AKR1C3 Gene Research Articles

Identification of common genes and pathways underlying imatinib and nilotinib treatment in CML: a Bioinformatics Study

Imatinib (IMA) and nilotinib are the first and second generations of BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which widely applied in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) treatment. Here we aimed to provide new targets for CML treatment by transcriptome analysis. Microarray data GSE19567 was downloaded and analyzed from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) to identify common genes, which are downregulated or upregulated in K562-imatinib and K562-nilotinib treated cells. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were assessed, and STRING and Cytoscape were used to create the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network. In imatinib and nilotinib treated groups’ comparison, there were common 626 upregulated and 268 downregulated genes, which were differentially expressed. The GO analysis represented the enrichment of DEGs in iron ion binding, protein tyrosine kinase activity, transcription factor activity, ATP binding, sequence-specific DNA binding, cytokine activity, the mitochondrion, sequence-specific DNA binding, plasma membrane and cell-cell adherens junction. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that downregulated DEGs were associated with pathways including microRNAs in cancer and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Furthermore, upregulated DEGs were involved in hematopoietic cell lineage, lysosome and chemical carcinogenesis. Among the upregulated genes, MYH9, MYH14, MYL10, MYL7, MYL5, RXRA, CYP1A1, FECH, AKR1C3, ALAD, CAT, CITED2, CPT1A, CYP3A5, CYP3A7, FABP1, HBD, HMBS and PPOX genes were found as hub genes. Moreover, 20 downregulated genes, YARS, AARS, SARS, GARS, CARS, IARS, RRP79, CEBPB, RRP12, UTP14A, PNO1, CCND1, DDX10, MYC, WDR43, CEBPG, DDIT3, VEGFA, PIM1 and TRIB3 were identified as hub genes. These genes have the potential to become target genes for diagnosis and therapy of CML patients.

Novel inhibition of AKR1C3 and androgen receptor axis by PTUPB synergizes enzalutamide treatment in advanced prostate cancer.

Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is the main driving force of mortality in prostate cancer patients. Among the parameters contributing to the progression of CRPC and treatment failure, elevation of the steroidogenic enzyme AKR1C3 and androgen receptor variant 7 (AR-V7) are frequently reported. The AKR1C3/AR-V7 complex has been recognized as a major driver for drug resistance in advanced prostate cancer. Herein we report that the level of AKR1C3 is reciprocally regulated by the full-length androgen receptor (AR-FL) through binding to the distal enhancer region of the AKR1C3 gene. A novel function of PTUPB in AKR1C3 inhibition was discovered and PTUPB showed more effectiveness than indomethacin and celecoxib in suppressing AKR1C3 activity and CRPC cell growth. PTUPB synergizes with enzalutamide treatment in tumor suppression and gene signature regulation. Combination treatments with PTUPB and enzalutamide provide benefits by blocking AR/AR-V7 signaling, which inhibits the growth of castration relapsed VCaP xenograft tumors and patient-derived xenograft organoids. Targeting of the ARK1C3/AR/AR-V7 axis with PTUPB and enzalutamide may overcome drug resistance to AR signaling inhibitors in advanced prostate cancer.

The role of AKR1 family in tamoxifen resistant invasive lobular breast cancer based on data mining

BackgroundTamoxifen (TAM) resistance to invasive lobular cell carcinoma is a challenge for breast cancer treatment. This study explored the role of Aldo-keto reductase family 1 (AKR1) family in tamoxifen-resistant aggressive lobular breast cancer based on data mining.MethodsTAM-resistant invasive lobular breast cancer gene chip was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database (accession-numbered as GSE96670). The online analytical tool GEO2R was used to screen for differentially expressed genes in TAM-resistant invasive lobular breast cancer cells and TAM-sensitive counterparts. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed using the STRING online platform and the Cytoscape software. GeneMANIA and GSCALite online tools were used to reveal the potential role of these hub genes in breast cancer progression and TAM resistance development. And the used the GSE67916 microarray data set to verify the differentially expression of these hub genes in breast cancer. The protein expression levels of AKR1C1, AKR1C2 and AKR1C3 in TAM-sensitive and resistant breast cancer cells were compared. The TAM sensitivity of breast cancer cells with or without AKR1C1, AKR1C2 or AKR1C3 gene manipulation was evaluated by cell viability assay.ResultsA total of 184 differentially expressed genes were screened. Compared with TAM sensitive breast cancer cells, 162 were up-regulated and 22 were down-regulated. The study identified several hub genes in the PPI network that may be involved in the development of TAM resistance of breast cancer, including signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1), fibronectin1 (FN1), cytochrome P4501B1 (CYP1B1), AKR1C1, AKR1C2, AKR1C3 and uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A family genes (UGT1A1, UGT1A3, UGT1A4, UGT1A6, UGT1A7, UGT1A8, UGT1A9, UGT1A10). Compared with TAM-sensitive counterparts, the expression levels of AKR1C1, AKR1C2, and AKR1C3 were up-regulated in TAM-resistant breast cancer cells.ConclusionsOverexpression of each of these three genes significantly increased the resistance of breast cancer cells to TAM treatment, while their knockdown showed opposite effects, indicating that they are potential therapeutic target for the treatment of TAM-resistant breast cancer.

