Are sporadic colorectal cancers in young patients distinct from those in elderly patients?

AIM: The aim of this study was to compare the clinicopathological and oncological characteristics of sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC) between young and elderly patients without any genetic mutations that cause hereditary CRC. METHOD: In this cross-sectional, retrospective study conducted at three tertiary referral hospitals, we enrolled 1599 patients with CRC who underwent surgery between January 2010 and December 2017, including 157 young patients (age ≤ 40 years; yCRC) and 1442 elderly patients (age ≥ 70 years; eCRC). The clinicopathological and oncological outcomes were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: The median age at diagnosis was 37 years in the yCRC group (range 33.0-39.2 years) and 76 years in the eCRC group (range 72.0-79.0 years). The yCRC group did not present with advanced stages at diagnosis compared with the eCRC group, and the distribution of tumour stages was similar between the two groups. Microsatellite instability (MSI) testing revealed no difference in the frequency of tumours with high MSI (7.8% in yCRC, 5.8% in eCRC), and the frequency of mutations in the KRAS, NRAS and BRAF genes was also similar. The 3-year overall survival was better in the yCRC group than in the eCRC group (97.4% vs. 83.5%, p < 0.001); however, no such difference was observed in cancer-specific survival. CONCLUSION: Genetically proven sporadic CRCs did not differ significantly between young and elderly patients in terms of tumour stage, tumour location and various molecular features. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: The study was retrospectively registered with Clinical Trials.gov (no. NCT05601609).

Risk factors for the failure of endoscopic balloon dilation to manage anastomotic stricture from colorectal surgery: retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: An anastomotic stricture after colorectal surgery is principally managed by endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD). Although this intervention is effective, however, subsequent procedures or surgical interventions are often required. This study aimed to assess the long-term outcomes of EBD for anastomotic stricture arising from colorectal cancer surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed 173 patients who received curative surgery for colorectal cancer at our hospital between January 2000 and December 2022 and had undergone EBD to manage anastomotic stricture. The medical records of these cases were retrospectively reviewed to assess the outcomes and risk factors for restenosis and permanent stoma. RESULTS: Of the 173 study patients, 41 (23.7%) presented with restenosis with a median time to recurrence of 49 [37-150] days. The restenosis group was significantly younger (55.6 years versus 60.8 years), with a more prominent rectal location (80.5% versus 57.6%), a higher incidence of hand-sewn anastomosis (24.4% versus 5.3%), and a higher percentage of neoadjuvant radiotherapy (34.1% versus 5.3%, P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis indicated neoadjuvant radiotherapy (adjusted HR 2.48; 95% CI 1.03-5.95) and cerebral vascular disease (adjusted HR 6.97; 95% CI 2.15-22.54) as independent prognostic factors for restenosis. Fourteen patients (8.1%) required a permanent stoma due to treatment failure. All cases needing a permanent stoma were male (14 patients, 100%, P = 0.007) and this group had a higher rate of neoadjuvant radiotherapy, adjuvant chemotherapy, and hand-sewn anastomosis. CONCLUSION: Patients receiving neoadjuvant radiotherapy are most prone to restenosis after an EBD intervention to manage an anastomotic stricture. Neoadjuvant radiotherapy is also a strong risk factor for requiring a permanent stomas due to treatment failure.

Objective recovery time with end-to-side versus side-to-side anastomosis after laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for colon cancer: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Despite reports of the short-term benefits of end-to-side versus side-to-side anastomosis, we are aware of no prospective studies in which these methods were compared. We hypothesized the superiority of end-to-side over side-to-side anastomosis in terms of recovery after laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for colon cancer under an enhanced recovery program. METHODS: From September 2016 to August 2019, 130 patients were randomly allocated to receive end-to-side or side-to-side anastomosis at a single tertiary hospital in Korea. The primary outcome was the cumulative recovery rate seven days after surgery, defined as the percentage of patients who met all four recovery criteria: diet tolerance, no analgesia, safe ambulation, and an afebrile status. Student's t test, the Mann-Whitney U test, the χ2 test, and Fisher's exact test were used to compare variables, as applicable. RESULTS: The cumulative recovery rate at seven days did not differ between patients receiving end-to-side (92.3%, 60/65) or side-to-side anastomosis (92.3%, 60/65; P ≥ 0.999). The end-to-side and side-to-side groups had similar cumulative recovery rates at postoperative days 4, 5, and 6 (end-to-side vs. side-to-side: 41.5% vs 35.4%, P = 0.589; 73.8% vs 63.1%, P = 0.257; and 86.2% vs 81.5%, P = 0.634, respectively). None of the secondary endpoints differed for end-to-side vs. side-to-side anastomosis: the median length of postoperative hospitalization (5 [IQR 5-7] vs. 6 [IQR 5-7] days, respectively, P = 0.376), the 30-day complication rate (16.9% vs. 12.3%, respectively, P = 0.620), the enhanced recovery protocol failure rate (10.8% vs. 7.7%, respectively, P = 0.763), and the 30-day readmission rate (4.6% vs. 3.1%, respectively, P ≥ 0.999). CONCLUSIONS: End-to-side anastomosis was not superior to side-to-side anastomosis in terms of recovery criteria after laparoscopic right hemicolectomy. These findings do not provide evidence for a functional advantage of end-to-side compared to side-to-side anastomosis.

