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Marima R, Basera A, Miya T, Damane BP, Kandhavelu J, Mirza S, Penny C, Dlamini Z. Exosomal long non-coding RNAs in cancer: Interplay, modulation, and therapeutic avenues. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:887-900. [PMID: 38616862 PMCID: PMC11015109 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
In the intricate field of cancer biology, researchers are increasingly intrigued by the emerging role of exosomal long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) due to their multifaceted interactions, complex modulation mechanisms, and potential therapeutic applications. These exosomal lncRNAs, carried within extracellular vesicles, play a vital partin tumorigenesis and disease progression by facilitating communication networks between tumor cells and their local microenvironment, making them an ideal candidates for use in a liquid biopsy approach. However, exosomal lncRNAs remain an understudied area, especially in cancer biology. Therefore this review aims to comprehensively explore the dynamic interplay between exosomal lncRNAs and various cellular components, including interactions with tumor-stroma, immune modulation, and drug resistance mechanisms. Understanding the regulatory functions of exosomal lncRNAs in these processes can potentially unveil novel diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for cancer. Additionally, the emergence of RNA-based therapeutics presents exciting opportunities for targeting exosomal lncRNAs, offering innovative strategies to combat cancer progression and improve treatment outcomes. Thus, this review provides insights into the current understanding of exosomal lncRNAs in cancer biology, highlighting their crucial roles, regulatory mechanisms, and the evolving landscape of therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, we have also discussed the advantage of exosomes as therapeutic carriers of lncRNAs for the development of personalized targeted therapy for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChi Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Afra Basera
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChi Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Thabiso Miya
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChi Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Botle Precious Damane
- Department of Surgery, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa
| | - Jeyalakshmi Kandhavelu
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sheefa Mirza
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
| | - Clement Penny
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChi Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, South Africa
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Mbeje M, Kandhavelu J, Penny C, Kgoebane-Maseko M, Dlamini Z, Marima R. In Silico Bioinformatics Analysis on the Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs as Drivers and Gatekeepers of Androgen-Independent Prostate Cancer Using LNCaP and PC-3 Cells. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:7257-7274. [PMID: 37754243 PMCID: PMC10528188 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45090459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the leading cancer in men globally. The association between PCa and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been reported. Aberrantly expressed lncRNAs have been documented in each of the cancer "hallmarks". Androgen signaling plays an important role in PCa progression. This study aimed to profile the aberrantly expressed lncRNAs in androgen-dependent (LNCaP) PCa compared to androgen-independent (PC-3) PCa cells. This was achieved by using a 384-well plate of PCa lncRNA gene panel. Differential expression of ±2 up or downregulation was determined using the CFX Maestro software v2.1. LncSEA and DIANA-miRPath were used to identify the enriched pathways. Telomerase RNA component (TERC) lncRNA was illustrated to participate in various tumourigenic classes by in silico bioinformatics analysis and was thus selected for validation using RT-qPCR. Further bioinformatics analysis revealed the involvement of differentially expressed lncRNAs in oncogenic pathways. Some lncRNAs undergo hypermethylation, others are encapsulated by exosomes, while others interact with several microRNAs (miRNAs), favouring tumourigenic pathways. Notably, TERC lncRNA was shown to interact with tumour-suppressor miRNAs hsa-miR-4429 and hsa-miR-320b. This interaction in turn activates TGF-β-signaling and ECM-receptor interaction pathways, favouring the progression of PCa. Understanding lncRNAs as competitive endogenous RNA molecules and their interactions with miRNAs may aid in the identification of novel prognostic PCa biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandisa Mbeje
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (M.M.); (M.K.-M.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Jeyalakshmi Kandhavelu
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA;
| | - Clement Penny
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown 2193, South Africa;
| | - Mmamoletla Kgoebane-Maseko
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (M.M.); (M.K.-M.)
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (M.M.); (M.K.-M.)
| | - Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (M.M.); (M.K.-M.)
