International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Editorial

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Open AccessEditorial

Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer

by Alessandro Passardi, Emanuela Scarpi and Paola Ulivi

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(11), 4105; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21114105 - 9 Jun 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1969

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequently diagnosed cancer in the world [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

Research

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13 pages, 637 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Instability of Non-Standard Microsatellites in Relation to Prognosis in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients

by Francesca Pirini, Luigi Pasini, Gianluca Tedaldi, Emanuela Scarpi, Giorgia Marisi, Chiara Molinari, Daniele Calistri, Alessandro Passardi and Paola Ulivi

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(10), 3532; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21103532 - 16 May 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2712

Abstract

Very few data are reported in the literature on the association between elevated microsatellite alterations at selected tetranucleotide repeats (EMAST) and prognosis in advanced colorectal cancer. Moreover, there is no information available in relation to the response to antiangiogenic treatment. We analyzed EMAST [...] Read more.

Very few data are reported in the literature on the association between elevated microsatellite alterations at selected tetranucleotide repeats (EMAST) and prognosis in advanced colorectal cancer. Moreover, there is no information available in relation to the response to antiangiogenic treatment. We analyzed EMAST and vascular endothelial growth factor-B (VEGF-B) microsatellite status, together with standard microsatellite instability (MSI), in relation to prognosis in 141 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treated with chemotherapy (CT) alone (n = 51) or chemotherapy with bevacizumab (B) (CT + B; n = 90). High MSI (MSI-H) was detected in 3% of patients and was associated with progression-free survival (PFS; p = 0.005) and overall survival (OS; p < 0.0001). A total of 8% of cases showed EMAST instability, which was associated with worse PFS (p = 0.0006) and OS (p < 0.0001) in patients treated with CT + B. A total of 24.2% of patients showed VEGF-B instability associated with poorer outcome in (p = 0.005) in the CT arm. In conclusion, our analysis indicated that EMAST instability is associated with worse prognosis, particularly evident in patients receiving CT + B. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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15 pages, 1501 KiB

Open AccessArticle

MicroRNA Expression Profiling of Normal and Malignant Human Colonic Stem Cells Identifies miRNA92a as a Regulator of the LRIG1 Stem Cell Gene

by Vignesh Viswanathan, Lynn Opdenaker, Shirin Modarai, Jeremy Z. Fields, Gregory Gonye and Bruce M. Boman

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(8), 2804; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21082804 - 17 Apr 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2437

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a critical role in regulating stem cells (SCs) during development, and because aberrant expression of miRNAs occurs in various cancers, our goal was to determine if dysregulation of miRNAs is involved in the SC origin of colorectal cancer (CRC). We [...] Read more.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a critical role in regulating stem cells (SCs) during development, and because aberrant expression of miRNAs occurs in various cancers, our goal was to determine if dysregulation of miRNAs is involved in the SC origin of colorectal cancer (CRC). We previously reported that aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) is a marker for normal and malignant human colonic SCs and tracks SC overpopulation during colon tumorigenesis. MicroRNA expression was studied in ALDH-positive SCs from normal and malignant human colon tissues by Nanostring miRNA profiling. Our findings show that: (1) A unique miRNA signature distinguishes ALDH-positive CRC cells from ALDH-positive normal colonic epithelial cells, (2) Expression of four miRNAs (miRNA200c, miRNA92a, miRNA20a, miRNA93) are significantly altered in CRC SCs compared to normal colonic SCs, (3) miRNA92a expression is also upregulated in ALDH-positive HT29 CRC SCs as compared to ALDH-negative SCs, (4) miRNA92a targets the 3′UTR of LRIG1 SC gene, and (5) miRNA92a modulates proliferation of HT29 CRC cells. Thus, our findings indicate that overexpression of miRNA92a contributes to the SC origin of CRC. Strategies designed to modulate miRNA expression, such as miRNA92a, may provide ways to target malignant SCs and to develop more effective therapies against CRC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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16 pages, 3584 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Obatoclax, a Pan-BCL-2 Inhibitor, Downregulates Survivin to Induce Apoptosis in Human Colorectal Carcinoma Cells Via Suppressing WNT/β-catenin Signaling

by Chi-Hung R. Or, Chiao-Wen Huang, Ching-Chin Chang, You-Chen Lai, Yi-Ju Chen and Chia-Che Chang

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(5), 1773; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21051773 - 5 Mar 2020

