In silico identification and in vitro validation of alpha-hederin as a potent inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in breast cancer stem cells

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a vital role in metastasis, recurrence and chemoresistance in breast cancer. β-catenin, which is a frequently over activated protein in CSCs, binds to T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor (Tcf/Lef) family transcription factors leading to ectopic expression of Wnt pathway responsive genes necessary for the maintenance and action of CSCs. With the aim of identifying a small molecules that can effectively eliminate CSCs, molecular docking studies were performed against the Tcf/Lef binding hotspot on β-catenin using a library of 100 natural or synthetic small molecules. Small molecule ligands giving docking energy better than - 7 kcal/mol were further investigated by binding interactions analysis and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. These compounds were then investigated in vitro, for cytotoxicity against CSCs isolated from MDA-MB-231 triple negative breast cancer cells. Alpha-hederin (AH) was identified as the only compound in the selected library that has cytotoxicity against breast CSCs. AH was further investigated for it's ability to regulate Wnt pathway target genes (Cyclin D1 and CD44)and the tumor suppressor p53by real-time quantitative PCR. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity properties of the AH was predicted in silico. AH significantly down regulated the transcription of Cyclin D1 and CD44 while up-regulating the transcription of p53. AH was predicted to have acceptable drug likeness. Although AH is currently known to inhibit the growth of various cancer cells in vitro, present study demonstrated for the first time that it is a potent inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and induce apoptosis in breast CSCs.

Melatonin promotes proliferation of Inner Mongolia cashmere goat hair follicle papilla cells through Wnt10b

The study demonstrated that melatonin (MT) can induce the development of secondary hair follicles in Inner Mongolian cashmere goats through the Wnt10b gene, leading to secondary dehairing. However, the mechanisms underlying the expression and molecular function of Wnt10b in dermal papilla cells (DPC) remain unknown. This research aimed to investigate the impact of MT on DPC and the regulation of Wnt10b expression, function, and molecular mechanisms in DPC. The findings revealed that MT promotes DPC proliferation and enhances DPC activity. Co-culturing DPC with overexpressed Wnt10b and MT showed a significant growth promotion. Subsequent RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of overexpressed Wnt10b and control groups unveiled the regulatory role of Wnt10b in DPC. Numerous genes and pathways, including developmental pathways such as Wnt and MAPK, as well as processes like hair follicle morphogenesis and hair cycle, were identified. These results suggest that Wnt10b promotes the growth of secondary hair follicles in Inner Mongolian cashmere goats by regulating crucial factors and pathways in DPC proliferation.

Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma: pathogenic role and therapeutic target

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignant liver tumor and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway is a highly conserved pathway involved in several biological processes, including the improper regulation that leads to the tumorigenesis and progression of cancer. New studies have found that abnormal activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway is a major cause of HCC tumorigenesis, progression, and resistance to therapy. New perspectives and approaches to treating HCC will arise from understanding this pathway. This article offers a thorough analysis of the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway's function and its therapeutic implications in HCC.

Porcine transient receptor potential channel 1 (TRPC1) regulates muscle growth via the Wnt/β-catenin and Wnt/Ca2+ pathways

Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels allow the intracellular entry of Ca2+ and play important roles in several physio-pathological processes. In this study, we constructed transgenic mice expressing porcine TRPC1 (Tg-pTRPC1) to verify the effects of TRPC1 on skeletal muscle growth and elucidate the underlying mechanism. Porcine TRPC1 increased the muscle mass, fiber cross-sectional area, and exercise endurance of mice and accelerated muscle repair and regeneration. TRPC1 overexpression enhanced β-catenin expression and promoted myogenesis, which was partly reversed by inhibitors of β-catenin. TRPC1 facilitated the accumulation of intracellular Ca2+ and nuclear translocation of the NFATC2/NFATC2IP complex involved in the Wnt/Ca2+ pathway, promoting muscle growth. Paired related homeobox 1 (Prrx1) promoted the expression of TRPC1, NFATC2, and NFATC2IP that participate in the regulation of muscle growth. Taken together, our findings indicate that porcine TRPC1 promoted by Prrx1 could regulate muscle development through activating the canonical Wnt/β-catenin and non-canonical Wnt/Ca2+ pathways.

Utility of LEF1 to differentiate desmoid fibromatosis from its histologic mimics

Diagnosis of desmoid-type fibromatosis (DF) may be challenging on biopsy due to morphologic overlap with reactive fibrosis (scar) and other uniform spindle cell neoplasms. Evaluation of nuclear β-catenin, a surrogate of Wnt pathway activation, is often difficult in DF due to weak nuclear expression and high background membranous/cytoplasmic staining. Lymphoid enhancer-factor 1 (LEF1) is a recently characterized effector partner of β-catenin which activates the transcription of target genes. We investigated the performance of LEF1 and β-catenin immunohistochemistry in a retrospective series of 156 soft tissue tumors, including 35 DF, 3 superficial fibromatosis, and 121 histologic mimics (19 soft tissue perineurioma, 8 colorectal perineurioma, 4 intraneural perineurioma, 26 scars, 23 nodular fasciitis, 6 low-grade fibromyxoid sarcomas, 6 angioleiomyomas, 5 neurofibromas, 5 dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, 3 low-grade myofibroblastic sarcomas, 3 synovial sarcomas, 3 inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors, 2 schwannomas, and 1 each of Gardner-associated fibroma, radiation-associated spindle cell sarcoma, sclerotic fibroma, dermatofibroma, and glomus tumor). LEF1 expression was not only seen in 33/35 (94%) of DF but also observed in 19/23 (82%) nodular fasciitis, 7/19 (37%) soft tissue perineurioma, 2/3 (66%) synovial sarcoma, and 6/26 (23%) scar, as well as in 1 radiation-associated spindle cell sarcoma. The sensitivity and specificity of LEF1 IHC for diagnosis of DF were 94% and 70%, respectively. By comparison, β-catenin offered similar sensitivity, 94%, but 88% specificity. Positivity for LEF1 and β-catenin in combination showed sensitivity of 89%, lower than the sensitivity of β-catenin alone (94%); however, the combination of both LEF1 and β-catenin improved specificity (96%) compared to the specificity of β-catenin alone (88%). Although LEF1 has imperfect specificity in isolation, this stain has diagnostic utility when used in combination with β-catenin.

B-GOS alleviates olanzapine-induced lipid disturbances in mice by enriching Akkermansia and upregulation of PGRMC1-Wnt signaling

Although olanzapine (OLZ) remains one of the most efficacious antipsychotic medications for the treatment of schizophrenia, there are significant tolerability issues related to its metabolic profile such as weight gain and dyslipidemia. Our previous studies have demonstrated that progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) plays a key role in antipsychotic-induced metabolic side effects. Prebiotics showed positive effects on lipid metabolism, however, limited studies focused on their therapeutic potential and mechanisms in treating antipsychotic-induced lipid metabolic disorders. Herein, our study aims to explore the effects of the prebiotic B-GOS on lipid disturbances induced by OLZ and elucidate its underlying mechanisms via PGRMC1 pathway. In an 8-week study, long-term intraperitoneal administration of OLZ at a dosage of 8 mg/kg/day in mice induced lipid disturbances as manifested by significantly increased lipid indexes in plasma and liver. B-GOS effectively alleviated the OLZ-induced abnormal lipid metabolism by enhancing the diversity of the gut microbiota, with a 100-fold increase in Akkermansia abundance and a 10-fold decrease in Faecalibaculum abundance. Followed by the B-GOS related changes of gut microbiota, OLZ-induced substantial hepatic inhibition of PGRMC1, and associated protein factors of Wnt signaling pathway (Wnt3a, β-catenin, and PPAR-γ) were reversed without affecting plasma levels of short-chain fatty acids. Taken together, prebiotics like B-GOS enriching Akkermansia offer a promising novel approach to alleviate antipsychotic-induced lipid disturbances by modulating the PGRMC1-Wnt signaling pathway.