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Miya TV, Marima R, Damane BP, Ledet EM, Dlamini Z. Dissecting Microbiome-Derived SCFAs in Prostate Cancer: Analyzing Gut Microbiota, Racial Disparities, and Epigenetic Mechanisms. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4086. [PMID: 37627114 PMCID: PMC10452611 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) continues to be the most diagnosed cancer and the second primary cause of fatalities in men globally. There is an abundance of scientific evidence suggesting that the human microbiome, together with its metabolites, plays a crucial role in carcinogenesis and has a significant impact on the efficacy of anticancer interventions in solid and hematological cancers. These anticancer interventions include chemotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and targeted therapies. Furthermore, the microbiome can influence systemic and local immune responses using numerous metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Despite the lack of scientific data in terms of the role of SCFAs in PCa pathogenesis, recent studies show that SCFAs have a profound impact on PCa progression. Several studies have reported racial/ethnic disparities in terms of bacterial content in the gut microbiome and SCFA composition. These studies explored microbiome and SCFA racial/ethnic disparities in cancers such as colorectal, colon, cervical, breast, and endometrial cancer. Notably, there are currently no published studies exploring microbiome/SCFA composition racial disparities and their role in PCa carcinogenesis. This review discusses the potential role of the microbiome in PCa development and progression. The involvement of microbiome-derived SCFAs in facilitating PCa carcinogenesis and their effect on PCa therapeutic response, particularly immunotherapy, are discussed. Racial/ethnic differences in microbiome composition and SCFA content in various cancers are also discussed. Lastly, the effects of SCFAs on PCa progression via epigenetic modifications is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thabiso Victor Miya
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Botle Precious Damane
- Department of Surgery, Level 7, Bridge E, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0007, South Africa
| | - Elisa Marie Ledet
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane Medical School, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
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Mbeje M, Kandhavelu J, Penny C, Dlamini Z, Marima R. Abstract 3785: Telomerase RNA component lncRNA regulates hsa-miR-320 family and promotes prostate cancer metastasis. Cancer Res 2023. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2023-3785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Telomerase RNA component (TERC) is a long non-coding (lncRNA) associated with prostate cancer progression and has novel prognostic biomarker potential. Differential methylation patterns of lncRNAs affect their expression levels, leading to cancer. This study aimed to profile and elucidate differential lncRNA expression patterns in prostate cancer (PCa). A 384-well plate of PCa associated lncRNA gene array panel was used in castration resistant PC-3 PCa cells vs androgen-sensitive PCa LNCaP cells. Annotation and enrichment analysis of lncRNA differential gene expression was performed using a human lncRNA sets database, LncSEA. Furthermore, digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) was used to verify the PCR array results. Up or down-regulation of ±2 and p <0.05 were considered significant. Decreased hsa-miR-320 gene family expression has been reported in various tumors including PCa. However, the precise mechanisms of hsa-miR-320 gene family in PCa remain to be elucidated. Thirty six of 84 lncRNAs were shown to be upregulated, while 14% of the lncRNA genes were downregulated. Notably, TERC lncRNA was upregulated in high metastatic PC-3 cells. Hypermethylation patterns of this lncRNA in high metastatic PC-3 cells was also shown by enrichment analysis. Furthermore, TERC lncRNA was demonstrated to regulate the hsa-miR-320 family, suggesting a correlation between TERC hypermethylation and downregulation of hsa-miR-320 gene family expression in PCa, as revealed by bioinformatics analysis. TERC lncRNA promotes PCa cell proliferation, migration, invasion and metastasis by sponging hsa-miR-320 family. This TERC/hsa-miR-320 interaction holds potential to understanding PCa prognostic mechanisms by lncRNAs and may also be targeted for novel therapeutics.
