Expression of a fungal ferulic acid esterase in alfalfa modifies cell wall digestibility

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is an important forage crop in North America owing to its high biomass production, perennial nature and ability to fix nitrogen. Feruloyl esterase (EC 3.1.1.73) hydrolyzes ester linkages in plant cell walls and has the potential to further improve alfalfa as biomass for biofuel production. Results In this study, faeB [GenBank:AJ309807] was synthesized at GenScript and sub-cloned into a novel pEACH vector containing different signaling peptides to target type B ferulic acid esterase (FAEB) proteins to the apoplast, chloroplast, endoplasmic reticulum and vacuole. Four constructs harboring faeB were transiently expressed in Nicotiana leaves, with FAEB accumulating at high levels in all target sites, except chloroplast. Stable transformed lines of alfalfa were subsequently obtained using Agrobacterium tumefaciens (LBA4404). Out of 136 transgenic plants regenerated, 18 independent lines exhibited FAEB activity. Subsequent in vitro digestibility and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis of FAEB-expressing lines showed that they possessed modified cell wall morphology and composition with a reduction in ester linkages and elevated lignin content. Consequently, they were more recalcitrant to digestion by mixed ruminal microorganisms. Interestingly, delignification by alkaline peroxide treatment followed by exposure to a commercial cellulase mixture resulted in higher glucose release from transgenic lines as compared to the control line. Conclusion Modifying cell wall crosslinking has the potential to lower recalcitrance of holocellulose, but also exhibited unintended consequences on alfalfa cell wall digestibility due to elevated lignin content. The combination of efficient delignification treatment (alkaline peroxide) and transgenic esterase activity complement each other towards efficient and effective digestion of transgenic lines. PMID:24650274

Innate responses to gene knockouts impact overlapping gene networks and vary with respect to resistance to viral infection.

PubMed

Liu, Yonghong; Liu, Yuanyuan; Wu, Jiaming; Roizman, Bernard; Zhou, Grace Guoying

2018-04-03

Analyses of the levels of mRNAs encoding IFIT1, IFI16, RIG-1, MDA5, CXCL10, LGP2, PUM1, LSD1, STING, and IFNβ in cell lines from which the gene encoding LGP2, LSD1, PML, HDAC4, IFI16, PUM1, STING, MDA5, IRF3, or HDAC 1 had been knocked out, as well as the ability of these cell lines to support the replication of HSV-1, revealed the following: ( i ) Cell lines lacking the gene encoding LGP2, PML, or HDAC4 (cluster 1) exhibited increased levels of expression of partially overlapping gene networks. Concurrently, these cell lines produced from 5 fold to 12 fold lower yields of HSV-1 than the parental cells. ( ii ) Cell lines lacking the genes encoding STING, LSD1, MDA5, IRF3, or HDAC 1 (cluster 2) exhibited decreased levels of mRNAs of partially overlapping gene networks. Concurrently, these cell lines produced virus yields that did not differ from those produced by the parental cell line. The genes up-regulated in cell lines forming cluster 1, overlapped in part with genes down-regulated in cluster 2. The key conclusions are that gene knockouts and subsequent selection for growth causes changes in expression of multiple genes, and hence the phenotype of the cell lines cannot be ascribed to a single gene; the patterns of gene expression may be shared by multiple knockouts; and the enhanced immunity to viral replication by cluster 1 knockout cell lines but not by cluster 2 cell lines suggests that in parental cells, the expression of innate resistance to infection is specifically repressed.

[Therapeutic cloning. Biology, perspectives and alternatives].

PubMed

Maddox-Hyttel, Poul

2003-02-24

Certain diseases are caused by or cause irreversible loss of cells and may in the future be treated by cell-based therapies where spare cells are introduced into the body. Therapeutic cloning constitutes a scientifically and ethically challenging route to the generation of autologous patient specific spare cells: Stem cells for subsequent differentiation and transplantation are isolated from one week old embryos, which are produced by cloning by nuclear transfer from normal cells retrieved from a patient. Research in therapeutic cloning should be pursued in line with alternative strategies for obtaining stem cells. Finally, the molecular biology of cloning by nuclear transfer may hold the key to understanding trans-differentiation, which ultimately may allow for de-differentiation and subsequent re-differentiation of adult somatic cells for therapeutic purposes.

Analysis of proviral integration in human mammary epithelial cell lines immortalized by retroviral infection with a temperature-sensitive SV40 T-antigen construct.

PubMed

Stamps, A C; Davies, S C; Burman, J; O'Hare, M J

1994-06-15

A panel of eight conditionally immortal lines derived by infection of human breast epithelial cells with an amphotropic retrovirus transducing a ts mutant of SV40 large T-antigen was analyzed with respect to individual retroviral integration patterns. Each line contained multiple integration sites which were clonal and stable over extended passage. Similar integration patterns were observed between individual lines arising separately from the same stock of pre-immortal cells, suggesting a common progenitor. Retroviral integration analysis of pre-immortal cells at different stages of pre-crisis growth showed changes indicative of a progressive transition from polyclonality to clonality as the cells approached crisis. Each of the immortal lines contained a sub-set of the integration sites of their pre-immortal progenitors, with individual combinations and copy numbers of sites. Since all the cell lines appeared to originate from single foci in separate flasks, it is likely that each set arose from a common clone of pre-immortal cells as the result of separate genetic events. There was no evidence from this analysis to suggest that specific integration sites played any part either in the selection of pre-crisis clones or in the subsequent establishment of immortal lines.

Novel tag-and-exchange (RMCE) strategies generate master cell clones with predictable and stable transgene expression properties.

PubMed

Qiao, Junhua; Oumard, André; Wegloehner, Wolfgang; Bode, Juergen

2009-07-24

Site-specific recombinases have revolutionized the systematic generation of transgenic cell lines and embryonic stem cells/animals and will ultimately also reveal their potential in the genetic modification of induced pluripotent stem cells. Introduced in 1994, our Flp recombinase-mediated cassette exchange strategy permits the exchange of a target cassette for a cassette with the gene of interest, introduced as a part of an exchange vector. The process is "clean" in the sense that it does not co-introduce prokaryotic vector parts; neither does it leave behind a selection marker. Stringent selection principles provide master cell lines permitting subsequent recombinase-mediated cassette exchange cycles in the absence of a drug selection and with a considerable efficiency (approximately 10%). Exemplified by Chinese hamster ovary cells, the strategy proves to be successful even for cell lines with an unstable genotype.

Combining bio-electrospraying with gene therapy: a novel biotechnique for the delivery of genetic material via living cells.

PubMed

Ward, Eliot; Chan, Emma; Gustafsson, Kenth; Jayasinghe, Suwan N

2010-05-01

The investigations reported in this article demonstrate the ability of bio-electrosprays and cell electrospinning to deliver a genetic construct in association with living cells. Previous studies on both bio-electrosprays and cell electrospinning demonstrated great promise for tissue engineering and regenerative biology/medicine. The investigations described herein widen the applicability of these biotechniques by combining gene therapy protocols, resulting in a novel drug delivery methodology previously unexplored. In these studies a human cell line was transduced with recombinant self-inactivating lentiviral particles. These particles incorporated a green fluorescent protein fused to an endosomal targeting construct. This construct encodes a peptide, which can subsequently be detected on the surface of cells by specific T-cells. The transduced cell line was subsequently manipulated in association with either bio-electrospraying or cell electrospinning. Hence this demonstrates (i) the ability to safely handle genetically modified living cells and (ii) the ability to directly form pre-determined architectures bearing living therapeutic cells. This merged technology demonstrates a unique approach for directly forming living therapeutic architectures for controlled and targeted release of experimental cells/genes, as well as medical cell/gene therapeutics for a plethora of biological and medical applications. Hence, such developments could be applied to personalised medicine.

Ophiobolin A, a sesterpenoid fungal phytotoxin, displays different mechanisms of cell death in mammalian cells depending upon the cancer cell origin.

PubMed

Morrison, Rachel; Lodge, Tiffany; Evidente, Antonio; Kiss, Robert; Townley, Helen

2017-03-01

Herein we have undertaken a systematic analysis of the effects of the fungal derivative ophiobolin A (OphA) on eight cancer cell lines from different tissue types. The LD50 for each cell line was determined and the change in cell size determined. Flow cytometric analysis and western blotting were used to assess the cell death markers for early apoptosis, late apoptosis and necrosis, and the involvement of the caspase signalling pathway. Alterations in calcium levels and reactive oxygen species were assessed due to their integral involvement in intracellular signalling. Subsequently, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondrial responses were investigated more closely. The extent of ER swelling, and the upregulation of proteins involved in the unfolded protein responses (UPR) were seen to vary according to cell line. The mitochondria were also shown to behave differently in response to the OphA in the different cell lines in terms of the change in membrane potential, the total area of mitochondria in the cell and the number of mitochondrial bifurcations. The data obtained in the present study indicate that the cancer cell lines tested are unable to successfully activate the ER stress/UPR responses, and that the mitochondria appear to be a central player in OphA-induced cancer cell death.

RNA deep sequencing as a tool for selection of cell lines for systematic subcellular localization of all human proteins.

PubMed

Danielsson, Frida; Wiking, Mikaela; Mahdessian, Diana; Skogs, Marie; Ait Blal, Hammou; Hjelmare, Martin; Stadler, Charlotte; Uhlén, Mathias; Lundberg, Emma

2013-01-04

One of the major challenges of a chromosome-centric proteome project is to explore in a systematic manner the potential proteins identified from the chromosomal genome sequence, but not yet characterized on a protein level. Here, we describe the use of RNA deep sequencing to screen human cell lines for RNA profiles and to use this information to select cell lines suitable for characterization of the corresponding gene product. In this manner, the subcellular localization of proteins can be analyzed systematically using antibody-based confocal microscopy. We demonstrate the usefulness of selecting cell lines with high expression levels of RNA transcripts to increase the likelihood of high quality immunofluorescence staining and subsequent successful subcellular localization of the corresponding protein. The results show a path to combine transcriptomics with affinity proteomics to characterize the proteins in a gene- or chromosome-centric manner.

Nuclear microanalysis of platinum and trace elements in cisplatin-resistant human ovarian adenocarcinoma cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moretto, P.; Ortega, R.; Llabador, Y.; Simonoff, M.; Bénard, J.; Moretto, Ph.

1995-09-01

Macro-and Micro-PIXE analysis were applied to study the mechanisms of cellular resistance to cisplatin, a chemotherapeutic agent, widely used nowadays for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Two cultured cell lines, a cisplatin-sensitive and a resistant one, were compared for their trace elements content and platinum accumulation following in vitro exposure to the drug. Bulk analysis revealed significant differences in copper and iron content between the two lines. Subsequent individual cell microanalysis permitted us to characterize the response of the different morphological cell types of the resistant line. This study showed that the metabolism of some trace metals in cisplatin-resistant cells could be affected but the exact relationship with the resistant phenotype remains to be determined. From a technical point of view, this experiment demonstrated that an accurate measurement of trace elements could be derived from nuclear microprobe analysis of individual cell.

Characteristics of bovine inner cell mass-derived cell lines and their fate in chimeric conceptuses.

PubMed

Furusawa, Tadashi; Ohkoshi, Katsuhiro; Kimura, Koji; Matsuyama, Shuichi; Akagi, Satoshi; Kaneda, Masahiro; Ikeda, Mitsumi; Hosoe, Misa; Kizaki, Keiichiro; Tokunaga, Tomoyuki

2013-08-01

Bovine embryonic stem (ES) cells have the potential to provide significant benefits in a range of agricultural and biomedical applications. Here, we employed a combination of conventional methods using glycogen synthase kinase 3 and mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitors to establish ES cell lines from in vitro fertilization (IVF) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) bovine embryos. Five male cell lines were established from IVF embryos, and two female and three male cell lines from SCNT blastocysts; we named these lines bovine ES cell-like cells (bESLCs). The lines exhibited dome-shaped colonies, stained positively for alkaline phosphatase, and expressed pluripotent stem cell markers such as POU5F1, SOX2, and SSEA-1. The expression levels of these markers, especially for NANOG, varied among the cell lines. A DNA methylation assay showed the POU5F1 promoter region was hypomethylated compared to fibroblast cells. An in vitro differentiation assay showed that endoderm and ectoderm marker genes, but not mesoderm markers, were upregulated in differentiating bESLCs. To examine bESLCs in later embryonic stages, we created 22 chimeric blastocysts with a male bESLC line carrying a GFP marker gene and transferred these to a recipient cow. Four chimeric embryos were subsequently retrieved on Day 13 and retransferred to two recipient cows. One living fetus was obtained at Day 62. GFP signals were not identified in fetal cells by fluorescence microscopy; however, genomic PCR analysis detected the GFP gene in major organs. Clusters of GFP-positive cells were observed in amniotic membranes, suggesting that bESLCs can be categorized as a novel type of ICM-derived cells that can potentially differentiate into epiblast and hypoblast lineages.

Post-Progression Survival Associated with Overall Survival in Patients with Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Receiving Docetaxel Monotherapy as Second-Line Chemotherapy.

PubMed

Kotake, Mie; Miura, Yosuke; Imai, Hisao; Mori, Keita; Sakurai, Reiko; Kaira, Kyoichi; Tomizawa, Yoshio; Minato, Koichi; Saito, Ryusei; Hisada, Takeshi

2017-01-01

In patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the effects of second-line chemotherapy on overall survival (OS) might be confounded by subsequent therapies. Therefore, using individual-level data, we aimed to determine the relationships between progression-free survival (PFS) and post-progression survival (PPS) with OS in patients with advanced NSCLC treated with docetaxel monotherapy as second-line chemotherapy. Between April 2002 and December 2014, data from 86 patients with advanced NSCLC who underwent second-line docetaxel monotherapy following first-line treatment with platinum combination chemotherapy were analyzed. The relationships of PFS and PPS with OS were analyzed at the individual level. Spearman rank correlation and linear regression analyses showed that PPS was strongly associated with OS (r = 0.86, p < 0.05, R2 = 0.93), whereas PFS was moderately correlated with OS (r = 0.50, p < 0.05, R2 = 0.21). Performance status at the end of second-line treatment and the number of regimens after progression beyond second-line chemotherapy were significantly associated with PPS (p < 0.05). In patients with advanced NSCLC with unknown oncogenic driver mutations undergoing docetaxel monotherapy as second-line chemotherapy, when compared with PFS, PPS had a stronger association with OS. This finding suggests that subsequent treatment after disease progression following second-line docetaxel monotherapy has a significant influence on OS. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Molecular Predictors of 3D Morphogenesis by Breast Cancer Cell Lines in 3D Culture

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Han, Ju; Chang, Hang; Giricz, Orsi

Correlative analysis of molecular markers with phenotypic signatures is the simplest model for hypothesis generation. In this paper, a panel of 24 breast cell lines was grown in 3D culture, their morphology was imaged through phase contrast microscopy, and computational methods were developed to segment and represent each colony at multiple dimensions. Subsequently, subpopulations from these morphological responses were identified through consensus clustering to reveal three clusters of round, grape-like, and stellate phenotypes. In some cases, cell lines with particular pathobiological phenotypes clustered together (e.g., ERBB2 amplified cell lines sharing the same morphometric properties as the grape-like phenotype). Next, associationsmore » with molecular features were realized through (i) differential analysis within each morphological cluster, and (ii) regression analysis across the entire panel of cell lines. In both cases, the dominant genes that are predictive of the morphological signatures were identified. Specifically, PPAR? has been associated with the invasive stellate morphological phenotype, which corresponds to triple-negative pathobiology. PPAR? has been validated through two supporting biological assays.« less

Synthesis of novel lipoamino acid conjugates of sapienic acid and evaluation of their cytotoxicity activities.

PubMed

Gopal, Sanganamoni Chinna; Kaki, Shiva Shanker; Rao, Bhamidipati V S K; Poornachandra, Yedla; Kumar, Chityal Ganesh; Narayana Prasad, Rachapudi Badari

2014-01-01

Novel lipoamino acids were prepared with the coupling of sapienic acid [(Z)-6-hexadecenoic acid] with α - amino group of amino acids and the resulting N-sapienoyl amino acids were tested for their cytotoxicity activities against four cancer based cell lines. Initially, sapienic acid was synthesized by the Wittig coupling of triphenylphosphonium bromide salt of 6-bromohexanoic acid and decanal with a Z specific reagent. The prepared sapienic acid was subsequently converted to its acid chloride which was further coupled with amino acids by the Schotten-Baumann reaction to form N-sapienoyl amino acid conjugates. Structural characterization of the prepared N-sapienoyl amino acid derivatives was done by spectral data (IR, mass spectra and NMR). These lipoamino acid derivatives were screened for in vitro cytotoxicity evaluation. Cytotoxicity evaluation against four cancer cell lines showed that N-sapienoyl isoleucine was active against three cell lines whereas other derivatives either showed activity against only one or two cell lines with very moderate activity and two derivatives were observed to be inactive against the tested cell lines.

In Vitro Biocompatibility of Nanoscale Zerovalent Iron Particles (NZVI) Synthesized using tea-polyphenols.

EPA Science Inventory

A “green” protocol was used for the rapid generation of nanoscale zerovalent iron (NZVI) particles using tea polyphenols. The NZVI particles were subsequently examined for in vitro biocompatibility using the human keratinocyte cell (HaCaT) line as a skin exposure model. The cell...

Cancer stem cell markers in patterning differentiation and in prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Mohanta, Simple; Siddappa, Gangotri; Valiyaveedan, Sindhu Govindan; Dodda Thimmasandra Ramanjanappa, Ravindra; Das, Debashish; Pandian, Ramanan; Khora, Samanta Sekhar; Kuriakose, Moni Abraham; Suresh, Amritha

2017-06-01

Differentiation is a major histological parameter determining tumor aggressiveness and prognosis of the patient; cancer stem cells with their slow dividing and undifferentiated nature might be one of the factors determining the same. This study aims to correlate cancer stem cell markers (CD44 and CD147) with tumor differentiation and evaluate their subsequent effect on prognosis. Immunohistochemical analysis in treatment naïve oral cancer patients (n = 53) indicated that the expression of CD147 was associated with poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma and moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (p < 0.01). Furthermore, co-expression analysis showed that 45% each of moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma and poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma patients were CD44 high /CD147 high as compared to only 10% of patients with well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. A three-way analysis indicated that differentiation correlated with recurrence and survival (p < 0.05) in only the patients with CD44 high /CD147 high cohort. Subsequently, relevance of these cancer stem cell markers in patterning the differentiation characteristics was evaluated in oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines originating from different grades of oral cancer. Flowcytometry-based analysis indicated an increase in CD44 + /CD147 + cells in cell lines of poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (94.35 ± 1.14%, p < 0.001) and moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma origin (93.49 ± 0.47%, p < 0.001) as compared to cell line of well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma origin (23.12% ± 0.49%). Expression profiling indicated higher expression of cancer stem cell and epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers in SCC029B (poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma originated; p ≤ 0.001), which was further translated into increased spheroid formation, migration, and invasion (p < 0.001) as compared to cell line of well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma origin. This study suggests that CD44 and CD147 together improve the prognostic efficacy of tumor differentiation; in vitro results further point out that these markers might be determinant of differentiation characteristics, imparting properties of increased self-renewal, migration, and invasion.

Tuft (caveolated) cells in two human colon carcinoma cell lines.

PubMed

Barkla, D H; Whitehead, R H; Foster, H; Tutton, P J

1988-09-01

The presence of an unusual cell type in two human colon carcinoma cell lines is reported. The cells show the same morphology as "tuft" (caveolated) cells present in normal gastrointestinal epithelium. Tuft cells were seen in cell line LIM 1863 growing in vitro and in human colon carcinoma cell line LIM 2210 growing as subcutaneous solid tumour xenografts in nude mice. Characteristic morphologic features of tuft cells included a wide base, narrow apex and a tuft of long microvilli projecting from the apical surface. The microvilli are attached by a core of long microfilaments passing deep into the apical cytoplasm. Between the microvilli are parallel arrays of vesicles (caveoli) containing flocculent material. Two different but not mutually exclusive explanations for the presence of tuft cells are proposed. The first explanation is that tuft cells came from the resected tumour and have survived by mitotic division during subsequent passages. The second explanation suggests that tuft cells are the progeny of undifferentiated tumour cells. Descriptions of tuft cells in colon carcinomas are uncommon and possible reasons for this are presented. The morphology of tuft cells is consistent with that of a highly differentiated cell specialised for absorption, and these new models provide an opportunity to further investigate the structure and function of tuft cells.

Spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase (SSAT) activity in human small-cell lung carcinoma cells following transfection with a genomic SSAT construct.

PubMed

Murray-Stewart, Tracy; Applegren, Nancy B; Devereux, Wendy; Hacker, Amy; Smith, Renee; Wang, Yanlin; Casero, Robert A

2003-07-15

Spermidine/spermine N (1)-acetyltransferase (SSAT) activity is typically highly inducible in non-small-cell lung carcinomas in response to treatment with anti-tumour polyamine analogues, and this induction is associated with subsequent cell death. In contrast, cells of the small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) phenotype generally do not respond to these compounds with an increase in SSAT activity, and usually are only moderately affected with respect to growth. The goal of the present study was to produce an SSAT-overexpressing SCLC cell line to further investigate the role of SSAT in response to these anti-tumour analogues. To accomplish this, NCI-H82 SCLC cells were stably transfected with plasmids containing either the SSAT genomic sequence or the corresponding cDNA sequence. Individual clones were selected based on their ability to show induced SSAT activity in response to exposure to a polyamine analogue, and an increase in the steady-state SSAT mRNA level. Cells transfected with the genomic sequence exhibited a significant increase in basal SSAT mRNA expression, as well as enhanced SSAT activity, intracellular polyamine pool depletion and growth inhibition following treatment with the analogue N (1), N (11)-bis(ethyl)norspermine. Cells containing the transfected cDNA also exhibited an increase in the basal SSAT mRNA level, but remained phenotypically similar to vector control cells with respect to their response to analogue exposure. These studies indicate that both the genomic SSAT sequence and polyamine analogue exposure play a role in the transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation and subsequent induction of SSAT activity in these cells. Furthermore, this is the first production of a cell line capable of SSAT protein induction from a generally unresponsive parent line.

Generation of Corneal Keratocytes from Human Embryonic Stem Cells.

PubMed

Hertsenberg, Andrew J; Funderburgh, James L

2016-01-01

Human Embryonic Stem Cells (hESC) offer an important resource as a limitless supply of any differentiated cell type of the human body. Keratocytes, cells from the corneal stroma, may have the potential for restoration of vision in cell therapy and biomedical engineering applications, but these specialized cells are not readily expanded in vitro. Here we describe a two-part method to produce keratocytes from the H1 hESC cell line. The hESC cells, maintained and expanded in feeder-free culture medium are first differentiated to neural crest cells using the stromal-derived inducing activity (SDIA) of the PA6 mouse embryonic fibroblast cell line. The resulting neural crest cells are selected by their expression of cell-surface CD271 and subsequently cultured as 3D pellets in a defined differentiation medium to induce a keratocyte phenotype.

[Partial purification of peptides present in the Tityus macrochirus (Buthidae) scorpion venom and preliminary assessment of their cytotoxicity].

PubMed

Rincón-Cortés, Clara Andrea; Reyes-Montaño, Edgar Antonio; Vega-Castro, Nohora Angélica

2017-06-01

Scorpion venom contains peptides with neurotoxic action primarily active on ion channels in the nervous system of insects and mammals. They are also characterized as cytolytic and anticancer, biological characteristics that have not yet been reported for the Tityus macrochirus venom. To assess if the total T. macrochirus venom and the fraction of partially purified peptides decrease the viability of various tumor-derived cell lines. The scorpion venom was collected by electrical stimulation and, subsequently, subjected to chromatography, electrophoresis, and ultrafiltration with Amicon Ultra 0.5® membranes for the partial identification and purification of its peptides. The cytotoxic activity of the venom and the peptides fraction trials on tumor-derived cell lines were carried out by the MTT method. The T. macrochirus scorpion venom has peptides with molecular weights ranging between 3 and 10 kDa. They were partially purified using the ultrafiltration technique, and assessed by the RP-HPLC method. Cytotoxicity trials with the whole T. macrochirus venom showed a higher viability decrease on the PC3 cell line compared to the other cell lines assessed, while the partially purified peptides decreased the HeLa cell line viability. Peptides in the T. macrochirus scorpion venom showed cytotoxic activity on some tumorderived cell lines. We observed some degree of selectivity against other cell lines assessed.

Ophiobolin A, a sesterpenoid fungal phytotoxin, displays different mechanisms of cell death in mammalian cells depending upon the cancer cell origin

PubMed Central

Morrison, Rachel; Lodge, Tiffany; Evidente, Antonio; Kiss, Robert; Townley, Helen

2017-01-01

Herein we have undertaken a systematic analysis of the effects of the fungal derivative ophiobolin A (OphA) on eight cancer cell lines from different tissue types. The LD50 for each cell line was determined and the change in cell size determined. Flow cytometric analysis and western blotting were used to assess the cell death markers for early apoptosis, late apoptosis and necrosis, and the involvement of the caspase signalling pathway. Alterations in calcium levels and reactive oxygen species were assessed due to their integral involvement in intracellular signalling. Subsequently, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondrial responses were investigated more closely. The extent of ER swelling, and the upregulation of proteins involved in the unfolded protein responses (UPR) were seen to vary according to cell line. The mitochondria were also shown to behave differently in response to the OphA in the different cell lines in terms of the change in membrane potential, the total area of mitochondria in the cell and the number of mitochondrial bifurcations. The data obtained in the present study indicate that the cancer cell lines tested are unable to successfully activate the ER stress/UPR responses, and that the mitochondria appear to be a central player in OphA-induced cancer cell death. PMID:28112374

Extracts from black carrot tissue culture as potent anticancer agents.

PubMed

Sevimli-Gur, Canan; Cetin, Burcu; Akay, Seref; Gulce-Iz, Sultan; Yesil-Celiktas, Ozlem

2013-09-01

Black carrots contain anthocyanins possessing enhanced physiological activities. Explants of young black carrot shoots were cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium for callus initiation and were transferred to new MS medium supplemented with four different combinations of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and kinetin. Subsequently, the lyophilized calli and black carrot harvested from fields were subjected to ultrasound extraction with ethanol at a ratio of 1:15 (w:v). Obtained extracts were applied to various human cancer cell lines including MCF-7 SK-BR-3 and MDA-MB-231 (human breast adenocarcinomas), HT-29 (human colon adenocarcinoma), PC-3 (human prostate adenocarcinoma), Neuro 2A (Musmusculus neuroblastoma) cancer cell lines and VERO (African green monkey kidney) normal cell line by MTT assay. The highest cytotoxic activity was achieved against Neuro-2A cell lines exhibiting viability of 38-46% at 6.25 μg/ml concentration for all calli and natural extracts. However, a significantly high IC50 value of 170.13 μg/ml was attained in normal cell line VERO indicating that its natural counterpart is an ideal candidate for treatment of brain cancer without causing negative effects to normal healthy cells.

Evidence for epithelial-mesenchymal transition in cancer stem-like cells derived from carcinoma cell lines of the cervix uteri.

PubMed

Lin, Jiaying; Liu, Xishi; Ding, Ding

2015-01-01

The cancer stem cell (CSC) paradigm is one possible way to understand the genesis of cancer, and cervical cancer in particular. We quantified and enriched ALDH1(+) cells within cervical cancer cell lines and subsequently characterized their phenotypical and functional properties like invasion capacity and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). ALDH1 expression in spheroid-derived cells (SDC) and the parental monolayer-derived cell (MDC) line was compared by flow-cytometry. Invasion capability was evaluated by Matrigel assay and expression of EMT-related genes Twist 1, Twist 2, Snail 1, Snail 2, Vimentin and E-cadherin by real-time PCR. ALDH1 expression was significantly higher in SDC. ALDH1(+) cells showed increased colony-formation. SDC expressed lower levels of E-cadherin and elevated levels of Twist 1, Twist 2, Snail 1, Snail 2 and Vimentin compared to MDC. Cervical cancer cell lines harbor potential CSC, characterized by ALDH1 expression as well as properties like invasiveness, colony-forming ability, and EMT. CSC can be enriched by anchorage-independent culture techniques, which may be important for the investigation of their contribution to therapy resistance, tumor recurrence and metastasis.

Establishment of a novel clear cell sarcoma cell line (Hewga-CCS), and investigation of the antitumor effects of pazopanib on Hewga-CCS

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) is a therapeutically unresolved, aggressive, soft tissue sarcoma (STS) that predominantly affects young adults. This sarcoma is defined by t(12;22)(q13;q12) translocation, which leads to the fusion of Ewing sarcoma gene (EWS) to activating transcription factor 1 (ATF1) gene, producing a chimeric EWS-ATF1 fusion gene. We established a novel CCS cell line called Hewga-CCS and developed an orthotopic tumor xenograft model to enable comprehensive bench-side investigation for intensive basic and preclinical research in CCS with a paucity of experimental cell lines. Methods Hewga-CCS was derived from skin metastatic lesions of a CCS developed in a 34-year-old female. The karyotype and chimeric transcript were analyzed. Xenografts were established and characterized by morphology and immunohistochemical reactivity. Subsequently, the antitumor effects of pazopanib, a recently approved, novel, multitargeted, tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) used for the treatment of advanced soft tissue sarcoma, on Hewga-CCS were assessed in vitro and in vivo. Results Hewga-CCS harbored the type 2 EWS-ATF1 transcript. Xenografts morphologically mimicked the primary tumor and expressed S-100 protein and antigens associated with melanin synthesis (Melan-A, HMB45). Pazopanib suppressed the growth of Hewga-CCS both in vivo and in vitro. A phospho-receptor tyrosine kinase array revealed phosphorylation of c-MET, but not of VEGFR, in Hewga-CCS. Subsequent experiments showed that pazopanib exerted antitumor effects through the inhibition of HGF/c-MET signaling. Conclusions CCS is a rare, devastating disease, and our established CCS cell line and xenograft model may be a useful tool for further in-depth investigation and understanding of the drug-sensitivity mechanism. PMID:24946937

Establishment of a novel clear cell sarcoma cell line (Hewga-CCS), and investigation of the antitumor effects of pazopanib on Hewga-CCS.

PubMed

Outani, Hidetatsu; Tanaka, Takaaki; Wakamatsu, Toru; Imura, Yoshinori; Hamada, Kenichiro; Araki, Nobuhito; Itoh, Kazuyuki; Yoshikawa, Hideki; Naka, Norifumi

2014-06-19

Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) is a therapeutically unresolved, aggressive, soft tissue sarcoma (STS) that predominantly affects young adults. This sarcoma is defined by t(12;22)(q13;q12) translocation, which leads to the fusion of Ewing sarcoma gene (EWS) to activating transcription factor 1 (ATF1) gene, producing a chimeric EWS-ATF1 fusion gene. We established a novel CCS cell line called Hewga-CCS and developed an orthotopic tumor xenograft model to enable comprehensive bench-side investigation for intensive basic and preclinical research in CCS with a paucity of experimental cell lines. Hewga-CCS was derived from skin metastatic lesions of a CCS developed in a 34-year-old female. The karyotype and chimeric transcript were analyzed. Xenografts were established and characterized by morphology and immunohistochemical reactivity. Subsequently, the antitumor effects of pazopanib, a recently approved, novel, multitargeted, tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) used for the treatment of advanced soft tissue sarcoma, on Hewga-CCS were assessed in vitro and in vivo. Hewga-CCS harbored the type 2 EWS-ATF1 transcript. Xenografts morphologically mimicked the primary tumor and expressed S-100 protein and antigens associated with melanin synthesis (Melan-A, HMB45). Pazopanib suppressed the growth of Hewga-CCS both in vivo and in vitro. A phospho-receptor tyrosine kinase array revealed phosphorylation of c-MET, but not of VEGFR, in Hewga-CCS. Subsequent experiments showed that pazopanib exerted antitumor effects through the inhibition of HGF/c-MET signaling. CCS is a rare, devastating disease, and our established CCS cell line and xenograft model may be a useful tool for further in-depth investigation and understanding of the drug-sensitivity mechanism.

Automatic microscopy for mitotic cell location.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herron, J.; Ranshaw, R.; Castle, J.; Wald, N.

1972-01-01

Advances are reported in the development of an automatic microscope with which to locate hematologic or other cells in mitosis for subsequent chromosome analysis. The system under development is designed to perform the functions of: slide scanning to locate metaphase cells; conversion of images of selected cells into binary form; and on-line computer analysis of the digitized image for significant cytogenetic data. Cell detection criteria are evaluated using a test sample of 100 mitotic cells and 100 artifacts.

Metabolic regulation of magnolol on the nuclear receptor, liver X receptor.

PubMed

Xie, N A; Hu, Chunyang; Guo, Anran; Liang, Hao; DU, Pengcheng; Yin, Guotian

2015-05-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether magnolol, the essential component of the traditional Chinese medicine, Magnolia officinalis , can pass through liver X receptor α (LXRα), to subsequently play an important role in the lipid metabolic balance. Using a HepG2 human hepatoma cell line, mammalian cellular one-hybridization and mammalian cell transcriptional activation experiments were performed to detect the combination degree of magnolol at different concentrations with LXRα, and assess the transcriptional activity. In addition, using a THP-1 human monocytic cell line, quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to assess the effect on the expression levels of downstream genes. Magnolol was shown to dose-dependently combine with LXRα, and subsequently regulate the transcriptional activity of LXRα. In addition, magnolol was found to adjust the expression of associated LXRα downstream genes in the macrophages. In conclusion, magnolol was demonstrated to affect LXRα, which may outline a new molecular mechanism through which magnolol exerts a lipid-lowering function.

Cloning of transgenic tobacco BY-2 cells; an efficient method to analyse and reduce high natural heterogeneity of transgene expression.

PubMed

Nocarova, Eva; Fischer, Lukas

2009-04-22

Phenotypic characterization of transgenic cell lines, frequently used in plant biology studies, is complicated because transgene expression in individual cells is often heterogeneous and unstable. To identify the sources and to reduce this heterogeneity, we transformed tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) BY-2 cells with a gene encoding green fluorescent protein (GFP) using Agrobacterium tumefaciens, and then introduced a simple cloning procedure to generate cell lines derived from the individual transformed cells. Expression of the transgene was monitored by analysing GFP fluorescence in the cloned lines and also in lines obtained directly after transformation. The majority ( approximately 90%) of suspension culture lines derived from calli that were obtained directly from transformation consisted of cells with various levels of GFP fluorescence. In contrast, nearly 50% of lines generated by cloning cells from the primary heterogeneous suspensions consisted of cells with homogenous GFP fluorescence. The rest of the lines exhibited "permanent heterogeneity" that could not be resolved by cloning. The extent of fluorescence heterogeneity often varied, even among genetically identical clones derived from the primary transformed lines. In contrast, the offspring of subsequent cloning of the cloned lines was uniform, showing GFP fluorescence intensity and heterogeneity that corresponded to the original clone. The results demonstrate that, besides genetic heterogeneity detected in some lines, the primary lines often contained a mixture of epigenetically different cells that could be separated by cloning. This indicates that a single integration event frequently results in various heritable expression patterns, which are probably accidental and become stabilized in the offspring of the primary transformed cells early after the integration event. Because heterogeneity in transgene expression has proven to be a serious problem, it is highly advisable to use transgenes tagged with a visual marker for BY-2 transformation. The cloning procedure can be used not only for efficient reduction of expression heterogeneity of such transgenes, but also as a useful tool for studies of transgene expression and other purposes.

Generation and characterization of p53 null transformed hepatic progenitor cells: oval cells give rise to hepatocellular carcinoma.

PubMed

Dumble, Melissa L; Croager, Emma J; Yeoh, George C T; Quail, Elizabeth A

2002-03-01

Oval cells are bipotential liver stem cells able to differentiate into hepatocytes and bile duct epithelia. In normal adult liver oval cells are quiescent, existing in low numbers around the periportal region, and proliferate following severe, prolonged liver trauma. There is evidence implicating oval cells in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, and hence the availability of an immortalized oval cell line would be invaluable for the study of liver cell lineage differentiation and carcinogenesis. A novel approach in the generation of cell lines is the use of the p53 knockout mouse. Absence of p53 allows a cell to cycle past the normal Hayflick limit, rendering it immortalized, although subsequent genetic alterations are thought necessary for transformation. p53 knockout mice were fed a choline-deficient, ethionine-supplemented diet, previously shown to increase oval cell numbers in wild-type mice. The oval cells were isolated by centrifugal elutriation and maintained in culture. Colonies of hepatic cells were isolated and characterized with respect to phenotype, growth characteristics and tumorigenicity. Analysis of gene expression by Northern blotting and immunocytochemistry suggests they are oval-like cells by virtue of albumin and transferrin expression, as well as the oval cell markers alpha fetoprotein, M(2)-pyruvate kinase and A6. Injection into athymic nude mice shows the cell lines are capable of forming tumors which phenotypically resemble hepatocellular carcinoma. Thus, the use of p53 null hepatic cells successfully generated immortalized and tumorigenic hepatic stem cell lines. The results presented support the idea that deleting p53 allows immortalization and contributes to the transformation of the oval-like cell lines. Further, the tumorigenic status of the cell lines is direct evidence for the participation of oval cells in the formation of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Generation of stable PDX derived cell lines using conditional reprogramming.

PubMed

Borodovsky, Alexandra; McQuiston, Travis J; Stetson, Daniel; Ahmed, Ambar; Whitston, David; Zhang, Jingwen; Grondine, Michael; Lawson, Deborah; Challberg, Sharon S; Zinda, Michael; Pollok, Brian A; Dougherty, Brian A; D'Cruz, Celina M

2017-12-06

Efforts to develop effective cancer therapeutics have been hindered by a lack of clinically predictive preclinical models which recapitulate this complex disease. Patient derived xenograft (PDX) models have emerged as valuable tools for translational research but have several practical limitations including lack of sustained growth in vitro. In this study, we utilized Conditional Reprogramming (CR) cell technology- a novel cell culture system facilitating the generation of stable cultures from patient biopsies- to establish PDX-derived cell lines which maintain the characteristics of the parental PDX tumor. Human lung and ovarian PDX tumors were successfully propagated using CR technology to create stable explant cell lines (CR-PDX). These CR-PDX cell lines maintained parental driver mutations and allele frequency without clonal drift. Purified CR-PDX cell lines were amenable to high throughput chemosensitivity screening and in vitro genetic knockdown studies. Additionally, re-implanted CR-PDX cells proliferated to form tumors that retained the growth kinetics, histology, and drug responses of the parental PDX tumor. CR technology can be used to generate and expand stable cell lines from PDX tumors without compromising fundamental biological properties of the model. It offers the ability to expand PDX cells in vitro for subsequent 2D screening assays as well as for use in vivo to reduce variability, animal usage and study costs. The methods and data detailed here provide a platform to generate physiologically relevant and predictive preclinical models to enhance drug discovery efforts.

Development, Characterization, and Pluripotency Analysis of Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Embryonic Stem Cell Lines Derived from In Vitro–Fertilized, Hand-Guided Cloned, and Parthenogenetic Embryos

PubMed Central

Shah, Syed Mohmad; Saini, Neha; Ashraf, Syma; Zandi, Mohammad; Manik, Radhey Sham; Singla, Suresh Kumar; Palta, Prabhat

2015-01-01

Abstract We present the derivation, characterization, and pluripotency analysis of three buffalo embryonic stem cell (buESC) lines, from in vitro–fertilized, somatic cell nuclear–transferred, and parthenogenetic blastocysts. These cell lines were developed for later differentiation into germ lineage cells and elucidation of the signaling pathways involved. The cell lines were established from inner cell masses (ICMs) that were isolated manually from the in vitro–produced blastocysts. Most of the ICMs (45–55%) resulted in formation of primary colonies that were subcultured after 8–10 days, leading subsequently to the formation of three buESC lines, one from each blastocyst type. All the cell lines expressed stem cell markers, such as Alkaline Phosphatase, OCT4, NANOG, SSEA1, SSEA4, TRA-1-60, TRA-1-81, SOX2, REX1, CD-90, STAT3, and TELOMERASE. They differentiated into all three germ layers as determined by ectodermal, mesodermal, and endodermal RNA and protein markers. All of the cell lines showed equal expression of pluripotency markers as well as equivalent differentiation potential into all the three germ layers. The static suspension culture–derived embryoid bodies (EBs) showed greater expression of all the three germ layer markers as compared to hanging drop culture–derived EBs. When analyzed for germ layer marker expression, EBs derived from 15% fetal bovine serum (FBS)-based spontaneous differentiation medium showed greater differentiation across all the three germ layers as compared to those derived from Knock-Out Serum Replacement (KoSR)-based differentiation medium. PMID:26168169

Ferulic acid reverses ABCB1-mediated paclitaxel resistance in MDR cell lines.

PubMed

Muthusamy, Ganesan; Balupillai, Agilan; Ramasamy, Karthikeyan; Shanmugam, Mohana; Gunaseelan, Srithar; Mary, Beaulah; Prasad, N Rajendra

2016-09-05

Multidrug resistance (MDR) remains a major obstacle in cancer chemotherapy. The use of the dietary phytochemicals as chemosensitizing agents to enhance the efficacy of conventional cytostatic drugs has recently gained the attention as a plausible approach for overcoming the drug resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a naturally occurring diet-based phenolic acid, ferulic acid, could sensitize paclitaxel efficacy in ABCB1 overexpressing (P-glycoprotein) colchicine selected KB Ch(R)8-5 cell line. In vitro drug efflux assays demonstrated that ferulic acid inhibits P-glycoprotein transport function in drug resistant KB Ch(R)8-5 cell lines. However, ferulic acid significantly downregulates ABCB1 expression in a concentration dependent manner. Cytotoxicity assay reveals that ferulic acid decreased paclitaxel resistance in KBCh(R)8-5 and HEK293/ABCB1 cells, which indicates its chemosensitizing potential. Clonogenic cell survival assay and apoptotic morphological staining further confirm the chemosensitizing potential of ferulic acid in drug resistant KB Ch(R)8-5 cell lines. Ferulic acid treatment enhances paclitaxel mediated cell cycle arrest and upregulates paclitaxel-induced apoptotic signaling in KB resistant cells. Hence, it has been concluded that downregulation of ABCB1 and subsequent induction of paclitaxel-mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptotic signaling may be the cause for the chemosensitizing potential of ferulic acid in P-gp overexpressing cell lines. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Use of Raman Tweezers and Chemometric Analysis to Discriminate the Urological Cell Lines, PC-3, LNCaP, BPH and MGH-U1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harvey, T. J.; Hughes, C.; Ward, A. D.; Gazi, E.; Faria, E. Correia; Clarke, N. W.; Brown, M.; Snook, R.; Gardner, P.

2008-11-01

Here we report on investigations into using Raman optical tweezers to analyse both live and chemically fixed prostate and bladder cells. Spectra were subjected to chemometric analysis to discriminate and classify the cell types based on their spectra. Subsequent results revealed the potential of Raman tweezers as a potential clinical diagnostic tool.

Liposomal CpG-ODN: An in vitro and in vivo study on macrophage subtypes responses, biodistribution and subsequent therapeutic efficacy in mice models of cancers.

PubMed

Nikoofal-Sahlabadi, Sara; Matbou Riahi, Maryam; Sadri, Kayvan; Badiee, Ali; Nikpoor, Amin Reza; Jaafari, Mahmoud Reza

2018-07-01

CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG-ODN), a common immune stimulator and vaccine adjuvant, was reported to switch Tumor Associated Macrophages (TAMs) from M2 to M1 phenotype inducing anti-tumor responses. Liposomes are of the successfully applied carriers for CpG-ODN. The aim of present study was design and preparation of a liposomal formulation containing phosphodiester CpG-ODN, evaluation of its effect on macrophages responses, and subsequent antitumor responses in mice. Liposomal formulations containing phosphodiester CpG-ODN or non-CpG-ODN were prepared and characterized. MTT reduction assay in four different cell lines, uptake, arginase and iNOS activity evaluation in macrophage cell lines, biodistribution study and therapeutic anti-tumor effects of formulations in mice bearing C26 colon carcinoma or B16F0 melanoma were carried out. The size of liposomes containing CpG-ODN was ~200 nm with the encapsulation efficiency of 33%. The iNOS activity assay showed high nitric oxide (NO) level in M2 phenotype of macrophage cell lines treated by liposomes containing CpG-ODN. In mice which received liposomes containing CpG-ODN as a monotherapy, maximum tumor growth delay with remarkable survival improvement was observed compared to control groups. Biodistribution study showed the accumulation of liposomal formulation in tumor micro-environment. In conclusion, considerable anti-tumor responses observed by liposomes containing CpG-ODN was due to enhanced delivery of CpG-ODN to immune cells and subsequent initiation of anti-tumoral immune responses. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Final 3-year Results of the Dasatinib Discontinuation Trial in Patients With Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Who Received Dasatinib as a Second-line Treatment.

PubMed

Okada, Masaya; Imagawa, Jun; Tanaka, Hideo; Nakamae, Hirohisa; Hino, Masayuki; Murai, Kazunori; Ishida, Yoji; Kumagai, Takashi; Sato, Seiichi; Ohashi, Kazuteru; Sakamaki, Hisashi; Wakita, Hisashi; Uoshima, Nobuhiko; Nakagawa, Yasunori; Minami, Yosuke; Ogasawara, Masahiro; Takeoka, Tomoharu; Akasaka, Hiroshi; Utsumi, Takahiko; Uike, Naokuni; Sato, Tsutomu; Ando, Sachiko; Usuki, Kensuke; Mizuta, Syuichi; Hashino, Satoshi; Nomura, Tetsuhiko; Shikami, Masato; Fukutani, Hisashi; Ohe, Yokiko; Kosugi, Hiroshi; Shibayama, Hirohiko; Maeda, Yasuhiro; Fukushima, Toshihiro; Yamazaki, Hirohito; Tsubaki, Kazuo; Kukita, Toshimasa; Adachi, Yoko; Nataduka, Toshiki; Sakoda, Hiroto; Yokoyama, Hisayuki; Okamoto, Takahiro; Shirasugi, Yukari; Onishi, Yasushi; Nohgawa, Masaharu; Yoshihara, Satoshi; Morita, Satoshi; Sakamoto, Junichi; Kimura, Shinya

2018-05-01

We previously reported an interim analysis of the DADI (dasatinib discontinuation) trial. The results showed that 48% of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in the chronic phase who maintained a deep molecular response (DMR) for ≥ 1 year could discontinue second- or subsequent-line dasatinib treatment safely at a median follow-up of 20 months. However, the results from longer follow-up periods would be much more useful from a clinical perspective. The DADI trial was a prospective, multicenter trial conducted in Japan. After confirming a stable DMR for ≥ 1 year, dasatinib treatment subsequent to imatinib or nilotinib was discontinued. After discontinuation, the loss of DMR (even of 1 point) was defined as stringent molecular relapse, thereby triggering therapy resumption. The predictive factors of treatment-free remission (TFR) were analyzed. The median follow-up period was 44.0 months (interquartile range, 40.5-48.0 months). The estimated overall TFR rate at 36 months was 44.4% (95% confidence interval, 32.0%-56.2%). Only 2 patients developed a molecular relapse after the 1-year cutoff point. The presence of imatinib resistance was a significant risk factor for molecular relapse. Moreover, high natural killer cell and low γδ + T-cell and CD4 + regulatory T-cell (CD25 + CD127 low ) counts before discontinuation correlated significantly with successful therapy discontinuation. These findings suggest that discontinuation of second- or subsequent-line dasatinib after a sustained DMR of ≥ 1 year is feasible, especially for patients with no history of imatinib resistance. In addition, the natural killer cell count was associated with the TFR. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tuft (caveolated) cells in two human colon carcinoma cell lines.

PubMed Central

Barkla, D. H.; Whitehead, R. H.; Foster, H.; Tutton, P. J.

1988-01-01

The presence of an unusual cell type in two human colon carcinoma cell lines is reported. The cells show the same morphology as "tuft" (caveolated) cells present in normal gastrointestinal epithelium. Tuft cells were seen in cell line LIM 1863 growing in vitro and in human colon carcinoma cell line LIM 2210 growing as subcutaneous solid tumour xenografts in nude mice. Characteristic morphologic features of tuft cells included a wide base, narrow apex and a tuft of long microvilli projecting from the apical surface. The microvilli are attached by a core of long microfilaments passing deep into the apical cytoplasm. Between the microvilli are parallel arrays of vesicles (caveoli) containing flocculent material. Two different but not mutually exclusive explanations for the presence of tuft cells are proposed. The first explanation is that tuft cells came from the resected tumour and have survived by mitotic division during subsequent passages. The second explanation suggests that tuft cells are the progeny of undifferentiated tumour cells. Descriptions of tuft cells in colon carcinomas are uncommon and possible reasons for this are presented. The morphology of tuft cells is consistent with that of a highly differentiated cell specialised for absorption, and these new models provide an opportunity to further investigate the structure and function of tuft cells. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 PMID:3414781

Application of an improved magnetic immunosorbent in an Ephesia chip designed for circulating tumor cell capture.

PubMed

Svobodova, Zuzana; Kucerova, Jana; Autebert, Julien; Horak, Daniel; Bruckova, Lenka; Viovy, Jean-Louis; Bilkova, Zuzana

2014-02-01

In this study, we describe a particular step in developing a microfluidic device for capture and detection of circulating tumor cells-specifically the preparation of an immunosorbent for implementation into the separation chip. We highlight some of the most important specifics connected with superparamegnetic microspheres for microfluidic purposes. Factors such as nonspecific adsorption on microfluidic channels, interactions with model cell lines, and tendency to aggregation were investigated. Poly(glycidyl methacrylate) microspheres with carboxyl groups were employed for this purpose. To address the aforementioned challenges, the microspheres were coated with hydrazide-PEG-hydrazide, and subsequently anti-epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) antibody was immobilized. The prepared anti-EpCAM immunosorbent was pretested using model cell lines with differing EpCAM density (MCF7, SKBR3, A549, and Raji) in a batchwise arrangement. Finally, the entire system was implemented and studied in an Ephesia chip and an evaluation was performed by the MCF7 cell line. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Exposure to transforming growth factor-β1 after basic fibroblast growth factor promotes the fibroblastic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem/progenitor cell lines.

PubMed

Kono, Kiyomi; Maeda, Hidefumi; Fujii, Shinsuke; Tomokiyo, Atsushi; Yamamoto, Naohide; Wada, Naohisa; Monnouchi, Satoshi; Teramatsu, Yoko; Hamano, Sayuri; Koori, Katsuaki; Akamine, Akifumi

2013-05-01

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is a cytokine that promotes the regeneration of the periodontium, the specialized tissues supporting the teeth. bFGF, does not, however, induce the synthesis of smooth muscle actin alpha 2 (ACTA2), type I collagen (COL1), or COL3, which are principal molecules in periodontal ligament (PDL) tissue, a component of the periodontium. We have suggested the feasibility of using transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) to induce fibroblastic differentiation of PDL stem/progenitor cells (PDLSCs). Here, we investigated the effect of the subsequent application of TGFβ1 after bFGF (bFGF/TGFβ1) on the differentiation of PDLSCs into fibroblastic cells. We first confirmed the expression of bFGF and TGFβ1 in rat PDL tissue and primary human PDL cells. Receptors for both bFGF and TGFβ1 were expressed in the human PDLSC lines 1-11 and 1-17. Exposure to bFGF for 2 days promoted vascular endothelial growth factor gene and protein expression in both cell lines and down-regulated the expression of ACTA2, COL1, and COL3 mRNA in both cell lines and the gene fibrillin 1 (FBN1) in cell line 1-11 alone. Furthermore, bFGF stimulated cell proliferation of these cell lines and significantly increased the number of cells in phase G2/M in the cell lines. Exposure to TGFβ1 for 2 days induced gene expression of ACTA2 and COL1 in both cell lines and FBN1 in cell line 1-11 alone. BFGF/TGFβ1 treatment significantly up-regulated ACTA2, COL1, and FBN1 expression as compared with the group treated with bFGF alone or the untreated control. This method might thus be useful for accelerating the generation and regeneration of functional periodontium.

Performance characteristics of qualified cell lines for isolation and propagation of influenza viruses for vaccine manufacturing

PubMed Central

Donis, Ruben O.; Chen, i-Mei; Davis, C Todd; Foust, Angie; Hossain, M. Jaber; Johnson, Adam; Klimov, Alexander; Loughlin, Rosette; Xu, Xiyan; Tsai, Theodore; Blayer, Simone; Trusheim, Heidi; Colegate, Tony; Fox, John; Taylor, Beverly; Hussain, Althaf; Barr, Ian; Baas, Chantal; Louwerens, Jaap; Geuns, Ed; Lee, Min-Shi; Venhuizen, odewijk; Neumeier, Elisabeth; Ziegler, Thedi

2018-01-01

Cell culture is now available as a method for the production of influenza vaccines in addition to eggs. In accordance with currently accepted practice, viruses recommended as candidates for vaccine manufacture are isolated and propagated exclusively in hens' eggs prior to distribution to manufacturers. Candidate vaccine viruses isolated in cell culture are not available to support vaccine manufacturing in mammalian cell bioreactors so egg-derived viruses have to be used. Recently influenza A (H3N2) viruses have been difficult to isolate directly in eggs. As mitigation against this difficulty, and the possibility of no suitable egg-isolated candidate viruses being available, it is proposed to consider using mammalian cell lines for primary isolation of influenza viruses as candidates for vaccine production in egg and cell platforms. To investigate this possibility, we tested the antigenic stability of viruses isolated and propagated in cell lines qualified for influenza vaccine manufacture and subsequently investigated antigen yields of such viruses in these cell lines at pilot-scale. Twenty influenza A and B-positive, original clinical specimens were inoculated in three MDCK cell lines. The antigenicity of recovered viruses was tested by hemagglutination inhibition using ferret sera against contemporary vaccine viruses and the amino acid sequences of the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase were determined. MDCK cell lines proved to be highly sensitive for virus isolation. Compared to the virus sequenced from the original specimen, viruses passaged three times in the MDCK lines showed up to 2 amino acid changes in the hemagglutinin. Antigenic stability was also established by hemagglutination inhibition titers comparable to those of the corresponding reference virus. Viruses isolated in any of the three MDCK lines grew reasonably well but variably in three MDCK cells and in VERO cells at pilot-scale. These results indicate that influenza viruses isolated in vaccine certified cell lines may well qualify for use in vaccine production. PMID:24975811

Performance characteristics of qualified cell lines for isolation and propagation of influenza viruses for vaccine manufacturing.

PubMed

Donis, Ruben O; Davis, C Todd; Foust, Angie; Hossain, M Jaber; Johnson, Adam; Klimov, Alexander; Loughlin, Rosette; Xu, Xiyan; Tsai, Theodore; Blayer, Simone; Trusheim, Heidi; Colegate, Tony; Fox, John; Taylor, Beverly; Hussain, Althaf; Barr, Ian; Baas, Chantal; Louwerens, Jaap; Geuns, Ed; Lee, Min-Shi; Venhuizen, Odewijk; Neumeier, Elisabeth; Ziegler, Thedi

2014-11-12

Cell culture is now available as a method for the production of influenza vaccines in addition to eggs. In accordance with currently accepted practice, viruses recommended as candidates for vaccine manufacture are isolated and propagated exclusively in hens' eggs prior to distribution to manufacturers. Candidate vaccine viruses isolated in cell culture are not available to support vaccine manufacturing in mammalian cell bioreactors so egg-derived viruses have to be used. Recently influenza A (H3N2) viruses have been difficult to isolate directly in eggs. As mitigation against this difficulty, and the possibility of no suitable egg-isolated candidate viruses being available, it is proposed to consider using mammalian cell lines for primary isolation of influenza viruses as candidates for vaccine production in egg and cell platforms. To investigate this possibility, we tested the antigenic stability of viruses isolated and propagated in cell lines qualified for influenza vaccine manufacture and subsequently investigated antigen yields of such viruses in these cell lines at pilot-scale. Twenty influenza A and B-positive, original clinical specimens were inoculated in three MDCK cell lines. The antigenicity of recovered viruses was tested by hemagglutination inhibition using ferret sera against contemporary vaccine viruses and the amino acid sequences of the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase were determined. MDCK cell lines proved to be highly sensitive for virus isolation. Compared to the virus sequenced from the original specimen, viruses passaged three times in the MDCK lines showed up to 2 amino acid changes in the hemagglutinin. Antigenic stability was also established by hemagglutination inhibition titers comparable to those of the corresponding reference virus. Viruses isolated in any of the three MDCK lines grew reasonably well but variably in three MDCK cells and in VERO cells at pilot-scale. These results indicate that influenza viruses isolated in vaccine certified cell lines may well qualify for use in vaccine production. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

ESCDL-1, a new cell line derived from chicken embryonic stem cells, supports efficient replication of Mardiviruses

PubMed Central

Jean, Christian; Fragnet-Trapp, Laetitia; Rémy, Sylvie; Chabanne-Vautherot, Danièle; Montillet, Guillaume; Fuet, Aurélie; Denesvre, Caroline; Pain, Bertrand

2017-01-01

Marek’s disease virus is the etiological agent of a major lymphoproliferative disorder in poultry and the prototype of the Mardivirus genus. Primary avian somatic cells are currently used for virus replication and vaccine production, but they are largely refractory to any genetic modification compatible with the preservation of intact viral susceptibility. We explored the concept of induction of viral replication permissiveness in an established pluripotent chicken embryonic stem cell-line (cES) in order to derive a new fully susceptible cell-line. Chicken ES cells were not permissive for Mardivirus infection, but as soon as differentiation was triggered, replication of Marek’s disease virus was detected. From a panel of cyto-differentiating agents, hexamethylene bis (acetamide) (HMBA) was found to be the most efficient regarding the induction of permissiveness. These initial findings prompted us to analyse the effect of HMBA on gene expression, to derive a new mesenchymal cell line, the so-called ESCDL-1, and monitor its susceptibility for Mardivirus replication. All Mardiviruses tested so far replicated equally well on primary embryonic skin cells and on ESCDL-1, and the latter showed no variation related to its passage number in its permissiveness for virus infection. Viral morphogenesis studies confirmed efficient multiplication with, as in other in vitro models, no extra-cellular virus production. We could show that ESCDL-1 can be transfected to express a transgene and subsequently cloned without any loss in permissiveness. Consequently, ESCDL-1 was genetically modified to complement viral gene deletions thus yielding stable trans-complementing cell lines. We herein claim that derivation of stable differentiated cell-lines from cES cell lines might be an alternative solution to the cultivation of primary cells for virology studies. PMID:28406989

Microenvironment-Programmed Metastatic Prostate Cancer Stem Cells (mPCSCs)

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-01

and subsequently spread, we took 3 commonly used cell lines (PC3, Du145, and LNCaP) and 2 xenograft- derived cells (LAPC9 and LAPC4) and performed...and LAPC9 models (Table 1). It should be noted that LAPC4 and LAPC9 cells used in these experiments were not cultured cells but purified from the...injecting PC3-GFP cells into the tail vein or the heart followed by determining levels of metastasis using several different approaches. FIRST, when

Derivation of the King's College London human embryonic stem cell lines.

PubMed

Stephenson, Emma L; Braude, Peter R

2010-04-01

Since the derivation of the first human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line in 1998, there has been substantial interest in the potential of these cells for regenerative medicine and cell therapy and in the use of hESCs carrying clinically relevant genetic mutations as models for disease research and therapeutic target identification. There is still a need to improve derivation efficiency and further the understanding of the basic biology of these cells and to develop clinical grade culture systems with the aim of producing cell lines suitable for subsequent manipulation for therapy. The derivation of initial hESC lines at King's College London is discussed here, with focus on derivation methodology. Each of the derivations was distinctive. Although the stage and morphology of each blastocyst were generally similar in each attempt, the behaviour of the colonies was unpredictable; colony morphology and development was different with each attempt. Days 5, 6 and 7 blastocysts were used successfully, and the number of days until appearance of stem-like cells varied from 4 to 14 d. Routine characterisation analyses were performed on three lines, all of which displayed appropriate marker expression and survived cryopreservation-thaw cycles. From the lines discussed, four are at various stages of the deposition process with the UKSCB, one is pending submission and two are unsuitable for banking. Continued open and transparent reporting of results and collaborations will maximise the efficiency of derivation and facilitate the development of standardised protocols for the derivation and early culture of hESC lines.

A molecular scheme for improved characterization of human embryonic stem cell lines

PubMed Central

Josephson, Richard; Sykes, Gregory; Liu, Ying; Ording, Carol; Xu, Weining; Zeng, Xianmin; Shin, Soojung; Loring, Jeanne; Maitra, Anirban; Rao, Mahendra S; Auerbach, Jonathan M

2006-01-01

Background Human embryonic stem cells (hESC) offer a renewable source of a wide range of cell types for use in research and cell-based therapies to treat disease. Inspection of protein markers provides important information about the current state of the cells and data for subsequent manipulations. However, hESC must be routinely analyzed at the genomic level to guard against deleterious changes during extensive propagation, expansion, and manipulation in vitro. Results We found that short tandem repeat (STR) analysis, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genomic analysis, mitochondrial DNA sequencing, and gene expression analysis by microarray can be used to fully describe any hESC culture in terms of its identity, stability, and undifferentiated state. Conclusion Here we describe, using molecular biology alone, a comprehensive characterization of 17 different hESC lines. The use of amplified nucleic acids means that for the first time full characterization of hESC lines can be performed with little time investment and a minimum of material. The information thus gained will facilitate comparison of lines and replication of results between laboratories. PMID:16919167

Production of thrombopoietin (TPO) by rat hepatocytes and hepatoma cell lines.

PubMed

Shimada, Y; Kato, T; Ogami, K; Horie, K; Kokubo, A; Kudo, Y; Maeda, E; Sohma, Y; Akahori, H; Kawamura, K

1995-12-01

Recently, we purified rat thrombopoietin (TPO) from plasma of irradiated rats (XRP) by measuring its activity that stimulated the production of megakaryocytes from megakaryocyte progenitor cells (CFU-MK) in vitro. We then cloned the cDNAs for rat and human TPO. In this study, we found the production of TPO by hepatocytes isolated with the collagenase perfusion method from both normal and thrombocytopenic rats, by a two-step fractionation of hepatocyte culture medium (CM). Subsequently, CM of rat hepatoma cell lines was screened for the presence of TPO; three cell lines, H4-II-E, McA-RH8994, and HTC, were found to produce TPO. According to the purification procedure for TPO from XRP, TPO was partially purified from 2 L CM of each of three cell lines with a six-step procedure. In the final reverse-phase column, TPO from each cell line was eluted with the same retention time as that from XRP, and the TPO fraction exhibited megakaryocyte colony-stimulating activity (Meg-CSA). TPO-active fraction eluted from the final reverse-phase column was separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), extracted from the gel, and assayed. TPO activity from each cell line was found in the respective molecular weight region, indicating the heterogeneity of the TPO molecule. Using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), we detected the expression of TPO mRNA in hepatocytes, three hepatoma cell lines, normal rat liver, and X-irradiated rat liver. Northern blot analysis showed that TPO mRNA was expressed mainly in liver among the various organs tested. These data demonstrate that TPO is produced by rat hepatocytes and hepatoma cell lines and suggest that liver may be the primary organ that produces TPO.

Clinical heterogeneity of diffuse large B cell lymphoma following failure of front-line immunochemotherapy.

PubMed

Farooq, Umar; Maurer, Matthew J; Thompson, Carrie A; Thanarajasingam, Gita; Inwards, David J; Micallef, Ivana; Macon, William; Syrbu, Sergei; Lin, Tasha; Lin, Yi; Ansell, Stephen M; Nowakowski, Grzegorz S; Habermann, Thomas M; Cerhan, James R; Link, Brian K

2017-10-01

This study aimed to describe the patterns of care and outcomes of diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) after failure of front line anthracycline-based immunochemotherapy (IC). Patients with newly diagnosed lymphoma were prospectively enrolled in Molecular Epidemiology Resource (MER) of the University of Iowa/Mayo Clinic Lymphoma Specialized Program of Research Excellzence. All DLBCL and primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (PMBL) patients treated with front-line anthracycline-based IC were followed for relapse. Patients with relapse on follow-up and subsequently retreated were included in this analysis. 1039 patients received anthracycline-based IC between 2002 and 2012, of which 244 relapsed and were subsequently retreated. Across all therapies, overall survival at 4 years (OS4) from relapse was 28% and 103 patients ultimately underwent autologous haematopoietic cell transplant (autoHCT) with OS4 from autoHCT of 51%. Patients relapsing after 12 months from initial diagnosis had OS4 of 47% but those with a transient or no response to initial therapy had OS4 of only 13%. Outcomes of relapsed or refractory DLBCL differ substantially when categorized by response to initial therapy, timing of relapse and opportunity to undergo autoHCT. The design and interpretation of uncontrolled trials should account for this heterogeneity in patients with relapsed DLBCL. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Proteomic analysis of ubiquitination-associated proteins in a cisplatin-resistant human lung adenocarcinoma cell line.

PubMed

Qin, Xia; Chen, Shizhi; Qiu, Zongyin; Zhang, Yuan; Qiu, Feng

2012-05-01

The objective of this study was to screen for ubiquitination-associated proteins involved in cisplatin resistance in a human lung adenocarcinoma cell strain using a comparative proteomic strategy. We employed 1D SDS-PAGE to separate ubiquitinated proteins isolated and enriched from A549 and A549/CDDP lysates via affinity chromatography. The differentially expressed bands between 45-85 kDa were subsequently hydrolyzed by trypsin and subjected to HPLC-CHIP-MS/MS analysis. Of the 11 proteins identified, 7 proteins were monoubiquitinated or polyubiquitinated substrates and 4 proteins were E3 ubiquitin ligase-associated proteins. The results of western blotting and confocal laser scanning microscopy indicated that the expression levels of the E3 ubiquitin ligases RNF6, LRSAM1 and TRIM25 in A549 cells were significantly lower than those in the A549/CDDP cell line. The expression levels of the above three ubiquitin ligases in both cell lines were significantly decreased upon treatment with cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (CDDP), and the expression in the A549/CDDP cell after the treatment with CDDP decreased to a lesser extent. The expression of the substrate PKM2 in the A549 cell was higher than that in the A549/CDDP cells. Moreover, the expression of PKM2 increased in the A549 cell line and decreased in the A549/CDDP cell line upon CDDP treatment. This study suggests that drug resistance is closely correlated with changes in the ubiquitination process at the protein level in a human lung adenocarcinoma cell line.

Targeted therapeutic approach for an anaplastic thyroid cancer in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Stenner, Frank; Liewen, Heike; Zweifel, Martin; Weber, Achim; Tchinda, Joelle; Bode, Beata; Samaras, Panagiotis; Bauer, Stefan; Knuth, Alexander; Renner, Christoph

2008-09-01

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is among the most aggressive human malignancies, being responsible for the majority of thyroid cancer-related deaths. Despite multimodal therapy including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, the outcome of ATC is poor. The human ATC cell line MB1, derived from tumor tissue of a 57-year-old man with thyroid cancer and pronounced neutrophilia, was established from surgically excised tumor tissue. The karyotype of the cell line shows many chromosomal abnormalities. Preclinical investigations have shown antitumor activity and effectiveness of the BRAF kinase inhibitor Sorafenib and the proteasome inhibitor Bortezomib. After establishment of the MB1 cell line these agents were applied in vitro and, showing activity in a cell culture model, were also used for in vivo treatment. Sorafenib had some clinical effect, namely normalization of leucocytosis, but had no sustained impact on subsequent tumor growth and development of distant metastasis. Molecular diagnostics of the tumor demonstrated no BRAF mutations in exons 11 and 15 concordant with a rather modest effect of Sorafenib on MB1 cell growth. Clinical benefit was seen with subsequent bortezomib therapy inducing a temporary halt to lymph node growth and a progression-free interval of 7 weeks. Our observations together with previous data from preclinical models could serve as a rationale for selecting those patients suffering from ATC most likely to benefit from targeted therapy. A prospective controlled randomized trial integrating kinase and proteasome inhibitors into a therapeutic regime for ATC is warranted.

Live imaging of collagen deposition during skin development and repair in a collagen I - GFP fusion transgenic zebrafish line.

PubMed

Morris, Josephine L; Cross, Stephen J; Lu, Yinhui; Kadler, Karl E; Lu, Yongbo; Dallas, Sarah L; Martin, Paul

2018-06-06

Fibrillar collagen is a major component of many tissues but has been difficult to image in vivo using transgenic approaches because of problems associated with establishing cells and organisms that generate GFP-fusion collagens that can polymerise into functional fibrils. Here we have developed and characterised GFP and mCherry collagen-I fusion zebrafish lines with basal epidermal-specific expression. We use these lines to reveal the dynamic nature of collagen-I fibril deposition beneath the developing embryonic epidermis, as well as the repair of this collagen meshwork following wounding. Transmission electron microscope studies show that these transgenic lines faithfully reproduce the collagen ultrastructure present in wild type larval skin. During skin development we show that collagen I is deposited by basal epidermal cells initially in fine filaments that are largely randomly orientated but are subsequently aligned into a cross-hatch, orthogonal sub-epithelial network by embryonic day 4. Following skin wounding, we see that sub-epidermal collagen is re-established in the denuded domain, initially as randomly orientated wisps that subsequently become bonded to the undamaged collagen and aligned in a way that recapitulates developmental deposition of sub-epidermal collagen. Crossing our GFP-collagen line against one with tdTomato marking basal epidermal cell membranes reveals how much more rapidly wound re-epithelialisation occurs compared to the re-deposition of collagen beneath the healed epidermis. By use of other tissue specific drivers it will be possible to establish zebrafish lines to enable live imaging of collagen deposition and its remodelling in various other organs in health and disease. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A new PDAC mouse model originated from iPSCs-converted pancreatic cancer stem cells (CSCcm)

PubMed Central

Calle, Anna Sanchez; Nair, Neha; Oo, Aung KoKo; Prieto-Vila, Marta; Koga, Megumi; Khayrani, Apriliana Cahya; Hussein, Maram; Hurley, Laura; Vaidyanath, Arun; Seno, Akimasa; Iwasaki, Yoshiaki; Calle, Malu; Kasai, Tomonari; Seno, Masaharu

2016-01-01

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most representative form of pancreatic cancers. PDAC solid tumours are constituted of heterogeneous populations of cells including cancer stem cells (CSCs), differentiated cancer cells, desmoplastic stroma and immune cells. The identification and consequent isolation of pancreatic CSCs facilitated the generation of genetically engineered murine models. Nonetheless, the current models may not be representative for the spontaneous tumour occurrence. In the present study, we show the generation of a novel pancreatic iPSC-converted cancer stem cell lines (CSCcm) as a cutting-edge model for the study of PDAC. The CSCcm lines were achieved only by the influence of pancreatic cancer cell lines conditioned medium and were not subjected to any genetic manipulation. The xenografts tumours from CSCcm lines displayed histopathological features of ADM, PanIN and PDAC lesions. Further molecular characterization from RNA-sequencing analysis highlighted primary culture cell lines (1st CSCcm) as potential candidates to represent the pancreatic CSCs and indicated the establishment of the pancreatic cancer molecular pattern in their subsequent progenies 2nd CSCcm and 3rd CSCcm. In addition, preliminary RNA-seq SNPs analysis showed that the distinct CSCcm lines did not harbour single point mutations for the oncogene Kras codon 12 or 13. Therefore, PDAC-CSCcm model may provide new insights about the actual occurrence of the pancreatic cancer leading to develop different approaches to target CSCs and abrogate the progression of this fatidic disease. PMID:28042501

Towards consistent generation of pancreatic lineage progenitors from human pluripotent stem cells.

PubMed

Rostovskaya, Maria; Bredenkamp, Nicholas; Smith, Austin

2015-10-19

Human pluripotent stem cells can in principle be used as a source of any differentiated cell type for disease modelling, drug screening, toxicology testing or cell replacement therapy. Type I diabetes is considered a major target for stem cell applications due to the shortage of primary human beta cells. Several protocols have been reported for generating pancreatic progenitors by in vitro differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells. Here we first assessed one of these protocols on a panel of pluripotent stem cell lines for capacity to engender glucose sensitive insulin-producing cells after engraftment in immunocompromised mice. We observed variable outcomes with only one cell line showing a low level of glucose response. We, therefore, undertook a systematic comparison of different methods for inducing definitive endoderm and subsequently pancreatic differentiation. Of several protocols tested, we identified a combined approach that robustly generated pancreatic progenitors in vitro from both embryo-derived and induced pluripotent stem cells. These findings suggest that, although there are intrinsic differences in lineage specification propensity between pluripotent stem cell lines, optimal differentiation procedures may consistently direct a substantial fraction of cells into pancreatic specification. © 2015 The Authors.

Interim report on intrathoracic radiotherapy of human small-cell lung carcinoma in nude mice with Re-188-RC-160, a radiolabeled somatostatin analogue

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zamora, P.O.; Bender, H.; Biersack, H.J.

1995-07-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Re-188-RC-160 in experimental models of human small cell lung carcinomas which mimic the clinical presentation. In the experimental model, cells from the human small cell lung carcinoma cell line NCI-H69 cells were inoculated into the thoracic cavity of athymic mice and rats. Subsequently, the biodistribution of Re-188-RC-160 after injection into the pleural cavity, a radiolabeled somatostatin analogue, was monitored as was the effect on the subsequent growth of tumors. The results presented here, and which are a part of a larger series of studies, suggest that Re-188-RC-160 canmore » be effectively used in this animal model to restrict the growth of small cell lung carcinoma in the thoracic cavity.« less

Computer simulations of the energy dissipation rate in a fluorescence-activated cell sorter: Implications to cells.

PubMed

Mollet, Mike; Godoy-Silva, Ruben; Berdugo, Claudia; Chalmers, Jeffrey J

2008-06-01

Fluorescence activated cell sorting, FACS, is a widely used method to sort subpopulations of cells to high purities. To achieve relatively high sorting speeds, FACS instruments operate by forcing suspended cells to flow in a single file line through a laser(s) beam(s). Subsequently, this flow stream breaks up into individual drops which can be charged and deflected into multiple collection streams. Previous work by Ma et al. (2002) and Mollet et al. (2007; Biotechnol Bioeng 98:772-788) indicates that subjecting cells to hydrodynamic forces consisting of both high extensional and shear components in micro-channels results in significant cell damage. Using the fluid dynamics software FLUENT, computer simulations of typical fluid flow through the nozzle of a BD FACSVantage indicate that hydrodynamic forces, quantified using the scalar parameter energy dissipation rate, are similar in the FACS nozzle to levels reported to create significant cell damage in micro-channels. Experimental studies in the FACSVantage, operated under the same conditions as the simulations confirmed significant cell damage in two cell lines, Chinese Hamster Ovary cells (CHO) and THP1, a human acute monocytic leukemia cell line.

The translational inhibitor cycloheximide represses growth factor depletion-induced apoptosis in an alb-SV40T transgenic rat liver cell line.

PubMed

Bulera, S J; Sattler, C A; Pitot, H C

1996-06-01

A transgenic rat line carrying the alb-SV40A transgene has been described by this laboratory. Several cell lines have been established from the livers of two of these rats. One of these cell lines, L37, exhibits a large nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio and a well-differentiated cytoplasm containing numerous organelles. When L37 cells are placed into culture medium lacking necessary growth factors, cellular proliferation continues for 48 hours after medium change. Subsequent to the initial 48 hours, cells begin to shrink and lose contact with adjacent cells, eventually sloughing off the culture plate surface, with most cell deaths occurring between 48 and 96 hours after medium change. Microscopic examination of sloughing cells indicates they possess highly convoluted and blebbed plasma membranes, a morphological characteristic of apoptosis. Ultrastructural studies demonstrate the ubiquitous presence of apoptotic bodies. When DNA isolated from growth factor-depleted cells is resolved on agarose gels, DNA fragmentation ladders are observed at times of maximum apoptotic change. Quantitative analysis of L37 cells between 48 and 96 hours after the removal of the culture medium shows that 59% +/- 2% of the cells undergo apoptosis. When cycloheximide, puromycin, or actinomycin D is added to the L37 cultures, only cycloheximide is able to repress apoptosis, indicating that the mechanism of apoptosis in the L37 liver-derived cell line requires a cycloheximide-sensitive translational event. The extremely high rate of apoptosis, together with the maintenance of hepatocellular characteristics, indicates the usefulness of this cell line as a model in which to study the mechanisms of hepatocellular apoptosis.

Everolimus affects vasculogenic mimicry in renal carcinoma resistant to sunitinib

PubMed Central

Serova, Maria; Tijeras-Raballand, Annemilaï; Santos, Celia Dos; Martinet, Matthieu; Neuzillet, Cindy; Lopez, Alfred; Mitchell, Dianne C.; Bryan, Brad A.; Gapihan, Guillaume; Janin, Anne; Bousquet, Guilhem; Riveiro, Maria Eugenia; Bieche, Ivan; Faivre, Sandrine

2016-01-01

Angiogenesis is hallmark of clear cell renal cell carcinogenesis. Anti-angiogenic therapies have been successful in improving disease outcome; however, most patients treated with anti-angiogenic agents will eventually progress. In this study we report that clear cell renal cell carcinoma was associated with vasculogenic mimicry in both mice and human with tumor cells expressing endothelial markers in the vicinity of tumor vessels. We show that vasculogenic mimicry was efficiently targeted by sunitinib but eventually associated with tumor resistance and a more aggressive phenotype both in vitro and in vivo. Re-challenging these resistant tumors in mice, we showed that second-line treatment with everolimus particularly affected vasculogenic mimicry and tumor cell differentiation compared to sorafenib and axitinib. Finally, our results highlighted the phenotypic and genotypic changes at the tumor cell and microenvironment levels during sunitinib response and progression and the subsequent improvement second-line therapies bring to the current renal cell carcinoma treatment paradigm. PMID:27509260

Cisplatin resistance induced in germ cell tumour cells is due to reduced susceptibility towards cell death but not to altered DNA damage induction or repair.

PubMed

Fenske, Annabelle E; Glaesener, Stephanie; Bokemeyer, Carsten; Thomale, Juergen; Dahm-Daphi, Jochen; Honecker, Friedemann; Dartsch, Dorothee C

2012-11-28

To identify factors involved in cisplatin (CDDP) resistance of germ cell tumours (GCTs), we exposed NTERA-2 cells, and the platinum-adapted subline NTERA-2R to CDDP and compared their response. While both cell lines showed comparable proliferation, NTERA-2R cells were clearly more resistant to the drug than the parental NTERA-2 cell line. Interestingly, the two lines showed identical extent of DNA adduct formation and elimination, indicating that neither changes in CDDP uptake, nor altered drug efflux, DNA binding, or repair caused the difference in resistance. Similarly, no difference occurred in the time-course of γH2AX formation, which was not linked to 53BP1 accumulation. In contrast, NTERA-2R cells showed a more pronounced dose-dependent S phase delay, a transient G(2)/M-block, and subsequent release into immediate cell death. We thus conclude that the enhanced resistance against CDDP is linked to reduced susceptibility to cell death rather than to an altered DNA adduct formation or adduct removal. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparative Gene Expression Profiling of Primary and Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Stem Cell-Like Cancer Cells

PubMed Central

Czarnecka, Anna M.; Lewicki, Sławomir; Helbrecht, Igor; Brodaczewska, Klaudia; Koch, Irena; Zdanowski, Robert; Król, Magdalena; Szczylik, Cezary

2016-01-01

Background Recent advancement in cancer research has shown that tumors are highly heterogeneous, and multiple phenotypically different cell populations are found in a single tumor. Cancer development and tumor growth are driven by specific types of cells—stem cell-like cancer cells (SCLCCs)—which are also responsible for metastatic spread and drug resistance. This research was designed to verify the presence of SCLCCs in renal cell cancer cell lines. Subsequently, we aimed to characterize phenotype and cell biology of CD105+ cells, defined previously as renal cell carcinoma tumor-initiating cells. The main goal of the project was to describe the gene-expression profile of stem cell-like cancer cells of primary tumor and metastatic origin. Materials and Methods Real-time PCR analysis of stemness genes (Oct-4, Nanog and Ncam) and soft agar colony formation assay were conducted to check the stemness properties of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell lines. FACS analysis of CD105+ and CD133+ cells was performed on RCC cells. Isolated CD105+ cells were verified for expression of mesenchymal markers—CD24, CD146, CD90, CD73, CD44, CD11b, CD19, CD34, CD45, HLA-DR and alkaline phosphatase. Hanging drop assay was used to investigate CD105+ cell-cell cohesion. Analysis of free-floating 3D spheres formed by isolated CD105+ was verified, as spheres have been hypothesized to contain undifferentiated multipotent progenitor cells. Finally, CD105+ cells were sorted from primary (Caki-2) and metastatic (ACHN) renal cell cancer cell lines. Gene-expression profiling of sorted CD105+ cells was performed with Agilent’s human GE 4x44K v2 microarrays. Differentially expressed genes were further categorized into canonical pathways. Network analysis and downstream analysis were performed with Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. Results Metastatic RCC cell lines (ACHN and Caki-1) demonstrated higher colony-forming ability in comparison to primary RCC cell lines. Metastatic RCC cell lines harbor numerous CD105+ cell subpopulations and have higher expression of stemness genes (Oct-4 and Nanog). CD105+ cells adopt 3D grape-like floating structures under handing drop conditions. Sorted CD105+ cells are positive for human mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) markers CD90, CD73, CD44, CD146, and alkaline phosphatase activity, but not for CD24 and hematopoietic lineage markers CD34, CD11b, CD19, CD45, and HLA-DR. 1411 genes are commonly differentially expressed in CD105+ cells (both from primary [Caki-2] and metastatic RCC [ACHN] cells) in comparison to a healthy kidney epithelial cell line (ASE-5063). TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenine, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), Rap1 signaling, PI3K-Akt signaling, and Hippo signaling pathway are deregulated in CD105+ cells. TGFB1, ERBB2, and TNF are the most significant transcriptional regulators activated in these cells. Conclusions All together, RCC-CD105+ cells present stemlike properties. These stem cell-like cancer cells may represent a novel target for therapy. A unique gene-expression profile of CD105+ cells could be used as initial data for subsequent functional studies and drug design. PMID:27812180

Mutagenesis Screen Identifies agtpbp1 and eps15L1 as Essential for T lymphocyte Development in Zebrafish.

PubMed

Seiler, Christoph; Gebhart, Nichole; Zhang, Yong; Shinton, Susan A; Li, Yue-sheng; Ross, Nicola L; Liu, Xingjun; Li, Qin; Bilbee, Alison N; Varshney, Gaurav K; LaFave, Matthew C; Burgess, Shawn M; Balciuniene, Jorune; Balciunas, Darius; Hardy, Richard R; Kappes, Dietmar J; Wiest, David L; Rhodes, Jennifer

2015-01-01

Genetic screens are a powerful tool to discover genes that are important in immune cell development and function. The evolutionarily conserved development of lymphoid cells paired with the genetic tractability of zebrafish make this a powerful model system for this purpose. We used a Tol2-based gene-breaking transposon to induce mutations in the zebrafish (Danio rerio, AB strain) genome, which served the dual purpose of fluorescently tagging cells and tissues that express the disrupted gene and provided a means of identifying the disrupted gene. We identified 12 lines in which hematopoietic tissues expressed green fluorescent protein (GFP) during embryonic development, as detected by microscopy. Subsequent analysis of young adult fish, using a novel approach in which single cell suspensions of whole fish were analyzed by flow cytometry, revealed that 8 of these lines also exhibited GFP expression in young adult cells. An additional 15 lines that did not have embryonic GFP+ hematopoietic tissue by microscopy, nevertheless exhibited GFP+ cells in young adults. RT-PCR analysis of purified GFP+ populations for expression of T and B cell-specific markers identified 18 lines in which T and/or B cells were fluorescently tagged at 6 weeks of age. As transposon insertion is expected to cause gene disruption, these lines can be used to assess the requirement for the disrupted genes in immune cell development. Focusing on the lines with embryonic GFP+ hematopoietic tissue, we identified three lines in which homozygous mutants exhibited impaired T cell development at 6 days of age. In two of the lines we identified the disrupted genes, agtpbp1 and eps15L1. Morpholino-mediated knockdown of these genes mimicked the T cell defects in the corresponding mutant embryos, demonstrating the previously unrecognized, essential roles of agtpbp1 and eps15L1 in T cell development.

Glycoprotein production for structure analysis with stable, glycosylation mutant CHO cell lines established by fluorescence-activated cell sorting.

PubMed

Wilke, Sonja; Krausze, Joern; Gossen, Manfred; Groebe, Lothar; Jäger, Volker; Gherardi, Ermanno; van den Heuvel, Joop; Büssow, Konrad

2010-06-01

Stable mammalian cell lines are excellent tools for the expression of secreted and membrane glycoproteins. However, structural analysis of these molecules is generally hampered by the complexity of N-linked carbohydrate side chains. Cell lines with mutations are available that result in shorter and more homogenous carbohydrate chains. Here, we use preparative fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and site-specific gene excision to establish high-yield glycoprotein expression for structural studies with stable clones derived from the well-established Lec3.2.8.1 glycosylation mutant of the Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell line. We exemplify the strategy by describing novel clones expressing single-chain hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF, a secreted glycoprotein) and a domain of lysosome-associated membrane protein 3 (LAMP3d). In both cases, stable GFP-expressing cell lines were established by transfection with a genetic construct including a GFP marker and two rounds of cell sorting after 1 and 2 weeks. The GFP marker was subsequently removed by heterologous expression of Flp recombinase. Production of HGF/SF and LAMP3d was stable over several months. 1.2 mg HGF/SF and 0.9 mg LAMP3d were purified per litre of culture, respectively. Homogenous glycoprotein preparations were amenable to enzymatic deglycosylation under native conditions. Purified and deglycosylated LAMP3d protein was readily crystallized. The combination of FACS and gene excision described here constitutes a robust and fast procedure for maximizing the yield of glycoproteins for structural analysis from glycosylation mutant cell lines.

Viral Oncolytic Therapeutics for Neoplastic Meningitis

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER Massachusetts General Hospital RICHARD BRINGHURST, M.D. 55 FRUIT ST BOSTON...Martuza. The cell lines were tested for mycoplasma, Hoechst DNA staining, PCR, and culture testing for contaminant bacteria, yeast, and fungi ...complication of breast cancer affects 5-8% of patients when circulating cancer cells seed in the meninges. Their subsequent growth causes severe

A Catalog of Genes Homozygously Deleted in Human Lung Cancer and the Candidacy of PTPRD as a Tumor Suppressor Gene

PubMed Central

Kohno, Takashi; Otsuka, Ayaka; Girard, Luc; Sato, Masanori; Iwakawa, Reika; Ogiwara, Hideaki; Sanchez-Cespedes, Montse; Minna, John D.; Yokota, Jun

2010-01-01

A total of 176 genes homozygously deleted in human lung cancer were identified by DNA array-based whole genome scanning of 52 lung cancer cell lines and subsequent genomic PCR in 74 cell lines, including the 52 cell lines scanned. One or more exons of these genes were homozygously deleted in one (1%) to 20 (27%) cell lines. These genes included known tumor suppressor genes, e.g., CDKN2A/p16, RB1, and SMAD4, and candidate tumor suppressor genes whose hemizygous or homozygous deletions were reported in several types of human cancers, such as FHIT, KEAP1, and LRP1B/LRP-DIP. CDKN2A/p16 and p14ARF located in 9p21 were most frequently deleted (20/74, 27%). The PTPRD gene was most frequently deleted (8/74, 11%) among genes mapping to regions other than 9p21. Somatic mutations, including a nonsense mutation, of the PTPRD gene were detected in 8/74 (11%) of cell lines and 4/95 (4%) of surgical specimens of lung cancer. Reduced PTPRD expression was observed in the majority (>80%) of cell lines and surgical specimens of lung cancer. Therefore, PTPRD is a candidate tumor suppressor gene in lung cancer. Microarray-based expression profiling of 19 lung cancer cell lines also indicated that some of the 176 genes, such as KANK and ADAMTS1, are preferentially inactivated by epigenetic alterations. Genetic/epigenetic as well as functional studies of these 176 genes will increase our understanding of molecular mechanisms behind lung carcinogenesis. PMID:20073072

High-throughput microfluidic line scan imaging for cytological characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hutcheson, Joshua A.; Powless, Amy J.; Majid, Aneeka A.; Claycomb, Adair; Fritsch, Ingrid; Balachandran, Kartik; Muldoon, Timothy J.

2015-03-01

Imaging cells in a microfluidic chamber with an area scan camera is difficult due to motion blur and data loss during frame readout causing discontinuity of data acquisition as cells move at relatively high speeds through the chamber. We have developed a method to continuously acquire high-resolution images of cells in motion through a microfluidics chamber using a high-speed line scan camera. The sensor acquires images in a line-by-line fashion in order to continuously image moving objects without motion blur. The optical setup comprises an epi-illuminated microscope with a 40X oil immersion, 1.4 NA objective and a 150 mm tube lens focused on a microfluidic channel. Samples containing suspended cells fluorescently stained with 0.01% (w/v) proflavine in saline are introduced into the microfluidics chamber via a syringe pump; illumination is provided by a blue LED (455 nm). Images were taken of samples at the focal plane using an ELiiXA+ 8k/4k monochrome line-scan camera at a line rate of up to 40 kHz. The system's line rate and fluid velocity are tightly controlled to reduce image distortion and are validated using fluorescent microspheres. Image acquisition was controlled via MATLAB's Image Acquisition toolbox. Data sets comprise discrete images of every detectable cell which may be subsequently mined for morphological statistics and definable features by a custom texture analysis algorithm. This high-throughput screening method, comparable to cell counting by flow cytometry, provided efficient examination including counting, classification, and differentiation of saliva, blood, and cultured human cancer cells.

PLGA-CTAB curcumin nanoparticles: Fabrication, characterization and molecular basis of anticancer activity in triple negative breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 cells).

PubMed

Meena, Ramovatar; Kumar, Sumit; Kumar, Raj; Gaharwar, Usha Singh; Rajamani, Paulraj

2017-10-01

Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC) are aggressive cancers, which do not control by hormonal therapy or therapies that target HER-2 receptors. Curcumin (Cur) has shown cytotoxic effects in multiple cancer cell lines. However, its medical uses remain limited due to low aqueous solubility and poor bioavailability. Therefore, present study was aimed to fabricate the small positive charge curcumin nanoparticles (CN) by nanoprecipitation methods using PLGA and CTAB, and to evaluate its anticancer efficacy and underlying the mechanism in triple negative breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 cells). In in-vitro drug release assay, Cur was released from CN by flicking diffusion and anomalous transport process. CN showed a higher cellular incorporation than free Cur resulted in higher cytotoxicity. Checking the anticancer activity at the molecular level, Cur has shown to induce the reactive oxygen species production that subsequently causes the DNA damage and resulting in p38-MAPK activation. The p38-MAPK induce the expression of p16 /INKK4a , p21 /waf1/cip1 and p53 resulting in a reduction in the level of CDK2, CDK4, cyclin D1 and cyclin E and subsequently cell cycle arrest at G1/S and G2/M phase. It also reduces the expression of DNA repair gene, i.e. BRCA1, BRCA2, Rad51, Rad50, Mre11 and NBS1 resulting in apoptosis induction due to persistent DNA damage. This study presents an effective delivery of curcumin in TNBC cancer cells and it could open the new frontiers in clinical cancer chemotherapy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

LRD-22, a novel dual dithiocarbamatic acid ester, inhibits Aurora-A kinase and induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in HepG2 cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Huiling; Li, Ridong; Li, Li

In this study we investigated the antitumor activity of the novel dual dithiocarbamatic acid ester LRD-22 in vitro and in vivo. Several cancer cell lines were employed to determine the effect of LRD-22 on cell growth, and the MTT assay showed there was a significant decrease in viable tumor cell numbers in the presence of LRD-22, especially in the HepG2 cell line. Colony formation assay also showed LRD-22 strongly inhibits HepG2 cell growth. Evaluation of the mechanism involved showed that inhibitory effects of LRD-22 on cell growth are due to induction of apoptosis and G2/M arrest. LRD-22 inhibited Aurora-A phosphorylation at Thr{submore » 288} and subsequently impaired p53 phosphorylation at Ser{sub 315} which was associated with the proteasome degradation pathway. Tumor suppressor protein p53 is stabilized by this mechanism and accumulates through inhibition of Aurora-A kinase activity via treatment with LRD-22. In vivo study of HepG2 xenograft in nude mice also shows LRD-22 suppresses tumor growth at a concentration of 5 mg/kg without animals suffering loss of body weight. In conclusion, our results demonstrate LRD-22 acts as an Aurora-A kinase inhibitor to induce apoptosis and inhibit proliferation in HepG2 cells, and should be considered as a promising targeting agent for HCC therapy. - Highlights: • LRD-22 significantly inhibits cancer cell growth, especially in the HepG2 cell line. • The inhibitory effect of LRD-22 is due to induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. • LRD-22 inhibits Aurora-A phosphorylation which results in subsequent impairment of the p53 pathway. • LRD-22 suppresses tumor growth in xenograft mice without body weight loss.« less

Single-cell-based breeding: Rational strategy for the establishment of cell lines from a single cell with the most favorable properties.

PubMed

Yoshimoto, Nobuo; Kuroda, Shun'ichi

2014-04-01

For efficient biomolecule production (e.g., antibodies, recombinant proteins), mammalian cells with high expression rates should be selected from cell libraries, propagated while maintaining a homogenous expression rate, and subsequently stabilized at their high expression rate. Clusters of isogenic cells (i.e., colonies) have been used for these processes. However, cellular heterogeneity makes it difficult to obtain cell lines with the highest expression rates by using single-colony-based breeding. Furthermore, even among the single cells in an isogenic cell population, the desired cell properties fluctuate stochastically during long-term culture. Therefore, although the molecular mechanisms underlying stochastic fluctuation are poorly understood, it is necessary to establish excellent cell lines in order to breed single cells to have higher expression, higher stability, and higher homogeneity while suppressing stochastic fluctuation (i.e., single-cell-based breeding). In this review, we describe various methods for manipulating single cells and facilitating single-cell analysis in order to better understand stochastic fluctuation. We demonstrated that single-cell-based breeding is practical and promising by using a high-throughput automated system to analyze and manipulate single cells. Copyright © 2013 The Society for Biotechnology, Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Initiation of oncogenic transformation in human mammary epithelial cells by charged particles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yang, T. C.; Georgy, K. A.; Craise, L. M.; Durante, M.

