MondoA-Thioredoxin-Interacting Protein Axis Maintains Regulatory T-Cell Identity and Function in Colorectal Cancer Microenvironment

LILRB2 promotes immune escape in breast cancer cells via enhanced HLA-A degradation

PURPOSE

Increased expression of leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor subfamily B member 2 (LILRB2) is associated with immune evasion in breast cancer (BC). The aim of this study to elucidate the role of LILRB2 in BC progression.

METHODS

LILRB2 expression in tumor tissues was detected by immunohistochemical staining. Human leukocyte antigen A (HLA-A) expression in BC cells was detected by Western blotting, and HLA-A ubiquitination was detected by immunoprecipitation and histidine pulldown assay. An in-situ tumor model was established in nude BALB/c mice to verify the role of LILRB2 in immune escape. Finally, the functions and potential mechanisms of LILRB2 in BC progression were explored using in silico data.

RESULTS

LILRB2 was upregulated in BC tissues and cells, and correlated positively with poor prognosis. LILRB2 promoted BC progression by downregulating HLA-A expression. Mechanistically, LILRB2 facilitates the ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of HLA-A by promoting the interaction between the ubiquitin ligase membrane-associated ring finger protein 9 (MARCH9) and HLA-A. In syngeneic graft mouse models, LILRB2-expressing BC cells evaded CD8 + T cells and inhibited the secretion of cytokines by the cytotoxic CD8 + T cells.

CONCLUSION

LILRB2 downregulates HLA-A to promote immune evasion in BC cells and is a promising new target for BC treatment.

CD177 drives the transendothelial migration of Treg cells enriched in human colorectal cancer

Objectives

Regulatory T (Treg) cells regulate immunity in autoimmune diseases and cancers. However, immunotherapies that target tumor-infiltrating Treg cells often induce unwanted immune responses and tissue inflammation. Our research focussed on exploring the expression pattern of CD177 in tumor-infiltrating Treg cells with the aim of identifying a potential target that can enhance immunotherapy effectiveness.

Methods

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data and survival data were obtained from public databases. Twenty-one colorectal cancer patient samples, including fresh tumor tissues, peritumoral tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), were analysed using flow cytometry. The transendothelial activity of CD177+ Treg cells was substantiated using in vitro experiments.

Results

ScRNA-seq and flow cytometry results indicated that CD177 was exclusively expressed in intratumoral Treg cells. CD177+ Treg cells exhibited greater activation status and expressed elevated Treg cell canonical markers and immune checkpoint molecules than CD177- Treg cells. We further discovered that both intratumoral CD177+ Treg cells and CD177-overexpressing induced Treg (iTreg) cells had lower levels of PD-1 than their CD177- counterparts. Moreover, CD177 overexpression significantly enhanced the transendothelial migration of Treg cells in vitro.

Conclusions

These results demonstrated that Treg cells with higher CD177 levels exhibited an enhanced activation status and transendothelial migration capacity. Our findings suggest that CD177 may serve as an immunotherapeutic target and that overexpression of CD177 may improve the efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy.

YTE-17 inhibits colonic carcinogenesis by resetting antitumor immune response via Wnt5a/JNK mediated metabolic signaling

The density and composition of lymphocytes infiltrating colon tumors serve as predictive factors for the clinical outcome of colon cancer. Our previous studies highlighted the potent anti-cancer properties of the principal compounds found in Garcinia yunnanensis (YTE-17), attributing these effects to the regulation of multiple signaling pathways. However, knowledge regarding the mechanism and effect of YTE-17 in the prevention of colorectal cancer is limited. In this study, we conducted isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) analysis on intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) exposed YTE-17, both in vitro and invivo, revealing a significant inhibition of the Wnt family member 5a (Wnt5a)/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway. Subsequently, we elucidated the influence and mechanism of YTE-17 on the tumor microenvironment (TME), specifically focusing on macrophage-mediated T helper 17 (Th17) cell induction in a colitis-associated cancer (CAC) model with Wnt5a deletion. Additionally, we performed the single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on the colonic tissue from the Wnt5a-deleted CAC model to characterize the composition, lineage, and functional status of immune mesenchymal cells during different stages of colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. Remarkably, our findings demonstrate a significant reduction in M2 macrophage polarization and Th17 cell phenotype upon treatment with YTE-17, leading to the restoration of regulatory T (Treg)/Th17 cell balance in azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) model. Furthermore, we also confirmed that YTE-17 effectively inhibited the glycolysis of Th17 cells in both direct and indirect co-culture systems with M2 macrophages. Notably, our study shed light on potential mechanisms linking the non-canonical Wnt5a/JNK signaling pathway and well-established canonical β-catenin oncogenic pathway in vivo. Specifically, we proposed that Wnt5a/JNK signaling activity in IECs promotes the development of cancer stem cells with β-catenin activity within the TME, involving macrophages and T cells. In summary, our study undergoes the potential of YTE-17 as a preventive strategy against CRC development by addressing the imbalance with the immune microenvironment, thereby mitigating the risk of malignancies.

The effects of metabolism on the immune microenvironment in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a malignancy that is widely prevalent worldwide. Due to its unsatisfactory treatment outcome and extremely poor prognosis, many studies on the molecular mechanisms and pathological mechanisms of CRC have been published in recent years. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is an extremely important feature of tumorigenesis and one of the hallmarks of tumor development. Metabolic reprogramming is currently a hot topic in tumor research, and studies on this topic have provided important insights into CRC development. In particular, metabolic reprogramming in cancer causes changes in the composition of energy and nutrients in the TME. Furthermore, it can alter the complex crosstalk between immune cells and associated immune factors, such as associated macrophages and T cells, which play important immune roles in the TME, in turn affecting the immune escape of tumors by altering immune surveillance. In this review, we summarize several metabolism-related processes affecting the immune microenvironment of CRC tumors. Our results showed that the immune microenvironment is regulated by metabolic reprogramming and influences the development of CRC.

Increased infiltration of CD4+ IL-17A+ FOXP3+ T cells in Helicobacter pylori-induced gastritis

Helicobacter pylori is one of the main predisposing factors for gastric cancer, causing chronic inflammation and proper glands atrophy in the gastric mucosa. Although H. pylori-induced inflammation is a key inducer of precancerous lesions in the gastric mucosa, it remains unclear which precise immune cell subsets are responsible for the progression of H. pylori-induced gastritis. Here, we observed an abundance of CD4+ IL-17A+ FOXP3+ T cells exhibiting a Th17-like phenotype within the microenvironment of H. pylori-induced gastritis. Mechanistically, H. pylori upregulated the expression of IL-6 in Dendritic cells and macrophages, by activating NF-κB signaling through the virulence factor CagA and thus, induced IL-17A expression in FOXP3+ T cells. Moreover, CD4+ IL-17A+ FOXP3+ T cells were positively associated with advanced precancerous lesions. Therefore, these findings offer essential insights into how FOXP3+ T cells sense inflammatory signals from the environment, such as IL-6, during H. pylori infections, thereby guiding the effector immune response and aggravating the gastritis.

