Article
Oncology
Yunhee Lee, Dongjoon Ko, Junghwa Yoon, Younghoon Lee, Semi Kim
Summary: TMEM52B has been identified as a novel gene expressed widely in normal human tissues. Suppression of TMEM52B in colon cancer cells leads to enhanced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and survival, potentially through multiple signaling pathways. Clinical data suggest that high TMEM52B expression is associated with increased patient survival in various types of cancer.
JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Li Han, Huaiqing Luo, Wenjie Huang, Jiang Zhang, Di Wu, Jinmei Wang, Jiao Pi, Chi Liu, Xiangping Qu, Huijun Liu, Xiaoqun Qin, Yang Xiang
Summary: Persistent injury and improper repair in bronchial epithelial cells contribute to airway inflammation and remodeling in asthma. E-cadherin plays a role in regulating the balance between EMT and MET during injury repair by inhibiting EMT features, enhancing MET features, and decreasing TGF-beta 1 secretion and Snail expression, ultimately facilitating epithelial repair.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Olga Tsaplina, Ekaterina Lomert, Yuliya Berson
Summary: Bacteria use cell surface proteins to interact with host cells, and E-cadherin plays a crucial role in bacterial invasion. Full-length E-cadherin is involved in S. proteamaculans invasion, while both full-length and truncated E-cadherin can promote S. grimesii invasion.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Oncology
Kamen P. Simeonov, China N. Byrns, Megan L. Clark, Robert J. Norgard, Beth Martin, Ben Z. Stanger, Jay Shendure, Aaron McKenna, Christopher J. Lengner
Summary: This study introduces a new inducible CRISPR-Cas9-based lineage recorder, macsGESTALT, and reveals that the metastatic potential of cells peaks in rare, late-hybrid EMT states, which are relevant to clinical disease progression.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Tao Wang, Yali Zhang, Hanyue Cheng, Ling Li, Lu Xu
Summary: The emergence of acquired resistance to EGFR TKIs, such as osimertinib, limits their long-term efficacy in treating EGFR-mutant lung cancer, necessitating a deeper understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms. A newly discovered TGF beta 1/integrin beta 3 loop has been identified as a key contributor to the development of acquired resistance. Intervening in this positive feedback loop significantly delays resistance and improves the effectiveness of EGFR TKIs in treating EGFR-mutant lung cancer.
JOURNAL OF DRUG TARGETING
(2023)
Article
Cell Biology
Yang-Zhi Hu, Zhi-Li Hu, Tian-You Liao, Yuan Li, Yun-Long Pan
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the effects of lncRNA SND1-IT1, miR-124, and COL4A1 gene on TGF-beta 1-induced EMT in gastric cancer (GC). Through the analysis of tissue samples and experiments on HGC-27 cells, the results demonstrated that TGF-beta 1 can regulate cancer cell migration, invasion, and stimulate EMT through the SND1-IT1/miR-124/COL4A1 axis in GC.
CELL DEATH DISCOVERY
(2022)
Article
Oncology
Joana Figueiredo, Rui M. Ferreira, Han Xu, Margarida Goncalves, Andre Barros-Carvalho, Janine Cravo, Andre F. Maia, Patricia Carneiro, Ceu Figueiredo, Michael L. Smith, Dimitrije Stamenovic, Eurico Morais-de-Sa, Raquel Seruca
Summary: Research has shown that mutations in E-cadherin lead to abnormal interactions of cells with specific ECM components, resulting in increased traction forces and activation of Integrin beta 1, which promotes cell scattering and invasion. This crosstalk between E-cadherin and Integrin beta 1 is validated in Drosophila models and human gastric carcinomas, where low E-cadherin and high Integrin beta 1 levels are associated with increased tumour grade and poor survival. Integrin beta 1 is identified as a key mediator of invasion in carcinomas with E-cadherin impairment and a biomarker of poor prognosis in gastric cancer.