1997-01-01

Experimental studies have shown that high linear-energy transfer (LET) charged particles can be more effective than x-rays and gamma-rays in inducing oncogenic transformation in cultured cells and tumors in animals. Based on these results, experiments were designed and performed with an immortal human mammary epithelial cell line (H184B5), and several clones transformed by heavy ions were obtained. Cell fusion experiments were subsequently done, and results indicate that the transforming gene(s) is recessive. Chromosome analysis with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) techniques also showed additional translocations in transformed human mammary epithelial cells. In addition, studies with these cell lines indicate that heavy ions can effectively induce deletion, break, and dicentrics. Deletion of tumor suppressor gene(s) and/or formation of translocation through DNA double strand breaks is a likely mechanism for the initiation of oncogenic transformation in human mammary epithelial cells.

Stiffness of the microenvironment upregulates ERBB2 expression in 3D cultures of MCF10A within the range of mammographic density.

PubMed

Cheng, Qingsu; Bilgin, Cemal Cagatay; Fontenay, Gerald; Chang, Hang; Henderson, Matthew; Han, Ju; Parvin, Bahram

2016-07-07

The effects of the stiffness of the microenvironment on the molecular response of 3D colony organization, at the maximum level of mammographic density (MD), are investigated. Phenotypic profiling reveals that 3D colony formation is heterogeneous and increased stiffness of the microenvironment, within the range of the MD, correlates with the increased frequency of aberrant 3D colony formation. Further integrative analysis of the genome-wide transcriptome and phenotypic profiling hypothesizes overexpression of ERBB2 in the premalignant MCF10A cell lines at a stiffness value that corresponds to the collagen component at high mammographic density. Subsequently, ERBB2 overexpression has been validated in the same cell line. Similar experiments with a more genetically stable cell line of 184A1 also revealed an increased frequency of aberrant colony formation with the increased stiffness; however, 184A1 did not demonstrate overexpression of ERBB2 at the same stiffness value of the high MD. These results suggest that stiffness exacerbates premalignant cell line of MCF10A.

Silencing of Urothelial Carcinoma Associated 1 Inhibits the Proliferation and Migration of Medulloblastoma Cells.

PubMed

Zhengyuan, Xie; Hu, Xiao; Qiang, Wang; Nanxiang, Li; Junbin, Cai; Wangming, Zhang

2017-09-16

BACKGROUND UCA1 is a long non-coding RNA that has been found to be aberrantly upregulated in various cancers. The aim of this study was to determine the expression level and function of UCA1 in medulloblastoma, the most common malignant brain tumor during childhood. MATERIAL AND METHODS Real-time PCR was used to detect the expression of UCA1 in medulloblastoma specimens and cell lines. Lentiviral-mediated expression of a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting UCA1 or a negative control shRNA was also achieved with the medulloblastoma cell line, Daoy. Cell proliferation and cell cycle progression were subsequently characterized with cell counting kit (CCK)-8 and flow cytometry. Cell migration was examined in wound healing and Transwell migration assays. RESULTS Levels of UCA1 mRNA were higher in the medulloblastoma specimens (p<0.05) and cell lines (p<0.05) compared to the corresponding nontumor adjacent tissue specimens and a glioblastoma cell line, respectively. For the Daoy cells with silenced UCA1, their proliferation was reduced by 30% compared to the Daoy cells expressing a negative control shRNA (p=0.017). Cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase, resulting in a decreased number of cells in the S phase, as well as reduced cell migration in both wound scratch healing (p=0.001) and Transwell migration assays (p=0.021) were also observed for the Daoy cells with silenced UCA1. CONCLUSIONS UCA1 was highly expressed in part of medulloblastoma specimens and cell lines examined. In addition, knockdown of UCA1 significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of medulloblastoma cells in vitro.

Polymer microfilters with nanostructured surfaces for the culture of circulating cancer cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Makarova, Olga V.; Adams, Daniel L.; Divan, Ralu

There is a critical need to improve the accuracy of drug screening and testing through the development of in vitro culture systems that more effectively mimic the in vivo environment. Surface topographical features on the nanoscale level, in short nanotopography, effect the cell growth patterns, and hence affect cell function in culture. We report the preliminary results on the fabrication, and subsequent cellular growth, of nanoscale surface topography on polymer microfilters using cell lines as a precursor to circulating tumor cells (CTCs). To create various nanoscale features on the microfilter surface, we used reactive ion etching (RIE) with and withoutmore » an etching mask. An anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane fabricated directly on the polymer surface served as an etching mask. Polymer filters with a variety of modified surfaces were used to compare the effects on the culture of cancer cell lines in blank culture wells, with untreated microfilters or with RIE-treated microfilters. We then report the differences of cell shape, phenotype and growth patterns of bladder and glioblastoma cancer cell lines after isolation on the various types of material modifications. Our data suggest that RIE modified polymer filters can isolate model cell lines while retaining ell viability, and that the RIE filter modification allows T24 monolayering cells to proliferate as a structured cluster. Copyright 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.« less

An integrated centrifugo-opto-microfluidic platform for arraying, analysis, identification and manipulation of individual cells.

PubMed

Burger, R; Kurzbuch, D; Gorkin, R; Kijanka, G; Glynn, M; McDonagh, C; Ducrée, J

2015-01-21

In this work we present a centrifugal microfluidic system enabling highly efficient collective trapping and alignment of particles such as microbeads and cells, their multi-colour fluorescent detection and subsequent manipulation by optical tweezers. We demonstrate array-based capture and imaging followed by "cherry-picking" of individual particles, first for fluorescently labelled polystyrene (PS) beads and then for cells. Different cell lines are discriminated based on intracellular as well as surface-based markers.

Cell vertices as independent actors during cell intercalation in epithelial morphogenesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loerke, Dinah

Epithelial sheets form the lining of organ surfaces and body cavities, and it is now appreciated that these sheets are dynamic structures that can undergo significant reorganizing events, e.g. during wound healing or morphogenesis. One of the key morphogenetic mechanisms that is utilized during development is tissue elongation, which is driven by oriented cell intercalation. In the Drosophila embryonic epithelium, this occurs through the contraction of vertical T1 interfaces and the subsequent resolution of horizontal T3 interfaces (analogous to so-called T1 transitions in soap foams), where the symmetry breaking behaviors are created by a system of planar polarity of actomyosin and adhesion complexes within the cell layer. The dominant physical model for this process posits that the anisotropy of line tension directs T1 contraction. However, this model is inconsistent with the in vivo observation that cell vertices of T1 interfaces lack physical coupling, and instead show independent movements. Thus, we propose that a more useful explanation of intercalary behaviors will be possible through a description of the radially-directed and adhesion-coupled force events that lead to vertex movements and produce subsequent dependent changes in interface lengths. This work is supported by NIH R15 GM117463-01 and by a Research Corporation for Science Advancement (RCSA) Cottrell Scholar Award.

Genome-wide methylation sequencing of paired primary and metastatic cell lines identifies common DNA methylation changes and a role for EBF3 as a candidate epigenetic driver of melanoma metastasis

PubMed Central

Chatterjee, Aniruddha; Stockwell, Peter A; Ahn, Antonio; Rodger, Euan J; Leichter, Anna L; Eccles, Michael R

2017-01-01

Epigenetic alterations are increasingly implicated in metastasis, whereas very few genetic mutations have been identified as authentic drivers of cancer metastasis. Yet, to date, few studies have identified metastasis-related epigenetic drivers, in part because a framework for identifying driver epigenetic changes in metastasis has not been established. Using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS), we mapped genome-wide DNA methylation patterns in three cutaneous primary and metastatic melanoma cell line pairs to identify metastasis-related epigenetic drivers. Globally, metastatic melanoma cell lines were hypomethylated compared to the matched primary melanoma cell lines. Using whole genome RRBS we identified 75 shared (10 hyper- and 65 hypomethylated) differentially methylated fragments (DMFs), which were associated with 68 genes showing significant methylation differences. One gene, Early B Cell Factor 3 (EBF3), exhibited promoter hypermethylation in metastatic cell lines, and was validated with bisulfite sequencing and in two publicly available independent melanoma cohorts (n = 40 and 458 melanomas, respectively). We found that hypermethylation of the EBF3 promoter was associated with increased EBF3 mRNA levels in metastatic melanomas and subsequent inhibition of DNA methylation reduced EBF3 expression. RNAi-mediated knockdown of EBF3 mRNA levels decreased proliferation, migration and invasion in primary and metastatic melanoma cell lines. Overall, we have identified numerous epigenetic changes characterising metastatic melanoma cell lines, including EBF3-induced aggressive phenotypic behaviour with elevated EBF3 expression in metastatic melanoma, suggesting that EBF3 promoter hypermethylation may be a candidate epigenetic driver of metastasis. PMID:28030832

Isolation and Characterization of Poliovirus in Cell Culture Systems.

PubMed

Thorley, Bruce R; Roberts, Jason A

2016-01-01

The isolation and characterization of enteroviruses by cell culture was accepted as the "gold standard" by clinical virology laboratories. Methods for the direct detection of all enteroviruses by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, targeting a conserved region of the genome, have largely supplanted cell culture as the principal diagnostic procedure. However, the World Health Organization's Global Polio Eradication Initiative continues to rely upon cell culture to isolate poliovirus due to the lack of a reliable sensitive genetic test for direct typing of enteroviruses from clinical specimens. Poliovirus is able to infect a wide range of mammalian cell lines, with CD155 identified as the primary human receptor for all three seroytpes, and virus replication leads to an observable cytopathic effect. Inoculation of cell lines with extracts of clinical specimens and subsequent passaging of the cells leads to an increased virus titre. Cultured isolates of poliovirus are suitable for testing by a variety of methods and remain viable for years when stored at low temperature.This chapter describes general procedures for establishing a cell bank and routine passaging of cell lines. While the sections on specimen preparation and virus isolation focus on poliovirus, the protocols are suitable for other enteroviruses.

Characteristics of Notch2(+) pancreatic cancer stem-like cells and the relationship with centroacinar cells.

PubMed

Zhou, Zhu-Chao; Dong, Qiang-Gang; Fu, De-Liang; Gong, Yi-Yi; Ni, Quan-Xing

2013-08-01

Notch2, a surface marker in cell lines, is used to isolate, identify and localise pancreatic cancer stem-like cells and is a target for therapy of these cells. Sphere formation was induced in Panc-1 and Bxpc-3 pancreatic cancer cell lines, and Notch2(+) cells were separated from Bxpc-3 and Panc-1 cell lines by magnetic activated cell sorting (MACS). Expression of stem cell-related markers, OCT4, Nanog and PDX1, were measured by immunofluorescent (IF) staining. Expression of Notch2 was also determined immunohistochemically in pancreatic tissues. Notch2(+) cells were transplanted in subcutaneous of mice. AQP1 and AQP5 were also measured by IF in Bxpc-3 cells. The Notch signal pathway inhibitor, Compound E (CE), was used to treat Notch2(+) Bxpc-3 cells, and their vitalities were subsequently measured by the CCK-8 method. Positive expression of OCT4, Nanog and PDX1 was observed in Notch2(+) cells. Notch2(+) cells at centroacinar cell (CAC) and terminal ductal locations expressed AQP1 and AQP5. They were strongly tumourigenic in mice, and CE inhibited proliferation of Notch2(+) Bxpc-3 cells to some degree. OCT4 and Nanog can be used as markers of self-renewal in pancreatic cancer stem cells. Notch2(+) cells in human pancreatic cancer Bxpc-3 and Panc-1 cell lines had the properties of cancer stem cells. The results suggest that Notch2(+) pancreatic cancer stem-like cells had a close relationship with CAC. © 2013 International Federation for Cell Biology.

Systems analysis of apoptosis protein expression allows the case-specific prediction of cell death responsiveness of melanoma cells

PubMed Central

Passante, E; Würstle, M L; Hellwig, C T; Leverkus, M; Rehm, M

2013-01-01

Many cancer entities and their associated cell line models are highly heterogeneous in their responsiveness to apoptosis inducers and, despite a detailed understanding of the underlying signaling networks, cell death susceptibility currently cannot be predicted reliably from protein expression profiles. Here, we demonstrate that an integration of quantitative apoptosis protein expression data with pathway knowledge can predict the cell death responsiveness of melanoma cell lines. By a total of 612 measurements, we determined the absolute expression (nM) of 17 core apoptosis regulators in a panel of 11 melanoma cell lines, and enriched these data with systems-level information on apoptosis pathway topology. By applying multivariate statistical analysis and multi-dimensional pattern recognition algorithms, the responsiveness of individual cell lines to tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) or dacarbazine (DTIC) could be predicted with very high accuracy (91 and 82% correct predictions), and the most effective treatment option for individual cell lines could be pre-determined in silico. In contrast, cell death responsiveness was poorly predicted when not taking knowledge on protein–protein interactions into account (55 and 36% correct predictions). We also generated mathematical predictions on whether anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members or x-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) can be targeted to enhance TRAIL responsiveness in individual cell lines. Subsequent experiments, making use of pharmacological Bcl-2/Bcl-xL inhibition or siRNA-based XIAP depletion, confirmed the accuracy of these predictions. We therefore demonstrate that cell death responsiveness to TRAIL or DTIC can be predicted reliably in a large number of melanoma cell lines when investigating expression patterns of apoptosis regulators in the context of their network-level interplay. The capacity to predict responsiveness at the cellular level may contribute to personalizing anti-cancer treatments in the future. PMID:23933815

Degradation of recombinant proteins by CHO host cell proteases is prevented by Matriptase-1 knock-out.

PubMed

Laux, Holger; Romand, Sandrine; Nuciforo, Sandro; Farady, Christopher J; Tapparel, Joel; Buechmann-Moeller, Stine; Sommer, Benjamin; Oakeley, Edward J; Bodendorf, Ursula

2018-05-19

An increasing number of non-antibody format proteins are entering the clinical development. However, one of the major hurdles for the production of non-antibody glycoproteins is host cell-related proteolytic degradation, which can drastically impact developability and timelines of pipeline projects. Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are the preferred production host for recombinant therapeutic proteins. Using protease inhibitors, transcriptomics and genetic knockdowns we have identified, out of the more than 700 known proteases in rodents, Matriptase-1 as the major protease involved in degradation of recombinant proteins expressed in CHO-K1 cells. Subsequently Matriptase-1 was deleted in CHO-K1 cells using "Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nucleases" (TALENs) as well as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs). This resulted in a superior CHO-K1 matriptase knockout (KO) cell line with strongly reduced or no proteolytic degradation activity towards a panel of recombinantly-expressed proteins. The matriptase KO cell line was evaluated in spike-in experiments, and showed little or no degradation of proteins incubated in culture supernatant derived from the KO cells. This effect was confirmed when the same proteins were recombinantly expressed in the KO cell line. In summary, the combination of novel cell line engineering tools, next generation sequencing screening methods and the recently published Chinese hamster genome has enabled the development of this novel matriptase KO CHO cell line capable of improving expression yields of intact therapeutic proteins. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

DOK, a cell line established from human dysplastic oral mucosa, shows a partially transformed non-malignant phenotype.

PubMed

Chang, S E; Foster, S; Betts, D; Marnock, W E

1992-12-02

There are many reports of cell lines being established from human oral squamous-cell carcinomas but apparently none of cell lines from dysplastic or "pre-malignant" oral mucosa. We describe here the isolation and characterization of a cell line, DOK (dysplastic oral keratinocyte), from a piece of dorsal tongue showing epithelial dysplasia. The tissue was obtained from a 57-year-old man who was a heavy smoker prior to the appearance of a white patch on his tongue. Eleven years later a squamous-cell carcinoma developed at the site and was excised. Subsequently the remaining dysplasia was removed, and it was from a piece of this that the primary cell cultures which eventually gave rise to DOK were initiated. The DOK line has been single-cell cloned and is apparently immortal. It grows in the absence of 3T3 feeder cells, is anchorage-dependent for growth and is non-tumorigenic in nude mice. The keratin profile of the cells shows a striking similarity to that of the original tongue dysplasia. The karyotype of DOK is aneuploid and complex. By PCR and oligonucleotide hybridization on dot blots, codons 12, 13 and 61 of Ha-ras, Ki-ras and N-ras in DNA extracted from DOK cells were shown to be normal. Immunohistochemistry showed no abnormal, i.e., elevated expression of the onco-suppressor protein p53. Because of its origin and partially transformed phenotype, DOK presents an opportunity to study whether specific carcinogens associated with tobacco and areca nut can cause malignant transformation of oral keratinocytes in vitro.

Cancer in silico drug discovery: a systems biology tool for identifying candidate drugs to target specific molecular tumor subtypes.

PubMed

San Lucas, F Anthony; Fowler, Jerry; Chang, Kyle; Kopetz, Scott; Vilar, Eduardo; Scheet, Paul

2014-12-01

Large-scale cancer datasets such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) allow researchers to profile tumors based on a wide range of clinical and molecular characteristics. Subsequently, TCGA-derived gene expression profiles can be analyzed with the Connectivity Map (CMap) to find candidate drugs to target tumors with specific clinical phenotypes or molecular characteristics. This represents a powerful computational approach for candidate drug identification, but due to the complexity of TCGA and technology differences between CMap and TCGA experiments, such analyses are challenging to conduct and reproduce. We present Cancer in silico Drug Discovery (CiDD; scheet.org/software), a computational drug discovery platform that addresses these challenges. CiDD integrates data from TCGA, CMap, and Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) to perform computational drug discovery experiments, generating hypotheses for the following three general problems: (i) determining whether specific clinical phenotypes or molecular characteristics are associated with unique gene expression signatures; (ii) finding candidate drugs to repress these expression signatures; and (iii) identifying cell lines that resemble the tumors being studied for subsequent in vitro experiments. The primary input to CiDD is a clinical or molecular characteristic. The output is a biologically annotated list of candidate drugs and a list of cell lines for in vitro experimentation. We applied CiDD to identify candidate drugs to treat colorectal cancers harboring mutations in BRAF. CiDD identified EGFR and proteasome inhibitors, while proposing five cell lines for in vitro testing. CiDD facilitates phenotype-driven, systematic drug discovery based on clinical and molecular data from TCGA. ©2014 American Association for Cancer Research.

Identification of Methylated Genes Associated with Aggressive Clinicopathological Features in Mantle Cell Lymphoma

PubMed Central

Hernández, Luis; Navarro, Alba; Beà, Sílvia; Pinyol, Magda; López-Guillermo, Armando; Rosenwald, Andreas; Ott, German; Campo, Elías; Jares, Pedro

2011-01-01

Background Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is genetically characterized by the t(11;14)(q13;q32) translocation and a high number of secondary chromosomal alterations. The contribution of DNA methylation to MCL lymphomagenesis is not well known. We sought to identify epigenetically silenced genes in these tumours that might have clinical relevance. Methodology/Principal Findings To identify potential methylated genes in MCL we initially investigated seven MCL cell lines treated with epigenetic drugs and gene expression microarray profiling. The methylation status of selected candidate genes was validated by a quantitative assay and subsequently analyzed in a series of primary MCL (n = 38). After pharmacological reversion we identified 252 potentially methylated genes. The methylation analysis of a subset of these genes (n = 25) in the MCL cell lines and normal B lymphocytes confirmed that 80% of them were methylated in the cell lines but not in normal lymphocytes. The subsequent analysis in primary MCL identified five genes (SOX9, HOXA9, AHR, NR2F2, and ROBO1) frequently methylated in these tumours. The gene methylation events tended to occur in the same primary neoplasms and correlated with higher proliferation, increased number of chromosomal abnormalities, and shorter survival of the patients. Conclusions We have identified a set of genes whose methylation degree and gene expression levels correlate with aggressive clinicopathological features of MCL. Our findings also suggest that a subset of MCL might show a CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) that may influence the behaviour of the tumours. PMID:21603610

Proliferation kinetics of cultured cells after irradiation with X-rays and 14 MeV neutrons studied by time-lapse cinematography.

PubMed

Kooi, M W; Stap, J; Barendsen, G W

1984-06-01

Exponentially growing cells of an established line derived from a mouse osteosarcoma (MOS) have been studied by time-lapse cinematography after irradiation with 3 Gy of 200 kV X-rays or 1.5 Gy of 14 MeV neutrons. Cell cycle times (Tc) of individual cells and their progeny in three subsequent generations as well as the occurrence of aberrant mitosis have been determined to evaluate the variation in expression of damage in relation to the stage in the intermitotic cycle and the radiation quality. The results show that the radiation doses applied cause an equal elongation of the mean Tc, which is largest in the irradiated cells but persists in the three subsequent generations. After 3 Gy of X-rays, mitotic delay is largest in cells irradiated in later stages of the cycle, but this difference is not observed after 1.5 Gy of 14 MeV neutrons. In subsequent generations the Tc values show larger variations among descendents of cells treated in the same stage of the cycle as compared to controls but this variation is equal for the doses of X-rays and neutrons applied. Division probability was significantly reduced in irradiated cells as well as in subsequent generations, whereby with neutrons as compared to X-rays the damage is expressed in earlier generations, with less variation as a function of the cell cycle.

Cytotoxic outcomes of orthodontic bands with and without silver solder in different cell lineages.

PubMed

Jacoby, Letícia Spinelli; Rodrigues Junior, Valnês da Silva; Campos, Maria Martha; Macedo de Menezes, Luciane

2017-05-01

The safety of orthodontic materials is a matter of high interest. In this study, we aimed to assess the in-vitro cytotoxicity of orthodontic band extracts, with and without silver solder, by comparing the viability outcomes of the HaCat keratinocytes, the fibroblastic cell lineages HGF and MRC-5, and the kidney epithelial Vero cells. Sterilized orthodontic bands with and without silver solder joints were added to culture media (6 cm 2 /mL) and incubated for 24 hours at 37°C under continuous agitation. Subsequently, the cell cultures were exposed to the obtained extracts for 24 hours, and an assay was performed to evaluate the cell viability. Copper strip extracts were used as positive control devices. The extracts from orthodontic bands with silver solder joints significantly reduced the viability of the HaCat, MRC-5, and Vero cell lines, whereas the viability of HGF was not altered by this material. Conversely, the extracts of orthodontic bands without silver solder did not significantly modify the viability index of all evaluated cell lines. Except for HGF fibroblasts, all tested cell lines showed decreased viability percentages after exposure to extracts of orthodontic bands containing silver solder joints. These data show the relevance of testing the toxicity of orthodontic devices in different cell lines. Copyright © 2017 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Simulation and comparison of progression-free survival among patients with non-squamous non-small-cell lung cancer receiving sequential therapy.

PubMed

Walzer, Stefan; Chouaid, Christos; Lister, Johanna; Gultyaev, Dmitry; Vergnenegre, Alain; de Marinis, Filippo; Meng, Jie; de Castro Carpeno, Javier; Crott, Ralph; Kleman, Martin; Ngoh, Charles

2015-01-01

In recent years, the treatment landscape in advanced non-squamous non-small-cell lung cancer (nsNSCLC) has changed. New therapies (e.g., bevacizumab indicated in first line) have become available and other therapies (e.g., pemetrexed in first line and second line) moved into earlier lines in the treatment paradigm. While there has been an expansion of the available treatment options, it is still a key research question which therapy sequence results in the best survival outcomes for patients with nsNSCLC. A therapy-sequencing disease model that approximates treatment outcomes in up to five lines of treatment was developed for patients with nsNSCLC. The primary source of data for progression-free survival (PFS) and time to death was published pivotal trial data. All patients were treatment-naïve and in the PFS state, received first-line treatment with either bevacizumab-based therapy or doublet chemotherapy (including the option of pemetrexed + cisplatin). Patients would then progress to a subsequent line of therapy, remain in PFS or die. In case of progression, it was assumed that each survivor would receive a subsequent line of therapy, based on EMA licensed therapies. Weibull distribution curves were fitted to the data. All bevacizumab-based first-line therapy sequences analyzed achieved total PFS of around 15 months. Bevacizumab + carboplatin + paclitaxel (first line) → pemetrexed (second line) → erlotinib (third line) → docetaxel (fourth line) resulted in total mean PFS time of 15.7 months, for instance. Sequences with pemetrexed in combination with cisplatin in first line achieved total PFS times between 12.6 and 12.8 months with a slightly higher total PFS time achieved when assuming pemetrexed continuation therapy in maintenance after pemetrexed + cisplatin in first-line induction. Overall survival results followed the same trend as PFS. The model suggests that treatment-sequencing strategies starting with a bevacizumab-based combination in first line yield better survival outcomes than those starting with pemetrexed-based combinations, a result that is attributable to the possibility of one further line of treatment with first-line bevacizumab-based treatment sequences.

Integrity of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) Derived Megakaryocytes as Assessed by Genetic and Transcriptomic Analysis

PubMed Central

Kammers, Kai; Taub, Margaret A.; Ruczinski, Ingo; Martin, Joshua; Yanek, Lisa R.; Frazee, Alyssa; Gao, Yongxing; Hoyle, Dixie; Faraday, Nauder; Becker, Diane M.; Cheng, Linzhao; Wang, Zack Z.; Leek, Jeff T.; Becker, Lewis C.; Mathias, Rasika A.

2017-01-01

Previously, we have described our feeder-free, xeno-free approach to generate megakaryocytes (MKs) in culture from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Here, we focus specifically on the integrity of these MKs using: (1) genotype discordance between parent cell DNA to iPSC cell DNA and onward to the differentiated MK DNA; (2) genomic structural integrity using copy number variation (CNV); and (3) transcriptomic signatures of the derived MK lines compared to the iPSC lines. We detected a very low rate of genotype discordance; estimates were 0.0001%-0.01%, well below the genotyping error rate for our assay (0.37%). No CNVs were generated in the iPSCs that were subsequently passed on to the MKs. Finally, we observed highly biologically relevant gene sets as being upregulated in MKs relative to the iPSCs: platelet activation, blood coagulation, megakaryocyte development, platelet formation, platelet degranulation, and platelet aggregation. These data strongly support the integrity of the derived MK lines. PMID:28107356

Prostate cancer cell response to paclitaxel is affected by abnormally expressed securin PTTG1.

PubMed

Castilla, Carolina; Flores, M Luz; Medina, Rafael; Pérez-Valderrama, Begoña; Romero, Francisco; Tortolero, María; Japón, Miguel A; Sáez, Carmen

2014-10-01

PTTG1 protein, the human securin, has a central role in sister chromatid separation during mitosis, and its altered expression has been reported in many tumor types. Paclitaxel is a widely used chemotherapeutic drug, whose mechanism of action is related to its ability to arrest cells in mitosis and the subsequent induction of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. By using two prostate cancer cell lines with different responses to paclitaxel treatment, we have identified two situations in which PTTG1 influences cell fate differentially. In slippage-prone PC3 cells, both PTTG1 downregulation and overexpression induce an increase in mitotic cells that is associated with diminished apoptosis after paclitaxel treatment. In LNCaP cells, however, PTTG1 downregulation prevents mitotic entry and, subsequently, inhibits mitosis-associated, paclitaxel-induced apoptosis. In contrast, PTTG1 overexpression induces an increase in mitotic cells and apoptosis after paclitaxel treatment. We have also identified a role for Mcl-1 protein in preventing apoptosis during mitosis in PC3 cells, as simultaneous PTTG1 and Mcl-1 silencing enhances mitosis-associated apoptosis after paclitaxel treatment. The finding that a more efficient mitotic arrest alone in PC3 cells is not enough to increase apoptosis was also confirmed with the observation that a selected paclitaxel-resistant PC3 cell line showed an apoptosis-resistant phenotype associated with increased mitosis upon paclitaxel treatment. These findings could contribute to identify putative responsive and nonresponsive cells and help us to approach incomplete responses to paclitaxel in the clinical setting. ©2014 American Association for Cancer Research.

Synchronized mammalian cell culture: part I--a physical strategy for synchronized cultivation under physiological conditions.

PubMed

Barradas, Oscar Platas; Jandt, Uwe; Becker, Max; Bahnemann, Janina; Pörtner, Ralf; Zeng, An-Ping

2015-01-01

Conventional analysis and optimization procedures of mammalian cell culture processes mostly treat the culture as a homogeneous population. Hence, the focus is on cell physiology and metabolism, cell line development, and process control strategy. Impact on cultivations caused by potential variations in cellular properties between different subpopulations, however, has not yet been evaluated systematically. One main cause for the formation of such subpopulations is the progress of all cells through the cell cycle. The interaction of potential cell cycle specific variations in the cell behavior with large-scale process conditions can be optimally determined by means of (partially) synchronized cultivations, with subsequent population resolved model analysis. Therefore, it is desirable to synchronize a culture with minimal perturbation, which is possible with different yield and quality using physical selection methods, but not with frequently used chemical or whole-culture methods. Conventional nonsynchronizing methods with subsequent cell-specific, for example, flow cytometric analysis, can only resolve cell-limited effects of the cell cycle. In this work, we demonstrate countercurrent-flow centrifugal elutriation as a useful physical method to enrich mammalian cell populations within different phases of a cell cycle, which can be further cultivated for synchronized growth in bioreactors under physiological conditions. The presented combined approach contrasts with other physical selection methods especially with respect to the achievable yield, which makes it suitable for bioreactor scale cultivations. As shown with two industrial cell lines (CHO-K1 and human AGE1.HN), synchronous inocula can be obtained with overall synchrony degrees of up to 82% in the G1 phase, 53% in the S phase and 60% in the G2/M phase, with enrichment factors (Ysync) of 1.71, 1.79, and 4.24 respectively. Cells are able to grow with synchrony in bioreactors over several cell cycles. This strategy, combined with population-resolved model analysis and parameter extraction as described in the accompanying paper, offers new possibilities for studies of cell lines and processes at levels of cell cycle and population under physiological conditions. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Environmentally Induced Transgenerational Epigenetic Reprogramming of Primordial Germ Cells and the Subsequent Germ Line

PubMed Central

Skinner, Michael K.; Haque, Carlos Guerrero-Bosagna M.; Nilsson, Eric; Bhandari, Ramji; McCarrey, John R.

2013-01-01

A number of environmental factors (e.g. toxicants) have been shown to promote the epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of disease and phenotypic variation. Transgenerational inheritance requires the germline transmission of altered epigenetic information between generations in the absence of direct environmental exposures. The primary periods for epigenetic programming of the germ line are those associated with primordial germ cell development and subsequent fetal germline development. The current study examined the actions of an agricultural fungicide vinclozolin on gestating female (F0 generation) progeny in regards to the primordial germ cell (PGC) epigenetic reprogramming of the F3 generation (i.e. great-grandchildren). The F3 generation germline transcriptome and epigenome (DNA methylation) were altered transgenerationally. Interestingly, disruptions in DNA methylation patterns and altered transcriptomes were distinct between germ cells at the onset of gonadal sex determination at embryonic day 13 (E13) and after cord formation in the testis at embryonic day 16 (E16). A larger number of DNA methylation abnormalities (epimutations) and transcriptional alterations were observed in the E13 germ cells than in the E16 germ cells. These observations indicate that altered transgenerational epigenetic reprogramming and function of the male germline is a component of vinclozolin induced epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of disease. Insights into the molecular control of germline transmitted epigenetic inheritance are provided. PMID:23869203

Differentiation and Characterization of Myeloid Cells

PubMed Central

Gupta, Dipti; Shah, Hetavi Parag; Malu, Krishnakumar; Berliner, Nancy; Gaines, Peter

2015-01-01

Recent molecular studies of myeloid differentiation have utilized several in vitro models of myelopoiesis, generated from either ex vivo differentiated bone marrow progenitors or induced immortalized myeloid cell lines. Ex vivo differentiation begins with an enriched population of bone marrow-derived hematopoietic stem cells generated by lineage depletion and/or positive selection for CD34+ antigen (human) or Sca-1+ (mouse) cells, which are then expanded and subsequently induced in vitro in a process that recapitulates normal myeloid development. Myeloid cell lines include two human leukemic cell lines, NB-4 and HL-60, which have been demonstrated to undergo retinoic acid–induced myeloid development, however, both cell lines exhibit defects in the upregulation of late-expressed neutrophil-specific genes. Multiple murine factor–dependent cell models of myelopoiesis are also available that express the full range of neutrophil maturation markers, including: 32Dcl3 cells, which undergo G-CSF-induced myeloid maturation, EML/EPRO cells, which develop into mature neutrophils in response to cytokines and retinoic acid, and ER-Hoxb8 cells, which undergo myeloid maturation upon removal of estradial in the maintenance medium. In this unit, the induction of myeloid maturation in each of these model systems is described, including their differentiation to either neutrophils or macrophages, if applicable. Commonly used techniques to test for myeloid characteristics of developing cells are also described, including flow cytometry and real time RT-PCR. Together, these assays provide a solid foundation for in vitro investigations of myeloid development with either human or mouse models. PMID:24510620

Cytogenetic characterization of three cell lines derived from primary cervical tumors of different histologic grade

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hann, E.; Beauregard, L.; Mikumo, R.

Braum et al.(1993) established three cell lines from keratinizing and nonkeratinizing cervical carcinomas. These cell lines were subsequently analyzed for growth properties and the physical state of the human papillomavirus type 16 genome. TC140, derived from a keratinizing cervical tumor, contains human papillomavirus type 16 in the episomal state. TC-146A and TC-146B, derived from a nonkeratinizing large-cell cervical carcinoma, contain human papillomavirus type 16 in the integrated state. The goal of the present study was to cytogenetically characterize these cell lines, developed from cervical carcinoma with a defined histopathology, in order to shed additional light on the biological basis ofmore » the histological and clinical heterogeneity of cervical cancers. Information on solid tumors has been limited because they are often difficult to culture and the karyotypes on the available metaphases are often complex with unidentifiable markers. The chromosomes of these three cell lines were characterized in the present study using GTG-banding. For cell line 140, the most striking chromosomal abnormalities noted were the presence of an i(5p) or i(12p) marker, an isochromosome 8q marker and multiple copies of chromosome 9. For cell line 146A, the most notable chromosomal abnormalities noted were the presence of a marker chromosome 7 with additional materials present on the long arms, an isochomosome of the long arms of chromosome 8 and a question of chromosome 19 markers. For cell line 146B, the most notable chromosomal abnormalities were found to be a deleted X chromosome, a marker chromosome 7 with additional material on the long arm, an isochromosome 8q marker, and isochromosome 16q marker and one or more copies of an isochromosome 17q marker. Fluorescent in situ hybridization experiments performed using select probes further corroborate the results of the above-mentioned conventional cytogenetic studies.« less

Hippocampal place cells construct reward related sequences through unexplored space.

PubMed

Ólafsdóttir, H Freyja; Barry, Caswell; Saleem, Aman B; Hassabis, Demis; Spiers, Hugo J

2015-06-26

Dominant theories of hippocampal function propose that place cell representations are formed during an animal's first encounter with a novel environment and are subsequently replayed during off-line states to support consolidation and future behaviour. Here we report that viewing the delivery of food to an unvisited portion of an environment leads to off-line pre-activation of place cells sequences corresponding to that space. Such 'preplay' was not observed for an unrewarded but otherwise similar portion of the environment. These results suggest that a hippocampal representation of a visible, yet unexplored environment can be formed if the environment is of motivational relevance to the animal. We hypothesise such goal-biased preplay may support preparation for future experiences in novel environments.

Gene expression analysis of rheumatoid arthritis synovial lining regions by cDNA microarray combined with laser microdissection: up-regulation of inflammation-associated STAT1, IRF1, CXCL9, CXCL10, and CCL5

PubMed Central

Yoshida, S; Arakawa, F; Higuchi, F; Ishibashi, Y; Goto, M; Sugita, Y; Nomura, Y; Niino, D; Shimizu, K; Aoki, R; Hashikawa, K; Kimura, Y; Yasuda, K; Tashiro, K; Kuhara, S; Nagata, K; Ohshima, K

2012-01-01

Objectives The main histological change in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the villous proliferation of synovial lining cells, an important source of cytokines and chemokines, which are associated with inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate gene expression in the microdissected synovial lining cells of RA patients, using those of osteoarthritis (OA) patients as the control. Methods Samples were obtained during total joint replacement from 11 RA and five OA patients. Total RNA from the synovial lining cells was derived from selected specimens by laser microdissection (LMD) for subsequent cDNA microarray analysis. In addition, the expression of significant genes was confirmed immunohistochemically. Results The 14 519 genes detected by cDNA microarray were used to compare gene expression levels in synovial lining cells from RA with those from OA patients. Cluster analysis indicated that RA cells, including low- and high-expression subgroups, and OA cells were stored in two main clusters. The molecular activity of RA was statistically consistent with its clinical and histological activity. Expression levels of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1), and the chemokines CXCL9, CXCL10, and CCL5 were statistically significantly higher in the synovium of RA than in that of OA. Immunohistochemically, the lining synovium of RA, but not that of OA, clearly expressed STAT1, IRF1, and chemokines, as was seen in microarray analysis combined with LMD. Conclusions Our findings indicate an important role for lining synovial cells in the inflammatory and proliferative processes of RA. Further understanding of the local signalling in structural components is important in rheumatology. PMID:22401175

An AKT activity threshold regulates androgen-dependent and androgen-independent PSA expression in prostate cancer cell lines.

PubMed

Paliouras, Miltiadis; Diamandis, Eleftherios P

2008-06-01

The androgen receptor (AR) plays an important role in early prostate cancer by activating transcription of a number of genes participating in cell proliferation and growth and cancer progression. However, as the cancer progresses, prostate cancer cells transform from an androgen-dependent to an androgen-independent state. Androgen-independent prostate cancer can manifest itself in several forms, including a percentage of cancers that show reduced levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and can progress without the need for the ligand or active receptor. Therefore, our goal was to examine the role of intracellular signaling pathways in an androgen-independent prostate cancer in vitro model. Using the cell line PC3(AR)(2), we stimulated cells with 5-alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) and then analyzed PSA expression. We observed lower PSA expression when cells were jointly stimulated with DHT and EGF, and this was associated with an increase in AKT activity. We examined the role of AKT in AR activity and PSA expression by creating stable PC3(AR)(2) cell lines transfected with a PI3K-Ras-effector loop mutant. These cell lines showed lower DHT-stimulated PSA expression that correlated to changes in the phosphorylated state of AR. Therefore, we propose an in vitro androgen-independent model in which a PI3K/AKT activity threshold and subsequent AR transactivation regulate PSA expression.

Mitosis can drive cell cannibalism through entosis

PubMed Central

Durgan, Joanne; Tseng, Yun-Yu; Hamann, Jens C; Domart, Marie-Charlotte; Collinson, Lucy; Overholtzer, Michael; Florey, Oliver

2017-01-01

Entosis is a form of epithelial cell cannibalism that is prevalent in human cancer, typically triggered by loss of matrix adhesion. Here, we report an alternative mechanism for entosis in human epithelial cells, driven by mitosis. Mitotic entosis is regulated by Cdc42, which controls mitotic morphology. Cdc42 depletion enhances mitotic deadhesion and rounding, and these biophysical changes, which depend on RhoA activation and are phenocopied by Rap1 inhibition, permit subsequent entosis. Mitotic entosis occurs constitutively in some human cancer cell lines and mitotic index correlates with cell cannibalism in primary human breast tumours. Adherent, wild-type cells can act efficiently as entotic hosts, suggesting that normal epithelia may engulf and kill aberrantly dividing neighbours. Finally, we report that Paclitaxel/taxol promotes mitotic rounding and subsequent entosis, revealing an unconventional activity of this drug. Together, our data uncover an intriguing link between cell division and cannibalism, of significance to both cancer and chemotherapy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.27134.001 PMID:28693721

The IDO1 selective inhibitor epacadostat enhances dendritic cell immunogenicity and lytic ability of tumor antigen-specific T cells.

PubMed

Jochems, Caroline; Fantini, Massimo; Fernando, Romaine I; Kwilas, Anna R; Donahue, Renee N; Lepone, Lauren M; Grenga, Italia; Kim, Young-Seung; Brechbiel, Martin W; Gulley, James L; Madan, Ravi A; Heery, Christopher R; Hodge, James W; Newton, Robert; Schlom, Jeffrey; Tsang, Kwong Y

2016-06-21

Epacadostat is a novel inhibitor of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO1) that suppresses systemic tryptophan catabolism and is currently being evaluated in ongoing clinical trials. We investigated the effects of epacadostat on (a) human dendritic cells (DCs) with respect to maturation and ability to activate human tumor antigen-specific cytotoxic T-cell (CTL) lines, and subsequent T-cell lysis of tumor cells, (b) human regulatory T cells (Tregs), and (c) human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in vitro. Simultaneous treatment with epacadostat and IFN-γ plus lipopolysaccharide (LPS) did not change the phenotype of matured human DCs, and as expected decreased the tryptophan breakdown and kynurenine production. Peptide-specific T-cell lines stimulated with DCs pulsed with peptide produced significantly more IFN-γ, TNFα, GM-CSF and IL-8 if the DCs were treated with epacadostat. These T cells also displayed higher levels of tumor cell lysis on a per cell basis. Epacadostat also significantly decreased Treg proliferation induced by IDO production from IFN-γ plus LPS matured human DCs, although the Treg phenotype did not change. Multicolor flow cytometry was performed on human PBMCs treated with epacadostat; analysis of 123 discrete immune cell subsets revealed no changes in major immune cell types, an increase in activated CD83+ conventional DCs, and a decrease in immature activated Tim3+ NK cells. These studies show for the first time several effects of epacadostat on human DCs, and subsequent effects on CTL and Tregs, and provide a rationale as to how epacadostat could potentially increase the efficacy of immunotherapeutics, including cancer vaccines.

A novel derivative of doxorubicin, AD198, inhibits canine transitional cell carcinoma and osteosarcoma cells in vitro

PubMed Central

Rathore, Kusum; Cekanova, Maria

2015-01-01

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most commonly used chemotherapeutic treatments for a wide range of cancers. N-benzyladriamycin-14-valerate (AD198) is a lipophilic anthracycline that has been shown to target conventional and novel isoforms of protein kinase C (PKC) in cytoplasm of cells. Because of the adverse effects of DOX, including hair loss, nausea, vomiting, liver dysfunction, and cardiotoxicity, novel derivatives of DOX have been synthesized and validated. In this study, we evaluated the effects of DOX and its derivative, AD198, on cell viability of three canine transitional cell carcinoma (K9TCC) (K9TCC#1-Lillie, K9TCC#2-Dakota, K9TCC#4-Molly) and three canine osteosarcoma (K9OSA) (K9OSA#1-Zoe, K9OSA#2-Nashville, K9OSA#3-JJ) primary cancer cell lines. DOX and AD198 significantly inhibited cell proliferation in all tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. AD198 inhibited cell viability of tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines more efficiently as compared to DOX at the same concentration using MTS (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2h-tetrazolium) assay. AD198 had lower IC50 values as compared to DOX for all tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines. In addition, AD198 increased apoptosis in all tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines. AD198 increased the caspase activity in tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines, which was confirmed by caspase-3/7 assay, and cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) was confirmed by Western blotting analysis. In addition, AD198 cleaved PKC-δ, which subsequently activated the p38 signaling pathway, resulting in the apoptosis of tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines. Inhibition of the p38 signaling pathway by SB203580 rescued DOX- and AD198-induced apoptosis in tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines. Our in vitro results suggest that AD198 might be considered as a new treatment option for K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines cancers in vivo. PMID:26451087

A novel derivative of doxorubicin, AD198, inhibits canine transitional cell carcinoma and osteosarcoma cells in vitro.

PubMed

Rathore, Kusum; Cekanova, Maria

2015-01-01

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most commonly used chemotherapeutic treatments for a wide range of cancers. N-benzyladriamycin-14-valerate (AD198) is a lipophilic anthracycline that has been shown to target conventional and novel isoforms of protein kinase C (PKC) in cytoplasm of cells. Because of the adverse effects of DOX, including hair loss, nausea, vomiting, liver dysfunction, and cardiotoxicity, novel derivatives of DOX have been synthesized and validated. In this study, we evaluated the effects of DOX and its derivative, AD198, on cell viability of three canine transitional cell carcinoma (K9TCC) (K9TCC#1-Lillie, K9TCC#2-Dakota, K9TCC#4-Molly) and three canine osteosarcoma (K9OSA) (K9OSA#1-Zoe, K9OSA#2-Nashville, K9OSA#3-JJ) primary cancer cell lines. DOX and AD198 significantly inhibited cell proliferation in all tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. AD198 inhibited cell viability of tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines more efficiently as compared to DOX at the same concentration using MTS (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2h-tetrazolium) assay. AD198 had lower IC50 values as compared to DOX for all tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines. In addition, AD198 increased apoptosis in all tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines. AD198 increased the caspase activity in tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines, which was confirmed by caspase-3/7 assay, and cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) was confirmed by Western blotting analysis. In addition, AD198 cleaved PKC-δ, which subsequently activated the p38 signaling pathway, resulting in the apoptosis of tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines. Inhibition of the p38 signaling pathway by SB203580 rescued DOX- and AD198-induced apoptosis in tested K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines. Our in vitro results suggest that AD198 might be considered as a new treatment option for K9TCC and K9OSA cell lines cancers in vivo.

Analysis of Protein–Protein Interactions in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 Cell Lines Using Phthalic Acid Chemical Probes

PubMed Central

Liang, Shih-Shin; Wang, Tsu-Nai; Tsai, Eing-Mei

2014-01-01

Phthalates are a class of plasticizers that have been characterized as endocrine disrupters, and are associated with genital diseases, cardiotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and nephrotoxicity in the GeneOntology gene/protein database. In this study, we synthesized phthalic acid chemical probes and demonstrated differing protein–protein interactions between MCF-7 cells and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines. Phthalic acid chemical probes were synthesized using silicon dioxide particle carriers, which were modified using the silanized linker 3-aminopropyl triethoxyslane (APTES). Incubation with cell lysates from breast cancer cell lines revealed interactions between phthalic acid and cellular proteins in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Subsequent proteomics analyses indicated 22 phthalic acid-binding proteins in both cell types, including heat shock cognate 71-kDa protein, ATP synthase subunit beta, and heat shock protein HSP 90-beta. In addition, 21 MCF-7-specific and 32 MDA-MB-231 specific phthalic acid-binding proteins were identified, including related proteasome proteins, heat shock 70-kDa protein, and NADPH dehydrogenase and ribosomal correlated proteins, ras-related proteins, and members of the heat shock protein family, respectively. PMID:25402641

Proton pump inhibitor chemosensitization in human osteosarcoma: from the bench to the patients’ bed

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Major goals in translational oncology are to reduce systemic toxicity of current anticancer strategies and improve effectiveness. An extremely efficient cancer cell mechanism to avoid and/or reduce the effects of highly cytotoxic drugs is the establishment of an acidic microenvironment, an hallmark of all malignant tumors. The H + −rich milieu that anticancer drugs meet once they get inside the tumor leads to their protonation and neutralization, therefore hindering their access into tumor cells. We have previously shown that proton pump inhibitors (PPI) may efficiently counterattack this tumor advantage leading to a consistent chemosensitization of tumors. In this study, we investigated the effects of PPI in chemosensitizing osteosarcoma. Method MG-63 and Saos-2 cell lines were used as human osteosarcoma models. Cell proliferation after pretreatment with PPI and subsequent treatment with cisplatin was evaluated by using erythrosin B dye vital staining. Tumour growth was evaluated in xenograft treated with cisplatin after PPI pretreatment. Subsequently, a multi-centre historically controlled trial, was performed to evaluate the activity of a pre-treatment administration of PPIs as chemosensitizers during neoadjuvant chemotherapy based on methotrexate, cisplatin, and adriamycin. Results Preclinical experiments showed that PPI sensitize both human osteosarcoma cell lines and xenografts to cisplatin. A clinical study subsequently showed that pretreatment with PPI drug esomeprazole leads to an increase in the local effect of chemotherapy, as expressed by percentage of tumor necrosis. This was particularly evident in chondroblastic osteosarcoma, an histological subtype that normally shows a poor histological response. Notably, no significant increase in toxicity was recorded in PPI treated patients. Conclusion This study provides the first evidence that PPI may be beneficially added to standard regimens in combination to conventional chemotherapy. PMID:24156349

Proton pump inhibitor chemosensitization in human osteosarcoma: from the bench to the patients' bed.

PubMed

Ferrari, Stefano; Perut, Francesca; Fagioli, Franca; Brach Del Prever, Adalberto; Meazza, Cristina; Parafioriti, Antonina; Picci, Piero; Gambarotti, Marco; Avnet, Sofia; Baldini, Nicola; Fais, Stefano

2013-10-24

Major goals in translational oncology are to reduce systemic toxicity of current anticancer strategies and improve effectiveness. An extremely efficient cancer cell mechanism to avoid and/or reduce the effects of highly cytotoxic drugs is the establishment of an acidic microenvironment, an hallmark of all malignant tumors. The H +-rich milieu that anticancer drugs meet once they get inside the tumor leads to their protonation and neutralization, therefore hindering their access into tumor cells. We have previously shown that proton pump inhibitors (PPI) may efficiently counterattack this tumor advantage leading to a consistent chemosensitization of tumors. In this study, we investigated the effects of PPI in chemosensitizing osteosarcoma. MG-63 and Saos-2 cell lines were used as human osteosarcoma models. Cell proliferation after pretreatment with PPI and subsequent treatment with cisplatin was evaluated by using erythrosin B dye vital staining. Tumour growth was evaluated in xenograft treated with cisplatin after PPI pretreatment. Subsequently, a multi-centre historically controlled trial, was performed to evaluate the activity of a pre-treatment administration of PPIs as chemosensitizers during neoadjuvant chemotherapy based on methotrexate, cisplatin, and adriamycin. Preclinical experiments showed that PPI sensitize both human osteosarcoma cell lines and xenografts to cisplatin. A clinical study subsequently showed that pretreatment with PPI drug esomeprazole leads to an increase in the local effect of chemotherapy, as expressed by percentage of tumor necrosis. This was particularly evident in chondroblastic osteosarcoma, an histological subtype that normally shows a poor histological response. Notably, no significant increase in toxicity was recorded in PPI treated patients. This study provides the first evidence that PPI may be beneficially added to standard regimens in combination to conventional chemotherapy.

Structural optimization of diphenylpyrimidine derivatives (DPPYs) as potent Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors with improved activity toward B leukemia cell lines.

PubMed

Zhao, Dan; Huang, Shanshan; Qu, Menghua; Wang, Changyuan; Liu, Zhihao; Li, Zhen; Peng, Jinyong; Liu, Kexin; Li, Yanxia; Ma, Xiaodong; Shu, Xiaohong

2017-01-27

A new series of diphenylpyrimidine derivatives (DPPYs) bearing various aniline side chains at the C-2 position of pyrimidine core were synthesized as potent BTK inhibitors. Most of these inhibitors displayed improved activity against B leukemia cell lines compared with lead compound spebrutinib. Subsequent studies showed that the peculiar inhibitor 7j, with IC 50 values of 10.5 μM against Ramos cells and 19.1 μM against Raji cells, also displayed slightly higher inhibitory ability than the novel agent ibrutinib. Moreover, compound 7j is not sensitive to normal cells PBMC, indicating low cell cytotoxicity. In addition, flow cytometry analysis indicated that 7j significantly induced the apoptosis of Ramos cells, and arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. These explorations provided new clues to discover pyrimidine scaffold as more effective BTK inhibitors. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

The effect of differentiation agents on inflammatory and oxidative responses of the human neuroblastoma cell line SK-N-SH.

PubMed

Niewiarowska-Sendo, Anna; Patrzalek, Katarzyna; Kozik, Andrzej; Guevara-Lora, Ibeth

2015-01-01

Obtaining a suitable experimental cellular model is a major problem for neuroscience studies. Neuroblastoma cell lines have been often applied in studies related to pathological disorders of nervous system. However, in the search for an ideal model, these cells must be differentiated to cancel their tumor character. The subsequent reactions that are caused by differentiation are not always indifferent to the same model. We evaluated the effect of two well known substances, used for SH-N-SK cell line differentiation, retinoic acid (RA) and phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA), on the induction of pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative reactions in these cells. Cells differentiated with PMA were able to produce significantly higher amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines whereas the release of nitric oxide radicals was similar to that in undifferentiated cells. On the contrary, in RA-differentiated cells no significant changes in cytokine production were observed and the nitric oxide release was decreased. Additionally, the RA-differentiated neuronal model was more sensible to lipopolysaccharide stimulation, producing pro-inflammatory cytokines abundantly. These results suggest that RA-differentiated SH-N-SK cells provide a more suitable experimental model for the study of molecular and cellular mechanisms of the inflammation and oxidative stress in neuronal cells.

Plasma stable, pH-sensitive fusogenic polymer-modified liposomes: A promising carrier for mitoxantrone.

PubMed

Ghanbarzadeh, Saeed; Arami, Sanam; Pourmoazzen, Zhaleh; Ghasemian-Yadegari, Javad; Khorrami, Arash

2014-07-01

pH-sensitive liposomes are designed to undergo acid-triggered destabilization. In the present study, we prepared polymer-modified, plasma stable, pH-sensitive fusogenic mitoxantrone liposomes to increase efficacy and selectivity on cancer cell lines. Conventional liposomes were prepared using cholesterol and dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine. Dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine and a cholesteryl derivative, poly(monomethylitaconate)-co-poly(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PMMI-co-PDMAEMA), were used for the preparation of pH-sensitive fusogenic liposomes. Using polyethylene glycol (PEG)-poly(monomethylitaconate)-CholC6 (PEG-PMMI-CholC6) copolymers instead of cholesterol introduced pH-sensitive and plasma stability properties simultaneously in prepared liposomes. All formulations were prepared by thin film hydration method and subsequently, pH-sensitivity and stability in human serum were evaluated. The ability of pH-sensitive fusogenic liposomes to enhance the mitoxantrone cytotoxicity and selectivity in cancerous cell lines was assessed in vitro compared to normal cell line using human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7), human prostate cancer cell line (PC-3), and human umbilical vein endothelial cells line. Results revealed that both PMMI-co-PDMAEMA and PEG-PMMI-CholC6-based formulations showed pH-sensitive property and were found to rapidly release mitoxantrone under mildly acidic conditions. Nevertheless, only the PEG-PMMI-CholC6-based liposomes preserved pH-sensitivity after incubation in plasma. Mitoxantrone loaded-pH-sensitive fusogenic liposomes exhibited a higher cytotoxicity than the control conventional liposomes on MCF-7 and PC-3 cell lines. On the contrary, both pH-sensitive fusogenic liposomes showed lower cytotoxic effect on human umbilical vein endothelial cell line. Plasma stable, pH-sensitive fusogenic liposomes are promising carriers for enhancing the efficiency and selectivity, besides reduction of the side effects of anticancer agents. © The Author(s) 2013 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

Biocompatibility of functionalized boron phosphate (BPO4) nanoparticles for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) application.

PubMed

Achilli, Cesare; Grandi, Stefania; Ciana, Annarita; Guidetti, Gianni F; Malara, Alessandro; Abbonante, Vittorio; Cansolino, Laura; Tomasi, Corrado; Balduini, Alessandra; Fagnoni, Maurizio; Merli, Daniele; Mustarelli, Piercarlo; Canobbio, Ilaria; Balduini, Cesare; Minetti, Giampaolo

2014-04-01

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a radiotherapy treatment based on the accumulation in the tumor of a (10)B-containing drug and subsequent irradiation with low energy neutrons, which bring about the decay of (10)B to (7)Li and an α particle, causing the death of the neoplastic cell. The effectiveness of BNCT is limited by the low delivery and accumulation of the used boron-containing compounds. Here we report the development and the characterization of BPO4 nanoparticles (NPs) as a novel possible alternative drug for BNCT. An extensive analysis of BPO4 NP biocompatibility was performed using both mature blood cells (erythrocytes, neutrophils and platelets) and a model of hematopoietic progenitor cells. A time- and concentration-dependent cytotoxicity study was performed on neoplastic coloncarcinoma and osteosarcoma cell lines. BPO4 functionalization with folic acid, introduced to improve the uptake by tumor cells, appeared to effectively limit the unwanted effects of NPs on the analyzed blood components. Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a radiotherapy treatment modality based on the accumulation of a (10)B-containing drug and subsequent irradiation with low energy neutrons, inducing the decay of (10)B to (7)Li and an α particle, causing neoplastic cell death. This team of authors reports on a folic acid functionalized BPO4 nanoparticle with improved characteristics compared with conventional BNCT approaches, as demonstrated in tumor cell lines, and hopefully to be followed by translational human studies. © 2014.

CUL4A overexpression enhances lung tumor growth and sensitizes lung cancer cells to Erlotinib via transcriptional regulation of EGFR

DOE PAGES

Wang, Yunshan; Zhang, Pengju; Liu, Ziming; ...

2014-11-21

CUL4A has been proposed as oncogene in several types of human cancer, but its clinical significance and functional role in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain unclear. Expression level of CUL4A was examined by RT-PCR and Western blot. Forced expression of CUL4A was mediated by retroviruses, and CUL4A silencing by shRNAs expressing lentiviruses. Growth capacity of lung cancer cells was measured by MTT in vitro and tumorigenesis in vivo, respectively. We found that CUL4A was highly expressed in human lung cancer tissues and lung cancer cell lines, and this elevated expression positively correlated with disease progression and prognosis. Overexpressionmore » of CUL4A in human lung cancer cell lines increased cell proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, and subsequently conferred resistance to chemotherapy. On other hand, silencing CUL4A expression in NSCLC cells reduced proliferation, promoted apoptosis and resulted in tumor growth inhibition in cancer xenograft model. Mechanistically, we revealed CUL4A regulated EGFR transcriptional expression and activation, and subsequently activated AKT. Targeted inhibition of EGFR activity blocked these CUL4A induced oncogenic activities. In conclusion, our results highlight the significance of CUL4A in NSCLC and suggest that CUL4A could be a promising therapy target and a potential biomarker for prognosis and EGFR target therapy in NSCLC patients.« less

Lead toxicity masquerading as sickle cell crisis.

PubMed

Nelson, M S; Chisolm, J J

1986-06-01

We recently saw a 12-year-old black boy with known sickle cell disease who had been seen many times for abdominal pain thought to be secondary to a vasoocclusive crisis. The patient eventually was admitted, after a seizure and the onset of obtundation. The etiology of his acute encephalopathy remained unclear until bone films of his knees fortuitously revealed "lead lines." The patient was treated and did well subsequently. This case emphasizes the importance of considering other diagnoses when a sickle cell patient presents with a crisis.

Increased Growth of a Newly Established Mouse Epithelial Cell Line Transformed with HPV-16 E7 in Diabetic Mice.

PubMed

He, Lan; Law, Priscilla T Y; Boon, Siaw Shi; Zhang, Chuqing; Ho, Wendy C S; Banks, Lawrence; Wong, C K; Chan, Juliana C N; Chan, Paul K S

2016-01-01

Epidemiological evidence supports that infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) can interact with host and environmental risk factors to contribute to the development of cervical, oropharyngeal, and other anogenital cancers. In this study, we established a mouse epithelial cancer cell line, designated as Chinese University Papillomavirus-1 (CUP-1), from C57BL/KsJ mice through persistent expression of HPV-16 E7 oncogene. After continuous culturing of up to 200 days with over 60 passages, we showed that CUP-1 became an immortalized and transformed epithelial cell line with continuous E7 expression and persistent reduction of retinoblastoma protein (a known target of E7). This model allowed in-vivo study of interaction between HPV and co-factors of tumorigenesis in syngeneic mice. Diabetes has been shown to increase HPV pathogenicity in different pathological context. Herein, with this newly-established cell line, we uncovered that diabetes promoted CUP-1 xenograft growth in syngeneic db/db mice. In sum, we successfully established a HPV-16 E7 transformed mouse epithelial cell line, which allowed subsequent studies of co-factors in multistep HPV carcinogenesis in an immunocompetent host. More importantly, this study is the very first to demonstrate the promoting effect of diabetes on HPV-associated carcinogenesis in vivo, implicating the importance of cancer surveillance in diabetic environment.

Alphavirus production is inhibited in neurofibromin 1-deficient cells through activated RAS signalling

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kolokoltsova, Olga A.; Domina, Aaron M.; Kolokoltsov, Andrey A.

2008-07-20

Virus-host interactions essential for alphavirus pathogenesis are poorly understood. To address this shortcoming, we coupled retrovirus insertional mutagenesis and a cell survival selection strategy to generate clonal cell lines broadly resistant to Sindbis virus (SINV) and other alphaviruses. Resistant cells had significantly impaired SINV production relative to wild-type (WT) cells, although virus binding and fusion events were similar in both sets of cells. Analysis of the retroviral integration sites identified the neurofibromin 1 (NF1) gene as disrupted in alphavirus-resistant cell lines. Subsequent analysis indicated that expression of NF1 was significantly reduced in alphavirus-resistant cells. Importantly, independent down-regulation of NF1 expressionmore » in WT HEK 293 cells decreased virus production and increased cell viability during SINV infection, relative to infected WT cells. Additionally, we observed hyperactive RAS signalling in the resistant HEK 293 cells, which was anticipated because NF1 is a negative regulator of RAS. Expression of constitutively active RAS (HRAS-G12V) in a WT HEK 293 cell line resulted in a marked delay in virus production, compared with infected cells transfected with parental plasmid or dominant-negative RAS (HRAS-S17N). This work highlights novel host cell determinants required for alphavirus pathogenesis and suggests that RAS signalling may play an important role in neuronal susceptibility to SINV infection.« less

Testing of SNS-032 in a Panel of Human Neuroblastoma Cell Lines with Acquired Resistance to a Broad Range of Drugs.

PubMed

Löschmann, Nadine; Michaelis, Martin; Rothweiler, Florian; Zehner, Richard; Cinatl, Jaroslav; Voges, Yvonne; Sharifi, Mohsen; Riecken, Kristoffer; Meyer, Jochen; von Deimling, Andreas; Fichtner, Iduna; Ghafourian, Taravat; Westermann, Frank; Cinatl, Jindrich

2013-12-01

Novel treatment options are needed for the successful therapy of patients with high-risk neuroblastoma. Here, we investigated the cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor SNS-032 in a panel of 109 neuroblastoma cell lines consisting of 19 parental cell lines and 90 sublines with acquired resistance to 14 different anticancer drugs. Seventy-three percent of the investigated neuroblastoma cell lines and all four investigated primary tumor samples displayed concentrations that reduce cell viability by 50% in the range of the therapeutic plasma levels reported for SNS-032 (<754 nM). Sixty-two percent of the cell lines and two of the primary samples displayed concentrations that reduce cell viability by 90% in this concentration range. SNS-032 also impaired the growth of the multidrug-resistant cisplatin-adapted UKF-NB-3 subline UKF-NB-3(r)CDDP(1000) in mice. ABCB1 expression (but not ABCG2 expression) conferred resistance to SNS-032. The antineuroblastoma effects of SNS-032 did not depend on functional p53. The antineuroblastoma mechanism of SNS-032 included CDK7 and CDK9 inhibition-mediated suppression of RNA synthesis and subsequent depletion of antiapoptotic proteins with a fast turnover rate including X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP), myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 (Mcl-1), baculoviral IAP repeat containing 2 (BIRC2; cIAP-1), and survivin. In conclusion, CDK7 and CDK9 represent promising drug targets and SNS-032 represents a potential treatment option for neuroblastoma including therapy-refractory cases.

Testing of SNS-032 in a Panel of Human Neuroblastoma Cell Lines with Acquired Resistance to a Broad Range of Drugs12

PubMed Central

Löschmann, Nadine; Michaelis, Martin; Rothweiler, Florian; Zehner, Richard; Cinatl, Jaroslav; Voges, Yvonne; Sharifi, Mohsen; Riecken, Kristoffer; Meyer, Jochen; von Deimling, Andreas; Fichtner, Iduna; Ghafourian, Taravat; Westermann, Frank; Cinatl, Jindrich

2013-01-01

Novel treatment options are needed for the successful therapy of patients with high-risk neuroblastoma. Here, we investigated the cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor SNS-032 in a panel of 109 neuroblastoma cell lines consisting of 19 parental cell lines and 90 sublines with acquired resistance to 14 different anticancer drugs. Seventy-three percent of the investigated neuroblastoma cell lines and all four investigated primary tumor samples displayed concentrations that reduce cell viability by 50% in the range of the therapeutic plasma levels reported for SNS-032 (<754 nM). Sixty-two percent of the cell lines and two of the primary samples displayed concentrations that reduce cell viability by 90% in this concentration range. SNS-032 also impaired the growth of the multidrug-resistant cisplatin-adapted UKF-NB-3 subline UKF-NB-3rCDDP1000 in mice. ABCB1 expression (but not ABCG2 expression) conferred resistance to SNS-032. The antineuroblastoma effects of SNS-032 did not depend on functional p53. The antineuroblastoma mechanism of SNS-032 included CDK7 and CDK9 inhibition-mediated suppression of RNA synthesis and subsequent depletion of antiapoptotic proteins with a fast turnover rate including X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP), myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 (Mcl-1), baculoviral IAP repeat containing 2 (BIRC2; cIAP-1), and survivin. In conclusion, CDK7 and CDK9 represent promising drug targets and SNS-032 represents a potential treatment option for neuroblastoma including therapy-refractory cases. PMID:24466371

Enterovirus Species B Bias of RD Cell Line and Its Influence on Enterovirus Diversity Landscape.

PubMed

Faleye, Temitope Oluwasegun Cephas; Adeniji, Johnson Adekunle

2015-12-01

Despite its widespread use in poliovirus isolation, studies show that most RD cell line isolates are species B enteroviruses (EB), it was therefore employed to further catalogue the EB diversity in two different regions of Nigeria. Concentrates of 18 environmental samples were inoculated into RD cell line. Isolates were subjected to PCR assays to detect enteroviruses, species C and B members and partial VP1 gene which was subsequently sequenced and used for identification and phylogenetic analysis. Isolates were further passaged in L20B cell line to detect polioviruses. Sixty-eight isolates were recovered from the 18 concentrates, all of which were positive for the enterovirus 5'-UTR screen. Thirteen of the 68 isolates were positive for the species C screen and replicated in L20B cell line, eleven of which also contained species B enteroviruses. Some of the mixed isolates were successfully typed, but as species B members. In all, isolates recovered in this study were identified as CVB5, E6, E7, E11, E13, E19, E20, E33, EVB75 and WPV3, while some could not be typed. Alongside the ten different enterovirus serotypes confirmed, results of this study document for the first time in Nigeria, EVB75. It showed the EB bias of RD cell line might indicate something much more fundamental in its biology. Finally, the finding of WPV3 in a region considered low risk for poliovirus emphasizes the need to expand poliovirus environmental surveillance to enable early detection of poliovirus silent circulation before occurrence of clinical manifestations.

Knockdown of stromal interaction molecule 1 inhibits proliferation of colorectal cancer cells by inducing apoptosis.

PubMed

Yang, Dong; Dai, Xiaoyu; Li, Keqiang; Xie, Yangyang; Zhao, Jianpei; Dong, Mingjun; Yu, Hua; Kong, Zhenfang

2018-06-01

Stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) is an endoplasmic reticulum Ca 2+ sensor which has been reported to be overexpressed in numerous types of cancer, and is involved in the cell proliferation, invasion, migration and metastasis frequently observed in cancer. However, the role of STIM1 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unknown. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of STIM1 in human CRC. The expression of STIM1 was specifically knocked down using lentivirus-mediated small hairpin RNA (shRNA) interference techniques in the CRC cell lines HCT116 and SW1116. Subsequently, the efficiency of infection was confirmed using green fluorescent protein (GFP)-positive signals. The knockdown efficiency was further determined using the reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analysis. As a result, CRC cell lines with STIM1 silenced were successfully constructed and subsequently employed in a series of cell function assays. Knockdown of STIM1 significantly suppressed cell proliferation and colony formation, as revealed by an MTT and colony formation assay. Furthermore, it was identified that STIM1 silencing may promote cell apoptosis through the induction of mitochondria-associated apoptosis, as was identified by increased expression levels of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated death promoter, Bcl-2-associated X protein and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage. Therefore, STIM1 may serve a critical role in the progression of CRC by regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis, which may provide a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of CRC.

Aberrantly Expressed OTX Homeobox Genes Deregulate B-Cell Differentiation in Hodgkin Lymphoma.

PubMed

Nagel, Stefan; Ehrentraut, Stefan; Meyer, Corinna; Kaufmann, Maren; Drexler, Hans G; MacLeod, Roderick A F

2015-01-01

In Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) we recently reported that deregulated homeobox gene MSX1 mediates repression of the B-cell specific transcription factor ZHX2. In this study we investigated regulation of MSX1 in this B-cell malignancy. Accordingly, we analyzed expression and function of OTX homeobox genes which activate MSX1 transcription during embryonal development in the neural plate border region. Our data demonstrate that OTX1 and OTX2 are aberrantly expressed in both HL patients and cell lines. Moreover, both OTX loci are targeted by genomic gains in overexpressing cell lines. Comparative expression profiling and subsequent pathway modulations in HL cell lines indicated that aberrantly enhanced FGF2-signalling activates the expression of OTX2. Downstream analyses of OTX2 demonstrated transcriptional activation of genes encoding transcription factors MSX1, FOXC1 and ZHX1. Interestingly, examination of the physiological expression profile of ZHX1 in normal hematopoietic cells revealed elevated levels in T-cells and reduced expression in B-cells, indicating a discriminatory role in lymphopoiesis. Furthermore, two OTX-negative HL cell lines overexpressed ZHX1 in correlation with genomic amplification of its locus at chromosomal band 8q24, supporting the oncogenic potential of this gene in HL. Taken together, our data demonstrate that deregulated homeobox genes MSX1 and OTX2 respectively impact transcriptional inhibition of (B-cell specific) ZHX2 and activation of (T-cell specific) ZHX1. Thus, we show how reactivation of a specific embryonal gene regulatory network promotes disturbed B-cell differentiation in HL.

Influence of oxygen partial pressure on the characteristics of human hepatocarcinoma cells.

PubMed

Trepiana, Jenifer; Meijide, Susana; Navarro, Rosaura; Hernández, M Luisa; Ruiz-Sanz, José Ignacio; Ruiz-Larrea, M Begoña

2017-08-01

Most of the in vitro studies using liver cell lines have been performed under atmospheric oxygen partial pressure (21% O 2 ). However, the oxygen concentrations in the liver and cancer cells are far from this value. In the present study, we have evaluated the influence of oxygen on 1) the tumor cell lines features (growth, steady-state ROS levels, GSH content, activities of antioxidant enzymes, p66 Shc and SOD expressions, metalloproteinases secretion, migration, invasion, and adhesion) of human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines, and b) the response of the cells to an oxidant stimulus (aqueous leaf extract of the V. baccifera plant species). For this purpose, three hepatocarcinoma cell lines with different p53 status, HepG2 (wild-type), Huh7 (mutated), and Hep3B (deleted), were cultured (6-30 days) under atmospheric (21%) and more physiological (8%) pO 2 . Results showed that after long-term culturing at 8% versus 21% O 2 , the cellular proliferation rate and the steady-state levels of mitochondrial O 2 - were unaffected. However, the intracellular basal ROS levels were higher independently of the characteristics of the cell line. Moreover, the lower pO 2 was associated with lower glutathione content, the induction of p66 Shc and Mn-SOD proteins, and increased SOD activity only in HepG2. This cell line also showed a higher migration rate, secretion of active metalloproteinases, and a faster invasion. HepG2 cells were more resistant to the oxidative stress induced by V. baccifera. Results suggest that the long-term culturing of human hepatoma cells at a low, more physiological pO 2 induces antioxidant adaptations that could be mediated by p53, and may alter the cellular response to a subsequent oxidant challenge. Data support the necessity of validating outcomes from studies performed with hepatoma cell cultures under ambient O 2 . Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

SU-F-T-674: In Vitro Study of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid-Mediated Photo Dynamic Therapy in Human Cancer Cell Lines

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cvetkovic, D; Wang, B; Gupta, R

Purpose: Photodynamic therapy (PTD) is a promising cancer treatment modality. 5-sminolevulinic acid (ALA) is a clinically approved photosensitizer. Here we studied the effect of 5-ALA administration with irradiation on several cell lines in vitro. Methods: Human head and neck (FaDu), lung (A549) and prostate (LNCaP) cancer cells (104/well) were seeded overnight in 96-well plates (Figure 1). 5-ALA at a range from 0.1 to 30.0mg/ml was added to confluent cells 3h before irradiation in 100ul of culture medium. 15MV photon beams from a Siemens Artiste linear accelerator were used to deliver 2 Gy dose in one fraction to the cells. Cellmore » viability was evaluated by WST1 assay. The development of orange color was measured 3h after the addition of WST-1 reagent at 450nm on an Envision Multilabel Reader (Figure 2) and directly correlated to cell number. Control, untreated cells were incubated without 5-ALA. The experiment was performed twice for each cell line. Results: The cell viability rates for the head and neck cancer line are shown in Figure 3. FaDu cell viability was reduced significantly to 36.5% (5-ALA) and 18.1% (5-ALA + RT) only at the highest concentration of 5-ALA, 30mg/ml. This effect was observed in neither A549, nor LNCaP cell line. No toxicity was detected at lower 5-ALA concentrations. Conclusion: Application of 5-ALA and subsequent PDT was found to be cytotoxic at the highest dose of the photosensitizer used in the FaDu head and neck cell line, and their effect was synergistic. Further efforts are necessary to study the potential therapeutic effects of 5-ALA PTD in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest 5-ALA may improve the efficacy of radiotherapy by acting as a radiomediator in head and neck cancer.« less

IFN-gamma priming up-regulates IFN-stimulated gene factor 3 (ISGF3) components, augmenting responsiveness of IFN-resistant melanoma cells to type I IFNs.

PubMed

Wong, L H; Hatzinisiriou, I; Devenish, R J; Ralph, S J

1998-06-01

IFN-stimulated gene factor 3 (ISGF3) mediates transcriptional activation of IFN-sensitive genes (ISGs). The component subunits of ISGF3, STAT1alphabeta, STAT2, and p48-ISGF3gamma, are tyrosine phosphorylated before their assembly into a complex. Subsequently, the ISGF3 complex is translocated to the nucleus. We have recently established that the responsiveness of human melanoma cell lines to type I IFNs correlates directly with their intracellular levels of ISGF3 components, particularly STAT1. In the present study, we show that pretreating IFN-resistant melanoma cell lines with IFN-gamma (IFN-gamma priming) before stimulation with type I IFN also results in increased levels of ISGF3 components and enhanced DNA-binding activation of ISGF3. In addition, IFN-gamma priming of IFN-resistant melanoma cell lines increased expression of type I IFN-induced ISG products, including ISG54, 2'-5'-oligoadenylate synthase, HLA class I, B7-1, and ICAM-1 Ags. Furthermore, IFN-gamma priming enhanced the antiviral effect of IFN-beta on the IFN-resistant melanoma cell line, MM96. These results support a role for IFN-gamma priming in up-regulating ISGF3, thereby augmenting the responsiveness of IFN-resistant melanoma cell lines to type I IFN and providing a molecular basis and justification for using sequential IFN therapy, as proposed by others, to enhance the use of IFNs in the treatment of melanoma.

Fucosylation and protein glycosylation create functional receptors for cholera toxin

PubMed Central

Wands, Amberlyn M; Fujita, Akiko; McCombs, Janet E; Cervin, Jakob; Dedic, Benjamin; Rodriguez, Andrea C; Nischan, Nicole; Bond, Michelle R; Mettlen, Marcel; Trudgian, David C; Lemoff, Andrew; Quiding-Järbrink, Marianne; Gustavsson, Bengt; Steentoft, Catharina; Clausen, Henrik; Mirzaei, Hamid; Teneberg, Susann; Yrlid, Ulf; Kohler, Jennifer J

2015-01-01

Cholera toxin (CT) enters and intoxicates host cells after binding cell surface receptors using its B subunit (CTB). The ganglioside (glycolipid) GM1 is thought to be the sole CT receptor; however, the mechanism by which CTB binding to GM1 mediates internalization of CT remains enigmatic. Here we report that CTB binds cell surface glycoproteins. Relative contributions of gangliosides and glycoproteins to CTB binding depend on cell type, and CTB binds primarily to glycoproteins in colonic epithelial cell lines. Using a metabolically incorporated photocrosslinking sugar, we identified one CTB-binding glycoprotein and demonstrated that the glycan portion of the molecule, not the protein, provides the CTB interaction motif. We further show that fucosylated structures promote CTB entry into a colonic epithelial cell line and subsequent host cell intoxication. CTB-binding fucosylated glycoproteins are present in normal human intestinal epithelia and could play a role in cholera. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.09545.001 PMID:26512888

Sensitivity of imatinib-resistant T315I BCR-ABL CML to a synergistic combination of ponatinib and forskolin treatment.

PubMed

Oaxaca, Derrick M; Yang-Reid, Sun Ah; Ross, Jeremy A; Rodriguez, Georgialina; Staniswalis, Joan G; Kirken, Robert A

2016-09-01

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have dramatically improved the life expectancy of patients suffering from chronic myeloid leukemia (CML); however, patients will eventually develop resistance to TKI therapy or adverse side effects due to secondary off-target mechanisms associated with TKIs. CML patients exhibiting TKI resistance are at greater risk of developing an aggressive and drug-insensitive disease. Drug-resistant CML typically arises in response to spontaneous mutations within the drug binding sites of the targeted oncoproteins. To better understand the mechanism of drug resistance in TKI-resistant CML patients, the BCR-ABL transformed cell line KCL22 was grown with increasing concentrations of imatinib for a period of 6 weeks. Subsequently, a drug-resistant derivative of the parental KCL22 cell line harboring the T315I gatekeeper mutation was isolated and investigated for TKI drug sensitivity via multi-agent drug screens. A synergistic combination of ponatinib- and forskolin-reduced cell viability was identified in this clinically relevant imatinib-resistant CML cell line, which also proved efficacious in other CML cell lines. In summary, this study provides new insight into the biological underpinnings of BCR-ABL-driven CML and potential rationale for investigating novel treatment strategies for patients with T315I CML.

Surrogate endpoints for overall survival in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer patients with mutations of the epidermal growth factor receptor gene.

PubMed

Yoshino, Reiko; Imai, Hisao; Mori, Keita; Takei, Kousuke; Tomizawa, Mai; Kaira, Kyoichi; Yoshii, Akihiro; Tomizawa, Yoshio; Saito, Ryusei; Yamada, Masanobu

2014-09-01

Subsequent therapies confound the ability to discern the effect of first-line chemotherapy on overall survival (OS). We investigated whether progression-free survival (PFS), post-progression survival (PPS) and tumor response were valid surrogate endpoints for OS following first-line chemotherapy in individual patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring sensitive epidermal growth factor receptor gene mutations. We retrospectively analyzed 35 patients with advanced NSCLC treated with first-line gefitinib. The associations of PFS, PPS and tumor response with OS were analyzed. PPS was found to be strongly correlated with OS, unlike PFS and tumor shrinkage. The factors significantly associated with PPS were performance status (PS) after first-line treatment, best response to second-line treatment and number of regimens used after disease progression. PPS may be a surrogate for OS in this patient population and further therapy after disease progression following first-line chemotherapy may significantly affect OS. However, a larger study is required to validate these results.

Long Term Culture of the A549 Cancer Cell Line Promotes Multilamellar Body Formation and Differentiation towards an Alveolar Type II Pneumocyte Phenotype

PubMed Central

Cooper, James Ross; Abdullatif, Muhammad Bilal; Burnett, Edward C.; Kempsell, Karen E.; Conforti, Franco; Tolley, Howard; Collins, Jane E.; Davies, Donna E.

2016-01-01

Pulmonary research requires models that represent the physiology of alveolar epithelium but concerns with reproducibility, consistency and the technical and ethical challenges of using primary or stem cells has resulted in widespread use of continuous cancer or other immortalized cell lines. The A549 ‘alveolar’ cell line has been available for over four decades but there is an inconsistent view as to its suitability as an appropriate model for primary alveolar type II (ATII) cells. Since most work with A549 cells involves short term culture of proliferating cells, we postulated that culture conditions that reduced proliferation of the cancer cells would promote a more differentiated ATII cell phenotype. We examined A549 cell growth in different media over long term culture and then used microarray analysis to investigate temporal regulation of pathways involved in cell cycle and ATII differentiation; we also made comparisons with gene expression in freshly isolated human ATII cells. Analyses indicated that long term culture in Ham’s F12 resulted in substantial modulation of cell cycle genes to result in a quiescent population of cells with significant up-regulation of autophagic, differentiation and lipidogenic pathways. There were also increased numbers of up- and down-regulated genes shared with primary cells suggesting adoption of ATII characteristics and multilamellar body (MLB) development. Subsequent Oil Red-O staining and Transmission Electron Microscopy confirmed MLB expression in the differentiated A549 cells. This work defines a set of conditions for promoting ATII differentiation characteristics in A549 cells that may be advantageous for studies with this cell line. PMID:27792742

SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cell line: in vitro cell model of dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Xie, Hong-rong; Hu, Lin-sen; Li, Guo-yi

2010-04-20

To evaluate the human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line as an in vitro model of dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons for Parkinson's disease (PD) research and to determine the effect of differentiation on this cell model. The data of this review were selected from the original reports and reviews related to SH-SY5Y cells published in Chinese and foreign journals (Pubmed 1973 to 2009). After searching the literature, 60 articles were selected to address this review. The SH-SY5Y cell line has become a popular cell model for PD research because this cell line posses many characteristics of DAergic neurons. For example, these cells express tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine-beta-hydroxylase, as well as the dopamine transporter. Moreover, this cell line can be differentiated into a functionally mature neuronal phenotype in the presence of various agents. Upon differentiation, SH-SY5Y cells stop proliferating and a constant cell number is subsequently maintained. However, different differentiating agents induce different neuronal phenotypes and biochemical changes. For example, retinoic acid induces differentiation toward a cholinergic neuronal phenotype and increases the susceptibility of SH-SY5Y cells to neurotoxins and neuroprotective agents, whereas treatment with retinoic acid followed by phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate results in a DAergic neuronal phenotype and decreases the susceptibility of cells to neurotoxins and neuroprotective agents. Some differentiating agents also alter kinetics of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-pyridinium (MPP(+)) uptake, making SH-SY5Y cells more similar to primary mesencephalic neurons. Differentiated and undifferentiated SH-SY5Y cells have been widely used as a cell model of DAergic neurons for PD research. Some differentiating agents afford SH-SY5Y cells with more potential for studying neurotoxicity and neuroprotection and are thus more relevant to experimental PD research.

The therapeutic response of CDDO-Me in the esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells is mediated by CaMKIIα.

PubMed

Wang, Yan-Yang; Zhou, Shun; Zhao, Ren; Hai, Ping; Zhe, Hong

2016-01-01

CDDO-Me has exhibited a potent anticancer effect in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells in our previous study, but the molecular interactome remains elusive. We applied the approach of stable-isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) to assess the proteomic responses of CDDO-Me treatment in human ESCC Ec109 cells. The data were subsequently validated using Western blot assay. The results of our study revealed that CDDO-Me increased the expression level of 543 protein molecules, but decreased the expression level of 709 protein molecules in Ec109 cells. Among these modulated protein molecules, calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase type II subunit α (CaMKIIα) was highly expressed in all tested ESCC cell lines, whereas its expression levels were substantially lower in normal control cell line. Its silencing by small interfering RNA inhibited CDDO-Me induced apoptosis and autophagy in ESCC cells. Collectively, these data demonstrate that the therapeutic response of CDDO-Me in the human ESCC cells is mediated by CaMKIIα.

The causes of genetic male sterility in 3 soybaen lines.

PubMed

Rubaihayo, P R; Gumisiriza, G

1978-11-01

The cause of male sterility in 3 soybean lines, TGM 103-1, N-69-2774 and TGM 242-4 was studied. In TGM 103-1, which was both male and female sterile, two different abnormalities were associated with sterility. Precocious movement of a few chromosomes at the metaphase I stage resulted into the production of non-functional pollen while cells which underwent apparent normal meiotic division had disintergration of the tapetal cell wall immediately after the free microspore stage leading to the starvation and subsequent death of the developing microspores. In lines N-69-2774 and TGM 242-4, both of which were partially sterile, male sterility resulted from a failure of cytokinesis after the telophase II stage. Meiosis proceeded normally but the 4 microspores after telophase II failed to separate into pollen grains and degenerated thereafter.

Metabolism of the tropine indole-3-carboxylate ICS 205-930 by differentiated rat and human hepatoma cells.

PubMed

Fischer, V; Baldeck, J P; Wiebel, F J

The metabolism of the tropine indole-3-carboxylate ICS 205-930 (ICS), a highly potent and selective antagonist of 5-HT3 receptors, was investigated in continuous cell lines derived from rat or human liver and compared to the in vivo metabolism in rat and human. The well-differentiated rat hepatoma line 2sFou extensively metabolized ICS by hydroxylation of the indole moiety and subsequent conjugation to form the corresponding glucuronides and sulfates. The 2sFou cells also oxidized ICS at the tropinyl moiety to form both N-demethyl and N-oxide derivatives. The relative amount of the various metabolites was dependent on the substrate concentration. Pretreatment of the cells with dexamethasone increased the rate of metabolism for all pathways, while benz[a]anthracene caused an increase in hydroxylation at the indole moiety at the expense of N-oxidation. Phenobarbital pretreatment had no effect on ICS metabolism. The pattern of metabolites formed in 2sFou cells was qualitatively similar to that formed in rat urine. The human hepatoma line HepG2 metabolized ICS only to a small extent. The HepG2 cells failed to form detectable amounts of ICS conjugates found in human urine. The N-oxide-ICS was not found in HepG2 cells or in human urine. Virtually no ICS metabolites were found in human lung adenocarcinoma lines NCI-H358 or NCI-H322. The results suggest that continuous cell lines such as the differentiated rat hepatoma cells 2sFou might be used to mimic the metabolism of xenobiotics in rat and to clarify their complex metabolic pathways.

Validity of SW982 synovial cell line for studying the drugs against rheumatoid arthritis in fluvastatin-induced apoptosis signaling model

PubMed Central

Chang, Jae-Ho; Lee, Kyu-Jae; Kim, Soo-Ki; Yoo, Dae-Hyun; Kang, Tae-Young

2014-01-01

Background & objectives: To study effects of drugs against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synoviocytes or fibroblast like synoviocytes (FLS) are used. To overcome the drawbacks of using FLS, this study was conducted to show the validity of SW982 synovial cell line in RA study. Methods: 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, Annexin V propidium iodide (PI) staining, mitochondrial membrane potential assay, Triton X-114 Phase partitioning, and immunolot for apoptosis signaling in SW982 human synovial cell line were performed. Results: Fluvastatin induced apoptosis in a dose- and time-dependent manner in TNFα -stimulated SW982 human synovial cells. A geranylgeranylpyrophosphate (GGPP) inhibitor, but not a farnesylpyrophosphate (FPP) inhibitor, induced apoptosis, and fluvastatin-induced apoptosis was associated with the translocation of isoprenylated RhoA and Rac1 proteins from the cell membrane to the cytosol. Fluvastatin-induced downstream apoptotic signals were associated with inhibition of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway. Accordingly, 89 kDa apoptotic cleavage fragment of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) was detected. Interpretation & conclusions: Collectively, our data indicate that fluvastatin induces apoptotic cell death in TNFα-stimulated SW982 human synovial cells through the inactivation of the geranylgerenylated membrane fraction of RhoA and Rac1 proteins and the subsequent inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. This finding shows the validity of SW982 cell line for RA study. PMID:24604047

Anti-proliferative and apoptosis-inducing activity of lycopene against three subtypes of human breast cancer cell lines

PubMed Central

Takeshima, Mikako; Ono, Misaki; Higuchi, Takako; Chen, Chen; Hara, Takayuki; Nakano, Shuji

2014-01-01

Although lycopene, a major carotenoid component of tomatoes, has been suggested to attenuate the risk of breast cancer, the underlying preventive mechanism remains to be determined. Moreover, it is not known whether there are any differences in lycopene activity among different subtypes of human breast cancer cells. Using ER/PR positive MCF-7, HER2-positive SK-BR-3 and triple-negative MDA-MB-468 cell lines, we investigated the cellular and molecular mechanism of the anticancer activity of lycopene. Lycopene treatment for 168 consecutive hours exhibited a time-dependent and dose-dependent anti-proliferative activity against these cell lines by arresting the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase at physiologically achievable concentrations found in human plasma. The greatest growth inhibition was observed in MDA-MB-468 where the sub-G0/G1 apoptotic population was significantly increased, with demonstrable cleavage of PARP. Lycopene induced strong and sustained activation of the ERK1/2, with concomitant cyclin D1 suppression and p21 upregulation in these three cell lines. In triple negative cells, lycopene inhibited the phosphorylation of Akt and its downstream molecule mTOR, followed by subsequent upregulation of proapoptotic Bax without affecting anti-apoptotic Bcl-xL. Taken together, these data indicate that the predominant anticancer activity of lycopene in MDA-MB-468 cells suggests a potential role of lycopene for the prevention of triple negative breast cancer. PMID:24397737

Identification of differentially expressed proteins during human urinary bladder cancer progression.

PubMed

Memon, Ashfaque A; Chang, Jong W; Oh, Bong R; Yoo, Yung J

2005-01-01

Comparative proteome analysis was performed between RT4 (grade-1) and T24 (grade-3) bladder cancer cell lines, in an attempt to identify differentially expressed proteins during bladder cancer progression. Among those relatively abundant proteins, seven spots changed more than two-fold reproducibly and identified by peptide mass fingerprinting using mass spectrometry and database search. We found most extensive and reproducible down-regulation of NADP dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase cytoplasmic (IDPc) and peroxiredoxin-II (Prx-II), in poorly differentiated T24 compared to well-differentiated RT4 bladder cancer cell line. Subsequent Western blotting analysis of human biopsy samples from bladder cancer patient revealed significant loss of IDPc and Prx-II in more advance tumor samples, in agreement with data on cell lines. These results suggest that loss of IDPc and Prx-II during tumor development may involve in tumor progression and metastasis. However, additional investigations are needed on large number of human samples to further verify these findings.

Nutritional demands and metabolic characteristics of the DSIR-HA-1179 insect cell line during growth and infection with the Oryctes nudivirus.

PubMed

Pushparajan, Charlotte; Claus, Juan Daniel; Marshall, Sean D G; Visnovsky, Gabriel

2017-12-01

The DSIR-HA-1179 coleopteran cell line has been identified as a susceptible and permissive host for the in vitro replication of the Oryctes nudivirus, which can be used as a biopesticide against the coconut rhinoceros beetle, pest of palms. The major challenge to in vitro large-scale Oryctes nudivirus production is ensuring process economy. This rests, among other requisites, on the use of low-cost culture media tailored to the nutritional and metabolic needs of the cell line, both in uninfected and infected cultures. The aim of the present study was to characterize the nutritional demands and the metabolic characteristics of the DSIR-HA-1179 cell line during growth and subsequent infection with Oryctes nudivirus in the TC-100 culture medium. Serum-supplementation of the culture medium was found to be critical for cell growth, and addition of 10% fetal bovine serum v/v led to a maximum viable cell density (16.8 × 10 5 cells ml -1 ) with a population doubling time of 4.2 d. Nutritional and metabolic characterization of the cell line revealed a trend of glucose and glutamine consumption but minimal uptake of other amino acids, negligible production of lactate and ammonia, and the accumulation of alanine, both before and after infection. The monitoring of virus production kinetics showed that the TC-100 culture medium was nutritionally sufficient to give a peak yield of 7.38 × 10 7 TCID 50 ml -1 of OrNV at the 6th day post-infection in attached cultures of DSIR-HA-1179 cells in 25 cm 2 T-flasks. Knowledge of the cell line's nutritional demands and virus production kinetics will aid in the formulation of a low-cost culture medium and better process design for large-scale OrNV production in future.

Characterisation of cytoplasmic DNA complementary to non-retroviral RNA viruses in human cells

PubMed Central

Shimizu, Akira; Nakatani, Yoko; Nakamura, Takako; Jinno-Oue, Atsushi; Ishikawa, Osamu; Boeke, Jef D.; Takeuchi, Yasuhiro; Hoshino, Hiroo

2014-01-01

The synthesis and subsequent genomic integration of DNA that is complementary to the genomes of non-retroviral RNA viruses are rarely observed. However, upon infection of various human cell lines and primary fibroblasts with the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), we detected DNA complementary to the VSV RNA. The VSV DNA was detected in the cytoplasm as single-stranded DNA fully complementary to the viral mRNA from the poly(A) region to the 7-methyl guanosine cap. The formation of this DNA was cell-dependent. Experimentally, we found that the transduction of cells that do not produce VSV DNA with the long interspersed nuclear element 1 and their infection with VSV could lead to the formation of VSV DNA. Viral DNA complementary to other RNA viruses was also detected in the respective infected human cells. Thus, the genetic information of the non-retroviral RNA virus genome can flow into the DNA of mammalian cells expressing LINE-1-like elements. PMID:24875540

Fibulin-3 negatively regulates ALDH1 via c-MET suppression and increases γ-radiation-induced sensitivity in some pancreatic cancer cell lines

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kim, In-Gyu, E-mail: igkim@kaeri.re.kr; Department of Radiation Biotechnology and Applied Radioisotope, Korea University of Science and Technology; Lee, Jae-Ha

2014-11-21

Highlights: • FBLN-3 gene was poorly expressed in some pancreatic cancer lines. • FBLN-3 promoter region was highly methylated in some pancreatic cancer cell lines. • FBLN-3 inhibited c-MET activation and expression and reduced cellular level of ALDH1. • FBLN-3/c-Met/ALDH1 axis modulates stemness and EMT in pancreatic cancer cells. - Abstract: Fibulin-3 (FBLN-3) has been postulated to be either a tumor suppressor or promoter depending on the cell type, and hypermethylation of the FBLN-3 promoter is often associated with human disease, especially cancer. We report that the promoter region of the FBLN-3 was significantly methylated (>95%) in some pancreatic cancermore » cell lines and thus FBLN-3 was poorly expressed in pancreatic cancer cell lines such as AsPC-1 and MiaPaCa-2. FBLN-3 overexpression significantly down-regulated the cellular level of c-MET and inhibited hepatocyte growth factor-induced c-MET activation, which were closely associated with γ-radiation resistance of cancer cells. Moreover, we also showed that c-MET suppression or inactivation decreased the cellular level of ALDH1 isozymes (ALDH1A1 or ALDH1A3), which serve as cancer stem cell markers, and subsequently induced inhibition of cell growth in pancreatic cancer cells. Therefore, forced overexpression of FBLN-3 sensitized cells to cytotoxic agents such as γ-radiation and strongly inhibited the stemness and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) property of pancreatic cancer cells. On the other hand, if FBLN3 was suppressed in FBLN-3-expressing BxPC3 cells, the results were opposite. This study provides the first demonstration that the FBLN-3/c-MET/ALDH1 axis in pancreatic cancer cells partially modulates stemness and EMT as well as sensitization of cells to the detrimental effects of γ-radiation.« less

Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) signaling in animal reproductive system development and function.

