The E-Cadherin and N-Cadherin Switch in Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition: Signaling, Therapeutic Implications, and Challenges

Bidirectional crosstalk between the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and immunotherapy: A bibliometric study

Immunotherapy has recently attracted considerable attention. However, currently, a thorough analysis of the trends associated with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and immunotherapy is lacking. In this study, we used bibliometric tools to provide a comprehensive overview of the progress in EMT-immunotherapy research. A total of 1,302 articles related to EMT and immunotherapy were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC). The analysis indicated that in terms of the volume of research, China was the most productive country (49.07%, 639), followed by the United States (16.89%, 220) and Italy (3.6%, 47). The United States was the most influential country according to the frequency of citations and citation burstiness. The results also suggested that Frontiers in Immunotherapy can be considered as the most influential journal with respect to the number of articles and impact factors. "Immune infiltration," "bioinformatics analysis," "traditional Chinese medicine," "gene signature," and "ferroptosis" were found to be emerging keywords in EMT-immunotherapy research. These findings point to potential new directions that can deepen our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the combined effects of immunotherapy and EMT and help develop strategies for improving immunotherapy.

E-cadherin re-expression: Its potential in combating TRAIL resistance and reversing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition

The major limitation of conventional chemotherapy drugs is their lack of specificity for cancer cells. As a selective apoptosis-inducing agent, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has emerged as an attractive alternative. However, most of the cancer cells are found to be either intrinsically resistant to the TRAIL protein or may develop resistance after multiple treatments, and TRAIL resistance can induce epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) at a later stage, promoting cancer invasion and migration. Interestingly, E-cadherin loss has been linked to TRAIL resistance and initiation of EMT, making E-cadherin re-expression a potential target to overcome these obstacles. Recent research suggests that re-expressing E-cadherin may reduce TRAIL resistance by enhancing TRAIL-induced apoptosis and preventing EMT by modulating EMT signalling factors. This reversal of EMT, can also aid in improving TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Therefore, this review provides remarkable insights into the mechanisms underlying E-cadherin re-expression, clinical implications, and potentiation, as well as the research gaps of E-cadherin re-expression in the current cancer treatment.

N-cadherin: A diagnostic marker to help discriminate primary liver carcinomas from extrahepatic carcinomas

Distinguishing primary liver cancer (PLC), namely hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), from liver metastases is of crucial clinical importance. Histopathology remains the gold standard, but differential diagnosis may be challenging. While absent in most epithelial, the expression of the adherens junction glycoprotein N-cadherin is commonly restricted to neural and mesenchymal cells, or carcinoma cells that undergo the phenomenon of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, we recently established N- and E-cadherin expression as hallmarks of normal hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, which are also preserved in HCC and iCCA. Therefore, we hypothesized that E- and/or N-cadherin may distinguish between carcinoma derived from the liver vs carcinoma of other origins. We comprehensively evaluated E- and N-cadherin in 3359 different tumors in a multicenter study using immunohistochemistry and compared our results with previously published 882 cases of PLC, including 570 HCC and 312 iCCA. Most carcinomas showed strong positivity for E-cadherin. Strong N-cadherin positivity was present in HCC and iCCA. However, except for clear cell renal cell carcinoma (23.6% of cases) and thyroid cancer (29.2%), N-cadherin was only in some instances faintly expressed in adenocarcinomas of the gastrointestinal tract (0%-0.5%), lung (7.1%), pancreas (3.9%), gynecological organs (0%-7.4%), breast (2.2%) as well as in urothelial (9.4%) and squamous cell carcinoma (0%-5.6%). As expected, N-cadherin was detected in neuroendocrine tumors (25%-75%), malignant melanoma (46.2%) and malignant mesothelioma (41%). In conclusion, N-cadherin is a useful marker for the distinction of PLC vs liver metastases of extrahepatic carcinomas (P < .01).

Expression of CD44, PCNA and E-cadherin in pterygium tissues

PURPOSE

Pterygium is a common ocular surface disease defined by fibrovascular conjunctival growth extending onto the cornea. However, its pathogenesis remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the role of CD44, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and E-cadherin in pterygium formation and recurrence.

METHODS

Sixty patients with pterygium participated in the study, and we collected conjunctival samples from 30 patients to form a control group. CD44, PCNA, and E-cadherin expressions in surgically excised pterygium were compared with tissue samples from the control group.

RESULTS

We observed that the percentages of CD44 and PCNA were statistically higher in the primary pterygium group and recurrent pterygium group than in the control group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). Conversely, E-cadherin values were statistically higher in the control group than in the primary and recurrent pterygium groups (P = 0.013 and P < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Cell proliferation and cell adhesion factors may play important roles in the pathogenesis of pterygium.

Therapeutic vulnerabilities in triple negative breast cancer: Stem-like traits explored within molecular classification

Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive type of breast cancer (BC). Despite advances in the clinical management of TNBC, recurrence-related mortality remains a challenge. The stem-like phenotype of TNBC plays a significant role in the persistence of minimal disease residue after therapy. Individuals exhibiting stem-like characteristics are particularly prone to inducing malignant relapse accompanied by strong resistance. Therefore, stem-like traits have been broadly proposed as therapeutic vulnerabilities to treat TNBC and reduce recurrence. However, heterogeneity within TNBC often generally restricts the stability of the therapeutic efficacy. To understand the heterogeneity and manage TNBC more precisely, multiple TNBC subtyping categories have been reported, providing the basis for profile-according therapeutic regimens. To provide more insight into targeting stem-like traits to ablate TNBC and reduce recurrence in the context of heterogeneity, this paper reviewed the molecular subtyping of TNBC, identified the consensus subtypes with distinct stem-like phenotypes, characterized the stemness hierarchy of TNBC, outlined the biological models for stem-like TNBC subtypes, summarized the therapeutic vulnerabilities in stem-like traits of the subtypes, and proposed potential therapeutic regimens targeting stem-like characteristics to improve TNBC prognosis.

p53 inhibitor or antioxidants reduce the severity of ethmoid plate deformities in zebrafish Type 3 Treacher Collins syndrome model

Treacher Collins syndrome-3 (TCS-3) is a rare congenital craniofacial disorder attributed to variants in the RNA pol I subunit C (POLR1C). The pathogenesis of TCS-3 linked to polr1c involves the activation of apoptosis-dependent p53 pathways within neural crest cells (NCCs). This occurs due to disruptions in ribosome biogenesis, and the restoration of polr1c expression in early embryogenesis effectively rescues the observed craniofacial phenotype in polr1c-deficient zebrafish. Clinical variability in TCS patients suggests interactions between genes and factors like oxidative stress. Elevated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in epithelial cells may worsen phenotypic outcomes in TCS individuals. Our study confirmed excessive ROS production in facial regions, inducing apoptosis and altering p53 pathways. Deregulated cell-cycle and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) genes were also detected in the TCS-3 model. Utilizing p53 inhibitor (Pifithrin-α; PFT-α) or antioxidants (Glutathione; GSH and N-Acetyl-L-cysteine; NAC) effectively corrected migrated NCC distribution in the pharyngeal arch (PA), suppressed oxidative stress, prevented cell death, and modulated EMT inducers. Crucially, inhibiting p53 activation or applying antioxidants within a specific time window, notably within 30 h post-fertilization (hpf), successfully reversed phenotypic effects induced by polr1c MO.

Electroconductive cardiac patch based on bioactive PEDOT:PSS hydrogels

Engineering cardiac implants for treating myocardial infarction (MI) has advanced, but challenges persist in mimicking the structural properties and variability of cardiac tissues using traditional bioconstructs and conventional engineering methods. This study introduces a synthetic patch with a bioactive surface designed to swiftly restore functionality to the damaged myocardium. The patch combines a composite, soft, and conductive hydrogel-based on (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene-sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). This cardiac patch exhibits a reasonably high electrical conductivity (40 S/cm) and a stretchability up to 50% of its original length. Our findings reveal its resilience to 10% cyclic stretching at 1 Hz with no loss of conductivity over time. To mediate a strong cell-scaffold adhesion, we biofunctionalize the hydrogel with a N-cadherin mimic peptide, providing the cardiac patch with a bioactive surface. This modification promote increased adherence and proliferation of cardiac fibroblasts (CFbs) while effectively mitigating the formation of bacterial biofilm, particularly against Staphylococcus aureus, a common pathogen responsible for surgical site infections (SSIs). Our study demonstrates the successful development of a structurally validated cardiac patch possessing the desired mechanical, electrical, and biofunctional attributes for effective cardiac recovery. Consequently, this research holds significant promise in alleviating the burden imposed by myocardial infarctions.

