Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Resistance Research Articles

Knockdown of Inhibin Beta A Reversed the Epithelial Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Resistance and Enhanced the Therapeutic Effect of Radiotherapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.

Lung cancer is a malignant tumor with the highest mortality rate worldwide. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately half of all lung cancer cases. Inhibin beta A (INHBA) is a ligand of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily. This study aimed to analyze the function of INHBA in NSCLC resistance cells. Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas databases were used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in NSCLC resistance cells and patients. DEGs were further analyzed by gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis. A colony formation assay was performed to determine cell growth. Cell migration and invasion were tested by Transwell assay. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes were analyzed using qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Using bioinformatics tools, INHBA was demonstrated to be overexpressed in NSCLC resistant cells and patients. Gefitinib treatment affected NSCLC resistant cells. Additionally, INHBA silencing or X-ray treatment suppressed the growth and metastasis of NSCLC resistant cells. Moreover, the combined application of INHBA silencing and X-ray treatment enhances the therapeutic effects. Moreover, EMT has been confirmed to occur in NSCLC resistant cell lines. Both INHBA silencing and X-ray treatment inhibited EMT development. This study demonstrated that INHBA silencing ameliorates EGFR-TKI resistance and enhances the therapeutic effect of radiotherapy in NSCLC.

Pharmacological targets and validation of remdesivir for the treatment of COVID-19-associated pulmonary fibrosis: A network-based pharmacology and bioinformatics study.

The objective of this study was to employ bioinformatics and network pharmacology methodologies to investigate the targets and molecular mechanisms of remdesivir in the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Several open-source databases were utilized to confirm the shared targets of remdesivir, COVID-19, and PF. Following this, a comprehensive analysis incorporating function enrichment, protein-protein interaction (PPI), transcription factor (TF), and molecular docking was conducted to investigate the potential mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of remdesivir in the treatment of COVID-19-associated PF. The initial validation of these findings was performed using publicly available histological and single-cell sequencing databases. The functional enrichment analysis revealed a strong association between remdesivir and viral defense, inflammatory response, and immune response. The key pathways identified in the study were transforming growth factor (TGF-β), PI3K-Akt, mTOR, MAPK, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, HIF-1, and Toll-like receptor signaling pathways. Additionally, the PPI analysis demonstrated the network relationships of 13 important targets, while the TF analysis provided valuable insights into the regulatory networks of these targets. Among the identified TFs, RELA was found to be the most significant. To validate our findings, we utilized publicly available histological and single-cell sequencing databases, successfully confirming the involvement of 8 key targets, including AKT1, EGFR, RHOA, MAPK1, PIK3R1, MAPK8, MAPK14, and MTOR. Furthermore, molecular docking studies were conducted to assess the interaction between remdesivir and the identified key targets, thus confirming its effective targeting effects. Remdesivir has the potential to exert antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects in the context of COVID-19-associated PF.

A combined model of six serum microRNAs as diagnostic markers for hepatocellular carcinoma

BackgroundHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with high morbidity and mortality, and its poor prognosis is mainly due to the lack of an effective means of early diagnosis. This study aimed to identify a group of serum microRNAs (miRNAs) as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of HCC. MethodsWe collected 190 HCC cases, 109 benign lesions of the liver, 40 cases of non-HCC tumors, and 130 healthy controls. The 469 participants were divided into training and validation sets. A literature search revealed 12 miRNAs closely associated with HCC. In the training set, significantly differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were screened using real-time quantitative PCR, and a diagnostic model of HCC was constructed using logistic regression analysis. An independent validation was performed using a validation set. The identified DE miRNAs were subjected to target gene prediction and functional analyses. ResultsCompared to the controls, the levels of miR-21, miR-221, miR-801, and miR-1246 significantly decreased in HCC (P < 0.05), while the levels of miR-26a and miR-122 significantly increased (P < 0.05). A diagnostic model based on the six DE miRNAs was successfully constructed, with AUC values of 0.953 for the training set and 0.952 for the verification set. Finally, 100 target genes of the DE miRNAs were predicted and were significantly enriched in the B cell receptor, neurotrophin, ferroptosis, and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance signaling pathways. ConclusionsThe constructed diagnostic model based on six DE miRNA combinations has important clinical value for the early diagnosis of HCC