Unlocking the potential of T-cell metabolism reprogramming: Advancing single-cell approaches for precision immunotherapy in tumour immunity

As single-cell RNA sequencing enables the detailed clustering of T-cell subpopulations and facilitates the analysis of T-cell metabolic states and metabolite dynamics, it has gained prominence as the preferred tool for understanding heterogeneous cellular metabolism. Furthermore, the synergistic or inhibitory effects of various metabolic pathways within T cells in the tumour microenvironment are coordinated, and increased activity of specific metabolic pathways generally corresponds to increased functional activity, leading to diverse T-cell behaviours related to the effects of tumour immune cells, which shows the potential of tumour-specific T cells to induce persistent immune responses. A holistic understanding of how metabolic heterogeneity governs the immune function of specific T-cell subsets is key to obtaining field-level insights into immunometabolism. Therefore, exploring the mechanisms underlying the interplay between T-cell metabolism and immune functions will pave the way for precise immunotherapy approaches in the future, which will empower us to explore new methods for combating tumours with enhanced efficacy.

The role of microbiomes in gastrointestinal cancers: new insights

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers constitute more than 33% of new cancer cases worldwide and pose a considerable burden on public health. There exists a growing body of evidence that has systematically recorded an upward trajectory in GI malignancies within the last 5 to 10 years, thus presenting a formidable menace to the health of the human population. The perturbations in GI microbiota may have a noteworthy influence on the advancement of GI cancers; however, the precise mechanisms behind this association are still not comprehensively understood. Some bacteria have been observed to support cancer development, while others seem to provide a safeguard against it. Recent studies have indicated that alterations in the composition and abundance of microbiomes could be associated with the progression of various GI cancers, such as colorectal, gastric, hepatic, and esophageal cancers. Within this comprehensive analysis, we examine the significance of microbiomes, particularly those located in the intestines, in GI cancers. Furthermore, we explore the impact of microbiomes on various treatment modalities for GI cancer, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy. Additionally, we delve into the intricate mechanisms through which intestinal microbes influence the efficacy of GI cancer treatments.

New sights of immunometabolism and agent progress in colitis associated colorectal cancer

Colitis associated colorectal cancer is a disease with a high incidence and complex course that develops from chronic inflammation and deteriorates after various immune responses and inflammation-induced attacks. Colitis associated colorectal cancer has the characteristics of both immune diseases and cancer, and the similarity of treatment models contributes to the similar treatment dilemma. Immunometabolism contributes to the basis of life and is the core of many immune diseases. Manipulating metabolic signal transduction can be an effective way to control the immune process, which is expected to become a new target for colitis associated colorectal cancer therapy. Immune cells participate in the whole process of colitis associated colorectal cancer development by transforming their functional condition via changing their metabolic ways, such as glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism. The same immune and metabolic processes may play different roles in inflammation, dysplasia, and carcinoma, so anti-inflammation agents, immunomodulators, and agents targeting special metabolism should be used in combination to prevent and inhibit the development of colitis associated colorectal cancer.

The next bastion to be conquered in immunotherapy: microsatellite stable colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise, particularly in developing countries. The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has represented a significant advancement in CRC treatment. Deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) or high microsatellite instability (MSI-H) serves as a biomarker for immunotherapy, with dMMR/MSI-H CRC exhibiting significantly better response rates to immunotherapy compared to proficient mismatch repair (pMMR)or microsatellite stable (MSS) CRC. While some progress has been made in the treatment of pMMR/MSS CRC in recent years, it remains a challenging issue in clinical practice. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role not only in the development and progression of CRC but also in determining the response to immunotherapy. Understanding the characteristics of the TME in pMMR/MSS CRC could offer new insights to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. In this review, we provide an overview of the current research progress on the TME characteristics and advancements in immunotherapy for pMMR/MSS CRC.

TMX family genes and their association with prognosis, immune infiltration, and chemotherapy in human pan-cancer

BACKGROUND

The thioredoxin (TMX) system, an important redox system, plays crucial roles in several immune-related diseases. However, there is limited research on the correlation of TMX family gene expression with human pan-cancer prognosis, tumor microenvironment (TME), and immunotherapy.

METHODS

Based on the integration of several bioinformatics analysis methods, we explored the expression levels and prognostic value of TMX family members in pan-cancer and analyzed their association between TME, immune infiltration, stemness scores, and drug sensitivity. Using KEGG enrichment analysis, we explored the potential signaling pathways of their regulation. Additionally, we conducted a transwell assay to verify the relationship between TMX family gene expression and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in liver cancer.

RESULTS

Expression of the TMX family genes was shown to have an obvious intratumoral heterogeneity. In some cancers, TMX family members expression was also been found to correlate with poor prognosis of patients. Furthermore, TMX family genes may serve important roles in TME. The expression of TMX family genes was found to have a strong correlation with the stromal scores, immune scores, DNAss and RNAss in pan-cancer. Specifically, the expression levels of TMX family genes have been found to be associated with immune subtypes of renal clear cell carcinoma and liver hepatocellular carcinoma. High TMX2 expression promote EMT in liver cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study may elucidate the biological roles of TMX family genes as potential targets for pan-cancer and also offer valuable insights for further investigating how these genes function in the development and spreading of cancer.

Lactobacillus paracasei R3 Alleviates Tumor Progression in Mice with Colorectal Cancer

Lactobacillus paracasei (L. paracasei), a common probiotic lactobacillus, has important functions in the food industry and human health. However, different strains of L. paracasei inevitably show differences in activity and colonization resistance, leading to differentiation in their functions, as well as their physical or chemical properties. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of L. paracasei R3 (L.p R3) isolated from healthy human feces and determine whether the criteria for edible probiotics is met. The hemolysis type, biofilm-forming ability, antibiotic susceptibility, toxicity, and effective activity of L.p R3 were determined by establishing its probiotic activity traits in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that L.p R3 had a moderate biofilm formation ability, was sensitive to 11 antibiotics, was resistant to eight antibiotics, and was not hemolytic. The culture characteristics, morphology, and biochemical responses of the strain were consistent with the seed batch characteristics. In toxicity assays, L.p R3-fed mice showed no abnormalities in body weight, growth, or various organs. Additionally, L.p R3 was found to be effective in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer. In conclusion, our results revealed that L.p R3 has potential value as an edible probiotic without toxic side effects and alleviated the tumor progression of colorectal cancer in mice.