Genetic factors in treatment-related cardiovascular complications in survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Aim: Cardiovascular disease represents one of the main causes of secondary morbidity and mortality in patients with childhood cancer. Patients & methods: To further address this issue, we analyzed cardiovascular complications in relation to common and rare genetic variants derived through whole-exome sequencing from childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivors (PETALE cohort). Results: Significant associations were detected among common variants in the TTN gene, left ventricular ejection fraction (p≤0.0005), and fractional shortening (p≤0.001). Rare variants enrichment in the NOS1, ABCG2 and NOD2 was observed in relation to left ventricular ejection fraction, and in NOD2 and ZNF267 genes in relation to fractional shortening. Following stratification according to risk groups, the modulatory effect of rare variants was additionally found in the CBR1, ABCC5 and AKR1C3 genes. None of the associations was replicated in St-Jude Lifetime Cohort Study. Conclusion: Further studies are needed to confirm whether the described genetic markers may be useful in identifying patients at increased risk of these complications.

In silico prediction of deleterious single nucleotide polymorphism in human AKR1C3 gene and identification of potent inhibitors using molecular docking approach

Various computational methods are employed to analyze the various non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) in the AKR1C3 gene, that is shown with the protein based approaches along with suitable inhibitors. The Aldo-keto reductase family consists of a number of enzymes which are essential to the catalysis of redox transformation and which are also involved in intermediate metabolism and detoxification. Several studies have been reported that the catalytic-dependent function of AKR1C family members isoforms and their essential roles in various cancer types including prostate cancer and play a key role in drug resistance and drug detoxification. The aim of the current study was to predict and analyze the deleterious single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) that is highly associated with prostate cancer. In addition, to find the potent bioactive compounds as effective inhibitors against prostate cancer. Various computational methods are employed to analyze the various non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) in the AKR1C3 gene. A total of 18,594 SNPs data set of deleterious and non-coding synonymous were retrieved from the dbSNP database followed by various computational SNP prediction tools were performed to find the most deleterious nsSNP. A total of eight high-risk nsSNPs were predicted and most of the residue is present in the structural and functional conserved domain, hence, both wild type and mutant forms of AKR1C3 were selected for structural analysis. Besides, molecular docking, ADME, and Prime MM/GBSA calculations were also performed with plant derived bioactive compounds with AKR1C3 receptors. The results of the study depicted that the rs62621365 and its possible mutation A258C was considered as the most deleterious nsSNP and plant compounds such as Ginkgetin and Withaferin A shows best binding affinity with both wild type and mutant from of AKR1C3. The overall results depicted that nsSNPs may be considered for risk assessment against prostate cancer and for cure, the suggested plant derived bioactive compounds may act as potent inhibitors.

Molecular genetic analysis of AKR1C2-4 and HSD17B6 genes in subjects 46,XY with hypospadias