Integrating network pharmacology and bioinformatics to explore the mechanism of Xiaojian Zhongtang in treating major depressive disorder: An observational study.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mental illness. The traditional Chinese medicine compound Xiaojian Zhongtang (XJZT) has a good therapeutic effect on MDD, but the specific mechanism is not clear. The aim of this study is to explore the molecular mechanism of XJZT in the treatment of MDD through network pharmacology and bioinformatics. The traditional Chinese medicine system pharmacology database was used to screen the chemical components and targets of XJZT, while the online Mendelian inheritance in man, DisGeNET, Genecards, and therapeutic target database databases were used to collect MDD targets and identify the intersection targets of XJZT and MDD. A "drugs-components-targets" network was constructed using the Cytoscape platform, and the STRING was used for protein-protein interaction analysis of intersecting targets. Gene Ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes analysis of intersecting targets was performed using the DAVID database. Obtain serum and brain transcriptome datasets of MDD from the gene expression omnibus database, and perform differentially expressed genes, weighted gene co-expression network analysis, gene set enrichment analysis, and receiver operating characteristic analysis. A total of 127 chemical components and 767 targets were obtained from XJZT, among which quercetin, kaempferol, and maltose are the core chemical components, and 1728 MDD targets were screened out, with 77 intersecting targets between XJZT and MDD. These targets mainly involve AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complexes, epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, and HIF-1 signaling pathway, and these core targets have strong binding activity with core components. In addition, 1166 differentially expressed genes were identified in the MDD serum transcriptome dataset, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified the most relevant gene modules (1269 genes), among which RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase (AKT1), D(4) dopamine receptor (DRD4), and kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (KMO) were target genes for the treatment of MDD with XJZT, these 3 genes are mainly related to the ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism, and Huntington disease pathways, and the expression of AKT1, DRD4, and KMO was also found in the MDD brain transcriptome dataset, which is significantly correlated with the occurrence of MDD. We have identified 3 key targets for XJZT treatment of MDD, including AKT1, KMO, and DRD4, and they can be regulated by the key components of XJZT, including quercetin, maltose, and kaempferol. This provides valuable insights for the early clinical diagnosis and development of therapeutic drugs for MDD.

Insights into diosgenin against inflammatory bowel disease as functional food based on network pharmacology and molecular docking

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a growing global health problem. IBD is commonly prevalent in Europe and America and the incidence rate in Asia is on the rise due to altered dietary structure. Diosgenin is a natural steroidal saponin derived from Dioscorea plants. Diosgenin is the main active ingredient of some Chinese medicines which are mainly used to treat coronary heart disease, angina and hyperlipidemia. Recently, growing evidence has exhibited a crucial role of diosgenin and dioscin in alleviating IBD in multiple ways. However, the precise mechanism of diosgenin against IBD needs further exploration.In this study, network pharmacological and systematic bioinformatic analyses were performed to investigate the diosgenin's targets against IBD. 71 targets such as SRC, TNF and STAT3 were identified as overlapped genes between diosgenin and IBD. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis exhibited their involvement in the tyrosine kinase signaling pathway and its membrane receptors. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance and its downstream Ras-MAPK pathway and PI3K-Akt pathway might become the mechanism of diosgenin against IBD. In addition, molecular docking analysis showed that diosgenin has the massive potential of direct binding to tyrosine kinase and its receptors such as SRC, EGFR, FGFR1 and VEGFR. The results above collectively provided evidence that diosgenin is a promising nutraceutical food against IBD.

Exploring the action mechanism of Oxalis corniculata L. decoction in treating osteoarthritis utilizing liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry technology combined with network pharmacology.