Role of Fibrinogen-like Protein 1 in Tumor Recurrence Following Hepatectomy

Partial hepatectomy is a first-line treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma. Within 2 weeks following partial hepatectomy, specific molecular pathways are activated to promote liver regeneration. Nevertheless, residual microtumors may also exploit these pathways to reappear and metastasize. Therapeutically targeting molecules that are differentially regulated between normal cells and malignancies, such as fibrinogen-like protein 1 (FGL1), appears to be an effective approach. The potential functions of FGL1 in both regenerative and malignant cells are discussed within the ambit of this review. While FGL1 is normally elevated in regenerative hepatocytes, it is normally downregulated in malignant cells. Hepatectomy does indeed upregulate FGL1 by increasing the release of transcription factors that promote FGL1, including HNF-1α and STAT3, and inflammatory effectors, such as TGF-β and IL6. This, in turn, stimulates certain proliferative pathways, including EGFR/Src/ERK. Hepatectomy alters the phase transition of highly differentiated hepatocytes from G0 to G1, thereby transforming susceptible cells into cancerous ones. Activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway by FGL1 allele loss on chromosome 8, a tumor suppressor area, may also cause hepatocellular carcinoma. Interestingly, FGL1 is specifically expressed in the liver via HNF-1α histone acetylase activity, which triggers lipid metabolic reprogramming in malignancies. FGL1 might also be involved in other carcinogenesis processes such as hypoxia, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, immunosuppression, and sorafenib-mediated drug resistance. This study highlights a research gap in these disciplines and the necessity for additional research on FGL1 function in the described processes.

Pharmacodynamic components and mechanisms of ginger (Zingiber officinale) in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ginger is a "medicine-food homology" natural herb and has a longstanding medicinal background in treating intestinal diseases. Its remarkable bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunoregulatory, flora regulatory, intestinal protective, and anticancer properties, make it a promising natural medicine for colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention and treatment.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The purpose is to review the relevant literature on ginger and pharmacodynamic components for CRC prevention and treatment, summarize the possible mechanisms of ginger from clinical studies and animal and in vitro experiments, to provide theoretical support for the use of ginger preparations in the daily prevention and clinical treatment of CRC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literatures about ginger and CRC were searched from electronic databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI).

RESULTS

This article summarizes the molecular mechanisms of ginger and its pharmacodynamic components in the prevention and treatment of CRC, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunoregulatory, flora regulatory, intestinal protective, inhibit CRC cell proliferation, induce CRC cell cycle blockage, promote CRC cell apoptosis, suppress CRC cell invasion and migration, enhance the anticancer effect of chemotherapeutic drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

Ginger has potential for daily prevention and clinical treatment of CRC.

Integrated multi-omics analysis and machine learning identify hub genes and potential mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Patients with gastric cancer respond poorly to immunotherapy. There are still unknowns about the biomarkers associated with immunotherapy sensitivity and their underlying molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Gene expression data for gastric cancer were gathered from TCGA and GEO databases. DEGs associated with immunotherapy response came from ICBatlas. KEGG and GO analyses investigated pathways. Hub genes identification employed multiple machine algorithms. Associations between hub genes and signaling pathways, disease genes, immune cell infiltration, drug sensitivity, and prognostic predictions were explored via multi-omics analysis. Hub gene expression was validated through HPA and CCLE. Multiple algorithms pinpointed Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts genes (CAFs), with ten machine-learning methods generating CAFs scores for prognosis. Model gene expression was validated at the single-cell level using the TISCH database.

RESULTS

We identified 201 upregulated and 935 downregulated DEGs. Three hub genes, namely CDH6, EGFLAM, and RASGRF2, were unveiled. These genes are implicated in diverse disease-related signaling pathways. Additionally, they exhibited significant correlations with disease-associated gene expression, immune cell infiltration, and drug sensitivity. Exploration of the HPA and CCLE databases exposed substantial expression variations across patients and cell lines for these genes. Subsequently, we identified CAFs-associated genes and established a robust prognostic model. The analysis in the TISCH database showed that the genes in this model were highly expressed in CAFs.

CONCLUSIONS

The results unveil an association between CDH6, EGFLAM, and RASGRF2 and the immunotherapeutic response in gastric cancer. These genes hold potential as predictive biomarkers for gastric cancer immunotherapy resistance and prognostic assessment.

Nanoparticles for Augmenting Therapeutic Potential and Alleviating the Effect of Di(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate on Gastric Cancer

Changes in diet culture and modern lifestyle contributed to a higher incidence of gastrointestinal-related diseases, including gastritis, implicated in the pathogenesis of gastric cancer. This observation raised concerns regarding exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), which is linked to adverse health effects, including reproductive and developmental problems, inflammatory response, and invasive adenocarcinoma. Research on the direct link between DEHP and gastric cancer is ongoing, and further studies are required to establish a conclusive association. In our study, extremely low concentrations of DEHP exerted significant effects on cell migration by promoting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in gastric cancer cells. This effect was mediated by the modulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and Smad2 signaling pathways. To address the DEHP challenges, our initial design of TPGS-conjugated fucoidan, delivered via pH-responsive nanoparticles, successfully demonstrated binding to the P-selectin protein. This achievement has not only enhanced the antigastric tumor efficacy but has also led to a significant reduction in the expression of malignant proteins associated with the condition. These findings underscore the promising clinical therapeutic potential of our approach.

Induced electric fields inhibit breast cancer growth and metastasis by modulating the immune tumor microenvironment

Despite tremendous advances in oncology, metastatic triple-negative breast cancer remains difficult to treat and manage with established therapies. Here, we show in mice with orthotopic triple-negative breast tumors that alternating (100 kHz), and low intensity (<1 mV/cm) induced electric fields (iEFs) significantly reduced primary tumor growth and distant lung metastases. Non-contact iEF treatment can be delivered safely and non-invasively in vivo via a hollow, rectangular solenoid coil. We discovered that iEF treatment enhances anti-tumor immune responses at both the primary breast and secondary lung sites. In addition, iEF reduces immunosuppressive TME by reducing effector CD8+ T cell exhaustion and the infiltration of immunosuppressive immune cells. Furthermore, iEF treatment reduced lung metastasis by increasing CD8+ T cells and reducing immunosuppressive Gr1+ neutrophils in the lung microenvironment. We also observed that iEFs reduced the metastatic potential of cancer cells by inhibiting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. By introducing a non-invasive and non-toxic electrotherapeutic for inhibiting metastatic outgrowth and enhancing anti-tumor immune response in vivo, treatment with iEF technology could add to a paradigm-shifting strategy for cancer therapy.

Carfilzomib activates ER stress and JNK/p38 MAPK signaling to promote apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent and deadly cancers in the world, which is frequently diagnosed at a late stage. HCC patients have a poor prognosis due to the lack of an efficacious therapeutic strategy. Approved drug repurposing is a way for accelerating drug discovery and can significantly reduce the cost of drug development. Carfilzomib (CFZ) is a second-generation proteasome inhibitor, which is highly efficacious against multiple myeloma and has been reported to possess potential antitumor activities against multiple cancers. However, the underlying mechanism of CFZ on HCC is still unclear. Here, we show that CFZ inhibits the proliferation of HCC cells through cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and suppresses the migration and invasion of HCC cells by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition. We also find that CFZ promotes reactive oxygen species production to induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and activate JNK/p38 MAPK signaling in HCC cells, thus inducing cell death in HCC cells. Moreover, CFZ significantly inhibits HCC cell growth in a xenograft mouse model. Collectively, our study elucidates that CFZ impairs mitochondrial function and activates ER stress and JNK/p38 MAPK signaling, thus inhibiting HCC cell and tumor growth. This indicates that CFZ has the potential as a therapeutic drug for HCC.

The role of alternative polyadenylation in epithelial-mesenchymal transition of non-small cell lung cancer

The metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the cancers with high incidence, poor survival, and limited treatment. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the first step by which an early tumor converts to an invasive one. Studying the underlying mechanisms of EMT can help the understanding of cancer metastasis and improve the treatment. In this study, 1013 NSCLC patients and 123 NSCLC cell lines are deeply analyzed for the potential roles of alternative polyadenylation (APA) in the EMT process. A trend of shorter 3'-UTRs (three prime untranslated region) is discovered in the mesenchymal samples. The identification of EMT-related APA events highlights the proximal poly(A) selection of CARM1. It is a pathological biomarker of mesenchymal tumor and cancer metastasis through losing miRNA binding to upregulate the EMT inducer of CARM1 and releasing miRNAs to downregulate the EMT inhibitor of RBM47. The crucial role of this APA event in EMT also guides its effect on drug responses. The patients with shorter 3'-UTR of CARM1 are more benefit from chemotherapy drugs, especially cisplatin. A stratification of NSCLC patients based on this APA event is useful for chemotherapy design in future clinics.

The Tumor Microenvironment: Signal Transduction

In the challenging tumor microenvironment (TME), tumors coexist with diverse stromal cell types. During tumor progression and metastasis, a reciprocal interaction occurs between cancer cells and their environment. These interactions involve ongoing and evolving paracrine and proximal signaling. Intrinsic signal transduction in tumors drives processes such as malignant transformation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, immune evasion, and tumor cell metastasis. In addition, cancer cells embedded in the tumor microenvironment undergo metabolic reprogramming. Their metabolites, serving as signaling molecules, engage in metabolic communication with diverse matrix components. These metabolites act as direct regulators of carcinogenic pathways, thereby activating signaling cascades that contribute to cancer progression. Hence, gaining insights into the intrinsic signal transduction of tumors and the signaling communication between tumor cells and various matrix components within the tumor microenvironment may reveal novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we initially examine the development of the tumor microenvironment. Subsequently, we delineate the oncogenic signaling pathways within tumor cells and elucidate the reciprocal communication between these pathways and the tumor microenvironment. Finally, we give an overview of the effect of signal transduction within the tumor microenvironment on tumor metabolism and tumor immunity.

