mutational burden, greater response to immunotherapy, increased M1 macrophage and T follicular helper (Tfh) cell infiltration, and higher sensitivity to cisplatin and gemcitabine. The nomogram, integrating the AIRG-derived risk signature with age and clinical stage, demonstrated superior performance in predicting OC prognosis compared to other factors. Moreover, the differential expression of signature-related AIRGs were further confirmed in OC cells and tissue as compared to the normal cells or tissues. Our findings highlight the significant association between AIRGs and the prognosis of OC. The prognostic model developed using AIRGs demonstrates strong predictive capabilities.

The conflicting role highlights the complexity of GSDMs in cancer

Gasdermins (GSDMs) are an important family of proteins that have received extensive attention in tumor research in recent years. They directly induce tumor cell death by mediating pyroptosis and also regulate the recognition and clearance of tumor cells by the immune system by affecting the microenvironment. Therefore, it is of great significance to investigate the role of GSDMs in tumor development and tumor microenvironment. It can not only reveal new mechanisms of cancer development, but also provide theoretical basis for the development of novel anti-tumor therapeutic strategies. This literature review aims to systematically summarize the dual roles of GSDMs in tumor development and their interactions with the tumor microenvironment, and to focus on the importance of GSDM-mediated pyroptosis in anti-cancer therapy, with a view to providing guidance for future research directions.

CSF3 promotes colorectal cancer progression by activating p65/NF-κB signaling pathway and inducing an immunosuppressive microenvironment

BACKGROUND

Colony-stimulating factor 3 (CSF3) is a cytokine that promotes inflammation by stimulating the maturation, proliferation, and trafficking of myeloid progenitor cells. However, the functional importance of CSF3 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear.

METHODS

CSF3 expression levels in CRC cells and tissues were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC). In vitro and in vivo assays were performed to investigate the oncogenic function of CSF3 in the tumor associated malignant phenotypes and the tumorigenic capability of CRC cells. Immunocoprecipitation was performed to verify the regulatory effects of CSF3 on IκBα ubiquitination.

RESULTS

We found that CSF3 was overexpressed in CRC tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues, which correlated with poor patient survival. In vitro, silencing CSF3 significantly impaired cell proliferation, colony formation, and migration, while enhancing apoptosis. In vivo, silencing CSF3 resulted in reduced tumor growth, weight, and volume, indicating its potential as a therapeutic target. Mechanistically, CSF3 was found to mediate CRC development by activating the NF-κB signaling pathway, as evidenced by the decreased phosphorylation of p65 and reduced IκBα ubiquitination in CSF3-silenced cells. Furthermore, CSF3 silencing modulated immune infiltration in CRC, promoting an anti-tumor immune response and altering the tumor microenvironment.

CONCLUSION

CSF3 modulated the NF-κB signaling pathway through a distinct mechanism involving p65 phosphorylation and the activation of NF-κB by enhancing IκBα ubiquitination, thereby effectively promoting CRC development, and CSF3 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for repressing CRC advance and metastasis.

A pan-cancer analysis of homeobox family: expression characteristics and latent significance in prognosis and immune microenvironment

Background

The Homeobox (HOX) gene family are conserved transcription factors that are essential for embryonic development, oncogenesis, and cancer suppression in biological beings. Abnormally expressed HOX genes in cancers are directly associated with prognosis.

Methods

Public databases such as TCGA and the R language were used to perform pan-cancer analyses of the HOX family in terms of expression, prognosis, and immune microenvironment. The HOX score was defined, and potential target compounds in cancers were predicted by Connective Map. Immunohistochemistry was employed to validate protein expression levels. Gene knockdowns were used to verify the effects of HOXB7 and HOXC6 on the proliferation and migration of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cells.

Results

HOX genes play different roles in different cancers. Many HOX genes, especially HOXB7 and HOXC6, have higher expression and lower overall survival in specific cancers and are predicted as risk factors. The high expression of most HOX genes is mainly related to immune subtypes C1-C4 and C6. Potential anti-tumor compounds for down-regulating HOX gene expression were identified, such as HDAC inhibitors and tubulin inhibitors. LUAD Cell migration and proliferation were inhibited when HOXB7 or HOXC6 was knocked down.

Conclusions

Many HOX genes may act as both oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, necessitating precision medicine based on specific cancers. The HOX gene family plays a crucial role in the development of certain cancers, and their expression patterns are closely related to cancer prognosis and the tumor microenvironment (TME), which may affect cancer prognosis and response to immunotherapy. Compounds that are negatively correlated with the expression levels of the HOX family in various cancers, such as HDAC inhibitors, are potential anti-cancer drugs. HOXB7 and HOXC6 may serve as potential targets for cancer treatment and the development of targeted compounds in the future.

Berberine shaping the tumor immune landscape via pyroptosis

Pyroptosis is a programmed cell death (PCD) mainly mediated by the Gasdermin family of proteins, among which Gasdermin E (GSDME) is considered a tumor suppressor gene. GSDME can recruit immune cells to the tumor microenvironment (TME) and promote their effects. Activating and enhancing adaptive immunity through GSDME is a potential solution for anti-tumor therapy. Here we reported that berberine (BBR), a small molecule from traditional Chinese medicine, as a GSDME activator, induced caspase-3 (C-3)/GSDME pathway-mediated pyroptosis through the mitochondrial pathway, improved the immunosuppressive state of the tumor microenvironment, and thus promoted anti-tumor immunity. We determined the induction of pyroptosis of 4 T1 cells by BBR through various experiments, and investigated the immune activation effect of BBR by co-culture in vitro, which induced DCs maturation and macrophage polarization. Zebrafish embryo toxicity experiments were used to evaluate the in vivo safety of berberine. Furthermore, the in vivo antitumor and immune activation effects of BBR were investigated using 4 T1 orthotopic model mice, and the results showed that BBR could eliminate orthotopic tumor cells by activating local and systemic immunity. Moreover, we observed that BBR significantly inhibited breast cancer lung metastasis. In summary, our results showd the role of BBR as a GSDME activator stimulated both local and systemic antitumor immune responses by inducing pyroptosis, effectively preventing tumor development and metastasis.

Neuroscience of cancer: unraveling the complex interplay between the nervous system, the tumor and the tumor immune microenvironment

The study of the multifaceted interactions between neuroscience and cancer is an emerging field with significant implications for understanding tumor biology and the innovation in therapeutic approaches. Increasing evidence suggests that neurological functions are connected with tumorigenesis. In particular, the peripheral and central nervous systems, synapse, neurotransmitters, and neurotrophins affect tumor progression and metastasis through various regulatory approaches and the tumor immune microenvironment. In this review, we summarized the neurological functions that affect tumorigenesis and metastasis, which are controlled by the central and peripheral nervous systems. We also explored the roles of neurotransmitters and neurotrophins in cancer progression. Moreover, we examined the interplay between the nervous system and the tumor immune microenvironment. We have also identified drugs that target the nervous system for cancer treatment. In this review we present the work supporting that therapeutic agent targeting the nervous system could have significant potential to improve cancer therapy.

M1 macrophage-derived exosomes alleviate leukemia by causing mitochondrial dysfunction

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one type of blood cancer that initially has a high cure rate but frequently relapses and leading to death. Therefore, there is an urgent need for innovative AML treatments. The leukemia C1498 cells were co-cultured with M1 macrophage-derived exosomes (M1-exo), and the proliferation and apoptosis of C1498 cells were investigated using CCK-8 and flow cytometry, respectively. qPCR and Western blot were applied to determine the PGAM5 expression in M1-exo treated C1498 cells. The role of M1-exo-derived PGAM5 in mitochondria was examined via fluorescence staining. The anti-inflammatory effects of M1-exo-derived PGAM5 and M1-exo were evaluated by flow cytometry, HE staining, and immunohistochemistry in xenograft and nude mouse tumorigenic models. M1-exo exhibited a potent capability to attenuate C1498 cell proliferation, and induce cell apoptosis. In vivo experimentation demonstrated that administration of M1-exo led to a reduction in leukocyte count, alleviated inflammatory infiltration, decreased liver and spleen weights, and significantly diminished tumor size. PGAM5 was elevated in M1-exo, and knockdown of PGAM5 in C1498 cells and M1-exo enhanced proliferation and reduced apoptosis in C1498 cells. Concurrently, M1-exo-derived PGAM5 decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and increased calcium influx in vitro. In vivo, studies showed that knockdown of PGAM5 in M1-exo elevated liver and spleen weights, augmented tumor size, and intensified hepatic inflammatory infiltration. Our study reveals that M1-exo induces mitochondrial dysfunction against leukemia through PGAM5.

