Wound Healing Migration Assays Research Articles

A multi-omic analysis reveals that Gamabufotalin exerts anti-hepatocellular carcinoma effects by regulating amino acid metabolism through targeting STAMBPL1

BackgroundHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a prevalent type of liver cancer, is characterized by an unfavorable prognosis and a high mortality rate. Identifying novel treatments to prevent HCC recurrence and metastasis remains crucial for improving patient survival. Gamabufotalin (CS-6), a primary bufadienolide derived from the traditional Chinese medicine Chansu, has demonstrated significant anti-tumor activity. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms of CS-6 on HCC cells are not yet fully understood. PurposeThis study sought to elucidate the anti-HCC effects and potential mechanisms of CS-6. In vitro experiments were conducted using the HCC cell lines MHCC97H and Huh-7, employing CCK-8 assays, colony formation assays, wound healing assays, transwell invasion and migration assays, and flow cytometry to assess apoptosis and cell cycle dynamics. A multi-omics approach, including metabolomics and RNA sequencing analysis, was utilized to identify CS-6′s molecular targets and mechanisms in HCC therapy. Additionally, in vivo assessments were performed using xenografts in nude mice. ResultsCS-6 significantly inhibited HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Multi-omics analysis suggested that CS-6′s anti-HCC effects may involve the modulation of metabolic pathways, potentially through the downregulation of STAMBPL1, resulting in reduced mTOR signaling, increased apoptosis, and suppression of malignant HCC behavior. In vivo studies further confirmed that CS-6 significantly suppressed tumor growth and enhanced apoptosis and autophagy within tumors. ConclusionThese results underscore the therapeutic potential of CS-6 in HCC treatment. The study offers novel insights into the mechanism of CS-6, suggesting that its therapeutic efficacy may be uniquely mediated by targeting STAMBPL1. This distinct mechanism sets CS-6 apart from existing HCC treatments and positions it as a promising candidate for further clinical investigation.

5-Azacytidine treatment inhibits the development of lung cancer models via epigenetic reprogramming and activation of cellular pathways with anti-tumor activity

Background and aims. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment is challenged by late detection and limited therapeutic options. Aberrant DNA methylation, a common epigenetic alteration in NSCLC, offers new therapeutic avenues. This study aims to evaluate the combined effects of 5-Azacytidine (5- Aza), an epigenetic modifier, and ionizing radiation (IR) on NSCLC, exploring the underlying molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential. Methods. In this study, we examined the effects of 5-Aza combined with IR in both in vitro and in vivo models of NSCLC. Five human NSCLC cell lines were treated with 5-Aza and IR. Cell viability, colony formation, wound healing, and transwell migration assays were performed to assess treatment effects. Microarray and qPCR analyses were conducted to identify gene expression changes. Additionally, subcutaneous and orthotopic xenograft models were used to evaluate the treatment’s efficacy in vivo. Results. Treatment with 5-Aza and IR resulted in significant reductions in cell viability, colony formation, and migration in NSCLC cell lines. Microarray analysis revealed significant changes in gene expression, including the upregulation of apoptosis-related genes and the downregulation of cell proliferation-related genes. In vivo studies demonstrated a notable reduction in tumor growth and metastasis in both subcutaneous and orthotopic NSCLC models following 5-Aza and IR treatment. Histological and bioluminescent imaging confirmed the therapeutic effects of the combined treatment. Conclusions. The combination of 5-Aza and IR shows promise as an effective treatment for NSCLC, enhancing apoptosis and reducing tumor growth through epigenetic modulation.

Infection‑associated bile acid disturbance contributes to macrophage activation in patients with cirrhosis.

