Cyclin D1 Gene Research Articles

Rapidly Evolved Genes in Three Reaumuria Transcriptomes and Potential Roles of Pentatricopeptide Repeat Superfamily Proteins in Endangerment of R. trigyna.

Reaumuria genus (Tamaricaceae) is widely distributed across the desert and semi-desert regions of Northern China, playing a crucial role in the restoration and protection of desert ecosystems. Previous studies mainly focused on the physiological responses to environmental stresses; however, due to the limited availability of genomic information, the underlying mechanism of morphological and ecological differences among the Reaumuria species remains poorly understood. In this study, we presented the first catalog of expressed transcripts for R. kaschgarica, a sympatric species of xerophyte R. soongorica. We further performed the pair-wise transcriptome comparison to determine the conserved and divergent genes among R. soongorica, R. kaschgarica, and the relict recretohalophyte R. trigyna. Annotation of the 600 relatively conserved genes revealed that some common genetic modules are employed by the Reaumuria species to confront with salt and drought stresses in arid environment. Among the 250 genes showing strong signs of positive selection, eight pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) superfamily protein genes were specifically identified, including seven PPR genes in the R. soongorica vs. R. trigyna comparison and one PPR gene in the R. kaschgarica vs. R. trigyna comparison, while the cyclin D3 gene was found in the R. soongorica vs. R. trigyna comparison. These findings suggest that genetic variations in PPR genes may affect the fertility system or compromise the extent of organelle RNA editing in R. trigyna. The present study provides valuable genomic information for R. kaschgarica and preliminarily reveals the conserved genetic bases for the abiotic stress adaptation and interspecific divergent selection in the Reaumuria species. The rapidly evolved PPR and cyclin D3 genes provide new insights on the endangerment of R. trigyna and the leaf length difference among the Reaumuria species.

6376 Wnt/beta-catenin Pathway is Associated with Cell Proliferation in Growth Hormone-producing Pituitary Tumors

Abstract Disclosure: S. Kuwabara: None. H. Kameda: None. H. Nomoto: None. K. Cho: None. A. Nakamura: None. Y. Ishi: None. H. Motegi: None. M. Fujimura: None. T. Atsumi: None. Objective: It has been well recognized that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway regulates cell proliferation, and that translocation of β-catenin from the cytoplasm to the nucleus promotes cell proliferation. There have been, however, limited reports on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in growth hormone-producing pituitary tumors (GHomas), and we aimed to investigate the impact of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway on cell proliferation in GHomas. Methods: We performed three types of experiments with patient pathological specimens, disease model cell lines, and primary culture of GHoma cells. 1.The intracellular localization of β-catenin was evaluated using immunofluorescence staining of pathological specimens from GHoma patients and subsequently its association with clinical data was analyzed. 2.The Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor iCRT14 was administered to rat GHoma cells GH1, using the WST-1 assay to measure cell viability and real-time PCR to assess GH and cell cycle genes expression. 3. The Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor iCRT14 was added to cultured cells obtained from GHoma patients to evaluate cell viability and gene expression. Results: 1. Samples from 26 cases (42%) exhibited strong dot-like expression of β-catenin in the nucleus (dot pattern (DP) group), and samples from 36 cases (58%) showed β-catenin expression in the cytoplasm or cell membrane (non-DP group). Tumors in the DP group had a larger size than non-DP group (diameters 18.3±9.2 vs. 13.4±7.4 mm, p<0.05), and the postoperative remission rate was lower (23 vs. 50%, p<0.05). 2. Viability evaluation using WST-1 assay showed a maximum decrease of 25%. Gene expression showed concentration-dependent reduction in GH gene expression by up to 40% (p<0.05) and cyclin D1 gene up to 50% (p<0.05) following iCRT14 administration. 3. Among 6 cases, 3 showed a tendency toward cell growth inhibition, and 4 showed a tendency toward decreased cyclin D1 gene expression. Conclusion: It is suggested that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is activated in the DP group because of the nucleus accumulation of β-catenin, and given the larger tumor size and lower postoperative remission rate in DP group, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway may stimulate cell proliferation in GHomas. In addition, cyclin D1-mediated effects were considered. Wnt/β-catenin pathway could play a role in GHomas growth, therefore this pathway would be a potential therapeutic target for treating affected patients. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Melatonin Regulates the Expression of VEGF and HOXA10 in Bovine Endometrial Epithelial Cells through the SIRT1/PI3K/AKT Pathway.