SETD3 regulates endoderm differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells through canonical Wnt signaling pathway

With self-renewal and pluripotency features, embryonic stem cells (ESCs) provide an invaluable tool to investigate early cell fate decisions. Pluripotency exit and lineage commitment depend on precise regulation of gene expression that requires coordination between transcription (TF) and chromatin factors in response to various signaling pathways. SET domain-containing 3 (SETD3) is a methyltransferase that can modify histones in the nucleus and actin in the cytoplasm. Through an shRNA screen, we previously identified SETD3 as an important factor in the meso/endodermal lineage commitment of mouse ESCs (mESC). In this study, we identified SETD3-dependent transcriptomic changes during endoderm differentiation of mESCs using time-course RNA-seq analysis. We found that SETD3 is involved in the timely activation of the endoderm-related gene network. The canonical Wnt signaling pathway was one of the markedly altered signaling pathways in the absence of SETD3. The assessment of Wnt transcriptional activity revealed a significant reduction in Setd3-deleted (setd3∆) mESCs coincident with a decrease in the nuclear pool of the key TF β-catenin level, though no change was observed in its mRNA or total protein level. Furthermore, a proximity ligation assay (PLA) found an interaction between SETD3 and β-catenin. We were able to rescue the differentiation defect by stably re-expressing SETD3 or activating the canonical Wnt signaling pathway by changing mESC culture conditions. Our results suggest that alterations in the canonical Wnt pathway activity and subcellular localization of β-catenin might contribute to the endoderm differentiation defect of setd3∆ mESCs.

Novel variant in LRP6 associated with unusual and severe clinical presentation: Case report

Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) is a co-receptor of the Wnt signaling pathway, which plays an essential role in various biological activities during embryonic and postnatal development. LRP6 is exceptionally associated with rare diseases and always with autosomal dominant inheritance. Here we report a familial phenotype of high bone mass associated with skeletal anomalies and oligodontia but also persistent left superior vena cava, inguinal hernia, hepatic cysts, abnormal posterior fossa and genital malformations. Molecular analysis revealed a novel heterozygous variant, NM_002336.2: c.724T>C, p.(Trp242Arg), in affected individuals. This variant is located in the first β-propellant motif of LRP6, to which sclerostin (SOST) and dickkopf1 (DKK1), two LRP6 co-receptor inhibitors and various Wnt ligands bind. According to the literature and integrating data from structural analysis, this variant distorts the binding of SOST and DKK1, thus leading to overactivation of Wnt signaling pathways involved in osteoblast differentiation. This novel heterozygous variant in LRP6 underlies the role of LRP6 in skeletal and dental disorders as well as, probably, cardiac, cerebral and genital developments.

Genetic landscape of breast cancer subtypes following radiation therapy: insights from comprehensive profiling

Background

In breast cancer, in the era of precision cancer therapy, different patterns of genetic mutations dictate different treatments options. However, it is not clear whether the genetic profiling of breast cancer patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery is related to the adverse reactions caused by radiotherapy.

Methods

We collected formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor tissue samples from 54 breast cancer patients treated with radiation after breast-conserving surgery and identified comprehensive molecular information in hundreds of cancer-associated genes by FoundationOne CDx (F1CDx), a next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based assay.

Results

Among our cohort of 54 breast cancer patients, we found high-frequency mutations in cancer-related genes such as TP53 (56%), RAD21 (39%), PIK3CA (35%), ERBB2 (24%), and MYC (22%). Strikingly, we detected that the WNT pathway appears to be a signaling pathway with specific high-frequency mutations in the HER2 subtype. We also compared the mutation frequencies of the two groups of patients with and without cutaneous radiation injury (CRI) after radiotherapy and found that the mutation frequencies of two genes, FGFR1 and KLHL6, were significantly higher in patients with CRI : No subgroup than in those with CRI : Yes.

Conclusion

Different breast cancer subtypes have their own type-specific mutation patterns. FGFR1 and KLHL6 mutations are protective factors for radiation-induced skin toxicity in breast cancer patients.

A comprehensive analysis of the expression, immune infiltration, prognosis and partial experimental validation of CHST family genes in gastric cancer

Previous studies have demonstrated that carbohydrate sulfotransferase family proteins (CHSTs) play a crucial role in the extracellular matrix structural constituent and cancer progression, however, the effect of CHSTs on gastric cancer is still superficial. To investigate these, our study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of CHSTs' expression, immune infiltration, and prognostic implications in gastric cancer, utilizing data from the TCGA, GEO and GTEx databases. Furthermore, we conducted experimental validation to elucidate the role of CHST14 specifically in gastric cancer. Our findings suggest that most CHSTs were highly expressed in gastric cancer. Gene copy number variations further indicated prevalent CHSTs amplification in gastric cancer, pointing to its potential relevance in disease progression. Intriguingly, we noted strong positive correlations between most CHSTs and immune cell infiltration. Importantly, most members of CHSTs were related to OS and PFI with gastric cancer, with particular emphasis on CHST14 and CHST9. Multifactorial regression analysis indicates that CHST14 is an independent prognostic factor influencing the overall survival of gastric cancer patients. In further experimental validation, our results demonstrate elevated expression of CHST14 in gastric cancer, and knocking down CHST14 inhibits gastric cancer cell proliferation, invasion, migration and EMT. Additionally, CHST14 may exert its function through the regulation of the Wnt pathway. In summary, our study comprehensively analyzes the hitherto undescribed role of CHSTs in gastric cancer through the analysis of multi-omics data. Importantly, we identify CHST14 as a pivotal promoter in the malignant progression of gastric cancer, offering potential targets for gastric cancer therapy.

Fibroblast growth factor 21 alleviates unilateral ureteral obstruction-induced renal fibrosis by inhibiting Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a key regulator of energy metabolism. Recent studies suggested that serum FGF21 levels increase with declining renal function. However, the link between FGF21 and kidney diseases and the direct effect of FGF21 in renal fibrosis remains unclear. In this study, FGF21 was upregulated in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)-induced renal fibrosis and cellular fibrosis induced by transforming growth factor-β, and renal expression of FGF21 was positively correlated with fibrosis markers. Additionally, FGF21 was regulated by Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. The knockdown and overexpression of FGF21 in mouse tubular epithelial cells demonstrated that FGF21 alleviates renal fibrosis by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. To investigate the effect of FGF21 on renal fibrosis in vivo, we established an overexpression model by injecting the plasmid in mice and found that FGF21 overexpression relieved UUO-induced renal fibrosis and renal inflammatory response. Taken together, FGF21 is upregulated with the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and alleviates renal fibrosis by inhibiting the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in a negative feedback mode. These results provide a new understanding for the source of elevated serum FGF21 in patients with chronic kidney disease and prove that FGF21 is a direct inhibitor of the progression of renal fibrosis, thus providing novel therapeutic intervention insights for renal fibrosis.

Desmoid Tumors: Current Perspective and Treatment

OPINION STATEMENT

Desmoid tumors are rare tumors with a tendency to infiltrate locally. The lack of a standard treatment approach makes choosing the most appropriate treatment for patients challenging. Most experts recommend watchful observation for asymptomatic patients as spontaneous regression of tumor is observed in up to 20% of patients. Upfront resection of the desmoid tumor has fallen out of favor due to high morbidity and high relapse rates associated with the tumor. Systemic therapy has evolved over several decades. Where chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were used over the last several decades, tyrosine kinase inhibitors came to the forefront within the last decade. Most recently, gamma-secretase inhibitors have shown significant clinical benefit in patients with desmoid tumors, bringing forth an entirely new mechanistic approach. Several Wnt pathway inhibitors are also under development. Invasive approaches like cryoablation have also shown clinical benefit in patients with extra-abdominal desmoid tumors in recent years. The recent approval of nirogacestat has ushered in a new era of treatment for patients diagnosed with desmoid tumors. Several new molecules are expected to be approved over the coming years.

FZD3 regulates the viability, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix degradation of vaginal wall fibroblasts in pelvic organ prolapse via the Wnt signaling pathway

The occurrence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) seriously affects women's quality of life. However, the pathogenesis of POP remains unclear. We aimed to clarify the role of Frizzled class receptor 3 (FZD3) in POP. FZD3 expression in the vaginal wall tissues was detected using immunohistochemistry, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and western blot analysis. Then, vaginal wall fibroblasts (VWFs) were isolated from patients with POP and non-POP, and were identified. Cell viability and apoptosis were evaluated using Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry, respectively. Extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation was assessed by western blot analysis. The results illustrated that FZD3 was downregulated in POP. VWFs from POP had lower cell viability, ECM degradation, and higher apoptosis. Knockdown of FZD3 inhibited cell viability, ECM degradation, and promoted apoptosis of VWFs, whereas overexpression of FZD3 had opposite results. Moreover, IWP-4 (Wingless-type [Wnt] pathway inhibitor) reversed the role of FZD3 overexpression on biological behaviors. Taken together, FZD3 facilitates VWFs viability, ECM degradation, and inhibits apoptosis via the Wnt pathway in POP. The findings provide a potential target for the treatment of POP.

