RESUMEN

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an irreplaceable role in the development of silicosis. However, molecular mechanisms of EMT induced by silica exposure still remain to be addressed. Herein, metabolic profiles of human alveolar type II epithelial cells (A549 cells) exposed directly to silica were characterized using non-targeted metabolomic approaches. A total of 84 differential metabolites (DMs) were identified in silica-treated A549 cells undergoing EMT, which were mainly enriched in metabolisms of amino acids (e.g., glutamate, alanine, aspartate), purine metabolism, glycolysis, etc. The number of DMs identified in the A549 cells obviously increased with the elevated exposure concentration of silica. Remarkably, glutamine catabolism was significantly promoted in the silica-treated A549 cells, and the levels of related metabolites (e.g., succinate) and enzymes (e.g., α-ketoglutarate (α-KG) dehydrogenase) were substantially up-regulated, with a preference to α-KG pathway. Supplementation of glutamine into the cell culture could substantially enhance the expression levels of both EMT-related markers and Snail (zinc finger transcription factor). Our results suggest that the EMT of human alveolar epithelial cells directly induced by silica can be essential to the development of silicosis.

Asunto(s)

Células Epiteliales Alveolares , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Dióxido de Silicio , Humanos , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/efectos de los fármacos , Dióxido de Silicio/toxicidad , Células Epiteliales Alveolares/metabolismo , Células Epiteliales Alveolares/efectos de los fármacos , Células A549 , Silicosis/metabolismo , Metaboloma/efectos de los fármacos

RESUMEN

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a diverse stromal cell population within the tumour microenvironment, where they play fundamental roles in cancer progression and patient prognosis. Multiple lines of evidence have identified that CAFs are critically involved in shaping the structure and function of the tumour microenvironment with numerous functions in regulating tumour behaviours, such as metastasis, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). CAFs can interact extensively with cancer cells by producing extracellular vesicles (EVs), multiple secreted factors, and metabolites. Notably, CAF-derived EVs have been identified as critical mediators of cancer therapy resistance, and constitute novel therapy targets and biomarkers in cancer management. This review aimed to summarize the biological roles and detailed molecular mechanisms of CAF-derived EVs in mediating cancer resistance to chemotherapy, targeted therapy agents, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. We also discussed the therapeutic potential of CAF-derived EVs as novel targets and clinical biomarkers in cancer clinical management, thereby providing a novel therapeutic strategy for enhancing cancer therapy efficacy and improving patient prognosis.

Asunto(s)

Fibroblastos Asociados al Cáncer , Resistencia a Antineoplásicos , Vesículas Extracelulares , Neoplasias , Microambiente Tumoral , Humanos , Vesículas Extracelulares/metabolismo , Fibroblastos Asociados al Cáncer/metabolismo , Fibroblastos Asociados al Cáncer/patología , Neoplasias/metabolismo , Neoplasias/patología , Neoplasias/terapia , Biomarcadores de Tumor/metabolismo , Animales , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Relevancia Clínica

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: The actin-binding protein anillin (ANLN) functions as an oncogene in various cancers but has not been fully studied in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This study aimed to investigate the expression of ANLN in OSCC tissues and cell lines, to better understand its role in mediating proliferative, angiogenic, invasive, and metastatic capabilities in this type of cancer. METHODS: ANLN mRNA and protein levels were assessed using qPCR and western immunoblotting. The expression intensity of ANLN was evaluated using immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. Biological functional assays were employed to characterize the behavior of OSCC cells influenced by ANLN. Additionally, comprehensive bioinformatics analysis, including GO analysis and KEGG enrichment analysis, was performed on differentially expressed genes in ANLN-mediated pathways. RESULTS: OSCC tumors and cell lines exhibited higher ANLN expression. Silencing of ANLN significantly suppressed OSCC cell proliferation, as evidenced by a significant reduction in the Ki-67 index both in vitro and in vivo. The migration and invasive ability of OSCC cells were markedly diminished, coinciding with a decrease in epithelial-mesenchymal transition activity. ANLN was also found to promote angiogenic activity in OSCC cells, partly through synergistic effects mediated by vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). Downregulation of ANLN expression led to decreased VEGFA levels, resulting in reduced angiogenesis characterized by fewer vascular branches. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight the promising role of ANLN as a biomarker for both diagnostic and prognostic in OSCC. Targeting ANLN with inhibitory strategies could impede the oncogenesis processes at the core of OSCC development, presenting significant opportunities for advancing therapeutic interventions.