Targeting LEF1-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition reverses lenvatinib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma

Acquired resistance is a significant hindrance to clinical application of lenvatinib in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Further in-depth investigation of resistance mechanisms can help to develop additional therapeutic strategies to overcome or delay resistance. In our study, two lenvatinib-resistant (LR) HCC cell lines were established by treatment with gradient increasing concentration of lenvatinib, named Hep3B-LR and HepG2-LR. Interestingly, continuous lenvatinib treatment reinforced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell migration, and cell invasion. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) enrichment analysis of RNA-sequencing from Hep3B-LR and corresponding parental cells revealed that activation of Wnt signaling pathway was involved in this adaptive process. Active β-catenin and its downstream target lymphoid enhancer binding factor 1 (LEF1) were significantly elevated in LR HCC cells, which promoted lenvatinib resistance through mediating EMT-related genes. Data analysis based on Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) databases suggests that LEF1, as a key regulator of EMT, was a novel molecular target linked to lenvatinib resistance and poor prognosis in HCC. Using a small-molecule specific inhibitor ICG001 and knocking down LEF1 showed that targeting LEF1 restored the sensitivity of LR HCC cells to lenvatinib. Our results uncover upregulation of LEF1 confers lenvatinib resistance by facilitating EMT, cell migration, and invasion of LR HCC cells, indicating that LEF1 is a novel therapeutic target for overcoming acquired lenvatinib resistance.

YTHDF2 protein stabilization by the deubiquitinase OTUB1 promotes prostate cancer cell proliferation via PRSS8 mRNA degradation

Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in males. Dysregulation of RNA adenine N-6 methylation (m6A) contributes to cancer malignancy. m6A on mRNA may affect mRNA splicing, turnover, transportation, and translation. m6A exerts these effects, at least partly, through dedicated m6A reader proteins, including YTH domain-containing family protein 2 (YTHDF2). YTHDF2 is necessary for development while its dysregulation is seen in various cancers, including prostate cancer. However, the mechanism underlying the dysregulation and function of YTHDF2 in cancer remains elusive. Here, we find that the deubiquitinase OUT domain-containing ubiquitin aldehyde-binding protein 1 (OTUB1) increases YTHDF2 protein stability by inhibiting its ubiquitination. With in vivo and in vitro ubiquitination assays, OTUB1 is shown to block ubiquitin transfer to YTHDF2 independent of its deubiquitinase activity. Furthermore, analysis of functional transcriptomic data and m6A-sequencing data identifies PRSS8 as a potential tumor suppressor gene. OTUB1 and YTHDF2 decrease mRNA and protein levels of PRSS8, which is a trypsin-like serine protease. Mechanistically, YTHDF2 binds PRSS8 mRNA and promotes its degradation in an m6A-dependent manner. Further functional study on cellular and mouse models reveals PRSS8 is a critical downstream effector of the OTUB1-YTHDF2 axis in prostate cancer. We find in prostate cancer cells, PRSS8 decreases nuclear β-catenin level through E-cadherin, which is independent of its protease activity. Collectively, our study uncovers a key regulator of YTHDF2 protein stability and establishes a functional OTUB1-YTHDF2-PRSS8 axis in prostate cancer.

Methyl-CpG binding domain protein 2 (Mbd2) drives breast cancer progression through the modulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition

Methyl-CpG-binding domain protein 2 (Mbd2), a reader of DNA methylation, has been implicated in different types of malignancies, including breast cancer. However, the exact role of Mbd2 in various stages of breast cancer growth and progression in vivo has not been determined. To test whether Mbd2 plays a causal role in mammary tumor growth and metastasis, we performed genetic knockout (KO) of Mbd2 in MMTV-PyMT transgenic mice and compared mammary tumor progression kinetics between the wild-type (PyMT-Mbd2+/+) and KO (PyMT-Mbd2-/-) groups. Our results demonstrated that deletion of Mbd2 in PyMT mice impedes primary tumor growth and lung metastasis at the experimental endpoint (postnatal week 20). Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses of primary tumors revealed that Mbd2 deletion abrogates the expression of several key determinants involved in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, such as neural cadherin (N-cadherin) and osteopontin. Importantly, loss of the Mbd2 gene impairs the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, which is required for PyMT-mediated oncogenic transformation, growth, and survival of breast tumor cells. Taken together, the results of this study provide a rationale for further development of epigenetic therapies targeting Mbd2 to inhibit the progression of breast cancer.

Transcriptome analysis of an AKT inhibitor-resistant endometrial cancer cell line

BACKGROUND

Drug resistance in endometrial cancer (EC) is a serious problem and a barrier to improving prognosis. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is highly activated in EC and can serve as a potential therapeutic target. Inhibitors against AKT have been developed, but resistance to these inhibitors is a concern. This study aimed to establish AKT inhibitor resistant cell lines and identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between parental and AKT inhibitor resistant cell lines to understand the mechanism of drug resistance to AKT inhibitors in EC.

METHODS

The sensitivity of eight EC cell lines to AKT inhibitor was analyzed. One of them was used to establish a drug-resistant cell line. DEGs were examined using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Furthermore, DEGs were comprehensively analyzed to identify hub genes. Hub genes were evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

RNA-seq identified 617 DEGs. Hub genes were selected using bioinformatics analysis. The top 10 hub genes were TNF, CDH1, CCND1, COL1A1, CDH2, ICAM1, CAV1, THBS1, NCAM1, and CDKN2A. Relative mRNA expression was significantly upregulated for TNF, CDH1, CCND1, THBS1, p16INK4a, and p14ARF and significantly downregulated for CDH2, ICAM1, and NCAM1 in borussertib-resistant EC cell line.

CONCLUSIONS

Drug resistance to AKT inhibitors may depend on genes related to cell adhesion-mediated resistance and transforming growth factor β signaling.

Deciphering drug resistance in gastric cancer: Potential mechanisms and future perspectives

Gastric cancer (GC) is a malignant tumor that originates from the epithelium of the gastric mucosa. The latest global cancer statistics show that GC ranks fifth in incidence and fourth in mortality among all cancers, posing a serious threat to public health. While early-stage GC is primarily treated through surgery, chemotherapy is the frontline option for advanced cases. Currently, commonly used chemotherapy regimens include FOLFOX (oxaliplatin + leucovorin + 5-fluorouracil) and XELOX (oxaliplatin + capecitabine). However, with the widespread use of chemotherapy, an increasing number of cases of drug resistance have emerged. This article primarily explores the potential mechanisms of chemotherapy resistance in GC patients from five perspectives: cell death, tumor microenvironment, non-coding RNA, epigenetics, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Additionally, it proposes feasibility strategies to overcome drug resistance from four angles: cancer stem cells, tumor microenvironment, natural products, and combined therapy. The hope is that this article will provide guidance for researchers in the field and bring hope to more GC patients.

Transcription Factors and Markers Related to Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Their Role in Resistance to Therapies in Head and Neck Cancers

Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are heterogeneous and aggressive tumors of the upper aerodigestive tract. Although various histological types exist, the most common is squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The incidence of HNSCC is increasing, making it an important public health concern. Tumor resistance to contemporary treatments, namely, chemo- and radiotherapy, and the recurrence of the primary tumor after its surgical removal cause huge problems for patients. Despite recent improvements in these treatments, the 5-year survival rate is still relatively low. HNSCCs may develop local lymph node metastases and, in the most advanced cases, also distant metastases. A key process associated with tumor progression and metastasis is epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), when poorly motile epithelial tumor cells acquire motile mesenchymal characteristics. These transition cells can invade different adjacent tissues and finally form metastases. EMT is governed by various transcription factors, including the best-characterized TWIST1 and TWIST2, SNAIL, SLUG, ZEB1, and ZEB2. Here, we highlight the current knowledge of the process of EMT in HNSCC and present the main protein markers associated with it. This review focuses on the transcription factors related to EMT and emphasizes their role in the resistance of HNSCC to current chemo- and radiotherapies. Understanding the role of EMT and the precise molecular mechanisms involved in this process may help with the development of novel anti-cancer therapies for this type of tumor.

E-CADERIN, N-CADERIN, SLUG, SNAIL, and TWIST contribute to epithelial-mesenchymal transition in salivary gland tumors

BACKGROUND

Transcription factors are important in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process and are possibly related to the development of a more invasive tumor phenotype. Thus, the objective of this study was to analyze the expression and identify the localization of cellular markers related to the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process in salivary gland tumors.

STUDY DESIGN

The expression and localization of E-CADERIN, N-CADERIN, SLUG, SNAIL, and TWIST were evaluated, using immunohistochemistry, in 48 salivary gland tumors, being 17 pleomorphic adenomas (PA), 14 adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC), and 17 mucoepidermoid carcinomas (MEC). these proteins were compared to clinical and histopathologic parameters. normal gland tissues were included for immunohistochemical comparisons.

RESULTS

ACC and MEC cases showed higher expression of SNAIL compared to PA. MEC showed high expression of SLUG and TWIST. Low expression of N-CADHERIN, SNAIL, and TWIST in ACC was frequent in T3 and T4. High expression of TWIST in MEC was more frequent at age ≥ 40 years A positive correlation was only observed between N-cadherin/SNAIL in ACC, between SNAIL/TWIST in MEC, and between SLUG/TWIST in PA.