Melatonin plays a critical role in regulating embryo attachment in ruminants. While numerous studies have investigated its effects on early embryo development in vitro, the precise mechanisms by which melatonin influences the receptivity of endometrial epithelial cells in dairy cows remain unclear. The prerequisite for embryo implantation is the specific physiological condition of the endometrium that allows the embryo to implant, also known as endometrial receptivity. In addition to this, endometrial cells undergo processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and renewal, which makes the embryo more easily implanted. In this study, bovine endometrial epithelial cells were cultured and treated with melatonin, Silent Information Regulator 1 (SIRT1) inhibitor (EX527), and protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation inhibitor (periposine). RT-qPCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence analysis were performed to investigate the effects of melatonin on the expression of target gene (SIRT1); cell proliferative genes, phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-Kinase (PI3K), AKT, cyclinD1, cyclinE1; and receptive genes (Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), Homeobox Structure Gene 10 (HOXA10)). Additionally, microRNA (miRNA) mimics and inhibitors were used to transfect the cells to study the regulatory relationship between miRNA and receptive genes. Results indicated that melatonin activates the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, upregulates cyclinD1 and cyclinE1, and promotes the proliferation of bovine endometrial epithelial cells. Melatonin also upregulated the expression of VEGF and HOXA10 and downregulated the expression of bta-miR-497 and bta-miR-27a-3p through SIRT1/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Further, bta-miR-497 and bta-miR-27a-3p were found to negatively regulate VEGF and HOXA10, respectively. Therefore, melatonin regulates the expression of VEGF and HOXA10 through the SIRT1/PI3K/AKT pathway and promotes the establishment of receptivity in bovine endometrial epithelial cells.

Screening and identification of miRNAs negatively regulating FAM83A/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in non-small cell lung cancer

The prevalence of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 85% of all lung cancers, with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway exhibiting robust activation in this particular subtype. The expression of FAM83A (family with sequence similarity 83, member A) has been found to be significantly upregulated in lung cancer, leading to the stabilization of β-catenin and activation of the Wnt signaling pathway. In this study, we conducted a screening of down-regulated miRNAs in lung cancer with FAM83A as the target. Ultimately, we identified miR-1 as a negative regulator of FAM83A and confirmed that FAM83A is a direct target gene of miR-1 through dual luciferase reporter assays. The overexpression of miR-1 significantly attenuated the expression level of FAM83A and suppressed the Wnt signaling pathway, leading to a reduction in the expression levels of downstream target genes AXIN2, CyclinD1, and C-MYC. Additionally, it decreased the nuclear translocation of β-catenin. In addition, overexpression of miR-1 accelerated the degradation of β-catenin by inhibiting FAM83A, promoted the assembly of β-catenin degradation complex, and inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of NSCLC cells. In summary, miR-1 may be a potential candidate miRNA for the treatment of NSCLC.

Copy Number Alteration of Cyclin D1 (CCND 1) Gene as a Prognostic Factor in Oral Squamous Cancers and its Correlation with Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

Background Oral squamous cancers remain the most common cancers among males in India and the third most common cancer among men and women combined, with an age standardized ratio of 9.1 per 100,000 population. Surgery and chemoradiation have not improved survival rates significantly and hence, newer therapeutic targets are needed. Cyclin D1 (CCND1) is a proto-oncogene which is located on chromosome 11q13 and has been found to be amplified in many cancers including oral cancers. It is said to correlate with aggressive tumor growth and a poorer prognosis. Aim This article correlates cyclin D1 (CCND1) gene copy number alteration with clinicopathologic prognostic factors in oral squamous cancers. Materials and Methods Sixty-three patients who underwent surgery for oral cancer between January and June 2022 were included in the study after obtaining informed consent and ethics approval. Copy number alteration of CCND1 was assessed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Qf PCR) and correlated with clinical and histopathological prognostic factors, including short-term recurrence. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software. Results A statistically significant correlation was determined between the Qf PCR values of CCND1 gene and locoregional recurrence. Gene copy number alteration also correlated strongly with a higher grade of the primary tumor. There was also a significant correlation between the Qf PCR values and the immunohistochemistry for cyclin D1. Conclusion Cyclin D1 offers a new therapeutic target in oral cancers and may improve survival without significant treatment-related morbidity.