Citation Format: Mandisa Mbeje, Jeyalakshmi Kandhavelu, Clement Penny, Zodwa Dlamini, Rahaba Marima. Telomerase RNA component lncRNA regulates hsa-miR-320 family and promotes prostate cancer metastasis. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 3785.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Clement Penny
- 3University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Marima R, Mbeje M, Hull R, Demetriou D, Mtshali N, Dlamini Z. Prostate Cancer Disparities and Management in Southern Africa: Insights into Practices, Norms and Values. Cancer Manag Res 2022; 14:3567-3579. [PMID: 36597514 PMCID: PMC9805733 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s382903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a leading cause of mortality in men of African origin. While men of African descent in high-income countries (HICs) demonstrate poor prognosis compared to their European counterparts, African men on the African continent, particularly Southern Africa have shown even higher PCa mortality rates. Extrinsic factors such as the socioeconomic status, education level, income level, geographic location and race contribute to PCa patient outcome. These are further deepened by the African norms which are highly esteemed and may have detrimental effects on PCa patients' health. Insights into African cultures and social constructs have been identified as key elements towards improving men's health care seeking behaviour which will in turn improve PCa patients' outcome. Compared to Southern Africa, the Eastern, Western and Central African regions have lower PCa incidence rates but higher mortality rates. The availability of cancer medical equipment has also been reported to be disproportionate in Africa, with most cancer resources in Northern and Southern Africa. Even within Southern Africa, cancer management resources are unevenly available where one country must access PCa specialised care in the neighbouring countries. While PCa seems to be better managed in HICs, steps towards effective PCa management are urgently needed in Africa, as this continent represents a significant portion of low-middle-income countries (LMICs). Replacing African men in Africa with African American men may not optimally resolve PCa challenges in Africa. Adopting western PCa management practices can be optimised by integrating improved core-African norms. The aim of this review is to discuss PCa disparities in Africa, deliberate on the significance of integrating African norms around masculinity and discuss challenges and opportunities towards effective PCa care in Africa, particularly in Southern Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mandisa Mbeje
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa,Department of Medical Oncology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Rodney Hull
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Demetra Demetriou
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nompumelelo Mtshali
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa,Correspondence: Zodwa Dlamini, Tel +27 12 319 2614, Email
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Marima R, Francies FZ, Hull R, Molefi T, Oyomno M, Khanyile R, Mbatha S, Mabongo M, Owen Bates D, Dlamini Z. MicroRNA and Alternative mRNA Splicing Events in Cancer Drug Response/Resistance: Potent Therapeutic Targets. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1818. [PMID: 34944633 PMCID: PMC8698559 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a multifaceted disease that involves several molecular mechanisms including changes in gene expression. Two important processes altered in cancer that lead to changes in gene expression include altered microRNA (miRNA) expression and aberrant splicing events. MiRNAs are short non-coding RNAs that play a central role in regulating RNA silencing and gene expression. Alternative splicing increases the diversity of the proteome by producing several different spliced mRNAs from a single gene for translation. MiRNA expression and alternative splicing events are rigorously regulated processes. Dysregulation of miRNA and splicing events promote carcinogenesis and drug resistance in cancers including breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal, ovarian and leukemia. Alternative splicing may change the target mRNA 3'UTR binding site. This alteration can affect the produced protein and may ultimately affect the drug affinity of target proteins, eventually leading to drug resistance. Drug resistance can be caused by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. The interplay between miRNA and alternative splicing is largely due to splicing resulting in altered 3'UTR targeted binding of miRNAs. This can result in the altered targeting of these isoforms and altered drug targets and drug resistance. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of cancer drug resistance poses a substantial challenge in the management of the disease. Henceforth, molecular alterations have become highly attractive drug targets to reverse the aberrant effects of miRNAs and splicing events that promote malignancy and drug resistance. While the miRNA-mRNA splicing interplay in cancer drug resistance remains largely to be elucidated, this review focuses on miRNA and alternative mRNA splicing (AS) events in breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal and ovarian cancer, as well as leukemia, and the role these events play in drug resistance. MiRNA induced cancer drug resistance; alternative mRNA splicing (AS) in cancer drug resistance; the interplay between AS and miRNA in chemoresistance will be discussed. Despite this great potential, the interplay between aberrant splicing events and miRNA is understudied but holds great potential in deciphering miRNA-mediated drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfiel, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (R.M.); (F.Z.F.); (R.H.); (T.M.); (M.O.); (R.K.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.O.B.)
| | - Flavia Zita Francies
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfiel, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (R.M.); (F.Z.F.); (R.H.); (T.M.); (M.O.); (R.K.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.O.B.)
| | - Rodney Hull
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfiel, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (R.M.); (F.Z.F.); (R.H.); (T.M.); (M.O.); (R.K.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.O.B.)
| | - Thulo Molefi
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfiel, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (R.M.); (F.Z.F.); (R.H.); (T.M.); (M.O.); (R.K.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.O.B.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Meryl Oyomno
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfiel, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (R.M.); (F.Z.F.); (R.H.); (T.M.); (M.O.); (R.K.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.O.B.)
- Department of Surgery, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Richard Khanyile
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfiel, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (R.M.); (F.Z.F.); (R.H.); (T.M.); (M.O.); (R.K.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.O.B.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Sikhumbuzo Mbatha
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfiel, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (R.M.); (F.Z.F.); (R.H.); (T.M.); (M.O.); (R.K.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.O.B.)