Advances in regulation and function of stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 in cancer, from bench to bed

Stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) converts saturated fatty acids to monounsaturated fatty acids. The expression of SCD1 is increased in many cancers, and the altered expression contributes to the proliferation, invasion, sternness and chemoresistance of cancer cells. Recently, more evidence has been reported to further support the important role of SCD1 in cancer, and the regulation mechanism of SCD1 has also been focused. Multiple factors are involved in the regulation of SCD1, including metabolism, diet, tumor microenvironment, transcription factors, non-coding RNAs, and epigenetics modification. Moreover, SCD1 is found to be involved in regulating ferroptosis resistance. Based on these findings, SCD1 has been considered as a potential target for cancer treatment. However, the resistance of SCD1 inhibition may occur in certain tumors due to tumor heterogeneity and metabolic plasticity. This review summarizes recent advances in the regulation and function of SCD1 in tumors and discusses the potential clinical application of targeting SCD1 for cancer treatment.

The role of TXNIP in cancer: a fine balance between redox, metabolic, and immunological tumor control

Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) is commonly considered a master regulator of cellular oxidation, regulating the expression and function of Thioredoxin (Trx). Recent work has identified that TXNIP has a far wider range of additional roles: from regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, to cell cycle arrest and inflammation. Its expression is increased by stressors commonly found in neoplastic cells and the wider tumor microenvironment (TME), and, as such, TXNIP has been extensively studied in cancers. In this review, we evaluate the current literature regarding the regulation and the function of TXNIP, highlighting its emerging role in modulating signaling between different cell types within the TME. We then assess current and future translational opportunities and the associated challenges in this area. An improved understanding of the functions and mechanisms of TXNIP in cancers may enhance its suitability as a therapeutic target.

PRMT1 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of gastric cancer cells by recruiting MLXIP for the transcriptional activation of the β-catenin pathway

Protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1), a type I PRMT, is overexpressed in gastric cancer (GC) cells. To elucidate the function of PRMT1 in GC, PRMT1 expression in HGC-27 and MKN-45 cells was knocked down by short hairpin RNA (shRNA) or inhibited by PRMT1 inhibitors (AMI-1 or DCLX069), which resulted in inhibition of GC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenesis in vitro and in vivo. MLX-interacting protein (MLXIP) and Kinectin 1 (KTN1) were identified as PRMT1-binding proteins. PRMT1 recruited MLXIP to the promoter of β-catenin, which induced β-catenin transcription and activated the β-catenin signaling pathway, promoting GC cell migration and metastasis. Furthermore, KTN1 inhibited the K48-linked ubiquitination of PRMT1 by decreasing the interaction between TRIM48 and PRMT1. Collectively, our findings reveal a mechanism by which PRMT1 promotes cell proliferation and metastasis mediated by the β-catenin signaling pathway.

Metabolic reprogramming, autophagy, and ferroptosis: Novel arsenals to overcome immunotherapy resistance in gastrointestinal cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal cancer poses a serious health threat owing to its high morbidity and mortality. Although immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies have achieved meaningful success in most solid tumors, the improvement in survival in gastrointestinal cancers is modest, owing to sparse immune response and widespread resistance. Metabolic reprogramming, autophagy, and ferroptosis are key regulators of tumor progression.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted to investigate the role of the metabolic reprogramming, autophagy, and ferroptosis in immunotherapy resistance of gastrointestinal cancer.

RESULTS

Metabolic reprogramming, autophagy, and ferroptosis play pivotal roles in regulating the survival, differentiation, and function of immune cells within the tumor microenvironment. These processes redefine the nutrient allocation blueprint between cancer cells and immune cells, facilitating tumor immune evasion, which critically impacts the therapeutic efficacy of immunotherapy for gastrointestinal cancers. Additionally, there exists profound crosstalk among metabolic reprogramming, autophagy, and ferroptosis. These interactions are paramount in anti-tumor immunity, further promoting the formation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment and resistance to immunotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Consequently, it is imperative to conduct comprehensive research on the roles of metabolic reprogramming, autophagy, and ferroptosis in the resistance of gastrointestinal tumor immunotherapy. This understanding will illuminate the clinical potential of targeting these pathways and their regulatory mechanisms to overcome immunotherapy resistance in gastrointestinal cancers.

Colitis-associated carcinogenesis: crosstalk between tumors, immune cells and gut microbiota

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. One of the main causes of colorectal cancer is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs), intestinal mesenchymal cells (IMCs), immune cells, and gut microbiota construct the main body of the colon and maintain colon homeostasis. In the development of colitis and colitis-associated carcinogenesis, the damage, disorder or excessive recruitment of different cells such as IECs, IMCs, immune cells and intestinal microbiota play different roles during these processes. This review aims to discuss the various roles of different cells and the crosstalk of these cells in transforming intestinal inflammation to cancer, which provides new therapeutic methods for chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and microbial therapy.

Factors impacting the benefits and pathogenicity of Th17 cells in the tumor microenvironment

Tumor development is closely associated with a complex tumor microenvironment, which is composed of tumor cells, blood vessels, tumor stromal cells, infiltrating immune cells, and associated effector molecules. T helper type 17 (Th17) cells, which are a subset of CD4+ T cells and are renowned for their ability to combat bacterial and fungal infections and mediate inflammatory responses, exhibit context-dependent effector functions. Within the tumor microenvironment, different molecular signals regulate the proliferation, differentiation, metabolic reprogramming, and phenotypic conversion of Th17 cells. Consequently, Th17 cells exert dual effects on tumor progression and can promote or inhibit tumor growth. This review aimed to investigate the impact of various alterations in the tumor microenvironment on the antitumor and protumor effects of Th17 cells to provide valuable clues for the exploration of additional tumor immunotherapy strategies.

Targeting the metabolism of tumor-infiltrating regulatory T cells

Although targeting the tumor metabolism is performed in cooperation with immunotherapy in the era of precision oncology, ignorance of immune cells' metabolism has resulted in unstable antitumor responses. Tumor-infiltrating regulatory T cells (TI-Tregs) are unique, overcoming the hypoxic, acidic, and nutrient-deficient tumor microenvironments (TMEs) and maintaining immunosuppressive functions. However, secondary autoimmunity caused by systemic Treg depletion remains the 'Sword of Damocles' for current Treg-targeted therapies. In this opinion piece, we propose that metabolically reprogrammed TI-Tregs might represent an obstacle to cancer therapies. Indeed, metabolism-based Treg-targeted therapy might provide higher selectivity for clearing TI-Tregs than traditional kinase/checkpoint inhibitors and chemokine/chemokine receptor blockade; it might also restore the efficacy of targeting the tumor metabolism and eliminate certain metabolic barriers to immunotherapy.