Oxidative stress mediates nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of KPNA2 via AKT1-CDK1 axis-regulated S62 phosphorylation.

Karyopherin α 2 (KPNA2, importin α1), a transport factor shuttling between the nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments, is involved in the nuclear import of proteins and participates in cellular processes such as cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and transcriptional regulation. However, it is still unclear which signaling regulates the nucleocytoplasmic distribution of KPNA2 in response to cellular stress. In this study, we report that oxidative stress increases nuclear retention of KPNA2 through alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase (AKT1)-mediated reduction of serine 62 (S62) phosphorylation. We first found that AKT1 activation was required for H2O2-induced nuclear accumulation of KPNA2. Immunoprecipitation and quantitative proteomic analysis revealed that the phosphorylation of KPNA2 at S62 was decreased under H2O2-induced oxidative stress. We showed that cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), a kinase responsible for KPNA2 S62 phosphorylation, contributes to the localization of KPNA2 in the cytoplasm. AKT1 knockdown increased KPNA2 S62 phosphorylation and inhibited CDK1 activation. Furthermore, H2O2-induced AKT1 activation promoted nuclear KPNA2 interaction with nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1), resulting in attenuation of NPM1-mediated cyclin D1 gene transcription. Thus, we infer that the AKT1-CDK1 axis regulates the nucleocytoplasmic shuttling and function of KPNA2 through spatiotemporal regulation of KPNA2 S62 phosphorylation under oxidative stress conditions.

Synthesis, Characterization, and In-Vitro Evaluation of Silibinin-loaded PEGylated Niosomal Nanoparticles: Potential Anti-Cancer Effects on SW480 Colon Cancer Cells.

Colorectal cancer is a significant global health concern with high mortality rates. Silibinin is a compound derived from milk thistle with anticancer properties and may be a potential treatment option for colorectal cancer. Its poor solubility limits its clinical application, but various strategies, such as nanoparticle encapsulation, have shown promise. In this study, a PEGylated niosomal drug delivery system was used to enhance the solubility of silibinin, and its anti-proliferative effects were evaluated against human colorectal cancer cell lines. The silibinin-loaded PEGylated niosomal nanoparticles (NIO-SIL) were fabricated using the thin-film hydration method and characterized with dialysis bag, AFM, SEM, DLS, and FTIR systems. Finally, the cancerous cells and human normal cells were treated with NIO-SIL and pure silibinin. The proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle of these cells were evaluated. Subsequently, the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, p53, and cyclin D1 genes was measured using real-time PCR. The drug release profile, size, morphology, and chemical interactions of the synthesized PEGylated niosomal nanoparticles were suitable for use as a drug delivery system. Both pure silibinin and NIO-SIL could reduce the proliferation of cancerous cells, induce apoptosis, and cause cell cycle arrest, with no significant negative effects reported on human normal cells. Both pure silibinin and NIO-SIL reduced the expression of the Bcl-2 and cyclin D1 genes while increasing the expression of Bax and p53. (p-value < 0.05 *). The outcomes of this study indicate the high potential of PEGylated niosomal nanoparticles for encapsulation and delivery of silibinin to cancer cells, with no negative effects on normal cells.

ARMC10 regulates mitochondrial dynamics and affects mitochondrial function via the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway involved in ischaemic stroke.