Swertianin Promotes Anti-Tumor activity by facilitating Macrophage M1 polarization via STING signaling

To investigate the mechanism by which swertiamarin (swertianin, SWE) regulates the polarization of tumor microenvironment-associated macrophages to M1 phenotype, thereby exerting anti-tumor effects.SWE promoted the formation of M1 cells and increased the proportion of CD86 + cells in both RAW264.7 and primary monocyte-derived macrophages, while activating the STING-NF-κB pathway. When STING or P65 was knocked out, the effects of SWE were antagonized, inhibiting the formation of CD86 + M1 cells. At the animal level, SWE inhibited tumor growth, activated STING-NF-κB, and promoted the formation of CD86 + cells. STING-KO inhibited the effects of SWE.SWE can activate the STING-NF-κB signal to promote macrophage M1 polarization, playing an anti-tumor role.

The Circadian Clock Gene Bmal1 Regulates Microglial Pyroptosis After Spinal Cord Injury via NF-κB/MMP9

BACKGROUND

The treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI) is usually ineffective, because neuroinflammatory secondary injury is an important cause of the continuous development of spinal cord injury, and microglial pyroptosis is an important step of neuroinflammation. Recently, Bmal1, a core component of circadian clock genes (CCGs), has been shown to play a regulatory role in various tissues and cells. However, it is still unclear whether Bmal1 regulates microglial pyroptosis after SCI.

METHODS

In this study, we established an in vivo mouse model of SCI using Bmal1 knockout (KO) mice and wild-type (WT) mice, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pyroptosis in BV2 cells as an in vitro model. A series of molecular and histological methods were used to detect the level of pyroptosis and explore the regulatory mechanism in vivo and in vitro respectively.

RESULTS

Both in vitro and in vivo results showed that Bmal1 inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation and microglial pyroptosis after SCI. Further analysis showed that Bmal1 inhibited pyroptosis-related proteins (NLRP3, Caspase-1, ASC, GSDMD-N) and reduced the release of IL-18 and IL-1β by inhibiting the NF-κB /MMP9 pathway. It was important that NF-κB was identified as a transcription factor that promotes the expression of MMP9, which in turn regulates microglial pyroptosis after SCI.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study initially identified that Bmal1 regulates the NF-κB /MMP9 pathway to reduce microglial pyroptosis and thereby reduce secondary spinal cord injury, providing a new promising therapeutic target for SCI.

Exosomes from human bone marrow MSCs alleviate PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor-induced myocardial injury in melanoma mice by regulating macrophage polarization and pyroptosis

Myocarditis, which can be triggered by immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment, represents a critical and severe adverse effect observed in cancer therapy. Thus, elucidating the underlying mechanism and developing effective strategies to mitigate its harmful impact is of utmost importance. The objective of this study is to investigate the potential role and regulatory mechanism of exosomes derived from human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSC-Exos) in providing protection against myocardial injury induced by ICIs. We observed that the administration of programmed death 1/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) inhibitor BMS-1 in tumor-bearing mice led to evident cardiac dysfunction and myocardial injury, which were closely associated with M1 macrophage polarization and cardiac pyroptosis. Remarkably, these adverse effects were significantly alleviated through tail-vein injection of hBMSC-Exos. Moreover, either BMS-1 or hBMSC-Exos alone demonstrated the ability to reduce tumor size, while the combination of hBMSC-Exos with BMS-1 treatment not only effectively improved the probability of tumor inhibition but also alleviated cardiac anomalies induced by BMS-1.

Study on the Chemical Composition and Anti-Tumor Mechanisms of Clausena lansium Fruit By-Products: Based on LC-MS, Network Pharmacology Analysis, and Protein Target Validation

Clausena lansium (Lour.) Skeels, commonly known as Wampee, are valued for their edible and medicinal qualities, yet their pericarp and seeds are often discarded, resulting in wasted resources. This study investigates the anti-tumor potential of these by-products, focusing on their chemical composition and underlying mechanisms of action. A combination of metabolomics, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation was employed in our study. Cytotoxicity screening demonstrated that the pericarp extract exhibited notable anti-tumor effects against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, while the seed extract showed no similar activity. Chemical profiling identified 122 compounds in the pericarp and seeds, with only 26.23% overlap, suggesting that distinct compounds may drive the pericarp's anti-tumor activity. Network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses identified PTGER3, DRD2, and ADORA2A as key targets, with several alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, and sesquiterpenes exhibiting strong binding affinities to these proteins. Western blot analysis further validated that the pericarp extract upregulated DRD2 and downregulated ADORA2A, indicating a possible mechanism for its anticancer effects. These findings suggest that Wampee pericarp holds promise as a source of active compounds with therapeutic potential for breast cancer, with implications for its use in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

HOXD9/APOC1 axis promotes macrophage M1 polarization to exacerbate diabetic kidney disease progression through activating NF-κB signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a complication caused by end-stage diabetes mellitus and usually results in glomerular podocyte injury. Exosomes are important for intercellular information exchange. However, the effect of podocyte exosomes on DKD has not been elucidated.

METHODS

GEO, PROMO, and GSE1009 databases were used to identify the gene APOC1 and transcription factor HOXD9. qRT-PCR, western blot, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were investigated to confirm APOC1 change in high glucose-treated podocytes and exosomes. Flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, qPCR, immunoblotting, wound healing, Transwell invasion assays, dual luciferase assay, and ChIP-PCR assay were performed to detect the effect of APOC1 and HOXD9 on macrophage polarization in high glucose-treated podocytes and exosomes. qRT-PCR and immunoblotting assays were employed to assess the impact of APOC1 knockdown on the M1 polarization of macrophages in response to liraglutide treatment.

RESULTS

The results suggested that the expression of APOC1 in human podocytes (HPC) and exosomes was elevated. High glucose-treated HPC exosomes promoted macrophage M1-type polarization, which was reversed by adding sh-APOC1. Afterward, HOXD9 was identified as a potential transcription factor for APOC1. Knockdown of HOXD9 led to macrophage M2 polarization, and overexpression of APOC1 polarized macrophage M1. In addition, enhanced p65 phosphorylation verified that HOXD9/APOC1 induced macrophage M1-type polarization by activating the NF-κB signaling pathway. Knocking down APOC1 enhanced the inhibitory effect of liraglutide on macrophage M1 polarization.

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlighted that HOXD9/APOC1 was a key player in causing podocyte injury in diabetic kidney disease and led to macrophage M1 polarization through the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Interactions between tumor-associated macrophages and regulated cell death: therapeutic implications in immuno-oncology

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a pivotal role in sculpting the tumor microenvironment and influencing cancer progression, particularly through their interactions with various forms of regulated cell death (RCD), including apoptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis. This review examines the interplay between TAMs and these RCD pathways, exploring the mechanisms through which they interact to promote tumor growth and advancement. We examine the underlying mechanisms of these intricate interactions, emphasizing their importance in cancer progression and treatment. Moreover, we present potential therapeutic strategies for targeting TAMs and manipulating RCD to enhance anti-tumor responses. These strategies encompass reprogramming TAMs, inhibiting their recruitment, and selectively eliminating them to enhance anti-tumor functions, alongside modulating RCD pathways to amplify immune responses. These insights offer a novel perspective on tumor biology and provide a foundation for the development of more efficacious cancer therapies.

