Ability Of Colon Cancer Cells Research Articles

Colon Cancer-Derived Exosomal LncRNA-XIST Promotes M2-like Macrophage Polarization by Regulating PDGFRA.

Colon cancer ranks second in overall cancer-related deaths and poses a serious risk to human life and health. In recent years, exosomes are believed to play an important and significant role in cancer, especially tumor-derived exosomes (TDEs). Previous studies have highlighted the pivotal role of exosomes in tumor development, owing to their ability to mediate communication between tumor cells and macrophages, induce macrophage M2 polarization, and facilitate the progression of tumorigenesis. In this study, we revealed that colon cancer-derived exosomes promoted M2-like macrophage polarization. Moreover, exosome-induced M2-like macrophages, in turn, promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of colon cancer cells. Specifically, CT26- and HCT116-derived exosomes led to the activation of AKT, ERK, and STAT3/6 signaling pathways in THP-1(Mφ) cells. Furthermore, our findings showed that colon cancer-derived exosomes secreted lncXIST to sponge miR-17-5p, which, in turn, promoted the expression of PDGFRA, a common gene found in all three signaling pathways, to facilitate M2-like macrophage polarization. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed the binding relationship between lncXIST and miR-17-5p, as well as miR-17-5p and PDGFRA. Collectively, our results highlight the novel role of lncXIST in facilitating macrophage polarization by sponging miR-17-5p and regulating PDGFRA expression.

Ginseng polysaccharide promotes the apoptosis of colon cancer cells via activating the NLRP3 inflammasome

Background Ginseng polysaccharide (GPS) is an ingredient of ginseng with documented anti-tumor properties. However, its effect on colon cancer and the underlying molecular mechanisms have not been investigated clearly. Methods Cell viability of HT29 and CT26 cells treated with different concentrations of GPS was assessed using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Western blot assay was used to detect the expression of apoptotic proteins, while the mRNA levels were assessed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Transwell migration assays were used to examine the migration and invasion of cells. Results The results revealed that GPS effectively suppressed the proliferation of HT29 and CT26 cells. We demonstrated an upregulation of apoptotic proteins in GPS-treated cells, including Bax, cleaved Caspase-3, and p-p53. GPS treatment also increased the mRNA levels of cytochrome C and Bax. Furthermore, the results showed that GPS treatment concurrently promoted the activation of nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich family pyrin-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Transwell migration assays showed that GPS inhibited the migratory and invasive abilities of colon cancer cells. As expected, inhibition of NLRP3 expression using INF39 attenuated the inhibitory effect of GPS on migration and invasion. Upon NLRP3 inhibition, GPS-induced apoptosis was dramatically alleviated, accompanied by a reduction in the expression of apoptotic proteins. Conclusion In conclusion, this research provides compelling evidence that the GPS-induced NLRP3 signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in apoptosis of colon cells, suggesting potential clinical implications for the therapeutic intervention of colon cancer. Thus, GPS might be a promising anti-tumor drug for the treatment of colorectal cancer.

Low intraoperative end-tidal carbon dioxide levels are associated with improved recurrence-free survival after elective colorectal cancer surgery

Study objectiveHigher levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) increase the invasive abilities of colon cancer cells in vitro. Studies assessing target values for end-tidal CO2 concentrations (EtCO2) to improve surgical outcome after colorectal cancer surgery are lacking. Therefore, we evaluated whether intraoperative EtCO2 was associated with differences in recurrence-free survival after elective colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery. DesignSingle center, retrospective analysis. SettingAnesthesia records, surgical databases and hospital information system of a tertiary university hospital. PatientsWe analyzed 528 patients undergoing elective resection of colorectal cancer at Heidelberg University Hospital between 2009 and 2018. InterventionsNone. MeasurementsIntraoperative mean EtCO2 values were calculated. The study cohort was equally stratified into low-and high-EtCO2 groups. The primary endpoint measure was recurrence-free survival until last known follow-up. Groups were compared using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Cox-regression analysis was used to control for covariates. Sepsis, reoperations, surgical site infections and cardiovascular events during hospital stay, and overall survival were secondary outcomes. Main resultsMean EtCO2 was 33.8 mmHg ±1.2 in the low- EtCO2 group vs. 37.3 mmHg ±1.6 in the high-EtCO2 group. Median follow-up was 3.8 (Q1-Q3, 2.5–5.1) years. Recurrence-free survival was higher in the low-EtCO2 group (log-rank-test: p = .024). After correction for confounding factors, lower EtCO2 was associated with increased recurrence-free survival (HR = 1.138, 95%-CI:1.015–1.276, p = .027); the hazard for the primary outcome decreased by 12.1% per 1 mmHg decrease in mean EtCO2. 1-year and 5-year survival was also higher in the low-EtCO2 group. We did not find differences in the other secondary endpoints. ConclusionsLower intraoperative EtCO2 target values in CRC surgery might benefit oncological outcome and should be evaluated in confirmative studies.

