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Baassiri A, Ghais A, Kurdi A, Rahal E, Nasr R, Shirinian M. The molecular signature of BCR::ABLP210 and BCR::ABLT315I in a Drosophila melanogaster chronic myeloid leukemia model. iScience 2024; 27:109538. [PMID: 38585663 PMCID: PMC10995885 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109538] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorder resulting from a balanced translocation leading to BCR::ABL1 oncogene with increased tyrosine kinase activity. Despite the advancements in the development of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), the T315I gatekeeper point mutation in the BCR::ABL1 gene remains a challenge. We have previously reported in a Drosophila CML model an increased hemocyte count and disruption in sessile hemocyte patterns upon expression of BCR::ABL1p210 and BCR::ABL1T315I in the hemolymph. In this study, we performed RNA sequencing to determine if there is a distinct gene expression that distinguishes BCR::ABL1p210 and BCR::ABL1T315I. We identified six genes that were consistently upregulated in the fly CML model and validated in adult and pediatric CML patients and in a mouse cell line expressing BCR::ABL1T315I. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of gene signatures in BCR::ABL1p210 and BCR::ABL1T315I, laying the groundwork for targeted investigations into the role of these genes in CML pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amro Baassiri
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Ghais
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdallah Kurdi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Elias Rahal
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Margret Shirinian
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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Mikhael S, Kurdi A, Khoueiry-Zgheib N, Tahtouh R, Nasr R, Hilal G. Evaluating synergistic effects of metformin and simvastatin on ovarian cancer cells. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298127. [PMID: 38489280 PMCID: PMC10942021 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian Cancer (OC) stands as the most lethal gynecological malignancy, presenting an urgent clinical challenge in the quest to improve response rates. One approach to address this challenge is through drug repurposing, exemplified by the investigation of metabolic-modulating drugs such as Metformin (MTF) and Simvastatin (SIM). This study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms contributing to the potential synergistic anti-cancer effects between MTF and SIM on ovarian cancer cells. METHODS We assessed the effects of the combination on the proliferation and viability of two cell lines OVCAR-3 and SKOV-3. IC50 concentrations of MTF and SIM were determined using a proliferation assay, followed by subtoxic concentrations to explore the potential synergistic effects on the viability of both cell lines. Transcriptomic analysis was conducted on OVCAR-3 treated cells, and the findings were validated by assessing the expression levels of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) through real-time PCR in both cell lines SK-OV-3 and OVCAR-3. RESULTS Cytotoxicity analysis guided the selection of treatment concentrations as such MTF 10 mM and SIM 5 μM. The combined treatment of MTF and SIM demonstrated a synergistic inhibition of proliferation and viability in both cell lines. In OVCAR-3, exclusive identification of 507 DEGs was seen in the combination arm. Upregulation of FOXO3, RhoA, and TNFα, along with downregulation of PIK3R1, SKP2, and ATP6V1D levels, was observed in OVCAR-3 treated cells. Real-time PCR validation confirmed the consistency of expression levels for the mentioned DEGs. CONCLUSION Our data strongly supports the presence of synergy between MTF and SIM in OC cells. The combination's effect is associated with the dysregulation of genes in the key regulators AMPK and mTOR alongside other interconnected pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Mikhael
- Laboratory of Cancer and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdullah Kurdi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie Khoueiry-Zgheib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Roula Tahtouh
- Laboratory of Cancer and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - George Hilal
- Laboratory of Cancer and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
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Nasrallah I, Sabbah I, Haddad C, Ismaiil L, Kotaich J, Salameh P, Kak AEL, Nasr R, Bawab W. Evaluating the academic scientific laboratories' safety by applying failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) at the public university in Lebanon. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21145. [PMID: 38046144 PMCID: PMC10687702 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21145] [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: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Workers at scientific academic laboratories are at risk of potential exposure to different types of hazards. The study's purpose was to assess the potential failure modes (FMs) of hazards facing them through the application of the Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) method to propose corrective actions preventive actions (CAPA) to mitigate them and to improve the safety outcomes in these workplaces (WP) at the Lebanese public University (PbU). The potential FMs leading to accident occurrence in biological and chemical labs were identified and prioritized, their causes and effects were determined by applying two surveys, and the risk priority number (RPN) for each failure was calculated. A total of 24 FMs were identified. The most alarming FM having the highest RPN scores (80) was found in the workplace 'category requiring an emergency for corrective actions (CA), it is related to the unavailability of a hazard pictogram plot and the lack of labeling of chemicals and waste containers according to their categories. The FMs having RPN scores (75-60) requiring an urgent CA were assigned to other hazards of the WP, chemical, biological, and failure of the educational system. The need to program for the remaining FMs (RPN scores 20-48) is related to the safety, biological, physical, and radioactive categories 'hazards. It is recommended to apply continuously FMEA and implement the CA proposed for each detected FM in the scientific laboratories of the PbU in order to support the decision-makers to improve laboratory safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inaam Nasrallah
- Doctoral School of Science and Technology (DSST), Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri University Campus, Hadath, Lebanon
- Laboratoire de Biotechnologie des Substances Naturelles et Produits de Santé (BSNPS), Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri University Campus, Hadath, Lebanon
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri University Campus, Hadath, Lebanon
| | - Ibtissam Sabbah
- Faculty of public Health V, Lebanese University, Saida, Lebanon
| | - Chadia Haddad
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d’Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon
- School of Health Sciences, Modern University of Business and Science, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Lina Ismaiil
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri University Campus, Hadath, Lebanon
| | - Jana Kotaich
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri University Campus, Hadath, Lebanon
| | - Pascale Salameh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri University Campus, Hadath, Lebanon
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d’Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Assem EL. Kak
- Laboratoire de Biotechnologie des Substances Naturelles et Produits de Santé (BSNPS), Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri University Campus, Hadath, Lebanon
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri University Campus, Hadath, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Wafa Bawab
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri University Campus, Hadath, Lebanon
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Chamandi G, El-Hajjar L, El Kurdi A, Le Bras M, Nasr R, Lehmann-Che J. ER Negative Breast Cancer and miRNA: There Is More to Decipher Than What the Pathologist Can See! Biomedicines 2023; 11:2300. [PMID: 37626796 PMCID: PMC10452617 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082300] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC), the most prevalent cancer in women, is a heterogenous disease. Despite advancements in BC diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutics, survival rates have drastically decreased in the metastatic setting. Therefore, BC still remains a medical challenge. The evolution of high-throughput technology has highlighted gaps in the classification system of BCs. Of particular interest is the notorious triple negative BC, which was recounted as being heterogenous itself and it overlaps with distinct subtypes, namely molecular apocrine (MA) and luminal androgen (LAR) BCs. These subtypes are, even today, still misdiagnosed and poorly treated. As such, researchers and clinicians have been looking for ways through which to refine BC classification in order to properly understand the initiation, development, progression, and the responses to the treatment of BCs. One tool is biomarkers and, specifically, microRNA (miRNA), which are highly reported as associated with BC carcinogenesis. In this review, the diverse roles of miRNA in estrogen receptor negative (ER-) and androgen receptor positive (AR+) BC are depicted. While highlighting their oncogenic and tumor suppressor functions in tumor progression, we will discuss their diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarker potentials, as well as their drug sensitivity/resistance activity. The association of several miRNAs in the KEGG-reported pathways that are related to ER-BC carcinogenesis is presented. The identification and verification of accurate miRNA panels is a cornerstone for tackling BC classification setbacks, as is also the deciphering of the carcinogenesis regulators of ER - AR + BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada Chamandi
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon; (G.C.); (L.E.-H.)
- Pathophysiology of Breast Cancer Team, INSERM U976, Immunologie Humaine, Pathophysiologie, Immunothérapie (HIPI), Université Paris Cité, 75010 Paris, France;
| | - Layal El-Hajjar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon; (G.C.); (L.E.-H.)
- Office of Basic/Translational Research and Graduate Studies, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdallah El Kurdi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon;
| | - Morgane Le Bras
- Pathophysiology of Breast Cancer Team, INSERM U976, Immunologie Humaine, Pathophysiologie, Immunothérapie (HIPI), Université Paris Cité, 75010 Paris, France;
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon; (G.C.); (L.E.-H.)