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 3890

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly prevailing cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Aberrant expression of antiapoptotic BCL-2 family proteins is closely linked to neoplastic progression and chemoresistance. Obatoclax is a clinically developed drug, which binds antiapoptotic BCL-2, BCL-xL, [...] Read more.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly prevailing cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Aberrant expression of antiapoptotic BCL-2 family proteins is closely linked to neoplastic progression and chemoresistance. Obatoclax is a clinically developed drug, which binds antiapoptotic BCL-2, BCL-xL, and MCL-1 for inhibition to elicit apoptosis. Survivin is an antiapoptotic protein, whose upregulation correlates with pathogenesis, therapeutic resistance, and poor prognosis in CRC. Herein, we provide the first evidence delineating the functional linkage between Obatoclax and survivin in the context of human CRC cells. In detail, Obatoclax was found to markedly downregulate survivin. This downregulation was mainly achieved via transcriptional repression, as Obatoclax lowered the levels of both survivin mRNA and promoter activity, while blocking proteasomal degradation failed to prevent survivin from downregulation by Obatoclax. Notably, ectopic survivin expression curtailed Obatoclax-induced apoptosis and cytotoxicity, confirming an essential role of survivin downregulation in Obatoclax-elicited anti-CRC effect. Moreover, Obatoclax was found to repress hyperactive WNT/β-catenin signaling activity commonly present in human CRC cells, and, markedly, ectopic expression of dominant-active β-catenin mutant rescued the levels of survivin along with elevated cell viability. We further revealed that, depending on the cell context, Obatoclax suppresses WNT/β-catenin signaling in HCT 116 cells likely via inducing β-catenin destabilization, or by downregulating LEF1 in DLD-1 cells. Collectively, we for the first time define survivin downregulation as a novel, pro-apoptotic mechanism of Obatoclax as a consequence of Obatocalx acting as an antagonist to WNT/β-catenin signaling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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15 pages, 1601 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Proteomics-Based Evidence for a Pro-Oncogenic Role of ESRP1 in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells

by Ugo Ala, Marta Manco, Giorgia Mandili, Emanuela Tolosano, Francesco Novelli, Paolo Provero, Fiorella Altruda and Sharmila Fagoonee

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(2), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21020575 - 16 Jan 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3111

Abstract

The RNA-binding protein, Epithelial Splicing Regulatory Protein 1 (ESRP1) can promote or suppress tumorigenesis depending on the cell type and disease context. In colorectal cancer, we have previously shown that aberrantly high ESRP1 expression can drive tumor progression. In order to unveil the [...] Read more.

The RNA-binding protein, Epithelial Splicing Regulatory Protein 1 (ESRP1) can promote or suppress tumorigenesis depending on the cell type and disease context. In colorectal cancer, we have previously shown that aberrantly high ESRP1 expression can drive tumor progression. In order to unveil the mechanisms by which ESRP1 can modulate cancer traits, we searched for proteins affected by modulation of Esrp1 in two human colorectal cancer cell lines, HCA24 and COLO320DM, by proteomics analysis. Proteins hosted by endogenous ESRP1 ribonucleoprotein complex in HCA24 cells were also analyzed following RNA-immunoprecipitation. Proteomics data were complemented with bioinformatics approach to exploit publicly available data on protein-protein interaction (PPI). Gene Ontology was analysed to identify a common molecular signature possibly explaining the pro-tumorigenic role of ESRP1. Interestingly, proteins identified herein support a role for ESRP1 in response to external stimulus, regulation of cell cycle and hypoxia. Our data provide further insights into factors affected by and entwined with ESRP1 in colorectal cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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26 pages, 3378 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Newly Developed CK1-Specific Inhibitors Show Specifically Stronger Effects on CK1 Mutants and Colon Cancer Cell Lines

by Congxing Liu, Lydia Witt, Chiara Ianes, Joachim Bischof, Marie-Thérèse Bammert, Joana Baier, Stefan Kirschner, Doris Henne-Bruns, Pengfei Xu, Marko Kornmann, Christian Peifer and Uwe Knippschild

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(24), 6184; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20246184 - 7 Dec 2019

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3608

Abstract

Protein kinases of the CK1 family can be involved in numerous physiological and pathophysiological processes. Dysregulated expression and/or activity as well as mutation of CK1 isoforms have previously been linked to tumorigenesis. Among all neoplastic diseases, colon and rectal cancer (CRC) represent the [...] Read more.