This study aimed to identify the chemical constituents of Oxalis corniculata L. decoction. Furthermore, the mechanism of action of O corniculata L. decoction in treating osteoarthritis (OA) was investigated utilizing network pharmacology. The chemical composition of the O corniculata L. decoction was analyzed by employing UHPLC-Q-Exactive-MS/MS. Subsequently, a "compound-target-pathway" network was established through network pharmacology, offering a novel approach to identify the molecular mechanism underlying the treatment of OA with O corniculata L. decoction. Ultimately, the molecular docking technique was employed to validate the binding ability of the active ingredients with therapeutic targets. A total of 539 compounds were identified in O corniculata L. decoction. Topological analysis of the protein-protein interaction network indicated that compounds, including guanosine, naringenin-7-O-beta-D-glucuronide, noroxyhydrastinine, and chrysophanol 8-O-glucoside, have therapeutic potential for OA. In addition, GAPDH, TNF, TP53, epidermal growth factor receptor, and ESR1 may be key targets for the treatment of OA, primarily involving lipid and atherosclerosis, cellular senescence, IL-17 signaling pathway, and epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance signaling pathways. This method preliminarily identified the chemical composition of O corniculata L. decoction and predicted the active ingredients, potential targets, and signaling pathways of O corniculata L. decoction in treating OA. The findings of this research revealed the potential function of O corniculata L. decoction in anti-inflammation, alongside its ability to promote osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, providing new ideas for the processing of O corniculata L. herbs and related drug development.

Abstract We011: The role of hsa-miR-9-5p in hypercontractility: insights from patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Background: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited disease characterized by the thickening of the heart muscle. Mutations in contractile proteins, such as myosin binding protein C ( MYBPC3 ) and β-myosin heavy chain ( MYH7 ), account for over half of patients with familial HCM. HCM is the leading cause of sudden cardiac death among young adults and athletes, with these mutations potentially leading to hypercontractility and arrhythmias culminating in sudden cardiac death. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are pivotal regulators of gene expression that may influence disease progression. Despite their potential significance, there is a scarcity of published data on miRNA expression in HCM. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have emerged as valuable tools for modeling various cardiovascular diseases, including HCM. However, the miRNA expression profiles associated with HCM remain largely unexplored within iPSC models. Investigating the differential expression of miRNAs in HCM patients offers a promising avenue to identify potential therapeutic targets for individuals affected by this condition. Methods: We performed an unbiased screen using a microarray (NanoString Technologies) that contained 798 miRNAs to identify differentially expressed miRNAs in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-CM and myocardial tissues derived from healthy donors and HCM patients with MYBPC3 and MYH7 mutations. Results: We identified 5 differentially expressed miRNAs that are significantly downregulated in both mutant MYBPC3 iPSC-CM and myocardial tissue (miR-9-5p, -4443, -367-3p, -302c-3p, and -129-2-3p) (p ≤ 0.05). In mutant MYH7 iPSC-CM and myocardial tissue, 3 miRNAs that were significantly downregulated (miR-9-5p, -151a-3p, -129-2-3p), and 1 was significantly upregulated (miR-331-5p) (p ≤ 0.05). KEGG pathway analysis of gene targets using miRTarBase and g:Profiler revealed that miR-9-5p regulates genes in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance pathway (p = 3.99x10 -9 ), which is involved in hypercontractility associated with HCM. Conclusion: This work represents the first description of miRNA expression patterns in iPSC-CMs derived from patients with HCM with additional validation from primary myocardial tissue, the current gold standard. We identified the miR-9-5p/EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance axis as a potential therapeutic target responsible for mitigating the hypercontractile phenotype exhibited in HCM.

