TGF-ß1 mediates cell proliferation and development of hepatocarcinogenesis by downregulating deiodinase 1 expression.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver tumor. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is an endocrine disruptor and a liver tumor promoter. Deregulation of thyroid hormone (TH) homeostasis may play a significant role in early neoplastic transformation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relation between TH metabolism and the regulation of cell growth in an in vivo and in vitro model. We examined the role of transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) on TH deiodinase expression and hepatocyte proliferation. An initiation (DEN)/promotion (HCB) tumor model from rat liver and HepG2 cells were used. We evaluated PCNA, p21, p27, SMAD2/3, TGF-ß1, deiodinase 1 (D1), D3, protein expression levels; D1 and D3 mRNA expression; TH and TGF-ß1, D1, D3, and GST-P protein levels in focal/non-focal areas. In vivo, HCB decreased triiodothyronine (T3) and D1 mRNA levels and increased thyroxine (T4) and D3 mRNA levels in liver from DEN+HCB vs. DEN group. HCB increased protein levels from D3, TGF-ß1, and PCNA and decreased D1 in focal-areas. In vitro, HCB increased PCNA, pSMAD 2/3, and TGF-ß1 protein levels and mRNA expression and decreased p21 and p27 protein levels. Exogenous T3 treatment prevent HCB induced molecular alterations related to hepatocyte proliferation whereas T4 did not have any effect. These effects were prevented by using a TGF-ß1 receptor II inhibitor. Results suggest that alteration of TH homeostasis, through D1 function, play a key role in hepatocyte proliferation and that TGF-ß1-SMAD pathway is involved in this process confirming their role in early neoplastic transformation in HCC.

El hepatocarcinoma (HCC) es un tumor hepático primario. El hexaclorobenceno (HCB) es un disruptor endocrino y un promotor de tumores hepáticos. La desregulación de la homeostasis de las hormonas tiroideas (HT) puede ser un proceso importante para la transformación neoplásica temprana. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar la relación entre el metabolismo de las HT y la regulación de la proliferación celular. Se utilizó un modelo tumoral de iniciación (DEN)/promoción (HCB) de hígado de rata (in vivo) (DEN/HCB) y células HepG2 (in vitro). Evaluamos los niveles de PCNA, p21, p27, SMAD2/3, TGF-ß1, D1, D3, ARNm de D1 y D3, HT y los niveles de TGF-ß1, D1, D3 y GST-P en áreas focales/no focales. In vivo, HCB disminuyó los niveles de T3 y ARNm de la D1 y aumentó los niveles de T4 y ARNm de D3 del grupo DEN + HCB frente al grupo DEN. El HCB aumentó los niveles de D3, TGF-ß1 y PCNA y disminuyó el D1 en las áreas focales. In vitro, HCB aumentó los niveles de PCNA, pSMAD 2/3 y TGF-ß1 y la expresión de ARNm mientras que disminuyó los niveles de p21 y p27. El tratamiento con T3 exógeno previno las alteraciones moleculares relacionadas con la proliferación hepatocitaria. Estos efectos se evitaron utilizando un inhibidor del receptor II de TGF-ß1. Los resultados sugieren que la alteración de la homeostasis de HT, a través de la D1 y la vía TGF-ß1-SMAD, juega un papel clave en la proliferación celular y en las transformaciones neoplásicas tempranas en el HCC.

TGF-ß1 mediates cell proliferation and development of hepatocarcinogenesis by downregulating deiodinase 1 expression / La desregularización de la deiodinasa 1, mediada por TGF-b1, impulsa la proliferación celular y el desarrollo de hepatogénesis

Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver tumor. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is an endocrine disruptor and a liver tumor promoter. Deregulation of thyroid hormone (TH) homeostasis may play a significant role in early neoplastic transformation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relation between TH metabolism and the regulation of cell growth in an in vivo and in vitro model. We examined the role of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) on TH deiodinase expression and hepatocyte proliferation. An initiation (DEN)/promotion (HCB) tumor model from rat liver and HepG2 cells were used. We evaluated PCNA, p21, p27, SMAD2/3, TGF-β1, deiodinase 1 (D1), D3, protein expression levels; D1 and D3 mRNA expression; TH and TGF-β1, D1, D3, and GST-P protein levels in focal/non-focal areas. In vivo, HCB decreased triiodothyronine (T3) and D1 mRNA levels and increased thyroxine (T4) and D3 mRNA levels in liver from DEN+HCB vs. DEN group. HCB increased protein levels from D3, TGF-β1, and PCNA and decreased D1 in focal-areas. In vitro, HCB increased PCNA, pSMAD 2/3, and TGF-β1 protein levels and mRNA expression and decreased p21 and p27 protein levels. Exogenous T3 treatment prevent HCB induced molecular alterations related to hepatocyte proliferation whereas T4 did not have any effect. These effects were prevented by using a TGF-β1 receptor II inhibitor. Results suggest that alteration of TH homeostasis, through D1 function, play a key role in hepatocyte proliferation and that TGF-β1-SMAD pathway is involved in this process confirming their role in early neoplastic transformation in HCC.