The metabolic cross-talk between cancer and T cells

The metabolic cross-talk between cancer cells and T cells dictates cancer formation and progression. These cells possess metabolic plasticity. Thus, they adapt their metabolic profile to meet their phenotypic requirements. However, the nutrient microenvironment of a tumor is a very hostile niche in which these cells are forced to compete for the available nutrients. The hyperactive metabolism of tumor cells often outcompetes the antitumorigenic CD8+ T cells while promoting the protumorigenic exhausted CD8+ T cells and T regulatory (Treg) cells. Thus, cancer cells elude the immune response and spread in an uncontrolled manner. Identifying the metabolic pathways necessary to shift the balance from a protumorigenic to an antitumorigenic immune phenotype is essential to potentiate antitumor immunity.

Progesterone attenuates Th17-cell pathogenicity in autoimmune uveitis via Id2/Pim1 axis

BACKGROUND

Autoimmune uveitis (AU) is the most common ophthalmic autoimmune disease (AD) and is characterized by a complex etiology, high morbidity, and high rate of blindness. AU remission has been observed in pregnant female patients. However, the effects of progesterone (PRG), a critical hormone for reproduction, on the treatment of AU and the regulatory mechanisms remain unclear.

METHODS

To this end, we established experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) animal models and constructed a high-dimensional immune atlas of EAU-model mice undergoing PRG treatment to explore the underlying therapeutic mechanisms of PRG using single-cell RNA sequencing.

RESULTS

We found that PRG ameliorated retinal lesions and inflammatory infiltration in EAU-model mice. Further single-cell analysis indicated that PRG reversed the EAU-induced expression of inflammatory genes (AP-1 family, S100a family, and Cxcr4) and pathological processes related to inflammatory cell migration, activation, and differentiation. Notably, PRG was found to regulate the Th17/Treg imbalance by increasing the reduced regulatory functional mediators of Tregs and diminishing the overactivation of pathological Th17 cells. Moreover, the Id2/Pim1 axis, IL-23/Th17/GM-CSF signaling, and enhanced Th17 pathogenicity during EAU were reversed by PRG treatment, resulting in the alleviation of EAU inflammation and treatment of AD.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides a comprehensive single-cell map of the immunomodulatory effects of PRG therapy on EAU and elaborates on the possible therapeutic mechanisms, providing novel insights into its application for treating autoimmune diseases.

Aldolase B attenuates clear cell renal cell carcinoma progression by inhibiting CtBP2

Aldolase B (ALDOB), a glycolytic enzyme, is uniformly depleted in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) tissues. We previously showed that ALDOB inhibited proliferation through a mechanism independent of its enzymatic activity in ccRCC, but the mechanism was not unequivocally identified. We showed that the corepressor C-terminal-binding protein 2 (CtBP2) is a novel ALDOB-interacting protein in ccRCC. The CtBP2-to-ALDOB expression ratio in clinical samples was correlated with the expression of CtBP2 target genes and was associated with shorter survival. ALDOB inhibited CtBP2-mediated repression of multiple cell cycle inhibitor, proapoptotic, and epithelial marker genes. Furthermore, ALDOB overexpression decreased the proliferation and migration of ccRCC cells in an ALDOB-CtBP2 interaction-dependent manner. Mechanistically, our findings showed that ALDOB recruited acireductone dioxygenase 1, which catalyzes the synthesis of an endogenous inhibitor of CtBP2, 4-methylthio 2-oxobutyric acid. ALDOB functions as a scaffold to bring acireductone dioxygenase and CtBP2 in close proximity to potentiate acireductone dioxygenase-mediated inhibition of CtBP2, and this scaffolding effect was independent of ALDOB enzymatic activity. Moreover, increased ALDOB expression inhibited tumor growth in a xenograft model and decreased lung metastasis in vivo. Our findings reveal that ALDOB is a negative regulator of CtBP2 and inhibits tumor growth and metastasis in ccRCC.

Oncolytic vaccinia virus acts synergistically with anti-PD-L1 antibody to enhance the killing of colon cancer cells by CD8+ T cells

Both oncolytic vaccinia virus (OVV) and anti-PD-L1 antibody hold promise in cancer immunotherapy. Herein, we aimed to explore the possible synergistic effects of OVV and anti-PD-L1 on the growth and metastasis of colon cancer (CC) in mouse models. Microarray profiling of CC-related genes was first conducted. Expression of PD-L1 in CC tissues was predicted by TCGA and verified by flow cytometry and RT-qPCR. Then, mouse CC cell lines stably carrying luciferase MC38-luc and CT26-luc were infected with recombinant double-deleted vaccinia virus (vvDD) to evaluate the effect of vvDD on cell viability. The data indicated that PD-L1 was highly expressed in CC tissues and cells following vvDD infection. MC38-luc cells were inoculated into mice to construct CC-bearing mouse models, which were treated with vvDD or combined with anti-PD-L1, with tumor growth, metastasis, survival, and the immune environment analyzed. It was found that OVV combined with anti-PD-L1 antibody led to lower tumor burden and growth and higher survival rates than individual treatment in CC-bearing mice. In addition, this combination exerted a remote effect on the untreated subcutaneous tumors in the lateral abdomen, thus suppressing the tumor metastasis. Furthermore, combined therapy of OVV with anti-PD-L1 antibody activated CD8⁺ T cells, reduced exhaustion of CD8⁺ T cells, and enhanced their immune response, strengthening the killing of CC cells and inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. In conclusion, our findings provide mechanistic insights into the action and efficacy of OVV as an immunomodulatory agent combined with the anti-PD-L1 antibody for the treatment of CC.

Single-cell sequencing technology in colorectal cancer: a new technology to disclose the tumor heterogeneity and target precise treatment

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal tumors, and its high tumor heterogeneity makes traditional sequencing methods incapable of obtaining information about the heterogeneity of individual cancer cells in CRC. Therefore, single-cell sequencing technology can be applied to better analyze the differences in genetic and protein information between cells, to obtain genomic sequence information of single cells, and to more thoroughly analyze the cellular characteristics and interactions in the CRC microenvironment. This will provide a more comprehensive understanding of colorectal cancer development and metastasis and indicate the treatment plan and prognosis. In this study, we review the application of single-cell sequencing to analyze the tumor microenvironment of CRC, explore the mechanisms involved in CRC metastasis and progression, and provide a reference for potential treatment options.