PubMed

Lochab, Amaneet K; Extavour, Cassandra G

2017-07-15

In multicellular organisms, the specification, maintenance, and transmission of the germ cell lineage to subsequent generations are critical processes that ensure species survival. A number of studies suggest that the Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) pathway plays multiple roles in this cell lineage. We wished to use a comparative framework to examine the role of BMP signaling in regulating these processes, to determine if patterns would emerge that might shed light on the evolution of molecular mechanisms that may play germ cell-specific or other reproductive roles across species. To this end, here we review evidence to date from the literature supporting a role for BMP signaling in reproductive processes across Metazoa. We focus on germ line-specific processes, and separately consider somatic reproductive processes. We find that from primordial germ cell (PGC) induction to maintenance of PGC identity and gametogenesis, BMP signaling regulates these processes throughout embryonic development and adult life in multiple deuterostome and protostome clades. In well-studied model organisms, functional genetic evidence suggests that BMP signaling is required in the germ line across all life stages, with the exception of PGC specification in species that do not use inductive signaling to induce germ cell formation. The current evidence is consistent with the hypothesis that BMP signaling is ancestral in bilaterian inductive PGC specification. While BMP4 appears to be the most broadly employed ligand for the reproductive processes considered herein, we also noted evidence for sex-specific usage of different BMP ligands. In gametogenesis, BMP6 and BMP15 seem to have roles restricted to oogenesis, while BMP8 is restricted to spermatogenesis. We hypothesize that a BMP-based mechanism may have been recruited early in metazoan evolution to specify the germ line, and was subsequently co-opted for use in other germ line-specific and somatic reproductive processes. We suggest that if future studies assessing the function of the BMP pathway across extant species were to include a reproductive focus, that we would be likely to find continued evidence in favor of an ancient association between BMP signaling and the reproductive cell lineage in animals. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Construction of trypanosome artificial mini-chromosomes.

PubMed Central

Lee, M G; E, Y; Axelrod, N

1995-01-01

We report the preparation of two linear constructs which, when transformed into the procyclic form of Trypanosoma brucei, become stably inherited artificial mini-chromosomes. Both of the two constructs, one of 10 kb and the other of 13 kb, contain a T.brucei PARP promoter driving a chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene. In the 10 kb construct the CAT gene is followed by one hygromycin phosphotransferase (Hph) gene, and in the 13 kb construct the CAT gene is followed by three tandemly linked Hph genes. At each end of these linear molecules are telomere repeats and subtelomeric sequences. Electroporation of these linear DNA constructs into the procyclic form of T.brucei generated hygromycin-B resistant cell lines. In these cell lines, the input DNA remained linear and bounded by the telomere ends, but it increased in size. In the cell lines generated by the 10 kb construct, the input DNA increased in size to 20-50 kb. In the cell lines generated by the 13 kb constructs, two sizes of linear DNAs containing the input plasmid were detected: one of 40-50 kb and the other of 150 kb. The increase in size was not the result of in vivo tandem repetitions of the input plasmid, but represented the addition of new sequences. These Hph containing linear DNA molecules were maintained stably in cell lines for at least 20 generations in the absence of drug selection and were subsequently referred to as trypanosome artificial mini-chromosomes, or TACs. Images PMID:8532534

Rapid Characterization of Candidate Biomarkers for Pancreatic Cancer Using Cell Microarrays (CMAs)

PubMed Central

Kim, Min-Sik; Kuppireddy, Sarada V.; Sakamuri, Sruthi; Singal, Mukul; Getnet, Derese; Harsha, H. C.; Goel, Renu; Balakrishnan, Lavanya; Jacob, Harrys K. C.; Kashyap, Manoj K.; Tankala, Shantal G.; Maitra, Anirban; Iacobuzio-Donahue, Christine A.; Jaffee, Elizabeth; Goggins, Michael G.; Velculescu, Victor E.; Hruban, Ralph H.; Pandey, Akhilesh

2013-01-01

Tissue microarrays have become a valuable tool for high-throughput analysis using immunohistochemical labeling. However, the large majority of biochemical studies are carried out in cell lines to further characterize candidate biomarkers or therapeutic targets with subsequent studies in animals or using primary tissues. Thus, cell line-based microarrays could be a useful screening tool in some situations. Here, we constructed a cell microarray (CMA) containing a panel of 40 pancreatic cancer cell lines available from American Type Culture Collection in addition to those locally available at Johns Hopkins. As proof of principle, we performed immunocytochemical labeling of an epithelial cell adhesion molecule (Ep-CAM), a molecule generally expressed in the epithelium, on this pancreatic cancer CMA. In addition, selected molecules that have been previously shown to be differentially expressed in pancreatic cancer in the literature were validated. For example, we observed strong labeling of CA19-9 antigen, a prognostic and predictive marker for pancreatic cancer. We also carried out a bioinformatics analysis of a literature curated catalog of pancreatic cancer biomarkers developed previously by our group and identified two candidate biomarkers, HLA class I and transmembrane protease, serine 4 (TMPRSS4), and examined their expression in the cell lines represented on the pancreatic cancer CMAs. Our results demonstrate the utility of CMAs as a useful resource for rapid screening of molecules of interest and suggest that CMAs can become a universal standard platform in cancer research. PMID:22985314

Induction of diphtheria toxin-resistant mutants in human cells by ultraviolet light

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rocchi, P.; Ferreri, A.M.; Capucci, A.

1981-01-01

Stable spontaneous mutants resistant to the protein synthesis inhibitor diphtheria toxin (DT) have been selected in human cell line EUE at a very low frequency (less than 8 x 10(-6)). U.v.-induced mutation has been quantitatively measured: treatment of cells with u.v. light increased the frequencies of diphtheria toxin resistant (DTr) mutants up to 1000-fold. The maximum recovery of DTr mutants was observed after a short expression period, for all u.v. doses tested, and was followed by a decrease in mutation frequency on subsequent passages.

Induction of diphtheria toxin-resistant mutants in human cells by ultraviolet light

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rocchi, P.; Ferreri, A.M.; Capucci, A.

1981-01-01

Stable spontaneous mutants resistant to the protein synthesis inhibitor diphtheria toxin (DT) have been selected in human cell line EUE at a very low frequency (< 8 x 10/sup -6/). U.v.-induced mutation has been quantitatively measured: treatment of cells with u.v. light increased the frequencies of diphtheria toxin resistant (DTsup(r)) mutants up to 1000-fold. The maximum recovery of DTsup(r) mutants was observed after a short expression period, for all u.v. doses tested, and was followed by a decrease in mutation frequency on subsequent passages.

Arachidonic Acid-Induced Expression of the Organic Solute and Steroid Transporter-beta (Ost-beta) in a Cartilaginous Fish Cell Line

PubMed Central

Hwang, Jae-Ho; Parton, Angela; Czechanski, Anne; Ballatori, Nazzareno; Barnes, David

2008-01-01

The organic solute and steroid transporter (OST/Ost) is a unique membrane transport protein heterodimer composed of subunits designated alpha and beta, that transports conjugated steroids and prostaglandin E2 across the plasma membrane. Ost was first identified in the liver of the cartilaginous fish Leucoraja erinacea, the little skate, and subsequently was found in many other species, including humans and rodents. The present study describes the isolation of a new cell line, LEE-1, derived from an early embryo of L. erinacea, and characterizes the expression of Ost in these cells. The mRNA size and amino acid sequence of Ost-beta in LEE-1 was identical to that previously reported for Ost-beta from skate liver, and the primary structure was identical to that of the spiny dogfish shark (Squalus acanthias) with the exception of a single amino acid. Ost-beta was found both on the plasma membrane and intracellularly in LEE-1 cells, consistent with its localization in other cell types. Interestingly, arachidonic acid, the precursor to eiconsanoids, strongly induced Ost-beta expression in LEE-1 cells and a lipid mixture containing arachidonic acid also induced Ost-alpha. Overall, the present study describes the isolation of a novel marine cell line, and shows that this cell line expresses relatively high levels of Ost when cultured in the presence of arachidonic acid. Although the function of this transport protein in embryo-derived cells is unknown, it may play a role in the disposition of eicosanoids or steroid-derived molecules. PMID:18407792

Monocrotophos Induces the Expression of Xenobiotic Metabolizing Cytochrome P450s (CYP2C8 and CYP3A4) and Neurotoxicity in Human Brain Cells.

PubMed

Tripathi, Vinay Kumar; Kumar, Vivek; Pandey, Ankita; Vatsa, Pankhi; Dhasmana, Anupam; Singh, Rajat Pratap; Appikonda, Sri Hari Chandan; Hwang, Inho; Lohani, Mohtashim

2017-07-01

Expression of various cytochrome P450s (CYPs) in mammalian brain cells is well documented. However, such studies are hampered in neural/glial cells of human origin due to nonavailability of human brain cells. To address this issue, we investigated the expression and inducibility of CYP2C8 and CYP3A4 and their responsiveness against cyclophosphamide (CPA) and organophosphorus pesticide monocrotophos (MCP), a known developmental neurotoxicant in human neural (SH-SY5Y) and glial (U373-MG) cell lines. CPA induced significant expression of CYP2C8 and CYP3A4 in both types of cells in a time-dependent manner. Neural cell line exhibited relatively higher constitutive and inducible expression of CYPs than the glial cell line. MCP exposure alone could not induce the significant expression of CYPs, whereas the cells preexposed to CPA showed a significant response to MCP. Similar to the case of CPA induced expressions, neural cells were found to be more vulnerable than glial cells. Our data indicate differential expressions of CYPs in cultured human neural and glial cell lines. The findings were synchronized with protein ligand docking studies, which showed a significant modulatory capacity of MCP by strong interaction with CYP regulators-CAR and PXR. Similarly, the known CYP inducer CPA has also shown significant high docking scores with the two studied CYP regulators. We also observed a significant induction in reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxides (LPO), micronucleus (MN), chromosomal aberration (CA), and reduction in reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase following the exposure of MCP. Moreover, the expressions of apoptotic markers such as caspase-3, caspase-9, Bax, and p53 were significantly upregulated, whereas the levels of antiapoptotic marker, Bcl2, was downregulated after the exposure of MCP in both cell lines. These findings confirm the involvement of ROS-mediated oxidative stress, which subsequently triggers apoptosis pathways in both human neural (SH-SY5Y) and glial (U373-MG) cell lines following the exposure of MCP.

Anti-Cancer Activity of Resveratrol and Derivatives Produced by Grapevine Cell Suspensions in a 14 L Stirred Bioreactor.

PubMed

Nivelle, Laetitia; Hubert, Jane; Courot, Eric; Jeandet, Philippe; Aziz, Aziz; Nuzillard, Jean-Marc; Renault, Jean-Hugues; Clément, Christophe; Martiny, Laurent; Delmas, Dominique; Tarpin, Michel

2017-03-16

In the present study, resveratrol and various oligomeric derivatives were obtained from a 14 L bioreactor culture of elicited grapevine cell suspensions (Vitis labrusca L.). The crude ethyl acetate stilbene extract obtained from the culture medium was fractionated by centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC) using a gradient elution method and the major stilbenes contained in the fractions were subsequently identified by using a 13 C-NMR-based dereplication procedure and further 2D NMR analyses including HSQC, HMBC, and COSY. Beside δ-viniferin (2), leachianol F (4) and G (4'), four stilbenes (resveratrol (1), ε-viniferin (5), pallidol (3) and a newly characterized dimer (6)) were recovered as pure compounds in sufficient amounts to allow assessment of their biological activity on the cell growth of three different cell lines, including two human skin malignant melanoma cancer cell lines (HT-144 and SKMEL-28) and a healthy human dermal fibroblast HDF line. Among the dimers obtained in this study, the newly characterized resveratrol dimer (6) has never been described in nature and its biological potential was evaluated here for the first time. ε-viniferin as well as dimer (6) showed IC 50 values on the three tested cell lines lower than the ones exerted by resveratrol and pallidol. However, activities of the first two compounds were significantly decreased in the presence of fetal bovine serum although that of resveratrol and pallidol was not. The differential tumor activity exerted by resveratrol on healthy and cancer lines was also discussed.

Mouse IgA inhibits cell growth by stimulating tumor necrosis factor-alpha production and apoptosis of macrophage cell lines.

PubMed

Reljic, Rajko; Crawford, Carol; Challacombe, Stephen; Ivanyi, Juraj

2004-04-01

Potent Fcalpha-mediated actions of IgA have previously been shown for myeloid cells from man, but much less is known in relation to murine cells. Here, we report that mouse monoclonal IgA, irrespective of their antigenic specificity, inhibit the proliferation of mouse macrophage cell lines. The anti-proliferative activity was manifested by both monomeric and polymeric mouse IgA, but not by mouse monoclonal IgG and IgM. Growth of J774 cells was significantly inhibited during the 4-8 days of logarithmic growth, followed by a subsequent recovery of cell numbers prior to the stationary phase. We demonstrated that IgA binds to J774 cells, stimulates tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha production and induces apoptosis which is not dependent on NO or FAS/CD95. We also demonstrated that IgA, in synergy with IFN-gamma, induced TNF-alpha production and apoptosis of thioglycollate-elicited mouse peritoneal macrophages. Thus, the in vitro actions of IgA described may also play a regulatory role for mouse macrophages in vivo.

XMRV Discovery and Prostate Cancer-Related Research.

PubMed

Kang, David E; Lee, Michael C; Das Gupta, Jaydip; Klein, Eric A; Silverman, Robert H

2011-01-01

Xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus (XMRV) was first reported in 2006 in a study of human prostate cancer patients with genetic variants of the antiviral enzyme, RNase L. Subsequent investigations in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa have either observed or failed to detect XMRV in patients (prostate cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome-myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS-ME), and immunosuppressed with respiratory tract infections) or normal, healthy, control individuals. The principal confounding factors are the near ubiquitous presence of mouse-derived reagents, antibodies and cells, and often XMRV itself, in laboratories. XMRV infects and replicates well in many human cell lines, but especially in certain prostate cancer cell lines. XMRV also traffics to prostate in a nonhuman primate model of infection. Here, we will review the discovery of XMRV and then focus on prostate cancer-related research involving this intriguing virus.

Establishment and characterization of clear cell renal cell carcinoma cell lines with different metastatic potential from Chinese patients.

PubMed

Tan, Xiaojie; He, Songqin; Han, Yifang; Yu, Yongwei; Xiao, Jianru; Xu, Danfeng; Wang, Guoping; Du, Yan; Chang, Wenjun; Yin, Jianhua; Su, Tong; Hou, Jianguo; Cao, Guangwen

2013-02-26

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) cell lines with distinct metastatic potential are essential to study the mechanism of ccRCC metastasis. However, none of them originated from Chinese. Primary cell cultures were performed using a primary tumor of a 49-year-old male ccRCC patient and a metastatic tumor of a 62-year-old male patient who had received nephrectomy to excise primary ccRCC 10 years ago. Cell growth, microstructure, cytogenetics, cytometry, expression of metastasis-associated molecules, tumorigenesis and metastasis were subsequently characterized. Two successive cell lines named NRCC from the primary ccRCC and MRCC from the metastatic ccRCC were established, respectively. Compared to NRCC, MRCC exhibited stronger anchorage-independent growth and invasion potentials and contained more glycogen granules in the cytoplasm. Gains of chromosomes and some translocations were the major chromosomal aberrations in both cell strains. CD24 expression was more frequent in MRCC than in NRCC and the same was true for CD56. The transcriptional levels of TNFα, IL-6, VEGF, HIF2α, MMP2, and RhoC were significantly higher in MRCC than in NRCC. Cytosolic IκBα protein was more degraded in MRCC than in NRCC following TNFα treatment. Both cell lines had strong tumorigenicity in athymic nude mice. However, MRCC had strong potential in generating metastasis to lung and hemorrhagic ascites than NRCC following orthotopic transplantations. Cancer cells isolated from metastatic ccRCC have more malignant and metastatic potential than those from the primary tumor from the patients who shared the similar race background. Establishment of MRCC and NRCC may provide suitable models with which to investigate molecular mechanisms of ccRCC metastasis.

DIGE compatible labelling of surface proteins on vital cells in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Mayrhofer, Corina; Krieger, Sigurd; Allmaier, Günter; Kerjaschki, Dontscho

2006-01-01

Efficient methods for profiling of the cell surface proteome are desirable to get a deeper insight in basic biological processes, to localise proteins and to uncover proteins differentially expressed in diseases. Here we present a strategy to target cell surface exposed proteins via fluorescence labelling using CyDye DIGE fluors. This method has been applied to human cell lines in vitro as well as to a complex biological system in vivo. It allows detection of fluorophore-tagged cell surface proteins and visualisation of the accessible proteome within a single 2-D gel, simplifying subsequent UV MALDI-MS analysis.

Squamous cell carcinoma arising within a maxillary odontogenic keratocyst: A rare occurrence

PubMed Central

Jalali, Elnaz; Ferneini, Elie M.; Rengasamy, Kandasamy

2017-01-01

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) arising within the lining of an odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) is a rare occurrence. Although potentially locally destructive, OKC is a benign odontogenic process that typically presents with clinical and radiographic features characteristic of a benign intraosseous neoplasm. We present the clinical and radiographic features of a maxillary mass that demonstrated SCC arising from the lining of an OKC. Although the initial clinical and radiographic presentation suggested an infection or malignant neoplasm, biopsies revealed an infiltrative well-differentiated SCC contiguous with and arising from the focus of a pre-existing OKC. The patient subsequently underwent a type II hemi-maxillectomy with neoadjuvant chemoradiation. This report discusses the clinical and radiographic features associated with intraosseous malignancies, especially those arising from an otherwise benign odontogenic lesion. While the majority of OKCs are benign, the current report illustrates the potential for carcinomatous transformation within the lining of an OKC. PMID:28680851

First-line treatment of EGFR-mutant non-small-cell lung cancer: the role of erlotinib and other tyrosine kinase inhibitors

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Kim-Son H; Neal, Joel W

2012-01-01

Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR TKIs) were initially established as second- or third-line treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Subsequent studies, including IPASS, OPTIMAL, and EURTAC, have demonstrated that these TKIs are effective first-line therapeutic options in patients with tumors harboring activating mutations in the EGFR gene. The TKIs are better tolerated than conventional chemotherapy, with frequent yet mild side effects such as rash and diarrhea, and rarely interstitial lung disease. Because most patients on TKIs develop resistance due to a variety of mechanisms, the use of TKIs in the acquired-resistance setting and in the setting of earlier-staged cancers is being extensively studied. Here we review the major trials leading to the established use of EGFR TKIs in NSCLC, followed by discussion of recently completed and ongoing trials using the next-generation EGFR inhibitor afatinib. PMID:23055691

Phorbol esters alter adenylate cyclase responses to vasoactive intestinal peptide and forskolin in the GH cell line

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Summers, S.; Florio, T.; Cronin, M.

1986-05-01

Activation of protein kinase C with phorbol ester modifies cyclic AMP production in several anterior pituitary cell systems. In the GH cell line from a rat pituitary tumor, exposure to phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA: 100 nM) for 30 minutes significantly reduces vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP: 100 nM) stimulated adenylate cyclase (AC) activity in subsequent membrane preparations to 62 + 4% of control (n = 6 independent studies). In contrast, these same membrane preparations respond to forskolin (1 ..mu..M) with significantly more activity, 130 +/- 6% of controls (n = 6 independent studies). Finally, phorbol ester does not block an inhibitorymore » hormone input into the AC system; somatostatin (100 nM) reduction of VIP-stimulated AC activity is not significantly different in membrane preparations from PMA treated and control cells (n = 3 independent studies). These other findings lead the authors to propose that protein kinase C can modify several sites in the AC complex in anterior pituitary cells.« less

Homoharringtonine targets Smad3 and TGF-β pathway to inhibit the proliferation of acute myeloid leukemia cells.

PubMed

Chen, Jian; Mu, Qitian; Li, Xia; Yin, Xiufeng; Yu, Mengxia; Jin, Jing; Li, Chenying; Zhou, Yile; Zhou, Jiani; Suo, Shanshan; Lu, Demin; Jin, Jie

2017-06-20

Homoharringtonine (HHT) has long and widely been used in China for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the clinical therapeutic effect is significant but the working mechanism is poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to screen the possible target for HHT with virtual screening and verify the findings by cell experiments. Software including Autodock, Python, and MGL tools were used, with HHT being the ligand and proteins from PI3K-Akt pathway, Jak-stat pathway, TGF-β pathway and NK-κB pathway as the receptors. Human AML cell lines including U937, KG-1, THP-1 were cultured and used as the experiment cell lines. MTT assay was used for proliferation detection, flowcytometry was used to detect apoptosis and cell cycle arrest upon HHT functioning, western blotting was used to detect the protein level changes, viral shRNA transfection was used to suppress the expression level of the target protein candidate, and viral mRNA transfection was used for over-expression. Virtual screening revealed that smad3 from TGF-β pathway might be the candidate for HHT binding. In AML cell line U937 and KG-1, HHT can induce the Ser423/425 phosphorylation of smad3, and this phosphorylation can subsequently activate the TGF-β pathway, causing cell cycle arrest at G1 phase in U937 cells and apoptosis in KG-1 cells, knockdown of smad3 can impair the sensitivity of U937 cell to HHT, and over-expression of smad3 can re-establish the sensitivity in both cell lines. We conclude that smad3 is the probable target protein of HHT and plays an important role in the functioning mechanism of HHT.

Homoharringtonine targets Smad3 and TGF-β pathway to inhibit the proliferation of acute myeloid leukemia cells

PubMed Central

Yin, Xiufeng; Yu, Mengxia; Jin, Jing; Li, Chenying; Zhou, Yile; Zhou, Jiani; Suo, Shanshan; Lu, Demin; Jin, Jie

2017-01-01

Homoharringtonine (HHT) has long and widely been used in China for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the clinical therapeutic effect is significant but the working mechanism is poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to screen the possible target for HHT with virtual screening and verify the findings by cell experiments. Software including Autodock, Python, and MGL tools were used, with HHT being the ligand and proteins from PI3K-Akt pathway, Jak-stat pathway, TGF-β pathway and NK-κB pathway as the receptors. Human AML cell lines including U937, KG-1, THP-1 were cultured and used as the experiment cell lines. MTT assay was used for proliferation detection, flowcytometry was used to detect apoptosis and cell cycle arrest upon HHT functioning, western blotting was used to detect the protein level changes, viral shRNA transfection was used to suppress the expression level of the target protein candidate, and viral mRNA transfection was used for over-expression. Virtual screening revealed that smad3 from TGF-β pathway might be the candidate for HHT binding. In AML cell line U937 and KG-1, HHT can induce the Ser423/425 phosphorylation of smad3, and this phosphorylation can subsequently activate the TGF-β pathway, causing cell cycle arrest at G1 phase in U937 cells and apoptosis in KG-1 cells, knockdown of smad3 can impair the sensitivity of U937 cell to HHT, and over-expression of smad3 can re-establish the sensitivity in both cell lines. We conclude that smad3 is the probable target protein of HHT and plays an important role in the functioning mechanism of HHT. PMID:28454099

Effect of reoxygenation on the hypoxia-induced up-regulation of serine protease inhibitor PAI-1 in head and neck cancer cells.

PubMed

Sprague, Lisa D; Mengele, Karin; Schilling, Daniela; Geurts-Moespot, Anneke; Sweep, Fred C G J; Stadler, Peter; Schmitt, Manfred; Molls, Michael

2006-01-01

In squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN), hypoxia is considered a crucial physiological modulator for malignant progression, wherebythe plasminogen activation system is involved in overlapping functions such as moulding of the extracellular matrix, cell proliferation and signal transduction. Little is known about the effects of reoxygenation on the plasminogen activation system in SCCHN cells. Three human SCCHN cell lines (BHY, CAL27, FaDu) and a non-transformed human fibroblast cell line (VH7) were exposed to hypoxic (<0.5% O(2)) conditions for up to 72 h and subsequently reoxygenated at normoxic conditions for 24 h. Urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) protein concentration and former protein activity were determined by ELISA and complex ELISA, respectively. Reoxygenation induced significant changes in cell-associated and secreted PAI-1 protein compared to the normoxic control. Significant increase in cell-associated and secreted uPA protein after reoxygenation was only observed for some of the cell lines. Determination of uPA-PAI-1 complex formation revealed the release of active protein into the cell supernatant. The beneficial role of reoxygenation during radiation therapy is widely accepted. However, reoxygenation does not seem to counteract the effects induced by hypoxia on the plasminogen activation system. Fatally irradiated reoxygenat- ed tumour cells might still produce sufficient amounts of 'harmful' protein and thus initiate a path for invasion and metastasis for surviving tumour cells.

Reversion of 6-thioguanine resistant Chinese hamster cell lines: agent specificity and evidence for the repair of promutagenic lesions.

PubMed

Hodgkiss, R J; Brennand, J; Fox, M

1980-02-01

The kinetics and mutagen specificity of reversion of an HGPRT(-)TG(R) line of Chinese hamster cells have been examined in detail by measuring the frequency of HAT(R) colonies. Alkylating agents which produce relatively high levels of O-atom reaction were effective in inducing reversion. MMS, DMS and u.v. were less efficient, and aflatoxin B1, acridine orange and N-acetoxy-AAF were completely ineffective. For agents which were effective, the relationship between HAT(R) colony frequency and dose of mutagen was linear at early expression times (6 h). HAT(R) colony frequency fell subsequently at all doses and the rate and extent of the fall was inversely related to dose. These observations suggest repair of a pro-mutagenic DNA lesion. Other TG(R) mutants isolated from the same wild-type cell line under different selective conditions were also tested for revertibility after exposure to the same mutagens. The majority did not revert, this suggests that they carry deletions within the structural gene for HGPRT. The infrequent revertible lines all arose spontaneously and our evidence suggests that they carry nonsense mutations.

Characterization of a hydroxyurea-resistant human KB cell line with supersensitivity to 6-thioguanine.

PubMed

Yen, Y; Grill, S P; Dutschman, G E; Chang, C N; Zhou, B S; Cheng, Y C

1994-07-15

Hydroxyurea (HU) is currently used in the clinic for the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia, head and neck carcinoma, and sarcoma. One of its drawbacks, however, is the development of HU resistance. To study this problem, we developed a HU-resistant human KB cell line which exhibits a 15-fold resistance to HU. The characterization of this HU-resistant phenotype revealed a gene amplification of the M2 subunit of ribonucleotide reductase (RR), increased levels of M2 mRNA and protein, and a 3-fold increase of RR activity. This HU-resistant cell line also expressed a "collateral sensitivity" to 6-thioguanine (6-TG), with a 10-fold decrease in the dose inhibiting cell growth by 50% as compared to the KB parental line. The mechanism responsible for this supersensitivity to 6-TG is believed to be related to an increasingly efficient conversion of 6-TG to its triphosphate form, which is subsequently incorporated into DNA. After passage of the resistant cells in the absence of HU, the cell line reverts. The revertant cells lose their resistance to HU and concomitantly their sensitivity to 6-TG. This phenomenon is due to the return of RR to levels comparable to that of the KB parental cell line. These observations and their relevance to cancer chemotherapy will be discussed in this paper. Our results suggest that a clinical protocol could be designed which would allow for a lower dose of 6-TG to be used by taking advantage of the increased RR activity in HU-refractory cancer patients. Two drugs which display collateral sensitivity are known as a "Ying-Yang" pair. Alternate treatment with two different Ying-Yang pairs is the rationale for the "Ying-Yang Ping-Pong" theory in cancer treatment. This rationale allows for effective cancer chemotherapy with reduced toxicity.

The In Vitro Response of Tissue Stem Cells to Irradiation With Different Linear Energy Transfers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nagle, Peter W.; Hosper, Nynke A.; Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen

Purpose: A reduction in the dose, irradiated volume, and sensitivity of, in particular, normal tissue stem cells is needed to advance radiation therapy. This could be obtained with the use of particles for radiation therapy. However, the radiation response of normal tissue stem cells is still an enigma. Therefore, in the present study, we developed a model to investigate the in vitro response of stem cells to particle irradiation. Methods and Materials: We used the immortalized human salivary gland (HSG) cell line resembling salivary gland (SG) cells to translate the radiation response in 2-dimensional (2D) to 3-dimensional (3D) conditions. This responsemore » was subsequently translated to the response of SG stem cells (SGSCs). Dispersed single cells were irradiated with photons or carbon ions at different linear energy transfers (LETs; 48.76 ± 2.16, 149.9 ± 10.8, and 189 ± 15 keV/μm). Subsequently, 2D or 3D clonogenicity was determined by counting the colonies or secondary stem cell-derived spheres in Matrigel. γH2AX immunostaining was used to assess DNA double strand break repair. Results: The 2D response of HSG cells showed a similar increase in dose response to increasing higher LET irradiation as other cell lines. The 3D response of HSG cells to increasing LET irradiation was reduced compared with the 2D response. Finally, the response of mouse SGSCs to photons was similar to the 3D response of HSG cells. The response to higher LET irradiation was reduced in the stem cells. Conclusions: Mouse SGSC radiosensitivity seems reduced at higher LET radiation compared with transformed HSG cells. The developed model to assess the radiation response of SGSCs offers novel possibilities to study the radiation response of normal tissue in vitro.« less

Differential expression of the multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1) protein in prostate cancer cells is independent from anticancer drug treatment and Y box binding protein 1 (YB-1) activity.

PubMed

Saupe, Madeleine; Rauschenberger, Lisa; Preuß, Melanie; Oswald, Stefan; Fussek, Sebastian; Zimmermann, Uwe; Walther, Reinhard; Knabbe, Cornelius; Burchardt, Martin; Stope, Matthias B

2015-10-01

The development of a drug-resistant phenotype is the major challenge during treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer (PC). In solid cancer entities, one of the major contributors to chemoresistance is the multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1) protein. Believed to be involved in the induction of MDR1 expression is the presence of anticancer drugs as well as the Y box binding protein 1 (YB-1). Basal as well as drug-induced expression of MDR1 in established PC cell lines was assessed by Western blotting and mass spectrometry. Subsequently, the influence of YB-1 on MDR1 expression was examined via transient overexpression of YB-1. While LNCaP and PC-3 cells showed no detectable amounts of MDR1, the resistance factor was found to be expressed in 22Rv1 cells. Despite this difference, all three cell lines demonstrated similar growth behavior in the presence of the first-line chemotherapeutic agent docetaxel. Incubation of 22Rv1 cells with docetaxel, cabazitaxel, and abiraterone did not significantly alter MDR1 expression levels. Furthermore, overexpression of the MDR1 controlling factor YB-1 showed no impact on MDR1 expression levels. MDR1 was detectable in the PC cell line 22Rv1. However, this study suggests that MDR1 is of less importance for drug resistance in PC cells than in other types of solid cancer. Furthermore, in contrast to YB-1 properties in other malignancies, MDR1 regulation through YB-1 seems to be unlikely.

A distinct first replication cycle of DNA introduced in mammalian cells

PubMed Central

Chandok, Gurangad S.; Kapoor, Kalvin K.; Brick, Rachel M.; Sidorova, Julia M.; Krasilnikova, Maria M.

2011-01-01

Many mutation events in microsatellite DNA sequences were traced to the first embryonic divisions. It was not known what makes the first replication cycles of embryonic DNA different from subsequent replication cycles. Here we demonstrate that an unusual replication mode is involved in the first cycle of replication of DNA introduced in mammalian cells. This alternative replication starts at random positions, and occurs before the chromatin is fully assembled. It is detected in various cell lines and primary cells. The presence of single-stranded regions increases the efficiency of this alternative replication mode. The alternative replication cannot progress through the A/T-rich FRA16B fragile site, while the regular replication mode is not affected by it. A/T-rich microsatellites are associated with the majority of chromosomal breakpoints in cancer. We suggest that the alternative replication mode may be initiated at the regions with immature chromatin structure in embryonic and cancer cells resulting in increased genomic instability. This work demonstrates, for the first time, differences in the replication progression during the first and subsequent replication cycles in mammalian cells. PMID:21062817

Dual effect of F-actin targeted carrier combined with antimitotic drug on aggressive colorectal cancer cytoskeleton: Allying dissimilar cell cytoskeleton disrupting mechanisms.

PubMed

Taranejoo, Shahrouz; Janmaleki, Mohsen; Pachenari, Mohammad; Seyedpour, Seyed Morteza; Chandrasekaran, Ramya; Cheng, Wenlong; Hourigan, Kerry

2016-11-20

A recent approach to colon cancer therapy is to employ selective drugs with specific extra/intracellular sites of action. Alteration of cytoskeletal protein reorganization and, subsequently, to cellular biomechanical behaviour during cancer progression highly affects the cancer cell progress. Hence, cytoskeleton targeted drugs are an important class of cancer therapy agents. We have studied viscoelastic alteration of the human colon adenocarcinoma cell line, SW48, after treatment with a drug delivery system comprising chitosan as the carrier and albendazole as the microtubule-targeting agent (MTA). For the first time, we have evaluated the biomechanical characteristics of the cell line, using the micropipette aspiration (MA) method after treatment with drug delivery systems. Surprisingly, employing a chitosan-albendazole pair, in comparison with both neat materials, resulted in more significant change in the viscoelastic parameters of cells, including the elastic constants (K 1 and K 2 ) and the coefficient of viscosity (μ). This difference was more pronounced for cancer cells after 48h of the treatment. Microtubule and actin microfilament (F-actin) contents in the cell line were studied by immunofluorescent staining. Good agreement was observed between the mechanical characteristics results and microtubule/F-actin contents of the treated SW48 cell line, which declined after treatment. The results showed that chitosan affected F-actin more, while MTA was more effective for microtubules. Toxicity studies were performed against two cancer cell lines (SW48 and MCF10CA1h) and compared to normal cells, MCF10A. The results showed cancer selectiveness, safety of formulation, and enhanced anticancer efficacy of the CS/ABZ conjugate. This study suggests that employing such a suitable pair of drug-carriers with dissimilar sites of action, thus allying the different cell cytoskeleton disrupting mechanisms, may provide a more efficient cancer therapy approach. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A transgenic plant cell-suspension system for expression of epitopes on chimeric Bamboo mosaic virus particles.

PubMed

Muthamilselvan, Thangarasu; Lee, Chin-Wei; Cho, Yu-Hsin; Wu, Feng-Chao; Hu, Chung-Chi; Liang, Yu-Chuan; Lin, Na-Sheng; Hsu, Yau-Heiu

2016-01-01

We describe a novel strategy to produce vaccine antigens using a plant cell-suspension culture system in lieu of the conventional bacterial or animal cell-culture systems. We generated transgenic cell-suspension cultures from Nicotiana benthamiana leaves carrying wild-type or chimeric Bamboo mosaic virus (BaMV) expression constructs encoding the viral protein 1 (VP1) epitope of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV). Antigens accumulated to high levels in BdT38 and BdT19 transgenic cell lines co-expressing silencing suppressor protein P38 or P19. BaMV chimeric virus particles (CVPs) were subsequently purified from the respective cell lines (1.5 and 2.1 mg CVPs/20 g fresh weight of suspended biomass, respectively), and the resulting CVPs displayed VP1 epitope on the surfaces. Guinea pigs vaccinated with purified CVPs produced humoral antibodies. This study represents an important advance in the large-scale production of immunopeptide vaccines in a cost-effective manner using a plant cell-suspension culture system. © 2015 Society for Experimental Biology, Association of Applied Biologists and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Generation of Mouse Lung Epithelial Cells.

PubMed

Kasinski, Andrea L; Slack, Frank J

2013-08-05

Although in vivo models are excellent for assessing various facets of whole organism physiology, pathology, and overall response to treatments, evaluating basic cellular functions, and molecular events in mammalian model systems is challenging. It is therefore advantageous to perform these studies in a refined and less costly setting. One approach involves utilizing cells derived from the model under evaluation. The approach to generate such cells varies based on the cell of origin and often the genetics of the cell. Here we describe the steps involved in generating epithelial cells from the lungs of Kras LSL-G12D/+ ; p53 LSL-R172/+ mice (Kasinski and Slack, 2012). These mice develop aggressive lung adenocarcinoma following cre-recombinase dependent removal of a stop cassette in the transgenes and subsequent expression of Kra -G12D and p53 R172 . While this protocol may be useful for the generation of epithelial lines from other genetic backgrounds, it should be noted that the Kras; p53 cell line generated here is capable of proliferating in culture without any additional genetic manipulation that is often needed for less aggressive backgrounds.

Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-mediated NF-κB activation facilitates cellular invasion of non-professional phagocytic epithelial cell lines by Trypanosoma cruzi.

PubMed

Pinto, Andrea M T; Sales, Paula C M; Camargos, Elizabeth R S; Silva, Aristóbolo M

2011-10-01

At the site of infection, pro-inflammatory cytokines locally produced by macrophages infected with Trypanosoma cruzi can activate surrounding non-professional phagocytes such as fibroblasts, epithelial and endothelial cells, which can be further invaded by the parasite. The effect of secreted soluble factors on the invasion of these cells remains, however, to be established. We show here that two epithelial cell lines become significantly susceptible to the infection by the Y strain of T. cruzi after tumour necrosis factor (TNF) treatment. The increase in the invasion was correlated with the increasing concentration of recombinant TNF added to cultures of HEK293T or LLC-MK2 cells. Supernatants taken from PMA-differentiated human monocytes infected with T. cruzi also increased the permissiveness of epithelial cells to subsequent infection with the parasite, which was inhibited by a TNF monoclonal antibody. Furthermore, the permissiveness induced by TNF was inhibited by TPCK, and led to significant decrease in the number of intracellular parasites, providing evidence that activation of NF-κB induced by TNF favours the invasion of the epithelial cell lines by T. cruzi through yet an unidentified mechanism. Our data indicate that soluble factors released from macrophages early in the infection favours T. cruzi invasion of non-professional phagocytic cells. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Atlantic salmon endothelial cells from the heart were more susceptible than fibroblasts from the bulbus arteriosus to four RNA viruses but protected from two viruses by dsRNA pretreatment.

PubMed

Pham, Phuc H; Tong, Winnie W L; Misk, Ehab; Jones, Ginny; Lumsden, John S; Bols, Niels C

2017-11-01

Heart diseases caused by viruses are major causes of Atlantic salmon aquaculture loss. Two Atlantic salmon cardiovascular cell lines, an endothelial cell line (ASHe) from the heart and a fibroblast cell line (BAASf) from the bulbus arteriosus, were evaluated for their response to four fish viruses, CSV, IPNV, VHSV IVa and VHSV IVb, and the innate immune agonist, double-stranded RNA mimic poly IC. All four viruses caused cytopathic effects in ASHe and BAASf. However, ASHe was more susceptible to all four viruses than BAASf. When comparing between the viruses, ASHe cells were found to be moderately susceptible to CSV and VHSV IVb, but highly susceptible to IPNV and VHSV IVa induced cell death. All four viruses were capable of propagating in the ASHe cell line, leading to increases in virus titre over time. In BAASf, CSV and IPNV produced more than one log increase in titre from initial infection, but VHSV IVb and IVa did not. When looking at the antiviral response of both cell lines, Mx proteins were induced in ASHe and BAASf by poly IC. All four viruses induced Mx proteins in BAASf, while only CSV and VHSV IVb induced Mx proteins in ASHe. IPNV and VHSV IVa suppressed Mx proteins expression in ASHe. Pretreatment of ASHe with poly IC to allow for Mx proteins accumulation protected the culture from subsequent infections with IPNV and VHSV IVa, resulting in delayed cell death, reduced virus titres and reduced viral proteins expression. These data suggest that endothelial cells potentially can serve as points of infections for viruses in the heart and that two of the four viruses, IPNV and VHSV IVa, have mechanisms to avoid or downregulate antiviral responses in ASHe cells. Furthermore, the high susceptibility of the ASHe cell line to IPNV and VHSV IVa can make it a useful tool for studying antiviral compounds against these viruses and for general detection of fish viruses. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A microenvironment-mediated c-Myc/miR-548m/HDAC6 amplification loop in non-Hodgkin B cell lymphomas

PubMed Central

Lwin, Tint; Zhao, Xiaohong; Cheng, Fengdong; Zhang, Xinwei; Huang, Andy; Shah, Bijal; Zhang, Yizhuo; Moscinski, Lynn C.; Choi, Yong Sung; Kozikowski, Alan P.; Bradner, James E.; Dalton, William S.; Sotomayor, Eduardo; Tao, Jianguo

2013-01-01

A dynamic interaction occurs between the lymphoma cell and its microenvironment, with each profoundly influencing the behavior of the other. Here, using a clonogenic coculture growth system and a xenograft mouse model, we demonstrated that adhesion of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) and other non-Hodgkin lymphoma cells to lymphoma stromal cells confers drug resistance, clonogenicity, and induction of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6). Furthermore, stroma triggered a c-Myc/miR-548m feed-forward loop, linking sustained c-Myc activation, miR-548m downregulation, and subsequent HDAC6 upregulation and stroma-mediated cell survival and lymphoma progression in lymphoma cell lines, primary MCL and other B cell lymphoma cell lines. Treatment with an HDAC6-selective inhibitor alone or in synergy with a c-Myc inhibitor enhanced cell death, abolished cell adhesion–mediated drug resistance, and suppressed clonogenicity and lymphoma growth ex vivo and in vivo. Together, these data suggest that the lymphoma-stroma interaction in the lymphoma microenvironment directly impacts the biology of lymphoma through genetic and epigenetic regulation, with HDAC6 and c-Myc as potential therapeutic targets. PMID:24216476

Safe Preparation of HCl and DCl for IR Spectroscopy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Furlong, William R.; Grubbs, W. Tandy

2005-01-01

The widely used method of synthesizing HCl and DCl gases for infrared analysis by hydrolysis of benzoyl chloride includes a potentially dangerous final step whereby the frozen product is allowed to heat and expand into an infrared gas cell. The subsequent rapid rise in vapor pressure can "pop" open glass joints in the vacuum line and vent the…

Parallel mRNA, proteomics and miRNA expression analysis in cell line models of the intestine.

PubMed

O'Sullivan, Finbarr; Keenan, Joanne; Aherne, Sinead; O'Neill, Fiona; Clarke, Colin; Henry, Michael; Meleady, Paula; Breen, Laura; Barron, Niall; Clynes, Martin; Horgan, Karina; Doolan, Padraig; Murphy, Richard

2017-11-07

To identify miRNA-regulated proteins differentially expressed between Caco2 and HT-29: two principal cell line models of the intestine. Exponentially growing Caco-2 and HT-29 cells were harvested and prepared for mRNA, miRNA and proteomic profiling. mRNA microarray profiling analysis was carried out using the Affymetrix GeneChip Human Gene 1.0 ST array. miRNA microarray profiling analysis was carried out using the Affymetrix Genechip miRNA 3.0 array. Quantitative Label-free LC-MS/MS proteomic analysis was performed using a Dionex Ultimate 3000 RSLCnano system coupled to a hybrid linear ion trap/Orbitrap mass spectrometer. Peptide identities were validated in Proteome Discoverer 2.1 and were subsequently imported into Progenesis QI software for further analysis. Hierarchical cluster analysis for all three parallel datasets (miRNA, proteomics, mRNA) was conducted in the R software environment using the Euclidean distance measure and Ward's clustering algorithm. The prediction of miRNA and oppositely correlated protein/mRNA interactions was performed using TargetScan 6.1. GO biological process, molecular function and cellular component enrichment analysis was carried out for the DE miRNA, protein and mRNA lists via the Pathway Studio 11.3 Web interface using their Mammalian database. Differential expression (DE) profiling comparing the intestinal cell lines HT-29 and Caco-2 identified 1795 Genes, 168 Proteins and 160 miRNAs as DE between the two cell lines. At the gene level, 1084 genes were upregulated and 711 were downregulated in the Caco-2 cell line relative to the HT-29 cell line. At the protein level, 57 proteins were found to be upregulated and 111 downregulated in the Caco-2 cell line relative to the HT-29 cell line. Finally, at the miRNAs level, 104 were upregulated and 56 downregulated in the Caco-2 cell line relative to the HT-29 cell line. Gene ontology (GO) analysis of the DE mRNA identified cell adhesion, migration and ECM organization, cellular lipid and cholesterol metabolic processes, small molecule transport and a range of responses to external stimuli, while similar analysis of the DE protein list identified gene expression/transcription, epigenetic mechanisms, DNA replication, differentiation and translation ontology categories. The DE protein and gene lists were found to share 15 biological processes including for example epithelial cell differentiation [ P value ≤ 1.81613E-08 (protein list); P ≤ 0.000434311 (gene list)] and actin filament bundle assembly [ P value ≤ 0.001582797 (protein list); P ≤ 0.002733714 (gene list)]. Analysis was conducted on the three data streams acquired in parallel to identify targets undergoing potential miRNA translational repression identified 34 proteins, whose respective mRNAs were detected but no change in expression was observed. Of these 34 proteins, 27 proteins downregulated in the Caco-2 cell line relative to the HT-29 cell line and predicted to be targeted by 19 unique anti-correlated/upregulated microRNAs and 7 proteins upregulated in the Caco-2 cell line relative to the HT-29 cell line and predicted to be targeted by 15 unique anti-correlated/downregulated microRNAs. This first study providing "tri-omics" analysis of the principal intestinal cell line models Caco-2 and HT-29 has identified 34 proteins potentially undergoing miRNA translational repression.

Parallel mRNA, proteomics and miRNA expression analysis in cell line models of the intestine

PubMed Central

O’Sullivan, Finbarr; Keenan, Joanne; Aherne, Sinead; O’Neill, Fiona; Clarke, Colin; Henry, Michael; Meleady, Paula; Breen, Laura; Barron, Niall; Clynes, Martin; Horgan, Karina; Doolan, Padraig; Murphy, Richard

2017-01-01

AIM To identify miRNA-regulated proteins differentially expressed between Caco2 and HT-29: two principal cell line models of the intestine. METHODS Exponentially growing Caco-2 and HT-29 cells were harvested and prepared for mRNA, miRNA and proteomic profiling. mRNA microarray profiling analysis was carried out using the Affymetrix GeneChip Human Gene 1.0 ST array. miRNA microarray profiling analysis was carried out using the Affymetrix Genechip miRNA 3.0 array. Quantitative Label-free LC-MS/MS proteomic analysis was performed using a Dionex Ultimate 3000 RSLCnano system coupled to a hybrid linear ion trap/Orbitrap mass spectrometer. Peptide identities were validated in Proteome Discoverer 2.1 and were subsequently imported into Progenesis QI software for further analysis. Hierarchical cluster analysis for all three parallel datasets (miRNA, proteomics, mRNA) was conducted in the R software environment using the Euclidean distance measure and Ward’s clustering algorithm. The prediction of miRNA and oppositely correlated protein/mRNA interactions was performed using TargetScan 6.1. GO biological process, molecular function and cellular component enrichment analysis was carried out for the DE miRNA, protein and mRNA lists via the Pathway Studio 11.3 Web interface using their Mammalian database. RESULTS Differential expression (DE) profiling comparing the intestinal cell lines HT-29 and Caco-2 identified 1795 Genes, 168 Proteins and 160 miRNAs as DE between the two cell lines. At the gene level, 1084 genes were upregulated and 711 were downregulated in the Caco-2 cell line relative to the HT-29 cell line. At the protein level, 57 proteins were found to be upregulated and 111 downregulated in the Caco-2 cell line relative to the HT-29 cell line. Finally, at the miRNAs level, 104 were upregulated and 56 downregulated in the Caco-2 cell line relative to the HT-29 cell line. Gene ontology (GO) analysis of the DE mRNA identified cell adhesion, migration and ECM organization, cellular lipid and cholesterol metabolic processes, small molecule transport and a range of responses to external stimuli, while similar analysis of the DE protein list identified gene expression/transcription, epigenetic mechanisms, DNA replication, differentiation and translation ontology categories. The DE protein and gene lists were found to share 15 biological processes including for example epithelial cell differentiation [P value ≤ 1.81613E-08 (protein list); P ≤ 0.000434311 (gene list)] and actin filament bundle assembly [P value ≤ 0.001582797 (protein list); P ≤ 0.002733714 (gene list)]. Analysis was conducted on the three data streams acquired in parallel to identify targets undergoing potential miRNA translational repression identified 34 proteins, whose respective mRNAs were detected but no change in expression was observed. Of these 34 proteins, 27 proteins downregulated in the Caco-2 cell line relative to the HT-29 cell line and predicted to be targeted by 19 unique anti-correlated/upregulated microRNAs and 7 proteins upregulated in the Caco-2 cell line relative to the HT-29 cell line and predicted to be targeted by 15 unique anti-correlated/downregulated microRNAs. CONCLUSION This first study providing “tri-omics” analysis of the principal intestinal cell line models Caco-2 and HT-29 has identified 34 proteins potentially undergoing miRNA translational repression. PMID:29151691

A human thyroid cancer cell line, DH-14-3, newly established from poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma.

PubMed

Teshima, Jin; Doi, Hideyuki; Fujimori, Keisei; Watanabe, Michio; Nakajima, Noriaki; Nakano, Tomoyuki; Takahashi, Yoshio; Ohuchi, Noriaki; Satomi, Susumu

2013-06-01

Poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma (PDTC) is a newly recognized histological type of malignant thyroid tumor, accounting for about 2 - 13% of all thyroid carcinomas. PDTC is considered as a morphologically and biologically intermediate stage between well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. PDTC preferentially manifests bone metastases. We here established a cell line from a resected tumor specimen from a 70-year-old male patient with PDTC who presented with multiple bone metastases. This new thyroid tumor cell line was designated as DH-14-3 and was subsequently grown in culture for several years. DH-14-3 cells express thyroglobulin in the cytoplasm and thyroid transcription factor-1 in the nuclei, both proteins of which are specific markers for the thyroid gland. Importantly, triiodothyronine (T3) was detected in the cultured medium of DH-14-3 cells, in which, however, thyroxine (T4) was undetectable. Moreover, DH-14-3 cells secreted interleukin-8, transforming growth factor-β1, vascular endothelial growth factor, matrix metalloproteinase-1 and parathyroid hormone-related protein, all of which may be responsible for the aggressiveness or bone metastasis of PDTC. Thus, the production of these proteins may reflect the metastatic potential of this cell line. DH-14-3 cells also express CXC chemokine receptor-4 and epidermal growth factor receptor, and carry a missense mutation in the p53 tumor suppressor gene. In fact, transplantation of DH-14-3 cells into the back of nude mice resulted in the formation of tumors, thereby confirming the capability of tumorigenesis. DH-14-3 cells may be useful for investigating the biological features of PDTC and will contribute to the therapeutic study of thyroid cancer.

CIP-36, a novel topoisomerase II-targeting agent, induces the apoptosis of multidrug-resistant cancer cells in vitro.

PubMed

Cao, Bo; Chen, Hong; Gao, Ying; Niu, Cong; Zhang, Yuan; Li, Ling

2015-03-01

The need to overcome cancer multidrug resistance (MDR) has fueled considerable interest in the development of novel synthetic antitumor agents with cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines with MDR. In this study, we aimed to investigate CIP-36, a novel podophyllotoxin derivative, for its inhibitory effects on human cancer cells from multiple sources, particularly cells with MDR in vitro. The human leukemia cell line, K562, and the adriamycin-resistant subline, K562/A02, were exposed to CIP-36 or anticancer agents, and various morphological and biochemical properties were assessed by Hoechst 33342 staining under a fluorescence microscope. Subsequently, cytotoxicity, cell growth curves and the cell cycle were analyzed. Finally, the effects of CIP-36 on topoisomerase IIα (Topo IIα) activity were determined. Treatment with CIP-36 significantly inhibited the growth of the K562 and MDR K562/A02 cells. Our data demonstrated that CIP-36 induced apoptosis, inhibited cell cycle progression and inhibited Topo IIα activity. These findings suggest that CIP-36 has the potential to overcome the multidrug resistance of K562/A02 cells by mediating Topo IIα activity.

Single-cell transcriptional analysis of normal, aberrant, and malignant hematopoiesis in zebrafish.

PubMed

Moore, Finola E; Garcia, Elaine G; Lobbardi, Riadh; Jain, Esha; Tang, Qin; Moore, John C; Cortes, Mauricio; Molodtsov, Aleksey; Kasheta, Melissa; Luo, Christina C; Garcia, Amaris J; Mylvaganam, Ravi; Yoder, Jeffrey A; Blackburn, Jessica S; Sadreyev, Ruslan I; Ceol, Craig J; North, Trista E; Langenau, David M

2016-05-30

Hematopoiesis culminates in the production of functionally heterogeneous blood cell types. In zebrafish, the lack of cell surface antibodies has compelled researchers to use fluorescent transgenic reporter lines to label specific blood cell fractions. However, these approaches are limited by the availability of transgenic lines and fluorescent protein combinations that can be distinguished. Here, we have transcriptionally profiled single hematopoietic cells from zebrafish to define erythroid, myeloid, B, and T cell lineages. We also used our approach to identify hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells and a novel NK-lysin 4(+) cell type, representing a putative cytotoxic T/NK cell. Our platform also quantified hematopoietic defects in rag2(E450fs) mutant fish and showed that these fish have reduced T cells with a subsequent expansion of NK-lysin 4(+) cells and myeloid cells. These data suggest compensatory regulation of the innate immune system in rag2(E450fs) mutant zebrafish. Finally, analysis of Myc-induced T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia showed that cells are arrested at the CD4(+)/CD8(+) cortical thymocyte stage and that a subset of leukemia cells inappropriately reexpress stem cell genes, including bmi1 and cmyb In total, our experiments provide new tools and biological insights into single-cell heterogeneity found in zebrafish blood and leukemia. © 2016 Moore et al.

Single-cell transcriptional analysis of normal, aberrant, and malignant hematopoiesis in zebrafish

PubMed Central

Garcia, Elaine G.; Lobbardi, Riadh; Jain, Esha; Tang, Qin; Moore, John C.; Cortes, Mauricio; Molodtsov, Aleksey; Kasheta, Melissa; Luo, Christina C.; Garcia, Amaris J.; Mylvaganam, Ravi; Yoder, Jeffrey A.; Blackburn, Jessica S.; Sadreyev, Ruslan I.; Ceol, Craig J.; North, Trista E.

2016-01-01

Hematopoiesis culminates in the production of functionally heterogeneous blood cell types. In zebrafish, the lack of cell surface antibodies has compelled researchers to use fluorescent transgenic reporter lines to label specific blood cell fractions. However, these approaches are limited by the availability of transgenic lines and fluorescent protein combinations that can be distinguished. Here, we have transcriptionally profiled single hematopoietic cells from zebrafish to define erythroid, myeloid, B, and T cell lineages. We also used our approach to identify hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells and a novel NK-lysin 4+ cell type, representing a putative cytotoxic T/NK cell. Our platform also quantified hematopoietic defects in rag2E450fs mutant fish and showed that these fish have reduced T cells with a subsequent expansion of NK-lysin 4+ cells and myeloid cells. These data suggest compensatory regulation of the innate immune system in rag2E450fs mutant zebrafish. Finally, analysis of Myc-induced T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia showed that cells are arrested at the CD4+/CD8+ cortical thymocyte stage and that a subset of leukemia cells inappropriately reexpress stem cell genes, including bmi1 and cmyb. In total, our experiments provide new tools and biological insights into single-cell heterogeneity found in zebrafish blood and leukemia. PMID:27139488

Ubiquitinated Proteins Isolated From Tumor Cells Are Efficient Substrates for Antigen Cross-Presentation.

PubMed

Yu, Guangjie; Moudgil, Tarsem; Cui, Zhihua; Mou, Yongbin; Wang, Lixin; Fox, Bernard A; Hu, Hong-Ming

2017-06-01

We have previously shown that inhibition of the proteasome causes defective ribosomal products to be shunted into autophagosomes and subsequently released from tumor cells as defective ribosomal products in Blebs (DRibbles). These DRibbles serve as an excellent source of antigens for cross-priming of tumor-specific T cells. Here, we examine the role of ubiquitinated proteins (Ub-proteins) in this pathway. Using purified Ub-proteins from tumor cells that express endogenous tumor-associated antigen or exogenous viral antigen, we tested the ability of these proteins to stimulate antigen-specific T-cell responses, by activation of monocyte-derived dendritic cells generated from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Compared with total cell lysates, we found that purified Ub-proteins from both a gp100-specific melanoma cell line and from a lung cancer cell line expressing cytomegalovirus pp65 antigen produced a significantly higher level of IFN-γ in gp100- or pp65-specific T cells, respectively. In addition, Ub-proteins from an allogeneic tumor cell line could be used to stimulate tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes isolated and expanded from non-small cell lung cancer patients. These results establish that Ub-proteins provide a relevant source of antigens for cross-priming of antitumor immune responses in a variety of settings, including endogenous melanoma and exogenous viral antigen presentation, as well as antigen-specific tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. Thus, ubiquitin can be used as an affinity tag to enrich for unknown tumor-specific antigens from tumor cell lysates to stimulate tumor-specific T cells ex vivo or to be used as vaccines to target short-lived proteins.

Gene targeting and subsequent site-specific transgenesis at the β-actin (ACTB) locus in common marmoset embryonic stem cells.

PubMed

Shiozawa, Seiji; Kawai, Kenji; Okada, Yohei; Tomioka, Ikuo; Maeda, Takuji; Kanda, Akifumi; Shinohara, Haruka; Suemizu, Hiroshi; James Okano, Hirotaka; Sotomaru, Yusuke; Sasaki, Erika; Okano, Hideyuki

2011-09-01

Nonhuman primate embryonic stem (ES) cells have vast promise for preclinical studies. Genetic modification in nonhuman primate ES cells is an essential technique for maximizing the potential of these cells. The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), a nonhuman primate, is expected to be a useful transgenic model for preclinical studies. However, genetic modification in common marmoset ES (cmES) cells has not yet been adequately developed. To establish efficient and stable genetic modifications in cmES cells, we inserted the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) gene with heterotypic lox sites into the β-actin (ACTB) locus of the cmES cells using gene targeting. The resulting knock-in ES cells expressed EGFP ubiquitously under the control of the endogenous ACTB promoter. Using inserted heterotypic lox sites, we demonstrated Cre recombinase-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) and successfully established a monomeric red fluorescent protein (mRFP) knock-in cmES cell line. Further, a herpes simplex virus-thymidine kinase (HSV-tk) knock-in cmES cell line was established using RMCE. The growth of tumor cells originating from the cell line was significantly suppressed by the administration of ganciclovir. Therefore, the HSV-tk/ganciclovir system is promising as a safeguard for stem cell therapy. The stable and ubiquitous expression of EGFP before RMCE enables cell fate to be tracked when the cells are transplanted into an animal. Moreover, the creation of a transgene acceptor locus for site-specific transgenesis will be a powerful tool, similar to the ROSA26 locus in mice.

Incorporation of ophiobolin a into novel chemoembolization particles for cancer cell treatment.

PubMed

Morrison, Rachel; Gardiner, Chris; Evidente, Antonio; Kiss, Robert; Townley, Helen

2014-10-01

To design and synthesize chemoembolization particles for the delivery of Ophiobolin A (OphA), a promising fungal-derived chemotherapeutic, directly at the tumour location. To investigate cell death mechanism of OphA on a Rhabdomyosarcoma cancer (RD) cell line. Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children; with a 5-year survival rate of between 30 and 65%. Multimodal chemoembolization particles were prepared by sintering mesoporous silica nanoparticles, prepared by the sol-gel method, onto the surface of polystyrene microspheres, prepared by suspension copolymerisation. The chemoembolization particles were subsequently loaded with OphA. The effects of OphA in vitro were characterised by flow cytometry and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NanoSight). High loading of OphA onto the chemoembolization particles was achieved. The subsequent release of OphA onto RD cells in culture showed a 70% reduction in cell viability. OphA caused RD cells to round up and their membrane to bleb and caused cell death via apoptosis. OphA caused both an increase in the number of microvesicles produced and an increase in DNA content within these microvesicles. The prepared chemoembolization particles showed good efficacy against RD cells in culture.

Oxidative stress-induced necrotic cell death via mitochondira-dependent burst of reactive oxygen species.

PubMed

Choi, Kyungsun; Kim, Jinho; Kim, Gyung W; Choi, Chulhee

2009-11-01

Oxidative stress is deeply involved in various brain diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, and ischemia/reperfusion injury. Mitochondria are thought to be the target and source of oxidative stress. We investigated the role of mitochondria in oxidative stress-induced necrotic neuronal cell death in a neuroblastoma cell line and a mouse model of middle cerebral artery occlusion. The exogenous administration of hydrogen peroxide was used to study the role of oxidative stress on neuronal cell survival and mitochondrial function in vitro. Hydrogen peroxide induced non-apoptotic neuronal cell death in a c-Jun N-terminal kinase- and poly(ADP-ribosyl) polymerase-dependent manner. Unexpectedly, hydrogen peroxide treatment induced transient hyperpolarization of the mitochondrial membrane potential and a subsequent delayed burst of endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS). The inhibition of mitochondrial hyperpolarization by diphenylene iodonium or rotenone, potent inhibitors of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I, resulted in reduced ROS production and subsequent neuronal cell death in vitro and in vivo. The inhibition of mitochondrial hyperpolarization can protect neuronal cells from oxidative stress-induced necrotic cell death, suggesting a novel method of therapeutic intervention in oxidative stress-induced neurological disease.

Redox Signaling and Bioenergetics Influence Lung Cancer Cell Line Sensitivity to the Isoflavone ME-344

PubMed Central

Manevich, Yefim; Reyes, Leticia; Britten, Carolyn D.; Townsend, Danyelle M.

2016-01-01

ME-344 [(3R,4S)-3,4-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-methyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-chromen-7-ol] is a second-generation derivative natural product isoflavone presently under clinical development. ME-344 effects were compared in lung cancer cell lines that are either intrinsically sensitive or resistant to the drug and in primary immortalized human lung embryonic fibroblasts (IHLEF). Cytotoxicity at low micromolar concentrations occurred only in sensitive cell lines, causing redox stress, decreased mitochondrial ATP production, and subsequent disruption of mitochondrial function. In a dose-dependent manner the drug caused instantaneous and pronounced inhibition of oxygen consumption rates (OCR) in drug-sensitive cells (quantitatively significantly less in drug-resistant cells). This was consistent with targeting of mitochondria by ME-344, with specific effects on the respiratory chain (resistance correlated with higher glycolytic indexes). OCR inhibition did not occur in primary IHLEF. ME-344 increased extracellular acidification rates in drug-resistant cells (significantly less in drug-sensitive cells), implying that ME-344 targets mitochondrial proton pumps. Only in drug-sensitive cells did ME-344 dose-dependently increase the intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species and cause oxidation of total (mainly glutathione) and protein thiols and the concomitant immediate increases in NADPH levels. We conclude that ME-344 causes complex, redox-specific, and mitochondria-targeted effects in lung cancer cells, which differ in extent from normal cells, correlate with drug sensitivity, and provide indications of a beneficial in vitro therapeutic index. PMID:27255112

Synthesis and cytotoxic evaluation of some new 4(3H)-quinazolinones on HeLa cell line

PubMed Central

Khodarahmi, G.A.; Shamshiri, M.; Hassanzadeh, F.

2012-01-01

Quinazolinone backbone is present in a large number of bioactive substances. Since remarkable cytotoxic activity is associated with some 4(3H)-quinazolinones, in this study some 4(3H)-quinazolinone were synthesized and screened against HeLa cells. The synthesis was performed via reaction of anthranilic acid with dicarboxylic anhydrides to produce carboxylic acids derivatives. The products were heated in acetic anhydride to produce benzoxazinones. Finally, 4(3H)-quinazolinones were synthesized by reaction between benzoxazinones and primary amines. The assessment of the structure of the synthesized compounds was based on spectral data (FT-IR, Mass and 1HNMR). Subsequently, cytotoxic activity of compounds 3, 6, 9 and 13 (individually and in combination with doxorubicin) was evaluated on HeLa cell line using MTT assay. The results indicated that the tested compounds did not show significant cytotoxicity alone and in combination with doxorubicin (1 and 20 μM). PMID:23181089

Synthesis, molecular docking and anticancer studies of peptides and iso-peptides.

PubMed

Jabeen, Farukh; Panda, Siva S; Kondratyuk, Tamara P; Park, Eun-Jung; Pezzuto, John M; Ihsan-ul-Haq; Hall, C Dennis; Katritzky, Alan R

2015-08-01

Chiral peptides and iso-peptides were synthesized in excellent yield by using benzotriazole mediated solution phase synthesis. Benzotriazole acted both as activating and leaving group, eliminating frequent use of protection and subsequent deprotection. The procedure was based on the hypothesis that epimerization should be suppressed in solution due to a faster coupling rate than SPPS. All the synthesized peptides complied with Lipinski's Ro5 except for the rotatable bonds. Inhibition of cell proliferation of cancer cell lines is one of the most commonly used methods to study the effectiveness of any anticancer agents. Synthesized peptides and iso-peptides were tested against three cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB 231) to determine their anti-proliferative potential. NFkB was also determined. Molecular docking studies were also carried out to complement the experimental results. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Impact of BRAF kinase inhibitors on the miRNomes and transcriptomes of melanoma cells.

PubMed

Kozar, Ines; Cesi, Giulia; Margue, Christiane; Philippidou, Demetra; Kreis, Stephanie

2017-11-01

Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer with increasing incidence worldwide. The development of BRAF kinase inhibitors as targeted treatments for patients with BRAF-mutant tumours contributed profoundly to an improved overall survival of patients with metastatic melanoma. Despite these promising results, the emergence of rapid resistance to targeted therapy remains a serious clinical issue. To investigate the impact of BRAF inhibitors on miRNomes and transcriptomes, we used in vitro melanoma models consisting of BRAF inhibitor-sensitive and -resistant cell lines generated in our laboratory. Subsequently, microarray analyses were performed followed by RT-qPCR validations. Regarding miRNome and transcriptome changes, the long-term effects of BRAF inhibition differed in a cell line-specific manner with the two different BRAF inhibitors inducing comparable responses in three melanoma cell lines. Despite this heterogeneity, several miRNAs (e.g. miR-92a-1-5p, miR-708-5p) and genes (e.g. DOK5, PCSK2) were distinctly differentially expressed in drug-resistant versus -sensitive cell lines. Analyses of coexpressed miRNAs, as well as inversely correlated miRNA-mRNA pairs, revealed a low MITF/AXL ratio in two drug-resistant cell lines that might be regulated by miRNAs. Several genes and miRNAs were differentially regulated in the drug-resistant and -sensitive cell lines and might be considered as prognostic and/or diagnostic resistance biomarkers in melanoma drug resistance. Thus far, only little information is available on the significance and role of miRNAs with respect to kinase inhibitor treatments and emergence of drug resistance. In this study, promising miRNAs and genes were identified and associated to BRAF inhibitor-mediated resistance in melanoma. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Biochemistry of Synthetic Biology - Recent Developments" Guest Editor: Dr. Ilka Heinemann and Dr. Patrick O'Donoghue. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Establishment and characterization of a dairy goat mammary epithelial cell line with human telomerase (hT-MECs).

PubMed

Shi, Huaiping; Shi, Hengbo; Luo, Jun; Wang, Wei; Haile, Abiel B; Xu, Huifen; Li, Jun

2014-07-01

Although research on dairy goat mammary gland have referred extensively to molecular mechanisms, research on lines of dairy goat mammary epithelial cells (MECs) are still rare. This paper sought to establish an immortal MEC line by stable transfection of human telomerase. MECs from a lactating (45 days post-parturition) Xinong Saanen dairy goat were cultured purely and subsequently transfected with a plasmid carrying the sequence of human telomerase. Immortalized MECs by human telomerase (hT-MECs) exhibited a typical cobblestone morphology and activity and expression levels of telomerase resembled that of MCF-7 cells. hT-MECs on passage 42 grew vigorously and 'S' sigmoid curves of growth were observed. Moreover, hT-MECs maintained a normal chromosome modal number of 2n=60, keratin 8 and epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) were evidently expressed, and beta-casein protein was synthesized and secreted. Beta-casein expression was enhanced by prolactin (P<0.05). Lipid droplets were found in hT-MECs, and messenger RNA levels of PPARG, SREBP, FASN, ACC and SCD in hT-MECs (passage 40) were similar to MECs (passage 7). In conclusion, the obtained hT-MEC line retained a normal morphology, growth characteristics, cytogenetics and secretory characteristics as primary MECs. Hence, it can be a representative model cell line, for molecular and functional analysis, of dairy goat MECs for an extended period of time. © 2014 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

PET/PDT theranostics: synthesis and biological evaluation of a peptide-targeted gallium porphyrin.

PubMed

Bryden, Francesca; Savoie, Huguette; Rosca, Elena V; Boyle, Ross W

2015-03-21

The development of novel theranostic agents is an important step in the pathway towards personalised medicine, with the combination of diagnostic and therapeutic modalities into a single treatment agent naturally lending itself to the optimisation and personalisation of treatment. In pursuit of the goal of a molecular theranostic suitable for use as a PET radiotracer and a photosensitiser for PDT, a novel radiolabelled peptide-porphyrin conjugate targeting the α6β1-integrin has been developed. (69/71)Ga and (68)Ga labelling of an azide-functionalised porphyrin has been carried out in excellent yields, with subsequent bioconjugation to an alkyne-functionalised peptide demonstrated. α6β1-integrin expression of two cell lines has been evaluated by flow cytometry, and therapeutic potential of the conjugate demonstrated. Evaluation of the phototoxicity of the porphyrin-peptide theranostic conjugate in comparison to an untargeted control porphyrin in vitro, demonstrated significantly enhanced activity for a cell line with higher α6β1-integrin expression when compared with a cell line exhibiting lower α6β1-integrin expression.

The effect of porphyrins on normal and transformed mouse cell lines in the presence of visible light.

PubMed

Tita, S P; Perussi, J R

2001-10-01

Photodynamic therapy consists of the uptake of a photosensitizing dye, often a porphyrin, by tumor tissue and subsequent irradiation of the tumor with visible light of an appropriate wavelength matched to the absorption spectrum of the photosensitizing dye. This class of molecules produces reactive oxygen species when activated by light, resulting in a direct or indirect cytotoxic effect on the target cells. Photodynamic therapy has been used in the treatment of cancer but the technology has a potential for the treatment of several disease conditions mainly because of its selectivity. However, it is not clear why the porphyrins are retained preferentially by abnormal tissue. This paper describes a study of the effect of the association of porphyrin and visible light on two mouse fibroblast cell lines: A31, normal cells and B61, an EJ-ras transformed variant of A31. Two water-soluble porphyrins were used, a positively charged one, tetra(N-methyl-4-pyridyl)porphyrin chloride, and a negatively charged one, tetra(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin-Na salt (TPPS4) in order to assess the effect on cell survival. The results suggest that the B61 cell line is more sensitive to incubation with the anionic porphyrin (TPPS4) followed by light irradiation and that the anionic porphyrin is more efficient in killing the cells than the cationic porphyrin.

Establishment and characterization of an angiosarcoma-derived cell line, AS-M.

PubMed

Krump-Konvalinkova, Vera; Bittinger, Fernando; Olert, Jürgen; Bräuninger, Wolfgang; Brunner, Joachim; Kirkpatrick, C James

2003-01-01

A novel human endothelial cell line, AS-M, has been established from a cutaneous angiosarcoma on the scalp. The cells expressing platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (CD31) were isolated using magnetic beads and subsequently cultured for a year. To date, the cells have undergone more than 100 population doublings (PDs). The AS-M cells manifested endothelial characteristics, such as active uptake of acetylated low-density lipoprotein labeled with 1,1'-dioctadecyl 3,3,3',3'-tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate (Dil-Ac-LDL), capacity to bind the Ulex europeaus agglutin-I (UEA-I), and expression of von Willebrand factor (vWF) and CD31. The single cell-derived clone, AS-M.5, showed a constitutive expression of CD31, vWF, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), endoglin (CD105), and the endothelial cell receptor tyrosine kinases KDR and Tie-1. Similarly to freshly isolated endothelial cells, the AS-M.5 responded to induction by bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) by increased transcription of cell adhesion molecules and cytokines. The AS-M.5 cultures required endothelial growth supplements for optimal growth and long-term propagation in vitro. However, in contrast to normal endothelial cells, p53 gene products were detected in nuclei of AS-M.5 cells. Cytogenetic analyses consistently revealed a hypodiploid karyotype with complete loss of one homologue of several chromosomes and a homogeneous pattern of distinct karyotypic changes. Although the AS-M.5 presented characteristics suggestive of tumor cells, they did not develop into tumors when inoculated subcutaneously into nude mice. The cell line AS-M.5 could be a useful model system to study endothelial pathobiology in vitro.

Human common acute lymphoblastic leukemia-derived cell lines are competent to recombine their T-cell receptor delta/alpha regions along a hierarchically ordered pathway.

PubMed

Hansen-Hagge, T E; Yokota, S; Reuter, H J; Schwarz, K; Bartram, C R

1992-11-01

Rearrangements of the T-cell receptor (TCR) delta locus are observed in the majority of human B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemias (ALL) with a striking predominance of V delta 2(D)D delta 3 recombinations in common ALL (cALL) patients. Recently, we and others showed that almost 20% of cALL cases are characterized by further recombination of V delta 2(D)D delta 3 segments to J alpha elements, thereby deleting the TCR delta locus in analogy to the delta Rec/psi J alpha pathway in differentiating alpha/beta-positive T cells. We report here that two human cALL-derived cell lines, REH and Nalm-6, are competent to recombine the TCR delta/alpha locus under standard tissue culture conditions. Analysis of different REH subclones obtained by limiting dilution of the initial culture showed a biased recombination of V delta 2D delta 3 to distinct J alpha elements. During prolonged tissue culture, a subclone acquired growth advantage and displaced parental cells as well as other subclones. Frequently, the DJ junctions of REH subclones contained extended stretches of palindromic sequences derived from modified D delta 3 coding elements. The other cell line, Nalm-6, started the TCR delta/alpha recombination with an unusual signal joint of a cryptic recombinase signal sequence (RSS) upstream of D delta 3 to the 3' RSS of D delta 3. The RSS dimer was subsequently rearranged in all investigated subclones to an identical J alpha element. Both cell lines might become valuable tools to unravel the complex regulation of TCR delta/alpha recombination pathways in malignant and normal lymphopoiesis.

Perfusion seed cultures improve biopharmaceutical fed-batch production capacity and product quality.

PubMed

Yang, William C; Lu, Jiuyi; Kwiatkowski, Chris; Yuan, Hang; Kshirsagar, Rashmi; Ryll, Thomas; Huang, Yao-Ming

2014-01-01

Volumetric productivity and product quality are two key performance indicators for any biopharmaceutical cell culture process. In this work, we showed proof-of-concept for improving both through the use of alternating tangential flow perfusion seed cultures coupled with high-seed fed-batch production cultures. First, we optimized the perfusion N-1 stage, the seed train bioreactor stage immediately prior to the production bioreactor stage, to minimize the consumption of perfusion media for one CHO cell line and then successfully applied the optimized perfusion process to a different CHO cell line. Exponential growth was observed throughout the N-1 duration, reaching >40 × 10(6) vc/mL at the end of the perfusion N-1 stage. The cultures were subsequently split into high-seed (10 × 10(6) vc/mL) fed-batch production cultures. This strategy significantly shortened the culture duration. The high-seed fed-batch production processes for cell lines A and B reached 5 g/L titer in 12 days, while their respective low-seed processes reached the same titer in 17 days. The shortened production culture duration potentially generates a 30% increase in manufacturing capacity while yielding comparable product quality. When perfusion N-1 and high-seed fed-batch production were applied to cell line C, higher levels of the active protein were obtained, compared to the low-seed process. This, combined with correspondingly lower levels of the inactive species, can enhance the overall process yield for the active species. Using three different CHO cell lines, we showed that perfusion seed cultures can optimize capacity utilization and improve process efficiency by increasing volumetric productivity while maintaining or improving product quality. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Study of phytochemical, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties of Allium wallichii.

PubMed

Bhandari, Jaya; Muhammad, BushraTaj; Thapa, Pratiksha; Shrestha, Bhupal Govinda

2017-02-08

There is growing interest in the use of plants for the treatment and prevention of cancer. Medicinal plants are currently being evaluated as source of promising anticancer agents. In this paper, we have investigated the anticancer potential of plant Allium wallichii, a plant native to Nepal and growing at elevations of 2300-4800 m. This is the first study of its kind for the plant mentioned. The dried plant was extracted in aqueous ethanol. Phytochemical screening, anti-microbial assay, anti-oxidant assay, cytotoxicity assay and the flow-cytometric analysis were done for analyzing different phytochemicals present, anti-microbial activity, anti-oxidant activity and anti-cancer properties of Allium wallichii. We observed the presence of steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids, reducing sugars and glycosides in the plant extract and the plant showed moderate anti-microbial and anti-oxidant activity. The IC 50 values of Allium wallichii in different cancer cell lines are 69.69 μg/ml for Prostate cancer (PC3) cell line, 55.29 μg/ml for Breast Cancer (MCF-7) cell line and 46.51 μg/ml for cervical cancer (HeLa) cell line as compared to Doxorubicin (0.85 μg/ml). The cell viability assay using FACS showed that the IC 50 value of Allium wallichii for Burkitt's lymphoma (B-Lymphoma) cell line was 3.817 ± 1.99 mg/ml. Allium wallichii can be an important candidate to be used as an anticancer agent. Separation of pure compounds with bioassay guided extraction, spectrometric analysis and subsequent cytotoxicity assay of the pure bioactive compounds from Allium wallichii is highly recommended as the crude extract itself showed promising cytotoxicity.

Hyperosmolarity leads to an increase in derepressed system A activity in the renal epithelial cell line NBL-1.

PubMed Central

Soler, C; Felipe, A; Casado, F J; McGivan, J D; Pastor-Anglada, M

1993-01-01

Hyperosmolarity induced an increase in Na(+)-dependent L-alanine uptake in confluent monolayers of the established renal epithelial cell line NBL-1. This induction was attributable to system A and was only seen when the cells had been previously deprived of amino acids in the culture medium to derepress system A activity. It was additive to the adaptive regulation induction, and both were inhibited by cycloheximide. However, the hyperosmolarity effect was inhibited by colcemid (an inhibitor of microtubular function), but adaptive regulation was not. Otherwise, when cell monolayers were incubated in a control medium, basal Na(+)-dependent L-alanine uptake mediated by system B0 decreased. The results of this study show that: (i) system A activity was not induced by cell shrinkage and subsequent swelling due to extracellular hyperosmolarity when cells were incubated in control medium; (ii) previous expression of system A activity induced by amino acid starvation seems to be a prerequisite for further induction due to hyperosmolarity; and (iii) the effects of adaptive regulation and hyperosmotic stress are mediated by different mechanisms. PMID:8435065

Putative porcine embryonic stem cell lines derived from aggregated four-celled cloned embryos produced by oocyte bisection cloning.

PubMed

Siriboon, Chawalit; Lin, Yu-Hsuan; Kere, Michel; Chen, Chun-Da; Chen, Lih-Ren; Chen, Chien-Hong; Tu, Ching-Fu; Lo, Neng-Wen; Ju, Jyh-Cherng

2015-01-01

We attempted to isolate ES cell lines using inner cell masses from high-quality cloned porcine blastocysts. After being seeded onto feeders, embryos had better (P < 0.05) attachment, outgrowth formation and primary colonization in both 2× and 3× aggregated cloned embryos (62.8, 42.6 and 12.8% vs. 76.2, 55.2 and 26.2%, respectively) compared to the non-aggregated group (41.6, 23.4 and 3.9%). Effects of feeder types (STO vs. MEF) and serum sources (FBS vs. KSR) on extraction of cloned embryo-derived porcine ES cells were examined. More (17.1%) ntES cell lines over Passage 3 were generated in the MEF/KSR group. However, ntES cells cultured in KSR-supplemented medium had a low proliferation rate with defective morphology, and eventually underwent differentiation or apoptosis subsequently. Approximately 26.1, 22.7 and 35.7% of primary colonies were formed after plating embryos in DMEM, DMEM/F12 and α-MEM media, respectively. Survival rates of ntES cells cultured in α-MEM, DMEM and DMEM/F12 were 16.7, 4.3 and 6.8%, respectively (P > 0.05). We further examined the beneficial effect of TSA treatment of 3× aggregated cloned embryos on establishment of ntES cell lines. Primary colony numbers and survival rates of ntES cells beyond passage 3 were higher (P < 0.05) in those derived from TSA-treated 3× blastocysts (36.7 and 26.7%) than from the non-treated aggregated group (23.1 and 11.5%). These cells, remaining undifferentiated over 25 passages, had alkaline phosphatase activity and expressed ES specific markers Oct4, Nanog, Sox2, and Rex01. Moreover, these ntES cells successfully differentiated into embryoid bodies (EBs) that expressed specific genes of all three germ layers after being cultured in LIF-free medium. In conclusion, we have successfully derived putative porcine ntES cells with high efficiency from quality cloned embryos produced by embryo aggregation, and optimized the ES cell culture system suitable for establishing and maintaining ntES cell lines in undifferentiated state.

Putative Porcine Embryonic Stem Cell Lines Derived from Aggregated Four-Celled Cloned Embryos Produced by Oocyte Bisection Cloning

PubMed Central

Siriboon, Chawalit; Lin, Yu-Hsuan; Kere, Michel; Chen, Chun-Da; Chen, Lih-Ren; Chen, Chien-Hong; Tu, Ching-Fu; Lo, Neng-Wen; Ju, Jyh-Cherng

2015-01-01

We attempted to isolate ES cell lines using inner cell masses from high-quality cloned porcine blastocysts. After being seeded onto feeders, embryos had better (P < 0.05) attachment, outgrowth formation and primary colonization in both 2× and 3× aggregated cloned embryos (62.8, 42.6 and12.8% vs. 76.2, 55.2 and 26.2%, respectively) compared to the non-aggregated group (41.6, 23.4 and 3.9%). Effects of feeder types (STO vs. MEF) and serum sources (FBS vs. KSR) on extraction of cloned embryo-derived porcine ES cells were examined. More (17.1%) ntES cell lines over Passage 3 were generated in the MEF/KSR group. However, ntES cells cultured in KSR-supplemented medium had a low proliferation rate with defective morphology, and eventually underwent differentiation or apoptosis subsequently. Approximately 26.1, 22.7 and 35.7% of primary colonies were formed after plating embryos in DMEM, DMEM/F12 and α-MEM media, respectively. Survival rates of ntES cells cultured in α-MEM, DMEM and DMEM/F12 were 16.7, 4.3 and 6.8%, respectively (P > 0.05). We further examined the beneficial effect of TSA treatment of 3× aggregated cloned embryos on establishment of ntES cell lines. Primary colony numbers and survival rates of ntES cells beyond passage 3 were higher (P < 0.05) in those derived from TSA-treated 3× blastocysts (36.7 and 26.7%) than from the non-treated aggregated group (23.1 and 11.5%). These cells, remaining undifferentiated over 25 passages, had alkaline phosphatase activity and expressed ES specific markers Oct4, Nanog, Sox2, and Rex01. Moreover, these ntES cells successfully differentiated into embryoid bodies (EBs) that expressed specific genes of all three germ layers after being cultured in LIF-free medium. In conclusion, we have successfully derived putative porcine ntES cells with high efficiency from quality cloned embryos produced by embryo aggregation, and optimized the ES cell culture system suitable for establishing and maintaining ntES cell lines in undifferentiated state. PMID:25680105

γ-radiation induces cellular sensitivity and aberrant methylation in human tumor cell lines.

PubMed

Kumar, Ashok; Rai, Padmalatha S; Upadhya, Raghavendra; Vishwanatha; Prasada, K Shama; Rao, B S Satish; Satyamoorthy, Kapettu

2011-11-01

Ionizing radiation induces cellular damage through both direct and indirect mechanisms, which may include effects from epigenetic changes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of ionizing radiation on DNA methylation patterns that may be associated with altered gene expression. Sixteen human tumor cell lines originating from various cancers were initially tested for radiation sensitivity by irradiating them with γ-radiation in vitro and subsequently, radiation sensitive and resistant cell lines were treated with different doses of a demethylating agent, 5-Aza-2'-Deoxycytidine (5-aza-dC) and a chromatin modifier, Trichostatin-A (TSA). Survival of these cell lines was measured using 3-(4, 5-Dimethylthiazol- 2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium (MTT) and clonogenic assays. The effect of radiation on global DNA methylation was measured using reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). The transcription response of methylated gene promoters, from cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (p16(INK4a)) and ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) genes, to radiation was measured using a luciferase reporter assay. γ-radiation resistant (SiHa and MDAMB453) and sensitive (SaOS2 and WM115) tumor cell lines were examined for the relationship between radiation sensitivity and DNA methylation. Treatment of cells with 5-aza-dC and TSA prior to irradiation enhanced DNA strand breaks, G2/M phase arrest, apoptosis and cell death. Exposure to γ-radiation led to global demethylation in a time-dependent manner in tumor cells in relation to resistance and sensitivity to radiation with concomitant activation of p16(INK4a) and ATM gene promoters. These results provide important information on alterations in DNA methylation as one of the determinants of radiation effects, which may be associated with altered gene expression. Our results may help in delineating the mechanisms of radiation resistance in tumor cells, which can influence diagnosis, prognosis and eventually therapy for human cancers.

Type I interferons modulate methotrexate resistance in gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

PubMed

Elias, Kevin M; Harvey, Richard A; Hasselblatt, Kathleen T; Seckl, Michael J; Berkowitz, Ross S

2017-06-01

Resistance to methotrexate is a leading clinical problem in gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN), but there are limited laboratory models for this condition. We created isogenic trophoblastic cell lines resistant to methotrexate and compared these to the parent cell lines using gene expression microarrays and qRT-PCR followed by mechanistic studies using recombinant cytokines, pathway inhibitors, and patient sera. Gene expression microarrays and focused analysis by qRT-PCR revealed methotrexate led to type I interferon upregulation, in particular interferon alpha 2 (IFNA2), and methotrexate resistance was associated with chronic low level increases in type I interferon expression. Recombinant IFNA2 imparted chemosensitive choriocarcinoma cells with partial resistance to methotrexate, while chemoresistant choriocarcinoma cells were uniquely sensitive to fludarabine, a STAT1 inhibitor. In pre-treatment patient sera, IFNA2 levels correlated with subsequent resistance to methotrexate chemotherapy. Methotrexate resistance is influenced by type I interferon signaling with prognostic and therapeutic implications for treating women with GTN. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Spontaneous Transformation of Murine Epithelial Cells Requires the Early Acquisition of Specific Chromosomal Aneuploidies and Genomic Imbalances

PubMed Central

Padilla-Nash, Hesed M.; Hathcock, Karen; McNeil, Nicole E.; Mack, David; Hoeppner, Daniel; Ravin, Rea; Knutsen, Turid; Yonescu, Raluca; Wangsa, Danny; Dorritie, Kathleen; Barenboim, Linda; Hu, Yue; Ried, Thomas

2011-01-01

Human carcinomas are defined by recurrent chromosomal aneuploidies, which result in tissue-specific distribution of genomic imbalances. In order to develop models for these genome mutations and determine their role in tumorigenesis, we generated 45 spontaneously transformed murine cell lines from normal epithelial cells derived from bladder, cervix, colon, kidney, lung, and mammary gland. Phenotypic changes, chromosomal aberrations, centrosome number, and telomerase activity were assayed in control uncultured cells and in three subsequent stages of transformation. Supernumerary centrosomes, bi-nucleate cells, and tetraploidy were observed as early as 48 hr after explantation. In addition, telomerase activity increased throughout progression. Live-cell imaging revealed that failure of cytokinesis, not cell fusion, promoted genome duplication. Spectral karyotyping demonstrated that aneuploidy preceded immortalization, consisting predominantly of whole chromosome losses (4, 9, 12, 13, 16, and Y) and gains (1, 10, 15, and 19). After transformation, focal amplifications of the oncogenes Myc and Mdm2 were frequently detected. Fifty percent of the transformed lines resulted in tumors upon injection into immuno-compromised mice. The phenotypic and genomic alterations observed in spontaneously transformed murine epithelial cells recapitulated the aberration pattern observed during human carcinogenesis. The dominant aberration of these cell lines was the presence of specific chromosomal aneuploidies. We propose that our newly derived cancer models will be useful tools to dissect the sequential steps of genome mutations during malignant transformation, and also to identify cancer-specific genes, signaling pathways, and the role of chromosomal instability in this process. PMID:22161874

Biological Behavior of Osteoblast Cell and Apatite Forming Ability of the Surface Modified Ti Alloys.

PubMed

Zhao, Jingming; Hwang, K H; Choi, W S; Shin, S J; Lee, J K

2016-02-01

Titanium as one kind of biomaterials comes in direct contact with the body, making evaluation of biocompatibility an important aspect to biomaterials development. Surface chemistry of titanium plays an important role in osseointegration. Different surface modification alters the surface chemistry and result in different biological response. In this study, three kinds of mixed acid solutions were used to treat Ti specimens to induce Ca-P formation. Following a strong mixed acid activation process, Ca-P coating successfully formed on the Ti surfaces in simulated body fluid. Strong mixed acid increased the roughness of the metal surface, because the porous and rough surface allows better adhesion between Ca-P coatings and substrates. After modification of titanium surface by mixed acidic solution and subsequently H2O2/HCL treatment evaluation of biocompatibility was conducted from hydroxyapatite formation by biomimetic process and cell viability on modified titanium surface. Nano-scale modification of titanium surfaces can alter cellular and tissue responses, which may benefit osseointegration and dental implant therapy. Results from this study indicated that surface treatment methods affect the surface morphology, type of TiO2 layer formed and subsequent apatite deposition and biological responses. The thermo scientific alamarblue cell viability assay reagent is used to quantitatively measure the viability of mammalian cell lines, bacteria and fungi by incorporating a rapid, sensitive and reliable fluorometric/colorimetric growth indicator, without any toxic and side effect to cell line. In addition, mixed acid treatment uses a lower temperature and shorter time period than widely used alkali treatment.

An Îto stochastic differential equations model for the dynamics of the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line treated by radiotherapy.

PubMed

Oroji, Amin; Omar, Mohd; Yarahmadian, Shantia

2016-10-21

In this paper, a new mathematical model is proposed for studying the population dynamics of breast cancer cells treated by radiotherapy by using a system of stochastic differential equations. The novelty of the model is essentially in capturing the concept of the cell cycle in the modeling to be able to evaluate the tumor lifespan. According to the cell cycle, each cell belongs to one of three subpopulations G, S, or M, representing gap, synthesis and mitosis subpopulations. Cells in the M subpopulation are highly radio-sensitive, whereas cells in the S subpopulation are highly radio-resistant. Therefore, in the process of radiotherapy, cell death rates of different subpopulations are not equal. In addition, since flow cytometry is unable to detect apoptotic cells accurately, the small changes in cell death rate in each subpopulation during treatment are considered. Subsequently, the proposed model is calibrated using experimental data from previous experiments involving the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. Consequently, the proposed model is able to predict tumor lifespan based on the number of initial carcinoma cells. The results show the effectiveness of the radiation under the condition of stability, which describes the decreasing trend of the tumor cells population. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cellular uptake and retention measurements of alkylphosphocholines in the SK-BR-3 breast cancer and Molt-4 leukemia cell line using capillary gas chromatography.

PubMed

Brochez, V; Van Heuverswyn, D; Diniz, J A; De Potter, C R; Van den Eeckhout, E G

1999-05-01

The determination of cellular content of octadecylphosphocholine (D-19391) and hexadecylphosphocholine (HePC, D-18506), two anticancer agents of the alkylphosphocholine group, using capillary gas chromatography is described. The compounds' cytotoxicity was first determined by the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium] assay, being indicative for the concentration used in the uptake and retention measurements. D-19391 was added to the SK-BR-3 breast cancer cell line and HePC to the Molt-4 leukemia cell line in concentrations of, respectively, 18.6 and 15.0 microM, during a 36-h incubation period at 37 degrees C, 5% CO2. HePC uptake in the leukemia cells was followed by a 24-h reversibility test in drug-free medium. Subsequently, sample clean-up was performed on a weak cation-exchange column. For the quantitative analysis, HePC was used as internal standard for the D-19391 measurements and vice versa. Derivatization of the samples with trimethylsilylbromide was followed by capillary gas chromatographic analysis. From these data we conclude that our uptake results are quite similar with those of a previous study of HePC cellular uptake in the more resistant Caco-2T colon cancer cell line. Without having investigated the mechanism that underlies the cellular uptake results obtained, our study points to no direct correlation between the compounds' cellular uptake and their cytotoxic effects.

Citric acid induces cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis of human immortalized keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) via caspase- and mitochondrial-dependent signaling pathways.