Cirrhosis impairs macrophage function and disrupts bile acid homeostasis. Although bile acids affect macrophage function in patients with sepsis, whether and how the bile acid profile is changed by infection in patients with cirrhosis to modulate macrophage function remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the changes in the bile acid profile of patients with cirrhosis and infection and their effects on macrophage function. Serum was collected from 20 healthy subjects, 18 patients with cirrhosis and 39 patients with cirrhosis and infection. Bile acid profiles were detected using high‑performance liquid chromatography‑triple time‑of‑flight mass spectrometer. The association between bile acid changes and infection was analysed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Infection‑altered bile acids were used in combination with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to stimulate RAW264.7/THP‑1 cells in vitro. The migratory capacity was evaluated using wound healing and Transwell migration assays. The expression of Arg‑1, iNOS, IκBα, phosphorylated (p‑)IκBα and p65 was examined with western blotting and immunofluorescence, Tnfα, Il1b and Il6 mRNA was examined with RT‑qPCR, and CD86, CD163 and phagocytosis was measured with flow cytometry. The ROC curves showed that decreased hyodeoxycholic acid (HDCA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA) levels were associated with infection. HDCA or DCA combined with LPS enhanced the phagocytic and migratory ability of macrophages, accompanied by upregulation of iNOS and CD86 protein expression as well as Tnfα, Il1b, and Il6 mRNA expression. However, neither HDCA nor DCA alone showed an effect on these phenotypes. In addition, DCA and HDCA acted synergistically with LPS to increase the expression of p‑IκBα and the intranuclear migration of p65. Infection changed the bile acid profile in patients with cirrhosis, among which the reduction of DCA and HDCA associated most strongly with infection. HDCA and DCA enhanced the sensitivity of macrophage function loss to LPS stimulation. These findings suggested a potential role for monitoring the bile acid profile that could help manage patients with cirrhosis and infection.

Macrophage-induced Expression of TonEBP/NFAT5 Is Associated With Gefitinib Resistance and Migration in PC-9 Cells.

Macrophages prevail in the microenvironment of several tumors, including non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), where they secrete pro-tumorigenic factors that contribute to cancer progression. This study investigated the role of macrophages on the resistance of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated NSCLC cells to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). EGFR-mutated cell lines PC-9 and HCC827 were cocultured with macrophages and treated with TKIs (erlotinib and gefitinib). The effects of the macrophage-conditioned medium (macrophage CM) on gefitinib resistance and cell migration were also evaluated. Co-culture with macrophages significantly enhanced the resistance to erlotinib and gefitinib in PC-9 and HCC827 cells compared to that in cells cultured independently. Macrophage CM markedly induced gefitinib resistance in PC-9 cells, with maximum resistance observed at 50% CM concentration. This resistance persisted for up to 48 h post-CM removal. Macrophage CM inhibited gefitinib-induced apoptosis, as evidenced by the decreased expression of cleaved caspase-3, PARP, and BIM. Additionally, macrophage CM increased the migration ability of PC-9 cells, as shown by the wound healing and transwell migration assays. Studies have shown that TonEBP is crucial in cancer metastasis and drug resistance; we found that inhibition of TonEBP/NFAT5 expression reduced gefitinib resistance and migration in macrophage CM-induced PC-9 cells, indicating its role as mediator of these effects. Macrophages contribute to TKI resistance and enhance the migration of EGFR-mutated NSCLC cells through mechanisms involving TonEBP/NFAT5. Therefore, targeting TonEBP/NFAT5 represents a potential therapeutic strategy for overcoming macrophage-induced TKI resistance in NSCLC cells.

Novel circular RNA hsa_circ_0036683 suppresses proliferation and migration by mediating the miR-4664-3p/CDK2AP2 axis in non-small cell lung cancer.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the function of novel circular RNA hsa_circ_0036683 (circ-36683) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). RNA sequencing was used to screen out differentially expressed miRNAs. Expression levels of miR-4664-3p and circ-36683 were evaluated in lung carcinoma cells and tissues by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The effects of miR-4664-3p and circ-36683 on proliferation and migration were assessed using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), wound healing and transwell migration assays and xenograft experiments. The targeting relationship of circ-36683/miR-4664-3p/CDK2AP2 was assessed by luciferase reporter assays, western blot, qRT-PCR and argonaute2-RNA immunoprecipitation (AGO2 RIP). Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining and CCK-8 were used to validate the indispensable role of CDK2AP2 in suppressing cell proliferation as a result of CDK2AP1 overexpression. By RNA sequencing, miR-4664-3p was screened out as an abnormally elevated miRNA in NSCLC tissues. Transfection of miR-4664-3p could promote cell proliferation, migration and xenograft tumor growth. As a target of miR-4664-3p, CDK2AP2 expression was downregulated by miR-4664-3p transfection and CDK2AP2 overexpression could abolish the proliferation promotion resulting from miR-4664-3p elevation. Circ-36683, derived from back splicing of ABHD2 pre-mRNA, was attenuated in NSCLC tissue and identified as a sponge of miR-4664-3p. The functional study revealed that circ-36683 overexpression suppressed cell proliferation, migration and resulted in G0/G1 phase arrest. More importantly, the antioncogenic function of circ-36683 was largely dependent on the miR-4664-3p/CDK2AP2 axis, through which circ-36683 could upregulate the expression of p53/p21/p27 and downregulate the expression of CDK2/cyclin E1. The present study revealed the antioncogenic role of circ-36683 in suppressing cell proliferation and migration and highlighted that targeting the circ-36683/miR-4664-3p/CDK2AP2 axis is a promising strategy for the intervention of NSCLC.