Oncologic safety of laparoscopic surgery after metallic stent insertion for obstructive left-sided colorectal cancer: a multicenter comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Self-expanding metallic stents (SEMSs) are used as a bridge to surgery in patients with obstructive colorectal cancer. However, the role of laparoscopic resection after successful stent deployment is not well established. We aimed to compare the oncologic outcomes of laparoscopic vs open surgery after successful colonic stent deployment in patients with obstructive left-sided colorectal cancer. METHODS: In this multicenter study, 179 (97 laparoscopy, 82 open surgery) patients with obstructive left-sided colorectal cancer who underwent radical resection with curative intent after successful stent deployment were retrospectively reviewed. To minimize bias, we used inverse probability treatment-weighted propensity score analysis. The short- and long-term outcomes between the groups were compared. RESULTS: Both groups had similar demographic and tumor characteristics. The operation time was longer, but the degree of blood loss was lower in the laparoscopy than in the open surgery group. There were nine (9.3%) open conversions. After adjustment, the groups showed similar patient and tumor characteristics. The 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) (laparoscopic vs open: 68.7% vs 48.5%, p = 0.230) and overall survival (OS) (laparoscopic vs open: 79.1% vs 69.0%, p = 0.200) estimates did not differ significantly across a median follow-up duration of 50.5 months. Advanced stage disease (DFS: hazard ratio [HR] 1.825, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.072-3.107; OS: HR 2.441, 95% CI 1.216-4.903) and post-operative chemotherapy omission (DFS: HR 2.529, 95% CI 1.481-4.319; OS: HR 2.666, 95% CI 1.370-5.191) were associated with relatively worse long-term outcomes. CONCLUSION: Stent insertion followed by laparoscopy with curative intent is safe and feasible; the addition of post-operative chemotherapy should be considered after successful treatment.

Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Astaxanthin on Gastrointestinal Diseases.

A moderate amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is produced under normal conditions, where they play an important role in cell signaling and are involved in many aspects of the immune response to pathogens. On the other hand, the excessive production of ROS destructs macromolecules, cell membranes, and DNA, and activates pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, which may lead to various pathologic conditions. Gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa is constantly exposed to ROS due to the presence of bacteria and other infectious pathogens in food, as well as alcohol consumption, smoking, and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). Prolonged excessive oxidative stress and inflammation are two major risk factors for GI disorders such as ulcers and cancers. Bioactive food compounds with potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity have been tested in experimental GI disease models to evaluate their therapeutic potential. Astaxanthin (AST) is a fat-soluble xanthophyll carotenoid that is naturally present in algae, yeast, salmon, shrimp, and krill. It has been shown that AST exhibits protective effects against GI diseases via multiple mechanisms. Residing at the surface and inside of cell membranes, AST directly neutralizes ROS and lipid peroxyl radicals, enhances the activity of anti-oxidant enzymes, and suppresses pro-inflammatory transcription factors and cytokines. In addition, AST has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth and metastasis via modulating cell proliferation-related pathways, apoptosis, and autophagy. Considering the potential benefits of AST in GI diseases, this review paper aims to summarize recent advances in AST research, focusing on its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects against gastric and intestinal ulcers and cancers.

Extent of Pedigree Required to Screen for and Diagnose Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer: Comparison of Simplified and Extended Pedigrees.