CONCLUSION

This study provided insight into EMT-related proteins (E-cadherin, N-cadherin, SNAIL, SLUG, and TWIST) and their contribution to the maintenance of morphogenesis and the development of the salivary gland tumors and showed a positive correlation among N-CADHERIN/SNAIL in ACC and SNAIL/TWIST in MEC.

YAP1 controls the N-cadherin-mediated tumor-stroma interaction in melanoma progression

The hallmark of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the switch from epithelial cadherin (E-cadherin) to neural cadherin (N-cadherin), allowing melanoma cells to form a homotypic N-cadherin-mediated adhesion with stromal fibroblasts. However, how cadherin switching is initiated, maintained, and regulated in melanoma remains elusive. Here, we report a novel mechanism underlying cadherin switching in melanoma cells that is regulated by stromal Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) signaling. The progression of a BRAF-mutant mouse melanoma was suppressed in vivo upon YAP1 ablation in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). On the contrary, overexpressing YAP1 in CAFs accelerated melanoma development. By RNA-Seq, N-cadherin was identified as a major downstream effector of YAP1 signaling in CAFs. YAP1 silencing reduced N-cadherin expression in CAFs, leading to the downregulation of N-cadherin in neighboring melanoma cells. N-cadherin ablation inhibited the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway in melanoma cells and melanoma cell proliferation. The findings suggest that YAP1 depletion in CAFs induces the downregulation of p-AKT signaling in melanoma cells through the N-cadherin-mediated interaction between melanoma cells and CAFs. The data underscore an important role of CAFs in regulating N-cadherin-mediated adhesion and signaling in melanoma and highlight that disentangling cadherin-mediated cell-cell interactions can potentially disrupt tumor-stroma interactions and reverse the tumor cell invasive phenotype.

Advances in cancer mechanobiology: Metastasis, mechanics, and materials

Within the tumor microenvironment (TME), tumor cells are exposed to numerous mechanical forces, both internally and externally, which contribute to the metastatic cascade. From the initial growth of the tumor to traveling through the vasculature and to the eventual colonization of distant organs, tumor cells are continuously interacting with their surroundings through physical contact and mechanical force application. The mechanical forces found in the TME can be simplified into three main categories: (i) shear stress, (ii) tension and strain, and (iii) solid stress and compression. Each force type can independently impact tumor growth and progression. Here, we review recent bioengineering strategies, which have been employed to establish the connection between mechanical forces and tumor progression. While many cancers are explored in this review, we place great emphasis on cancers that are understudied in their response to mechanical forces, such as ovarian and colorectal cancers. We discuss the major steps of metastatic transformation and present novel, recent advances in model systems used to study how mechanical forces impact the study of the metastatic cascade. We end by summarizing systems that incorporate multiple forces to expand the complexity of our understanding of how tumor cells sense and respond to mechanical forces in their environment. Future studies would also benefit from the inclusion of time or the aspect of mechanical memory to further enhance this field. While the knowledge of mechanical forces and tumor metastasis grows, developing novel materials and in vitro systems are essential to providing new insight into predicting, treating, and preventing cancer progression and metastasis.

Chronic nickel exposure alters extracellular vesicles to mediate cancer progression via sustained NUPR1 expression

Cancer cells release extracellular vesicles (EVs) that participate in altering the proximal tumor environment and distal tissues to promote cancer progression. Chronic exposure to nickel (Ni), a human group I carcinogen, results in epigenetic changes that promotes epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Cells that undergo EMT demonstrate various molecular changes, including elevated levels of the mesenchymal cadherin N-cadherin (N-CAD) and the transcription factor Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1). Moreover, the molecular changes following EMT induce changes in cellular behavior, including anchorage-independent growth, which contributes to cancer cells detaching from tumor bulk during the metastatic process. Here, we present data demonstrating that EVs from Ni-exposed cells induce EMT in recipient BEAS-2B cells in the absence of Ni. Moreover, we show evidence that the EVs from Ni-altered cells package the transcription factor nuclear protein 1 (NUPR1), a transcription factor associated with Ni exposure and cancer progression. Moreover, our data demonstrates that the NUPR1 in the EVs becomes part of the recipient cell proteomic milieu and carry the NUPR1 to the nuclear space of the recipient cell. Interestingly, knockdown of NUPR1 in Ni-transformed cells suppressed NUPR1 packaging in the EVs, and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) demonstrated decreased EV release. Reduction of NUPR1 in EVs resulted in diminished EMT capacity that resulted in decreased anchorage independent growth. This study is the first to demonstrate the role of NUPR1 in extracellular vesicle-mediate cancer progression.

Effects of lactalbumin enzymatic hydrolysate on human squamous cell carcinoma cells-an in vitro study

Objectives

Alpha-lactalbumin, the protein from human and bovine milk has been found to be promising as an alternative of anticancer agent. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of lactalbumin enzymatic hydrolysate (LAH) on cell proliferation, migration, and mRNA expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) on human squamous cell carcinoma (hSCC) cell lines, in vitro.

Methods

Tongue (HSC-4 and 7) and pharyngeal (HN-30 and 31) hSCC cell lines were treated with a two-fold dilution of LAH (0.39-100 mg/ml). Cell viability and cell proliferation were examined by MTT assay. Colony forming unit (CFU) was assessed by crystal violet blue staining. Cell migration was investigated by scratch wound healing assay. Gene expression of metastasis-associated MMPs was assessed by RT-qPCR. Statistical analyses were evaluated at p value = 0.05.

Results

LAH at concentration of 50 and 100 mg/ml exhibited cytotoxicity on hSCC cells. The proliferation and CFU ability of hSCC cells were significantly attenuated after LAH treatment. The mRNA expression of MMP2, MMP9, and MMP14 was reduced in HN-30 and HN-31 cells while expression of MMP2 and MMP14 was downregulated in HSC-7 cells. Only MMP1 mRNA level was reduced in HSC-4 cells. However, cell migration of all hSCC cell lines did not alter after LAH treatment.

Conclusion

LAH treatment exhibits inhibitory effects on hSCC cell growth, proliferation and MMPs gene expression. Thus, LAH should be the promising alternative agent to develop the prospective anti-cancer drug.

Ubiquitylation of RUNX3 by RNA-binding ubiquitin ligase MEX3C promotes tumorigenesis in lung adenocarcinoma

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common pathological type of lung cancer, but the early diagnosis rate is low. The RNA-binding ubiquitin ligase MEX3C promotes tumorigenesis in several cancers but its mechanism of action in LUAD is unclear. In this study, the biological activity of MEX3C was assessed in LUAD. MEX3C and RUNX3 mRNA levels in the tissues of LUAD patients were determined using reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR. The involvement of MEX3C in the growth and metastasis of LUAD cells was measured by EdU assay, CCK-8, colony formation, Transwell assay, TUNEL, and flow cytometry. Expression of apoptosis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition related proteins were determined using western blotting analysis. LUAD cells transfected with si-MEX3C were administered to mice subcutaneously to monitor tumor progression and metastasis. We found that MEX3C is strongly upregulated in LUAD tissue sections, and involved in proliferation and migration. A549 and H1299 cells had significantly higher levels of MEX3C expression compared to control HBE cells. Knockdown of MEX3C dramatically decreased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and accelerated apoptosis. Mechanistically, we demonstrate MEX3C induces ubiquitylation and degradation of tumor suppressor RUNX3. Moreover, RUNX3 transcriptionally represses Suv39H1, as revealed by RNA pull-down and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. The in vivo mice model demonstrated that knockdown of MEX3C reduced LUAD growth and metastasis significantly. Collectively, we reveal a novel MEX3C-RUNX3-Suv39H1 signaling axis driving LUAD pathogenesis. Targeting MEX3C may represent a promising therapeutic strategy against LUAD.

Plasticity and resistance of cancer stem cells as a challenge for innovative anticancer therapies - do we know enough to overcome this?

According to the CSC hypothesis, cancer stem cells are pivotal in initiating, developing, and causing cancer recurrence. Since the identification of CSCs in leukemia, breast cancer, glioblastoma, and colorectal cancer in the 1990s, researchers have actively investigated the origin and biology of CSCs. However, the CSC hypothesis and the role of these cells in tumor development model is still in debate. These cells exhibit distinct surface markers, are capable of self-renewal, demonstrate unrestricted proliferation, and display metabolic adaptation. CSC phenotypic plasticity and the capacity to EMT is strictly connected to the stemness state. CSCs show high resistance to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. The plasticity of CSCs is significantly influenced by tumor microenvironment factors, such as hypoxia. Targeting the genetic and epigenetic changes of cancer cells, together with interactions with the tumor microenvironment, presents promising avenues for therapeutic strategies. See also the Graphical abstract(Fig. 1).