PubMed

Ying, Tsung-Ho; Chen, Chia-Wei; Hsiao, Yu-Ping; Hung, Sung-Jen; Chung, Jing-Gung; Yang, Jen-Hung

2013-10-01

Citric acid is an alpha-hydroxyacid (AHA) widely used in cosmetic dermatology and skincare products. However, there is concern regarding its safety for the skin. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic effects of citric acid on the human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT. HaCaT cells were treated with citric acid at 2.5-12.5 mM for different time periods. Cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis were investigated by 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride (DAPI) staining, flow cytometry, western blot and confocal microscopy. Citric acid not only inhibited proliferation of HaCaT cells in a dose-dependent manner, but also induced apoptosis and cell cycle-arrest at the G2/M phase (before 24 h) and S phase (after 24 h). Citric acid increased the level of Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX) and reduced the levels of B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2), B-cell lymphoma-extra large (BCL-XL) and activated caspase-9 and caspase-3, which subsequently induced apoptosis via caspase-dependent and caspase-independent pathways. Citric acid also activated death receptors and increased the levels of caspase-8, activated BH3 interacting-domain death agonist (BID) protein, Apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), and Endonuclease G (EndoG). Therefore, citric acid induces apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway in the human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT. The study results suggest that citric acid is cytotoxic to HaCaT cells via induction of apoptosis and cell-cycle arrest in vitro.

Zerumbone-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier induces G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via mitochondrial pathway in a human lymphoblastic leukemia cell line

PubMed Central

Rahman, Heshu Sulaiman; Rasedee, Abdullah; Abdul, Ahmad Bustamam; Zeenathul, Nazariah Allaudin; Othman, Hemn Hassan; Yeap, Swee Keong; How, Chee Wun; Hafiza, Wan Abd Ghani Wan Nor

2014-01-01

This investigation evaluated the antileukemia properties of a zerumbone (ZER)-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) prepared by hot high-pressure homogenization techniques in an acute human lymphoblastic leukemia (Jurkat) cell line in vitro. The apoptogenic effect of the ZER-NLC on Jurkat cells was determined by fluorescent and electron microscopy, Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate, Tdt-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling assay, cell cycle analysis, and caspase activity. An MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay showed that ZER-NLC did not have adverse effects on normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. ZER-NLC arrested the Jurkat cells at G2/M phase with inactivation of cyclin B1 protein. The study also showed that the antiproliferative effect of ZER-NLC on Jurkat cells is through the intrinsic apoptotic pathway via activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9, release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria into the cytosol, and subsequent cleavage of poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (PARP). These findings show that the ZER-NLC is a potentially useful treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia in humans. PMID:24549090

Mechanistic insights into the impact of Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma on human epithelial cell lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dezest, Marlène; Chavatte, Laurent; Bourdens, Marion; Quinton, Damien; Camus, Mylène; Garrigues, Luc; Descargues, Pascal; Arbault, Stéphane; Burlet-Schiltz, Odile; Casteilla, Louis; Clément, Franck; Planat, Valérie; Bulteau, Anne-Laure

2017-01-01

Compelling evidence suggests that Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma (CAPP) has potential as a new cancer therapy. However, knowledge about cellular signaling events and toxicity subsequent to plasma treatment is still poorly documented. The aim of this study was to focus on the interaction between 3 different types of plasma (He, He-O2, He-N2) and human epithelial cell lines to gain better insight into plasma-cell interaction. We provide evidence that reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) are inducing cell death by apoptosis and that the proteasome, a major intracellular proteolytic system which is important for tumor cell growth and survival, is a target of (He or He-N2) CAPP. However, RONS are not the only actors involved in cell death; electric field and charged particles could play a significant role especially for He-O2 CAPP. By differential label-free quantitative proteomic analysis we found that CAPP triggers antioxidant and cellular defense but is also affecting extracellular matrix in keratinocytes. Moreover, we found that malignant cells are more resistant to CAPP treatment than normal cells. Taken together, our findings provide insight into potential mechanisms of CAPP-induced proteasome inactivation and the cellular consequences of these events.

Inhibition of mTORC1 inhibits lytic replication of Epstein-Barr virus in a cell-type specific manner.

PubMed

Adamson, Amy L; Le, Brandi T; Siedenburg, Brian D

2014-06-11

Epstein-Barr virus is a human herpesvirus that infects a majority of the human population. Primary infection of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) causes the syndrome infectious mononucleosis. This virus is also associated with several cancers, including Burkitt's lymphoma, post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. As all herpesvirus family members, EBV initially replicates lytically to produce abundant virus particles, then enters a latent state to remain within the host indefinitely. Through a genetic screen in Drosophila, we determined that reduction of Drosophila Tor activity altered EBV immediate-early protein function. To further investigate this finding, we inhibited mTOR in EBV-positive cells and investigated subsequent changes to lytic replication via Western blotting, flow cytometry, and quantitative PCR. The student T-test was used to evaluate significance. mTOR, the human homolog of Drosophila Tor, is an important protein at the center of a major signaling pathway that controls many aspects of cell biology. As the EBV immediate-early genes are responsible for EBV lytic replication, we examined the effect of inhibition of mTORC1 on EBV lytic replication in human EBV-positive cell lines. We determined that treatment of cells with rapamycin, which is an inhibitor of mTORC1 activity, led to a reduction in the ability of B cell lines to undergo lytic replication. In contrast, EBV-positive epithelial cell lines underwent higher levels of lytic replication when treated with rapamycin. Overall, the responses of EBV-positive cell lines vary when treated with mTOR inhibitors, and this may be important when considering such inhibitors as anti-cancer therapeutic agents.

Evaluating the uptake and intracellular fate of polystyrene nanoparticles by primary and hepatocyte cell lines in vitro

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Johnston, Helinor J., E-mail: h.johnston@napier.ac.u; Semmler-Behnke, Manuela; Brown, David M.

2010-01-01

Nanoparticles (NPs) are being used within diverse applications such as medicines, clothing, cosmetics and food. In order to promote the safe development of such nanotechnologies it is essential to assess the potential adverse health consequences associated with human exposure. The liver is recognised as a target site for NP toxicity, due to NP accumulation within this organ subsequent to injection, inhalation or instillation. The uptake of fluorescent polystyrene carboxylated particles (20 nm or 200 nm diameter) by hepatocytes was determined using confocal microscopy; with cells imaged 'live' during particle exposure or after exposure within fixed cells. Comparisons between the uptakemore » of polystyrene particles by primary rat hepatocytes, and human hepatocyte cell lines (C3A and HepG2) were made. Uptake of particles by hepatocytes was size, time, and serum dependent. Specifically, the uptake of 200 nm particles was limited, but 20 nm NPs were internalised by all cell types from 10 min onwards. At 10 min, 20 nm NP fluorescence co-localised with the tubulin cytoskeleton staining; after 30 min NP fluorescence compartmentalised into structures located within and/or between cells. The fate of internalised NPs was considered and they were not contained within early endosomes or lysosomes, but within mitochondria of cell lines. NPs accumulated within bile canaliculi to a limited extent, which suggests that NPs can be eliminated within bile. This is in keeping with the finding that gold NPs were eliminated in bile following intravenous injection into rats. The findings were, in the main, comparable between primary rat hepatocytes and the different human hepatocyte cell lines.« less

Presence of natural killer-cell clones with variable proliferative capacity in chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection.

PubMed

Nagata, H; Numata, T; Konno, A; Mikata, I; Kurasawa, K; Hara, S; Nishimura, M; Yamamoto, K; Shimizu, N

2001-10-01

Chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection (CAEBV) is a syndrome that takes diverse clinical courses and is often associated with lymphoproliferative disorders of T/natural killer (NK)-cell lineage. We describe a patient with CAEBV associated with persistent pharyngeal ulcer, and with subsequent nasal T/NK-cell lymphoma in her neck lymph nodes and nasopharynx. Immunophenotyping of lymphoid cells showed that the lineage of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive cells in the patient was of NK-cell origin. By means of high-dose recombinant interleukin-2, we established an EBV-positive cell line of NK-cell lineage from her peripheral blood. Southern blot analysis for the number of terminal repeat sequences of EBV detected three NK-cell clones in the patient's lymph node. One of these clones was identical to the established cell line but was not observed in the pharyngeal ulcer, while the other two clones were present in the pharyngeal ulcer. These results suggest that the patient had expansion of the three NK-cell clones, one of which had proliferative capacity in vitro and was involved in the formation of the lymphoma. Moreover, the results suggest that the proliferative capacity of EBV-positive cells can be variable even in a single patient, and this variability may explain the clinical diversity in CAEBV.

ML-7 amplifies the quinocetone-induced cell death through akt and MAPK-mediated apoptosis on HepG2 cell line.

PubMed

Zhou, Yan; Zhang, Shen; Deng, Sijun; Dai, Chongshan; Tang, Shusheng; Yang, Xiayun; Li, Daowen; Zhao, Kena; Xiao, Xilong

2016-01-01

The study aims at evaluating the combination of the quinocetone and the ML-7 in preclinical hepatocellular carcinoma models. To this end, the effect of quinocetone and ML-7 on apoptosis induction and signaling pathways was analyzed on HepG2 cell lines. Here, we report that ML-7, in a nontoxic concentration, sensitized the HepG2 cells to quinocetone-induced cytotoxicity. Also, ML-7 profoundly enhances quinocetone-induced apoptosis in HepG2 cell line. Mechanistic investigations revealed that ML-7 and quinocetone act in concert to trigger the cleavage of caspase-8 as well as Bax/Bcl-2 ratio up-regulation and subsequent cleavage of Bid, capsases-9 and -3. Importantly, ML-7 weakened the quinocetone-induced Akt pathway activation, but strengthened the phosphorylation of p-38, ERK and JNK. Further treatment of Akt activator and p-38 inhibitor almost completely abolished the ML-7/quinocetone-induced apoptosis. In contrast, the ERK and JNK inhibitor aggravated the ML-7/quinocetone-induced apoptosis, indicating that the synergism critically depended on p-38 phosphorylation and HepG2 cells provoke Akt, ERK and JNK signaling pathways to against apoptosis. In conclusion, the rational combination of quinocetone and ML-7 presents a promising approach to trigger apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma, which warrants further investigation.

Mechanisms underlying the growth inhibitory effects of the cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitor celecoxib in human breast cancer cells.

PubMed

Basu, Gargi D; Pathangey, Latha B; Tinder, Teresa L; Gendler, Sandra J; Mukherjee, Pinku

2005-01-01

Inhibitors of cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2 are being extensively studied as anticancer agents. In the present study we evaluated the mechanisms by which a highly selective COX-2 inhibitor, celecoxib, affects tumor growth of two differentially invasive human breast cancer cell lines. MDA-MB-231 (highly invasive) and MDA-MB-468 (moderately invasive) cell lines were treated with varying concentrations of celecoxib in vitro, and the effects of this agent on cell growth and angiogenesis were monitored by evaluating cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and vasculogenic mimicry. The in vitro results of MDA-MB-231 cell line were further confirmed in vivo in a mouse xenograft model. The highly invasive MDA-MB-231 cells express higher levels of COX-2 than do the less invasive MDA-MB-468 cells. Celecoxib treatment inhibited COX-2 activity, indicated by prostaglandin E2 secretion, and caused significant growth arrest in both breast cancer cell lines. In the highly invasive MDA-MB-231 cells, the mechanism of celecoxib-induced growth arrest was by induction of apoptosis, associated with reduced activation of protein kinase B/Akt, and subsequent activation of caspases 3 and 7. In the less invasive MDA-MB-468 cells, growth arrest was a consequence of cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 checkpoint. Celecoxib-induced growth inhibition was reversed by addition of exogenous prostaglandin E2 in MDA-MB-468 cells but not in MDA-MB-231 cells. Furthermore, MDA-MB-468 cells formed significantly fewer extracellular matrix associated microvascular channels in vitro than did the high COX-2 expressing MDA-MB-231 cells. Celecoxib treatment not only inhibited cell growth and vascular channel formation but also reduced vascular endothelial growth factor levels. The in vitro findings corroborated in vivo data from a mouse xenograft model in which daily administration of celecoxib significantly reduced tumor growth of MDA-MB-231 cells, which was associated with reduced vascularization and increased necrosis in the tumor mass. The disparate molecular mechanisms of celecoxib-induced growth inhibition in human breast cancer cells depends upon the level of COX-2 expression and the invasive potential of the cell lines examined. Data suggest a role for COX-2 not only in the growth of cancer cells but also in activating the angiogenic pathway through regulating levels of vascular endothelial growth factor.

Feasibility of a workflow for the molecular characterization of single cells by next generation sequencing.

PubMed

Salvianti, Francesca; Rotunno, Giada; Galardi, Francesca; De Luca, Francesca; Pestrin, Marta; Vannucchi, Alessandro Maria; Di Leo, Angelo; Pazzagli, Mario; Pinzani, Pamela

2015-09-01

The purpose of the study was to explore the feasibility of a protocol for the isolation and molecular characterization of single circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from cancer patients using a single-cell next generation sequencing (NGS) approach. To reach this goal we used as a model an artificial sample obtained by spiking a breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) into the blood of a healthy donor. Tumor cells were enriched and enumerated by CellSearch(®) and subsequently isolated by DEPArray™ to obtain single or pooled pure samples to be submitted to the analysis of the mutational status of multiple genes involved in cancer. Upon whole genome amplification, samples were analysed by NGS on the Ion Torrent PGM™ system (Life Technologies) using the Ion AmpliSeq™ Cancer Hotspot Panel v2 (Life Technologies), designed to investigate genomic "hot spot" regions of 50 oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. We successfully sequenced five single cells, a pool of 5 cells and DNA from a cellular pellet of the same cell line with a mean depth of the sequencing reaction ranging from 1581 to 3479 reads. We found 27 sequence variants in 18 genes, 15 of which already reported in the COSMIC or dbSNP databases. We confirmed the presence of two somatic mutations, in the BRAF and TP53 gene, which had been already reported for this cells line, but also found new mutations and single nucleotide polymorphisms. Three variants were common to all the analysed samples, while 18 were present only in a single cell suggesting a high heterogeneity within the same cell line. This paper presents an optimized workflow for the molecular characterization of multiple genes in single cells by NGS. The described pipeline can be easily transferred to the study of single CTCs from oncologic patients.

Urban particulate matter increases human airway epithelial cell IL-1β secretion following scratch wounding and H1N1 influenza A exposure in vitro.

PubMed

Hirota, Jeremy A; Marchant, David J; Singhera, Gurpreet K; Moheimani, Fatemeh; Dorscheid, Delbert R; Carlsten, Christopher; Sin, Don; Knight, Darryl

2015-01-01

The airway epithelium represents the first line of defense against inhaled environmental insults including air pollution, allergens, and viruses. Epidemiological and experimental evidence has suggested a link between air pollution exposure and the symptoms associated with respiratory viral infections. We hypothesized that multiple insults integrated by the airway epithelium NLRP3 inflammasome would result in augmented IL-1β release and downstream cytokine production following respiratory virus exposure. We performed in vitro experiments with a human airway epithelial cell line (HBEC-6KT) that involved isolated or combination exposure to mechanical wounding, PM10, house dust mite, influenza A virus, and respiratory syncytial virus. We performed confocal microscopy to image the localization of PM10 within HBEC-6KT and ELISAs to measure soluble mediator production. Airway epithelial cells secrete IL-1β in a time-dependent fashion that is associated with internalization of PM10 particles. PM10 exposure primes human airway epithelial cells to subsequent models of cell damage and influenza A virus exposure. Prior PM10 exposure had no effect on IL-1β responses to RSV exposure. Finally we demonstrate that PM10-priming of human airway epithelial cell IL-1β and GM-CSF responses to influenza A exposure are sensitive to NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition. Our results suggest the NLRP3 inflammasome may contribute to exaggerated immune responses to influenza A virus following periods of poor air quality. Intervention strategies targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome in at risk individuals may restrict poor air quality priming of mucosal immune responses that result from subsequent viral exposures.

Bexarotene via CBP/p300 induces suppression of NF-κB-dependent cell growth and invasion in thyroid cancer.

PubMed

Cras, Audrey; Politis, Béatrice; Balitrand, Nicole; Darsin-Bettinger, Diane; Boelle, Pierre Yves; Cassinat, Bruno; Toubert, Marie-Elisabeth; Chomienne, Christine

2012-01-15

Retinoic acid (RA) treatment has been used for redifferentiation of metastatic thyroid cancer with loss of radioiodine uptake. The aim of this study was to improve the understanding of RA resistance and investigate the role of bexarotene in thyroid cancer cells. A model of thyroid cancer cell lines with differential response to RA was used to evaluate the biological effects of retinoid and rexinoid and to correlate this with RA receptor levels. Subsequently, thyroid cancer patients were treated with 13-cis RA and bexarotene and response evaluated on radioiodine uptake reinduction on posttherapy scan and conventional imaging. In thyroid cancer patients, 13-cis RA resistance can be bypassed in some tumors by bexarotene. A decreased tumor growth without differentiation was observed confirming our in vitro data. Indeed, we show that ligands of RARs or RXRs exert different effects in thyroid cancer cell lines through either differentiation or inhibition of cell growth and invasion. These effects are associated with restoration of RARβ and RXRγ levels and downregulation of NF-κB targets genes. We show that bexarotene inhibits the transactivation potential of NF-κB in an RXR-dependent manner through decreased promoter permissiveness without interfering with NF-κB nuclear translocation and binding to its responsive elements. Inhibition of transcription results from the release of p300 coactivator from NF-κB target gene promoters and subsequent histone deacetylation. This study highlights dual mechanisms by which retinoids and rexinoids may target cell tumorigenicity, not only via RARs and RXRs, as expected, but also via NF-κB pathway. ©2011 AACR.

Osimertinib-induced interstitial lung disease in a patient with non-small cell lung cancer pretreated with nivolumab: A case report.

PubMed

Takakuwa, Osamu; Oguri, Tetsuya; Uemura, Takehiro; Sone, Kazuki; Fukuda, Satoshi; Okayama, Minami; Kanemitsu, Yoshihiro; Ohkubo, Hirotsugu; Takemura, Masaya; Ito, Yutaka; Maeno, Ken; Niimi, Akio

2017-09-01

Osimertinib (AZD9291) is a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for EGFR-T790M-positive non-small cell lung cancer. A high incidence of interstitial lung disease (ILD) during combination treatment with osimertinib and anti-programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitor has been reported. The current study presents a case of ILD development during osimertinib treatment following nivolumab (an anti-PD-1 antibody) treatment. The 59-year-old female was diagnosed with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma harboring a deletion in exon 19 of the EGFR gene. Following nivolumab as a sixth-line treatment, an EGFR-T790M-encoding mutation in EGFR exon 20 was identified by re-biopsy. Osimertinib was therefore initiated as a seventh-line treatment. A partial response was subsequently noted; however, 63 days after initiation of the treatment the patient presented with dyspnea with decreased oxygenation in the absence of fever and sputum. A computed tomography scan revealed the emergence of ground-glass opacities with bronchiectasis in both lungs, and a diagnosis of ILD due to osimertinib was made. Following steroid pulse therapy with discontinuation of osimertinib, the patient's chest findings and respiratory condition improved. Therefore, it is considered that anti-PD-1 therapies may be associated with a risk of ILD during subsequent osimertinib treatment.

Pharmacological modulation of endothelial cell-associated adhesion molecule expression: implications for future treatment of dermatological diseases.

PubMed

Foster, C A; Dreyfuss, M; Mandak, B; Meingassner, J G; Naegeli, H U; Nussbaumer, A; Oberer, L; Scheel, G; Swoboda, E M

1994-11-01

Skin diseases with an inflammatory component, regardless of their etiology, are characterized at some point by the extravasation and subsequent infiltration of leukocytes into the dermal and/or epidermal compartments. This trafficking pattern is determined by a complex series of events whereby the leukocytes interact with cell adhesion molecules (CAM), particularly those induced on endothelial cells following activation with various inflammatory mediators. Vascular CAMs belonging to the selectin family (i.e., P-selectin and E-selectin) are thought to mediate early and reversible events involving leukocyte rolling and margination along the lumenal surface of microvascular cells (post-capillary venules). Certain members of the immunoglobulin supergene family (i.e., VCAM-1 and ICAM-1) regulate later and irreversible steps which lead to firm attachment and subsequent diapedesis of leukocytes. Accumulating evidence suggests that if one blocks the ligand-binding sites between leukocytes and endothelial cells, or inhibits vascular CAM expression, hematopoietic cell extravasation and progressive inflammatory events can be greatly diminished. To identify such inhibitors we developed a cell-based Elisa using the human microvascular cell line HMEC-1. As reported in the present paper, this approach yielded a naturally-occurring, low molecular weight compound which potently inhibits cytokine-induced adhesion molecule expression on cultured endothelial cells, without modulating "house-keeping" proteins.

Celecoxib enhances the radiosensitivity of HCT116 cells in a COX-2 independent manner by up-regulating BCCIP

PubMed Central

Xu, Xiao-Ting; Hu, Wen-Tao; Zhou, Ju-Ying; Tu, Yu

2017-01-01

It has been reported that celecoxib, a cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)-selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), regulates the radiosensitivity of several cancer cells. BCCIP (BRCA2 and CDKN1A interacting protein) plays a critical role in maintaining the critical functions of p53 in tumor suppression and response to therapy. However, whether the effect of celecoxib on the radiosensitivity of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells is dependent on BCCIP is largely unclear. In this study, we found that celecoxib enhanced the radiosensitivity of HeLa (a human cervical carcinoma cell line), A549 (a human lung carcinoma cell line), and HCT116 cells (a human CRC cells line). Among these cells, COX-2 expression was undetected in HCT116 cells. Treatment with celecoxib significantly increased BCCIP expression in COX-2 negative HCT116 cells. Knockdown of BCCIP obviously abrogated the enhanced radiosensitivity of HCT116 cells induced by celecoxib. A combination of celecoxib and irradiation treatment induced much more γ-H2AX foci formation, higher levels of radiation injury-related proteins phosphorylation, G2/M arrest, apoptosis, and p53 and p21 expression, and lower levels of Cyclin B1 in HCT116 cells than those in cells treated with irradiation alone. However, these changes were undetected in BCCIP-silenced HCT116 cells. Therefore, these data suggest that BCCIP gene may be a radiosensitivity-related gene in CRC. Celecoxib affects the functions of p53 and inhibits the recovery from the irradiation-induced injury by up-regulating the expression of BCCIP, and subsequently regulates the expressions of genes such as p21 and Cyclin B1 to enhance the radiosensitivity of HCT116 cells in a COX-2 independent manner. PMID:28386336

NKL homeobox gene MSX1 acts like a tumor suppressor in NK-cell leukemia

PubMed Central

Nagel, Stefan; Pommerenke, Claudia; Meyer, Corinna; Kaufmann, Maren; MacLeod, Roderick A.F.; Drexler, Hans G.

2017-01-01

NKL homeobox gene MSX1 is physiologically expressed in lymphoid progenitors and subsequently downregulated in developing T- and B-cells. In contrast, elevated expression levels of MSX1 persist in mature natural killer (NK)-cells, indicating a functional role in this compartment. While T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) subsets exhibit aberrant overexpression of MSX1, we show here that in malignant NK-cells the level of MSX1 transcripts is aberrantly downregulated. Chromosomal deletions at 4p16 hosting the MSX1 locus have been described in NK-cell leukemia patients. However, NK-cell lines analyzed here showed normal MSX1 gene configurations, indicating that this aberration might be uncommon. To identify alternative MSX1 regulatory mechanisms we compared expression profiling data of primary normal NK-cells and malignant NK-cell lines. This procedure revealed several deregulated genes including overexpressed IRF4, MIR155HG and MIR17HG and downregulated AUTS2, EP300, GATA3 and HHEX. As shown recently, chromatin-modulator AUTS2 is overexpressed in T-ALL subsets where it mediates aberrant transcriptional activation of MSX1. Here, our data demonstrate that in malignant NK-cell lines AUTS2 performed MSX1 activation as well, but in accordance with downregulated MSX1 transcription therein we detected reduced AUTS2 expression, a small genomic deletion at 7q11 removing exons 3 and 4, and truncating mutations in exon 1. Moreover, genomic profiling and chromosomal analyses of NK-cell lines demonstrated amplification of IRF4 at 6p25 and deletion of PRDM1 at 6q21, highlighting their potential oncogenic impact. Functional analyses performed via knockdown or forced expression of these genes revealed regulatory network disturbances effecting downregulation of MSX1 which may underlie malignant development in NK-cells. PMID:28977998

Differential utilization of ketone bodies by neurons and glioma cell lines: a rationale for ketogenic diet as experimental glioma therapy.

PubMed

Maurer, Gabriele D; Brucker, Daniel P; Bähr, Oliver; Harter, Patrick N; Hattingen, Elke; Walenta, Stefan; Mueller-Klieser, Wolfgang; Steinbach, Joachim P; Rieger, Johannes

2011-07-26

Even in the presence of oxygen, malignant cells often highly depend on glycolysis for energy generation, a phenomenon known as the Warburg effect. One strategy targeting this metabolic phenotype is glucose restriction by administration of a high-fat, low-carbohydrate (ketogenic) diet. Under these conditions, ketone bodies are generated serving as an important energy source at least for non-transformed cells. To investigate whether a ketogenic diet might selectively impair energy metabolism in tumor cells, we characterized in vitro effects of the principle ketone body 3-hydroxybutyrate in rat hippocampal neurons and five glioma cell lines. In vivo, a non-calorie-restricted ketogenic diet was examined in an orthotopic xenograft glioma mouse model. The ketone body metabolizing enzymes 3-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2 (BDH1 and 2), 3-oxoacid-CoA transferase 1 (OXCT1) and acetyl-CoA acetyltransferase 1 (ACAT1) were expressed at the mRNA and protein level in all glioma cell lines. However, no activation of the hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) pathway was observed in glioma cells, consistent with the absence of substantial 3-hydroxybutyrate metabolism and subsequent accumulation of succinate. Further, 3-hydroxybutyrate rescued hippocampal neurons from glucose withdrawal-induced cell death but did not protect glioma cell lines. In hypoxia, mRNA expression of OXCT1, ACAT1, BDH1 and 2 was downregulated. In vivo, the ketogenic diet led to a robust increase of blood 3-hydroxybutyrate, but did not alter blood glucose levels or improve survival. In summary, glioma cells are incapable of compensating for glucose restriction by metabolizing ketone bodies in vitro, suggesting a potential disadvantage of tumor cells compared to normal cells under a carbohydrate-restricted ketogenic diet. Further investigations are necessary to identify co-treatment modalities, e.g. glycolysis inhibitors or antiangiogenic agents that efficiently target non-oxidative pathways.

CDKL2 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and breast cancer progression

PubMed Central

Li, Linna; Liu, Chunping; Amato, Robert J.; Chang, Jeffrey T.; Du, Guangwei; Li, Wenliang

2014-01-01

The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) confers mesenchymal properties on epithelial cells and has been closely associated with the acquisition of aggressive traits by epithelial cancer cells. To identify novel regulators of EMT, we carried out cDNA screens that covered 500 human kinases. Subsequent characterization of candidate kinases led us to uncover cyclin-dependent kinase-like 2 (CDKL2) as a novel potent promoter for EMT and breast cancer progression. CDKL2-expressing human mammary gland epithelial cells displayed enhanced mesenchymal traits and stem cell-like phenotypes, which was acquired through activating a ZEB1/E-cadherin/β-catenin positive feedback loop and regulating CD44 mRNA alternative splicing to promote conversion of CD24high cells to CD44high cells. Furthermore, CDKL2 enhanced primary tumor formation and metastasis in a breast cancer xenograft model. Notably, CDKL2 is expressed significantly higher in mesenchymal human breast cancer cell lines than in epithelial lines, and its over-expression/amplification in human breast cancers is associated with shorter disease-free survival. Taken together, our study uncovered a major role for CDKL2 in promoting EMT and breast cancer progression. PMID:25333262

Use of the piggyBac transposon to create stable packaging cell lines for the production of clinical-grade self-inactivating γ-retroviral vectors.

PubMed

Feldman, Steven A; Xu, Hui; Black, Mary A; Park, Tristen S; Robbins, Paul F; Kochenderfer, James N; Morgan, Richard A; Rosenberg, Steven A

2014-08-01

Efforts to improve the biosafety of γ-retroviral-mediated gene therapy have resulted in a shift toward the use of self-inactivating (SIN) γ-retroviral vectors. However, scale-up and manufacturing of such vectors requires significant optimization of transient transfection-based processes or development of novel platforms for the generation of stable producer cell clones. To that end, we describe the use of the piggybac transposon to generate stable producer cell clones for the production of SIN γ-retroviral vectors. The piggybac transposon is a universal tool allowing for the stable integration of SIN γ-retroviral constructs into murine (PG13) and human 293-based Phoenix (GALV and RD114, respectively) packaging cell lines without reverse transcription. Following transposition, a high-titer clone is selected for manufacture of a master cell bank and subsequent γ-retroviral vector supernatant production. Packaging cell clones created using the piggybac transposon have comparable titers to non-SIN vectors generated via conventional methods. We describe herein the use of the piggybac transposon for the production of stable packaging cell clones for the manufacture of clinical-grade SIN γ-retroviral vectors for ex vivo gene therapy clinical trials.

Bone formation in vitro and in nude mice by human osteosarcoma cells.

PubMed

Ogose, A; Motoyama, T; Hotta, T; Watanabe, H; Takahashi, H E

1995-01-01

Osteosarcomas contain variable amounts of bony tissue, but the mechanism of bone formation by osteosarcoma is not well understood. While a number of cultured human osteosarcoma cell lines have been established, they are maintained by different media and differ qualitatively with regard to bone formation. We examined different media for their ability to support bone formation in vitro and found the alpha-modification of Eagle's minimal essential medium supplemented with beta glycerophosphate was best for this purpose, because it contained the proper calcium and phosphate concentrations. Subsequently, we compared seven human osteosarcoma cell lines under the same experimental conditions to clarify their ability to induce bone formation. NOS-1 cells most frequently exhibited features of bone formation in vitro and in nude mice. Collagen synthesis by tumour cells themselves seemed to be the most important factor for bone volume. However, even HuO9 cells, which lacked collagen synthesis and failed to form bone in vitro, successfully formed tumours containing bone in nude mice. Histological analysis of HuO9 cells in diffusion chambers implanted in nude mice and the findings of polymerase chain reaction indicated that the phenomenon was probably due to bone morphogenetic protein.

AS30D Model of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Tumorigenicity and Preliminary Characterization by Imaging, Histopathology, and Immunohistochemistry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thompson, Scott M.; Callstrom, Matthew R.; Knudsen, Bruce

This study was designed to determine the tumorigenicity of the AS30D HCC cell line following orthotopic injection into rat liver and preliminarily characterize the tumor model by both magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US) as well as histopathology and immunohistochemistry.MaterialsAS30D cell line in vitro proliferation was assessed by using MTT assay. Female rats (N = 5) underwent injection of the AS30D cell line into one site in the liver. Rats subsequently underwent MR imaging at days 7 and 14 to assess tumor establishment and volume. One rat underwent US of the liver at day 7. Rats were euthanized atmore » day 7 or 14 and livers were subjected to gross, histopathologic (H and E), and immunohistochemical (CD31) analysis to assess for tumor growth and neovascularization. AS30D cell line demonstrated an in vitro doubling time of 33.2 {+-} 5.3 h. MR imaging demonstrated hyperintense T2-weighted and hypointense T1-weighted lesions with tumor induction in five of five and three of three sites at days 7 and 14, respectively. The mean (SD) tumor volume was 126.1 {+-} 36.2 mm{sup 3} at day 7 (N = 5). US of the liver demonstrated a well-circumscribed, hypoechoic mass and comparison of tumor dimensions agreed well with MRI. Analysis of H and E- and CD31-stained sections demonstrated moderate-high grade epithelial tumors with minimal tumor necrosis and evidence of diffuse intratumoral and peritumoral neovascularization by day 7. AS30D HCC cell line is tumorigenic following orthotopic injection into rat liver and can be used to generate an early vascularizing, slower-growing rat HCC tumor model.« less

Identification of biomarkers in human head and neck tumor cell lines that predict for in vitro sensitivity to gefitinib.

PubMed

Hickinson, D Mark; Marshall, Gayle B; Beran, Garry J; Varella-Garcia, Marileila; Mills, Elizabeth A; South, Marie C; Cassidy, Andrew M; Acheson, Kerry L; McWalter, Gael; McCormack, Rose M; Bunn, Paul A; French, Tim; Graham, Alex; Holloway, Brian R; Hirsch, Fred R; Speake, Georgina

2009-06-01

Potential biomarkers were identified for in vitro sensitivity to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor gefitinib in head and neck cancer. Gefitinib sensitivity was determined in cell lines, followed by transcript profiling coupled with a novel pathway analysis approach. Eleven cell lines were highly sensitive to gefitinib (inhibitor concentration required to give 50% growth inhibition [GI(50)] < 1 microM), three had intermediate sensitivity (GI(50) 1-7 microM), and six were resistant (GI(50) > 7 microM); an exploratory principal component analysis revealed a separation between the genomic profiles of sensitive and resistant cell lines. Subsequently, a hypothesis-driven analysis of Affymetrix data (Affymetrix, Inc., Santa Clara, CA, USA) revealed higher mRNA levels for E-cadherin (CDH1); transforming growth factor, alpha (TGF-alpha); amphiregulin (AREG); FLJ22662; EGFR; p21-activated kinase 6 (PAK6); glutathione S-transferase Pi (GSTP1); and ATP-binding cassette, subfamily C, member 5 (ABCC5) in sensitive versus resistant cell lines. A hypothesis-free analysis identified 46 gene transcripts that were strongly differentiated, seven of which had a known association with EGFR and head and neck cancer (human EGF receptor 3 [HER3], TGF-alpha, CDH1, EGFR, keratin 16 [KRT16], fibroblast growth factor 2 [FGF2], and cortactin [CTTN]). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunoabsorbant assay analysis confirmed Affymetrix data, and EGFR gene mutation, amplification, and genomic gain correlated strongly with gefitinib sensitivity. We identified biomarkers that predict for in vitro responsiveness to gefitinib, seven of which have known association with EGFR and head and neck cancer. These in vitro predictive biomarkers may have potential utility in the clinic and warrant further investigation.

Redox Signaling and Bioenergetics Influence Lung Cancer Cell Line Sensitivity to the Isoflavone ME-344.

PubMed

Manevich, Yefim; Reyes, Leticia; Britten, Carolyn D; Townsend, Danyelle M; Tew, Kenneth D

2016-08-01

ME-344 [(3R,4S)-3,4-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-methyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-chromen-7-ol] is a second-generation derivative natural product isoflavone presently under clinical development. ME-344 effects were compared in lung cancer cell lines that are either intrinsically sensitive or resistant to the drug and in primary immortalized human lung embryonic fibroblasts (IHLEF). Cytotoxicity at low micromolar concentrations occurred only in sensitive cell lines, causing redox stress, decreased mitochondrial ATP production, and subsequent disruption of mitochondrial function. In a dose-dependent manner the drug caused instantaneous and pronounced inhibition of oxygen consumption rates (OCR) in drug-sensitive cells (quantitatively significantly less in drug-resistant cells). This was consistent with targeting of mitochondria by ME-344, with specific effects on the respiratory chain (resistance correlated with higher glycolytic indexes). OCR inhibition did not occur in primary IHLEF. ME-344 increased extracellular acidification rates in drug-resistant cells (significantly less in drug-sensitive cells), implying that ME-344 targets mitochondrial proton pumps. Only in drug-sensitive cells did ME-344 dose-dependently increase the intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species and cause oxidation of total (mainly glutathione) and protein thiols and the concomitant immediate increases in NADPH levels. We conclude that ME-344 causes complex, redox-specific, and mitochondria-targeted effects in lung cancer cells, which differ in extent from normal cells, correlate with drug sensitivity, and provide indications of a beneficial in vitro therapeutic index. Copyright © 2016 by The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.

ONC201 kills breast cancer cells in vitro by targeting mitochondria.

PubMed

Greer, Yoshimi Endo; Porat-Shliom, Natalie; Nagashima, Kunio; Stuelten, Christina; Crooks, Dan; Koparde, Vishal N; Gilbert, Samuel F; Islam, Celia; Ubaldini, Ashley; Ji, Yun; Gattinoni, Luca; Soheilian, Ferri; Wang, Xiantao; Hafner, Markus; Shetty, Jyoti; Tran, Bao; Jailwala, Parthav; Cam, Maggie; Lang, Martin; Voeller, Donna; Reinhold, William C; Rajapakse, Vinodh; Pommier, Yves; Weigert, Roberto; Linehan, W Marston; Lipkowitz, Stanley

2018-04-06

We report a novel mechanism of action of ONC201 as a mitochondria-targeting drug in cancer cells. ONC201 was originally identified as a small molecule that induces transcription of TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and subsequently kills cancer cells by activating TRAIL death receptors. In this study, we examined ONC201 toxicity on multiple human breast and endometrial cancer cell lines. ONC201 attenuated cell viability in all cancer cell lines tested. Unexpectedly, ONC201 toxicity was not dependent on either TRAIL receptors nor caspases. Time-lapse live cell imaging revealed that ONC201 induces cell membrane ballooning followed by rupture, distinct from the morphology of cells undergoing apoptosis. Further investigation found that ONC201 induces phosphorylation of AMP-dependent kinase and ATP loss. Cytotoxicity and ATP depletion were significantly enhanced in the absence of glucose, suggesting that ONC201 targets mitochondrial respiration. Further analysis indicated that ONC201 indirectly inhibits mitochondrial respiration. Confocal and electron microscopic analysis demonstrated that ONC201 triggers mitochondrial structural damage and functional impairment. Moreover, ONC201 decreased mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). RNAseq analysis revealed that ONC201 suppresses expression of multiple mtDNA-encoded genes and nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation and other mitochondrial functions. Importantly, fumarate hydratase deficient cancer cells and multiple cancer cell lines with reduced amounts of mtDNA were resistant to ONC201. These results indicate that cells not dependent on mitochondrial respiration are ONC201-resistant. Our data demonstrate that ONC201 kills cancer cells by disrupting mitochondrial function and further suggests that cancer cells that are dependent on glycolysis will be resistant to ONC201.

ONC201 kills breast cancer cells in vitro by targeting mitochondria

PubMed Central

Greer, Yoshimi Endo; Porat-Shliom, Natalie; Nagashima, Kunio; Stuelten, Christina; Crooks, Dan; Koparde, Vishal N.; Gilbert, Samuel F.; Islam, Celia; Ubaldini, Ashley; Ji, Yun; Gattinoni, Luca; Soheilian, Ferri; Wang, Xiantao; Hafner, Markus; Shetty, Jyoti; Tran, Bao; Jailwala, Parthav; Cam, Maggie; Lang, Martin; Voeller, Donna; Reinhold, William C.; Rajapakse, Vinodh; Pommier, Yves; Weigert, Roberto; Linehan, W. Marston; Lipkowitz, Stanley

2018-01-01

We report a novel mechanism of action of ONC201 as a mitochondria-targeting drug in cancer cells. ONC201 was originally identified as a small molecule that induces transcription of TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and subsequently kills cancer cells by activating TRAIL death receptors. In this study, we examined ONC201 toxicity on multiple human breast and endometrial cancer cell lines. ONC201 attenuated cell viability in all cancer cell lines tested. Unexpectedly, ONC201 toxicity was not dependent on either TRAIL receptors nor caspases. Time-lapse live cell imaging revealed that ONC201 induces cell membrane ballooning followed by rupture, distinct from the morphology of cells undergoing apoptosis. Further investigation found that ONC201 induces phosphorylation of AMP-dependent kinase and ATP loss. Cytotoxicity and ATP depletion were significantly enhanced in the absence of glucose, suggesting that ONC201 targets mitochondrial respiration. Further analysis indicated that ONC201 indirectly inhibits mitochondrial respiration. Confocal and electron microscopic analysis demonstrated that ONC201 triggers mitochondrial structural damage and functional impairment. Moreover, ONC201 decreased mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). RNAseq analysis revealed that ONC201 suppresses expression of multiple mtDNA-encoded genes and nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation and other mitochondrial functions. Importantly, fumarate hydratase deficient cancer cells and multiple cancer cell lines with reduced amounts of mtDNA were resistant to ONC201. These results indicate that cells not dependent on mitochondrial respiration are ONC201-resistant. Our data demonstrate that ONC201 kills cancer cells by disrupting mitochondrial function and further suggests that cancer cells that are dependent on glycolysis will be resistant to ONC201. PMID:29719618

Ascorbate/menadione-induced oxidative stress kills cancer cells that express normal or mutated forms of the oncogenic protein Bcr-Abl. An in vitro and in vivo mechanistic study.

PubMed

Beck, Raphaël; Pedrosa, Rozangela Curi; Dejeans, Nicolas; Glorieux, Christophe; Levêque, Philippe; Gallez, Bernard; Taper, Henryk; Eeckhoudt, Stéphane; Knoops, Laurent; Calderon, Pedro Buc; Verrax, Julien

2011-10-01

Numerous studies suggest that generation of oxidative stress could be useful in cancer treatment. In this study, we evaluated, in vitro and in vivo, the antitumor potential of oxidative stress induced by ascorbate/menadione (asc/men). This combination of a reducing agent (ascorbate) and a redox active quinone (menadione) generates redox cycling leading to formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Asc/men was tested in several cell types including K562 cells (a stable human-derived leukemia cell line), freshly isolated leukocytes from patients with chronic myeloid leukemia, BaF3 cells (a murine pro-B cell line) transfected with Bcr-Abl and peripheral blood leukocytes derived from healthy donors. Although these latter cells were resistant to asc/men, survival of all the other cell lines was markedly reduced, including the BaF3 cells expressing either wild-type or mutated Bcr-Abl. In a standard in vivo model of subcutaneous tumor transplantation, asc/men provoked a significant delay in the proliferation of K562 and BaF3 cells expressing the T315I mutated form of Bcr-Abl. No effect of asc/men was observed when these latter cells were injected into blood of mice most probably because of the high antioxidant potential of red blood cells, as shown by in vitro experiments. We postulate that cancer cells are more sensitive to asc/men than healthy cells because of their lack of antioxidant enzymes, mainly catalase. The mechanism underlying this cytotoxicity involves the oxidative cleavage of Hsp90 with a subsequent loss of its chaperone function thus leading to degradation of wild-type and mutated Bcr-Abl protein.

Novel Rickettsia raoultii strain isolated and propagated from Austrian Dermacentor reticulatus ticks.

PubMed

Wijnveld, Michiel; Schötta, Anna-Margarita; Pintér, Adriano; Stockinger, Hannes; Stanek, Gerold

2016-11-03

Continuous culture of tick cell lines has proven a valuable asset in isolating and propagating several different vector-borne pathogens, making it possible to study these microorganisms under laboratory conditions and develop serological tests to benefit public health. We describe a method for effective, cost- and labor-efficient isolation and propagation of Rickettsia raoultii using generally available laboratory equipment and Rhipicephalus microplus cells, further demonstrating the usefulness of continuous tick cell lines. R. raoultii is one of the causative agents of tick-borne lymphadenopathy (TIBOLA) and is, together with its vector Dermacentor reticulatus, emerging in novel regions of Europe, giving rise to an increased threat to general public health. Dermacentor reticulatus ticks were collected in the Donau-Auen (Lobau) national park in Vienna, Austria. The hemolymph of ten collected ticks was screened by PCR-reverse line blot for the presence of rickettsial DNA. A single tick tested positive for R. raoultii DNA and was used to infect Rhipicephalus microplus BME/CTVM2 cells. Sixty-five days after infection of the tick-cell line with an extract from a R. raoultii-infected tick, we observed intracellular bacteria in the cultured cells. On the basis of microscopy we suspected that the intracellular bacteria were a species of Rickettsia; this was confirmed by several PCRs targeting different genes. Subsequent sequencing showed 99-100 % identity with R. raoultii. Cryopreservation and resuscitation of R. raoultii was successful. After 28 days identical intracellular bacteria were microscopically observed. R. raoultii was successfully isolated and propagated from D. reticulatus ticks using R. microplus BME/CTVM2 cells. The isolated strain shows significant molecular variation compared to currently known sequences. Furthermore we show for the first time the successful cryopreservation and resuscitation of R. raoultii.

Inflammatory memory sensitizes skin epithelial stem cells to tissue damage.

PubMed

Naik, Shruti; Larsen, Samantha B; Gomez, Nicholas C; Alaverdyan, Kirill; Sendoel, Ataman; Yuan, Shaopeng; Polak, Lisa; Kulukian, Anita; Chai, Sophia; Fuchs, Elaine

2017-10-26

The skin barrier is the body's first line of defence against environmental assaults, and is maintained by epithelial stem cells (EpSCs). Despite the vulnerability of EpSCs to inflammatory pressures, neither the primary response to inflammation nor its enduring consequences are well understood. Here we report a prolonged memory to acute inflammation that enables mouse EpSCs to hasten barrier restoration after subsequent tissue damage. This functional adaptation does not require skin-resident macrophages or T cells. Instead, EpSCs maintain chromosomal accessibility at key stress response genes that are activated by the primary stimulus. Upon a secondary challenge, genes governed by these domains are transcribed rapidly. Fuelling this memory is Aim2, which encodes an activator of the inflammasome. The absence of AIM2 or its downstream effectors, caspase-1 and interleukin-1β, erases the ability of EpSCs to recollect inflammation. Although EpSCs benefit from inflammatory tuning by heightening their responsiveness to subsequent stressors, this enhanced sensitivity probably increases their susceptibility to autoimmune and hyperproliferative disorders, including cancer.

Record Efficiency on Large Area P-Type Czochralski Silicon Substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hallam, Brett; Wenham, Stuart; Lee, Haeseok; Lee, Eunjoo; Lee, Hyunwoo; Kim, Jisun; Shin, Jeongeun; Cho, Kyeongyeon; Kim, Jisoo

2012-10-01

In this work we report a world record independently confirmed efficiency of 19.4% for a large area p-type Czochralski grown solar cell fabricated with a full area aluminium back surface field. This is achieved using the laser doped selective emitter solar cell technology on an industrial screen print production line with the addition of laser doping and light induced plating equipment. The use of a modified diffusion process is explored in which the emitter is diffused to a sheet resistance of 90 Ω/square and subsequent etch back of the emitter to 120 Ω/square. This results in a lower surface concentration of phosphorus compared to that of emitters diffused directly to 120 Ω/square. This modified diffusion process subsequently reduces the conductivity of the surface in relation to that of the heavily diffused laser doped contacts and avoids parasitic plating, resulting an average absolute increase in efficiency of 0.4% compared to cells fabricated without an emitter etch back process.

Neuron-like PC12 cell patterning on a photoactive self-assembled monolayer.

PubMed

Cheng, Nan; Cao, Xudong

2013-11-01

A new approach to pattern cells using photochemistry and self-assembled monolayer (SAM) was described in this study. Photocleavable 4,5-dimethoxy-2-nitrobenzyl chloroformate (NVOC) protected amine on an alkanethiol-gold SAM was developed for cell patterning. The cleavage of NVOC and the deprotection of amines on the SAM were controlled spatially by two sequential UV exposures with a photomask. Biomolecule patterning was achieved by introducing cell nonadhesive poly(ethylene glycol) after the first exposure and subsequently cell adhesive protein laminin after the second exposure to create surface cell adhesiveness differential for cell patterning. UV-Vis spectrophotometry was used to determine the photolysis of caged self-assembled molecules; in addition, water contact angle, atomic force microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize properties of different surfaces. To test the efficacy of resulting surfaces in patterning cells, a neuron-like cell line, PC12 cell line, was used. The in vitro cell studies showed successful PC12 cell patterns on the photoactive SAM surfaces. This patterning technique is unique in that it does not rely on cell adhesive or nonadhesive properties of the starting base material as both cell adhesive and cell nonadhesive molecules were individually introduced onto the base material surface through photo-uncaging at preselected regions for the ultimate cell patterning. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Growth-inhibitory and antiangiogenic activity of the MEK inhibitor PD0325901 in malignant melanoma with or without BRAF mutations.

PubMed

Ciuffreda, Ludovica; Del Bufalo, Donatella; Desideri, Marianna; Di Sanza, Cristina; Stoppacciaro, Antonella; Ricciardi, Maria Rosaria; Chiaretti, Sabina; Tavolaro, Simona; Benassi, Barbara; Bellacosa, Alfonso; Foà, Robin; Tafuri, Agostino; Cognetti, Francesco; Anichini, Andrea; Zupi, Gabriella; Milella, Michele

2009-08-01

The Raf/MEK/ERK pathway is an important mediator of tumor cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Here, we investigated the growth-inhibitory and antiangiogenic properties of PD0325901, a novel MEK inhibitor, in human melanoma cells. PD0325901 effects were determined in a panel of melanoma cell lines with different genetic aberrations. PD0325901 markedly inhibited ERK phosphorylation and growth of both BRAF mutant and wild-type melanoma cell lines, with IC(50) in the nanomolar range even in the least responsive models. Growth inhibition was observed both in vitro and in vivo in xenograft models, regardless of BRAF mutation status, and was due to G(1)-phase cell cycle arrest and subsequent induction of apoptosis. Cell cycle (cyclin D1, c-Myc, and p27(KIP1)) and apoptosis (Bcl-2 and survivin) regulators were modulated by PD0325901 at the protein level. Gene expression profiling revealed profound modulation of several genes involved in the negative control of MAPK signaling and melanoma cell differentiation, suggesting alternative, potentially relevant mechanisms of action. Finally, PD0325901 inhibited the production of the proangiogenic factors vascular endothelial growth factor and interleukin 8 at a transcriptional level. In conclusion, PD0325901 exerts potent growth-inhibitory, proapoptotic, and antiangiogenic activity in melanoma lines, regardless of their BRAF mutation status. Deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms of action of MEK inhibitors will likely translate into more effective treatment strategies for patients experiencing malignant melanoma.

Growth-Inhibitory and Antiangiogenic Activity of the MEK Inhibitor PD0325901 in Malignant Melanoma with or without BRAF Mutations12

PubMed Central

Ciuffreda, Ludovica; Del Bufalo, Donatella; Desideri, Marianna; Di Sanza, Cristina; Stoppacciaro, Antonella; Ricciardi, Maria Rosaria; Chiaretti, Sabina; Tavolaro, Simona; Benassi, Barbara; Bellacosa, Alfonso; Foà, Robin; Tafuri, Agostino; Cognetti, Francesco; Anichini, Andrea; Zupi, Gabriella; Milella, Michele

2009-01-01

The Raf/MEK/ERK pathway is an important mediator of tumor cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Here, we investigated the growth-inhibitory and antiangiogenic properties of PD0325901, a novel MEK inhibitor, in human melanoma cells. PD0325901 effects were determined in a panel of melanoma cell lines with different genetic aberrations. PD0325901 markedly inhibited ERK phosphorylation and growth of both BRAF mutant and wild-type melanoma cell lines, with IC50 in the nanomolar range even in the least responsive models. Growth inhibition was observed both in vitro and in vivo in xenograft models, regardless of BRAF mutation status, and was due to G1-phase cell cycle arrest and subsequent induction of apoptosis. Cell cycle (cyclin D1, c-Myc, and p27KIP1) and apoptosis (Bcl-2 and survivin) regulators were modulated by PD0325901 at the protein level. Gene expression profiling revealed profound modulation of several genes involved in the negative control of MAPK signaling and melanoma cell differentiation, suggesting alternative, potentially relevant mechanisms of action. Finally, PD0325901 inhibited the production of the proangiogenic factors vascular endothelial growth factor and interleukin 8 at a transcriptional level. In conclusion, PD0325901 exerts potent growth-inhibitory, proapoptotic, and antiangiogenic activity in melanoma lines, regardless of their BRAF mutation status. Deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms of action of MEK inhibitors will likely translate into more effective treatment strategies for patients experiencing malignant melanoma. PMID:19649202

Dual mTORC1/2 inhibition induces anti-proliferative effect in NF1-associated plexiform neurofibroma and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor cells

PubMed Central

Hivelin, Mikael; Nusbaum, Patrick; Hubas, Arnaud; Laurendeau, Ingrid; Lantieri, Laurent; Wolkenstein, Pierre; Vidaud, Michel; Pasmant, Eric; Chapuis, Nicolas; Parfait, Béatrice

2016-01-01

Approximately 30-50% of individuals with Neurofibromatosis type 1 develop benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors, called plexiform neurofibromas (PNFs). PNFs can undergo malignant transformation to highly metastatic malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) in 5-10% of NF1 patients, with poor prognosis. No effective systemic therapy is currently available for unresectable tumors. In tumors, the NF1 gene deficiency leads to Ras hyperactivation causing the subsequent activation of the AKT/mTOR and Raf/MEK/ERK pathways and inducing multiple cellular responses including cell proliferation. In this study, three NF1-null MPNST-derived cell lines (90-8, 88-14 and 96-2), STS26T sporadic MPNST cell line and PNF-derived primary Schwann cells were used to test responses to AZD8055, an ATP-competitive “active-site” mTOR inhibitor. In contrast to rapamycin treatment which only partially affected mTORC1 signaling, AZD8055 induced a strong inhibition of mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling in MPNST-derived cell lines and PNF-derived Schwann cells. AZD8055 induced full blockade of mTORC1 leading to an efficient decrease of global protein synthesis. A higher cytotoxic effect was observed with AZD8055 compared to rapamycin in the NF1-null MPNST-derived cell lines with IC50 ranging from 70 to 140 nM and antiproliferative effect was confirmed in PNF-derived Schwann cells. Cell migration was impaired by AZD8055 treatment and cell cycle analysis showed a G0/G1 arrest. Combined effects of AZD8055 and PD0325901 MEK inhibitor as well as BRD4 (BromoDomain-containing protein 4) inhibitors showed a synergistic antiproliferative effect. These data suggest that NF1-associated peripheral nerve sheath tumors are an ideal target for AZD8055 as a single molecule or in combined therapies. PMID:26840085

Ku70 inhibits gemcitabine-induced DNA damage and pancreatic cancer cell apoptosis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ma, Jiali; Hui, Pingping; Meng, Wenying

The current study focused on the role of Ku70, a DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) complex protein, in pancreatic cancer cell resistance to gemcitabine. In both established cell lines (Mia-PaCa-2 and PANC-1) and primary human pancreatic cancer cells, shRNA/siRNA-mediated knockdown of Ku70 significantly sensitized gemcitabine-induced cell death and proliferation inhibition. Meanwhile, gemcitabine-induced DNA damage and subsequent pancreatic cancer cell apoptosis were also potentiated with Ku70 knockdown. On the other hand, exogenous overexpression of Ku70 in Mia-PaCa-2 cells suppressed gemcitabine-induced DNA damage and subsequent cell apoptosis. In a severe combined immune deficient (SCID) mice Mia-PaCa-2 xenograft model, gemcitabine-induced anti-tumor activity was remarkably pontificatedmore » when combined with Ku70 shRNA knockdown in the xenografts. The results of this preclinical study imply that Ku70 might be a primary resistance factor of gemcitabine, and Ku70 silence could significantly chemo-sensitize gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer cells. - Highlights: • Ku70 knockdown sensitizes gemcitabine-induced killing of pancreatic cancer cells. • Ku70 knockdown facilitates gemcitabine-induced DNA damage and cell apoptosis. • Ku70 overexpression deceases gemcitabine's sensitivity in pancreatic cancer cells. • Ku70 knockdown sensitizes gemcitabine-induced anti-tumor activity in vivo.« less

E-cadherin expression increases cell proliferation by regulating energy metabolism through nuclear factor-κB in AGS cells.

PubMed

Park, Song Yi; Shin, Jee-Hye; Kee, Sun-Ho

2017-09-01

β-Catenin is a central player in Wnt signaling, and activation of Wnt signaling is associated with cancer development. E-cadherin in complex with β-catenin mediates cell-cell adhesion, which suppresses β-catenin-dependent Wnt signaling. Recently, a tumor-suppressive role for E-cadherin has been reconsidered, as re-expression of E-cadherin was reported to enhance the metastatic potential of malignant tumors. To explore the role of E-cadherin, we established an E-cadherin-expressing cell line, EC96, from AGS cells that featured undetectable E-cadherin expression and a high level of Wnt signaling. In EC96 cells, E-cadherin re-expression enhanced cell proliferation, although Wnt signaling activity was reduced. Subsequent analysis revealed that nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and consequent c-myc expression might be involved in E-cadherin expression-mediated cell proliferation. To facilitate rapid proliferation, EC96 cells enhance glucose uptake and produce ATP using both mitochondria oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis, whereas AGS cells use these mechanisms less efficiently. These events appeared to be mediated by NF-κB activation. Therefore, E-cadherin re-expression and subsequent induction of NF-κB signaling likely enhance energy production and cell proliferation. © 2017 The Authors. Cancer Science published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Japanese Cancer Association.

Detection of Virus-Specific CD8+ T Cells With Cross-Reactivity Against Alloantigens: Potency and Flaws of Present Experimental Methods

PubMed Central

van den Heuvel, Heleen; Heutinck, Kirstin M.; van der Meer-Prins, Ellen P.M.W.; Yong, Si La; Claas, Frans H.J.; ten Berge, Ineke J.M.

2015-01-01

Background Virus-specific T cells have the intrinsic capacity to cross-react against allogeneic HLA antigens, a phenomenon known as heterologous immunity. In transplantation, these cells may contribute to the alloimmune response and negatively impact graft outcome. This study describes the various techniques that can be used to detect heterologous immune responses of virus-specific CD8+ T cells against allogeneic HLA antigens. The strengths and weaknesses of the different approaches are discussed and illustrated by experimental data. Methods Mixed-lymphocyte reactions (MLRs) were performed to detect allo-HLA cross-reactivity of virus-specific CD8+ T cells in total peripheral blood mononuclear cells. T-cell lines and clones were generated to confirm allo-HLA cross-reactivity by IFNγ production and cytotoxicity. In addition, the conventional MLR protocol was adjusted by introducing a 3-day resting phase and subsequent short restimulation with alloantigen or viral peptide, whereupon the expression of IFNγ, IL-2, CD107a, and CD137 was determined. Results The accuracy of conventional MLR is challenged by potential bystander activation. T-cell lines and clones can circumvent this issue, yet their generation is laborious and time-consuming. Using the adjusted MLR and restimulation protocol, we found that only truly cross-reactive T cells responded to re-encounter of alloantigen and viral peptide, whereas bystander-activated cells did not. Conclusions The introduction of a restimulation phase improved the accuracy of the MLR as a screening tool for the detection of allo-HLA cross-reactivity by virus-specific CD8+ T cells at bulk level. For detailed characterization of cross-reactive cells, T-cell lines and clones remain the golden standard. PMID:27500209

Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus I Tax Protein Sensitizes p53-Mutant Cells to DNA Damage

PubMed Central

Mihaylova, Valia T.; Green, Allison M.; Khurgel, Moshe; Semmes, Oliver J.; Kupfer, Gary M.

2018-01-01

Mutations in p53 are a common cause of resistance of cancers to standard chemotherapy and, thus, treatment failure. Reports have shown that Tax, a human T-cell leukemia virus type I encoded protein that has been associated with genomic instability and perturbation of transcription and cell cycle, sensitizes HeLa cells to UV treatment. The extent to which Tax can sensitize cells and the mechanism by which it exerts its effect are unknown. In this study, we show that Tax sensitizes p53-mutant cells to a broad range of DNA-damaging agents, including mitomycin C, a bifunctional alkylator, etoposide, a topoisomerase II drug, and UV light, but not ionizing radiation, a double-strand break agent, or vinblastine, a tubulin poison. Tax caused hypersensitivity in all p53-deleted cell lines and several, but not all, mutant-expressed p53–containing cell lines, while unexpectedly being protective in p53 wild-type (wt) cells. The effect observed in p53-deleted lines could be reversed for this by transfection of wt p53. We also show that Tax activates a p53-independent proapoptotic program through decreased expression of the retinoblastoma protein and subsequent increased E2F1 expression. The expression of several proapoptotic proteins was also induced by Tax, including Puma and Noxa, culminating in a substantial increase in Bax dimerization. Our results show that Tax can sensitize p53-mutant cells to DNA damage while protecting p53 wt cells, a side benefit that might result in reduced toxicity in normal cells. Such studies hold the promise of a novel adjunctive therapy that could make cancer chemotherapy more effective. PMID:18559532

Hydroxyapatite nanocrystals functionalized with alendronate as bioactive components for bone implant coatings to decrease osteoclastic activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bosco, Ruggero; Iafisco, Michele; Tampieri, Anna; Jansen, John A.; Leeuwenburgh, Sander C. G.; van den Beucken, Jeroen J. J. P.

2015-02-01

The integration of bone implants within native bone tissue depends on periprosthetic bone quality, which is severely decreased in osteoporotic patients. In this work, we have synthesized bone-like hydroxyapatite nanocrystals (nHA) using an acid-base neutralization reaction and analysed their physicochemical properties. Subsequently, we have functionalized the nHA with alendronate (nHAALE), a well-known bisphosphonate drug used for the treatment of osteoporosis. An in vitro osteoclastogenesis test was carried out to evaluate the effect of nHAALE on the formation of osteoclast-like cells from monocytic precursor cells (i.e. RAW264.7 cell line) showing that nHAALE significantly promoted apoptosis of osteoclast-like cells. Subsequently, nHA and nHAALE were deposited on titanium disks using electrospray deposition (ESD), for which characterisation of the deposited coatings confirmed the presence of alendronate in nHAALE coatings with nanoscale thickness of about 700 nm. These results indicate that alendronate linked to hydroxyapatite nanocrystals has therapeutic potential and nHAALE can be considered as an appealing coating constituent material for orthopaedic and oral implants for application in osteoporotic patients.

Corrective recombination of mouse immunoglobulin kappa alleles in Abelson murine leukemia virus-transformed pre-B cells.

PubMed Central

Feddersen, R M; Van Ness, B G

1990-01-01

Previous characterization of mouse immunoglobulin kappa gene rearrangement products cloned from murine plasmacytomas has indicated that two recombination events can take place on a single kappa allele (R. M. Feddersen and B. G. Van Ness, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 82:4792-4797, 1985; M. A. Shapiro and M. Weigert, J. Immunol. 139:3834-3839, 1987). To determine whether multiple recombinations on a single kappa allele can contribute to the formation of productive V-J genes through corrective recombinations, we have examined several Abelson murine leukemia virus-transformed pre-B-cell clones which rearrange the kappa locus during cell culture. Clonal cell lines which had rearranged one kappa allele nonproductively while maintaining the other allele in the germ line configuration were grown, and secondary subclones, which subsequently expressed kappa protein, were isolated and examined for further kappa rearrangement. A full spectrum of rearrangement patterns was observed in this sequential cloning, including productive and nonproductive recombinations of the germ line allele and secondary recombinations of the nonproductive allele. The results show that corrective V-J recombinations, with displacement of the nonproductive kappa gene, occur with a significant frequency (6 of 17 kappa-producing subclones). Both deletion and maintenance of the primary (nonfunctional) V-J join, as a reciprocal product, were observed. Images PMID:2153918

Failure of matrix metalloproteinase-9 dimer induction by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate in normal human cell lines.

PubMed

Waheed Roomi, Mohd; Kalinovsky, Tatiana; Rath, Matthias; Niedzwiecki, Aleksandra

2015-06-01

Increasing experimental and clinical data has identified an association between increased levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and shortened patient survival, cancer progression and metastasis. MMP-9 has a significant role in tumor cell invasion and metastasis, as it digests the basement membrane and components of the extracellular matrix. MMP-9 is secreted in either a monomeric or dimeric form. Although limited evidence exists concerning MMP-9 dimers, certain studies have demonstrated that the dimer is associated with aggressive tumor progression. This is believed to be due to the fact that cellular migration depends upon the MMP-9 dimer, and not the monomer. Our previous study revealed that cancer cell MMP-9 dimer secretion patterns could be divided into different categories, and that high MMP-9 and MMP-9 dimer secretion levels were correlated with the most aggressive cancer cell lines. It has been established that signal transduction pathways and cytokines, including those activated by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), regulate the expression of MMPs. The aim of the present study was to analyze the expression patterns of MMP-2, MMP-9 and MMP-9 dimer in normal human cells from a number of tissues treated with PMA. Muscle, epithelial and connective tissues were selected for use in the present study, since adenosarcomas, carcinomas and sarcomas are derived from these tissue types, respectively. The cell lines were first cultured in 24-well tissue culture plates containing recommended media that was supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and antibiotics. When at confluency, the cells were washed and fresh medium was added. In addition, a parallel set of cultures was treated with PMA. Subsequent to a 24-h incubation period, the media were collected and analyzed using gelatinase zymography for the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 monomer and dimer forms. The results revealed that the cellular expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was dependent upon the primary tissue subtype. All cell lines, regardless of tissue origin, expressed MMP-2. PMA induced the expression of MMP-9 in muscle tissue, glandular epithelia and supportive connective tissue cell lines. By contrast, cell lines of endothelial origin and proper connective tissue were insensitive to treatment with PMA. MMP-9 dimer secretion was not observed in any of the cell lines, which indicated that cellular migration is not supported by these cells.

Generation and Characterisation of Cisplatin-Resistant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Lines Displaying a Stem-Like Signature

PubMed Central

Barr, Martin P.; Gray, Steven G.; Hoffmann, Andreas C.; Hilger, Ralf A.; Thomale, Juergen; O’Flaherty, John D.; Fennell, Dean A.; Richard, Derek; O’Leary, John J.; O’Byrne, Kenneth J.

2013-01-01

Introduction Inherent and acquired cisplatin resistance reduces the effectiveness of this agent in the management of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying this process may result in the development of novel agents to enhance the sensitivity of cisplatin. Methods An isogenic model of cisplatin resistance was generated in a panel of NSCLC cell lines (A549, SKMES-1, MOR, H460). Over a period of twelve months, cisplatin resistant (CisR) cell lines were derived from original, age-matched parent cells (PT) and subsequently characterized. Proliferation (MTT) and clonogenic survival assays (crystal violet) were carried out between PT and CisR cells. Cellular response to cisplatin-induced apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were examined by FACS analysis. A panel of cancer stem cell and pluripotent markers was examined in addition to the EMT proteins, c-Met and β-catenin. Cisplatin-DNA adduct formation, DNA damage (γH2AX) and cellular platinum uptake (ICP-MS) was also assessed. Results Characterisation studies demonstrated a decreased proliferative capacity of lung tumour cells in response to cisplatin, increased resistance to cisplatin-induced cell death, accumulation of resistant cells in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle and enhanced clonogenic survival ability. Moreover, resistant cells displayed a putative stem-like signature with increased expression of CD133+/CD44+cells and increased ALDH activity relative to their corresponding parental cells. The stem cell markers, Nanog, Oct-4 and SOX-2, were significantly upregulated as were the EMT markers, c-Met and β-catenin. While resistant sublines demonstrated decreased uptake of cisplatin in response to treatment, reduced cisplatin-GpG DNA adduct formation and significantly decreased γH2AX foci were observed compared to parental cell lines. Conclusion Our results identified cisplatin resistant subpopulations of NSCLC cells with a putative stem-like signature, providing a further understanding of the cellular events associated with the cisplatin resistance phenotype in lung cancer. PMID:23349823

[Preparation and application of monoclonal antibodies against DR region of Na+-K+-ATPase α1 subunit].

PubMed

Yan, Xiaofei; Wu, Litao; DU, Xiaojuan; Li, Jing; Zhang, Fujun; Han, Yan; Lyu, Shemin; Li, Dongmin

2016-12-01

Objective To prepare monoclonal antibodies against DR region (897DVEDSYGQQWTYEQR911) of Na + -K + -ATPase α1 subunit and identify their properties. Methods BALB/c mice were immunized with DR-keyholelimpet hemocyanin (KLH). Splenocytes from the immunized mice were collected and subsequently fused with SP2/0 mouse myeloma cells. Positive hybridoma clones were obtained after cell fusion and selection. ELISA was used to detect DR antibody titer in the cell supernatants. DR region-specific monoclonal antibodies were analyzed by dot blotting, Western blotting and immunofluorescence assay. Na + -K + -ATPase activity was detected by SensoLyte R FDP Protein Phosphatase Assay Kit and the protective effect of the monoclonal antibody against high glucose-induced cell injury was assessed in H9c2 cells. Results Three hybridoma cell lines which secreted stable DR monoclonal antibody were obtained. The strongest positive cell line, named DRm217, was selected to prepare ascites. Dot blotting, Western blotting and immunofluorescence assay showed that DRm217 recognized specially DR region of Na + -K + -ATPase and bound on H9c2 cell membranes. DRm217 stimulated Na + -K + -ATPase activity and alleviated high glucose-induced H9c2 cells injury. Conclusion The monoclonal antibodies against DR region of Na + -K + -ATPase α1 subunit is prepared.

Metabolic signature of breast cancer cell line MCF-7: profiling of modified nucleosides via LC-IT MS coupling.

PubMed

Bullinger, Dino; Neubauer, Hans; Fehm, Tanja; Laufer, Stefan; Gleiter, Christoph H; Kammerer, Bernd

2007-11-29

Cancer, like other diseases accompanied by strong metabolic disorders, shows characteristic effects on cell turnover rate, activity of modifying enzymes and DNA/RNA modifications, resulting also in elevated amounts of excreted modified nucleosides. For a better understanding of the impaired RNA metabolism in breast cancer cells, we screened these metabolites in the cell culture supernatants of the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 and compared it to the human mammary epithelial cells MCF-10A. The nucleosides were isolated and analyzed via 2D-chromatographic techniques: In the first dimension by cis-diol specific boronate affinity extraction and subsequently by reversed phase chromatography coupled to an ion trap mass spectrometer. Besides the determination of ribonucleosides, additional compounds with cis-diol structure, deriving from cross-linked biochemical pathways, like purine-, histidine- and polyamine metabolism were detected. In total, 36 metabolites were identified by comparison of fragmentation patterns and retention time. Relation to the internal standard isoguanosine yielded normalized area ratios for each identified compound and enabled a semi-quantitative metabolic signature of both analyzed cell lines.13 of the identified 26 modified ribonucleosides were elevated in the cell culture supernatants of MCF-7 cells, with 5-methyluridine, N2,N2,7-trimethylguanosine, N6-methyl-N6-threonylcarbamoyladenosine and 3-(3-aminocarboxypropyl)-uridine showing the most significant differences. 1-ribosylimidazole-4-acetic acid, a histamine metabolite, was solely found in the supernatants of MCF-10A cells, whereas 1-ribosyl-4-carboxamido-5-aminoimidazole and S-adenosylmethionine occurred only in supernatants of MCF-7 cells. The obtained results are discussed against the background of pathological changes in cell metabolism, resulting in new perspectives for modified nucleosides and related metabolites as possible biomedical markers for breast carcinoma in vivo.

Effect of Procyanidin-rich Extract from Natural Cocoa Powder on Cellular Viability, Cell Cycle Progression, and Chemoresistance in Human Epithelial Ovarian Carcinoma Cell Lines

PubMed Central

Taparia, Shruti; Khanna, Aparna

2016-01-01

Background: Over the last 400 years, cocoa and chocolate have been described as having potential medicinal value, being consumed as a beverage or eaten as food. Concentration–dependant, antiproliferation, and cytotoxic effects of some of their polyphenolic constituents have been demonstrated against various cancers. Such an effect remains to be demonstrated in ovarian cancer Objective: To investigate the effect of cocoa procyanidins against ovarian cancer in vitro using OAW42 and OVCAR3 cell lines. Materials and Methods: Cocoa procyanidins were extracted and enriched from non alkalized cocoa powder. The polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity were determined. Effect on cell viability was determined after the treatment with ≤1000 μg/mL cocoa procyanidin-rich extract on OAW42 and OVCAR3 and normal human dermal fibroblasts. Similarly, chemosensitization effect was determined by pretreating cancer cell lines with extract followed by doxorubicin hydrochloride treatment. The effect of treatment on cell cycle and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) expression was determined using flow cytometry. Results: The cocoa extract showed high polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity. Treatment with extract caused cytotoxicity and chemosensitization in OAW42 and OVCAR3 cell lines. Normal dermal fibroblasts showed an increase in cell viability post treatment with extract. Treatment with extract affected the cell cycle and an increasing percentage of cells in hypodiploid sub-G1/G0 phase was observed. Treatment of OVCAR3 with the extract caused reduction of P-gp expression. Conclusion: Cocoa procyanidins were found to be selectively cytotoxic against epithelial ovarian cancer, interfered with the normal cell cycle and sensitized cells to subsequent chemotherapeutic treatment. Chemosensitization was found to be associated with P-gp reduction in OVCAR3 cells. SUMMARY Among the naturally occurring flavonoids, procyanidins have been shown to be effective against cancersNon alkalized cocoa powder is one of the richest sources of procyanidinsCocoa procyanidin-rich extract (CPRE) caused cytotoxicity and chemosensitization in ovarian carcinoma cell lines OAW42 and OVCAR3CPRE affected normal cell cycle progressionCPRE also downregulated P-glycoprotein, which mediates chemoresistance in multidrug-resistant OVCAR3 cell line. Abbreviations used: P-gp: P-glycoprotein, CPRE: Cocoa procyanidin rich extract, DMAC: 4-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde, DPPH: Diphenylpicrylhydrazyl, ABTS: 2,2’;-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), PI: Propidium iodide, FITC: Fluorescein isothiocyanate, MTT: 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, TLC: Thin layer chromatography, HPTLC: High-performance thin layer chromatography. PMID:27279694

A Benzothiazole Derivative (5g) Induces DNA Damage And Potent G2/M Arrest In Cancer Cells.

PubMed

Hegde, Mahesh; Vartak, Supriya V; Kavitha, Chandagirikoppal V; Ananda, Hanumappa; Prasanna, Doddakunche S; Gopalakrishnan, Vidya; Choudhary, Bibha; Rangappa, Kanchugarakoppal S; Raghavan, Sathees C

2017-05-31

Chemically synthesized small molecules play important role in anticancer therapy. Several chemical compounds have been reported to damage the DNA, either directly or indirectly slowing down the cancer cell progression by causing a cell cycle arrest. Direct or indirect reactive oxygen species formation causes DNA damage leading to cell cycle arrest and subsequent cell death. Therefore, identification of chemically synthesized compounds with anticancer potential is important. Here we investigate the effect of benzothiazole derivative (5g) for its ability to inhibit cell proliferation in different cancer models. Interestingly, 5g interfered with cell proliferation in both, cell lines and tumor cells leading to significant G2/M arrest. 5g treatment resulted in elevated levels of ROS and subsequently, DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) explaining observed G2/M arrest. Consistently, we observed deregulation of many cell cycle associated proteins such as CDK1, BCL2 and their phosphorylated form, CyclinB1, CDC25c etc. Besides, 5g treatment led to decreased levels of mitochondrial membrane potential and activation of apoptosis. Interestingly, 5g administration inhibited tumor growth in mice without significant side effects. Thus, our study identifies 5g as a potent biochemical inhibitor to induce G2/M phase arrest of the cell cycle, and demonstrates its anticancer properties both ex vivo and in vivo.

The regrowth kinetic of the surviving population is independent of acute and chronic responses to temozolomide in glioblastoma cell lines

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Silva, Andrew Oliveira, E-mail: andrewbiomed@gmail.com; Dalsin, Eloisa, E-mail: dalsineloisa@gmail.com; Onzi, Giovana Ravizzoni, E-mail: gioonzi@gmail.com

Chemotherapy acts on cancer cells by producing multiple effects on a cell population including cell cycle arrest, necrosis, apoptosis and senescence. However, often a subpopulation of cells survives and the behavior of this subpopulation, which is responsible for cancer recurrence, remains obscure. Here we investigated the in vitro short- and long-term responses of six glioblastoma cell lines to clinically relevant doses of temozolomide for 5 days followed by 23 days of recovery, mimicking the standard schedule used in glioblastoma patient for this drug. These cells presented different profiles of sensitivity to temozolomide with varying levels of cell cycle arrest, autophagymore » and senescence, followed by a regrowth of the surviving cells. The initial reduction in cell number and the subsequent regrowth was analyzed with four new parameters applied to Cumulative Population Doubling (CPD) curves that describe the overall sensitivity of the population and the characteristic of the regrowth: the relative end point CPD (RendCPD); the relative Area Under Curve (rAUC); the Relative Time to Cross a Threshold (RTCT); and the Relative Proliferation Rate (RPR). Surprisingly, the kinetics of regrowth were not predicted by the mechanisms activated after treatment nor by the acute or overall sensitivity. With this study we added new parameters that describe key responses of glioblastoma cell populations to temozolomide treatment. These parameters can also be applied to other cell types and treatments and will help to understand the behavior of the surviving cancer cells after treatment and shed light on studies of cancer resistance and recurrence. - Highlights: • Little is known about the behavior of the glioma cells surviving to TMZ. • The short- and long-term response of six glioma cells lines to TMZ varies considerably. • These glioma cells lines recovered proliferation after therapeutic levels of TMZ. • The growth velocity of the surviving cells was different from the untreated cells. • The kinetic of regrowth was not predicted by any TMZ-triggered mechanism.« less

No adaptive response is induced by chronic low-dose radiation from Ra-226 in the CHSE/F fish embryonic cell line and the HaCaT human epithelial cell line

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shi, Xiaopei, E-mail: shix22@mcmaster.ca; Mothersi

Purpose: To determine whether chronic low-dose α-particle radiation from Ra-226 over multiple cell generations can lead to an adaptive response in CHSE/F fish embryonic cells or HaCaT human epithelial cells receiving subsequent acute high-dose γ-ray radiation. Methods: CHSE/F and HaCaT cells were exposed to very low doses of Ra-226 in medium for multiple generations prior to being challenged by a higher dose γ-ray radiation. The clonogenic assay was used to test the clonogenic survival of cells with or without being pretreated by radiation from Ra-226. Results: In general, pretreatment with chronic radiation has no significant influence on the reaction ofmore » cells to the subsequent challenge radiation. Compared to unprimed cells, the change in clonogenic survival of primed cells after receiving challenge radiation is mainly due to the influence of the chronic exposure, and there's little adaptive response induced. However at several dose points, pretreatment of CHSE/F fish cells with chronic radiation resulted in a radiosensitive response to a challenge dose of γ-ray radiation, and pretreatment of HaCaT cells resulted in no effect except for a slightly radioresistant response to the challenge radiation which was not significant. Conclusion: The results suggest that chronic low-dose radiation is not effective enough to induce adaptive response. There was a difference between human and fish cells and it may be important to consider results from multiple species before making conclusions about effects of chronic or low doses of radiation in the environment. The term “radiosensitive” or “adaptive” make no judgment about whether such responses are ultimately beneficial or harmful. - Highlights: • No obvious adaptive response is induced by chronic low-dose radiation from Ra-226. • Priming radiation from Ra-226 sensitized CHSE/F cells to the challenge radiation. • Linear model is inconsistent with current work using chronic low-dose radiation.« less

Tumor cell differentiation by label-free microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneckenburger, Herbert; Weber, Petra; Wagner, Michael

2013-05-01

Autofluorescence and Raman measurements of U251-MG glioblastoma cells prior and subsequent to activation of tumor suppressor genes are compared. While phase contrast images and fluorescence intensity patterns of the tumor (control) cells and the less malignant cells are similar, differences can be deduced from fluorescence spectra and nanosecond decay times. In particular, upon excitation around 375nm, the fluorescence ratio of the protein bound and the free coenzyme NADH depends on the state of malignancy and reflects different cytoplasmic (including lysosomal) and mitochondrial contributions. Slight differences are also observed in the Raman spectra of these cell lines, mainly originating from small granules (lysosomes) surrounding the cell nucleus. While larger numbers of fluorescence and Raman spectra are evaluated by multivariate statistical methods, additional information is obtained from spectral images and fluorescence lifetime images (FLIM).

The potential of deferasirox as a novel therapeutic modality in gastric cancer.

PubMed

Choi, Jung Hye; Kim, Jung Soon; Won, Young Woong; Uhm, Jieun; Park, Byeong Bae; Lee, Young Yiul

2016-03-10

Iron is a crucial element for cell proliferation, growth, and metabolism. However, excess iron and altered iron metabolism are both associated with tumor initiation and tumor growth. Deferasirox is an oral iron chelator. Although some studies have indicated that deferasirox is a promising candidate for anti-cancer therapies, its effectiveness against gastric cancer has not yet been determined. This study was conducted to determine whether deferasirox exerts anti-tumor effects in gastric cancer cell lines and whether deferasirox and cisplatin act synergistically. Four human gastric cancer cell lines (AGS, MKN-28, SNU-484, and SNU-638) were treated with various concentrations of deferasirox to determine the IC50 for each cell line. The effects of deferasirox on the cell cycle were evaluated by flow cytometry, and the effects of deferasirox on iron metabolism, the cell cycle, and apoptosis were assessed by Western blotting. To determine whether deferasirox enhances the effect of cisplatin, AGS cells were cultured in the presence and absence of cisplatin. Deferasirox inhibited the proliferation of all gastric cancer cell lines as assessed by MTT assays. Since the IC50 of deferasirox was the lowest (below 10 μM) in AGS cells, subsequent experiments were performed in this line. Deferasirox upregulated transferrin receptor 1 expression and decreased ferroportin expression. Moreover, deferasirox induced G1 arrest; upregulated p21, p27, and p53 expression; and downregulated cyclin D1, cyclin B, and CDK4 expression. Furthermore, deferasirox induced apoptosis, upregulated N-myc downstream regulated gene 1 (NDRG1), and downregulated p-mTOR and c-myc expression. It was also found to act synergistically with cisplatin. Our results suggest that deferasirox may exert anti-tumor effects in the context of gastric cancer. Deferasirox affects a number of different pathways and molecules; for instance, deferasirox upregulates NDRG1 expression, inhibits the cell cycle, downregulates mTOR and c-myc expression, and induces apoptosis. In addition, deferasirox appears to potentiate the anti-cancer effects of cisplatin. Although the efficacy of deferasirox remains to be tested in future studies, the results presented here indicate that deferasirox is a promising novel anti-cancer therapeutic agent.

Telomere elongation in immortal human cells without detectable telomerase activity.

PubMed Central

Bryan, T M; Englezou, A; Gupta, J; Bacchetti, S; Reddel, R R

1995-01-01

Immortalization of human cells is often associated with reactivation of telomerase, a ribonucleoprotein enzyme that adds TTAGGG repeats onto telomeres and compensates for their shortening. We examined whether telomerase activation is necessary for immortalization. All normal human fibroblasts tested were negative for telomerase activity. Thirteen out of 13 DNA tumor virus-transformed cell cultures were also negative in the pre-crisis (i.e. non-immortalized) stage. Of 35 immortalized cell lines, 20 had telomerase activity as expected, but 15 had no detectable telomerase. The 15 telomerase-negative immortalized cell lines all had very long and heterogeneous telomeres of up to 50 kb. Hybrids between telomerase-negative and telomerase-positive cells senesced. Two senescent hybrids demonstrated telomerase activity, indicating that activation of telomerase is not sufficient for immortalization. Some hybrid clones subsequently recommenced proliferation and became immortalized either with or without telomerase activity. Those without telomerase activity also had very long and heterogeneous telomeres. Taken together, these data suggest that the presence of lengthened or stabilized telomeres is necessary for immortalization, and that this may be achieved either by the reactivation of telomerase or by a novel and as yet unidentified mechanism. Images PMID:7556065

Telomere elongation in immortal human cells without detectable telomerase activity.

PubMed

Bryan, T M; Englezou, A; Gupta, J; Bacchetti, S; Reddel, R R

1995-09-01

Immortalization of human cells is often associated with reactivation of telomerase, a ribonucleoprotein enzyme that adds TTAGGG repeats onto telomeres and compensates for their shortening. We examined whether telomerase activation is necessary for immortalization. All normal human fibroblasts tested were negative for telomerase activity. Thirteen out of 13 DNA tumor virus-transformed cell cultures were also negative in the pre-crisis (i.e. non-immortalized) stage. Of 35 immortalized cell lines, 20 had telomerase activity as expected, but 15 had no detectable telomerase. The 15 telomerase-negative immortalized cell lines all had very long and heterogeneous telomeres of up to 50 kb. Hybrids between telomerase-negative and telomerase-positive cells senesced. Two senescent hybrids demonstrated telomerase activity, indicating that activation of telomerase is not sufficient for immortalization. Some hybrid clones subsequently recommenced proliferation and became immortalized either with or without telomerase activity. Those without telomerase activity also had very long and heterogeneous telomeres. Taken together, these data suggest that the presence of lengthened or stabilized telomeres is necessary for immortalization, and that this may be achieved either by the reactivation of telomerase or by a novel and as yet unidentified mechanism.

Sigma-2 ligands and PARP inhibitors synergistically trigger cell death in breast cancer cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McDonald, Elizabeth S.; Mankoff, Julia; Makvandi, Mehran

The sigma-2 receptor is overexpressed in proliferating cells compared to quiescent cells and has been used as a target for imaging solid tumors by positron emission tomography. Recent work has suggested that the sigma-2 receptor may also be an effective therapeutic target for cancer therapy. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) is a family of enzymes involved in DNA damage response. In this study, we looked for potential synergy of cytotoxicity between PARP inhibitors and sigma-2 receptor ligands in breast cancer cell lines. We showed that the PARP inhibitor, YUN3-6, sensitized mouse breast cancer cell line, EMT6, to sigma-2 receptor ligand (SV119,more » WC-26, and RHM-138) induced cell death determined by cell viability assay and colony forming assay. The PARP inhibitor, olaparib, sensitized tumor cells to a different sigma-2 receptor ligand SW43-induced apoptosis and cell death in human triple negative cell line, MDA-MB-231. Olaparib inhibited PARP activity and cell proliferation, and arrested cells in G2/M phase of the cell cycle in MDA-MB-231 cells. Subsequently cells became sensitized to SW43 induced cell death. In conclusion, the combination of sigma-2 receptor ligands and PARP inhibitors appears to hold promise for synergistically triggering cell death in certain types of breast cancer cells and merits further investigation. - Highlights: • PARPi, YUN3-6 and olaparib, and σ2 ligands, SV119 and SW43, were evaluated. • Mouse and human breast cancer cells, EMT6 and MDA-MB-231 respectively, were used. • YUN3-6 and SV119 synergistically triggered cell death in EMT6 cells. • Olaparib and SW43 additively triggered cell death in MDA-MB-231 cells. • Olaparib arrested cells in G2/M in MDA-MB-231 cells.« less

Induction of antiviral genes, Mx and vig-1, by dsRNA and Chum salmon reovirus in rainbow trout monocyte/macrophage and fibroblast cell lines.

PubMed

DeWitte-Orr, Stephanie J; Leong, Jo-Ann C; Bols, Niels C

2007-09-01

The expression of potential antiviral genes, Mx1, Mx2, Mx3 and vig-1, was studied in two rainbow trout cell lines: monocyte/macrophage RTS11 and fibroblast-like RTG-2. Transcripts were monitored by RT-PCR; Mx protein by Western blotting. In unstimulated cultures Mx1 and vig-1 transcripts were seen occasionally in RTS11 but rarely in RTG-2. A low level of Mx protein was seen in unstimulated RTS11 but not in RTG-2. In both cell lines, Mx and vig-1 transcripts were induced by a dsRNA, poly inosinic: poly cytidylic acid (poly IC), and by Chum salmon reovirus (CSV). Medium conditioned by cells previously exposed to poly IC or CSV and assumed to contain interferon (IFN) induced the antiviral genes in RTS11. However, RTG-2 responded only to medium conditioned by RTG-2 exposed previously to CSV. In both cell lines, poly IC and CSV induced Mx transcripts in the presence of cycloheximide, suggesting a direct induction mechanism, independent of IFN, was also possible. For CSV, ribavirin blocked induction in RTS11 but not in RTG-2, suggesting viral RNA synthesis was required for induction only in RTS11. In both RTS11 and RTG-2 cultures, Mx protein showed enhanced accumulation by 24h after exposure to poly IC and CSV, but subsequently Mx protein levels declined back to control levels in RTS11 but not in RTG-2. These results suggest that Mx can be regulated differently in macrophages and fibroblasts.

[THE OPTIMIZATION OF NUTRITION FUNCTION UNDER SYNDROME OF RESISTANCE TO INSULIN, DISORDER OF FATTY ACIDS' METABOLISM AND ABSORPTION OF GLUCOSE BY CELLS (A LECTURE)].

PubMed

Titov, V N

2016-01-01

The phylogenetic processes continue to proceed in Homo Sapiens. At the very early stages ofphylogenesis, the ancient Archaea that formed mitochondria under symbiotic interaction with later bacterial cells conjointly formed yet another system. In this system, there are no cells' absorption of glucose if it is possible to absorb fatty acids from intercellular medium in the form of unesterfied fatty acids or ketonic bodies--metabolites of fatty acids. This is caused by objectively existed conditions and subsequent availability of substrates at the stages ofphylogenesis: acetate, ketonic bodies, fatty acids and only later glucose. The phylogenetically late insulin used after billions years the same dependencies at formation of regulation ofmetabolism offatty acids and cells' absorption of glucose. In order that syndrome ofresistance ceased to exist as afoundation of metabolic pandemic Homo Sapiens has to understand the following. After successful function ofArchaea+bacterial cells and considered by biology action of insulin for the third time in phylogenesis and using biological function of intelligence the content ofphylogenetically earlier palmitic saturated fatty acid infood can't to exceed possibilities of phylogenetically late lipoproteins to transfer it in intercellular medium and blood and cells to absorb it. It is supposed that at early stages of phylogenesis biological function of intelligence is primarily formed to bring into line "unconformities" of regulation of metabolism against the background of seeming relative biological "perfection". These unconformities were subsequently and separately formed at the level of cells in paracrin regulated cenosises of cells and organs and at the level of organism. The prevention of resistance to insulin basically requires biological function of intelligence, principle of self-restraint, bringing into line multiple desires of Homo Sapiens with much less extensive biological possibilities. The "unconformities" of regulation of metabolism in vivo are etiological factors of all metabolic pandemics including atherosclerosis, metabolic arterial hypertension, obesity and metabolic syndrome Tertiannondatum.

Generation of a novel TRAIL mutant by proline to arginine substitution based on codon bias and its antitumor effects.

PubMed

Zhu, Aijing; Wang, Xiuyun; Huang, Min; Chen, Chen; Yan, Juan; Xu, Qi; Wei, Lijia; Huang, Xianzhou; Zhu, Hong; Yi, Cheng

2017-10-01

TNF ligand superfamily member 10 (TRAIL) is a member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily. The present study was performed in an effort to increase the expression of soluble (s)TRAIL by rebuilding the gene sequence of TRAIL. Three principles based on the codon bias of Escherichia coli were put forward to design the rebuild strategy. Relying on these three principles, a P7R mutation near the N‑terminal region of sTRAIL, named TRAIL‑Mu, was designed. TRAIL‑Mu was subsequently cloned into the PTWIN1 plasmid and expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3). Using a high‑level expression system and a three‑step purification method, soluble TRAIL‑Mu protein reached ~90% of total cellular protein and purity was >95%, demonstrating success in overcoming inclusion body formation. The cytotoxic effect of TRAIL‑Mu was evaluated by sulforhodamine B assay in the MD‑MB‑231, A549, NCI‑H460 and L02 cell lines. The results demonstrated that TRAIL‑Mu exerted stronger antitumor effects on TRAIL‑sensitive tumor cell lines, and was able to partially reverse the resistance of a TRAIL‑resistant tumor cell line. In addition, TRAIL‑Mu exhibited no notable biological effects in a normal liver cell line. The novel TRAIL variant generated in the present study may be useful for the mass production of this important protein for therapeutic purposes.

Characterization of a mast cell line that lacks the extracellular domain of membrane c-kit.

PubMed

Mekori, Y A; Oh, C K; Dastych, J; Goff, J P; Adachi, S; Bianchine, P J; Worobec, A; Semere, T; Pierce, J H; Metcalfe, D D

1997-04-01

Expression of the c-kit proto-oncogene receptor on mast cells is essential for their normal proliferation and maturation as well as for several biological responses such as chemotaxis and attachment. In the present study we report that the interleukin-3 (IL-3)-dependent mast cell line CFTL-15 lacks the extracellular domain of the c-kit receptor. This observation was made after noting that the c-kit ligand stem cell factor (SCF) could not prevent IL-3 deprivation-induced mast cell apoptosis and that CFTL-15 cells did not proliferate in response to SCF. Flow cytometric analysis employing monoclonal anti-c-kit antibodies, and immunogold labelling with analysis by electron microscopy, subsequently showed a diminished expression of c-kit on CFTL-15 cells. There was no identifiable message for the extracellular domain of c-kit in these cells, as determined by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). These previously unrecognized properties of the CFTL-15 mast cell line allowed the examination of other biological consequences of the lack of c-kit on mast cells. Analysing the ability of these cells to adhere to surface-bound fibronectin, it was found that addition of SCF did not increase their adhesion to this substrate, in opposition to what is reported with other mast cells. Similarly, CFTL-15 mast cells did not adhere to fibroblasts, which is known to require c-kit expression. Also, there was no protein tyrosine phosphorylation in these cells in response to SCF. CFTL-15 cells underwent apoptosis on removal of IL-3 coincident with a decrease in endogenous Bcl-2 mRNA. Overexpression of Bcl-2 cDNA prolonged survival of Bcl-2-transfected CFTL-15 cells upon withdrawal of IL-3. Thus, the CFTL-15 cell line that lacks surface c-kit is not able to proliferate in response to SCF, undergoes apoptosis in the presence of SCF, and does not adhere to fibroblasts. These results confirm earlier studies on the functional consequences of c-kit and provide a novel experimental model for further investigation.

Characterization of a mast cell line that lacks the extracellular domain of membrane c-kit.