Paradoxical Activation of Oncogenic Signaling as a Cancer Treatment Strategy.

Cancer homeostasis depends on a balance between activated oncogenic pathways driving tumorigenesis and engagement of stress response programs that counteract the inherent toxicity of such aberrant signaling. Although inhibition of oncogenic signaling pathways has been explored extensively, there is increasing evidence that overactivation of the same pathways can also disrupt cancer homeostasis and cause lethality. We show here that inhibition of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) hyperactivates multiple oncogenic pathways and engages stress responses in colon cancer cells. Genetic and compound screens identify combined inhibition of PP2A and WEE1 as synergistic in multiple cancer models by collapsing DNA replication and triggering premature mitosis followed by cell death. This combination also suppressed the growth of patient-derived tumors in vivo. Remarkably, acquired resistance to this drug combination suppressed the ability of colon cancer cells to form tumors in vivo. Our data suggest that paradoxical activation of oncogenic signaling can result in tumor-suppressive resistance. Significance: A therapy consisting of deliberate hyperactivation of oncogenic signaling combined with perturbation of the stress responses that result from this is very effective in animal models of colon cancer. Resistance to this therapy is associated with loss of oncogenic signaling and reduced oncogenic capacity, indicative of tumor-suppressive drug resistance.

Lycium barbarum polysaccharide reverses drug resistance in oxaliplatin-resistant colon cancer cells by inhibiting PI3K/AKT-dependent phosphomannose isomerase.