The Keratinocyte in the Picture Cutaneous Melanoma Microenvironment

Melanoma progression is a multistep evolution from a common melanocytic nevus through a radial superficial growth phase, the invasive vertical growth phase finally leading to metastatic dissemination into distant organs. Melanoma aggressiveness largely depends on the propensity to metastasize, which means the capacity to escape from the physiological microenvironment since tissue damage due to primary melanoma lesions is generally modest. Physiologically, epidermal melanocytes are attached to the basement membrane, and their adhesion/migration is under the control of surrounding keratinocytes. Thus, the epidermal compartment represents the first microenvironment responsible for melanoma spread. This complex process involves cell-cell contact and a broad range of secreted bioactive molecules. Invasion, or at the beginning of the microinvasion, implies the breakdown of the dermo-epidermal basement membrane followed by the migration of neoplastic melanocytic cells in the superficial papillary dermis. Correspondingly, several experimental evidences documented the structural and functional rearrangement of the entire tissue surrounding neoplasm that in some way reflects the atypia of tumor cells. Lastly, the microenvironment must support the proliferation and survival of melanocytes outside the normal epidermal-melanin units. This task presumably is mostly delegated to fibroblasts and ultimately to the self-autonomous capacity of melanoma cells. This review will discuss remodeling that occurs in the epidermis during melanoma formation as well as skin changes that occur independently of melanocytic hyperproliferation having possible pro-tumoral features.

5-Methoxytryptophan enhances the sensitivity of sorafenib on the inhibition of proliferation and metastasis for lung cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, and effective therapies are limited. Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide with limited effective therapy. Sorafenib is a multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor frequently used to treat numerous types of malignant tumors. However, it has been demonstrated that sorafenib showed moderate antitumor activity and is associated with several side effects in lung cancer, which restricted its clinical application. This study aimed to examine the antitumor effect of the combination treatment of sorafenib and 5-methoxytryptophan (5-MTP) on cell growth and metastasis of Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells.

METHOD

The anticancer effect of the combination treatment of sorafenib and 5-MTP was determined through cytotoxicity assay and colony forming assays. The mechanism was elucidated using flow cytometry and western blotting. Wound healing and Transwell assays were conducted to evaluate the impact of the combination treatment on migration and invasion abilities. An in vivo model was employed to analyze the effect of the combination treatment on the tumorigenic ability of LLC cells.

RESULT

Our results demonstrated that the sorafenib and 5-MTP combination synergistically reduced viability and proliferation compared to sorafenib or 5-MTP treatment alone. Reduction of cyclin D1 expression was observed in the sorafenib alone or combination treatments, leading to cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, the sorafenib-5-MTP combination significantly increased the inhibitory effect on migration and invasion of LLC cells compared to the single treatments. The combination also significantly downregulated vimentin and MMP9 levels, contributing to the inhibition of metastasis. The reduction of phosphorylated Akt and STAT3 expression may further contribute to the inhibitory effect on proliferation and metastasis. In vivo, the sorafenib-5-MTP combination further reduced tumor growth and metastasis compared to the treatment of sorafenib alone.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our data indicate that 5-MTP sensitizes the antitumor activity of sorafenib in LLC cells in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that sorafenib-5-MTP has the potential to serve as a therapeutic option for patients with lung cancer.

[Overexpression of BZW1 promotes invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer cells by regulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling and promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression level of basic leucine zipper and W2 domain-containing protein 1 (BZW1) in gastric cancer, its impact on patient prognosis and the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

TIMER, UALCAN and Kaplan-Meier Plotter databases were used for analyzing BZW1 expression level gastric cancer tissues and its correlation with tumor grade and stage and the patients' prognosis. We further analyzed BZW1 expressions, disease progression, and postoperative 5-year survival in 102 patients undergoing radical surgery for gastric cancer at our hospital between January, 2014 and December, 2016. Gastric cancer MGC803 cells were examined for changes in migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) following lentivirus-mediated BZW1 overexpression or knockdown.

RESULTS

The protein and mRNA expressions of BZW1 in gastric cancer tissues were 3.30 and 6.54 times of those in adjacent tissues, respectively (P < 0.01). BZW1 expression in gastric cancer tissues were positively correlated with peripheral blood CEA and CA199 levels (P < 0.01). A high BZW1 expression was an independent risk factor for 5-year survival of gastric cancer patients after radical surgery (P < 0.05, HR=2.070, 95%CI: 1.021-4.196). At the cut-off value of 3.61, BZW1 expression had a sensitivity of 75.56% and a specificity of 71.93% for predicting postoperative 5-year mortality (P < 0.01). In MGC803 cells, BZW1 overexpression obviously promoted cell migration and invasion (P < 0.05), enhanced cellular expressions of N-cadherin and vimentin (P < 0.05) and inhibited the expression of E-cadherin (P < 0.05). Enrichment analysis suggested the involvement of BZW1 in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Western blotting confirmed that BZW1 overexpression promoted while BZW1 knockdown inhibited the expressions of Wnt3a, β-catenin and C-myc in MGC803 cells (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

BZW1 is highly expressed in gastric cancer tissues to affect the patient prognosis possibly by activation the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway to promote EMT of gastric cancer cells.

A comprehensive review of the anticancer effects of decursin

Cancer is a globally complex disease with a plethora of genetic, physiological, metabolic, and environmental variations. With the increasing resistance to current anticancer drugs, efforts have been made to develop effective cancer treatments. Currently, natural products are considered promising cancer therapeutic agents due to their potent anticancer activity and low intrinsic toxicity. Decursin, a coumarin analog mainly derived from the roots of the medicinal plant Angelica sinensis, has a wide range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and especially anticancer activities. Existing studies indicate that decursin affects cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, angiogenesis, and metastasis. It also indirectly affects the immune microenvironment and can act as a potential anticancer agent. Decursin can exert synergistic antitumor effects when used in combination with a number of common clinical anticancer drugs, enhancing chemotherapy sensitivity and reversing drug resistance in cancer cells, suggesting that decursin is a good drug combination. Second, decursin is also a promising lead compound, and compounds modifying its structure and formulation form also have good anticancer effects. In addition, decursin is not only a key ingredient in several natural herbs and dietary supplements but is also available through a biosynthetic pathway, with anticancer properties and a high degree of safety in cells, animals, and humans. Thus, it is evident that decursin is a promising natural compound, and its great potential for cancer prevention and treatment needs to be studied and explored in greater depth to support its move from the laboratory to the clinic.

Analysis of m6A-related lncRNAs for prognostic and immunotherapeutic response in hepatocellular carcinoma

Background: RNA methylation modifications are important post-translational modifications that are regulated in an epigenetic manner. Recently, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modifications have emerged as potential epigenetic markers in tumor biology. Methods: Gene expression and clinicopathological data of LIHC were obtained from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database. The relationship between long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and m6A-related genes was determined by gene expression analysis using Perl and R software. Co-expression network of m6A-lncRNA was constructed, and the relevant lncRNAs associated with prognosis were identified using univariate Cox regression analysis. These lncRNAs were then divided into two clusters (cluster 1 and cluster 2) to determine the differences in survival, pathoclinical parameters, and immune cell infiltration between the different lncRNA subtypes. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) was carried out for regression analysis and prognostic model. The HCC patients were randomly divided into a train group and a test group. According to the median risk score of the model, HCC patients were divided into high-risk and low-risk groups. We built models using the train group and confirmed them through the test group. The m6A-lncRNAs derived from the models were analyzed for the tumor mutational burden (TMB), immune evasion and immune function using R software. AL355574.1 was identified as an important m6A-associated lncRNA and selected for further investigation. Finally, in vitro experiments were conducted to confirm the effect of AL355574.1 on the biological function of HCC and the possible biological mechanisms. Huh7 and HepG2 cells were transfected with AL355574.1 siRNA and cell proliferation ability was measured by CCK-8, EdU and colony formation assays. Wound healing and transwell assays were used to determine the cell migration capacity. The expression levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, E-cadherin, N-cadherin and Akt/mTOR phosphorylation were all determined by Western blotting. Results: The lncRNAs with significant prognostic value were classified into two subtypes by a consistent clustering analysis. We found that the clinical features, immune cell infiltration and tumor microenvironment (TME) were significantly different between the lncRNA subtypes. Our analysis revealed significant correlations between these different lncRNA subtypes and immune infiltrating and stromal cells. We created the final risk profile using LASSO regression, which notably included three lncRNAs (AL355574.1, AL158166.1, TMCC1-AS1). A prognostic signature consisting of the three lncRNAs was constructed, and the model showed excellent prognostic predictive ability. The overall survival (OS) of the low-risk cohort was significantly higher than that of the high-risk cohort in both the train and test group. Both risk score [hazard ratio (HR)=1.062; P<0.001] and stage (HR=1.647; P< 0.001) were considered independent indicators of HCC prognosis by univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis. In Huh7 and HepG2 cells, AL355574.1 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation and migration, suppressed the protein expression levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, N-cadherin and Akt/mTOR phosphorylation, but promoted the protein expression levels of E-cadherin. Conclusions: This study established a predictive model for the OS of HCC patients, and these OS-related m6A-lncRNAs, especially AL355574.1 may play a potential role in the progression of HCC. In vitro experiments also showed that AL355574.1 could enhance the expression of MMPs and EMT through the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby affected the proliferation and migration of HCC. This provides a new perspective on the anticancer molecular mechanism of AL355574.1 in HCC.

Dual effect of vitamin D3 on breast cancer-associated fibroblasts

BACKGROUND

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play an important role in the tumor microenvironment. Despite the well-known in vitro antitumoral effect of vitamin D3 (VD3), its impact on breast CAFs is almost unknown. In this study, we analyzed the ex vivo effects of calcitriol on CAFs isolated from breast cancer tissues.