The formation of the male urethra depends to enzyme-mediated testosterone (T) conversion into 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Two metabolic pathways could be operating in the fetal testis to synthesize androgens: 1) the "classic" route (T→DHT) mediated by SRD5A2 and 2) a "backdoor" pathway in which DHT is synthesized by aldo-keto reductase family 1, member C2 (AKR1C2), AKR1C3, and AKR1C4 enzymes without formation of a T intermediate. We studied four genes of the "backdoor" pathway in karyotypic males with hypospadias to ascertain whether gene defects in AKRs impair urethral DHT formation that result in hypospadias. The coding regions of the AKR1C2-4 and HSD17B6 genes were analyzed by PCR-SSCP and sequencing in a cohort of 25 Mexican patients (0.3-9 year-old-children) with 46,XY-hypospadias. Chi-squared tests was performed to evaluate the distribution of genotypes, alleles, and the Hardy-Weinberg (H-W) equilibrium. The effect of the genetic variants was investigated by in silico studies. Screening studies revealed distinct genotypic patterns at different exons of AKR1C2-4 whereas HSD17B6 presented a wild-type sequence. The DNA analyses detected two synonymous variants (c.327C>T, c.666T>C/unreported) in AKR1C2. The AKR1C3 had two variants (c.15C>G, c.230A>G), two unreported variants (c.538T>C, c.596G>A), and one silent variant (c.312G>A). Two variants (c.434C>G, c.931C>G) were identified in AKR1C4. All variants were in H-W equilibrium without structural changes. Hypospadias have been associated with defects that alter androgen biosynthesis in the human fetal testis, specifically 5α-DHT. We selected four candidate genes involved in the "backdoor" pathway for the formation of 5α-DHT. Molecular assays of the AKR1C2, AKR1C3, and AKR1C4 genes revealed a total of nine genetic single nucleotide variants. Several variants in the AKR1C genes have been associated with a variety of human pathologies. However, our studies suggest that active steroid biosynthesis via AKR1C might not be involved in hypospadias. Additionally, genetic research suggests a low involvement in the "backdoor" 5α-DHT pathway during human sexual development, specifically, the differentiation of male external genitalia. These results indicate that substitutions in AKR1C2-4 are polymorphisms and all genetic variants lacks deleterious significant association with hypospadias. The data suggest that inactivating mutations in the AKR1C2-4 and HSD17B6 genes are an infrequent cause of hypospadias, which might weaken the contribution of the "backdoor" pathway to embryonic urethral masculinization.

MP64-12 AKR1C3, AS A NOVEL TARGET OF DAB2IP SIGNALING, MAINTAINS THE PROTEIN STABILITY OF ANDROGEN RECEPTOR SPLICING VARIANT IN PROSTATE CANCER

You have accessJournal of UrologyProstate Cancer: Basic Research & Pathophysiology II1 Apr 2018MP64-12 AKR1C3, AS A NOVEL TARGET OF DAB2IP SIGNALING, MAINTAINS THE PROTEIN STABILITY OF ANDROGEN RECEPTOR SPLICING VARIANT IN PROSTATE CANCER Bin Wang, Dalin He, Jer-Tsong Hsieh, and Kaijie Wu Bin WangBin Wang More articles by this author , Dalin HeDalin He More articles by this author , Jer-Tsong HsiehJer-Tsong Hsieh More articles by this author , and Kaijie WuKaijie Wu More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2018.02.2057AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Patients will inevitably relapse with castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) after the failure of androgen deprivation therapy, and our previous studies have shown that the deficiency of DAB2IP, a well-known tumor suppressor, may be involved. Its loss will not only lead to the hyperactivation of androgen receptor (AR), but also increase AKR1C3 expression and de novo androgen synthesis. In this study, we will further unveil the mechanism of ARK1C3 gene expression regulated by DAB2IP, and explore its potential role in regulation of androgen receptor splicing variant (i.e., ARv7) expression in prostate cancer (PCa) cells. METHODS AKR1C3 gene regulation by DAB2IP was determined in different PCa cells (C4-2, LAPC-4 and 22RV1) with lentivirus transduction, gene expression and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Then a series of biochemical, molecular and cell biologic methods were employed to characterize the impacts of AKR1C3 on ARv7 in PCa cells. Also, xenograft animal model and clinical specimens were used to validate in vitro results. RESULTS The expression of AKR1C3 gene was suppressed on the transcriptional level by DAB2IP through the inhibition of AKT/mTOR/ETS-1 signaling. Functionally, AKR1C3 overexpression will increase the expression of ARv7 protein by forming a complex with ARv7 and then enhancing ARV7 protein stability through ubiquitin pathway, which could subsequently maintain the constitutive AR activation and PCa cell growth in the absence of androgen. Moreover, there was a significantly positive correlation between AKR1C3 and ARv7 expression in tissues from xenografts and human RCC specimens. CONCLUSIONS Besides the role as a critical steroidogenic enzyme in androgen synthesis, AKR1C3 upregulation triggered by upsteam signaling could also contribute to the aberrant ARv7 overexpression and CRPC development. © 2018FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 199Issue 4SApril 2018Page: e855 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2018MetricsAuthor Information Bin Wang More articles by this author Dalin He More articles by this author Jer-Tsong Hsieh More articles by this author Kaijie Wu More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Contributors to the substantial variation in on-treatment testosterone levels in men receiving transdermal testosterone gels in randomized trials.