- Department of Surgery, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Mzubanzi Mabongo
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfiel, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (R.M.); (F.Z.F.); (R.H.); (T.M.); (M.O.); (R.K.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.O.B.)
- Department of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, School of Dentistry, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - David Owen Bates
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfiel, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (R.M.); (F.Z.F.); (R.H.); (T.M.); (M.O.); (R.K.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.O.B.)
- Centre for Cancer Sciences, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfiel, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (R.M.); (F.Z.F.); (R.H.); (T.M.); (M.O.); (R.K.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.O.B.)
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Marima R, Hull R, Dlamini Z, Penny C. The profiling, identification, quantification and analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to drug treatment in lung cancer. MethodsX 2021; 8:101381. [PMID: 34430277 PMCID: PMC8374453 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2021.101381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The profiling and identification of genes that are differentially expressed is frequently used to underpin the underlying molecular mechanisms of biological conditions and provides a molecular foothold on biological questions of interest. However, this can be a daunting task since there is a cross talk and overlap of some of the components of the signalling pathways. The deregulation of the cell cycle signalling pathway is a hallmark of cancer, including lung cancer. Proper regulation of the cell cycle results in cellular homeostasis between cell proliferation and cell death. The comprehension of the cell cycle regulation in drug metabolism studies is of significance. This study aimed at elucidating the regulation of cell cycle genes’ in response to LPV/r in lung cells. Thus, this study describes methodology for revealing molecular mechanisms employed by LPV/r to induce stress on genomic DNA. This approach is based on the interrogation of a panel of 84 genes related to the cell cycle pathway, and how the differentially expressed genes’ expression pattern corroborates loss in nuclear integrity (phenotypic observation). MAD2L2, AURKB and CASP3 gene expressions were further confirmed by RT-qPCR. Furthermore, the use of in-silico bioinformatics tools integrates the molecular profiles and phenotypic changes. This approach revealed the activation of the DNA damage response (DDR) pathway in response to LPV/r treatment. The proposed methodology will aid in the comprehension of drug metabolism at genotypic and phenotypic levels.Gene profiling often reveals the underlying molecular mechanisms. RT2 PCR gene arrays have integrated patented quality controls and allow reliable gene expression analysis. In-silico bioinformatics analysis help reveal pathways affected, that often correspond to phenotypic changes/features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
| | - Rodney Hull
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Clement Penny
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
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Dlamini Z, Mbele M, Makhafola TJ, Hull R, Marima R. HIV-Associated Cancer Biomarkers: A Requirement for Early Diagnosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158127. [PMID: 34360891 PMCID: PMC8348540 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, HIV/AIDS and cancer are increasingly public health problems and continue to exist as comorbidities. The sub-Saharan African region has the largest number of HIV infections. Malignancies previously associated with HIV/AIDS, also known as the AIDS-defining cancers (ADCs) have been documented to decrease, while the non-AIDS defining cancer (NADCs) are on the rise. On the other hand, cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease and precision oncology as the most effective cancer therapy is gaining attraction. Among HIV-infected individuals, the increased risk for developing cancer is due to the immune system of the patient being suppressed, frequent coinfection with oncogenic viruses and an increase in risky behavior such as poor lifestyle. The core of personalised medicine for cancer depends on the discovery and the development of biomarkers. Biomarkers are specific and highly sensitive markers that reveal information that aid in leading to the diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of the disease. This review focuses mainly on the risk assessment, diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic role of various cancer biomarkers in HIV-positive patients. A careful selection of sensitive and specific HIV-associated cancer biomarkers is required to identify patients at most risk of tumour development, thus improving the diagnosis and prognosis of the disease.
