Current Cancer Drug Targets - Online First
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Research Progress of M6A Methylation Modification in Immunotherapy of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Jingfan Zheng, Yuyu Chen, Xintong Peng, Wei Zheng, Yu Zhang, Fengrong Hei and Zhong LuAvailable online: 06 March 2025More LessAmong the Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase (PARP) family in mammals, PARP1 is the first identified and well-studied member that plays a critical role in DNA damage repair and has been proven to be an effective target for cancer therapy. Here, we have reviewed not only the role of PARP1 in different DNA damage repair pathways, but also the working mechanisms of several PARP inhibitors (PARPi), inhibiting Poly-ADP-ribosylation (PARylation) processing and PAR chains production to trap PARP1 on impaired DNA and inducing Transcription-replication Conflicts (TRCs) by inhibiting the PARP1 activity. This review has systematically summarized the latest clinical application of six authorized PARPi, including olaparib, rucaparib, niraparib, talazoparib, fuzuloparib and pamiparib, in monotherapy and combination therapies with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, in different kinds of cancer. Furthermore, probable challenges in PARPi application and drug resistance mechanisms have also been discussed. Despite these challenges, further development of new PARP1 inhibitors appears promising as a valuable approach to cancer treatment.
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Cancer Immunotherapies: Navigating the Immune Landscape
Available online: 06 March 2025More LessBiotechnology has paved the way for the development of cancer therapeutics that harness biological systems. Cancer immunotherapy (CI) is a pivotal and swiftly progressing therapeutic modality, alongside surgical intervention, cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Therefore, this is the fifth cornerstone of cancer management. Biotechnological pharmaceuticals are superior modalities for combating neoplastic conditions when juxtaposed with conventional chemical therapeutics. Considering empirical evidence, it can be posited that biotechnology exhibits a heightened level of precision in targeting malignant cells associated with cancer, thereby minimizing collateral damage compared to conventional chemotherapeutic approaches. Furthermore, this approach harnesses the inherent capabilities of the immune system to impede cancer recurrence, thereby facilitating a more proactive therapeutic intervention, as opposed to a mere deleterious remedy. Novel cancer immunotherapeutic medications, along with uncomplicated methodologies that enable the quantitative evaluation of the effectiveness of compounds capable of modifying T cell-mediated, tumor antigen-specific immune responses, play a pivotal role in the assessment process. This highlights the considerable promise of immunotherapies, monoclonal antibodies, and an array of biotechnological products in a relentless battle against cancer.
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Competing Risk Analysis for Diabetes Mellitus Mortality in Bladder Cancer Patients: A Population-based Study
Authors: Shunde Wang, Baishu Zheng, Junjie Yang and Junyong ZhangAvailable online: 06 March 2025More LessBackgroundHistorically, there has been a lack of focus on the mortality rates of individuals with both diabetes and Bladder Bancer (BC). Our study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with death from Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in BC patients.
MethodsData was gathered from the SEER database on individuals who were diagnosed with BC between the years 2000 and 2017. Calculation of the Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR) was performed to determine the mortality rate of DM in patients from BC. Potential risk factors for DM mortality were identified by a multivariate competing risk model. Hazard Ratios (HR), with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were used to indicate the degree of associated risk.
ResultsA total of 217,230 BC patients' data were collected from the SEER database for analysis. Among them, 98,880 patients passed away, and 1,783 patients encountered DM mortality. The overall SMR for DM mortality in BC patients was 3.32 (95% CI: 3.17-3.48). Results indicated that SMR increased with increasing years but decreased with increasing follow-up time. Multivariate competing risk analysis shows that BC patients with the following factors were at higher risk of developing DM mortality: advanced age, male, black, in situ tumor stage, early year of diagnosis, pathology type of transitional cell carcinoma, without chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and absence of spouse (including separated, divorced, widowed, and unmarried).
ConclusionIndividuals diagnosed with BC are at a considerably elevated risk of mortality from DM compared to the general population. It is of the utmost importance to identify high-risk groups and implement effective interventions for DM in order to enhance the survival rate among this patient population.