Asunto(s)

Movimiento Celular , Proliferación Celular , Proteínas de Microfilamentos , Neoplasias de la Boca , Invasividad Neoplásica , Neovascularización Patológica , Humanos , Neoplasias de la Boca/patología , Neoplasias de la Boca/genética , Neoplasias de la Boca/metabolismo , Proliferación Celular/genética , Neovascularización Patológica/genética , Neovascularización Patológica/patología , Neovascularización Patológica/metabolismo , Movimiento Celular/genética , Invasividad Neoplásica/genética , Proteínas de Microfilamentos/metabolismo , Proteínas de Microfilamentos/genética , Carcinoma de Células Escamosas/patología , Carcinoma de Células Escamosas/genética , Carcinoma de Células Escamosas/metabolismo , Línea Celular Tumoral , Regulación Neoplásica de la Expresión Génica , Animales , Carcinoma de Células Escamosas de Cabeza y Cuello/patología , Carcinoma de Células Escamosas de Cabeza y Cuello/genética , Carcinoma de Células Escamosas de Cabeza y Cuello/metabolismo , Silenciador del Gen , Ratones , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/genética , Femenino , Masculino , Angiogénesis

RESUMEN

The primary reason for high mortality rates among cancer patients is metastasis, where tumor cells migrate through the bloodstream from the original site to other parts of the body. Recent advancements in technology have significantly enhanced our comprehension of the mechanisms behind the bloodborne spread of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). One critical process, DNA methylation, regulates gene expression and chromosome stability, thus maintaining dynamic equilibrium in the body. Global hypomethylation and locus-specific hypermethylation are examples of changes in DNA methylation patterns that are pivotal to carcinogenesis. This comprehensive review first provides an overview of the various processes that contribute to the formation of CTCs, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), immune surveillance, and colonization. We then conduct an in-depth analysis of how modifications in DNA methylation within CTCs impact each of these critical stages during CTC dissemination. Furthermore, we explored potential clinical implications of changes in DNA methylation in CTCs for patients with cancer. By understanding these epigenetic modifications, we can gain insights into the metastatic process and identify new biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and targeted therapies. This review aims to bridge the gap between basic research and clinical application, highlighting the significance of DNA methylation in the context of cancer metastasis and offering new avenues for improving patient outcomes.

Asunto(s)

Metilación de ADN , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Neoplasias , Células Neoplásicas Circulantes , Células Neoplásicas Circulantes/patología , Células Neoplásicas Circulantes/metabolismo , Humanos , Metilación de ADN/genética , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/genética , Neoplasias/genética , Neoplasias/patología , Biomarcadores de Tumor/genética , Metástasis de la Neoplasia , Epigénesis Genética/genética

RESUMEN

Upregulation of homeoprotein SIX1 in gastric cancer (GC) is related to tumour proliferation and invasion. MicroRNA-7160 (miR-7160) is a homeoprotein SIX1-targeting miRNA that downregulates miR-7160, leading to cancer development. Total gastric cancer samples were collected from six patients, and relative expression levels of SIX1 mRNA and miRNAs were analysed by qRT-PCR. To evaluate the regulation of SIX1 by miR-7160, pGL3-SIX1-mut, pGL3-SIX1, and miR-7160 mimics transfected into cells using lipofectamine 2000. After transfection, proliferation and apoptosis in cultured cells were assessed using the nuclear TUNEL staining and CCK8 reagent, respectively. We demonstrated that the downregulation of miR-7160 in human gastric cancer cells is related to the upregulation of SIX1 mRNA. In gastric cancer cell lines, miR-7160 overexpression could downregulate the expression and inhibit cancer cell proliferation and growth in vitro. However, overexpression of miR-7160 did not increase gastric cancer cell apoptosis. In vitro downregulation of SIX1 decreased vimentin, N-cadherin, and other EMT-related gene expression and increased E-cadherin expression. In brief, miR-7160, by targeting SIX1, inhibits gastric cancer proliferation and cell growth in vitro, which provides an idea for introducing a new treatment option for gastric cancer.

Asunto(s)

Apoptosis , Proliferación Celular , Regulación Neoplásica de la Expresión Génica , Proteínas de Homeodominio , MicroARNs , Neoplasias Gástricas , Humanos , MicroARNs/genética , MicroARNs/metabolismo , Neoplasias Gástricas/genética , Neoplasias Gástricas/patología , Proliferación Celular/genética , Línea Celular Tumoral , Apoptosis/genética , Proteínas de Homeodominio/genética , Proteínas de Homeodominio/metabolismo , Metástasis de la Neoplasia , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/genética , Silenciador del Gen , Movimiento Celular/genética

RESUMEN

PURPOSE: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial pathological process that contributes to proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), and research indicates that factors present in the vitreous that target cells play pivotal roles in regulating EMT. Experimental studies have confirmed that rabbit vitreous (RV) promotes EMT in human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. The long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MALAT1 has been implicated in EMT in various diseases. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the involvement of lncRNA MALAT1 in vitreous-induced EMT in RPE cells. METHODS: MALAT1 was knocked down in ARPE-19 cells by short hairpin RNA (shRNA) transfection. Reverse transcription PCR (RT‒PCR) was used to evaluate MALAT1 expression, and Western blotting analysis was used to measure the expression of EMT-related proteins. Wound-healing, Transwell, and cell contraction assays were conducted to assess cell migration, invasion, and contraction, respectively. Additionally, cell proliferation was assessed using the CCK-8 assay, and cytoskeletal changes were examined by immunofluorescence. RESULTS: MALAT1 expression was significantly increased in ARPE-19 cells cultured with RV. Silencing MALAT1 effectively suppressed EMT and downregulated the associated factors snail1 and E-cadherin. Furthermore, silencing MALAT1 inhibited the RV-induced migration, invasion, proliferation, and contraction of ARPE-19 cells. Silencing MALAT1 also decreased RV-induced AKT and P53 phosphorylation. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, lncRNA MALAT1 participates in regulating vitreous-induced EMT in human RPE cells; these results provide new insight into the pathogenesis of PVR and offer a potential direction for the development of antiproliferative drugs.