Mitochondrial dynamics has emerged as an important target for neuronal protection after cerebral ischaemia/reperfusion. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism by which ARMC10 regulation of mitochondrial dynamics affects mitochondrial function involved in ischaemic stroke (IS). Mitochondrial morphology was detected by laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM), and mitochondrial ultrastructural alterations were detected by electron microscopy. The expression of mitochondrial dynamics-related genes Drp1, Mfn1, Mfn2, Fis1, OPA1 and ARMC10 and downstream target genes c-Myc, CyclinD1 and AXIN2 was detected by RT-qPCR. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of β-catenin, GSK-3β, p-GSK-3β, Bcl-2 and Bax. DCFH-DA fluorescent probe was to detect the effect of ARMC10 on mitochondrial ROS level, Annexin V-FITC fluorescent probe was to detect the effect of ARMC10 on apoptosis, and ATP assay kit was to detect the effect of ARMC10 on ATP production. Mitochondrial dynamics was dysregulated in clinical IS samples and in the OGD/R cell model, and the relative expression of ARMC10 gene was significantly decreased in IS group (p < 0.05). Knockdown and overexpression of ARMC10 could affect mitochondrial dynamics, mitochondrial function and neuronal apoptosis. Agonist and inhibitor affected mitochondrial function and neuronal apoptosis by targeting Wnt/β-Catenin signal pathway. In the OGD/R model, ARMC10 affected mitochondrial function and neuronal apoptosis through the mechanism that regulates Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway. ARMC10 regulates mitochondrial dynamics and protects mitochondrial function by activating Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway, to exert neuroprotective effects.

Trans-Activation of the Coactivator-Associated Arginine Methyltransferase 1 (Carm1) Gene by the Oncogene Product Tax of Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus Type 1.

Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is the causative agent of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. The oncogene product Tax of HTLV-I is thought to play crucial roles in leukemogenesis by promoting proliferation of the virus-infected cells through activation of growth-promoting genes. These genes code for growth factors and their receptors, cytokines, cell adhesion molecules, growth signal transducers, transcription factors and cell cycle regulators. We show here that Tax activates the gene coding for coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 (CARM1), which epigenetically enhances gene expression through methylation of histones. Tax activated the Carm1 gene and increased protein expression, not only in human T-cell lines but also in normal peripheral blood lymphocytes (PHA-PBLs). Tax increased R17-methylated histone H3 on the target gene IL-2Rα, concomitant with increased expression of CARM1. Short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-mediated knockdown of CARM1 decreased Tax-mediated induction of IL-2Rα and Cyclin D2 gene expression, reduced E2F activation and inhibited cell cycle progression. Tax acted via response elements in intron 1 of the Carm1 gene, through the NF-κB pathway. These results suggest that Tax-mediated activation of the Carm1 gene contributes to leukemogenic target-gene expression and cell cycle progression, identifying the first epigenetic target gene for Tax-mediated trans-activation in cell growth promotion.

PL-hMSC and CH-hMSC derived soluble factors inhibit proliferation but improve hGBM cell migration by activating TGF-β and inhibiting Wnt signaling.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most common and aggressive brain tumors. GBM resists most chemotherapeutic agents, resulting in a high mortality rate in patients. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), which are parts of the cancer stroma, have been shown to be involved in the development and progression of GBM. However, different sources of hMSCs might affect GBM cells differently. In the present study, we established hMSCs from placenta (PL-hMSC) and chorion (CH-hMSC) to study the effects of their released soluble factors on the proliferation, migration, invasion, gene expression, and survival of human GBM cells, U251. We found that the soluble factors derived from CH-hMSCs and PL-hMSCs suppressed the proliferation of U251 cells in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, soluble factors derived from both hMSC sources increased U251 migration without affecting their invasive property. The soluble factors derived from these hMSCs decreased the expression levels of CyclinD1, E2Fs and MYC genes that promote GBM cell proliferation but increased the expression level of TWIST gene, which promotes EMT and GBM cell migration. The functional study suggests that both hMSCs might exert their effects, at least in part, by activating TGF-β and suppressing Wnt/β-catenin signaling in U251 cells. Our study provides a better understanding of the interaction between GBM cells and gestational tissue-derived hMSCs. This knowledge might be used to develop safer and more effective stem cell therapy that improves the survival and quality of life of patients with GBM by manipulating the interaction between hMSCs and GBM cells.