Landscapes and mechanisms of CD8+ T cell exhaustion in gastrointestinal cancer

CD8+ T cells, a cytotoxic T lymphocyte, are a key component of the tumor immune system, but they enter a hyporeactive T cell state in long-term chronic inflammation, and how to rescue this depleted state is a key direction of research. Current studies on CD8+ T cell exhaustion have found that the mechanisms responsible for their heterogeneity and differential kinetics may be closely related to transcription factors and epigenetic regulation, which may serve as biomarkers and potential immunotherapeutic targets to guide treatment. Although the importance of T cell exhaustion in tumor immunotherapy cannot be overstated, studies have pointed out that gastric cancer tissues have a better anti-tumor T cell composition compared to other cancer tissues, which may indicate that gastrointestinal cancers have more promising prospects for the development of precision-targeted immunotherapy. Therefore, the present study will focus on the mechanisms involved in the development of CD8+ T cell exhaustion, and then review the landscapes and mechanisms of T cell exhaustion in gastrointestinal cancer as well as clinical applications, which will provide a clear vision for the development of future immunotherapies.

BCR-ABL triggers a glucose-dependent survival program during leukemogenesis through the suppression of TXNIP

Imatinib is highly effective in the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), but the primary and acquired imatinib resistance remains the big hurdle. Molecular mechanisms for CML resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors, beyond point mutations in BCR-ABL kinase domain, still need to be addressed. Here, we demonstrated that thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) is a novel BCR-ABL target gene. Suppression of TXNIP was responsible for BCR-ABL triggered glucose metabolic reprogramming and mitochondrial homeostasis. Mechanistically, Miz-1/P300 complex transactivates TXNIP through the recognition of TXNIP core promoter region, responding to the c-Myc suppression by either imatinib or BCR-ABL knockdown. TXNIP restoration sensitizes CML cells to imatinib treatment and compromises imatinib resistant CML cell survival, predominantly through the blockage of both glycolysis and glucose oxidation which results in the mitochondrial dysfunction and ATP production. In particular, TXNIP suppresses expressions of the key glycolytic enzyme, hexokinase 2 (HK2), and lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), potentially through Fbw7-dependent c-Myc degradation. In accordance, BCR-ABL suppression of TXNIP provided a novel survival pathway for the transformation of mouse bone marrow cells. Knockout of TXNIP accelerated BCR-ABL transformation, whereas TXNIP overexpression suppressed this transformation. Combination of drug inducing TXNIP expression with imatinib synergistically kills CML cells from patients and further extends the survival of CML mice. Thus, the activation of TXNIP represents an effective strategy for CML treatment to overcome resistance.

ANKRD22 is a potential novel target for reversing the immunosuppressive effects of PMN-MDSCs in ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest type of malignant gynecological tumor. Polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells (PMN-MDSCs) are involved ovarian cancer and are closely related to adverse outcomes. However, the immunosuppressive mechanism of PMN-MDSCs remains elusive.

METHODS

The types and numbers of ANKRD22-expressing cells were investigated by bioinformatics analysis and immunohistochemical staining. Ankrd22^-/- C57BL/6 mice were constructed with CRISPR-Cas9 technology. Mouse PMN-MDSCs were obtained from bone marrow (BM)-derived CD11b⁺Ly6G⁺Ly6C^low cells sorted by fluorescence-activated cell sorting with treatment of GM-CSF and IL-6, and the immunosuppressive activity of PMN-MDSCs was evaluated by flow cytometry (FCM) and ELISA. The expression level of CCR2 and the exogenous glucose uptake capacity were determined by FCM. RT-qPCR was used to detect ANKRD22 expression in CD11b⁺HLA-DR^-CD14^-CD15⁺ cells from human ovarian cancer tissues, and the correlations of ANKRD22 expression with the clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients were evaluated by the χ² test.

RESULTS

We identified a novel protein involved in regulating the immunosuppressive ability of PMN-MDSCs, ANKRD22. Ankrd22 expression was high in mouse CD11b⁺Ly6G⁺Ly6C^low cells and could be significantly downregulated after exposure to a simulated microenvironmental stimulus. Knockout of Ankrd22 increased the expression level of CCR2 of CD11b⁺Ly6G⁺Ly6C^low cells and the immunosuppressive activity of PMN-MDSCs. BM-derived CD11b⁺Ly6G⁺Ly6C^low cells of Ankrd22^-/- mice significantly promoted the proliferation of ovarian cancer cells in tumor xenograft mouse models. Mechanistically, RNA sequencing showed that Wdfy1 expression was obviously increased in Ankrd22-knockout BM-derived CD11b⁺Ly6G⁺ Ly6C^low cells and that ectopic expression of Wdfy1 increased the levels of Arg1, Inos, Ido and Pdl1 in Ankrd22^+/+ PMN-MDSCs derived from BM-derived CD11b⁺Ly6G⁺Ly6C^low cells. Surprisingly, an ANKRD22-activating candidate small-molecule compound attenuated the immunosuppressive activity of Ankrd22^+/+ PMN-MDSCs. Finally, we found that low ANKRD22 levels in CD11b⁺HLA-DR^-CD14^-CD15⁺ cells derived from primary ovarian tissues were associated with a more advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage, a higher recurrence rate, and a higher neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that ANKRD22 is a potential novel target for reversing the immunosuppressive effects of PMN-MDSCs.

Regulatory T cells as a therapeutic approach for inflammatory bowel disease

Foxp3⁺ T regulatory (Treg) cells suppress inflammation and are essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis. A growing appreciation of tissue-specific Treg functions has built interest in leveraging the endogenous suppressive mechanisms of these cells into cellular therapeutics in organ-specific diseases. Notably, Treg cells play a critical role in maintaining the intestinal environment. As a barrier site, the gut requires Treg cells to mediate interactions with the microbiota, support barrier integrity, and regulate the immune system. Without fully functional Treg cells, intestinal inflammation and microbial dysbiosis ensue. Thus, there is a particular interest in developing Treg cellular therapies for intestinal inflammatory disease, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This article reviews some of the critical pathways that are dysregulated in IBD, Treg cell mechanisms of suppression, and the efforts and approaches in the field to develop these cells as a cellular therapy for IBD.