BACKGROUND: Obtaining an accurate pedigree is the first step in recognizing a patient with hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer, or Lynch syndrome. However, lack of standardization of the degree of relationship included in the pedigrees generally limits obtaining a complete and/or accurate pedigree. DESIGN: This study analyzed the extent of pedigree required to screen for colorectal cancer and to diagnose Lynch syndrome. SETTINGS: The study was conducted at 2 tertiary care centers. PATIENTS: A detailed family history was obtained from patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer from 2003 to 2016. A simplified pedigree that included only first-degree relatives was obtained and compared with the extended pedigree. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The eligibility of the 2 pedigrees was assessed for each proband. The proportion of patients who would be missed using a simplified rather than an extended pedigree was calculated based on the American Cancer Society guidelines for recommending screening for colorectal cancer, on the revised Bethesda guidelines and the revised suspected hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer criteria for screening for hereditary colorectal cancer, and on the Amsterdam II criteria for diagnosis of Lynch syndrome. RESULTS: The study examined 2015 families, including 41,826 individuals. Use of simplified and extended pedigrees was comparable in screening for colorectal cancer, with ratios of 183 of 185 (98.9%) for American Cancer Society guidelines, 295 of 295 (100%) for revised Bethesda guidelines, and 60 of 60 (100%) for revised suspected hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer criteria. However, the use of simplified pedigrees missed a definitive diagnosis of Lynch syndrome in 6 of 10 patients fulfilling Amsterdam II criteria based on extended pedigrees. The mean ages at diagnosis of the 4 probands included and the 6 missed using simplified pedigrees differed significantly (60.8 vs 38.2 y). LIMITATIONS: The study was limited by its recall bias, cross-sectional nature, lack of germline testing, and potential inapplicability to the general population. CONCLUSIONS: A simplified pedigree is acceptable for selecting candidates to screen for hereditary colorectal cancer, whereas an extended pedigree is still required for a more precise diagnosis of Lynch syndrome, especially in younger patients. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B97. EXTENSIÓN DE PEDIGREE REQUERIDO EN LA DETECCIÓN Y DIAGNÓSTICO DE CÁNCER COLORRECTAL HEREDITARIO SIN POLIPOSIS: COMPARACIÓN DE LOS PEDIGREES SIMPLIFICADO Y EL EXTENDIDO: La obtención de un Pedigree exacto es el primer paso para reconocer un paciente con cáncer colorrectal hereditario sin poliposis o síndrome de Lynch. Sin embargo, la falta de estandarización del grado de relación incluido en los Pedigrees generalmente limita la obtención de un Pedigree completo y / o preciso.Este estudio analizó el grado de Pedigree requerido para detectar el cáncer colorrectal y diagnosticar el síndrome de Lynch.Se obtuvo una historia familiar detallada de pacientes sometidos a cirugía por cáncer colorrectal desde 2003 hasta 2016. Se obtuvo también un Pedigree simplificado que incluía solo familiares de primer grado y se comparó con el Pedigree extendido.La elegibilidad de los dos Pedigrees se evaluó para cada sujeto de prueba (proband). La proporción de pacientes que se perderían usando un Pedigree simplificado en lugar de extendido se calculó en base a las guías de la Sociedad Americana del Cáncer y sus recomendaciones en la detección de cáncer colorrectal, en las pautas revisadas de Bethesda y en los criterios revisados de cáncer colorrectal hereditario sin poliposis para la detección hereditaria de cáncer colorrectal y según las normas de Amsterdam II para el diagnóstico del síndrome de Lynch.El estudio examinó a 2.015 familias, incluidas 41.826 personas. El uso de Pedigree simplificado y extendido fue comparable en la detección del cáncer colorrectal, con proporciones de 183/185 (98,9%) comparadas con las recomendaciones de la American Cancer Society, 295/295 (100%) para las pautas revisadas de Bethesda y 60/60 (100%) para los criterios revisados de sospecha de cáncer colorrectal hereditario sin poliposis. Sin embargo, el uso de Pedigree simplificado omitió un diagnóstico definitivo del síndrome de Lynch en 6 de diez pacientes que cumplían las normas de Amsterdam II basados en Pedigrees extendidos. Las edades medias al diagnóstico de los cuatro sujetos de prueba incluidos y los seis perdidos usando el Pedigree simplificado diferían significativamente (60.8 vs. 38.2 años).Un Pedigre simplificado es aceptable en la selección de candidatos para la detección de cáncer colorrectal hereditario, mientras que aún se requiere un Pedigree extendido para un diagnóstico más preciso de síndrome de Lynch, especialmente en pacientes más jóvenes. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B97. (Traducción-Dr. Edgar Xavier Delgadillo).

Is elevated microsatellite alterations at selected tetranucleotide repeats (EMAST)-negative/MSI-high colorectal cancer a distinct subtype of the disease?