PubMed Central

Mekori, Y A; Oh, C K; Dastych, J; Goff, J P; Adachi, S; Bianchine, P J; Worobec, A; Semere, T; Pierce, J H; Metcalfe, D D

1997-01-01

Expression of the c-kit proto-oncogene receptor on mast cells is essential for their normal proliferation and maturation as well as for several biological responses such as chemotaxis and attachment. In the present study we report that the interleukin-3 (IL-3)-dependent mast cell line CFTL-15 lacks the extracellular domain of the c-kit receptor. This observation was made after noting that the c-kit ligand stem cell factor (SCF) could not prevent IL-3 deprivation-induced mast cell apoptosis and that CFTL-15 cells did not proliferate in response to SCF. Flow cytometric analysis employing monoclonal anti-c-kit antibodies, and immunogold labelling with analysis by electron microscopy, subsequently showed a diminished expression of c-kit on CFTL-15 cells. There was no identifiable message for the extracellular domain of c-kit in these cells, as determined by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). These previously unrecognized properties of the CFTL-15 mast cell line allowed the examination of other biological consequences of the lack of c-kit on mast cells. Analysing the ability of these cells to adhere to surface-bound fibronectin, it was found that addition of SCF did not increase their adhesion to this substrate, in opposition to what is reported with other mast cells. Similarly, CFTL-15 mast cells did not adhere to fibroblasts, which is known to require c-kit expression. Also, there was no protein tyrosine phosphorylation in these cells in response to SCF. CFTL-15 cells underwent apoptosis on removal of IL-3 coincident with a decrease in endogenous Bcl-2 mRNA. Overexpression of Bcl-2 cDNA prolonged survival of Bcl-2-transfected CFTL-15 cells upon withdrawal of IL-3. Thus, the CFTL-15 cell line that lacks surface c-kit is not able to proliferate in response to SCF, undergoes apoptosis in the presence of SCF, and does not adhere to fibroblasts. These results confirm earlier studies on the functional consequences of c-kit and provide a novel experimental model for further investigation. Images Figure 4 Figure 6 Figure 7 Figure 8 PMID:9176104

Effects of continuous wave and fractionated diode laser on human fibroblast cancer and dermal normal cells by zinc phthalocyanine in photodynamic therapy: A comparative study.

PubMed

Navaeipour, Farzaneh; Afsharan, Hadi; Tajalli, Habib; Mollabashi, Mahmood; Ranjbari, Farideh; Montaseri, Azadeh; Rashidi, Mohammad-Reza

2016-08-01

In this experimental study, cancer and normal cells behavior during an in vitro photodynamic therapy (PDT) under exposure of continuous wave (CW) and fractionated mode of laser with different irradiation power and time intervals was compared and investigated. At the first, human fibroblast cancer cell line (SW 872) and human dermal normal (HFFF2) cell line were incubated with different concentrations of zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc), as a PDT drug. The cells, then, were irradiated with a 675nm diode laser and the cell viability was evaluated using MTT assay. Under optimized conditions, the viability of the cancer cells was eventually reduced to 3.23% and 13.17%, and that of normal cells was decreased to 20.83% and 36.23% using CW and fractionated diode lasers, respectively. In general, the ratio of ZnPc LD50 values for the normal cells to the cancer cells with CW laser was much higher than that of the fractionated laser. Subsequently, cancer cells in comparison with normal ones were found to be more sensitive toward the photodynamic damage induced by ZnPc. In addition, treatment with CW laser was found to be more effective against the cancer cells with a lower toxicity to the normal cells compared with the fractionated diode laser. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Exploring the effects of cell seeding density on the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells to brain microvascular endothelial cells.

PubMed

Wilson, Hannah K; Canfield, Scott G; Hjortness, Michael K; Palecek, Sean P; Shusta, Eric V

2015-05-21

Brain microvascular-like endothelial cells (BMECs) derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have significant promise as tools for drug screening and studying the structure and function of the BBB in health and disease. The density of hPSCs is a key factor in regulating cell fate and yield during differentiation. Prior reports of hPSC differentiation to BMECs have seeded hPSCs in aggregates, leading to non-uniform cell densities that may result in differentiation heterogeneity. Here we report a singularized-cell seeding approach compatible with hPSC-derived BMEC differentiation protocols and evaluate the effects of initial hPSC seeding density on the subsequent differentiation, yield, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) phenotype. A range of densities of hPSCs was seeded and differentiated, with the resultant endothelial cell yield quantified via VE-cadherin flow cytometry. Barrier phenotype of purified hPSC-derived BMECs was measured via transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER), and purification protocols were subsequently optimized to maximize TEER. Expression of characteristic vascular markers, tight junction proteins, and transporters was confirmed by immunocytochemistry and quantified by flow cytometry. P-glycoprotein and MRP-family transporter activity was assessed by intracellular accumulation assay. The initial hPSC seeding density of approximately 30,000 cells/cm(2) served to maximize the yield of VE-cadherin+ BMECs per input hPSC. BMECs displayed the highest TEER (>2,000 Ω × cm(2)) within this same range of initial seeding densities, although optimization of the BMEC purification method could minimize the seeding density dependence for some lines. Localization and expression levels of tight junction proteins as well as efflux transporter activity were largely independent of hPSC seeding density. Finally, the utility of the singularized-cell seeding approach was demonstrated by scaling the differentiation and purification process down from 6-well to 96-well culture without impacting BBB phenotype. Given the yield and barrier dependence on initial seeding density, the singularized-cell seeding approach reported here should enhance the reproducibility and scalability of hPSC-derived BBB models, particularly for the application to new pluripotent stem cell lines.

Loss of EGFR confers acquired resistance to AZD9291 in an EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer cell line with an epithelial-mesenchymal transition phenotype.

PubMed

Xu, Jing; Zhao, Xiaoting; He, Dengfeng; Wang, Jinghui; Li, Weiying; Liu, Yinghui; Ma, Li; Jiang, Mei; Teng, Yu; Wang, Ziyu; Gu, Meng; Wu, Jianbin; Wang, Yue; Yue, Wentao; Zhang, Shucai

2018-05-24

AZD9291 is an irreversible, small-molecule inhibitor which has potency against mutant EGFR- and T790M-resistant mutation. Despite the encouraging efficacy in clinical, the acquired resistance will finally occur. Further study will need to be done to identify the acquired resistance mechanisms and determine the next treatment. We established an AZD9291-resistant cell line (HCC827/AZDR) from parental HCC827 cell line through stepwise pulsed selection of AZD9291. The expression of EGFR and its downstream pathways were determined by western blot analysis or immunofluorescence assay. The sensitivity to indicated agents were evaluated by MTS. Compared with parental HCC827 cells, the HCC827/AZDR cells showed high resistance to AZD9291 and other EGFR-TKIs, and exhibited a mesenchymal-like phenotype. Almost complete loss of EGFR expression was observed in HCC827/AZDR cells. But the activation of downstream pathway, MAPK signaling, was found in HCC827/AZDR cells even in the presence of AZD9291. Inhibition of MAPK signaling had no effect on cell viability of HCC827/AZDR and could not reverse AZD9291 resistance because of the subsequent activation of AKT signaling. When treated with the combination of AKT and MAPK inhibitor, HCC827/AZDR showed remarkable growth inhibition. Loss of EGFR could be proposed as a potential acquired resistance mechanism of AZD9291 in EGFR-mutant NSCLC cells with an EMT phenotype. Despite the loss of EGFR, the activation of MAPK pathway which had crosstalk with AKT pathway could maintain the proliferation and survival of resistant cells. Blocking MAPK and AKT signaling may be a potential therapeutic strategy following AZD9291 resistance.

C2-streptavidin mediates the delivery of biotin-conjugated tumor suppressor protein p53 into tumor cells.

PubMed

Fahrer, Jörg; Schweitzer, Brigitte; Fiedler, Katja; Langer, Torben; Gierschik, Peter; Barth, Holger

2013-04-17

We have previously generated a recombinant C2-streptavidin fusion protein for the delivery of biotin-labeled molecules of low molecular weight into the cytosol of mammalian cells. A nontoxic moiety of Clostridium botulinum C2 toxin mediates the cellular uptake, whereas the streptavidin unit serves as a binding platform for biotin-labeled cargo molecules. In the present study, we used the C2-streptavidin transporter to introduce biotin-conjugated p53 protein into various mammalian cell lines. The p53 tumor suppressor protein is inactivated in many human cancers by multiple mechanisms and therefore the restoration of its activity in tumor cells is of great therapeutic interest. Recombinant p53 was expressed in insect cells and biotin-labeled. Biotin-p53 retained its specific high-affinity DNA-binding as revealed by gel-shift analysis. Successful conjugation of biotin-p53 to the C2-streptavidin transporter was monitored by an overlay blot technique and confirmed by real-time surface plasmon resonance, providing a KD-value in the low nM range. C2-streptavidin significantly enhanced the uptake of biotin-p53 into African Green Monkey (Vero) epithelial cells as shown by flow cytometry. Using cell fractionation, the cytosolic translocation of biotin-p53 was detected in Vero cells as well as in HeLa cervix carcinoma cells. In line with this finding, confocal microscopy displayed cytoplasmic staining of biotin-p53 in HeLa and HL60 leukemia cells. Internalized biotin-p53 partially colocalized with early endosomes, as confirmed by confocal microscopy. In conclusion, our results demonstrate the successful conjugation of biotin-p53 to C2-streptavidin and its subsequent receptor-mediated endocytosis into different human tumor cell lines.

Progression of Human Renal Cell Carcinoma via Inhibition of RhoA-ROCK Axis by PARG1.

PubMed

Miyazaki, Junichiro; Ito, Keiichi; Fujita, Tomonobu; Matsuzaki, Yuriko; Asano, Takako; Hayakawa, Masamichi; Asano, Tomohiko; Kawakami, Yutaka

2017-04-01

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most lethal urological malignancy with high risk of recurrence; thus, new prognostic biomarkers are needed. In this study, a new RCC antigen, PTPL1 associated RhoGAP1 (PARG1), was identified by using serological identification of recombinant cDNA expression cloning with sera from RCC patients. PARG1 protein was found to be differentially expressed in RCC cells among patients. High PARG1 expression is significantly correlated with various clinicopathological factors relating to cancer cell proliferation and invasion, including G3 percentage (P = .0046), Ki-67 score (p expression is also correlated with high recurrence of N0M0 patients (P = .0084) and poor prognosis in RCC patients (P = .0345). Multivariate analysis has revealed that high PARG1 expression is an independent factor for recurrence (P = .0149) of N0M0 RCC patients. In in vitro studies, depletion of PARG1by siRNA in human RCC cell lines inhibited their proliferation through inducing G1 cell cycle arrest via upregulation of p53 and subsequent p21 Cip1/Waf1 , which are mediated by increased RhoA-ROCK activities. Similarly, PARG1 depletion cells inhibited invasion ability via increasing RhoA-ROCK activities in the RCC cell lines. Conversely, overexpression of PARG1 on human embryonic kidney cell line HEK293T promotes its cell proliferation and invasion. These results indicate that PARG1 plays crucial roles in progression of human RCC in increasing cell proliferation and invasion ability via inhibition of the RhoA-ROCK axis, and PARG1 is a poor prognostic marker, particularly for high recurrence of N0M0 RCC patients. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

MicroRNAs associated with the efficacy of photodynamic therapy in biliary tract cancer cell lines.

PubMed

Wagner, Andrej; Mayr, Christian; Bach, Doris; Illig, Romana; Plaetzer, Kristjan; Berr, Frieder; Pichler, Martin; Neureiter, Daniel; Kiesslich, Tobias

2014-11-05

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a palliative treatment option for unresectable hilar biliary tract cancer (BTC) showing a considerable benefit for survival and quality of life with few side effects. Currently, factors determining the cellular response of BTC cells towards PDT are unknown. Due to their multifaceted nature, microRNAs (miRs) are a promising analyte to investigate the cellular mechanisms following PDT. For two photosensitizers, Photofrin® and Foscan®, the phototoxicity was investigated in eight BTC cell lines. Each cell line (untreated) was profiled for expression of n=754 miRs using TaqMan® Array Human MicroRNA Cards. Statistical analysis and bioinformatic tools were used to identify miRs associated with PDT efficiency and their putative targets, respectively. Twenty miRs correlated significantly with either high or low PDT efficiency. PDT was particularly effective in cells with high levels of clustered miRs 25-93*-106b and (in case of miR-106b) a phenotype characterized by high expression of the mesenchymal marker vimentin and high proliferation (cyclinD1 and Ki67 expression). Insensitivity towards PDT was associated with high miR-200 family expression and (for miR-cluster 200a/b-429) expression of differentiation markers Ck19 and Ck8/18. Predicted and validated downstream targets indicate plausible involvement of miRs 20a*, 25, 93*, 130a, 141, 200a, 200c and 203 in response mechanisms to PDT, suggesting that targeting these miRs could improve susceptibility to PDT in insensitive cell lines. Taken together, the miRNome pattern may provide a novel tool for predicting the efficiency of PDT and-following appropriate functional verification-may subsequently allow for optimization of the PDT protocol.

[Tumor cells transfer between the patient and laboratory animal as a basic methodological approach to the study of cancerogenesis and identification of biomarkers].

PubMed

Klos, D; Stašek, M; Loveček, M; Skalický, P; Vrba, R; Aujeský, R; Havlík, R; Neoral, Č; Varanashi, L; Hajdúch, M; Vrbková, J; Džubák, P

The investigation of prognostic and predictive factors for early diagnosis of tumors, their surveillance and monitoring of the impact of therapeutic modalities using hybrid laboratory models in vitro/in vivo is an experimental approach with a significant potential. It is preconditioned by the preparation of in vivo tumor models, which may face a number of potential technical difficulties. The assessment of technical success of grafting and xenotransplantation based on the type of the tumor or cell line is important for the preparation of these models and their further use for proteomic and genomic analyses. Surgically harvested gastrointestinal tract tumor tissue was processed or stable cancer cell lines were cultivated; the viability was assessed, and subsequently the cells were inoculated subcutaneously to SCID mice with an individual duration of tumor growth, followed by its extraction. We analysed 140 specimens of tumor tissue including 17 specimens of esophageal cancer (viability 13/successful inoculations 0), 13 tumors of the cardia (11/0), 39 gastric tumors (24/4), 47 pancreatic tumors (34/1) and 24 specimens of colorectal cancer (22/9). 3 specimens were excluded due to histological absence of the tumor (complete remission after neoadjuvant therapy in 2 cases of esophageal carcinoma, 1 case of chronic pancreatitis). We observed successful inoculation in 17 of 28 tumor cell lines. The probability of successful grafting to the mice model in tumors of the esophagus, stomach and pancreas is significantly lower in comparison with colorectal carcinoma and cell lines generated tumors. The success rate is enhanced upon preservation of viability of the harvested tumor tissue, which depends on the sequence of clinical and laboratory algorithms with a high level of cooperation.Key words: proteomic analysis - xenotransplantation - prognostic and predictive factors - gastrointestinal tract tumors.

MicroRNAs Associated with the Efficacy of Photodynamic Therapy in Biliary Tract Cancer Cell Lines

PubMed Central

Wagner, Andrej; Mayr, Christian; Bach, Doris; Illig, Romana; Plaetzer, Kristjan; Berr, Frieder; Pichler, Martin; Neureiter, Daniel; Kiesslich, Tobias

2014-01-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a palliative treatment option for unresectable hilar biliary tract cancer (BTC) showing a considerable benefit for survival and quality of life with few side effects. Currently, factors determining the cellular response of BTC cells towards PDT are unknown. Due to their multifaceted nature, microRNAs (miRs) are a promising analyte to investigate the cellular mechanisms following PDT. For two photosensitizers, Photofrin® and Foscan®, the phototoxicity was investigated in eight BTC cell lines. Each cell line (untreated) was profiled for expression of n = 754 miRs using TaqMan® Array Human MicroRNA Cards. Statistical analysis and bioinformatic tools were used to identify miRs associated with PDT efficiency and their putative targets, respectively. Twenty miRs correlated significantly with either high or low PDT efficiency. PDT was particularly effective in cells with high levels of clustered miRs 25-93*-106b and (in case of miR-106b) a phenotype characterized by high expression of the mesenchymal marker vimentin and high proliferation (cyclinD1 and Ki67 expression). Insensitivity towards PDT was associated with high miR-200 family expression and (for miR-cluster 200a/b-429) expression of differentiation markers Ck19 and Ck8/18. Predicted and validated downstream targets indicate plausible involvement of miRs 20a*, 25, 93*, 130a, 141, 200a, 200c and 203 in response mechanisms to PDT, suggesting that targeting these miRs could improve susceptibility to PDT in insensitive cell lines. Taken together, the miRNome pattern may provide a novel tool for predicting the efficiency of PDT and—following appropriate functional verification—may subsequently allow for optimization of the PDT protocol. PMID:25380521

Radiation-hardened microwave communications system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, S. F.; Bible, D. W.; Crutcher, R. I.; Hannah, J. H.; Moore, J. A.; Nowlin, C. H.; Vandermolen, R. I.; Chagnot, D.; Leroy, A.

1993-03-01

To develop a wireless communication system to meet the stringent requirements for a nuclear hot cell and similar environments, including control of advanced servomanipulators, a microwave signal transmission system development program was established to produce a demonstration prototype for the Consolidated Fuel Reprocessing Program at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Proof-of-principle tests in a partially metal lined enclosure at ORNL successfully demonstrated the feasibility of directed microwave signal transmission techniques for remote systems applications. The potential for much more severe radio-frequency (RF) multipath propagation conditions in fully metal lined cells led to a programmatic decision to conduct additional testing in more typical hot-cell environments at other sites. Again, the test results were excellent. Based on the designs of the earlier systems, an advanced microwave signal transmission system configuration was subsequently developed that, in highly reflective environments, will support both high-performance video channels and high baud-rate digital data links at total gamma dose tolerance levels exceeding 10(exp 7) rads and at elevated ambient temperatures.

A Case of Mixed Germ Cell Tumor in the Intramedullary Spinal-cord.

PubMed

Nitta, Masahiro; Hoshi, Akio; Higure, Taro; Shimizu, Yuki; Nakajima, Nobuyuki; Hanai, Kazuya; Kawamura, Yoshiaki; Terachi, Toshiro

2016-09-20

A 28-year-old man was hospitalized with advancing paraplegia. Under the diagnosis of Guillain-Barre syndrome, steroid pulse therapy was administered and plasmapheresis was performed. However, the paraplegia gradually progressed. Subsequently, a spinal cord tumor was revealed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The pathological diagnosis, obtained by open biopsy, confirmed a mixed germ cell tumor in the spinal cord. Multiple lung and lymph nodes metastases were also detected upon computed tomography, along with increased serum alpha-fetoprotein (33.9 ng/mL) and human chorionic gonadotropin (182.5 mIU/mL) levels. Consequently, he received chemotherapy comprising three courses of BEP (bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin) as first-line therapy, followed by four courses of TGN (paclitaxel, gemcitabine, and nedaplatin) as second-line treatment. As a result, the spinal cord lesion area was significantly decreased and the alpha-fetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotropin levels were normalized. Four years after chemotherapy, MRI revealed pituitary gland and pineal organ recurrence of the germ cell tumor and additional TGN chemotherapy was performed.

Kinetics of antibody-induced modulation of respiratory syncytial virus antigens in a human epithelial cell line

PubMed Central

Sarmiento, Rosa E; Tirado, Rocio G; Valverde, Laura E; Gómez-Garcia, Beatriz

2007-01-01

Background The binding of viral-specific antibodies to cell-surface antigens usually results in down modulation of the antigen through redistribution of antigens into patches that subsequently may be internalized by endocytosis or may form caps that can be expelled to the extracellular space. Here, by use of confocal-laser-scanning microscopy we investigated the kinetics of the modulation of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) antigen by RSV-specific IgG. RSV-infected human epithelial cells (HEp-2) were incubated with anti-RSV polyclonal IgG and, at various incubation times, the RSV-cell-surface-antigen-antibody complexes (RSV Ag-Abs) and intracellular viral proteins were detected by indirect immunoflourescence. Results Interaction of anti-RSV polyclonal IgG with RSV HEp-2 infected cells induced relocalization and aggregation of viral glycoproteins in the plasma membrane formed patches that subsequently produced caps or were internalized through clathrin-mediated endocytosis participation. Moreover, the concentration of cell surface RSV Ag-Abs and intracellular viral proteins showed a time dependent cyclic variation and that anti-RSV IgG protected HEp-2 cells from viral-induced death. Conclusion The results from this study indicate that interaction between RSV cell surface proteins and specific viral antibodies alter the expression of viral antigens expressed on the cells surface and intracellular viral proteins; furthermore, interfere with viral induced destruction of the cell. PMID:17608950

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis immunoglobulins increase intracellular calcium in a motoneuron cell line.

PubMed

Colom, L V; Alexianu, M E; Mosier, D R; Smith, R G; Appel, S H

1997-08-01

A hybrid motoneuron cell line (VSC4.1) was used as a model system to study the relationship between alterations in intracellular calcium and subsequent cell death induced by immunoglobulin fractions purified from sera of patients with ALS. Using fluo-3 fluorescence imaging, immunoglobulins from 8 of 10 patients with ALS were found to induce transient increases in intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) in differentiated VSC4.1 cells. These transient [Ca2+]i increases required extracellular calcium entry through voltage-gated calcium channels sensitive to synthetic FTX and to high concentrations (>1 microM) of omega-agatoxin IVa. The incidence of transient [Ca2+]i increases induced by ALS immunoglobulins correlated with the extent of cytotoxicity induced by the same ALS immunoglobulins in parallel cultures of VSC4.1 cells. Furthermore, manipulations which blocked transient [Ca2+]i increases (addition of synthetic FTX or omega-agatoxin IVa) also inhibited the cytotoxic effects of ALS immunoglobulins. No transient calcium increases were observed in VSC4.1 cells following addition of immunoglobulins from 7 neurologic disease control patients. However, transient [Ca2+]i increases were observed following addition of immunoglobulins from 4 of 5 patients with myasthenia gravis (MG). The [Ca2+]i changes induced by MG immunoglobulins were not blocked by s-FTX, suggesting that they result from a different mechanism than those induced by ALS immunoglobulins. These results suggest that immunoglobulins from patients with ALS can induce transient increases in intracellular calcium in a motoneuron cell line, which may represent early events in the cascade of processes leading to injury and death of susceptible cells.

Withaferin A suppresses the growth of myelodysplasia and leukemia cell lines by inhibiting cell cycle progression.

PubMed

Okamoto, Shuichiro; Tsujioka, Takayuki; Suemori, Shin-Ichiro; Kida, Jun-Ichiro; Kondo, Toshinori; Tohyama, Yumi; Tohyama, Kaoru

2016-09-01

Treatment outcomes for acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) remain unsatisfactory despite progress in various types of chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Therefore, there is a need for the development of new treatment options. We investigated the growth-suppressive effects of withaferin A (WA), a natural plant steroidal lactone, on myelodysplasia and leukemia cell lines. WA exhibited growth-suppressive effects on the cell lines, MDS-L, HL-60, THP-1, Jurkat and Ramos, and induction of cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase at relatively low doses. Evaluation by annexin V/PI also confirmed the induction of partial apoptosis. Gene expression profiling and subsequent gene set enrichment analysis revealed increased expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HMOX1). HMOX1 is known to induce autophagy during anticancer chemotherapy and is considered to be involved in the treatment resistance. Our study indicated increased HMOX1 protein levels and simultaneous increases in the autophagy-related protein LC3A/B in MDS-L cells treated with WA, suggesting increased autophagy. Combined use of WA with chloroquine, an autophagy inhibitor, enhanced early apoptosis and growth suppression. Together with the knowledge that WA had no apparent suppressive effect on the growth of human normal bone marrow CD34-positive cells in the short-term culture, this drug may have a potential for a novel therapeutic approach to the treatment of leukemia or MDS. © 2016 The Authors. Cancer Science published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Japanese Cancer Association.

The use of anthracycline at first-line compared to alkylating agents or nucleoside analogs improves the outcome of salvage treatments after relapse in follicular lymphoma The REFOLL study by the Fondazione Italiana Linfomi.

PubMed

Rossi, Giuseppe; Marcheselli, Luigi; Dondi, Alessandra; Bottelli, Chiara; Tucci, Alessandra; Luminari, Stefano; Arcaini, Luca; Merli, Michele; Pulsoni, Alessandro; Boccomini, Carola; Puccini, Benedetta; Micheletti, Moira; Martinelli, Giovanni; Rossi, Andrea; Zilioli, Vittorio Ruggero; Bozzoli, Valentina; Balzarotti, Monica; Bolis, Silvia; Cabras, Maria Giuseppina; Federico, Massimo

2015-01-01

Follicular lymphoma (FL) patients experience multiple remissions and relapses and commonly receive multiple treatment lines. A crucial question is whether anthracyclines should be used at first-line or whether they would be better "reserved" for relapse and whether FL outcome can be optimized by definite sequences of treatments. Randomized trials can be hardly designed to address this question. In this retrospective multi-institutional study, time-to-next-treatment after first relapse was analyzed in 510 patients who had received either alkylating agents- or anthracycline- or nucleoside analogs-based chemotherapy with/without rituximab at first-line and different second-line therapies. After a median of 42 months, median time-to-next-treatment after relapse was 41 months (CI95%:34-47 months). After adjustment for covariates, first-line anthracycline-based chemotherapy with/without rituximab was associated with better time-to-next-treatment after any salvage than alkylating agents-based chemotherapy with/without rituximab or nucleoside analogs-based chemotherapy with/without rituximab (HR:0.74, P = 0.027). The addition of rituximab to first-line chemotherapy had no significant impact (HR:1.22, P = 0.140). Autologs stem cell transplantation performed better than any other salvage treatment (HR:0.53, P < 0.001). First-line anthracycline-based chemotherapy significantly improved time-to-next-treatment even in patients receiving salvage autologs stem cell transplantation (P = 0.041). This study supports the concept that in FL previous treatments significantly impact on the outcome of subsequent therapies. The outcome of second-line treatments, either with salvage chemoimmunotherapy or with autologs stem cell transplantation, was better when an anthracycline-containing regimen was used at first-line. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

HIV Nef-M1 Effects on Colorectal Cancer Growth in Tumor-induced Spleens and Hepatic Metastasis

PubMed Central

Harrington, Willie; Bond, Vincent; Huang, Ming Bo; Powell, Michael; Lillard, James; Manne, Upender; Bumpers, Harvey

2010-01-01

CXCR4 receptors have been implicated in tumorigenesis and proliferation, making it a potential target for colorectal cancer therapy. Expression of this chemokine receptor on cellular surfaces appears to promote metastasis by directly stimulating tumor cell migration and invasion. The receptor/ligand, CXCR4/SDF-1α, pair are critically important to angiogenesis and vascular remodeling which supports cancer proliferation. Our work has shown that a novel apoptotic peptide of HIV-1, Nef-M1, can act as a CXCR4 antagonist, inducing apoptosis in CXCR4 containing cells. Four colorectal tumor cell lines (HT-29, LS174t, SW480, WiDr), were evaluated for their response to Nef-M1 peptide via in vivo and in vitro. The presence of CXCR4 receptors on tumor cells was determined using immunohistochemical and RT-PCR analyses. Solid xenografts derived from tumor cell lines grown in SCID mice, were evaluated for the persistence of the receptor. Xenografts propagated in SCID mice from each of the four cell lines demonstrated high levels of receptor expression as well. The effects of Nef-M1 in vivo via splenic injected mice and subsequent hepatic metastasis also demonstrated dramatic reduction of primary tumor growth in the spleen and secondary invasion of the liver. We concluded that Nef-M1 peptide, through physical interaction(s) with CXCR4, drives apoptotic reduction in in vivo primary tumor growth and metastasis. PMID:20383296

TRPV2 mediates adrenomedullin stimulation of prostate and urothelial cancer cell adhesion, migration and invasion.

PubMed

Oulidi, Agathe; Bokhobza, Alexandre; Gkika, Dimitra; Vanden Abeele, Fabien; Lehen'kyi, V'yacheslav; Ouafik, L'houcine; Mauroy, Brigitte; Prevarskaya, Natalia

2013-01-01

Adrenomedullin (AM) is a 52-amino acid peptide initially isolated from human pheochromocytoma. AM is expressed in a variety of malignant tissues and cancer cell lines and was shown to be a mitogenic factor capable of stimulating growth of several cancer cell types. In addition, AM is a survival factor for certain cancer cells. Some data suggest that AM might be involved in the progression cancer metastasis via angiogenesis and cell migration and invasion control. The Transient Receptor Potential channel TRPV2 is known to promote in prostate cancer cell migration and invasive phenotype and is correlated with the stage and grade of bladder cancer. In this work we show that AM induces prostate and urothelial cancer cell migration and invasion through TRPV2 translocation to plasma membrane and the subsequent increase in resting calcium level.

Overcoming Acquired Resistance to AZD9291, A Third-Generation EGFR Inhibitor, through Modulation of MEK/ERK-Dependent Bim and Mcl-1 Degradation.

PubMed

Shi, Puyu; Oh, You-Take; Deng, Liang; Zhang, Guojing; Qian, Guoqing; Zhang, Shuo; Ren, Hui; Wu, Grant; Legendre, Benjamin; Anderson, Emily; Ramalingam, Suresh S; Owonikoko, Taofeek K; Chen, Mingwei; Sun, Shi-Yong

2017-11-01

Purpose: The mechanisms accounting for anticancer activity of AZD9291 (osimertinib or TAGRISSO), an approved third-generation EGFR inhibitor, in EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and particularly for the subsequent development of acquired resistance are unclear and thus are the focus of this study. Experimental Design: AZD9219-resistant cell lines were established by exposing sensitive cell lines to AZD9291. Protein alterations were detected with Western blotting. Apoptosis was measured with annexin V/flow cytometry. Growth-inhibitory effects of tested drugs were evaluated in vitro with cell number estimation and colony formation assay and in vivo with mouse xenograft models. Protein degradation was determined by comparing protein half-lives and inhibiting proteasome. Gene knockdown were achieved with siRNA or shRNA. Results: AZD9291 potently induced apoptosis in EGFR-mutant NSCLC cell lines, in which ERK phosphorylation was suppressed accompanied with Bim elevation and Mcl-1 reduction likely due to enhanced Mcl-1 degradation and increased Bim stability. Blocking Bim elevation by gene knockdown or enforcing Mcl-1 expression attenuated or abolished AZD9291-induced apoptosis. Moreover, AZD9291 lost its ability to modulate Bim and Mcl-1 levels in AZD9291-resistant cell lines. The combination of a MEK inhibitor with AZD9291 restores the sensitivity of AZD9291-resistant cells including those with C797S mutation to undergo apoptosis and growth regression in vitro and in vivo Conclusions: Modulation of MEK/ERK-dependent Bim and Mcl-1 degradation critically mediates sensitivity and resistance of EGFR-mutant NSCLC cells to AZD9291 and hence is an effective strategy to overcome acquired resistance to AZD9291. Clin Cancer Res; 23(21); 6567-79. ©2017 AACR . ©2017 American Association for Cancer Research.

Process development for a recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell line utilizing a metal induced and amplified metallothionein expression system.

PubMed

Huang, Edwin P; Marquis, Christopher P; Gray, Peter P

2004-11-20

The suspension Chinese Hamster Ovary cell line, 13-10-302, utilizing the metallothionein (MT) expression system producing recombinant human growth hormone (hGH) was studied in a serum-free and cadmium-free medium at different fermentation scales and modes of operation. Initial experiments were carried out to optimize the concentration of metal addition to induce the MT promoter. Subsequently, the cultivation of the 13-10-302 cell line was scaled up from spinner flasks into bioreactors, and the cultivation duration was extended with fed-batch and perfusion strategies utilizing 180 microM zinc to induce the promoter controlling expression of recombinant hGH. It was shown that a fed-batch process could increase the maximum cell numbers twofold, from 3.3 to 6.3 x 10(6) cell/mL, over those obtained in normal batch fermentations, and this coupled with extended fermentation times resulted in a fourfold increase in final hGH titer, from 135 +/- 15 to 670 +/- 70 mg/L at a specific productivity q(hGH) value of 12 pg cell(-1)d(-1). The addition of sodium butyrate increased the specific productivity of hGH in cells to a value of approximately 48 pg cell(-1)d(-1), resulting in a final hGH titer of over a gram per liter during fed-batch runs. A BioSep acoustic cell recycler was used to retain the cells in the bioreactor during perfusion operation. It was necessary to maintain the specific feeding rates (SFR) above a value of 0.2 vvd/(10(6) cell/mL) to maintain the viability and productivity of the 13-10-302 cells; under these conditions the viable cell number increased to over 10(7) cell/mL and resulted in a volumetric productivity of over 120 mg(hGH) L(-1)d(-1). Process development described in this work demonstrates cultivation at various scales and sustained high levels of productivity under cadmium free condition in a CHO cell line utilizing an inducible metallothionein expression system. (c) 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc

Growth inhibition mediated by PSP94 or CRISP-3 is prostate cancer cell line specific.

PubMed

Pathak, Bhakti R; Breed, Ananya A; Nakhawa, Vaishali H; Jagtap, Dhanashree D; Mahale, Smita D

2010-09-01

The prostate secretory protein of 94 amino acids (PSP94) has been shown to interact with cysteine-rich secretory protein 3 (CRISP-3) in human seminal plasma. Interestingly, PSP94 expression is reduced or lost in the majority of the prostate tumours, whereas CRISP-3 expression is upregulated in prostate cancer compared with normal prostate tissue. To obtain a better understanding of the individual roles these proteins have in prostate tumourigenesis and the functional relevance of their interaction, we ectopically expressed either PSP94 or CRISP-3 alone or PSP94 along with CRISP-3 in three prostate cell lines (PC3, WPE1-NB26 and LNCaP) and performed growth inhibition assays. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were used to screen prostate cell lines for PSP94 and CRISP-3 expression. Mammalian expression constructs for human PSP94 and CRISP-3 were also generated and the expression, localization and secretion of recombinant protein were assayed by transfection followed by Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence assay. The effect that ectopic expression of PSP94 or CRISP-3 had on cell growth was studied by clonogenic survival assay following transfection. To evaluate the effects of co-expression of the two proteins, stable clones of PC3 that expressed PSP94 were generated. They were subsequently transfected with a CRISP-3 expression construct and subjected to clonogenic survival assay. Our results showed that PSP94 and CRISP-3 could each induce growth inhibition in a cell line specific manner. Although the growth of CRISP-3-positive cell lines was inhibited by PSP94, growth inhibition mediated by CRISP-3 was not affected by the presence or absence of PSP94. This suggests that CRISP-3 may participate in PSP94-independent activities during prostate tumourigenesis.

Mechanisms underlying the growth inhibitory effects of the cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitor celecoxib in human breast cancer cells

PubMed Central

Basu, Gargi D; Pathangey, Latha B; Tinder, Teresa L; Gendler, Sandra J; Mukherjee, Pinku

2005-01-01

Introduction Inhibitors of cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2 are being extensively studied as anticancer agents. In the present study we evaluated the mechanisms by which a highly selective COX-2 inhibitor, celecoxib, affects tumor growth of two differentially invasive human breast cancer cell lines. Methods MDA-MB-231 (highly invasive) and MDA-MB-468 (moderately invasive) cell lines were treated with varying concentrations of celecoxib in vitro, and the effects of this agent on cell growth and angiogenesis were monitored by evaluating cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and vasculogenic mimicry. The in vitro results of MDA-MB-231 cell line were further confirmed in vivo in a mouse xenograft model. Results The highly invasive MDA-MB-231 cells express higher levels of COX-2 than do the less invasive MDA-MB-468 cells. Celecoxib treatment inhibited COX-2 activity, indicated by prostaglandin E2 secretion, and caused significant growth arrest in both breast cancer cell lines. In the highly invasive MDA-MB-231 cells, the mechanism of celecoxib-induced growth arrest was by induction of apoptosis, associated with reduced activation of protein kinase B/Akt, and subsequent activation of caspases 3 and 7. In the less invasive MDA-MB-468 cells, growth arrest was a consequence of cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 checkpoint. Celecoxib-induced growth inhibition was reversed by addition of exogenous prostaglandin E2 in MDA-MB-468 cells but not in MDA-MB-231 cells. Furthermore, MDA-MB-468 cells formed significantly fewer extracellular matrix associated microvascular channels in vitro than did the high COX-2 expressing MDA-MB-231 cells. Celecoxib treatment not only inhibited cell growth and vascular channel formation but also reduced vascular endothelial growth factor levels. The in vitro findings corroborated in vivo data from a mouse xenograft model in which daily administration of celecoxib significantly reduced tumor growth of MDA-MB-231 cells, which was associated with reduced vascularization and increased necrosis in the tumor mass. Conclusion The disparate molecular mechanisms of celecoxib-induced growth inhibition in human breast cancer cells depends upon the level of COX-2 expression and the invasive potential of the cell lines examined. Data suggest a role for COX-2 not only in the growth of cancer cells but also in activating the angiogenic pathway through regulating levels of vascular endothelial growth factor. PMID:15987447

Differentiation of the SH-SY5Y Human Neuroblastoma Cell Line

PubMed Central

Shipley, Mackenzie M.; Mangold, Colleen A.; Szpara, Moriah L.

2016-01-01

Having appropriate in vivo and in vitro systems that provide translational models for human disease is an integral aspect of research in neurobiology and the neurosciences. Traditional in vitro experimental models used in neurobiology include primary neuronal cultures from rats and mice, neuroblastoma cell lines including rat B35 and mouse Neuro-2A cells, rat PC12 cells, and short-term slice cultures. While many researchers rely on these models, they lack a human component and observed experimental effects could be exclusive to the respective species and may not occur identically in humans. Additionally, although these cells are neurons, they may have unstable karyotypes, making their use problematic for studies of gene expression and reproducible studies of cell signaling. It is therefore important to develop more consistent models of human neurological disease. The following procedure describes an easy-to-follow, reproducible method to obtain homogenous and viable human neuronal cultures, by differentiating the chromosomally stable human neuroblastoma cell line, SH-SY5Y. This method integrates several previously described methods1-4 and is based on sequential removal of serum from media. The timeline includes gradual serum-starvation, with introduction of extracellular matrix proteins and neurotrophic factors. This allows neurons to differentiate, while epithelial cells are selected against, resulting in a homogeneous neuronal culture. Representative results demonstrate the successful differentiation of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells from an initial epithelial-like cell phenotype into a more expansive and branched neuronal phenotype. This protocol offers a reliable way to generate homogeneous populations of neuronal cultures that can be used for subsequent biochemical and molecular analyses, which provides researchers with a more accurate translational model of human infection and disease. PMID:26967710

Differentiation of the SH-SY5Y Human Neuroblastoma Cell Line.

PubMed

Shipley, Mackenzie M; Mangold, Colleen A; Szpara, Moriah L

2016-02-17

Having appropriate in vivo and in vitro systems that provide translational models for human disease is an integral aspect of research in neurobiology and the neurosciences. Traditional in vitro experimental models used in neurobiology include primary neuronal cultures from rats and mice, neuroblastoma cell lines including rat B35 and mouse Neuro-2A cells, rat PC12 cells, and short-term slice cultures. While many researchers rely on these models, they lack a human component and observed experimental effects could be exclusive to the respective species and may not occur identically in humans. Additionally, although these cells are neurons, they may have unstable karyotypes, making their use problematic for studies of gene expression and reproducible studies of cell signaling. It is therefore important to develop more consistent models of human neurological disease. The following procedure describes an easy-to-follow, reproducible method to obtain homogenous and viable human neuronal cultures, by differentiating the chromosomally stable human neuroblastoma cell line, SH-SY5Y. This method integrates several previously described methods(1-4) and is based on sequential removal of serum from media. The timeline includes gradual serum-starvation, with introduction of extracellular matrix proteins and neurotrophic factors. This allows neurons to differentiate, while epithelial cells are selected against, resulting in a homogeneous neuronal culture. Representative results demonstrate the successful differentiation of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells from an initial epithelial-like cell phenotype into a more expansive and branched neuronal phenotype. This protocol offers a reliable way to generate homogeneous populations of neuronal cultures that can be used for subsequent biochemical and molecular analyses, which provides researchers with a more accurate translational model of human infection and disease.

Development of LC/MS/MS, high-throughput enzymatic and cellular assays for the characterization of compounds that inhibit kynurenine monooxygenase (KMO).

PubMed

Winkler, Dirk; Beconi, Maria; Toledo-Sherman, Leticia M; Prime, Michael; Ebneth, Andreas; Dominguez, Celia; Muñoz-Sanjuan, Ignacio

2013-09-01

Kynurenine monooxygenase (KMO) catalyzes the conversion of kynurenine to 3-hydroxykynurenine. Modulation of KMO activity has been implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases, including Huntington disease. Our goal is to develop potent and selective small-molecule KMO inhibitors with suitable pharmacokinetic characteristics for in vivo proof-of-concept studies and subsequent clinical development. We developed a comprehensive panel of biochemical and cell-based assays that use liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry to quantify unlabeled kynurenine and 3-hydroxykynurenine. We describe assays to measure KMO inhibition in cell and tissue extracts, as well as cellular assays including heterologous cell lines and primary rat microglia and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Ultrasound guided transplantation of enriched and cryopreserved spermatogonial cell suspension in goats.

PubMed

Kaul, G; Kaur, J; Rafeeqi, T A

2010-12-01

Spermatogonial stem cells transplantation provides a unique approach for studying spermatogenesis. Initially developed in mice, this technique has now been extended in farm animals and provides an alternative means to preserve valuable male germ line and to produce transgenic animals. The aim of this study was to enrich type A spermatogonial cells amongst the isolated cells from goat testis, to cryopreserve these enriched populations of cells and their subsequent transplantation in unrelated recipient goats under ultrasound guidance. The cells were isolated enzymatically and enriched by differential plating and separation on discontinuous percoll gradient. Ultrasound guided injection of trypan blue dye into rete testis resulted in 20-30% filling of the seminiferous tubules. Prior to transplantation, the cells were labelled with a fluorescent dye to trace donor cells in recipient seminiferous tubules after transplantation. The fluorescent-labelled cells were observed up to 12 weeks after transplantation. © 2009 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Pre-existing central nervous system lesions negate cytokine requirements for regional experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis development.

PubMed

Li, Xin; Lees, Jason R

2013-03-01

In region-specific forms of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), lesion initiation is regulated by T-cell-produced interferon-γ (IFN-γ) resulting in spinal cord disease in the presence of IFN-γ and cerebellar disease in the absence of IFN-γ. Although this role for IFN-γ in regional disease initiation is well defined, little is known about the consequences of previous tissue inflammation on subsequent regional disease, information vital to the development of therapeutics in established disease states. This study addressed the hypothesis that previous establishment of regional EAE would determine subsequent tissue localization of new T-cell invasion and associated symptoms regardless of the presence or absence of IFN-γ production. Serial transfer of optimal or suboptimal doses of encephalitogenic IFN-γ-sufficient or -deficient T-cell lines was used to examine the development of new clinical responses associated with the spinal cord and cerebellum at various times after EAE initiation. Previous inflammation within either cerebellum or spinal cord allowed subsequent T-cell driven inflammation within that tissue regardless of IFN-γ presence. Further, T-cell IFN-γ production after initial lesion formation exacerbated disease within the cerebellum, suggesting that IFN-γ plays different roles at different stages of cerebellar disease. For the spinal cord, IFN-γ-deficient cells (that are ordinarily cerebellum disease initiators) were capable of driving new spinal-cord-associated clinical symptoms more than 60 days after the initial acute EAE resolution. These data suggest that previous inflammation modulates the molecular requirements for new neuroinflammation development. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Automated analysis of clonal cancer cells by intravital imaging

PubMed Central

Coffey, Sarah Earley; Giedt, Randy J; Weissleder, Ralph

2013-01-01

Longitudinal analyses of single cell lineages over prolonged periods have been challenging particularly in processes characterized by high cell turn-over such as inflammation, proliferation, or cancer. RGB marking has emerged as an elegant approach for enabling such investigations. However, methods for automated image analysis continue to be lacking. Here, to address this, we created a number of different multicolored poly- and monoclonal cancer cell lines for in vitro and in vivo use. To classify these cells in large scale data sets, we subsequently developed and tested an automated algorithm based on hue selection. Our results showed that this method allows accurate analyses at a fraction of the computational time required by more complex color classification methods. Moreover, the methodology should be broadly applicable to both in vitro and in vivo analyses. PMID:24349895

Characterization of ligand binding and processing by gastrin-releasing peptide receptors in a small-cell lung cancer cell line.

PubMed Central

Cardona, C; Bleehen, N M; Reeve, J G

1992-01-01

The ligand-binding properties of the gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) receptor and the cellular processing of GRP have been studied in the small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) cell line COR-L42. Scatchard analysis of GRP receptor expression indicated a single class of high-affinity receptors (Kd 1.5 nM) and approx. 6700 receptors/cell. GRP bound to its receptor with a Ki of 2.4 nM. The bombesin-related peptides neuromedin B (NMB) and phyllolitorin also bound to GRP receptors with Ki values of 22.7 and 59.1 nM respectively. Binding of 125I-GRP to COR-L42 cells increased rapidly at 37 degrees, achieved a maximum at 10 min and declined rapidly thereafter. At 4 degrees C, maximum binding was achieved at 30 min and the subsequent decline in cell-associated radioactivity was slower than that seen at 37 degrees C. Acid/salt extraction, to separate surface-bound ligand from internalized GRP, indicated that after receptor binding 125I-GRP was rapidly internalized. To determine the pathway of 125I-GRP degradation, binding studies were carried out with the lysosomotropic agent chloroquine (5 mM), and with phosphoramidon (10 microM), an inhibitor of the membrane-bound enzyme (EC 3.4.24.11). Both agents markedly inhibited the degradation of GRP, indicating that this process involves a lysosomal pathway and a phosphoramidon-sensitive pathway, possibly involving the EC 3.4.24.11 enzyme. GRP receptor down-regulation was observed following a 10 min exposure to 100 nM-GRP. With longer pretreatment times the number of binding sites recovered to 80% of control values. Treatment with 5 mM-chloroquine plus GRP or cycloheximide (10 micrograms/ml) plus GRP demonstrated that the majority of GRP receptors are recycled. NMB and phyllolitorin pretreatment did not influence the subsequent binding of 125I-GRP, suggesting that these peptides do not down-regulate GRP receptors. PMID:1310003

Differential diagnosis of lung carcinoma with three-dimensional quantitative molecular vibrational imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Liang; Hammoudi, Ahmad A.; Li, Fuhai; Thrall, Michael J.; Cagle, Philip T.; Chen, Yuanxin; Yang, Jian; Xia, Xiaofeng; Fan, Yubo; Massoud, Yehia; Wang, Zhiyong; Wong, Stephen T. C.

2012-06-01

The advent of molecularly targeted therapies requires effective identification of the various cell types of non-small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLC). Currently, cell type diagnosis is performed using small biopsies or cytology specimens that are often insufficient for molecular testing after morphologic analysis. Thus, the ability to rapidly recognize different cancer cell types, with minimal tissue consumption, would accelerate diagnosis and preserve tissue samples for subsequent molecular testing in targeted therapy. We report a label-free molecular vibrational imaging framework enabling three-dimensional (3-D) image acquisition and quantitative analysis of cellular structures for identification of NSCLC cell types. This diagnostic imaging system employs superpixel-based 3-D nuclear segmentation for extracting such disease-related features as nuclear shape, volume, and cell-cell distance. These features are used to characterize cancer cell types using machine learning. Using fresh unstained tissue samples derived from cell lines grown in a mouse model, the platform showed greater than 97% accuracy for diagnosis of NSCLC cell types within a few minutes. As an adjunct to subsequent histology tests, our novel system would allow fast delineation of cancer cell types with minimum tissue consumption, potentially facilitating on-the-spot diagnosis, while preserving specimens for additional tests. Furthermore, 3-D measurements of cellular structure permit evaluation closer to the native state of cells, creating an alternative to traditional 2-D histology specimen evaluation, potentially increasing accuracy in diagnosing cell type of lung carcinomas.

Potential of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) for malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST).

PubMed

Fujimoto, Takuya; Andoh, Tooru; Sudo, Tamotsu; Fujita, Ikuo; Fukase, Naomasa; Takeuchi, Tamotsu; Sonobe, Hiroshi; Inoue, Masayoshi; Hirose, Tkanori; Sakuma, Toshiko; Moritake, Hiroshi; Sugimoto, Tohru; Kawamoto, Teruya; Fukumori, Yoshinobu; Yamamoto, Satomi; Atagi, Shinji; Sakurai, Yoshinori; Kurosaka, Masahiro; Ono, Koji; Ichikawa, Hideki; Suzuki, Minoru

2015-12-01

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) are relatively rare neoplasms with poor prognosis. At present there is no effective treatment for MPNST other than surgical resection. Nonetheless, the anti-tumor effect of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) was recently demonstrated in two patients with MPNST. Subsequently, tumor-bearing nude mice subcutaneously transplanted with a human MPNST cell line were injected with p-borono-L-phenylalanine (L-BPA) and subjected to BNCT. Pathological studies then revealed that the MPNST cells were selectively destroyed by BNCT. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Application of coupled affinity-sizing chromatography for the detection of proteolyzed HSA-tagged proteins.

PubMed

London, Anne Serdakowski; Patel, Kunal; Quinn, Lisa; Lemmerer, Martin

2015-04-01

Coupled affinity liquid chromatography and size exclusion chromatography (ALC-SEC) is a technique that has been shown to successfully report product quality of proteins during cell expression and prior to the commencement of downstream processing chromatography steps. This method was applied to monitoring the degradation and subsequent partial remediation of a HSA-tagged protein which showed proteolysis, allowing for rapid cell line development to address this product quality dilemma. This paper outlines the novel application of this method for measuring and addressing protease-induced proteolysis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mechanical characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells under impact of silica-based nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogneva, Irina V.; Buravkov, Sergey V.; Shubenkov, Alexander N.; Buravkova, Ludmila B.

2014-06-01

Silica-based nanoparticles (NPs) pose great potential for medical and biological applications; however, their interactions with living cells have not been investigated in full. The objective of this study was to analyze the mechanical characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells when cultured in the presence of silica (Si) and silica-boron (SiB) nanoparticles. Cell stiffness was measured using atomic force microscopy; F-actin structure was evaluated using TRITC-phalloidin by confocal microscopy. The obtained data suggested that the cell stiffness increased within the following line: `Control' - `Si' - `SiB' (either after 1-h cultivation or 24-h incubation). Moreover, the cell stiffness was found to be higher after 1-h cultivation as compared to 24-h cultivation. This result shows that there is a two-phase process of particle diffusion into cells and that the particles interact directly with the membrane and, further, with the submembranous cytoskeleton. Conversely, the intensity of phalloidin fluorescence dropped within the same line: Control - Si - SiB. It could be suggested that the effects of silica-based particles may result in structural reorganization of cortical cytoskeleton with subsequent stiffness increase and concomitant F-actin content decrease (for example, in recruitment of additional actin-binding proteins within membrane and regrouping of actin filaments).

Rapid high-throughput cloning and stable expression of antibodies in HEK293 cells.

PubMed

Spidel, Jared L; Vaessen, Benjamin; Chan, Yin Yin; Grasso, Luigi; Kline, J Bradford

2016-12-01

Single-cell based amplification of immunoglobulin variable regions is a rapid and powerful technique for cloning antigen-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for purposes ranging from general laboratory reagents to therapeutic drugs. From the initial screening process involving small quantities of hundreds or thousands of mAbs through in vitro characterization and subsequent in vivo experiments requiring large quantities of only a few, having a robust system for generating mAbs from cloning through stable cell line generation is essential. A protocol was developed to decrease the time, cost, and effort required by traditional cloning and expression methods by eliminating bottlenecks in these processes. Removing the clonal selection steps from the cloning process using a highly efficient ligation-independent protocol and from the stable cell line process by utilizing bicistronic plasmids to generate stable semi-clonal cell pools facilitated an increased throughput of the entire process from plasmid assembly through transient transfections and selection of stable semi-clonal cell pools. Furthermore, the time required by a single individual to clone, express, and select stable cell pools in a high-throughput format was reduced from 4 to 6months to only 4 to 6weeks. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Mechanical characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells under impact of silica-based nanoparticles.

PubMed

Ogneva, Irina V; Buravkov, Sergey V; Shubenkov, Alexander N; Buravkova, Ludmila B

2014-01-01

Silica-based nanoparticles (NPs) pose great potential for medical and biological applications; however, their interactions with living cells have not been investigated in full. The objective of this study was to analyze the mechanical characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells when cultured in the presence of silica (Si) and silica-boron (SiB) nanoparticles. Cell stiffness was measured using atomic force microscopy; F-actin structure was evaluated using TRITC-phalloidin by confocal microscopy. The obtained data suggested that the cell stiffness increased within the following line: 'Control' - 'Si' - 'SiB' (either after 1-h cultivation or 24-h incubation). Moreover, the cell stiffness was found to be higher after 1-h cultivation as compared to 24-h cultivation. This result shows that there is a two-phase process of particle diffusion into cells and that the particles interact directly with the membrane and, further, with the submembranous cytoskeleton. Conversely, the intensity of phalloidin fluorescence dropped within the same line: Control - Si - SiB. It could be suggested that the effects of silica-based particles may result in structural reorganization of cortical cytoskeleton with subsequent stiffness increase and concomitant F-actin content decrease (for example, in recruitment of additional actin-binding proteins within membrane and regrouping of actin filaments).

Meso-beta scale perturbations of the wind field by thunderstorm cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ulanski, S. L.; Heymsfield, G. M.

1986-01-01

Data from the high density storm-scale rawinsonde network of the Severe Environmental Storms and Mesoscale Experiment revealed temporal and spatial changes in the divergence fields of the troposphere in response to severe storm evolution on May 2, 1979; these changes were detectable on the meso-beta scale. This unique set of data was subsequently used to study the evolution of the wind, divergence and vertical motion fields in the presence of intense convection. Mid- and upper-tropospheric divergence was superimposed over low-level convergence. The divergence, which has a maximum value of .0004/s, occurred 75 to 100 km upwind as well as over the tornadic cells. To the south of the storm cells, the kinematic pattern was in reverse, upper level convergence was superimposed over low-level divergence. A vertical motion doublet was found to ascend over the squall line and descend about 70 km south of the squall line. It is suggested that the following effects are accountable for the nature of the kinematic fields: (1) blocking of tropospheric environmental flow by the storm cells, (2) anvil outflows, particularly from the tornadic cells, and (3) divergence from the exit region of the jet stream.

LATS2 tumour specific mutations and down-regulation of the gene in non-small cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Strazisar, Mojca; Mlakar, Vid; Glavac, Damjan

2009-06-01

LATS2 is a new member of the LATS tumour suppressor family. The human LATS2 gene is located at chromosome 13q11-12, a hot spot (67%) for loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We screened 129 non-small cell lung cancer samples and 13 lung cancer cell lines, initially for mutations in the LATS2 gene and subsequently for mutations in P53 and K-RAS genes. Either polymorphisms or mutations were identified in over 50 percent of analysed tumours. A novel missense mutation, S1073R, and a large deletion of 8 amino acids in the PAPA-repeat region were detected in 9 and 2 NSCLC tumours, respectively. Those mutations were not identified in the 13 lung cancer cell lines. Mutations were tumour specific and were absent from adjacent normal tissue and healthy controls. Down-regulation of the LATS2 gene was observed in most NSCLC tumours but was not related to any mutation or polymorphism. Tumours with a LATS2 mutation often also harbour a P53 but not K-RAS gene mutation and were mostly in an advanced stage of development, with regional lymph node involvement.

Invasion of the Placenta during Murine Listeriosis

PubMed Central

Le Monnier, Alban; Join-Lambert, Olivier F.; Jaubert, Francis; Berche, Patrick; Kayal, Samer

2006-01-01

Feto-placental infections due to Listeria monocytogenes represent a major threat during pregnancy, and the underlying mechanisms of placental invasion remain poorly understood. Here we used a murine model of listeriosis (pregnant mice, infected at day 14 of gestation) to investigate how this pathogen invades and grows within the placenta to ultimately infect the fetus. When L. monocytogenes is injected intravenously, the invasion of the placenta occurs early after the initial bacteremia, allowing the placental growth of the bacteria, which is an absolute requirement for vertical transmission to the fetus. Kinetically, bacteria first target the cells lining the central arterial canal of the placenta, which stain positively with cytokeratin, demonstrating their fetal trophoblast origin. Bacteria then disseminate rapidly to the other trophoblastic structures, like syncytiotrophoblast cells lining the villous core in the labyrinthine zone of placenta. Additionally, we found that an inflammatory reaction predominantly constituted of polymorphonuclear cells occurs in the villous placenta and participates in the control of infection. Altogether, our results suggest that the infection of murine placenta is dependent, at the early phase, on circulating bacteria and their interaction with endovascular trophoblastic cells. Subsequently, the bacteria spread to the other trophoblastic cells before crossing the placental barrier. PMID:16369023

EMMPRIN reduction via scFv-M6-1B9 intrabody affects α3β1-integrin and MCT1 functions and results in suppression of progressive phenotype in the colorectal cancer cell line Caco-2.

PubMed

Sangboonruang, S; Thammasit, P; Intasai, N; Kasinrerk, W; Tayapiwatana, C; Tragoolpua, K

2014-06-01

Extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) exhibits overexpression in various cancers and promotes cancer progression and metastasis via the interaction with its associated molecules. The scFv-M6-1B9 intrabody has a potential ability to reduce EMMPRIN cell surface expression. However, the subsequent effect of scFv-M6-1B9 intrabody-mediated EMMPRIN abatement on its related molecules, α3β1-integrin, MCT1, MMP-2 and MMP-9, is undefined. Our results demonstrated that the scFv-M6-1B9 intrabody efficiently decreased α3β1-integrin cell surface expression levels. In addition, intracellular accumulation of MCT1 and lactate were increased. These results lead to suppression of features characteristic for tumor progression, including cell migration, proliferation and invasion, in a colorectal cancer cell line (Caco-2) although there was no difference in MMP expression. Thus, EMMPRIN represents an attractive target molecule for the disruption of cancer proliferation and metastasis. An scFv-M6-1B9 intrabody-based approach could be relevant for cancer gene therapy.

Blocks to thyroid cancer cell apoptosis can be overcome by inhibition of the MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways.

PubMed

Gunda, V; Bucur, O; Varnau, J; Vanden Borre, P; Bernasconi, M J; Khosravi-Far, R; Parangi, S

2014-03-06

Current treatment for recurrent and aggressive/anaplastic thyroid cancers is ineffective. Novel targeted therapies aimed at the inhibition of the mutated oncoprotein BRAF(V600E) have shown promise in vivo and in vitro but do not result in cellular apoptosis. TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) induces apoptosis in a tumor-selective manner by activating the extrinsic apoptotic pathway. Here, we show that a TRAIL-R2 agonist antibody, lexatumumab, induces apoptosis effectively in some thyroid cancer cell lines (HTh-7, TPC-1 and BCPAP), while more aggressive anaplastic cell lines (8505c and SW1736) show resistance. Treatment of the most resistant cell line, 8505c, using lexatumumab in combination with the BRAF(V600E) inhibitor, PLX4720, and the PI3K inhibitor, LY294002, (triple-drug combination) sensitizes the cells by triggering both the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways in vitro as well as 8505c orthotopic thyroid tumors in vivo. A decrease in anti-apoptotic proteins, pAkt, Bcl-xL, Mcl-1 and c-FLIP, coupled with an increase in the activator proteins, Bax and Bim, results in an increase in the Bax to Bcl-xL ratio that appears to be critical for sensitization and subsequent apoptosis of these resistant cells. Our results suggest that targeting the death receptor pathway in thyroid cancer can be a promising strategy for inducing apoptosis in thyroid cancer cells, although combination with other kinase inhibitors may be needed in some of the more aggressive tumors initially resistant to apoptosis.

Production and action of cytokines in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapes, Stephen K.; Morrison, Dennis R.; Guikema, James A.; Lewis, Marian L.; Spooner, Brian S.

1994-01-01

B6MP102 cells, a continuously cultured murine bone marrow macrophage cell line, were tested for secretion of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and Interleukin-1 during space flight. We found that B6MP102 cells secreted more tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1 when stimulated in space with lipopolysaccharide than controls similarly stimulated on earth. This compared to increased secretion of interferon-beta and -gamma by lymphocytes that was measured on the same shuttle flights. Although space flight enhanced B6MP102 secretion of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, an experiment on a subsequent space flight (STS-50) found that cellular cytotoxicity, mediated by tumor necrosis factor-alpha, was inhibited.

Global Screening of Antiviral Genes that Suppress Baculovirus Transgene Expression in Mammalian Cells.

PubMed

Wang, Chia-Hung; Naik, Nenavath Gopal; Liao, Lin-Li; Wei, Sung-Chan; Chao, Yu-Chan

2017-09-15

Although baculovirus has been used as a safe and convenient gene delivery vector in mammalian cells, baculovirus-mediated transgene expression is less effective in various mammalian cell lines. Identification of the negative regulators in host cells is necessary to improve baculovirus-based expression systems. Here, we performed high-throughput shRNA library screening, targeting 176 antiviral innate immune genes, and identified 43 host restriction factor genes in a human A549 lung carcinoma cell line. Among them, suppression of receptor interaction protein kinase 1 (RIP1, also known as RIPK1) significantly increased baculoviral transgene expression without resulting in significant cell death. Silencing of RIP1 did not affect viral entry or cell viability, but it did inhibit nuclear translocation of the IRF3 and NF-κB transcription factors. Also, activation of downstream signaling mediators (such as TBK1 and IRF7) was affected, and subsequent interferon and cytokine gene expression levels were abolished. Further, Necrostatin-1 (Nec-1)-an inhibitor of RIP1 kinase activity-dramatically increased baculoviral transgene expression in RIP1-silenced cells. Using baculovirus as a model system, this study presents an initial investigation of large numbers of human cell antiviral innate immune response factors against a "nonadaptive virus." In addition, our study has made baculovirus a more efficient gene transfer vector for some of the most frequently used mammalian cell systems.

Recombinant SINEs are formed at high frequency during induced retrotransposition in vivo.

PubMed

Yadav, Vijay Pal; Mandal, Prabhat Kumar; Bhattacharya, Alok; Bhattacharya, Sudha

2012-05-22

Non-long terminal repeat Retrotransposons are referred to as long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs) and their non-autonomous partners are short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs). It is believed that an active SINE copy, upon retrotransposition, generates near identical copies of itself, which subsequently accumulate mutations resulting in sequence polymorphism. Here we show that when a retrotransposition-competent cell line of the parasitic protist Entamoeba histolytica, transfected with a marked SINE copy, is induced to retrotranspose, >20% of the newly retrotransposed copies are neither identical to the marked SINE nor to the mobilized resident SINEs. Rather they are recombinants of resident SINEs and the marked SINE. They are a consequence of retrotransposition and not DNA recombination, as they are absent in cells not expressing the retrotransposition functions. This high-frequency recombination provides a new explanation for the existence of mosaic SINEs, which may impact on genetic analysis of SINE lineages, and measurement of phylogenetic distances.

Discovery of naturally occurring ESR1 mutations in breast cancer cell lines modelling endocrine resistance.

PubMed

Martin, Lesley-Ann; Ribas, Ricardo; Simigdala, Nikiana; Schuster, Eugene; Pancholi, Sunil; Tenev, Tencho; Gellert, Pascal; Buluwela, Laki; Harrod, Alison; Thornhill, Allan; Nikitorowicz-Buniak, Joanna; Bhamra, Amandeep; Turgeon, Marc-Olivier; Poulogiannis, George; Gao, Qiong; Martins, Vera; Hills, Margaret; Garcia-Murillas, Isaac; Fribbens, Charlotte; Patani, Neill; Li, Zheqi; Sikora, Matthew J; Turner, Nicholas; Zwart, Wilbert; Oesterreich, Steffi; Carroll, Jason; Ali, Simak; Dowsett, Mitch

2017-11-30

Resistance to endocrine therapy remains a major clinical problem in breast cancer. Genetic studies highlight the potential role of estrogen receptor-α (ESR1) mutations, which show increased prevalence in the metastatic, endocrine-resistant setting. No naturally occurring ESR1 mutations have been reported in in vitro models of BC either before or after the acquisition of endocrine resistance making functional consequences difficult to study. We report the first discovery of naturally occurring ESR1 Y537C and ESR1 Y537S mutations in MCF7 and SUM44 ESR1-positive cell lines after acquisition of resistance to long-term-estrogen-deprivation (LTED) and subsequent resistance to fulvestrant (ICIR). Mutations were enriched with time, impacted on ESR1 binding to the genome and altered the ESR1 interactome. The results highlight the importance and functional consequence of these mutations and provide an important resource for studying endocrine resistance.

Germ line genome editing in clinics: the approaches, objectives and global society

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Genome editing allows for the versatile genetic modification of somatic cells, germ cells and embryos. In particular, CRISPR/Cas9 is worldwide used in biomedical research. Although the first report on Cas9-mediated gene modification in human embryos focused on the prevention of a genetic disease in offspring, it raised profound ethical and social concerns over the safety of subsequent generations and the potential misuse of genome editing for human enhancement. The present article considers germ line genome editing approaches from various clinical and ethical viewpoints and explores its objectives. The risks and benefits of the following three likely objectives are assessed: the prevention of monogenic diseases, personalized assisted reproductive technology (ART) and genetic enhancement. Although genetic enhancement should be avoided, the international regulatory landscape suggests the inevitability of this misuse at ART centers. Under these circumstances, possible regulatory responses and the potential roles of public dialogue are discussed. PMID:26615180

BCORL1 is an independent prognostic marker and contributes to cell migration and invasion in human hepatocellular carcinoma.

PubMed

Yin, Guozhi; Liu, Zhikui; Wang, Yufeng; Dou, Changwei; Li, Chao; Yang, Wei; Yao, Yingmin; Liu, Qingguang; Tu, Kangsheng

2016-02-15

The deregulation of E-cadherin has been considered as a leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) metastasis. BCL6 corepressor-like 1 (BCORL1) is a transcriptional corepressor and contributes to the repression of E-cadherin. However, the clinical significance of BCORL1 and its role in the metastasis of HCC remain unknown. Differentially expressed BCORL1 between HCC and matched tumor-adjacent tissues, HCC cell lines and normal hepatic cell line were detected by Western blot. The expression of BCORL1 was altered by siRNAs or lentivirus-mediated vectors. Transwell assays were performed to determine HCC cell invasion and migration. Increased expression of BCORL1 protein was detected in HCC specimens and cell lines. Clinical association analysis showed that BCORL1 protein was expressed at significant higher levels in HCC patients with multiple tumor nodes, venous infiltration and advanced TNM tumor stage. Survival analysis indicated that high expression of BCORL1 protein conferred shorter overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) of HCC patients. Multivariate Cox regression analysis disclosed that BCORL1 expression was an independent prognostic marker for predicting survival of HCC patients. Our in vitro studies demonstrated that BCORL1 prominently promoted HCC cell migration and invasion. Otherwise, an inverse correlation between BCORL1 and E-cadherin expression was observed in HCC tissues. BCORL1 inversely regulated E-cadherin abundance and subsequently facilitated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in HCC cells. Notably, the effect of BCORL1 knockdown on HCC cells was abrogated by E-cadherin silencing. BCORL1 may be a novel prognostic factor and promotes cell migration and invasion through E-cadherin repression-induced EMT in HCC.

Effective non-viral delivery of siRNA to acute myeloid leukemia cells with lipid-substituted polyethylenimines.

PubMed

Landry, Breanne; Aliabadi, Hamidreza Montazeri; Samuel, Anuja; Gül-Uludağ, Hilal; Jiang, Xiaoyan; Kutsch, Olaf; Uludağ, Hasan

2012-01-01

Use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) is a promising approach for AML treatment as the siRNA molecule can be designed to specifically target proteins that contribute to aberrant cell proliferation in this disease. However, a clinical-relevant means of delivering siRNA molecules must be developed, as the cellular delivery of siRNA is problematic. Here, we report amphiphilic carriers combining a cationic polymer (2 kDa polyethyleneimine, PEI2) with lipophilic moieties to facilitate intracellular delivery of siRNA to AML cell lines. Complete binding of siRNA by the designed carriers was achieved at a polymer:siRNA ratio of ≈ 0.5 and led to siRNA/polymer complexes of ≈ 100 nm size. While the native PEI2 did not display cytotoxicity on AML cell lines THP-1, KG-1 and HL-60, lipid-modification on PEI2 slightly increased the cytotoxicity, which was consistent with increased interaction of polymers with cell membranes. Cellular delivery of siRNA was dependent on the nature of lipid substituent and the extent of lipid substitution, and varied among the three AML cell lines used. Linoleic acid-substituted polymers performed best among the prepared polymers and gave a siRNA delivery equivalent to better performing commercial reagents. Using THP-1 cells and a reporter (GFP) and an endogenous (CXCR4) target, effective silencing of the chosen targets was achieved with 25 to 50 nM of siRNA concentrations, and without adversely affecting subsequent cell growth. We conclude that lipid-substituted PEI2 can serve as an effective delivery of siRNA to leukemic cells and could be employed in molecular therapy of leukemia.

Effective Non-Viral Delivery of siRNA to Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells with Lipid-Substituted Polyethylenimines

PubMed Central

Landry, Breanne; Aliabadi, Hamidreza Montazeri; Samuel, Anuja; Gül-Uludağ, Hilal; Jiang, Xiaoyan; Kutsch, Olaf; Uludağ, Hasan

2012-01-01

Use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) is a promising approach for AML treatment as the siRNA molecule can be designed to specifically target proteins that contribute to aberrant cell proliferation in this disease. However, a clinical-relevant means of delivering siRNA molecules must be developed, as the cellular delivery of siRNA is problematic. Here, we report amphiphilic carriers combining a cationic polymer (2 kDa polyethyleneimine, PEI2) with lipophilic moieties to facilitate intracellular delivery of siRNA to AML cell lines. Complete binding of siRNA by the designed carriers was achieved at a polymer:siRNA ratio of ∼0.5 and led to siRNA/polymer complexes of ∼100 nm size. While the native PEI2 did not display cytotoxicity on AML cell lines THP-1, KG-1 and HL-60, lipid-modification on PEI2 slightly increased the cytotoxicity, which was consistent with increased interaction of polymers with cell membranes. Cellular delivery of siRNA was dependent on the nature of lipid substituent and the extent of lipid substitution, and varied among the three AML cell lines used. Linoleic acid-substituted polymers performed best among the prepared polymers and gave a siRNA delivery equivalent to better performing commercial reagents. Using THP-1 cells and a reporter (GFP) and an endogenous (CXCR4) target, effective silencing of the chosen targets was achieved with 25 to 50 nM of siRNA concentrations, and without adversely affecting subsequent cell growth. We conclude that lipid-substituted PEI2 can serve as an effective delivery of siRNA to leukemic cells and could be employed in molecular therapy of leukemia. PMID:22952927

Chrysin enhances doxorubicin-induced cytotoxicity in human lung epithelial cancer cell lines: The role of glutathione

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brechbuhl, Heather M.; Kachadourian, Remy; Min, Elysia

We hypothesized that flavonoid-induced glutathione (GSH) efflux through multi-drug resistance proteins (MRPs) and subsequent intracellular GSH depletion is a viable mechanism to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapies. This concept was demonstrated using chrysin (5–25 μM) induced GSH efflux in human non-small cell lung cancer lines exposed to the chemotherapeutic agent, doxorubicin (DOX). Treatment with chrysin resulted in significant and sustained intracellular GSH depletion and the GSH enzyme network in the four cancer cell types was predictive of the severity of chrysin induced intracellular GSH depletion. Gene expression data indicated a positive correlation between basal MRP1, MRP3 and MRP5 expression andmore » total GSH efflux before and after chrysin exposure. Co-treating the cells for 72 h with chrysin (5–30 μM) and DOX (0.025–3.0 μM) significantly enhanced the sensitivity of the cells to DOX as compared to 72-hour DOX alone treatment in all four cell lines. The maximum decrease in the IC{sub 50} values of cells treated with DOX alone compared to co-treatment with chrysin and DOX was 43% in A549 cells, 47% in H157 and H1975 cells and 78% in H460 cells. Chrysin worked synergistically with DOX to induce cancer cell death. This approach could allow for use of lower concentrations and/or sensitize cancer cells to drugs that are typically resistant to therapy. -- Graphical abstract: Possible mechanisms by which chrysin enhances doxorubicin-induced toxicity in cancer cells. Highlights: ► Chyrsin sustains a significant depletion of GSH levels in lung cancer cells. ► Chyrsin synergistically potentiates doxorubicin-induced cancer cell cytotoxicity. ► Cancer cell sensitivity correlated with GSH and MRP gene network expression. ► This approach could allow for lower side effects and targeting resistant tumors.« less

Identification and Characterization of Cells with Cancer Stem Cell Properties in Human Primary Lung Cancer Cell Lines

PubMed Central

Suo, Zhenhe; Munthe, Else; Solberg, Steinar; Ma, Liwei; Wang, Mengyu; Westerdaal, Nomdo Anton Christiaan; Kvalheim, Gunnar; Gaudernack, Gustav

2013-01-01

Lung cancer (LC) with its different subtypes is generally known as a therapy resistant cancer with the highest morbidity rate worldwide. Therapy resistance of a tumor is thought to be related to cancer stem cells (CSCs) within the tumors. There have been indications that the lung cancer is propagated and maintained by a small population of CSCs. To study this question we established a panel of 15 primary lung cancer cell lines (PLCCLs) from 20 fresh primary tumors using a robust serum-free culture system. We subsequently focused on identification of lung CSCs by studying these cell lines derived from 4 representative lung cancer subtypes such as small cell lung cancer (SCLC), large cell carcinoma (LCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (AC). We identified a small population of cells strongly positive for CD44 (CD44high) and a main population which was either weakly positive or negative for CD44 (CD44low/−). Co-expression of CD90 further narrowed down the putative stem cell population in PLCCLs from SCLC and LCC as spheroid-forming cells were mainly found within the CD44highCD90+ sub-population. Moreover, these CD44highCD90+ cells revealed mesenchymal morphology, increased expression of mesenchymal markers N-Cadherin and Vimentin, increased mRNA levels of the embryonic stem cell related genes Nanog and Oct4 and increased resistance to irradiation compared to other sub-populations studied, suggesting the CD44highCD90+ population a good candidate for the lung CSCs. Both CD44highCD90+ and CD44highCD90− cells in the PLCCL derived from SCC formed spheroids, whereas the CD44low/− cells were lacking this potential. These results indicate that CD44highCD90+ sub-population may represent CSCs in SCLC and LCC, whereas in SCC lung cancer subtype, CSC potentials were found within the CD44high sub-population. PMID:23469181

Id-1 promotes TGF-{beta}1-induced cell motility through HSP27 activation and disassembly of adherens junction in prostate epithelial cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Di Kaijun; Wong, Y.C.; Wang Xianghong

Id-1 (inhibitor of differentiation or DNA binding-1) has been positively associated with cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and invasiveness during tumorigenesis. In addition, Id-1 has been shown to modulate cellular sensitivity to TGF-{beta}1 (transforming growth factor {beta}1). Here we demonstrate a novel role of Id-1 in promoting TGF-{beta}1-induced cell motility in a non-malignant prostate epithelial cell line, NPTX. We found that Id-1 promoted F-actin stress fiber formation in response to TGF-{beta}1, which was associated with increased cell-substrate adhesion and cell migration in NPTX cells. In addition, this positive effect of Id-1 on TGF-{beta}1-induced cell motility was mediated through activation ofmore » MEK-ERK signaling pathway and subsequent phosphorylation of HSP27 (heat shock protein 27). Furthermore, Id-1 disrupted the adherens junction complex in TGF-{beta}1-treated cells through down-regulation of E-cadherin, redistribution of {beta}-catenin, along with up-regulation of N-cadherin. These lines of evidence reveal a novel tumorigenic role of Id-1 through reorganization of actin cytoskeleton and disassembly of cell-cell adhesion in response to TGF-{beta}1 in human prostate epithelial cells, and suggest that intracellular Id-1 levels might be a determining factor for switching TGF-{beta}1 from a growth inhibitor to a tumor promoter during prostate carcinogenesis.« less

Use of deep neural network ensembles to identify embryonic-fetal transition markers: repression of COX7A1 in embryonic and cancer cells

PubMed Central

West, Michael D.; Labat, Ivan; Sternberg, Hal; Larocca, Dana; Nasonkin, Igor; Chapman, Karen B.; Singh, Ratnesh; Makarev, Eugene; Aliper, Alex; Kazennov, Andrey; Alekseenko, Andrey; Shuvalov, Nikolai; Cheskidova, Evgenia; Alekseev, Aleksandr; Artemov, Artem; Putin, Evgeny; Mamoshina, Polina; Pryanichnikov, Nikita; Larocca, Jacob; Copeland, Karen; Izumchenko, Evgeny; Korzinkin, Mikhail; Zhavoronkov, Alex

2018-01-01

Here we present the application of deep neural network (DNN) ensembles trained on transcriptomic data to identify the novel markers associated with the mammalian embryonic-fetal transition (EFT). Molecular markers of this process could provide important insights into regulatory mechanisms of normal development, epimorphic tissue regeneration and cancer. Subsequent analysis of the most significant genes behind the DNNs classifier on an independent dataset of adult-derived and human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived progenitor cell lines led to the identification of COX7A1 gene as a potential EFT marker. COX7A1, encoding a cytochrome C oxidase subunit, was up-regulated in post-EFT murine and human cells including adult stem cells, but was not expressed in pre-EFT pluripotent embryonic stem cells or their in vitro-derived progeny. COX7A1 expression level was observed to be undetectable or low in multiple sarcoma and carcinoma cell lines as compared to normal controls. The knockout of the gene in mice led to a marked glycolytic shift reminiscent of the Warburg effect that occurs in cancer cells. The DNN approach facilitated the elucidation of a potentially new biomarker of cancer and pre-EFT cells, the embryo-onco phenotype, which may potentially be used as a target for controlling the embryonic-fetal transition. PMID:29487692

Use of deep neural network ensembles to identify embryonic-fetal transition markers: repression of COX7A1 in embryonic and cancer cells.

PubMed

West, Michael D; Labat, Ivan; Sternberg, Hal; Larocca, Dana; Nasonkin, Igor; Chapman, Karen B; Singh, Ratnesh; Makarev, Eugene; Aliper, Alex; Kazennov, Andrey; Alekseenko, Andrey; Shuvalov, Nikolai; Cheskidova, Evgenia; Alekseev, Aleksandr; Artemov, Artem; Putin, Evgeny; Mamoshina, Polina; Pryanichnikov, Nikita; Larocca, Jacob; Copeland, Karen; Izumchenko, Evgeny; Korzinkin, Mikhail; Zhavoronkov, Alex

2018-01-30

Here we present the application of deep neural network (DNN) ensembles trained on transcriptomic data to identify the novel markers associated with the mammalian embryonic-fetal transition (EFT). Molecular markers of this process could provide important insights into regulatory mechanisms of normal development, epimorphic tissue regeneration and cancer. Subsequent analysis of the most significant genes behind the DNNs classifier on an independent dataset of adult-derived and human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived progenitor cell lines led to the identification of COX7A1 gene as a potential EFT marker. COX7A1 , encoding a cytochrome C oxidase subunit, was up-regulated in post-EFT murine and human cells including adult stem cells, but was not expressed in pre-EFT pluripotent embryonic stem cells or their in vitro -derived progeny. COX7A1 expression level was observed to be undetectable or low in multiple sarcoma and carcinoma cell lines as compared to normal controls. The knockout of the gene in mice led to a marked glycolytic shift reminiscent of the Warburg effect that occurs in cancer cells. The DNN approach facilitated the elucidation of a potentially new biomarker of cancer and pre-EFT cells, the embryo-onco phenotype, which may potentially be used as a target for controlling the embryonic-fetal transition.

MicroRNA-101-3p suppresses cell proliferation, invasion and enhances chemotherapeutic sensitivity in salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma by targeting Pim-1

PubMed Central

Liu, Xiao-Yu; Liu, Zhi-Jian; He, Hong; Zhang, Chen; Wang, Yun-Long

2015-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play critical roles in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Recent research has revealed miR-101-3p as an important regulator in several cancers. Nevertheless, its function in salivary gland Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), a relatively rare malignance with poor long-term survival rate arisen in head and neck region, remain unknown. In this study, down-regulated miR-101-3p expression was detected in ACC tissues and ACC cell lines with high potential for metastasis. Ectopic expression of miR-101-3p significantly repressed the invasion, proliferation, colony formation, and formation of nude mice xenografts and induced potent apoptosis in ACC cell lines. The provirus integration site for Moloney murine leukemia virus 1 (Pim-1) oncogene was subsequently confirmed as a direct target gene of miR-101-3p in ACC. Functional restoration assays revealed that miR-101-3p inhibits cell growth and invasion by directly decreasing Pim-1 expression. Protein levels of Survivin, Cyclin D1 and β-catenin were also down-regulated by miR-101-3p. miR-101-3p enhanced the sensitivity of cisplatin in ACC cell lines. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the novel miR-101-3p/Pim-1 axis provides excellent insights into the carcinogenesis and tumor progression of ACC and may be a promising therapeutic target for this type of cancer. PMID:26693056

Effects of silenced PAR-2 on cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis of esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Chen, Jinmei; Xie, Liqun; Zheng, Yanmin; Liu, Caihong

2017-10-01

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR-2) on cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis in the esophageal EC109 cell line. Two short hairpin RNA (shRNA) expression plasmids were constructed based on the PAR-2 mRNA sequence in humans, and they were transfected into the EC109 esophageal cancer cell line, and the stable interference cell line (shRNA-PAR-2 EC109) was obtained by puromycin selection. Following transfection of PAR-2 shRNA-1, PAR-2 expression was significantly downregulated in mRNA level and protein level in EC109 cells (P<0.05). The proliferation of EC109 cells transfected with PAR-2 shRNA was significantly lower than the negative control group (P<0.05). At 24, 48 and 72 h, the ratio of proliferation inhibition was 15.92, 24.89 and 32.28%, respectively. Compared with the control group, S-phase arrest was observed in cells transfected with shRNA-PAR-2. The ratio of cells in the S phase was 32.79±4.06, 26.54±1.37 and 33.45±2.46% at 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively. For invasion, the number of invasive cells was significantly lower in shRNA-PAR2-2 cells compared with the control group (P<0.05). For metastasis assay, the number of invasive cells was significantly lower in shRNA-PAR2-2 cells compared with the control group (P<0.01). In the present study, the PAR-2 shRNA plasmid was constructed successfully, which can significantly downregulate PAR-2 expression in EC109 cells. Subsequent to silencing of PAR-2, the proliferation of EC109 cells was inhibited and the capabilities of invasion and migration were reduced. It is indicated that PAR-2 may be a potential target in esophageal cancer.

Effects of silenced PAR-2 on cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis of esophageal cancer

PubMed Central

Chen, Jinmei; Xie, Liqun; Zheng, Yanmin; Liu, Caihong

2017-01-01

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR-2) on cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis in the esophageal EC109 cell line. Two short hairpin RNA (shRNA) expression plasmids were constructed based on the PAR-2 mRNA sequence in humans, and they were transfected into the EC109 esophageal cancer cell line, and the stable interference cell line (shRNA-PAR-2 EC109) was obtained by puromycin selection. Following transfection of PAR-2 shRNA-1, PAR-2 expression was significantly downregulated in mRNA level and protein level in EC109 cells (P<0.05). The proliferation of EC109 cells transfected with PAR-2 shRNA was significantly lower than the negative control group (P<0.05). At 24, 48 and 72 h, the ratio of proliferation inhibition was 15.92, 24.89 and 32.28%, respectively. Compared with the control group, S-phase arrest was observed in cells transfected with shRNA-PAR-2. The ratio of cells in the S phase was 32.79±4.06, 26.54±1.37 and 33.45±2.46% at 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively. For invasion, the number of invasive cells was significantly lower in shRNA-PAR2-2 cells compared with the control group (P<0.05). For metastasis assay, the number of invasive cells was significantly lower in shRNA-PAR2-2 cells compared with the control group (P<0.01). In the present study, the PAR-2 shRNA plasmid was constructed successfully, which can significantly downregulate PAR-2 expression in EC109 cells. Subsequent to silencing of PAR-2, the proliferation of EC109 cells was inhibited and the capabilities of invasion and migration were reduced. It is indicated that PAR-2 may be a potential target in esophageal cancer. PMID:28943918

Phosphorylation of a Tyrosine Residue on Zap70 by Lck and Its Subsequent Binding via an SH2 Domain May Be a Key Gatekeeper of T Cell Receptor Signaling In Vivo.

PubMed

Thill, Peter A; Weiss, Arthur; Chakraborty, Arup K

2016-09-15

The initiation of signaling in T lymphocytes in response to the binding of the T cell receptor (TCR) to cognate ligands is a key step in the emergence of adaptive immune responses. Conventional models posit that TCR signaling is initiated by the phosphorylation of receptor-associated immune receptor activation motifs (ITAMs). The cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase Zap70 binds to phosphorylated ITAMs, is subsequently activated, and then propagates downstream signaling. While evidence for such models is provided by experiments with cell lines, in vivo, Zap70 is bound to phosphorylated ITAMs in resting T cells. However, Zap70 is activated only upon TCR binding to cognate ligand. We report the results of computational studies of a new model for the initiation of TCR signaling that incorporates these in vivo observations. Importantly, the new model is shown to allow better and faster TCR discrimination between self-ligands and foreign ligands. The new model is consistent with many past experimental observations, and experiments that could further test the model are proposed. Copyright © 2016, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Host-Cell Survival and Death During Chlamydia Infection

PubMed Central

Ying, Songmin; Pettengill, Matthew; Ojcius, David M.; Häcker, Georg

2008-01-01

Different Chlamydia trachomatis strains are responsible for prevalent bacterial sexually-transmitted disease and represent the leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide. Factors that predispose individuals to disease and mechanisms by which chlamydiae cause inflammation and tissue damage remain unclear. Results from recent studies indicate that prolonged survival and subsequent death of infected cells and their effect on immune effector cells during chlamydial infection may be important in determining the outcome. Survival of infected cells is favored at early times of infection through inhibition of the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. Death at later times displays features of both apoptosis and necrosis, but pro-apoptotic caspases are not involved. Most studies on chlamydial modulation of host-cell death until now have been performed in cell lines. The consequences for pathogenesis and the immune response will require animal models of chlamydial infection, preferably mice with targeted deletions of genes that play a role in cell survival and death. PMID:18843378

Vitrification of mouse embryo-derived ICM cells: a tool for preserving embryonic stem cell potential?

PubMed

Desai, Nina; Xu, Jing; Tsulaia, Tamara; Szeptycki-Lawson, Julia; AbdelHafez, Faten; Goldfarb, James; Falcone, Tommaso

2011-02-01

Vitrification technology presents new opportunities for preservation of embryo derived stem cells without first establishing a viable ESC line. This study tests the feasibility of cryopreserving ICM cells using vitrification. ICMs from mouse embryos were isolated and vitrified in HSV straws or on cryoloops. Upon warming, the vitrified ICMs were cultured and observed for attachment and morphology. Colonies were passaged every 3-6 days. ICMs and ICM-derived ESC colonies were tested for expression of stem cell specific markers. ICMs vitrified on both the cryoloop and the HSV straw had high survival rates. ICM derived ESCs remained undifferentiated for several passages and demonstrated expression of typical stem cell markers; SSEA-1, Sox-2, Oct 4 and alkaline phosphatase. This is the first report on successful vitrification of isolated ICMs and the subsequent derivation of ESC colonies. Vitrification of isolated ICMs is a novel approach for preservation of the "stem cell source" material.

Commentary: on bone marrow stem cells and openmindedness.

PubMed

Mezey, Eva

2004-02-01

Several lines of evidence support the concept that pluripotent stem cells reside in the hematopoietic system of adults, but each has been questioned for valid reasons. Thus, the results reported to date after infusion of bone marrow stem cells, may be due to cell fusion, non-physiological de-differentiation and subsequent differentiation to lineages directed by the culture environment, microchimerism, or transdifferentiation. Several authors have suggested complex ways of investigating each of these possibilities, but in no case are any of the suggested protocols complete, nor will they rule out other possible causes of the results observed to date. Determining the nature, origin, and characteristics of adult cells is important and interesting, but the important question at this time is not what happens physiologically, but what we can do with these cells therapeutically. Research addressing therapeutic endpoints now takes a pivotal position in studies of nonembryonic stem cells.

TRPV2 Mediates Adrenomedullin Stimulation of Prostate and Urothelial Cancer Cell Adhesion, Migration and Invasion

PubMed Central

Vanden Abeele, Fabien; Lehen’kyi, V’yacheslav; Ouafik, L’Houcine; Mauroy, Brigitte; Prevarskaya, Natalia

2013-01-01

Adrenomedullin (AM) is a 52-amino acid peptide initially isolated from human pheochromocytoma. AM is expressed in a variety of malignant tissues and cancer cell lines and was shown to be a mitogenic factor capable of stimulating growth of several cancer cell types. In addition, AM is a survival factor for certain cancer cells. Some data suggest that AM might be involved in the progression cancer metastasis via angiogenesis and cell migration and invasion control. The Transient Receptor Potential channel TRPV2 is known to promote in prostate cancer cell migration and invasive phenotype and is correlated with the stage and grade of bladder cancer. In this work we show that AM induces prostate and urothelial cancer cell migration and invasion through TRPV2 translocation to plasma membrane and the subsequent increase in resting calcium level. PMID:23741410

SKLB060 Reversibly Binds to Colchicine Site of Tubulin and Possesses Efficacy in Multidrug-Resistant Cell Lines.

PubMed

Yan, Wei; Yang, Tao; Yang, Jianhong; Wang, Taijin; Yu, Yamei; Wang, Yuxi; Chen, Qiang; Bai, Peng; Li, Dan; Ye, Haoyu; Qiu, Qiang; Zhou, Yongzhao; Hu, Yiguo; Yang, Shengyong; Wei, Yuquan; Li, Weimin; Chen, Lijuan

2018-05-22

Many tubulin inhibitors are in clinical use as anti-cancer drugs. In our previous study, a novel series of 4-substituted coumarins derivatives were identified as novel tubulin inhibitors. Here, we report the anti-cancer activity and underlying mechanism of one of the 4-substituted coumarins derivatives (SKLB060). The anti-cancer activity of SKLB060 was tested on 13 different cancer cell lines and four xenograft cancer models. Immunofluorescence staining, cell cycle analysis, and tubulin polymerization assay were employed to study the inhibition of tubulin. N, N '-Ethylenebis(iodoacetamide) assay was used to measure binding to the colchicine site. Wound-healing migration and tube formation assays were performed on human umbilical vascular endothelial cells to study anti-vascular activity (the ability to inhibit blood vessel growth). Mitotic block reversibility and structural biology assays were used to investigate the SKLB060-tubulin bound model. SKLB060 inhibited tubulin polymerization and subsequently induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells. SKLB060 bound to the colchicine site of β-tubulin and showed antivascular activity in vitro. Moreover, SKLB060 induced reversible cell cycle arrest and reversible inhibition of tubulin polymerization. A mitotic block reversibility assay showed that the effects of SKLB060 have greater reversibility than those of colcemid (a reversible tubulin inhibitor), indicating that SKLB060 binds to tubulin in a totally reversible manner. The crystal structures of SKLB060-tubulin complexes confirmed that SKLB060 binds to the colchicine site, and the natural coumarin ring in SKLB060 enables reversible binding. These results reveal that SKLB060 is a powerful and reversible microtubule inhibitor that binds to the colchicine site and is effective in multidrug-resistant cell lines. © 2018 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Development of a High-Throughput Screening Cancer Cell-Based Luciferase Refolding Assay for Identifying Hsp90 Inhibitors

PubMed Central

Sadikot, Takrima; Swink, Megan; Eskew, Jeffery D.; Brown, Douglas; Zhao, Huiping; Kusuma, Bhaskar R.; Rajewski, Roger A.; Blagg, Brian S. J.; Matts, Robert L.; Holzbeierlein, Jeffrey M.

2013-01-01

Abstract The 90 kDa heat-shock protein (Hsp90) and other cochaperones allow for proper folding of nascent or misfolded polypeptides. Cancer cells exploit these chaperones by maintaining the stability of mutated and misfolded oncoproteins and allowing them to evade proteosomal degradation. Inhibiting Hsp90 is an attractive strategy for cancer therapy, as the concomitant degradation of multiple oncoproteins may lead to effective anti-neoplastic agents. Unfortunately, early clinical trials have been disappointing with N-terminal Hsp90 inhibitors, as it is unclear whether the problems that plague current Hsp90 inhibitors in clinical trials are related to on-target or off-target activity. One approach to overcome these pitfalls is to identify structurally diverse scaffolds that improve Hsp90 inhibitory activity in the cancer cell milieu. Utilizing a panel of cancer cell lines that express luciferase, we have designed an in-cell Hsp90-dependent luciferase refolding assay. The assay was optimized using previously identified Hsp90 inhibitors and experimental novobiocin analogues against prostate, colon, and lung cancer cell lines. This assay exhibits good interplate precision (% CV), a signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of ≥7, and an approximate Z-factor ranging from 0.5 to 0.7. Novobiocin analogues that revealed activity in this assay were examined via western blot experiments for client protein degradation, a hallmark of Hsp90 inhibition. Subsequently, a pilot screen was conducted using the Prestwick library, and two compounds, biperiden and ethoxyquin, revealed significant activity. Here, we report the development of an in-cell Hsp90-dependent luciferase refolding assay that is amenable across cancer cell lines for the screening of inhibitors in their specific milieu. PMID:24127661

The Downregulation of MiR-182 Is Associated with the Growth and Invasion of Osteosarcoma Cells through the Regulation of TIAM1 Expression.