Targeting the smooth muscle cell Keap1-Nrf2-GSDMD-pyroptosis axis by cryptotanshinone prevents abdominal aortic aneurysm formation

Rationale: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is an inflammatory, fatal aortic disease that currently lacks any effective drugs. Cryptotanshinone (CTS) is a prominent and inexpensive bioactive substance derived from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, a well-known medicinal herb for treating cardiovascular diseases through its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Nevertheless, the therapeutic effect of CTS on AAA formation remains unknown. Methods: To investigate the therapeutic effect of CTS in AAA, variety of experimental approaches were employed, majorly including AAA mouse model establishment, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), RNA sequencing, western blot, co-immunoprecipitation, scanning/transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), seahorse analysis, immunohistochemistry, and confocal imaging. Results: In this study, we demonstrated that CTS suppressed the formation of AAA in apolipoprotein E knock-out (ApoE-/-) mice infused with Ang II. A combination of network pharmacology and whole transcriptome sequencing analysis indicated that activation of the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway and regulation of programmed cell death in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are closely linked to the anti-AAA effect of CTS. Mechanistically, CTS promoted the transcription of Nrf2 target genes, particularly Hmox-1, which prevented the activation of NLRP3 and GSDMD-initiated pyroptosis in VSMCs, thereby mitigating VSMC inflammation and maintaining the VSMC contractile phenotype. Subsequently, by utilizing molecular docking, together with the cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), a particular binding site was established between CTS and Keap1 at Arg415. To confirm the binding site, site-directed mutagenesis was performed, which intriguingly showed that the Arg415 mutation eliminated the binding between CTS and the Keap1-Nrf2 protein and abrogated the antioxidant and anti-pyroptosis effects of CTS. Furthermore, VSMC-specific Nrf2 knockdown in mice dramatically reversed the protective action of CTS in AAA and the inhibitory effect of CTS on VSMC pyroptosis. Conclusion: Naturally derived CTS exhibits promising efficacy as a treatment drug for AAA through its targeting of the Keap1-Nrf2-GSDMD-pyroptosis axis in VSMCs.

Infiltration of Common Myeloid Progenitor (CMP) Cells is Associated With Less Aggressive Tumor Biology, Lower Risk of Brain Metastasis, Better Response to Immunotherapy, and Higher Patient Survival in Breast Cancer

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical relevance of common myeloid progenitor (CMP) cells in breast tumor microenvironment (TME).

BACKGROUND

The role of rare cells in TME is less studied. In Silico transcriptomic analyses of real-world data enable us to detect and quantify rare cells, including CMP cells.

METHODS

A total of 5176 breast cancer (BC) patients from SCAN-B, METABRIC, and 5 single-cell sequence cohorts were analyzed using the xCell algorithm. The high group was defined as more than two-thirds of the CMP scores in each cohort.

RESULTS

CMP cells consist of 0.07% to 0.25% of bulk breast tumor cells, more in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) compared with triple-negative (TN) subtype (0.1% to 0.75%, 0.18% to 0.33% of immune cells, respectively). CMP cells did not correlate with any of the myeloid lineages or stem cells in TME. CMP infiltration was higher in smaller tumors, with lower Nottingham grade, and in ER+/HER2- than in TNBC consistently in both SCAN-B and METABRIC cohorts. High CMP was significantly associated with a lower risk of brain metastasis and with better survival, particularly in ER+/HER2-. High CMP enriched epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis pathways, and less cell proliferation and DNA repair gene sets. High CMP ER+/HER2- was associated with less immune cell infiltration and cytolytic activity ( P <0.001). CMP infiltration correlated with neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy response for both ER+/HER2- and TNBC in the ISPY-2 cohort (AUC=0.69 and 0.74, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

CMP in BC is inversely associated with cell proliferation and brain metastasis, better response to immunotherapy, and survival. This is the first to report the clinical relevance of CMP infiltration in BC.

N6-methyladenosine modification of linc-OIP5 confers paclitaxel resistance in breast cancer through a DDX5-dependent mechanism

Chemoresistance is a significant obstacle in the treatment of breast cancer (BC). Due to its diverse composition, the causes of chemoresistance in BC are complex and have not been completely understood. In this article, we explored the mechanism of N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-modified long intervening noncoding RNA (linc)-OIP5 in BC chemoresistance. We successfully constructed drug-resistant cell lines MCF-7/P and MDA-MB-231/P by exposing parental MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells to escalating doses of paclitaxel (PTX) and revealed multiple m6A methylation modification sites on linc-OIP5 according to the predictive analysis of the SRAMP database. Linc-OIP5 expression and m6A modification were up-regulated in PTX-resistant BC cells. Inhibition of m6A modification or linc-OIP5 knockdown facilitated PTX-resistant and parental BC cell apoptosis and repressed proliferation and migration. Mechanistically, linc-OIP5 bound to TRIM5 and reduced the ubiquitination of DDX5, thus stabilizing the DDX5 protein. Additionally, DDX5 overexpression partly abrogated the suppressing effects of inhibited m6A modification or si-linc-OIP5 on cell proliferation, migration and PTX resistance. These findings indicate that m6A-modified linc-OIP5 reduced DDX5 ubiquitination and enhanced DDX5 stability by binding to TRIM5, thereby promoting BC cell proliferation, migration and PTX resistance, and inhibiting apoptosis.

Therapeutic strategies for colorectal cancer: antitumor efficacy of dopamine D2 receptor antagonists

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of death, accounting for more than half a million deaths annually. Even worse, an increasing number of cancer cases are diagnosed yearly, and two and a half million new cancer cases are estimated to be diagnosed in 2035. Some antipsychotic drugs, especially those targeting dopamine receptor (DR) D2, demonstrated anticancer activity. Studies have revealed the potential of DRD2 antagonists as anticancer therapeutics, whether alone or as an adjuvant, in treating breast cancer, lung cancer, and others. Emerging evidences indicate DRD2 is involved in the CRC biology, and the association between DRD2 and CRC could be utilized in treating CRC. This study selected DRD2 antagonists with anticancer activity to elucidate the possibility of DRD2 antagonists as new therapeutics for treating CRC.

Examining the influence of tumor-infiltrating macrophages on breast cancer outcomes and identifying relevant genes for diagnostic purposes

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this research was to investigate how different types of immune cells impact the outlook of individuals with breast cancer, as well as identify the essential genes associated with immune cell subtype enrichment.

METHODS

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were used to obtain global transcriptome sequencing data sets of breast tissue. The study utilized the CIBERSORT algorithm to determine the presence of 22 different types of immune cells in both breast cancer tissue and normal breast tissue.Immune cell infiltration content was utilized to conduct univariate COX analysis in order to identify risk factors linked to breast cancer prognosis.

RESULTS

Univariate COX analysis indicates that Macrophages M1 and B cells naive are beneficial factors for the outlook of individuals with breast cancer (P < 0.05), while Macrophages M2 and Monocytes are detrimental factors for the prognosis of breast cancer patients (P < 0.05). The high infiltration group of macrophage M2 had a poorer prognosis compared to the low infiltration group (P < 0.001); Conversely, the high infiltration group of macrophage M1 had a better prognosis than the low infiltration group (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

The study provided an overview of immune cell infiltration in breast cancer tissues, identifying macrophage M1 and macrophage M2 as potential factors in breast cancer development and progression. Additionally, genes associated with macrophage phenotype were analyzed, offering insights into macrophage polarization mechanisms.

Pyroptosis in health and disease: mechanisms, regulation and clinical perspective

Pyroptosis is a type of programmed cell death characterized by cell swelling and osmotic lysis, resulting in cytomembrane rupture and release of immunostimulatory components, which play a role in several pathological processes. Significant cellular responses to various stimuli involve the formation of inflammasomes, maturation of inflammatory caspases, and caspase-mediated cleavage of gasdermin. The function of pyroptosis in disease is complex but not a simple angelic or demonic role. While inflammatory diseases such as sepsis are associated with uncontrollable pyroptosis, the potent immune response induced by pyroptosis can be exploited as a therapeutic target for anti-tumor therapy. Thus, a comprehensive review of the role of pyroptosis in disease is crucial for further research and clinical translation from bench to bedside. In this review, we summarize the recent advancements in understanding the role of pyroptosis in disease, covering the related development history, molecular mechanisms including canonical, non-canonical, caspase 3/8, and granzyme-mediated pathways, and its regulatory function in health and multiple diseases. Moreover, this review also provides updates on promising therapeutic strategies by applying novel small molecule inhibitors and traditional medicines to regulate pyroptosis. The present dilemmas and future directions in the landscape of pyroptosis are also discussed from a clinical perspective, providing clues for scientists to develop novel drugs targeting pyroptosis.