Objective: Here, we aimed to explore the effect of LBP in combination with Oxaliplatin (OXA) on reversing drug resistance in colon cancer cells through in vitro and in vivo experiments. We also aimed to explore the possible mechanism underlying this effect. Finally, we aimed to determine potential targets of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) in colon cancer (CC) through network pharmacology and molecular docking. Methods: The invasion ability of colon cancer cells was assessed using the invasion assay. The migration ability of these cells was assessed using the migration assay and wound healing assay. Cell cycle analysis was carried out using flow cytometry. The expression levels of phosphomannose isomerase (PMI) and ATP-binding cassette transport protein of G2 (ABCG2) proteins were determined using immunofluorescence and western blotting. The expression levels of phosphatidylinositol3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (AKT), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), and BCL2-Associated X (Bax) were determined using western blotting. Forty BALB/c nude mice purchased from Weitong Lihua, Beijing, for the in vivo analyses. The mice were randomly divided into eight groups. They were administered HCT116 and HCT116-OXR cells to prepare colon cancer xenograft models and then treated with PBS, LBP (50mg/kg), OXA (10mg/kg), or LBP + OXA (50mg/kg + 10mg/kg). The tumor weight and volume of treated model mice were measured, and organ toxicity was evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin staining. The expression levels of PMI, ABCG2, PI3K, and AKT proteins were then assessed using immunohistochemistry. Moreover, PMI and ABCG2 expression levels were analyzed using immunofluorescence and western blotting. The active components and possible targets of LBP in colon cancer were explored using in silico analysis. GeneCards was used to identify CC targets, and an online Venn analysis tool was used to determine intersection targets between these and LBP active components. The PPI network for intersection target protein interactions and the PPI network for interactions between the intersection target proteins and PMI was built using STRING and Cytoscape. To obtain putative targets of LBP in CC, we performed GO function enrichment and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses. Results: Compared with the HCT116-OXR blank treatment group, both invasion and migration abilities of HCT116-OXR cells were inhibited in the LBP + OXA (2.5mg/mL LBP, 10μΜ OXA) group (p < 0.05). Cells in the LBP + OXA (2.5mg/mL LBP, 10μΜ OXA) group were found to arrest in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Knockdown of PMI was found to downregulate PI3K, AKT, and Bcl-2 (p < 0.05), while it was found to upregulate Bax (p < 0.05). After treatment with L. barbarum polysaccharide, 40 colon cancer subcutaneous tumor models showed a decrease in tumor size. There was no difference in the liver index after LBP treatment (p > 0.05). However, the spleen index decreased in the OXA and LBP + OXA groups (p < 0.05), possibly as a side effect of oxaliplatin. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and western blotting showed that LBP + OXA treatment decreased PMI and ABCG2 expression levels (p < 0.05). Moreover, immunohistochemistry showed that LBP + OXA treatment decreased the expression levels of PI3K and AKT (p < 0.05). Network pharmacology analysis revealed 45 active LBP components, including carotenoids, phenylpropanoids, quercetin, xanthophylls, and other polyphenols. It also revealed 146 therapeutic targets of LBP, including AKT, SRC, EGFR, HRAS, STAT3, and MAPK3. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the LBP target proteins were enriched in pathways, including cancer-related signaling pathways, PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, and IL-17 signaling pathways. Finally, molecular docking experiments revealed that the active LBP components bind well with ABCG2 and PMI. conclusion: Our in vitro experiments showed that PMI knockdown downregulated PI3K, AKT, and Bcl-2 and upregulated Bax. This finding confirms that PMI plays a role in drug resistance by regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway and lays a foundation to study the mechanism underlying the reversal of colon cancer cell drug resistance by the combination of LBP and OXA. Our in vivo experiments showed that LBP combined with oxaliplatin could inhibit tumor growth. LBP showed no hepatic or splenic toxicity. LBP combined with oxaliplatin could downregulate the expression levels of PMI, ABCG2, PI3K, and AKT; it may thus have positive significance for the treatment of advanced metastatic colon cancer. Our network pharmacology analysis revealed the core targets of LBP in the treatment of CC as well as the pathways they are enriched in. It further verified the results of our in vitro and in vivo experiments, showing the involvement of multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway synergism in the drug-reversing effect of LBP in CC. Overall, the findings of the present study provide new avenues for the future clinical treatment of CC.

ARHGEF16 expression correlates with proliferation, migration and invasion of colon cancer cells.

Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor 16 (ARHGEF16) is a newly discovered Rho-family guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) involved in the activation of Rho-family GTPases. However, its roles in colon cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion remain unknown. This study analyzed the expression of ARHGEF16 in colon cancer and explored its biological effects on colon cancer cells, so as to find new therapeutic targets for the treatment of colon cancer. The expression of ARHGEF16 in colon cancer tissues and cells was detected by bioinformatics analysis, western blot, and quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assays. The effects of overexpression and silencing of ARHGEF16 on the biological behavior of colon cancer cells were examined by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), cell scratching and Transwell assays. The database showed that ARHGEF16 was highly expressed in colon cancer tissues. Validation with clinical fresh tissue specimens and colon cancer cell lines revealed that ARHGEF16 was highly expressed in both. The proliferation, growth, migration, and invasion ability of colon cancer cell lines increased significantly with the overexpression of ARHGEF16, while silencing ARHGEF16 showed the opposite effect. The expression of ARHGEF16 is closely related to the migration and invasive ability of colon cancer cells, and overexpression of ARHGEF16 promotes the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells and correlates with the metastatic potential of colon cancer.

