Prediction of radiation-related cardiotoxicity using F-18 FDG PET in non-small-cell lung cancer

Background

Radiation-related cardiotoxicity has been refocused nowadays as the follow-up was increased amomg the patients with advanced lung cancer. The early recognition of the occult cardiotoxicity enables the early intervention preventing clinically significant cardiac events or worsening of severity.

Purpose

We aim to search whether the F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG PET) performed immediately after radiotherapy could predict the late cardiac events.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 133 patients with locally advanced, unresectable stage III NSCLC who underwent F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG PET) immediately after CCRT for the response evaluation and survived at least for 6 months. Heart was recontoured according to the RTOG 0617 secondary analysis atlas for the dose volume analysis. Standardized uptake values (SUV) of the left ventricular myocardium were measured on FDG PET images. The patients were regularly followed up for the disease progression and complications. The primary end-point was the cardiac events grade ≥2 based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 5.0).

Results

FDG PET was performed at median interval of 11 days after CCRT. Fourty-two patients experienced cardiotoxicity during a median follow-up of 47 months (range, 12 – 123 months). In univariable analysis, mean heart dose, maximum SUV of the left ventricle (LV SUVmax), white blood cell count, and diabetes were associated with the risk of cardiotoxicity. In multivariable analysis, only higher mean heart dose (>11.1 Gy, hazard ratio 3.930 [95% confidence interval 1.933–7.988]; p=0.0002) and higher LV SUVmax (>12.84, 2.189 [1.162–4.124]; p=0.0152) were independently associated with increased risk of cardiotoxicity. In subgroup analyses, LV SUVmax remained predictive of cardiotoxicity among those with higher mean heart dose, but not among those with lower mean heart dose.

Conclusion

Early FDG PET after CCRT for NSCLC could predict the late cardiac events, especially in patients with high dose cardiac irradiation.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): This work was supported by a grant of the Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation funded by the Ministry of Education, Republic of Korea (Principal Investigator: Sang-Geon Cho)

Gut Microbiome Prolongs an Inhibitory Effect of Korean Red Ginseng on High-Fat-Diet-Induced Mouse Obesity

Although the anti-obesity effect of Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) has been revealed, its underlying mechanisms are not clearly understood. Here, we demonstrate an involvement of gut microbiome in the inhibitory effect of Korean red ginseng on high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced mouse obesity, and further provides information on the effects of saponin-containing red ginseng extract (SGE) and saponin-depleted red ginseng extract (GE). Mice were fed with either SGE or GE every third day for one month, and their food intakes, fat weights, plasma glucose, and insulin and leptin levels were measured. Immunofluorescence assays were conducted to measure pancreatic islet size. Stools from the mice were subjected to metagenomic analysis. Both SGE and GE attenuated HFD-induced gain of body weight, reducing HFD-induced increase of food intakes and fat weights. They also reduced HFD-increased plasma glucose, insulin, and leptin levels, decreased both fasting and postprandial glucose concentrations, and improved both insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. Immunofluorescence assays revealed that they blocked HFD-induced increase of pancreatic islet size. Our pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA gene V3 region from stools revealed that both SGE and GE modulated HFD-altered composition of gut microbiota. Therefore, we conclude that Korean red ginseng inhibits HFD-induced obesity and diabetes by altering gut microbiome.

ADGRF4 Regulates Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Invasiveness

BACKGROUND/AIM

Adhesion G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) have a crucial role in cancer. However, the role of ADGRF4, one of aGPCRs, in cancer has yet to be revealed. Therefore, we investigated its role in lung cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ADGRF4 gene expression pattern in lung cancer were analyzed by in silico analyses. RNA sequencing was conducted to investigate gene expression pattern altered by ADGRF4 knockdown. Lung cancer cell lines were subjected to cell migration and invasion assays.

RESULTS

In silico analysis data indicated a major role of ADGRF4 in lung cancer. RNA sequencing data showed that ADGRF4 gene silencing in lung cancer cells altered global expression pattern. ADGRF4 gene silencing reduced lung cancer cell invasiveness. Furthermore, PPP2C gene expression was most significantly down-regulated by ADGRF4 gene silencing. PPP2C overexpression rescued cell invasiveness inhibited by ADGRF4 gene silencing, and PPP2C gene silencing blocked lung cancer cell invasiveness.

CONCLUSION

ADGRF4 regulates lung cancer cell invasiveness via PPP2C.

Regulation of a long noncoding RNA MALAT1 by aryl hydrocarbon receptor in pancreatic cancer cells and tissues

Environmental toxicants such as dioxins and polycyclic aromatic carbons are risk factors for pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. These toxicants activate aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a ligand-activated transcription factor, of which activation regulates many downstream biological events, including xenobiotic metabolism, inflammation, and cancer cell growth and transformation. Here, we identified that environmental toxicant-activated AHR increased expression of metastasis associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) in pancreatic cancer cells and pancreatic tissues. The MALAT1 is a long noncoding (lnc) RNA which interacts with Enhancer of Zeste 2 (EZH2), a histone methyltransferase with epigenetic silencer activity, and the MALAT1-EZH2 interaction increased its epigenetic silencing activity. In contrast, AHR antagonist, CH223191 or resveratrol, counteracted the AHR-mediated MALAT1 induction and MALAT1-enahnced EZH2 activity. Collectively, these results revealed a novel pathway of how environmental exposure leads to epigenetic alteration via activation of AHR-MALAT1-EZH2 signaling axis under pancreatic tissue- and cancer cell-context.

Ginseng Seed Oil Inhibits the Growth of Estrogen Receptor-positive Breast Cancer Cells

BACKGROUND/AIM

Although ginseng seed oil (GSO) appears to have various roles in the body, its anti-cancer effect has not been investigated. Tamoxifen is widely used to treat estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer but shows adverse effects with drug resistance. This study investigated the effect of GSO in ER+ breast cancer cell growth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cell viability assays, western blots and Annexin V staining were conducted to examine cell viability and apoptosis. The synergistic effect of tamoxifen in combination with GSO or oleic acid (OA) was determined.

RESULTS

GSO and OA caused apoptosis of MCF-7 ER+ breast cancer cells and had synergistic effects with tamoxifen in inhibiting tamoxifen-resistant MCF-7 (MCF-7^TAMR) ER+ breast cancer cell growth.

CONCLUSION

GSO may block ER+ breast cancer recurrence in combination with tamoxifen.

Kisspeptin Promotes Glioblastoma Cell Invasiveness Via the Gq-PLC-PKC Pathway

BACKGROUND/AIM

Kisspeptin produced from the KISS1 gene is secreted from the living cells, binds to endogenous receptor KISS1R (also called G protein-coupled receptor 54, GPR54), and has various functions in normal physiological conditions. Although an anti-metastatic role of kisspeptin in cancer is well known in several cancer types, its role in brain tumors is not yet understood. Herein, we investigated a the role of kisspeptin in glioblastoma cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Glioblastoma cells were treated with kisspeptin and subjected to proliferation, migration, and invasion assays. KISS1R dependency was tested by KISS1R silencing with KISS1R siRNAs.

RESULTS

Kisspeptin inhibited migratory and invasive abilities of U87-MG, U-251-MG and U373-MG glioblastoma cells with no effect on cell viability. KISS1R gene silencing with KISS1R siRNAs blocked kisspeptin-induced glioblastoma cell invasiveness. Moreover, chemical inhibitors against Gq, PLC or PKC blocked kisspeptin-induced glioblastoma cell invasiveness.

CONCLUSION

Kisspeptin induces glioblastoma cell invasiveness via the KISS1R-Gq-PLC-PKC signaling pathway.