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Dlamini Z, Mathabe K, Padayachy L, Marima R, Evangelou G, Syrigos KN, Bianchi A, Lolas G, Hull R. Many Voices in a Choir: Tumor-Induced Neurogenesis and Neuronal Driven Alternative Splicing Sound Like Suspects in Tumor Growth and Dissemination. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092138. [PMID: 33946706 PMCID: PMC8125307 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Significant progress has recently been made in understanding the role of the neuronal system in cancer biology, in many solid tumors such as prostate, breast, pancreatic, gastric and brain cancers. Solid tumors and the nervous system appear to influence each other’s development both directly and indirectly. A recurring element in such interactions is constituted by nerve-related substances such as neurotransmitters and neurotrophins, to which the first part of the current review is devoted. The second part of the review focuses on the potential role played by alternative splicing in cancer progression associated with neural signaling. Alternative splicing is the process where pre-mRNA is cut and re-ligated in different ways to give rise to multiple protein isoforms whose expression profile is often cancer specific. Alternative splicing is known to take place in the mRNA of genes that code for proteins involved in neuronal development and the creation of new nerve fibers. The change in alternative splicing patterns that occur as tumors develop and progress may make these splice variants potential targets for the development of drug treatments. They may also serve as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers. Abstract During development, as tissues expand and grow, they require circulatory, lymphatic, and nervous system expansion for proper function and support. Similarly, as tumors arise and develop, they also require the expansion of these systems to support them. While the contribution of blood and lymphatic systems to the development and progression of cancer is well known and is targeted with anticancer drugs, the contribution of the nervous system is less well studied and understood. Recent studies have shown that the interaction between neurons and a tumor are bilateral and promote metastasis on one hand, and the formation of new nerve structures (neoneurogenesis) on the other. Substances such as neurotransmitters and neurotrophins being the main actors in such interplay, it seems reasonable to expect that alternative splicing and the different populations of protein isoforms can affect tumor-derived neurogenesis. Here, we report the different, documented ways in which neurons contribute to the development and progression of cancer and investigate what is currently known regarding cancer-neuronal interaction in several specific cancer types. Furthermore, we discuss the incidence of alternative splicing that have been identified as playing a role in tumor-induced neoneurogenesis, cancer development and progression. Several examples of changes in alternative splicing that give rise to different isoforms in nerve tissue that support cancer progression, growth and development have also been investigated. Finally, we discuss the potential of our knowledge in alternative splicing to improve tumor diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (K.M.); (L.P.); (R.M.); (G.L.); (R.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Kgomotso Mathabe
- SAMRC Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (K.M.); (L.P.); (R.M.); (G.L.); (R.H.)
- Department of Urology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0084, South Africa
| | - Llewellyn Padayachy
- SAMRC Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (K.M.); (L.P.); (R.M.); (G.L.); (R.H.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0084, South Africa
| | - Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (K.M.); (L.P.); (R.M.); (G.L.); (R.H.)
| | - George Evangelou
- 3rd Department of Medicine, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.E.); (K.N.S.)
| | - Konstantinos N. Syrigos
- 3rd Department of Medicine, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.E.); (K.N.S.)
| | | | - Georgios Lolas
- SAMRC Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (K.M.); (L.P.); (R.M.); (G.L.); (R.H.)
- 3rd Department of Medicine, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.E.); (K.N.S.)
| | - Rodney Hull
- SAMRC Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (K.M.); (L.P.); (R.M.); (G.L.); (R.H.)
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Marima R, Hull R, Penny C, Dlamini Z. Mitotic syndicates Aurora Kinase B (AURKB) and mitotic arrest deficient 2 like 2 (MAD2L2) in cohorts of DNA damage response (DDR) and tumorigenesis. Mutat Res Rev Mutat Res 2021; 787:108376. [PMID: 34083040 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2021.108376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Aurora Kinase B (AURKB) and Mitotic Arrest Deficient 2 Like 2 (MAD2L2) are emerging anticancer therapeutic targets. AURKB and MAD2L2 are the least well studied members of their protein families, compared to AURKA and MAD2L1. Both AURKB and MAD2L2 play a critical role in mitosis, cell cycle checkpoint, DNA damage response (DDR) and normal physiological processes. However, the oncogenic roles of AURKB and MAD2L2 in tumorigenesis and genomic instability have also been reported. DDR acts as an arbitrator for cell fate by either repairing the damage or directing the cell to self-destruction. While there is strong evidence of interphase DDR, evidence of mitotic DDR is just emerging and remains largely unelucidated. To date, inhibitors of the DDR components show effective anti-cancer roles. Contrarily, long-term resistance towards drugs that target only one DDR target is becoming a challenge. Targeting interactions between protein-protein or protein-DNA holds prominent therapeutic potential. Both AURKB and MAD2L2 play critical roles in the success of mitosis and their emerging roles in mitotic DDR cannot be ignored. Small molecule inhibitors for AURKB are in clinical trials. A few lead compounds towards MAD2L2 inhibition have been discovered. Targeting mitotic DDR components and their interaction is emerging as a potent next generation anti-cancer therapeutic target. This can be done by developing small molecule inhibitors for AURKB and MAD2L2, thereby targeting DDR components as anti-cancer therapeutic targets and/or targeting mitotic DDR. This review focuses on AURKB and MAD2L2 prospective synergy to deregulate the p53 DDR pathway and promote favourable conditions for uncontrolled cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahaba Marima
- SA-MRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, 0028, South Africa.