Microfluidic Wound-Healing Assay for Comparative Study on Fluid Dynamic, Chemical and Mechanical Wounding on Microglia BV2 Migration.

Microglial cells, or brain immune cells, are highly dynamic and continuously migrate in pathophysiological conditions. Their adhesion, as a physical characteristic, plays a key role in migration. In this study, we presented a microfluidic chip combination of two assays: a microglial BV2 adhesion assay and a wound-healing migration assay. The chip could create the cell-free area (wound) under chemical stimuli with trypsin (chemical assay) and also mechanical stimuli with the PBS flow (mechanical assay). The microfluidic chip functioned as the cell adhesion assay during wounding, when the cell adhesion of microglia BV2 cells was characterized by the cell removal time under various shear stress ranges. The cell detachment pattern on the glass substrate was found under physiological conditions. After wounding, the chip operated as a migration assay; it was shown that cell migration in the cell-free area generated chemically with trypsin was highly improved compared to mechanical cell-free area creations with PBS flow and the scratch assay. Our findings indicated that the increase in inlet flow rate in the mechanical assay led to a reduced experiment time and mechanical force on the cells, which could improve cell migration. Furthermore, the study on the effect of the device geometry showed that the increased channel width had an inhibitory effect on cell migration. The bi-functional chip offers an opportunity for the development of new models for a better understanding of cellular adhesion and migration in in vitro microenvironments.

Novel tetrasubstituted 5-Arylamino pyrazoles able to interfere with angiogenesis and Ca2+ mobilization

In the last years, 5-pyrazolyl ureas and 5-aminopyrazoles have been investigated for their antiangiogenetic properties and their potential interaction with the ubiquitous Ca2+ binding protein Calreticulin. Based on the structure of the active compounds I and GeGe-3, novel 5-arylamino pyrazoles 2 and 3 were synthesized through a stepwise procedure. In MTT assays, all the new derivatives proved to be non-cytotoxic against eight different tumor cell lines, normal fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. Furthermore, selected derivatives showed relevant antiangiogenetic properties, resulting more effective than reference molecules I and GeGe-3 in inhibiting HUVEC endothelial tube formation. 5-Arylamino pyrazoles 2a and 2d were identified as the most interesting compounds and significantly prevented tube formation of tumor secretome-stimulated HUVEC. Furthermore, the two compounds inhibited HUVEC migration in wound healing assay and altered cell invasion capability. Additionally, 2a and 2d strongly affected Ca2+ mobilization and cytoskeletal organization of HUVEC cells, being as active as the reference compound GeGe-3. Differently from previous studies, molecular docking simulations suggested a poor affinity of 2a towards Calreticulin, one of the interacting partners of the lead compound GeGe-3. Collectively, this new amino-pyrazole library further extends the structure-activity relationships of the previously prepared derivatives and confirmed the biological attractiveness of this chemical scaffold as antiangiogenetic agents.

Comprehensively prognostic and immunological analyses of GLP-1 signaling-related genes in pan-cancer and validation in colorectal cancer.