Asunto(s)

Movimiento Celular , Proliferación Celular , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-akt , ARN Largo no Codificante , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina , ARN Largo no Codificante/genética , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/genética , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina/metabolismo , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina/patología , Humanos , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-akt/metabolismo , Cuerpo Vítreo/metabolismo , Cuerpo Vítreo/patología , Conejos , Animales , Células Cultivadas , Vitreorretinopatía Proliferativa/genética , Vitreorretinopatía Proliferativa/metabolismo , Vitreorretinopatía Proliferativa/patología , Transducción de Señal , Regulación de la Expresión Génica , Western Blotting

RESUMEN

The human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell line ARPE-19 is widely used as an alternative to primary RPE despite losing many features of primary RPE. We aimed to determine whether a combination of RPE-specific laminin (LN) and nicotinamide (NAM) could improve ARPE-19 redifferentiation to resemble mature RPE and improve the assessment of RPE-specific gene therapy strategies. ARPE-19 cells were propagated on tissue culture plastic supplemented with NAM and human recombinant LN521-coating. RPE maturation was performed by immunocytochemistry and gene expression by qPCR. Viral transduction experiments with adeno-associated virus (AAV)1 or AAV2, carrying a VMD2-driven GFP, were assessed at 2- and 4-weeks post-plating in the different culturing conditions with a low multiplicity of infection. The combination of LN521 coating with NAM supplementation promoted cytoskeletal and tight junction protein reorganization. The expression of maturation markers bestrophin-1 and RPE 65 was promoted concomitantly with a reduction of several epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers, such as TNF-α, TGF-ß, CDH2, and vimentin. Redifferentiated ARPE-19 transduced at low multiplicity of infection of both AAV1- and AAV2-VMD2-GFP. Expression of GFP was detected at 2 weeks and increased at 4 weeks post-plating. AAV1 exhibited a greater expression efficacy compared to AAV2 in maturated ARPE-19 cells already after 2 weeks with increased efficiency after 4 weeks. Our study demonstrates an improved maturation protocol for ARPE-19 cells in vitro, mimicking an in vivo phenotype with the expression of signature genes and improved morphology. Viral-mediated RPE-specific gene expression demonstrates that the combination cultures mimic in vivo AAV tropism essential to test new gene therapies for RPE-centered diseases.

Asunto(s)

Dependovirus , Terapia Genética , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina , Humanos , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina/metabolismo , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina/citología , Terapia Genética/métodos , Línea Celular , Dependovirus/genética , Diferenciación Celular , Laminina/metabolismo , Laminina/genética , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Bestrofinas/genética , Bestrofinas/metabolismo

RESUMEN

Objectives: The pro-oncogenic effects of NCAPD2 have been extensively studied across various tumor types; however, its precise role within the context of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains elusive. This study aims to elucidate the biological functions of NCAPD2 in LUAD and unravel the underlying mechanistic pathways. Methods: Utilizing bioinformatics methodologies, we explored the differential expression of NCAPD2 between normal and tumor samples, along with its correlations with clinical-pathological characteristics, survival prognosis, and immune infiltration. Results: In the TCGA-LUAD dataset, tumor samples demonstrated significantly elevated levels of NCAPD2 expression compared to normal samples (p < 0.001). Clinically, higher NCAPD2 expression was notably associated with advanced T, N, and M stages, pathologic stage, gender, smoking status, and diminished overall survival (OS). Moreover, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with NCAPD2 were predominantly enriched in pathways related to cell division. Immune infiltration analysis revealed that NCAPD2 expression levels were linked to the infiltration of memory B cells, naïve CD4+ T cells, activated memory CD4+ T cells, and M1 macrophages. In vitro experiments demonstrated that silencing NCAPD2 suppressed LUAD cell proliferation, migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and cell cycle progression. Conclusions: In summary, NCAPD2 may represent a promising prognostic biomarker and novel therapeutic target for LUAD.

Asunto(s)

Adenocarcinoma del Pulmón , Biomarcadores de Tumor , Ciclo Celular , Movimiento Celular , Proliferación Celular , Neoplasias Pulmonares , Humanos , Proliferación Celular/genética , Adenocarcinoma del Pulmón/patología , Adenocarcinoma del Pulmón/genética , Adenocarcinoma del Pulmón/metabolismo , Adenocarcinoma del Pulmón/mortalidad , Pronóstico , Movimiento Celular/genética , Biomarcadores de Tumor/genética , Biomarcadores de Tumor/metabolismo , Neoplasias Pulmonares/patología , Neoplasias Pulmonares/genética , Neoplasias Pulmonares/metabolismo , Neoplasias Pulmonares/mortalidad , Ciclo Celular/genética , Invasividad Neoplásica , Femenino , Masculino , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/genética , Línea Celular Tumoral , Regulación Neoplásica de la Expresión Génica , Biología Computacional/métodos