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Microsatellite instability (MSI) plays a prognostic and predictive role in colorectal cancer (CRC). Elevated microsatellite alterations at selected tetranucleotide repeats (EMAST), a novel type of MSI, was recently identified. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of a prospective cohort database was performed. Patients who attempted curative surgery for MSI-high (MSI-H) CRC and had available testing results of EMAST were included for analysis. The difference in clinical characteristics, immunohistochemistry profile, and 3-year recurrence-free and overall survival between EMAST-negative and EMAST-positive tumors was measured. RESULTS: EMAST status was successfully evaluated in 86 cases among patients who received EMAST testing, and only 16.3% (14/86) of these patients were EMAST-negative/MSI-H. Patients with EMAST-negative tumors were younger; their tumors exhibited well differentiation, less venous invasion, and greater mutS homolog 3 expression. There was no distant metastasis or cancer-specific death among EMAST-negative patients. Yet no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in 3-year overall or recurrence-free survival. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with EMAST-negative/MSI-H CRC seem to have different clinicopathological characteristics. Future large-scale studies could clarify the role of EMAST genotype as a sub-classifier of MSI-H CRC.

Surgical outcomes according to the type of monopolar electrocautery device used in laparoscopic surgery for right colon cancer: a comparison of endo-hook versus endo-shears.

BACKGROUND: Although monopolar electrocautery is preferred by many laparoscopic surgeons and is more cost-effective than bipolar or ultrasonic scissors, few studies have compared these outcomes between different monopolar electrocautery devices used in laparoscopic surgery. Therefore, this study compared the surgical outcomes between monopolar endo-hook versus endo-shears during laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for right colon cancer. METHODS: Using a prospective database of patients treated at our institute, we analyzed the surgical outcomes of 358 consecutive patients with right colon cancer who underwent curative laparoscopic surgery with a monopolar endo-hook (n = 164) or endo-shears (n = 194) between March 2009 and March 2017. RESULTS: There were no differences in age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists' grade, previous operative history, or clinical stage between the endo-hook and endo-shears groups. The estimated blood loss was similar between the endo-hook and endo-shears groups (90.9 ± 60.3 vs. 92.0 ± 89.3 mL; P = 0.893). The number of harvested lymph nodes was greater in the endo-hook group (53.5 ± 20.3 vs. 48.1 ± 18.5; P = 0.008). Hospital stay was shorter in the endo-hook group (6.8 ± 2.2 vs. 7.8 ± 4.8 days; P = 0.013). Although chylous ascites was more frequent in the endo-hook group (21.3% vs. 7.7%, P < 0.001), the postoperative morbidity rate was lower in this group (9.8% vs. 18.0%; P = 0.025). All instances of chylous ascites healed spontaneously without intervention. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that the use of a monopolar endo-hook during laparoscopic right hemicolectomy might permit more meticulous lymph-node dissection and reduce morbidity compared with the use of monopolar endo-shears. Therefore, we suggest that the outcomes of laparoscopic surgery might be associated with the type of electrocautery device used.

Hepatic ZIP14-mediated zinc transport is required for adaptation to endoplasmic reticulum stress.

Extensive endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress damages the liver, causing apoptosis and steatosis despite the activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR). Restriction of zinc from cells can induce ER stress, indicating that zinc is essential to maintain normal ER function. However, a role for zinc during hepatic ER stress is largely unknown despite important roles in metabolic disorders, including obesity and nonalcoholic liver disease. We have explored a role for the metal transporter ZIP14 during pharmacologically and high-fat diet-induced ER stress using Zip14-/- (KO) mice, which exhibit impaired hepatic zinc uptake. Here, we report that ZIP14-mediated hepatic zinc uptake is critical for adaptation to ER stress, preventing sustained apoptosis and steatosis. Impaired hepatic zinc uptake in Zip14 KO mice during ER stress coincides with greater expression of proapoptotic proteins. ER stress-induced Zip14 KO mice show greater levels of hepatic steatosis due to higher expression of genes involved in de novo fatty acid synthesis, which are suppressed in ER stress-induced WT mice. During ER stress, the UPR-activated transcription factors ATF4 and ATF6α transcriptionally up-regulate Zip14 expression. We propose ZIP14 mediates zinc transport into hepatocytes to inhibit protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) activity, which acts to suppress apoptosis and steatosis associated with hepatic ER stress. Zip14 KO mice showed greater hepatic PTP1B activity during ER stress. These results show the importance of zinc trafficking and functional ZIP14 transporter activity for adaptation to ER stress associated with chronic metabolic disorders.

Resting vector volume measured before ileostomy reversal may be a predictor of major fecal incontinence in patients with mid or low rectal cancer: a longitudinal cohort study using a prospective clinical database.