Peptostreptococcus stomatis promotes colonic tumorigenesis and receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance by activating ERBB2-MAPK

Peptostreptococcus stomatis (P.stomatis) is enriched in colorectal cancer (CRC), but its causality and translational implications in CRC are unknown. Here, we show that P.stomatis accelerates colonic tumorigenesis in ApcMin/+ and azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate (AOM-DSS) models by inducing cell proliferation, suppressing apoptosis, and impairing gut barrier function. P.stomatis adheres to CRC cells through its surface protein fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase (FBA) that binds to the integrin α6/β4 receptor on CRC cells, leading to the activation of ERBB2 and the downstream MEK-ERK-p90 cascade. Blockade of the FBA-integrin α6/β4 abolishes ERBB2-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation and the protumorigenic effect of P.stomatis. P.stomatis-driven ERBB2 activation bypasses receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) blockade by EGFR inhibitors (cetuximab, erlotinib), leading to drug resistance in xenograft and spontaneous CRC models of KRAS-wild-type CRC. P.stomatis also abrogates BRAF inhibitor (vemurafenib) efficacy in BRAFV600E-mutant CRC xenografts. Thus, we identify P.stomatis as an oncogenic bacterium and a contributory factor for non-responsiveness to RTK inhibitors in CRC.

T790M mutation sensitizes non-small cell lung cancer cells to radiation via suppressing SPOCK1

BackgroundApproximately 50% of patients harbor the T790M mutation after developing first-generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) resistance. Evidence has showed the major treatment failure is local relapses and limited metastases. Several studies have demonstrated the value of radiotherapy in metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with the EGFR T790M mutation after the development of TKI resistance. The aim of this study was to explore the role of radiation in T790M-mutant NSCLC and the value of early radiotherapy for NSCLC with T790M-mediated EGFR-TKI resistance. MethodsGefitinib-resistant NSCLC cell lines were established via stepwise exposure to increasing concentrations of gefitinib (PC-9-GR). Droplet digital PCR was used to determine the relative T790M subclone abundance. In vitro and in vivo models were established using different mixtures of PC-9-GR and PC-9 cells. Differentially expressed genes were identified using RNA sequencing. Two research models were constructed (salvage and prophylactic radiotherapy) to determine the effects of early radiotherapy on gefitinib-resistant cells. ResultsPC-9-GR cells exhibited higher radiosensitivity than PC-9 cells (sensitivity enhancement ratio = 1.5). Salvage radiation reduced the number of T790M-mutant subclones, and the relative T790M abundance was significantly lower than that without radiation at 90 days (10.94% vs. 21.54%). Prophylactic radiation prevented the development of T790M subclones. These results were also confirmed in vivo. qRT-PCR revealed threefold elevation of miR-1243 in PC-9-GR cells, and the increased radiosensitivity of PC-9-GR cells was inhibited when miR-1243 was knocked down. RNA sequencing revealed that SPOCK1 was downregulated in PC-9-GR cells. Interestingly, bioinformatic analysis showed that SPOCK1 was a target gene of miR-1243. SPOCK1 knockdown markedly increased the radiosensitivity of PC-9 cells. ConclusionGefitinib-resistant NSCLC with the T790M mutation had higher radiosensitivity than that without the mutation, possibly mediated by SPOCK1. Early radiotherapy can eliminate T790M subclones, providing evidence for the benefit of early local treatment in patients with TKI-resistant NSCLC.

Role of Inflammation in the Development of COVID-19 to Parkinson's Disease.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can lead to neurological symptoms such as headaches, confusion, seizures, hearing loss, and loss of smell. The link between COVID-19 and Parkinson's disease (PD) is being investigated, but more research is needed for a definitive connection. Datasets GSE22491 and GSE164805 were selected to screen differentially expressed gene (DEG), and immune infiltration and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of the DEG were performed. WGCNA analyzed the DEG and selected the intersection genes. Potential biological functions and signaling pathways were determined, and diagnostic genes were further screened using gene expression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Screening and molecular docking of ibuprofen as a therapeutic target. The effectiveness of ibuprofen was verified by constructing a PD model in vitro, and constructing "COVID19-PD" signaling pathway, and exploring the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in PD. A total of 13 DEG were screened from the GSE36980 and GSE5281 datasets. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that the DEG were mainly associated with the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, etc. After analysis, it is found that ibuprofen alleviates PD symptoms by inhibiting the expression of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Based on signal pathway construction, the importance of ACE2 in COVID-19-induced PD has been identified. ACE2 is found to have widespread distribution in the brain. In the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-te-trahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced ACE2-null PD mice model, more severe motor and non-motor symptoms, increased NF-κB p65 and α-synuclein (α-syn) expression with significant aggregation, decreased tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), severe neuronal loss, and neurodegenerative disorders. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection increases the risk of PD through an inflammatory environment and downregulation of ACE2, providing evidence for the molecular mechanism and targeted therapy associated with COVID-19 and PD.