Protein kinases of the CK1 family can be involved in numerous physiological and pathophysiological processes. Dysregulated expression and/or activity as well as mutation of CK1 isoforms have previously been linked to tumorigenesis. Among all neoplastic diseases, colon and rectal cancer (CRC) represent the fourth leading cause of cancer related deaths. Since mutations in CK1δ previously found in CRC patients exhibited increased oncogenic features, inhibition of CK1δ is supposed to have promising therapeutic potential for tumors, which present overexpression or mutations of this CK1 isoform. Therefore, it is important to develop new small molecule inhibitors exhibiting higher affinity toward CK1δ mutants. In the present study, we first characterized the kinetic properties of CK1δ mutants, which were detected in different tumor entities. Subsequently, we characterized the ability of several newly developed IWP-based inhibitors to inhibit wild type and CK1δ mutants and we furthermore analyzed their effects on growth inhibition of various cultured colon cancer cell lines. Our results indicate, that these compounds represent a promising base for the development of novel CRC therapy concepts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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14 pages, 1529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Human Recombinant Arginase I [HuArgI (Co)-PEG5000]-Induced Arginine Depletion Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Cell Migration and Invasion

by Houssam Al-Koussa, Maria Al-Haddad, Ralph Abi-Habib and Mirvat El-Sibai

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(23), 6018; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20236018 - 29 Nov 2019

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3938

Abstract

Purpose: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common type of cancer worldwide, and it represents over half of all gastrointestinal cancer deaths. Knowing that cancer cells have a high proliferation rate, they require high amounts of amino acids, including arginine. In addition, [...] Read more.

Purpose: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common type of cancer worldwide, and it represents over half of all gastrointestinal cancer deaths. Knowing that cancer cells have a high proliferation rate, they require high amounts of amino acids, including arginine. In addition, several tumor types have been shown to downregulate ASS-1 expression, becoming auxotrophic for arginine. Therefore, Arginine deprivation is one of the promising therapeutic approaches to target cancer cells. This can be achieved through the use of a recombinant human arginase, HuArgI(Co)-PEG5000, an arginine degrading enzyme. Methods: In this present study, the cytotoxic effect of HuArgI(Co)-PEG5000 on CRC cell lines (HT-29, Caco-2, Sw837) is examined though cytotoxicity assays. Wound healing assays, invasion assays, and adhesion assays were also performed to detect the effect on metastasis. Results: Wound healing and invasion assays revealed a decrease in cell migration and invasion after treatment with arginase. Cells that were treated with arginase also showed a decrease in adhesion, which coincided with a decrease in RhoA activation, demonstrated though the use of a FRET biosensor to detect RhoA activation in a single cell assay, and a decrease in MMP-9 expression. Treating cells with both arginase and L-citrulline, which significantly restores intracellular arginine levels, reversed the effect of HuArgI(Co)-PEG5000 on cell viability, migration, and invasion. Conclusion: We can, therefore, conclude that colorectal cancer is partially auxotrophic to arginine and that arginine depletion is a potential selective inhibitory approach for motility and invasion in colon cancer cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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17 pages, 3334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

VEGFR-1 Regulates EGF-R to Promote Proliferation in Colon Cancer Cells

by Hikaru Nagano, Chisato Tomida, Naoko Yamagishi and Shigetada Teshima-Kondo

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(22), 5608; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20225608 - 9 Nov 2019

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4649

Abstract

The relationship between epidermal growth factor (EGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathways in tumor growth is well established. EGF induces VEGF production in cancer cells, and the paracrine VEGF activates vascular endothelial cells to promote tumor angiogenesis and thus supports tumor [...] Read more.

The relationship between epidermal growth factor (EGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathways in tumor growth is well established. EGF induces VEGF production in cancer cells, and the paracrine VEGF activates vascular endothelial cells to promote tumor angiogenesis and thus supports tumor cell growth in an angiogenesis-dependent manner. In this study, we found angiogenesis-independent novel crosstalk between the VEGF and the EGF pathways in the regulation of colon cancer cell proliferation. Stimulation of colon cancer cells with VEGF-A and placental growth factor (PlGF) activated VEGF receptor-1 (VEGFR-1) and increased proliferation activity in an autocrine EGF/EGF receptor (EGF-R)-dependent manner. Mechanistically, VEGFR-1 interacted with and stabilized EGF-R, leading to increased EGF-R protein levels and prolonged its expression on cell surface plasma membrane. In contrast, VEGFR-1 blockade by a neutralizing antibody and an antagonistic peptide of VEGFR-1 suppressed the complex formation of VEGFR-1 and EGF-R and decreased EGF-R expression via a lysosome-dependent pathway, resulting in the suppression of proliferation activity. Our results indicated that VEGFR-1 regulated EGF-R expression to promote proliferation activity in a cell-autonomous-dependent manner. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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17 pages, 5855 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Histochemical Alterations of Mucin in Colorectal Carcinoma Quantified by Two Efficient Algorithms of Digital Image Analysis

by Aldona Kasprzak, Agnieszka Seraszek-Jaros, Joanna Jagielska, Celina Helak-Łapaj, Elżbieta Siodła, Jacek Szmeja and Elżbieta Kaczmarek

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(18), 4580; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20184580 - 16 Sep 2019

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4103

Abstract

The practical use of knowledge on the diagnostic-prognostic role of polysaccharide components of mucins in colorectal cancer (CRC) has been difficult, due to the number of histochemical (HC) reaction types, as well as lack of standard methods of computer-assisted analysis of tissue expression [...] Read more.