There is substantial inter-individual variability in serum testosterone levels in hypogonadal men treated with testosterone gels. We aimed to elucidate participant-level factors that contribute to inter-individual variability in testosterone levels during testosterone therapy. An exploratory aim was to determine whether polymorphisms in genes encoding testosterone-metabolizing enzymes could explain the variation in on-treatment testosterone concentrations in men who were randomized to testosterone arm in TOM Trial. We used data from three randomized trials that used 1% transdermal testosterone gels and had testosterone levels measured 2-4weeks after randomization for dose adjustment: Testosterone in Older Men with Mobility Limitation (TOM), Effects of Testosterone on Pain Perception (TAP), and Effects of Testosterone on Atherosclerosis Progression (TEAAM). Forty-seven percent, 38%, and 9% of participants in TAP, TEAAM, and TOM trials, respectively, failed to raise testosterone levels >400ng/dL; 6, 8, and 30% of participants had on-treatment testosterone levels >1000ng/dL. Even after dose adjustment, there was substantial variation in on-treatment levels at subsequent study visits. Baseline characteristics (age, height, weight, baseline testosterone, SHBG, hematocrit, and creatinine) accounted for only a small fraction of the variance (<8%). Polymorphisms in SHBG and AKR1C3 genes were suggestively associated with on-treatment testosterone levels. To conclude, baseline participant characteristics account for only a small fraction of the variance in on-treatment testosterone levels investigated. Multiple dose titrations are needed to maintain on-treatment testosterone levels in the target range. The role of SHBG and AKR3C1 polymorphisms as contributors to variations in on-treatment testosterone levels should be investigated.

Transcript level of AKR1C3 is down-regulated in gastric cancer.

Steroid hormones have been shown to play a role in gastric carcinogenesis. Large amounts of steroid hormones are locally produced in the peripheral tissues of both genders. Type 5 of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, encoded by the AKR1C3 gene, plays a pivotal role in both androgen and estrogen metabolism, and its expression was found to be deregulated in different cancers. In this study we measured AKR1C3 transcript and protein levels in nontumoral and primary tumoral gastric tissues, and evaluated their association with some clinicopathological features of gastric cancer (GC). We found decreased levels of AKR1C3 transcript (p < 0.0001) and protein (p = 0.0021) in GC tissues compared with the adjacent, apparently histopathologically normal, mucosa. Lower levels of AKR1C3 transcript were observed in diffuse and intestinal types of GC, whereas AKR1C3 protein levels were decreased in tumors with multisite localization, in diffuse histological type, T3, T4, and G3 grades. We also determined the effect of the histone deacetylase inhibitor sodium butyrate (NaBu) on AKR1C3 expression in EPG 85-257 and HGC-27 GC cell lines. We found that NaBu elevates the levels of both AKR1C3 transcript and protein in the cell lines we investigated. Together, our results suggest that decreased expression of AKR1C3 may be involved in development of GC and can be restored by NaBu.

ERG/AKR1C3/AR Constitutes a Feed-Forward Loop for AR Signaling in Prostate Cancer Cells.

Intratumoral androgen synthesis in prostate cancer contributes to the development of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Several enzymes responsible for androgen biosynthesis have been shown to be overexpressed in CRPC, thus contributing to CRPC in a castrated environment. The TMPRSS2-ERG transcription factor has been shown to be present in primary prostate cancer tumors as well as CRPC tumors. We hypothesize that TMPRSS2-ERG fusions regulate androgen biosynthetic enzyme (ABE) gene expression and the production of androgens, which contributes to the development of CRPC. We used a panel of assays, including lentivirus transduction, gene expression, chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometric quantitation, immunocytochemistry, immunohistochemistry, and bioinformatics analysis of gene microarray databases, to determine ERG regulation of androgen synthesis. We found that ERG regulated the expression of the ABE AKR1C3 in prostate cancer cells via direct binding to the AKR1C3 gene. Knockdown of ERG resulted in reduced AKR1C3 expression, which caused a reduction in both DHT synthesis and PSA expression in VCaP prostate cancer cells treated with 5α-androstanedione (5α-Adione), a DHT precursor metabolite. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that ERG was coexpressed with AKR1C3 in prostate cancer tissue samples. These data suggest that AKR1C3 catalyzes the biochemical reduction of 5α-Adione to DHT in prostate cancer cells, and that ERG regulates this step through upregulation of AKR1C3 expression. Elucidation of ERG regulation of ABEs in CRPC may help to stratify TMPRSS2-ERG fusion-positive prostate cancer patients in the clinic for anti-androgen receptor-driven therapies; and AKR1C3 may serve as a valuable therapeutic target in the treatment of CRPC.