USP3 inhibition is Active Against Chemo-resistant Hepatocellular Carcinoma Anchorage-independent Growth via Suppressing Wnt/β-catenin.

USPs are a family of enzymes that regulate protein degradation, and their dysregulation has been implicated in the development and progression of cancer. This study aimed to determine whether ubiquitin-specific proteases 3 (USP3) could be a potential target for therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), particularly in resistant HCC. This study systematically investigated the role of USP3 in HCC, with a focus on chemo-resistant HCC cells. The level of USP3 from clinical samples was measured using an ELISA assay. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and anchorage-independent colony formation assays were performed. Transfection was performed to knock down USP3 expression and measure β-catenin activity, and real-time PCR was used to measure levels of MYC and CYCLIN D1 genes. USP3 protein was upregulated in HCC tissues, but its upregulation was not associated with clinicopathology. USP3 knockdown had a similar inhibitory effect on growth in both sensitive and resistant HCC cells, did not affect migration, and induced apoptosis in sensitive but not resistant HCC cells. Furthermore, USP3 knockdown was more effective in suppressing anchorage-independent colony formation in chemoresistant HCC cells compared to their chemo-sensitive counterparts. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between USP3 and CTNNB1, and consistently, USP3 knockdown reduced the levels and activities of β-catenin in HCC cells. Using a Wnt activator (lithium) in rescue studies significantly reversed the inhibitory effects of USP3 knockdown. The findings suggest that inhibiting USP3 is an effective strategy against cancer stem cells and chemo-resistant HCC cells.

Abstract 1157: Inhibition Of P90rsk Ameliorates Pdgf-bb-induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotypic Change And Neointimal Hyperplasia

Platelet-derived growth factor type BB (PDGF-BB) has been reported to induce vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and migration, which are major events that are highly linked to vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and restenosis. Although p90RSK has been shown to regulate multiple cellular processes including cell growth, proliferation, survival and motility through various downstream substrates in different cell types, the role of p90RSK on PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation and migration, and vascular neointima formation remains unknown. In this study, we determine whether inhibition of p90RSK protects from PDGF-BB-induced cellular phenotypic change and investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of p90RSK inhibition. In cultured primary rat VSMCs, we found that pretreatment with FMK or BI-D1870, specific inhibitors of p90RSK, suppressed PDGF-BB-induced VSMC phenotypic alteration, ECM accumulation, proliferation, and migration. In addition, FMK and BI-D1870 repressed cell cycle regulatory genes cyclin D1 and Cdk4 induced by PDGF-BB, whereas inhibition of p90RSK augmented cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27 downregulated by PDGF-BB in VSMCs, suggesting that p90RSK induces VSMC proliferation via cell cycle regulation of G0/G1 phase. Notably, using the mouse model of partial carotid ligation model, FMK was found to attenuate the neointimal hyperplasia of carotid arteries. These results suggest that p90RSK impedes PDGF-BB induced VSMC phenotypic switching, proliferation, migration, and neointima formation.

Dual targeting of inflammation and β-cell dysfunction for therapy of diabetes mellitus

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by β-cell loss and inflammation. From a therapeutic standpoint, it would be necessary to halt the uncontrolled inflammatory response and to enable the regeneration of the damaged β-cells. In this work, to achieve the latter two drug-loaded nanocarrier systems have been developed and evaluated in-vivo in DM mouse model. For β-cell proliferation, small chitosan (CS) nanoparticles (NPs) (201 ± 30 nm) were loaded with 4b, a selective inhibitor of DYRK1A (dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A). To reduce inflammation, large poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) microparticles (MPs) (1172 ± 77 nm) were encapsulated with BI-605906, an inhibitor of IKKβ (inhibitor of kappa B kinase beta), acting as an inhibitor of an inhibitor. The EE% values were 90 ± 4.2 % and 87 ± 4.46 % for 4b–CS–NPs and BI-605906-PLGA-MPs, respectively. In-vivo biodistribution studies indicated the ability of both particles to accumulate in the pancreas. For CS-NPs, this was achieved as a function of the increased vascular permeability in DM, whereas for PLGA-MPs, this was achieved as function of macrophage uptake. Treatment with 4b–CS–NPs (but not the unloaded drug) reduced blood glucose levels (BGLs) and elevated cyclin D1 (CD1) gene expression indicating the successful ability of the NP system in promoting β-cells proliferation. Although treatment with free BI-605906 showed a modest reduction in BGLs, BI-605906-PLGA-MPs showed no improvement in BGLs. The latter could possibly be attributed to sub-optimal dosing. These results indicate that 4b–CS–NPs have the potential to lower BGLs by promoting β-cell proliferation and restoring pancreatic function. Further optimization is needed for BI-605906-PLGA-MPs, which may enhance therapeutic outcome by dual therapy.