Physiological and Pathophysiological Roles of Thioredoxin Interacting Protein: A Perspective on Redox Inflammation and Metabolism

Significance: Thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP) is a member of the arrestin fold superfamily with important cellular functions, including cellular transport, mitochondrial energy generation, and protein cycling. It is the only arrestin-domain protein known to covalently bind to thioredoxin and plays roles in glucose metabolism, inflammation, apoptosis, and cancer. Recent Advances: The crystal structure of the TXNIP-thioredoxin complex provided details about this fascinating interaction. Recent studies showed that TXNIP is induced by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, activates NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes, and can regulate glucose transport into cells. The tumor suppressor role of TXNIP in various cancer types and the role of TXNIP in fructose absorption are now described. Critical Issues: The influence of TXNIP on redox state is more complex than its interaction with thioredoxin. Future Directions: It is incompletely understood which functions of TXNIP are thioredoxin-dependent. It is also unclear whether TXNIP binding can inhibit glucose transporters without endocytosis. TXNIP-regulated control of ER stress should also be investigated further. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 38, 442-460.

Regulation of Normal and Neoplastic Proliferation and Metabolism by the Extended Myc Network

The Myc Network, comprising a small assemblage of bHLH-ZIP transcription factors, regulates many hundreds to thousands of genes involved in proliferation, energy metabolism, translation and other activities. A structurally and functionally related set of factors known as the Mlx Network also supervises some of these same functions via the regulation of a more limited but overlapping transcriptional repertoire. Target gene co-regulation by these two Networks is the result of their sharing of three members that suppress target gene expression as well as by the ability of both Network's members to cross-bind one another's consensus DNA sites. The two Networks also differ in that the Mlx Network's control over transcription is positively regulated by several glycolytic pathway intermediates and other metabolites. These distinctive properties, functions and tissue expression patterns potentially allow for sensitive control of gene regulation in ways that are differentially responsive to environmental and metabolic cues while allowing for them to be both rapid and of limited duration. This review explores how such control might occur. It further discusses how the actual functional dependencies of the Myc and Mlx Networks rely upon cellular context and how they may differ between normal and neoplastic cells. Finally, consideration is given to how future studies may permit a more refined understanding of the functional interrelationships between the two Networks.

Nanomaterials: small particles show huge possibilities for cancer immunotherapy

With the economy's globalization and the population's aging, cancer has become the leading cause of death in most countries. While imposing a considerable burden on society, the high morbidity and mortality rates have continuously prompted researchers to develop new oncology treatment options. Anti-tumor regimens have evolved from early single surgical treatment to combined (or not) chemoradiotherapy and then to the current stage of tumor immunotherapy. Tumor immunotherapy has undoubtedly pulled some patients back from the death. However, this strategy of activating or boosting the body's immune system hardly benefits most patients. It is limited by low bioavailability, low response rate and severe side effects. Thankfully, the rapid development of nanotechnology has broken through the bottleneck problem of anti-tumor immunotherapy. Multifunctional nanomaterials can not only kill tumors by combining anti-tumor drugs but also can be designed to enhance the body's immunity and thus achieve a multi-treatment effect. It is worth noting that the variety of nanomaterials, their modifiability, and the diversity of combinations allow them to shine in antitumor immunotherapy. In this paper, several nanobiotics commonly used in tumor immunotherapy at this stage are discussed, and they activate or enhance the body's immunity with their unique advantages. In conclusion, we reviewed recent advances in tumor immunotherapy based on nanomaterials, such as biological cell membrane modification, self-assembly, mesoporous, metal and hydrogels, to explore new directions and strategies for tumor immunotherapy.

Warburg effect in colorectal cancer: the emerging roles in tumor microenvironment and therapeutic implications

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Countless CRC patients undergo disease progression. As a hallmark of cancer, Warburg effect promotes cancer metastasis and remodels the tumor microenvironment, including promoting angiogenesis, immune suppression, cancer-associated fibroblasts formation and drug resistance. Targeting Warburg metabolism would be a promising method for the treatment of CRC. In this review, we summarize information about the roles of Warburg effect in tumor microenvironment to elucidate the mechanisms governing Warburg effect in CRC and to identify novel targets for therapy.

FOXP3+ regulatory T cells and the immune escape in solid tumours

FOXP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells play critical roles in establishing the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment, which is achieved and dynamically maintained with the contribution of various stromal and immune cell subsets. However, the dynamics of non-lymphoid FOXP3+ Treg cells and the mutual regulation of Treg cells and other cell types in solid tumour microenvironment remains largely unclear. In this review, we summarize the latest findings on the dynamic connections and reciprocal regulations of non-lymphoid Treg cell subsets in accordance with well-established and new emerging hallmarks of cancer, especially on the immune escape of tumour cells in solid tumours. Our comprehension of the interplay between FOXP3+ Treg cells and key hallmarks of cancer may provide new insights into the development of next-generation engineered T cell-based immune treatments for solid tumours.

Autophagy in gastrointestinal cancers

Gastrointestinal cancers are a group of cancers occurred in gastrointestinal tissues with high morbidity and mortality rate. Although numerous studies were conducted on the investigation of gastrointestinal cancers, the real mechanisms haven’t been discovered, and no effective methods of prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers have been developed. Autophagy, a vital catabolic process in organisms, have been proven to participate in various mechanisms and signaling pathways, thus producing a regulatory effect on various diseases. The role of autophagy in gastrointestinal cancers remains unclear due to its high complexity. In this review, firstly, the biological features of autophagy will be introduced. Secondly, the role of autophagy in three popular gastrointestinal cancers, namely esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, and colorectal cancer will be described and discussed by reviewing the related literature. We aimed to bring novel insights in exploring the real mechanisms for gastrointestinal cancers and developing effective and efficient therapeutic methods to treat gastrointestinal cancers.

Metabolic profiles of regulatory T cells and their adaptations to the tumor microenvironment: implications for antitumor immunity

Characterized by the expression of the critical transcription factor forkhead box protein P3, regulatory T (Treg) cells are an essential part of the immune system, with a dual effect on the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and cancer. Targeting Tregs to reestablish the proinflammatory and immunogenic tumor microenvironment (TME) is an increasingly attractive strategy for cancer treatment and has been emphasized in recent years. However, attempts have been significantly hindered by the subsequent autoimmunity after Treg ablation owing to systemic loss of their suppressive capacity. Cellular metabolic reprogramming is acknowledged as a hallmark of cancer, and emerging evidence suggests that elucidating the underlying mechanisms of how intratumoral Tregs acquire metabolic fitness and superior immunosuppression in the TME may contribute to clinical benefits. In this review, we discuss the common and distinct metabolic profiles of Tregs in peripheral tissues and the TME, as well as the differences between Tregs and other conventional T cells in their metabolic preferences. By focusing on the critical roles of different metabolic programs, such as glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, fatty acid oxidation, fatty acid synthesis, and amino acid metabolism, as well as their essential regulators in modulating Treg proliferation, migration, and function, we hope to provide new insights into Treg cell-targeted antitumor immunotherapies.