Article
Cell Biology
Wallace M. de Araujo, Marcelo N. Tanaka, Pedro H. S. Lima, Cassio F. de Moraes, Fernanda Leve, Lilian G. Bastos, Murilo R. Rocha, Bruno K. Robbs, Joao P. B. Viola, Jose A. Morgado-Diaz
Summary: TGF-beta plays a dual role in colorectal cancer, acting as both a tumor suppressor and a promoter. Research demonstrates that TGF-beta can regulate COX-2 and Ras oncogene through different pathways, influencing the development of colorectal cancer.
CELL BIOLOGY INTERNATIONAL
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Dandan Peng, Minyang Fu, Manni Wang, Yuquan Wei, Xiawei Wei
Summary: TGF-beta plays essential roles in early embryonic development, organogenesis, immune regulation, tissue repair, and adult homeostasis. Its involvement in fibrosis and cancer is complex and context-dependent, showing both inhibitory and promoting effects. Therapeutics targeting TGF-beta signaling hold promise in treating fibrosis and cancer, although the development is hindered by potential systemic cytotoxicity.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Yingying Yu, Weiwei Wang, Wenying Lu, Wei Chen, Anquan Shang
Summary: Accumulating evidence suggests that INHBA plays a crucial role in promoting migration and invasion of breast cancer cells by inducing EMT through activating TGF-beta-regulated genes, which potentially make it a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for breast cancer treatment.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Marta Maruszewska-Cheruiyot, Michael James Stear, Maja Machcinska, Katarzyna Donskow-Lysoniewska
Summary: There has been little interaction between parasitologists and oncologists historically, although some helminth infections may predispose to tumor development. Recent research suggests that both tumors and parasites suppress the immune response to increase their chances of survival. They both exploit the TGF beta signaling pathway to modulate the immune response for their own benefit.
Article
Cell Biology
Yongsheng Huang, Sijia Liu, Mengjie Shan, Sophie C. Hagenaars, Wilma E. Mesker, Danielle Cohen, Lin Wang, Zhi Zheng, Peter Devilee, Rob A. E. M. Tollenaar, Zhangfu Li, Yongmei Song, Long Zhang, Dan Li, Peter Ten Dijke
Summary: RNF12, overexpressed in invasive breast cancers, promotes migration and invasion of breast cancer cells through its interaction with the AKT signaling pathway. Phosphorylation of AKT induces nuclear localization of RNF12 and accelerates the degradation of SMAD7 mediated by RNF12. Moreover, RNF12 expression is positively correlated with phosphorylated AKT and phosphorylated SMAD2 levels.
CELL DEATH & DISEASE
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Kaizhou Jin, Chen Liu, He Cheng, Qinglin Fei, Qiuyi Huang, Zhiwen Xiao, Xianjun Yu, Weiding Wu
Summary: This study uncovered RAP2 as a novel predictive marker and therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer. High expression of RAP2 was associated with unfavorable prognosis, and silencing RAP2 inhibited the invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. Furthermore, TGF-beta 1 was found to regulate the expression of RAP2 through the transcription factor c-Myc.
ACTA BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA SINICA
(2022)
Article
Cell Biology
Qianwen Wang, Chenxiang Qi, Pengxiang Min, Yueyuan Wang, Fengwen Ye, Tianxiang Xia, Yujie Zhang, Jun Du
Summary: By regulating MICAL2, the migratory ability of gastric cancer cells can be influenced, and it involves changes in the E-cadherin/beta-catenin signaling pathway.
CELL COMMUNICATION AND SIGNALING
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Aparna Cherukunnath, Ravichandra S. Davargaon, Rahail Ashraf, Urja Kamdar, Amit K. Srivastava, Prem P. Tripathi, Nabanita Chatterjee, Sanjay Kumar
Summary: KLF8 is overexpressed in ovarian cancer and promotes cancer progression. TGF-beta 1 activates KLF8 expression through the Smad2 pathway and regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), contributing to OC progression.