Anticariogenic Potential of Korean Native Plant Extracts against Streptococcus mutans

Numerous chemically synthesized compounds are widely used in oral hygiene products. However, due to their potential risk, there is a need to improve the safety and quality of dental care by seeking alternative control agents such as those naturally found in plant materials. Here we assessed antibacterial potentials of extracts from 100 species of Korean native plants against Streptococcus mutans on cariogenesis. Among those, extracts from five plants (Arctii Fructus, Caryopteris incana, Aralia continentalis, Symplocarpus renifolius, and Lamium amplexicaule) showed a growth inhibition of S. mutans. The five extracts were further individually evaluated for their minimal inhibitory concentration and minimal bactericidal concentration. Interestingly, a synergistic antibacterial activity was observed with the combination of sodium fluoride and the plant extracts. To determine the anti-biofilm activity of plant extracts, S. mutans was treated with increasing concentrations of the extracts in the range from 1250 to 3750 µg/mL. When S. mutans was grown in the defined biofilm medium containing the individual extracts of 47 species, the biofilm amount markedly decreased compared to that of a negative control. Notably, the extract of S. renifolius significantly downregulated the gtf and spaP genes for synthesis of glucan and adhesive proteins in S. mutans, and L. amplexicaule decreased the expression of gtfD gene. Therefore, these results demonstrate that the five plant extracts modulate survival and pathogenesis of S. mutans by growth inhibition and downregulation of the gene(s) implicated in biofilm formation.

Kisspeptin Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Cell Invasiveness by Activating PKR and PP2A

BACKGROUND/AIM

The aim of the present study was to investigate the mechanism through which kisspeptin inhibits colorectal cancer metastasis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Colorectal cancer cells were treated with kisspeptin and then subjected to assays for cell viability, migration, invasion and anchorage-independent growth. Kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R) requirement was examined by siRNA-based gene silencing followed by western blot and invasion assays. Kisspeptin regulation of PKR and PP2A was examined by treating cells with inhibitors for PKR or PP2A.

RESULTS

Kisspeptin inhibited colorectal cancer cell invasiveness without affecting cell proliferation. Kisspeptin required activation of KISS1R and resulted in activation of PKR and PP2A. PKR inhibitor blocked kisspeptin-induced PP2A phosphorylation, while PP2A inhibitor failed to block kisspeptin-induced PKR phosphorylation.

CONCLUSION

Kisspeptin-mediated activation of PKR-PP2A inhibited colorectal cancer cell invasiveness.

SH003 represses tumor angiogenesis by blocking VEGF binding to VEGFR2

Tumor angiogenesis is a key feature of cancer progression, because a tumor requires abundant oxygen and nutrition to grow. Here, we demonstrate that SH003, a mixed herbal extract containing Astragalus membranaceus (Am), Angelica gigas (Ag) and Trichosanthes Kirilowii Maximowicz (Tk), represses VEGF-induced tumor angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. SH003 inhibited VEGF-induced migration, invasion and tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) with no effect on the proliferation. SH003 reduced CD31-positive vessel numbers in tumor tissues and retarded tumor growth in our xenograft mouse tumor model, while SH003 did not affect pancreatic tumor cell viability. Consistently, SH003 inhibited VEGF-stimulated vascular permeability in ears and back skins. Moreover, SH003 inhibited VEGF-induced VEGFR2-dependent signaling by blocking VEGF binding to VEGFR2. Therefore, our data conclude that SH003 represses tumor angiogenesis by inhibiting VEGF-induced VEGFR2 activation, and suggest that SH003 may be useful for treating cancer.

Novel herbal medicine LA16001 ameliorates cisplatin-induced anorexia

Chemotherapy frequently causes anorexia in cancer patients, which has been associated with poor disease prognosis. Several therapeutic strategies for the treatment of chemotherapy‑induced anorexia are available; however, their adverse effects limit their clinical use. Herbal medicines have a long history of use for the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, and recent research has demonstrated their safety and efficacy. In the present study, combinations of herbal medicines were designed based on traditional Korean medicine, and their effects were investigated on chemotherapy‑induced anorexia. Herbal mixtures were extracted, composed of Atractylodes japonica, Angelica gigas, Astragalus membranaceus, Lonicera japonica Thunb., Taraxacum platycarpum H. Dahlstedt and Prunella vulgaris var. asiatica (Nakai) Hara. The mixtures were termed LCBP‑Anocure‑16001‑3 (LA16001, LA16002, LA16003). A cisplatin‑induced anorexic mouse model was used to evaluate the putative effects of the extracts on chemotherapy‑induced anorexia. Treatment with LA16001 was revealed to prevent body weight loss, and all three extracts were demonstrated to improve food intake. When the molecular mechanisms underlying the orexigenic effects of LA16001 were investigated, altered expression levels of ghrelin, leptin and interleukin‑6 were revealed. Furthermore, LA16001 was reported to induce phosphorylation of Janus kinase 1 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3. In addition, LA16001 administration increased the number of white blood cells and neutrophils. These results suggested that the herbal formula LA16001 may be able to prevent chemotherapy‑induced anorexia and may have potential as a novel therapeutic strategy for the adjuvant treatment of patients with cancer.

Herbal prescription, Danggui-Sayuk-Ga-Osuyu-Senggang-Tang, inhibits TNF-α-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in HCT116 colorectal cancer cells

Tumor necrosis factor‑α‑mediated (TNF‑α) epithelial‑mesenchymal transition (EMT) is associated with distant metastasis in patients with colorectal cancer with poor prognosis. Although traditional herbal medicines have long been used to treat colorectal cancer, the incidence and mortality in patients with colorectal cancer has continued to increase. Danggui‑Sayuk‑Ga‑Osuyu‑Saenggang‑Tang (DSGOST) has long been used for treatment of chills, while few studies have reported its anticancer effect. This study aimed to demonstrate the inhibitory effect of DSGOST on TNF‑α‑mediated invasion and migration of colorectal cancer HCT116 cell lines. MTT was used to measure cell viability. Wound healing and Τranswell invasion assay were used to detect migration and invasion of cells, respectively. The intracellular localization of proteins of interest was assessed by immunocytochemistry. Western blotting was performed to determine the expression level of various proteins. A non‑toxic dose of DSGOST (50 µg/ml) on HCT116 cells was determined by MTT assay. Furthermore, DSGOST prevented the TNF‑α‑induced invasive phenotype in HCT116 cells. DSGOST inhibition of the invasive phenotype was also associated with increased expression of EMT markers. Furthermore, DSGOST treatment blocked TNF‑α‑induced migration and invasion of HCT116 cells. In addition, DSGOST treatment inhibited TNF‑α‑mediated nuclear translocation of Snail. DSGOST treatment also downregulated TNF‑α‑induced phosphorylation of AKT and glycogen synthase kinase‑3β. Therefore, the findings of the current study suggest that DSGOST exhibits anti‑migration and anti‑invasion effects in TNF‑α‑treated HCT116 human colorectal cells.