Aseptic loosening around total joint replacement in humans is regulated by miR-1246 and miR-6089 via the Wnt signalling pathway

BACKGROUND

Total joint replacement for osteoarthritis is one of the most successful surgical procedures in modern medicine. However, aseptic loosening continues to be a leading cause of revision arthroplasty. The diagnosis of aseptic loosening remains a challenge as patients are often asymptomatic until the late stages. MicroRNA (miRNA) has been demonstrated to be a useful diagnostic tool and has been successfully used in the diagnosis of other diseases. We aimed to identify differentially expressed miRNA in the plasma of patients with aseptic loosening.

METHODS

Adult patients undergoing revision arthroplasty for aseptic loosening and age- and gender-matched controls were recruited. Samples of bone, tissue and blood were collected, and RNA sequencing was performed in 24 patients with aseptic loosening and 26 controls. Differentially expressed miRNA in plasma was matched to differentially expressed mRNA in periprosthetic bone and tissue. Western blot was used to validate protein expression.

RESULTS

Seven miRNA was differentially expressed in the plasma of patients with osteolysis (logFC >|2|, adj-P < 0.05). Three thousand six hundred and eighty mRNA genes in bone and 427 mRNA genes in tissue samples of osteolysis patients were differentially expressed (logFC >|2|, adj-P < 0.05). Gene enrichment analysis and pathway analysis revealed two miRNA (miR-1246 and miR-6089) had multiple gene targets in the Wnt signalling pathway in the local bone and tissues which regulate bone metabolism.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that aseptic loosening may be regulated by miR-1246 and miR-6089 via the Wnt signalling pathway.

Wnt Signaling in Atherosclerosis: Mechanisms to Therapeutic Implications

Atherosclerosis is a vascular disease in which inflammation plays a pivotal role. Receptor-mediated signaling pathways regulate vascular inflammation and the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Emerging evidence has revealed the role of the Wnt pathway in atherosclerosis progression. The Wnt pathway influences almost all stages of atherosclerosis progression, including endothelial dysfunction, monocyte infiltration, smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration, and plaque formation. Targeting the Wnt pathway to treat atherosclerosis represents a promising therapeutic approach that remains understudied. Blocking Wnt signaling utilizing small molecule inhibitors, recombinant proteins, and/or neutralizing antibodies ameliorates atherosclerosis in preclinical models. The Wnt pathway can be potentially manipulated through targeting Wnt ligands, receptors, co-receptors, and downstream signaling molecules. However, there are challenges associated with developing a real world therapeutic compound that targets the Wnt pathway. This review focuses on the role of Wnt signaling in atherosclerosis development, and the rationale for targeting this pathway for the treatment of atherosclerosis.

Awakening adult neural stem cells: NOX signalling as a positive regulator of the quiescence-to-proliferation transition in the Xenopus retina

A growing wealth of data suggest that reactive oxygen species (ROS) signalling might be crucial in conferring embryonic or adult stem cells their specific properties. However, how stem cells control ROS production and scavenging, and how ROS in turn contribute to stemness, remain poorly understood. Using the Xenopus retina as a model system, we first investigated the redox status of retinal stem cells (RSCs). We discovered that they exhibit higher ROS levels compared with progenitors and retinal neurons, and express a set of specific redox genes. We next addressed the question of ROS functional involvement in these cells. Using pharmacological or genetic tools, we demonstrate that inhibition of NADPH oxidase-dependent ROS production increases the proportion of quiescent RSCs. Surprisingly, this is accompanied by an apparent acceleration of the mean division speed within the remaining proliferating pool. Our data further unveil that such impact on RSC cell cycling is achieved by modulation of the Wnt/Hedgehog signalling balance. Altogether, we highlight that RSCs exhibit distinctive redox characteristics and exploit NADPH oxidase signalling to limit quiescence and fine-tune their proliferation rate.

Transient suppression of Wnt signaling in poor-quality buffalo oocytes improves their developmental competence

Introduction

One of the most evolutionary conserved communication systems, the Wnt signaling pathway is a major gene regulatory pathway that affects the developmental competence of oocytes and regulates most embryonic developmental processes. The present study was undertaken to modulate the canonical Wnt (Wingless/integration) signaling pathway in the poor-quality (colorless cytoplasm after Brilliant Cresyl Blue staining, BCB-) buffalo cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) to improve their in vitro maturation (IVM) and embryo production (IVEP) rates.

Methods

The expression of key Wnt pathway genes was initially assessed in the good (blue cytoplasm after Brilliant Cresyl Blue staining, BCB+) and poor quality (BCB-) buffalo COCs to establish a differential activity of the Wnt pathway. The BCB- COCs were supplemented with the Wnt pathway inhibitor, Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1) and later subjected to IVM and IVEP along with the BCB+ and BCB- controls. The cumulus expansion index (CEI), rate of nuclear maturation (mean percentage of oocytes in the MII stage) and embryo production, and the expression of developmentally important genes were evaluated to assess the effect of Wnt pathway inhibition on the development competence of these poor-quality oocytes.

Results

The Wnt pathway genes exhibited a significantly higher expression (p < 0.05) in the poor-quality BCB- oocytes compared to the good-quality BCB+ oocytes during the early maturation stages. The supplementation of BCB- COCs with 100 ng/mL DKK1 effectively inhibited the expression of the key mediators of the Wnt pathway (β-catenin and dishevelled homolog 1, DVL1). DKK1 supplemented BCB- COCs exhibited significantly improved cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation indices, development rates and significantly elevated expression (p < 0.05) of genes implicated in germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and embryonic genome activation (EGA) vis-à-vis BCB- control COCs.

Conclusion

These data indicate that inhibition of the Wnt pathway during the initial course of oocyte maturation can improve the development competence of poor-quality buffalo oocytes.

PEX26 Functions as a Metastasis Suppressor in Colorectal Cancer

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Aberrant Peroxisomal Biogenesis Factor 26 (PEX26) occurs in multiple cell process. However, the role of PEX26 in colorectal cancer (CRC) development remains unknown. We aimed to study PEX26 expression, regulation, and function in CRC cells.

METHODS

Using the bioinformatic analysis, real-time quantitative PCR, and immunohistochemistry staining, we detected the expression of PEX26 in CRC and normal tissues. We performed functional experiments in vitro to elucidate the effect of PEX26 on CRC cells. We analyzed the RNA-seq data to reveal the downstream regulating network of PEX26.

RESULTS

PEX26 is significantly down-regulated in CRC and its low expression correlates with the poor overall survival of CRC patients. We further demonstrated that PEX26 over-expression inhibits the ability of CRC cell migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), while PEX26 knockdown promotes the malignant phenotypes of migration, invasion, and EMT via activating the Wnt pathway.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our results showed that the loss of PEX26 contributes to the malignant phenotype of CRC. PEX26 may serve as a novel metastasis repressor for CRC.

A novel TNKS/USP25 inhibitor blocks the Wnt pathway to overcome multi-drug resistance in TNKS-overexpressing colorectal cancer

Modulating Tankyrases (TNKS), interactions with USP25 to promote TNKS degradation, rather than inhibiting their enzymatic activities, is emerging as an alternative/specific approach to inhibit the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Here, we identified UAT-B, a novel neoantimycin analog isolated from Streptomyces conglobatus, as a small-molecule inhibitor of TNKS-USP25 protein-protein interaction (PPI) to overcome multi-drug resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC). The disruption of TNKS-USP25 complex formation by UAT-B led to a significant decrease in TNKS levels, triggering cell apoptosis through modulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Importantly, UAT-B successfully inhibited the CRC cells growth that harbored high TNKS levels, as demonstrated in various in vitro and in vivo studies utilizing cell line-based and patient-derived xenografts, as well as APCmin/+ spontaneous CRC models. Collectively, these findings suggest that targeting the TNKS-USP25 PPI using a small-molecule inhibitor represents a compelling therapeutic strategy for CRC treatment, and UAT-B emerges as a promising candidate for further preclinical and clinical investigations.

The oncogenic role of LGR6 overexpression induced by aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling in lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Molecular abnormalities in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway confer malignant phenotypes in lung cancer. Previously, we identified the association of leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 6 (LGR6) with oncogenic Wnt signaling, and its downregulation upon β-catenin knockdown in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells carrying CTNNB1 mutations. The aim of this study was to explore the mechanisms underlying this association and the accompanying phenotypes.

METHODS

LGR6 expression in lung cancer cell lines and surgical specimens was analyzed using quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Cell growth was assessed using colony formation assay. Additionally, mRNA sequencing was performed to compare the expression profiles of cells subjected to different treatments.