| | - Rodney Hull
- SA-MRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, 0028, South Africa
| | - Clement Penny
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SA-MRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, 0028, South Africa
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Marima R, Hull R, Mathabe K, Setlai B, Batra J, Sartor O, Mehrotra R, Dlamini Z. Prostate cancer racial, socioeconomic, geographic disparities: targeting the genomic landscape and splicing events in search for diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic targets. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:1012-1030. [PMID: 33948343 PMCID: PMC8085879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the leading causes of deaths in men globally. This is a heterogeneous and complex disease that urgently warrants further insight into its pathology. Developed countries have thus far the highest PCa incidence rates, with comparatively low mortality rates. Even though PCa in the Asian population seems to have high incidence and mortality rates, the African countries are emerging as the focal center for this disease. It has also been reported that the Sub-Saharan (SSA) countries have both the highest incidence and mortality rates. To date, few studies have reported the link between PCa and African populations. Adequate evidence is still missing to fully comprehend this relationship. While it has been brought to attention that racial, geographical and socioeconomic status are contributing factors, men of African descent across the globe, irrespective of their geographical position have higher PCa incidence and mortality rates compared to their white counterparts. To date, hormone therapy is the mainstay treatment of PCa, while the dysregulation of androgen receptor (AR) signaling is a hallmark of PCa. One of the emerging problems with this therapeutic approach is resistance to antiandrogens, and that AR splice isoforms implicated in the progression of PCa lack the therapeutic ligand-binding domain (LBD) target. AR splice variants targeted therapy is emerging and in clinical trials. Leveraging PCa transcriptomics is key towards PCa precision medicine. The aim of this review is to outline the PCa epidemiology globally and in Africa, PCa associated risk factors, discuss AR signaling and PCa mechanisms, the role of dysregulated splicing in PCa as novel prognostic indicators and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of PretoriaHatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Rodney Hull
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of PretoriaHatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Kgomotso Mathabe
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of PretoriaHatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Botle Setlai
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of PretoriaHatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Jyotsna Batra
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, Translational Research InstituteBrisbane 4102, Australia
- Cancer Program, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of TechnologyBrisbane 4102, Australia
| | - Oliver Sartor
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of PretoriaHatfield 0028, South Africa
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane Medical SchoolNew Orleans, LA 70112, United States
| | - Ravi Mehrotra
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of PretoriaHatfield 0028, South Africa
- India Cancer Research Consortium (ICMR-DHR) Department of Health ResearchRed Cross Road, New Delhi 110001, India
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of PretoriaHatfield 0028, South Africa
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Dlamini Z, Marima R, Hull R, Syrigos KN, Lolas G, Mphahlele L, Mbita Z. Genomics and molecular analysis of RPL9 and LIAS in lung cancer: Emerging implications in carcinogenesis. Informatics in Medicine Unlocked 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2021.100698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Abstract
The cell-cycle related genes are potential gene targets in understanding the effects of efavirenz (EFV) in lung cancer. The present study aimed at investigating the expression changes of cell-cycle related genes in response to EFV drug treatment in human non-small cell lung carcinoma (A549) and normal lung fibroblast (MRC-5) cells. The loss in nuclear integrity in response to EFV was detected by 4', 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining. Gene expression profiling was performed using human cell cycle PathwayFinder RT2 Profiler™ PCR Array. The expression changes of 84 genes key to the cell cycle pathway in humans following EFV treatment was examined. The R2 PCR Array analysis revealed a change in expression of selected gene targets (including MAD2L2, CASP3, AURKB). This change in gene expression was at least a two-fold between test (EFV treated) and the control. RT-qPCR confirmed the PCR array data. In addition to this, the ATM signaling pathway was shown to be upregulated following EFV treatment in MRC-5 cells. In particular, ATM's upstream activation resulted in p53 upregulation in normal lung fibroblasts. Interestingly, the p53 signaling pathway was activated irrespective of the repressed ATM pathway in A549 cells as revealed by the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). These EFV effects are similar to those of ionizing radiation and this suggests that EFV has anti-tumour properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahaba Marima
- SA-MRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
| | - Rodney Hull
- SA-MRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SA-MRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