METHODS

CAFs were cultured with 1 and 10 nM calcitriol and their phenotype; gene expression, protein expression, and secretion were assessed. Calcitriol-treated CAFs-conditioned media (CM) were used to analyze the effect of CAFs on the migration and protein expression of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells.

RESULTS

Tumor tissues from VD3-deficient patients exhibited lower levels of β-catenin and TGFβ1, along with higher levels of CYP24A1 compared to VD3-normal patients. In VD3-deficient patients, CAF infiltration was inversely associated with CYP24A1 levels and positively correlated with OPN levels. Calcitriol diminished CAFs' viability, but this effect was weaker in premenopausal and VD3-normal patients. Calcitriol reduced mRNA expression of CCL2, MMP9, TNC, and increased PDPN, SPP1, and TIMP1. It also decreased the secretion of CCL2, TNC, and the activity of MMP-2, while increasing cellular levels of TIMP1 in CAFs from all patient groups. In nonmetastatic and postmenopausal patients, PDPN surface expression increased, and CAFs CM from these groups decreased MCF-7 cell migration after ex vivo calcitriol treatment. In premenopausal and VD3-deficient patients, calcitriol reduced IDO1 expression in CAFs. Calcitriol-treated CAFs CM from these patients decreased OPN expression in MCF-7 and/or MDA-MB-231 cells. However, in premenopausal patients, calcitriol-treated CAFs CM also decreased E-cadherin expression in both cell lines.

CONCLUSION

The effects of calcitriol on breast CAFs, both at the gene and protein levels, are complex, reflecting the immunosuppressive or procancer properties of CAFs. The anticancer polarization of CAFs following ex vivo calcitriol treatment may result from decreased CCL2, TNC (gene and protein), MMP9, and MMP-2, while the opposite effect may result from increased PDPN, TIMP1 (gene and protein), and SPP1. Despite these multifaceted effects of calcitriol on molecule expression, CAFs' CMs from nonmetastatic and postmenopausal patients treated ex vivo with calcitriol decreased the migration of MCF-7 cells.

OLFM2 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, and invasion in colorectal cancer through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an aggressive tumor of the gastrointestinal tract, which is a major public health concern worldwide. Despite numerous studies, the precise mechanism of metastasis behind its progression remains elusive. As a member of the containing olfactomedin domains protein family, olfactomedin 2 (OLFM2) may play a role in tumor metastasis. It is highly expressed in colorectal cancer, and its role in the metastasis of CRC is still unclear. As such, this study seeks to explore the function of OLFM2 on CRC metastasis and its potential mechanisms.

METHODS

Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and western blotting were used to study the expression of OLFM2 in human CRC and adjacent normal tissues. Knockdown and overexpression OLFM2 cell lines were constructed using siRNA and overexpression plasmids to explore the role of OLFM2 in the migration and invasion of CRC through transwell, and wound healing experiments. Finally, the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) -related proteins and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway-related proteins was investigated using western blotting.

RESULTS

In this study, we observed an elevation of OLFM2 expression levels in CRC tissues. To investigate the function of OLFM2, we overexpressed and knocked down OLFM2. We discovered that OLFM2 knockdown inhibited migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. Furthermore, E-cadherin expression increased while N-cadherin and Vimentin expression were opposite. It is no surprise that overexpressing OLFM2 had the opposite effects. We also identified that OLFM2 knockdown resulted in reduced TGF-βR1 and downstream molecules p-Smad2 and p-Smad3, which are related to the TGF-β / Smad pathway. In contrast, overexpressing OLFM2 significantly boosted their expression levels.

CONCLUSION

The protein OLFM2 has been identified as a crucial determinant in the progression of CRC. Its mechanism of action involves the facilitation of EMT through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Given its pivotal role in CRC, OLFM2 has emerged as a promising diagnostic and therapeutic target for the disease. These results indicate the potential of OLFM2 as a valuable biomarker for CRC diagnosis and treatment and highlight the need for further research exploring its clinical significance.

Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Acute Leukemias

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a metabolic process that confers phenotypic flexibility to cells and the ability to adapt to new functions. This transition is critical during embryogenesis and is required for the differentiation of many tissues and organs. EMT can also be induced in advanced-stage cancers, leading to further malignant behavior and chemotherapy resistance, resulting in an unfavorable prognosis for patients. Although EMT was long considered and studied only in solid tumors, it has been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of hematological malignancies, including acute leukemias. Indeed, there is increasing evidence that EMT promotes the progression of acute leukemias, leading to the emergence of a more aggressive phenotype of the disease, and also causes chemotherapy resistance. The current literature suggests that the levels and activities of EMT inducers and markers can be used to predict prognosis, and that targeting EMT in addition to conventional therapies may increase treatment success in acute leukemias.

The gene expression of CALD1, CDH2, and POSTN in fibroblast are related to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Introduction

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is characterized by progressive lung dysfunction due to excessive collagen production and tissue scarring. Despite recent advancements, the molecular mechanisms remain unclear.

Methods

RNA sequencing identified 475 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the TGF-β1-induced primary lung fibrosis model. Gene expression chips GSE101286 and GSE110147 from NCBI gene expression omnibus (GEO) database were analyzed using GEO2R, revealing 94 DEGs in IPF lung tissue samples. The gene ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment, Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction, and Maximal Clique Centrality (MCC) scoring were performed. Experimental validation included RT-qPCR, Immunohistochemistry (IHC), and Western Blot, with siRNA used for gene knockdown. A co-expression network was constructed by GeneMANIA.

Results

GO enrichment highlighted significant enrichment of DEGs in TGF-β cellular response, connective tissue development, extracellular matrix components, and signaling pathways such as the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway and ECM-receptor interaction. PPI network analysis identified hub genes, including FN1, COL1A1, POSTN, KIF11, and ECT2. CALD1 (Caldesmon 1), CDH2 (Cadherin 2), and POSTN (Periostin) were identified as dysregulated hub genes in both the RNA sequencing and GEO datasets. Validation experiments confirmed the upregulation of CALD1, CDH2, and POSTN in TGF-β1-treated fibroblasts and IPF lung tissue samples. IHC experiments probed tissue-level expression patterns of these three molecules. Knockdown of CALD1, CDH2, and POSTN attenuated the expression of fibrotic markers (collagen I and α-SMA) in response to TGF-β1 stimulation in primary fibroblasts. Co-expression analysis revealed interactions between hub genes and predicted genes involved in actin cytoskeleton regulation and cell-cell junction organization.

Conclusions

CALD1, CDH2, and POSTN, identified as potential contributors to pulmonary fibrosis, present promising therapeutic targets for IPF patients.

Molecular biomarkers in prostate cancer tumorigenesis and clinical relevance

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most frequent type of cancer in men and assessing circulating tumor cells (CTCs) by liquid biopsy is a promising tool to help in cancer early detection, staging, risk of recurrence evaluation, treatment prediction and monitoring. Blood-based liquid biopsy approaches enable the enrichment, detection and characterization of CTCs by biomarker analysis. Hence, comprehending the molecular markers, their role on each stage of cancer development and progression is essential to provide information that can help in future implementation of these biomarkers in clinical assistance. In this review, we studied the molecular markers most associated with PCa CTCs to better understand their function on tumorigenesis and metastatic cascade, the methodologies utilized to analyze these biomarkers and their clinical significance, in order to summarize the available information to guide researchers in their investigations, new hypothesis formulation and target choice for the development of new diagnostic and treatment tools.

Correlation between E-cadherin/β-catenin, Vimentin expression, clinicopathologic features and drug resistance prediction in naïve prostate cancer: A molecular and clinical study

Although epithelial-mesenchymal markers play an important role in prostate cancer (PC), further research is needed to better understand their utility in diagnosis, cancer progression prevention, and treatment resistance prediction. Our study included 111 PC patients who underwent transurethral resection, as well as 16 healthy controls. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to examine the expression of E-cadherin, β-catenin, and Vimentin. We found that E-cadherin and β-catenin were underexpressed in primary PC tissues. E-cadherin expression was found to be inversely associated with prostate-specific antigen progression (PSA-P; serum marker of progression; p = 0.01; |r| = 0.262). Furthermore, the underexpression of two markers, E-cadherin and β-catenin, was found to be associated with advanced tumor stage and grade (p < 0.05). On the other hand, Vimentin was overexpressed in PC patients with a fold change of 2.141, and it was associated with the diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of treatment resistance to androgen deprivation therapy (p = 0.002), abiraterone-acid (p = 0.001), and taxanes (p = 0.029). Moreover, the current study highlighted that poor survival could be significantly found in patients who progressed after primary surgery, did not use drugs, and expressed these genes aberrantly. In Cox regression multivariate analysis (p < 0.05), a positive correlation between the Vimentin marker and coronary heart disease in PC patients was identified (p = 0.034). In summary, the present study highlights the diagnostic (p < 0.001), prognostic (p < 0.001), and therapeutic potential of Vimentin in primary PC (p < 0.05), as well as its implications for cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, we confirm the potential prognostic value of E-cadherin and β-catenin.