RESULTS

LGR6 was overexpressed in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and NSCLC cell lines, including the CTNNB1-mutated NSCLC cell lines HCC15 and A427. In both cell lines, LGR6 knockdown inhibited cell growth. LGR6 expression was upregulated in spheroids compared to adherent cultures of A427 cells, suggesting that LGR6 participates in the acquisition of cancer stem cell properties. Immunohistochemical analysis of lung cancer specimens revealed that the LGR6 protein was predominantly overexpressed in SCLCs, large cell neuroendocrine carcinomas, and lung adenocarcinomas, wherein LGR6 overexpression was associated with vascular invasion, the wild-type EGFR genotype, and an unfavorable prognosis. Integrated mRNA sequencing analysis of HCC15 and A427 cells with or without LGR6 knockdown revealed LGR6-related pathways and genes associated with cancer development and stemness properties.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the oncogenic roles of LGR6 overexpression induced by aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling in lung cancer.

Disrupting Development: Unraveling the Interplay of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR) and Wnt/β-Catenin Pathways in Kidney Development Under the Influence of Environmental Pollutants

Understanding the intricate molecular mechanisms governing aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and Wnt/β-Catenin pathways crosstalk is of paramount importance for elucidating normal development. We investigated the repercussions of aberrant activation of these signaling pathways on kidney development. HEK-293 cells were subjected to AHR and Wnt activators and inhibitors for 3 and 24 h. Subsequently, pregnant adult female BALB/c mice were administered treatments at gestation day 9 (GD-9), and embryos were analyzed at GD-18 using a combination of cellular, molecular, stereological, and histopathological techniques. Our results demonstrated a noteworthy escalation in oxidative stress and gene expression endpoints associated with apoptosis. Moreover, stereological analyses exhibited alterations in cortex, proximal tubule, and kidney tissue vessels volumes. Remarkably, co-treatment with 6-formylindolo [3,2-b] carbazole (FICZ) and cadmium (Cd) resulted in a significant reduction in glomerulus volume, while elevating the volumes of distal tubule, Henle loop, and connective tissue, compared to the control group. Histopathological investigations further confirmed structural changes in the loop of Henle and proximal tubule, alongside a decline in glomerular volume. Additionally, the expression levels of AHR and Ctnnb1 genes significantly increased in the Cd-treated group compared to the control group. Enhanced expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bcl-x, Bax, and Caspase3, along with alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential and cytochrome C release, was observed. In contrast, Gsk3 gene expression was significantly decreased. Our findings robustly establish that chemical pollutants, such as Cd, disrupt the AHR and Wnt/β-Catenin physiological roles during developmental stages by inhibiting the metabolic degradation of FICZ.

BRD4-binding enhancer promotes CRC progression by interacting with YY1 to activate the Wnt pathway through upregulation of TCF7L2

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC), one of the most life-threatening cancer types, is associated with aberrant expression of epigenetic modifiers and activation of the Wnt pathway. However, the role of epigenetic regulators in driving cancer cell proliferation and their potential as therapeutic targets affecting the Wnt pathway remain unclear. In this study, BRD4 was found to promote the progression of CRC both in vitro and in vivo. The expression of BRD4 correlated with shortened CRC patient survival. In addition, BRD4 function was strongly correlated with the Wnt pathway, but rather through regulation of TCF7L2 at transcriptional levels. BRD4 and H3K27ac have overlapping occupancies in the cis-regulatory elements of TCF7L2, suggesting enhancer-based epigenetic regulation. Numerous YY1 binding sites were found in the abovementioned region. YY1 recruited BRD4 to bind to cis-regulatory elements of TCF7L2, thereby regulating the expression of TCF7L2. Altogether, this study validates that BRD4 performs a canonical epigenetic regulatory function in CRC and can be used in the treatment of Wnt pathway-dependent CRC or other malignancies with clinically available bromodomain inhibitors.

miR-139-3p/Wnt5A Axis Inhibits Metastasis in Hepatoblastoma

In order to examine new potential treatment options for the treatment of hepatoblastoma (HB), we identified the differential expression of five-candidate tumor suppressor miRNAs in HB and explored possible regulatory mechanisms of target miRNA molecule. By using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), we examined the expression of miRNAs in HB tissues and cells. The effect of has-miR-139-3p mimics on the invasion and migration ability was assessed by transwell assay and scratch-wound assay in HepG2 cells. Subsequently, we analyzed the target genes of miR-139-3p and their enrichment signaling pathways through bioinformatics. qPCR, Western-blot and dual-luciferase assays were further used to assess whether has-miR-139-3p targets Wnt5A. The results showed that hsa-miR-139-3p was significantly decreased in HB cells. Upregulation of hsa-miR-139-3p inhibited the invasive and migratory ability of HepG2. Bioinformatics analysis showed that hsa-miR-139-3p may target Wnt5A to regulate the WNT pathway, which was further confirmed by Western-blot and dual-luciferase assays. Overexpression of Wnt5A can reverse the miR-139-3p mimic-induced declines in the expression of WNT pathway-related proteins and restore the invasion and migration of HepG2. These data indicated that the hsa-miR-139-3p/Wnt5A axis inhibited HB metastasis, suggesting that miR-139-3p and Wnt5A may be potential targets for the treatment of HB.

Wnt pathway in bone: knowledge structure and hot spots from 1993 to 2022

Background: The role of the Wnt pathway in bone and its targets in skeletal disease has garnered interest, but the field lacks a systematic analysis of research. This paper presents a bibliometric study of publications related to the Wnt signaling pathway in bone to describe the current state of study and predict future outlooks. Methods: All relevant articles and reviews from 1993 to 2022 were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). Bibliometric analysis and visualization were performed using CiteSpace 6.1 R3, VOSviewer 1.6.15, and the Online Analysis Platform of Literature Metrology (http://bibliometric.com/). Results: A total of 7,184 papers were retrieved, authored by 28,443 researchers from 89 countries/regions and published in 261 academic journals. The annual publication numbers peaked in 2021. China and United States are the leading countries, with the University of California and Harvard University as the most active institutions. Wang, Yang is the most prolific author. Bone has the most published research, while Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States is the most cited journal on average. The main keywords include expression, Wnt, osteoporosis, bone, and osteogenic differentiation. Current and developing research hotspots focus on bone mass, sclerostin antibody, multiple myeloma, and cartilage development. Conclusion: This paper provides new insights for researchers to delve into the mechanisms of Wnt and bone related diseases and translate into clinical studies. It reveals the development and future research trends in Wnt and skeletal-related studies.

Regulation of self-renewal and senescence in primitive mesenchymal stem cells by Wnt and TGFβ signaling

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic application of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) encounters significant challenges, primarily stemming from their inadequate growth and limited self-renewal capabilities. Additionally, as MSCs are propagated, their ability to self-renew declines, and the exact cellular and molecular changes responsible for this are poorly understood. This study aims to uncover the complex molecular mechanisms that govern the self-renewal of primitive (p) MSCs.

METHODS

We grew pMSCs using two types of medium, fetal bovine serum (FM) and xeno-free (XM), at both low passage (LP, P3) and high passage (HP, P20). To evaluate LP and HP pMSCs, we examined their physical characteristics, cell surface markers, growth rate, colony-forming ability, BrdU assays for proliferation, telomerase activity, and potential to differentiate into three lineages. Moreover, we conducted RNA-seq to analyze their transcriptome and MNase-seq analysis to investigate nucleosome occupancies.

RESULTS

When grown in FM, pMSCs underwent changes in their cellular morphology, becoming larger and elongated. This was accompanied by a decrease in the expression of CD90 and CD49f, as well as a reduction in CFE, proliferation rate, and telomerase activity. In addition, these cells showed an increased tendency to differentiate into the adipogenic lineage. However, when grown in XM, pMSCs maintained their self-renewal capacity and ability to differentiate into multiple lineages while preserving their fibroblastoid morphology. Transcriptomic analysis showed an upregulation of genes associated with self-renewal, cell cycle regulation, and DNA replication in XM-cultured pMSCs, while senescence-related genes were upregulated in FM-cultured cells. Further analysis demonstrated differential nucleosomal occupancies in self-renewal and senescence-related genes for pMSCs grown in XM and FM, respectively. These findings were confirmed by qRT-PCR analysis, which revealed alterations in the expression of genes related to self-renewal, cell cycle regulation, DNA replication, differentiation, and senescence. To understand the underlying mechanisms, we investigated the involvement of Wnt and TGFβ signaling pathways by modulating them with agonists and antagonists. This experimental manipulation led to the upregulation and downregulation of self-renewal genes in pMSCs, providing further insights into the signaling pathways governing the self-renewal and senescence of pMSCs.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that the self-renewal potential of pMSCs is associated with the Wnt pathway, while senescence is linked to TGFβ.