Mutant p53 gain-of-function stimulates canonical Wnt signaling via PI3K/AKT pathway in colon cancer

Aberrant canonical Wnt signaling is a hallmark of colon cancer. The TP53 tumor suppressor gene is altered in many solid tumors, including colorectal cancer, resulting in mutant versions of p53 (mut-p53) that lose their tumor suppressor capacities and acquire new-oncogenic functions (GOFs) critical for disease progression. Although the mechanisms related to mut-p53 GOF have been explored extensively, the relevance of mut-p53 in the canonical Wnt pathway is not well defined. This work investigated the influence of mut-p53 compared to wt-p53 in β-catenin-dependent Wnt signaling. Using the TCGA public data from Pan-Cancer and the GEPIA2 platform, an in silico analysis of wt-p53 versus mut-p53 genotyped colorectal cancer patients showed that TP53 (p53) and CTNNB1 (β-catenin) are significantly overexpressed in colorectal cancer, compared with normal tissue. Using p53 overexpression or p53 knockdown assays of wt-p53 or mut-p53, we found that while wt-p53 antagonizes canonical Wnt signaling, mut-p53 induces the opposite effect, improving the β-catenin-dependent transcriptional activity and colony formation ability of colon cancer cells, which were both decreased by mut-p53 knockdown expression. The mechanism involved in mut-p53-induced activation of canonical Wnt appears to be via AKT-mediated phosphorylation of Ser 552 of β-catenin, which is known to stabilize and enhance its transcriptional activity. We also found that while wt-p53 expression contributes to 5-FU sensitivity in colon cancer cells, the RITA p53 reactivating molecule counteracted the resistance against 5-FU in cells expressing mut-p53. Our results indicate that mut-p53 GOF acts as a positive regulator of canonical Wnt signaling and participates in the induction of resistance to 5-FU in colon cancer cells.Graphical abstract

AL360181.1 promotes proliferation and invasion in colon cancer and is one of ten m6A-related lncRNAs that predict overall survival.

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) exerted a pivotal role in colon cancer. Nevertheless, the long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) associated with this process have yet to be elucidated. The open-access data used for analysis was downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database for analysis, employing the R software for computational evaluations. The RNA level of specific molecules was assessed using the quantitative real-time PCR. CCK8, colony formation and transwell assay were used to evaluate the proliferation, invasion and migration ability of colon cancer cells. Here, we identified the m6A regulators from TCGA data and subsequently pinpointed lncRNAs with a -Cor->0.3 and P<0.05, categorizing them as m6A-associated lncRNAs. Moreover, we formulated a prognosis signature rooted in ten m6A-related lncRNAs, consisting of AL360181.1, PCAT6, SNHG26, AC016876.1, AC104667.2, AL114730.3, LINC02257, AC147067.1, AP006621.3 and AC009237.14. This signature exhibited notable predictive accuracy in gauging patient survival. Immune-related evaluations revealed varied immune cell infiltration patterns across different risk groups, with our findings suggesting superior immunotherapy response in low-risk patients. Biological enrichment analysis indicated that the high-risk patients had a higher activity of multiple carcinogenic pathways, including glycolysis. The previously unreported lncRNA, AL360181.1, displayed a connection to glycolytic activity and diminished survival rates, warranting further investigation. The result indicated that AL360181.1 was correlated with more aggressive clinical characteristics. Immune infiltration assessments found AL360181.1 to have a positive correlation with Tcm infiltration, but an inverse relationship with entities like Th2 cells, T cells, neutrophils and macrophages. Biological enrichment analysis indicated that the pathways of WNT/β-catenin, pancreas beta cells, hedgehog signaling and some metabolism pathways were upregulated in high AL360181.1 patients. In vitro experiments showed that AL360181.1 was upregulated in the colon cancer cells. Moreover, AL360181.1 significantly promotes the proliferation, invasion and migration of colon cancer cells. Our results can provide direction for future studies on m6A-related lncRNA in colon cancer.

Prognostic value and chemotherapy response prediction of a proliferation essential gene signature in colon cancer.

Colon cancer is a common malignant tumor in the digestive tract. Exploring new treatment targets is of great significance for improving the survival rate of colon cancer patients. The present study mainly analyzes the impact of proliferation essential genes (PLEGs) on the prognosis and chemotherapy response of colon cancer patients, as well as identifying the expression and cellular functions of important PLEG. The DepMap database was utilized for identification of PLEG in colon cancer cells. Through DEGs screening, WGCNA, univariate cox regression survival analysis, and LASSO, a PLEG signature (PLEGs) model was constructed. The impact of PLEGs on the prognosis of colon cancer patients and their response to chemotherapy was further analyzed. Finally, we conducted a random forest analysis and implemented functional experiments to investigate the prominent PLEG that is linked to the development of colon cancer. Based on the expression and prognosis of PLEG, we constructed a PLEGs prognosis model which can effectively predict the prognosis of colon cancer patients and their response to chemotherapy treatment. Random forest analysis showed that UBA1 is a key PLEG in the progression of colon cancer. Immunohistochemistry results revealed that UBA1 protein is significantly upregulated in colon cancer tissues. Cell functional experiments demonstrated that knocking down UBA1 can inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and migration abilities of colon cancer cells. PLEGs have the potential to serve as predictive biomarkers for prognosis and chemotherapy response in colon cancer patients. Among the PLEG, UBA1 plays a prominent role in promoting the malignant progression of colon cancer cells.