Expression of AKR1B1, AKR1C3 and other genes of prostaglandin F2α biosynthesis and action in ovarian endometriosis tissue and in model cell lines

Endometriosis is a frequent benign gynecological disease characterized by endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. The estimated prevalence in the general population is 6-10%, but this reaches 30-50% in women with infertility and/or pain. As ectopic tissue within the pelvic cavity provokes inflammation, endometriosis is also considered a chronic inflammatory disease, and is characterized by increased peritoneal fluid levels of prostaglandin (PG)E2 and PGF2α. The AKR1B1 and AKR1C3 enzymes act as PG synthases and catalyze reduction of PGH2 to PGF2α, and PGD2 to 9α,11β-PGF2α, respectively. AKR1B1 and AKR1C3 may thus be associated with increased PGF2α production in endometriosis patients, as supported by our previous report of increased AKR1C1-AKR1C3 mRNA levels in endometriotic tissue, compared to control endometrium. Here, we initially evaluated PGF2α concentrations in peritoneal fluid from endometriosis patients and healthy women. We also examined expression of AKR1B1, AKR1C3 and other genes involved in PGF2α biosynthesis, metabolism, and action in ovarian endometriosis tissue versus healthy endometrium, and in peritoneal endometriosis and control endometrium model cell lines. Compared to controls, increased PGF2α concentrations in peritoneal fluid of patients were supported by endometriotic tissue showing increased AKR1B1 mRNA and protein levels, but unchanged AKR1C3 protein levels. Among genes involved in PGF2α biosynthesis, metabolism and action PLA2G2A, PTGS2/COX-2, ABCC4 and PTGFR were up-regulated, mRNA levels of SLCO2A, PTGDS and HPGDS were unchanged, and genes PLA2G4A and HPGD were down-regulated in diseased tissue. All of these PGF2α-associated genes were also expressed in control endometrial HIEEC epithelial and HIESC stromal cell lines, and in peritoneal endometriosis 12-Z epithelial and 22-B stromal cell lines. Higher expression of PLA2G2A, PTGS2, AKR1B1, AKR1C3 and ABCC4 was seen in 22-B endometriosis cells compared to HIESC control cells. These cell models characterized in this study will enable further investigations into the role of PGF2α in the pathophysiology of endometriosis and the involvement of AKR1B1 and AKR1C3.

Abstract 456: ERG regulation of intracrine androgen production and castration-resistant prostate cancer progression

Abstract Introduction and Objective: Intratumoral androgen synthesis in prostate cancer (PC) contributes to the development of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Several enzymes responsible for androgen biosynthesis have been shown to be overexpressed in CRPC, thus, contributing to CRPC in a castrated environment. However, little is known regarding their mode of regulation and expression in this context. The TMPRSS2-ERG transcription factor has been shown to be present in primary PC tumors as well as CRPC tumors; however, its biological function contributing to the development CRPC in the context of intratumoral androgen synthesis is not known. We hypothesize that TMPRSS2-ERG fusions regulate androgen biosynthetic enzyme (ABE) gene expression and the production of androgens, which contributes to the development of CRPC. Methods: We used a variety of methods including lentiviral knockdown and overexpression of ERG, qPCR, Western blot, ChIP-PCR, and Mass Spectrometry. Results: We found that (a) shRNA knockdown of ERG in VCaP PC cells significantly reduces the expression of ABE's AKR1C3, HSD17B6, and HSD17B4; (b) overexpression of truncated ERG or wild-type ERG in LNCaP PC cells significantly increases the expression of AKR1C3 and HSD17B6; (c) ERG binds to the AKR1C3 gene in VCaP PC cells; and (d) DHT synthesis is reduced in VCaP shERG cells treated with 5α-Androstanedione, a DHT precursor metabolite, compared to VCaP shScrambled controls. Conclusions: These data suggest that AKR1C3 catalyzes the biochemical reduction of 5α-Androstanedione to DHT in PC cells, and that ERG may regulate this step through upregulation of AKR1C3 expression. Elucidation of ERG regulation of ABEs in CRPC may help to stratify TMPRSS2-ERG fusion-positive PC patients in the clinic for anti-hormone driven therapies. Additionally, not all PC tumors express CYP17A1 enzyme, therefore this study emphasizes the importance of investigating ABEs other than CYP17A1, such as AKR1C3 and HSD17B6. In summary, this study addresses alternative ABE drug targets as well as possible drug resistance modes in PC treatment. Citation Format: Katelyn A. Powell, Louie Semaan, Krishna R. Maddipati, Katie (Mary) Conley-Lacomb, Yanfeng Li, Michael Cher, Sreenivasa R. Chinni. ERG regulation of intracrine androgen production and castration-resistant prostate cancer progression. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 456. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-456