JOURNAL OF CELLULAR BIOCHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Margherita Maffei, Antonio Giordano
Summary: Leptin, produced by white adipose tissue, plays a crucial role in informing the brain about energy stores and regulating energy balance. Obesity-induced alterations in certain hubs of the hypothalamus may hinder the action of Leptin, leading to resistance in obese patients. Understanding how Leptin gains access to the brain and how neuronal plasticity interferes with its function may provide insights for enhancing the effects of Leptin.
REVIEWS IN ENDOCRINE & METABOLIC DISORDERS
(2022)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Diletta Rosati, Antonio Giordano
Summary: Single-cell RNA sequencing technologies play a crucial role in understanding cancer heterogeneity and lineage-dependent drug resistance.
BIOCHEMICAL PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Georgia Colleluori, Laura Graciotti, Mauro Pesaresi, Angelica Di Vincenzo, Jessica Perugini, Eleonora Di Mercurio, Sara Caucci, Patrizia Bagnarelli, Cristina M. Zingaretti, Enzo Nisoli, Stefano Menzo, Adriano Tagliabracci, Annie Ladoux, Christian Dani, Antonio Giordano, Saverio Cinti
Summary: This study confirms the presence of lung fat embolism in COVID-19 patients and describes novel COVID-19-related features possibly contributing to the unfavorable prognosis in individuals with COVID-19 and obesity.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OBESITY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Giulio Poli, Miriana Di Stefano, Joan Arias Estevez, Filippo Minutolo, Carlotta Granchi, Antonio Giordano, Salvatore Parisi, Matteo Mauceri, Vincenzo Canzonieri, Marco Macchia, Isabella Caligiuri, Tiziano Tuccinardi, Flavio Rizzolio
Summary: This study reports the virtual screening and identification of potential PIN1 inhibitors with anti-tumoral activity. The results confirm the reliability of the in silico protocol and provide new ligands as starting points for the development of PIN1 inhibitors.
JOURNAL OF ENZYME INHIBITION AND MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Antonio Vitiello, Francesco Ferrara, Amogh M. Auti, Marina Di Domenico, Mariarosaria Boccellino
Summary: This review provides an overview of the molecular profile, epidemiology, transmissibility, impact on vaccines, and pharmacological agents related to the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. Omicron has multiple mutations, including changes in the spike protein, which contribute to its high transmissibility and potential immune escape. Current vaccination provides limited protection against Omicron, while booster doses offer significant protection against mild illness. New oral antiviral agents are emerging as important alternatives for treatment. Further research is needed to determine the infectiousness of Omicron and the effectiveness of available vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and antiviral drugs.
JOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Elisa Borsani, Andrea Ballini, Barbara Buffoli, Lorenzo Lo Muzio, Marina Di Domenico, Mariarosaria Boccellino, Salvatore Scacco, Riccardo Nocini, Vittorio Dibello, Rita Rezzani, Stefania Cantore, Luigi Fabrizio Rodella, Michele Di Cosola
Summary: This study investigated alterations in the nitroxidergic system at the brainstem level and the role of peripheral P2 purinergic receptors in pediatric inflammatory orofacial pain. The results suggest a relationship between orofacial pain and the nitroxidergic system in the spinal trigeminal nucleus, as well as a role for peripheral P2 receptors in pain transmission.
BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL
(2022)
Review
Cell Biology
Pierluigi Scalia, Stephen J. Williams, Yoko Fujita-Yamaguchi, Antonio Giordano
Summary: The IGFs are important growth factors that play a key role in cell growth and cell cycle progression through their cellular receptors. Understanding the intracellular signaling mechanisms of IGFs is crucial for cancer research. This study provides a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of IGFs in cancer and suggests new perspectives for further research.