A study to investigate the anticancer potential of carvacrol via targeting Notch signaling in breast cancer

Abstract Breast cancer (BC) continues to be a primary worldwide health concern despite the tremendous efforts made to deploy novel chemotherapeutic techniques for the treatment of BC. It is, therefore, essential to elucidate better plant-based compounds targeting deregulated signaling components in various cancer cell types. Our objective was to elucidate a potent targeted therapeutic approach by exploiting the anticancerous potential of carvacrol in MDA-MB-231 cells via employing silicon and in vitro approaches. In silico analysis was executed to identify the anticancer potential of carvacrol against BC via targeting crucial signaling component of the NOTCH pathway, namely Jagged-1 and its downstream target cyclin D1. In vitro, assays were also employed to display the antiproliferative potential of carvacrol at the mRNA level in MDA-MB-231 cells via targeting Jagged-1 and cyclin D1 genes. Docking studies using CB DOCK displayed better binding energy of carvacrol (Jagged-1: −5.0 and cyclin D1: −5.8) in comparison to the standard drug, 5-fluorouracil (Jagged-1: −4.5; cyclin D1: −4.6) against these crucial targets. Carvacrol potentially downregulated the expression of these crucial genes along with caspase-mediated apoptosis induction. However, more in vitro assays must be employed to validate its candidature for drug development against BC. This study provided a novel insight into the targeted therapeutic approach using natural products and deregulated signaling components for managing breast carcinoma.

Identification of a new bisindolinone arresting IGROV1 cells proliferation

In an initial screening, a series of novel Knoevenagel adducts were submitted to the National Cancer Institute for evaluation of antitumor activity in human cell lines. In particular, compound 5f showed remarkable selectivity against IGROV1, an ovarian cancer cell line, without affecting healthy human fibroblast cells. Analyses of cytotoxicity, cell proliferation, cell migration, epigenetic changes, gene expression, and DNA damage were performed to obtain detailed information about its antitumor properties. Our results show that 5f causes proliferation arrest, decrease in motility, histone hyperacetylation, downregulation of cyclin D1 and α5 subunit of integrin β1 gene transcription. In addition, 5f treatment reduces transcript and protein levels of cyclin D1, which increases sensitivity to ionizing radiation and results in DNA damage comparable to cyclin D1 gene silencing.

Rspo2-LGR4 exacerbates hepatocellular carcinoma progression via activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

BackgroundThe leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4) plays an important role in stem cell differentiation, organ development and cancer. Whether LGR4 affects the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown. This study aimed to reveal the role of LGR4 in HCC. MethodsClinical samples of HCC were collected to assess the expression of LGR4 and its correlation with patients’ clinical characteristics. The expression level of LGR4 in HCC cells was altered by pharmacological and genetic methods, and the role of LGR4 in HCC progression was analyzed by in vivo and in vitro assays. HCC was induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in wild-type and LGR4 deficient mice, the effect of LGR4 on HCC was examined by histopathological evaluation and biochemical assays. ResultsLGR4 expression was up-regulated in HCC samples, and its expression level was positively correlated with tumor size, microvascular invasion (MVI), TNM stage and pathological differentiation grade of HCC patients. In the mouse HCC model induced by DEN+CCl4, knockdown of LGR4 effectively inhibited the progression of HCC. Silencing of LGR4 inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion, stem cell-like properties and Warburg effect of HCC cells. These phenotypes were promoted by R-spondin2 (Rspo2), an endogenous ligand for LGR4. Rspo2 markedly increased the nuclear translocation of β-catenin, whereas IWR-1, an inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, reversed its effect. Deficiency of LGR4 significantly reduced the nuclear translocation of β-catenin and the expression of its downstream target genes cyclinD1 and c-Myc. ConclusionsLGR4 promotes HCC progression via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