Urolithin A Protects against Hypoxia-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension by Inhibiting Pulmonary Arterial Smooth Muscle Cell Pyroptosis via AMPK/NF-κB/NLRP3 Signaling

Recent studies confirmed that pyroptosis is involved in the progression of pulmonary hypertension (PH), which could promote pulmonary artery remodeling. Urolithin A (UA), an intestinal flora metabolite of ellagitannins (ETs) and ellagic acid (EA), has been proven to possess inhibitory effects on pyroptosis under various pathological conditions. However, its role on PH remained undetermined. To investigate the potential of UA in mitigating PH, mice were exposed to hypoxia (10% oxygen, 4 weeks) to induce PH, with or without UA treatment. Moreover, in vitro experiments were carried out to further uncover the underlying mechanisms. The in vivo treatment of UA suppressed the progression of PH via alleviating pulmonary remodeling. Pyroptosis-related genes were markedly upregulated in mice models of PH and reversed after the administration of UA. In accordance with that, UA treatment significantly inhibited hypoxia-induced pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell (PASMC) pyroptosis via the AMPK/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. Our results revealed that UA treatment effectively mitigated PH progression through inhibiting PASMC pyroptosis, which represents an innovative therapeutic approach for PH.

Versatile function of NF-ĸB in inflammation and cancer

Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-ĸB) plays a crucial role in both innate and adaptive immune systems, significantly influencing various physiological processes such as cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, survival, and stemness. The function of NF-ĸB in cancer progression and response to chemotherapy has gained increasing attention. This review highlights the role of NF-ĸB in inflammation control, biological mechanisms, and therapeutic implications in cancer treatment. NF-ĸB is instrumental in altering the release of inflammatory factors such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, which are key in the regulation of carcinogenesis. Specifically, in conditions including colitis, NF-ĸB upregulation can intensify inflammation, potentially leading to the development of colorectal cancer. Its pivotal role extends to regulating the tumor microenvironment, impacting components such as macrophages, fibroblasts, T cells, and natural killer cells. This regulation influences tumorigenesis and can dampen anti-tumor immune responses. Additionally, NF-ĸB modulates cell death mechanisms, notably by inhibiting apoptosis and ferroptosis. It also has a dual role in stimulating or suppressing autophagy in various cancers. Beyond these functions, NF-ĸB plays a role in controlling cancer stem cells, fostering angiogenesis, increasing metastatic potential through EMT induction, and reducing tumor cell sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Given its oncogenic capabilities, research has focused on natural products and small molecule compounds that can suppress NF-ĸB, offering promising avenues for cancer therapy.

Effects of Isoflurane on the Cell Pyroptosis in the Lung Cancer Through the HMGB1/RAGE Pathway

There are many common malignant tumors in clinic. Among them, lung cancer is caused by the failure of suction system, which seriously threatens the life safety of patients. Recent studies have found that anesthetics have achieved certain efficacy in many cancers. Isoflurane, an inhaled anesthetic, is used in this study to explore whether it can prevent the lung cancer development. The A549 and H1299 were purchased. Cell viability was tested by CCK-8 experiment. Cell death and pyroptosis were analyzed by PI staining as well as flow cytometry. HMGB1 as well as RAGE protein levels were tested by Western blot. The same is true of pyroxin-related proteins. The HMGB1 as well as RAGE levels in the lung cancer tissues were determined by Western blot along with immunohistochemistry. Isoflurane treatment can reduce cell viability and promote cell pyroptosis. Additionally, the protein levels of cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β, GSDMD-N, NLRP3, HMGB1, and RAGE were dramatically up-regulated in the lung cancer after isoflurane treatment. Down-regulated proteins in lung cancer tissues include HMGB1 and RAGE proteins. After HMGB1 knockdown or FPS-ZM1 treatment, the role of isoflurane in the lung cancer was neutralized. This study demonstrated that isoflurane induced the cell pyroptosis in the lung cancer through activating the HMGB1/RAGE pathway.

Halofuginone-guided nano-local therapy: Nano-thermosensitive hydrogels for postoperative metastatic canine mammary carcinoma with scar removal

In female dogs, the highest morbidity and mortality rates cancer are the result of mammary adenocarcinoma, which presents with metastases in the lung. Other than early surgical removal, however, no special methods are available to treat mammary adenocarcinoma. Because human breast cancer and canine mammary carcinoma share clinical characteristics and heterogeneity, the canine model is a suitable spontaneous tumor model for breast cancer in humans. In this study, the physical swelling method was used to prepare halofuginone-loaded D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) polymer micelles nano-thermosensitive hydrogels (HTPM-gel). Furthermore, HTPM-gel was investigated via characterization, morphology, properties such as swelling experiment and in vitro release with reflecting its splendid nature. Moreover, HTPM-gel was further examined its capability to anti-proliferation, anti-migration, and anti-invasion. Ultimately, HTPM-gel was investigated for its in vivo anticancer activity in the post-operative metastatic and angiogenic canine mammary carcinoma. HTPM-gel presented spherical under transmission electron microscope (TEM) and represented grid structure under scanning electron microscope (SEM), with hydrodynamic diameter (HD) of 20.25 ± 2.5 nm and zeta potential (ZP) of 15.10 ± 1.82 mV. Additionally, HTPM-gel own excellent properties comprised of pH-dependent swelling behavior, sustained release behavior. To impede the migration, invasion, and proliferation of CMT-U27 cells, we tested the efficacy of HTPM-gel. Evaluation of in vivo anti-tumor efficacy demonstrates HTPM-gel exhibit a splendid anti-metastasis and anti-angiogenic ability, with exhibiting ideal biocompatibility. Notably, HTPM-gel also inhibited the scar formation in the healing process after surgery. In summary, HTPM-gel exhibited anti-metastasis and anti-angiogenic and scar repair features. According to the results of this study, HTPM-gel has encouraging clinical potential to treat tumors with multifunctional hydrogel.

The eEF1A protein in cancer: Clinical significance, oncogenic mechanisms, and targeted therapeutic strategies

Eukaryotic elongation factor 1A (eEF1A) is among the most abundant proteins in eukaryotic cells. Evolutionarily conserved across species, eEF1A is in charge of translation elongation for protein biosynthesis as well as a plethora of non-translational moonlighting functions for cellular homeostasis. In malignant cells, however, eEF1A becomes a pleiotropic driver of cancer progression via a broad diversity of pathways, which are not limited to hyperactive translational output. In the past decades, mounting studies have demonstrated the causal link between eEF1A and carcinogenesis, gaining deeper insights into its multifaceted mechanisms and corroborating its value as a prognostic marker in various cancers. On the other hand, an increasing number of natural and synthetic compounds were discovered as anticancer eEF1A-targeting inhibitors. Among them, plitidepsin was approved for the treatment of multiple myeloma whereas metarrestin was currently under clinical development. Despite significant achievements in these two interrelated fields, hitherto there lacks a systematic examination of the eEF1A protein in the context of cancer research. Therefore, the present work aims to delineate its clinical implications, molecular oncogenic mechanisms, and targeted therapeutic strategies as reflected in the ever expanding body of literature, so as to deepen mechanistic understanding of eEF1A-involved tumorigenesis and inspire the development of eEF1A-targeted chemotherapeutics and biologics.

Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Induce Pyroptosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes via the NF-κB/Caspase 3/GSDME Pathway

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an enduring, progressive autoimmune disorder. Abnormal activation of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) has been proposed as the initiating factor for inflammation of the synovium and bone destruction. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which are web-like structures composed of DNA, histones, and granule proteins, are involved in the development of RA in multiple aspects. Pyroptosis, gasdermin-mediated inflammatory programmed cell death, plays a vital function in the etiopathogenesis of RA. However, the exact mechanism underlying NETs-induced pyroptosis in FLSs of RA and its impact on cellular pathogenic behavior remain undefined. In this study, we demonstrated that gasdermin E (GSDME) expression was upregulated in RA plasma and synoviums, which was positively correlated with the elevated cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and citrullinated histone 3 (Cit H3) levels in the plasma. Additionally, in vitro experiments have shown that NETs triggered caspase 3/GSDME-mediated pyroptosis in RA-FLSs, characterized by decreased cell viability, cell membrane blebbing, and rupture, as well as increased levels of pyroptosis-related proteins and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Again, silencing GSDME significantly inhibited pyroptosis and suppressed the migration, invasion, and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in RA-FLSs. Furthermore, we also found that the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, serving as an upstream mechanism, was involved in FLS pyroptosis. In conclusion, our investigation indicated that NETs could induce RA-FLS pyroptosis and facilitate phenotypic transformation through targeting the NF-κB/caspase 3/GSDME axis. This is the first to explore the crucial role of NETs-induced FLS pyroptosis in the progression of RA, providing novel targets for the clinical management of refractory RA.

GNB4 Silencing Promotes Pyroptosis to Inhibit the Development of Glioma by Activating cGAS-STING Pathway

The induction of immunogenic cell death is a promising therapeutic option for gliomas. Pyroptosis is a type of programmed immunogenic cell death and its role in gliomas remains unclear. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained from GSE4290 and GSE31262 datasets. Hub genes were screened from protein-protein interaction networks and assessed using principal component analysis and receiver operating characteristic curves. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to measure the mRNA expression of hub genes. Pyroptosis and pathway-related proteins were assessed using western blotting. Inflammatory factor levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The effect of guanine nucleotide-binding protein-4 (GNB4) on proliferation, migration, and invasion was evaluated using a cell viability test kit and wound-healing and transwell assays. In total, 202 DEGs were identified. Among them, F2R, GNG4, GNG3, PRKCB, and GNB4 were identified as hub genes in gliomas after comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. GNB4 was significantly upregulated in glioma cells compared to normal brain glial cells. Silencing GNB4 significantly inhibited proliferation, invasion, and migration of glioma cells. The expression of pyroptosis-related proteins increased after GNB4 silencing, with elevated levels of inflammatory factors. Pyroptosis inhibitors reversed the inhibitory effects of GNB4 silencing on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Additionally, GNB4 silencing activated the cGAS-STING pathway. Treatment with a cGAS-STING pathway inhibitor reversed the inhibition of proliferation, migration, and invasion while downregulating the expression of pyroptosis-related proteins. Silencing GNB4 promotes pyroptosis and thus inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioma cells by activating the cGAS-STING pathway, which is a promising biomarker and therapeutic target for glioma.

Quercetin Inhibits Neuronal Pyroptosis and Ferroptosis by Modulating Microglial M1/M2 Polarization in Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis (AS) with iron and lipid overload and systemic inflammation is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. M1 macrophage/microglia participate in neuronal pyroptosis and recently have been reported to be the ferroptosis-resistant phenotype. Quercetin plays a prominent role in preventing and treating neuroinflammation, but the protective mechanism against neurodegeneration caused by iron deposition is poorly understood. ApoE-/- mice were fed a high-fat diet with or without quercetin treatment. The Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests were conducted to assess spatial learning and memory, and nonspatial recognition memory, respectively. Prussian blue and immunofluorescence staining were performed to assess the iron levels in the whole brain and in microglia, microglia polarization, and the degree of microglia/neuron ferroptosis. In vitro, we further explored the molecular biological alterations associated with microglial polarization, neuronal pyroptosis, and ferroptosis via Western blot, flow cytometry, CCK8, LDH, propidium iodide, and coculture system. We found that quercetin improved brain lesions and spatial learning and memory in AS mice. Iron deposition in the whole brain or microglia was reversed by the quercetin treatment. In the AS group, the colocalization of iNOS with Iba1 was increased, which was reversed by quercetin. However, the colocalization of iNOS with PTGS2/TfR was not increased in the AS group, suggesting a character resisting ferroptosis. Quercetin induced the expression of Arg-1 and decreased the colocalizations of Arg-1 with PTGS2/TfR. In vitro, ox-LDL combined with ferric ammonium citrate treatment (OF) significantly shifted the microglial M1/M2 phenotype balance and increased the levels of free iron, ROS, and lipid peroxides, which was reversed by quercetin. M1 phenotype induced by OF caused neuronal pyroptosis and was promoted to ferroptosis by L-NIL treatment, which contributed to neuronal ferroptosis as well. However, quercetin induced the M1 to M2 phenotype and inhibited M2 macrophages/microglia and neuron pyroptosis or ferroptosis. In summary, quercetin alleviated neuroinflammation by inducing the M1 to M2 phenotype to inhibit neuronal pyroptosis and protected neurons from ferroptosis, which may provide a new idea for neuroinflammation prevention and treatment.

Immunoreactive Microenvironment Modulator GBP5 Suppresses Ovarian Cancer Progression by Inducing Canonical Pyroptosis

Ovarian cancer has the highest mortality among gynecological malignancies, and exploring effective strategies to reverse the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in patients remains a pressing scientific challenge. In this study, we identified a pyroptosis-related protective factor, GBP5, which significantly inhibits the growth of ovarian cancer cells and patient-derived ovarian cancer organoids, impeding the invasion and migration of ovarian cancer cells. Results of immunohistochemistry and external single-cell data verification were consistent. Further research confirmed that GBP5 in ovarian cancer cell can induce canonical pyroptosis through JAK2/STAT1 pathway, thereby restraining the progression of ovarian cancer. Interestingly, in this study, we also discovered that ovarian cancer cells with high GBP5 expression exhibit increased expressions of CXCL9/10/11 in a co-culture assay. Subsequent immune cell infiltration analyses revealed the remodeling of immunosuppressive microenvironment in ovarian cancer patients, characterized by increased infiltration and polarization of M1 macrophages. External immunotherapy database analysis showed profound potential for the application of GBP5 in immunotherapy strategies for ovarian cancer. Overall, our study demonstrates that the protective factor GBP5 significantly inhibits ovarian cancer progression, triggering canonical pyroptosis through the JAK2-STAT1 pathway. Driven by its pro-inflammatory nature, it can also enhance M1 macrophages polarization and reverse immunosuppressive microenvironment, thus providing new insights for ovarian cancer treatment.

Revolutionizing breast cancer treatment: Harnessing the related mechanisms and drugs for regulated cell death (Review)

Breast cancer arises from the malignant transformation of mammary epithelial cells under the influence of various carcinogenic factors, leading to a gradual increase in its prevalence. This disease has become the leading cause of mortality among female malignancies, posing a significant threat to the health of women. The timely identification of breast cancer remains challenging, often resulting in diagnosis at the advanced stages of the disease. Conventional therapeutic approaches, such as surgical excision, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, exhibit limited efficacy in controlling the progression and metastasis of the disease. Regulated cell death (RCD), a process essential for physiological tissue cell renewal, occurs within the body independently of external influences. In the context of cancer, research on RCD primarily focuses on cuproptosis, ferroptosis and pyroptosis. Mounting evidence suggests a marked association between these specific forms of RCD, and the onset and progression of breast cancer. For example, a cuproptosis vector can effectively bind copper ions to induce cuproptosis in breast cancer cells, thereby hindering their proliferation. Additionally, the expression of ferroptosis‑related genes can enhance the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to chemotherapy. Likewise, pyroptosis‑related proteins not only participate in pyroptosis, but also regulate the tumor microenvironment, ultimately leading to the death of breast cancer cells. The present review discusses the unique regulatory mechanisms of cuproptosis, ferroptosis and pyroptosis in breast cancer, and the mechanisms through which they are affected by conventional cancer drugs. Furthermore, it provides a comprehensive overview of the significance of these forms of RCD in modulating the efficacy of chemotherapy and highlights their shared characteristics. This knowledge may provide novel avenues for both clinical interventions and fundamental research in the context of breast cancer.