| | - Jacqueline Lehmann-Che
- Pathophysiology of Breast Cancer Team, INSERM U976, Immunologie Humaine, Pathophysiologie, Immunothérapie (HIPI), Université Paris Cité, 75010 Paris, France;
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Habel A, Nassar F, Itani M, Bouaziz H, Hadj-Ahmed M, Msheik Z, Stayoussef M, Nasr R, Yacoubi-Loueslati B. Mir-21 and Mir-125b as theranostic biomarkers for epithelial ovarian cancer in Tunisian women. Afr Health Sci 2023; 23:256-264. [PMID: 38223583 PMCID: PMC10782357 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v23i2.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ovarian cancer (OC) is the third most common cancer in women and the leading cause of death associated with gynecologic tumors. Because this disease is asymptomatic in the early stages, most patients are not diagnosed until the late stages. This highlights the need for the development of diagnostic biomarkers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs, are currently being explored as potential biomarkers for the early detection of various malignancies in humans. However, their expression and diagnostic value in OC have not been well studied. Materials and Methods the plasma levels of miR-21, miR-200a, miR-200b, miR-200c, miR-205 and miR-125b were determined in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients and healthy controls by Reverse Transcription Quantitative Realtime Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). The expression levels of the deregulated microRNAs were analysed according to clinical characteristics. Results It was found that miR-21 and miR-125b were upregulated in EOC compared with healthy controls. Moreover, decreased miR-125b was associated with resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy. Conclusions Our data suggest that miR-21 and miR-125b in plasma may serve as potential circulating biomarkers for the early detection of EOC. MiR-125b may also be useful for predicting chemosensitivity in EOC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Habel
- Laboratory of Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers (LR16 ES05), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - F Nassar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Naef K. basile Cancer Institute American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - M Itani
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - H Bouaziz
- Department of Carcinological Surgery, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis
| | - M Hadj-Ahmed
- Laboratory of Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers (LR16 ES05), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Z Msheik
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - M Stayoussef
- Laboratory of Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers (LR16 ES05), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - R Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - B Yacoubi-Loueslati
- Laboratory of Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers (LR16 ES05), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
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Mezher M, Abdallah S, Ashekyan O, Shoukari AA, Choubassy H, Kurdi A, Temraz S, Nasr R. Insights on the Biomarker Potential of Exosomal Non-Coding RNAs in Colorectal Cancer: An In Silico Characterization of Related Exosomal lncRNA/circRNA–miRNA–Target Axis. Cells 2023; 12:cells12071081. [PMID: 37048155 PMCID: PMC10093117 DOI: 10.3390/cells12071081] [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] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancer types, ranking third after lung and breast cancers. As such, it demands special attention for better characterization, which may eventually result in the development of early detection strategies and preventive measures. Currently, components of bodily fluids, which may reflect various disease states, are being increasingly researched for their biomarker potential. One of these components is the circulating extracellular vesicles, namely, exosomes, which are demonstrated to carry various cargo. Of importance, the non-coding RNA cargo of circulating exosomes, especially long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and micro RNAs (miRNAs), may potentially serve as significant diagnostic and prognostic/predictive biomarkers. In this review, we present existing evidence on the diagnostic and prognostic/predictive biomarker value of exosomal non-coding RNAs in CRC. In addition, taking advantage of the miRNA sponging functionality of lncRNAs and circRNAs, we demonstrate an experimentally validated CRC exosomal non-coding RNA-regulated target gene axis benefiting from published miRNA sponging studies in CRC. Hence, we present a set of target genes and pathways downstream of the lncRNA/circRNA–miRNA–target axis along with associated significant Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, which may collectively serve to better characterize CRC and shed light on the significance of exosomal non-coding RNAs in CRC diagnosis and prognosis/prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mezher
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Samira Abdallah
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Ohanes Ashekyan
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Ayman Al Shoukari
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology, and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Hayat Choubassy
- Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut P.O. Box 6573, Lebanon
| | - Abdallah Kurdi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Sally Temraz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
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Temraz S, Jabbour J, Nassar F, El Helou R, Hadla R, Mezher M, El Lakkiss A, Charafeddine M, Nasr R, Shamseddine A. Can plasma vitamin C predict survival in stage IV colorectal cancer patients? Results of a prospective cohort study. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1110405. [PMID: 36969825 PMCID: PMC10038077 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1110405] [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] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and AimsIn light of the inconclusive evidence on the association between vitamin C status and colorectal cancer (CRC) outcome, this study assessed the prognostic value of vitamin C in participants with metastatic CRC (mCRC).MethodsAdults with mCRC and cancer-free controls were recruited in this prospective cohort study to allow for comparison of vitamin C levels with healthy individuals from the same population. Sociodemographic, lifestyle, medical variables, BRAF and KRAS mutations, as well as Vitamin C plasma level and food intake were evaluated. Predictors of diminished vitamin C level were assessed via multivariate logistic regression. Mortality and progression free survival (PFS) among mCRC participants were analyzed based on plasma vitamin C level.ResultsThe cancer group (n = 46) was older (mean age: 60 ± 14 vs. 42 ± 9.6, p = 0.047) and included more males (29% vs. 19%, p < 0.001) than the cancer-free group (n = 45). There was a non-significant difference in the vitamin C intake between the two groups; however, the mean plasma vitamin C level was lower in the cancer group (3.5 ± 3.7 vs. 9.2 ± 5.6 mg/l, p < 0.001). After adjusting for age and gender, the cancer group was more likely to be deficient compared to the cancer-free group [Adjusted Odds Ratio (95%CI): 5.4 (2.1–14)]. There was a non-significant trend for higher mortality in the vitamin C deficient cancer group (31% vs. 12%, p = 0.139). PFS did not differ based on vitamin C deficiency and patients with BRAF and KRAS mutations did not have significant differences in vitamin C levels.ConclusionmCRC patients have lower plasma vitamin C levels than healthy controls. The trend toward higher mortality in the vitamin C deficient cancer group was not statistically significant. Whether this phenomenon affects survival and response to treatment warrants further exploration in phase III clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Temraz
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Jana Jabbour
- Nutrition Program, Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Farah Nassar
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Remie El Helou
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ruba Hadla
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maria Mezher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ahmed El Lakkiss
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maya Charafeddine
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- *Correspondence: Rihab Nasr,
| | - Ali Shamseddine
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- Ali Shamseddine,
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El-Hajjar L, Ali Ahmad F, Nasr R. A Guide to Flow Cytometry: Components, Basic Principles, Experimental Design, and Cancer Research Applications. Curr Protoc 2023; 3:e721. [PMID: 36946745 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Flow cytometry (FCM) is a state-of-the-art technique for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of cells and other particles' physical and biological properties. These cells are suspended within a high-velocity fluid stream and pass through a laser beam in single file. The main principle of the FCM instrument is the light scattering and fluorescence emission upon the interaction of the fluorescent particle with the laser beam. It also allows for the physical sorting of particles depending on different parameters. A flow cytometer comprises different components, including fluidic, optics, and electronics systems. This article briefly explains the mechanism of all components of a flow cytometer to clarify the FCM technique's general principles, provides some useful guidelines for the proper design of FCM panels, and highlights some general applications and important applications in cancer research. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layal El-Hajjar
- Office of Basic/Translational Research and Graduate Studies, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Fatima Ali Ahmad
- Office of Basic/Translational Research and Graduate Studies, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Office of Basic/Translational Research and Graduate Studies, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Naser Al Deen N, Atallah Lanman N, Chittiboyina S, Fostok S, Nasr R, Lelièvre S, Talhouk R. Over-expression of miR-183-5p or miR-492 triggers invasion and proliferation and loss of polarity in non-neoplastic breast epithelium. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21974. [PMID: 36539576 PMCID: PMC9768134 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25663-8] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) serve as novel noninvasive cancer biomarkers. In an HMT-3522 S1 (S1) breast epithelial risk-progression three-dimensional (3D) culture model, non-neoplastic S1 cells form a fully polarized epithelium. When silenced for the gap junction and tumor suppressor Cx43, Cx43-KO-S1 cells recapitulate pre-neoplastic phenotypes observed in tissues at risk for breast cancer in vivo. To delineate the role of miRNAs in breast tumorigenesis and identify key miRNA players in breast epithelial polarity, the miRNA profile specific to Cx43 loss in Cx43-KO-S1 compared to S1 cells was sequenced, revealing 65 differentially expressed miRNAs. A comparative analysis was conducted between these miRNAs and tumor-associated miRNAs from a young Lebanese patient validation cohort. miR-183-5p, downstream of Cx43 loss, was commonly upregulated in the patient cohort and the 3D culture model. miR-492, not attributed to Cx43 loss, was only specifically up-regulated in the young Lebanese patients. Ectopic expression of either miR-183-5p or miR-492 in S1 cells, through pLenti-III-miR-GPF vectors, resulted in the formation of larger multi-layered acini devoid of lumen, with disrupted epithelial polarity, as shown by an altered localization of Cx43, ß-catenin and Scrib, and decreased nuclear circularity in 3D cultures. Enhanced proliferation and invasion capacity were also observed. Over-expression of miR-183-5p or miR-492, therefore, induces pre-neoplastic phenotypes similar to those reported upon Cx43 loss, and may act as oncomiRs and possible biomarkers of increased breast cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Naser Al Deen
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box: 11-0236, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nadia Atallah Lanman
- Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, Indiana, USA
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, Indiana, USA
| | - Shirisha Chittiboyina
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, Indiana, USA
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, USA
| | - Sabreen Fostok
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box: 11-0236, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sophie Lelièvre
- Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, Indiana, USA
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, Indiana, USA
- Institut de Cancérologie de L'Ouest (ICO), Angers, France
| | - Rabih Talhouk
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box: 11-0236, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Ashekyan O, Abdallah S, Shoukari AA, Chamandi G, Choubassy H, Itani ARS, Alwan N, Nasr R. Spotlight on Exosomal Non-Coding RNAs in Breast Cancer: An In Silico Analysis to Identify Potential lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-Target Axis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158351. [PMID: 35955480 PMCID: PMC9369058 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) has recently become the most common cancer type worldwide, with metastatic disease being the main reason for disease mortality. This has brought about strategies for early detection, especially the utilization of minimally invasive biomarkers found in various bodily fluids. Exosomes have been proposed as novel extracellular vesicles, readily detectable in bodily fluids, secreted from BC-cells or BC-tumor microenvironment cells, and capable of conferring cellular signals over long distances via various cargo molecules. This cargo is composed of different biomolecules, among which are the novel non-coding genome products, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and the recently discovered circular RNA (circRNA), all of which were found to be implicated in BC pathology. In this review, the diverse roles of the ncRNA cargo of BC-derived exosomes will be discussed, shedding light on their primarily oncogenic and additionally tumor suppressor roles at different levels of BC tumor progression, and drug sensitivity/resistance, along with presenting their diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarker potential. Finally, benefiting from the miRNA sponging mechanism of action of lncRNAs and circRNAs, we established an experimentally validated breast cancer exosomal non-coding RNAs-regulated target gene axis from already published exosomal ncRNAs in BC. The resulting genes, pathways, gene ontology (GO) terms, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis could be a starting point to better understand BC and may pave the way for the development of novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ohanes Ashekyan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 11-0236, Lebanon;
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 11-0236, Lebanon; (S.A.); (G.C.); (H.C.)
| | - Samira Abdallah
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 11-0236, Lebanon; (S.A.); (G.C.); (H.C.)
| | - Ayman Al Shoukari
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology, and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 11-0236, Lebanon;
| | - Ghada Chamandi
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 11-0236, Lebanon; (S.A.); (G.C.); (H.C.)