The practical use of knowledge on the diagnostic-prognostic role of polysaccharide components of mucins in colorectal cancer (CRC) has been difficult, due to the number of histochemical (HC) reaction types, as well as lack of standard methods of computer-assisted analysis of tissue expression of these molecules. Using two algorithms of digital image analysis (by application of Image-Pro Premier and our originally designed program Filter HSV), we evaluated the expression of polysaccharides in tissue samples of CRC patients (n = 33), and fragments of normal colorectal tissue from the same patients (control) using periodic acid Schiff reaction (PAS) (neutral mucins) and alcian blue staining (AB) (acidic mucins). Our results indicate lower expression of the PAS+ and AB+ mucins in CRC, as compared to the control samples. The higher expression of PAS+ polysaccharides was detected in flat tumors than in protruded CRC, while higher AB+ mucins expression was a feature of mucinous CRC subtypes. Positive correlation between mutual PAS+ and AB+ expression, as well as correlations with glucose concentration (PAS+ mucins), and hemoglobin level (AB+ mucins) were observed exclusively in unchanged colorectal samples (control). Both algorithms of digital image analysis (smart segmentation and Filter HSV) work properly and can be used interchangeably in daily practice of pathologists, as useful tools of quantitative evaluation of HC reaction in both normal and cancerous tissues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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20 pages, 3636 KiB

Open AccessArticle

SILAC-Based Quantification of TGFBR2-Regulated Protein Expression in Extracellular Vesicles of Microsatellite Unstable Colorectal Cancers

by Fabia Fricke, Malwina Michalak, Uwe Warnken, Ingrid Hausser, Martina Schnölzer, Jürgen Kopitz and Johannes Gebert

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(17), 4162; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20174162 - 26 Aug 2019

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4624

Abstract

Microsatellite unstable (MSI) colorectal cancers (CRCs) are characterized by mutational inactivation of Transforming Growth Factor Beta Receptor Type 2 (TGFBR2). TGFBR2-deficient CRCs present altered target gene and protein expression. Such cellular alterations modulate the content of CRC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs [...] Read more.

Microsatellite unstable (MSI) colorectal cancers (CRCs) are characterized by mutational inactivation of Transforming Growth Factor Beta Receptor Type 2 (TGFBR2). TGFBR2-deficient CRCs present altered target gene and protein expression. Such cellular alterations modulate the content of CRC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs function as couriers of proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids in intercellular communication. At a qualitative level, we have previously shown that TGFBR2 deficiency causes overall alterations in the EV protein content. To deepen the basic understanding of altered protein dynamics, this work aimed to determine TGFBR2-dependent EV protein signatures in a quantitative manner. Using a stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) approach for mass spectrometry-based quantification, 48 TGFBR2-regulated proteins were identified in MSI CRC-derived EVs. Overall, TGFBR2 deficiency caused upregulation of several EV proteins related to the extracellular matrix and nucleosome as well as downregulation of proteasome-associated proteins. The present study emphasizes the general overlap of proteins between EVs and their parental CRC cells but also highlights the impact of TGFBR2 deficiency on EV protein composition. From a clinical perspective, TGFBR2-regulated quantitative differences of protein expression in EVs might nominate novel biomarkers for liquid biopsy-based MSI typing in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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11 pages, 3609 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Expression Profile and Prognostic Significance of Metallothionein Genes in Colorectal Cancer

by Kuo-Chen Hung, Tsui-Chin Huang, Chia-Hsiung Cheng, Ya-Wen Cheng, Ding-Yen Lin, Jhen-Jia Fan and Kuen-Haur Lee

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(16), 3849; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20163849 - 7 Aug 2019