PubMed

Hu, Jun; Lv, Guohua; Zhou, Shuguang; Zhou, Yucheng; Nie, Bangxu; Duan, Hong; Zhang, Yunfeng; Yuan, Xiaofeng

2015-01-01

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone malignancy in children and young adults. Increasing results suggest that discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs) might provide a novel therapeutical target for osteosarcoma. MiR-182 expression level in osteosarcoma cell lines and tissues were assayed by qRT-PCR. MiRNA mimics or inhibitor were transfected for up-regulation or down-regulation of miR-182 expression. Cell function was assayed by CCK8, migration assay and invasion assay. The target genes of miR-182 were predicated by bioinformatics algorithm (TargetScan Human). MiR-182 was down-regulated in osteosarcoma tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of miR-182 inhibited tumor growth, migration and invasion. Subsequent investigation revealed that TIAM1 was a direct and functional target of miR-182 in osteosarcoma cells. Overexpression of miR-182 impaired TIAM1-induced inhibition of proliferation and invasion in osteosarcoma cells. Down-expression of miR-182 in osteosarcoma promoted tumor growth, migration and invasion by targeting TIAM1. MiR-182 might act as a tumor suppressor gene whose down-regulation contributes to the progression and metastasis of osteosarcoma, providing a potential therapy target for osteosarcoma patients.

MicroRNA-126 inhibits proliferation and metastasis in prostate cancer via regulation of ADAM9

PubMed Central

Hua, Yibo; Liang, Chao; Miao, Chenkui; Wang, Shangqian; Su, Shifeng; Shao, Pengfei; Liu, Bianjiang; Bao, Meiling; Zhu, Jundong; Xu, Aiming; Zhang, Jianzhong; Li, Jie; Wang, Zengjun

2018-01-01

The aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRs) has been identified to serve a crucial role in tumor progression. The present study aimed to evaluate the role of miR-126 in human prostate cancer (PCa). Firstly, miR-126 expression in prostate cancer tissues and cell lines was analyzed. A luciferase reporter assay and a rescue assay were performed, which identified ADAM metalloproteinase domain 9 (ADAM9) as the target gene of miR-126. Subsequently, Kaplan-Meier and log-rank analyses were used to investigate the association between ADAM9 expression and PCa prognosis. The results revealed that miR-126 expression was significantly downregulated in PCa tissues and cell lines. miR-126 overexpression was demonstrated to reduce PCa cell proliferation and metastasis, and to reverse the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process in vitro. In addition, as the target gene of miR-126, the upregulation of ADAM9 reestablished cell functions, including cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Patients with high ADAM9 expression levels exhibited a shorter biochemical recurrence-free survival time. In summary, miR-126 serves a role in the proliferation and metastasis of PCa cells, indicating that miR-126 and ADAM9 may represent potential biomarkers in the progression of advanced PCa, in addition to therapeutic targets. PMID:29805636

Nutrient regulation of β-cell function: what do islet cell/animal studies tell us?

PubMed

Carlessi, R; Keane, K N; Mamotte, C; Newsholme, P

2017-07-01

Diabetes mellitus is widely recognised as one of the most serious metabolic diseases worldwide, and its incidence in Asian countries is growing at an alarming rate. Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is closely associated with age, sedentary lifestyle and poor diet. In T2DM, β-cell dysfunction will occur before hyperglycaemia develops. Excessive levels of glucose, lipid and various inflammatory factors interact at the level of the pancreatic islet to promote β-cell dysfunction. Pancreatic β-cell lines have been widely utilised since the early 1980s and have contributed a large volume of important information regarding molecular, metabolic and genetic mechanisms that regulate insulin secretion. The purpose of this review is to describe the origin and characteristics of the most commonly used β-cell lines and their contribution to discovery of fundamental regulatory processes that control insulin production and release. Pancreatic islets obtained from rodents as well as other animals have additionally provided information on the architecture and three-dimensional design of this endocrine tissue that allows precise regulation of hormone release. Understanding the nature of failure of physiologic and metabolic processes leading to insufficient insulin release and subsequent diabetes has allowed development of novel anti-diabetic therapeutics, now in common use, worldwide.

Mechanistic Exploration of Cancer Stem Cell Marker Voltage-Dependent Calcium Channel α2δ1 Subunit-mediated Chemotherapy Resistance in Small-Cell Lung Cancer.

PubMed

Yu, Jiangyong; Wang, Shuhang; Zhao, Wei; Duan, Jianchun; Wang, Zhijie; Chen, Hanxiao; Tian, Yanhua; Wang, Di; Zhao, Jun; An, Tongtong; Bai, Hua; Wu, Meina; Wang, Jie

2018-05-01

Purpose: Chemoresistance in small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is reportedly attributed to the existence of resistant cancer stem cells (CSC). Studies involving CSC-specific markers and related mechanisms in SCLC remain limited. This study explored the role of the voltage-dependent calcium channel α2δ1 subunit as a CSC marker in chemoresistance of SCLC, and explored the potential mechanisms of α2δ1-mediated chemoresistance and strategies of overcoming the resistance. Experimental Design: α2δ1-positive cells were identified and isolated from SCLC cell lines and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, and CSC-like properties were subsequently verified. Transcriptome sequencing and Western blotting were carried out to identify pathways involved in α2δ1-mediated chemoresistance in SCLC. In addition, possible interventions to overcome α2δ1-mediated chemoresistance were examined. Results: Different proportions of α2δ1 + cells were identified in SCLC cell lines and PDX models. α2δ1 + cells exhibited CSC-like properties (self-renewal, tumorigenic, differentiation potential, and high expression of genes related to CSCs and drug resistance). Chemotherapy induced the enrichment of α2δ1 + cells instead of CD133 + cells in PDXs, and an increased proportion of α2δ1 + cells corresponded to increased chemoresistance. Activation and overexpression of ERK in the α2δ1-positive H1048 cell line was identified at the protein level. mAb 1B50-1 was observed to improve the efficacy of chemotherapy and delay relapse as maintenance therapy in PDX models. Conclusions: SCLC cells expressing α2δ1 demonstrated CSC-like properties, and may contribute to chemoresistance. ERK may play a key role in α2δ1-mediated chemoresistance. mAb 1B50-1 may serve as a potential anti-SCLC drug. Clin Cancer Res; 24(9); 2148-58. ©2018 AACR . ©2018 American Association for Cancer Research.

Cyto-adherence of Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. mycoides to bovine lung epithelial cells.

PubMed

Aye, Racheal; Mwirigi, Martin Kiogora; Frey, Joachim; Pilo, Paola; Jores, Joerg; Naessens, Jan

2015-02-07

Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. mycoides (Mmm) is the causative agent of contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP), a respiratory disease of cattle, whereas the closely related Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. capri (Mmc) is a goat pathogen. Cyto-adherence is a crucial step in host colonization by mycoplasmas and subsequent pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the interactions between Mmm and mammalian host cells by establishing a cyto-adherence flow cytometric assay and comparing tissue and species specificity of Mmm and Mmc strains. There were little significant differences in the adherence patterns of eight different Mmm strains to adult bovine lung epithelial cells. However, there was statistically significant variation in binding to different host cells types. Highest binding was observed with lung epithelial cells, intermediate binding with endothelial cells and very low binding with fibroblasts, suggesting the presence of effective adherence of Mmm on cells lining the airways of the lung, which is the target organ for this pathogen, possibly by high expression of a specific receptor. However, binding to bovine fetal lung epithelial cells was comparably low; suggesting that the lack of severe pulmonary disease seen in many infected young calves can be explained by reduced expression of a specific receptor. Mmm bound with high efficiency to adult bovine lung cells and less efficiently to calves or goat lung cells. The data show that cyto-adherence of Mmm is species- and tissue- specific confirming its role in colonization of the target host and subsequent infection and development of CBPP.

A threshold dose distribution approach for the study of PDT resistance development: A threshold distribution approach for the study of PDT resistance.

PubMed

de Faria, Clara Maria Gonçalves; Inada, Natalia Mayumi; Vollet-Filho, José Dirceu; Bagnato, Vanderlei Salvador

2018-05-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a technique with well-established principles that often demands repeated applications for sequential elimination of tumor cells. An important question concerns the way surviving cells from a treatment behave in the subsequent one. Threshold dose is a core concept in PDT dosimetry, as the minimum amount of energy to be delivered for cell destruction via PDT. Concepts of threshold distribution have shown to be an important tool for PDT results analysis in vitro. In this study, we used some of these concepts for demonstrating subsequent treatments with partial elimination of cells modify the distribution, which represents an increased resistance of the cells to the photodynamic action. HepG2 and HepaRG were used as models of tumor and normal liver cells and a protocol to induce resistance, consisted of repeated PDT sessions using Photogem® as a photosensitizer, was applied to the tumor ones. The response of these cells to PDT was assessed using a standard viability assay and the dose response curves were used for deriving the threshold distributions. The changes in the distribution revealed that the resistance protocol effectively eliminated the most sensitive cells. Nevertheless, HepaRG cell line was the most resistant one among the cells analyzed, which indicates a specificity in clinical applications that enables the use of high doses and drug concentrations with minimal damage to the surrounding normal tissue. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The lack of CD131 and the inhibition of Neuro-2a growth by carbamylated erythropoietin.

PubMed

Ding, Jing; Li, Qin-Ying; Yu, Jie-Zhong; Wang, Xin; Lu, Chuan-Zhen; Ma, Cun-Gen; Xiao, Bao-Guo

2015-02-01

Recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO), a glycohormone, is one of the leading biopharmaceutical products, while carbamylated erythropoietin (CEPO), an EPO derivative, is attracting widespread interest due to its neuroprotective effects without erythropoiesis in several cells and animal models. However, exogenous EPO promotes an angiogenic response from tumor cells and is associated with tumor growth, but knowledge of CEPO on tumor growth is lacking. Here we show that CEPO, but not EPO, inhibited Neuro-2a growth and viability. As expected, CEPO--unlike EPO--did not activate JAK-2 either in primary neurons or in Neuro-2a cells. Interestingly, CEPO did not induce GDNF expression and subsequent AKT activation in Neuro-2a cells. Before CEPO/EPO treatment, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) neutralization and GFR receptor blocking decreased the viability of EPO-treated Neuro-2a cells but did not influence CEPO-treated Neuro-2a cells. As compared to primary neurons, the expression of CD131, as a receptor complex binding to CEPO, is almost lacking in Neuro-2a cells. In BABL/C-nu mice, CEPO did not promote the growth of Neuro-2a cells nor extended the survival time compared to mice treated with EPO. The results indicate that CEPO did not promote tumor growth because of lower expression of CD131 and subsequent dysfunction of CD131/GDNF/AKT pathway in Neuro-2a cells, revealing its therapeutic potential in future clinical application.

Promotion of malignant phenotype after disruption of the three-dimensional structure of cultured spheroids from colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Piulats, Jose M; Kondo, Jumpei; Endo, Hiroko; Ono, Hiromasa; Hagihara, Takeshi; Okuyama, Hiroaki; Nishizawa, Yasuko; Tomita, Yasuhiko; Ohue, Masayuki; Okita, Kouki; Oyama, Hidejiro; Bono, Hidemasa; Masuko, Takashi; Inoue, Masahiro

2018-03-23

Individual and small clusters of cancer cells may detach from the edges of a main tumor and invade vessels, which can act as the origin of metastasis; however, the mechanism for this phenomenon is not well understood. Using cancer tissue-originated spheroids, we studied whether disturbing the 3D architecture of cancer spheroids can provoke the reformation process and progression of malignancy. We developed a mechanical disruption method to achieve homogenous disruption of the spheroids while maintaining cell-cell contact. After the disruption, 9 spheroid lines from 9 patient samples reformed within a few hours, and 3 of the 9 lines exhibited accelerated spheroid growth. Marker expression, spheroid forming capacity, and tumorigenesis indicated that stemness increased after spheroid disruption. In addition, the spheroid forming capacity increased in 6 of 11 spheroid lines. The disruption signature determined by gene expression profiling supported the incidence of remodeling and predicted the prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer. Furthermore, WNT and HER3 signaling were increased in the reformed spheroids, and suppression of these signaling pathways attenuated the increased proliferation and stemness after the disruption. Overall, the disruption and subsequent reformation of cancer spheroids promoted malignancy-related phenotypes through the activation of the WNT and ERBB pathways.

Quality by control: Towards model predictive control of mammalian cell culture bioprocesses.

PubMed

Sommeregger, Wolfgang; Sissolak, Bernhard; Kandra, Kulwant; von Stosch, Moritz; Mayer, Martin; Striedner, Gerald

2017-07-01

The industrial production of complex biopharmaceuticals using recombinant mammalian cell lines is still mainly built on a quality by testing approach, which is represented by fixed process conditions and extensive testing of the end-product. In 2004 the FDA launched the process analytical technology initiative, aiming to guide the industry towards advanced process monitoring and better understanding of how critical process parameters affect the critical quality attributes. Implementation of process analytical technology into the bio-production process enables moving from the quality by testing to a more flexible quality by design approach. The application of advanced sensor systems in combination with mathematical modelling techniques offers enhanced process understanding, allows on-line prediction of critical quality attributes and subsequently real-time product quality control. In this review opportunities and unsolved issues on the road to a successful quality by design and dynamic control implementation are discussed. A major focus is directed on the preconditions for the application of model predictive control for mammalian cell culture bioprocesses. Design of experiments providing information about the process dynamics upon parameter change, dynamic process models, on-line process state predictions and powerful software environments seem to be a prerequisite for quality by control realization. © 2017 The Authors. Biotechnology Journal published by WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Cerebral visual impairment and intellectual disability caused by PGAP1 variants.

PubMed

Bosch, Daniëlle G M; Boonstra, F Nienke; Kinoshita, Taroh; Jhangiani, Shalini; de Ligt, Joep; Cremers, Frans P M; Lupski, James R; Murakami, Yoshiko; de Vries, Bert B A

2015-12-01

Homozygous variants in PGAP1 (post-GPI attachment to proteins 1) have recently been identified in two families with developmental delay, seizures and/or spasticity. PGAP1 is a member of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor biosynthesis and remodeling pathway and defects in this pathway are a subclass of congenital disorders of glycosylation. Here we performed whole-exome sequencing in an individual with cerebral visual impairment (CVI), intellectual disability (ID), and factor XII deficiency and revealed compound heterozygous variants in PGAP1, c.274_276del (p.(Pro92del)) and c.921_925del (p.(Lys308Asnfs*25)). Subsequently, PGAP1-deficient Chinese hamster ovary (CHO)-cell lines were transfected with either mutant or wild-type constructs and their sensitivity to phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) treatment was measured. The mutant constructs could not rescue the PGAP1-deficient CHO cell lines resistance to PI-PLC treatment. In addition, lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) of the affected individual showed no sensitivity to PI-PLC treatment, whereas the LCLs of the heterozygous carrier parents were partially resistant. In conclusion, we report novel PGAP1 variants in a boy with CVI and ID and a proven functional loss of PGAP1 and show, to our knowledge, for the first time this genetic association with CVI.

Variable toxicological response to the loss of OXPHOS through 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium-induced mitochondrial damage and anoxia in diverse neural immortal cell lines.

PubMed

Mazzio, Elizabeth A; Soliman, Youssef I; Soliman, Karam F A

2010-12-01

Immortal cell lines are used to investigate various aspects of neurodegeneration. These cells display high glycolytic turnover rate and produce an abundant amounts of lactate. Our previous studies indicate that these cells survive the loss of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) with ample glucose supply. In the current study, we investigate if cell type (w/variation in basal metabolic rate (MR)), can alter glucose utilization patterns which in turn may affect LC(50) for the mitochondrial toxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)) in various cell lines. The data obtained indicate that cell lines MRs examined were generally consistent with the average of species adult body weight where mouse N-2A > rat-PC-12 > human SH-SY5Y. A higher MR was associated with accelerated utilization of glucose and earlier cell death with MPP(+): LC(50) mouse = 294 µM, rat = 695 µM, and human = 5.25 mM at 24 h. Cell death appears to be a function of the velocity by which glucose disappears, leading to the failure of glycolysis and subsequent halt of energy production. Similar effects were also observed at higher plating densities where the demand for glucose is amplified. A time-lapse study of MPP(+) toxicity (0-36 h) in N-2A cells indicates that an anaerobic shift occurs as early as 2 h (evidenced by a rise in lactate), followed by a descent in glucose concentrations at 4 h and exhaustion of glucose supplies at 22 h which was associated with the first detectable sign of cell death. It was also noted that MPP(+) toxicity was not associated with the generation of reactive oxygen species (O (2) (-) , H(2)0(2), and NO(2)) and was not attenuated by adding catalase or superoxide dismutase to the media. On the other hand, MPP(+) toxicity was reversed by providing additional supply of glucose, pyruvate ± mitochondrial monocarboxylate transporter blocker (α-cyano-4-HCA), or pyruvate ± pyruvate dehydrogenase inhibitor (octanoyl-CoA), suggesting that the exclusive anaerobic survival compensates for the loss of OXPHOS by MPP(+). To examine if neuroblastoma were capable of surviving the deprivation of O(2) for 24 h, a range of hypoxia to anoxia was established with various concentrations of dithionite. The data suggest that cell lines examined continue to thrive when incubated with high-glucose media (25 mM). In summary, vulnerability of immortal neuroblastoma cell lines to MPP(+) toxicity is dependent upon glucose concentrations within the media and cell MR, which indirectly dominates the velocity of glucose use and its end point disappearance, leading to cell death by ergogenic failure.

Discordant sex in monozygotic XXY/XX twins: a case report.

PubMed

Tachon, G; Lefort, G; Puechberty, J; Schneider, A; Jeandel, C; Boulot, P; Prodhomme, O; Meyer, P; Taviaux, S; Touitou, I; Pellestor, F; Geneviève, D; Gatinois, V

2014-12-01

We report a case of discordant phenotypic sex in monozygotic twins mosaic 47,XXY/46,XX: monozygotic heterokaryotypic twins. The twins presented with cognitive and comprehension delay, behavioural and language disorders, all symptoms frequently reported in Klinefelter syndrome. Molecular zygosity analysis with several markers confirmed that the twins are in effect monozygotic (MZ). Array comparative genomic hybridization found no evidence for the implication of copy number variation in the phenotypes. Ultrasound scans of the reproductive organs revealed no abnormalities. Endocrine tests showed a low testosterone level in Twin 1 (male phenotype) and a low gonadotrophin level in Twin 2 (female phenotype) which, combined with the results from ultrasound examination, provided useful information for potentially predicting the future fertility potential of the twins. Blood karyotypes revealed the presence of a normal 46,XX cell line and an aneuploïd 47,XXY cell line in both patients. Examination of the chromosome constitutions of various tissues such as blood, buccal smear and urinary sediment not surprisingly showed different proportions for the 46,XX and 47,XXY cell lines, which most likely explains the discordant phenotypic sex and mild Klinefelter features. The most plausible underlying biological mechanism is a post-zygotic loss of the Y chromosome in an initially 47,XXY zygote. This would result in an embryo with both 46,XX and 47,XXY cells lines which could subsequently divide into two monozygotic embryos through a twinning process. The two cell lines would then be distributed differently between tissues which could result in phenotypic discordances in the twins. These observations emphasize the importance of regular paediatric evaluations to determine the optimal timing for fertility preservation measures and to detect new Klinefelter features which could appear throughout childhood in the two subjects. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Cellular responses to a prolonged delay in mitosis are determined by a DNA damage response controlled by Bcl-2 family proteins.

PubMed

Colin, Didier J; Hain, Karolina O; Allan, Lindsey A; Clarke, Paul R

2015-03-01

Anti-cancer drugs that disrupt mitosis inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis, although the mechanisms of these responses are poorly understood. Here, we characterize a mitotic stress response that determines cell fate in response to microtubule poisons. We show that mitotic arrest induced by these drugs produces a temporally controlled DNA damage response (DDR) characterized by the caspase-dependent formation of γH2AX foci in non-apoptotic cells. Following exit from a delayed mitosis, this initial response results in activation of DDR protein kinases, phosphorylation of the tumour suppressor p53 and a delay in subsequent cell cycle progression. We show that this response is controlled by Mcl-1, a regulator of caspase activation that becomes degraded during mitotic arrest. Chemical inhibition of Mcl-1 and the related proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL by a BH3 mimetic enhances the mitotic DDR, promotes p53 activation and inhibits subsequent cell cycle progression. We also show that inhibitors of DDR protein kinases as well as BH3 mimetics promote apoptosis synergistically with taxol (paclitaxel) in a variety of cancer cell lines. Our work demonstrates the role of mitotic DNA damage responses in determining cell fate in response to microtubule poisons and BH3 mimetics, providing a rationale for anti-cancer combination chemotherapies.

Cellular responses to a prolonged delay in mitosis are determined by a DNA damage response controlled by Bcl-2 family proteins

PubMed Central

Colin, Didier J.; Hain, Karolina O.; Allan, Lindsey A.; Clarke, Paul R.

2015-01-01

Anti-cancer drugs that disrupt mitosis inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis, although the mechanisms of these responses are poorly understood. Here, we characterize a mitotic stress response that determines cell fate in response to microtubule poisons. We show that mitotic arrest induced by these drugs produces a temporally controlled DNA damage response (DDR) characterized by the caspase-dependent formation of γH2AX foci in non-apoptotic cells. Following exit from a delayed mitosis, this initial response results in activation of DDR protein kinases, phosphorylation of the tumour suppressor p53 and a delay in subsequent cell cycle progression. We show that this response is controlled by Mcl-1, a regulator of caspase activation that becomes degraded during mitotic arrest. Chemical inhibition of Mcl-1 and the related proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL by a BH3 mimetic enhances the mitotic DDR, promotes p53 activation and inhibits subsequent cell cycle progression. We also show that inhibitors of DDR protein kinases as well as BH3 mimetics promote apoptosis synergistically with taxol (paclitaxel) in a variety of cancer cell lines. Our work demonstrates the role of mitotic DNA damage responses in determining cell fate in response to microtubule poisons and BH3 mimetics, providing a rationale for anti-cancer combination chemotherapies. PMID:25761368

Osteoclasts control reactivation of dormant myeloma cells by remodelling the endosteal niche

PubMed Central

Lawson, Michelle A.; McDonald, Michelle M.; Kovacic, Natasa; Hua Khoo, Weng; Terry, Rachael L.; Down, Jenny; Kaplan, Warren; Paton-Hough, Julia; Fellows, Clair; Pettitt, Jessica A.; Neil Dear, T.; Van Valckenborgh, Els; Baldock, Paul A.; Rogers, Michael J.; Eaton, Colby L.; Vanderkerken, Karin; Pettit, Allison R.; Quinn, Julian M. W.; Zannettino, Andrew C. W.; Phan, Tri Giang; Croucher, Peter I.

2015-01-01

Multiple myeloma is largely incurable, despite development of therapies that target myeloma cell-intrinsic pathways. Disease relapse is thought to originate from dormant myeloma cells, localized in specialized niches, which resist therapy and repopulate the tumour. However, little is known about the niche, and how it exerts cell-extrinsic control over myeloma cell dormancy and reactivation. In this study, we track individual myeloma cells by intravital imaging as they colonize the endosteal niche, enter a dormant state and subsequently become activated to form colonies. We demonstrate that dormancy is a reversible state that is switched ‘on' by engagement with bone-lining cells or osteoblasts, and switched ‘off' by osteoclasts remodelling the endosteal niche. Dormant myeloma cells are resistant to chemotherapy that targets dividing cells. The demonstration that the endosteal niche is pivotal in controlling myeloma cell dormancy highlights the potential for targeting cell-extrinsic mechanisms to overcome cell-intrinsic drug resistance and prevent disease relapse. PMID:26632274

Excellent response to chemotherapy post immunotherapy

PubMed Central

Dwary, Ashish D.; Master, Samip; Patel, Abhishek; Cole, Constance; Mansour, Richard; Mills, Glenn; Koshy, Nebu; Peddi, Prakash; Burton, Gary; Hammoud, Dalia; Beedupalli, Kavitha

2017-01-01

Introduction Immunotherapy in the form of immune checkpoint inhibitors has changed the landscape of cancer treatment. Newer monoclonal antibodies are coming up and are being tested in various cancers during different stages of treatment. With the increasing use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the management of various types of cancers, the question is raised as to what next can be offered to a patient who has progressed on this newer treatment. Does Sequence matter? There have been reports of improved responses to chemotherapy after immunotherapy in the form of vaccines. Here we present a case series of 6 patients who progressed on immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors after initial modality of treatment (chemotherapy/radiation), subsequently received chemotherapy with excellent response. Methods We have a cohort of six patients who had disease progression on second line Immunotherapy for solid or hematological malignancies and had ECOG < 2. All these patients received third line salvage chemotherapy. Three patients had metastatic head and neck cancer, 2 had non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and one had T -cell rich B- cell lymphoma. Prior review and approval were obtained from our institutional review board. Results All patients had an excellent response to chemotherapy in third line setting, after immune checkpoint inhibitors and most of them achieved a complete response. Conclusion Targeting cancer with chemotherapy after failure of immunotherapy is a valid option and can lead to better response rates and PFS which may lead to OS. This effect may be secondary to immunotherapy removing the inhibition exerted by tumor cells or other immune cells initially followed by cytotoxic chemotherapy mediated killing of tumor cells. PMID:29207685

Interleukin-6-driven progranulin expression increases cholangiocarcinoma growth by an Akt-dependent mechanism.

PubMed

Frampton, Gabriel; Invernizzi, Pietro; Bernuzzi, Francesca; Pae, Hae Yong; Quinn, Matthew; Horvat, Darijana; Galindo, Cheryl; Huang, Li; McMillin, Matthew; Cooper, Brandon; Rimassa, Lorenza; DeMorrow, Sharon

2012-02-01

Cholangiocarcinoma is a devastating cancer of biliary origin with limited treatment options. The growth factor, progranulin, is overexpressed in a number of tumours. The study aims were to assess the expression of progranulin in cholangiocarcinoma and to determine its effects on tumour growth. The expression and secretion of progranulin were evaluated in multiple cholangiocarcinoma cell lines and in clinical samples from patients with cholangiocarcinoma. The role of interleukin 6 (IL-6)-mediated signalling in the expression of progranulin was assessed using a combination of specific inhibitors and shRNA knockdown techniques. The effect of progranulin on proliferation and Akt activation and subsequent effects of FOXO1 phosphorylation were assessed in vitro. Progranulin knockdown cell lines were established, and the effects on cholangiocarcinoma growth were determined. Progranulin expression and secretion were upregulated in cholangiocarcinoma cell lines and tissue, which were in part via IL-6-mediated activation of the ERK1/2/RSK1/C/EBPβ pathway. Blocking any of these signalling molecules, by either pharmacological inhibitors or shRNA, prevented the IL-6-dependent activation of progranulin expression. Treatment of cholangiocarcinoma cells with recombinant progranulin increased cell proliferation in vitro by a mechanism involving Akt phosphorylation leading to phosphorylation and nuclear extrusion of FOXO1. Knockdown of progranulin expression in cholangiocarcinoma cells decreased the expression of proliferating cellular nuclear antigen, a marker of proliferative capacity, and slowed tumour growth in vivo. Evidence is presented for a role for progranulin as a novel growth factor regulating cholangiocarcinoma growth. Specific targeting of progranulin may represent an alternative for the development of therapeutic strategies.

Avian macrophage: effector functions in health and disease.

PubMed

Qureshi, M A; Heggen, C L; Hussain, I

2000-01-01

Monocytes-macrophages, cells belonging to the mononuclear phagocytic system, are considered as the first line of immunological defense. Being mobile scavenger cells, macrophages participate in innate immunity by serving as phagocytic cells. These cells arise in the bone marrow and subsequently enter the blood circulation as blood monocytes. Upon migration to various tissues, monocytes mature and differentiate into tissue macrophages. Macrophages then initiate the 'acquired' immune response in their capacity as antigen processing and presenting cells. While responding to their tissue microenvironment or exogenous antigenic challenge, macrophages may secrete several immunoregulatory cytokines or metabolites. Being the first line of immunological defense, macrophages therefore represent an important step during interaction with infectious agents. The outcome of the macrophage-pathogen interaction depends upon several factors including the stage of macrophage activation, the nature of the infectious agent, the level of genetic control on macrophage function as well as environmental and nutritional factors that may modulate macrophage activation and functions. Research in avian macrophages has lagged behind that in mammals. This has been largely due to the lack of harvestable resident macrophages from the chicken peritoneal cavity. However, the development of elicitation protocols to harvest inflammatory abdominal macrophages and the availability of transformed chicken macrophage cell lines, has enabled researchers to address several questions related to chicken macrophage biology and function in health and disease. In this manuscript the basic profiles of several macrophage effector functions are described. In addition, the interaction of macrophages with various pathogens as well as the effect of genetic and environmental factors on macrophage functional modulation is described.

Release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the lung cancer cell line CALU-1 in vitro.

PubMed

Filipiak, Wojciech; Sponring, Andreas; Mikoviny, Tomas; Ager, Clemens; Schubert, Jochen; Miekisch, Wolfram; Amann, Anton; Troppmair, Jakob

2008-11-24

The aim of this work was to confirm the existence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) specifically released or consumed by lung cancer cells. 50 million cells of the human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell line CALU-1 were incubated in a sealed fermenter for 4 h or over night (18 hours). Then air samples from the headspace of the culture vessel were collected and preconcentrated by adsorption on solid sorbents with subsequent thermodesorption and analysis by means of gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Identification of altogether 60 compounds in GCMS measurement was done not only by spectral library match, but also by determination of retention times established with calibration mixtures of the respective pure compounds. The results showed a significant increase in the concentrations of 2,3,3-trimethylpentane, 2,3,5-trimethylhexane, 2,4-dimethylheptane and 4-methyloctane in the headspace of CALU-1 cell culture as compared to medium controls after 18 h. Decreased concentrations after 18 h of incubation were found for acetaldehyde, 3-methylbutanal, butyl acetate, acetonitrile, acrolein, methacrolein, 2-methylpropanal, 2-butanone, 2-methoxy-2-methylpropane, 2-ethoxy-2-methylpropane, and hexanal. Our findings demonstrate that certain volatile compounds can be cancer-cell derived and thus indicative of the presence of a tumor, whereas other compounds are not released but seem to be consumed by CALU-1 cells.

Inhibitors of the epidermal growth factor receptor in apple juice extract.

PubMed

Kern, Melanie; Tjaden, Zeina; Ngiewih, Yufanyi; Puppel, Nicole; Will, Frank; Dietrich, Helmut; Pahlke, Gudrun; Marko, Doris

2005-04-01

The polyphenol-rich extract of a consumer-relevant apple juice blend was found to potently inhibit the growth of the human colon cancer cell line HT29 in vitro. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its subsequent signaling cascade play an important role in the regulation of cell proliferation in HT29 cells. The protein tyrosine kinase activity of an EGFR preparation was effectively inhibited by the polyphenol-rich apple juice extract. Treatment of intact cells with this extract resulted in the suppression of the subsequent mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade. Amongst the so far identified apple juice constituents, the proanthocyanidins B1 and B2 as well as quercetin-3-glc (isoquercitrin) and quercetin-3-gal (hyperoside) were found to possess substantial EGFR-inhibitory properties. However, as to be expected from the final concentration of these potential EGFR inhibitors in the original polyphenol-rich extract, a synthetic mixture of the apple juice constituents identified and available so far, including both proanthocyanidins and the quercetin glycosides, showed only marginal inhibitory effects on the EGFR. These results permit the assumption that yet unknown constituents contribute substantially to the potent EGFR-inhibitory properties of polyphenol-rich apple juice extract. In summary, the polyphenol composition of apple juice possesses promising growth-inhibitory properties, affecting proliferation-associated signaling cascades in colon tumor cells.

A multi-stage process including transient polyploidization and EMT precedes the emergence of chemoresistent ovarian carcinoma cells with a dedifferentiated and pro-inflammatory secretory phenotype.

PubMed

Rohnalter, Verena; Roth, Katrin; Finkernagel, Florian; Adhikary, Till; Obert, Julia; Dorzweiler, Kristina; Bensberg, Maike; Müller-Brüsselbach, Sabine; Müller, Rolf

2015-11-24

DNA-damaging drugs induce a plethora of molecular and cellular alterations in tumor cells, but their interrelationship is largely obscure. Here, we show that carboplatin treatment of human ovarian carcinoma SKOV3 cells triggers an ordered sequence of events, which precedes the emergence of mitotic chemoresistant cells. The initial phase of cell death after initiation of carboplatin treatment is followed around day 14 by the emergence of a mixed cell population consisting of cycling, cell cycle-arrested and senescent cells. At this stage, giant cells make up >80% of the cell population, p21 (CDKN1A) in strongly induced, and cell numbers remain nearly static. Subsequently, cell death decreases, p21 expression drops to a low level and cell divisions increase, including regular mitoses of giant cells and depolyploidization by multi-daughter divisions. These events are accompanied by the upregulation of stemness markers and a pro-inflammatory secretory phenotype, peaking after approximately 14 days of treatment. At the same time the cells initiate epithelial to mesenchymal transition, which over the subsequent weeks continuously increases, concomitantly with the emergence of highly proliferative, migratory, dedifferentiated, pro-inflammatory and chemoresistant cells (SKOV3-R). These cells are anchorage-independent and grow in a 3D collagen matrix, while cells on day 14 do not survive under these conditions, indicating that SKOV3-R cells were generated thereafter by the multi-stage process described above. This process was essentially recapitulated with the ovarian carcinoma cell line IGROV-1. Our observations suggest that transitory cells characterized by polyploidy, features of stemness and a pro-inflammatory secretory phenotype contribute to the acquisition of chemoresistance.

A multi-stage process including transient polyploidization and EMT precedes the emergence of chemoresistent ovarian carcinoma cells with a dedifferentiated and pro-inflammatory secretory phenotype

PubMed Central

Rohnalter, Verena; Roth, Katrin; Finkernagel, Florian; Adhikary, Till; Obert, Julia; Dorzweiler, Kristina; Bensberg, Maike; Müller-Brüsselbach, Sabine; Müller, Rolf

2015-01-01

DNA-damaging drugs induce a plethora of molecular and cellular alterations in tumor cells, but their interrelationship is largely obscure. Here, we show that carboplatin treatment of human ovarian carcinoma SKOV3 cells triggers an ordered sequence of events, which precedes the emergence of mitotic chemoresistant cells. The initial phase of cell death after initiation of carboplatin treatment is followed around day 14 by the emergence of a mixed cell population consisting of cycling, cell cycle-arrested and senescent cells. At this stage, giant cells make up >80% of the cell population, p21 (CDKN1A) in strongly induced, and cell numbers remain nearly static. Subsequently, cell death decreases, p21 expression drops to a low level and cell divisions increase, including regular mitoses of giant cells and depolyploidization by multi-daughter divisions. These events are accompanied by the upregulation of stemness markers and a pro-inflammatory secretory phenotype, peaking after approximately 14 days of treatment. At the same time the cells initiate epithelial to mesenchymal transition, which over the subsequent weeks continuously increases, concomitantly with the emergence of highly proliferative, migratory, dedifferentiated, pro-inflammatory and chemoresistant cells (SKOV3-R). These cells are anchorage-independent and grow in a 3D collagen matrix, while cells on day 14 do not survive under these conditions, indicating that SKOV3-R cells were generated thereafter by the multi-stage process described above. This process was essentially recapitulated with the ovarian carcinoma cell line IGROV-1. Our observations suggest that transitory cells characterized by polyploidy, features of stemness and a pro-inflammatory secretory phenotype contribute to the acquisition of chemoresistance. PMID:26503466

Isolation and characteristics of CD133‑/A2B5+ and CD133‑/A2B5‑ cells from the SHG139s cell line.

PubMed

Han, Yong; Wang, Hangzhou; Huang, Yulun; Cheng, Zhe; Sun, Ting; Chen, Guilin; Xie, Xueshun; Zhou, Youxin; Du, Ziwei

2015-12-01

In glioma tissues, there are small cell populations with the capability of sustaining tumor formation. These cells are referred to as glioma stem cells (GSCs). However, the presence of subpopulations of GSCs, and the differences between each subpopulation remain to be fully elucidated. In the present study, CD133‑/A2B5‑ and CD133‑/A2B5+ cells from the SHG139 GSC cell line (SHG139s) were isolated using magnetic‑activated cell sorting. Following xenografting into nude mice, the two isolated subpopulations generated tumors. The characteristics of the two subpopulations were investigated extensively, and it was found that the two exhibited cancer stem cell characteristics. These cells expressed stem cell markers, exhibited a neurosphere‑like appearance, and were found to exhibit self‑renewal and multipotency capabilities. Subsequently, the self‑renewal and proliferation abilities of the two subpopulations were compared. It was found that the A2B5‑ cells had a higher proliferative index and a higher self‑renewal ability, compared with the A2B5+ cells. In addition, the A2B5‑ cells exhibited increased angiogenic ability. However, the invasion ability of the A2B5+ cells was higher than that of the A2B5‑ cells. Taken together, the results of the present study suggested that there are different cell subpopulations in GSCs, and each subpopulation has its own properties.

Antitumor and antiangiogenic activities of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor hairpin ribozyme in human hepatocellular carcinoma cell cultures and xenografts.

PubMed

Li, Li-Hua; Guo, Zi-Jian; Yan, Ling-Ling; Yang, Ji-Cheng; Xie, Yu-Feng; Sheng, Wei-Hua; Huang, Zhao-Hui; Wang, Xue-Hao

2007-12-21

To study the effectiveness and mechanisms of anti- human vascular endothelial growth factor (hVEGF) hairpin ribozyme on angiogenesis, oncogenicity and tumor growth in a hepatocarcinoma cell line and a xenografted model. The artificial anti-hVEGF hairpin ribozyme was transfected into hepatocarcinoma cell line SMMC-7,721 and, subsequently, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were performed to confirm the ribozyme gene integration and transcription. To determine the effects of ribozyme ,VEGF expression was detected by semiquantitative RT-PCR and enzyme liked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). MTT assay was carried out to measure the cell proliferation. Furthermore,the transfected and control cells were inoculated into nude mice respectively, the growth of cells in nude mice and angiogenesis were observed. VEGF expression was down-regulated sharply by ribozyme in transfected SMMC-7,721 cells and xenografted tumor. Compared to the control group, the transfected cells grew slower in cell cultures and xenografts, and the xenograft formation was delayed as well. In addition, the microvessel density of the xenografted tumor was obviously declined in the transfected group. As demonstrated by microscopy,reduction of VEGF production induced by ribozyme resulted in a significantly higher cell differentiation and less proliferation vigor in xenografted tumor. Anti-hVEGF hairpin ribozyme can effectively inhibit VEGF expression and growth of hepatocarcinoma in vitro and in vivo. VEGF is functionally related to cell proliferation, differentiation and tumori-genesis in hepatocarcinoma.

Attachment and spreadout study of 3T3 cells onto PP track etched films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smolko, Eduardo; Mazzei, Ruben; Tadey, Daniel; Lombardo, Daniel

2001-12-01

Polymer surface modifications are obtained by the application of radiation treatments and other physico-chemical methods: fission fragment (ff) irradiation and etching. The biocompatibility of the surface is then observed by cell seeding and cell adhesion experiments. Approaches to improvement of the cell adhesion are obtained by different methods: for example, in PS, cell adhesion is improved after ion implantation; in PMMA, after bombarding the polymer, the surface is reconditioned with surfactants and proteins and in PVDF, cell adhesion is assayed on nuclear tracks membranes. In this work, we obtained important cell adhesion improvements in PP films by irradiation with swift heavy ions and subsequent etching of the nuclear tracks. We use BOPP (isotactic -25 μm thickness). Irrradiations were performed with a Cf-252 californium ff source. The source has a heavy ff and a light one, with 160-200 MeV energy divided among them corresponding to ff energies between 1 and 2 MeV/amu. A chemical etching procedure consisting of a solution of sulphuric acid and chromium three oxide at 85 °C was used. The 3T3 NIH fibroblast cell line was used for the cell adhesion experiment. Here we report for the first time, the results of a series of experiments by varying the ff fluence and the etching time showing that attachment and spreadout of cells are very much improved in this cell line according to the number of pores and the pore size.

Substance P Induces Rapid and Transient Membrane Blebbing in U373MG Cells in a p21-Activated Kinase-Dependent Manner

PubMed Central

Meshki, John; Douglas, Steven D.; Hu, Mingyue; Leeman, Susan E.; Tuluc, Florin

2011-01-01

U373MG astrocytoma cells endogenously express the full-length neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R). Substance P (SP), the natural ligand for NK1R, triggers rapid and transient membrane blebbing and we report that these morphological changes have different dynamics and intracellular signaling as compared to the changes that we have previously described in HEK293-NK1R cells. In both cell lines, the SP-induced morphological changes are Gq-independent, and they require the Rho, Rho-associated coiled-coil kinase (ROCK) signaling pathway. Using confocal microscopy we have demonstrated that tubulin is phosphorylated subsequent to cell stimulation with SP and that tubulin accumulates inside the blebs. Colchicine, a tubulin polymerization inhibitor, blocked SP-induced blebbing in U373MG but not in HEK293-NK1R cells. Although p21-activated kinase (PAK) is expressed in both cell lines, SP induced rapid phosphorylation of PAK in U373MG, but failed to phosphorylate PAK in HEK293-NK1R cells. The cell-permeable Rho inhibitor C3 transferase inhibited SP-induced PAK phosphorylation, but the ROCK inhibitor Y27632 had no effect on PAK phosphorylation, suggesting that Rho activates PAK in a ROCK-independent manner. Our study demonstrates that SP triggers rapid changes in cell morphology mediated by distinct intracellular signaling mechanisms in U373MG versus HEK293-NK1R cells. PMID:21966499

Amelioration of streptozotocin‑induced pancreatic β cell damage by morin: Involvement of the AMPK‑FOXO3‑catalase signaling pathway.

PubMed

Wang, Ning; Zhang, Jiahui; Qin, Mengting; Yi, Wenjing; Yu, Shuang; Chen, Yi; Guan, Jing; Zhang, Rui

2018-03-01

Pancreatic β cells are sensitive to oxidative stress, which is one of the predominant causes of cell damage and the emergence of diabetes. The identification of effective therapeutic strategies to protect pancreatic cells from oxidative stress has increased interest in the screening of antioxidants from natural products. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of morin against streptozotocin (STZ)‑induced cell damage in a rat insulinoma cell line (RINm5F pancreatic β cells) and to identify the underlying mechanisms. The results indicated that morin inhibited the increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species, attenuated the activity of poly (ADP‑ribose) polymerase, restored intracellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide levels and reduced the apoptotic cell death of STZ‑treated pancreatic β cells. Treatment with morin significantly upregulated catalase in pancreatic β cells, and ameliorated the STZ‑induced loss of catalase at the genetic, protein and enzymatic level. In further experiments, morin induced the phosphorylation of 5' adenosine monophosphate‑activated protein kinase (AMPK), which subsequently promoted the translocation of forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) to the nucleus. Specific small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) against AMPK and FOXO3 suppressed morin‑induced catalase expression. Furthermore, catalase‑specific siRNA abolished the protective effects of morin against STZ‑stimulated cell death. Taken together, these results indicated that morin protected RINm5F cells from STZ‑induced cell damage by triggering the phosphorylation of AMPK, thus resulting in subsequent activation of FOXO3 and induction of catalase.

Self-assembled Targeting of Cancer Cells by Iron(III)-doped, Silica Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Mitchell, K K Pohaku; Sandoval, S; Cortes-Mateos, M J; Alfaro, J G; Kummel, A C; Trogler, W C

2014-12-07

Iron(III)-doped silica nanoshells are shown to possess an in vitro cell-receptor mediated targeting functionality for endocytosis. Compared to plain silica nanoparticles, iron enriched ones are shown to be target-specific, a property that makes them potentially better vehicles for applications, such as drug delivery and tumor imaging, by making them more selective and thereby reducing the nanoparticle dose. Iron(III) in the nanoshells can interact with endogenous transferrin, a serum protein found in mammalian cell culture media, which subsequently promotes transport of the nanoshells into cells by the transferrin receptor-mediated endocytosis pathway. The enhanced uptake of the iron(III)-doped nanoshells relative to undoped silica nanoshells by a transferrin receptor-mediated pathway was established using fluorescence and confocal microscopy in an epithelial breast cancer cell line. This process was also confirmed using fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) measurements that show competitive blocking of nanoparticle uptake by added holo-transferrin.

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma in the nasopharynx.

PubMed

Atar, Yavuz; Topaloglu, Ilhan; Ozcan, Deniz

2013-01-01

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma of the nasopharynx, nasal cavity, and paranasal sinuses can be misdiagnosed as primary malignant or benign diseases. A 33-year-old male attended our outpatient clinic complaining of difficulty breathing through the nose, bloody nasal discharge, postnasal drop, snoring, and discharge of phlegm. Endoscopic nasopharyngeal examination showed a vascularized nasopharyngeal mass. Under general anesthesia, multiple punch biopsies were taken from the nasopharynx. Pathologically, the tumor cells had clear cytoplasm and were arranged in a trabecular pattern lined by a layer of endothelial cells. After the initial pathological examination, the pathologist requested more information about the patient's clinical status. A careful history revealed that the patient had undergone left a nephrectomy for a kidney mass diagnosed as renal cell carcinoma 3 years earlier. Subsequently, nasopharyngeal metastatic renal cell carcinoma was diagnosed by immunohistochemical staining with CD10 and vimentin. Radiotherapy was recommended for treatment.

The ethics of genome editing in the clinic: A dose of realism for healthcare leaders.

PubMed

Bubela, Tania; Mansour, Yael; Nicol, Dianne

2017-05-01

Genome editing technologies promise therapeutic advances for genetic diseases. We discuss the ethical and societal issues raised by these technologies, including their use in preclinical research, their potential to address mutations in somatic cells, and their potential to make germ line alterations that may be passed to subsequent generations. We call for a proportionate response from health leaders based on a realistic assessment of benefits, risks, and timelines for clinical translation.

Genes Upregulated in Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) during Mild Freezing and Subsequent Thawing Suggest Sequential Activation of Multiple Response Mechanisms.

PubMed

Skinner, Daniel Z

2015-01-01

Exposing fully cold-acclimated wheat plants to a mild freeze-thaw cycle of -3 °C for 24h followed by +3 °C for 24 or 48 h results in dramatically improved tolerance of subsequent exposure to sub-freezing temperatures. Gene enrichment analysis of crown tissue from plants collected before or after the -3 °C freeze or after thawing at +3 °C for 24 or 48 h revealed that many biological processes and molecular functions were activated during the freeze-thaw cycle in an increasing cascade of responses such that over 150 processes or functions were significantly enhanced by the end of the 48 h, post-freeze thaw. Nearly 2,000 individual genes were upregulated more than 2-fold over the 72 h course of freezing and thawing, but more than 70% of these genes were upregulated during only one of the time periods examined, suggesting a series of genes and gene functions were involved in activation of the processes that led to enhanced freezing tolerance. This series of functions appeared to include extensive cell signaling, activation of stress response mechanisms and the phenylpropanoid biosynthetic pathway, extensive modification of secondary metabolites, and physical restructuring of cell membranes. By identifying plant lines that are especially able to activate these multiple mechanisms it may be possible to develop lines with enhanced winterhardiness.

Establishment of an orthotopic lung cancer model in nude mice and its evaluation by spiral CT.

PubMed

Liu, Xiang; Liu, Jun; Guan, Yubao; Li, Huiling; Huang, Liyan; Tang, Hailing; He, Jianxing

2012-04-01

To establish a simple and highly efficient orthotopic animal model of lung cancer cell line A549 and evaluate the growth pattern of intrathoracic tumors by spiral CT. A549 cells (5×10(6) mL(-1)) were suspended and inoculated into the right lung of BALB/c nude mice via intrathoracic injection. Nude mice were scanned three times each week by spiral CT after inoculation of lung cancer cell line A549. The survival time and body weight of nude mice as well as tumor invasion and metastasis were examined. Tissue was collected for subsequent histological assay after autopsia of mice. The tumor-forming rate of the orthotopic lung cancer model was 90%. The median survival time was 30.7 (range, 20-41) days. The incidence of tumor metastasis was 100%. The mean tumor diameter and the average CT value gradually increased in a time-dependent manner. The method of establishing the orthotopic lung cancer model through transplanting A549 cells into the lung of nude mice is simple and highly successful. Spiral CT can be used to evaluate intrathoracic tumor growth in nude mice vividly and dynamically.

Establishment of an orthotopic lung cancer model in nude mice and its evaluation by spiral CT

PubMed Central

Liu, Xiang; Liu, Jun; Guan, Yubao; Li, Huiling; Huang, Liyan; Tang, Hailing

2012-01-01

Objective To establish a simple and highly efficient orthotopic animal model of lung cancer cell line A549 and evaluate the growth pattern of intrathoracic tumors by spiral CT. Methods A549 cells (5×106 mL-1) were suspended and inoculated into the right lung of BALB/c nude mice via intrathoracic injection. Nude mice were scanned three times each week by spiral CT after inoculation of lung cancer cell line A549. The survival time and body weight of nude mice as well as tumor invasion and metastasis were examined. Tissue was collected for subsequent histological assay after autopsia of mice. Results The tumor-forming rate of the orthotopic lung cancer model was 90%. The median survival time was 30.7 (range, 20-41) days. The incidence of tumor metastasis was 100%. The mean tumor diameter and the average CT value gradually increased in a time-dependent manner. Conclusions The method of establishing the orthotopic lung cancer model through transplanting A549 cells into the lung of nude mice is simple and highly successful. Spiral CT can be used to evaluate intrathoracic tumor growth in nude mice vividly and dynamically. PMID:22833819

Induction of antigen-specific cytotoxic T-cell response by dendritic cells generated from ecto-mesenchymal stem cells infected with an adenovirus containing the MAGE-D4a gene.

PubMed

Hu, Shijie; Li, Bing; Shen, Xuefeng; Zhang, Rui; Gao, Dakuan; Guo, Qingdong; Jin, Yan; Fei, Zhou

2016-04-01

The present study aimed to investigate the feasibility of using ecto-mesenchymal stem cell (EMSC)-derived dendritic cells (DCs) for glioma immunotherapy following infection by a recombinant adenovirus containing the melanoma-associated antigen D4a (MAGE-D4a) gene. The ex vivo cultured EMSCs were infected by the adenoviral plasmid containing MAGE-D4a (pAd/MAGE-D4a). Efficiency of transfection was evaluated through the detection of green fluorescent protein-marked MAGE-D4a. The MAGE-EMSCs were induced to differentiate into DCs, termed as MAGE-EMSCs-DCs. The morphology was subsequently analyzed under a microscope, and methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) assays were performed to analyze the cytotoxicity of the MAGE-EMSC-DCs on the human glioma U251 cell line. Following purification by magnetic-activated cell sorting, the EMSCs grew into swirls, with a long spindle shape and were fibroblast-like. The gene transfected with recombinant adenovirus vectors maintained high and stable expression levels of MAGE-D4a, and its efficiency was increased in a multiplicity of infection-dependent manner. The results of the MTT assay indicated that the T cells, primed by the recombinant MAGE-D4a-infected EMSC-DCs in vitro , recognized MAGE-D4a-expressing tumor cell lines in a human leukocyte antigen class I-restricted manner, and evoked a higher cytotoxic T cell (CTL) response. The CTL response induced by the MAGE-EMSC-DCs, co-cultured with the U251 cells for 24 h, produced 765.0 pg/ml IFN-γ, which was significantly greater when compared to the control wells. T lymphocytes stimulated by MAGE-EMSC-DCs evoke a higher CTL response to human glioma cell lines, and may serve as a promising therapeutic modality for the treatment of MAGE-D4a-expressing glioma.

Electro-Optical Inspection For Tolerance Control As An Integral Part Of A Flexible Machining Cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Renaud, Blaise

1986-11-01

Institut CERAC has been involved in optical metrology and 3-dimensional surface control for the last couple of years. Among the industrial applications considered is the on-line shape evaluation of machined parts within the manufacturing cell. The specific objective is to measure the machining errors and to compare them with the tolerances set by designers. An electro-optical sensing technique has been developed which relies on a projection Moire contouring optical method. A prototype inspection system has been designed, making use of video detection and computer image processing. Moire interferograms are interpreted, and the metrological information automatically retrieved. A structured database can be generated for subsequent data analysis and for real-time closed-loop corrective actions. A real-time kernel embedded into a synchronisation network (Petri-net) for the control of concurrent processes in the Electra-Optical Inspection (E0I) station was realised and implemented in a MODULA-2 program DIN01. The prototype system for on-line automatic tolerance control taking place within a flexible machining cell is described in this paper, together with the fast-prototype synchronisation program.

A Flow Adhesion Assay to Study Leucocyte Recruitment to Human Hepatic Sinusoidal Endothelium Under Conditions of Shear Stress

PubMed Central

Shetty, Shishir; Weston, Christopher J.; Adams, David H.; Lalor, Patricia F.

2014-01-01

Leucocyte infiltration into human liver tissue is a common process in all adult inflammatory liver diseases. Chronic infiltration can drive the development of fibrosis and progression to cirrhosis. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that mediate leucocyte recruitment to the liver could identify important therapeutic targets for liver disease. The key interaction during leucocyte recruitment is that of inflammatory cells with endothelium under conditions of shear stress. Recruitment to the liver occurs within the low shear channels of the hepatic sinusoids which are lined by hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells (HSEC). The conditions within the hepatic sinusoids can be recapitulated by perfusing leucocytes through channels lined by human HSEC monolayers at specific flow rates. In these conditions leucocytes undergo a brief tethering step followed by activation and firm adhesion, followed by a crawling step and subsequent transmigration across the endothelial layer. Using phase contrast microscopy, each step of this 'adhesion cascade' can be visualized and recorded followed by offline analysis. Endothelial cells or leucocytes can be pretreated with inhibitors to determine the role of specific molecules during this process. PMID:24686418

The MUC1 Ectodomain: A Novel and Efficient Target for Gold Nanoparticle Clustering and Vapor Nanobubble Generation

PubMed Central

Danysh, Brian P.; Constantinou, Pamela E.; Lukianova-Hleb, Ekaterina Y.; Lapotko, Dmitri O.; Carson, Daniel D.

2012-01-01

MUC1 is a large, heavily glycosylated transmembrane glycoprotein that is proposed to create a protective microenvironment in many adenocarcinomas. Here we compare MUC1 and the well studied cell surface receptor target, EGFR, as gold nanoparticle (AuNP) targets and their subsequent vapor nanobubble generation efficacy in the human epithelial cell line, HES. Although EGFR and MUC1 were both highly expressed in these cells, TEM and confocal images revealed MUC1 as a superior target for nanoparticle intracellular accumulation and clustering. The MUC1-targeted AuNP intracellular clusters also generated significantly larger vapor nanobubbles. Our results demonstrate the promising opportunities MUC1 offers to improve the efficacy of targeted nanoparticle based approaches. PMID:22916077

Megakaryocyte Polyploidization and Proplatelet Formation in Low-Attachment Conditions.

PubMed

Schlinker, Alaina C; Duncan, Mark T; DeLuca, Teresa A; Whitehead, David C; Miller, William M

2016-07-15

In vitro -derived platelets (PLTs), which could provide an alternative source of PLTs for patient transfusions, are formed from polyploid megakaryocytes (MKs) that extend long cytoplasmic projections, termed proplatelets (proPLTs). In this study, we compared polyploidization and proPLT formation (PPF) of MKs cultured on surfaces that either promote or inhibit protein adsorption and subsequent cell adhesion. A megakaryoblastic cell line exhibited increased polyploidization and arrested PPF on a low-attachment surface. Primary human MKs also showed low levels of PPF on the same surface, but no difference in ploidy. Importantly, both cell types exhibited accelerated PPF after transfer to a surface that supports attachment, suggesting that pre-culture on a non-adhesive surface may facilitate synchronization of PPF and PLT generation in culture.

The Checkpoint Kinase 1 Inhibitor Prexasertib Induces Regression of Preclinical Models of Human Neuroblastoma.

PubMed

Lowery, Caitlin D; VanWye, Alle B; Dowless, Michele; Blosser, Wayne; Falcon, Beverly L; Stewart, Julie; Stephens, Jennifer; Beckmann, Richard P; Bence Lin, Aimee; Stancato, Louis F

2017-08-01

Purpose: Checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1) is a key regulator of the DNA damage response and a mediator of replication stress through modulation of replication fork licensing and activation of S and G 2 -M cell-cycle checkpoints. We evaluated prexasertib (LY2606368), a small-molecule CHK1 inhibitor currently in clinical testing, in multiple preclinical models of pediatric cancer. Following an initial assessment of prexasertib activity, this study focused on the preclinical models of neuroblastoma. Experimental Design: We evaluated the antiproliferative activity of prexasertib in a panel of cancer cell lines; neuroblastoma cell lines were among the most sensitive. Subsequent Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses measured DNA damage and DNA repair protein activation. Prexasertib was investigated in several cell line-derived xenograft mouse models of neuroblastoma. Results: Within 24 hours, single-agent prexasertib promoted γH2AX-positive double-strand DNA breaks and phosphorylation of DNA damage sensors ATM and DNA-PKcs, leading to neuroblastoma cell death. Knockdown of CHK1 and/or CHK2 by siRNA verified that the double-strand DNA breaks and cell death elicited by prexasertib were due to specific CHK1 inhibition. Neuroblastoma xenografts rapidly regressed following prexasertib administration, independent of starting tumor volume. Decreased Ki67 and increased immunostaining of endothelial and pericyte markers were observed in xenografts after only 6 days of exposure to prexasertib, potentially indicating a swift reduction in tumor volume and/or a direct effect on tumor vasculature. Conclusions: Overall, these data demonstrate that prexasertib is a specific inhibitor of CHK1 in neuroblastoma and leads to DNA damage and cell death in preclinical models of this devastating pediatric malignancy. Clin Cancer Res; 23(15); 4354-63. ©2017 AACR . ©2017 American Association for Cancer Research.

In Vitro Characterization and Evaluation of the Cytotoxicity Effects of Nisin and Nisin-Loaded PLA-PEG-PLA Nanoparticles on Gastrointestinal (AGS and KYSE-30), Hepatic (HepG2) and Blood (K562) Cancer Cell Lines.

PubMed

Goudarzi, Fariba; Asadi, Asadollah; Afsharpour, Maryam; Jamadi, Robab Hassanvand

2018-05-01

The aim of this study was an in vitro evaluation and comparison of the cytotoxic effects of free nisin and nisin-loaded PLA-PEG-PLA nanoparticles on gastrointestinal (AGS and KYSE-30), hepatic (HepG2), and blood (K562) cancer cell lines. To create this novel anti-cancer drug delivery system, the nanoparticles were synthesized and then loaded with nisin. Subsequently, their biocompatibility, ability to enter cells, and physicochemical properties, including formation, size, and shape, were studied using hemolysis, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Then, its loading efficiency and release kinetics were examined to assess the potential impact of this formulation for the nanoparticle carrier candidacy. The cytotoxicities of nisin and nisin-loaded nanoparticles were evaluated by using the MTT and Neutral Red (NR) uptake assays. Detections of the apoptotic cells were done via Ethidium Bromide (EB)/Acridine Orange (AO) staining. The FTIR spectra, SEM images, and DLS graph confirmed the formations of the nanoparticles and nisin-loaded nanoparticles with spherical, distinct, and smooth surfaces and average sizes of 100 and 200 nm, respectively. The loading efficiency of the latter nanoparticles was about 85-90%. The hemolysis test represented their non-cytotoxicities and the FITC images indicated their entrance inside the cells. An increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells was observed through EB/AO staining. These results demonstrated that nisin had a cytotoxic effect on AGS, KYSE-30, HepG2, and K562 cancer cell lines, while the cytotoxicity of nisin-loaded nanoparticles was more than that of the free nisin.

ERAP1 overexpression in HPV-induced malignancies: A possible novel immune evasion mechanism.

PubMed

Steinbach, Alina; Winter, Jan; Reuschenbach, Miriam; Blatnik, Renata; Klevenz, Alexandra; Bertrand, Miriam; Hoppe, Stephanie; von Knebel Doeberitz, Magnus; Grabowska, Agnieszka K; Riemer, Angelika B

2017-01-01

Immune evasion of tumors poses a major challenge for immunotherapy. For human papillomavirus (HPV)-induced malignancies, multiple immune evasion mechanisms have been described, including altered expression of antigen processing machinery (APM) components. These changes can directly influence epitope presentation and thus T-cell responses against tumor cells. To date, the APM had not been studied systematically in a large array of HPV + tumor samples. Therefore in this study, systematic expression analysis of the APM was performed on the mRNA and protein level in a comprehensive collection of HPV16 + cell lines. Subsequently, HPV + cervical tissue samples were examined by immunohistochemistry. ERAP1 (endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 1) was the only APM component consistently altered - namely overexpressed - in HPV16 + tumor cell lines. ERAP1 was also found to be overexpressed in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and cervical cancer samples; expression levels were increasing with disease stage. On the functional level, the influence of ERAP1 expression levels on HPV16 E7-derived epitope presentation was investigated by mass spectrometry and in cytotoxicity assays with HPV16-specific T-cell lines. ERAP1 overexpression did not cause a complete destruction of any of the HPV epitopes analyzed, however, an influence of ERAP1 overexpression on the presentation levels of certain HPV epitopes could be demonstrated by HPV16-specific CD8 + T-cells. These showed enhanced killing toward HPV16 + CaSki cells whose ERAP1 expression had been attenuated to normal levels. ERAP1 overexpression may thus represent a novel immune evasion mechanism in HPV-induced malignancies, in cases when presentation of clinically relevant epitopes is reduced by overactivity of this peptidase.

Efficacy and safety of cytotoxic drug chemotherapy after first-line EGFR-TKI treatment in elderly patients with non-small-cell lung cancer harboring sensitive EGFR mutations.

PubMed

Imai, Hisao; Minemura, Hiroyuki; Sugiyama, Tomohide; Yamada, Yutaka; Kaira, Kyoichi; Kanazawa, Kenya; Kasai, Takashi; Kaburagi, Takayuki; Minato, Koichi

2018-05-08

Epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) is effective as first-line chemotherapy for patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring sensitive EGFR mutations. However, whether the efficacy of second-line cytotoxic drug chemotherapy after first-line EGFR-TKI treatment is similar to that of first-line cytotoxic drug chemotherapy in elderly patients aged ≥ 75 years harboring sensitive EGFR mutations is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of cytotoxic drug chemotherapy after first-line EGFR-TKI treatment in elderly patients with NSCLC harboring sensitive EGFR mutations. We retrospectively evaluated the clinical effects and safety profiles of second-line cytotoxic drug chemotherapy after first-line EGFR-TKI treatment in elderly patients with NSCLC harboring sensitive EGFR mutations (exon 19 deletion/exon 21 L858R mutation). Between April 2008 and December 2015, 78 elderly patients with advanced NSCLC harboring sensitive EGFR mutations received first-line EGFR-TKI at four Japanese institutions. Baseline characteristics, regimens, responses to first- and second-line treatments, whether or not patients received subsequent treatment, and if not, the reasons for non-administration were recorded. Overall, 20 patients with a median age of 79.5 years (range 75-85 years) were included in our analysis. The overall response, disease control, median progression-free survival, and overall survival rates were 15.0, 60.0%, 2.4, and 13.2 months, respectively. Common adverse events included leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, malaise, and anorexia. Major grade 3 or 4 toxicities included leukopenia (25.0%) and neutropenia (45.0%). No treatment-related deaths were noted. Second-line cytotoxic drug chemotherapy after first-line EGFR-TKI treatment among elderly patients with NSCLC harboring sensitive EGFR mutations was effective and safe and showed equivalent outcomes to first-line cytotoxic drug chemotherapy.

Efficacy of second-line antiretroviral therapy among people living with HIV/AIDS in Asia: Results from the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database

PubMed Central

BOETTIGER, David C; NGUYEN, Van Kinh; DURIER, Nicolas; BUI, Huy Vu; SIM, Benedict Lim Heng; AZWA, Iskandar; LAW, Matthew; RUXRUNGTHAM, Kiat

2014-01-01

Background Roughly 4% of the 1.25 million patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Asia are using second-line therapy. To maximize patient benefit and regional resources it is important to optimize the timing of second-line ART initiation and use the most effective compounds available. Methods HIV positive patients enrolled in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database who had used second-line ART for ≥6 months were included. ART use and rates and predictors of second-line treatment failure were evaluated. Results There were 302 eligible patients. Most were male (76.5%) and exposed to HIV via heterosexual contact (71.5%). Median age at second-line initiation was 39.2 years, median CD4 cell count was 146 cells/mm3, and median HIV viral load was 16,224 copies/mL. Patients started second-line ART before 2007 (n=105), 2007-2010 (n=147) and after 2010 (n=50). Ritonavir-boosted lopinavir and atazanavir accounted for the majority of protease inhibitor use after 2006. Median follow-up time on second-line was 2.3 years. The rates of treatment failure and mortality per 100 patient/years were 8.8 (95%CI 7.1 to 10.9) and 1.1 (95%CI 0.6 to 1.9), respectively. Older age, high baseline viral load and use of a protease inhibitor other than lopinavir or atazanavir were associated with a significantly shorter time to second-line failure. Conclusions Increased access to viral load monitoring to facilitate early detection of first-line ART failure and subsequent treatment switch is important for maximizing the durability of second-line therapy in Asia. Although second-line ART is highly effective in the region, the reported rate of failure emphasizes the need for third-line ART in a small portion of patients. PMID:25590271

Efficacy of second-line antiretroviral therapy among people living with HIV/AIDS in Asia: results from the TREAT Asia HIV observational database.

PubMed

Boettiger, David C; Nguyen, Van K; Durier, Nicolas; Bui, Huy V; Heng Sim, Benedict L; Azwa, Iskandar; Law, Matthew; Ruxrungtham, Kiat

2015-02-01

Roughly 4% of the 1.25 million patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Asia are using second-line therapy. To maximize patient benefit and regional resources, it is important to optimize the timing of second-line ART initiation and use the most effective compounds available. HIV-positive patients enrolled in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database who had used second-line ART for ≥6 months were included. ART use and rates and predictors of second-line treatment failure were evaluated. There were 302 eligible patients. Most were male (76.5%) and exposed to HIV via heterosexual contact (71.5%). Median age at second-line initiation was 39.2 years, median CD4 cell count was 146 cells per cubic millimeter, and median HIV viral load was 16,224 copies per milliliter. Patients started second-line ART before 2007 (n = 105), 2007-2010 (n = 147) and after 2010 (n = 50). Ritonavir-boosted lopinavir and atazanavir accounted for the majority of protease inhibitor use after 2006. Median follow-up time on second-line therapy was 2.3 years. The rates of treatment failure and mortality per 100 patient/years were 8.8 (95% confidence interval: 7.1 to 10.9) and 1.1 (95% confidence interval: 0.6 to 1.9), respectively. Older age, high baseline viral load, and use of a protease inhibitor other than lopinavir or atazanavir were associated with a significantly shorter time to second-line failure. Increased access to viral load monitoring to facilitate early detection of first-line ART failure and subsequent treatment switch is important for maximizing the durability of second-line therapy in Asia. Although second-line ART is highly effective in the region, the reported rate of failure emphasizes the need for third-line ART in a small portion of patients.

Disruption of gap junctional intercellular communication by antibiotic gentamicin is associated with aberrant localization of occludin, N-cadherin, connexin 43, and vimentin in SerW3 Sertoli cells in vitro.

PubMed

Bekheet, Souad H M; Stahlmann, Ralf

2009-09-01

Spermatogenesis is a very complex process by which male germ cells differentiate into mature spermatozoa. The sophisticated communication network that controls spermatogenesis can be derailed so that dysfunction of one cell type propagates to all types as a cascade. This accounts for the particular vulnerability of the testis to environmental factors such as drugs and xenobiotics. Sertoli cells play an important role in protecting developing germ cells by forming a physiological barrier, limiting exposure to potentially toxic substrates, or conversely, facilitating uptake of xenobiotics within the testis. In this study, cells from the rat Sertoli line (SerW3) were incubated for 3, 6 and 9 subsequent days in serum free DMEM (SFDM) composed of DMEM supplemented with three different concentrations of antibiotic gentamicin (10, 30, and 100 μg). The effect of the three different concentrations of this antibiotic was determined on Sertoli cell-cell interaction through impaired expression of their constitutive tight junction proteins as early targets for different toxicants in vitro by immunochemistry analysis. The Sertoli SerW3 cell line illustrated the cytotoxicity of GS, as the intercellular junction proteins such as occludin, N-cadherin, connexin 43, and vimentin were delocalized from the membrane to the cytoplasmic compartment during exposure to the antibiotic. This study underlines the potential deleterious effects of the routine use of antibiotics during continuous cell culture.

Evaluation of human embryonic stem cells and their differentiated fibroblastic progenies as cellular models for in vitro genotoxicity screening.

PubMed

Vinoth, Kumar Jayaseelan; Manikandan, Jayapal; Sethu, Swaminathan; Balakrishnan, Lakshmidevi; Heng, Alexis; Lu, Kai; Hande, Manoor Prakash; Cao, Tong

2014-08-20

This study evaluated human embryonic stem cells (hESC) and their differentiated fibroblastic progenies as cellular models for genotoxicity screening. The DNA damage response of hESCs and their differentiated fibroblastic progenies were compared to a fibroblastic cell line (HEPM, CRL1486) and primary cultures of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL), upon exposure to Mitomycin C, gamma irradiation and H2O2. It was demonstrated that hESC-derived fibroblastic progenies (H1F) displayed significantly higher chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei formation and double strand break (DSB) formation, as compared to undifferentiated hESC upon exposure to genotoxic stress. Nevertheless, H1F cell types displayed comparable sensitivities to genotoxic challenge as HEPM and PBL, both of which are representative of somatic cell types commonly used for genotoxicity screening. Subsequently, transcriptomic and pathways analysis identified differential expression of critical genes involved in cell death and DNA damage response upon exposure to gamma irradiation. The results thus demonstrate that hESC-derived fibroblastic progenies are as sensitive as commonly-used somatic cell types for genotoxicity screening. Moreover, hESCs have additional advantages, such as their genetic normality compared to immortalized cell lines, as well as their amenability to scale-up for producing large, standardized quantities of cells for genotoxicity screening on an industrial scale, something which can never be achieved with primary cell cultures. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Cyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione-based antiproliferative agents: design, synthesis, and cytotoxic evaluation.

PubMed

Petronzi, Carmen; Festa, Michela; Peduto, Antonella; Castellano, Maria; Marinello, Jessica; Massa, Antonio; Capasso, Anna; Capranico, Giovanni; La Gatta, Annalisa; De Rosa, Mario; Caraglia, Michele; Filosa, Rosanna

2013-04-30

Tumors are diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and, in spite of the progress of medicine over the years, continue to represent a major threat to the health, requiring new therapies. Several synthetic compounds, such as those derived from natural sources, have been identified as anticancer drugs; among these compounds quinone represent the second largest class of anticancer agents in use. Several studies have shown that these act on tumor cells through several mechanisms. An important objective of this work is to develop quinoidscompounds showing antitumor activity, but with fewer side effects. The parachinone cannabinol HU-331, is a small molecule that with its core 4-hydroxy-1,4-benzoquinone, exhibits a potent and selective cytotoxic activity on different tumor cell lines. A series of derivatives 3-hydroxy-1,4-benzochinoni were thus developed through HU-331 chemical modifications. The purpose of the work is to test the ability of the compounds to induce proliferative inhibition and study the mechanisms of cell death. The antitumor activities were evaluated in vitro by examining their cytotoxic effects against different human cancer cell lines. All cell lines tested were plated in 96-multiwell and treated with HU-100-V at different concentrations and cell viability was evaluated byMTT assay. Subsequently via flow cytometry (FACS) it was possible to assess apoptosis by the system of double labeling with PI and Annexin-V, and the effect of the compounds on ROS formation by measuring the dichlorofluorescein fluorescence. The substitution by n-hexyl chain considerably enhanced the bioactivity of the compounds. In details, 2-hexyl-5-hydroxycyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione (V), 2,5-Dimethoxy-3-hexyl-2,5-cyclohexadiene-1,4-dione (XII) and 2-hydroxy-5-methoxy-3-hexyl-cyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione (XIII) showed most prominent cytotoxicity against almost human tumour cell lines. Compound V was further subjected to downstream apoptotic analysis, demostrating a time-dependent pro-apoptotic activity on human melanoma M14 cell line mediated by caspases activation and poly-(ADP-ribose)-polymerase (PARP) protein cleavage. These findings indicate that 2-hexyl-5-idrossicicloesa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione can be a promising compound for the design of a new class of antineoplastic derivatives.Carmen Petronzi, Michela Festa, Antonella Peduto and Maria Castellano: equally contributed equally to this work.

Effects of all-trans-retinoic acid on human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma as in vitro model in neurotoxicity research.

PubMed

Cheung, Yuen-Ting; Lau, Way Kwok-Wai; Yu, Man-Shan; Lai, Cora Sau-Wan; Yeung, Sze-Chun; So, Kwok-Fai; Chang, Raymond Chuen-Chung

2009-01-01

Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y is a dopaminergic neuronal cell line which has been used as an in vitro model for neurotoxicity experiments. Although the neuroblastoma is usually differentiated by all-trans-retinoic acid (RA), both RA-differentiated and undifferentiated SH-SY5Y cells have been used in neuroscience research. However, the changes in neuronal properties triggered by RA as well as the subsequent responsiveness to neurotoxins have not been comprehensively studied. Therefore, we aim to re-evaluate the differentiation property of RA on this cell line. We hypothesize that modulation of signaling pathways and neuronal properties during RA-mediated differentiation in SH-SY5Y cells can affect their susceptibility to neurotoxins. The differentiation property of RA was confirmed by showing an extensive outgrowth of neurites, increased expressions of neuronal nuclei, neuron specific enolase, synaptophysin and synaptic associated protein-97, and decreased expression of inhibitor of differentiation-1. While undifferentiated SH-SY5Y cells were susceptible to 6-OHDA and MPP+, RA-differentiation conferred SH-SY5Y cells higher tolerance, potentially by up-regulating survival signaling, including Akt pathway as inhibition of Akt removed RA-induced neuroprotection against 6-OHDA. As a result, the real toxicity cannot be revealed in RA-differentiated cells. Therefore, undifferentiated SH-SY5Y is more appropriate for studying neurotoxicity or neuroprotection in experimental Parkinson's disease research.

Electric and magnetic fields do not modify the biochemical properties of FRTL-5 cells.

PubMed

Dimida, A; Ferrarini, E; Agretti, P; De Marco, G; Grasso, L; Martinelli, M; Longo, I; Giulietti, D; Ricci, A; Galimberti, M; Siervo, B; Licitra, G; Francia, F; Pinchera, A; Vitti, P; Tonacchera, M

2011-03-01

Electric and magnetic fields (EMF) might be involved in human disease and numerous research and scientific reviews have been conducted to address this question. In particular thyroid structural and functional alterations caused by various forms of non-ionizing radiation have been described. The aim of this study was to analyze the possible effects of EMF on thyroid, in particular we analyzed the effects caused by a GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) signal (900 MHz) on cultured thyroid cells (FRTL- 5). The experimental setup was designed in order to expose samples to a radiofrequency wave in well-controlled conditions. We used the FRTL-5 cell line, an epithelial monoclonal continuous cell line derived from Fisher rat thyroid tissue growing as monolayer, expressing the TSH receptor and the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS). FRTL-5 were subsequently irradiate for 24, 48, and 96 h with EMF (800-900 MHz, power-frequency of mobile communication systems) and iodide uptake and cAMP production were measured. The irradiation of cells with EMF at 900 Mhz for 24, 48, and 96 h did not influence the level of cAMP production and was not able to modify iodide accumulation in FRTL- 5 cells with respect to basal conditions. In conclusion, EMF do not seem to be able to interfere with the biochemical properties of FRTL-5 cells in vitro.

p53 inhibits CRISPR-Cas9 engineering in human pluripotent stem cells.

PubMed

Ihry, Robert J; Worringer, Kathleen A; Salick, Max R; Frias, Elizabeth; Ho, Daniel; Theriault, Kraig; Kommineni, Sravya; Chen, Julie; Sondey, Marie; Ye, Chaoyang; Randhawa, Ranjit; Kulkarni, Tripti; Yang, Zinger; McAllister, Gregory; Russ, Carsten; Reece-Hoyes, John; Forrester, William; Hoffman, Gregory R; Dolmetsch, Ricardo; Kaykas, Ajamete

2018-06-11

CRISPR/Cas9 has revolutionized our ability to engineer genomes and conduct genome-wide screens in human cells 1-3 . Whereas some cell types are amenable to genome engineering, genomes of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have been difficult to engineer, with reduced efficiencies relative to tumour cell lines or mouse embryonic stem cells 3-13 . Here, using hPSC lines with stable integration of Cas9 or transient delivery of Cas9-ribonucleoproteins (RNPs), we achieved an average insertion or deletion (indel) efficiency greater than 80%. This high efficiency of indel generation revealed that double-strand breaks (DSBs) induced by Cas9 are toxic and kill most hPSCs. In previous studies, the toxicity of Cas9 in hPSCs was less apparent because of low transfection efficiency and subsequently low DSB induction 3 . The toxic response to DSBs was P53/TP53-dependent, such that the efficiency of precise genome engineering in hPSCs with a wild-type P53 gene was severely reduced. Our results indicate that Cas9 toxicity creates an obstacle to the high-throughput use of CRISPR/Cas9 for genome engineering and screening in hPSCs. Moreover, as hPSCs can acquire P53 mutations 14 , cell replacement therapies using CRISPR/Cas9-enginereed hPSCs should proceed with caution, and such engineered hPSCs should be monitored for P53 function.

On-line observation of cell growth in a three-dimensional matrix on surface-modified microelectrode arrays.

PubMed

Lin, Shu-Ping; Kyriakides, Themis R; Chen, Jia-Jin J

2009-06-01

Despite many successful applications of microelectrode arrays (MEAs), typical two-dimensional in-vitro cultures do not project the full scale of the cell growth environment in the three-dimensional (3D) in-vivo setting. This study aims to on-line monitor in-vitro cell growth in a 3D matrix on the surface-modified MEAs with a dynamic perfusion culture system. A 3D matrix consisting of poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel supplemented with poly-D-lysine was subsequently synthesized in situ on the self-assembled monolayer modified MEAs. FTIR spectrum analysis revealed a peak at 2100 cm(-1) due to the degradation of the structure of the 3D matrix. After 2 wks, microscopic examination revealed that the non-degraded area was around 1500 microm(2) and provided enough space for cell growth. Fluorescence microscopy revealed that the degraded 3D matrix was non-cytotoxic allowing the growth of NIH3T3 fibroblasts and cortical neurons in vitro. Time-course changes of total impedance including resistance and reactance were recorded for 8 days to evaluate the cell growth in the 3D matrix on the MEA. A consistent trend reflecting changes of reactance and total impedance was observed. These in-vitro assays demonstrate that our 3D matrix can construct a biomimetic system for cell growth and analysis of cell surface interactions.

The influence of surgical transection and anastomosis on the rate of cell proliferation in the colonic epithelium of normal and DMH-treated rats.

PubMed

Barkla, D H; Tutton, P M

1983-10-01

Normal and DMH-treated male rats aged 18-20 weeks underwent surgical transection and anastomosis of the transverse colon. Animals were subsequently killed at intervals of 14, 30 and 72 days. Three hours prior to sacrifice animals were injected with vinblastine sulphate and mitotic indices were subsequently estimated in histological sections. Possible differences between experimental and control groups were tested using a Student's t-test. The results show that the accumulated mitotic indices in normal and DMH-treated colon are statistically similar. The results also show that transection and anastomosis stimulates cell division in both normal and DMH-treated colon and that the increase is of greater amplitude and more prolonged duration in the DMH-treated rats. Carcinomas developed close to the line of anastomosis in DMH-treated but not in control rats. The results support the hypothesis that non-specific injury to hyperplastic colonic epithelium promotes carcinogenesis.

Osimertinib reactivated immune-related colitis after treatment with anti-PD1 antibody for non-small cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Takenaka, Tomoyoshi; Yamazaki, Koji; Miura, Naoko; Harada, Naohiko; Takeo, Sadanori

2017-12-01

We reported a case of relapsing immune-related colitis (initially caused by nivolumab) following osimertinib therapy for lung adenocarcinoma. A 45-year-old female who had never smoked was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the lung and underwent surgical resection. Four years after surgical resection, she was diagnosed with recurrent disease and was eventually treated with nivolumab as third-line therapy. One month after the completion of nivolumab therapy, the patient reported abdominal pain and frequent diarrhea. We diagnosed immune-related colitis and started oral prednisolone. However, the steroid therapy was ineffective, so the patient was administered infliximab and an increased dose of prednisolone. Her symptoms subsequently resolved, and her mucosal lesions improved. Six months after the last administration of nivolumab, osimertinib was initiated as fourth-line therapy, but 3 days later, the patient developed blood in the stool and frequent diarrhea. Osimertinib treatment was discontinued, given the possibility that it had reactivated the patient's immune-related colitis. We subsequently re-administered oral prednisolone (2 mg/kg/day), and the colitis resolved within a few weeks.

Methodology of clinical trials evaluating the incorporation of new drugs in the first-line treatment of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL): a critical review.

PubMed

Iacoboni, G; Zucca, E; Ghielmini, M; Stathis, A

2018-05-01

The first-line treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the combination of rituximab with CHOP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone) chemotherapy, curing approximately 60% of patients. Many clinical trials have been carried out over the last 10 years trying to improve the results of this treatment, but the appropriateness of their planning strategies could be rediscussed. Reports of phase III trials evaluating the addition of molecularly targeted agents or new monoclonal antibodies to the classic R-CHOP backbone in first-line induction or maintenance treatment were reviewed. The trial design, primary end point, number of patients enrolled, patient selection criteria, treatment schedule and results were registered for each one. In addition, the phases I and II trials which preceded these phase III trials were also reviewed. Among six phase III trials with results, only one trial evaluating lenalidomide maintenance after response to R-CHOP induction was positive and reached its primary end point. The other five trials did not show an improved outcome with the addition of the new agent. The preceding phases I and II trials were very heterogeneous in their end points and design. Even though most of these trials were considered positive, thus encouraging further investigation, so far they failed to predict the results of the subsequent phase III trials. The standard of care for DLBCL is still R-CHOP. Phase I/II trials failed to predict the results of subsequent phase III trials evaluating non-chemotherapeutic agents added to R-CHOP. The methodology of phase II trials evaluating new agents in DLBCL needs to be better defined in the future.

Transformation assay in Bhas 42 cells: a model using initiated cells to study mechanisms of carcinogenesis and predict carcinogenic potential of chemicals.

PubMed

Sasaki, Kiyoshi; Umeda, Makoto; Sakai, Ayako; Yamazaki, Shojiro; Tanaka, Noriho

2015-01-01

Transformation assays using cultured cells have been applied to the study of carcinogenesis. Although various cell systems exist, few cell types such as BALB/c 3T3 subclones and Syrian hamster embryo cells have been used to study chemically induced two-stage carcinogenesis. Bhas 42 cells were established as a clone by the transfection with the v-Ha-ras gene into mouse BALB/c 3T3 A31-1-1 cells and their subsequent selection based on their sensitivity to 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. Using Bhas 42 cells, transformed foci were induced by the treatment with nongenotoxic carcinogens, most of which act as tumor promoters. Therefore, Bhas 42 cells were considered to be a model of initiated cells. Subsequently, not only nongenotoxic carcinogens but also genotoxic carcinogens, most of which act as tumor initiators, were found to induce transformed foci by the modification of the protocol. Furthermore, transformation of Bhas 42 cells was induced by the transfection with genes of oncogenic potential. We interpret this high sensitivity of Bhas 42 cells to various types of carcinogenic stimuli to be related to the multistage model of carcinogenesis, as the transfection of v-Ha-ras gene further advances the parental BALB/c 3T3 A31-1-1 cells toward higher transforming potential. Thus, we propose that Bhas 42 cells are a novel and sensitive cell line for the analysis of carcinogenesis and can be used for the detection of not only carcinogenic substances but also gene alterations related to oncogenesis. This review will address characteristics of Bhas 42 cells, the transformation assay protocol, validation studies, and the various chemicals tested in this assay.

Bone marrow derived stem cells in joint and bone diseases: a concise review.

PubMed

Marmotti, Antonio; de Girolamo, Laura; Bonasia, Davide Edoardo; Bruzzone, Matteo; Mattia, Silvia; Rossi, Roberto; Montaruli, Angela; Dettoni, Federico; Castoldi, Filippo; Peretti, Giuseppe

2014-09-01

Stem cells have huge applications in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Their use is currently not restricted to the life-threatening diseases but also extended to disorders involving the structural tissues, which may not jeopardize the patients' life, but certainly influence their quality of life. In fact, a particularly popular line of research is represented by the regeneration of bone and cartilage tissues to treat various orthopaedic disorders. Most of these pioneering research lines that aim to create new treatments for diseases that currently have limited therapies are still in the bench of the researchers. However, in recent years, several clinical trials have been started with satisfactory and encouraging results. This article aims to review the concept of stem cells and their characterization in terms of site of residence, differentiation potential and therapeutic prospective. In fact, while only the bone marrow was initially considered as a "reservoir" of this cell population, later, adipose tissue and muscle tissue have provided a considerable amount of cells available for multiple differentiation. In reality, recently, the so-called "stem cell niche" was identified as the perivascular space, recognizing these cells as almost ubiquitous. In the field of bone and joint diseases, their potential to differentiate into multiple cell lines makes their application ideally immediate through three main modalities: (1) cells selected by withdrawal from bone marrow, subsequent culture in the laboratory, and ultimately transplant at the site of injury; (2) bone marrow aspirate, concentrated and directly implanted into the injury site; (3) systemic mobilization of stem cells and other bone marrow precursors by the use of growth factors. The use of this cell population in joint and bone disease will be addressed and discussed, analysing both the clinical outcomes but also the basic research background, which has justified their use for the treatment of bone, cartilage and meniscus tissues.

The intranuclear PEX domain of MMP involves proliferation, migration, and metastasis of aggressive adenocarcinoma cells.

PubMed

Okusha, Yuka; Eguchi, Takanori; Sogawa, Chiharu; Okui, Tatsuo; Nakano, Keisuke; Okamoto, Kuniaki; Kozaki, Ken-Ichi

2018-05-15

Members of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family promote cancer cell migration, invasion, and metastasis through alteration of the tumor milieu, intracellular signaling pathways, and transcription. We examined gene expression signatures of colon adenocarcinoma cell lines with different metastatic potentials and found that rapidly metastatic cells powerfully expressed genes encoding MMP3 and MMP9. The non-proteolytic PEX isoform and proteolytic isoforms of MMPs were significantly expressed in the metastatic cells in vitro. Knockdown of MMP3 attenuated cancer cell migration and invasion in vitro and lung metastasis in vivo. Profound nuclear localization of MMP3/PEX was found in tumor-stroma marginal area. In contrast, MMP9 was localized in central area of subcutaneous tumors. Overexpression of the PEX isoform of MMP3 promoted proliferation and migration of the rapidly metastatic cells in vitro. Taken together, the non-proteolytic PEX isoform of MMPs locating in cell nuclei involves proliferation, migration, and subsequent metastasis of aggressive adenocarcinoma cells. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The CD44-initiated pathway of T-cell extravasation uses VLA-4 but not LFA-1 for firm adhesion

PubMed Central

Siegelman, Mark H.; Stanescu, Diana; Estess, Pila

2000-01-01

Leukocytes extravasate from the blood in response to physiologic or pathologic demands by means of complementary ligand interactions between leukocytes and endothelial cells. The multistep model of leukocyte extravasation involves an initial transient interaction (“rolling” adhesion), followed by secondary (firm) adhesion. We recently showed that binding of CD44 on activated T lymphocytes to endothelial hyaluronan (HA) mediates a primary adhesive interaction under shear stress, permitting extravasation at sites of inflammation. The mechanism for subsequent firm adhesion has not been elucidated. Here we demonstrate that the integrin VLA-4 is used in secondary adhesion after CD44-mediated primary adhesion of human and mouse T cells in vitro, and by mouse T cells in an in vivo model. We show that clonal cell lines and polyclonally activated normal T cells roll under physiologic shear forces on hyaluronate and require VCAM-1, but not ICAM-1, as ligand for subsequent firm adhesion. This firm adhesion is also VLA-4 dependent, as shown by antibody inhibition. Moreover, in vivo short-term homing experiments in a model dependent on CD44 and HA demonstrate that superantigen-activated T cells require VLA-4, but not LFA-1, for entry into an inflamed peritoneal site. Thus, extravasation of activated T cells initiated by CD44 binding to HA depends upon VLA-4–mediated firm adhesion, which may explain the frequent association of these adhesion receptors with diverse chronic inflammatory processes. PMID:10712440

Capacity of tumor necrosis factor to augment lymphocyte-mediated tumor cell lysis of malignant mesothelioma

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bowman, R.V.; Manning, L.S.; Davis, M.R.

1991-01-01

Recombinant human tumor necrosis factor (rHuTNF) was evaluated both for direct anti-tumor action against human malignant mesothelioma and for its capacity to augment the generation and lytic phases of lymphocyte-mediated cytotoxicity against this tumor. rHuTNF was directly toxic by MTT assay to one of two mesothelioma cell lines evaluated, but had no effect on susceptibility to subsequent lymphocyte-mediated lysis of either line. TNF alone was incapable of generating anti-mesothelioma lymphokine-activated killer cell (LAK) activity. Furthermore, it did not augment the degree or LAK activity produced by submaximal interleukin-2 (IL-2) concentrations nor did it augment lysis of mesothelioma cells by naturalmore » killer (NK) or LAK effector cells during the 4-hr 51chromium release cytolytic reaction. The studies also suggest that mesothelioma targets are less responsive to TNF plus submaximal IL-2 concentrations than the standard LAK sensitive target Daudi, raising the possibility that intermediate LAK sensitive tumors such as mesothelioma may require separate and specific evaluation in immunomodulation studies. This in vitro study indicates that use of low-dose rHuTNF and IL-2 is unlikely to be an effective substitute for high-dose IL-2 in generation and maintenance of LAK activity in adoptive immunotherapy for mesothelioma.« less

The Adhesion of Lactobacillus salivarius REN to a Human Intestinal Epithelial Cell Line Requires S-layer Proteins

PubMed Central

Wang, Ran; Jiang, Lun; Zhang, Ming; Zhao, Liang; Hao, Yanling; Guo, Huiyuan; Sang, Yue; Zhang, Hao; Ren, Fazheng

2017-01-01

Lactobacillus salivarius REN, a novel probiotic isolated from Chinese centenarians, can adhere to intestinal epithelial cells and subsequently colonize the host. We show here that the surface-layer protein choline-binding protein A (CbpA) of L. salivarius REN was involved in adherence to the human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line HT-29. Adhesion of a cbpA deletion mutant was significantly reduced compared with that of wild-type, suggesting that CbpA acts as an adhesin that mediates the interaction between the bacterium and its host. To identify the molecular mechanism of adhesion, we determined the crystal structure of a truncated form of CbpA that is likely involved in binding to its cell-surface receptor. The crystal structure identified CbpA as a peptidase of the M23 family whose members harbor a zinc-dependent catalytic site. Therefore, we propose that CbpA acts as a multifunctional surface protein that cleaves the host extracellular matrix and participates in adherence. Moreover, we identified enolase as the CbpA receptor on the surface of HT-29 cells. The present study reveals a new class of surface-layer proteins as well as the molecular mechanism that may contribute to the ability of L. salivarius REN to colonize the human gut. PMID:28281568

The Adhesion of Lactobacillus salivarius REN to a Human Intestinal Epithelial Cell Line Requires S-layer Proteins.

PubMed

Wang, Ran; Jiang, Lun; Zhang, Ming; Zhao, Liang; Hao, Yanling; Guo, Huiyuan; Sang, Yue; Zhang, Hao; Ren, Fazheng

2017-03-10

Lactobacillus salivarius REN, a novel probiotic isolated from Chinese centenarians, can adhere to intestinal epithelial cells and subsequently colonize the host. We show here that the surface-layer protein choline-binding protein A (CbpA) of L. salivarius REN was involved in adherence to the human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line HT-29. Adhesion of a cbpA deletion mutant was significantly reduced compared with that of wild-type, suggesting that CbpA acts as an adhesin that mediates the interaction between the bacterium and its host. To identify the molecular mechanism of adhesion, we determined the crystal structure of a truncated form of CbpA that is likely involved in binding to its cell-surface receptor. The crystal structure identified CbpA as a peptidase of the M23 family whose members harbor a zinc-dependent catalytic site. Therefore, we propose that CbpA acts as a multifunctional surface protein that cleaves the host extracellular matrix and participates in adherence. Moreover, we identified enolase as the CbpA receptor on the surface of HT-29 cells. The present study reveals a new class of surface-layer proteins as well as the molecular mechanism that may contribute to the ability of L. salivarius REN to colonize the human gut.