α-synuclein regulates Cyclin D1 to promote abnormal initiation of the cell cycle and induce apoptosis in dopamine neurons

The etiology of Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the death of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, while misfolding and abnormal aggregation of α-synuclein (α-syn) are core pathological features. Previous studies have suggested that damage to dopamine neurons may be related to cell cycle dysregulation, but the specific mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, a PD mouse model was induced by stereotactic injection of α-syn into the nucleus, and treated with the cell cycle inhibitor, roscovitine (Rosc). The results demonstrated that Rosc improved behavioral disorders caused by α-syn, increased TH protein expression, inhibited α-syn and p-α-syn protein expression, and reduced the expression levels of G1/S phase cell cycle genes Cyclin D1, Cyclin E, CDK2, CDK4, E2F and pRB. Additionally, Rosc decreased Bax and Caspase-3 expression caused by α-syn, while increasing Bcl-2 protein expression. Meanwhile, we observed that α-syn can influence neuronal cell autophagy by decreasing the expression level of Beclin 1 and increasing the expression level of P62. However, Rosc can improve this phenomenon. In a cell model induced by α-syn in dopamine neuron injury cells, knockdown of Cyclin D1 led to similar results as those observed in animal experiments: Knocking down Cyclin D1 improved the abnormal initiation of the cell cycle caused by α-syn and regulated cellular autophagy, resulting in a reduction of apoptosis in dopamine neurons. In summary, exogenous α-syn can lead to the accumulation of α-syn and phosphorylated α-syn in dopamine neurons, increase key factors of the G1/S phase cell cycle such as Cyclin D1, and regulate downstream related indicators, causing the cell cycle to restart and leading to apoptosis of dopamine neurons. This exacerbates PD symptoms. However, knockdown of Cyclin D1 inhibits the progression of the cell cycle and can reverse this situation. These findings suggest that a Cyclin D inhibitor may be a novel therapeutic target for treating PD.

Phloretin Inhibits the Proliferation of Breast Cancer Cells Through the Down-regulation of Estrogen Receptor α.

Phloretin is a natural flavonoid compound found in some plants, such as apples and pears, as well as in the bark of apple trees. Phloretin has been shown to have inhibitory effects on glucose transporters in cells and can potentially inhibit the growth of cancer cells. However, the mechanism by which phloretin regulates the expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), a key transcription factor in breast cancer, is still unclear. This study investigated how phloretin affects the growth of ERα positive human breast cancer cells. The growth of breast cancer cell lines, including MCF7 and T47D, was examined using cell proliferation and colony formation assays. Western blotting and semi-quantitative RT-PCR were used to examine protein and mRNA levels, respectively. Localization of cellular proteins was analyzed using subcellular fractionation. Transient transfection and reported gene assays were used to elucidate the impact of phloretin on cell proliferation and ERα transactivation. Phloretin decreased ERα expression at the mRNA and protein levels in MCF7 and T47D cells. It also inhibited the binding of ERα to the estrogen response element present in the promoter of target genes. Moreover, treatment with phloretin inhibited the expression of cyclin D1 and breast cancer marker gene pS2, which are known ERα target genes. Consequently, it inhibited the growth of ERα-positive human breast cancer cells. Furthermore, inhibition of breast cancer growth by phloretin was found to be mediated through both the ERα and ERK1/ERK2 pathways. Phloretin, a dihydrochalcone extracted from natural sources, exhibits the ability to regulate ERα function and suppress breast cancer cell proliferation.

Vitamin D improves autoimmune diseases by inhibiting Wnt signaling pathway.