Article
Anatomy & Morphology
Ilenia Severi, Silvia Abbatelli, Jessica Perugini, Eleonora Di Mercurio, Martina Senzacqua, Antonio Giordano
Summary: This study is the first comprehensive morphological investigation into the distribution and physiological role of BChE in the mouse gastrointestinal tract. BChE-positive cells were found in various digestive organs, such as the stomach, liver, and intestine, and were closely linked to ghrelin production.
JOURNAL OF ANATOMY
(2023)
Review
Microbiology
Elena Rossi, Luciano Mutti, Andrea Morrione, Antonio Giordano
Summary: SARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to interstitial pneumonia and neurological symptoms, especially in elderly patients prone to cytokine storm and severe outcomes like acute respiratory distress syndrome. Limited understanding exists on the correlation between symptoms and clinical outcomes, as well as virus-host interactions.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
A. Giordano, F. Cinti, R. Canese, G. Carpinelli, G. Colleluori, A. Di Vincenzo, G. Palombelli, I Severi, M. Moretti, C. Redaelli, J. Partridge, M. C. Zingaretti, A. Agostini, F. Sternardi, A. Giovagnoni, S. Castorina, S. Cinti
Summary: Obesity is a major cause of death worldwide, and understanding the adipose organ is crucial for studying its pathology and formulating therapeutic strategies. This study utilized various techniques such as anatomical dissections and medical imaging to demonstrate that white and brown adipose tissues form a large, unified structure that can be considered a true organ. This finding was confirmed in both mice and humans.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Giovanni Ciccarelli, Stefano Conte, Giovanni Cimmino, Patrizia Maiorano, Andrea Morrione, Antonio Giordano
Summary: Atherosclerosis is a complex disease involving metabolic processes and inflammation. Despite improved therapies, a significant residual risk remains due to unmet therapeutic targets. Endothelial dysfunction and lipid infiltration are primary causes of atherosclerotic plaque progression. Mitochondrial dysfunction can affect arterial wall cells, leading to oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and intracellular lipid deposition. Evaluating mitochondrial defects through the detection and characterization of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is crucial, and mitochondria-targeting therapies show promise in treating atherosclerosis.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Oncology
Elisa Ventura, Giacomo Ducci, Reyes Benot Dominguez, Valentina Ruggiero, Antonino Belfiore, Elena Sacco, Marco Vanoni, Renato V. V. Iozzo, Antonio Giordano, Andrea Morrione
Summary: Progranulin plays an important pro-tumorigenic role in various solid tumors and has diagnostic and prognostic values in multiple tumor types. The molecular mechanisms underlying progranulin's function in cancer are not fully understood, but recent evidence suggests a strong context-dependency of progranulin signaling. This review focuses on summarizing the current evidence supporting the pro-oncogenic role of progranulin and its molecular mechanisms of action in cancer.
Review
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Giovanna Liguori, Anna Costagliola, Renato Lombardi, Orlando Paciello, Antonio Giordano
Summary: Animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) are planned activities carried out in multidisciplinary teams with educational, therapeutic, and recreational purposes. These interventions offer many advantages to subjects but may expose them to zoonotic-pathogen transmission. Therefore, ensuring positive animal welfare and implementing preventive measures are crucial for the safety of patients.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Alfredo Caturano, Margherita D'Angelo, Andrea Mormone, Vincenzo Russo, Maria Pina Mollica, Teresa Salvatore, Raffaele Galiero, Luca Rinaldi, Erica Vetrano, Raffaele Marfella, Marcellino Monda, Antonio Giordano, Ferdinando Carlo Sasso
Summary: Oxidative stress plays a critical role in the development and progression of diabetes and its associated complications. The imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the body's antioxidant defense mechanisms leads to cellular damage and dysfunction. By understanding and addressing oxidative stress, it may be possible to alleviate the burden of diabetes and improve patient outcomes.
CURRENT ISSUES IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
(2023)
Letter
Oncology
Pierpaolo Correale, Francesca Pentimalli, Valerio Nardone, Antonio Giordano, Luciano Mutti