Tobacco Arp3 is localized to actin-nucleating sites in vivo

PubMed Central

Maisch, Jan; Fišerová, Jindřiška; Fischer, Lukáš; Nick, Peter

2009-01-01

The polarity of actin is a central determinant of intracellular transport in plant cells. To visualize actin polarity in living plant cells, the tobacco homologue of the actin-related protein 3 (ARP3) was cloned and a fusion with the red fluorescent protein (RFP) was generated. Upon transient expression of these fusions in the tobacco cell line BY-2 (Nicotiana tabacum L. cv. Bright Yellow 2), punctate structures were observed near the nuclear envelope and in the cortical plasma. These dots could be shown to decorate actin filaments by expressing RFP–ARP3 in a marker line, where actin was tagged by GFP (green fluorescent protein)–FABD (fimbrin actin-binding domain 2). When actin filaments were disrupted by latrunculin B or by prolonged cold treatment, and subsequently allowed to recover, the actin filaments reformed from the RFP–ARP3 structures, that therefore represented actin nucleation sites. The intracellular distribution of these sites was followed during the formation of pluricellular files, and it was observed that the density of RFP–ARP3 increased in the apex of the polarized, terminal cells of a file, whereas it was equally distributed in the central cells of a file. These findings are interpreted in terms of position-dependent differences of actin organization. PMID:19129161

A real-world study of treatment patterns and survival outcome in advanced anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive non-small-cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Jin, Ying; Chen, Yamei; Yu, Xinmin; Shi, Xun

2018-06-01

Crizotinib is an anti-cancer drug with a substantial beneficial effect in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients harboring anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangement. However, the real-world data currently available on this drug are limited. Thus, the present study aimed to retrospectively examine the treatment patterns and survival outcome of 83 advanced NSCLC patients with ALK rearrangement in a single center in China. Of the 83 patients enrolled, 33 (39.8%) patients received crizotinib and the remaining 50 (60.2%) patients received chemotherapy as the initial therapy. The first-line use of crizotinib prolonged the PFS1 (progression-free survival to the first detection of subsequent disease progression) compared with chemotherapy (median, 18.5 vs. 4.9 months; P<0.001), however, it did not prolong the overall survival (OS; P=0.802). At the last follow up, 71 (85.5%) patients had received crizotinib and 12 (14.5%) patients were crizotinib-naive. Patients who had received crizotinib exhibited a significantly longer OS as compared with those who were crizotinib-naive [hazard ratio (HR) for mortality, 0.279; 95% confidence interval, 0.107-0.727; P<0.05). Among the 71 patients who had received crizotinib, this was administered as a first-line therapy in 33 (46.5%) cases, as a second-line therapy in 22 (31.0%) cases and after the second-line therapy in 16 (22.5%) cases. No significant difference in the OS among the three groups was observed (P=0.577). The Cox multivariate analysis identified the following independent negative prognostic factors for OS: Smoking history (HR=4.565), liver invasion at diagnosis (HR=4.294) and bone invasion at diagnosis (HR=2.587). In addition, the use of crizotinib (HR=0.319) was identified as a positive prognostic factor for OS. In conclusion, the present real-world study revealed that the use of crizotinib improved the long-term survival of patients with ALK-positive advanced NSCLC. There was no difference in survival outcome between patients with initial use of crizotinib and those with subsequent use of crizotinib after first-line therapy.

Creatine supplementation with methylglyoxal: a potent therapy for cancer in experimental models.

PubMed

Pal, Aparajita; Roy, Anirban; Ray, Manju

2016-08-01

The anti-cancer effect of methylglyoxal (MG) is now well established in the literature. The main aim of this study was to investigate the effect of creatine as a supplement in combination with MG both in vitro and in vivo. In case of the in vitro studies, two different cell lines, namely MCF-7 (human breast cancer cell line) and C2C12 (mouse myoblast cell line) were chosen. MG in combination with creatine showed enhanced apoptosis as well as higher cytotoxicity in the breast cancer MCF-7 cell line, compared to MG alone. Pre-treatment of well-differentiated C2C12 myotubes with cancerogenic 3-methylcholanthrene (3MC) induced a dedifferentiation of these myotubes towards cancerous cells (that mimic the effect of 3MC observed in solid fibro-sarcoma animal models) and subsequent exposure of these induced cancer cells with MG proved to be cytotoxic. Thus, creatine plus ascorbic acid enhanced the anti-cancer effects of MG. In contrast, when normal C2C12 muscle cells or myotubes (mouse normal myoblast cell line) were treated with MG or MG plus creatine and ascorbic acid, no detrimental effects were seen. This indicated that cytotoxic effects of MG are specifically limited towards cancer cells and are further enhanced when MG is used in combination with creatine and ascorbic acid. For the in vivo studies, tumors were induced by injecting Sarcoma-180 cells (2 × 10(6) cells/mouse) in the left hind leg. After 7 days of tumor inoculation, treatments were started with MG (20 mg/kg body wt/day, via the intravenous route), with or without creatine (150 mg/kg body wt/day, fed orally) and ascorbic acid (50 mg/kg body wt/day, fed orally) and continued for 10 consecutive days. Significant regression of tumor size was observed when Sarcoma-180 tumor-bearing mice were treated with MG and even more so with the aforesaid combination. The creatine-supplemented group demonstrated better overall survival in comparison with tumor-bearing mice without creatine. In conclusion, it may be stated that the anti-cancer effect of MG is enhanced by concomitant creatine supplementation, both in chemically transformed (by 3MC) muscle cells in vitro as well as in sarcoma animal model in vivo. These data strongly suggest that creatine supplementation may gain importance as a safe and effective supplement in therapeutic intervention with the anti-cancer agent MG.

LED (660 nm) and laser (670 nm) use on skin flap viability: angiogenesis and mast cells on transition line.

PubMed

Nishioka, Michele A; Pinfildi, Carlos E; Sheliga, Tatiana Rodrigues; Arias, Victor E; Gomes, Heitor C; Ferreira, Lydia M

2012-09-01

Skin flap procedures are commonly used in plastic surgery. Failures can follow, leading to the necrosis of the flap. Therefore, many studies use LLLT to improve flap viability. Currently, the LED has been introduced as an alternative to LLLT. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of LLLT and LED on the viability of random skin flaps in rats. Forty-eight rats were divided into four groups, and a random skin flap (10 × 4 cm) was performed in all animals. Group 1 was the sham group; group 2 was submitted to LLLT 660 nm, 0.14 J; group 3 with LED 630 nm, 2.49 J, and group 4 with LLLT 660 nm, with 2.49 J. Irradiation was applied after surgery and repeated on the four subsequent days. On the 7th postoperative day, the percentage of flap necrosis was calculated and skin samples were collected from the viable area and from the transition line of the flap to evaluate blood vessels and mast cells. The percentage of necrosis was significantly lower in groups 3 and 4 compared to groups 1 and 2. Concerning blood vessels and mast cell numbers, only the animals in group 3 showed significant increase compared to group 1 in the skin sample of the transition line. LED and LLLT with the same total energies were effective in increasing viability of random skin flaps. LED was more effective in increasing the number of mast cells and blood vessels in the transition line of random skin flaps.

Shikonin suppresses proliferation and induces cell cycle arrest through the inhibition of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α signaling.

PubMed

Li, Ming Yue; Mi, Chunliu; Wang, Ke Si; Wang, Zhe; Zuo, Hong Xiang; Piao, Lian Xun; Xu, Guang Hua; Li, Xuezheng; Ma, Juan; Jin, Xuejun

2017-08-25

Hypoxia enhances the development of solid tumors. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is a transcription factor that is dominantly expressed under hypoxia in solid tumor cells and is a key factor of tumor regulation. HIF-1α regulates several target genes involved in many aspects of cancer progression, including angiogenesis, metastasis, and cell proliferation, as well as imparting resistance to cancer treatment. In this study, we assessed shikonin, which derives from the traditional medical herb Lithospermum erythrorhizon, for its anti-cancer effects in hypoxia-induced human colon cancer cell lines. Shikonin showed potent inhibitory activity against hypoxia-induced HIF-1α activation in various human cancer cell lines and efficient scavenging activity of hypoxia-induced reactive oxygen species in tumor cells. Further analysis revealed that shikonin inhibited HIF-1α protein synthesis without affecting the expression of HIF-1α mRNA or degrading HIF-1α protein. It was subsequently shown to attenuate the activation of downstream mTOR/p70S6K/4E-BP1/eIF4E kinase. Shikonin also dose-dependently caused the cell cycle arrest of activated HCT116 cells and inhibited the proliferation of HCT116 and SW620 cells. Moreover, it significantly inhibited tumor growth in a xenograft modal. These findings suggest that shikonin could be considered for use as a potential drug in human colon cancer therapy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) CD4 receptor and its central role in promotion of HIV-1 infection.

PubMed Central

Bour, S; Geleziunas, R; Wainberg, M A

1995-01-01

Interactions between the viral envelope glycoprotein gp120 and the cell surface receptor CD4 are responsible for the entry of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) into host cells in the vast majority of cases. HIV-1 replication is commonly followed by the disappearance or receptor downmodulation of cell surface CD4. This potentially renders cells nonsusceptible to subsequent infection by HIV-1, as well as by other viruses that use CD4 as a portal of entry. Disappearance of CD4 from the cell surface is mediated by several different viral proteins that act at various stages through the course of the viral life cycle, and it occurs in T-cell lines, peripheral blood CD4+ lymphocytes, and monocytes of both primary and cell line origin. At the cell surface, gp120 itself and in the form of antigen-antibody complexes can trigger cellular pathways leading to CD4 internalization. Intracellularly, the mechanisms leading to CD4 downmodulation by HIV-1 are multiple and complex; these include degradation of CD4 by Vpu, formation of intracellular complexes between CD4 and the envelope precursor gp160, and internalization by the Nef protein. Each of the above doubtless contributes to the ultimate depletion of cell surface CD4, although the relative contribution of each mechanism and the manner in which they interact remain to be definitively established. PMID:7708013

Endoplasmic reticulum chaperone GRP78 mediates cigarette smoke-induced necroptosis and injury in bronchial epithelium.

PubMed

Wang, Yong; Zhou, Jie-Sen; Xu, Xu-Chen; Li, Zhou-Yang; Chen, Hai-Pin; Ying, Song-Min; Li, Wen; Shen, Hua-Hao; Chen, Zhi-Hua

2018-01-01

Bronchial epithelial cell death and airway inflammation induced by cigarette smoke (CS) have been involved in the pathogenesis of COPD. GRP78, belonging to heat shock protein 70 family, has been implicated in cell death and inflammation, while little is known about its roles in COPD. Here, we demonstrate that GRP78 regulates CS-induced necroptosis and injury in bronchial epithelial cells. GRP78 and necroptosis markers were examined in human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cell line, primary mouse tracheal epithelial cells, and mouse lungs. siRNA targeting GRP78 gene and necroptosis inhibitor were used. Expression of inflammatory cytokines, mucin MUC5AC, and related signaling pathways were detected. Exposure to CS significantly increased the expression of GRP78 and necroptosis markers in HBE cell line, primary mouse tracheal epithelial cells, and mouse lungs. Inhibition of GRP78 significantly suppressed CS extract (CSE)-induced necroptosis. Furthermore, GRP78-necroptosis cooperatively regulated CSE-induced inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 6 (IL6), IL8, and mucin MUC5AC in HBE cells, likely through the activation of nuclear factor (NF-κB) and activator protein 1 (AP-1) pathways, respectively. Taken together, our results demonstrate that GRP78 promotes CSE-induced inflammatory response and mucus hyperproduction in airway epithelial cells, likely through upregulation of necroptosis and subsequent activation of NF-κB and AP-1 pathways. Thus, inhibition of GRP78 and/or inhibition of necroptosis could be the effective therapeutic approaches for the treatment of COPD.

Heterophilic binding of the adhesion molecules poliovirus receptor and immunoglobulin superfamily 4A in the interaction between mouse spermatogenic and Sertoli cells.

PubMed

Wakayama, Tomohiko; Sai, Yoshimichi; Ito, Akihiko; Kato, Yukio; Kurobo, Miho; Murakami, Yoshinori; Nakashima, Emi; Tsuji, Akira; Kitamura, Yukihiko; Iseki, Shoichi

2007-06-01

The cell adhesion protein immunoglobulin superfamily 4A (IGSF4A) is expressed on the surfaces of spermatogenic cells in the mouse testis. During spermatogenesis, IGSF4A is considered to bind to the surface of Sertoli cells in a heterophilic manner. To identify this unknown partner of IGSF4A, we generated rat monoclonal antibodies against the membrane proteins of mouse Sertoli cells grown in primary culture. Using these monoclonal antibodies, we isolated a clone that immunostained Sertoli cells and reacted with the product of immunoprecipitation of the homogenate of mouse testis with anti-IGSF4A antibody. Subsequently, to identify the Sertoli cell membrane protein that is recognized by this monoclonal antibody, we performed expression cloning of a cDNA library from the mouse testis. As a result, we identified poliovirus receptor (PVR), which is another IGSF-type cell adhesion molecule, as the binding partner of IGSF4A. The antibodies raised against PVR and IGSF4A immunoprecipitated both antigens in the homogenate of mouse testis. Immunoreactivity for PVR was present in Sertoli cells but not in spermatogenic cells at all stages of spermatogenesis. Overexpression of PVR in TM4, a mouse Sertoli cell line, increased more than three-fold its capacity to adhere to Tera-2, which is a human cell line that expresses IGSF4A. These findings suggest that the heterophilic binding of PVR to IGSF4A is responsible, at least in part, for the interaction between Sertoli and spermatogenic cells during mouse spermatogenesis.

NK-92: an 'off-the-shelf therapeutic' for adoptive natural killer cell-based cancer immunotherapy.

PubMed

Suck, Garnet; Odendahl, Marcus; Nowakowska, Paulina; Seidl, Christian; Wels, Winfried S; Klingemann, Hans G; Tonn, Torsten

2016-04-01

Natural killer (NK) cells are increasingly considered as immunotherapeutic agents in particular in the fight against cancers. NK cell therapies are potentially broadly applicable and, different from their T cell counterparts, do not cause graft-versus-host disease. Efficacy and clinical in vitro or in vivo expansion of primary NK cells will however always remain variable due to individual differences of donors or patients. Long-term storage of clinical NK cell lots to allow repeated clinical applications remains an additional challenge. In contrast, the established and well-characterized cell line NK-92 can be easily and reproducibly expanded from a good manufacturing practice (GMP)-compliant cryopreserved master cell bank. Moreover, no cost-intensive cell purification methods are required. To date, NK-92 has been intensively studied. The cells displayed superior cytotoxicity against a number of tumor types tested, which was confirmed in preclinical mouse studies. Subsequent clinical testing demonstrated safety of NK-92 infusions even at high doses. Despite the phase I nature of the trials conducted so far, some efficacy was noted, particularly against lung tumors. Furthermore, to overcome tumor resistance and for specific targeting, NK-92 has been engineered to express a number of different chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), including targeting, for example, CD19 or CD20 (anti-B cell malignancies), CD38 (anti-myeloma) or human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2; ErbB2; anti-epithelial cancers). The concept of an NK cell line as an allogeneic cell therapeutic produced 'off-the-shelf' on demand holds great promise for the development of effective treatments.

Estrogen-related receptor alpha induces the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in breast cancer cells

PubMed Central

Stein, Rebecca A.; Gaillard, Stéphanie; McDonnell, Donald P.

2009-01-01

Estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERRα) is an orphan member of the nuclear receptor family of transcription factors. In addition to its function as a metabolic regulator, ERRα has been implicated in the growth and progression of several malignancies. In the setting of breast cancer, not only is ERRα a putative negative prognostic factor, but we have recently found that knockdown of its expression retards tumor growth in a xenograft model of this disease. The specific aspects of ERRα function that are responsible for its actions in breast cancer, however, remain unclear. Using the coactivator PGC-1α as a protein ligand to regulate ERRα activity, we analyzed the effects of this receptor on gene expression in the ERα-positive MCF-7 cell line. This analysis led to the identification of a large number of potential ERRα target genes, many of which were subsequently validated in other breast cancer cell lines. Importantly, we demonstrate in this study that activation of ERRα in several different breast cancer cell lines leads to a significant increase in VEGF mRNA expression, an activity that translates into an increase in VEGF protein secretion. The induction of VEGF results from the interaction of ERRα with specific ERR-responsive elements within the VEGF promoter. These findings suggest that ERRα-dependent induction of VEGF may contribute to the overall negative phenotype observed in tumors in which ERRα is expressed and provide validation for its use as a therapeutic target in cancer. PMID:19429439

Synthesis and biological evaluation of a series of non-hemiacetal ester derivatives of artemisinin.

PubMed

Zuma, Nonkululeko H; Smit, Frans J; de Kock, Carmen; Combrinck, Jill; Smith, Peter J; N'Da, David D

2016-10-21

In an attempt to improve the efficacy and stability of current, clinically used artemisinins, a series non-hemiacetal ester derivatives of artemisinin were synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro antiplasmodial and anticancer activities as well as cytotoxicities. These esters were synthesized through the reaction of acid anhydrides, or acid chlorides with artemisinin derived alcohol. In vitro antiplasmodial activity assessments were conducted against intraerythrocytic NF54 and Dd2 Plasmodium falciparum strains. Cytotoxicities were assessed, using normal human fetal lung fibroblast (WI-38) and Chinese hamster ovarian (CHO) mammalian cell lines, while anticancer activities were tested by using panels with three cell lines, consisting of renal (TK10), melanoma (UACC62) and breast (MCF7) cancer cells. Most compounds were found active against the breast cancer cell line. Since antiplasmodial activities for most compounds were found comparable only to that of artesunate, this study did not yield any esters with significantly improved antimalarial efficacies, nor did it deliver any promising antitumor hits. However, from the outcomes of this study, compounds with good safety profiles and increased thermal stabilities, compared to the clinically used artemisinins, were identified. The benzoate derivative 11 was found to have antimalarial activity, comparable to that of dihydroartemisinin and was it subsequently identified as a candidate for further investigation in the urgent search for new, safe and effective antimalarial drugs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Probing the prostate tumour microenvironment II: Impact of hypoxia on a cell model of prostate cancer progression

PubMed Central

Tonry, Claire; Armstrong, John; Pennington, Stephen

2017-01-01

Approximately one in six men are diagnosed with Prostate Cancer every year in the Western world. Although it can be well managed and non-life threatening in the early stages, over time many patients cease to respond to treatment and develop castrate resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). CRPC represents a clinically challenging and lethal form of prostate cancer. Progression of CRPC is, in part, driven by the ability of cancer cells to alter their metabolic profile during the course of tumourgenesis and metastasis so that they can survive in oxygen and nutrient-poor environments and even withstand treatment. This work was carried out as a continuation of a study aimed towards gaining greater mechanistic understanding of how conditions within the tumour microenvironment impact on both androgen sensitive (LNCaP) and androgen independent (LNCaP-abl and LNCaP-abl-Hof) prostate cancer cell lines. Here we have applied technically robust and reproducible label-free liquid chromatography mass spectrometry analysis for comprehensive proteomic profiling of prostate cancer cell lines under hypoxic conditions. This led to the identification of over 4,000 proteins – one of the largest protein datasets for prostate cancer cell lines established to date. The biological and clinical significance of proteins showing a significant change in expression as result of hypoxic conditions was established. Novel, intuitive workflows were subsequently implemented to enable robust, reproducible and high throughput verification of selected proteins of interest. Overall, these data suggest that this strategy supports identification of protein biomarkers of prostate cancer progression and potential therapeutic targets for CRPC. PMID:28410543

Probing the prostate tumour microenvironment I: impact of glucose deprivation on a cell model of prostate cancer progression

PubMed Central

Tonry, Claire; Armstrong, John; Pennington, Stephen R.

2017-01-01

In the developed world, prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis in men. Although prostate cancer initially presents as a non life-threatening disease, 90% of patients will develop castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), which preludes distant metastasis and is largely accountable for prostate cancer associated deaths. This is because as yet, there are no viable molecular therapeutic targets for effective treatment of CRPC. It is now widely accepted that cancer cells can alter their metabolic profile during the course of tumourgenesis and metastasis such that they are able to survive in oxygen and nutrient-poor environments. This work was aimed towards gaining greater mechanistic understanding of how such stresses in the tumour microenvironment impact on both androgen sensitive (LNCaP) and androgen independent (LNCaP-abl and LNCaP-abl-Hof) prostate cancer cell lines. Here we have applied technically robust and reproducible label-free liquid chromatography mass spectrometry analysis for comprehensive proteomic profiling of prostate cancer cell lines under nutrient deficient (low glucose) conditions. This led to the identification of approximately 4,000 proteins - one of the largest protein datasets for prostate cancer cell lines established to date. The biological and clinical significance of proteins showing a significant change in expression as result of low glucose conditions was established. Novel, intuitive workflows were subsequently implemented to ensure the verification of selected proteins of interest in a robust, reproducible and high throughput manner. Overall, these data suggest that this strategy supports identification of protein biomarkers of prostate cancer progression and potential therapeutic targets for CRPC. PMID:28086232

Mutation of MSH3 in endometrial cancer and evidence for its functional role in heteroduplex repair.

PubMed

Risinger, J I; Umar, A; Boyd, J; Berchuck, A; Kunkel, T A; Barrett, J C

1996-09-01

Many human tumours have length alterations in repetitive sequence elements. Although this microsatellite instability has been attributed to mutations in four DNA mismatch repair genes in hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) kindreds, many sporadic tumours exhibit instability but no detectable mutations in these genes. It is therefore of interest to identify other genes that contribute to this instability. In yeast, mutations in several genes, including RTH and MSH3, cause microsatellite instability. Thus, we screened 16 endometrial carcinomas with microsatellite instability for alterations in FEN1 (the human homolog of RTH) and in MSH3 (refs 12-14). Although we found no FEN1 mutations, a frameshift mutation in MSH3 was observed in an endometrial carcinoma and in an endometrial carcinoma cell line. Extracts of the cell line were deficient in repair of DNA substrates containing mismatches or extra nucleotides. Introducing chromosome 5, encoding the MSH3 gene, into the mutant cell line increased the stability of some but not all microsatellites. Extracts of these cells repaired certain substrates containing extra nucleotides, but were deficient in repair of those containing mismatches or other extra nucleotides. A subsequent search revealed a second gene mutation in HHUA cells, a missense mutation in the MSH6 gene. Together the data suggest that the MSH3 gene encodes a product that functions in repair of some but not all pre-mutational intermediates, its mutation in tumours can result in genomic instability and, as in yeast, MSH3 and MSH6 are partially redundant for mismatch repair.

Subcutaneous panniculitic T-cell lymphoma in children: response to combination therapy with cyclosporine and chemotherapy.

PubMed

Shani-Adir, Ayelet; Lucky, Anne W; Prendiville, Julie; Murphy, Sharon; Passo, Murray; Huang, Frederick S; Paller, Amy S

2004-02-01

We describe 2 adolescent boys with facial swelling and/or subcutaneous nodules and fever. Extensive evaluation, including several biopsy specimens, led to a diagnosis of subcutaneous panniculitic T-cell lymphoma, an entity rarely seen in children. Both patients were treated with oral cyclosporine in an effort to suppress the cytokine release from T-cells that has been thought to induce the hemophagocytic syndrome. The patients responded dramatically to cyclosporine treatment with defervescence of the fever and reduction in number and size of the subcutaneous nodules. Subsequent therapy with multidrug chemotherapy achieved complete remission in the first patient. This report suggests the value of cyclosporine as a first-line agent coupled with chemotherapy in the treatment of patients with subcutaneous panniculitic T-cell lymphoma. A clinicopathologic review of 8 described pediatric cases of subcutaneous panniculitic T-cell lymphoma is also presented.

Fingerprinting Breast Cancer vs. Normal Mammary Cells by Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Volatiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Jingjing; Sinues, Pablo Martinez-Lozano; Hollmén, Maija; Li, Xue; Detmar, Michael; Zenobi, Renato

2014-06-01

There is increasing interest in the development of noninvasive diagnostic methods for early cancer detection, to improve the survival rate and quality of life of cancer patients. Identification of volatile metabolic compounds may provide an approach for noninvasive early diagnosis of malignant diseases. Here we analyzed the volatile metabolic signature of human breast cancer cell lines versus normal human mammary cells. Volatile compounds in the headspace of conditioned culture medium were directly fingerprinted by secondary electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry. The mass spectra were subsequently treated statistically to identify discriminating features between normal vs. cancerous cell types. We were able to classify different samples by using feature selection followed by principal component analysis (PCA). Additionally, high-resolution mass spectrometry allowed us to propose their chemical structures for some of the most discriminating molecules. We conclude that cancerous cells can release a characteristic odor whose constituents may be used as disease markers.

Detection and functional characterization of Pgp1 (ABCB1) and MRP3 (ABCC3) efflux transporters in the PLHC-1 fish hepatoma cell line.

PubMed

Zaja, Roko; Klobucar, Roberta Sauerborn; Smital, Tvrtko

2007-03-30

The PLHC-1 hepatoma cell line derived from topminnow (Poeciliopsis lucida) is one of the most frequently used fish cell lines in aquatic ecotoxicology. These cells have been well characterized regarding the presence of phase I and phase II enzymes involved in the metabolism of xenobiotics. However, the presence of the ABC transport proteins possibly involved in the MultiXenobiotic Resistance (MXR) mechanism as phase III of cellular detoxification has never been described in the PLHC-1 cells. The main goal of this study was the detection and functional characterization of toxicologically relevant xenobiotic efflux transporters from ABCB and ABCC subfamily in the PLHC-1 cells. Using specific primer pairs two PCR products 1769 and 1023bp in length were successfully cloned and sequenced. Subsequent multiple alignment and phylogenetic analysis showed that these sequences share a high degree of homology with the P-glycoprotein (Pgp1; ABCB1) and the MRP3 (ABCC3). Functional experiments with fluorescent model substrates and specific inhibitors were used to verify that transport activities of Pgp- and MRP-related proteins are indeed present in PLHC-1 cells. Accumulation or efflux/retention rates of rhodamine 123, calcein-AM or monochlorbimane were time- and concentration-dependent. Cyclosporine A, MK571, verapamil, reversine 205, indomethacine and probenecid were used as specific inhibitors of Pgp1 and/or MRPs transport activities, resulting in a dose dependent inhibition of related transport activities in PLHC-1 cells. Similar to mammalian systems, the obtained IC(50) values were in the lower micromolar range. Taken together these data demonstrate that: (1) the PLHC-1 cells do express a functional MXR mechanism mediated by toxicologically relevant ABC efflux transporters; and (2) the presence of all three critical phases of cellular detoxification additionally affirms the PLHC-1 cells as a reliable in vitro model in aquatic toxicology.

O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase activity in human buccal mucosal tissue and cell cultures. Complex mixtures related to habitual use of tobacco and betel quid inhibit the activity in vitro.

PubMed

Liu, Y; Egyhazi, S; Hansson, J; Bhide, S V; Kulkarni, P S; Grafström, R C

1997-10-01

Extracts prepared from tissue specimens of normal, non-tumourous human buccal mucosa, and cultured buccal epithelial cells and fibroblasts, exhibited O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) activity by catalysing the repair of the premutagenic O6-methylguanine lesion in isolated DNA with rates of 0.2 to 0.3 pmol/mg protein. An SV40 T antigen-immortalized buccal epithelial cell line termed SVpgC2a and a buccal squamous carcinoma line termed SqCC/Y1, both of which lack normal tumour suppressor gene p53 function, exhibited about 50 and 10% of the MGMT activity of normal cells, respectively. The normal, experimentally transformed and tumourous buccal cell types showed MGMT mRNA levels which correlated with their respective levels of MGMT activity. Exposure of buccal cell cultures to various organic or water-based extracts of products related to the use of tobacco and betel quid, decreased both cell survival (measured by reduction of tetrazolium dye) and MGMT activity (measured subsequently to the exposures in cellular extracts). Organic extracts of bidi smoke condensate and betel leaf showed higher potency than those of tobacco and snuff. An aqueous snuff extract also decreased both parameters, whereas an aqueous areca nut extract was without effect. The well-established sulph-hydryl-reactive agent Hg2+, a corrosion product of dental amalgam, served as a positive control and decreased MGMT activity following treatment of cells within a range of 1-10 microM. Taken together, significant MGMT activities were demonstrated in buccal tissue specimens and in the major buccal mucosal cell types in vitro. Lower than normal MGMT activity in two transformed buccal epithelial cell lines correlated with decreased MGMT mRNA and lack of functional p53. Finally, in vitro experiments suggested the potential inhibition of buccal mucosal MGMT activity by complex mixtures present in the saliva of tobacco and betel nut chewers.

The Roles of TGF-Beta and TGF-Beta Signaling Receptors in Breast Carcinogenesis.

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-07-01

phosphorylation of these molecules in a normal mammary epithelial cell line. Subsequently, we have focused on the functional role of Smad3 and Smad4 as...serine residues in the C-terminal portion of Smadl and Smad2, though the corresponding highly conserved sites in Smad3 and Smad5 most likely serve the...far, it appears that Smad2 and Smad3 , which share 92% sequence identity, are likely mediators for the TGF-B signal, whereas Smadl and Smad5, which

Solar Cells and Solar Panels

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-04-01

IV BERMAN *PAUL A, ; HANDY , RELAND Js ;RELIK9GEZA P. CONTRACT: DA36 0395C90777 PROJ: DA-3A99-09-O02 UNCLASSIFIED RFPORT SUPPLEMENTARY NOTE: REPORT ON...U) DESCRIPTIVE NOTE: QUARTERLY PROGRESS REPT. NO. 3s 1 DEC 62 15 MAR 63, APR 63 IV BERMANPAUL A.; HANDY . ROLAND Jg;ROLIK,GEZA P.; CONTRACT: DA36...CIRCUIT WERE SUBSEQUENTLY DETERMINED FROM TELEMETRY RECORDS * THESE DATA ARE PRESENTED AS THE SOLID LINE PORTIONS OF FIGURE 1 FOR TWO DAYS AND FOR 29 DAYS

Analysis of early mesothelial cell responses to Staphylococcus epidermidis isolated from patients with peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis.

PubMed

McGuire, Amanda L; Mulroney, Kieran T; Carson, Christine F; Ram, Ramesh; Morahan, Grant; Chakera, Aron

2017-01-01

The major complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD) is the development of peritonitis, an infection within the abdominal cavity, primarily caused by bacteria. PD peritonitis is associated with significant morbidity, mortality and health care costs. Staphylococcus epidermidis is the most frequently isolated cause of PD-associated peritonitis. Mesothelial cells are integral to the host response to peritonitis, and subsequent clinical outcomes, yet the effects of infection on mesothelial cells are not well characterised. We systematically investigated the early mesothelial cell response to clinical and reference isolates of S. epidermidis using primary mesothelial cells and the mesothelial cell line Met-5A. Using an unbiased whole genome microarray, followed by a targeted panel of genes known to be involved in the human antibacterial response, we identified 38 differentially regulated genes (adj. p-value < 0.05) representing 35 canonical pathways after 1 hour exposure to S. epidermidis. The top 3 canonical pathways were TNFR2 signaling, IL-17A signaling, and TNFR1 signaling (adj. p-values of 0.0012, 0.0012 and 0.0019, respectively). Subsequent qPCR validation confirmed significant differences in gene expression in a number of genes not previously described in mesothelial cell responses to infection, with heterogeneity observed between clinical isolates of S. epidermidis, and between Met-5A and primary mesothelial cells. Heterogeneity between different S. epidermidis isolates suggests that specific virulence factors may play critical roles in influencing outcomes from peritonitis. This study provides new insights into early mesothelial cell responses to infection with S. epidermidis, and confirms the importance of validating findings in primary mesothelial cells.

Tumor cell apoptosis induces tumor-specific immunity in a CC chemokine receptor 1- and 5-dependent manner in mice.

PubMed

Iida, Noriho; Nakamoto, Yasunari; Baba, Tomohisa; Kakinoki, Kaheita; Li, Ying-Yi; Wu, Yu; Matsushima, Kouji; Kaneko, Shuichi; Mukaida, Naofumi

2008-10-01

The first step in the generation of tumor immunity is the migration of dendritic cells (DCs) to the apoptotic tumor, which is presumed to be mediated by various chemokines. To clarify the roles of chemokines, we induced apoptosis using suicide gene therapy and investigated the immune responses following tumor apoptosis. We injected mice with a murine hepatoma cell line, BNL 1ME A.7R.1 (BNL), transfected with HSV-thymidine kinase (tk) gene and then treated the animals with ganciclovir (GCV). GCV treatment induced massive tumor cell apoptosis accompanied with intratumoral DC infiltration. Tumor-infiltrating DCs expressed chemokine receptors CCR1 and CCR5, and T cells and macrophages expressed CCL3, a ligand for CCR1 and CCR5. Moreover, tumor apoptosis increased the numbers of DCs migrating into the draining lymph nodes and eventually generated a specific cytotoxic cell population against BNL cells. Although GCV completely eradicated HSV-tk-transfected BNL cells in CCR1-, CCR5-, or CCL3-deficient mice, intratumoral and intranodal DC infiltration and the subsequent cytotoxicity generation were attenuated in these mice. When parental cells were injected again after complete eradication of primary tumors by GCV treatment, the wild-type mice completely rejected the rechallenged cells, but the deficient mice exhibited impairment in rejection. Thus, we provide definitive evidence indicating that CCR1 and CCR5 and their ligand CCL3 play a crucial role in the regulation of intratumoral DC accumulation and the subsequent establishment of tumor immunity following induction of tumor apoptosis by suicide genes.

The Sox17CreERT2 knock-in mouse line displays spatiotemporal activation of Cre recombinase in distinct Sox17 lineage progenitors.

PubMed

Engert, Silvia; Burtscher, Ingo; Kalali, Behnam; Gerhard, Markus; Lickert, Heiko

2013-11-01

The HMG-box transcription factor Sox17 is essential for endoderm formation, vascular development, and definitive hematopoiesis. To investigate the fate of distinct Sox17-expressing progenitor cells in a spatiotemporal manner, we generated a hormone-inducible CreERT2 knock-in mouse line. By homologous recombination we fused a codon improved, ligand-dependent estrogen receptor Cre recombinase by an intervening viral T2A sequence for co-translational cleavage to the 3' coding region of Sox17. Induction of Cre activity by administration of tamoxifen at defined time points of early mouse development and subsequent genetic lineage tracing confirmed the inducibility and tissue specificity of Cre recombination. Furthermore, Cre activity could be selectively induced in extra-embryonic and embryonic endoderm lineages, the primitive gut tube, and in endothelial cells of the vascular system as well as in the hemogenic endothelium of the dorsal aorta. The Sox17CreERT2 mouse line therefore represents a new tool for genetic lineage tracing in a tissue-specific manner and in addition enables lineage-restricted functional analysis. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Recellularization via the bile duct supports functional allogenic and xenogenic cell growth on a decellularized rat liver scaffold.

PubMed

Hassanein, Wessam; Uluer, Mehmet C; Langford, John; Woodall, Jhade D; Cimeno, Arielle; Dhru, Urmil; Werdesheim, Avraham; Harrison, Joshua; Rivera-Pratt, Carlos; Klepfer, Stephen; Khalifeh, Ali; Buckingham, Bryan; Brazio, Philip S; Parsell, Dawn; Klassen, Charlie; Drachenberg, Cinthia; Barth, Rolf N; LaMattina, John C

2017-01-02

Recent years have seen a proliferation of methods leading to successful organ decellularization. In this experiment we examine the feasibility of a decellularized liver construct to support growth of functional multilineage cells. Bio-chamber systems were used to perfuse adult rat livers with 0.1% SDS for 24 hours yielding decellularized liver scaffolds. Initially, we recellularized liver scaffolds using a human tumor cell line (HepG2, introduced via the bile duct). Subsequent studies were performed using either human tumor cells co-cultured with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs, introduced via the portal vein) or rat neonatal cell slurry (introduced via the bile duct). Bio-chambers were used to circulate oxygenated growth medium via the portal vein at 37C for 5-7 days. Human HepG2 cells grew readily on the scaffold (n = 20). HepG2 cells co-cultured with HUVECs demonstrated viable human endothelial lining with concurrent hepatocyte growth (n = 10). In the series of neonatal cell slurry infusion (n = 10), distinct foci of neonatal hepatocytes were observed to repopulate the parenchyma of the scaffold. The presence of cholangiocytes was verified by CK-7 positivity. Quantitative albumin measurement from the grafts showed increasing albumin levels after seven days of perfusion. Graft albumin production was higher than that observed in traditional cell culture. This data shows that rat liver scaffolds support human cell ingrowth. The scaffold likewise supported the engraftment and survival of neonatal rat liver cell slurry. Recellularization of liver scaffolds thus presents a promising model for functional liver engineering.

A practice-changing culture method relying on shaking substantially increases mitochondrial energy metabolism and functionality of human liver cell lines.

PubMed

Adam, Aziza A A; van der Mark, Vincent A; Donkers, Joanne M; Wildenberg, Manon E; Oude Elferink, Ronald P J; Chamuleau, Robert A F M; Hoekstra, Ruurdtje

2018-01-01

Practice-changing culturing techniques of hepatocytes are highly required to increase their differentiation. Previously, we found that human liver cell lines HepaRG and C3A acquire higher functionality and increased mitochondrial biogenesis when cultured in the AMC-Bioartificial liver (BAL). Dynamic medium flow (DMF) is one of the major contributors to this stimulatory effect. Recently, we found that DMF-culturing by shaking of HepaRG monolayers resulted in higher mitochondrial biogenesis. Here we further investigated the effect of DMF-culturing on energy metabolism and hepatic functionality of HepaRG and C3A monolayers. HepaRG and C3A DMF-monolayers were incubated with orbital shaking at 60 rpm during the differentiation phase, while control monolayers were maintained statically. Subsequently, energy metabolism and hepatic functionality were compared between static and DMF-cultures. DMF-culturing of HepaRG cells substantially increased hepatic differentiation; transcript levels of hepatic structural genes and hepatic transcription regulators were increased up to 15-fold (Cytochrome P450 3A4) and nuclear translocation of hepatic transcription factor CEBPα was stimulated. Accordingly, hepatic functions were positively affected, including ammonia elimination, urea production, bile acid production, and CYP3A4 activity. DMF-culturing shifted energy metabolism from aerobic glycolysis towards oxidative phosphorylation, as indicated by a decline in lactate production and glucose consumption, and an increase in oxygen consumption. Similarly, DMF-culturing increased mitochondrial energy metabolism and hepatic functionality of C3A cells. In conclusion, simple shaking of monolayer cultures substantially improves mitochondrial energy metabolism and hepatic differentiation of human liver cell lines. This practice-changing culture method may prove to prolong the in-vitro maintenance of primary hepatocytes and increase hepatic differentiation of stem cells.

Differentiation-dependent expression of hypothetical proteins in the neuroblastoma cell line N1E-115.

PubMed

Oh, Ji-eun; Karlmark, Karlin Raja; Shin, Jooho; Hengstschläger, Markus; Lubec, Gert

2006-05-15

Several protein cascades, including signaling, cytoskeletal, chaperones, metabolic, and antioxidant proteins, have been shown to be involved in the process of neuronal differentiation (ND) of neuroblastoma cell lines. No systematic approach to detect hitherto unknown and unnamed proteins or structures that have been predicted upon nucleic acid sequences in ND has been published so far. We therefore decided to screen hypothetical protein (HP) expression by protein profiling. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis with subsequent matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF) identification was used for expression analysis of undifferentiated and dimethylsulfoxide-induced neuronally differentiated N1E-115 cells. We unambiguously identified six HPs: Q8C520, Q99LF4, Q9CXS1, Q9DAF8, Q91WT0, and Q8C5G2. A prefoldin domain in Q91WT0, a t-SNARE domain in Q9CXS1, and a bromodomain were observed in Q8C5G2. For the three remaining proteins, no putative function using Pfam, BLOCKS, PROSITE, PRINTS, InterPro, Superfamily, CoPS, and ExPASy could be assigned. While two proteins were present in both cell lines, Q9CXS1 was switched off (i.e., undetectably low) in differentiated cells only, and Q9DAF8, Q91WT0, and Q8C5G2 were switched on in differentiated cells exclusively. Herein, using a proteomic approach suitable for screening and identification of HP, we present HP structures that have been only predicted so far based upon nucleic acid sequences. The four differentially regulated HPs may play a putative role in the process of ND. (c) 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Interleukin-6-driven progranulin expression increases cholangiocarcinoma growth by an Akt-dependent mechanism

PubMed Central

Frampton, Gabriel; Invernizzi, Pietro; Bernuzzi, Francesca; Pae, Hae Yong; Quinn, Matthew; Horvat, Darijana; Galindo, Cheryl; Huang, Li; McMillin, Matthew; Cooper, Brandon; Rimassa, Lorenza; DeMorrow, Sharon

2015-01-01

Background and objectives Cholangiocarcinoma is a devastating cancer of biliary origin with limited treatment options. The growth factor, progranulin, is overexpressed in a number of tumours. The study aims were to assess the expression of progranulin in cholangiocarcinoma and to determine its effects on tumour growth. Methods The expression and secretion of progranulin were evaluated in multiple cholangiocarcinoma cell lines and in clinical samples from patients with cholangiocarcinoma. The role of interleukin 6 (IL-6)-mediated signalling in the expression of progranulin was assessed using a combination of specific inhibitors and shRNA knockdown techniques. The effect of progranulin on proliferation and Akt activation and subsequent effects of FOXO1 phosphorylation were assessed in vitro. Progranulin knockdown cell lines were established, and the effects on cholangiocarcinoma growth were determined. Results Progranulin expression and secretion were upregulated in cholangiocarcinoma cell lines and tissue, which were in part via IL-6-mediated activation of the ERK1/2/RSK1/C/EBPβ pathway. Blocking any of these signalling molecules, by either pharmacological inhibitors or shRNA, prevented the IL-6-dependent activation of progranulin expression. Treatment of cholangiocarcinoma cells with recombinant progranulin increased cell proliferation in vitro by a mechanism involving Akt phosphorylation leading to phosphorylation and nuclear extrusion of FOXO1. Knockdown of progranulin expression in cholangiocarcinoma cells decreased the expression of proliferating cellular nuclear antigen, a marker of proliferative capacity, and slowed tumour growth in vivo. Conclusions Evidence is presented for a role for progranulin as a novel growth factor regulating cholangiocarcinoma growth. Specific targeting of progranulin may represent an alternative for the development of therapeutic strategies. PMID:22068162

The role of hERG1 ion channels in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and the capacity of riluzole to reduce cisplatin resistance in colorectal cancer cells.

PubMed

Fortunato, Angelo

2017-08-01

The transition of cells from the epithelial to the mesenchymal state (EMT) plays an important role in tumor progression. EMT allows cells to acquire mobility, stem-like behavior and resistance to apoptosis and drug treatment. These features turn EMT into a central process in tumor biology. Ion channels are attractive targets for the treatment of cancer since they play critical roles in controlling a wide range of physiological processes that are frequently deregulated in cancer. Here, we investigated the role of ether-a-go-go-related 1 (hERG1) ion channels in the EMT of colorectal cancer cells. We studied the epithelial-mesenchymal profile of different colorectal cancer-derived cell lines and the expression of hERG1 potassium channels in these cell lines using real-time PCR. Next, we knocked down hERG1 expression in HCT116 cells using lentivirus mediated RNA interference and characterized the hERG1 silenced cells in vitro and in vivo. Finally, we investigated the capacity of riluzole, an ion channel-modulating drug used in humans to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, to reduce the resistance of the respective colorectal cancer cells to the chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin. We found that of the colorectal cancer-derived cell lines tested, HCT116 showed the highest mesenchymal profile and a high hERG1 expression. Subsequent hERG1 expression knockdown induced a change in cell morphology, which was accompanied by a reduction in the proliferative and tumorigenic capacities of the cells. Notably, we found that hERG1expression knockdown elicited a reversion of the EMT profile in HCT116 cells with a reacquisition of the epithelial-like profile. We also found that riluzole increased the sensitivity of HCT116 cisplatin-resistant cells to cisplatin. Our data indicate that hERG1 plays a role in the EMT of colorectal cancer cells and that its knockdown reduces the proliferative and tumorigenic capacities of these cells. In addition, we conclude that riluzole may be used in combination with cisplatin to reduce chemo-resistance in colorectal cancer cells.

Generalization of rapidly recurring seizures is suppressed in mice lacking glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor family receptor alpha2.

PubMed

Nanobashvili, A; Kokaia, Z; Lindvall, O

2003-01-01

Recent experimental evidence indicates that neurotrophic factors play a role in the pathophysiology of epilepsy. The objective of this study was to explore whether signaling through one of the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor family receptors, GFRalpha2, influences the severity of kindling-evoked, rapidly recurring seizures and the subsequent development of permanent hyperexcitability. We applied the rapid kindling model to adult mice, using 40 threshold stimulations delivered with 5-min interval in the ventral hippocampus. Generalized seizures were fewer and developed later in response to kindling stimulations in mice lacking GFRalpha2. However, GFRalpha2 gene deletion did not influence the acquisition of the permanent abnormal excitability as assessed 4 weeks later. In situ hybridization revealed marked and dynamic changes of GFRalpha2 mRNA levels in several forebrain areas following the stimulus-evoked seizures. Our findings provide evidence that signaling through the GFRalpha2 receptor contributes to seizure generalization in rapid kindling.

Germ line genome editing in clinics: the approaches, objectives and global society.

PubMed

Ishii, Tetsuya

2017-01-01

Genome editing allows for the versatile genetic modification of somatic cells, germ cells and embryos. In particular, CRISPR/Cas9 is worldwide used in biomedical research. Although the first report on Cas9-mediated gene modification in human embryos focused on the prevention of a genetic disease in offspring, it raised profound ethical and social concerns over the safety of subsequent generations and the potential misuse of genome editing for human enhancement. The present article considers germ line genome editing approaches from various clinical and ethical viewpoints and explores its objectives. The risks and benefits of the following three likely objectives are assessed: the prevention of monogenic diseases, personalized assisted reproductive technology (ART) and genetic enhancement. Although genetic enhancement should be avoided, the international regulatory landscape suggests the inevitability of this misuse at ART centers. Under these circumstances, possible regulatory responses and the potential roles of public dialogue are discussed. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press.

COX-2 and PPAR-γ confer cannabidiol-induced apoptosis of human lung cancer cells.

PubMed

Ramer, Robert; Heinemann, Katharina; Merkord, Jutta; Rohde, Helga; Salamon, Achim; Linnebacher, Michael; Hinz, Burkhard

2013-01-01

The antitumorigenic mechanism of cannabidiol is still controversial. This study investigates the role of COX-2 and PPAR-γ in cannabidiol's proapoptotic and tumor-regressive action. In lung cancer cell lines (A549, H460) and primary cells from a patient with lung cancer, cannabidiol elicited decreased viability associated with apoptosis. Apoptotic cell death by cannabidiol was suppressed by NS-398 (COX-2 inhibitor), GW9662 (PPAR-γ antagonist), and siRNA targeting COX-2 and PPAR-γ. Cannabidiol-induced apoptosis was paralleled by upregulation of COX-2 and PPAR-γ mRNA and protein expression with a maximum induction of COX-2 mRNA after 8 hours and continuous increases of PPAR-γ mRNA when compared with vehicle. In response to cannabidiol, tumor cell lines exhibited increased levels of COX-2-dependent prostaglandins (PG) among which PGD(2) and 15-deoxy-Δ(12,14)-PGJ(2) (15d-PGJ(2)) caused a translocation of PPAR-γ to the nucleus and induced a PPAR-γ-dependent apoptotic cell death. Moreover, in A549-xenografted nude mice, cannabidiol caused upregulation of COX-2 and PPAR-γ in tumor tissue and tumor regression that was reversible by GW9662. Together, our data show a novel proapoptotic mechanism of cannabidiol involving initial upregulation of COX-2 and PPAR-γ and a subsequent nuclear translocation of PPAR-γ by COX-2-dependent PGs.

Generation, Characterization and Application of Antibodies Directed against HERV-H Gag Protein in Colorectal Samples.

PubMed

Mullins, Christina S; Hühns, Maja; Krohn, Mathias; Peters, Sven; Cheynet, Valérie; Oriol, Guy; Guillotte, Michèle; Ducrot, Sandrine; Mallet, François; Linnebacher, Michael

2016-01-01

A substantial part of the human genome originates from transposable elements, remnants of ancient retroviral infections. Roughly 8% of the human genome consists of about 400,000 LTR elements including human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) sequences. Mainly, the interplay between epigenetic and post-transcriptional mechanisms is thought to silence HERV expression in most physiological contexts. Interestingly, aberrant reactivation of several HERV-H loci appears specific to colorectal carcinoma (CRC). The expression of HERV-H Gag proteins (Gag-H) was assessed using novel monoclonal mouse anti Gag-H antibodies. In a flow cytometry screen four antibody clones were tested on a panel of primary CRC cell lines and the most well performing ones were subsequently validated in western blot analysis. Finally, Gag-H protein expression was analyzed by immune histology on cell line cytospins and on clinical samples. There, we found a heterogeneous staining pattern with no background staining of endothelial, stromal and infiltrating immune cells but diffuse staining of the cytoplasm for positive tumor and normal crypt cells of the colonic epithelium. Taken together, the Gag-H antibody clone(s) present a valuable tool for staining of cells with colonic origin and thus form the basis for future more detailed investigations. The observed Gag-H protein staining in colonic epithelium crypt cells demands profound analyses of a potential role for Gag-H in the normal physiology of the human gut.

A Novel Polyphenol Conjugate Sensitizes Cisplatin-Resistant Head and Neck Cancer Cells to Cisplatin via Nrf2 Inhibition.

PubMed

Kim, Eun Hye; Jang, Hyejin; Roh, Jong-Lyel

2016-11-01

Many cancer cells show acquired resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, such as cisplatin. This is a major cause of cancer treatment failure, and novel agents to overcome resistance are thus urgently required. A novel synthetic polyphenol conjugate, (E)-3-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-(2-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (DPP-23), selectively kills tumor cells via the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated unfolded protein response. We investigated the ability of DPP-23 to overcome cisplatin resistance in head and neck cancer (HNC) cells and further clarified its molecular mechanisms of action. Cisplatin-resistant HNC cell lines and their parental and other HNC cell lines were used. The effects of cisplatin and DPP-23 were assessed alone and in combination in HNC and normal cells using cell viability, cell cycle, and cell death assays, by measuring glutathione (GSH), ROS, and protein levels, and via preclinical mouse studies. DPP-23 induced selective cell death in HNC cells, including cisplatin-resistant HNC cells, but spared normal cells, via cellular GSH depletion and ROS accumulation. The effect was blocked by the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine. DPP-23 activated p53 and its related cell death pathways via a robust accumulation of cellular ROS that involved inhibition of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 antioxidant defense mechanisms. Thus, DPP-23 significantly overcame cisplatin resistance in HNC cells in vitro and in vivo As a promising anticancer strategy, ROS generation and subsequent selective cancer cell killing by DPP-23 might help to overcome cisplatin resistance in HNC. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(11); 2620-9. ©2016 AACR. ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Overproduction of S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase in ethylglyoxal-bis(guanylhydrazone)-resistant mouse FM3A cells.

PubMed

Suzuki, T; Sadakata, Y; Kashiwagi, K; Hoshino, K; Kakinuma, Y; Shirahata, A; Igarashi, K

1993-07-15

A variant cell line, termed SAM-1, which overproduced S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (AdoMetDC), was isolated by treatment of mouse FM3A cells with N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine and subsequent incubation with ethylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone), an inhibitor of the enzyme. The cells were resistant to ethylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone), and showed AdoMetDC activity approximately five-times higher than control cells. The rate of AdoMetDC synthesis and the amount of AdoMetDC existing in SAM-1 cells were about five-times those in control cells. The amount of AdoMetDC mRNA existing in SAM-1 cells was five-times more than that in control cells. The amount of 5'-([(Z)-4-amino-2-butenyl]methylamino)-5'-deoxyadenosine, an irreversible inhibitor of AdoMetDC, necessary to inhibit cell growth was also five-times more in SAM-1 cells than in control cells. However, the following were the same in both SAM-1 and control cells; the amount of genomic DNA for AdoMetDC, the size and nucleotide sequence of 5' untranslated region of AdoMetDC mRNA, the deduced amino acid sequence (334 residues) from the nucleotide sequence of AdoMetDC cDNA and the degradation rate (t1/2 = about 4 h) of AdoMetDC. In addition, AdoMetDC mRNA in control cells was slightly more stable than that in SAM-1 cells. The results indicate that the overproduction of AdoMetDC in SAM-1 cells was caused by the increase of AdoMetDC mRNA. The variant cell line is convenient for studying the regulation of AdoMetDC and the physiological function of polyamines.

Molecular characterisation of a mosaicism with a complex chromosome rearrangement: evidence for coincident chromosome healing by telomere capture and neo‐telomere formation

PubMed Central

Chabchoub, Elyes; Rodríguez, Laura; Galán, Enrique; Mansilla, Elena; Martínez‐Fernandez, Maria Luisa; Martínez‐Frías, Maria Luisa; Fryns, Jean‐Pierre; Vermeesch, Joris Robert

2007-01-01

Background Broken chromosomes must acquire new telomeric “caps” to be structurally stable. Chromosome healing can be mediated either by telomerase through neo‐telomere synthesis or by telomere capture. Aim To unravel the mechanism(s) generating complex chromosomal mosaicisms and healing broken chromosomes. Methods G banding, array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation (FISH) and short tandem repeat analysis (STR) was performed on a girl presenting with mental retardation, facial dysmorphism, urogenital malformations and limb anomalies carrying a complex chromosomal mosaicism. Results & discussion The karyotype showed a de novo chromosome rearrangement with two cell lines: one cell line with a deletion 9pter and one cell line carrying an inverted duplication 9p and a non‐reciprocal translocation 5pter fragment. aCGH, FISH and STR analysis enabled the deduction of the most likely sequence of events generating this complex mosaic. During embryogenesis, a double‐strand break occurred on the paternal chromosome 9. Following mitotic separation of both broken sister chromatids, one acquired a telomere vianeo‐telomere formation, while the other generated a dicentric chromosome which underwent breakage during anaphase, giving rise to the del inv dup(9) that was subsequently healed by chromosome 5 telomere capture. Conclusion Broken chromosomes can coincidently be rescued by both telomere capture and neo‐telomere synthesis. PMID:17172463

Gossypolhemiquinone, a dimeric sesquiterpenoid identified in cotton (Gossypium).

PubMed

Stipanovic, Robert; Puckhaber, Lorraine; Frelichowski, James; Esquivel, Jesus; Westbrook, John; O'Neil, Mike; Bell, Alois; Dowd, Michael; Hake, Kater; Duke, Sara

2016-02-01

The report that the cotton leaf perforator, Bucculatrix thurberiella, is one of the few insect herbivores to attack Gossypium thurberi prompted an investigation of the terpenoids present in the leaves of this wild species of cotton. Members of Gossypium produce subepidermal pigment glands in their leaves that contain the dimeric sesquiterpenoid gossypol as well as other biosynthetically related terpenoids. In addition to gossypol, a previously unknown dimeric sesquiterpenoid, gossypolhemiquinone (GHQ), was identified in trace amounts in G. thurberi, a member of the D genome. Other members of the D genome of Gossypium were subsequently found to contain this compound, but GHQ was not detected in commercial cotton cultivars. When fed to Helicoverpa zea in an artificial diet, GHQ delayed days-to-pupation, reduced pupal weights, and survival to adulthood to a lesser or equal extent than gossypol in comparison to the control diet. However, GHQ had a synergistic effect on survival and days-to-pupation when combined with gossypol at the highest dosage tested (0.18%; 15.5:84.5 GHQ:gossypol). Because gossypol exhibits anti-cancer activity, GHQ was also evaluated for its anti-cancer activity against the National Cancer Institute's 60-Human Tumor Cell Line Screen. Significant inhibitory activity against most of these cell lines was not observed, but the results may offer some promise against leukemia cancer cell lines. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Trimethyltin-induced apoptosis is associated with upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase and Bax in a hippocampal cell line

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, L.; Li, L.; Prabhakaran, K.

2006-10-01

Trimethyltin (TMT) produces selective neuronal degeneration in the central nervous system (CNS), in which the hippocampus is the most sensitive area. Since previous studies have been conducted in either non-neural cells or mixed primary cultures, an immortalized hippocampal neuronal cell line (HT-22 cell) was used to assess the mechanism and mode of death produced by TMT. The compound produced a time- and concentration-dependent apoptotic death that was caspase-mediated. Excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequent reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential ({delta}{psi}{sub m}) were involved in the cytotoxicity{sub .} Scavenging of ROS by a free radical trapping agent ormore » inhibition of the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) pore significantly reduced cell death. Additionally, TMT increased expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) by activation of the redox-sensitive transcription factor NF{kappa}B. Pharmacologic inhibition studies showed that the iNOS-mediated NO generation increased expression of Bax and then mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. It was concluded that excessive ROS generation initiated the apoptotic cell death by upregulating iNOS followed by increased Bax expression which then led to loss of {delta}{psi}{sub m} and caspase-executed cell death. This study is the first to report in a neuronal cell model that TMT stimulates induction of iNOS, which then increases cellular levels of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) to initiate apoptotic death.« less

The mitochondria-mediate apoptosis of Lepidopteran cells induced by azadirachtin.

PubMed

Huang, Jingfei; Lv, Chaojun; Hu, Meiying; Zhong, Guohua

2013-01-01

Mitochondria have been shown to play an important role in apoptosis using mammalian cell lines. However, this seems not to be the case in Drosophila, an insect model organism; thus more in-depth studies of insect cell apoptosis are necessary. In the present study, mitochondrial involvement during azadirachtin- and camptothecin-induced apoptosis in Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9 cells (isolated from Spodoptera frugiperda pupal ovarian tissue) was investigated. The results showed that both azadirachtin and camptothecin could induce apoptosis in Sf9 cells. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, activation of mitochondrial permeability transition pores (MPTPs) and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were observed very early during apoptosis and were followed subsequently by the release of cytochrome-c from the mitochondria. Furthermore, the results also revealed that the opening of MPTPs and the loss of MMP induced by azadirachtin could be significantly inhibited by the permeability transition pore (PTP) inhibitor cyclosporin A (CsA), which was used to identify the key role of mitochondria in the apoptosis of Sf9 cells. However, in camptothecin-treated Sf9 cells, CsA could not suppress the opening of MPTPs and the loss of MMP when apoptosis was induced. The data from caspase-3 and caspase-9 activity assays and detection of apoptosis by morphological observation and flow cytometry also uncovered the different effect of CsA on the two botanical apoptosis inducers. Although different mechanisms of apoptosis induction exist, our study revealed that mitochondria play a crucial role in insect cell line apoptosis.

The Mitochondria-Mediate Apoptosis of Lepidopteran Cells Induced by Azadirachtin

PubMed Central

Huang, Jingfei; Lv, Chaojun; Hu, Meiying; Zhong, Guohua

2013-01-01

Mitochondria have been shown to play an important role in apoptosis using mammalian cell lines. However, this seems not to be the case in Drosophila, an insect model organism; thus more in-depth studies of insect cell apoptosis are necessary. In the present study, mitochondrial involvement during azadirachtin- and camptothecin-induced apoptosis in Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9 cells (isolated from Spodoptera frugiperda pupal ovarian tissue) was investigated. The results showed that both azadirachtin and camptothecin could induce apoptosis in Sf9 cells. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, activation of mitochondrial permeability transition pores (MPTPs) and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were observed very early during apoptosis and were followed subsequently by the release of cytochrome-c from the mitochondria. Furthermore, the results also revealed that the opening of MPTPs and the loss of MMP induced by azadirachtin could be significantly inhibited by the permeability transition pore (PTP) inhibitor cyclosporin A (CsA), which was used to identify the key role of mitochondria in the apoptosis of Sf9 cells. However, in camptothecin-treated Sf9 cells, CsA could not suppress the opening of MPTPs and the loss of MMP when apoptosis was induced. The data from caspase-3 and caspase-9 activity assays and detection of apoptosis by morphological observation and flow cytometry also uncovered the different effect of CsA on the two botanical apoptosis inducers. Although different mechanisms of apoptosis induction exist, our study revealed that mitochondria play a crucial role in insect cell line apoptosis. PMID:23516491

Effects of hypoxia and reoxygenation on the expression levels of the urokinase-type plasminogen activator, its inhibitor plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 and the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor in human head and neck tumour cells.

PubMed

Sprague, Lisa D; Tomaso, Herbert; Mengele, Karin; Schilling, Daniela; Bayer, Christine; Stadler, Peter; Schmitt, Manfred; Molls, Michael

2007-05-01

One aim during oncological radiation therapy is to induce reoxygenation in hypoxic tumours in order to enhance radiosensitivity and ultimately increase cell death. In squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (SCCHN), hypoxia is considered a pivotal physiological modulator for malignant progression, whereby the plasminogen activation system is involved in overlapping functions such as the shaping of the extracellular matrix, cell proliferation and signal transduction. Since little is known about reoxygenation and the plasminogen activation system in SCCHN, three human SCCHN cell lines (BHY, FaDu, and CAL27) and a non-transformed control cell line (VH7) were exposed to hypoxic (<0.5% O2) conditions for up to 72 h and subsequently reoxygenated for 24 h at normoxic conditions. The mRNA expression of the urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), the plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 (PAI-1) and the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) was assessed by means of real-time semi-quantitative RT-PCR, and the protein expression was determined by immunoenzymometric quantification (ELISA). Both hypoxia and reoxygenation induced statistically significant changes in uPA, PAI-1 and uPAR mRNA and protein levels in the various cell lines investigated, showing that oxygen tension is a strong modulator of the plasminogen activation system in vitro. However, no uniform correlation pattern was found between the mRNA and protein levels analysed over all three time-points (24, 48, and 72 h) and oxygen treatment variants (N, H, R) nor according to oxygen treatment conditions over all three time-points. Changes in oxygen tension could therefore be modulating the fragile balance between the various components of the plasminogen activation system in SSCHN ultimately leading to an increased tumour matrix disruption, alterations in cell invasiveness, and the dissemination of tumour cells to distant organs.

MicroRNA-128b suppresses tumor growth and promotes apoptosis by targeting A2bR in gastric cancer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Ping; Guo, Xueyan; Zong, Wei

2015-11-27

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in the development and progression of human cancers, including gastric cancer (GC). The discovery of miRNAs may provide a new and powerful tool for studying the mechanism, diagnosis, and treatment of GC. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of miR-128b in the development and progression of GC. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to measure the expression level of miR-128b in GC tissues and cell lines. We found that miR-128b was significantly down-regulated in GC tissues and cell lines. In addition, over-expression of miR-128b inhibited GC cell proliferation, migration andmore » invasion of GC cells in vitro. Gain-of-function in vitro experiments further showed that the miR-128b mimic significantly promoted GC cell apoptosis. Subsequent dual-luciferase reporter assay identified one of the proto-oncogene A2bR as direct target of miR-128b. Therefore, our results indicate that miR-128b is a proto-oncogene miRNA that can suppresses GC proliferation and migration through down-regulation of the oncogene gene A2bR. Taken together, our results indicate that miR-128b could serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic option for human GC in the near future. - Highlights: • The expression of MiR-128b is significantly down-regulated in GC tissues and cell lines. • Ectopic expression of miR-128b directly affects cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro. • Overexpression of miR-128b increases apoptosis in GC cells. • A2bR is a candidate target gene of miR-128b. • MiR-128b represses cell proliferation, migration and invasion and promotes apoptosis by targeting A2bR in GC.« less

Megakaryocyte Polyploidization and Proplatelet Formation in Low-Attachment Conditions

PubMed Central

Schlinker, Alaina C.; Whitehead, David C.; Miller, William M.

2016-01-01

In vitro-derived platelets (PLTs), which could provide an alternative source of PLTs for patient transfusions, are formed from polyploid megakaryocytes (MKs) that extend long cytoplasmic projections, termed proplatelets (proPLTs). In this study, we compared polyploidization and proPLT formation (PPF) of MKs cultured on surfaces that either promote or inhibit protein adsorption and subsequent cell adhesion. A megakaryoblastic cell line exhibited increased polyploidization and arrested PPF on a low-attachment surface. Primary human MKs also showed low levels of PPF on the same surface, but no difference in ploidy. Importantly, both cell types exhibited accelerated PPF after transfer to a surface that supports attachment, suggesting that pre-culture on a non-adhesive surface may facilitate synchronization of PPF and PLT generation in culture. PMID:27087780

From blood to bubbles: Time resolved micro-particle detection and characterization by scattered ultrasound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roy, Ronald A.

2004-05-01

Robert Apfel believed in the creative application of acoustics technology to difficult problems in biomedical sensing. Much of his work in this area focused on material characterization, with the intention of effecting diagnosis. His early work in blood cell characterization employed acoustic levitation to measure the bulk mechanical properties of human red blood cells. This subsequently paved the way to the use of high-frequency acoustic scattering to yield the compressibility and density of individual blood cells. Technology developed in this later effort was then adapted to the very difficult problem of transient micro-cavitation detection, and the active cavitation detector (ACD) was born. This paper traces this line of work from its origins and, in the process, serves to celebrate Bob Apfel's peerless ingenuity and irrepressible creativity.

In vitro characterization of CD133lo cancer stem cells in Retinoblastoma Y79 cell line.

PubMed

Nair, Rohini M; Balla, Murali Ms; Khan, Imran; Kalathur, Ravi Kiran Reddy; Kondaiah, Paturu; Vemuganti, Geeta K

2017-11-21

Retinoblastoma (Rb), the most common childhood intraocular malignant tumor, is reported to have cancer stem cells (CSCs) similar to other tumors. Our previous investigation in primary tumors identified the small sized cells with low CD133 (Prominin-1) and high CD44 (Hyaluronic acid receptor) expression to be putative Rb CSCs using flow cytometry (FSC lo /SSC lo /CD133 lo /CD44 hi ). With this preliminary data, we have now utilized a comprehensive approach of in vitro characterization of Y79 Rb cell line following CSC enrichment using CD133 surface marker and subsequent validation to confirm the functional properties of CSCs. The cultured Rb Y79 cells were evaluated for surface markers by flow cytometry and CD133 sorted cells (CD133 lo /CD133 hi ) were compared for CSC characteristics by size/percentage, cell cycle assay, colony formation assay, differentiation, Matrigel transwell invasion assay, cytotoxicity assay, gene expression using microarray and validation by semi-quantitative PCR. Rb Y79 cell line shared the profile (CD133, CD90, CXCR4 and ABCB1) of primary tumors except for CD44 expression. The CD133 lo cells (16.1 ± 0.2%) were FSC lo /SSC lo , predominantly within the G0/G1 phase, formed larger and higher number of colonies with ability to differentiate to CD133 hi cells, exhibited increased invasive potential in a matrigel transwell assay (p < 0.05) and were resistant to Carboplatin treatment (p < 0.001) as compared to CD133 hi cells. The CD133 lo cells showed higher expression of several embryonic stem cell genes (HOXB2, HOXA9, SALL1, NANOG, OCT4, LEFTY), stem cells/progenitor genes (MSI2, BMI1, PROX1, ABCB1, ABCB5, ABCG2), and metastasis related gene- MACC1, when compared to the CD133 hi cells. This study validates the observation from our earlier primary tumor study that CSC properties in Rb Y79 cell line are endowed within the CD133 lo population, evident by their characteristics- i.e. small sized, dormant in nature, increased colony forming ability, differentiation to CD133 hi cells, higher invasiveness potential, drug resistance and primitive gene expression pattern. These findings provide a proof of concept for methodological characterization of the retinoblastoma CSCs with future implications for improved diagnostic and treatment strategies.

Sialylation of EGFR by the ST6Gal-I sialyltransferase promotes EGFR activation and resistance to gefitinib-mediated cell death.

PubMed

Britain, Colleen M; Holdbrooks, Andrew T; Anderson, Joshua C; Willey, Christopher D; Bellis, Susan L

2018-02-05

The ST6Gal-I sialyltransferase is upregulated in numerous cancers, and high expression of this enzyme correlates with poor patient prognosis in various malignancies, including ovarian cancer. Through its sialylation of a select cohort of cell surface receptors, ST6Gal-I modulates cell signaling to promote tumor cell survival. The goal of the present study was to investigate the influence of ST6Gal-I on another important receptor that controls cancer cell behavior, EGFR. Additionally, the effect of ST6Gal-I on cancer cells treated with the common EGFR inhibitor, gefitinib, was evaluated. Using the OV4 ovarian cancer cell line, which lacks endogenous ST6Gal-I expression, a kinomics assay revealed that cells with forced overexpression of ST6Gal-I exhibited increased global tyrosine kinase activity, a finding confirmed by immunoblotting whole cell lysates with an anti-phosphotyrosine antibody. Interestingly, the kinomics assay suggested that one of the most highly activated tyrosine kinases in ST6Gal-I-overexpressing OV4 cells was EGFR. Based on these findings, additional analyses were performed to investigate the effect of ST6Gal-I on EGFR activation. To this end, we utilized, in addition to OV4 cells, the SKOV3 ovarian cancer cell line, engineered with both ST6Gal-I overexpression and knockdown, as well as the BxPC3 pancreatic cancer cell line with knockdown of ST6Gal-I. In all three cell lines, we determined that EGFR is a substrate of ST6Gal-I, and that the sialylation status of EGFR directly correlates with ST6Gal-I expression. Cells with differential ST6Gal-I expression were subsequently evaluated for EGFR tyrosine phosphorylation. Cells with high ST6Gal-I expression were found to have elevated levels of basal and EGF-induced EGFR activation. Conversely, knockdown of ST6Gal-I greatly attenuated EGFR activation, both basally and post EGF treatment. Finally, to illustrate the functional importance of ST6Gal-I in regulating EGFR-dependent survival, cells were treated with gefitinib, an EGFR inhibitor widely used for cancer therapy. These studies showed that ST6Gal-I promotes resistance to gefitinib-mediated apoptosis, as measured by caspase activity assays. Results herein indicate that ST6Gal-I promotes EGFR activation and protects against gefitinib-mediated cell death. Establishing the tumor-associated ST6Gal-I sialyltransferase as a regulator of EGFR provides novel insight into the role of glycosylation in growth factor signaling and chemoresistance.

Cell lineage analysis in human brain using endogenous retroelements

PubMed Central

Evrony, Gilad D.; Lee, Eunjung; Mehta, Bhaven K.; Benjamini, Yuval; Johnson, Robert M.; Cai, Xuyu; Yang, Lixing; Haseley, Psalm; Lehmann, Hillel S.; Park, Peter J.; Walsh, Christopher A.

2015-01-01

Summary Somatic mutations occur during brain development and are increasingly implicated as a cause of neurogenetic disease. However, the patterns in which somatic mutations distribute in the human brain are unknown. We used high-coverage whole-genome sequencing of single neurons from a normal individual to identify spontaneous somatic mutations as clonal marks to track cell lineages in human brain. Somatic mutation analyses in >30 locations throughout the nervous system identified multiple lineages and sub-lineages of cells marked by different LINE-1 (L1) retrotransposition events and subsequent mutation of poly-A microsatellites within L1. One clone contained thousands of cells limited to the left middle frontal gyrus, whereas a second distinct clone contained millions of cells distributed over the entire left hemisphere. These patterns mirror known somatic mutation disorders of brain development, and suggest that focally distributed mutations are also prevalent in normal brains. Single-cell analysis of somatic mutation enables tracing of cell lineage clones in human brain. PMID:25569347

4-Nitroquinoline-1-oxide effects human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells by regulating the expression of POLD4

PubMed Central

HUANG, QIN-MIAO; ZENG, YI-MING; ZHANG, HUA-PING; LV, LIANG-CHAO; YANG, DONG-YONG; LIN, HUI-HUANG

2016-01-01

The aim of the present study was to explore the expression of POLD4 in human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells under 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO) stimulation to investigate the role of POLD4 in smoking-induced lung cancer. The lung cancer A549 cell line was treated with 4NQO, with or without MG132 (an inhibitor of proteasome activity), and subsequently the POLD4 level was determined by western blot analysis. Secondly, the cell sensitivity to 4NQO and Taxol was determined when the POLD4 expression level was downregulated by siRNA. The POLD4 protein levels in the A549 cells decreased following treatment with 4NQO; however, MG132 could reverse this phenotype. Downregulation of the POLD4 expression by siRNA enhanced A549 cell sensitivity to 4NQO, but not to Taxol. In conclusion, 4NQO affects human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells by regulating the expression of POLD4. PMID:26998273

What is the benefit of treatment with multiple lines of chemotherapy for patients with metastatic breast cancer? A retrospective cohort study.

PubMed

Bakker, J L; Wever, K; van Waesberghe, J H; Beeker, A; Meijers-Heijboer, H; Konings, I R; Verheul, H M W

2015-12-01

Despite the extensive clinical experience, it is still under debate to what extent patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) benefit from multiple lines of chemotherapy beyond standard first or second line treatment. Selection of patients with MBC who will benefit from treatment is crucial to improve outcome and reduce unnecessary toxicity. In this retrospective study, systemic treatment outcome for patients with metastatic MBC is being evaluated. We evaluated to what extent the clinical benefit of prior chemotherapy can predict the success of a subsequent treatment line. Ninety-one patients treated with chemotherapy for MBC between January 2005 and January 2009 were included in this study. Clinical characteristics of patients, choices of chemotherapy and response at first evaluation of every treatment line was evaluated based on radiologic and clinical data. Patients received multiple systemic cytotoxic and biological (combination) therapies. 30% of these patients received more than five consecutive systemic (combination) treatments. First line chemotherapy was mostly anthracycline-based, followed by taxanes, capecitabine and vinorelbine. The response rate (RR, complete response plus partial response according to RECIST 1.1) decreased from 20% (95% CI 11-28%) upon first line of treatment to 0% upon the fourth line. The clinical benefit rate (combining RR and stable disease) decreased from 85% (95% CI 78-93%) in the first to 54% (95% CI 26-67) upon the fourth line. 24% of the patients with clinical benefit at first evaluation did not receive a subsequent line of treatment when progressive disease occurred, while sixty-one percent of the patients with progressive disease at first evaluation of a treatment did not receive a subsequent line of chemotherapy. When applied, the efficacy of a subsequent line of treatment was similar for patients independent of previous treatment benefit. The clinical benefit at first evaluation from systemic treatment in MBC does not predict for subsequent treatment benefit in this retrospective analysis. The fact that 61% of patients did not receive subsequent treatment after previous treatment failure suggests that either clinical judgement is of critical value in selection of patients to prevent them from unnecessary toxicity or, alternatively indicates that based on the assumption that prior treatment failure predicts for lack of benefit undertreatment of patients occurs. Therefore, a more adequate clinical judgement tool or predictive biomarkers for response are urgently needed to improve treatment outcome. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Scalable 96-well Plate Based iPSC Culture and Production Using a Robotic Liquid Handling System.

PubMed

Conway, Michael K; Gerger, Michael J; Balay, Erin E; O'Connell, Rachel; Hanson, Seth; Daily, Neil J; Wakatsuki, Tetsuro

2015-05-14

Continued advancement in pluripotent stem cell culture is closing the gap between bench and bedside for using these cells in regenerative medicine, drug discovery and safety testing. In order to produce stem cell derived biopharmaceutics and cells for tissue engineering and transplantation, a cost-effective cell-manufacturing technology is essential. Maintenance of pluripotency and stable performance of cells in downstream applications (e.g., cell differentiation) over time is paramount to large scale cell production. Yet that can be difficult to achieve especially if cells are cultured manually where the operator can introduce significant variability as well as be prohibitively expensive to scale-up. To enable high-throughput, large-scale stem cell production and remove operator influence novel stem cell culture protocols using a bench-top multi-channel liquid handling robot were developed that require minimal technician involvement or experience. With these protocols human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) were cultured in feeder-free conditions directly from a frozen stock and maintained in 96-well plates. Depending on cell line and desired scale-up rate, the operator can easily determine when to passage based on a series of images showing the optimal colony densities for splitting. Then the necessary reagents are prepared to perform a colony split to new plates without a centrifugation step. After 20 passages (~3 months), two iPSC lines maintained stable karyotypes, expressed stem cell markers, and differentiated into cardiomyocytes with high efficiency. The system can perform subsequent high-throughput screening of new differentiation protocols or genetic manipulation designed for 96-well plates. This technology will reduce the labor and technical burden to produce large numbers of identical stem cells for a myriad of applications.

Gastric carcinoma metastatic to the bone marrow: immunoperoxidase identification of KMO-1 antigen in MGG-destained aspirate.

PubMed

Kobayashi, T K; Yakushiji, M

1991-01-01

A case is presented that illustrates the application of the immunoperoxidase technique to the May-Grünwald-Giemsa (MGG)-destained bone marrow aspirate. The cytologic findings in a MGG-stained smear of the bone marrow suggested a metastatic epithelial tumor. Subsequently, a positive reaction to KMO-1, a monoclonal antibody raised against a colon carcinoma cell line, was demonstrated in tumor cells in the MGG-destained smear sample as well as in the paraffin-embedded section of the primary gastric cancer. The demonstration of the cancer-associated antigen in the MGG-destained material may be useful in establishing the diagnosis of metastatic tumor in the bone marrow.

A Rapid Method for Engineering Recombinant Polioviruses or Other Enteroviruses.

PubMed

Bessaud, Maël; Pelletier, Isabelle; Blondel, Bruno; Delpeyroux, Francis

2016-01-01

The cloning of large enterovirus RNA sequences is labor-intensive because of the frequent instability in bacteria of plasmidic vectors containing the corresponding cDNAs. In order to circumvent this issue we have developed a PCR-based method that allows the generation of highly modified or chimeric full-length enterovirus genomes. This method relies on fusion PCR which enables the concatenation of several overlapping cDNA amplicons produced separately. A T7 promoter sequence added upstream the fusion PCR products allows its transcription into infectious genomic RNAs directly in transfected cells constitutively expressing the phage T7 RNA polymerase. This method permits the rapid recovery of modified viruses that can be subsequently amplified on adequate cell-lines.

Cationic Surface Charge Combined with Either Vitronectin or Laminin Dictates the Evolution of Human Embryonic Stem Cells/Microcarrier Aggregates and Cell Growth in Agitated Cultures

PubMed Central

Lam, Alan Tin-Lun; Li, Jian; Chen, Allen Kuan-Liang; Reuveny, Shaul

2014-01-01

The expansion of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC) for biomedical applications generally compels a defined, reliable, and scalable platform. Bioreactors offer a three-dimensional culture environment that relies on the implementation of microcarriers (MC), as supports for cell anchorage and their subsequent growth. Polystyrene microspheres/MC coated with adhesion-promoting extracellular matrix (ECM) protein, vitronectin (VN), or laminin (LN) have been shown to support hPSC expansion in a static environment. However, they are insufficient to promote human embryonic stem cells (hESC) seeding and their expansion in an agitated environment. The present study describes an innovative technology, consisting of a cationic charge that underlies the ECM coatings. By combining poly-L-lysine (PLL) with a coating of ECM protein, cell attachment efficiency and cell spreading are improved, thus enabling seeding under agitation in a serum-free medium. This coating combination also critically enables the subsequent formation and evolution of hPSC/MC aggregates, which ensure cell viability and generate high yields. Aggregate dimensions of at least 300 μm during early cell growth give rise to ≈15-fold expansion at 7 days' culture. Increasing aggregate numbers at a quasi-constant size of ≈300 μm indicates hESC growth within a self-regulating microenvironment. PLL+LN enables cell seeding and aggregate evolution under constant agitation, whereas PLL+VN requires an intermediate 2-day static pause to attain comparable aggregate sizes and correspondingly high expansion yields. The cells' highly reproducible bioresponse to these defined and characterized MC surface properties is universal across multiple cell lines, thus confirming the robustness of this scalable expansion process in a defined environment. PMID:24641164

Sodium valproate, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, modulates the vascular endothelial growth inhibitor-mediated cell death in human osteosarcoma and vascular endothelial cells.

PubMed

Yamanegi, Koji; Kawabe, Mutsuki; Futani, Hiroyuki; Nishiura, Hiroshi; Yamada, Naoko; Kato-Kogoe, Nahoko; Kishimoto, Hiromitsu; Yoshiya, Shinichi; Nakasho, Keiji

2015-05-01

The level of vascular endothelial growth inhibitor (VEGI) has been reported to be negatively associated with neovascularization in malignant tumors. The soluble form of VEGI is a potent anti-angiogenic factor due to its effects in inhibiting endothelial cell proliferation. This inhibition is mediated by death receptor 3 (DR3), which contains a death domain in its cytoplasmic tail capable of inducing apoptosis that can be subsequently blocked by decoy receptor 3 (DcR3). We investigated the effects of sodium valproate (VPA) and trichostatin A (TSA), histone deacetylase inhibitors, on the expression of VEGI and its related receptors in human osteosarcoma (OS) cell lines and human microvascular endothelial (HMVE) cells. Consequently, treatment with VPA and TSA increased the VEGI and DR3 expression levels without inducing DcR3 production in the OS cell lines. In contrast, the effect on the HMVE cells was limited, with no evidence of growth inhibition or an increase in the DR3 and DcR3 expression. However, VPA-induced soluble VEGI in the OS cell culture medium markedly inhibited the vascular tube formation of HMVE cells, while VEGI overexpression resulted in enhanced OS cell death. Taken together, the HDAC inhibitor has anti-angiogenesis and antitumor activities that mediate soluble VEGI/DR3-induced apoptosis via both autocrine and paracrine pathways. This study indicates that the HDAC inhibitor may be exploited as a therapeutic strategy modulating the soluble VEGI/DR3 pathway in osteosarcoma patients.

Propagation of Brazilian Zika virus strains in static and suspension cultures using Vero and BHK cells.

PubMed

Nikolay, Alexander; Castilho, Leda R; Reichl, Udo; Genzel, Yvonne

2018-05-24

The recent spread of Zika virus (ZIKV) in the Americas and the Pacific has reached alarming levels in more than 60 countries. However, relatively little is known about the disease on a virological and epidemiological level and its consequences for humans. Accordingly, a large demand for in vitro derived Brazilian ZIKV material to support in vitro and in vivo studies has arisen. However, a prompt supply of ZIKV and ZIKV antigens cannot be guaranteed as the production of this virus typically using Vero or C6/36 cell lines remains challenging. Here we present a production platform based on BHK-21 suspension (BHK-21 SUS ) cells to propagate Brazilian ZIKV at larger quantities in perfusion bioreactors. Scouting experiments performed in tissue culture flasks using adherent BHK-21 and Vero cells have demonstrated similar permissivity and virus yields for four different Brazilian ZIKV isolates. The cell-specific yield of infectious virus particles varied between respective virus strains (1-48PFU/cell), and the ZIKV isolate from the Brazilian state Pernambuco (ZIKV PE ) showed to be a best performing isolate for both cell lines. However, infection studies of BHK-21 SUS cells with ZIKV PE in shake flasks resulted in poor virus replication, with a maximum titer of 8.9×10 3 PFU/mL. Additional RT-qPCR measurements of intracellular and extracellular viral RNA levels revealed high viral copy numbers within the cell, but poor virus release. Subsequent cultivation in a perfusion bioreactor using an alternating tangential flow filtration system (ATF) under controlled process conditions enabled cell concentrations of about 1.2×10 7 cells/mL, and virus titers of 3.9×10 7 PFU/mL. However, while the total number of infectious virus particles was increased, the cell-specific yield (3.3PFU/cell) remained lower than determined in adherent cell lines. Nevertheless, the established perfusion process allows to provide large amounts of ZIKV material for research and is a first step towards process development for manufacturing inactivated or live-attenuated ZIKV vaccines. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Versatile approach for functional analysis of human proteins and efficient stable cell line generation using FLP-mediated recombination system

PubMed Central

Szczesny, Roman J.; Kowalska, Katarzyna; Klosowska-Kosicka, Kamila; Chlebowski, Aleksander; Owczarek, Ewelina P.; Warkocki, Zbigniew; Kulinski, Tomasz M.; Adamska, Dorota; Affek, Kamila; Jedroszkowiak, Agata; Kotrys, Anna V.; Tomecki, Rafal; Krawczyk, Pawel S.; Borowski, Lukasz S.; Dziembowski, Andrzej

2018-01-01

Deciphering a function of a given protein requires investigating various biological aspects. Usually, the protein of interest is expressed with a fusion tag that aids or allows subsequent analyses. Additionally, downregulation or inactivation of the studied gene enables functional studies. Development of the CRISPR/Cas9 methodology opened many possibilities but in many cases it is restricted to non-essential genes. Recombinase-dependent gene integration methods, like the Flp-In system, are very good alternatives. The system is widely used in different research areas, which calls for the existence of compatible vectors and efficient protocols that ensure straightforward DNA cloning and generation of stable cell lines. We have created and validated a robust series of 52 vectors for streamlined generation of stable mammalian cell lines using the FLP recombinase-based methodology. Using the sequence-independent DNA cloning method all constructs for a given coding-sequence can be made with just three universal PCR primers. Our collection allows tetracycline-inducible expression of proteins with various tags suitable for protein localization, FRET, bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC), protein dynamics studies (FRAP), co-immunoprecipitation, the RNA tethering assay and cell sorting. Some of the vectors contain a bidirectional promoter for concomitant expression of miRNA and mRNA, so that a gene can be silenced and its product replaced by a mutated miRNA-insensitive version. Our toolkit and protocols have allowed us to create more than 500 constructs with ease. We demonstrate the efficacy of our vectors by creating stable cell lines with various tagged proteins (numatrin, fibrillarin, coilin, centrin, THOC5, PCNA). We have analysed transgene expression over time to provide a guideline for future experiments and compared the effectiveness of commonly used inducers for tetracycline-responsive promoters. As proof of concept we examined the role of the exoribonuclease XRN2 in transcription termination by RNAseq. PMID:29590189

Direct regulation of androgen receptor-associated protein 70 by thyroid hormone and its receptors.

PubMed

Tai, Pei-Ju; Huang, Ya-Hui; Shih, Chung-Hsuan; Chen, Ruey-Nan; Chen, Chi-De; Chen, Wei-Jan; Wang, Chia-Siu; Lin, Kwang-Huei

2007-07-01

Thyroid hormone (T3) regulates multiple physiological processes during development, growth, differentiation, and metabolism. Most T3 actions are mediated via thyroid hormone receptors (TRs) that are members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily of ligand-dependent transcription factors. The effects of T3 treatment on target gene regulation was previously examined in TRalpha1-overexpressing hepatoma cell lines (HepG2-TRalpha1). Androgen receptor (AR)-associated protein 70 (ARA70) was one gene found to be up-regulated by T3. The ARA70 is a ligand-dependent coactivator for the AR and was significantly increased by 4- to 5-fold after T3 treatment by Northern blot analyses in the HepG2-TRalpha1 stable cell line. T3 induced a 1- to 2-fold increase in the HepG2-TRbeta1 stable cell line. Both stable cell lines attained the highest fold expression after 24 h treatment with 10 nM T3. The ARA70 protein was increased up to 1.9-fold after T3 treatment in HepG2-TRalpha1 cells. Similar findings were obtained in thyroidectomized rats after T3 application. Cycloheximide treatment did not suppress induction of ARA70 transcription by T3, suggesting that this regulation is direct. A series of deletion mutants of ARA70 promoter fragments in pGL2 plasmid were generated to localize the thyroid hormone response element (TRE). The DNA fragments (-234/-190 or +56/+119) gave 1.55- or 2-fold enhanced promoter activity by T3. Thus, two TRE sites exist in the upstream-regulatory region of ARA70. The TR-TRE interaction was further confirmed with EMSAs. Additionally, ARA70 could interfere with TR/TRE complex formation. Therefore, the data indicated that ARA70 suppresses T3 signaling in a TRE-dependent manner. These experimental results suggest that T3 directly up-regulates ARA70 gene expression. Subsequently, ARA70 negatively regulates T3 signaling.

Current-Sheet Formation and Reconnection at a Magnetic X Line in Particle-in-Cell Simulations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Black, C.; Antiochos, S. K.; Hesse, M.; Karpen, J. T.; Kuznetsova, M. M.; Zenitani, S.

2011-01-01

The integration of kinetic effects into macroscopic numerical models is currently of great interest to the heliophysics community, particularly in the context of magnetic reconnection. Reconnection governs the large-scale energy release and topological rearrangement of magnetic fields in a wide variety of laboratory, heliophysical, and astrophysical systems. We are examining the formation and reconnection of current sheets in a simple, two-dimensional X-line configuration using high-resolution particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations. The initial minimum-energy, potential magnetic field is perturbed by excess thermal pressure introduced into the particle distribution function far from the X line. Subsequently, the relaxation of this added stress leads self-consistently to the development of a current sheet that reconnects for imposed stress of sufficient strength. We compare the time-dependent evolution and final state of our PIC simulations with macroscopic magnetohydrodynamic simulations assuming both uniform and localized electrical resistivities (C. R. DeVore et al., this meeting), as well as with force-free magnetic-field equilibria in which the amount of reconnection across the X line can be constrained to be zero (ideal evolution) or optimal (minimum final magnetic energy). We will discuss implications of our results for understanding magnetic-reconnection onset and cessation at kinetic scales in dynamically formed current sheets, such as those occurring in the solar corona and terrestrial magnetotail.

The public health approach to identify antiretroviral therapy failure: high-level nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor resistance among Malawians failing first-line antiretroviral therapy

PubMed Central

Hosseinipour, Mina C.; van Oosterhout, Joep J.G.; Weigel, Ralf; Phiri, Sam; Kamwendo, Debbie; Parkin, Neil; Fiscus, Susan A.; Nelson, Julie A.E.; Eron, Joseph J.; Kumwenda, Johnstone

2010-01-01

Background Over 150 000 Malawians have started antiretroviral therapy (ART), in which first-line therapy is stavudine/lamivudine/nevirapine. We evaluated drug resistance patterns among patients failing first-line ART on the basis of clinical or immunological criteria in Lilongwe and Blantyre, Malawi. Methods Patients meeting the definition of ART failure (new or progressive stage 4 condition, CD4 cell count decline more than 30%, CD4 cell count less than that before treatment) from January 2006 to July 2007 were evaluated. Among those with HIV RNA of more than 1000 copies/ml, genotyping was performed. For complex genotype patterns, phenotyping was performed. Results Ninety-six confirmed ART failure patients were identified. Median (interquartile range) CD4 cell count, log10 HIV-1 RNA, and duration on ART were 68 cells/μl (23–174), 4.72 copies/ml (4.26–5.16), and 36.5 months (26.6–49.8), respectively. Ninety-three percent of samples had nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor mutations, and 81% had the M184V mutation. The most frequent pattern included M184V and nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor mutations along with at least one thymidine analog mutation (56%). Twenty-three percent of patients acquired the K70E or K65R mutations associated with tenofovir resistance; 17% of the patients had pan-nucleoside resistance that corresponded to K65R or K70E and additional resistance mutations, most commonly the 151 complex. Emergence of the K65R and K70E mutations was associated with CD4 cell count of less than 100 cells/μl (odds ratio 6.1) and inversely with the use of zidovudine (odds ratio 0.18). Phenotypic susceptibility data indicated that the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor backbone with the highest activity for subsequent therapy was zidovudine/lamivudine/tenofovir, followed by lamivudine/tenofovir, and then abacavir/didanosine. Conclusion When clinical and CD4 cell count criteria are used to monitor first-line ART failure, extensive nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor and nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor resistance emerges, with most patients having resistance profiles that markedly compromise the activity of second-line ART. PMID:19417582

Elimination of mouse tumor cells from neonate spermatogonial cells utilizing cisplatin-entrapped folic acid-conjugated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles in vitro.

PubMed

Shabani, Ronak; Ashjari, Mohsen; Ashtari, Khadijeh; Izadyar, Fariborz; Behnam, Babak; Khoei, Samideh; Asghari-Jafarabadi, Mohamad; Koruji, Morteza

2018-01-01

Some male survivors of childhood cancer are suffering from azoospermia. In addition, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are necessary for the improvement of spermatogenesis subsequent to exposure to cytotoxic agents such as cisplatin. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anticancer activity of cisplatin-loaded folic acid-conjugated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) on mouse malignant cell line (EL4) and SSCs in vitro. SSCs were co-cultured with mouse malignant cell line (EL4) cells and divided into four culture groups: 1) control (cells were co-cultured in the culture medium), 2) co-cultured cells were treated with cisplatin (10 μg/mL), 3) co-cultured cells were treated with cisplatin-loaded folic acid-conjugated PLGA NPs, and 4) co-cultures were treated with folic acid-conjugated PLGA for 48 hours. The NPs were prepared, characterized, and targeted with folate. In vitro release characteristics, loading efficiency, and scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images were studied. Cancer cells were assayed after treatment using flow cytometry and TUNEL assay. The co-cultures of SSCs and EL4 cells were injected into seminiferous tubules of the testes after treating with cis-diaminedichloroplatinum/PLGA NPs. The mean diameter of PLGA NPs ranged between 150 and 250 nm. The number of TUNEL-positive cells increased, and the expression of Bax and caspase-3 were upregulated in EL4 cells in Group 4 compared with Group 2. There was no pathological tumor in testes after transplantation with treated co-cultured cells. The PLGA NPs appeared to act as a promising carrier for cisplatin administration, which was consistent with a higher activation of apoptosis than free drug.

Elimination of mouse tumor cells from neonate spermatogonial cells utilizing cisplatin-entrapped folic acid-conjugated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles in vitro

PubMed Central

Shabani, Ronak; Ashjari, Mohsen; Ashtari, Khadijeh; Izadyar, Fariborz; Behnam, Babak; Khoei, Samideh; Asghari-Jafarabadi, Mohamad; Koruji, Morteza

2018-01-01

Background Some male survivors of childhood cancer are suffering from azoospermia. In addition, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are necessary for the improvement of spermatogenesis subsequent to exposure to cytotoxic agents such as cisplatin. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the anticancer activity of cisplatin-loaded folic acid-conjugated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) on mouse malignant cell line (EL4) and SSCs in vitro. Methods SSCs were co-cultured with mouse malignant cell line (EL4) cells and divided into four culture groups: 1) control (cells were co-cultured in the culture medium), 2) co-cultured cells were treated with cisplatin (10 μg/mL), 3) co-cultured cells were treated with cisplatin-loaded folic acid-conjugated PLGA NPs, and 4) co-cultures were treated with folic acid-conjugated PLGA for 48 hours. The NPs were prepared, characterized, and targeted with folate. In vitro release characteristics, loading efficiency, and scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images were studied. Cancer cells were assayed after treatment using flow cytometry and TUNEL assay. The co-cultures of SSCs and EL4 cells were injected into seminiferous tubules of the testes after treating with cis-diaminedichloroplatinum/PLGA NPs. Results The mean diameter of PLGA NPs ranged between 150 and 250 nm. The number of TUNEL-positive cells increased, and the expression of Bax and caspase-3 were upregulated in EL4 cells in Group 4 compared with Group 2. There was no pathological tumor in testes after transplantation with treated co-cultured cells. Conclusion The PLGA NPs appeared to act as a promising carrier for cisplatin administration, which was consistent with a higher activation of apoptosis than free drug. PMID:29849458

Chemical coding and chemosensory properties of cholinergic brush cells in the mouse gastrointestinal and biliary tract.