Gallic acid induces T-helper-1-like Treg cells and strengthens immune checkpoint blockade efficacy

Background

Foxp3⁺ regulatory T (T_reg) cells facilitate tumor immune evasion by forming a suppressive tumor microenvironment. Therefore, immune therapies promoting T_reg fragility may greatly enhance immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) efficacy in cancers.

Methods

We have screened 2640 compounds and identified the gut microbial metabolite gallic acid, which promotes Foxp3 degradation and T_reg instability by repressing Usp21 gene transcription. In vivo and in vitro experiments have been performed to explore the roles of Usp21 in T_reg cells. Importantly, we treated tumor-bearing mice with gallic acid and anti-PD-1 antibody to explore the potential therapeutic value of gallic acid in clinical cancer immunotherapy.

Results

Mechanistically, gallic acid prevents STAT3 phosphorylation and the binding of phosphorylated STAT3 to Usp21 gene promoter. The deubiquitinated Usp21 and stabilized PD-L1 proteins boost the function of T_reg cells. Combination of gallic acid and anti-PD-1 antibody, in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment, not only significantly dampen T_reg cell function by impairing PD-L1/PD-1 signaling and downregulating Foxp3 stability, but also promote CD8⁺ T cells’ production of IFN-γ and limited tumor growth.

Conclusion

Our findings have implications for improving the efficacy of ICB therapy in CRC by inducing T-helper-1-like Foxp3^lo T_reg cells.

Drug D, a Diosgenin Derive, Inhibits L-Arginine-Induced Acute Pancreatitis through Meditating GSDMD in the Endoplasmic Reticulum via the TXNIP/HIF-1α Pathway

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the most common causes of hospitalization for gastrointestinal diseases, with high morbidity and mortality. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and Gasdermin D (GSDMD) mediate AP, but little is known about their mutual influence on AP. Diosgenin has excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This study investigated whether Diosgenin derivative D (Drug D) inhibits L-arginine-induced acute pancreatitis through meditating GSDMD in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Our studies were conducted in a mouse model of L-arginine-induced AP as well as in an in vitro model on mouse pancreatic acinar cells. The GSDMD accumulation in ER was found in this study, which caused ERS of acinar cells. GSDMD inhibitor Disulfiram (DSF) notably decreased the expression of GSDMD in ER and TXNIP/HIF-1α signaling. The molecular docking study indicated that there was a potential interaction between Drug D and GSDMD. Our results showed that Drug D significantly inhibited necrosis of acinar cells dose-dependently, and we also found that Drug D alleviated pancreatic necrosis and systemic inflammation by inhibiting the GSDMD accumulation in the ER of acinar cells via the TXNIP/HIF-1α pathway. Furthermore, the level of p-IRE1α (a marker of ERS) was also down-regulated by Drug D in a dose-dependent manner in AP. We also found that Drug D alleviated TXNIP up-regulation and oxidative stress in AP. Moreover, our results revealed that GSDMD^-/- mitigated AP by inhibiting TXNIP/HIF-1α. Therefore, Drug D, which is extracted from Dioscorea zingiberensis, may inhibit L-arginine-induced AP by meditating GSDMD in the ER by the TXNIP /HIF-1α pathway.

Regulation of Treg Cell Metabolism and Function in Non-Lymphoid Tissues

Regulator T cells (Tregs) play pivotal roles in maintaining immune tolerance and regulating immune responses against pathogens and tumors. Reprogramming of cellular metabolism has been determined as a crucial process that connects microenvironmental cues and signaling networks to influence homeostasis and function of tissue Tregs. In adaptation to a variety of non-lymphoid tissues, Tregs coordinate local immune signals and signaling networks to rewire cellular metabolic programs to sustain their suppressive function. Altered Treg metabolism in turn shapes Treg activation and function. In light of the advanced understanding of immunometabolism, manipulation of systemic metabolites has been emerging as an attractive strategy aiming to modulate metabolism and function of tissue Tregs and improve the treatment of immune-related diseases. In this review, we summarize key immune signals and metabolic programs involved in the regulation of tissue Tregs, review the mechanisms underlying the differentiation and function of Tregs in various non-lymphoid tissues, and discuss therapeutic intervention of metabolic modulators of tissue Tregs for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and cancer.

RAB42 is a Potential Biomarker that Correlates With Immune Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Backgrounds: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant cancer with high mortality. Previous studies have reported that RAB42 is associated with prognosis and progression in glioma. However, the role of RAB42 in HCC is still unknown. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate the value of RAB42 in the predicting prognosis of HCC, and its relationship with immune cells infiltration.

Methods: UALCAN, HCCDB, and MethSurv databases were used to examine the expression and methylation levels of RAB42 in HCC and normal samples. cBioPortal and MethSurv were used to identify genetic alterations and DNA methylation of RAB42, and their effect on prognosis. The correlations between RAB42 and the immune cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts infiltration were analyzed by TIMER, TISIDB, and GEPIA database. The LinkedOmics database was used to analyze the enriched pathways associated with genes co-expressed with RAB42. EdU assay was used to evaluate the proliferation ability of liver cancer cells, and transwell assay was used to detect the invasion and migration ability of liver cancer cells.

Results: The expression levels of RAB42 were increased in HCC tissues than that in normal tissues. Highly expressed RAB42 was significantly correlated with several clinical parameters of HCC patients. Moreover, increased RAB42 expression clearly predicted poor prognosis in HCC. Furthermore, multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that RAB42 was an independent prognostic factor in HCC. The RAB42 genetic alteration rate was 5%. RAB42 DNA methylation in HCC tissues was lower than that in normal tissues. Among the 7 DNA methylation CpG sites, two were related to the prognosis of HCC. The results of gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) showed that RAB42 was associated with various immune cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts infiltration in HCC. Meanwhile, we found RAB42 methylation was strongly correlated with immune infiltration levels, immunomodulators, and chemokines. Experiments in vitro indicated that knockdown of RAB42 inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and migration of liver cancer cells.

Conclusions: Our study highlights the clinical importance of RAB42 in HCC and explores the effect of RAB42 on immune infiltration in the tumor microenvironment, and RAB42 may act as a pro-oncogene that promotes HCC progression.

Thioredoxin-1 Activation by Pterostilbene Protects Against Doxorubicin-Induced Hepatotoxicity via Inhibiting the NLRP3 Inflammasome

Background: Doxorubicin (DOX) has been widely used in cancer treatment. However, DOX can cause a range of significant side effects, of which hepatotoxicity is a common one, and therefore limits its clinical use. Pterostilbene (PTS) has been shown to exhibit anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the treatment of liver diseases but whether PTS could protect against hepatotoxicity in DOX-treated mice is unknown.