Resumen El hepatocarcinoma (HCC) es un tumor hepático primario. El hexaclorobenceno (HCB) es un disruptor endocrino y un promotor de tumores hepáticos. La desregulación de la homeostasis de las hormonas tiroideas (HT) puede ser un proceso importante para la transformación neoplásica temprana. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar la relación entre el metabolismo de las HT y la regulación de la prolifera ción celular. Se utilizó un modelo tumoral de iniciación (DEN)/promoción (HCB) de hígado de rata (in vivo) (DEN/ HCB) y células HepG2 (in vitro). Evaluamos los niveles de PCNA, p21, p27, SMAD2/3, TGF-β1, D1, D3, ARNm de D1 y D3, HT y los niveles de TGF-β1, D1, D3 y GST-P en áreas focales/no focales. In vivo, HCB disminuyó los niveles de T3 y ARNm de la D1 y aumentó los niveles de T4 y ARNm de D3 del grupo DEN + HCB frente al grupo DEN. El HCB aumentó los niveles de D3, TGF-β1 y PCNA y disminuyó el D1 en las áreas focales. In vitro, HCB aumentó los niveles de PCNA, pSMAD 2/3 y TGF-β1 y la expresión de ARNm mientras que disminuyó los niveles de p21 y p27. El tratamiento con T3 exógeno previno las alteraciones moleculares relacionadas con la proliferación hepatocitaria. Estos efectos se evitaron utilizando un inhibidor del receptor II de TGF-β1. Los resultados sugieren que la alteración de la homeostasis de HT, a través de la D1 y la vía TGF-β1-SMAD, juega un papel clave en la proliferación celular y en las transformaciones neoplásicas tempranas en el HCC.

Impact of endocrine disruptor hexachlorobenzene on the mammary gland and breast cancer: The story thus far.

Breast cancer incidence is increasing globally and exposure to endocrine disruptors has gained importance as a potential risk factor. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) was once used as a fungicide and, despite being banned, considerable amounts are still released into the environment. HCB acts as an endocrine disruptor in thyroid, uterus and mammary gland and was classified as possibly carcinogenic to human. This review provides a thorough analysis of results obtained in the last 15 years of research and evaluates data from assays in mammary gland and breast cancer in diverse animal models. We discuss the effects of environmentally relevant HCB concentrations on the normal mammary gland and different stages of carcinogenesis, and attempt to elucidate its mechanisms of action at molecular level. HCB weakly binds to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), activating both membrane (c-Src) and nuclear pathways. Through c-Src stimulation, AhR signaling interacts with other membrane receptors including estrogen receptor-α, insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor and transforming growth factor beta 1 receptors. In this way, several pathways involved in mammary morphogenesis and breast cancer development are modified, inducing tumor progression. HCB thus stimulates epithelial cell proliferation, preneoplastic lesions and alterations in mammary gland development as well as neoplastic cell migration and invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis in breast cancer. In conclusion, our findings support the hypothesis that the presence and bioaccumulation of HCB in high-fat tissues and during highly sensitive time windows such as pregnancy, childhood and adolescence make exposure a risk factor for breast tumor development.

Potential Molecular Targets of Statins in the Prevention of Hepatocarcinogenesis.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents 90% of liver tumors. Statins, may reduce the incidence of various tumors, including HCC. Antitumoral activities may be mediated by changes in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-ß1) and thyroid hormones (TH) regulation. INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents 90% of liver tumors. Statins, may reduce the incidence of various tumors, including HCC. Antitumoral activities may be mediated by changes in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-ß1) and thyroid hormones (TH) regulation. Aim. The aim of our study is to establish the statins mechanism of action and the potential key molecules involved in an in vivo and in vitro HCC model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used two models: in vivo (in rats) using diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) to develop HCC. We analyzed cell proliferation parameters (proliferating cel nuclear antigen, PCNA) and cholesterol metabolism (hydroxy-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase, HMGCoAR). In vitro (Hep-G2 cells) we evaluated the effects of different doses of Atorvastatin (AT) and Simvastatin (SM) on HCB induced proliferation and analyzed proliferative parameters, cholesterol metabolism, TGF-ß1 mRNA, c-Src and TH levels. RESULTS: In vivo, we observed that cell proliferation significantly increased as well as cholesterol serum levels in rats treated with HCB. In vitro, we observed the same results on PCNA as in vivo. The statins prevented the increase in HMG-CoAR mRNA levels induced by HCB, reaching levels similar to controls at maximum doses: AT (30 µM), and SM (20 µM). Increases in PCNA, TGF-ß1, and pc-Src, and decreases in deiodinase I mRNA levels induced by HCB were not observed when cells were pre-treated with AT and SM at maximum doses. CONCLUSION: Statins can prevent the proliferative HCB effects on Hep-G2 cells. TGF-ß1, c-Src and TH may be the statins molecular targets in hepatocarcinogenesis.