PubMed

Schütz, Burkhard; Jurastow, Innokentij; Bader, Sandra; Ringer, Cornelia; von Engelhardt, Jakob; Chubanov, Vladimir; Gudermann, Thomas; Diener, Martin; Kummer, Wolfgang; Krasteva-Christ, Gabriela; Weihe, Eberhard

2015-01-01

The mouse gastro-intestinal and biliary tract mucosal epithelia harbor choline acetyltransferase (ChAT)-positive brush cells with taste cell-like traits. With the aid of two transgenic mouse lines that express green fluorescent protein (EGFP) under the control of the ChAT promoter (EGFP (ChAT) ) and by using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry we found that EGFP (ChAT) cells were clustered in the epithelium lining the gastric groove. EGFP (ChAT) cells were numerous in the gall bladder and bile duct, and found scattered as solitary cells along the small and large intestine. While all EGFP (ChAT) cells were also ChAT-positive, expression of the high-affinity choline transporter (ChT1) was never detected. Except for the proximal colon, EGFP (ChAT) cells also lacked detectable expression of the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT). EGFP (ChAT) cells were found to be separate from enteroendocrine cells, however they were all immunoreactive for cytokeratin 18 (CK18), transient receptor potential melastatin-like subtype 5 channel (TRPM5), and for cyclooxygenases 1 (COX1) and 2 (COX2). The ex vivo stimulation of colonic EGFP (ChAT) cells with the bitter substance denatonium resulted in a strong increase in intracellular calcium, while in other epithelial cells such an increase was significantly weaker and also timely delayed. Subsequent stimulation with cycloheximide was ineffective in both cell populations. Given their chemical coding and chemosensory properties, EGFP (ChAT) brush cells thus may have integrative functions and participate in induction of protective reflexes and inflammatory events by utilizing ACh and prostaglandins for paracrine signaling.

Beta2 toxin is not involved in in vitro cell cytotoxicity caused by human and porcine cpb2-harbouring Clostridium perfringens.

PubMed

Allaart, Janneke G; van Asten, Alphons J A M; Vernooij, Johannes C M; Gröne, Andrea

2014-06-25

Clostridium perfringens is a common cause of intestinal disease in animals and humans. Its pathogenicity is attributed to the toxins it can produce, including the beta2 toxin. The presence of cpb2, the gene encoding the beta2 toxin, has been associated with diarrhoea in neonatal piglets and humans. However, the exact role of the beta2 toxin in the development of diarrhoea is still unknown. In this study we investigated the level of cytotoxicity to porcine IPI-21 and human Caco-2 cell-lines caused by porcine and human cpb2-harbouring C. perfringens and the significance of the beta2 toxin for the induction of cell cytotoxicity. Supernatants of porcine cpb2-harbouring C. perfringens strains were cytotoxic to both cell lines. Cell cytotoxicity caused by supernatant of human cpb2-harbouring C. perfringens strains was variable among strains. However, removal of the beta2 toxin by anti-beta2 toxin antibodies or degradation of the beta2 toxin by trypsin did not reduce the cytotoxic effect of any of the supernatants. These data suggest that beta2 toxin does not play a role in the development of cell cytotoxicity in in vitro experiments. In vivo studies are necessary to definitely define the role of beta2 toxin in the development of cell cytotoxicity and subsequent diarrhoea. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Curcumin-Mediated Reversal of p15 Gene Promoter Methylation: Implication in Anti-Neoplastic Action against Acute Lymphoid Leukaemia Cell Line.

PubMed

Sharma, V; Jha, A K; Kumar, A; Bhatnagar, A; Narayan, G; Kaur, J

2015-01-01

Curcumin has been documented to exert anticancer effects by interacting with altered proliferative and apoptotic pathways in cancer models. In this study, we evaluated the potential of curcumin to reverse promoter methylation of the p15 gene in Raji cells and its ability to induce apoptosis and genomic instability. Anti-neoplastic action of curcumin showed an augmentation in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell cycle arrest in G1 phase. Subsequently, curcumin- exposed Raji cells showed structural abnormalities in chromosomes. These observations suggest that curcumin also causes ROS-mediated apoptosis and genomic instability. The treatment of Raji cell line with 10 μM curcumin caused hypomethylation of the p15 promoter after six days. Hypomethylation of p15 was further found to be favoured by downregulation of DNA methyltransferase 1 after 10 μM curcumin treatment for six days. Methylation-specific PCR suggested demethylation of the p15 promoter. Demethylation was further validated by DNA sequencing. Reverse-transcription PCR demonstrated that treatment with curcumin (10 μM) for six days led to the up-regulation of p15 and down-regulation of DNA methyltransferase 1. Furthermore, curcumin- mediated reversal of p15 promoter methylation might be potentiated by down-regulation of DNA methyltransferase 1 expression, which was supported by cell cycle analysis. Furthermore, curcumin acts as a double-pronged agent, as it caused apoptosis and promoter hypomethylation in Raji cells.

Identification of T-cell Receptors Targeting KRAS-mutated Human Tumors

PubMed Central

Wang, Qiong J.; Yu, Zhiya; Griffith, Kayla; Hanada, Ken-ichi; Restifo, Nicholas P.; Yang, James C.

2015-01-01

KRAS is one of the most frequently mutated proto-oncogenes in human cancers. The dominant oncogenic mutations of KRAS are single amino acid substitutions at codon 12, in particular G12D and G12V present in 60–70% of pancreatic cancers and 20–30% of colorectal cancers. The consistency, frequency, and tumor specificity of these “neo-antigens” make them attractive therapeutic targets. Recent data associates T cells that target mutated antigens with clinical immunotherapy responses in patients with metastatic melanoma, lung cancer, or cholangiocarcinoma. Using HLA-peptide prediction algorithms, we noted that HLA-A*11:01 could potentially present mutated KRAS variants. By immunizing HLA-A*11:01 transgenic mice, we generated murine T cells and subsequently isolated T-cell receptors (TCRs) highly reactive to the mutated KRAS variants G12V and G12D. Peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) transduced with these TCRs could recognize multiple HLA-A*11:01+ tumor lines bearing the appropriate KRAS mutations. In a xenograft model of large established tumor, adoptive transfer of these transduced PBLs reactive with an HLA-A*11:01, G12D-mutated pancreatic cell line could significantly reduce its growth in NSG mice (P = 0.002). The success of adoptive transfer of TCR-engineered T cells against melanoma and other cancers support clinical trials with these T cells that recognize mutated KRAS in patients with a variety of common cancer types. PMID:26701267

Phylloseptin-PBa—A Novel Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Peptide from the Skin Secretion of the Peruvian Purple-Sided Leaf Frog (Phyllomedusa Baltea) Which Exhibits Cancer Cell Cytotoxicity

PubMed Central

Wan, Yuantai; Ma, Chengbang; Zhou, Mei; Xi, Xinping; Li, Lei; Wu, Di; Wang, Lei; Lin, Chen; Lopez, Juan Chavez; Chen, Tianbao; Shaw, Chris

2015-01-01

Antimicrobial peptides from amphibian skin secretion display remarkable broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and are thus promising for the discovery of new antibiotics. In this study, we report a novel peptide belonging to the phylloseptin family of antimicrobial peptides, from the skin secretion of the purple-sided leaf frog, Phyllomedusa baltea, which was named Phylloseptin-PBa. Degenerate primers complementary to putative signal peptide sites of frog skin peptide precursor-encoding cDNAs were designed to interrogate a skin secretion-derived cDNA library from this frog. Subsequently, the peptide was isolated and identified using reverse phase HPLC and MS/MS fragmentation. The synthetic replicate was demonstrated to have activity against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans at concentrations of 8, 128 and 8 mg/L, respectively. In addition, it exhibited anti-proliferative activity against the human cancer cell lines, H460, PC3 and U251MG, but was less active against a normal human cell line (HMEC). Furthermore, a haemolysis assay was performed to assess mammalian cell cytotoxicity of Phylloseptin-PBa. This peptide contained a large proportion of α-helical domain, which may explain its antimicrobial and anticancer activities. PMID:26633506

Phylloseptin-PBa--A Novel Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Peptide from the Skin Secretion of the Peruvian Purple-Sided Leaf Frog (Phyllomedusa Baltea) Which Exhibits Cancer Cell Cytotoxicity.

PubMed

Wan, Yuantai; Ma, Chengbang; Zhou, Mei; Xi, Xinping; Li, Lei; Wu, Di; Wang, Lei; Lin, Chen; Lopez, Juan Chavez; Chen, Tianbao; Shaw, Chris

2015-12-01

Antimicrobial peptides from amphibian skin secretion display remarkable broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and are thus promising for the discovery of new antibiotics. In this study, we report a novel peptide belonging to the phylloseptin family of antimicrobial peptides, from the skin secretion of the purple-sided leaf frog, Phyllomedusa baltea, which was named Phylloseptin-PBa. Degenerate primers complementary to putative signal peptide sites of frog skin peptide precursor-encoding cDNAs were designed to interrogate a skin secretion-derived cDNA library from this frog. Subsequently, the peptide was isolated and identified using reverse phase HPLC and MS/MS fragmentation. The synthetic replicate was demonstrated to have activity against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans at concentrations of 8, 128 and 8 mg/L, respectively. In addition, it exhibited anti-proliferative activity against the human cancer cell lines, H460, PC3 and U251MG, but was less active against a normal human cell line (HMEC). Furthermore, a haemolysis assay was performed to assess mammalian cell cytotoxicity of Phylloseptin-PBa. This peptide contained a large proportion of α-helical domain, which may explain its antimicrobial and anticancer activities.

Genetic heterogeneity in primary and relapsed mantle cell lymphomas: Impact of recurrent CARD11 mutations.

PubMed

Wu, Chenglin; de Miranda, Noel Fcc; Chen, Longyun; Wasik, Agata M; Mansouri, Larry; Jurczak, Wojciech; Galazka, Krystyna; Dlugosz-Danecka, Monika; Machaczka, Maciej; Zhang, Huilai; Peng, Roujun; Morin, Ryan D; Rosenquist, Richard; Sander, Birgitta; Pan-Hammarström, Qiang

2016-06-21

The genetic mechanisms underlying disease progression, relapse and therapy resistance in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) remain largely unknown. Whole-exome sequencing was performed in 27 MCL samples from 13 patients, representing the largest analyzed series of consecutive biopsies obtained at diagnosis and/or relapse for this type of lymphoma. Eighteen genes were found to be recurrently mutated in these samples, including known (ATM, MEF2B and MLL2) and novel mutation targets (S1PR1 and CARD11). CARD11, a scaffold protein required for B-cell receptor (BCR)-induced NF-κB activation, was subsequently screened in an additional 173 MCL samples and mutations were observed in 5.5% of cases. Based on in vitro cell line-based experiments, overexpression of CARD11 mutants were demonstrated to confer resistance to the BCR-inhibitor ibrutinib and NF-κB-inhibitor lenalidomide. Genetic alterations acquired in the relapse samples were found to be largely non-recurrent, in line with the branched evolutionary pattern of clonal evolution observed in most cases. In summary, this study highlights the genetic heterogeneity in MCL, in particular at relapse, and provides for the first time genetic evidence of BCR/NF-κB activation in a subset of MCL.

β-cyclodextrin functionalized poly (5-amidoisophthalicacid) grafted Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles: A novel biocompatible nanocomposite for targeted docetaxel delivery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarasi, Roghayeh; Khoobi, Mehdi; Niknejad, Hassan; Ramazani, Ali; Ma'mani, Leila; Bahadorikhalili, Saeed; Shafiee, Abbas

2016-11-01

Thiol-lactam initiated radical polymerization (TLIRP) was successfully employed to prepare poly-N-5-acrylamidoisophthalicacid grafted onto Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs@PAIP). β-Cyclodextrin (CD) was then conjugated to the carboxylic groups of the prepared MNPs via carbodiimide activation. Subsequently, tumor-targeting folic acid (FA) was attached to the hydroxyl groups of CD on the surface of the latter MNPs to increase the site-specific intracellular delivery. The prepared MNPs were fully characterized by FTIR, VSM, TGA, XRD, FE-SEM and TEM. Docetaxel (DTX) as hydrophobic anticancer drug was loaded via host-guest inclusion complexation with CD and the release profile of the system was studied at different pH. The effect of MNPs on the cell viability was evaluated for the human embryonic kidney normal cell line (HEK293) as well as HeLa and MDA-MB-231 cancerous cell lines and the results did not show any apparent cytotoxic effect. In comparison, DTX loaded MNPs reduced the growth of HeLa and MDA-MB-231 cells more than free DTX. Intracellular uptake ability of DTX loaded MNPs was also studied using fluorescent microscopy and showed cellular uptake about 90% after 4 h treatment.

Genomic pathways modulated by Twist in breast cancer.

PubMed

Vesuna, Farhad; Bergman, Yehudit; Raman, Venu

2017-01-13

The basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor TWIST1 (Twist) is involved in embryonic cell lineage determination and mesodermal differentiation. There is evidence to indicate that Twist expression plays a role in breast tumor formation and metastasis, but the role of Twist in dysregulating pathways that drive the metastatic cascade is unclear. Moreover, many of the genes and pathways dysregulated by Twist in cell lines and mouse models have not been validated against data obtained from larger, independant datasets of breast cancer patients. We over-expressed the human Twist gene in non-metastatic MCF-7 breast cancer cells to generate the estrogen-independent metastatic breast cancer cell line MCF-7/Twist. These cells were inoculated in the mammary fat pad of female severe compromised immunodeficient mice, which subsequently formed xenograft tumors that metastasized to the lungs. Microarray data was collected from both in vitro (MCF-7 and MCF-7/Twist cell lines) and in vivo (primary tumors and lung metastases) models of Twist expression. Our data was compared to several gene datasets of various subtypes, classes, and grades of human breast cancers. Our data establishes a Twist over-expressing mouse model of breast cancer, which metastasizes to the lung and replicates some of the ontogeny of human breast cancer progression. Gene profiling data, following Twist expression, exhibited novel metastasis driver genes as well as cellular maintenance genes that were synonymous with the metastatic process. We demonstrated that the genes and pathways altered in the transgenic cell line and metastatic animal models parallel many of the dysregulated gene pathways observed in human breast cancers. Analogous gene expression patterns were observed in both in vitro and in vivo Twist preclinical models of breast cancer metastasis and breast cancer patient datasets supporting the functional role of Twist in promoting breast cancer metastasis. The data suggests that genetic dysregulation of Twist at the cellular level drives alterations in gene pathways in the Twist metastatic mouse model which are comparable to changes seen in human breast cancers. Lastly, we have identified novel genes and pathways that could be further investigated as targets for drugs to treat metastatic breast cancer.

In situ detection of estrogen receptor dimers in breast carcinoma cells in archival materials using proximity ligation assay (PLA).

PubMed

Iwabuchi, Erina; Miki, Yasuhiro; Ono, Katsuhiko; Onodera, Yoshiaki; Suzuki, Takashi; Hirakawa, Hisashi; Ishida, Takanori; Ohuchi, Noriaki; Sasano, Hironobu

2017-01-01

Estrogen receptor (ER) is required for carcinoma cell proliferation in the great majority of breast cancer and also functions as a dimer. ER dimeric proteins have been largely identified by BRET/FRET analyses but their in situ visualization have not yet been reported. Recently, in situ Proximity Ligation Assay (PLA) has been developed as the methods detecting protein interactions in situ. Therefore, in this study we firstly demonstrated the dimerization of ERα in breast carcinoma cell lines and tissues using PLA. The human breast carcinoma cell lines MCF-7, T-47D and MDA-MB-231 were used in this study. Cells were treated with ER agonist or antagonist and fixed in 4% PFA, and ER dimers were subsequently detected using PLA. The evaluation of ER dimers in breast carcinoma cell lines were quantified by measuring the area of dots localized in the nuclei using image analysis. We also firstly demonstrated the visualization of ER dimer patterns in 10% formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues of breast cancer using PLA technique. Estradiol (E2) administration induced ERα homodimers in the nuclei of MCF-7 and T-47D but not in ER-negative MDA-MB-231. 4-OH tamoxifen also induced ERα homodimers but the subcellular localization of these ERα homodimers was predominant in cytoplasm instead of the nuclei induced by E2 treatment. ICI182,780 treatment did decrease the number of formation of ERα homodimers in MCF-7. In breast cancer patients, ERα PLA score was significantly correlated positively with ERα- or PgR (progesterone receptor) immunohistochemical scores and inversely with Ki-67-labeling index, respectively. We also demonstrated the ERα/β heterodimer as well as ERα homodimers in both breast carcinoma cell lines and surgical pathology specimens. In summary, we did firstly succeed in the visualization of ER dimeric proteins using PLA method. The evaluation of ER dimer patterns could provide pivotal information as to the prediction of response to endocrine therapy of breast cancer patients. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Factors influencing survival of mammalian cells exposed to hypothermia. VI. Effects of prehypothermic hypoxia followed by aerobic or hypoxic storage at various hypothermic temperatures.

PubMed

Kruuv, J; Lepock, J R

1995-04-01

The Arrhenius plot of inactivation (killing) rates of V-79 Chinese hamster cells exposed to hypothermia in air-equilibrated (aerobic) medium contains a break at about 8 degrees C, which corresponds to the minimum inactivation rate, implying that there are distinct hypothermic damage mechanisms above (range I, 8 to 25 degrees C) and below (range II, 0 to 8 degrees C) 8 degrees C. Prehypothermic hypoxia (PHH) for 75 min at room temperature sensitizes cells to subsequent aerobic hypothermia at both 5 and 10 degrees C (range II and I). However, PHH followed by severe hypoxia (0.03 microM oxygen in the medium) protected cells during 10 degrees C (range I) storage by increasing the shoulder, but not the slope, of the cell survival curve compared to the PHH plus 10 degrees C aerobic hypothermia case. On the other hand, PHH plus severe hypoxia during 5 degrees C storage (range II) protected cells by decreasing the slope, but not the shoulder, of the cell survival curve compared to the PHH plus 5 degrees C aerobic hypothermia case. Furthermore, PHH plus severe hypoxia during 5 degrees C storage was not significantly worse than aerobic storage without PHH at 5 degrees C. With or without severe hypoxia, 10 degrees C storage is preferable to 5 degrees C storage in this cell line. Extrapolated to organ storage, the results may imply that if warm ischemia (PHH) has occurred, subsequent hypoxic hypothermic perfusion storage may be preferable to aerobic hypothermic perfusion storage.

Polyploid tumour cells elicit paradiploid progeny through depolyploidizing divisions and regulated autophagic degradation.

PubMed

Erenpreisa, Jekaterina; Salmina, Kristine; Huna, Anda; Kosmacek, Elizabeth A; Cragg, Mark S; Ianzini, Fiorenza; Anisimov, Alim P

2011-07-01

'Neosis' describes the process whereby p53 function-deficient tumour cells undergo self-renewal after genotoxic damage apparently via senescing ETCs (endopolyploid tumour cells). We previously reported that autophagic digestion and extrusion of DNA occurs in ETC and subsequently revealed that self-renewal transcription factors are also activated under these conditions. Here, we further studied this phenomenon in a range of cell lines after genotoxic damage induced by gamma irradiation, ETO (etoposide) or PXT (paclitaxel) treatment. These experiments revealed that chromatin degradation by autophagy was compatible with continuing mitotic activity in ETC. While the actively polyploidizing primary ETC produced early after genotoxic insult activated self-renewal factors throughout the polygenome, the secondary ETC restored after failed multipolar mitosis underwent subnuclei differentiation. As such, only a subset of subnuclei continued to express OCT4 and NANOG, while those lacking these factors stopped DNA replication and underwent degradation and elimination through autophagy. The surviving subnuclei sequestered nascent cytoplasm to form subcells, while being retained within the confines of the old ETC. Finally, the preformed paradiploid subcells became released from their linking chromosome bridges through autophagy and subsequently began cell divisions. These data show that 'neotic' ETC resulting from genotoxically damaged p53 function-deficient tumour cells develop through a heteronuclear system differentiating the polyploid genome into rejuvenated 'viable' subcells (which provide mitotically propagating paradiploid descendents) and subnuclei, which become degraded and eliminated by autophagy. The whole process reduces aneuploidy in descendants of ETC.

MicroRNA-26a Promotes Cholangiocarcinoma Growth by Activating β-catenin

PubMed Central

Zhang, Jinqiang; Han, Chang; Wu, Tong

2013-01-01

Background & Aims MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in the development and progression of human cancers. We investigated the roles and mechanisms of miR-26a in human cholangiocarcinoma. Methods We used in situ hybridization and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction to measure expression of miR-26a in human cholangiocarcinoma tissues and cell lines (eg, CCLP1, SG231, HuCCT1, TFK1). Human cholangiocarcinoma cell lines were transduced with lentiviruses that expressed miR-26a1 or a scrambled sequence (control); proliferation and colony formation were analyzed. We analyzed growth of human cholangiocarcinoma cells that overexpress miR-26a or its inhibitor in severe combined immune-deficient mice. Immunoblot, immunoprecipitation, DNA pull-down, immunofluorescence, and luciferase reporter assays were used to measure expression and activity of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β, β-catenin, and related signaling molecules. Results Human cholangiocarcinoma tissues and cell lines had increased levels of miR-26a compared with the noncancerous biliary epithelial cells. Overexpression of miR-26a increased proliferation of cholangiocarcinoma cells and colony formation in vitro, whereas miR-26 depletion reduced these parameters. In severe combined immune-deficient mice, overexpression of miR-26a by cholangiocarcinoma cells increased tumor growth and overexpression of the miR-26a inhibitor reduced it. GSK-3β messenger RNA was identified as a direct target of miR-26a by computational analysis and experimental assays. miR-26a–mediated reduction of GSK-3β resulted in activation of β-catenin and induction of several downstream genes including c-Myc, cyclinD1, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor δ. Depletion of β-catenin partially prevented miR-26a-induced tumor cell proliferation and colony formation. Conclusions miR-26a promotes cholangiocarcinoma growth by inhibition of GSK-3β and subsequent activation of β-catenin. These signaling molecules might be targets for prevention or treatment of cholangiocarcinoma. PMID:22484120

MCLR-induced PP2A inhibition and subsequent Rac1 inactivation and hyperphosphorylation of cytoskeleton-associated proteins are involved in cytoskeleton rearrangement in SMMC-7721 human liver cancer cell line.

PubMed

Wang, Hao; Liu, Jinghui; Lin, Shuyan; Wang, Beilei; Xing, Mingluan; Guo, Zonglou; Xu, Lihong

2014-10-01

Cyanobacteria-derived toxin microcystin-LR (MCLR) has been widely investigated in its effects on normal cells, there is little information concerning its effects on cancer cells. In the present study, the SMMC-7721 human liver cancer cell line treated with MCLR was used to investigate the change of PP2A, cytoskeleton rearrangement, phosphorylation levels of PP2A substrates that related with cytoskeleton stability and explored underlying mechanisms. Here, we confirmed that MCLR entered into SMMC-7721 cells, bound to PP2A/C subunit and inhibited the activity of PP2A. The upregulation of phosphorylation of the PP2A/C subunit and PP2A regulation protein α4, as well as the change in the association of PP2A/C with α4, were responsible for the decrease in PP2A activity. Another novel finding is that the rearrangement of filamentous actin and microtubules led by MCLR may attribute to the increased phosphorylation of HSP27, VASP and cofilin due to PP2A inhibition. As a result of weakened interactions with PP2A and alterations in its subcellular localization, Rac1 may contribute to the cytoskeletal rearrangement induced by MCLR in SMMC-7721 cells. The current paper presents the first report demonstrating the characteristic of PP2A in MCLR exposed cancer cells, which were more susceptible to MCLR compared with the normal cell lines we previously found, which may be owing to the absence of some type of compensatory mechanisms. The hyperphosphorylation of cytoskeleton-associated proteins and Rac1 inactivation which were induced by inhibition of PP2A are shown to be involved in cytoskeleton rearrangement. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Stem/progenitor cells derived from the cochlear sensory epithelium give rise to spheres with distinct morphologies and features.

PubMed

Diensthuber, Marc; Oshima, Kazuo; Heller, Stefan

2009-06-01

Nonmammalian vertebrates regenerate lost sensory hair cells by means of asymmetric division of supporting cells. Inner ear or lateral line supporting cells in birds, amphibians, and fish consequently serve as bona fide stem cells resulting in high regenerative capacity of hair cell-bearing organs. Hair cell regeneration does not happen in the mammalian cochlea, but cells with proliferative capacity can be isolated from the neonatal cochlea. These cells have the ability to form clonal floating colonies, so-called spheres, when cultured in nonadherent conditions. We noticed that the sphere population derived from mouse cochlear sensory epithelium cells was heterogeneous, consisting of morphologically distinct sphere types, hereby classified as solid, transitional, and hollow. Cochlear sensory epithelium-derived stem/progenitor cells initially give rise to small solid spheres, which subsequently transition into hollow spheres, a change that is accompanied by epithelial differentiation of the majority of sphere cells. Only solid spheres, and to a lesser extent, transitional spheres, appeared to harbor self-renewing stem cells, whereas hollow spheres could not be consistently propagated. Solid spheres contained significantly more rapidly cycling Pax-2-expressing presumptive otic progenitor cells than hollow spheres. Islet-1, which becomes upregulated in nascent sensory patches, was also more abundant in solid than in hollow spheres. Likewise, hair cell-like cells, characterized by the expression of multiple hair cell markers, differentiated in significantly higher numbers in cell populations derived from solid spheres. We conclude that cochlear sensory epithelium cell populations initially give rise to small solid spheres that have self-renewing capacity before they subsequently convert into hollow spheres, a process that is accompanied by loss of stemness and reduced ability to spontaneously give rise to hair cell-like cells. Solid spheres might, therefore, represent the most suitable sphere type for cell-based assays or animal model transplantation studies aimed at development of cell replacement therapies.

CHIP promotes thyroid cancer proliferation via activation of the MAPK and AKT pathways.

PubMed

Zhang, Li; Liu, Lianyong; He, Xiaohua; Shen, Yunling; Liu, Xuerong; Wei, Jing; Yu, Fang; Tian, Jianqing

2016-08-26

The carboxyl terminus of Hsp70-interacting protein (CHIP) is a U box-type ubiquitin ligase that plays crucial roles in various biological processes, including tumor progression. To date, the functional mechanism of CHIP in thyroid cancer remains unknown. Here, we obtained evidence of upregulation of CHIP in thyroid cancer tissues and cell lines. CHIP overexpression markedly enhanced thyroid cancer cell viability and colony formation in vitro and accelerated tumor growth in vivo. Conversely, CHIP knockdown impaired cell proliferation and tumor growth. Notably, CHIP promoted cell growth through activation of MAPK and AKT pathways, subsequently decreasing p27 and increasing cyclin D1 and p-FOXO3a expression. Our findings collectively indicate that CHIP functions as an oncogene in thyroid cancer, and is therefore a potential therapeutic target for this disease. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Selective Cytotoxicity of Rhodium Metalloinsertors in Mismatch Repair-Deficient Cells†

PubMed Central

Ernst, Russell J.; Komor, Alexis C.; Barton, Jacqueline K.

2011-01-01

Mismatches in DNA occur naturally during replication and as a result of endogenous DNA damaging agents, but the mismatch repair (MMR) pathway acts to correct mismatches before subsequent rounds of replication. Rhodium metalloinsertors bind to DNA mismatches with high affinity and specificity and represent a promising strategy to target mismatches in cells. Here we examine the biological fate of rhodium metalloinsertors bearing dipyridylamine ancillary ligands in cells deficient in MMR versus those that are MMR-proficient. These complexes are shown to exhibit accelerated cellular uptake which permits the observation of various cellular responses, including disruption of the cell cycle, monitored by flow cytometry assays, and induction of necrosis, monitored by dye exclusion and caspase inhibition assays, that occur preferentially in the MMR-deficient cell line. These cellular responses provide insight into the mechanisms underlying the selective activity of this novel class of targeted anti-cancer agents. PMID:22103240

Avian Biotechnology.

PubMed

Nakamura, Yoshiaki

2017-01-01

Primordial germ cells (PGCs) generate new individuals through differentiation, maturation and fertilization. This means that the manipulation of PGCs is directly linked to the manipulation of individuals, making PGCs attractive target cells in the animal biotechnology field. A unique biological property of avian PGCs is that they circulate temporarily in the vasculature during early development, and this allows us to access and manipulate avian germ lines. Following the development of a technique for transplantation, PGCs have become central to avian biotechnology, in contrast to the use of embryo manipulation and subsequent transfer to foster mothers, as in mammalian biotechnology. Today, avian PGC transplantation combined with recent advanced manipulation techniques, including cell purification, cryopreservation, depletion, and long-term culture in vitro, have enabled the establishment of genetically modified poultry lines and ex-situ conservation of poultry genetic resources. This chapter introduces the principles, history, and procedures of producing avian germline chimeras by transplantation of PGCs, and the current status of avian germline modification as well as germplasm cryopreservation. Other fundamental avian reproductive technologies are described, including artificial insemination and embryo culture, and perspectives of industrial applications in agriculture and pharmacy are considered, including poultry productivity improvement, egg modification, disease resistance impairment and poultry gene "pharming" as well as gene banking.

Studies Using an in Vitro Model Show Evidence of Involvement of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Human Endometrial Epithelial Cells in Human Embryo Implantation*

PubMed Central

Uchida, Hiroshi; Maruyama, Tetsuo; Nishikawa-Uchida, Sayaka; Oda, Hideyuki; Miyazaki, Kaoru; Yamasaki, Akiko; Yoshimura, Yasunori

2012-01-01

Human embryo implantation is a critical multistep process consisting of embryo apposition/adhesion, followed by penetration and invasion. Through embryo penetration, the endometrial epithelial cell barrier is disrupted and remodeled by an unknown mechanism. We have previously developed an in vitro model for human embryo implantation employing the human choriocarcinoma cell line JAR and the human endometrial adenocarcinoma cell line Ishikawa. Using this model we have shown that stimulation with ovarian steroid hormones (17β-estradiol and progesterone, E2P4) and suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, enhances the attachment and adhesion of JAR spheroids to Ishikawa. In the present study we showed that the attachment and adhesion of JAR spheroids and treatment with E2P4 or SAHA individually induce the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in Ishikawa cells. This was evident by up-regulation of N-cadherin and vimentin, a mesenchymal cell marker, and concomitant down-regulation of E-cadherin in Ishikawa cells. Stimulation with E2P4 or SAHA accelerated Ishikawa cell motility, increased JAR spheroid outgrowth, and enhanced the unique redistribution of N-cadherin, which was most prominent in proximity to the adhered spheroids. Moreover, an N-cadherin functional blocking antibody attenuated all events but not JAR spheroid adhesion. These results collectively provide evidence suggesting that E2P4- and implanting embryo-induced EMT of endometrial epithelial cells may play a pivotal role in the subsequent processes of human embryo implantation with functional control of N-cadherin. PMID:22174415

miR-Sens--a retroviral dual-luciferase reporter to detect microRNA activity in primary cells.

PubMed

Beillard, Emmanuel; Ong, Siau Chi; Giannakakis, Antonis; Guccione, Ernesto; Vardy, Leah A; Voorhoeve, P Mathijs

2012-05-01

MicroRNA-mRNA interactions are commonly validated and deconstructed in cell lines transfected with luciferase reporters. However, due to cell type-specific variations in microRNA or RNA-binding protein abundance, such assays may not reliably reflect microRNA activity in other cell types that are less easily transfected. In order to measure miRNA activity in primary cells, we constructed miR-Sens, a MSCV-based retroviral vector that encodes both a Renilla luciferase reporter gene controlled by microRNA binding sites in its 3' UTR and a Firefly luciferase normalization gene. miR-Sens sensors can be efficiently transduced in primary cells such as human fibroblasts and mammary epithelial cells, and allow the detection of overexpressed and, more importantly, endogenous microRNAs. Notably, we find that the relative luciferase activity is correlated to the miRNA expression, allowing quantitative measurement of microRNA activity. We have subsequently validated the miR-Sens 3' UTR vectors with known human miRNA-372, miRNA-373, and miRNA-31 targets (LATS2 and TXNIP). Overall, we observe that miR-Sens-based assays are highly reproducible, allowing detection of the independent contribution of multiple microRNAs to 3' UTR-mediated translational control of LATS2. In conclusion, miR-Sens is a new tool for the efficient study of microRNA activity in primary cells or panels of cell lines. This vector will not only be useful for studies on microRNA biology, but also more broadly on other factors influencing the translation of mRNAs.

miR-Sens—a retroviral dual-luciferase reporter to detect microRNA activity in primary cells

PubMed Central

Beillard, Emmanuel; Ong, Siau Chi; Giannakakis, Antonis; Guccione, Ernesto; Vardy, Leah A.; Voorhoeve, P. Mathijs

2012-01-01

MicroRNA–mRNA interactions are commonly validated and deconstructed in cell lines transfected with luciferase reporters. However, due to cell type-specific variations in microRNA or RNA-binding protein abundance, such assays may not reliably reflect microRNA activity in other cell types that are less easily transfected. In order to measure miRNA activity in primary cells, we constructed miR-Sens, a MSCV-based retroviral vector that encodes both a Renilla luciferase reporter gene controlled by microRNA binding sites in its 3′ UTR and a Firefly luciferase normalization gene. miR-Sens sensors can be efficiently transduced in primary cells such as human fibroblasts and mammary epithelial cells, and allow the detection of overexpressed and, more importantly, endogenous microRNAs. Notably, we find that the relative luciferase activity is correlated to the miRNA expression, allowing quantitative measurement of microRNA activity. We have subsequently validated the miR-Sens 3′ UTR vectors with known human miRNA-372, miRNA-373, and miRNA-31 targets (LATS2 and TXNIP). Overall, we observe that miR-Sens-based assays are highly reproducible, allowing detection of the independent contribution of multiple microRNAs to 3′ UTR–mediated translational control of LATS2. In conclusion, miR-Sens is a new tool for the efficient study of microRNA activity in primary cells or panels of cell lines. This vector will not only be useful for studies on microRNA biology, but also more broadly on other factors influencing the translation of mRNAs. PMID:22417692

Junctional adhesion molecule-C promotes metastatic potential of HT1080 human fibrosarcoma.

PubMed

Fuse, Chiaki; Ishida, Yuuki; Hikita, Tomoya; Asai, Tomohiro; Oku, Naoto

2007-03-16

The junctional adhesion molecule (JAM) family is a key molecule in a process called transendothelial migration or diapedesis. Here, we report implications of JAM-C in cancer metastasis. We first determined the mRNA expression of JAMs in 19 kinds of cancer cell lines. JAM-C was expressed in most of tumors having potent metastatic properties. Especially in murine K-1735 melanoma cell lines, the highly metastatic sublines (M2 and X21) strongly expressed JAM-C when compared with the poorly metastatic ones (C-10 and C23). Next, we investigated the role of JAM-C in cancer metastasis by using human JAM-C (hJAM-C) gene-transfected HT1080 fibrosarcoma cells. In comparison with mock-transfected HT1080 cells, these cells showed a significant increase in the adhesion to various extracellular substrates and the invasion across a Matrigel-coated membrane. The knockdown of hJAM-C using small interfering RNA resulted in the suppression of both the adhesion and the invasion of HT1080 cells, suggesting that endogenous hJAM-C might be involved in tumor metastasis. Finally, we studied the role of hJAM-C in an in vivo experimental metastatic model. The results showed that the overexpression of hJAM-C in HT1080 cells significantly decreased the life spans of the tumorbearing mice. In contrast, the knockdown of hJAM-C in HT1080 cells suppressed the weight gain of the lungs with metastatic colonies. We conclude that the expression of JAM-C promotes metastasis by enhancing both the adhesion of cancer cells to extracellular matrices and the subsequent invasion.

Restoring conjunctival tolerance by topical nuclear factor-κB inhibitors reduces preservative-facilitated allergic conjunctivitis in mice.

PubMed

Guzmán, Mauricio; Sabbione, Florencia; Gabelloni, María Laura; Vanzulli, Silvia; Trevani, Analía Silvina; Giordano, Mirta Nilda; Galletti, Jeremías Gastón

2014-09-04

To evaluate the role of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation in eye drop preservative toxicity and the effect of topical NF-κB inhibitors on preservative-facilitated allergic conjunctivitis. Balb/c mice were instilled ovalbumin (OVA) combined with benzalkonium chloride (BAK) and/or NF-κB inhibitors in both eyes. After immunization, T-cell responses and antigen-induced ocular inflammation were evaluated. Nuclear factor-κB activation and associated inflammatory changes also were assessed in murine eyes and in an epithelial cell line after BAK exposure. Benzalkonium chloride promoted allergic inflammation and leukocyte infiltration of the conjunctiva. Topical NF-κB inhibitors blocked the disruptive effect of BAK on conjunctival immunological tolerance and ameliorated subsequent ocular allergic reactions. In line with these findings, BAK induced NF-κB activation and the secretion of IL-6 and granulocyte-monocyte colony-stimulating factor in an epithelial cell line and in the conjunctiva of instilled mice. In addition, BAK favored major histocompatibility complex (MHC) II expression in cultured epithelial cells in an NF-κB-dependent fashion after interaction with T cells. Benzalkonium chloride triggers conjunctival epithelial NF-κB activation, which seems to mediate some of its immune side effects, such as proinflammatory cytokine release and increased MHC II expression. Breakdown of conjunctival tolerance by BAK favors allergic inflammation, and this effect can be prevented in mice by topical NF-κB inhibitors. These results suggest a new pharmacological target for preservative toxicity and highlight the importance of conjunctival tolerance in ocular surface homeostasis. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

Enhancement of Programmed Death Ligand 2 on Hepatitis C Virus Infected Hepatocytes by Calcineurin Inhibitors

PubMed Central

Koike, Kazuko; Takaki, Akinobu; Yagi, Takahito; Iwasaki, Yoshiaki; Yasunaka, Tetsuya; Sadamori, Hiroshi; Shinoura, Susumu; Umeda, Yuzo; Yoshida, Ryuichi; Sato, Daisuke; Nobuoka, Daisuke; Utsumi, Masashi; Miyake, Yasuhiro; Ikeda, Fusao; Shiraha, Hidenori; Fujiwara, Toshiyoshi; Yamamoto, Kazuhide

2015-01-01

Background Post orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) viral hepatitis is an immunological condition where immune cells induce hepatitis during conditions of immune-suppression. The immune-regulatory programmed death-1 (PD-1)/PD-ligand 1 system is acknowledged to play important roles in immune-mediated diseases. However, the PD-1/PD-L2 interaction is not well characterized, with PD-L2 also exhibiting an immunostimulatory function. We hypothesized that this atypical molecule could affect the recurrence of post-OLT hepatitis. To test this hypothesis, we conducted immunohistochemical staining analysis and in vitro analysis of PD-L2. Methods The expression of PD-L2 was evaluated in liver biopsy specimens from patients with chronic hepatitis B (n = 15), post-OLT hepatitis B (n = 8), chronic hepatitis C (n = 48), and post-OLT hepatitis C (CH-C-OLT) (n = 14). The effect of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) on PD-L2 expression was investigated in hepatoma cell lines. Results The PD-L2 was highly expressed on CH-C-OLT hepatocytes. Treatment of hepatoma cell lines with CNIs resulted in increased PD-L2 expression, especially in combination with HCV core or NS3 protein. Transfection of cell lines with PD-L2 containing plasmid resulted in high intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression, which might enhance hepatitis activity. Conclusions The PD-L2 is highly expressed on CH-C-OLT hepatocytes, whereas HCV proteins, in combination with CNIs, induce high expression of PD-L2 resulting in elevated expression of ICAM-1. These findings demonstrate the effect of CNIs on inducing PD-L2 and subsequent ICAM-1 expression, effects that may produce inflammatory cell infiltration in post-OLT hepatitis C. PMID:25675203

Detection of integrated papillomavirus sequences by ligation-mediated PCR (DIPS-PCR) and molecular characterization in cervical cancer cells.

PubMed

Luft, F; Klaes, R; Nees, M; Dürst, M; Heilmann, V; Melsheimer, P; von Knebel Doeberitz, M

2001-04-01

Human papillomavirus (HPV) genomes usually persist as episomal molecules in HPV associated preneoplastic lesions whereas they are frequently integrated into the host cell genome in HPV-related cancers cells. This suggests that malignant conversion of HPV-infected epithelia is linked to recombination of cellular and viral sequences. Due to technical limitations, precise sequence information on viral-cellular junctions were obtained only for few cell lines and primary lesions. In order to facilitate the molecular analysis of genomic HPV integration, we established a ligation-mediated PCR assay for the detection of integrated papillomavirus sequences (DIPS-PCR). DIPS-PCR was initially used to amplify genomic viral-cellular junctions from HPV-associated cervical cancer cell lines (C4-I, C4-II, SW756, and HeLa) and HPV-immortalized keratinocyte lines (HPKIA, HPKII). In addition to junctions already reported in public data bases, various new fusion fragments were identified. Subsequently, 22 different viral-cellular junctions were amplified from 17 cervical carcinomas and 1 vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN III). Sequence analysis of each junction revealed that the viral E1 open reading frame (ORF) was fused to cellular sequences in 20 of 22 (91%) cases. Chromosomal integration loci mapped to chromosomes 1 (2n), 2 (3n), 7 (2n), 8 (3n), 10 (1n), 14 (5n), 16 (1n), 17 (2n), and mitochondrial DNA (1n), suggesting random distribution of chromosomal integration sites. Precise sequence information obtained by DIPS-PCR was further used to monitor the monoclonal origin of 4 cervical cancers, 1 case of recurrent premalignant lesions and 1 lymph node metastasis. Therefore, DIPS-PCR might allow efficient therapy control and prediction of relapse in patients with HPV-associated anogenital cancers. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Methylene blue, curcumin and ion pairing nanoparticles effects on photodynamic therapy of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell.

PubMed

Hosseinzadeh, Reza; Khorsandi, Khatereh

2017-06-01

The aim of current study was to use methylene blue-curcumin ion pair nanoparticles and single dyes as photosensitizer for comparison of photodynamic therapy (PDT) efficacy on MDA-MB-231 cancer cells, also various light sources effect on activation of photosensitizer (PS) was considered. Ion pair nanoparticles were synthesized using opposite charge ions precipitation and lyophilized. The PDT experiments were designed and the effect of PSs and light sources (Red LED (630nm; power density: 30mWcm -2 ) and blue LED (465nm; power density: 34mWcm -2 )) on the human breast cancer cell line were examined. The effect of PS concentration (0-75μg.mL -1 ), incubation time, irradiation time and light sources, and priority in irradiation of blue or red lights were determined. The results show that the ion pairing of methylene blue and curcumin enhance the photodynamic activity of both dyes and the cytotoxicity of ion pair nanoparticles on the MDA-231 breast cancer cell line. Blue and red LED light sources were used for photo activation of photosensitizers. The results demonstrated that both dyes can activate using red light LED better than blue light LED for singlet oxygen producing. Nano scale ion pair precipitating of methylene blue-curcumin enhanced the cell penetrating and subsequently cytotoxicity of both dyes together. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Microtubule actin cross-linking factor 1, a novel target in glioblastoma.

PubMed

Afghani, Najlaa; Mehta, Toral; Wang, Jialiang; Tang, Nan; Skalli, Omar; Quick, Quincy A

2017-01-01

Genetic heterogeneity is recognized as a major contributing factor of glioblastoma resistance to clinical treatment modalities and consequently low overall survival rates. This genetic diversity results in variations in protein expression, both intratumorally and between individual glioblastoma patients. In this regard, the spectraplakin protein, microtubule actin cross-linking factor 1 (MACF1), was examined in glioblastoma. An expression analysis of MACF1 in various types of brain tumor tissue revealed that MACF1 was predominately present in grade III-IV astroctyomas and grade IV glioblastoma, but not in normal brain tissue, normal human astrocytes and lower grade brain tumors. Subsequent genetic inhibition experiments showed that suppression of MACF1 selectively inhibited glioblastoma cell proliferation and migration in cell lines established from patient derived xenograft mouse models and immortalized glioblastoma cell lines that were associated with downregulation of the Wnt-signaling mediators, Axin1 and β-catenin. Additionally, concomitant MACF1 silencing with the chemotherapeutic agent temozolomide (TMZ) used for the clinical treatment of glioblastomas cooperatively reduced the proliferative capacity of glioblastoma cells. In conclusion, the present study represents the first investigation on the functional role of MACF1 in tumor cell biology, as well as demonstrates its potential as a unique biomarker that can be targeted synergistically with TMZ as part of a combinatorial therapeutic approach for the treatment of genetically multifarious glioblastomas.

Conserved and non-conserved characteristics of porcine glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor expressed in the testis.

PubMed

Kakiuchi, Kazue; Taniguchi, Kazumi; Kubota, Hiroshi

2018-05-16

Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is essential for the self-renewal and proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in mice, rats, and rabbits. Although the key extrinsic factors essential for spermatogonial proliferation in other mammals have not been determined, GDNF is one of the potential candidates. In this study, we isolated porcine GDNF (pGDNF) cDNAs from neonatal testis and generated recombinant pGDNF to investigate its biological activity on gonocytes/undifferentiated spermatogonia, including SSCs. In porcine testis, long and short forms of GDNF transcripts, the counterparts of pre-(α)pro and pre-(β)pro GDNF identified in humans and rodents, were expressed. The two transcripts encode identical mature proteins. Recombinant pGDNF supported proliferation of murine SSCs in culture, and their stem cell activity was confirmed by a transplantation assay. Subsequently, porcine gonocytes/undifferentiated spermatogonia were cultured with pGDNF; however, pGDNF did not affect their proliferation. Furthermore, GDNF expression was localised to the vascular smooth muscle cells, and its cognate receptor GFRA1 expression was negligible during spermatogonial proliferation in the testes. These results indicate that although pGDNF retains structural similarity with those of other mammals and conserves the biological activity on the self-renewal of murine SSCs, porcine SSCs likely require extrinsic factors other than GDNF for their proliferation.

Depletion of UBC9 Causes Nuclear Defects during the Vegetative and Sexual Life Cycles in Tetrahymena thermophila.

PubMed

Yang, Qianyi; Nasir, Amjad M; Coyne, Robert S; Forney, James D

2015-12-01

Ubc9p is the sole E2-conjugating enzyme for SUMOylation, and its proper function is required for regulating key nuclear events such as transcription, DNA repair, and mitosis. In Tetrahymena thermophila, the genome is separated into a diploid germ line micronucleus (MIC) that divides by mitosis and a polyploid somatic macronucleus (MAC) that divides amitotically. This unusual nuclear organization provides novel opportunities for the study of SUMOylation and Ubc9p function. We identified the UBC9 gene and demonstrated that its complete deletion from both MIC and MAC genomes is lethal. Rescue of the lethal phenotype with a GFP-UBC9 fusion gene driven by a metallothionein promoter generated a cell line with CdCl2-dependent expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-Ubc9p. Depletion of Ubc9p in vegetative cells resulted in the loss of MICs, but MACs continued to divide. In contrast, expression of catalytically inactive Ubc9p resulted in the accumulation of multiple MICs. Critical roles for Ubc9p were also identified during the sexual life cycle of Tetrahymena. Cell lines that were depleted for Ubc9p did not form mating pairs and therefore could not complete any of the subsequent stages of conjugation, including meiosis and macronuclear development. Mating between cells expressing catalytically inactive Ubc9p resulted in arrest during macronuclear development, consistent with our observation that Ubc9p accumulates in the developing macronucleus. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Characterization of the host factors required for hepadnavirus covalently closed circular (ccc) DNA formation.

PubMed

Guo, Haitao; Xu, Chunxiao; Zhou, Tianlun; Block, Timothy M; Guo, Ju-Tao

2012-01-01

Synthesis of the covalently closed circular (ccc) DNA is a critical, but not well-understood step in the life cycle of hepadnaviruses. Our previous studies favor a model that removal of genome-linked viral DNA polymerase occurs in the cytoplasm and the resulting deproteinized relaxed circular DNA (DP-rcDNA) is subsequently transported into the nucleus and converted into cccDNA. In support of this model, our current study showed that deproteinization of viral double-stranded linear (dsl) DNA also took place in the cytoplasm. Furthermore, we demonstrated that Ku80, a component of non-homologous end joining DNA repair pathway, was essential for synthesis of cccDNA from dslDNA, but not rcDNA. In an attempt to identify additional host factors regulating cccDNA biosynthesis, we found that the DP-rcDNA was produced in all tested cell lines that supported DHBV DNA replication, but cccDNA was only synthesized in the cell lines that accumulated high levels of DP-rcDNA, except for NCI-H322M and MDBK cells, which failed to synthesize cccDNA despite of the existence of nuclear DP-rcDNA. The results thus imply that while removal of the genome-linked viral DNA polymerase is most likely catalyzed by viral or ubiquitous host function(s), nuclear factors required for the conversion of DP-rcDNA into cccDNA and/or its maintenance are deficient in the above two cell lines, which could be useful tools for identification of the elusive host factors essential for cccDNA biosynthesis or maintenance.

Primordial germ cell-mediated chimera technology produces viable pure-line Houbara bustard offspring: potential for repopulating an endangered species.

PubMed

Wernery, Ulrich; Liu, Chunhai; Baskar, Vijay; Guerineche, Zhor; Khazanehdari, Kamal A; Saleem, Shazia; Kinne, Jörg; Wernery, Renate; Griffin, Darren K; Chang, Il-Kuk

2010-12-29

The Houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata) is a wild seasonal breeding bird populating arid sandy semi-desert habitats in North Africa and the Middle East. Its population has declined drastically during the last two decades and it is classified as vulnerable. Captive breeding programmes have, hitherto, been unsuccessful in reviving population numbers and thus radical technological solutions are essential for the long term survival of this species. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of primordial germ cell-mediated chimera technology to produce viable Houbara bustard offspring. Embryonic gonadal tissue was dissected from Houbara bustard embryos at eight days post-incubation. Subsequently, Houbara tissue containing gonadal primordial germ cells (gPGCs) was injected into White Leghorn chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) embryos, producing 83/138 surviving male chimeric embryos, of which 35 chimeric roosters reached sexual maturity after 5 months. The incorporation and differentiation of Houbara gPGCs in chimeric chicken testis were assessed by PCR with Houbara-specific primers and 31.3% (5/16) gonads collected from the injected chicken embryos showed the presence of donor Houbara cells. A total of 302 semen samples from 34 chimeric roosters were analyzed and eight were confirmed as germline chimeras. Semen samples from these eight roosters were used to artificially inseminate three female Houbara bustards. Subsequently, 45 Houbara eggs were obtained and incubated, two of which were fertile. One egg hatched as a male live born Houbara; the other was female but died before hatching. Genotyping confirmed that the male chick was a pure-line Houbara derived from a chimeric rooster. This study demonstrates for the first time that Houbara gPGCs can migrate, differentiate and eventually give rise to functional sperm in the chimeric chicken testis. This approach may provide a promising tool for propagation and conservation of endangered avian species that cannot breed in captivity.

Primordial Germ Cell-Mediated Chimera Technology Produces Viable Pure-Line Houbara Bustard Offspring: Potential for Repopulating an Endangered Species

PubMed Central

Wernery, Ulrich; Liu, Chunhai; Baskar, Vijay; Guerineche, Zhor; Khazanehdari, Kamal A.; Saleem, Shazia; Kinne, Jörg; Wernery, Renate

2010-01-01

Background The Houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata) is a wild seasonal breeding bird populating arid sandy semi-desert habitats in North Africa and the Middle East. Its population has declined drastically during the last two decades and it is classified as vulnerable. Captive breeding programmes have, hitherto, been unsuccessful in reviving population numbers and thus radical technological solutions are essential for the long term survival of this species. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of primordial germ cell-mediated chimera technology to produce viable Houbara bustard offspring. Methodology/Principal Findings Embryonic gonadal tissue was dissected from Houbara bustard embryos at eight days post-incubation. Subsequently, Houbara tissue containing gonadal primordial germ cells (gPGCs) was injected into White Leghorn chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) embryos, producing 83/138 surviving male chimeric embryos, of which 35 chimeric roosters reached sexual maturity after 5 months. The incorporation and differentiation of Houbara gPGCs in chimeric chicken testis were assessed by PCR with Houbara-specific primers and 31.3% (5/16) gonads collected from the injected chicken embryos showed the presence of donor Houbara cells. A total of 302 semen samples from 34 chimeric roosters were analyzed and eight were confirmed as germline chimeras. Semen samples from these eight roosters were used to artificially inseminate three female Houbara bustards. Subsequently, 45 Houbara eggs were obtained and incubated, two of which were fertile. One egg hatched as a male live born Houbara; the other was female but died before hatching. Genotyping confirmed that the male chick was a pure-line Houbara derived from a chimeric rooster. Conclusion This study demonstrates for the first time that Houbara gPGCs can migrate, differentiate and eventually give rise to functional sperm in the chimeric chicken testis. This approach may provide a promising tool for propagation and conservation of endangered avian species that cannot breed in captivity. PMID:21209914

Phase II Trial of Atezolizumab As First-Line or Subsequent Therapy for Patients With Programmed Death-Ligand 1-Selected Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (BIRCH).

PubMed

Peters, Solange; Gettinger, Scott; Johnson, Melissa L; Jänne, Pasi A; Garassino, Marina C; Christoph, Daniel; Toh, Chee Keong; Rizvi, Naiyer A; Chaft, Jamie E; Carcereny Costa, Enric; Patel, Jyoti D; Chow, Laura Q M; Koczywas, Marianna; Ho, Cheryl; Früh, Martin; van den Heuvel, Michel; Rothenstein, Jeffrey; Reck, Martin; Paz-Ares, Luis; Shepherd, Frances A; Kurata, Takayasu; Li, Zhengrong; Qiu, Jiaheng; Kowanetz, Marcin; Mocci, Simonetta; Shankar, Geetha; Sandler, Alan; Felip, Enriqueta

2017-08-20

Purpose BIRCH was designed to examine the efficacy of atezolizumab, a humanized anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) monoclonal antibody, in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) across lines of therapy. Patients were selected on the basis of PD-L1 expression on tumor cells (TC) or tumor-infiltrating immune cells (IC). Patients and Methods Eligible patients had advanced-stage NSCLC, no CNS metastases, and zero to two or more lines of prior chemotherapy. Patients whose tumors expressed PD-L1 using the SP142 immunohistochemistry assay on ≥ 5% of TC or IC (TC2/3 or IC2/3 [TC or IC ≥ 5% PD-L1-expressing cells, respectively]) were enrolled. Atezolizumab 1,200 mg was administered intravenously every 3 weeks. Efficacy-evaluable patients (N = 659) comprised three cohorts: first line (cohort 1; n = 139); second line (cohort 2; n = 268); and third line or higher (cohort 3; n = 252). The primary end point was independent review facility-assessed objective response rate (ORR; Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors [RECIST] version 1.1). Secondary end points included median duration of response, progression-free survival, and overall survival (OS). Results BIRCH met its primary objective of demonstrating a significant ORR versus historical controls. With a minimum of 12 months of follow-up, the independent review facility-assessed ORR was 18% to 22% for the three cohorts, and 26% to 31% for the TC3 or IC3 subgroup; most responses are ongoing. Responses occurred regardless of EGFR or KRAS mutation status. The median OS from an updated survival analysis (minimum of 20 month follow up) for cohort 1 was 23.5 months (26.9 months for TC3 or IC3 patients); the median OS in cohorts 2 and 3 was 15.5 and 13.2 months, respectively. The safety profile was similar across cohorts and consistent with previous atezolizumab monotherapy trials. Conclusion BIRCH demonstrated responses with atezolizumab monotherapy in patients with PD-L1-selected advanced NSCLC, with good tolerability. PD-L1 status may serve as a predictive biomarker for identifying patients most likely to benefit from atezolizumab.

The effects of ebselen on cisplatin and diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC) cytotoxicity in rat hippocampal astrocytes.

PubMed

Hardej, D; Trombetta, L D

2002-05-28

Ebselen is a seleno-organic compound with documented cytoprotective properties. Little work has been done, however, demonstrating ebselen's cytoprotective properties in neural cell lines. In order to examine the effects of this compound and its mechanism of action, astrocytes were exposed to two known neurotoxicants, cisplatin and diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC). Cells were pretreated with 30 microM ebselen and subsequently treated with either 150 microM DDC for 1 h or 250 and 500 microM cisplatin for 24 h. Results indicate significant increases in viability in cells pretreated with ebselen and exposed to cisplatin. Ebselen pretreatment did not significantly increase viability in cells exposed to DDC. Light and scanning electron microscopy studies confirm the viability studies. Gross morphological damage was seen in cells treated with cisplatin, however, cells pretreated with ebselen and then exposed to cisplatin, appeared similar to controls. No differences were noted in cells pretreated with ebselen and then exposed to DDC or cells treated with DDC alone. In order to examine the mechanism of protection of this compound, glutathione status was examined. Results show that ebselen does not significantly increase reduced or oxidized glutathione (GSH, GSSG). All cell groups treated with cisplatin showed an increase in GSH levels. Ebselen showed protection in glutathione depleted cells at the 250 microM cisplatin dose. DDC treatment showed no significant increase in either reduced or oxidized glutathione. We conclude that ebselen significantly protects against cisplatin, but not DDC toxicity. We further conclude that this protection is not related to changes in glutathione status in the rat hippocampal cell line as has been reported in other cell types.

Protein PSMD8 may mediate microgravity-induced cell cycle arrest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hang, Xiaoming; Sun, Yeqing; Xu, Dan; Wu, Di; Chen, Xiaoning

Microgravity environment of space can induce a serial of changes in cells, such as morphology alterations, cytoskeleton disorder and cell cycle disturbance. Our previous study of simulated-microgravity on zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos demonstrated 26s proteasome non-ATPase regulatory subunit 8 (PSMD8) might be a microgravity sensitive gene. However, functional study on PSMD8 is very limited and it has not been cloned in zebrafish till now. In this study, we tried to clone PSMD8 gene in zebrafish, quantify its protein expression level in zebrafish embryos after simulated microgravity and identify its possible function in cell cycle regulation. A rotary cell culture system (RCCS) designed by national aeronautics and apace administration (NASA) of America was used to simulate microgravity. The full-length of psmd8 gene in zebrafish was cloned. Preliminary analysis on its sequence and phylogenetic tree construction were carried out subsequently. Quantitative analysis by western blot showed that PSMD8 protein expression levels were significantly increased 1.18 and 1.22 times after 24-48hpf and 24-72hpf simulated microgravity, respectively. Moreover, a significant delay on zebrafish embryo development was found in simulated-microgravity exposed group. Inhibition of PSMD8 protein in zebrafish embryonic cell lines ZF4 could block cell cycle in G1 phase, which indicated that PSMD8 may play a role in cell cycle regulation. Interestingly, simulated-microgravity could also block ZF4 cell in G1 phase. Whether it is PSMD8 mediated cell cycle regulation result in the zebrafish embryo development delay after simulated microgravity exposure still needs further study. Key Words: PSMD8; Simulated-microgravity; Cell cycle; ZF4 cell line

Enterolactone alters FAK-Src signaling and suppresses migration and invasion of lung cancer cell lines.

PubMed

Chikara, Shireen; Lindsey, Kaitlin; Borowicz, Pawel; Christofidou-Solomidou, Melpo; Reindl, Katie M

2017-01-09

Systemic toxicity of chemotherapeutic agents and the challenges associated with targeting metastatic tumors are limiting factors for current lung cancer therapeutic approaches. To address these issues, plant-derived bioactive components have been investigated for their anti-cancer properties because many of these agents are non-toxic to healthy tissues. Enterolactone (EL) is a flaxseed-derived mammalian lignan that has demonstrated anti-migratory properties for various cancers, but EL has not been investigated in the context of lung cancer, and its anticancer mechanisms are ill-defined. We hypothesized that EL could inhibit lung cancer cell motility by affecting the FAK-Src signaling pathway. Non-toxic concentrations of EL were identified for A549 and H460 human lung cancer cells by conducting 3-(4, 5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-Dephenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assays. The anti-migratory and anti-invasive potential of EL for lung cancer cell lines was determined by scratch wound healing and Matrigel® invasion assays. Changes in filamentous actin (F-actin) fiber density and length in EL-treated cells were determined using phalloidin-conjugated rhodamine dye and fluorescent microscopy. Vinculin expression in focal adhesions upon EL treatment was determined by immunocytochemistry. Gene and protein expression levels of FAK-Src signaling molecules in EL-treated lung cancer cells were determined using PCR arrays, qRT-PCR, and western blotting. Non-toxic concentrations of EL inhibited lung cancer cell migration and invasion in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. EL treatment reduced the density and number of F-actin fibers in lung cancer cell lines, and reduced the number and size of focal adhesions. EL decreased phosphorylation of FAK and its downstream targets, Src, paxillin, and decreased mRNA expression of cell motility-related genes, RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42 in lung cancer cells. Our data suggest that EL suppresses lung cancer cell motility and invasion by altering FAK activity and subsequent activation of downstream proteins needed for focal adhesion formation and cytoskeletal rearrangement. Therefore, administration of EL may serve as a safe and complementary approach for inhibiting lung tumor cell motility, invasion, and metastasis.

Technologies for Single-Cell Isolation

PubMed Central

Gross, Andre; Schoendube, Jonas; Zimmermann, Stefan; Steeb, Maximilian; Zengerle, Roland; Koltay, Peter

2015-01-01

The handling of single cells is of great importance in applications such as cell line development or single-cell analysis, e.g., for cancer research or for emerging diagnostic methods. This review provides an overview of technologies that are currently used or in development to isolate single cells for subsequent single-cell analysis. Data from a dedicated online market survey conducted to identify the most relevant technologies, presented here for the first time, shows that FACS (fluorescence activated cell sorting) respectively Flow cytometry (33% usage), laser microdissection (17%), manual cell picking (17%), random seeding/dilution (15%), and microfluidics/lab-on-a-chip devices (12%) are currently the most frequently used technologies. These most prominent technologies are described in detail and key performance factors are discussed. The survey data indicates a further increasing interest in single-cell isolation tools for the coming years. Additionally, a worldwide patent search was performed to screen for emerging technologies that might become relevant in the future. In total 179 patents were found, out of which 25 were evaluated by screening the title and abstract to be relevant to the field. PMID:26213926

Technologies for Single-Cell Isolation.

PubMed

Gross, Andre; Schoendube, Jonas; Zimmermann, Stefan; Steeb, Maximilian; Zengerle, Roland; Koltay, Peter

2015-07-24

The handling of single cells is of great importance in applications such as cell line development or single-cell analysis, e.g., for cancer research or for emerging diagnostic methods. This review provides an overview of technologies that are currently used or in development to isolate single cells for subsequent single-cell analysis. Data from a dedicated online market survey conducted to identify the most relevant technologies, presented here for the first time, shows that FACS (fluorescence activated cell sorting) respectively Flow cytometry (33% usage), laser microdissection (17%), manual cell picking (17%), random seeding/dilution (15%), and microfluidics/lab-on-a-chip devices (12%) are currently the most frequently used technologies. These most prominent technologies are described in detail and key performance factors are discussed. The survey data indicates a further increasing interest in single-cell isolation tools for the coming years. Additionally, a worldwide patent search was performed to screen for emerging technologies that might become relevant in the future. In total 179 patents were found, out of which 25 were evaluated by screening the title and abstract to be relevant to the field.

Elevated mutation rates in the germ line of first- and second-generation offspring of irradiated male mice

PubMed Central

Barber, Ruth; Plumb, Mark A.; Boulton, Emma; Roux, Isabelle; Dubrova, Yuri E.

2002-01-01

Mutation rates at two expanded simple tandem repeat loci were studied in the germ line of first- and second-generation offspring of inbred male CBA/H, C57BL/6, and BALB/c mice exposed to either high linear energy transfer fission neutrons or low linear energy transfer x-rays. Paternal CBA/H exposure to either x-rays or fission neutrons resulted in increased mutation rates in the germ line of two subsequent generations. Comparable transgenerational effects were observed also in neutron-irradiated C57BL/6 and x-irradiated BALB/c mice. The levels of spontaneous mutation rates and radiation-induced transgenerational instability varied between strains (BALB/c>CBA/H>C57BL/6). Pre- and postmeiotic paternal exposure resulted in similar increases in mutation rate in the germ line of both generations of CBA/H mice, which together with our previous results suggests that radiation-induced expanded simple tandem repeat instability is manifested in diploid cells after fertilization. The remarkable finding that radiation-induced germ-line instability persists for at least two generations raises important issues of risk evaluation in humans. PMID:11997464

Evaluation of the skin sensitization potential of chemicals using expression of co-stimulatory molecules, CD54 and CD86, on the naive THP-1 cell line.

PubMed

Yoshida, Y; Sakaguchi, H; Ito, Y; Okuda, M; Suzuki, H

2003-04-01

It has been known that dendritic cells (DCs) including Langerhans cells (LCs) play a critical role in the skin sensitization process. Many attempts have been made to develop in vitro sensitization tests that employ DCs derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC-DC) or CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells (CD34+ HPC) purified from cord blood or bone marrow. However, the use of the DCs in in vitro methods has been difficult due to the nature of these cells such as low levels in the source and/or donor-to-donor variability. In our studies, we employed the human monocytic leukemia cell line, THP-1, in order to avoid some of these difficulties. At the start, we examined whether treatment of the cells with various cytokines could produce DCs from THP-1. Treatment of THP-1 cells with cytokines such as GM-CSF, IL-4, TNF-alpha, and/or PMA did induce some phenotypic changes in THP-1 cells that were characteristic of DCs. Subsequently, responses to a known sensitizer, dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), and a non-sensitizer, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), on the expression of co-stimulatory molecules, CD54 and CD86, were examined between the naive cells and the cytokine-treated cells. Interestingly, the naive THP-1 cells responded only to DNCB and the response to the sensitizer was more distinct than cytokine-treated THP-1 cells. Similar phenomena were also observed in the human myeloid leukemia cell line, KG-1. Furthermore, with treatment of DNCB, naive THP-1 cells showed augmented expression of HLA, CD80 and secretion of IL-1 beta. The response of THP-1 cells to a sensitizer was similar to that of LCs/DCs. Upon demonstrating the differentiation of monocyte cells in our system, we then evaluated a series of chemicals, including known sensitizers and non-sensitizers, for their potential to augment CD54 and CD86 expression on naive THP-1 cells. Indeed, known sensitizers such as PPD and 2-MBT significantly augmented CD54 and CD86 expression in a dose-dependent manner while non-sensitizers, such as SLS and methyl salicylate (MS), did not. To note, the metal allergens such as (NH(4))(2)[PtCl(4)], NiSO(4) and CoSO(4) augmented significantly only CD54 expression. Taking advantage of a cultured cell line, measurement of the co-stimulatory molecules, CD54 and CD86, on naive THP-1 cells following chemical exposure shows promise for the development of a simple, short-term in vitro sensitization test.

Septic Shock Alters Mitochondrial Respiration of Lymphoid Cell-Lines and Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells: The Role of Plasma.

PubMed

Clere-Jehl, Raphael; Helms, Julie; Kassem, Mohamad; Le Borgne, Pierrick; Delabranche, Xavier; Charles, Anne-Laure; Geny, Bernard; Meziani, Ferhat; Bilbault, Pascal

2018-02-14

In septic shock patients, post-septic immunosuppression state following the systemic inflammatory response syndrome is responsible for nosocomial infections, with subsequent increased mortality. The aim of the present study was to assess the underlying cellular mechanisms of the post-septic immunosuppression state, by investigating mitochondrial functions of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from septic shock patients over 7 days. Eighteen patients admitted to a French intensive care unit for septic shock were included. At days 1 and 7, PBMCs were isolated by Ficoll density gradient centrifugation. Mitochondrial respiration of intact septic PBMCs was assessed versus control group PBMCs, by measuring O2 consumption in plasma, using high-resolution respirometry. Mitochondrial respiration was then compared between septic plasmas and control plasmas for control PBMCs, septic PBMCs and lymphoid cell-line (CEM). To investigate the role of plasma, we measured several plasma cytokines, among them HMGB1, by ELISA. Basal O2 consumption of septic shock PBMCs was of 8.27 ± 3.39 and 10.48 ± 3.99 pmol/s/10 cells at days 1 and 7 respectively, significantly higher than in control PBMCs (5.37 ± 1.46 pmol/s/10 cells, p < 0.05). Septic patient PBMCs showed a lower response to oligomycin, suggesting a reduced ATP-synthase activity, as well as an increased response to FCCP suggesting an increased mitochondrial respiratory capacity. At 6 hours, septic plasmas showed a decreased O2 consumption of CEM (4.73 ± 1.46 vs. 6.58 ± 1.53, p < 0.05) as well as in control group PBMCs (1.76 ± 0.36 vs. 2.70 ± 0.42, p < 0.05), and triggered a decreased ATP-synthase activity but an increased response to FCCP. These differences are not explained by different cell survival. High HMGB1 levels were significantly associated with reduced PBMCs mitochondrial respiration. Septic plasma impairs mitochondrial respiration in immune cells, with a possible role of the proinflammatory protein HMGB1, leading to a subsequent compensation, probably by enzymatic activation. This compensation result is an improvement of global mitochondrial respiratory capacity, but without restoring ATP-synthase activity.

Lithium protects hippocampal progenitors, cognitive performance and hypothalamus-pituitary function after irradiation to the juvenile rat brain.

PubMed

Zhou, Kai; Xie, Cuicui; Wickström, Malin; Dolga, Amalia M; Zhang, Yaodong; Li, Tao; Xu, Yiran; Culmsee, Carsten; Kogner, Per; Zhu, Changlian; Blomgren, Klas

2017-05-23

Cranial radiotherapy in children typically causes delayed and progressive cognitive dysfunction and there is no effective preventive strategy for radiation-induced cognitive impairments. Here we show that lithium treatment reduced irradiation-induced progenitor cell death in the subgranular zone of the hippocampus, and subsequently ameliorated irradiation-reduced neurogenesis and astrogenesis in the juvenile rat brain. Irradiation-induced memory impairment, motor hyperactivity and anxiety-like behaviour were normalized by lithium treatment. Late-onset irradiation-induced hypopituitarism was prevented by lithium treatment. Additionally, lithium appeared relatively toxic to multiple cultured tumour cell lines, and did not improve viability of radiated DAOY cells in vitro. In summary, our findings demonstrate that lithium can be safely administered to prevent both short- and long-term injury to the juvenile brain caused by ionizing radiation.

Lithium protects hippocampal progenitors, cognitive performance and hypothalamus–pituitary function after irradiation to the juvenile rat brain

PubMed Central

Zhou, Kai; Xie, Cuicui; Wickström, Malin; Dolga, Amalia M.; Zhang, Yaodong; Li, Tao; Xu, Yiran; Culmsee, Carsten; Kogner, Per

2017-01-01

Cranial radiotherapy in children typically causes delayed and progressive cognitive dysfunction and there is no effective preventive strategy for radiation-induced cognitive impairments. Here we show that lithium treatment reduced irradiation-induced progenitor cell death in the subgranular zone of the hippocampus, and subsequently ameliorated irradiation-reduced neurogenesis and astrogenesis in the juvenile rat brain. Irradiation-induced memory impairment, motor hyperactivity and anxiety-like behaviour were normalized by lithium treatment. Late-onset irradiation-induced hypopituitarism was prevented by lithium treatment. Additionally, lithium appeared relatively toxic to multiple cultured tumour cell lines, and did not improve viability of radiated DAOY cells in vitro. In summary, our findings demonstrate that lithium can be safely administered to prevent both short- and long-term injury to the juvenile brain caused by ionizing radiation. PMID:28415806

Bornyl caffeate induces apoptosis in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells via the ROS- and JNK-mediated pathways

PubMed Central

Yang, Chuan-bin; Pei, Wei-jing; Zhao, Jia; Cheng, Yuan-yuan; Zheng, Xiao-hui; Rong, Jian-hui

2014-01-01

Aim: To investigate the effects of bornyl caffeate discovered in several species of plant on human breast cancer cells in vitro and the underlying mechanisms. Methods: Human breast cancer cell line MCF-7 and other tumor cell lines (T47D, HepG2, HeLa, and PC12) were tested. Cell viability was determined using MTT assay, and apoptosis was defined by monitoring the morphology of the nuclei and staining with Annexin V-FITC. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was measured using JC-1 under fluorescence microscopy. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed by flow cytometry. The expression of apoptosis-associated proteins was determined by Western blotting analysis. Results: Bornyl caffeate (10, 25, and 50 μmol/L) suppressed the viability of MCF-7 cells in dose- and time-dependent manners, but neither caffeic acid nor borneol showed cytotoxicity at a concentration of 50 μmol/L. Bornyl caffeate also exerted cytotoxicity to HepG2, Hela, T47D, and PC12 cells. Bornyl caffeate dose-dependently induced apoptosis of MCF-7 cells, increased the expression of Bax and decreased the expression of Bcl-xl, resulting in the disruption of MMP and subsequent activation of caspase-3. Moreover, bornyl caffeate triggered the formation of ROS and activated p38 and c-Jun JNK. In MCF-7 cells, the cytotoxicity of bornyl caffeate was significantly attenuated by SB203580 (p38 inhibitor), SP600125 (JNK inhibitor), z-VAD (pan-caspase inhibitor) or the thiol antioxidant L-NAC. Conclusion: Bornyl caffeate exerts non-selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells of different origin in vitro. The compound induces apoptosis in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells via the ROS- and JNK-mediated pathways. PMID:24335836

E3 ligase FLRF (Rnf41) regulates differentiation of hematopoietic progenitors by governing steady-state levels of cytokine and retinoic acid receptors

PubMed Central

Jing, Xin; Infante, Jorge; Nachtman, Ronald G.; Jurecic, Roland

2008-01-01

Objective FLRF (Rnf41) gene was identified through screening of subtracted cDNA libraries form murine hematopoietic stem cells and progenitors. Subsequent work has revealed that FLRF acts as E3 ubiquitin ligase, and that it regulates steady-state levels of neuregulin receptor ErbB3, and participates in degradation of IAP protein BRUCE and parkin. The objective of this study was to start exploring the role of FLRF during hematopoiesis. Methods FLRF was over-expressed in a murine multipotent hematopoietic progenitor cell line EML, which can differentiate into almost all blood cell lineages, and in pro-B progenitor cell line BaF3. The impact of FLRF over-expression on EML cell differentiation into myelo-erythroid lineages was studied using hematopoietic colony-forming assays. The interaction of FLRF with cytokine receptors and receptor levels in control cells and EML and BaF3 cells over-expressing FLRF were examined with Western and immunoprecipitation. Results Remarkably, over-expression of FLRF significantly attenuated erythroid and myeloid differentiation of EML cells in response to cytokines Epo and IL-3, and retinoic acid (RA), and resulted in significant and constitutive decrease of steady-state levels of IL-3, Epo and RA receptor RARα in EML and BaF3 cells. Immunoprecipitation has revealed that FLRF interacts with IL-3, Epo and RARα receptors in EML and BaF3 cells, and that FLRF-mediated down-regulation of these receptors is ligand binding-independent. Conclusions The results of this study have revealed new FLRF-mediated pathway for ligand-independent receptor level regulation, and support the notion that through maintaining basal levels of cytokine receptors, FLRF is involved in the control of hematopoietic progenitor cell differentiation into myelo-erythroid lineages. PMID:18495327

E3 ligase FLRF (Rnf41) regulates differentiation of hematopoietic progenitors by governing steady-state levels of cytokine and retinoic acid receptors.

PubMed

Jing, Xin; Infante, Jorge; Nachtman, Ronald G; Jurecic, Roland

2008-09-01

FLRF (Rnf41) gene was identified through screening of subtracted cDNA libraries form murine hematopoietic stem cells and progenitors. Subsequent work has revealed that FLRF acts as E3 ubiquitin ligase, and that it regulates steady-state levels of neuregulin receptor ErbB3 and participates in degradation of IAP protein BRUCE and parkin. The objective of this study was to start exploring the role of FLRF during hematopoiesis. FLRF was overexpressed in a murine multipotent hematopoietic progenitor cell line EML, which can differentiate into almost all blood cell lineages, and in pro-B progenitor cell line BaF3. The impact of FLRF overexpression on EML cell differentiation into myeloerythroid lineages was studied using hematopoietic colony-forming assays. The interaction of FLRF with cytokine receptors and receptor levels in control cells and EML and BaF3 cells overexpressing FLRF were examined with Western and immunoprecipitation. Remarkably, overexpression of FLRF significantly attenuated erythroid and myeloid differentiation of EML cells in response to cytokines erythropoietin (EPO) and interleukin-3 (IL-3), and retinoic acid (RA), and resulted in significant and constitutive decrease of steady-state levels of IL-3, EPO, and RA receptor-alpha (RARalpha) in EML and BaF3 cells. Immunoprecipitation has revealed that FLRF interacts with IL-3, EPO, and RARalpha receptors in EML and BaF3 cells, and that FLRF-mediated downregulation of these receptors is ligand binding-independent. The results of this study have revealed new FLRF-mediated pathway for ligand-independent receptor level regulation, and support the notion that through maintaining basal levels of cytokine receptors, FLRF is involved in the control of hematopoietic progenitor cell differentiation into myeloerythroid lineages.

Shikonin protects dopaminergic cell line PC12 against 6-hydroxydopamine-mediated neurotoxicity via both glutathione-dependent and independent pathways and by inhibiting apoptosis.

PubMed

Esmaeilzadeh, Emran; Gardaneh, Mossa; Gharib, Ehsan; Sabouni, Farzaneh

2013-08-01

We have investigated the mechanism of shikonin function on protection of dopaminergic neurons against 6-OHDA-induced neurotoxicity. Treatment of rat pheochromocytoma cell line PC12 by serial dilutions of shikonin determined 10 μM of the compound as its optimum concentration for protection saving nearly 70 % of the cells against toxicity. Reverse transcription-PCR analysis of shikonin-treated cells showed threefold increase in mRNA levels of glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPX-1) as a representative component of the intracellular anti-oxidant defense system. To elucidate shikonin-GPX1 relationships and maximize protection, we transduced PC12 cells using recombinant lentivirus vectors that harbored GPX-1 coding sequence. This change upregulated GPX-1 expression, increased peroxidase activity and made neuronal cells resistant to 6-OHDA-mediated toxicity. More importantly, addition of shikonin to GPX1-overexpressing PC12 cells augmented GPX-1 protein content by eightfold leading to fivefold increase of enzymatic activity, 91 % cell survival against neurotoxicity and concomitant increases in intracellular glutathione (GSH) levels. Depletion of intracellular GSH rendered all cell groups highly susceptible to toxicity; however, shikonin was capable of partially saving them. Subsequently, GSH-independent superoxide dismutase mRNA was found upregulated by shikonin. As signs of apoptosis inhibition, the compound upregulated Bcl-2, downregulated Bax, and prevented cell nuclei from undergoing morphological changes typical of apoptosis. Also, a co-staining method demonstrated GPX-1 overexpression significantly increases the percent of live cells that is maximized by shikonin treatment. Our data indicate that shikonin as an antioxidant compound protects dopaminergic neurons against 6-OHDA toxicity and enhances their survival via both glutathione-dependent and direct anti-apoptotic pathways.

Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is overexpressed in p16-negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, and its inhibition in vitro potentiates the effects of chemoradiation.

PubMed

Patel, Kirtesh; Wen, Jing; Magliocca, Kelly; Muller, Susan; Liu, Yuan; Chen, Zhuo Georgia; Saba, Nabil; Diaz, Roberto

2014-11-01

Cisplatin and radiation therapy remain the current standard for treating locally advanced SCCHN. Novel treatment approaches are needed, especially in patients with human papilloma virus (HPV)-negative disease who have worse outcomes despite multimodality therapy. Using our institutional review board approved database, we obtained twenty oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) tissue samples: ten p16 positive, ten p16-negative. Because p16 expression is strongly associated with HPV positivity in oropharyngeal SCC, p16 status was used as a marker of HPV. We subsequently analyzed, via immunohistochemistry, heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) protein levels. Using HPV-positive and HPV-negative SCC cell lines, we compared baseline HSP90 expression levels and the effect of the HSP90 inhibitor ganetespib on viability and apoptosis. Clonogenic survival of HPV-negative cells treated with ganetespib, radiation therapy, and/or cisplatin was then investigated. We characterize the effects of ganetespib on proteins that are thought to drive DNA damage resistance in HPV-negative cells. HSP90 expression was significantly higher in p16-negative compared with p16-positive samples (p = 0.016) and in HPV-negative cell lines compared with positive cells. Ganetespib increased cytotoxicity and induced apoptosis in HPV-negative more than positive cells. Adding ganetespib to cisplatin and/or radiation therapy in HPV-negative cells further decreased clonogenic survival. Finally, ganetespib downregulated expressions of EGFR, ERK, AKT, p53, and HIF-1α. Ganetespib inhibited HPV-negative SCCHN viability and potentiated cell kill when combined with cisplatin or radiation therapy in vitro. With HSP90 expression higher in HPV-negative cells and in p16-negative patients, further exploration of the clinical activity of HSP90 inhibitors in SCCHN is warranted.

Generation of an immortalized mesenchymal stem cell line producing a secreted biosensor protein for glucose monitoring

PubMed Central

Weisman, Itamar; Romano, Jacob; Ivics, Zoltán; Izsvák, Zsuzsanna; Barkai, Uriel

2017-01-01

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high levels of blood glucose. Diabetic patients should normalize these levels in order to avoid short and long term clinical complications. Presently, blood glucose monitoring is dependent on frequent finger pricking and enzyme based systems that analyze the drawn blood. Continuous blood glucose monitors are already on market but suffer from technical problems, inaccuracy and short operation time. A novel approach for continuous glucose monitoring is the development of implantable cell-based biosensors that emit light signals corresponding to glucose concentrations. Such devices use genetically modified cells expressing chimeric genes with glucose binding properties. MSCs are good candidates as carrier cells, as they can be genetically engineered and expanded into large numbers. They also possess immunomodulatory properties that, by reducing local inflammation, may assist long operation time. Here, we generated a novel immortalized human MSC line co-expressing hTERT and a secreted glucose biosensor transgene using the Sleeping Beauty transposon technology. Genetically modified hMSCs retained their mesenchymal characteristics. Stable transgene expression was validated biochemically. Increased activity of hTERT was accompanied by elevated and constant level of stem cell pluripotency markers and subsequently, by MSC immortalization. Furthermore, these cells efficiently suppressed PBMC proliferation in MLR transwell assays, indicating that they possess immunomodulatory properties. Finally, biosensor protein produced by MSCs was used to quantify glucose in cell-free assays. Our results indicate that our immortalized MSCs are suitable for measuring glucose concentrations in a physiological range. Thus, they are appropriate for incorporation into a cell-based, immune-privileged, glucose-monitoring medical device. PMID:28949988

Generation of an immortalized mesenchymal stem cell line producing a secreted biosensor protein for glucose monitoring.

PubMed

Siska, Evangelia K; Weisman, Itamar; Romano, Jacob; Ivics, Zoltán; Izsvák, Zsuzsanna; Barkai, Uriel; Petrakis, Spyros; Koliakos, George

2017-01-01

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high levels of blood glucose. Diabetic patients should normalize these levels in order to avoid short and long term clinical complications. Presently, blood glucose monitoring is dependent on frequent finger pricking and enzyme based systems that analyze the drawn blood. Continuous blood glucose monitors are already on market but suffer from technical problems, inaccuracy and short operation time. A novel approach for continuous glucose monitoring is the development of implantable cell-based biosensors that emit light signals corresponding to glucose concentrations. Such devices use genetically modified cells expressing chimeric genes with glucose binding properties. MSCs are good candidates as carrier cells, as they can be genetically engineered and expanded into large numbers. They also possess immunomodulatory properties that, by reducing local inflammation, may assist long operation time. Here, we generated a novel immortalized human MSC line co-expressing hTERT and a secreted glucose biosensor transgene using the Sleeping Beauty transposon technology. Genetically modified hMSCs retained their mesenchymal characteristics. Stable transgene expression was validated biochemically. Increased activity of hTERT was accompanied by elevated and constant level of stem cell pluripotency markers and subsequently, by MSC immortalization. Furthermore, these cells efficiently suppressed PBMC proliferation in MLR transwell assays, indicating that they possess immunomodulatory properties. Finally, biosensor protein produced by MSCs was used to quantify glucose in cell-free assays. Our results indicate that our immortalized MSCs are suitable for measuring glucose concentrations in a physiological range. Thus, they are appropriate for incorporation into a cell-based, immune-privileged, glucose-monitoring medical device.

SASH1 mediates sensitivity of breast cancer cells to chloropyramine and is associated with prognosis in breast cancer

PubMed Central

Burgess, Joshua T.; Bolderson, Emma; Saunus, Jodi M.; Zhang, Shu-Dong; Reid, Lynne E.; McNicol, Anne Marie; Lakhani, Sunil R.; Cuff, Katharine; Richard, Kerry; Richard, Derek J.; O'Byrne, Kenneth J.

2016-01-01

Expression of the SASH1 protein is reduced in a range of human cancers and has been implicated in apoptotic cancer cell death. This study investigated whether increasing SASH1 expression could be a useful therapeutic strategy in breast cancer. Ectopic SASH1 expression increased apoptosis in 7/8 breast cancer cell lines. Subsequent in silico connectivity screening demonstrated that the clinically approved antihistamine drug, chloropyramine, increased SASH1 mRNA levels. Chloropyramine has previously been shown to have anti-tumour activity in breast cancer in part through modulation of FAK signalling, a pathway also regulated by SASH1. This study demonstrated that chloropyramine increased SASH1 protein levels in breast cancer cells. Consistent with this the agent reduced cell confluency in 7/8 cell lines treated irrespective of their ER status but not apoptosis incompetent MCF7 cells. In contrast SASH1 siRNA-transfected breast cancer cells exhibited reduced chloropyramine sensitivity. The prognostic significance of SASH1 expression was also investigated in two breast cancer cohorts. Expression was associated with favourable outcome in ER-positive cases, but only those of low histological grade/proliferative status. Conversely, we found a very strong inverse association in HER2+ disease irrespective of ER status, and in triple-negative, basal-like cases. Overall, the data suggest that SASH1 is prognostic in breast cancer and could have subtype-dependent effects on breast cancer progression. Pharmacologic induction of SASH1 by chloropyramine treatment of breast cancer warrants further preclinical and clinical investigation. PMID:27637080

SASH1 mediates sensitivity of breast cancer cells to chloropyramine and is associated with prognosis in breast cancer.

PubMed

Burgess, Joshua T; Bolderson, Emma; Saunus, Jodi M; Zhang, Shu-Dong; Reid, Lynne E; McNicol, Anne Marie; Lakhani, Sunil R; Cuff, Katharine; Richard, Kerry; Richard, Derek J; O'Byrne, Kenneth J

2016-11-08

Expression of the SASH1 protein is reduced in a range of human cancers and has been implicated in apoptotic cancer cell death. This study investigated whether increasing SASH1 expression could be a useful therapeutic strategy in breast cancer. Ectopic SASH1 expression increased apoptosis in 7/8 breast cancer cell lines. Subsequent in silico connectivity screening demonstrated that the clinically approved antihistamine drug, chloropyramine, increased SASH1 mRNA levels. Chloropyramine has previously been shown to have anti-tumour activity in breast cancer in part through modulation of FAK signalling, a pathway also regulated by SASH1. This study demonstrated that chloropyramine increased SASH1 protein levels in breast cancer cells. Consistent with this the agent reduced cell confluency in 7/8 cell lines treated irrespective of their ER status but not apoptosis incompetent MCF7 cells. In contrast SASH1 siRNA-transfected breast cancer cells exhibited reduced chloropyramine sensitivity. The prognostic significance of SASH1 expression was also investigated in two breast cancer cohorts. Expression was associated with favourable outcome in ER-positive cases, but only those of low histological grade/proliferative status. Conversely, we found a very strong inverse association in HER2+ disease irrespective of ER status, and in triple-negative, basal-like cases. Overall, the data suggest that SASH1 is prognostic in breast cancer and could have subtype-dependent effects on breast cancer progression. Pharmacologic induction of SASH1 by chloropyramine treatment of breast cancer warrants further preclinical and clinical investigation.

Characterization of a new cell line from caudal fin of koi, Cyprinus carpio koi, and first isolation of cyprinid herpesvirus 3 in China.

PubMed

Dong, Chuanfu; Weng, Shaoping; Li, Wei; Li, Xuezhu; Yi, Yang; Liang, Qiuling; He, Jianguo

2011-11-01

A new continuous cell line (KCF-1) from caudal fin of koi, Cyprinus carpio koi, was developed and sub-cultured more than 100 passages since the present study was initiated in March 2006. KCF-1 predominantly consisted of short fibroblast-like cells and grew well in Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium (DMEM) supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS). Chromosome analysis revealed that 56% of the KCF-1 cells maintained normal diploid chromosome number (2n=100) at Passage 82. Using the KCF-1 cell line, a strain of cyprinid herpesvirus 3 (designated as CyHV-3-QY08) was isolated from the diseased koi. CyHV-3-QY08 continuously propagated in the KCF-1 cells, as confirmed by immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). KCF-1 cells infected with CyHV-3-QY08 produced typical cytopathic effects characterized by severe vacuolation, deformation of nuclei, and marginalization of the nuclear chromatin, which are consistent with those of previous reports. CyHV-3-QY08 was purified and subsequently analyzed by SDS-PAGE and TEM. The results showed that the purified virions contained two types of morphologies and were composed of more than 30 obvious viral polypeptides. An infectivity experiment revealed that CyHV-3-QY08 could cause 100% mortality in the infected koi. Based on the genome sequence of CyHV-3-I/U, the CyHV-3(I/U)-ORF136 homologue in CyHV-3-QY08 was cloned and sequenced. Multiple sequence alignments of CyHV-3-I/U-ORF136 homologues showed that CyHV-3-QY08 belonged to the typical Asian genotype. The CyHV-3(I/U)-ORF136 homologue seems to be a novel molecule marker, which can be used to distinguish Asia isolates from Europe-America strains. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Bypass Mechanisms of the Androgen Receptor Pathway in Therapy-Resistant Prostate Cancer Cell Models

PubMed Central

Marques, Rute B.; Dits, Natasja F.; Erkens-Schulze, Sigrun; van Weerden, Wytske M.; Jenster, Guido

2010-01-01

Background Prostate cancer is initially dependent on androgens for survival and growth, making hormonal therapy the cornerstone treatment for late-stage tumors. However, despite initial remission, the cancer will inevitably recur. The present study was designed to investigate how androgen-dependent prostate cancer cells eventually survive and resume growth under androgen-deprived and antiandrogen supplemented conditions. As model system, we used the androgen-responsive PC346C cell line and its therapy-resistant sublines: PC346DCC, PC346Flu1 and PC346Flu2. Methodology/Principal Findings Microarray technology was used to analyze differences in gene expression between the androgen-responsive and therapy-resistant PC346 cell lines. Microarray analysis revealed 487 transcripts differentially-expressed between the androgen-responsive and the therapy-resistant cell lines. Most of these genes were common to all three therapy-resistant sublines and only a minority (∼5%) was androgen-regulated. Pathway analysis revealed enrichment in functions involving cellular movement, cell growth and cell death, as well as association with cancer and reproductive system disease. PC346DCC expressed residual levels of androgen receptor (AR) and showed significant down-regulation of androgen-regulated genes (p-value = 10−7). Up-regulation of VAV3 and TWIST1 oncogenes and repression of the DKK3 tumor-suppressor was observed in PC346DCC, suggesting a potential AR bypass mechanism. Subsequent validation of these three genes in patient samples confirmed that expression was deregulated during prostate cancer progression. Conclusions/Significance Therapy-resistant growth may result from adaptations in the AR pathway, but androgen-independence may also be achieved by alternative survival mechanisms. Here we identified TWIST1, VAV3 and DKK3 as potential players in the bypassing of the AR pathway, making them good candidates as biomarkers and novel therapeutical targets. PMID:20976069

The interaction between RACK1 and WEE1 regulates the growth of gastric cancer cell line HGC27

PubMed Central

Liu, Chao; Ren, Lili; Wang, Yizhao; Liu, Yimeng; Xiao, Jianying

2017-01-01

Receptor of activated C Kinase 1 (RACK1) is an essential scaffold and anchoring protein, which serves an important role in multiple tumorigenesis signaling pathways. The present study aimed to investigate the expression of RACK1 in gastric cancer (GC), and its association with the occurrence and development of GC. In addition, the effect and mechanism of RACK1 overexpression on the growth, and proliferation of GC cells was examined. Firstly, the protein expression of RACK1 was detected in 70 cases of GC tissues and 30 cases of noncancerous tissues using immunohistochemical staining, and the association between clinical and pathological features of GC was analyzed. Secondly, the mRNA and protein expression of RACK1 was determined in the poorly-differentiated human gastric cancer cell line HGC27 and gastric epithelial cell line GES-1. The growth of HGC27 cells following the upregulation of RACK1 was detected using MTT method. Subsequently, the interaction and co-location between RACK1, and WEE1 homolog (S. pombe) (WEE1) in HGC27 cells was confirmed using co-immunoprecipitation and indirect immunofluorescence. The expression level of RACK1 in GC was significantly lower compared with that in pericarcinous tissues (P<0.05). The protein level of RACK1 expression correlated with tumor node metastasis stage, tumor differentiation and lymph node metastasis. The mRNA and protein levels of RACK1 in HGC27 cells were significantly reduced, and overexpressed RACK1 downregulated WEE1 protein expression, thus inhibiting the growth of HGC27 cells. Co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence confirmed that RACK1, and WEE1 interacted and co-located in the cytoplasm of HGC27 cells. Therefore, the abnormal expression of RACK1 in GC tissues was identified to be involved in the occurrence and development of GC. Overexpression of RACK1 was able to inhibit the growth of HGC27 cells. The current study suggests that low expression of RACK1 is an important indicator of poor prognosis of GC. RACK1 and WEE1 interact to regulate the growth of HGC27 cells. PMID:29085480