RESUMEN

Distraction osteogenesis is widely used for bone tissue engineering. Mechanical stimulation plays a central role in the massive tissue regeneration observed during distraction osteogenesis. Although distraction osteogenesis has been a boon for patients with bone defects, we still have limited knowledge about the intrinsic mechanotransduction that converts physical forces into biochemical signals capable of inducing cell behavior changes and new tissue formation. In this review, we summarize the findings for mechanoresponsive factors, including cells, genes, and signaling pathways, during the distraction osteogenesis different phases. These elements function for coupling of osteogenesis and angiogenesis via the Integrin-FAK, TGF-ß/BMP, Wnt/ß-catenin, Hippo, MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and HIF-1α signaling pathways in a mechanoresponsive niche. The available evidence further suggests the existence of a balance between the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and mesenchymal-epithelial transition under hypoxic stress. We also briefly summarize the current in silico simulation algorithms and propose several future research directions that may advance understanding of distraction osteogenesis in the era of bioinformation, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence models with reliable single-cell RNA sequencing datasets. The objective of this review is to utilize established knowledge to further optimize existing distraction protocols and to identify potential therapeutic targets.

Asunto(s)

Mecanotransducción Celular , Osteogénesis por Distracción , Humanos , Osteogénesis por Distracción/métodos , Animales , Osteogénesis/fisiología , Regeneración Ósea/fisiología , Transducción de Señal , Ingeniería de Tejidos/métodos , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/fisiología

RESUMEN

Purpose: To investigate the inhibitory effect of antimicrobial peptide merecidin on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and the mechanism of inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) by regulating miR-30d-5p/vimentin. Methods: TNBC cell lines (MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468) were treated with merecidin to assess proliferation, migration, invasion ability, and EMT. Confocal laser localization was used to examine the role of merecidin and TNBC cells. The relationship between merecidin and miR-30d-5p was determined through RT-qPCR and dual-luciferase reporter gene, and the relationship between merecidin and vimentin was verified through pulling down the experiment. The effects of miR-30d-5p on the migration and invasion ability of TNBC cells were confirmed through scratch and transwell experiments. Vimentin levels, tumor volume, shape, size, and weight were observed in the MDA-MB-231 subcutaneous tumor model in nude mice. Results: merecidin inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT of TNBC cells. merecidin was primarily located in the cytoplasm of TNBC cells, and the expression of miR-30d-5p was low in TNBC cells. merecidin significantly up-regulated the expression of miR-30d-5p. miR-30d-5p negatively regulated vimentin. merecidin could bind to vimentin in vitro. miR-30d-5p inhibited the migration and invasion ability of TNBC cells, while vimentin promoted their migration and invasion ability. Down-regulation of miR-30d-5p or overexpression of vimentin partially counteracted the inhibitory effects of merecidin on TNBC cell migration, invasion ability, and EMT. In nude mouse tumor models, merecidin significantly suppressed tumor growth. Conclusion: Merecidin effectively blocks the EMT process and inhibits the migration and invasion of TNBC cells by regulating miR-30d-5p/vimentin.

Asunto(s)

Movimiento Celular , Proliferación Celular , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Regulación Neoplásica de la Expresión Génica , MicroARNs , Neoplasias de la Mama Triple Negativas , Vimentina , Ensayos Antitumor por Modelo de Xenoinjerto , Neoplasias de la Mama Triple Negativas/patología , Neoplasias de la Mama Triple Negativas/metabolismo , Neoplasias de la Mama Triple Negativas/tratamiento farmacológico , Neoplasias de la Mama Triple Negativas/genética , MicroARNs/genética , Animales , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/efectos de los fármacos , Humanos , Vimentina/metabolismo , Ratones , Femenino , Movimiento Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Proliferación Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Línea Celular Tumoral , Regulación Neoplásica de la Expresión Génica/efectos de los fármacos , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Metástasis de la Neoplasia , Péptidos Catiónicos Antimicrobianos/farmacología

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: B7-H3 protein is an important regulator of the adaptive immune response in human tumorigenesis. 4-1BB is a co-stimulatory receptor expressed on activated CD8+ T cells, and regulates T cell immunity. Here, we investigated the role of B7-H3 in the growth and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and the effect of its interaction with 4-1BB on tumor immunity. METHODS: Short hairpin (sh) RNA was designed to knock down B7-H3 expression in NPC cells. NPC cells with stable knockdown of B7-H3 were established and injected into nude mice. The effects of B7-H3 on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were detected by the CCK8 assay, flow cytometry, TUNEL assay, and western blot analysis. The migration and invasion abilities were determined using the Transwell assay and scratch assay. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assays were performed to study the interaction between B7-H3 and 4-1BB. Anti-4-1BB antibody was used in a co-culture system and xenograft mice to study the effect of 4-1BB on NPC development. RESULTS: NPC cells transfected with sh-B7-H3 showed a higher rate of apoptosis, slower growth rate, impaired migration, and less EMT in vitro. Xenograft mice with stable knockout of B7-H3 had lower tumor burdens, and the stripped tumors had lower rates of cell proliferation, higher rates of apoptosis, and less EMT in vivo. Additionally, decreased B7-H3 expression was positively correlated with interferon-γ, tumor necrosis factor-α, and 4-1BB+CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. Co-IP studies showed that B7-H3 interacts with 4-1BB. Also, the inhibitory effects of sh-B7-H3 on NPC tumor growth, invasion, and tumor immunity could be alleviated by the anti-4-1BB antibody both in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that B7-H3 may accelerate tumor growth, tumor cell invasion, and EMT, and interact with 4-1BB to produce CD8+ T cell exhaustion that inhibits tumor immunity. B7-H3 might serve as a novel target for treating NPC.