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Biological Functions and Therapeutic Potential of UBE2T in Human Cancer
Authors: Keshen Wang, Qichen He, Xiangyan Jiang, Yong Ma, Tao Wang, Huinian Zhou, Zeyuan Yu and Zuoyi JiaoAvailable online: 06 March 2025More LessThe ubiquitin-proteasome system is a fundamental regulatory mechanism that governs protein stability and intracellular signaling in eukaryotic cells. This system relies on a coordinated cascade of enzymatic activities involving activating enzymes, conjugating enzymes, and ligases to assemble distinct ubiquitin signals. These signals are subsequently edited, removed, or interpreted by deubiquitinases and ubiquitin-binding proteins. While E3 ligases have traditionally been recognized as the primary determinants of substrate specificity in the ubiquitination process, recent studies have revealed that the dysregulation of E2 enzymes can also lead to significant pathological outcomes, including chromatin instability, immune dysregulation, metabolic dysfunction, and an elevated risk of cancer. Consequently, E2 enzymes have emerged as promising therapeutic targets for the treatment of various diseases. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the roles and mechanisms of the ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2T (UBE2T) in cancer initiation, progression, and therapy resistance, highlighting its potential as a compelling target for cancer therapeutics.
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Using Cyclic Ketones to Synthesize New 3,5,6,7,8,9-Hexahydro-pyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoline Derivatives with Antiproliferative Activities: Morphological Studies
Authors: Rafat M. Mohareb, Marwa S. Gamaan, Nadia Y. Megally Abdo and Ibram R. MikhailAvailable online: 28 February 2025More LessBackgroundQuinoline derivatives, often incorporating other heterocyclic structures, have shown a wide range of therapeutic potential, especially in the treatment of cancer. These compounds have demonstrated significant anticancer activity against various cell lines, including HeLa (human cervical cancer) and MDA-MB-435 (melanoma), exhibiting strong inhibitory effects.
ObjectiveIn this study, arylhydrazonopyrazole derivatives (3a-c) were employed in a series of multicomponent reactions to synthesize 3,5,6,7,8,9-hexahydropyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoline and pyran derivatives. Pyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoline derivatives, due to their structural properties, are considered valuable scaffolds for the development of novel drugs targeting similar biological pathways, with the potential for improved therapeutic efficacy. This study aimed to demonstrate the use of simple arylhydrazonopyrazole derivatives in multicomponent reactions with cyclic ketones and aromatic aldehydes. The resulting compounds were then assessed for their cytotoxic and antiproliferative activities. Following these reactions, further heterocyclization processes were conducted, incorporating the quinoline moiety into the final structures. These findings underscore the potential of pyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoline derivatives as promising candidates for drug discovery, offering new avenues for targeting diseases with related molecular mechanisms.
MethodsThe key starting compound in this study was 3,5-dimethyl-4-(2-phenylhydrazono)-4H-pyrazole, which has been utilized in numerous heterocyclization reactions. These reactions, involving various reagents, such as cyclic ketones and diketones in the presence of aromatic aldehydes, led to the formation of fused tetracyclic compounds. Arylhydrazonopyrazole derivatives (5a-c) were employed in multicomponent reactions to synthesize 3,5,6,7,8,9-hexahydropyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoline and pyran derivatives. The reactions were carried out using both conventional catalysts and ionic liquid-immobilized catalysts. Notably, the use of ionic liquid-immobilized catalysts resulted in higher yields of the desired compounds.
ResultsIn this study, new compounds were synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for their cytotoxicity against six cancer cell lines: A549, HT-29, MKN-45, U87MG, SMMC-7721, and H460. Additionally, the cytotoxic effects of the synthesized compounds were assessed against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cell lines. Morphological studies of selected compounds were also conducted to further understand their effects on the cancer cells. Moreover, the cytotoxicity of the selected compounds was tested against seventeen different cancer cell lines, categorized by disease type. Morphological analyses of these selected compounds were also performed to gain deeper insights into their potential as anticancer agents.
ConclusionThe inhibition assays of the tested compounds demonstrated significant activity against c-Met enzymatic activity, with IC50 values ranging from 0.25 to 10.30 nM. Additionally, potent inhibition was observed in the prostate PC-3 cell line, with IC50 values ranging from 0.19 to 8.62 µM. These promising results highlight the potential of these compounds and encourage further research to explore their therapeutic applications in the future.
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Recent Advancements in Drug Targeting for Ferroptosis as an Antitumor Therapy: Development of Novel therapeutics
Authors: Reena Negi Rawat, Sanju Singh, Neeta Gupta, Manish Upadhyay, Shilpi Shrivastava and Bhawana JainAvailable online: 29 January 2025More LessObjectivesThe primary objective of this review is to provide updated mechanisms that regulate ferroptosis sensitivity in cancer cells and recent advancements in drug targeting for ferroptosis as an antitumor therapy.