PURPOSE: Despite a high incidence of fecal incontinence following sphincter-preservation surgery (SPS), there are no definitive factors measured before ileostomy reversal that predict fecal incontinence. We investigated whether vector volume anorectal manometry before ileostomy reversal predicts major fecal incontinence following SPS in patients with mid or low rectal cancer. METHODS: This longitudinal prospective cohort study comprised 173 patients who underwent vector volume anorectal manometry before ileostomy reversal. The Fecal Incontinence Severity Index was measured 1 year after the primary SPS and classified as major incontinence (FISI score ≥ 25) or continent/minor incontinence (FISI score < 25). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of major incontinence. RESULTS: Ninety-two patients (53.1%) had major incontinence. Although tumor stage, location, and neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy were comparable, the major incontinence group had lower resting pressure (28.4 vs. 34.3 mmHg, P = 0.027), greater asymmetry at rest (39.1% vs. 34.1%, P = 0.002) and squeezing (34.2% vs. 31.4%, P = 0.046), shorter sphincter length (3.3 vs. 3.7 cm, P = 0.034), and lower resting vector volume (143,601 vs. 278,922 mmHg2 mm, P < 0.001) compared with the continent/minor incontinence group. Resting vector volume was the only independent predictor of major incontinence (odds ratio = 0.675 per 100,000 mmHg2 mm, 95% confidence interval, 0.532-0.823; P = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that resting vector volume before ileostomy reversal may predict major fecal incontinence. We suggest that the physiology of the anorectum should be discussed with patients before ileostomy reversal in patients at high risk of fecal incontinence.

Metal Transporter Zip14 (Slc39a14) Deletion in Mice Increases Manganese Deposition and Produces Neurotoxic Signatures and Diminished Motor Activity.

Mutations in human ZIP14 have been linked to symptoms of the early onset of Parkinsonism and Dystonia. This phenotype is likely related to excess manganese accumulation in the CNS. The metal transporter ZIP14 (SLC39A14) is viewed primarily as a zinc transporter that is inducible via proinflammatory stimuli. In vitro evidence shows that ZIP14 can also transport manganese. To examine a role for ZIP14 in manganese homeostasis, we used Zip14 knock-out (KO) male and female mice to conduct comparative metabolic, imaging, and functional studies. Manganese accumulation was fourfold to fivefold higher in brains of Zip14 KO mice compared with young adult wild-type mice. There was less accumulation of subcutaneously administered 54Mn in the liver, gallbladder, and gastrointestinal tract of the KO mice, suggesting that manganese elimination is impaired with Zip14 ablation. Impaired elimination creates the opportunity for atypical manganese accumulation in tissues, including the brain. The intensity of MR images from brains of the Zip14 KO mice is indicative of major manganese accumulation. In agreement with excessive manganese accumulation was the impaired motor function observed in the Zip14 KO mice. These results also demonstrate that ZIP14 is not essential for manganese uptake by the brain. Nevertheless, the upregulation of signatures of brain injury observed in the Zip14 KO mice demonstrates that normal ZIP14 function is an essential factor required to prevent manganese-linked neurodegeneration.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Manganese is an essential micronutrient. When acquired in excess, manganese accumulates in tissues of the CNS and is associated with neurodegenerative disease, particularly Parkinson-like syndrome and dystonia. Some members of the ZIP metal transporter family transport manganese. Using mutant mice deficient in the ZIP14 metal transporter, we have discovered that ZIP14 is essential for manganese elimination via the gastrointestinal tract, and a lack of ZIP14 results in manganese accumulation in critical tissues such as the brain, as measured by MRI, and produces signatures of brain injury and impaired motor function. Humans with altered ZIP14 function would lack this gatekeeper function of ZIP14 and therefore would be prone to manganese-related neurological diseases.

The prognostic implications of primary tumor location on recurrence in early-stage colorectal cancer with no associated risk factors.

PURPOSE: Recently, several reports have suggested that tumor location serves as a prognostic biomarker in advanced colorectal cancer. However, the prognostic implication of tumor location in patients with early-stage colorectal cancer remains unclear. This study was aimed to examine the prognostic implication of tumor location in patients with early-stage colorectal cancer. METHODS: Patients with stage I and low-risk stage II colorectal cancer, treated with radical surgery in a hospital setting between May 2003 and September 2014, were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who underwent (neo) adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy and whose microsatellite instability (MSI) status was lacked were excluded. Distal colon cancer was defined as tumors located from the splenic flexure colon to the sigmoid colon. RESULTS: A total of 712 patients were included in this study. Of these patients, 23 (3.2%) had a recurrence at a median follow-up time of 46 months. The tumor recurrence rate was significantly low in patients with proximal colon cancer. In the multivariate analysis, tumors located in the distal colon or rectum (distal colon, hazard ratio [HR] 9.213, P = 0.035; rectum, HR 15.366, P = 0.009) and T3 tumors (HR 4.590, P = 0.017) were related to tumor recurrence. A higher prevalence of tumor recurrence was found in patients with two recurrence factors than those who had only one factor or none (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Tumor location, as well as T stage, had prognostic implication in patients with early-stage colorectal cancer. Validation of our results is needed in a large cohort with genetic characterization.