Co-Expression Network Analysis Unveiled lncRNA-mRNA Links Correlated to Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Resistance and/or Intermediate Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Phenotypes in a Human Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cellular Model System.

We investigated mRNA-lncRNA co-expression patterns in a cellular model system of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) sensitive and resistant to the epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) erlotinib/gefitinib. The aim of this study was to unveil insights into the complex mechanisms of NSCLC targeted therapy resistance and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Genome-wide RNA expression was quantified for weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to correlate the expression levels of mRNAs and lncRNAs. Functional enrichment analysis and identification of lncRNAs were conducted on modules associated with the EGFR-TKI response and/or intermediate EMT phenotypes. We constructed lncRNA-mRNA co-expression networks and identified key modules and their enriched biological functions. Processes enriched in the selected modules included RHO (A, B, C) GTPase and regulatory signaling pathways, apoptosis, inflammatory and interleukin signaling pathways, cell adhesion, cell migration, cell and extracellular matrix organization, metabolism, and lipid metabolism. Interestingly, several lncRNAs, already shown to be dysregulated in cancer, are connected to a small number of mRNAs, and several lncRNAs are interlinked with each other in the co-expression network.

Integrated UPLC/Q-TOF-MS/MS Analysis and Network Pharmacology to Reveal the Neuroprotective Mechanisms and Potential Pharmacological Ingredients of Aurantii Fructus Immaturus and Aurantii Fructus.

Aurantii Fructus (AF) and Aurantii Fructus Immaturus (AFI) have been used for thousands of years as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with sedative effects. Modern studies have shown that Citrus plants also have protective effects on the nervous system. However, the effective substances and mechanisms of action in Citrus TCMs still remain unclear. In order to explore the pharmacodynamic profiles of identified substances and the action mechanism of these herbs, a comprehensive approach combining ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/Q-TOF-MS/MS) analysis and network pharmacology was employed. Firstly, UNIFI 2.1.1 software was used to identify the chemical characteristics of AF and AFI. Secondly, the SwissTargetPrediction database was used to predict the targets of chemical components in AF and AFI. Targets for neuroprotection were also collected from GeneCards: The Human Gene Database (GeneCards-Human Genes|Gene Database|Gene Search). The networks between targets and compounds or diseases were then constructed using Cytoscape 3.9.1. Finally, the Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery Database (DAVID) (DAVID Functional Annotation Bioinformatics Microarray Analysis) was used for GO and pathway enrichment analysis. The results showed that 50 of 188 compounds in AF and AFI may have neuroprotective biological activities. These activities are associated with the regulatory effects of related components on 146 important signaling pathways, derived from the KEGG (KEGG: Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes), such as neurodegeneration (hsa05022), the Alzheimer's disease pathway (hsa05010), the NF-kappa B signaling pathway (hsa04064), the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1 signaling pathway (hsa04066), apoptosis (hsa04210), the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance signaling pathway (hsa01521), and others, by targeting 108 proteins, including xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH), glutamate ionotropic receptor NMDA type subunit 2B (GRIN2B), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), among others. These targets are thought to be related to inflammation, neural function and cell growth.

Tetrandrine Alleviates Silica-induced Pulmonary Fibrosis Through PI3K/AKT Pathway: Network Pharmacology Investigation and Experimental Validation.