MethodsTo achieve these objectives, a comprehensive literature review was conducted, analyzing recent studies on ferroptosis, including its cellular, molecular, and gene-level characteristics. The review involved an evaluation of advancements in ferroptosis drug research across various medical domains, with particular attention to novel therapeutic approaches in nanomedicine, TCM, and Western medicine. The review also included an assessment of how ferroptosis influences cancer treatment, including its role in tumor drug resistance and immunotherapy, and provided a detailed analysis of pharmacological activators of ferroptosis.
ResultsThe review highlights several key findings, like primary mechanisms that regulate cancer cell sensitivity to ferroptosis, and provides an overview of the latest advancements in ferroptosis drug research. The review reveals that ferroptosis has both beneficial and detrimental effects on human cancer, reflecting its complex role in cancer progression and treatment. The review also emphasizes the dual nature of ferroptosis, noting its potential as both a tumor suppressor and an oncogenic factor. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive examination of various pharmacological agents that activate ferroptosis and their potential therapeutic applications.
ConclusionIn conclusion, ferroptosis represents a promising target for cancer therapy, given its distinctive characteristics and significant role in tumor biology. The review underscores the need for further research to clarify the complex roles of ferroptosis in carcinogenesis and to optimize the development of novel therapeutics targeting this form of cell death. It also highlights current challenges and opportunities in the field, including the potential for overcoming cancer metastasis through ferroptosis modulation and the need for continued exploration of pharmacological activators to advance therapeutic strategies.
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Precision Medicine in Colorectal Cancer: Targeted Therapies and Biomarker Insights
Available online: 28 January 2025More LessThe current review delves into the transformative role of precision medicine in addressing Colorectal Cancer [CRC], a pressing global health challenge. It examines closely signalling pathways, genetic and epigenetic modifications, and microsatellite instability. The primary focus is on elucidating biomarkers revolutionizing CRC diagnosis and treatment. Genetic biomarkers encompass non-coding RNA, epigenetic markers, TP53 mutations, and KRAS, NRAS, and BRAF gene alterations. Targeted therapies, including anti-EGFR, anti-VEGF, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and HER2-targeted treatments, are explored along with their mechanisms and clinical applications. Additionally, we highlight the importance of utilizing personalized treatment strategies by employing molecular profiling and genetic testing. These approaches facilitate the identification of appropriate patients for targeted therapies. Clinical trials supporting these treatments are presented, emphasizing response rates and survival outcomes. Detailed exploration of resistance mechanisms to targeted therapies and strategies to overcome resistance is also provided, paving the way for more effective regimens. Directions for future research in precision medicine, such as biomarkers, combinations, and liquid biopsy in the oncology field, are described. However, the precise application of precision medicine in CRC comes with questions such as costs, considerations of ethical factors, and the need to sensitize patients. Nonetheless, based on a meticulous analysis of several aspects, precision medicine finds itself equipped with the ability to enhance the patients’ prognosis, thereby, lessening the global oncologic burden of CRC and provide important information to the clinician-scientist and policymaker that might benefit from the ongoing development of precision medicine.
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CDK8 as a Therapeutic Target for Overall Survival Prediction in Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma (CESC)
Authors: Feiting Xie, Qiugang Zhu, Shizhou Yang, Xiaofen Jin, Danqi Ruan, Lingfang Wang, Yang Li, Fang Ren and Xiaojing ChenAvailable online: 24 January 2025More LessBackgroundCyclin-Dependent Kinase 8 (CDK8) is a paracrine transcriptional regulator involved in regulating cellular stress response, growth, and neurological functions in conjunction with mediator complex subunits 12 (MED12), MED13, and cyclin C.
ObjectiveStudying the relationship between CDK8 and cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CESC) has significant clinical implications in diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Therefore, we analyzed the relationship between CDK8 and poor prognosis of CESC.
MethodsDifferentially expressed genes and their functional enrichment were analyzed using limma R software package. Immune cell infiltration was measured by TIMER and “GSVA” R packaging.
ResultsThe results indicated that CDK8 was overexpressed in CESC, and the survival rate of patients in the CDK8 hypermethylation group was higher than that in the CDK8 hypomethylation group. In addition, CDK8 was associated with immune cell infiltration in tumor tissues.