Background: Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) has crucial impact on glycemic control and weight loss physiologically. GLP-1 receptor agonists have been approved for treatment of diabetes and obesity. Emerging evidence suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists exert anticancer effect in tumorigenesis and development. However, the role and mechanism of GLP-1 signaling-related genes in pan-cancer still need further study. Methods: We comprehensively investigated the aberrant expression and genetic alterations of GLP-1 signaling-related genes in 33 cancer types. Next, GLP-1 signaling score of each patient in The Cancer Genome Atlas were established by the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis. In addition, we explored the association of GLP-1 signaling score with prognostic significance and immune characteristics. Furthermore, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry staining were applied to verify the expression profiling of GLP-1 signaling-related genes in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues. Wound-healing assays and migration assays were carried out to validate the role of GLP-1 receptor agonist in CRC cell lines. Results: The expression profiling of GLP-1 signaling-related genes is commonly altered in pan-cancer. The score was decreased in cancer tissues compared with normal tissues and the lower expression score was associated with worse survival in most of cancer types. Notably, GLP-1 signaling score was strongly correlated with immune cell infiltration, including T cells, neutrophils, dendritic cells and macrophages. In addition, GLP-1 signaling score exhibited close association with tumor mutation burden, microsatellite instability and immunotherapy response in patients with cancer. Moreover, we found that the expression of GLP-1 signaling-related genes ITPR1 and ADCY5 were significantly reduced in CRC tissues, and GLP-1 receptor agonist semaglutide impaired the migration capacity of CRC cells, indicating its protective role. Conclusion: This study provided a preliminary understanding of the GLP-1 signaling-related genes in pan-cancer, showing the prognosis significance and potential immunotherapeutic values in most cancer types, and verified the potential anticancer effect of GLP-1 receptor agonist in CRC.

Long noncoding RNA KCNMA1-AS2 regulates the function of colorectal cancer cells and sponges miR-1227-5p

BackgroundMany long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with altered expression significantly influence colorectal cancer (CRC) progression and behavior. The functions of many lncRNAs in CRC are not clear yet. This study aimed to discover novel lncRNA entities and comprehensively examine and validate their roles and underlying molecular mechanisms in CRC.MethodsTissue samples, both tumourous and non-tumourous, from three CRC patients were submitted for sequencing. Following expression validation in samples from ten patients and four CRC cell lines. The lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 was synthesized by In-vitro transcription RNA synthesis and the lncRNA was directly transfected into CRC cell lines to overexpress. Functional assays including MTT proliferation assay, Annexin-V/propidium iodide apoptosis assay, wound healing migration assay and cell cycle assays were performed to evaluate the effect of overexpression of KCNMA1-AS2. Furthermore, the binding of KCNMA1-AS2 to miR-1227-5p was confirmed using dual luciferase reporter assays and qPCR analyses. Subsequent bioinformatics analyses identified 58 potential downstream targets of miR-1227-5p across three databases.ResultsIn this study, we identified the lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2, the expression of which was down-regulated consistently in cancer tissues and CRC cell lines compared to non-cancerous tissues. The overexpression of lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 led to significant reduction in CRC cell proliferation and migration, increase in cell apoptosis, and more cells arrested in S phase. Additionally, the interaction between KCNMA1-AS2 and miR-1227-5p was confirmed through dual luciferase reporter assay and qPCR analysis. It is also putatively predicted that MTHFR and ST8SIA2 may be linked to CRC based on bioinformatics analyses.ConclusionsLncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 exhibited distinct gene expression patterns in both CRC tissue and cell lines, impacting various cellular functions while also acting as a sponge for miR-1227-5p.The findings spotlight lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 as a potential marker for diagnosis and treatment of CRC.

Exploring Programmed Cell Death-Related Biomarkers and Disease Therapy Strategy in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Using Transcriptomics.

Uncontrolled cellular proliferation may result in the progression of diseases such as cancer that promote organism death. Programmed cell death (PCD) is an important mechanism that ensures the quality and quantity of cells, which could be developed as a potential biomarker for disease diagnosis and treatment. RNA-seq data and clinical information of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and 1548 PCD-related genes were collected. We used the "limma" package to analyze differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The STRING database was used for protein interaction analysis, and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) and support vector machines (SVMs) regression analyses were used to identify biomarkers. Then, the timeROC package was used for classifier efficiency assessment, and the "CIBERSORT" package was used for immune infiltration analysis. Wound healing and transwell migration assay were performed to evaluate migration and invasion. We identified 800 DEGs between our control and NPC patient groups, in which 59 genes appeared to be PCD-related DEGs, with their function closely associated with NPC progression, including activation of the PI3K-Akt, TGF-β, and IL-17 signaling pathways. Furthermore, based on the STRING database, Cytoscape and six algorithms were employed to screen 16 important genes (GAPDH, FN1, IFNG, PTGS2, CXCL1, MYC, MUC1, LTF, S100A8, CAV1, CDK4, EZH2, AURKA, IL33, S100A9, and MIF). Subsequently, two reliably characterized biomarkers, FN1 and MUC1, were obtained from the Lasso and SVM analyses. The Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed that both biomarkers had area under the curve (AUC) values higher than 0.9. Meanwhile, the enrichment analysis showed that in NPC patients, the FN1 and MUC1 expression levels correlated with programmed cell death-related pathways. The enrichment analysis and cellular experimental results indicated that FN1 and MUC1 were overexpressed in NPC cells and associated with programmed cell death-related pathways. Importantly, FN1 and MUC1 severely affected the ability of NPC cells to migrate, invade, and undergo apoptosis. Finally, medroxyprogesterone acetate and 8-Bromo-cAMP acted as drug molecules for the docking of FN1 and MUC1 molecules, respectively, and had binding capacities of -9.17 and -7.27 kcal/mol, respectively. We examined the PCD-related phenotypes and screened FN1 and MUC1 as reliable biomarkers of NPC; our findings may promote the development of NPC treatment strategy.