El hexaclorobenceno como factor de riesgo en el cáncer de mama / Hexachlorobenzene as a risk factor in breast cancer

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a widespread environmental pollutant and an endocrine disruptor. Chronic exposure of humans to HCB elicits porphyria, neurologic symptoms, immune disorders and thyroid dysfunctions. It is a dioxin-like compound and a weak ligand of the AhR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor), a transcription factor that modulates genes related to detoxification, proliferation, migration and invasion. This study was carried out to revise the results of HCB action on mammary gland and breast cancer, summarizing the main ideas of its mechanism of action. HCB increases tumor development and active c-Src/EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) signaling pathways, while reducing tyrosine537-ER-alpha (estrogen receptor-alpha) phosphorylation, and promoting a phenotype with enhanced malignancy and lung metastasis in different animal models. In a rat mammary gland, HCB promotes an estrogenic microenvironment by activation of ER-alpha and Insulin/IGFs (insulin growth factors) pathways. HCB induces cell proliferation, promoting cell cycle progression and enhancing cyclin D1 expression and c-Src/p27 interaction in (ER-alpha) MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line. In (ER-alpha)(-) MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, the pesticide enhances cell migration and invasion as well as metalloproteases and TGF-beta1 (transformig growth factor-beta1) expression. In conclusion our current study suggests that alterations in the estrogenic microenvironment may influence the biological behavior of mammary gland or breast tumors, leading to preneoplastic lesions or enhanced malignancy, respectively. Our findings suggest that HCB may be a risk factor for human breast cancer progression.

El hexaclorobenceno (HCB) es un contaminante ambiental ampliamente distribuido y un desorganizador endocrino. Su exposición crónica en seres humanos produce porfiria, síntomas neurológicos, trastornos inmunitarios y disfunciones tiroideas. Es un agonista débil del receptor de hidrocarburos aromáticos (AhR), un factor de transcripción que modula genes relacionados con el metabolismo de xenobióticos, la proliferación, la migración y la invasión. Nuestro objetivo es revisar los efectos del HCB en la glándula mamaria y el cáncer mamario, resumiendo los principales mecanismos de acción. El HCB aumenta el desarrollo tumoral y activa vías de señalización de c-Src/receptor del factor de crecimiento epidérmico (EGFR), mientras que disminuye la fosforilación de tirosina 537/receptor de estrógenos alfa (RE-alfa), promoviendo un fenotipo de mayor malignidad y metástasis pulmonar en diferentes modelos con animales. En la glándula mamaria de rata genera un microambiente estrogénico por activación del RE-alfa y las vías de insulina/factores de crecimiento similares a la insulina (IGF). En células de cáncer mamario humanas MCF-7 (RE-alfa) induce proliferación celular, promoviendo la progresión del ciclo, aumentando la ciclina D1 y la interacción p27/c-Src. En MDA-MB-231 (-RE-alfa) estimula la migración e invasión, así como la expresión de metaloproteasas y factor de crecimiento transformante beta 1 (TGF-beta 1). Estos estudios indican que las alteraciones en el microambiente estrogénico podrían influir el comportamiento biológico de la glándula mamaria y los tumores, lo que provoca lesiones preneoplásicas o aumento en la malignidad tumoral mamaria. Nuestros hallazgos sugieren que el HCB podría ser un factor de riesgo para la progresión del cáncer de mama humano.