Asunto(s)

Antígenos B7 , Linfocitos T CD8-positivos , Proliferación Celular , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Carcinoma Nasofaríngeo , Neoplasias Nasofaríngeas , Antígenos B7/genética , Antígenos B7/metabolismo , Antígenos B7/inmunología , Animales , Humanos , Carcinoma Nasofaríngeo/inmunología , Carcinoma Nasofaríngeo/patología , Carcinoma Nasofaríngeo/genética , Carcinoma Nasofaríngeo/metabolismo , Linfocitos T CD8-positivos/inmunología , Ratones , Neoplasias Nasofaríngeas/inmunología , Neoplasias Nasofaríngeas/patología , Neoplasias Nasofaríngeas/genética , Neoplasias Nasofaríngeas/metabolismo , Línea Celular Tumoral , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/inmunología , Ratones Desnudos , Apoptosis , Progresión de la Enfermedad , Movimiento Celular , Miembro 9 de la Superfamilia de Receptores de Factores de Necrosis Tumoral/metabolismo , Miembro 9 de la Superfamilia de Receptores de Factores de Necrosis Tumoral/genética , Miembro 9 de la Superfamilia de Receptores de Factores de Necrosis Tumoral/inmunología , Agotamiento de Células T

RESUMEN

Subretinal fibrosis permanently impairs the vision of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Despite emerging evidence revealing the association between disturbed metabolism in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and subretinal fibrosis, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, single-cell RNA sequencing revealed, prior to subretinal fibrosis, genes in mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation are downregulated in the RPE lacking very low-density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR), especially the rate-limiting enzyme carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A). We found that overexpression of CPT1A in the RPE of Vldlr-/- mice suppresses epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and fibrosis. Mechanistically, TGFß2 induces fibrosis by activating a Warburg-like effect, i.e. increased glycolysis and decreased mitochondrial respiration through ERK-dependent CPT1A degradation. Moreover, VLDLR blocks the formation of the TGFß receptor I/II complex by interacting with unglycosylated TGFß receptor II. In conclusion, VLDLR suppresses fibrosis by attenuating TGFß2-induced metabolic reprogramming, and CPT1A is a potential target for treating subretinal fibrosis.

Asunto(s)

Carnitina O-Palmitoiltransferasa , Fibrosis , Degeneración Macular , Mitocondrias , Receptores de LDL , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina , Factor de Crecimiento Transformador beta2 , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina/metabolismo , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina/patología , Animales , Degeneración Macular/metabolismo , Degeneración Macular/patología , Degeneración Macular/genética , Ratones , Mitocondrias/metabolismo , Mitocondrias/patología , Carnitina O-Palmitoiltransferasa/metabolismo , Carnitina O-Palmitoiltransferasa/genética , Carnitina O-Palmitoiltransferasa/deficiencia , Factor de Crecimiento Transformador beta2/metabolismo , Factor de Crecimiento Transformador beta2/genética , Receptores de LDL/metabolismo , Receptores de LDL/genética , Receptores de LDL/deficiencia , Humanos , Ratones Noqueados , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Metabolismo Energético , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Epidermal remodeling and hypertrophy are hallmarks of skin fibrotic disorders, and keratinocyte to mesenchymal (EMT)-like transformations drive epidermis alteration in skin fibrosis such as keloids and hypertrophic scars (HTS). While phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors have shown effectiveness in various fibrotic disorders, their role in skin fibrosis is not fully understood. This study aimed to explore the specific role of PDE4B in epidermal remodeling and hypertrophy seen in skin fibrosis. METHODS: In vitro experiments examined the effects of inhibiting PDE4A-D (with Roflumilast) or PDE4B (with siRNA) on TGFß1-induced EMT differentiation and dedifferentiation in human 3D epidermis. In vivo studies investigated the impact of PDE4 inhibition on HOCl-induced skin fibrosis and epidermal hypertrophy in mice, employing both preventive and therapeutic approaches. RESULTS: The study found increased levels of PDE4B (mRNA, protein) in keloids > HTS compared to healthy epidermis, as well as in TGFß-stimulated 3D epidermis. Keloids and HTS epidermis exhibited elevated levels of collagen Iα1, fibronectin, αSMA, N-cadherin, and NOX4 mRNA, along with decreased levels of E-cadherin and ZO-1, confirming an EMT process. Inhibition of both PDE4A-D and PDE4B prevented TGFß1-induced Smad3 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation and mesenchymal differentiation in vitro. PDE4A-D inhibition also promoted mesenchymal dedifferentiation and reduced TGFß1-induced ROS and keratinocyte senescence by rescuing PPM1A, a Smad3 phosphatase. In vivo, PDE4 inhibition mitigated HOCl-induced epidermal hypertrophy in mice in both preventive and therapeutic settings. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the study supports the potential of PDE4 inhibitors, particularly PDE4B, in treating skin fibrosis, including keloids and HTS, shedding light on their functional role in this condition.