Phenethyl isothiocyanate inhibits the carcinogenic properties of hepatocellular carcinoma Huh7.5.1 cells by activating MAPK/PI3K-Akt/p53 signaling pathways.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy with limited effective treatment options. Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) is a bioactive substance present primarily in the cruciferous vegetables. PEITC has exhibited anti-cancer properties in various cancers, including lung, bile duct, and prostate cancers. It has been demonstrated that PEITC can inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of SK-Hep1 cells, while effectively inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in HepG2 cells. However, knowledge of its anti-carcinogenic effects on Huh7.5.1 cells and its underlying mechanism remains elusive. In the present study, we aim to evaluate the anti-carcinogenic effects of PEITC on human HCC Huh7.5.1 cells. MTT assay and colony formation assay was performed to investigate the anti-proliferative effects of PEITC against Huh7.5.1 cells. The pro-apoptosis effects of PEITC were determined by Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining assay by flow cytometry (FCM), mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MMP) measurement, and Caspase-3 activity detection. A DAPI staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay was conducted to estimate the DNA damage in Huh7.5.1 cells induced by PEITC. Cell cycle progression was determined by FCM. Transwell invasion assay and wound healing migration assay were performed to investigate the impact of PEITC on the migration and invasion of Huh7.5.1 cells. In addition, transcriptome sequencing and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were used to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of the inhibitory effects of PEITC on HCC. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis was performed to verify the transcriptome data. MTT assay showed that treatment of Huh7.5.1 cells with PEITC resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in viability, and colony formation assay further confirmed its anti-proliferative effect. Furthermore, we found that PEITC could induce mitochondrial-related apoptotic responses, including a decrease of mitochondrial transmembrane potential, activation of Caspase-3 activity, and generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species. It was also observed that PEITC caused DNA damage and cell cycle arrest in the S-phase in Huh7.5.1 cells. In addition, the inhibitory effect of PEITC on the migration and invasion ability of Huh7.5.1 cells was assessed. Transcriptome sequencing analysis further suggested that PEITC could activate the typical MAPK, PI3K-Akt, and p53 signaling pathways, revealing the potential mechanism of PEITC in inhibiting the carcinogenic properties of Huh7.5.1 cells. PEITC exhibits anti-carcinogenic activities against human HCC Huh7.5.1 cells by activating MAPK/PI3K-Akt/p53 signaling pathways. Our results suggest that PEITC may be useful for the anti-HCC treatment.

In vitro assessment of the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of clarified açai (Euterpe oleracea MART) extract in a gastric cancer cell line (AGP01 cells).

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea MART) is a fruit of great importance for the Amazon region in nutritional, cultural and socioeconomic terms. In recent years, açaí has been the subject of several studies due to its beneficial properties for health, including effects against tumor cells. Therefore, the present work aimed to evaluate in vitro the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of the clarified extract of açaí juice in a human metastatic gastric cancer cell line (AGP01 cells). For comparison purposes, a non-transformed cell line of African green monkey renal epithelial cells (VERO cells) was used. The viability assay by resazurin reduction, the comet assay, the determination of cell death by differential fluorescent dyes and the wound healing migration assay were performed. A reduction in viability was observed only in the AGP01 line within 72 h. There was no genotoxic damage or cell death (through apoptosis or necrosis) in any of the cell lines. However, açaí extract induced motility reduction in both cell lines. The reduction in cell viability and the induction of the anti-migratory effect in the AGP01 cell line opens perspectives for exploring the potential of açaí as an adjuvant in the treatment of gastric cancer.