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3301

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease resulting from the combined influence of many genetic factors. This complexity has caused the molecular characterization of CRC to remain uncharacterized, with a lack of clear gene markers associated with CRC and the prognosis of this [...] Read more.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease resulting from the combined influence of many genetic factors. This complexity has caused the molecular characterization of CRC to remain uncharacterized, with a lack of clear gene markers associated with CRC and the prognosis of this disease. Thus, highly sensitive tumor markers for the detection of CRC are the most essential determinants of survival. In this study, we examined the simultaneous downregulation of the mRNA levels of six metallothionein (MT) genes in CRC cell lines and public CRC datasets for the first time. In addition, we detected downregulation of these six MT mRNAs’ levels in 30 pairs of tumor (T) and adjacent non-tumor (N) CRC specimens. In order to understand the potential prognostic relevance of these six MT genes and CRC, we presented a four-gene signature to evaluate the prognosis of CRC patients. Further discovery suggested that the four-gene signature (MT1F, MT1G, MT1L, and MT1X) predicted survival better than any combination of two-, three-, four-, five-, or six-gene models. In conclusion, this study is the first to report that simultaneous downregulation of six MT mRNAs’ levels in CRC patients, and their aberrant expression together, accurately predicted CRC patients’ outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

22 pages, 270 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current and New Predictors for Treatment Response in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. The Role of Circulating miRNAs as Biomarkers

by Alexandra Gherman, Loredana Balacescu, Sinziana Gheorghe-Cetean, Catalin Vlad, Ovidiu Balacescu, Alexandru Irimie and Cosmin Lisencu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(6), 2089; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21062089 - 18 Mar 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3339

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequently diagnosed cancer in the world. More than half of all CRC patients will eventually develop metastases and require treatment accordingly, but few validated predictive factors for response to systemic treatments exist. In order to ascertain [...] Read more.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequently diagnosed cancer in the world. More than half of all CRC patients will eventually develop metastases and require treatment accordingly, but few validated predictive factors for response to systemic treatments exist. In order to ascertain which patients benefit from specific treatments, there is a strong need for new and reliable biomarkers. We conducted a comprehensive search using the PUBMED database, up to December 2019, in order to identify relevant studies on predictive biomarkers for treatment response in metastatic CRC. We will herein present the currently used and potential biomarkers for treatment response and bring up-to-date knowledge on the role of circulating microRNAs, associated with chemotherapy and targeted therapy regimens used in metastatic CRC treatment. Molecular, tumor-related, disease-related, clinical, and laboratory predictive markers for treatment response were identified, mostly proposed, with few validated. Several circulating microRNAs have already proven their role of prediction for treatment response in CRC, but future clinical studies are needed to confirm their role as biomarkers across large cohorts of patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

21 pages, 482 KiB

Open AccessReview

Exosomal Non Coding RNA in LIQUID Biopsies as a Promising Biomarker for Colorectal Cancer

by Amro Baassiri, Farah Nassar, Deborah Mukherji, Ali Shamseddine, Rihab Nasr and Sally Temraz

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(4), 1398; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21041398 - 19 Feb 2020

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 7027

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with a high mortality rate, especially in those that are diagnosed in late stages of the disease. The current screening blood-based markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), [...] Read more.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with a high mortality rate, especially in those that are diagnosed in late stages of the disease. The current screening blood-based markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), have low sensitivity and specificity. Meanwhile, other modalities are either expensive or invasive. Therefore, recent research has shifted towards a minimally invasive test, namely, liquid biopsy. Exosomes are favorable molecules sought in blood samples, since they are abundant, stable in circulation, and harbor genetic information and other biomolecules that could serve as biomarkers or even therapeutic targets. Furthermore, exosomal noncoding RNAs, such as miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs, have demonstrated the diagnostic potential to detect CRC at an early stage with a higher sensitivity and specificity than CEA and CA19-9 alone. Moreover, they have prognostic potential that is TNM stage specific and could serve as predictive biomarkers for the most common chemotherapeutic drug and combination regimen in CRC, which are 5-FU and FOLFOX, respectively. Therefore, in this review, we focus on the role of these exosomal noncoding RNAs as diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers. In addition, we discuss the advantages and challenges of exosomes as a liquid biopsy target. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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16 pages, 1471 KiB

Open AccessReview

Prostaglandin E2/EP Signaling in the Tumor Microenvironment of Colorectal Cancer

by Rei Mizuno, Kenji Kawada and Yoshiharu Sakai

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(24), 6254; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20246254 - 11 Dec 2019

Cited by 116 | Viewed by 9545

Abstract

The number of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients is increasing worldwide. Accumulating evidence has shown that the tumor microenvironment (TME), including macrophages, neutrophils, and fibroblasts, plays an important role in the development and progression of CRC. Although targeting the TME could be a promising [...] Read more.