Secreted frizzled-related protein 5: A promising therapeutic target for metabolic diseases via regulation of Wnt signaling

Metabolic diseases pose a significant global health challenge, characterized by an imbalance in metabolism and resulting in various complications. Secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5), an adipokine known for its anti-inflammatory properties, has gained attention as a promising therapeutic target for metabolic diseases. SFRP5 acts as a key regulator in the Wnt signaling pathway, exerting its influence on critical cellular functions including proliferation, differentiation, and migration. Its significance extends to the realm of adipose tissue biology, where it plays a central role in regulating inflammation, insulin resistance, adipogenesis, lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, and energy balance. By inhibiting Wnt signaling, SFRP5 facilitates adipocyte growth, promotes lipid accumulation, and contributes to a decrease in oxidative metabolism. Lifestyle interventions and pharmacological treatments have shown promise in increasing SFRP5 levels and protecting against metabolic abnormalities. SFRP5 is a pivotal player in metabolic diseases and presents itself as a promising therapeutic target. An overview of SFRP5 and its involvement in metabolic disorders and metabolism is provided in this comprehensive review. By elucidating these aspects, valuable insights can be gained to foster the development of effective strategies in combating metabolic diseases.

Transcription Repression of CRY2 via PER2 Interaction Promotes Adipogenesis

The circadian clock is driven by a transcriptional-translational feedback loop, and cryptochrome 2 (CRY2) represses CLOCK/BMAL1-induced transcription activation. Despite the established role of clock in adipogenic regulation, whether the CRY2 repressor activity functions in adipocyte biology remains unclear. Here we identify a critical cysteine residue of CRY2 that mediates interaction with Period 2 (PER2). We further demonstrate that this mechanism is required for repressing circadian clock-controlled Wnt signaling to promote adipogenesis. CRY2 protein is enriched in white adipose depots and robustly induced by adipogenic differentiation. Via site-directed mutagenesis, we identified that a conserved CRY2 cysteine at 432 within the loop interfacing with PER2 mediates heterodimer complex formation that confers transcription repression. C432 mutation disrupted PER2 association without affecting BMAL1 binding, leading to loss of repression of clock transcription activation. In preadipocytes, whereas CRY2 enhanced adipocyte differentiation, the repression-defective C432 mutant suppressed this process. Furthermore, silencing of CRY2 attenuated, while stabilization of CRY2 by KL001 markedly augmented adipocyte maturation. Mechanistically, we show that transcriptional repression of Wnt pathway components underlies CRY2 modulation of adipogenesis. Collectively, our findings elucidate a CRY2-mediated repression mechanism that promotes adipocyte development, and implicate its potential as a clock intervention target for obesity.

Progress of Cancer Stem Cells in Retinoblastoma

The theory of cancer stem cells is a breakthrough discovery that offers exciting possibilities for comprehending the biological behavior of tumors. More and more evidence suggests that retinoblastoma cancer stem cells promote tumor growth and are likely to be the origin of tumor formation, drug resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. At present, some progress has been made in the verification, biological behavior, and drug resistance mechanism of retinoblastoma cancer stem cells. This article aims to review the relevant research and explore future development direction.

Targeting BRD4 attenuates the stemness and aggressiveness of ameloblastoma

BACKGROUND

BRD4, belonging to the bromodomain extra-terminal (BET) protein family, plays a unique role in tumor progression. However, the potential impact of BRD4 in ameloblastoma (AM) remains largely unknown. Herein, we aimed to assess the expression and functional role of BRD4 in AM.

METHODS

The expression level of BRD4 was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenic abilities of AM cells were assessed by a series of assays. To explore the molecular expression profile of BRD4-depleted AM cells, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed. Bioinformatic analysis was performed on AM expression matrices obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The therapeutic efficacy of BET-inhibitors (BETi) was assessed with AM patient-derived organoids.

RESULTS

Upregulation of BRD4 was observed in conventional AMs, recurrent AMs, and ameloblastic carcinomas. Depletion of BRD4 inhibited proliferation, invasion, migration, and tumorigenesis in AM. Administration of BETi attenuated the aggressiveness of AM and the growth of AM patient-derived organoids. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that BRD4 may promote AM progression by regulating the Wnt pathway and stemness-associated pathways.

CONCLUSION

BRD4 increases the aggressiveness and promotes the recurrence of ameloblastoma by regulating the Wnt pathway and stemness-associated pathways. These findings highlight BRD4 as a promising therapeutic target in AM management.

CTNNB1 somatic mutations drive Wnt pathway activation in a case of incidental intranodal palisaded myofibroblastoma

Intranodal palisaded myofibroblastoma (IPM) is a rare stroma-derived spindle-cell neoplasm of the lymph node with myofibroblastic differentiation and CTNNB1 (β-catenin gene) somatic mutations. We present a case of IPM found incidentally in the staging of lung adenocarcinoma. We describe the major histopathological and phenotypic features, including a palisaded bland spindle cell proliferation with myofibroblastic differentiation and Wnt pathway activation by immunohistochemistry, including β-catenin expression. Production of osteoid-like collagen directly from tumor cells was observed. We confirmed p.Gly34Arg CTNNB1 mutation by direct sequencing. We also reviewed the literature for similar cases.

Melatonin Mitigates the Progression of Chemically Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Rats via Targeting Wnt/Β-Catenin Pathway, and Small Noncoding miR-let-7b

Background

Melatonin, the controlling hormone of the sleep-wake cycle, has acquired attention due to its role in immunomodulation, anti-inflammation, as well as its proapoptotic effects. Wnt/β-catenin signaling can modulate cancer progression by promoting cell division and migration, while miR-let-7b may inhibit cell growth, migration, and invasion by affecting the function of adaptive immune cells. This work was designed to detect the effect of using melatonin as an immunomodulating therapeutic approach to control the progression of chemically induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Thirty male rats were equally divided into control, HCC, and melatonin-HCC groups. Animals in the HCC and melatonin-HCC groups were injected with diethylnitrosamine (intraperitoneal single dose) followed by repeated carbon-tetrachloride subcutaneous injection once weekly for six weeks. Melatonin was given from the first week of the study and continued during the process of HCC induction.

Results

In the HCC group, the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and Wnt/β-catenin expression significantly increased, while there was a downregulation of microRNA Let7b. Melatonin administration reversed these changes, along with an increase in hepatic content of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and caspase-3.

Conclusions

Melatonin exerted hepatic immunomodulating changes, in addition to proapoptotic and antiangiogenic effects, illustrated by increased IL-2, caspase-3, and decreased VEGF levels, respectively. Moreover, the use of melatonin during hepatocarcinogenesis positively modulated the disrupted expression of microRNA let7b and Wnt/β-catenin significantly.

Tumor-suppressive zinc finger protein 24 (ZNF24) sensitizes colorectal cancer cells to 5-fluorouracil by inhibiting the Wnt pathway and activating the p53 signaling

Carcinogenesis and colorectal cancer (CRC) development are associated with dysregulation of various pathways, including Wnt and p53. 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is a common chemotherapeutic agent for CRC treatment, but its efficacy is restricted by drug resistance. Doxycycline is an orally active tetracycline antibiotic known for its antimicrobial and anticancer cell proliferation activities. This study intends to delineate the potential role of bioinformatically predicted ZNF24 in the 5-FU resistance of CRC cells. The expression of ZNF24 was measured in clinically collected CRC tissues and cells. Afterward, ectopic ZNF24 expression was induced by DOX to evaluate the viability, colony-forming ability and sphere-forming ability of CRC cells. It was found that ZNF24 was validated to be poorly expressed in CRC tissues, and ectopic expression of ZNF24 was revealed to restrict the malignant phenotypes of CRC cells. In addition, restored ZNF24 attenuated 5-FU resistance of CRC cells by inhibiting the Wnt pathway and activating p53 signaling. Furthermore, an inhibitor of Wnt production 2 (IWP-2) treatment was an alternative to ZNF24 up-regulation in sensitizing CRC cells to 5-FU treatment. In conclusion, our results indicate that ZNF24 inhibits 5-FU resistance of CRC cells by suppressing the Wnt pathway and activating p53 signaling, which offers a potential strategy for managing chemoresistance in CRC.