Methods: In our study, we use C57/BL6J mice and the HepG2 cell line. We divided the mice in 4 groups: the control, the PTS treatment, the DOX treatment, and the DOX + PTS treatment group. Liver histopathology was judged by performing hematoxylin–eosin and Masson staining. Immunohistochemistry was used to perform the expression of NLRP3. The levels of serum alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) were evaluated. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and DCFH-DA staining were used to evaluate the oxidative injury. Western blot and real-time PCR were applied to evaluate the expressions of proteins and mRNA. MTT was used to evaluate DOX-induced cell injury and the protective effects of PTS. Recombinant Trx-1 was used to analyze the mechanism of PTS. A TUNEL assay was used to detect apoptosis in DOX-induced HepG2 cells and the protective effects of PTS.

Results: PTS ameliorated DOX-induced liver pathological changes and the levels of AST and ALT. PTS also decreased the level of MDA, increased the level of SOD, GSH, and the expression of Trx-1 in DOX-treated mice. PTS decreased the levels of NLRP3 and IL-1β mRNA and the expressions of their proteins in DOX-treated mice. In addition, PTS also decreased the expression of Cleaved Caspase-3 and BAX and increased the expression of BCL-2. In vitro, after treatment with recombinant Trx-1, ROS and NLRP3 inflammasome were both decreased. Treatment with PTS could rescue the downregulation of Trx-1, decreased the ROS level and the NLRP3 inflammasome, and protected HepG2 cells against DOX-induced apoptosis.

Conclusion: The results show that PTS exhibits protective effects against DOX-induced liver injuries via suppression of oxidative stress, fibrosis, NLRP3 inflammasome stimulation, and cell apoptosis which might lead to a new approach of preventing DOX-induced hepatotoxicity.

Tissue Resident Foxp3+ Regulatory T Cells: Sentinels and Saboteurs in Health and Disease

Foxp3⁺ regulatory T (Treg) cells are a CD4 T cell subset with unique immune regulatory function that are indispensable in immunity and tolerance. Their indisputable importance has been investigated in numerous disease settings and experimental models. Despite the extensive efforts in determining the cellular and molecular mechanisms operating their functions, our understanding their biology especially in vivo remains limited. There is emerging evidence that Treg cells resident in the non-lymphoid tissues play a central role in regulating tissue homeostasis, inflammation, and repair. Furthermore, tissue-specific properties of those Treg cells that allow them to express tissue specific functions have been explored. In this review, we will discuss the potential mechanisms and key cellular/molecular factors responsible for the homeostasis and functions of tissue resident Treg cells under steady-state and inflammatory conditions.

lncRNA MAGI2-AS3 Exerts Antioncogenic Roles in Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Regulating the miR-519c-3p/TXNIP Axis

Introduction

Our work was aimed to explore the mechanisms of MAGI2 antisense RNA 3 (MAGI2-AS3) in regulating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) carcinogenesis.

Methods

MAGI2-AS3, microRNA-519c-3p (miR-519c-3p), and thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP) levels in HCC were detected by the RT-qPCR method. Cell proliferation and apoptosis rate were measured using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and flow cytometry assay. Relationship between MAGI2-AS3, TXNIP, and miR-519c-3p were analyzed via luciferase activity assay, RNA pull-down assay, and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. Mouse xenograft models of HCC were conducted to explore the roles of MAGI2-AS3 in vivo.

Results

MAGI2-AS3 levels were elevated, and miR-519c-3p decreased in HCC. MAGI2-AS3 overexpression inhibits while its knockdown stimulates HCC cell growth through miR-519c-3p. Moreover, miR-519c-3p overexpression stimulates HCC cell growth. MAGI2-AS3 serves as competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR-519c-3p to regulate TXNIP in HCC. And, TXNIP upregulation weakened the influence of MAGI2-AS3 knockdown on HCC cell behaviors. Additionally, MAGI2-AS3 overexpression suppressed HCC tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

MAGI2-AS3 inhibits HCC tumorigenesis through miR-519c-3p/TXNIP axis in vitro and in vivo, indicating MAGI2-AS3 plays a crucial role in HCC development.

Transcriptional and posttranslational regulation of Th17/Treg balance in health and disease

Regulatory T (Treg) cells and T helper type 17 (Th17) cells play important roles in adaptive immune responses, antagonizing each other in immune disorders. Th17/Treg balance is critical to maintaining the immune homeostasis of human bodies and is tightly regulated under healthy conditions. The transcription factors that are required for driving Th17 and Treg cell lineages differentiation respectively, RORγt and FOXP3 are tightly regulated under different tissue microenvironment, especially the transcriptional induction, posttranslational modifications, and dynamic enzymatic cofactors binding. The imbalance caused by alteration of the quantity or properties of RORγt⁺ Th17 or FOXP3⁺ Treg can contribute to inflammatory disorders in humans. Restoring Th17/Treg balance by modifying the enzymatic activities of RORγt and FOXP3 binding partners may be therapeutically applied to treat severe immune disorders. In this review, we focus on the transcriptional and posttranslational regulations of Th17/Treg balance, immune disorders caused by Th17/Treg imbalance, and new therapeutic strategies for restoring immune homeostasis.

Longitudinal changes in fasting plasma glucose are associated with risk of cancer mortality: A Chinese cohort study

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have suggested that fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was associated with the risk of mortality. However, relationship on longitudinal changes of FPG with the risk of mortality remained inconsistent.

METHODS

We examined the association of FPG at baseline and its longitudinal changes with risk of mortality based on a cohort study in Yinzhou, China, during 2010-2018. Cox regression models and competing risk models were separately used to examine the association of FPG levels and long-term fluctuation with risk of total and cause-specific mortality.

RESULTS

Subjects who had an impaired fasting glucose or diabetes suffered a higher risk of total mortality than subjects who had a normal fasting glucose (HRs and 95% CIs: 1.17 [1.01-1.35], 1.30 [1.10-1.53], respectively). The HR for total mortality was 1.54 (95% CI: 1.29-1.84) and for cancer mortality was 1.41 (95% CI: 1.04-1.92) in the highest quartile of coefficient of variation of FPG. Trajectory analysis indicated that subjects with a significantly changed FPG suffered a higher risk of total mortality.

CONCLUSION

According to this cohort study, we found that long-term fluctuation of FPG was significantly associated with the risk of total and cancer mortality. Our findings suggest that long-term fluctuation of FPG could be used as an efficient indicator for predicting the subsequent risk of mortality.