- INSERM U976, HIPI, Pathophysiology of Breast Cancer Team, Université de Paris, 75010 Paris, France
| | - Hayat Choubassy
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 11-0236, Lebanon; (S.A.); (G.C.); (H.C.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut 11-0236, Lebanon
| | - Abdul Rahman S. Itani
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Inflammatory Stress in Stem Cells, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nisreen Alwan
- College of Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi 59911, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: (N.A.); (R.N.); Tel.: +971-2-5015647 (N.A.); +961-1-350000 (ext. 4812) (R.N.)
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 11-0236, Lebanon; (S.A.); (G.C.); (H.C.)
- Correspondence: (N.A.); (R.N.); Tel.: +971-2-5015647 (N.A.); +961-1-350000 (ext. 4812) (R.N.)
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11
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Temraz S, Nasr R, Mukherji D, Kreidieh F, Shamseddine A. Liquid Biopsy Derived Circulating Tumor Cells and Circulating Tumor DNA as Novel Biomarkers in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2022; 22:507-518. [PMID: 35758097 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2022.2094706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is made at a relatively advanced stage resulting in poor prognosis. Alpha-fetoprotein and liver ultrasound have limited accuracy as biomarkers in HCC. Liver biopsy provides information on tumor biology; however, it is invasive and holds high threat of tumor seeding. Thus, more accurate and less invasive approaches are needed. AREAS COVERED Highly sensitive liquid biopsy assays have made possible the detection and analysis of cells or organelles such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs), circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and tumor-derived exosomes. Here, we focus on CTCs and ctDNA components of liquid biopsy and their clinical application as diagnostic, prognostic and predictive biomarkers in HCC. Unlike tissue biopsy, liquid biopsy involves attaining a sample at several time frames in an easy and a non-invasive manner. They have been efficacious in detecting and classifying cancer, in predicting treatment response, in monitoring disease relapse and in identifying mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapies. EXPERT OPINION Although interesting and highly promising, liquid biopsy techniques still have many obstacles to overcome before their wide spread clinical application sees the light. It is expected that these techniques will be incorporated into traditional methodologies for better diagnostic, predictive and prognostic results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Temraz
- Department of internal medicine, Hematology/Oncology division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Deborah Mukherji
- Department of internal medicine, Hematology/Oncology division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Firas Kreidieh
- Department of internal medicine, Hematology/Oncology division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Shamseddine
- Department of internal medicine, Hematology/Oncology division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
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12
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Abubaker D, Baassiri A, Ghannam M, Al Outa A, Ghais A, Rahal E, Nasr R, Shirinian M. Expression of chronic myeloid leukemia oncogenes BCR-ABL P210 and BCR-ABL T315I affect cellular and humoral innate immunity in Drosophila melanogaster. MicroPubl Biol 2022; 2022:10.17912/micropub.biology.000551. [PMID: 35622506 PMCID: PMC9008464 DOI: 10.17912/micropub.biology.000551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm that results from a chromosomal translocation between chromosome 9 and chromosome 22. The resulting fusion gene (
BCR-ABL
) encodes a constitutively active BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase. Some mutations of this oncogene, especially the Threonine 315 to Isoleucine substitution of the ABL kinase is resistant to first and second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) conventionally used in CML therapy. We have previously validated a CML fruit fly model for drug screening using the adult fly compound eye. Here we expressed wild-type
BCR-ABL
P210
and
mutated
BCR-ABL
T315I
in
Drosophila melanogaster
hematopoietic system to understand the phenotypic consequences of this expression and its impact on innate immune pathways. Flies expressing both wild-type
BCR-ABLP210
and mutant
BCR-ABLT315I
showed increased number of circulating hemocytes, disruption in sessile patterning of resident hemocytes, dysregulation in the humoral Toll, ImD, and JAK/STAT pathways at the mRNA level in both the 3
rd
instar larva and adult stages. Of note,
BCR-ABLT315I
flies presented more severe phenotypes and a higher deviation in humoral dysregulation than BCR
-ABLP210
flies pointing towards more complex oncogenic effect of this mutant which requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Abubaker
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
,
Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Amro Baassiri
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mirna Ghannam
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
,
Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Amani Al Outa
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Ghais
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Elias Rahal
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
,
Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
,
Correspondence to: Rihab Nasr (
)
| | - Margret Shirinian
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
,
Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
,
Correspondence to: Margret Shirinian (
)
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13
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Ghadban YA, Zgheib N, Romani M, Akl IB, Nasr R. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on smoking behavior and beliefs among the American University of Beirut community. Tob Prev Cessat 2022; 8:02. [PMID: 35118214 PMCID: PMC8785139 DOI: 10.18332/tpc/144499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The current COVID-19 outbreak has led to sudden changes in routine and modifications in health behaviors. The study presented here investigates the changes in smoking behavior and beliefs due to the pandemic among a sample of individuals at the American University of Beirut (AUB) in Lebanon, between August and September 2020. METHODS This is a cross-sectional exploratory study based on data collected through an anonymous, web-based questionnaire. We performed descriptive and univariate analysis on sociodemographic factors, smoking practices, smoking behavior changes, and smoking beliefs. RESULTS In all, 197 participants (65.5% never smokers, 8.1% former smokers, and 26.4% current smokers) completed the online survey. Of these, 19.3% reported a change in their smoking behavior in the last four months, with an equal number of participants increasing and decreasing smoking. Univariate analysis showed that fear of contracting coronavirus and personal health concerns were significantly associated with a decrease in smoking. In contrast, the stress associated with the COVID-19 crisis and the economic crisis was associated with an increase in smoking. CONCLUSIONS The current COVID-19 outbreak has resulted in unexpected alterations in routine and changes in health behaviors. A quarter of all participants said they had changed their smoking habits, with an equal percentage saying they had increased or decreased their smoking. Future research is needed to look into changes in smoking behavior in a more representative group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmina Al Ghadban
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Nathalie Zgheib
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maya Romani
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Imad Bou Akl
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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14
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Staiteieh SA, Akil L, Al Khansa R, Nasr R, Al Sagheer Z, Houshaymi B, Merhi RA. Study of microRNA expression profiling as biomarkers for colorectal cancer patients in Lebanon. Mol Clin Oncol 2022; 16:39. [PMID: 35003737 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2021.2473] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The high incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) reveal its hazardous effect globally. Thus, it is important to diagnose CRC at an early stage to decrease its burden and improve survival rates. Previous studies have investigated the role of short non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) in numerous types of cancer, including CRC. Previous studies have been performed to investigate the role of miRNAs as biomarkers in diagnosis, prognosis and prediction of CRC development. The aim of the present retrospective study was to identify the expression levels of miR-31, miR-145, miR-146b and miR-186 to highlight their role in CRC diagnosis and progression at different stages of the disease (precancerous polyp, adenoma and adenocarcinoma) in a Lebanese population. The expression levels of miRNAs was revealed using TaqMan reverse transcription-quantitative PCR on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues from Lebanese patients at different stages; their diagnostic value was determined using a receiver operating characteristics curve. Compared with healthy controls, miR-31 was upregulated (P<0.0001) at all stages. By contrast, miR-145, miR-186, and miR-146b were significantly downregulated at all stages (P<0.0001, P=0.0009 and P=0.0241, respectively). Of the four miRNAs studied, miR-31 and miR-145 were identified as potentially useful diagnostic factors, with an area under the curve of 0.7771 and 0.8269 and diagnostic accuracy of 71.3 and 78.5%, respectively. These data suggested that miR-31 and miR-145, upon further clinical validation, may be used as potential diagnostic biomarkers for the early detection of CRC at the polyp stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumaiah Abou Staiteieh
- Genomics and Surveillance Biotherapy Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, R. Hariri Campus, Lebanese University, Hadath 1003, Lebanon
| | - Laila Akil
- Anatomy and Pathology Department, Bahman Hospital, Haret Hreik, Mount Lebanon 128-25, Lebanon
| | - Rawan Al Khansa
- Genomics and Surveillance Biotherapy Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, R. Hariri Campus, Lebanese University, Hadath 1003, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - Zainab Al Sagheer
- Applied Mathematics Department, Faculty of Sciences, R. Hariri Campus, Lebanese University, Hadath 1003, Lebanon
| | - Bilal Houshaymi
- Genomics and Surveillance Biotherapy Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, R. Hariri Campus, Lebanese University, Hadath 1003, Lebanon
| | - Raghida Abou Merhi
- Genomics and Surveillance Biotherapy Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, R. Hariri Campus, Lebanese University, Hadath 1003, Lebanon
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15
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Fadhil I, Alkhalawi E, Nasr R, Fouad H, Basu P, Camacho R, Alsaadoon H. National cancer control plans across the Eastern Mediterranean region: challenges and opportunities to scale-up. Lancet Oncol 2021; 22:e517-e529. [PMID: 34735820 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(21)00410-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
National cancer control planning is crucial for countries in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean region. This region is challenged with an increase in cancer incidence leading to substantial disease burden, premature deaths, and increasing health-care costs in most countries. Huge inequity in cancer control planning and implementation exists between and within the countries. Over half of the countries (12 [55%] of 22) have standalone comprehensive National Cancer Control Plans and six (27%) have non-communicable disease plans that include cancer. The implementation of cancer plans has common challenges related to weak governance structure, few coordination mechanisms within countries, and inadequate human and financial resources. In most countries, the plan is not costed. Yet, the majority of countries (20 [91%]) reported having fully or partially funded plans. Additionally, political instability and conflicts affecting over half of the countries in the Eastern Mediterranean region have enormously affected cancer planning and implementation, both among the affected countries and those that host large numbers of refugees. In this Policy Review, we used the WHO regional framework for action on cancer to systematically analyse the status of cancer control planning and implementation across the six domains of cancer control, from prevention to palliation. We highlight the gaps, and the opportunities for bridging these gaps, to achieve scale-up on implementation of cancer control programmes in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibtihal Fadhil
- The Eastern Mediterranean NCD Alliance, Kuwait City, Kuwait.