Hepatotoxicity of cyanotoxin microcystin-LR in human: Insights into mechanisms of action in the 3D culture model Hepoid-HepaRG

Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) is a potent hepatotoxin produced by harmful cyanobacterial blooms (CyanoHABs). MC-LR targets highly differentiated hepatocytes expressing organic anion transporting polypeptides OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 that are responsible for hepatocellular uptake of the toxin. The present study utilized an advanced 3D in vitro human liver model Hepoid-HepaRG based on the cultivation of collagen-matrix embedded multicellular spheroids composed of highly differentiated and polarized hepatocyte-like cells. 14-d-old Hepoid-HepaRG cultures showed increased expression of OATP1B1/1B3 and sensitivity to MC-LR cytotoxicity at concentrations >10 nM (48 h exposure, EC20 = 26 nM). MC-LR induced neither caspase 3/7 activity nor expression of the endoplasmic reticulum stress marker gene BiP/GRP78, but increased release of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-8, indicating a necrotic type of cell death. Subcytotoxic (10 nM) and cytotoxic (≥100 nM) MC-LR concentrations disrupted hepatocyte functions, such as xenobiotic metabolism phase-I enzyme activities (cytochrome P450 1A/1B) and albumin secretion, along with reduced expression of CYP1A2 and ALB genes. MC-LR also decreased expression of HNF4A gene, a critical regulator of hepatocyte differentiation and function. Genes encoding hepatobiliary membrane transporters (OATP1B1, BSEP, NTCP), hepatocyte gap junctional gene connexin 32 and the epithelial cell marker E-cadherin were also downregulated. Simultaneous upregulation of connexin 43 gene, primarily expressed by liver progenitor and non-parenchymal cells, indicated a disruption of tissue homeostasis. This was associated with a shift in the expression ratio of E-cadherin to N-cadherin towards the mesenchymal cell marker, a process linked to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and hepatocarcinogenesis. The effects observed in the human liver cell in vitro model revealed mechanisms that can potentially contribute to the MC-LR-induced promotion and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Hepoid-HepaRG cultures provide a robust, accessible and versatile in vitro model, capable of sensitively detecting hepatotoxic effects at toxicologically relevant concentrations, allowing for assessing hepatotoxicity mechanisms, human health hazards and impacts of environmental hepatotoxins, such as MC-LR.

Nonlobular Invasive Breast Carcinomas with Biallelic Pathogenic CDH1 Somatic Alterations: A Histologic, Immunophenotypic, and Genomic Characterization

CDH1 encodes for E-cadherin, and its loss of function is the hallmark of invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). Albeit vanishingly rare, biallelic CDH1 alterations may be found in nonlobular breast carcinomas (NL-BCs). We sought to determine the clinicopathologic characteristics and repertoire of genetic alterations of NL-BCs harboring CDH1 biallelic genetic alterations. Analysis of 5842 breast cancers (BCs) subjected to clinical tumor-normal sequencing with an FDA-cleared multigene panel was conducted to identify BCs with biallelic CDH1 pathogenic/likely pathogenic somatic mutations lacking lobular features. The genomic profiles of NL-BCs with CDH1 biallelic genetic alterations were compared with those of ILCs and invasive ductal carcinomas (IDCs), matched by clinicopathologic characteristics. Of the 896 CDH1-altered BCs, 889 samples were excluded based on the diagnosis of invasive mixed ductal/lobular carcinoma or ILC or the detection of monoallelic CDH1 alterations. Only 7 of the 5842 (0.11%) BCs harbored biallelic CDH1 alterations and lacked lobular features. Of these, 4/7 (57%) cases were ER-positive/HER2-negative, 1/7 (14%) was ER-positive/HER2-positive, and 2/7 (29%) were ER-negative/HER2-negative. In total, 5/7 (71%) were of Nottingham grade 2, and 2/7 (29%) were of grade 3. The NL-BCs with CDH1 biallelic genetic alterations included a mucinous carcinoma (n = 1), IDCs with focal nested growth (n = 2), IDC with solid papillary (n = 1) or apocrine (n = 2) features, and an IDC of no special type (NST; n = 1). E-cadherin expression, as detected by immunohistochemistry, was absent (3/5) or aberrant (discontinuous membranous/cytoplasmic/granular; 2/5). However, NL-BCs with CDH1 biallelic genetic alterations displayed recurrent genetic alterations, including TP53, PIK3CA (57%, 4/7; each), FGFR1, and NCOR1 (28%, 2/7, each) alterations. Compared with CDH1 wild-type IDC-NSTs, NL-BCs less frequently harbored GATA3 mutations (0% vs 47%, P = .03), but no significant differences were detected when compared with matched ILCs. Therefore, NL-BCs with CDH1 biallelic genetic alterations are vanishingly rare, predominantly comprise IDCs with special histologic features, and have genomic features akin to luminal B ER-positive BCs.

Novel PEGylated cholephytosomes for targeting fisetin to breast cancer: in vitro appraisal and in vivo antitumoral studies

Fisetin (FIS) is a multifunctional bioactive flavanol that has been recently exploited as anticancer drug against various cancers including breast cancer. However, its poor aqueous solubility has constrained its clinical application. In the current work, fisetin is complexed for the first time with soy phosphatidylcholine in the presence of cholesterol to form a novel biocompatible phytosomal system entitled "cholephytosomes." To improve fisetin antitumor activity against breast cancer, stearylamine bearing cationic cholephytosomes (mPHY) were prepared and furtherly modified with hyaluronic acid (HPHY) to allow their orientation to cancer cells through their surface exposed phosphatidylserine and CD-44 receptors, respectively. In vitro characterization studies revealed promising physicochemical properties of both modified vesicles (mPHY and HPHY) including excellent FIS complexation efficiency (˷100%), improved octanol/water solubility along with a sustained drug release over 24 h. In vitro cell line studies against MDA-MB-231 cell line showed about 10- and 3.5-fold inhibition in IC50 of modified vesicles compared with free drug and conventional drug-phospholipid complex, respectively. Preclinical studies revealed that both modified cholephytosomes (mPHY and HPHY) had comparable cytotoxicity that is significantly surpassing free drug cytotoxicity. TGF-β1and its non-canonical related signaling pathway; ERK1/2, NF-κB, and MMP-9 were involved in halting tumorigenesis. Thus, tailoring novel phytosomal nanosystems for FIS could open opportunity for its clinical utility against cancer.

Cadherin-responsive hydrogel combined with dental pulp stem cells and fibroblast growth factor 21 promotes diabetic scald repair via regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition and necroptosis

Diabetes causes a loss of sensation in the skin, so diabetics are prone to burns when using heating devices. Diabetic scalded skin is often difficult to heal due to the microenvironment of high glucose, high oxidation, and low blood perfusion. The treatment of diabetic scald mainly focuses on three aspects: 1) promote the formation of the epithelium; 2) promote angiogenesis; and 3) maintain intracellular homeostasis. In response to these three major repair factors, we developed a cadherin-responsive hydrogel combined with FGF21 and dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) to accelerate epithelial formation by recruiting cadherin to the epidermis and promoting the transformation of N cadherin to E cadherin; promoting angiogenesis to increase wound blood perfusion; regulating the stability of lysosomal and activating autophagy to maintain intracellular homeostasis in order to comprehensively advance the recovery of diabetic scald.

A complex of cadherin 17 with desmocollin 1 and p120-catenin regulates colorectal cancer migration and invasion according to the cell phenotype

BACKGROUND

Cadherin-17 (CDH17), a marker of differentiation in intestinal cells, binds and activates α2β1 integrin to promote cell adhesion and proliferation in colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis. Furthermore, CDH17 associates with p120- and β-catenin in a manner yet to be fully elucidated. In this report, we explored the molecular mediators involved in this association, their contribution to CRC dissemination and potential therapeutic implications.

METHODS

Proteomic and confocal analyses were employed to identify and validate CDH17 interactors. Functional characterization involved the study of proliferation, migration, and invasion in cell lines representative of various phenotypes. Immunohistochemistry was conducted on CRC tissue microarrays (TMA). In vivo animal experiments were carried out for metastatic studies.

RESULTS

We found that desmocollin-1 (DSC1), a desmosomal cadherin, interacts with CDH17 via its extracellular domain. DSC1 depletion led to increased or decreased invasion in CRC cells displaying epithelial or mesenchymal phenotype, respectively, in a process mediated by the association with p120-catenin. Down-regulation of DSC1 resulted in an increased expression of p120-catenin isoform 1 in epithelial cells or a shift in cellular location in mesenchymal cells. Opposite results were observed after forced expression of CDH17. DSC1 is highly expressed in budding cells at the leading edge of the tumor and associates with poor prognosis in the stem-like, mesenchymal CRC subtypes, while correlates with a more favorable prognosis in the less-aggressive subtypes. In vivo experiments demonstrated that DSC1 silencing reduced tumor growth, liver homing, and metastasis in CRC mesenchymal cells. Furthermore, a synthetic peptide derived from CDH17, containing the NLV motif, effectively inhibited invasion and liver homing in vivo, opening up new possibilities for the development of novel therapies focused on desmosomal cadherins.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings shed light on the multifaceted roles of CDH17, DSC1, and p120-catenin in CRC metastasis, offering insights into potential therapeutic interventions for targeting desmosomal cadherins in poorly-differentiated carcinomas.