| | - Clement Penny
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
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Marima R, Hull R, Dlamini Z, Penny C. The dual protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) exerts genotoxic stress on lung cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 132:110829. [PMID: 33059259 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The Sub-Saharan countries, particularly South Africa has the largest number of people living with HIV, accompanied by the largest antiretroviral treatment (ART) programme in the world. The Highly Active Antiretroviral Treatment (HAART) is the most effective regimen against HIV/AIDS and has improved the lifespan and quality of life of HIV positive patients. HAART has also led to a decrease in the incidence of AIDS defining cancers (ADCs) while there is an increased incidence of the non-AIDS Defining Cancers (NADCs), such as lung cancer in the HAART era. The association between lung tumourigenesis and the use of HAART components such as the dual protease inhibitor (PI) lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) is poorly understood. Using cell and molecular biological approaches, this study aimed at elucidating the effects of LPV/r on the regulation of the cell cycle related genes in normal (MRC-5) and adenocarcinoma (A549) lung cells. Initially, the nuclear integrity of these cells in response to LPV/r was determined using DAPI staining. The effect of LPV/r on cell cycle genes was evaluated through the use of a RT2 PCR gene array of 84 genes related to the cell cycle signaling pathway. The PCR array data was validated by Real-Time Quantification PCR (RT-qPCR). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) bio-informatics tool was employed to disclose the molecular mechanism/s observed at cellular and gene expression levels. Loss of nuclear integrity and the upregulation of the p53 DNA damage response (DDR) pathway was revealed by DAPI staining, differential gene expression and IPA core analysis. Furthermore, MAD2L2 and AURKB which also play a role in the DDR pathway were shown to be differentially expressed. The activation of the CASP3 gene in response to LPV/r in A549 cells was also observed. The findings of this study suggest genotoxic properties of LPV/r in healthy normal lung fibroblasts cells and anti-tumour properties in the A549 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, 0028, South Africa; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa.
| | - Rodney Hull
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, 0028, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, 0028, South Africa
| | - Clement Penny
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
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Francies FZ, Marima R, Hull R, Molefi T, Dlamini Z. Genomics and splicing events of type II endometrial cancers in the black population: racial disparity, socioeconomic and geographical differences. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:3061-3082. [PMID: 33163258 PMCID: PMC7642673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer, also known as uterine cancer, is the most common gynaecological malignancy with burgeoning incidence and mortality rates globally. Racial disparity, socioeconomic and geographical differences are important determinants of endometrial cancer incidence and mortality. Endometrial cancer is mainly categorised as type I and type II. Although less prevalent, type II is the most aggressive form of the disease and typically diagnosed at a late stage, contributing to higher mortality. Black women are at higher risk of developing aggressive, type II disease. Type I tumours are related to higher levels of circulating estrogen with lower-grade tumours that have a good prognosis and frequently related to PTEN mutations. In comparison, type II tumours are estrogen-independent, typically have poor prognosis and associated with the p53, HER2, PPP2R1A, FBXW7 and PIK3R1 mutations. The risk of developing type II malignancy is higher in women with Lynch syndrome as a result of mutations in the MMR gene family. Genetic modifications contribute to aberrant alternative splicing events that are related to tumour development, progression and resistance to therapy. Alternative splicing events are rapidly emerging as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Type II endometrial cancer lacks targeted therapy and biomarkers for novel therapeutic strategies. Recent advances have illustrated a number of molecular targets that are currently explored for the treatment of advanced, late-stage endometrial cancer. The aim of this review is to outline 1) the epidemiology of type II endometrial cancer in black women, 2) discuss the correlated risk factors that contribute to the development of type II endometrial cancer and 3) the associated molecular mechanisms and genetic factors underlying the disease, and 4) aberrant splicing events and biomarkers with therapeutic potential as novel drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Zita Francies
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention & Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Faculty of Health SciencesHatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention & Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Faculty of Health SciencesHatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Rodney Hull
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention & Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Faculty of Health SciencesHatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Thulo Molefi
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Pretoria, Faculty of Health SciencesHatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention & Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Faculty of Health SciencesHatfield 0028, South Africa