| | - Eman Alkhalawi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Cancer Survival Group, Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K Basile Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Heba Fouad
- NCD Surveillance Unit, WHO, Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Partha Basu
- Early Detection, Prevention, and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, WHO, Lyon, France
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16
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Temraz S, Nassar F, Kreidieh F, Mukherji D, Shamseddine A, Nasr R. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immunotherapy and the Potential Influence of Gut Microbiome. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157800. [PMID: 34360566 PMCID: PMC8346024 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [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: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Disruptions in the human gut microbiome have been associated with a cycle of hepatocyte injury and regeneration characteristic of chronic liver disease. Evidence suggests that the gut microbiota can promote the development of hepatocellular carcinoma through the persistence of this inflammation by inducing genetic and epigenetic changes leading to cancer. As the gut microbiome is known for its effect on host metabolism and immune response, it comes as no surprise that the gut microbiome may have a role in the response to therapeutic strategies such as immunotherapy and chemotherapy for liver cancer. Gut microbiota may influence the efficacy of immunotherapy by regulating the responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Here, we review the mechanisms by which gut microbiota influences hepatic carcinogenesis, the immune checkpoint inhibitors currently being used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as summarize the current findings to support the potential critical role of gut microbiome in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Temraz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (F.N.); (F.K.); (D.M.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: (S.T.); (R.N.)
| | - Farah Nassar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (F.N.); (F.K.); (D.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Firas Kreidieh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (F.N.); (F.K.); (D.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Deborah Mukherji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (F.N.); (F.K.); (D.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Ali Shamseddine
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (F.N.); (F.K.); (D.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
- Correspondence: (S.T.); (R.N.)
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17
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Nassar F, Hadla R, El Helou R, Kreidieh F, Bejjany R, Mukherji D, Shamseddine A, Nasr R, Temraz S. P-232 Prognostic inflammatory and microRNA biomarkers in stage IV colorectal cancer patients. Ann Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2021.05.286] [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: 10/20/2022] Open
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18
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Telvizian T, Al Ghadban Y, Alawa J, Mukherji D, Zgheib NK, Sawaf B, Nasr R, Bardus M. Knowledge, beliefs, and practices related to cancer screening and prevention in Lebanon: community and social media users' perspectives. Eur J Cancer Prev 2021; 30:341-349. [PMID: 32956077 DOI: 10.1097/cej.0000000000000631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Common to many countries in the Middle East, Lebanon has an increasing cancer burden; however, national screening programs are limited to breast cancer. The literature on cancer screening practices and beliefs is scarce. This cross-sectional study investigates the knowledge, beliefs, and practices related to the prevention and screening for breast, cervical, colon, lung, and skin cancers among Lebanese residents, recruited through social media advertisements and community outreach activities. METHODS Participants filled an anonymous questionnaire either via a web-based interface or using tablets distributed at primary health clinics. The characteristics of the two cohorts were compared with chi-square and t-tests. We performed descriptive analysis, followed by multivariate logistic regression for predictors of cancer screening. RESULTS A total of 407 participants completed the survey online, and 262 filled the study in tablets available at primary care clinics. The two samples were significantly different in terms of age, education, and perceived socioeconomic status. Online participants demonstrated higher knowledge and higher participation in screening practices than their counterparts recruited through community outreach. Mammography (44.7% online and 39.9% in-person), and cervical cancer screening (44.5% online and 36.7% community) had the highest participation rates. In both samples, participants who were older and more educated were more likely to report engagement with cancer screening practices. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed significant knowledge gaps in cancer prevention and screening. Different sampling techniques accessed diverse populations, highlighting the need for educational messages and targeted screening programs to be inclusive of socio-economically disadvantaged communities with low education and health literacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talar Telvizian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Yasmina Al Ghadban
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jude Alawa
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Deborah Mukherji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute
| | - Nathalie K Zgheib
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
| | | | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences
| | - Marco Bardus
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute
- Department of Health Promotion and Community Health, American University of Beirut Faculty of Health Sciences, Beirut, Lebanon
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19
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Awada Z, Bouaoun L, Nasr R, Tfayli A, Cuenin C, Akika R, Boustany RM, Makoukji J, Tamim H, Zgheib NK, Ghantous A. LINE-1 methylation mediates the inverse association between body mass index and breast cancer risk: A pilot study in the Lebanese population. Environ Res 2021; 197:111094. [PMID: 33839117 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111094] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lebanon is among the top countries worldwide in combined incidence and mortality of breast cancer, which raises concern about risk factors peculiar to this country. The underlying molecular mechanisms of breast cancer require elucidation, particularly epigenetics, which is recognized as a molecular sensor to environmental exposures. PURPOSE We aim to explore whether DNA methylation levels of AHRR (marker of cigarette smoking), SLC1A5 and TXLNA (markers of alcohol consumption), and LINE-1 (a genome-wide repetitive retrotransposon) can act as molecular mediators underlying putative associations between breast cancer risk and pertinent extrinsic (tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption) and intrinsic factors [age and body mass index (BMI)]. METHODS This is a cross-sectional pilot study which includes breast cancer cases (N = 65) and controls (N = 54). DNA methylation levels were measured using bisulfite pyrosequencing on available peripheral blood samples (N = 119), and Multivariate Imputation by Chained Equations (MICE) was used to impute missing DNA methylation values in remaining samples. Multiple mediation analysis was performed to assess direct and indirect (via DNA methylation) effects of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on breast cancer risk. RESULTS In relation to exposure, AHRR hypo-methylation was associated with cigarette but not waterpipe smoking, suggesting potentially different biomarkers of these two forms of tobacco use; SLC1A5 and TXLNA methylation were not associated with alcohol consumption; LINE-1 methylation was inversely associated with BMI (β-value [95% confidence interval (CI)] = -0.04 [-0.07, -0.02]), which remained significant after adjustment for age, smoking and alcohol consumption. In relation to breast cancer, there was no detectable association between AHRR, SLC1A5 or TXLNA methylation and cancer risk, but LINE-1 methylation was significantly higher in breast cancer cases when compared to controls (mean ± SD: 72.00 ± 0.66 versus 70.89 ± 0.73, P = 4.67 × 10-14). This difference remained significant after adjustment for confounders (odds ratio (OR) [95% CI] = 9.75[3.74, 25.39]). Moreover, LINE-1 hypo-methylation mediated 83% of the inverse effect of BMI on breast cancer risk. CONCLUSION This pilot study demonstrates that alterations in blood LINE-1 methylation mediate the inverse effect of BMI on breast cancer risk. This warrants large scale studies and stratification based on clinic-pathological types of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Awada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon; International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | | | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Arafat Tfayli
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Cyrille Cuenin
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Reem Akika
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rose-Mary Boustany
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon; Department of Neurology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Joelle Makoukji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hani Tamim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Research Institute, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie K Zgheib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Akram Ghantous
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France.
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20
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Bou Akl I, K Zgheib N, Matar M, Mukherji D, Bardus M, Nasr R. Primary care and pulmonary physicians' knowledge and practice concerning screening for lung cancer in Lebanon, a middle-income country. Cancer Med 2021; 10:2877-2884. [PMID: 33742559 PMCID: PMC8026943 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3816] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Screening for lung cancer with low‐dose computed tomography (LDCT) was shown to reduce lung cancer incidence and overall mortality, and it has been recently included in international guidelines. Despite the rising burden of lung cancer in low and middle‐income countries (LMICs) such as Lebanon, little is known about what primary care physicians or pulmonologists know and think about LDCT as a screening procedure for lung cancer, and if they recommend it. Objectives Evaluate the knowledge about LDCT and implementation of international guidelines for lung cancer screening among Lebanese primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonary specialists. Methodology PCPs and PUs based in Lebanon were surveyed concerning knowledge and practices related to lung cancer screening by self‐administered paper questionnaires. Results 73.8% of PCPs and 60.7% of pulmonary specialists recognized LDCT as an effective tool for lung cancer screening, with 63.6% of PCPs and 71% of pulmonary specialists having used it for screening. However, only 23.4% of PCPs and 14.5% of pulmonary specialists recognized the eligibility criteria for screening. Chest X‐ray was recognized as ineffective by only 55.8% of PCPs and 40.7% of pulmonary specialists; indeed, 30.2% of PCPs and 46% of pulmonary specialists continue using it for screening. The majority have initiated a discussion about the risks and benefits of lung cancer screening. Conclusion PCPs and pulmonary specialists are initiating discussions and ordering LDCT for lung cancer screening. However, a significant proportion of both specialties are still using a non‐recommended screening tool (chest x‐ray); only few PCPs and pulmonary specialists recognized the population at risk for which screening is recommended. Targeted provider education is needed to close the knowledge gap and promote proper implementation of guidelines for lung cancer screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imad Bou Akl
- Division of Pulmonary, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie K Zgheib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon.,Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maroun Matar
- Division of Pulmonary, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Deborah Mukherji
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon.,Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marco Bardus
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Health Promotion and Community Health, American University of Beirut Faculty of Health Sciences, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
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21
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Antoun A, Saddick H, Nasr R, Khalil N, Watelain E, El Hage R. Relations between maximal strength indices and bone health parameters in a group of elderly subjects. Sci Sports 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scispo.2020.09.008] [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: 11/25/2022]
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22
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Shatila H, Fatfat Z, Talhouk R, Naalbandian S, Forman MR, Nasr R, Naja F. Nutrition and Breast Cancer Research in Arab Countries: Gaps, Opportunities, and Recommendations. Nutr Cancer 2020; 73:2113-2129. [PMID: 32972248 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2020.1823435] [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: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
According to the WHO, Arab countries have the highest relative increase in Breast Cancer (BC) rates worldwide. Current shifts in dietary patterns in these countries are postulated as important modifiable risk factors of the disease. The objectives of this review were to examine the gaps and opportunities in the extent, range and nature of nutrition-related BC research in Arab countries. Studies (n = 286) were identified through searching 14 electronic databases. Among the gaps identified were limited international collaborations, preponderance of laboratory-based research at the expense of population-based research, focus on single supplement/nutrient/food research, limited use of dietary assessment tools, and studying nutrition in isolation of other environmental factors. Despite these gaps, several opportunities appeared. The distribution of papers among Arab countries suggested that collaboration between high and middle income countries could create a positive synergy between research expertise and wealth. In addition, the steady increase in the number of articles published during the last two decades reflected a promising momentum in nutrition and BC research in the Arab world. These gaps and opportunities constituted context-specific evidence to orient nutrition and BC research in Arab countries which could ultimately lead to development of effective interventions for prevention of BC in these countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hibeh Shatila
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Zaynab Fatfat
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rabih Talhouk
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Salpy Naalbandian
- University Libraries, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Michele R Forman
- Nutrition Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Farah Naja
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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23
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Nasr R, Shamseddine A, Mukherji D, Nassar F, Temraz S. The Crosstalk between Microbiome and Immune Response in Gastric Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186586. [PMID: 32916853 PMCID: PMC7556019 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is the end result of a complex interplay between host genetics, environmental factors, and microbial factors. The link between gut microbiome and gastric cancer has been attributed to persistent activation of the host's immune system by gut microbiota. The end result of this dysregulated interaction between host epithelium and microbes is a state of chronic inflammation. Gut bacteria can promote anti-tumor immune responses through several mechanisms. These include triggering T-cell responses to bacterial antigens that can cross-react with tumor antigens or cause tumor-specific antigen recognition; engagement of pattern recognition receptors that mediate pro-immune or anti-inflammatory effects or via small metabolites that mediate systemic effects on the host. Here we review the role of the gut microbiome including H. pylori and non-H. pylori gastric bacteria, the immune response, and immunotherapy using checkpoint inhibitors. We also review the evidence for cross talk between the gut microbiome and immune response in gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon;
| | - Ali Shamseddine
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon; (A.S.); (D.M.); (F.N.)