Fine mapping analysis confirms and strengthens linkage of four chromosomal regions in familial hypospadias.

Hypospadias is a common male genital malformation and is regarded as a complex disease affected by multiple genetic as well as environmental factors. In a previous genome-wide scan for familial hypospadias, we reported suggestive linkage in nine chromosomal regions. We have extended this analysis by including new families and additional markers using non-parametric linkage. The fine mapping analysis displayed an increased LOD score on chromosome 8q24.1 and 10p15 in altogether 82 families. On chromosome 10p15, with the highest LOD score, we further studied AKR1C2, AKR1C3 and AKR1C4 involved in steroid metabolism, as well as KLF6 expressed in preputial tissue from hypospadias patients. Mutation analysis of the AKR1C3 gene showed a new mutation, c.643G>A (p.(Ala215Thr)), in a boy with penile hypospadias. This mutation is predicted to have an impact on protein function and structure and was not found in controls. Altogether, we homed in on four chromosomal regions likely to harbor genes for hypospadias. Future studies will aim for studying regulatory sequence variants in these regions.

Aldo-keto reductase 1C3 may be a new radioresistance marker in non-small-cell lung cancer

Human aldo-keto reductase 1C3, type 2 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD)/type 5 17β-HSD (AKR1C3) is known to be involved in steroid, prostaglandin and lipid aldehyde metabolism. The role of AKR1C3 in the radiosensitivity to X-rays of human non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells was explored. In this study, a specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) to target the AKR1C3 gene was used. A suite of readouts including cell survival were determined using a colony formation assay; apoptosis evaluated by Annexin V expression levels, irradiation-induced cytotoxicity established using a MTT cell viability assay and cell cycle distribution measured by flow cytometry were used in characterizing the role of the AKR1C3 gene. Although AKR1C3 was significantly overexpressed in both our radioresistant subclone cells and NSCLC tissues, a specific AKR1C3 siRNA significantly enhanced cell radiosensitivity and was concomitant with decreased expression of this gene. Furthermore, reduced interleukin-6 (IL-6)-mediated radioresistance was observed when siRNA was used to knock down AKR1C3 activity. This AKR1C3-mediated radioresistance was correlated with an arrest in the G2/M cell cycle and a decreased induction of apoptosis. AKR1C3 may present a potential therapeutic target in addressing radioresistance of NSCLC, and in particular in IL-6-mediated radioresistance.

Integration of HPV6 and Downregulation of AKR1C3 Expression Mark Malignant Transformation in a Patient with Juvenile-Onset Laryngeal Papillomatosis

Juvenile-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is associated with low risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11. Malignant transformation has been reported solely for HPV11-associated RRP in 2–4% of all RRP-cases, but not for HPV6. The molecular mechanisms in the carcinogenesis of low risk HPV-associated cancers are to date unknown. We report of a female patient, who presented with a laryngeal carcinoma at the age of 24 years. She had a history of juvenile-onset RRP with an onset at the age of three and subsequently several hundred surgical interventions due to multiple recurrences of RRP. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or bead-based hybridization followed by direct sequencing identified HPV6 in tissue sections of previous papilloma and the carcinoma. P16INK4A, p53 and pRb immunostainings were negative in all lesions. HPV6 specific fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) revealed nuclear staining suggesting episomal virus in the papilloma and a single integration site in the carcinoma. Integration-specific amplification of papillomavirus oncogene transcripts PCR (APOT-PCR) showed integration in the aldo-keto reductase 1C3 gene (AKR1C3) on chromosome 10p15.1. ArrayCGH detected loss of the other gene copy as part of a deletion at 10p14-p15.2. Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry of the protein AKR1C3 showed a marked reduction of its expression in the carcinoma. In conclusion, we identified a novel molecular mechanism underlying a first case of HPV6-associated laryngeal carcinoma in juvenile-onset RRP, i.e. that HPV6 integration in the AKR1C3 gene resulted in loss of its expression. Alterations of AKR1C gene expression have previously been implicated in the tumorigenesis of other (HPV-related) malignancies.