Enhanced Therapeutic Efficacy Against Melanoma through Exosomal Delivery of Hesperidin.

Melanoma, characterized as the most aggressive and metastatic form of skin cancer, currently has limited treatment options, predominantly chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, the drawbacks associated with parenterally administered chemotherapy underscore the urgent need for alternative compounds to combat melanoma effectively. Hesperidin (HES), a flavonoid present in various citrus fruits, exhibits promising anticancer activity. Nevertheless, the clinical utility of HES is hindered by challenges such as poor water solubility, a short half-life, and low oral bioavailability. In response to these limitations, we introduced a novel approach by formulating HES-loaded exosomes (Exo-HES). Isolation of exosomes was achieved through the ultracentrifugation method, and HES was efficiently loaded using the sonication method. The resulting formulations displayed a desirable particle size (∼106 nm) and exhibited a spherical morphology, as confirmed by scanning electron and atomic force microscopy. In vitro studies conducted on B16F10 cell lines demonstrated higher cytotoxicity of Exo-HES compared to free HES, supported by enhanced cellular uptake validated through coumarin-6-loaded exosomes. This superior cytotoxicity was further evidenced by DNA fragmentation, increased generation of free radicals (ROS), loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and effective inhibition of colony formation. The antimetastatic properties of Exo-HES were confirmed through wound healing and transwell migration assays. Oral pharmacokinetics studies revealed a remarkable increase of approximately 2.5 times in oral bioavailability and half-life of HES when loaded into exosomes. Subsequent in vivo experiments utilizing a B16F10-induced melanoma model in Swiss mice established that Exo-HES exhibited superior anticancer activity compared to HES after oral administration. Importantly, no biochemical, hematological, or histological toxicities were observed in tumor-bearing mice treated with Exo-HES. These findings suggest that exosomes loaded with HES represent a promising nanocarrier strategy to enhance the therapeutic effectiveness of hesperidin in melanoma treatment.

Exosomal miR-423-5p Derived from Cerebrospinal Fluid Pulsation Stress-Stimulated Osteoblasts Improves Angiogenesis of Endothelial Cells via DUSP8/ERK1/2 Signaling Pathway.

Exosomes secreted from osteoblasts (OBs) can regulate the angiogenesis of endothelial cells (ECs); however, whether cerebrospinal fluid pulsation (CSFP) stress, a special mechanical stimulation, can influence the cell's communication in the context of angiogenesis remains unknown. In this study, the effect of exosomes derived from CSFP stress-stimulated OBs on facilitating the angiogenesis of ECs was investigated. First, OBs were cultured in a CSFP bioreactor, and exosomes derived from OBs were isolated and identified. Cell Counting Kit 8 assay, transwell migration assay, wound healing migration assay, and tube formation assay were conducted to assess the effects of CSFP stress-stimulated OBs-derived exosomes (CSFP-Exos) on the angiogenesis of ECs. Then high-throughput RNA sequencing was used to determine the miRNA profiles of Non-CSFP stress-stimulated OBs-derived exosomes (NCSFP-Exos) and CSFP-Exos, and the luciferase reporter gene assay was performed to confirm the binging of miR-423-5p to DUSP8. In addition, the Matrigel plug assay was performed to explore whether exosomal miR-423-5p has the same effects in vivo. Our results suggested that CSFP-Exos can promote the angiogenesis of ECs, and miR-423-5p was enriched in CSFP-Exos. Moreover, miR-423-5p could promote the effect of angiogenesis via directly targeting dual-specificity phosphatase 8 (DUSP8), which inhibited the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. In conclusion, exosomal miR-423-5p derived from CSFP stress-stimulated OBs could promote the angiogenesis of ECs by the DUSP8/ERK1/2 signaling pathway.

PMS2 amplification contributes brain metastasis from lung cancer

BackgroundLung adenocarcinoma metastasizing to the brain results in a notable increase in patient mortality. The high incidence and its impact on survival presents a critical unmet need to develop an improved understanding of its mechanisms.MethodsTo identify genes that drive brain metastasis of tumor cells, we collected cerebrospinal fluid samples and paired plasma samples from 114 lung adenocarcinoma patients with brain metastasis and performed 168 panel-targeted gene sequencing. We examined the biological behavior of PMS2 (PMS1 Homolog 2)-amplified lung cancer cell lines through wound healing assays and migration assays. In vivo imaging techniques are used to detect fluorescent signals that colonize the mouse brain. RNA sequencing was used to compare differentially expressed genes between PMS2 amplification and wild-type lung cancer cell lines.ResultsWe discovered that PMS2 amplification was a plausible candidate driver of brain metastasis. Via in vivo and in vitro assays, we validated that PMS2 amplified PC-9 and LLC lung cancer cells had strong migration and invasion capabilities. The functional pathway of PMS2 amplification of lung cancer cells is mainly enriched in thiamine, butanoate, glutathione metabolism.ConclusionTumor cells elevated expression of PMS2 possess the capacity to augment the metastatic potential of lung cancer and establish colonies within the brain through metabolism pathways.