The roles of pyroptosis in genitourinary diseases

Pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death distinct from apoptosis and necrosis, is thought to be closely associated with the pathogenesis of diseases. Recently, the association between pyroptosis and urinary diseases has attracted considerable attention, and a comprehensive review focusing on this issue is not available. In this study, we reviewed the role of pyroptosis in the development and progression of benign urinary diseases and urinary malignancies. Based on this, pyroptosis has been implicated in the development of urinary diseases. In summary, this review sheds light on future research directions and provides novel ideas for using pyroptosis as a powerful tool to fight urinary diseases.

Epigenetic regulation of diverse cell death modalities in cancer: a focus on pyroptosis, ferroptosis, cuproptosis, and disulfidptosis

Tumor is a local tissue hyperplasia resulted from cancerous transformation of normal cells under the action of various physical, chemical and biological factors. The exploration of tumorigenesis mechanism is crucial for early prevention and treatment of tumors. Epigenetic modification is a common and important modification in cells, including DNA methylation, histone modification, non-coding RNA modification and m6A modification. The normal mode of cell death is programmed by cell death-related genes; however, recent researches have revealed some new modes of cell death, including pyroptosis, ferroptosis, cuproptosis and disulfidptosis. Epigenetic regulation of various cell deaths is mainly involved in the regulation of key cell death proteins and affects cell death by up-regulating or down-regulating the expression levels of key proteins. This study aims to investigate the mechanism of epigenetic modifications regulating pyroptosis, ferroptosis, cuproptosis and disulfidptosis of tumor cells, explore possible triggering factors in tumor development from a microscopic point of view, and provide potential targets for tumor therapy and new perspective for the development of antitumor drugs or combination therapies.

Kaempferol-induced mitochondrial damage promotes NF-κB-NLRP3-caspase-1 signaling axis-mediated pyroptosis in gastric cancer cells

GC is a gastrointestinal tumor with high morbidity and mortality. Owing to the high rate of postoperative recurrence associated with GC, the effectiveness of radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be compromised by the occurrence of severe undesirable side effects. In light of these circumstances, KP, a flavonoid abundantly present in diverse herbal and fruit sources, emerges as a promising therapeutic agent with inherent anti-tumor properties. This study endeavors to demonstrate the therapeutic potential of KP in the context of GC while unraveling the intricate underlying mechanisms. Notably, our investigations unveil that KP stimulation effectively promotes the activation of NLRP3 inflammatory vesicles within AGS cells by engaging the NF-κB signaling pathway. Consequently, the signal cascade triggers the cleavage of Caspase-1, culminating in the liberation of IL-18. Furthermore, we ascertain that KP facilitate AGS cell pyroptosis by inducing mitochondrial damage. Collectively, our findings showcase KP as a compelling candidate for the treatment of GC-related diseases, heralding new possibilities for future therapeutic interventions.

Advances in prognostic models for osteosarcoma risk

The risk prognosis model is a statistical model that uses a set of features to predict whether an individual will develop a specific disease or clinical outcome. It can be used in clinical practice to stratify disease severity and assess risk or prognosis. With the advancement of large-scale second-generation sequencing technology, along Prognosis models for osteosarcoma are increasingly being developed as large-scale second-generation sequencing technology advances and clinical and biological data becomes more abundant. This expansion greatly increases the number of prognostic models and candidate genes suitable for clinical use. This article will present the predictive effects and reliability of various prognosis models, serving as a reference for their evaluation and application.

Etomidate inhibits tumor growth of glioblastoma by regulating M1 macrophage polarization

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a common primary central nervous system tumor. Although the multimodal integrated treatment for GBM has made great progress in recent years, the overall survival time of GBM is still short. Thus, novel treatments for GBM are worth further investigation and exploration. This study aimed to investigate the effects of etomidate on GBM tumor growth and the underlying mechanism. A xenograft tumor model was established and treated with etomidate to assess tumor growth. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay evaluated the positive rate of Ki67 cells in tumor tissues. Cell counting kit (CCK)-8 and EdU assays accessed the cell viability and proliferation. Immunofluorescence (IF) staining detected the distribution of macrophage markers in tumor tissues. The percentages of M1- and M2-like macrophages in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and co-culture system (macrophages and GBM cells) were detected using flow cytometry. Macrophage polarization-related genes were measured using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Etomidate treatment inhibited the tumor growth, and increased the CD86+ cells but decreased the CD206+ cells in TAMs. The gene expression of M1 markers was increased in TAMs of etomidate-treated mice, whereas that of M2 markers was decreased. Moreover, etomidate treatment increased the number of CD86+ M1-like macrophages co-cultured with tumor cells but decreased that of CD206+ M2-like macrophages, with the upregulation of M1 markers and downregulation of M2 markers. Etomidate inhibited GBM tumor growth by promoting M1 macrophage polarization, suggesting a new insight into the clinical treatment of GBM.

DNA methylation profiling identifies epigenetic signatures of early gastric cancer

Research on the DNA methylation status of gastric cancer (GC) has primarily focused on identifying invasive GC to develop biomarkers for diagnostic. However, DNA methylation in noninvasive GC remains unclear. We conducted a comprehensive DNA methylation profiling study of differentiated-type intramucosal GCs (IMCs). Illumina 850K microarrays were utilized to assess the DNA methylation profiles of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues from eight patients who were Epstein-Barr virus-negative and DNA mismatch repair proficient, including IMCs and paired adjacent nontumor mucosa. Gene expression profiling microarray data from the GEO database were analyzed via bioinformatics to identify candidate methylation genes. The final validation was conducted using quantitative real-time PCR, the TCGA methylation database, and single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling revealed a global decrease in methylation in IMCs compared with nontumor tissues. Differential methylation analysis between IMCs and nontumor tissues identified 449 differentially methylated probes, with a majority of sites showing hypomethylation in IMCs compared with nontumor tissues (66.1% vs 33.9%). Integrating two RNA-seq microarray datasets, we found one hypomethylation-upregulated gene: eEF1A2, overlapped with our DNA methylation data. The mRNA expression of eEF1A2 was higher in twenty-four IMC tissues than in their paired adjacent nontumor tissues. GSEA indicated that the functions of eEF1A2 were associated with the development of IMCs. Furthermore, TCGA data indicated that eEF1A2 is hypomethylated in advanced GC. Our study illustrates the implications of DNA methylation alterations in IMCs and suggests that aberrant hypomethylation and high mRNA expression of eEF1A2 might play a role in IMCs development.

A pyroptosis-related lncRNA-based prognostic index for hepatocellular carcinoma by relative expression orderings

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an invasive malignant tumor, and pyroptosis makes an important contribution to the pathology and progression of liver cancer. Many prognostic models have been proposed for HCC based on the quantitative expression level of candidate genes, which are unsuitable for clinical application due to their vulnerability against experimental batch effects. The aim of this study was to develop a novel pyroptosis-related long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-based prognostic index (PLPI) for HCC based on relative expression orderings (REOs).

Methods

Firstly, the pyroptosis-related lncRNAs were identified through the Wilcoxon rank-sum test and gene co-expression analyses. Then, the novel prognostic model PLPI was constructed by pyroptosis-related lncRNA pairs, which were identified by multiple machine learning algorithms. Gene set enrichment, somatic mutation, and drug sensitivity analyses were conducted to measure the differences between high- and low-risk patients. Multiple immune analyses were used to explore the association between PLPI and the immunological microenvironment.

Results

In this study, a novel prognostic model PLPI based on 10 pyroptosis-related lncRNA pairs was constructed, which was proven to be an independent prognostic risk factor. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed that the model had a good prognostic ability in the training, testing, and external set, respectively [5-year area under the curve (AUC) =0.73, 5-year AUC =0.81, 4-year AUC =0.79]. The results of survival, somatic mutation, and immune analyses showed that the patients in the low-risk group had a better prognosis, lower rates of somatic mutation, and better immune cell infiltration. Personalized chemotherapeutic drugs were also identified for the patients with HCC.

Conclusions

The novel PLPI not only greatly predicted the prognosis of patients with HCC but could also offer novel ideas and approaches for the therapeutic management of HCC.