The number of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients is increasing worldwide. Accumulating evidence has shown that the tumor microenvironment (TME), including macrophages, neutrophils, and fibroblasts, plays an important role in the development and progression of CRC. Although targeting the TME could be a promising therapeutic approach, the mechanisms by which inflammatory cells promote CRC tumorigenesis are not well understood. When inflammation occurs in tissues, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is generated from arachidonic acid by the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). PGE2 regulates multiple functions in various immune cells by binding to the downstream receptors EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4, and plays an important role in the development of CRC. The current therapies targeting PGE2 using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or COX-2 inhibitors have failed due to the global prostanoid suppression resulting in the severe adverse effects despite the fact they could prevent tumorigenesis. Therefore, therapies targeting the specific downstream molecules of PGE2 signaling could be a promising approach. This review highlights the role of each EP receptor in the TME of CRC tumorigenesis and their therapeutic potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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27 pages, 1182 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Snapshot of The Tumor Microenvironment in Colorectal Cancer: The Liquid Biopsy

by Mercedes Herrera, Cristina Galindo-Pumariño, Vanesa García-Barberán and Cristina Peña

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(23), 6016; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20236016 - 29 Nov 2019

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 8486

Abstract

The molecular profile of liquid biopsies is emerging as an alternative to tissue biopsies in the clinical management of malignant diseases. In colorectal cancer, significant liquid biopsy-based biomarkers have demonstrated an ability to discriminate between asymptomatic cancer patients and healthy controls. Furthermore, this [...] Read more.

The molecular profile of liquid biopsies is emerging as an alternative to tissue biopsies in the clinical management of malignant diseases. In colorectal cancer, significant liquid biopsy-based biomarkers have demonstrated an ability to discriminate between asymptomatic cancer patients and healthy controls. Furthermore, this non-invasive approach appears to provide relevant information regarding the stratification of tumors with different prognoses and the monitoring of treatment responses. This review focuses on the tumor microenvironment components which are detected in blood samples of colorectal cancer patients and might represent potential biomarkers. Exosomes released by tumor and stromal cells play a major role in the modulation of cancer progression in the primary tumor microenvironment and in the formation of an inflammatory pre-metastatic niche. Stromal cells-derived exosomes are involved in driving mechanisms that promote tumor growth, migration, metastasis, and drug resistance, therefore representing substantial signaling mediators in the tumor-stroma interaction. Besides, recent findings of specifically packaged exosome cargo in Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts of colorectal cancer patients identify novel exosomal biomarkers with potential clinical applicability. Furthermore, additional different signals emitted from the tumor microenvironment and also detectable in the blood, such as soluble factors and non-tumoral circulating cells, arise as novel promising biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response prediction. The therapeutic potential of these factors is still limited, and studies are in their infancy. However, innovative strategies aiming at the inhibition of tumor progression by systemic exosome depletion, exosome-mediated circulating tumor cell capturing, and exosome-drug delivery systems are currently being studied and may provide considerable advantages in the near future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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16 pages, 1537 KiB

Open AccessReview

Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling Pathway in Colorectal Cancer and Its Tumor Microenvironment

by Yoshiro Itatani, Kenji Kawada and Yoshiharu Sakai

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(23), 5822; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20235822 - 20 Nov 2019

Cited by 173 | Viewed by 13595

Abstract

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling is one of the important cellular pathways that play key roles for tissue maintenance. In particular, it is important in the context of inflammation and tumorigenesis by modulating cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and homeostasis. TGF-β receptor type 2 [...] Read more.

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling is one of the important cellular pathways that play key roles for tissue maintenance. In particular, it is important in the context of inflammation and tumorigenesis by modulating cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and homeostasis. TGF-β receptor type 2 (TGFBR2) mutations affected by a mismatch repair deficiency causes colorectal cancers (CRCs) with microsatellite instability, which is, however, associated with relatively better survival rates. On the other hand, loss of SMAD4, a transcription factor in the TGF-β superfamily signaling, promotes tumor progression. Loss of heterozygosity on chromosome 18 can case SMAD4-deficient CRC, which results in poorer patients’ survival. Such bidirectional phenomenon driven by TGF-β signaling insufficiency reflects the complexity of this signaling pathway in CRC. Moreover, recent understanding of CRC at the molecular level (consensus molecular subtype classification) provides deep insight into the important roles of TGF-β signaling in the tumor microenvironment. Here we focus on the TGF-β signaling in CRC and its interaction with the tumor microenvironment. We summarize the molecular mechanisms of CRC tumorigenesis and progression caused by disruption of TGF-β signaling by cancer epithelial cells and host stromal cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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26 pages, 2153 KiB

Open AccessReview

Long Noncoding RNA (lncRNA)-Mediated Competing Endogenous RNA Networks Provide Novel Potential Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets for Colorectal Cancer

by Liye Wang, Kwang Bog Cho, Yan Li, Gabriel Tao, Zuoxu Xie and Bin Guo

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(22), 5758; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20225758 - 16 Nov 2019