Asunto(s)

Fosfodiesterasas de Nucleótidos Cíclicos Tipo 4 , Fibrosis , Queloide , Queratinocitos , Inhibidores de Fosfodiesterasa 4 , Humanos , Queloide/metabolismo , Queloide/patología , Fosfodiesterasas de Nucleótidos Cíclicos Tipo 4/metabolismo , Fosfodiesterasas de Nucleótidos Cíclicos Tipo 4/genética , Queratinocitos/metabolismo , Queratinocitos/efectos de los fármacos , Inhibidores de Fosfodiesterasa 4/farmacología , Animales , Ratones , Epidermis/metabolismo , Epidermis/patología , Factor de Crecimiento Transformador beta1/metabolismo , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/efectos de los fármacos , Diferenciación Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Masculino

RESUMEN

Many aspects of breast cancer metastasis remain poorly understood, despite its clinical importance. In this issue of the JCI, Winkler et al. have applied an elegant patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model to map the transcriptomes of single cells in matched primary tumors and lung metastases across 13 breast cancer PDX models. They identified distinct transcriptional changes associated with metastatic evolution in lowly and highly metastatic primary tumors. Furthermore, by classifying the "epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity" (EMP) state of single cells, they revealed that considerable EMP heterogeneity exists among primary and metastatic human breast cancer cells. However, the EMP profile of a tumor does not change substantially upon metastasis. These findings give an unprecedentedly detailed view into the transcriptional heterogeneity and evolution of metastatic human breast cancer.

Asunto(s)

Neoplasias de la Mama , Humanos , Neoplasias de la Mama/genética , Neoplasias de la Mama/patología , Neoplasias de la Mama/metabolismo , Femenino , Animales , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/genética , Neoplasias Pulmonares/genética , Neoplasias Pulmonares/patología , Neoplasias Pulmonares/secundario , Neoplasias Pulmonares/metabolismo , Regulación Neoplásica de la Expresión Génica , Transcriptoma , Metástasis de la Neoplasia , Ratones , Transcripción Genética

RESUMEN

Metastasis is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. It is unclear how intratumor heterogeneity (ITH) contributes to metastasis and how metastatic cells adapt to distant tissue environments. The study of these adaptations is challenged by the limited access to patient material and a lack of experimental models that appropriately recapitulate ITH. To investigate metastatic cell adaptations and the contribution of ITH to metastasis, we analyzed single-cell transcriptomes of matched primary tumors and metastases from patient-derived xenograft models of breast cancer. We found profound transcriptional differences between the primary tumor and metastatic cells. Primary tumors upregulated several metabolic genes, whereas motility pathway genes were upregulated in micrometastases, and stress response signaling was upregulated during progression. Additionally, we identified primary tumor gene signatures that were associated with increased metastatic potential and correlated with patient outcomes. Immune-regulatory control pathways were enriched in poorly metastatic primary tumors, whereas genes involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition were upregulated in highly metastatic tumors. We found that ITH was dominated by epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP), which presented as a dynamic continuum with intermediate EMP cell states characterized by specific genes such as CRYAB and S100A2. Elevated expression of an intermediate EMP signature correlated with worse patient outcomes. Our findings identified inhibition of the intermediate EMP cell state as a potential therapeutic target to block metastasis.

Asunto(s)

Neoplasias de la Mama , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Metástasis de la Neoplasia , Análisis de la Célula Individual , Humanos , Neoplasias de la Mama/patología , Neoplasias de la Mama/genética , Neoplasias de la Mama/metabolismo , Femenino , Animales , Ratones , Regulación Neoplásica de la Expresión Génica , Transcriptoma , Proteínas de Neoplasias/genética , Proteínas de Neoplasias/metabolismo , Línea Celular Tumoral

RESUMEN

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the impact of HSPA13 on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) development, along with its associated molecular mechanisms. Methods: HSPA13 expression was evaluated in epiretinal membranes (ERMs) from patients with PVR using immunohistochemistry. The effects of HSPA13 knockdown on TGFß1-induced EMT in hESC-RPE cells were studied through quantitative PCR (qPCR), Western blot, and wound healing assays. Intracellular Ca2+ levels were measured using Fluo-8/AM incubation. A rat PVR model was induced by the intravitreal injection of RPE cells combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). RNA-seq was applied to study the molecular mechanism of HSPA13 knockdown-mediated EMT inhibition. Results: HSPA13 was found in human ERMs and its expression increased with TGFß1 treatment in hESC-RPE cells. Knockdown of HSPA13 inhibited TGFß1-induced EMT and migration. In the PVR rat model, HSPA13 was expressed in the ERMs and its knockdown in RPE cells reduced the development of PVR. Consistent with these observations, RNA-seq showed a global suppression of TGFß1-induced EMT and migration by shHSPA13 in RPE cells. Mechanistically, TGFß1 treatment increased intracellular Ca2+ levels, leading to an upregulation of HSPA13 expression. Downregulation of HSPA13 hindered the phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt in TGFß1-induced RPE cells. Conclusions: Our study revealed the involvement of HSPA13 in PVR development, as well as in TGFß1-induced EMT of RPE through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Targeting HSPA13-related pathways involved in regulating EMT in RPE cells could serve as a novel therapeutic approach for patients with PVR.