SARS-CoV-2 S and N protein peptides drive invasion abilities of colon cancer cells through TGF-β1 regulation

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the delay of colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis, which causes CRC to be treated at more advanced, often metastatic stages. Unfortunately, there is no effective treatment for metastatic CRC stages, which are considered the leading cause of patients' death. The mortality induced by SARS-CoV-2 is significantly higher in cancer patients than in patients with other diseases. Interestingly, COVID-19 patients often develop fibrosis which depends on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) – the process also involved in cancer progression. The study aimed to verify whether SARS-CoV-2 induces EMT and consequently increases the invasion potential of colon cancer cells.CRC cells were stimulated with SARS-CoV-2 S and N protein peptides and epithelial and mesenchymal markers were analysed with Western blotting to detect the occurrence of the EMT. The migration, invasion assays and MMP-7 secretion were employed to evaluate the potential of SARS-CoV-2 to stimulate the cells invasion in vitro. ELISA assay, TGF-β1 neutralizing antibodies, TGF-βR silencing and inhibitors were used to investigate the role of the TGF-β1 signalling pathways in the SARS-CoV-2-dependent CRC stimulation.The SARS-CoV-2 induced EMT, which increased the invasion ability of CRC cells. Moreover, the SARS-CoV-2 proteins drive colon cancer cell invasion through TGF-β1. Additionally, secreted TGF-β1 induced a bystander effect in colon cancer cells. However, blocking TGF-β1/Smad- and -non-Smad-dependent pathways suppressed the SARS-CoV-2-induced invasiveness of CRC. In conclusion, we revealed that SARS-CoV-2 stimulates the invasion abilities of CRC by regulating TGF-β1-induced EMT. Our results provide a theoretical basis for using anti-TGF-β1 therapy to reduce the risk of CRC metastasis during SARS-CoV-2 infection.

MiR-128-1-5p inhibits cell proliferation and induces cell apoptosis via targeting PRKCQ in colorectal cancer

ABSTRACT Previous studies have indicated that miR-128 was downregulated in a variety of cancers including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the role and the underlying molecular mechanisms of miR-128 in CRC still remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the level of miR-128-1-5p in CRC patients and to explore both the effects and regulatory mechanisms of miR-128-1-5p in the malignancy of CRC. Real-time PCR and western blot were used to analyze the expression levels of miR-128-1-5p and the direct downstream target protein tyrosine kinase C theta isoform (PRKCQ). Cell Counting Kit-8, clone formation, TUNEL apoptosis assays, and subcutaneous tumor model were performed to investigate the malignant ability of colon cancer cells. A luciferase assay was performed to explore whether miR-128-1-5p could directly bind to 3’-UTR region of PRKCQ. In the present study, we detected the decreased expression and clinical significances of miR-128-1-5p in colorectal cancer tissues and cell lines. Functional experiments revealed that miR-128-1-5p inhibited cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis and that PRKCQ was identified as a target of miR-128-1-5p and involved in miR-128-1-5p-mediated proliferation and apoptosis. In conclusion, our results showed that miR-128-1-5p reduced CRC growth by modulating PRKCQ expression and is a possible new therapeutic target for patients with CRC.