ConclusionOverall, these findings provide more evidence for the relationship between CDK8 and a patients overall survival, which could provide insights into clinical diagnosis and prognosis prediction for CESC.
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Fe3O4-viral-like Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticle(Fe3O4-vMSN)-Sustained Release of Lenvatinib for Targeted Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Xue Wang, Tianzhao Xu, Hui Song, Lanmei Zhou, Xinyi Li, Guangli Li and Xinghui LiuAvailable online: 14 January 2025More LessBackgroundLenvatinib is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor that selectively inhibits receptors involved in tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth. It is an emerging first-line treatment agent for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there is no intravenous administration of Lenvatinib.
AimsThis study aimed to construct nanocomposites that can efficiently support Lenvatinib and target liver cancer tissues and cells.
ObjectiveIn this study, ferric oxide-viral-like mesoporous silica nanoparticles-folic acid (Fe3O4-vMSN-FA) nanocomposites loaded with Lenvatinib were constructed, and their anti-hepatocellular carcinoma effects were evaluated.
MethodsThe hydrothermal method was used to synthesize ferric oxide (Fe3O4). Ferric oxide-viral-like mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Fe3O4-vMSN) were synthesized using a two-phase method. Then, Fe3O4-vMSN was modified with folic acid (Fe3O4-vMSN-FA) to better target tumor cells.
ResultsThe experimental data showed that Fe3O4-vMSN-FA nanocomposites were successfully synthesized and could be loaded with Lenvatinib (Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA). Fe3O4-vMSN-FA had good stability and biocompatibility, and it can release the loaded Lenvatinib faster in an acidic environment (pH 5.5). CCK8 assay and flow cytometry showed that HepG2 cells in the Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN group had the lowest cell viability and the highest apoptosis rate, confirming the anticancer properties of Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA in vitro. In addition, transwell experiments showed that the migration and invasion ability of HepG2 cells in the Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA group were significantly inhibited. In vivo fluorescence imaging in mice confirmed the enhanced tumor-targeting ability of Fe3O4-vMSN-FA. The tumor volume of the Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA group was significantly reduced, and there was no significant effect on body weight. Moreover, serum liver function index (ALT and AST) and HE staining showed that Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA did not cause obvious damage to organ tissue.
ConclusionLen@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA has a good anti-liver cancer effect. Fe3O4-vMSN-FA can be used as an alternative platform for drug delivery, providing more options for cancer therapy.
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The COX-2 Inhibitor Celecoxib Sensitizes Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Cells to Ferroptosis
Authors: Dawei Li, Shuang Guo, Kunrong Wang, Zhaoqi Liu, Taixin Yu and Yingqiu ZhangAvailable online: 06 January 2025More LessBackgroundNasopharyngeal cancer [NPC] is prevalent in Southeast Asia and North Africa, and is generally associated with limited treatment options and poor patient prognosis.
ObjectiveFerroptosis is a recently observed cell death modality and has been shown to link to the efficacy of different anti-cancer treatments, thus offering opportunities for the development of novel therapies. This study aims to investigate the potentiating effects of COX-2 inhibitors on ferroptosis in nasopharyngeal cancer.
MethodsThe inhibitory effects of COX-2 inhibitors celecoxib and rofecoxib on nasopharyngeal cancer cells were assessed with MTT, colony formation, sphere formation, Transwell, and wound healing assays. The status of COX-2 with celecoxib and rofecoxib treatment was investigated by Western blotting and immunofluorescence experiments. Ferroptosis was induced with the GPX4 inhibitor RSL3 with or without COX-2 inhibition and was monitored by fluorescence microscopy. Transcriptomic profiling was conducted with 5-8F cells treated with DMSO as control or celecoxib, and ferroptosis-related candidates were validated by RT-PCR analysis.
ResultsCelecoxib and rofecoxib effectively inhibited the growth and migration of nasopharyngeal cancer cells. Both inhibitors evidently sensitized nasopharyngeal cancer cells to ferroptosis induction by RSL3, with celecoxib outperforming rofecoxib. Celecoxib treatment resulted in significantly differentially expressed genes in 5-8F cells, among which CHAC1 was validated as a ferroptosis-related target.
ConclusionThe COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib effectively sensitized nasopharyngeal cancer cells to ferroptosis induction.
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