Development of Benzimidazole-Substituted Spirocyclopropyl Oxindole Derivatives as Cytotoxic Agents: Tubulin Polymerization Inhibition and Apoptosis Inducing Studies.

A series of spirocyclopropyl oxindoles with benzimidazole substitutions was synthesized and tested for their cytotoxicity against selected human cancer cells. Most of the molecules exhibited significant antiproliferative activity with compound 12 p being the most potent. It exhibited significant cytotoxicity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells (IC50 value 3.14±0.50 μM), evidenced by the decrease in viable cells and increased apoptotic features during phase contrast microscopy, such as AO/EB, DAPI and DCFDA staining studies. Compound 12 p also inhibited cell migration in wound healing assay. Anticancer potential of 12 p was proved by the inhibition of tubulin polymerization with IC50 of 5.64±0.15 μM. These results imply the potential of benzimidazole substituted spirocyclopropyl oxindoles, notably 12 p, as cytotoxic agent for the treatment of breast cancer.

Abstract 1055: Atxn2 Inhibition Enhances The Contractile Phenotype Of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Introduction: Phenotype switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) between their synthetic and differentiated contractile state is a critical player in controlling the stability of atherosclerotic plaque. Hundreds of genes associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) have been identified through Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS). However, the involvement of most identified genes in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis remains unknown. ATXN2 was identified as a CAD GWAS candidate gene with unclear biological role in atherosclerosis. ATXN2 regulates the endocytic internalization of the EGF receptor, which is essential in the VSMC phenotype switching. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether ATXN2 is involved in the VSMC phenotype switching. Methods and Results: Using immunofluorescence, we demonstrated that ATXN2 siRNA knockdown resulted in a 5-fold increase in the ratio of the contractile phenotype of human aortic VSMC that expressed a high alpha-smooth muscle cell actin content compared to controls. In addition, we found that ATXN2 inhibition reduced the VSMC proliferation and migration as assessed by the EdU cell proliferation assay and the wound healing migration assay, respectively. Next, we confirmed that ATXN2 siRNA knockdown increased the mRNA expression of contractile markers: calponin, alpha-smooth muscle cell actin, and smooth muscle protein 22 alpha using quantitative PCR. We found that the enhancing effect of VSMC contractile phenotype by ATXN2 siRNA was less pronounced in the absence of TGF-beta. Indeed, the enhancing effect of ATXN2 inhibition on the VSMC contractile phenotype was abolished by SMAD4 gene silencing, suggesting the involvement of TGF-beta signaling. Furthermore, we validated the expression signature of the ATXN2 gene in different phenotypic subsets of VSMC from human atherosclerotic plaque samples using single-cell RNA sequencing analysis. We detected that ATXN2 expression was negatively correlated with the contractile VSMC subset. In conclusion, our findings suggests ATXN2, CAD GWAS candidate gene, as a novel potential therapeutic target to enhance the VSMC contractile phenotype for stabilizing atherosclerotic plaque in coronary artery disease patients.

The scRNA-sequencing landscape of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma revealed distinct cell populations associated with tumor initiation and progression