Hepatic ZIP14-mediated Zinc Transport Contributes to Endosomal Insulin Receptor Trafficking and Glucose Metabolism.

Zinc influences signaling pathways through controlled targeted zinc transport. Zinc transporter Zip14 KO mice display a phenotype that includes impaired intestinal barrier function with low grade chronic inflammation, hyperinsulinemia, and increased body fat, which are signatures of diet-induced diabetes (type 2 diabetes) and obesity in humans. Hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes and obesity is caused by insulin resistance. Insulin resistance results in inhibition of glucose uptake by liver and other peripheral tissues, principally adipose and muscle and with concurrently higher hepatic glucose production. Therefore, modulation of hepatic glucose metabolism is an important target for antidiabetic treatment approaches. We demonstrate that during glucose uptake, cell surface abundance of zinc transporter ZIP14 and mediated zinc transport increases. Zinc is distributed to multiple sites in hepatocytes through sequential translocation of ZIP14 from plasma membrane to early and late endosomes. Endosomes from Zip14 KO mice were zinc-deficient because activities of the zinc-dependent insulin-degrading proteases insulin-degrading enzyme and cathepsin D were impaired; hence insulin receptor activity increased. Transient increases in cytosolic zinc levels are concurrent with glucose uptake and suppression of glycogen synthesis. In contrast, Zip14 KO mice exhibited greater hepatic glycogen synthesis and impaired gluconeogenesis and glycolysis related to low cytosolic zinc levels. We can conclude that ZIP14-mediated zinc transport contributes to regulation of endosomal insulin receptor activity and glucose homeostasis in hepatocytes. Therefore, modulation of ZIP14 transport activity presents a new target for management of diabetes and other glucose-related disorders.

The Roles of Glutamine in the Intestine and Its Implication in Intestinal Diseases.

Glutamine, the most abundant free amino acid in the human body, is a major substrate utilized by intestinal cells. The roles of glutamine in intestinal physiology and management of multiple intestinal diseases have been reported. In gut physiology, glutamine promotes enterocyte proliferation, regulates tight junction proteins, suppresses pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, and protects cells against apoptosis and cellular stresses during normal and pathologic conditions. As glutamine stores are depleted during severe metabolic stress including trauma, sepsis, and inflammatory bowel diseases, glutamine supplementation has been examined in patients to improve their clinical outcomes. In this review, we discuss the physiological roles of glutamine for intestinal health and its underlying mechanisms. In addition, we discuss the current evidence for the efficacy of glutamine supplementation in intestinal diseases.

Dietary Zinc Regulates Apoptosis through the Phosphorylated Eukaryotic Initiation Factor 2α/Activating Transcription Factor-4/C/EBP-Homologous Protein Pathway during Pharmacologically Induced Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Livers of Mice.

BACKGROUND: Several in vitro studies have shown that zinc deficiency could induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, resulting in activation of the unfolded protein response. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine whether consumption of a zinc-deficient diet (ZnD) triggers ER stress and to understand the impact of dietary zinc intake on ER stress-induced apoptosis using a mouse model. METHODS: Young adult (8-16 wk of age) male mice of strain C57BL/6 were fed either a ZnD (<1 mg/kg diet), or a zinc-adequate diet (ZnA; 30 mg/kg diet). After 2 wk, liver, pancreas, and serum samples were collected and analyzed for indexes of ER stress. In another experiment, mice were fed either a ZnD, a ZnA, or a zinc-supplementation diet (ZnS; 180 mg/kg diet). After 2 wk, vehicle or tunicamycin (TM; 2 mg/kg body weight) was administered to mice to model ER stress. Liver and serum were analyzed for indexes of ER stress to evaluate the effects of zinc status. RESULTS: Mice fed a ZnD did not activate the apoptotic and ER stress markers in the liver or pancreas. During the TM challenge, mice fed a ZnD showed greater C/EBP-homologous protein expression in the liver (3.8-fold, P < 0.01) than did ZnA-fed mice. TM-treated mice fed a ZnD also had greater terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling-positive cells in the liver (2.2-fold, P < 0.05), greater hepatic triglyceride accumulation (1.5-fold, P < 0.05), greater serum alanine aminotransferase activity (1.6-fold, P < 0.05), and greater protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B activity (1.5-fold, P < 0.05), respectively, than did those fed a ZnA. No significant differences were observed in these parameters between mice fed ZnAs and ZnSs. CONCLUSIONS: Consumption of a ZnD per se is not a critical factor for induction of ER stress in mice; however, once ER stress is triggered, adequate dietary zinc intake is required for suppressing apoptotic cell death and further insults in the liver of mice.