Kisspeptin inhibits cancer growth and metastasis via activation of EIF2AK2

Kisspeptin is a protein encoded by the KISS1 gene, which has been reported to suppress the metastatic capabilities of various types of cancer cells, through the activation of its G‑protein coupled receptor GPR54. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the involvement of kisspeptin‑mediated signaling in the inhibition of cancer cell migration and invasion have yet to be elucidated. The present in vitro cell proliferation, migration and invasion assays and in vivo experimental metastasis studies demonstrated that kisspeptin‑induced eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α kinase 2 (EIF2AK2) activation suppressed the metastatic capabilities of several types of cancer cells. Kisspeptin was revealed to inhibit the migratory and invasive abilities of highly metastatic breast SK‑BR‑3, prostatic PC‑3 and colorectal adenocarcinoma LoVo human cancer cell lines, whereas its inhibitory effects were abolished following the silencing of EIF2AK2 expression using RNA interference. Similarly, kisspeptin failed to inhibit the migration and invasion of mouse embryonic fibroblasts following the deletion of the EIF2AK2 gene. Furthermore, kisspeptin was demonstrated to activate Ras homolog gene family member A (RhoA)‑dependent signaling, and to phosphorylate EIF2AK2 via RhoA‑mediated pathways in various cancer cells. In addition, results obtained from nude mice bearing LoVo‑derived xenograft tumors revealed that kisspeptin inhibited tumor growth through an EIF2AK2‑dependent mechanism, and an in vivo metastasis assay identified kisspeptin‑activated EIF2AK2 signaling as critical for the suppression of distant metastasis. The present study concluded that kisspeptin represses cancer metastasis via EIF2AK2 signaling, thus clarifying the role of kisspeptin signaling in complicated cancer metastasis signaling network. Therefore, kisspeptin treatment may be a choice for blocking metastases.

APC downregulated 1 inhibits breast cancer cell invasion by inhibiting the canonical WNT signaling pathway

Canonical WNT signaling promotes breast cancer progression. Although APC downregulated 1 (APCDD1) may inhibit canonical WNT signaling, its role in breast cancer remains to be fully understood. The present study demonstrated that APCDD1 suppressed in vitro breast cancer growth and metastasis by inhibiting canonical WNT signaling. The present study demonstrated that APCDD1 expression was negatively associated with breast cancer cell invasion, which was consistent with previous studies that indicated that APCDD1 expression was decreased in invasive ductal carcinoma compared with that in ductal carcinoma in situ. Furthermore, APCDD1 expression was negatively associated with nuclear β-catenin expression and transcription factor/lymphoid enhancer binding factor 1 transcriptional activity in the present study. Silencing APCDD1 in non-invasive breast cancer cells using lentiviral APCDD1 short hairpin RNAs enhanced migration and invasion, which may be mediated by canonical WNT signaling, whereas the overexpression of human influenza hemagglutinin-tagged APCDD1 in invasive breast cancer cells repressed these properties. Therefore, the present study suggested that APCDD1 regulated breast cancer progression by targeting canonical WNT signaling and modulating breast cancer cell invasion.

Melatonin-induced KiSS1 expression inhibits triple-negative breast cancer cell invasiveness

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, and its metastasis increases the risk of mortality. Melatonin, a hormone that regulates the circadian rhythm, has been revealed to inhibit breast cancer growth and metastasis. However, its involvement in highly metastatic triple-negative breast cancer cells is yet to be elucidated. The present study demonstrated that melatonin inhibited the metastatic abilities of triple-negative breast cancer cells and prolonged its inhibitory effect via the expression of kisspeptin (KiSS1), which is a suppressor of metastasis. Melatonin at concentrations ranging from 1 nM to 10 µM did not affect the proliferation of metastatic MDA-MB-231 and HCC-70 triple-negative breast cancer cells. However, melatonin repressed invasiveness in triple-negative breast cancer cells. Additionally, conditional medium from melatonin-treated MDA-MB-231 cells repressed the invasiveness of triple-negative breast cancer cells. Melatonin promoted the production of KiSS1, a metastasis suppressor encoded by the KiSS1 gene. In addition, melatonin increased KiSS1 expression via the expression and transcriptional activation of GATA binding protein 3. Silencing of KiSS1 weakened melatonin inhibition of breast cancer cell invasiveness. Therefore, the present study concluded that melatonin activates KiSS1 production in metastatic breast cancer cells, suggesting that melatonin activation of KiSS1 production may regulate the process of breast cancer metastasis.

Barley grass extract causes apoptosis of cancer cells by increasing intracellular reactive oxygen species production

Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, therefore food products are being investigated for potential prevention or treatment strategies. The ingredient, barley grass extract (Hordeum vulgare L.; Bex) is used to prevent or ameliorate various types of disease. In cancer, Bex has been revealed to inhibit tumor growth. However, its effect on cancer cells is yet to be clearly defined. In the present study, the effect of Bex on cancer cell growth was investigated. Bex inhibited the viabilities of breast and prostate cancer cells according to the results of MTT assays. Accordingly, Bex caused apoptosis, which was confirmed by Annexin V staining and western blot analysis for poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase and caspases. Furthermore, Bex increased the intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and N-acetyl-L-cystein blocked Bex-induced apoptosis. Therefore, the study demonstrated that Bex causes apoptosis of breast and prostate cancer cells by increasing intracellular ROS levels.

Inhibitory effect of Angelica gigas on cold‑induced RhoA activation in vascular cells

The herbal extract Angelica gigas (AG) has been applied as a vasodilating agent for patients suffering from vascular diseases for many years; however, the underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. The present study hypothesized that the anti‑vasoconstrictive effect of AG may be effective in the treatment of abnormal cold‑mediated vasospasms that occur in Raynaud's phenomenon (RP). The effect of AG on the activity of ras homolog gene family member A (RhoA) was investigated in cold‑exposed vascular cells. Vascular cells were pretreated to AG, followed by a warm (37˚C) or cold (25˚C) incubation for 30 min and investigated with western blotting, ELISA and confocal microscopy. Cold treatment induced the activation of RhoA in pericytes and vascular endothelial cells, however this was reduced by treatment with AG. Furthermore, AG treatment reduced the endothelin‑1 (ET‑1)‑mediated RhoA activation in pericytes; however, cold‑induced ET‑1 production by vascular endothelial cells was not affected by treatment with AG. In addition, AG treatment suppressed the formation of stress fibers and focal adhesion complexes, and the cold‑induced phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase, proto‑oncogene tyrosine‑protein kinase Src and extracellular signal‑related kinase. Therefore, AG treatment demonstrated an ability to reduce cold‑induced RhoA activation in pericytes and vascular endothelial cells, and attenuated ET‑1‑mediated RhoA activation in pericytes. In conclusion, the present study indicated that AG may be useful for the treatment of RP.

SH003 induces apoptosis of DU145 prostate cancer cells by inhibiting ERK-involved pathway

Background

Herbal medicines have been used in cancer treatment, with many exhibiting favorable side effect and toxicity profiles compared with conventional chemotherapeutic agents. SH003 is a novel extract from Astragalus membranaceus, Angelica gigas, and Trichosanthes Kirilowii Maximowicz combined at a 1:1:1 ratio that impairs the growth of breast cancer cells. This study investigates anti-cancer effects of SH003 in prostate cancer cells.

Methods

SH003 extract in 30% ethanol was used to treat the prostate cancer cell lines DU145, LNCaP, and PC-3. Cell viability was determined by MTT and BrdU incorporation assays. Next, apoptotic cell death was determined by Annexin V and 7-AAD double staining methods. Western blotting was conducted to measure protein expression levels of components of cell death and signaling pathways. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured using H₂DCF-DA. Plasmid-mediated ERK2 overexpression in DU145 cells was used to examine the effect of rescuing ERK2 function. Results were analyzed using the Student’s t-test and P-values < 0.05 were considered to indicate statistically-significant differences.

Results

Our data demonstrate that SH003 induced apoptosis in DU145 prostate cancer cells by inhibiting ERK signaling. SH003 induced apoptosis of prostate cancer cells in dose-dependent manner, which was independent of androgen dependency. SH003 also increased intracellular ROS levels but this is not associated with its pro-apoptotic effects. SH003 inhibited phosphorylation of Ras/Raf1/MEK/ERK/p90RSK in androgen-independent DU145 cells, but not androgen-dependent LNCaP and PC-3 cells. Moreover, ERK2 overexpression rescued SH003-induced apoptosis in DU145 cells.