Asunto(s)

Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Proteínas HSP70 de Choque Térmico , Fosfatidilinositol 3-Quinasas , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-akt , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina , Transducción de Señal , Factor de Crecimiento Transformador beta1 , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina/metabolismo , Epitelio Pigmentado de la Retina/patología , Animales , Factor de Crecimiento Transformador beta1/metabolismo , Humanos , Ratas , Proteínas HSP70 de Choque Térmico/metabolismo , Proteínas HSP70 de Choque Térmico/genética , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-akt/metabolismo , Fosfatidilinositol 3-Quinasas/metabolismo , Vitreorretinopatía Proliferativa/genética , Vitreorretinopatía Proliferativa/patología , Vitreorretinopatía Proliferativa/metabolismo , Masculino , Western Blotting , Células Cultivadas , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Movimiento Celular , Inmunohistoquímica

RESUMEN

Acquired resistance is inevitable in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with osimertinib, and one of the primary mechanisms responsible for this resistance is the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). We identify upregulation of the proviral integration site for Moloney murine leukemia virus 1 (PIM1) and functional inactivation of glycogen synthase kinase 3ß (GSK3ß) as drivers of EMT-associated osimertinib resistance. Upregulation of PIM1 promotes the growth, invasion, and resistance of osimertinib-resistant cells and is significantly correlated with EMT molecules expression. Functionally, PIM1 suppresses the ubiquitin-proteasome degradation of snail family transcriptional repressor 1 (SNAIL) and snail family transcriptional repressor 2 (SLUG) by deactivating GSK3ß through phosphorylation. The stability and accumulation of SNAIL and SLUG facilitate EMT and encourage osimertinib resistance. Furthermore, treatment with PIM1 inhibitors prevents EMT progression and re-sensitizes osimertinib-resistant NSCLC cells to osimertinib. PIM1/GSK3ß signaling is activated in clinical samples of osimertinib-resistant NSCLC, and dual epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/PIM1 blockade synergistically reverse osimertinib-resistant NSCLC in vivo. These data identify PIM1 as a driver of EMT-associated osimertinib-resistant NSCLC cells and predict that PIM1 inhibitors and osimertinib combination therapy will provide clinical benefit in patients with EGFR-mutant NSCLC.

Asunto(s)

Acrilamidas , Compuestos de Anilina , Carcinoma de Pulmón de Células no Pequeñas , Resistencia a Antineoplásicos , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Receptores ErbB , Glucógeno Sintasa Quinasa 3 beta , Neoplasias Pulmonares , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-pim-1 , Transducción de Señal , Humanos , Carcinoma de Pulmón de Células no Pequeñas/tratamiento farmacológico , Carcinoma de Pulmón de Células no Pequeñas/genética , Carcinoma de Pulmón de Células no Pequeñas/patología , Carcinoma de Pulmón de Células no Pequeñas/metabolismo , Acrilamidas/farmacología , Acrilamidas/uso terapéutico , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-pim-1/metabolismo , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-pim-1/genética , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/efectos de los fármacos , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/genética , Compuestos de Anilina/farmacología , Compuestos de Anilina/uso terapéutico , Glucógeno Sintasa Quinasa 3 beta/metabolismo , Glucógeno Sintasa Quinasa 3 beta/genética , Receptores ErbB/metabolismo , Receptores ErbB/genética , Neoplasias Pulmonares/tratamiento farmacológico , Neoplasias Pulmonares/genética , Neoplasias Pulmonares/patología , Neoplasias Pulmonares/metabolismo , Resistencia a Antineoplásicos/genética , Resistencia a Antineoplásicos/efectos de los fármacos , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Animales , Ratones , Línea Celular Tumoral , Mutación/genética , Ratones Desnudos , Factores de Transcripción de la Familia Snail/metabolismo , Factores de Transcripción de la Familia Snail/genética , Indoles , Pirimidinas

RESUMEN

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death globally. Metastasis is the most common reason of mortality in which hypoxia is suggested to have a pivotal role. However, the effect of hypoxia on the metastatic potential and migratory activity of cancer cells is largely unexplored and warrants detailed scientific investigations. Accordingly, we analyzed changes on cell proliferation and migratory activity both in single-cell migration and invasion under normoxic and hypoxic conditions in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. Alterations in crucial genes and proteins associated with cellular response to hypoxia, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, proliferation and apoptosis were also analyzed. Generally, we observed no change in proliferation upon hypoxic conditions and no detectable induction of apoptosis. Interestingly, we observed that single-cell motility was generally reduced while invasion under confluent conditions using scratch assay was enhanced by hypoxia in most of the cell lines. Furthermore, we detected changes in the expression of EMT markers that are consistent with enhanced motility and metastasis-promoting effect of hypoxia. In summary, our study indicated cell line-, time of exposure- and migrational type-dependent effects of hypoxia in cellular proliferation, motility and gene expression. Our results contribute to better understanding and tackling cancer metastasis.