Glutamine deprivation induces interleukin-8 expression in ataxia telangiectasia fibroblasts.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether glutamine deprivation induces expression of inflammatory cytokine interleukin-8 (IL-8) by determining NF-κB activity and levels of oxidative indices (ROS, reactive oxygen species; hydrogen peroxide; GSH, glutathione) in fibroblasts isolated from patients with ataxia telangiectasia (A-T). MATERIALS: We used A-T fibroblasts stably transfected with empty vector (Mock) or with human full-length ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) cDNA (YZ5) and mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) transiently transfected with ATM small interfering RNA (siRNA) or with non-specific control siRNA. TREATMENT: The cells were cultured with or without glutamine or GSH. METHODS: ROS levels were determined using a fluorescence reader and confocal microscopy. IL-8 or murine IL-8 homolog, keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC), and hydrogen peroxide levels in the medium were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and colorimetric assay. GSH level was assessed by enzymatic assay, while IL-8 (KC) mRNA level was measured by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and/or quantitative real-time PCR. NF-κB DNA-binding activity was determined by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Catalase activity and ATM protein levels were determined by O2 generation and Western blotting. RESULTS: While glutamine deprivation induced IL-8 expression and increased NF-κB DNA-binding activity in Mock cells, both processes were decreased by treatment of cells with glutamine or GSH or both glutamine and GSH. Glutamine deprivation had no effect on IL-8 expression or NF-κB DNA-binding activity in YZ5 cells. Glutamine-deprived Mock cells had higher oxidative stress indices (increases in ROS and hydrogen peroxide, reduction in GSH) than glutamine-deprived YZ5 cells. In Mock cells, glutamine deprivation-induced oxidative stress indices were suppressed by treatment with glutamine or GSH or both glutamine and GSH. GSH levels and catalase activity were lower in Mock cells than YZ5 cells. MEFs transfected with ATM siRNA and cultured without glutamine showed higher levels of ROS and IL-8 than those transfected with negative control siRNA; increased levels of ROS and IL-8 were suppressed by the treatment of glutamine. CONCLUSION: Glutamine deprivation induces ROS production, NF-κB activation, and IL-8 expression as well as a reduction in GSH in A-T fibroblasts, all of which are attenuated by glutamine supplementation.

SH2B1 Defends Against Energy Imbalance, Obesity, and Metabolic Disease via a Paraventricular Hypothalamus→Dorsal Raphe Nucleus Neurocircuit.

SH2B1 mutations are associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in humans. Global deletion of Sh2b1 results in severe obesity, type 2 diabetes, and MASLD in mice. Neuron-specific restoration of SH2B1 rescues the obesity phenotype of Sh2b1-null mice, indicating that the brain is a main SH2B1 target. However, SH2B1 neurocircuits remain elusive. SH2B1-expressing neurons in the paraventricular hypothalamus (PVHSH2B1) and a PVHSH2B1→dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) neurocircuit are identified here. PVHSH2B1 axons monosynaptically innervate DRN neurons. Optogenetic stimulation of PVHSH2B1 axonal fibers in the DRN suppresses food intake. Chronic inhibition of PVHSH2B1 neurons causes obesity. In male and female mice, either embryonic-onset or adult-onset deletion of Sh2b1 in PVH neurons causes energy imbalance, obesity, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and MASLD. Ablation of Sh2b1 in the DRN-projecting PVHSH2B1 subpopulation also causes energy imbalance, obesity, and metabolic disorders. Conversely, SH2B1 overexpression in either total or DRN-projecting PVHSH2B1 neurons protects against diet-induced obesity. SH2B1 binds to TrkB and enhances brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling. Ablation of Sh2b1 in PVHSH2B1 neurons induces BDNF resistance in the PVH, contributing to obesity. In conclusion, these results unveil a previously unrecognized PVHSH2B1→DRN neurocircuit through which SH2B1 defends against obesity by enhancing BDNF/TrkB signaling.

Complete Obstruction, a Real Risk Factor: A Comprehensive Study on Obstruction in Stage IIA Colon Cancer With Propensity Score Matching Analysis.