Conclusions

SH003 induces apoptotic cell death of DU145 prostate cancer cells by inhibiting ERK2-mediated signaling.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12906-016-1490-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Decursin in Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) Enhances Doxorubicin Chemosensitivity in NCI/ADR-RES Ovarian Cancer Cells via Inhibition of P-glycoprotein Expression

Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN, Korean Dang-gui) is traditionally used for the treatment of various diseases including cancer. Here, we investigated multidrug-resistant phenotype-reversal activities of AGN and its compounds (decursin, ferulic acid, and nodakenin) in doxorubicin-resistant NCI/ADR-RES ovarian cancer cells. Our results showed that a combination of doxorubicin with either AGN or decursin inhibited a proliferation of NCI/ADR-RES cells. These combinations increased the number of cells at sub-G1 phase when cells were stained with Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate. We also found that these combinations activated caspase-9, caspase-8, and caspase-3 and increased cleaved PARP level. Moreover, an inhibition of P-glycoprotein expression by either AGN or decursin resulted in a reduction of its activity in NCI/ADR-RES cells. Therefore, our data demonstrate that decursin in AGN inhibits doxorubicin-resistant ovarian cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in the presence of doxorubicin via blocking P-glycoprotein expression. Therefore, AGN would be a potentially novel treatment option for multidrug-resistant tumors by sensitizing to anticancer agents. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

SH003 selectively induces p73‑dependent apoptosis in triple‑negative breast cancer cells

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a breast cancer subtype that has an aggressive phenotype, is highly metastatic, has limited treatment options and is associated with a poor prognosis. In addition, metastatic TNBC has no preferred standard chemotherapy due to resistance to anthracyclines and taxanes. The present study demonstrated that a herbal extract, SH003, reduced cell viability and induced apoptosis in TNBC without cell cytotoxicity. Cell viability was examined using trypan blue exclusion and colony formation assays, which revealed a decrease in the cell viability. Additionally, apoptosis was determined using flow cytometry and a sub‑G1 assay, which revealed an increase in the proportion of cells in the sub‑G1 phase. The present study investigated the anticancer effect of SH003 in the Hs578T, MDA‑MB‑231 and ZR‑751 TNBC cell lines, and in the MCF7 and T47D non‑TNBC cell lines. Western blot analysis revealed that the expression levels of poly‑ADP‑ribose polymerase (PARP) cleavage protein in cells treated with SH003 were increased dose‑dependent manner, indicating that SH003 induced apoptosis via a caspase‑dependent pathway. Pre‑treatment with the caspase inhibitor Z‑VAD reduced SH003‑induced apoptosis was examined using trypan blue exclusion. Moreover, SH003 treatment enhanced the p73 levels in MDA‑MB‑231 cells but not in MCF7 cells. Transfection of p73 small interfering RNA (siRNA) in MDA‑MB0231 cells revealed that the apoptotic cell death induced by SH003 was significantly impaired in comparison with scramble siRNA transfected MDA‑MB‑231 cells. This was examined using trypan blue exclusion and flow cytometry analysis (sub‑G1). In addition, SH003 and paclitaxel exhibited synergistic anticancer effects on TNBC cells. The results indicate that SH003 exerts its anticancer effect via p73 protein induction and exhibits synergistic anticancer effects when combined with paclitaxel.

SH003 suppresses breast cancer growth by accumulating p62 in autolysosomes

Drug markets revisits herbal medicines, as historical usages address their therapeutic efficacies with less adverse effects. Moreover, herbal medicines save both cost and time in development. SH003, a modified version of traditional herbal medicine extracted from Astragalus membranaceus (Am), Angelica gigas (Ag), and Trichosanthes Kirilowii Maximowicz (Tk) with 1:1:1 ratio (w/w) has been revealed to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis on highly metastatic breast cancer cells, both in vivo and in vitro with no toxicity. Meanwhile, autophagy is imperative for maintenance cellular homeostasis, thereby playing critical roles in cancer progression. Inhibition of autophagy by pharmacological agents induces apoptotic cell death in cancer cells, resulting in cancer treatment. In this study, we demonstrate that SH003-induced autophagy via inhibiting STAT3 and mTOR results in an induction of lysosomal p62/SQSTM1 accumulation-mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and attenuates tumor growth. SH003 induced autophagosome and autolysosome formation by inhibiting activation of STAT3- and mTOR-mediated signaling pathways. However, SH003 blocked autophagy-mediated p62/SQSTM1 degradation through reducing of lysosomal proteases, Cathepsins, resulting in accumulation of p62/SQSTM1 in the lysosome. The accumulation of p62/SQSTM1 caused the increase of ROS, which resulted in the induction of apoptotic cell death. Therefore, we conclude that SH003 suppresses breast cancer growth by inducing autophagy. In addition, SH003-induced p62/SQSTM1 could function as an important mediator for ROS generation-dependent cell death suggesting that SH003 may be useful for treating breast cancer.

Abscess of Native Kidney Caused by Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) in Renal Transplantation: A Case Report

BACKGROUND

Abscess of native kidney is a rare postoperative event after renal transplantation. This report describes a case of back pain, fever and pyuria caused by carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) in a patient who underwent renal-transplantation.

CASE REPORT

A 40-year-old man, presenting with hypertension and renal failure, underwent renal transplantation 1 month previously. He developed sudden intense back pain and fever (39°C). There was normal blood flow in graft kidney but there were the swelling and cyst of right native kidney. We aspirated the pus in native kidney and performed the native nephrectomy. The carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) was isolated as in pus and native kidney. We performed the tigecyline monotherapy during 3 weeks. He recovered without complication after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, no report in the literature to date describes abscess in native kidney secondary to CRAB in a renal transplant. Infections caused by CRAB have become critical for immunosuppressed patients. The presence of complication greater risk, by an organism whose pathogenicity and virulence are not yet elucidated should determine an aggressive empirical antimicrobial therapy.

Rubus coreanus Miquel extract causes apoptosis of doxorubicin-resistant NCI/ADR-RES ovarian cancer cells via JNK phosphorylation

Cancer cells can acquire an anticancer, drug-resistant phenotype following chemotherapy, which is tightly linked to cancer malignancy and patient survival rates. Therefore, the identification of options to treat chemotherapy‑resistant cancer cells is an urgent requirement. Rubus coreanus Miquel (RCM) has long been used as a source of food. In addition, it has been reported that RCM has effective functions against particular diseases, including cancer and inflammation. In the present study, it was demonstrated that RCM extract caused the apoptotic cell death of doxorubicin‑resistant NCI/ADR‑RES ovarian cancer cells by phosphorylating c‑Jun N‑terminal kinase (JNK). The RCM‑mediated reduction of cell viability showed no synergism with doxorubicin. In addition, ellagic acid and quercetin, which are phytochemicals found in RCM, also caused apoptosis of the NCI/ADR‑RES cells. In subsequent investigations of the RCM‑altered signaling pathway, RCM extract, ellagic acid and quercetin were found to commonly induce the phosphorylation of JNK and AKT. Additionally, the inhibition of JNK with SP600125 repressed the apoptotic cell death induced by RCM extract, ellagic acid and quercetin, and the inhibition of JNK appeared to switch apoptosis to necrosis. JNK inhibition also reduced the phosphorylation of AKT, which was induced by RCM extract, ellagic acid and quercetin, suggesting that the phosphorylation of JNK is required for AKT phosphorylation in RCM‑, ellagic acid‑ or quercetin‑induced apoptotic cell death. Therefore, the data obtained in the present study led to the conclusion that RCM caused apoptosis of doxorubicin‑resistant NCI/ADR-RES ovarian cancer cells via JNK phosphorylation, and suggested that RCM may be effective in the treatment of chemotherapy‑resistant cancer cells.