The scheme, and regulative mechanism of pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis in radiation injury

Radiotherapy (RT) stands as the primary treatment for tumors, but it inevitably causes damage to normal cells. Consequently, radiation injury is a crucial consideration for radiation oncologists during therapy planning. Cell death including apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis play significant roles in tumor treatment. While previous studies elucidated the induction of apoptosis and autophagy by ionizing radiation (IR), recent attention has shifted to pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis, revealing their effects induced by IR. This review aims to summarize the strategies employed by IR, either alone or in combination therapy, to induce pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis in radiation injury. Furthermore, we explore their effects and molecular pathways, shedding light on their roles in radiation injury. Finally, we summarize the regulative agents for these three types of cell death and their mechanisms. In summary, optimizing radiation dose, dose rate, and combined treatment plans to minimize radiation damage and enhance the killing effect of RT is a key focus.

Inhibition of NF-κB signaling unveils novel strategies to overcome drug resistance in cancers

Drug resistance in cancer remains a major challenge in oncology, impeding the effectiveness of various treatment modalities. The nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway has emerged as a critical player in the development of drug resistance in cancer cells. This comprehensive review explores the intricate relationship between NF-κB and drug resistance in cancer. We delve into the molecular mechanisms through which NF-κB activation contributes to resistance against chemotherapeutic agents, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies. Additionally, we discuss potential strategies to overcome this resistance by targeting NF-κB signaling, such as small molecule inhibitors and combination therapies. Understanding the multifaceted interactions between NF-κB and drug resistance is crucial for the development of more effective cancer treatment strategies. By dissecting the complex signaling network of NF-κB, we hope to shed light on novel therapeutic approaches that can enhance treatment outcomes, ultimately improving the prognosis for cancer patients. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge on NF-κB and its role in drug resistance, offering insights that may guide future research and therapeutic interventions in the fight against cancer.

Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: Signaling Pathways and Epigenetic Regulation

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) are characterized by dysregulated signaling pathways that are crucial for tumor formation and progression. The efficacy of traditional therapies is limited, particularly in the treatment of PNETs at an advanced stage. Epigenetic alterations profoundly impact the activity of signaling pathways in cancer development, offering potential opportunities for drug development. There is currently a lack of extensive research on epigenetic regulation in PNETs. To fill this gap, we first summarize major signaling events that are involved in PNET development. Then, we discuss the epigenetic regulation of these signaling pathways in the context of both PNETs and commonly occurring-and therefore more extensively studied-malignancies. Finally, we will offer a perspective on the future research direction of the PNET epigenome and its potential applications in patient care.

HgCl2 exposure mediates pyroptosis of HD11 cells and promotes M1 polarization and the release of inflammatory factors through ROS/Nrf2/NLRP3

Mercury (Hg) is a serious metal environmental pollutant. HgCl2 exposure causes pyroptosis. When macrophages are severely stimulated, they often undergo M1 polarization and release inflammatory factors. However, the mechanisms by which mercuric chloride exposure induces macrophage apoptosis, M1 polarization, and inflammatory factors remain unclear. HD11 cells were exposed to different concentrations of Hg chloride (180, 210 and 240 nM HgCl2). The results showed that mercury chloride exposure up-regulated ROS, C-Nrf2 and its downstream factors (NQO1 and HO-1), and down-regulated N-Nrf2. In addition, the expressions of focal death-related indicators (Caspase-1, NLRP3, GSDMD, etc.), M1 polarization marker CD86 and inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β) increased, and the above changes were related to mercury. Oxidative stress inhibitor (NAC) can block ROS/ NrF2-mediated oxidative stress, inhibit mercury-induced pyroptosis and M1 polarization, and effectively reduce the release of inflammatory factors. The addition of Vx-765 to inhibit pyroptosis can effectively alleviate M1 polarization of HD11 cells and reduce the expression of inflammatory factors. HgCl2 mediates pyroptosis of HD11 cells by regulating ROS/Nrf2/NLRP3, promoting M1 polarization and the release of inflammatory factors.

The role of pyroptosis and gasdermin family in tumor progression and immune microenvironment

Pyroptosis, an inflammatory programmed cell death, distinguishes itself from apoptosis and necroptosis and has drawn increasing attention. Recent studies have revealed a correlation between the expression levels of many pyroptosis-related genes and both tumorigenesis and progression. Despite advancements in cancer treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, the persistent hallmark of cancer enables malignant cells to elude cell death and develop resistance to therapy. Recent findings indicate that pyroptosis can overcome apoptosis resistance amplify treatment-induced tumor cell death. Moreover, pyroptosis triggers antitumor immunity by releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines, augmenting macrophage phagocytosis, and activating cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells. Additionally, it transforms "cold" tumors into "hot" tumors, thereby enhancing the antitumor effects of various treatments. Consequently, pyroptosis is intricately linked to tumor development and holds promise as an effective strategy for boosting therapeutic efficacy. As the principal executive protein of pyroptosis, the gasdermin family plays a pivotal role in influencing pyroptosis-associated outcomes in tumors and can serve as a regulatory target. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the relationship between pyroptosis and gasdermin family members, discusses their roles in tumor progression and the tumor immune microenvironment, and analyses the underlying therapeutic strategies for tumor treatment based on pyroptotic cell death.

Development and validation of stable ferroptosis- and pyroptosis-related signatures in predicting prognosis and immune status in breast cancer

To develop and validate the predictive effects of stable ferroptosis- and pyroptosis-related features on the prognosis and immune status of breast cancer (BC). We retrieved as well as downloaded ferroptosis- and pyroptosis-related genes from the FerrDb and GeneCards databases. The minimum absolute contraction and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was used to construct a prognostic classifier combining the above two types of prognostic genes with differential expression, and the Integrated Gene Expression (GEO) dataset was used for validation. Seventeen genes presented a close association with BC prognosis. Thirteen key prognostic genes with prognostic value were considered to construct a new expression signature for classifying patients with BC into high- and low-risk groups. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a worse prognosis in the high-risk group. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and multivariate Cox regression analysis identified its predictive and independent features. Immune profile analysis showed that immunosuppressive cells were upregulated in the high-risk group, and this risk model was related to immunosuppressive molecules. We successfully constructed combined features of ferroptosis and pyroptosis in BC that are closely related to prognosis, clinicopathological and immune features, chemotherapy efficacy and immunosuppressive molecules. However, further experimental studies are required to verify these findings.

Identification of prognostic biomarkers of breast cancer based on the immune-related gene module

Breast cancer (BC) is highly malignant and its mortality rate remains high. The development of immunotherapy has gradually improved the prognosis and survival rate of patients. Therefore, identifying molecular markers concerned with BC immunity is of great importance for the treatment of this disease. The Cancer Genome Atlas-breast invasive carcinoma (TCGA-BRCA) was utilized as the training set while the BC expression dataset from the gene expression omnibus database was taken as the validation set here. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis combined with Pearson analysis and Tumor immune estimation resource (TIMER) was used to obtain immune cell-related hub gene module. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed on this module. Then, receiver operating characteristic curves combining Kaplan-Meier was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the model. Feature genes were screened and the independence of risk score was evaluated by univariate and multivariate Cox analyses. Differences in immune characteristics were analyzed via single-sample gene set enrichment analysis and CIBERSORT, and differences in gene mutation frequency were assessed via GenVisR analysis. Finally, the expression levels of prognostic feature genes in BC cells were validated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). In this study, cell immune-related gene modules in TCGA-BRCA were successfully excavated, and a five-gene (TNFRSF14, NFKBIA, DLG3, IRF2, and CYP27A1) prognostic model was established. The prognostic model could effectively forecast the prognosis and survival rate of BC patients. The result showed that human leukocyte antigen-related proteins and macrophage M2 scores were remarkably highly expressed in the high-risk group, whereas CD8+ T cells, natural killer cells, M1, and other anti-tumor cells were lowly expressed. The model could be used as an independent prognostic factor to predict the prognosis of BC patients. The results of qRT-PCR validation were consistent with the results in the database, that is, except DLG3, the other four feature genes were lowly expressed in BC. The five-gene model established in this study can predict the prognostic and immune mode of BC patients effectively, which is anticipated to become a feasible molecular target for BC therapy.