MICROABSTRACT: This study evaluates the prognostic significance of obstructions in stage IIA colon cancer, distinguishing between partial and complete obstructions. It employs a retrospective review of 1914 patients with propensity score matching to analyze oncologic outcomes. Findings reveal complete obstruction as a significant risk factor for poorer outcomes, emphasizing the necessity for further research to refine treatment strategies, particularly regarding the efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy across obstruction types. BACKGROUND: This study examined the prognostic impact of obstructions in stage IIA colon cancer. The analysis specifically differentiated partial and complete obstructions, analyzing their distinct influences of both on oncologic outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of stage IIA colon cancer cases with the presence of an obstruction. Patients were stratified by whether it was partial or complete based on the severity of obstruction. Propensity score matching was employed to control for confounders. RESULTS: Among 1914 consecutive patients diagnosed with stage IIA colon cancer, 758 patients (597 patients with partial obstruction, 161 patients with complete obstruction) exhibited obstruction, while 1156 patients had no obstruction. The median follow-up period was 126 months. Complete obstruction was associated with poorer disease-free survival (Hazard ratio (HR) = 1.785, P < .001) and overall survival (HR = 1.853, P = .001). This trend persisted after propensity score matching, patients with complete obstruction showing a worsened disease-free survival (HR = 1.666, P = .028) and overall survival (HR = 1.732, P = .041). Adjuvant chemotherapy showed improved outcomes overall, but its efficacy varied across obstruction types. CONCLUSION: Differentiating between complete and partial obstructions in stage IIA colon cancer is an important clinical distinction, as our findings suggest that complete obstruction is a significant risk factor for poorer oncologic outcomes. While adjuvant chemotherapy generally improves prognosis in stage IIA colon cancer, the correlation of obstruction type with its efficacy remains uncertain, necessitating further research to refine treatment strategies.

Universal Screening for Lynch Syndrome Compared with Pedigree-Based Screening: 10-Year Experience in a Tertiary Hospital.

PURPOSE: Universal screening for Lynch syndrome (LS) refers to routine tumor testing for microsatellite instability (MSI) among all patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite its widespread adoption, real-world data on the yield is lacking in Korean population. We studied the yield of adopting universal screening for LS in comparison with pedigree-based screening in a tertiary center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: CRC patients from 2007-2018 were reviewed. Family histories were obtained and were evaluated for hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) using Amsterdam II criteria. Tumor testing for MSI began in 2007 and genetic testing was offered using all available clinicopathologic data. Yield of genetic testing for LS was compared for each approach and step. RESULTS: Of the 5,520 patients, tumor testing was performed in 4,701 patients (85.2%) and family histories were obtained from 4,241 patients (76.8%). Hereditary CRC (LS or HNPCC) was present in 69 patients (1.3%). MSI-high was present in 6.9%, and 25 patients had confirmed LS. Genetic testing was performed in 41.2% (47/114) of MSI-high patients, out of which 40.4% (19/47) were diagnosed with LS. There were six additional LS patients found outside of tumor testing. For pedigree-based screening, Amsterdam II criteria diagnosed 55 patients with HNPCC. Fifteen of these patients underwent genetic testing, and 11 (73.3%) were diagnosed with LS. Two patients without prior family history were diagnosed with LS and relied solely on tumor testing results. CONCLUSION: Despite widespread adoption of routine tumor testing for MSI, this is not a fail-safe approach to screen all LS patients. Obtaining a thorough family history in combination with universal screening provides a more comprehensive 'universal' screening method for LS.

LepRb+ cell-specific deletion of Slug mitigates obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in mice.

Leptin exerts its biological actions by activating the long-form leptin receptor (LepRb). LepRb signaling impairment and leptin resistance are believed to cause obesity. The transcription factor Slug - also known as Snai2 - recruits epigenetic modifiers and regulates gene expression by an epigenetic mechanism; however, its epigenetic action has not been explored in leptin resistance. Here, we uncover a proobesity function of neuronal Slug. Hypothalamic Slug was upregulated in obese mice. LepRb+ cell-specific Slug-knockout (SlugΔLepRb) mice were resistant to diet-induced obesity, type 2 diabetes, and liver steatosis and experienced decreased food intake and increased fat thermogenesis. Leptin stimulated hypothalamic Stat3 phosphorylation and weight loss to a markedly higher level in SlugΔLepRb than in Slugfl/fl mice, even before their body weight divergence. Conversely, hypothalamic LepRb+ neuron-specific overexpression of Slug, mediated by AAV-hSyn-DIO-Slug transduction, induced leptin resistance, obesity, and metabolic disorders in mice on a chow diet. At the genomic level, Slug bound to and repressed the LepRb promoter, thereby inhibiting LepRb transcription. Consistently, Slug deficiency decreased methylation of LepRb promoter H3K27, a repressive epigenetic mark, and increased LepRb mRNA levels in the hypothalamus. Collectively, these results unravel what we believe to be a previously unrecognized hypothalamic neuronal Slug/epigenetic reprogramming/leptin resistance axis that promotes energy imbalance, obesity, and metabolic disease.