| | - Deborah Mukherji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon; (A.S.); (D.M.); (F.N.)
| | - Farah Nassar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon; (A.S.); (D.M.); (F.N.)
| | - Sally Temraz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon; (A.S.); (D.M.); (F.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +961-137-4374
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Abstract
Leukemia involves different types of blood cancers, which lead to significant mortality and morbidity. Murine models of leukemia have been instrumental in understanding the biology of the disease and identifying therapeutics. However, such models are time consuming and expensive in high throughput genetic and drug screening. Drosophilamelanogaster has emerged as an invaluable in vivo model for studying different diseases, including cancer. Fruit flies possess several hematopoietic processes and compartments that are in close resemblance to their mammalian counterparts. A number of studies succeeded in characterizing the fly's response upon the expression of human leukemogenic proteins in hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic tissues. Moreover, some of these studies showed that these models are amenable to genetic screening. However, none were reported to be tested for drug screening. In this review, we describe the Drosophila hematopoietic system, briefly focusing on leukemic diseases in which fruit flies have been used. We discuss myeloid and lymphoid leukemia fruit fly models and we further highlight their roles for future therapeutic screening. In conclusion, fruit fly leukemia models constitute an interesting area which could speed up the process of integrating new therapeutics when complemented with mammalian models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amani Al Outa
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Dana Abubaker
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
- Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Joelle Madi
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
- Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Margret Shirinian
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
- Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
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25
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Tsukasaki K, Marçais A, Nasr R, Kato K, Fukuda T, Hermine O, Bazarbachi A. Diagnostic Approaches and Established Treatments for Adult T Cell Leukemia Lymphoma. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1207. [PMID: 32636814 PMCID: PMC7317092 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [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: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult T-cell leukemia-lymphoma (ATL) is a distinct mature T-cell malignancy caused by human T-cell leukemia/lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-1) endemic in some areas in the world. HTLV-1 transmits through mother-to-child infection via breastfeeding, sexual intercourses, and blood transfusions. Early HTLV-1 infection, presumably through mother’s milk, is crucial in developing ATL. The estimated cumulative risk of the development of ATL in HTLV-1 carriers is a few percent after transmission from their mothers. The median age of ATL onset is about 70 in Japan and is now rising, whereas an overall mean age in the mid-forties is reported in other parts of the world. ATL is classified into four clinical subtypes (acute, lymphoma, chronic, and smoldering) defined by organ lesions and LDH/calcium values. In aggressive ATL (acute, lymphoma or unfavorable chronic types) and indolent ATL (favorable chronic or smoldering types), intensive chemotherapy followed by allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and watchful waiting until disease progression has been recommended, respectively, in Japan. Based on a worldwide meta-analysis and multiple other retrospective studies, the antiviral combination of interferon alpha (IFN) and zidovudine (AZT) is recommended in many parts of the world in acute, chronic, and smoldering ATL whereas patients with the lymphoma subtype are treated with chemotherapy, either alone or combined with AZT/IFN. Several new agents have been approved for ATL by the Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) after clinical trials, including an anti-CC chemokine receptor 4 monoclonal antibody, mogamulizumab; an immunomodulatory agent, lenalidomide; and an anti-CD30 antibody/drug conjugate, brentuximab vedotin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunihiro Tsukasaki
- Department of Hematology, International Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Ambroise Marçais
- Institut Imagine - INSERM U1163, Necker Hospital, University of Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Hematology, Necker Hospital, University of Paris, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Koji Kato
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takahiro Fukuda
- Department of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Olivier Hermine
- Institut Imagine - INSERM U1163, Necker Hospital, University of Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Hematology, Necker Hospital, University of Paris, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Ali Bazarbachi
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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26
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Awada Z, Nasr R, Akika R, Ghantous A, Hou L, Zgheib NK. Effect of bisphenols on telomerase expression and activity in breast cancer cell lines. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:3541-3549. [PMID: 32333245 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05444-0] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA), a monomer of polycarbonates and resins, was shown to induce the expression of telomerase enzyme which has been associated with breast cancer development and progression. However, the effects of BPA analogues, bisphenol F (BPF) and bisphenol S (BPS) on telomere-linked pathway have not been evaluated. Herein, MCF-7 (estrogen receptor (ER)-positive) and MDA-MB-231 (ER-negative) cells were treated with BPA, BPF and BPS ± estrogen receptor inhibitor (ERI), for 24 and/or 48 h. RNA expression and enzymatic activity of telomerase were measured using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP); respectively. Relative telomere length (RTL) was also measured using quantitative PCR. After 24 h, the three bisphenols resulted in a 2-3 folds increase in expression and activity of telomerase in MCF-7 but not in MDA-MB-231 cells, and this increase was prevented upon co-treatment with ERI. The observed increase in the expression and activity of telomerase after 24 h of treatment with bisphenols was associated with differential and modest ER-dependent lengthening in RTL at 48 h. Our results show that telomerase potentially mediates the effects of the three bisphenols in ER-positive breast carcinoma. Hence, further investigation is warranted to elucidate the telomerase-linked pathways that could underlie bisphenol-related effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Awada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Reem Akika
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - Akram Ghantous
- Epigenetics Group, International Agency for Research On Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Lifang Hou
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
| | - Nathalie K Zgheib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, 1107-2020, Lebanon.
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27
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Zgheib NK, Alameddine R, Massoud R, Nasr R, Zahreddine A, El Cheikh J, Mahfouz R, Bazarbachi A. The role of candidate genetic polymorphisms in the interaction between voriconazole and cyclosporine in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation: An explorative study. Curr Res Transl Med 2020; 68:51-58. [PMID: 32094096 DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate polymorphisms in genes of drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters involved in cyclosporine and/or voriconazole disposition among patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). METHODS DNA from forty patients was genotyped using the DMETPlus array. The average ratio of cyclosporine concentration/dose (C/D in (ng/mL)/(mg/kg)) per participant's weight was computed using available trough levels and daily doses. RESULTS The C/D cyclosporine ratio was significantly higher when it was administered with voriconazole as compared to when it was administered alone: median: 116.75 vs. 25.40 (ng/mL)/(mg/kg) with and without voriconazole respectively, (P < 0.001). There was also a significant association between the C/D cyclosporine ratio combined with voriconazole and the ABCB1 2677 G > T > A (rs2032582) genetic polymorphism (P = 0.05). In parallel, ABCB1 variant allele carriers had higher creatinine in combination therapy with a median creatinine (mg/dL) of 0.74 vs. 0.56 for variant allele carriers vs. reference; P = 0.003. Interestingly, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A5 extensive metabolizers tended to be associated with lower cyclosporine C/D ratio when combined with voriconazole, but the results were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION To the best of our knowledge, this is the first pharmacogenetic study on the interaction between voriconazole and cyclosporine in patients undergoing allo-HCT. Results suggest that the ABCB1 2677 G > T > A genetic polymorphism plays a role in this interaction with cyclosporine related nephrotoxicity. Pre-emptive genotyping for this genetic variant may be warranted for cyclosporine dose optimization. Larger studies are needed to potentially show significant associations with more candidate genes such as CYP3A4/5, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19, among others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Khoueiry Zgheib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Raafat Alameddine
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Radwan Massoud
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ammar Zahreddine
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Jean El Cheikh
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rami Mahfouz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Bazarbachi
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Baassiri A, Nassar F, Mukherji D, Shamseddine A, Nasr R, Temraz S. Exosomal Non Coding RNA in LIQUID Biopsies as a Promising Biomarker for Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041398. [PMID: 32092975 PMCID: PMC7073025 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with a high mortality rate, especially in those that are diagnosed in late stages of the disease. The current screening blood-based markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), have low sensitivity and specificity. Meanwhile, other modalities are either expensive or invasive. Therefore, recent research has shifted towards a minimally invasive test, namely, liquid biopsy. Exosomes are favorable molecules sought in blood samples, since they are abundant, stable in circulation, and harbor genetic information and other biomolecules that could serve as biomarkers or even therapeutic targets. Furthermore, exosomal noncoding RNAs, such as miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs, have demonstrated the diagnostic potential to detect CRC at an early stage with a higher sensitivity and specificity than CEA and CA19-9 alone. Moreover, they have prognostic potential that is TNM stage specific and could serve as predictive biomarkers for the most common chemotherapeutic drug and combination regimen in CRC, which are 5-FU and FOLFOX, respectively. Therefore, in this review, we focus on the role of these exosomal noncoding RNAs as diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers. In addition, we discuss the advantages and challenges of exosomes as a liquid biopsy target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amro Baassiri
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon;
| | - Farah Nassar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon; (F.N.); (D.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Deborah Mukherji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon; (F.N.); (D.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Ali Shamseddine
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon; (F.N.); (D.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon;
- Correspondence: (R.N.); (S.T.); Tel.: +96-1135-000 (ext. 4812) (R.N.); +96-1137-4374 (S.T.)