WNT pathway in focal cortical dysplasia compared to perilesional nonlesional tissue in refractory epilepsies

BACKGROUND

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is a malformation of cortical development that causes medical refractory seizures, and one of the main treatments may be surgical resection of the affected area of the brain. People affected by FCD may present with seizures of variable severity since childhood. Despite many medical treatments available, only surgery can offer cure. The pathophysiology of the disease is not yet understood; however, it is known that several gene alterations may play a role. The WNT/β-catenin pathway is closely related to the control and balance of cell proliferation and differentiation in the central nervous system. The aim of this study was to explore genes related to the WNT/β-catenin pathway in lesional and perilesional brain tissue in patients with FCD type II.

METHODS

Dysplastic and perilesional tissue from the primary dysplastic lesion of patients with FCD type IIa were obtained from two patients who underwent surgical treatment. The analysis of the relative expression of genes was performed by a qRT-PCR array (super array) containing 84 genes related to the WNT pathway.

RESULTS

Our results suggest the existence of molecular alteration in some genes of the WNT pathway in tissue with dysplastic lesions and of perilesional tissue. We call this tissue of normal-appearing adjacent cortex (NAAC). Of all genes analyzed, a large number of genes show similar behavior between injured, perilesional and control tissues. However, some genes have similar characteristics between the perilesional and lesional tissue and are different from the control brain tissue, presenting the perilesional tissue as a molecularly altered material.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the perilesional area after surgical resection of tissue with cortical dysplasia presents molecular changes that may play a role in the recurrence of seizures in these patients. The perilesional tissue should receive expanded attention beyond the somatic mutations described and associated with FCD, such as mTOR, for example, to new signaling pathways that may play a crucial role in seizure recurrence.

DKK1 Ameliorates Myofibroblast Differentiation in Urethral Fibrosis in Vivo and in Vitro by Regulating the Canonical Wnt Pathway

Background: Urethral stricture is a common disorder of the lower urinary tract in men. A complex network of pathways and interactions are involved in the pathogenesis of urethral fibrosis. However, the mechanisms underlying urethral fibrosis remain poorly understood. Objectives: To investigate the critical role of the canonical Wnt pathway in development of urethral fibrosis and explore DKK1, the endogenous inhibitor of Wnt pathway, as a potential target to prevent urethral fibrosis in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Urethral fibrosis tissue derived from patients and rat models were harvested to assess the activation of the canonical Wnt pathway by using western blot, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistryWe performed histological staining, western blot, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry to examine the effects of DKK1 treatment on in vivo rat urethral fibrosis models. In vitro, human urethral fibroblasts (HUFs) were cultured to examine the effects of DKK1 in TGFβ1-induced HUFs by CCK-8 assay, hydroxyproline assay, flow cytometry, cell migration assay, western blot, qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence. Results: The key components of Wnt signaling were upregulated in urethral fibrosis tissue derived from patients and rat models while DKK 1 was downregulated. DKK1 ameliorated TGFβ1-induced urethral fibrosis in rats. TGFβ1 induced myofibroblast differentiation by upregulating collagen I, collagen III, α-SMA, β-catenin and p-GSK-3β, while DKK1 was decreased. DKK1 significantly inhibited cell proliferation, collagen content, cell migration and promoted cell apoptosis in TGFβ1-induced HUFs. DKK1 significantly suppressed myofibroblast differentiation of TGFβ1-induced HUFs by downregulating collagen I, collagen III, α-SMA, β-catenin and p-GSK-3β with a mechanism independent of Smad2/3. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that canonical Wnt pathway may be an essential mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of urethral fibrosis and explored the potential role of DKK1 participation in the development of urethral fibrosis.

Combined inhibition of Bcl-2 family members and YAP induces synthetic lethality in metastatic gastric cancer with RASA1 and NF2 deficiency

BACKGROUND

Targetable molecular drivers of gastric cancer (GC) metastasis remain largely unidentified, leading to limited targeted therapy options for advanced GC. We aimed to identify molecular drivers for metastasis and devise corresponding therapeutic strategies.

METHODS

We performed an unbiased in vivo genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 knockout (KO) screening in peritoneal dissemination using genetically engineered GC mouse models. Candidate genes were validated through in vivo transplantation assays using KO cells. We analyzed target expression patterns in GC clinical samples using immunohistochemistry. The functional contributions of target genes were studied through knockdown, KO, and overexpression approaches in tumorsphere and organoid assays. Small chemical inhibitors against Bcl-2 members and YAP were tested in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

We identified Nf2 and Rasa1 as metastasis-suppressing genes through the screening. Clinically, RASA1 mutations along with low NF2 expression define a distinct molecular subtype of metastatic GC exhibiting aggressive traits. NF2 and RASA1 deficiency increased in vivo metastasis and in vitro tumorsphere formation by synergistically amplifying Wnt and YAP signaling in cancer stem cells (CSCs). NF2 deficiency enhanced Bcl-2-mediated Wnt signaling, conferring resistance to YAP inhibition in CSCs. This resistance was counteracted via synthetic lethality achieved by simultaneous inhibition of YAP and Bcl-2. RASA1 deficiency amplified the Wnt pathway via Bcl-xL, contributing to cancer stemness. RASA1 mutation created vulnerability to Bcl-xL inhibition, but the additional NF2 deletion conferred resistance to Bcl-xL inhibition due to YAP activation. The combined inhibition of Bcl-xL and YAP synergistically suppressed cancer stemness and in vivo metastasis in RASA1 and NF2 co-deficiency.

CONCLUSION

Our research unveils the intricate interplay between YAP and Bcl-2 family members, which can lead to synthetic lethality, offering a potential strategy to overcome drug resistance. Importantly, our findings support a personalized medicine approach where combined therapy targeting YAP and Bcl-2, tailored to NF2 and RASA1 status, could effectively manage metastatic GC.

Baicalein mitigates oxidative stress and enhances lifespan through modulation of Wnt ligands and GATA factor: ELT-3 in Caenorhabditis elegans

AIMS

Age predispose individual to major diseases, and the biological processes contributing to aging are currently under intense investigation. Hence, plant-based natural compounds could be a potential target to counteract aging and age-associated diseases. So, the present study aims to investigate the antiaging properties of a natural compound Baicalein (BAI) on C. elegans and to elucidate the pathways or signaling molecules involved.

METHODS

Herein, we investigated the inhibitory effects of BAI on different Wnt ligands of C. elegans and its underlying mechanisms. Moreover, we monitored BAI's antiaging effect on the worms' lifespan and its different aging parameters. We employed different mutant and transgenic C. elegans strains to identify the pathways and transcription factors involved.

KEY FINDINGS

We first showed that BAI could downregulate different Wnt ligands mRNA expressions in C. elegans, resulting in enhanced expression of GATA transcription factor ELT-3 and antiaging gene Klotho. On further evaluation, it was observed that BAI could enhance the worm's lifespan via ELT-3 and SKN-1 transcription factors, whereas, for the protection of worms against external oxidative stress, both ELT-3 and DAF-16 transcription factors were involved. Moreover, sensitive aging parameters of worms, including lipofuscin and ROS accumulation, and the declined physiological and mechanical functions observed in aged worms were ameliorated by BAI.

SIGNIFICANCE

This study highlighted BAI as a promising antiaging compound. This study also revealed the Wnt inhibitory potential of BAI with future implications for pharmacological target of age-associated diseases with aberrant activation of the Wnt pathway.

HPV disrupt the cytoskeleton in oral squamous cell carcinomas from non-oropharyngeal sites via the E-cadherin/Mena/SMA pathway

In this paper, we aimed to evaluate the mechanism of actin cytoskeleton disruption, in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). A total of 43 patients with surgically resected OSCCs located in non-oropharyngeal regions were randomly selected. The expression of E-cadherin, β-catenin, smooth muscle actin (SMA), Mena, maspin, V-set and immunoglobulin domain containing 1 (VSIG1), β human chorionic gonadotropin (βhCG), and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) was assessed via immunohistochemistry (IHC) and evaluated in association with the prevalence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). Mena positivity (n = 30; 69.77%) was more frequent in poorly differentiated OSCC of the tongue and lips with high-risk HPV viral DNA and a lymph node ratio (LNR) ≤ 2.5. Loss of E-cadherin was more prevalent among poorly differentiated stage pT4N1 tumors with an LNR ≤ 2.5 and perineural invasion. These cases were classified as SMA-high tumors. Independent negative prognostic factors included high Mena expression, loss of E-cadherin, high SMA expression, and the presence of high-risk HPV. No VSIG1 positivity was observed. In conclusion, in non-oropharyngeal OSCC, cytoskeleton activity might be driven by the Mena/E-cadherin/SMA axis, reflecting active epithelial-mesenchymal interaction. High Mena intensity is an indicator of poorly differentiated carcinomas with high-risk HPV and unfavorable prognosis.

Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor promotes mesenchymal stem cells differentiation into cardiac progenitor cells in vitro and improves cardiomyopathy in vivo

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases particularly myocardial infarction (MI) are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity around the globe. As cardiac tissue possesses very limited regeneration potential, therefore use of a potent small molecule, inhibitor Wnt production-4 (IWP-4) for stem cell differentiation into cardiomyocytes could be a promising approach for cardiac regeneration. Wnt pathway inhibitors may help stem cells in their fate determination towards cardiomyogenic lineage and provide better homing and survival of cells in vivo. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from the human umbilical cord have the potential to regenerate cardiac tissue, as they are easy to isolate and possess multilineage differentiation capability. IWP-4 may promote the differentiation of MSCs into the cardiac lineage.

AIM

To evaluate the cardiac differentiation ability of IWP-4 and its subsequent in vivo effects.

METHODS

Umbilical cord tissue of human origin was utilized to isolate the MSCs which were characterized by their morphology, immunophenotyping of surface markers specific to MSCs, as well as by tri-lineage differentiation capability. Cytotoxicity analysis was performed to identify the optimal concentration of IWP-4. MSCs were treated with 5 μM IWP-4 at two different time intervals. Differentiation of MSCs into cardiomyocytes was evaluated at DNA and protein levels. The MI rat model was developed. IWP-4 treated as well as untreated MSCs were implanted in the MI model, then the cardiac function was analyzed via echocardiography. MSCs were labeled with 1,1'-dioctadecyl-3,3,3',3'-tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate (DiI) dye for tracking, while the regeneration of infarcted myocardium was examined by histology and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

MSCs were isolated and characterized. Cytotoxicity analysis showed that IWP-4 was non-cytotoxic at 5 μM concentration. Cardiac specific gene and protein expression analyses exhibited more remarkable results in fourteen days treated group that was eventually selected for in vivo transplantation. Cardiac function was restored in the IWP-4 treated group in comparison to the MI group. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the homing of pre-differentiated MSCs that were labeled with DiI cell labeling dye. Histological analysis confirmed the significant reduction in fibrotic area, and improved left ventricular wall thickness in IWP-4 treated MSC group.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of MSCs with IWP-4 inhibits Wnt pathway and promotes cardiac differentiation. These pre-conditioned MSCs transplanted in vivo improved cardiac function by cell homing, survival, and differentiation at the infarcted region, increased left ventricular wall thickness, and reduced infarct size.

Mucin1 induced trophoblast dysfunction in gestational diabetes mellitus via Wnt/β-catenin pathway

BACKGROUND

To elucidate the role of Mucin1 (MUC1) in the trophoblast function (glucose uptake and apoptosis) of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) women through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

METHODS

Glucose uptake was analyzed by plasma GLUT1 and GLUT4 levels with ELISA and measured by the expression of GLUT4 and INSR with immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Apoptosis was measured by the expression of Bcl-2 and Caspase3 by Western blotting and flow cytometry. Wnt/β-catenin signaling measured by Western blotting. In vitro studies were performed using HTR-8/SVneo cells that were cultured and treated with high glucose (HG), sh-MUC1 and FH535 (inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin signaling).

RESULTS

MUC1 was highly expressed in the placental trophoblasts of GDM, and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway was activated, along with dysfunction of glucose uptake and apoptosis. MUC1 knockdown resulted in increased invasiveness and decreased apoptosis in trophoblast cells. The initial linkage between MUC1, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and glucose uptake was confirmed by using an HG-exposed HTR-8/SVneo cell model with MUC1 knockdown. MUC1 knockdown inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and reversed glucose uptake dysfunction and apoptosis in HG-induced HTR-8/SVneo cells. Meanwhile, inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling could also reverse the dysfunction of glucose uptake and apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, the increased level of MUC1 in GDM could abnormally activate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, leading to trophoblast dysfunction, which may impair glucose uptake and induce apoptosis in placental tissues of GDM women.

Metastasising ameloblastoma or ameloblastic carcinoma? A case report with mutation analyses

BACKGROUND

Ameloblastic carcinoma and metastasising ameloblastoma are rare epithelial odontogenic tumours with aggressive features. Distinguishing between these two lesions is often clinically difficult but necessary to predict tumour behaviour or to plan future therapy. Here, we provide a brief review of the literature available on these two types of lesions and present a new case report of a young man with an ameloblastoma displaying metastatic features. We also use this case to illustrate the similarities and differences between these two types of tumours and the difficulties of their differential diagnosis.

CASE PRESENTATION

Our histopathological analyses uncovered a metastasising tumour with features of ameloblastic carcinoma, which developed from the ameloblastoma. We profiled the gene expression of Wnt pathway members in ameloblastoma sample of this patient, because multiple molecules of this pathway are involved in the establishing of cell polarity, cell migration or for epithelial-mesenchymal transition during tumour metastasis to evaluate features of tumor behaviour. Indeed, we found upregulation of several cell migration-related genes in our patient. Moreover, we uncovered somatic mutation BRAF p.V600E with known pathological role in cancerogenesis and germline heterozygous FANCA p.S858R mutation, whose interpretation in this context has not been discussed yet.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, we have uncovered a unique case of ameloblastic carcinoma associated with an alteration of Wnt signalling and the presence of BRAF mutation. Development of harmful state of our patient might be also supported by the germline mutation in one FANCA allele, however this has to be confirmed by further analyses.

Effect of lorecivivint on osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

To comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness and safety of lorecivivint inhibitors in the treatment of osteoarthritis through meta-analysis.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search on lorecivivint inhibitors in osteoarthritis was performed using electronic databases such as PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CochraneLibrary up to July 30, 2022. Two reviewers independently screened, evaluated, and reviewed the eligible studies. Data analysis and processing were carried out using RevMan 5.4 software.

Results

A total of six studies involving 3056 participants were included. Meta-analysis showed that compared with the control group, lorecivivint significantly increased WOMAC discomfort (0.03 mg Week 12) (MD = -0.21, 95% CI [-1.94 - 1.53]; P = 0.81), WOMAC function (0.07 mg Week 24) (MD = -1.81, 95% CI [-4.74 - 1.12]; P = 0.23) and Joint space width (0.23 mg Week 24) (MD = -1.16, 95% CI [-3.69 - 1.38]; P = 0.37).

Conclusion

A new treatment method combining Wnt pathway modulators with intra-articular CLK2/DYRK1A inhibitors could be a promising therapy for treating osteoarthritis. Lorecivivint was found to significantly improve WOMAC discomfort, WOMAC function, and joint space width in osteoarthritis patients. It is anticipated to be a reliable, safe, and effective treatment option for osteoarthritis with significant therapeutic utility and potential applications.

WNT5A: a double-edged sword in colorectal cancer progression

The Wnt signaling pathway is known to play a crucial role in cancer, and WNT5A is a member of this pathway that binds to the Frizzled (FZD) and Receptor Tyrosine Kinase-Like Orphan Receptor (ROR) family members to activate non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways. The WNT5A pathway is involved in various cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, migration, adhesion, and polarization. In the case of colorectal cancer (CRC), abnormal activation or inhibition of WNT5A signaling can lead to both oncogenic and antitumor effects. Moreover, WNT5A is associated with inflammation, metastasis, and altered metabolism in cancer cells. This article aims to discuss the molecular mechanisms and dual roles of WNT5A in CRC.

Therapeutic Use of Anti-Sclerostin Antibody in the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma: A Systematic Review

Multiple myeloma is a malignant cancerous condition that is characterized by abnormal plasma cell production and can lead to bone destruction due to increased osteoclastic activity and decreased osteoblastic activity. Many therapeutic therapies are used to treat diseases, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In recent years, anti-sclerostin antibody treatment has been under investigation for its effect on the multiple myeloma. The present study was conducted to assess the effective therapeutic use of anti-sclerostin antibody in the treatment of multiple myeloma. The literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed Central using the following MeSH terms: "multiple myeloma", "anti-sclerostin antibody", "ubiquitin-proteasome pathway", "proteasome inhibitor", "Wnt pathway". A total of 348 articles were screened. Twenty-five out of 348 were full-text articles assessed for eligibility, and four articles were used in this systematic review. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used for the reporting of this systematic review. A total of four randomized control trials (RCT) were included and used in this systematic review. The anti-sclerostin antibodies were various other drugs, and it was found that the anti-sclerostin antibody was effective in preventing autoantibody formation, decreasing bone destruction, and increasing trabecular bone. Anti-sclerostin antibody was found to be effective in decreasing bone destruction by reducing osteoclastic activity and increasing osteoblastic activity associated with multiple myeloma.