The effect of up-regulation of NLE1 gene expression on the invasion and migration of colon cancer cells and its mechanism

ObjectivesTo explore the regulatory effects of up-regulation of NLE1 gene expression in vitro and the mechanism of colon cancer cell invasion and migration. MethodsThe logarithmic growth phase human colonic fibroblasts CCD-18Co, colon cancer cells HT-29, and NLE1 interference group were transfected with NLE1 siRNA to interfere with expressing viral vectors and liposomes. The NLE1 negative control group was added with liposomes, and NLE1 was overexpressed. The expression changes of RNA interference on the target gene were analyzed. ResultsThe expression of NLE1 mRNA in colon cancer cells was significantly higher (P < 0.05). Likewise, the expression of NLE1 protein in colon cancer cells was significantly increased than in control colon cancer cell lines (p < 0.05). Compared with the NLE1 interference group and the NLE1 negative control group, the migration and invasion ability of colon cancer cells in the NLE1 overexpression group were significantly varied (P < 0.05)‘. ConclusionsUp-regulation of the NLE1 gene in colon cancer cells promotes cell migration and invasion of colon cancer cells and inhibits the apoptosis ability of colon cancer cells.

Ginsenoside Rh2 suppresses colon cancer growth by targeting the miR-150-3p/SRCIN1/Wnt axis

Ginsenoside Rh2, which is extracted from ginseng, exerts antitumor activity. Recent studies suggest that Rh2 may suppress the growth of colon cancer (CC) in vitro. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we identified the relative levels of miR-150-3p in CC tissues and cells by a comprehensive strategy of data mining, computational biology, and real-time reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) experiments. The regulatory effects of miR-150-3p/SRCIN1 on the proliferative and invasive abilities of CC cells are evaluated by CCK-8, EdU, wound healing, and transwell assays. Cell cycle- and apoptosis-related protein levels are assessed by western blot analysis. An in vivo tumor formation assay was conducted to explore the effects of miR-150-3p on tumor growth. Furthermore, bioinformatics and dual luciferase reporter assays are applied to determine the functional binding of miRNA to mRNA of the target gene. Finally, the relationship between Rh2 and miR-150-3p was further verified in SW620 and HCT-116 cells. miR-150-3p is downregulated in CC tissues and cell lines. Functional assays indicate that the upregulation of miR-150-3p inhibits tumor growth both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, SRCIN1 is upregulated in CC and predicts a poor prognosis, and it is the direct target for miR-150-3p. Moreover, the miR-150-3p mimic decreases Topflash/Fopflash-dependent luciferase activity, resulting in the inhibition of Wnt pathway activity. Rh2 can suppress the growth of CC by increasing miR-150-3p expression. Rh2 alleviates the accelerating effect on Wnt pathway activity, cell proliferation/migration, and colony formation caused by miR-150-3p inhibition. Rh2 inhibits the miR-150-3p/SRCIN1/Wnt axis to suppress colon cancer growth.

Bacterial infection promotes tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer via regulating CDC42 acetylation.

Increasing evidence highlights the role of bacteria in promoting tumorigenesis. The underlying mechanisms may be diverse and remain poorly understood. Here, we report that Salmonella infection leads to extensive de/acetylation changes in host cell proteins. The acetylation of mammalian cell division cycle 42 (CDC42), a member of the Rho family of GTPases involved in many crucial signaling pathways in cancer cells, is drastically reduced after bacterial infection. CDC42 is deacetylated by SIRT2 and acetylated by p300/CBP. Non-acetylated CDC42 at lysine 153 shows an impaired binding of its downstream effector PAK4 and an attenuated phosphorylation of p38 and JNK, consequently reduces cell apoptosis. The reduction in K153 acetylation also enhances the migration and invasion ability of colon cancer cells. The low level of K153 acetylation in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) predicts a poor prognosis. Taken together, our findings suggest a new mechanism of bacterial infection-induced promotion of colorectal tumorigenesis by modulation of the CDC42-PAK axis through manipulation of CDC42 acetylation.