Transcriptomic analysis of glucosidase II beta subunit (GluIIß) knockout A549 cells reveals its roles in regulation of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) and anti-tumor immunity

Glucosidase II beta subunit (GluIIß), encoded from PRKCSH, is a subunit of the glucosidase II enzyme responsible for quality control of N-linked glycoprotein folding and suppression of GluIIß led to inhibitory effect of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTKs) activities known to be critical for survival and development of cancer. In this study, we investigated the effect of GluIIß knockout on the global gene expression of cancer cells and its impact on functions of immune cells. GluIIß knockout lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell line was generated using CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing system and subjected to transcriptomic analysis. Among 23,502 expressed transcripts, 1068 genes were significantly up-regulated and 807 genes greatly down-regulated. The KEGG enrichment analysis showed significant down-regulation of genes related extracellular matrix (ECM), ECM-receptor interaction, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) in GluIIß knockout cells. Of 9 CAMs encoded DEG identified by KEGG enrichment analysis, real time RT-PCR confirmed 8 genes to be significantly down-regulated in all 3 different GluIIß knockout clones, which includes cadherin 4 (CDH4), cadherin 2 (CDH2), versican (VCAN), integrin subunit alpha 4 (ITGA4), endothelial cell-selective adhesion molecule (ESAM), CD274 (program death ligand-1 (PD-L1)), Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 (CADM1), and Nectin Cell Adhesion Molecule 3 (NECTIN3). Whereas PTPRF (Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Receptor Type F) was significantly decreased only in 1 out of 3 knockout clones. Microscopic analysis revealed distinctively different cell morphology of GluIIβ knockout cells with lesser cytoplasmic and cell surface area compared to parental A549 cells and non-targeted transfected cells.Further investigations revealed that Jurkat E6.1 T cells or human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) co-cultured with GluIIß knockout A549 exhibited significantly increased viability and tumor cell killing activity compared to those co-cultured with non-target transfected cells. Analysis of cytokine released from Jurkat E6.1 T cells co-cultured with GluIIß knockout A549 cells showed significant increased level of angiogenin and significant decreased level of ENA-78. In conclusion, knockout of GluIIß from cancer cells induced altered gene expression profile that improved anti-tumor activities of co-cultured T lymphocytes and PBMCs thus suppression of GluIIß may represent a novel approach of boosting anti-tumor immunity.

Tumor-derived small extracellular vesicles in cancer invasion and metastasis: molecular mechanisms, and clinical significance

The production and release of tumor-derived small extracellular vesicles (TDSEVs) from cancerous cells play a pivotal role in the propagation of cancer, through genetic and biological communication with healthy cells. TDSEVs are known to orchestrate the invasion-metastasis cascade via diverse pathways. Regulation of early metastasis processes, pre-metastatic niche formation, immune system regulation, angiogenesis initiation, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, immune modulation, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are among the pathways regulated by TDSEVs. MicroRNAs (miRs) carried within TDSEVs play a pivotal role as a double-edged sword and can either promote metastasis or inhibit cancer progression. TDSEVs can serve as excellent markers for early detection of tumors, and tumor metastases. From a therapeutic point of view, the risk of cancer metastasis may be reduced by limiting the production of TDSEVs from tumor cells. On the other hand, TDSEVs represent a promising approach for in vivo delivery of therapeutic cargo to tumor cells. The present review article discusses the recent developments and the current views of TDSEVs in the field of cancer research and clinical applications.

Differentiation States of Phenotypic Transition of Melanoma Cells Are Revealed by 3D Cell Cultures

Melanoma is characterized by high metastatic potential favored by the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), leading melanoma cells to exhibit a spectrum of typical EMT markers. This study aimed to analyze the expression of EMT markers in A375 and BLM melanoma cell lines cultured in 2D monolayers and 3D spheroids using morphological and molecular methods. The expression of EMT markers was strongly affected by 3D arrangement and revealed a hybrid phenotype for the two cell lines. Indeed, although E-cadherin was almost undetectable in both A375 and BLM cells, cortical actin was detected in A375 2D monolayers and 3D spheroids and was strongly expressed in BLM 3D spheroids. The mesenchymal marker N-cadherin was significantly up-regulated in A375 3D spheroids while undetectable in BLM cells, but vimentin was similarly expressed in both cell lines at the gene and protein levels. This pattern suggests that A375 cells exhibit a more undifferentiated/mesenchymal phenotype, while BLM cells have more melanocytic/differentiated characteristics. Accordingly, the Zeb1 and 2, Slug, Snail and Twist gene expression analyses showed that they were differentially expressed in 2D monolayers compared to 3D spheroids, supporting this view. Furthermore, A375 cells are characterized by a greater invasive potential, strongly influenced by 3D arrangement, compared to the BLM cell line, as evaluated by SDS-zymography and TIMPs gene expression analysis. Finally, TGF-β1, a master controller of EMT, and lysyl oxidase (LOX), involved in melanoma progression, were strongly up-regulated by 3D arrangement in the metastatic BLM cells alone, likely playing a role in the metastatic phases of melanoma progression. Overall, these findings suggest that A375 and BLM cells possess a hybrid/intermediate phenotype in relation to the expression of EMT markers. The former is characterized by a more mesenchymal/undifferentiated phenotype, while the latter shows a more melanocytic/differentiated phenotype. Our results contribute to the characterization of the role of EMT in melanoma cells and confirm that a 3D cell culture model could provide deeper insight into our understanding of the biology of melanoma.

The Peptide DHα-(4-pentenyl)-ANPQIR-NH2 Exhibits Antifibrotic Activity in Multiple Pulmonary Fibrosis Models Induced by Particulate and Soluble Chemical Fibrogenic Agents

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a group of restrictive lung diseases characterized by interstitial inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis. The incidence of ILDs associated with exposure to multiple hazards such as inhaled particles, fibers, and ingested soluble chemicals is increasing yearly, and there are no ideal drugs currently available. Our previous research showed that the novel and low-toxicity peptide DHα-(4-pentenyl)-ANPQIR-NH2 (DR3penA) had a strong antifibrotic effect on a bleomycin-induced murine model. Based on the druggability of DR3penA, we sought to investigate its effects on respirable particulate silicon dioxide (SiO2)- and soluble chemical paraquat (PQ)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in this study by using western blot, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), immunofluorescence, H&E and Masson staining, immunohistochemistry, and serum biochemical assays. The results showed that DR3penA alleviated the extent of fibrosis by inhibiting the expression of fibronectin and collagen I and suppressed oxidative stress and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro and in vivo. Further study revealed that DR3penA may mitigate pulmonary fibrosis by negatively regulating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Unexpectedly, through the conversion of drug bioavailability under different routes of administration, DR3penA exerted antifibrotic effects equivalent to those of the positive control drug pirfenidone (PFD) at lower doses. In summary, DR3penA may be a promising lead compound for various fibrotic ILDs. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Our study verified that DHα-(4-pentenyl)-ANPQIR-NH2 (DR3penA) exhibited positive antifibrotic activity in pulmonary fibrosis induced by silicon dioxide (SiO2) particles and soluble chemical paraquat (PQ) and demonstrated a low-dose advantage compared to the small-molecule drug pirfenidone (PFD). The peptide DR3penA can be further developed for the treatment of multiple fibrotic lung diseases.

Role of a Polyphenol-Enriched Blueberry Preparation on Inhibition of Melanoma Cancer Stem Cells and Modulation of MicroRNAs

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer known for its high mortality rate. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of cancer cells that significantly contribute to tumour recurrence and differentiation. Epigenetic-specific changes involving miRNAs maintain CSCs. Plant polyphenols have been reported to be involved in cancer chemoprevention and chemotherapy, with miRNAs being the novel effectors in their biological activities. A polyphenol-enriched blueberry preparation (PEBP) derived from fermented blueberries has demonstrated promising chemopreventative properties on breast cancer stem cells by influencing inflammatory pathways and miRNAs. In our current investigation, we seek to unveil the impact of PEBP on inhibiting melanoma development and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Our study employs various human cell lines, including an ex vivo cell line derived from a patient's metastatic tumour. We found that it elevates miR-200c, increasing E-cadherin expression and inhibiting miR-210-3p through NF-κB signalling, impacting Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), a critical process in cancer progression. PEBP increases the SOCS1 expression, potentially contributing to miR-210-3p inhibition. Experiments involving miRNA manipulation confirm their functional roles. The study suggests that PEBP's anti-inflammatory effects involve regulating miR-200c and miR-210 expression and their targets in EMT-related pathways. The overall aim is to provide evidence-based supportive care and preclinical evaluation of PEBP, offering a promising strategy for skin cancer chemoprevention.

Role of Exosomes in Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a fundamental process driving cancer metastasis, transforming non-motile cells into a motile population that migrates to distant organs and forms secondary tumors. In recent years, cancer research has revealed a strong connection between exosomes and the EMT. Exosomes, a subpopulation of extracellular vesicles, facilitate cellular communication and dynamically regulate various aspects of cancer metastasis, including immune cell suppression, extracellular matrix remodeling, metastasis initiation, EMT initiation, and organ-specific metastasis. Tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs) and their molecular cargo, comprising proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates, are essential components that promote EMT in cancer. TEXs miRNAs play a crucial role in reprogramming the tumor microenvironment, while TEX surface integrins contribute to organ-specific metastasis. Exosome-based cancer metastasis research offers a deeper understanding about cancer and an effective theranostic platform development. Additionally, various therapeutic sources of exosomes are paving the way for innovative cancer treatment development. In this Review, we spotlight the role of exosomes in EMT and their theranostic impact, aiming to inspire cancer researchers worldwide to explore this fascinating field in more innovative ways.