| | - Sally Temraz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107, Lebanon; (F.N.); (D.M.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: (R.N.); (S.T.); Tel.: +96-1135-000 (ext. 4812) (R.N.); +96-1137-4374 (S.T.)
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29
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Nassar FJ, Chamandi G, Tfaily MA, Zgheib NK, Nasr R. Peripheral Blood-Based Biopsy for Breast Cancer Risk Prediction and Early Detection. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:28. [PMID: 32118013 PMCID: PMC7026666 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [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: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Among women, breast cancer (BC) is not only the most common cancer worldwide but also the leading cause of cancer death. Only 5–10% of breast cancer cases are attributed to inherited mutations (BRCA1, BRCA2, and other breast cancer susceptibility genes). Breast cancer incidence has been rising particularly in young women who are not eligible for mammography, and it has been acting as a burden especially in developing countries that lack screening and awareness programs. For this reason, research has shifted to use minimally invasive liquid biopsies especially blood-based biomarkers with potential value for breast cancer risk prediction and early detection. This mini-review will tackle the different blood-based biomarkers focusing mainly on circulating miRNA, circulating proteins, cell-free nucleic acids, methylation patterns, and exosomes. It also introduces the potential opportunities for the clinical use of these blood-based biomarkers for breast cancer risk prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah J Nassar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ghada Chamandi
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Ali Tfaily
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie Khoueiry Zgheib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Baassiri A, El-Harakeh M, Itani A, Nassar FJ, Safi R, Dassouki Z, Romani M, Zgheib N, Nasr R. Giant Inflatable Colon Model Enhances Lebanese Community Knowledge and Intention for Colorectal Cancer Screening. JCO Glob Oncol 2020; 6:167-173. [PMID: 32031455 PMCID: PMC7000226 DOI: 10.1200/jgo.19.00274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the knowledge and intention for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening within the Lebanese community before and after a guided tour through an inflatable colon model. METHODS The Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute at the American University of Beirut Medical Center in collaboration with AMALOUNA educational nongovernmental organization launched awareness campaigns during which a walk-through inflatable colon was displayed. Pre- and post-surveys related to the age of screening, risk factors, symptoms, and CRC prevention were collected anonymously before and after touring the inflatable colon to assess the effectiveness of this educational tool. RESULTS Compiled data collected from 782 participants revealed that older age and higher education were predictors of favorable CRC screening knowledge and behaviors before entering the inflatable colon. Interestingly, touring the inflatable colon model significantly improved participants’ awareness and knowledge about CRC. Most importantly, it increased their willingness for screening and social engagement and comfort discussing and promoting CRC screening. CONCLUSION Overall, these results indicate that the interactive colon is an effective educational tool that can make a positive impact by improving the community CRC awareness and interest in CRC screening. They also highlight the importance of such educational efforts conducted in the community to create more awareness about CRC and emphasize the importance of its prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amro Baassiri
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,AMALOUNA Educational NGO, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohammad El-Harakeh
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,AMALOUNA Educational NGO, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdulrahman Itani
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,AMALOUNA Educational NGO, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Farah J Nassar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,AMALOUNA Educational NGO, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Remi Safi
- AMALOUNA Educational NGO, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Maya Romani
- Department of Family Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie Zgheib
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Pharmacology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,AMALOUNA Educational NGO, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Outa AA, Abubaker D, Bazarbachi A, Sabban ME, Shirinian M, Nasr R. Validation of a Drosophila model of wild-type and T315I mutated BCR-ABL1 in chronic myeloid leukemia: an effective platform for treatment screening. Haematologica 2020; 105:387-397. [PMID: 31101753 PMCID: PMC7012492 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2019.219394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is caused by a balanced chromosomal translocation resulting in the formation of BCR-ABL1 fusion gene encoding a constitutively active BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase, which activates multiple signal transduction pathways leading to malignant transformation. Standard treatment of CML is based on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI); however, some mutations have proven elusive particularly the T315I mutation. Drosophila melanogaster is an established in vivo model for human diseases including cancer. The targeted expression of chimeric human/fly and full human BCR-ABL1 in Drosophila eyes has been shown to result in detrimental effects. In this study, we expressed human BCR-ABL1p210 and the resistant BCR-ABL1p210/T315I fusion oncogenes in Drosophila eyes. Expression of BCR-ABL1p210/T315I resulted in a severe distortion of the ommatidial architecture of adult eyes with a more prominent rough eye phenotype compared to milder phenotypes in BCR-ABL1p210 reflecting a stronger oncogenic potential of the mutant. We then assessed the efficacy of the currently used TKI in BCR-ABL1p210 and BCR-ABL1p210/T315I expressing flies. Treatment of BCR-ABL1p210 expressing flies with potent kinase inhibitors (dasatinib and ponatinib) resulted in the rescue of ommatidial loss and the restoration of normal development. Taken together, we provide a CML tailored BCR-ABL1p210 and BCR-ABL1p210/T315I fly model which can be used to test new compounds with improved therapeutic indices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amani Al Outa
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut
| | - Dana Abubaker
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut
| | - Ali Bazarbachi
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut.,Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marwan El Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut
| | - Margret Shirinian
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut
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Awada Z, Nasr R, Akika R, Cahais V, Cuenin C, Zhivagui M, Herceg Z, Ghantous A, Zgheib NK. DNA methylome-wide alterations associated with estrogen receptor-dependent effects of bisphenols in breast cancer. Clin Epigenetics 2019; 11:138. [PMID: 31601247 PMCID: PMC6785895 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-019-0725-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bisphenol A (BPA), an estrogen-like endocrine disruptor used in plastics, has been associated with development and promotion of breast cancer, so plastic manufacturers shifted towards less-studied analogs, BPF and BPS. Studying the associated DNA methylome-wide mechanisms of these derivatives is timely, particularly in comparison with BPA. METHODS We assessed proliferation, cell cycle, and migration of breast cancer cells (estrogen receptor (ER)-positive: MCF-7 and ER-negative: MDA-MB-231) treated with BPF and BPS ± estrogen receptor inhibitor (ERI) in comparison to BPA ± ERI. RNA expression and activity of DNA (de)methylation enzymes and LINE-1 methylation were quantified. DNA methylome-wide analysis was evaluated in bisphenol-exposed cells and compared to clinical breast cancer data. RESULTS The three bisphenols caused ER-dependent increased proliferation and migration of MCF-7 but not MDA-MB-231 cells, with BPS being 10 times less potent than BPA and BPF. Although they have similar chemical structures, the three bisphenols induced differential DNA methylation alterations at several genomic clusters of or single CpG sites, with the majority of these being ER-dependent. At equipotent doses, BPA had the strongest effect on the methylome, followed by BPS then BPF. No pathways were enriched for BPF while BPA- and BPS-induced methylome alterations were enriched in focal adhesion, cGMP-PKG, and cancer pathways, which were also dysregulated in methylome-wide alterations comparing ER-positive breast cancer samples to adjacent normal tissues. CONCLUSIONS The three bisphenols have important epigenetic effects in breast cell lines, with those of BPA and BPS overlapping with cancer-related pathways in clinical breast cancer models. Hence, further investigation of their safety is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Awada
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - R Nasr
- Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - R Akika
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - V Cahais
- Epigenetics group, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Cours Albert Thomas, 69372, Lyon, France
| | - C Cuenin
- Epigenetics group, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Cours Albert Thomas, 69372, Lyon, France
| | - M Zhivagui
- Epigenetics group, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Cours Albert Thomas, 69372, Lyon, France
| | - Z Herceg
- Epigenetics group, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Cours Albert Thomas, 69372, Lyon, France
| | - A Ghantous
- Epigenetics group, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Cours Albert Thomas, 69372, Lyon, France.
| | - N K Zgheib
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, 1107-2020, Lebanon.