Cited by 471 | Viewed by 14393

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and has a high metastasis and reoccurrence rate. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in CRC growth and metastasis. Recent studies revealed that lncRNAs participate in CRC progression by coordinating with microRNAs [...] Read more.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and has a high metastasis and reoccurrence rate. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in CRC growth and metastasis. Recent studies revealed that lncRNAs participate in CRC progression by coordinating with microRNAs (miRNAs) and protein-coding mRNAs. LncRNAs function as competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) by competitively occupying the shared binding sequences of miRNAs, thus sequestering the miRNAs and changing the expression of their downstream target genes. Such ceRNA networks formed by lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA interactions have been found in a broad spectrum of biological processes in CRC, including liver metastasis, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), inflammation formation, and chemo-/radioresistance. In this review, we summarize typical paradigms of lncRNA-associated ceRNA networks, which are involved in the underlying molecular mechanisms of CRC initiation and progression. We comprehensively discuss the competitive crosstalk among RNA transcripts and the novel targets for CRC prognosis and therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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17 pages, 940 KiB

Open AccessReview

BRAF-Mutated Colorectal Cancer: Clinical and Molecular Insights

by Francesco Caputo, Chiara Santini, Camilla Bardasi, Krisida Cerma, Andrea Casadei-Gardini, Andrea Spallanzani, Kalliopi Andrikou, Stefano Cascinu and Fabio Gelsomino

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(21), 5369; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20215369 - 28 Oct 2019

Cited by 96 | Viewed by 8463

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in the world. It is a heterogeneous disease, which can be classified into different subtypes, characterized by specific molecular and morphological alterations. In this context, BRAF mutations are found in [...] Read more.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in the world. It is a heterogeneous disease, which can be classified into different subtypes, characterized by specific molecular and morphological alterations. In this context, BRAF mutations are found in about 10% of CRC patients and define a particular subtype, characterized by a dismal prognosis, with a median survival of less than 12 months. Chemotherapy plus bevacizumab is the current standard therapy in first-line treatment of BRAF-mutated metastatic CRC (mCRC), with triplet (FOLFOXIRI) plus bevacizumab as a valid option in patients with a good performance status. BRAF inhibitors are not so effective as compared to melanoma, because of various resistance mechanisms. However, the recently published results of the BEACON trial will establish a new standard of care in this setting. This review provides insights into the molecular underpinnings underlying the resistance to standard treatment of BRAF-mutated CRCs, with a focus on their molecular heterogeneity and on the research perspectives both from a translational and a clinical point of view. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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18 pages, 947 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Landscape of Actionable Gene Fusions in Colorectal Cancer

by Filippo Pagani, Giovanni Randon, Vincenzo Guarini, Alessandra Raimondi, Michele Prisciandaro, Riccardo Lobefaro, Maria Di Bartolomeo, Gabriella Sozzi, Filippo de Braud, Patrizia Gasparini and Filippo Pietrantonio

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(21), 5319; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20215319 - 25 Oct 2019

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5316

Abstract

The treatment scenario of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) has been rapidly enriched with new chemotherapy combinations and biological agents that lead to a remarkable improvement in patients’ outcome. Kinase gene fusions account for less than 1% of mCRC overall but are enriched in [...] Read more.

The treatment scenario of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) has been rapidly enriched with new chemotherapy combinations and biological agents that lead to a remarkable improvement in patients’ outcome. Kinase gene fusions account for less than 1% of mCRC overall but are enriched in patients with high microsatellite instability, RAS/BRAF wild-type colorectal cancer. mCRC patients harboring such alterations show a poor prognosis with standard treatments that could be reversed by adopting novel therapeutic strategies. Moving forward to a positive selection of mCRC patients suitable for targeted therapy in the era of personalized medicine, actionable gene fusions, although rare, represent a peculiar opportunity to disrupt a tumor alteration to achieve therapeutic goal. Here we summarize the current knowledge on potentially actionable gene fusions in colorectal cancer available from retrospective experiences and promising preliminary results of new basket trials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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28 pages, 1889 KiB

Open AccessReview

Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 (IGF2) Signaling in Colorectal Cancer—From Basic Research to Potential Clinical Applications

by Aldona Kasprzak and Agnieszka Adamek

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(19), 4915; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20194915 - 3 Oct 2019