Effect of Kaempferol on the Biological Behavior of Human Colon Cancer via Regulating MMP1, MMP2, and MMP9

Kaempferol is a kind of flavonoid, which has a significant anticancer effect. MMPs were discovered with the function of cleaving the extracellular matrix. We utilized bioinformatics to analyze the association and bonding mode between the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) monomer composition (i.e., kaempferol) and the target proteins. The purpose of our research was to verify the effect of kaempferol on the biological behavior of human colon cancer cells HCT116 and HT29 and the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 1, 2, and 9 genes. We detected the changes in the biological behavior of colon cancer cells treated with kaempferol by CCK-8, wound healing assay, transwell migration/invasion assay, and flow cytometry. Meanwhile， we detected the expression difference of the target gene by qRT-PCR and western blot. Compared with the two control groups, the cell viability of the kaempferol group decreased, the rate of cell migration and the number of transmembrane cells in the kaempferol group decreased significantly, and the early apoptosis rate increased, the number of cells in the G1 phase increased and in the S phase decreased. The results of qRT-PCR and western blot showed that the expression of target genes MMP1, 2, and 9 in the kaempferol group was lower than that in the two control groups. Kaempferol can significantly inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and migration ability of colon cancer cells; induce their apoptosis; and block the cell cycle. Meanwhile, the expression of MMP1, 2, and 9 genes was downregulated, which verified the results of bioinformatic analysis.

Long noncoding RNA TNFRSF10A-AS1 promotes colorectal cancer through upregulation of HuR.

BACKGROUNDRecent studies have emphasized the emerging importance of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the functions and regulatory mechanisms of numerous lncRNAs in CRC have not been fully elucidated.AIMTo explore the functional role and underlying molecular mechanisms of lncRNA TNFRSF10A-AS1 in CRC.METHODSTNFRSF10A-AS1 expression was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in CRC, and the relationship between TNFRSF10A-AS1 levels and the clinicopathological features of CRC patients was analyzed. The effect of TNFRSF10A-AS1 expression on CRC proliferation and metastasis was examined in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we investigated how TNFRSF10A-AS1 is involved in CRC as a competitive endogenous RNA.RESULTSTNFRSF10A-AS1 was expressed at a high level in CRC and the upregulation of TNFRSF10A-AS1 was associated with advanced T grade and tumor size in CRC patients. A functional investigation revealed that TNFRSF10A-AS1 enhanced the proliferation, migration ability and invasion ability of colon cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. A mechanistic analysis demonstrated that TNFRSF10A-AS1 acted as a miR-3121-3p molecular sponge to regulate HuR expression, ultimately promoting colorectal tumorigenesis and progression.CONCLUSIONTNFRSF10A-AS1 exerts a tumor-promoting function through the miR-3121-3p/HuR axis in CRC, indicating that it may be a novel target for CRC therapy.

Inhibitory Effects and Mechanism of the Natural Compound Diaporthein B Extracted from Marine-Derived Fungi on Colon Cancer Cells.

This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects and mechanism of diaporthein B (DTB), a natural compound extracted from the fungus Penicillium sclerotiorum GZU-XW03-2, on human colon cancer cells. The inhibitory effect of DTB at different concentrations on the proliferation of colon cancer cells HCT116 and LOVO was detected at 24 and 48 h. The effect of cell migration and clone formation ability were detected by cell scratch and plate cloning experiments. Morphological changes were observed by Hoechst 33342 and Annexin-V/PI staining, and flow cytometry was used to detect the proportion of apoptotic cells. DTB significantly inhibited colon cancer cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner without significant effects on normal colonic epithelial cells NCM460. The IC50 inhibition effect can be achieved after treatment with 3 μmol/L DTB for 24 h. Compared with the blank group, the migration and clonal-forming ability of colon cancer cells in the DTB group was significantly decreased (p < 0.01), while the apoptotic cells were significantly increased (p < 0.01) in a concentration-dependent manner. DTB can inhibit the proliferation and migration of human colon cancer cells HCT116 and LOVO and promote the apoptosis of human colon cancer cells.

Polyphyllin VII is a Potential Drug Targeting CD44 Positive Colon Cancer Cells.