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Nassar F, Tfayli A, Itani AR, Chamandi G, Zgheib N, Makoukji J, Boustany R, Talhouk R, Nasr R. microRNA in Early-Stage Breast Cancer in Lebanese Women. J Glob Oncol 2019. [DOI: 10.1200/jgo.19.17000] [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: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer is the most prevalent female cancer and has a higher incidence in young Lebanese patients as compared with the West. Interestingly, this particularity of breast cancer in the Lebanese population was not found to be associated with higher BRCA1/2 gene mutations. Hence, our research focuses on investigating molecular mechanisms and associated epigenetic signatures that underlie breast cancer in young patients. We are specifically interested in microRNA (miRNA), small noncoding RNAs that act as master players at all stages of breast cancer development and that are increasingly recognized as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. We have previously shown that differential expression of certain miRNAs in Lebanese breast cancer tissues could be different than what is reported in the West. METHODS We recently assessed the miRNA microarray profile expression in Lebanese breast cancer tissues, performed a comparative miRNA profile analysis with matched American samples, and predicted the role of dysregulated miRNA in early breast cancer through mRNA-miRNA integration analysis. RESULTS Although most of the dysregulated miRNA in Lebanese patients with breast cancer is similar to that in American population, differences in miRNA expression exist and can be attributed either to the patient’s age at diagnosis or to an ethnic variation. We are currently studying circulating miRNA in the blood of Lebanese patients with breast cancer, and a dysregulated signature will be presented. CONCLUSION Our data provide a basis for additional investigation that should be performed to comprehend dysregulated miRNA implication in breast cancer, especially in young patients, and the role of circulating miRNAs as potential biomarkers for breast cancer early detection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rihab Nasr
- American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Naser Al Deen N, Nassar F, Nasr R, Talhouk R. Cross-Roads to Drug Resistance and Metastasis in Breast Cancer: miRNAs Regulatory Function and Biomarker Capability. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1152:335-364. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-20301-6_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Nasr R, Al Rassy N, Watelain E, Ishac S, Abdul Al O, El Hage R. Influence of three different types of physical training programs on bone mineral density in a group of elderly subjects. Sci Sports 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scispo.2019.01.004] [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: 10/27/2022]
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El Eit R, Itani AR, Nassar F, Rasbieh N, Jabbour M, Santina A, Zaatari G, Mahon FX, Bazarbachi A, Nasr R. Antitumor efficacy of arsenic/interferon in preclinical models of chronic myeloid leukemia resistant to tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Cancer 2019; 125:2818-2828. [PMID: 31034603 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.32130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 12/27/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are the standard treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Despite their clinical success, TKIs are faced with challenges such as treatment resistance, which may be driven by kinase domain mutations, and frequent disease relapse upon the cessation of treatment. The combination of arsenic trioxide (ATO) and interferon-α (IFN) was previously demonstrated to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in CML cell lines, prolong the survival of primary wild-type CML mice, and dramatically decrease the activity of leukemia-initiating cells (LICs). METHODS The ATO/IFN combination was tested in vitro on imatinib (IMN)-resistant K562-R and Ar230-R cells. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling assays were used to evaluate proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. The acridine orange assay was used to assess autophagy, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was used to assess the involvement of the hedgehog (Hh) pathway. In vivo, a retroviral transduction/transplantation T315I BCR-ABL CML mouse model was used to assay the effect of the treatment on survival, tumor burden (histopathology and blood counts), and LIC activity (secondary transplantation). RESULTS In vitro, ATO/IFN synergized to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis of IMN-resistant cells with variant modes of resistance. Furthermore, the preclinical effects of ATO/IFN were associated with induction of autophagy along with inhibition of the Hh pathway. Most remarkably, ATO/IFN significantly prolonged the survival of primary T315I-CML mice and displayed a dramatic impairment of disease engraftment in secondary mice, which reflected decreased LIC activity. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, the ATO/IFN strategy has been demonstrated to have the potential to lead to durable remissions in TKI-resistant CML preclinical models and to overcome various TKI-specific mechanisms of resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabab El Eit
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdul Rahman Itani
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Farah Nassar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nagham Rasbieh
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mark Jabbour
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ahmad Santina
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ghazi Zaatari
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - François-Xavier Mahon
- French National Institute of Health and Medical Research Unit 876, Laboratory of Hematology and Department of Blood Diseases, University Hospital Center of Bordeaux, Bordeaux Segalen University, Bordeaux, France
| | - Ali Bazarbachi
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Mahmood SB, Ahmad H, Wu J, Haselby D, LeClaire MM, Nasr R. Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-positive eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis: can it cause membranous nephropathy? Scand J Rheumatol 2019; 48:256-257. [PMID: 30907692 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2019.1580765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S B Mahmood
- a Department of Internal Medicine , Hennepin County Medical Center , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - H Ahmad
- a Department of Internal Medicine , Hennepin County Medical Center , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - J Wu
- b Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology , Hennepin County Medical Center , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - D Haselby
- b Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology , Hennepin County Medical Center , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - M M LeClaire
- c Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care , Hennepin County Medical Center , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - R Nasr
- d Department of Internal Medicine Division of Rheumatology , Hennepin County Medical Center , Minneapolis , MN , USA
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Nasr R. Giant Inflatable Colon Enhances Community Knowledge and Intention for Colorectal Cancer Screening. J Glob Oncol 2018. [DOI: 10.1200/jgo.18.24400] [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: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and context: Cancer represents a global health threat and is considered a leading cause of death worldwide. Statistics in Lebanon show that cancer incidence rate has dramatically increased over the last decades, which calls for the development and implementation of effective strategies in combatting cancer through awareness, prevention, and early detection. Colorectal cancer (CRC) continues to be the second most common in women and fourth most common among men in Lebanon. Aim: Since March is the colorectal cancer awareness month, the Cancer Prevention and Control Program - Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute - American University of Beirut (AUB) Medical Center in collaboration with AMALOUNA, an AUB affiliated educational organization that aims to raise awareness about cancer, cancer prevention and cancer research, launched a campaign tailored for this type of cancer. The aim of this campaign was to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, break the cycle of fear, and increase public knowledge about CRC using interactive educational activities. Strategy/Tactics: A walk-through giant inflatable colon was built specifically for the event. This educational tool offers participants a visual representation of the normal histology of the colon, the different stages of colon cancer development ranging from a simple polyp to a metastatic cancer as well as preventive tips. Vouchers for colorectal cancer screening tests were distributed to eligible participants after the visit of the colon. Program/Policy process: Since 2017, we have conducted six outreach activities all over Lebanon in which the inflatable colon was displayed for educating the community about CRC. To evaluate whether this giant colon improves the community knowledge about CRC, pre and post-surveys related to the age of screening, risk factors, symptoms, and CRC prevention were collected anonymously before and after touring the inflatable colon. Outcomes: Data collected from more than 700 participants demonstrated that the inflatable colon increased participants' knowledge concerning CRC. Most importantly, it increased their intention to get screened by 27.5% and their comfort with talking to others about CRC screening by 19%. What was learned: These results indicate that the interactive colon is an effective educational tool that can make a positive impact by increasing public awareness about CRC and their intention to get screened. Such educational efforts conducted in the community promote cancer screening and encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Nasr
- American University of Beirut (AUB), Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Beirut, Lebanon
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program (CPCP), Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute (NBKCI), AUBMC, Beirut, Lebanon
- AMALOUNA, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Boileau M, Shirinian M, Gayden T, Harutyunyan A, Chen C, Mikael L, Duncan H, Neumann A, Arreba-Tutusaus P, De Jay N, Zeinieh M, Nikbakht H, Mouawad C, Massoud R, Frey F, Nasr R, El Cheikh J, El Sabban M, Kleinman C, Mahfouz R, Minden M, Jabado N, Bazarbachi A, Eppert K. Mutations in Human Histone H3 are Pre-Leukemic Events and Promote Hematopoietic Stem Cell Expansion and Leukemic Aggressiveness. Exp Hematol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2018.06.195] [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: 11/26/2022]
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Nasr R, Salim Hammoud M, Nassar F, Mukherji D, Shamseddine A, Temraz S. Inflammatory Markers and MicroRNAs: The Backstage Actors Influencing Prognosis in Colorectal Cancer Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1867. [PMID: 29949857 PMCID: PMC6073730 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a deadly disease, afflicting the lives of millions worldwide. The prognosis of CRC patients is best predicted by surgical resection and pathological analysis of specimens. Emerging evidence has attributed a significant role to inflammatory markers and microRNAs (miRNAs) in the prognosis and survival of CRC patients. AIM Here, we review the literature on inflammatory markers and miRNAs with an established role on survival rates, response to systemic chemotherapy, and other clinic-pathological parameters in CRC patients. RESULTS Our literature review revealed a critical role of inflammatory markers—specifically, the acute-phase proteins, inflammatory cytokines, and blood cell ratios—on prognostic outcomes in CRC patients. MiRNAs, on the other hand, were useful in predicting prognosis and clinical response and accordingly stratifying CRC patients for optimal drug selection. CONCLUSION These biomarkers are easily measured in routine blood exams and can be used in adjunct to the tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) staging system to identify high-risk patients and those who are more likely to benefit from chemotherapy and other targeted therapies. However, more prospective studies are needed for the validation of these discussed prognostic and predictive biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rihab Nasr
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 110 72020, Lebanon.
| | - Miza Salim Hammoud
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 110 72020, Lebanon.
| | - Farah Nassar
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 110 72020, Lebanon.
| | - Deborah Mukherji
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 110 72020, Lebanon.
| | - Ali Shamseddine
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 110 72020, Lebanon.
| | - Sally Temraz
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El Solh, Beirut 110 72020, Lebanon.