Tetrandrine (TET) is a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid derived from Stephania tetrandra S. Moor, known for its potential use in attenuating the progression of silicosis. However, the precise effects and underlying mechanisms of TET remain controversial. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the pharmacological mechanism of TET using a network pharmacology approach, while also evaluating its effect on silica-induced lung fibrosis in mice and TGF-β1-stimulated pulmonary fibroblasts in vitro. We employed network pharmacology to unravel the biological mechanisms through which TET may exert its therapeutic effects on pulmonary fibrosis and silicosis. In a silica-induced mouse model of lung fibrosis, TET was administered orally either during the early or late stage of fibrotic progression. Additionally, we examined the effects of TET on fibroblasts stimulated by TGF-β1 in vitro. Through the analysis, we identified a total of 101 targets of TET, 7,851 genes associated with pulmonary fibrosis, and 80 overlapping genes. These genes were primarily associated with key pathways such as epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, the vascular endothelial growth factor signaling pathway, and the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (PKB or AKT) signaling pathway. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis revealed the binding of TET to AKT1, the catalytic subunit of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase, and KDR. In vivo experiments demonstrated that TET significantly alleviated silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis and reduced the expression of fibrotic markers. Moreover, TET exhibited inhibitory effects on the migration, proliferation, and differentiation of TGF-β1-induced lung fibroblasts in vitro. Notably, TET mitigated silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis by suppressing the PI3K/AKT pathway. In conclusion, our findings suggest that TET possesses the ability to suppress silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis by targeting the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. These results provide valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of TET in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis and silicosis.

Analysis of the mechanism of Sophorae Flavescentis Radix in the treatment of intractable itching based on network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Sophorae Flavescentis Radix (Kuh-seng, SFR), a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is widely used alone or within a TCM formula to treat pruritus, especially histamine-independent intractable itching. In the previous study, potential antipruritic active components of the SFR were screened based on cell membrane immobilized chromatography (CMIC), revealing oxymatrine (OMT) as an antipruritic agent. However, the low oral bioavailability (OB) of OMT cannot explain the antipruritic effect of SFR when administered orally in clinic. In this study, we investigated the antipruritic effects and underlying mechanisms of orally administered SFR. A network pharmacology and molecular docking were employed to screen the active components of SFR and predict their binding to disease-related target proteins, while the potential mechanisms were explored with Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. The binding energy between components and target proteins was calculated by molecular docking. The SFR-components-targets-intractable itching Protein-Protein Interactions (PPI) network was established, and 22 active components and 42 targets were screened. The GO enrichment analysis showed that the key target genes of SFR were related to nuclear receptors, transcription factors, and steroid hormone receptors. The results of the KEGG enrichment pathway analysis include Hepatitis B, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, advanced glycation end product (AGE)-receptor for AGE (RAGE) signaling pathway in diabetic complications, etc. Molecular docking showed that three key target proteins in the network, the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and caspase-3 (CASP3), have higher binding activities with inermine, phaseolin and kushenol O, respectively; the binding energy of each pair is stronger than that of the target protein-corresponding inhibitors. The complexity of the SFR-components-targets-intractable itching network demonstrated the holistic treatment effect of SFR on intractable itching. The partial coherence between results screened by CMIC in the previous study and network pharmacology demonstrated the potential of network pharmacology in active component screening. Inermine screened from both CMIC and network pharmacology is a VEGFA inhibitor, which possibly accounts for the antipruritic effect of orally administered SFR.

Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of 4-(2-fluorophenoxy)-7-methoxyquinazoline derivatives as dual EGFR/c-Met inhibitors for the treatment of NSCLC

In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment, aberrant expression of c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-Met) has been identified as a driving factor in epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) resistance. Unfortunately, none of the EGFR/c-Met dual-target inhibitors have successfully passed clinical trials. Hence, based on molecular docking analysis and combination principles of EGFR and c-Met inhibitors, three series of 4-(2-fluorophenoxy)-7-methoxyquinazoline derivatives as new EGFR/c-Met inhibitors were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their biological activities. Among these compounds, TS-41 displayed the best inhibitory activity against EGFRL858R and c-Met kinases, with an IC50 value of 68.1 nM and 0.26 nM respectively. Moreover, it also showed excellent inhibitory activity on three NSCLC cell lines A549−P, H1975 and PC-9 with IC50 values ranging from 1.48 to 2.76 μM. Flow cytometry assays demonstrated that TS-41 induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of A549−P cells in a concentration-dependent manner, corresponding to JC-1 staining assay results. Western blot analysis revealed that TS-41 significantly downregulated the phosphorylation of EGFR, c-Met, and downstream AKT at molecular level. Importantly, TS-41 exhibited potent in vivo anticancer efficacy in an A549−P-bearing allograft nude mouse model at a dose of 60 mg/kg with a tumor growth inhibition rate of 55.3 % compared with Afatinib (46.4 %), as well as low hemolytic toxicity and organ toxicity. Molecular docking results showed that TS-41 was well embedded into the cavity of EGFR (PDB: 5GMP) and c-Met (PDB: 3LQ8) proteins, respectively. In summary, TS-41 is a high-efficiency and low-toxicity EGFR/c-Met inhibitor for the treatment of NSCLC and is worthy of further exploration.