Sip-jeon-dea-bo-tang, a traditional herbal medicine, ameliorates cisplatin-induced anorexia via the activation of JAK1/STAT3-mediated leptin and IL-6 production in the fat tissue of mice

Despite its therapeutic advantages, chemotherapy can also cause adverse effects, including anorexia and loss of appetite. Although numerous patients with cancer have been reported to suffer from anorexia during or following chemotherapy, treatment options for anorexia remain to be determined. In Asian countries, traditional medicines are widely used to treat problems with appetite; sip-jeon-dea-bo-tang (SJDBT) is one of those medicines used for the treatment of anorexia. The present study demonstrated that SJDBT ameliorated cisplatin-induced anorexia. In a mouse model of chemotherapy-induced anorexia, oral administration of SJDBT prevented the cisplatin-induced reduction of food intake, inhibiting weight loss. The results of multiplex assays showed that SJDBT only altered the levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and leptin in the serum and fat tissue. In addition, SJDBT maintained the serum leptin level and increased the serum IL-6 level, whereas cisplatin reduced the levels of both serum leptin and IL-6. Furthermore, SJDBT was revealed to increase the levels of leptin and IL-6 in the fat tissue by activating the JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway. In conclusion, the present results revealed that SJDBT ameliorated cisplatin-induced anorexia, suggesting its usefulness in the prevention of anorexia during chemotherapy.

p53 causes butein‑mediated apoptosis of chronic myeloid leukemia cells

Progression of chronic myeloid leukemia, marked by the oncogenic Bcr‑Abl mutation, is tightly associated with an alteration of the p53 pathway. It is known that butein extracted from various plants represses cancer growth. Although the anticancer effects of butein are widely accepted, the mechanisms by which butein induces apoptosis of chronic myeloid leukemia cells remains to be elucidated. The present study demonstrated that butein-induced apoptosis was mediated by p53. KBM5 chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cells expressing wild-type p53 were more sensitive to butein compared with p53-null K562 CML cells in terms of apoptotic cell death. In addition, butein arrested KBM5 cells at S-phase and altered the expression levels of certain cyclins and the p53-downstream targets, MDM2 and p21. In addition, while butein reduced the protein expression of MDM2 in the KBM5 and K562 cells, it resulted in proteasome-independent MDM2 degradation in p53-expressing KBM5 cells, however, not in p53-null K562 cells. Therefore, the present study suggested that p53 causes the butein-mediated apoptosis of leukemic cells.

The transcriptional repressor ZBTB4 regulates EZH2 through a MicroRNA-ZBTB4-specificity protein signaling axis

ZBTB4 is a transcriptional repressor and examination of publically-available microarray data sets demonstrated an inverse relationship in the prognostic value and expression of ZBTB4 and the histone methyltransferase EZH2 in tumors from breast cancer patients. The possibility of functional interactions between EZH2 and ZBTB4 was investigated in breast cancer cells and the results showed that EZH2 is directly suppressed by ZBTB4 which in turn is regulated (suppressed) by miR-106b and other paralogues from the miR-17-92, miR-106b-25 and miR-106a-363 clusters that are highly expressed in breast and other tumors. ZBTB4 also acts a suppressor of specificity protein (Sp) transcription factors Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4, and RNA interference studies show that Sp proteins are required for EZH2 expression. The prediction analysis results from breast cancer patient array data sets confirm an association of Sp1-dependent EZH2 gene signature with decreased survival of breast cancer patients. Disruption of oncogenic miR-ZBTB4 signaling axis by anticancer agent such as betulinic acid that induce down-regulation of Sp proteins in breast cancer cells resulted in inhibition of tumor growth and colonization of breast cancer cells in a mouse model. Thus, EZH2 is reciprocally regulated by a novel signaling network consisting of Sp proteins, oncogenic miRs and ZBTB4, and modulation of this gene network is a novel therapeutic approach for treatment of breast cancer and possibly other cancers.

Oral administration of Lactobacillus casei variety rhamnosus partially alleviates TMA-induced atopic dermatitis in mice through improving intestinal microbiota

AIMS

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Lactobacillus casei variety rhamnosus (LCR35) on Atopic dermatitis (AD)-like symptoms in mice.

METHODS AND RESULTS

AD-like skin lesions in BALB/C mice were induced by sensitization and subsequent repeated challenges with trimellitic anhydride (TMA) for 10 days. LCR35 was orally administered to the mice once daily throughout the study. In the TMA-induced AD model, orally administered LCR35 suppressed significantly irritant-related scratching behaviour and skin dehydration as well as apparent severity of AD. LCR35 also significantly decreased serum levels of IgE and IL-4, but not IFN-γ, implying the restoration of TMA-induced disruption of Th1/Th2 balance. Quantitative real-time PCR targeting hypervariable regions of 16S rDNA gene of faecal microbiota indicated that the LCR35 treatment increased the population of Bifidobacterium, Lactobacilli, Enterococcus and Bacteroides fragilis group, but decreased those of Clostridium coccoides group.

CONCLUSIONS

LCR35 has the ability to suppress the development of AD in mice, possibly through the modulation of Th1/Th2 balance and gut microbiota.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

LCR35 has a strong potential as a probiotic for preventing AD.

Butein suppresses breast cancer growth by reducing a production of intracellular reactive oxygen species

Background

Butein has various functions in human diseases including cancer. While anti-cancer effects of butein have been revealed, it is urgent to understand a unique role of butein against cancer. In this study, we demonstrate that butein inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production results in suppression of breast cancer growth.

Methods

Different breast cancer cell lines were treated with butein and then subjected to cell viability and apoptosis assays. Butein-sensitive or -resistant breast cancer cells were injected into mammary fat pads of immunocompromised mice and then butein was injected. Breast cancer cells were categorized on the basis of butein sensitivity.

Results

Butein reduced viabilities of different breast cancer cells, while not affecting those of HER2-positive (HER2⁺) HCC-1419, SKBR-3 and HCC-2218 breast cancer cells. Butein reduction of ROS levels was correlated with apoptotic cell death. Furthermore, butein reduction of ROS level led to inhibitions of AKT phosphorylation. N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), a free radical scavenger, also reduced ROS production and AKT phosphorylation, resulting in apoptotic cell death. In contrast, inhibitory effects of both butein and NAC on ROS production and AKT phosphorylation were not detected in butein-resistant HER2⁺ HCC-1419, SKBR-3 and HCC-2218 cells. In the in vivo tumor growth assays, butein inhibited tumor growth of butein-sensitive HER2⁺ BT-474 cells, while not affecting that of butein-resistant HER2⁺ HCC-1419 cells. Moreover, butein inhibition of ROS production and AKT phosphorylation was confirmed by in vivo tumor growth assays.

Conclusions

Our study first reveals that butein causes breast cancer cell death by the reduction of ROS production. Therefore, our finding provides better knowledge for butein effect on breast cancer and also suggests its treatment option.

Brain-metastatic triple-negative breast cancer cells regain growth ability by altering gene expression patterns

BACKGROUD/AIM: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) frequently metastasizes to the brain (BrM). However, genes responsible for BrM of TNBC are yet to be identified.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Gene expression profiling of TNBC and BrM was conducted, and studies with cultured cells in vitro were performed to verify functions of genes identified in these analyses.

RESULTS

According to gene expression analyses of TNBC and BrM, periplakin (PPL) and mitogen-activated protein kinase 13 (MAPK13) were chosen for further investigations. PPL and MAPK13 were highly expressed in TNBC compared to BrM. While silencing of either PPL or MAPK13 in TNBC cells increased cell growth and reduced cell motility, overexpression of either PPL or MAPK13 in BrM cells, retarded growth rates and facilitated cell motility.