Immunoglobulin superfamily 6 is a molecule involved in the anti-tumor activity of macrophages in lung adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Immunoglobulin superfamily 6 (IGSF6) is a novel member of the immunoglobulin superfamily and has been implicated in various diseases. However, the specific role of IGSF6 in the anti-tumor immunity within lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclear.

METHODS

We analyzed the IGSF6 expression in LUAD using data from TCGA, and we performed qRT-PCR and western blotting to validate these findings using tissue samples obtained from LUAD patients. Images of IHC staining were obtained from HPA. To assess the clinical relevance of IGSF6 expression, we utilized UALCAN and SPSS to analyze its association with major clinical features of LUAD. Additionally, we employed ROC curves and survival analysis to evaluate the potential diagnostic and prognostic value of IGSF6 in LUAD. To gain insights into the functional implications of IGSF6, we performed enrichment analysis using the R software clusterProfiler package. Moreover, we utilized TIMER2.0 and TISIDB to investigate the relationship between IGSF6 and immune infiltrates in LUAD. The proportion of tumor-infiltrating immune cells in LUAD was assessed using FCM, and their correlation with IGSF6 expression in tumor tissues was analyzed. The localization of IGSF6 protein on macrophages was confirmed using the HPA and FCM. To determine the regulatory role of IGSF6 on macrophage activity in LUAD, we employed ELISA, FCM, and tumor-bearing models.

RESULTS

We discovered that both IGSF6 mRNA and protein levels were significantly decreased in LUAD. Additionally, we observed a negative correlation between IGSF6 expression and TNM stages as well as pathologic stages in LUAD. Notably, IGSF6 exhibited high sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing LUAD, and was positively associated with the survival rate of LUAD patients. Furthermore, IGSF6 expression was closely linked to gene sets involved in immune response. IGSF6 expression showed a positive correlation with immune infiltrates exhibiting anti-tumor activity, particularly M1 macrophages. We confirmed the predominant localization of the IGSF6 protein on the membrane of M1 macrophages. Importantly, the knockdown of IGSF6 resulted in a reduction in the anti-tumor activity of M1 macrophages, thereby promoting tumor progression.

CONCLUSION

IGSF6 is a molecule that is essential for the anti-tumor activity of macrophages in LUAD.

Pyroptosis: the potential eye of the storm in adult-onset Still's disease

Pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death with a high pro-inflammatory effect, causes cell lysis and leads to the secretion of countless interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18 cytokines, resulting in a subsequent extreme inflammatory response through the caspase-1-dependent pathway or caspase-1-independent pathway. Adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) is a systemic inflammatory disease with extensive disease manifestations and severe complications such as macrophage activation syndrome, which is characterized by high-grade inflammation and cytokine storms regulated by IL-1β and IL-18. To date, the pathogenesis of AOSD is unclear, and the available therapy is unsatisfactory. As such, AOSD is still a challenging disease. In addition, the high inflammatory states and the increased expression of multiple pyroptosis markers in AOSD indicate that pyroptosis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of AOSD. Accordingly, this review summarizes the molecular mechanisms of pyroptosis and describes the potential role of pyroptosis in AOSD, the therapeutic practicalities of pyroptosis target drugs in AOSD, and the therapeutic blueprint of other pyroptosis target drugs.

Polydopamine-loaded prunetin nanomaterials activate DRD2 to reduce UV-induced inflammation by stabilizing and promoting Nrf2 nuclear translocation

Skin damage caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light has been well documented clinically and histologically. Dopamine receptor D2 (DRD2) possesses various biological functions. However, no study has reported the possible association of DRD2 with UV-induced skin damage. We established DRD2 conditional knockout and UV damage models in this work. The results showed that DRD2 played an important role in the treatment of UV-induced skin damage. The findings of the molecular mechanism study revealed that the internalization of DRD2 after activation can stabilize nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). However, the entry of Nrf2 into the nucleus did not increase. We prepared and characterized hyaluronic acid (HA)-coated mesoporous polydopamine (MPDA) nanoparticles (H@P@M). HA facilitated skin epidermal penetration of the nanoparticles to reach the site of inflammation smoothly. Meanwhile, MPDA activated DRD2 internalization to stabilize Nrf2. The release of prunetin inhibited the interaction of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 with Nrf2 and promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. In summary, this study unveiled that in skin inflammation, H@P@M activated and internalized DRD2, which subsequently formed a protein complex with arrestin beta 1-ubiquitin specific protease 8 (USP8)-Nrf2. Deubiquitination was performed to stabilize Nrf2 while promoting the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 to exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant functions. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Skin is the body's largest physical barrier, always protecting the body from the interference of the external environment. However, excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays in the sun can cause skin inflammation, leading to skin erythema, itching, edema and pain, which can be troublesome in our daily lives. The complex mechanism of skin inflammation caused by ultraviolet radiation has not been fully clarified. In this study, the role of DRD2 in UV-induced skin inflammation was explored, and nano-composite particles HA@Prunetin@MPDA, which act on multiple targets in the anti-inflammatory pathway of DRD2, were developed to maximize the effect of the drug. It provides a new way to treat skin inflammation caused by UV.

Signaling pathways in macrophages: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets

Macrophages play diverse roles in development, homeostasis, and immunity. Accordingly, the dysfunction of macrophages is involved in the occurrence and progression of various diseases, such as coronavirus disease 2019 and atherosclerosis. The protective or pathogenic effect that macrophages exert in different conditions largely depends on their functional plasticity, which is regulated via signal transduction such as Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription, Wnt and Notch pathways, stimulated by environmental cues. Over the past few decades, the molecular mechanisms of signaling pathways in macrophages have been gradually elucidated, providing more alternative therapeutic targets for diseases treatment. Here, we provide an overview of the basic physiology of macrophages and expound the regulatory pathways within them. We also address the crucial role macrophages play in the pathogenesis of diseases, including autoimmune, neurodegenerative, metabolic, infectious diseases, and cancer, with a focus on advances in macrophage-targeted strategies exploring modulation of components and regulators of signaling pathways. Last, we discuss the challenges and possible solutions of macrophage-targeted therapy in clinical applications. We hope that this comprehensive review will provide directions for further research on therapeutic strategies targeting macrophage signaling pathways, which are promising to improve the efficacy of disease treatment.

RNA helicase DExD/H-box 5 modulates intestinal microbiota in mice

The RNA helicase DExD/H-box (DDX) family of proteins plays a central role in host cellular RNA metabolism, including mRNA regulation, microRNA biogenesis, and ribosomal processing. DDX5, also known as p68, promotes viral replication and tumorigenesis. However, there have been no studies on the regulation of the intestinal microbiota by DDX family proteins. We constructed DDX5 knockout mice (Ddx5+/-) using CRISPR/CAS9 technology. Subsequently, DDX5 knockout mice were analyzed for PCR products, mRNA levels, protein expression, immunohistochemistry, and histopathological lesions. Fecal (n = 12) and ileum (n = 12) samples were collected from the Ddx5+/- and wild-type (Ddx5+/+) mice. The diversity, richness, and structural separation of the intestinal microbiota of the Ddx5+/- and Ddx5+/+ mice were determined by 16S rRNA sequencing and analysis. Ddx5+/- mice were successfully established, and the ileum had normal morphology, a clear layer of tissue structures, and neatly arranged cupped cells. DDX5 knockout mice did not exhibit adverse effects on the ileal tissue. Microbial diversity and abundance were not significantly different, but the microbial structure of the intestinal microbiota was clustered separately between Ddx5+/+ and Ddx5+/- mice. Furthermore, we found that the relative abundance of Akkermansia and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 in the Ddx5+/- mice was significantly lower than in the Ddx5+/+ mice. These analyses indicated specific interactions between the intestinal microbiota and DDX5 protein. Our results indicate that DDX5 has a significant effect on the composition of the intestinal microbiota in mice, suggesting its potential as a promising novel target for the treatment of inflammation and tumorigenesis in the intestine.