Impact of IGF3 stimulation on spotted scat (Scatophagus argus) liver: Implications for a role in ovarian development

Insulin-like growth factor 3 (IGF3) plays an essential role in the reproductive system and influences the liver of teleosts. However, the mechanism of IGF3 action on the liver remains unknown. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptome patterns and enzymatic activities in the liver of Scatophagus argus following IGF3 injection. We identified 155 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were enriched in terms ‘retinol metabolism’, ‘steroid hormone biosynthesis’, ‘epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance’, and ‘one carbon pool by folate’ in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis. Notable DEGs included inhbb, shmt2, slc2a5, cyp1a1, got1, mid1ip1, sstr5, hnf6, slc39a14, and hspa1a. The activities of amylase, lipase, malic enzyme, fatty acid synthase, and lipoprotein lipase increased significantly, whereas those of phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase and pyruvate kinase decreased significantly. The combined analysis of transcriptome patterns and enzyme activities suggests IGF3 may promote energy storage and protein synthesis by the liver. These findings indicate IGF3 may support the liver to promote ovarian development and maturation in S. argus.

Multiomics Analysis Provides Novel Pathways Related to Progression of Heart Failure

BackgroundDespite major advances in pharmacological treatment for patients with heart failure, residual mortality remains high. This suggests that important pathways are not yet targeted by current heart failure therapies. ObjectivesWe sought integration of genetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data in a large cohort of patients with heart failure to detect major pathways related to progression of heart failure leading to death. MethodsWe used machine learning methodology based on stacked generalization framework and gradient boosting algorithms, using 54 clinical phenotypes, 403 circulating plasma proteins, 36,046 transcript expression levels in whole blood, and 6 million genomic markers to model all-cause mortality in 2,516 patients with heart failure from the BIOSTAT-CHF (Systems BIOlogy Study to TAilored Treatment in Chronic Heart Failure) study. Results were validated in an independent cohort of 1,738 patients. ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 70 years (Q1-Q3: 61-78 years), 27% were female, median N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide was 4,275 ng/L (Q1-Q3: 2,360-8,486 ng/L), and 7% had heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. During a median follow-up of 21 months, 657 (26%) of patients died. The 4 major pathways with a significant association to all-cause mortality were: 1) the PI3K/Akt pathway; 2) the MAPK pathway; 3) the Ras signaling pathway; and 4) epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance. Results were validated in an independent cohort of 1,738 patients. ConclusionsA systems biology approach integrating genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data identified 4 major pathways related to mortality. These pathways are related to decreased activation of the cardioprotective ERBB2 receptor, which can be modified by neuregulin.

Overall signature of acquired KRAS gene changes in advanced non-small cell lung cancer patient with EGFR-TKI resistance.