CONCLUSION

Gene expression patterns in TNBC and BrM reflect cancer cell growth in regions of metastasis.

A New Herbal Formula, KSG-002, Suppresses Breast Cancer Growth and Metastasis by Targeting NF- κ B-Dependent TNF α Production in Macrophages

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in tumor microenvironment regulate cancer progression and metastases. In breast cancer, macrophage infiltration is correlated with a poor prognosis. While metastatic breast cancer is poor prognostic with a severe mortality, therapeutic options are still limited. In this study, we demonstrate that KSG-002, a new herbal composition of radices Astragalus membranaceus and Angelica gigas, suppresses breast cancer via inhibiting TAM recruitment. KSG-002, an extract of radices Astragalus membranaceus and Angelica gigas at 3 : 1 ratio, respectively, inhibited MDA-MB-231 xenograft tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis in nude mice, while KSG-001, another composition (1 : 1 ratio, w/w), enhanced tumor growth, angiogenesis, and pulmonary metastasis, in vivo. KSG-002 further decreased the infiltrated macrophage numbers in xenograft tumor cohorts. In Raw264.7 cells, KSG-002 but not KSG-001 inhibited cell proliferation and migration and reduced TNF-alpha (TNF α ) production by inhibiting NF- κ B pathway. Furthermore, a combinatorial treatment of KSG-002 with TNF α inhibited a proliferation and migration of both MDA-MB-231 and Raw264.7 cells. Taken together, we conclude that KSG-002 suppresses breast cancer growth and metastasis through targeting NF- κ B-mediated TNF α production in macrophages.

Induction of the transcriptional repressor ZBTB4 in prostate cancer cells by drug-induced targeting of microRNA-17-92/106b-25 clusters

Androgen-insensitive DU145 and PC3 human prostate cancer cells express high levels of specificity protein (Sp) transcription factors Sp1, Sp3, and Sp4, and treatment of cells with methyl 2-cyano-3,11-dioxo-18β-olean-1,12-dien-30-oate (CDODA-Me) inhibited cell growth and downregulated Sp1, Sp3, and Sp4 expression. CDODA-Me (15 mg/kg/d) was a potent inhibitor of tumor growth in a mouse xenograft model (PC3 cells) and also decreased expression of Sp transcription factors in tumors. CDODA-Me-mediated downregulation of Sp1, Sp3, and Sp4 was due to induction of the transcriptional repressor ZBTB4, which competitively binds and displaces Sp transcription factors from GC-rich sites in Sp1-, Sp3-, Sp4-, and Sp-regulated gene promoters. ZBTB4 levels are relatively low in DU145 and PC3 cells due to suppression by miR paralogs that are members of the miR-17-92 (miR-20a/17-5p) and miR-106b-25 (miR-106b/93) clusters. Examination of publically available prostate cancer patient array data showed an inverse relationship between ZBTB4 and miRs-20a/17-5p/106b/93 expression, and increased ZBTB4 in patients with prostate cancer was a prognostic factor for increased survival. CDODA-Me induces ZBTB4 in prostate cancer cells through disruption of miR-ZBTB4 interactions, and this results in downregulation of pro-oncogenic Sp transcription factors and Sp-regulated genes.

Haploinsufficiency in the prometastasis Kiss1 receptor Gpr54 delays breast tumor initiation, progression, and lung metastasis

Activation of KISS1 receptor (KISS1R or GPR54) by its ligands (Kisspeptins) regulates a diverse function both in normal physiology and pathophysiology. In cancer, KISS1R has been implicated in tumor angiogenesis and metastasis, but a broader evaluation of KISS1R in tumorigenesis and tumor progression is yet to be conducted. In this study, we used mouse models of Kiss1r gene knockout and mouse mammary tumor virus-polyoma virus middle T antigen (MMTV-PyMT)-induced breast cancer to conduct such an evaluation. Kiss1r heterozygosity in MMTV-PyMT mice was sufficient to attenuate breast cancer initiation, growth, latency, multiplicity, and lung metastasis. To confirm these effects and assess possible contributions of endogenous ligands, we isolated primary tumor cells from PyMT/Kiss1r(+/+) and PyMT/Kiss1r(+/-) mice and compared their phenotypes by in vitro and in vivo assays. Kiss1r loss attenuated in vitro tumorigenic properties as well as tumor growth in vivo in immunocompromised NOD.SCID/NCr mice. Kiss1r activation in these cells, resulting from the addition of its ligand Kisspeptin-10, resulted in RhoA activation and RhoA-dependent gene expression through the Gαq-p63RhoGEF signaling pathway. Anchorage-independent growth was tightly linked to dose-dependent regulation of RhoA by Kiss1r. In support of these results, siRNA-mediated knockdown of KISS1R or inactivation of RhoA in human MCF10A breast epithelial cells overexpressing H-RasV12 was sufficient to reduce Ras-induced anchorage-independent growth. In summary, we concluded that Kiss1r attenuation was sufficient to delay breast tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis through inhibitory effects on the downstream Gαq-p63RhoGEF-RhoA signaling pathway.

Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid suppresses invasion of pancreatic cancer cells through the downregulation of CXCR4 chemokine receptor expression

Ninety percent of cancer-mediated deaths are due to metastasis of the tumor; however, the mechanisms controlling metastasis remain poorly understood. Thus, no therapy targeting this process has yet been approved. Chemokines and their receptors are mediators of chronic inflammation and have been linked to the metastasis of numerous cancers. More recently, the Cysteine X Cysteine (CXC) chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) has emerged as a key mediator of tumor metastasis; therefore, identification of inhibitors of this receptor has the potential to abrogate metastasis. In this report, we demonstrate that acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), a component of the therapeutic plant Boswellia serrata, can downregulate CXCR4 expression in pancreatic cancer cells. The reduction in CXCR4 induced by this terpenoid was found to be cell-type specific, as its expression was also abrogated in leukemia, myeloma and breast cancer cell lines. Neither proteasome inhibitors nor lysosomal stabilization could prevent the AKBA-induced reduction in CXCR4 expression. This downregulation occurred at the transcriptional level. Suppression of CXCR4 by AKBA was accompanied by the inhibition of pancreatic cancer cell invasion, which is induced by CXCL12, the ligand for CXCR4. In addition, abrogation of the expression of chemokine receptor by AKBA was found in human pancreatic tissues from orthotopic animal model. AKBA also abolished breast tumor cell invasion, and this effect correlated with the disappearance of both the CXCR4 messenger RNA and CXCR4 protein. Overall, our results show that AKBA is a novel inhibitor of CXCR4 expression and, thus, has the potential to suppress the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells.

Butein, a tetrahydroxychalcone, suppresses cancer-induced osteoclastogenesis through inhibition of receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand signaling

Osteoclastogenesis is associated with aging and various age-related inflammatory chronic diseases, including cancer. Receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL), a member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily, has been implicated as a major mediator of bone resorption, suggesting that agents that can suppress RANKL signaling might inhibit osteoclastogenesis, a process closely linked to bone resorption. We therefore investigated whether butein, a tetrahydroxychalcone, could inhibit RANKL signaling and suppress osteoclastogenesis induced by RANKL or tumor cells. We found that human multiple myeloma cells (MM.1S and U266), breast tumor cells (MDA-MB-231) and prostate tumor cells (PC-3) induced differentiation of macrophages to osteoclasts, as indicated by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive cells, and that butein suppressed this process. The chalcone also suppressed the expression of RANKL by the tumor cells. We further found that butein suppressed RANKL-induced NF-κB activation and that this suppression correlated with the inhibition of IκBα kinase and suppression of phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα, an inhibitor of NF-κB. Finally, butein also suppressed the RANKL-induced differentiation of macrophages to osteoclasts in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. Collectively, our results indicate that butein suppresses the osteoclastogenesis induced by tumor cells and by RANKL, by suppression of the NF-κB activation pathway.