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 6813

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in men and women worldwide as well as is the leading cause of death in the western world. Almost a third of the patients has or will develop liver metastases. While genetic as [...] Read more.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in men and women worldwide as well as is the leading cause of death in the western world. Almost a third of the patients has or will develop liver metastases. While genetic as well as epigenetic mechanisms are important in CRC pathogenesis, the basis of the most cases of cancer is unknown. High spatial and inter-patient variability of the molecular alterations qualifies this cancer in the group of highly heterogeneous tumors, which makes it harder to elucidate the mechanisms underlying CRC progression. Determination of highly sensitive and specific early diagnosis markers and understanding the cellular and molecular mechanism(s) of cancer progression are still a challenge of the current era in oncology of solid tumors. One of the accepted risk factors for CRC development is overexpression of insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2), a 7.5-kDa peptide produced by liver and many other tissues. IGF2 is the first gene discovered to be parentally imprinted. Loss of imprinting (LOI) or aberrant imprinting of IGF2 could lead to IGF2 overexpression, increased cell proliferation, and CRC development. IGF2 as a mitogen is associated with increased risk of developing colorectal neoplasia. Higher serum IGF2 concentration as well as its tissue overexpression in CRC compared to control are associated with metastasis. IGF2 protein was one of the three candidates for a selective marker of CRC progression and staging. Recent research indicates dysregulation of different micro- and long non-coding RNAs (miRNAs and lncRNAs, respectively) embedded within the IGF2 gene in CRC carcinogenesis, with some of them indicated as potential diagnostic and prognostic CRC biomarkers. This review systematises the knowledge on the role of genetic and epigenetic instabilities of IGF2 gene, free (active form of IGF2) and IGF-binding protein (IGFBP) bound (inactive form), paracrine/autocrine secretion of IGF2, as well as mechanisms of inducing dysplasia in vitro and tumorigenicity in vivo. We have tried to answer which molecular changes of the IGF2 gene and its regulatory mechanisms have the most significance in initiation, progression (including liver metastasis), prognosis, and potential anti-IGF2 therapy in CRC patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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32 pages, 910 KiB

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Epigenetic Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer Patients Receiving Adjuvant or Neoadjuvant Therapy: A Systematic Review of Epidemiological Studies

by Martina Barchitta, Andrea Maugeri, Giovanni Li Destri, Guido Basile and Antonella Agodi

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(15), 3842; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20153842 - 6 Aug 2019

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4421

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents the third-most common cancer worldwide and one of the main challenges for public health. Despite great strides in the application of neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies for rectal and colon cancer patients, each of these treatments is still associated with [...] Read more.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents the third-most common cancer worldwide and one of the main challenges for public health. Despite great strides in the application of neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies for rectal and colon cancer patients, each of these treatments is still associated with certain adverse effects and different response rates. Thus, there is an urgent need for identifying novel potential biomarkers that might guide personalized treatments for specific subgroups of patients. However, until now, there are no biomarkers to predict the manifestation of adverse effects and the response to treatment in CRC patients. Herein, we provide a systematic review of epidemiological studies investigating epigenetic biomarkers in CRC patients receiving neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy, and their potential role for the prediction of outcomes and response to treatment. With this aim in mind, we identified several epigenetic markers in CRC patients who received surgery with adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy. However, none of them currently has the robustness to be translated into the clinical setting. Thus, more efforts and further large-size prospective studies and/or trials should be encouraged to develop epigenetic biomarker panels for personalized prevention and medicine in CRC cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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15 pages, 1016 KiB

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Vaccinations for Colorectal Cancer: Progress, Strategies, and Novel Adjuvants

by Stephen Jiang, David Good and Ming Q. Wei

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(14), 3403; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20143403 - 11 Jul 2019

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3732

Abstract

Although cancer is a leading cause of death, significant breakthroughs have been made in its treatment in recent years. In particular, increasingly effective cancer vaccines are being developed, including some for colorectal cancer. There are also currently a variety of compounds that can [...] Read more.

Although cancer is a leading cause of death, significant breakthroughs have been made in its treatment in recent years. In particular, increasingly effective cancer vaccines are being developed, including some for colorectal cancer. There are also currently a variety of compounds that can act as adjuvants, such as signalling molecules called cytokines. Other adjuvants target and inhibit the specific mechanisms by which cancers evade the immune system. One of them is a galectin inhibitor, which targets galectins—proteins produced by cancer cells that can cause the death of immune cells. Likewise, immune checkpoint inhibitors affect immune checkpoints—natural host proteins that usually control inflammation but can be exploited by cancers to weaken the body’s defences. Equally, regulatory T cells may contribute to the progression of cancer by inhibiting the functions of other T cells. The main advantages of cancer vaccines include their low toxicity and their ability to strengthen the immune system. Nevertheless, significant limitations include their slow effects and their inability to treat cancer at times due to immunosuppression. Ultimately, ongoing trials provide hope for the development of more effective methods of immunotherapeutic inoculation that can target a greater variety of cancers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Translational Research on Colorectal Cancer)

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