Numerous scattered case studies continue to demonstrate a strong correlation between acquired KRAS mutations and epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance in non-small cell lung cancer. However, the comprehensive understanding of the KRAS pathway following the failure of epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy remains limited. We conducted a retrospective evaluation of the next generation sequencing data from 323 patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer and EGFR-activating mutations after experiencing progression with epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy. Our analysis specifically focused on the acquired changes to the KRAS gene. Among the 323 patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer and EGFR-activating mutations who experienced resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy, 14 individuals (4.3%) developed resistance due to acquired KRAS alterations. Of these 14 patients, 10 cases (71.4%) were due to KRAS missense mutations, 1 case (7.2%) was due to KRAS gene fusion and 3 cases (21.4%) were due to KRAS amplification. Notably, we identified one newly demonstrated KRAS gene fusion (KRAS and LMNTD1), one KRAS G13D and one KRAS K117N. The emergence of acquired KRAS alterations was often accompanied by novel mutations and high tumor mutation burden, with TP53, CNKN2A, PIK3CA, MYC, STK11, CDK4, BRCA2 and ERBB2 being the most frequently observed concurrent mutations. The median progression-free survival and overall survival for the 14 patients were 5.2 and 7.3months, respectively. Acquired KRAS missense variants were associated with significantly worse progression-free survival compared with other KRAS variant subtypes (P<0.028). This study provides significant evidence of the role of acquired KRAS variants in the development of resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy. Our results contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the mutational profiles associated with resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment. Furthermore, our study highlights the KRAS gene change as a significant mechanism of resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy.

Comprehensive genomic profiling of Japanese patients with thoracic malignancies: A single-center retrospective study

BackgroundFew studies have been conducted on comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) panels in Japanese patients with thoracic malignancies after completing standard treatment. Consequently, its value in clinical practice remains unclear. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study of Japanese patients with thoracic malignancies who underwent CGP between June 2019 and November 2022 at our hospital. We evaluated the detection rate of actionable genetic alterations and percentage of patients who received genomically-matched therapy. Furthermore, we examined the value of the CGP panel in patients who underwent multiplex gene-panel testing prior to their initial treatment. This study was performed in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. ResultsThe study included 56 patients, of whom 47 (83.9%) had actionable genetic alterations and 8 (14.3%) received genomically-matched therapy. Of these, four patients were treated with approved drugs and three patients were treated with investigational agents. In addition, one patient was treated with approved drugs using the patient-directed care system. Of the 17 patients who had multiplex gene-panel testing performed at the start of their initial therapy, two (11.8%) were newly identified by the CGP panel and subsequently received genomically-matched therapy. EGFR L718Q and MET amplification were observed in two of the seven patients with epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance. ConclusionsThe CGP panel could identify genetic alterations, thereby facilitating genomically-matched therapy, even in patients with thoracic malignancies who could not be identified using multiplex gene-panel testing.

Integrated network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and molecular docking to explore the mechanisms of berberine regulating autophagy in breast cancer.

Berberine exhibits anticancer efficacy against a variety of malignancies, including breast cancer (BRCA). However, the underlying mechanism is ambiguous. This study sought to explore the targets and the probable mechanism of berberine regulating autophagy in BRCA through network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and molecular docking. The targets of berberine and autophagy-modulated genes were derived from online databases, and the Cancer Genome Atlas database was used to identify the differentially expressed genes of BRCA. Then, through intersections, the autophagy-modulated genes regulated by berberine (AMGRBs) in BRCA were obtained. Next, we established a protein-protein interaction network using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes database. Afterward, gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analyses were employed to explore the targets' biological functions. Additionally, molecular docking was conducted to verify the binding ability of berberine to the targets. Finally, to determine the prognostic value of AMGRBs in BRCA, we performed overall survival analyses. We identified 29 AMGRBs in BRCA, including CASP3, MTOR, AKT1, GSK3B, PIK3CA, and others. Gene ontology enrichment analysis showed that the AMGRBs in BRCA were associated with autophagy regulation, negative regulation of catabolic process, macroautophagy, and other biological processes. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analyses indicated that AMGRBs in BRCA were involved in epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, JAK-STAT signaling pathway, and others. Molecular docking results proved that berberine had strong binding affinities with AMGRBs in BRCA. Survival analyses indicated that ATM, HTR2B, LRRK2, PIK3CA, CDK5, and IFNG were associated with the prognosis of BRCA. This study identified the targets and pathways of berberine for regulating autophagy in BRCA, which contributed to a better understanding of berberine's function in BRCA and serve as a foundation and reference for further study and therapeutic application of berberine.