Genetic Polymorphisms in Oxidative Stress Pathway Genes and Modification of BMI and Risk of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Being overweight and obese increases oxidative stress in the body. To test the hypothesis that genetic variations in oxidative stress pathway genes modify the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), we conducted a population-based case-control study in Connecticut women. Individuals who were overweight/obese (BMI ≥ 25) were compared with normal and underweight individuals (BMI < 25), and their risk of NHL stratified assuming a dominant allele model for each oxidative stress pathway single-nucleotide polymorphism. Polymorphisms in AKR1A1, AKR1C1, AKR1C3, CYBA, GPX1, MPO, NCF2, NCF4, NOS1, NOS2A NOS3, OGG1, ATG9B, SOD1, SOD2, SOD3, RAC1, and RAC2 genes after false discovery rate adjustment did not modify the association between BMI and risk of NHL overall and histologic subtypes. The results suggest that common genetic variations in oxidative stress genes do not modify the relationship between BMI and risk of NHL. Studies of BMI and oxidative stress independently may elevate NHL risk, but this study suggests no interaction of the two risk factors. Future studies with larger study populations may reveal interactions.

UP-02.086 Comprehensive Analysis of Intratumoral Steroidogenesis in Castration Resistance Prostate Cancer

Molecular mechanisms associated with Castration Resistance Prostate Cancer (CRPC) have gained considerable attention in recent years. It has been hypothesized that CRPC still depends on the androgen signaling axis. Our microarray data showed that the AKR1C3 and Androgen Receptor (AR) genes were the only ones significantly up regulated in CRPC. Several studies showed that several AR splice variants (ARV) could also be important in progression to CRPC. The aim of this study is to evaluate comprehensively the expression of the full length AR (ARfl), AR splice variant and AKR1C3 genes involved in androgen signaling axis in CRPC specimens.

138 EXPRESSION OF GENES ENCODING ENZYMES INVOLVED IN ANDROGEN SYNTHESIS IN HUMAN ADIPOSE TISSUE - POSSIBILITY OF ADIPOSE TISSUE AS THE THIRD ORGAN PRODUCING ACTIVE ANDROGEN IN PROSTATE CANCER PATIENTS-

You have accessJournal of UrologyProstate Cancer: Basic Research1 Apr 2011138 EXPRESSION OF GENES ENCODING ENZYMES INVOLVED IN ANDROGEN SYNTHESIS IN HUMAN ADIPOSE TISSUE - POSSIBILITY OF ADIPOSE TISSUE AS THE THIRD ORGAN PRODUCING ACTIVE ANDROGEN IN PROSTATE CANCER PATIENTS- Seiji Arai, Yasuhiro Shibata, Hidekazu Koike, Hiroshi Matsui, Kazuto Ito, Seijiro Honma, and Kazuhiro Suzuki Seiji AraiSeiji Arai Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author , Yasuhiro ShibataYasuhiro Shibata Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author , Hidekazu KoikeHidekazu Koike Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author , Hiroshi MatsuiHiroshi Matsui Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author , Kazuto ItoKazuto Ito Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author , Seijiro HonmaSeijiro Honma Kawasaki, Japan More articles by this author , and Kazuhiro SuzukiKazuhiro Suzuki Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2011.02.205AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Prostate cancer shows good response to initial androgen-deprivation therapy. However, in most patients, the disease relapses after a few years of treatment and shows the characteristics of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Thus far, numerous studies have been performed to unveil the association between obesity and prostate cancer, and have reported positive relations between adipose tissue and prostate cancer. It is said that 95% of active androgen in human males originate in the testis and that the adrenal gland is the second organ for androgen synthesis. In this study, we investigated if human adipose tissue is the potential third androgen-producing organ by determining the expression levels of genes encoding the enzymes involved in androgen production. METHODS Human adipose tissues were obtained from 10 prostate cancer patients who underwent total prostatectomy. The adipose tissue was collected from the peri-prostatic region and subcutaneous region of the abdomen. The messenger RNA expression of steroid-5-alpha-reductase type 1 and 2 (SRD5A1 and SRD5A2, respectively), aldo-keto reductase family 1 members 1 to 4 (AKR1C1, AKR1C2, AKR1C3, and AKR1C4, respectively), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/delta(5)-delta(4)isomerase type 2 (HSD3B2), aromatase (CYP19A1), CYP17A1, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 2B15 (UGT2B15), and steroid sulfatase (STS) genes were analyzed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS The SRD5A1, AKR1C1, AKR1C2, AKR1C3, AKR1C4, CYP19A1, UGT2B15, and STS genes were found to be expressed in most patients. SRD5A2 was not expressed in all the patients, while CYP17A1 expression seemed to differ among the patients (Table 1). CONCLUSIONS The genes encoding enzymes required for active androgen synthesis were expressed in human adipose tissue, suggesting potential androgen production by this tissue. Thus, adipose tissue may be the third organ for androgen production in humans and may relate to the adipose tissue and prostate cancer risk. Therefore, this local androgen-producing adipose tissue might be the source of androgen that stimulates the androgen receptor-bearing CRPC cancer cells, which become supersensitive to its ligand. The conversion of androgen in adipose tissue will be proven by 13C labeled substrates by the time of presentation. © 2011 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 185Issue 4SApril 2011Page: e58 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2011 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Seiji Arai Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author Yasuhiro Shibata Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author Hidekazu Koike Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author Hiroshi Matsui Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author Kazuto Ito Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author Seijiro Honma Kawasaki, Japan More articles by this author Kazuhiro Suzuki Maebashi, Japan More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Comprehensive Analysis of Hormone and Genetic Variation in 36 Genes Related to Steroid Hormone Metabolism in Pre- and Postmenopausal Women from the Breast and Prostate Cancer Cohort Consortium (BPC3)