Celastrol suppresses invasion of colon and pancreatic cancer cells through the downregulation of expression of CXCR4 chemokine receptor

Although metastasis accounts for >90% of cancer-related deaths, no therapeutic that targets this process has yet been approved. Because the chemokine receptor CXCR4 is one of the targets closely linked with tumor metastasis, inhibitors of this receptor have the potential to abrogate metastasis. In the current report, we demonstrate that celastrol can downregulate the CXCR4 expression on breast cancer MCF-7 cells stably transfected with HER2, an oncogene known to induce the chemokine receptor. Downregulation of CXCR4 by the triterpenoid was not cell type-specific as downregulation occurred in colon cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, and pancreatic cancer cells. Decrease in CXCR4 expression was not due to proteolysis as neither proteasome inhibitors nor lysosomal stabilization had any effect. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that downregulation of CXCR4 messenger RNA (mRNA) by celastrol occurred at the translational level. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis revealed regulation at the transcriptional level as well. Abrogation of the chemokine receptor by celastrol or by gene-silencing was accompanied by suppression of invasiveness of colon cancer cells induced by CXCL12, the ligand for CXCR4. This effect was not cell type-specific as celastrol also abolished invasiveness of pancreatic tumor cells, and this effect again correlated with the disappearance of both the CXCR4 mRNA and CXCR4 protein. Other triterpenes, such as withaferin A and gedunin, which are known to inhibit Hsp90, did not downregulate CXCR4 expression, indicating that the effects were specific to celastrol. Overall, these results show that celastrol has potential in suppressing invasion and metastasis of cancer cells by down-modulation of CXCR4 expression.

Regulation of embryonic kidney branching morphogenesis and glomerular development by KISS1 receptor (Gpr54) through NFAT2- and Sp1-mediated Bmp7 expression

G-protein-coupled receptor 54 (Gpr54, KISS1 receptor) plays critical roles in puberty regulation, tumor metastasis suppression, and vasoconstriction. Bone morphogenetic protein-7 (Bmp7) is required for kidney organogenesis. However, whether Gpr54 is involved in embryonic kidney development and how Bmp7 expression is regulated in the kidney are largely unknown. Here we report that Gpr54 deletion leads to kidney branching morphogenesis and glomerular development retardation in embryonic kidneys in vivo and in explanted kidneys in vitro. Gpr54 inactivation results in a high risk of low glomerular number in adult kidneys. Gpr54 is expressed in condensed mesenchyme at E12.5 and epithelial cells of proximal and distal tubules and collecting ducts at E17.5 and P0 mouse kidney. Deletion of Gpr54 decreases Bmp7 expression and Smad1 phosphorylation in the developing kidney. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase assays, we demonstrate that Gpr54 regulates NFAT2- and Sp1-mediated Bmp7 transcription. Furthermore, we show that NFAT2 cooperates with Sp1 to promote Bmp7 transcription activation. Together, these data suggest that Gpr54 regulates Bmp7 expression through NFAT2 and Sp1 and plays an important role in embryonic kidney branching morphogenesis and glomerular development.

KiSS1 suppresses TNFalpha-induced breast cancer cell invasion via an inhibition of RhoA-mediated NF-kappaB activation

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha) induces cancer development and metastasis, which is prominently achieved by nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) activation. TNFalpha-induced NF-kappaB activation enhances cellular mechanisms including proliferation, migration, and invasion. KiSS1, a key regulator of puberty, was initially discovered as a tumor metastasis suppressor. The expression of KiSS1 was lost or down-regulated in different metastatic tumors. However, it is unclear whether KiSS1 regulates TNFalpha-induced NF-kappaB activation and further tumor cell migration. In this study, we demonstrate that KiSS1 suppresses the migration of breast cancer cells by inhibiting TNFalpha-induced NF-kappaB pathway and RhoA activation. Both KiSS1 overexpression and KP10 (kisspeptin-10) stimulation inhibited TNFalpha-induced NF-kappaB activity, suppressed TNFalpha-induced cell migration and cell attachment to fibronectin in breast cancer cells while KP10 has little effect on cancer cell proliferation. Furthermore, KP10 inhibited TNFalpha-induced cell migration and RhoA GTPase activation. Therefore, our data demonstrate that KiSS1 inhibits TNFalpha-induced NF-kappaB activation via downregulation of RhoA activation and suppression of breast cancer cell migration and invasion.

Kisspeptin-10, a KISS1-derived decapeptide, inhibits tumor angiogenesis by suppressing Sp1-mediated VEGF expression and FAK/Rho GTPase activation

Kisspeptin-10 (Kp-10), a decapeptide derived from the primary translation product of KISS1 gene, has been reported previously to be a key hormone for puberty and an inhibitor for tumor metastasis via the activation of G protein-coupled receptor 54. However, whether Kp-10 inhibits angiogenesis, which is critical for tumor growth and metastasis and other human diseases, is still unknown. Here we show that Kp-10 significantly inhibits human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) migration, invasion, and tube formation, key processes in angiogenesis. Using chicken chorioallantoic membrane assay and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced mouse corneal micropocket assay, we show that Kp-10 inhibits angiogenesis in vivo. Furthermore, Kp-10 inhibits tumor growth in severe combined immunodeficient mice xenografted with human prostate cancer cells (PC-3) through inhibiting tumor angiogenesis, whereas Kp-10 has little effect on the proliferation of HUVECs and human prostate cancer cells. In deciphering the underlying molecular mechanisms, we show that Kp-10 suppresses VEGF expression by inhibiting the binding of specificity protein 1 to VEGF promoter and by blocking the activation of c-Src/focal adhesion kinase and Rac/Cdc42 signaling pathways in HUVECs, leading to the inhibition of tumor angiogenesis.

A novel peptide from human apolipoprotein(a) inhibits angiogenesis and tumor growth by targeting c-Src phosphorylation in VEGF-induced human umbilical endothelial cells

Many angiogenesis inhibitors are derived from large plasma proteins. Previous studies showed that the Kringle5-like domain (termed KV) in human apolipoprotein (a) is a potential antiangiogenic factor. However, its active region and the underling molecular mechanism remain elusive. Here, we identified an 11-amino acid peptide (named KV11) as the key region for the antiangiogenic function of the KV domain of apolipoprotein (a). We demonstrate that KV11 inhibits angiogenesis in vitro by suppressing human umbilical vein endothelial cell migration and microtubule formation. KV11 inhibits angiogenesis in chicken chorioallantoic membrane assays and mouse corneal micropocket angiogenesis assays in vivo. KV11 peptide shows no effect on tumor cell growth or proliferation, but significantly inhibits tumor growth in SCID mouse xenograft tumor model (p < 0.01) by preventing tumor angiogenesis. We elucidate that KV11 peptide suppresses angiogenesis and tumor progression by targeting the c-Src/ERK signaling pathways. Together, these studies provide the first evidence that KV11 from apolipoprotein KV domain has anti-angiogenesis functions and may be an anti-tumor drug candidate.

Transient trisomy 8 abnormality in Philadelphia-negative cells during imatinib mesylate treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia

We investigated chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) patients who developed trisomy 8 abnormalities in Philadelphia-negative (Ph-) cells during imatinib mesylate treatment to evaluate the clinical outcome and laboratory features. Of the 470 CML patients, 1.5% (n = 7) developed trisomy 8 chromosomal abnormalities in Ph- cells. The median interval of the first trisomy 8 observation was 12 months. Our follow-up cytogenetic evaluations revealed that six of the patients demonstrated a complete or partial cytogenetic response and that all of the six patients revealed no dysplastic changes following a bone marrow examination. Moreover, the percentage of trisomy 8 in metaphase karyotyping has decreased in five of the seven subjects. In conclusion, these results suggest that the emergence of trisomy 8 in Ph- cells is transient and not related to therapy-related myelodysplasia or acute leukemia.