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) stands as a formidable malignancy characterized by its profound lethality. The comprehensive analysis of the transcriptional landscape holds immense significance in understanding PDAC development and exploring novel treatment strategies. However, due to the firm consistency of pancreatic cancer samples, the dissociation of single cells and subsequent sequencing can be challenging. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on 8 PDAC patients with different lymph node metastasis status. We first identified the crucial role of MMP1 in the transition from normal pancreatic cells to cancer cells. The knockdown of MMP1 in pancreatic cancer cell lines decreased the expression of ductal markers such as SOX9 while the overexpression of MMP1 in hTERT-HPNE increased the expression of ductal markers, suggesting its function of maintaining ductal identity. Secondly, we found a S100A2+ tumor subset which fueled lymph node metastasis in PDAC. The knockdown of S100A2 significantly reduced the motility of pancreatic cancer cell lines in both wound healing and transwell migration assays. While overexpression of S100A2 led to increased migratory capability. Moreover, overexpression of S100A2 in KPC1199, a mouse pancreatic cancer cell line, caused a larger tumor burden in a hemi-spleen injection model of liver metastasis. In addition, epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related genes were decreased by S100A2 knockdown revealed by bulk RNA sequencing. We also identified several pivotal contributors to the pro-tumor microenvironment, notably OMD+ fibroblast and CCL2+ macrophage. As a result, our study provides valuable insights for early detection of PDAC and promising therapeutic targets for combatting lymph node metastasis.

Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride plus sufentanil citrate inhibits glucose metabolism and epithelial‑mesenchymal transition in human esophageal squamous carcinoma KYSE30 cells by modulating the JAK/STAT3/HIF‑1α axis.

Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride (DEX-HCl) and sufentanil citrate (SFC) are commonly used anesthetic drugs for esophageal cancer (EC) surgery. The present study was performed to investigate the effect of DEX-HCl and SFC treatment on glucose metabolism and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in EC. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK8), clonogenic, wound healing and Transwell migration assays were performed to assess the effects of the DEX-HCl and SFC on KYSE30 cell proliferation, invasion and migration. Changes in lactate and glucose levels in KYSE30 cells were also detected. Western blot analysis was used to determine the protein expression levels of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway and glucose metabolism-related proteins. The results of CCK8, clonogenic and wound healing assays demonstrated that DEX-HCl and SFC inhibited KYSE30 cell proliferation, invasion and migration. Similarly, the combined DEX-HCl and SFC treatment significantly reduced lactate production, ATP production and glucose levels in KYSE30 cells. Western blotting indicated that DEX-HCl and SFC could reduce JAK/STAT and metastasis-related protein expression. Demonstrating a reduction in Hexokinase 2, matrix metallopeptidase 2 and 9, N-cadherin and lactate dehydrogenase A protein expression levels. The effects of DEX-HCl and SFC combined treatment were counteracted by the addition of JAK/STAT pathway activator RO8191, which suggested that DEX-HCl and SFC could serve a role in mediating the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in KYSE30 cells.

Cordycepin Enhanced Therapeutic Potential of Gemcitabine against Cholangiocarcinoma via Downregulating Cancer Stem-Like Properties.

Cordycepin, a valuable bioactive component isolated from Cordyceps militaris, has been reported to possess anti-cancer potential and the property to enhance the effects of chemotherapeutic agents in various types of cancers. However, the ability of cordycepin to chemosensitize cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) cells to gemcitabine has not yet been evaluated. The current study was performed to evaluate the above, and the mechanisms associated with it. The study analyzed the effects of cordycepin in combination with gemcitabine on the cancer stem-like properties of the CCA SNU478 cell line, including its anti-apoptotic, migratory, and antioxidant effects. In addition, the combination of cordycepin and gemcitabine was evaluated in the CCA xenograft model. The cordycepin treatment significantly decreased SNU478 cell viability and, in combination with gemcitabine, additively reduced cell viability. The cordycepin and gemcitabine co-treatment significantly increased the Annexin V+ population and downregulated B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expression, suggesting that the decreased cell viability in the cordycepin+gemcitabine group may result from an increase in apoptotic death. In addition, the cordycepin and gemcitabine co-treatment significantly reduced the migratory ability of SNU478 cells in the wound healing and trans-well migration assays. It was observed that the cordycepin and gemcitabine cotreatment reduced the CD44highCD133high population in SNU478 cells and the expression level of sex determining region Y-box 2 (Sox-2), indicating the downregulation of the cancer stem-like population. Cordycepin also enhanced oxidative damage mediated by gemcitabine in MitoSOX staining associated with the upregulated Kelch like ECH Associated Protein 1 (Keap1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression ratio. In the SNU478 xenograft model, co-administration of cordycepin and gemcitabine additively delayed tumor growth. These results indicate that cordycepin potentiates the chemotherapeutic property of gemcitabine against CCA, which results from the downregulation of its cancer-stem-like properties. Hence, the combination therapy of cordycepin and gemcitabine may be a promising therapeutic strategy in the treatment of CCA.