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Seoud MA, Nasr R, Berjawi GA, Zaatari GS, Seoud TM, Shatila AS, Mirza FG. Placenta accreta: Elective versus emergent delivery as a major predictor of blood loss. J Neonatal Perinatal Med 2017; 10:9-15. [PMID: 28304318 DOI: 10.3233/npm-1622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare blood loss and the use for blood transfusion between elective (planned) and emergent cesarean hysterectomy performed for placenta accreta by a single, multidisciplinary team and to present the team's pre-operative evaluation and the surgical technique. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cohort study at a single tertiary care center. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared between elective and emergent delivery of pregnancies complicated by placenta accreta. The primary outcomes were the need for blood transfusion and the number of units transfused. RESULTS A total of 28 cases of confirmed placenta accreta underwent peripartum hysterectomy, including 22 as elective and 6 as emergent. Eleven out of 22 (50%) subjects in the elective group received blood transfusion, while all subjects in the emergency group required transfusion (p = 0.03). More importantly, the number of units of packed red blood cells transfused was only 1.90 (±2.20) units in the elective cases compared to 7.83 (±4.90) units in cases performed emergently (p = 0.03). CONCLUSION Elective cesarean hysterectomy for this indication using a clearly outlined surgical approach is associated with significantly lower blood loss and hence less need for transfusion, compared to its emergent counterpart.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Seoud
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - R Nasr
- Department of Surgery, Urology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - G A Berjawi
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Women's Imaging, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - G S Zaatari
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - T M Seoud
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - A S Shatila
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Women's Imaging, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - F G Mirza
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Abstract
Adult T-Cell Leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) is the first human malignancy associated with a chronic infection by a retrovirus, the human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I). ATL occurs, after a long latency period, only in about 5% of 10-20 millions infected individuals. ATL has a dismal prognosis with a median survival of less than 1 year, mainly due to its resistance to chemotherapy and to a profound immunosuppression. The viral oncoprotein, Tax, plays a major role in ATL oncogenic transformation by interfering with cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, and DNA repair. The diversity in ATL clinical features and prognosis led to Shimoyama classification of ATL into four clinical subtypes (acute, lymphoma, chronic, and smoldering) requiring different therapeutic strategies. Clinical trials, mainly conducted in Japan, demonstrated that combination of chemotherapy could induce acceptable response rate in the lymphoma subtype but not in acute ATL. However, long-term prognosis remains poor for both subtypes, due to a high relapse rate. Similarly, whether managed by a watchful waiting or treated with chemotherapy, the indolent forms (smoldering and chronic) have a poor long-term outcome. An international meta-analysis showed improved survival in the leukemic subtypes of ATL (chronic, smoldering as well as a subset of the acute subtype) with the use of two antiviral agents, zidovudine and interferon-alpha, and accordingly, this combination should be considered the standard first-line treatment in this context. ATL patients with lymphoma subtype benefit from induction chemotherapy, given simultaneously or sequentially with an antiviral combination of zidovudine and interferon-alpha. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cells transplantation remains a promising and potentially curative approach but is limited to a small number of patients. Novel drugs such as arsenic trioxide in combination with interferon-alpha or monoclonal antibodies such as anti-CXCR4 have shown promising results and warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rihab Nasr
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Americain University of Beirut, 113-6044, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ambroise Marçais
- Department of Hematology, Necker Hospital, University of Paris Descartes, 149, rue de Sèvres, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Hermine
- Department of Hematology, Necker Hospital, University of Paris Descartes, 149, rue de Sèvres, Paris, France
| | - Ali Bazarbachi
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Americain University of Beirut, 113-6044, Beirut, Lebanon. .,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, 113-6044, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Abstract
Breast cancer is a major health problem that affects one in eight women worldwide. As such, detecting breast cancer at an early stage anticipates better disease outcome and prolonged patient survival. Extensive research has shown that microRNA (miRNA) are dysregulated at all stages of breast cancer. miRNA are a class of small noncoding RNA molecules that can modulate gene expression and are easily accessible and quantifiable. This review highlights miRNA as diagnostic, prognostic and therapy predictive biomarkers for early breast cancer with an emphasis on the latter. It also examines the challenges that lie ahead in their use as biomarkers. Noteworthy, this review addresses miRNAs reported in patients with early breast cancer prior to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgical procedures or distant metastasis (unless indicated otherwise). In this context, miRNA that are mentioned in this review were significantly modulated using more than one statistical test and/or validated by at least two studies. A standardized protocol for miRNA assessment is proposed starting from sample collection to data analysis that ensures comparative analysis of data and reproducibility of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah J Nassar
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Rabih Talhouk
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Nasr R, Antoun J, Sabra R, Zgheib NK. Interactive and collaborative learning in the classroom at the medical school Automated response systems and team-based learning. J Med Liban 2016; 64:217-22. [PMID: 29845847 DOI: 10.12816/0033796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
There has been a pedagogic shift in higher education from the traditional teacher centered to the student centered approach in teaching, necessitating a change in the role of the teacher from a supplier of information to passive receptive students into a more facilitative role. Active learning activities are based on various learning theories such as self-directed learning, cooperative learning and adult learning. There exist many instructional activities that enhance active and collaborative learning. The aim of this manuscript is to describe two methods of interactive and collaborative learning in the classroom, automated response systems (ARS) and team-based learning (TBL), and to list some of their applications and advantages. The success of these innovative teaching and learning methods at a large scale depends on few elements, probably the most important of which is the support of the higher administration and leadership in addition to the availability of “champions” who are committed to lead the change.
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Nasr R, Sleiman F, Awada Z, Zgheib NK. The pharmacoepigenetics of drug metabolism and transport in breast cancer: review of the literature and in silico analysis. Pharmacogenomics 2016; 17:1573-85. [DOI: 10.2217/pgs-2016-0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The focus of this manuscript is on DNA methylation and miRNA regulation of drug-metabolizing enzymes and drug transporters involved in the disposition of drugs commonly used in breast cancer. We start with a review of the available scant literature and follow with an in silico analysis of the CpG islands and miRNA binding sites of genes of interest. We make the case that there is room for further research to include more genes and miRNAs despite the extensive sharing of miRNA targets by candidate genes of interest. We also stress on the role of peripheral blood as a source of pharmacoepigenetic biomarkers, and point out the lack of toxicoepigenetic studies in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine (AUBFM), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Fatima Sleiman
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine (AUBFM), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Zeinab Awada
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine (AUBFM), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Natalie K Zgheib
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine (AUBFM), Beirut, Lebanon
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Makarem N, Mourad A, Nassar FJ, Nasr R. CIRCULATING microRNAs: POTENTIAL BIOMARKERS IN CANCER DETECTION, DIAGNOSIS AND PROGNOSIS. J Med Liban 2016; 64:116-122. [PMID: 30452151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A large family of small 18-25 nucleotide long non coding RNA molecules now known as microRNA (miRNA) was described two decades ago, and has been recently es- tablished as post-transcriptional gene regulators. miRNAs were shown to be involved in the regulation of diverse phys- iological and developmental processes. Moreover, dysregula- tion of specific miRNAs has been implicated later in several pathologies including cancer. Owing to their presence and stability in body fluids, miRNAs have been investigated as novel circulating non-invasive biomarkers. Accordingly, their role as potential diagnostic, prognostic or predictive biomark- ers for many cancer types has recently emerged. This review tackles the use of circulating miRNAs in cancer detection, diagnosis and prognosis, giving examples using common solid tumors and discussing the advantages of their use, the challenges facing this novel circulating biomarker and recorn- mendatidns to overcome them.
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Antoun J, Nasr R, Zgheib NK. Use of technology in the readiness assurance process of team based learning: Paper, automated response system, or computer based testing. Computers in Human Behavior 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2015.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Albanyan A, Al-Musa A, AlNounou R, Al Zahrani H, Nasr R, AlJefri A, Saleh M, Malik A, Masmali H, Owaidah T. Diagnosis of Glanzmann thrombasthenia by whole blood impedance analyzer (MEA) vs. light transmission aggregometry. Int J Lab Hematol 2014; 37:503-8. [PMID: 25537026 DOI: 10.1111/ijlh.12320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) is a rare inherited platelet disorder that is characterized by spontaneous or postprocedural bleeding. The diagnosis of GT depends on identifying the dysfunction of the platelets. AIM The aim of this study was to compare a whole blood impedance Multiplate analyzer (MEA) with the standard method, light transmission aggregometry (LTA) in diagnosis of GT. METHODS Fifteen patients with GT were assessed on MEA and LTA using arachidonic acid (ASPI: 15 mm), (TRAP: 1 mm), collagen (100 μg/mL), ADP (0.2 mm), and ristocetin (Risto: 10 mg/mL). Whole blood samples were collected in sodium citrate and hirudin vacuum, blood collection tubes and tested within 4 h. Platelet-rich plasma was used for LTA using platelet agonists (ristocetin 1.5 mg/mL) (arachidonic acid 0.5 mg/mL) (ADP 2.5 mg/mL) and (collagen 1 mg/mL). RESULTS The platelet count and PFA-100 results were (average and SD) 319 ± 93 × 10(9) L and 252 ± 34 s, respectively. Flow cytometry analysis showed that all samples are positive for CD42a and CD42b, whereas 9/15 samples were negative for CD61 and CD41. The other six patients had either partial or full expression of CD61/CD41. Aggregation analysis using both methods showed that all samples had no aggregation response to any of the agonists used apart from six samples which, using only the MEA, showed minimal aggregation in response to collagen (average = 14.3 ± 7 μg, which may suggest ability to detect qualitative abnormality of GPIIb/IIIa). CONCLUSION These results suggest that the MEA is sensitive for the detection of Glanzmann thrombasthenia. Furthermore, MEA may also be able to differentiate between the subtypes of Glanzmann thrombasthenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Albanyan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Centre of Excellence in Thrombosis and Hemostasis, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - A Al-Musa
- Oncology Center, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - R AlNounou
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - H Al Zahrani
- Oncology Center, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - R Nasr
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - A AlJefri
- Oncology Center, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - M Saleh
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - A Malik
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Centre of Excellence in Thrombosis and Hemostasis, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - H Masmali
- Oncology Center, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - T Owaidah
- Centre of Excellence in Thrombosis and Hemostasis, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Hill C, Nasr R, Fisher M, Maher T, Spiteri M, Allen M, Birring S, Parfrey H, Hoyles R, Gibbons M, Burge G, Scullion J, Adams E, Wickremasinghe M. M272 Estimated Cost And Payment By Results (pbr) Tariff Reimbursement For Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Services Across 14 Specialist Providers In England. Thorax 2014. [DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2014-206260.453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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