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Marima R, Hull R, Dlamini Z, Penny C. Efavirenz and Lopinavir/Ritonavir Alter Cell Cycle Regulation in Lung Cancer. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1693. [PMID: 32984047 PMCID: PMC7484481 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Highly active anti-retroviral treatment (HAART) is currently the most effective treatment for HIV/AIDS. Additionally, HIV positive patients receiving HAART have a better health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Cancers previously associated with HIV/AIDS also known as the AIDS defining cancers (ADCs), such as Kaposi's sarcoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma have been on the decline since the introduction of HAART. However, non-AIDS defining cancers (NADCs), in particular, lung cancers have been documented to be on the rise. The association between the use of HAART components and lung carcinogenesis is poorly understood. This study aimed at elucidating the effects of two HAART components [efavirenz (EFV), and lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r)] on lung cancer. This was achieved through the use of in vitro cell biological approaches to assess cell health, including cell viability, Real Time Cell Analysis (RTCA) growth monitoring, evaluation of the cell cycle, and progression to apoptosis, following on drug treatments. At plasma level concentrations, both EFV and LPV/r induced S-phase arrest, while at lower concentrations both drugs promoted the progression of cells into G2/M phase following cell cycle FACS analysis. At higher concentrations although cell viability assays reflected anti-proliferative effects of the drugs, this was not statistically significant. RTCA showed a significant decline in cell viability in response to the highest dose of LPV/r. Dual staining by Annexin V-FITC and PI confirmed significant pro-apoptotic effects were promoted by LPV/r. Both EFV and LPV/r exert double-edged oncogenic effects on MRC-5 and A549 lung cells, acting to either promote cell proliferation or to enhance apoptosis. This is affected by EFV and LPV/r altering cell cycle progression, with a significant S-phase arrest, this being an indication of cellular stress, cytotoxicity, and DNA damage within the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahaba Marima
- SA-MRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, South Africa
| | - Rodney Hull
- SA-MRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SA-MRC/UP Precision Prevention and Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers Extramural Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Pan African Cancer Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, South Africa
| | - Clement Penny
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, South Africa
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Dlamini Z, Francies FZ, Hull R, Marima R. Artificial intelligence (AI) and big data in cancer and precision oncology. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 18:2300-2311. [PMID: 32994889 PMCID: PMC7490765 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have significantly influenced many facets of the healthcare sector. Advancement in technology has paved the way for analysis of big datasets in a cost- and time-effective manner. Clinical oncology and research are reaping the benefits of AI. The burden of cancer is a global phenomenon. Efforts to reduce mortality rates requires early diagnosis for effective therapeutic interventions. However, metastatic and recurrent cancers evolve and acquire drug resistance. It is imperative to detect novel biomarkers that induce drug resistance and identify therapeutic targets to enhance treatment regimes. The introduction of the next generation sequencing (NGS) platforms address these demands, has revolutionised the future of precision oncology. NGS offers several clinical applications that are important for risk predictor, early detection of disease, diagnosis by sequencing and medical imaging, accurate prognosis, biomarker identification and identification of therapeutic targets for novel drug discovery. NGS generates large datasets that demand specialised bioinformatics resources to analyse the data that is relevant and clinically significant. Through these applications of AI, cancer diagnostics and prognostic prediction are enhanced with NGS and medical imaging that delivers high resolution images. Regardless of the improvements in technology, AI has some challenges and limitations, and the clinical application of NGS remains to be validated. By continuing to enhance the progression of innovation and technology, the future of AI and precision oncology show great promise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention & Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Flavia Zita Francies
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention & Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Rodney Hull
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention & Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Rahaba Marima
- SAMRC/UP Precision Prevention & Novel Drug Targets for HIV-Associated Cancers (PPNDTHAC) Extramural Unit, Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
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Marima R, Hull R, Kandhavelu J, Dlamini Z, Penny C. Pathway mapping reveals antiretroviral treatments' targeted cell cycle regulation in lung cancer. Informatics in Medicine Unlocked 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2020.100426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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