Asunto(s)

Adenocarcinoma del Pulmón , Movimiento Celular , Proliferación Celular , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Neoplasias Pulmonares , Humanos , Adenocarcinoma del Pulmón/patología , Adenocarcinoma del Pulmón/genética , Adenocarcinoma del Pulmón/metabolismo , Neoplasias Pulmonares/patología , Neoplasias Pulmonares/metabolismo , Neoplasias Pulmonares/genética , Línea Celular Tumoral , Apoptosis , Hipoxia de la Célula , Regulación Neoplásica de la Expresión Génica , Células A549

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are pivotal in tumor metastasis across cancers, yet their specific role in renal cancer remains unclear. METHODS: This study investigated C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5)'s tumorigenic impact on renal cancer cells and CTCs using bioinformatics, in vivo, and in vitro experiments. It also assessed renal cancer patients' CTCs prognostic value through Lasso regression and Kaplan-Meier survival curves. RESULTS: Bioinformatics analysis revealed differential genes focusing on cellular adhesion and migration between CTCs and tumor cells. CCL5 exhibited high expression in various CTCs, correlating with poor prognosis in renal cancer. In 786-O-CTCs, CCL5 enhanced malignancy, while in renal cell carcinoma cell line CAKI-2 and 786-O, it promoted epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) via smad2/3, influencing cellular characteristics. The nude mouse model suggested CCL5 increased CTCs and intensified EMT, enhancing lung metastasis. Clinical results shown varying prognostic values for different EMT-typed CTCs, with mesenchymal CTCs having the highest value. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, CCL5 promoted EMT in renal cancer cells and CTCs through smad2/3, enhancing the malignant phenotype and facilitating lung metastasis. Mesenchymal-type CTC-related factors can construct a risk model for renal cancer patients, allowing personalized treatment based on metastatic risk prediction.

Asunto(s)

Quimiocina CCL5 , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Neoplasias Renales , Ratones Desnudos , Células Neoplásicas Circulantes , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/genética , Quimiocina CCL5/metabolismo , Humanos , Células Neoplásicas Circulantes/patología , Células Neoplásicas Circulantes/metabolismo , Animales , Línea Celular Tumoral , Neoplasias Renales/patología , Neoplasias Renales/sangre , Neoplasias Renales/genética , Pronóstico , Masculino , Regulación Neoplásica de la Expresión Génica , Femenino , Estimación de Kaplan-Meier , Ratones , Movimiento Celular , Persona de Mediana Edad

RESUMEN

Breast cancer ranks the first in the incidence of female cancer and is the most common cancer threatening the life and health of women worldwide.Tumor protein p53-regulated apoptosis-inducing protein 1 (TP53AIP1) is a pro-apoptotic gene downstream of p53. However, the role of TP53AIP1 in BC needs to be investigated. In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to assess the biological functions and associated mechanisms. Several bioinformatics analyses were made, CCK8 assay, wound healing, transwell assays, colony formation assay, EDU, flow cytometry, Immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR and Western-blotting were performed. In our study, we discovered that BC samples had low levels of TP53AIP1 expression, which correlated with a lower survival rate in BC patients. When TP53AIP1 was up-regulated, it caused a decrease in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. It also induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and protective autophagy. Furthermore, the over-expression of TP53AIP1 suppressed tumor growth when tested in vivo. We also noticed that TP53AIP1 up-regulation resulted in decreased levels of phosphorylation in AKT and mTOR, suggesting a mechanistic role. In addition, we performed functional rescue experiments where the activation of AKT was able to counteract the impact of TP53AIP1 on the survival and autophagy in breast cancer cell lines. This suggests that TP53AIP1 acts as an oncogene by controlling the AKT/mTOR pathway. These findings reveal TP53AIP1 as a gene that suppresses tumor growth and triggers autophagy through the AKT/mTOR pathway in breast cancer cells. As a result, TP53AIP1 presents itself as a potential target for novel therapeutic approaches in treating breast cancer.

Asunto(s)

Proteínas Reguladoras de la Apoptosis , Autofagia , Neoplasias de la Mama , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-akt , Transducción de Señal , Serina-Treonina Quinasas TOR , Animales , Femenino , Humanos , Ratones , Proteínas Reguladoras de la Apoptosis/metabolismo , Proteínas Reguladoras de la Apoptosis/genética , Autofagia/genética , Neoplasias de la Mama/patología , Neoplasias de la Mama/metabolismo , Neoplasias de la Mama/genética , Línea Celular Tumoral , Proliferación Celular , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/genética , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-akt/metabolismo , Serina-Treonina Quinasas TOR/metabolismo