RNA-binding Protein QKI Inhibits Osteogenic Differentiation Via Suppressing Wnt Pathway

BACKGROUND

Dysregulation of MSCs differentiation is associated with many pathophysiological processes. Genetically modified MSCs transplantation helps restore bone loss efficiently.

METHODS

BMSCs-specific QKI overexpressing and knockdown mice were built to explore QKI's role in bone formation and fat accumulation. Primary BMSCs with QKI overexpression and knockout were subjected to osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation. ALP staining and oil red O staining were performed to evaluate the differences between the groups. RNA immunoprecipitation was performed to identify the QKI-related pathway. QKI deficient BMSCs were transplanted into mice with glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis to evaluate its therapeutic potential.

RESULTS

Mice harboring BMSC-specific transgenic QKI exhibited reduced bone mass, while BMSC-specific QKI-deficient mice showed an increase in bone mass. Osteogenic differentiation of QKI deficient BMSCs was promoted and adipogenic differentiation was inhibited, while QKI overexpression in BMSCs displayed the opposite effects. To define the underlying mechanisms, RIP sequencing was performed. Wnt pathway-related genes were the putative direct target mRNAs of QKI, Canonical Wnt pathway activation was involved in QKI's effects on osteogenic differentiation. RNA immunoprecipitation quantitative real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization experiments further validated that QKI repressed the expressions of Wnt5b, Fzd7, Dvl3 and β-catenin via direct binding to their putative mRNA specific sites. Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporotic mice transplanted with QKI deficient BMSCs exhibited less bone loss compared with mice transplanted with control BMSCs.

CONCLUSIONS

QKI suppressed BMSCs osteogenic differentiation by downregulating the expressions of Wnt5b, Fzd7, Dvl3 and β-catenin. Loss of QKI in BMSCs transplantation may provide a new strategy for the treatment of orthopedic diseases such as osteoporosis.

Combinations of PRI-724 Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Inhibitor with Vismodegib, Erlotinib, or HS-173 Synergistically Inhibit Head and Neck Squamous Cancer Cells

The Wnt/β-catenin, EGFR, and PI3K pathways frequently undergo upregulation in head and neck squamous carcinoma (HNSCC) cells. Moreover, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway together with Hedgehog (Hh) signaling regulate the activity of cancer stem cells (CSCs). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the combinatorial use of the Wnt/β-catenin and Hh pathway inhibitors on viability, cell cycle progression, apoptosis induction, cell migration, and expression of CSC markers in tongue (CAL 27) and hypopharynx (FaDu) cancer cells. Co-inhibition of Wnt signaling with EGFR or PI3K pathways was additionally tested. The cells were treated with selective inhibitors of signaling pathways: Wnt/β-catenin (PRI-724), Hh (vismodegib), EGFR (erlotinib), and PI3K (HS-173). Cell viability was evaluated by the resazurin assay. Cell cycle progression and apoptosis induction were tested by flow cytometric analysis after staining with propidium iodide and Annexin V, respectively. Cell migration was detected by the scratch assay and CSC marker expression by the R-T PCR method. Mixtures of PRI-724 and vismodegib affected cell cycle distribution, greatly reduced cell migration, and downregulated the transcript level of CSC markers, especially POU5F1 encoding OCT4. Combinations of PRI-724 with erlotinib or HS-173 were more potent in inducing apoptosis.

ZIM1 Combined with Hydrogel Inhibits Senescence of Primary PαS Cells during In Vitro Expansion

Bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) are a promising source of seed cells in bone tissue engineering, which needs a great quantity of cells. Cell senescence occurs as they are passaged, which could affect the therapeutic effects of cells. Therefore, this study aims to explore the transcriptomic differences among the uncultured and passaged cells, finding a practical target gene for anti-aging. We sorted PαS (PDGFR-α⁺SCA-1⁺CD45^-TER119^-) cells as BMSCs by flow cytometry analysis. The changes in cellular senescence phenotype (Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) test, senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity staining, expression of aging-related genes, telomere-related changes and in vivo differentiation potential) and associated transcriptional alterations during three important cell culture processes (in vivo, first adherence in vitro, first passage, and serial passage in vitro) were studied. Overexpression plasmids of potential target genes were made and examed. Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) was applied to explore the anti-aging effects combined with the target gene. Aging-related genes and ROS levels increased, telomerase activity and average telomere length decreased, and SA-β-Gal activities increased as cells were passaged. RNA-seq offered that imprinted zinc-finger gene 1 (Zim1) played a critical role in anti-aging during cell culture. Further, Zim1 combined with GelMA reduced the expression of P16/P53 and ROS levels with doubled telomerase activities. Few SA-β-Gal positive cells were found in the above state. These effects are achieved at least by the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling through the regulation of Wnt2. The combined application of Zim1 and hydrogel could inhibit the senescence of BMSCs during in vitro expansion, which may benefit clinical application.

Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in the Development and Progression of Colorectal Cancer

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is a growth control pathway involved in various biological processes as well as the development and progression of cancer. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies in the world. The hyperactivation of Wnt signaling is observed in almost all CRC and plays a crucial role in cancer-related processes such as cancer stem cell (CSC) propagation, angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), chemoresistance, and metastasis. This review will discuss how the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is involved in the carcinogenesis and progression of CRC and related therapeutic approaches.

Dickkopf-1 and ROCK2 upregulation and associated protein aggregation in pseudoexfoliation syndrome and glaucoma

AIMS

The etiology of pseudoexfoliation (PEX), a stress-induced fibrillopathy and a leading cause of secondary glaucoma worldwide, remains limited. This study aims to understand the role of the Wnt antagonist Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1) in PEX pathophysiology and assess its candidature as a biomarker for PEX.

MAIN METHODS

Expression levels of DKK1 and Wnt signaling genes were assayed in the anterior ocular tissues of study subjects by qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Protein aggregation was studied through Proteostat staining. Role of DKK1 in protein aggregation and regulation of target Wnt signaling genes was elucidated through overexpression and knockdown studies in Human Lens Epithelial cells (HLEB3). Levels of DKK1 in circulating fluids were assayed through ELISA.

KEY FINDINGS

DKK1 upregulation was observed in lens capsule and conjunctiva tissues of PEX individuals compared to controls correlating with an upregulation of the Wnt signaling target, ROCK2. Proteostat staining showed increased protein aggregates in lens epithelial cells of PEX patients. HLE B-3 cells overexpressed with DKK1 showed increased protein aggregates along with upregulation of ROCK2, and knockdown of DKK1 in HLE B-3 cells demonstrated downregulation of ROCK2. Further, ROCK2 inhibition by Y-27632 in DKK1 overexpressed cells showed that DKK1 regulated protein aggregation via ROCK2. Also, increased levels of DKK1 were observed in patients' plasma and aqueous humor compared to controls.

SIGNIFICANCE

This study shows that DKK1 and ROCK2 might play a role in protein aggregation in PEX. Further, elevated levels of DKK1 in aqueous humor serve as a fair classifier of pseudoexfoliation glaucoma.

Tumor necrosis factor-α knockout mitigates intestinal inflammation and tumorigenesis in obese Apc1638N mice

Strong evidence from observational studies shows that having body fatness is associated with an individual's risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC), but the causality between obesity and CRC remains inadequately elucidated. Our previous studies have shown diet-induced obesity is associated with elevated TNF-α and enhanced activation of Wnt-signaling, yet the causal role of TNF-α on intestinal tumorigenesis has not been precisely studied. The present study aims to examine the functionality of TNF-α in the development of CRC associated with obesity. We first examined the extent to which diet-induced obesity elevates intestinal tumorigenesis by comparing Apc^1638N mice fed a low fat diet (LFD, 10 kcal% fat) with those fed a high fat diet (HFD, 60 kcal% fat), and then investigated the degree that the genetic ablation of TNF-α attenuates the effect by crossing the TNF-α^-/- mice with Apc^1638N mice and feeding them with the same HFD (TNF-α KO HFD). After 16-weeks of feeding, the HFD significantly increased intestinal tumorigenesis, whereas the deletion of TNF-α attenuated the effect (p < 0.05). Accompanying the changes in macroscopic tumorigenesis, HFD significantly elevated intestinal inflammation and pro-carcinogenic Wnt-signaling, whereas abolishment of TNF-α mitigated the magnitude of these elevations (p < 0.05). In summary, our findings demonstrate that the knockout of TNF-α attenuates obesity-associated intestinal tumorigenesis by decreasing intestinal inflammation and thereby the Wnt-signaling, indicating that TNF-α signaling is a potential target that can be utilized to reduce the risk of CRC associated with obesity.