Sex steroids play a central role in breast cancer development. This study aimed to relate polymorphic variants in 36 candidate genes in the sex steroid pathway to serum concentrations of sex steroid hormones and SHBG. Data on 700 genetic polymorphisms were combined with existing hormone assays and data on breast cancer incidence, within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) and the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) cohorts; significant findings were reanalyzed in the Multiethnic Cohort (MEC). We analyzed data from a pooled sample of 3852 pre- and postmenopausal Caucasian women from EPIC and NHS and 454 postmenopausal women from MEC. Outcome measures were SHBG, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS), androstenedione, estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2) as well as breast cancer risk. Globally significant associations were found among pre- and postmenopausal women combined between levels of SHBG and the SHBG gene and between DHEAS and the FSHR and AKR1C3 genes. Among postmenopausal women, serum E1 and E2 were significantly associated with the genes CYP19 and FSHR, and E1 was associated with ESR1. None of the variants related to serum hormone levels showed any significant association with breast cancer risk. We confirmed associations between serum levels of SHBG and the SHBG gene and of E1 and E2 and the CYP19 and ESR1 genes. Novel associations were observed between FSHR and DHEAS, E1, and E2 and between AKR1C3 and DHEAS.

Analysis of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase types 5, 7, and 12 genetic sequence variants in breast cancer cases from French Canadian Families with high risk of breast and ovarian cancer

A family history and estrogen exposure are well-known risk factors for breast cancer. Members of the 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase family are responsible for important steps in the metabolism of androgens and estrogens in peripheral tissues, including the mammary gland. The crucial biological function of 17beta-HSDs renders these genes good candidates for being involved in breast cancer etiology. This study screened for mutations in HSD17B7 and HSD17B12 genes, which encode enzymes involved in estradiol biosynthesis and in AKR1C3, which codes for 17beta-HSD type 5 enzyme involved in androgen and progesterone metabolism, to assess whether high penetrance allelic variants in these genes could be involved in breast cancer susceptibility. Mutation screening of 50 breast cancer cases from non-BRCA1/2 high-risk French Canadian families failed to identify germline likely high-risk mutations in HSD17B7, HSD17B12 and AKR1C3 genes. However, 107 sequence variants were identified, including seven missense variants. Assessment of the impact of missense variants on enzymatic activity of the corresponding enzymes revealed no difference in catalytic properties between variants of 17beta-HSD types 7 and 12 and wild-type enzymes, while variants p.Glu77Gly and p.Lys183Arg in 17beta-HSD type 5 showed a slightly decreased activity. Finally, a haplotype-based approach was used to determine tagging SNPs providing valuable information for studies investigating associations of common variants in these genes with breast cancer risk.