In this study, we investigated the development of the Wnt signaling pathway in vitamin D (VitD) to improve systemic lupus erythematosus in mice to breakthrough clinical treatment approaches. Body weight changes were recorded during rearing. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-dsDNA, and anti-snRNP were detected in the mouse serum using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Apoptosis of Th1 and Th2 immune cells in mice was detected using flow cytometry. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the expression of T-bet, GATA3, and Wnt3a mRNA in the spleens of each group. Western blot analysis was performed to detect the expression of Wnt1, p-β-catenin, β-catenin, glycogen synthase kinsase3β (GSK-3β), Wnt3a, c-myc, and cyclin D1 protein in mice spleens. β-catenin in mice spleen was visualized using immunohistochemistry. VitD did not substantial reduce the body weight of MRL/LPR mice, whereas the inhibitor did. VitD notably decreased the concentrations of ANA, anti-double-stranded DNA, and anti-snRNP in the serum of MRL/LPR mice and alleviated apoptosis of Th1 and Th2 cells. VitD markedly increased the expression of T-bet and GATA mRNA in the spleen of MRL/LPR mice and consequently increased the levels of Wnt3a and β-catenin. Western blot analysis revealed that the levels of GSK-3β, p-β-catenin, Wnt1, Wnt3a, c-myc, and cyclin D1 could be reduced by VitD, compared with MRL/LPR. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that the expression of β-catenin was the most pronounced in the spleen of MRL/LPR mice, and the expression level of β-catenin decreased substantially after VitD intervention. VitD can further inhibit the nuclear translocation of β-catenin by downregulating the expression of Wnt ligands (Wnt1 and Wnt3a), which reduces the expression of the downstream target gene cyclin D1. Systemic lupus erythematosus in mice was improved by inhibiting the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway.

Potential effects of parietin on apoptosis and cell cycle related genes in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells

Background: Ingredients obtained from natural products have been used in cancer treatments for years. High diversity and non-toxicity compared to chemotherapeutic agents are the main reasons for their preference. Lichens having potential for treatment of cancer consist of fungus and 1-2 species of algae. Under the name of lichen substances, many of them have also been synthesized as specific substances. The secondary metabolites in lichens are generally insoluble in water, and have many biological activities such as antiviral, antitumor, antibacterial, and antioxidant; they store in the fungal cell or on the surface of the hyphae and can only be extracted with organic solvents.&#x0D; Parietin extracted from lichen species such as xanthoria parietina is an anthraquinone pigment and a secondary metabolite. &#x0D; In our study, the effects of parietin on cytotoxicity, gene expression, migration, invasion, and colony formation in neuroblastoma cells treated with parietin were investigated. The SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma (NB), which is not treated with parietin, was administered as a control group.&#x0D; Methods: The IC50 value of the parietin was determined using XTT assay. The total RNA extractions were performed from the cells using the Tri-Reagent kit. The expressions of BCL-XL, BCL-2, MMP2, MMP9, P21, CYCLIN D1, CASAPASE-3, CASAPASE-9, BAX, P53, PUMA, and NOXA genes were investigated by Lightcycler 480 (Roche) using SYBR Green dye. Migration analysis of the control and the dose group cells were performed in accordance with the Wound-healing assay protocol. Invasion activities were determined using the “Invasion Chamber” (BD Biosciences) protocol. The colony assay was treated with crystal violet and the cells were observed under the light microscope.&#x0D; Results: The IC50 value of the parietin used for 48-hour treatment on the cells was determined as 35 µM. It was found that the expression levels of BCL-XL, BCL-2, MMP2, MMP9, P21, and CYCLIN D1 mRNA were downregulated, and it was also shown the expression levels of CASAPASE-3, CASAPASE-9, BAX, P53, PUMA, and NOXA to be upregulated. It was determined that parietin suppressed both cell invasion and migration, and colony formation in the neuroblastoma cells. &#x0D; Conclusions: Thus, it can be possible parietin to be used as an alternative, complementary, and supportive agent together with the other drugs in the treatment of neuroblastoma. However, more comprehensive studies supporting these significant effects of parietin will increase its potential in the application.