Current therapies for colon cancer are hindered by treatment failure and recurrence, mainly due to colon cancer stem cells (CSCs). Thus, treatment using drugs targeting CSCs should be effective in eliminating colon cancer cells and impeding cancer recurrence. This study aimed to test if PPVII can be a potent drug candidate for the treatment of colon cancer by targeting CD44 positive colon cancer cells. In this study, we first demonstrated that CD44 is highly expressed in colon cancer tissues by TCGA/GTEX database analysis and immunohistochemical staining. In this study, we first demonstrated that CD44 is highly expressed in colon cancer tissues by TCGA/GTEX database analysis. CD44 had high accuracy as a diagnostic and predictive index for colorectal cancer through receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis. At the same time, survival curve analysis also showed that the high expression of CD44 was associated with poor prognosis in patients with colon cancer. CD44's higher expression in colon cancer tissues was further confirmed by immunohistochemical staining; the positive rate of CD44 expression was 87.95%. Then, one of the constituents that derives from the root of Paris polyphylla, Polyphyllin VII (PPVII), has been confirmed to inhibit the migration of colon cancer cells. Our results also demonstrated that PPVII could inhibit the sphere-forming ability of colon cancer cells. Further experiment results showed that PPVII could downregulate the expression of CD44 in colon cancer cells. In addition, PPVII was proved to have inhibitory effects against CD44 positive colon cancer cells. Therefore, PPVII might be a potent candidate reagent for the treatment of colon cancer by targeting CD44 positive colon cancer cells.

Golgi Phosphoprotein 3 Promotes Colon Cancer Cell Metastasis Through STAT3 and Integrin α3 Pathways.

Background: Golgi phosphoprotein 3 (GOLPH3) overexpression was recently reported to be associated with a poor clinical outcome in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the underlying molecular mechanism through which GOLPH3 promotes CRC metastasis remains poorly understood. Methods: In vitro genetic ablation of GOLPH3 was performed using siRNA transfection, and a stably overexpressed GOLPH3 colon cancer cell line was constructed using the lentivirus system. Cell invasion and migration assays were conducted with or without Matrigel. Immunoblotting, qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry were utilized to study the expression level of GOLPH3, ZEB1, integrin α3 and phosphorylation level of STAT3, AKT/mTOR and Raf/MEK/ERK pathways. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to investigate the interaction between GOLPH3 and p-STAT3 (Tyr705) or total STAT3. Results: Overexpression of GOLPH3 was found in CRC tissues and colon cancer cell lines. Knockdown of GOLPH3 using siRNAs significantly suppressed the invasion and migration of HCT116 and HCT8 cells. In contrast, the overexpression of GOLPH3 promoted the migratory and invasive ability of colon cancer cells. The phosphorylation level of STAT3 as well as the protein and mRNA levels of ZEB1 and integrin α3, were significantly decreased after GOLPH3 knockdown. Moreover, Integrin α3 expression was correlated with GOLPH3 expression in CRC tissues. Co-immunoprecipitation assay revealed that GOLPH3 interacted with pSTAT3 (Tyr705) and total STAT3. Our further experiments suggested that GOLPH3 facilitated IL-6 induced STAT3 activation and subsequently induced transcription of integrin α3 and ZEB1, which promoted the metastasis and progression of CRC. Conclusion: Our current work demonstrates that GOLPH3 facilitates STAT3 activation and regulates the expression of EMT transcription factor ZEB1 and Integrin α3 in colon cancer cells. These findings indicate that GOLPH3 plays a critical role in CRC metastasis and might be a new therapeutic target for CRC treatment.

Niclosamide induces miR-148a to inhibit PXR and sensitize colon cancer stem cells to chemotherapy.

SummaryTumor recurrence is often attributed to cancer stem cells (CSCs). We previously demonstrated that down-regulation of Pregnane X Receptor (PXR) decreases the chemoresistance of CSCs and prevents colorectal cancer recurrence. Currently, no PXR inhibitor is usable in clinic. Here, we identify miR-148a as a targetable element upstream of PXR signaling in CSCs, which when over-expressed decreases PXR expression and impairs tumor relapse after chemotherapy in mouse tumor xenografts. We then develop a fluorescent reporter screen for miR-148a activators and identify the anti-helminthic drug niclosamide as an inducer of miR-148a expression. Consequently, niclosamide decreased PXR expression and CSC numbers in colorectal cancer patient-derived cell lines and synergized with chemotherapeutic agents to prevent CSC chemoresistance and tumor recurrence in vivo. Our study suggests that endogenous miRNA inducers is a viable strategy to down-regulate PXR and illuminates niclosamide as a neoadjuvant repurposing strategy to prevent tumor relapse in colon cancer.