Thymoquinone inhibits tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth through suppressing AKT and extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling pathways

Thymoquinone, a component derived from the medial plant Nigella sativa, has been used for medical purposes for more than 2,000 years. Recent studies reported that thymoquinone exhibited inhibitory effects on cell proliferation of many cancer cell lines and hormone-refractory prostate cancer by suppressing androgen receptor and E2F-1. Whether thymoquinone inhibits tumor angiogenesis, the critical step of tumor growth and metastasis, is still unknown. In this study, we found that thymoquinone effectively inhibited human umbilical vein endothelial cell migration, invasion, and tube formation. Thymoquinone inhibited cell proliferation and suppressed the activation of AKT and extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Thymoquinone blocked angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, prevented tumor angiogenesis in a xenograft human prostate cancer (PC3) model in mouse, and inhibited human prostate tumor growth at low dosage with almost no chemotoxic side effects. Furthermore, we observed that endothelial cells were more sensitive to thymoquinone-induced cell apoptosis, cell proliferation, and migration inhibition compared with PC3 cancer cells. Thymoquinone inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation but showed no inhibitory effects on vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 activation. Overall, our results indicate that thymoquinone inhibits tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth and could be used as a potential drug candidate for cancer therapy.

Septic arthritis of hip after radiotherapy for carcinoma of cervix

Radiation-induced damage to the bone is characterised by four main pathological findings: osteoporosis, bone-marrow fibrosis, trabecular microfractures and disseminated areas of focal necrosis. The complications of radiotherapy affecting hip and pelvis are well known, but septic arthritis of the hip joint following pelvic irradiation is a rare occurrence. Radiation-induced damage associated with a compromised host defence may be considered responsible for this complication. We report septic arthritis of hip joint in a 64-year-old woman who was treated with pelvic radiotherapy for carcinoma of the cervix eight years ago. She was successfully treated by two-stage reconstruction, consisting of debridement and antibiotic-loaded cement spacer insertion in the first stage and total hip replacement in the second stage.

Gambogic acid inhibits angiogenesis and prostate tumor growth by suppressing vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 signaling

Gambogic acid (GA), the main active compound of Gamboge hanburyi, has been previously reported to activate apoptosis in many types of cancer cell lines by targeting transferrin receptor and modulating nuclear factor-kappaB signaling pathway. Whether GA inhibits angiogenesis, which is crucial for cancer and other human diseases, remains unknown. Here, we found that GA significantly inhibited human umbilical vascular endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation, migration, invasion, tube formation, and microvessel growth at nanomolar concentration. In a xenograft prostate tumor model, we found that GA effectively inhibited tumor angiogenesis and suppressed tumor growth with low side effects using metronomic chemotherapy with GA. GA was more effective in activating apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation and migration in HUVECs than in human prostate cancer cells (PC3), suggesting GA might be a potential drug candidate in cancer therapy through angioprevention with low chemotoxicity. Furthermore, we showed that GA inhibited the activations of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 and its downstream protein kinases, such as c-Src, focal adhesion kinase, and AKT. Together, these data suggest that GA inhibits angiogenesis and may be a viable drug candidate in antiangiogenesis and anticancer therapies.

Germinal vesicle chromatin configuration and meiotic competence is related to the oocyte source in canine

This study investigated the effect of deriving oocytes from different stages of the estrous cycle on oocyte diameter, germinal vesicle (GV) chromatin configuration, and in vitro meiotic competence in canine oocytes. Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were recovered from both ovaries during anestrous, follicular, and luteal phases and in vivo ovulated oocytes. The diameter of canine oocyte was compared with or without the zona pellucida (ZP) before in vitro maturation (IVM). Also, GV chromatin configuration was evaluated before (0 h) or 72 h after IVM by fixation with 3.7% formaldehyde supplemented with 10 microg/ml Hoechst 33342 for 30 min. COCs were matured in TCM199 supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), 0.6 mM cysteine, 0.2 mM pyruvic acid, 50 microg/ml gentamycin sulfate, and 20 microg/ml 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) at 39 degrees C and 5% CO(2) in air for 72 h. The diameter of in vivo ovulated oocytes with the ZP (167.5+/-12.7 microm) or without ZP (133.9+/-5.3 microm) was significantly greater (p<0.05) than those of anestrous, follicular, and luteal oocytes (with ZP, 151.2+/-7.4, 153.1+/-8.8 and 152.8+/-5.4 microm, respectively; without ZP, 115.3+/-7.6, 122.1+/-4.9 and 114.3+/-6.6 microm, respectively). At 0 h, the GV-II configuration was more prevalent in oocytes from anestrual ovaries than from follicular or luteal ovaries or in vivo ovulated oocytes (63.6% versus 14.8%, 33.0%, and 0.0%; p<0.05), whereas the proportion of oocytes with the GV-V configuration was higher in follicular phase and ovulated oocytes than in oocytes from anestrus and luteal phase (57.4% and 100% versus 2.0% and 22.7%; p<0.05). However, oocytes in luteal phase exhibited diverse GV configurations (10.3%, 33.0%, 16.5%, 13.4%, and 22.7% in GV-I, GV-II, GV-III, GV-IV, and GV-V, respectively). After 72 h post-IVM, a greater percentage of in vivo ovulated oocytes progressed to MII than those oocytes collected during anestrous, follicular, and luteal phases (50.0% versus 5.5%, 11.5%, and 9.1%; p<0.05). In conclusion, the oocyte diameter, GV chromatin configuration, and meiotic maturation of canine COCs are related to the oocyte source. These results indicated that the oocyte source could be critical to nuclear progression to MII stage in canines.

Estrogen regulates KiSS1 gene expression through estrogen receptor alpha and SP protein complexes

Kisspeptins are natural ligands of G protein-coupled receptor-54. Activation of KiSS1/G protein-coupled receptor-54 signaling pathways results in potent activation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis and initiates puberty. Recent data have shown that in female mice, KiSS1 is positively regulated by estradiol (E(2)) in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus, an important reproductive neuroendocrine brain region, but negatively regulated in the arcuate nucleus. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms governing E(2)-modulated KiSS1 expression. Here, we demonstrate that the expression level of the KiSS1 gene was up-regulated with the administration of E(2) in estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha)-positive hypothalamic GT1-7 cells. Using transient transfection of human KiSS1 gene promoter coupled to a luciferase reporter, E(2) increases promoter activity in the presence of ERalpha. Deletion analysis of KiSS1 promoter indicates that the E(2)-regulated increase in promoter activity depends on the Sp1 sites of the proximal promoter region. Using both EMSAs and chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis, we determined that both Sp1 and Sp3 proteins constitutively associate with the four putative Sp1 sites in vitro, whereas the association of ERalpha with the KiSS1 promoter is dependent on E(2) exposure. Sp1 and ERalpha form a complex in vivo to mediate the E(2)-induced activation of KiSS1 promoter. Interestingly, Sp1 transactivates KiSS1 promoter activity, whereas Sp3 functions as a transcriptional repressor. Together, these results demonstrate that E(2)-dependent transcriptional activation of KiSS1 gene is mediated by ERalpha through the interaction of Sp1/Sp3 proteins with the GC-rich motifs of KiSS1 promoter, providing a molecular mechanism of how steroid hormone feedback regulates KiSS1 expression.