Environmental pollutant hexachlorobenzene induces hypertension in a rat model.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a dioxin-like environmental pollutant, widely distributed in the environment. New research links exposure to high levels of persistent organic environmental toxicants to cardiovascular disease, however little is known about the effect of HCB on vascular function and on blood pressure. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate biochemical and cardiovascular changes resulting from subchronic HCB exposure. Adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with vehicle or HCB (5 or 500 mg/kg b.w) for 45 days. Systolic blood pressure (BP), recorded by tail cuff plethysmography, was significantly increased at 35, 40 and 45 days of 500 mg/kg HCB-treatment. HCB (500 mg/kg) increased arterial thickness, while both 5 and 500 mg/kg HCB decreased proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein levels and cellular nuclei in abdominal aortas indicating a hypertrophic process. Also, aortas from both groups of HCB-treated rats presented higher sensitivity to noradrenalin (NA) and a significant decrease in maximum contractile response. Arteries from 500 mg/kg HCB-treated rats showed a significant increase in the levels of transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) mRNA and angiotensin II type1 receptor (AT1), and a significant decrease in estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), endothelial nitric oxidide synthase (eNOS) protein expression and deiodinase II (DII) mRNA levels. In conclusion, we have demonstrated for the first time that subchronic HCB administration significantly increases BP and alters associated cardiovascular parameters in rats. In addition, HCB alters the expression of key vascular tissue molecules involved in BP regulation, such as TGF-ß1, AT1, ERα, eNOS and DII.

Hexachlorobenzene modulates the crosstalk between the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and transforming growth factor-ß1 signaling, enhancing human breast cancer cell migration and invasion.

Given the number of women affected by breast cancer, considerable interest has been raised in understanding the relationships between environmental chemicals and disease onset. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a dioxin-like compound that is widely distributed in the environment and is a weak ligand of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). We previously demonstrated that HCB acts as an endocrine disruptor capable of stimulating cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis in different breast cancer models. In addition, increasing evidence indicates that transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) can contribute to tumor maintenance and progression. In this context, this work investigated the effect of HCB (0.005, 0.05, 0.5, and 5µM) on TGF-ß1 signaling and AhR/TGF-ß1 crosstalk in the human breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 and analyzed whether TGF-ß1 pathways are involved in HCB-induced cell migration and invasion. RT-qPCR results indicated that HCB reduces AhR mRNA expression through TGF-ß1 signaling but enhances TGF-ß1 mRNA levels involving AhR signaling. Western blot analysis demonstrated that HCB could increase TGF-ß1 protein levels and activation, as well as Smad3, JNK, and p38 phosphorylation. In addition, low and high doses of HCB were determined to exert differential effects on AhR protein levels, localization, and activation, with a high dose (5µM) inducing AhR nuclear translocation and AhR-dependent CYP1A1 expression. These findings also revealed that c-Src and AhR are involved in HCB-mediated activation of Smad3. HCB enhances cell migration (scratch motility assay) and invasion (Transwell assay) through the Smad, JNK, and p38 pathways, while ERK1/2 is only involved in HCB-induced cell migration. These results demonstrate that HCB modulates the crosstalk between AhR and TGF-ß1 and consequently exacerbates a pro-migratory phenotype in MDA-MB-231 cells, which contributes to a high degree of malignancy. Taken together, our findings help to characterize the molecular mechanism underlying the effects of HCB on breast cancer progression.

Hexachlorobenzene promotes angiogenesis in vivo, in a breast cancer model and neovasculogenesis in vitro, in the human microvascular endothelial cell line HMEC-1.

Exposure to environmental pollutants may alter proangiogenic ability and promotes tumor growth. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is an organochlorine pesticide found in maternal milk and in lipid foods, and a weak ligand of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). HCB induces migration and invasion in human breast cancer cells, as well as tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. In this study, we examined HCB action on angiogenesis in mammary carcinogenesis. HCB stimulates angiogenesis and increases vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in a xenograft model with the human breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. Human microvascular endothelial cells HMEC-1 exposed to HCB (0.005, 0.05, 0.5 and 5µM) showed an increase in cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and VEGF protein expression involving AhR. In addition, we found that HCB enhances VEGF-Receptor 2 (VEGFR2) expression, and activates its downstream pathways p38 and ERK1/2. HCB induces cell migration and neovasculogenesis in a dose-dependent manner. Cells pretreatment with AhR, COX-2 and VEGFR2 selective inhibitors, suppressed these effects. In conclusion, our results show that HCB promotes angiogenesis in vivo and in vitro. HCB-induced cell migration and tubulogenesis are mediated by AhR, COX-2 and VEGFR2 in HMEC-1. These findings may help to understand the association among HCB exposure, angiogenesis and mammary carcinogenesis.

Hexachlorobenzene induces cell proliferation, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor expression (AhR) in rat liver preneoplastic foci, and in the human hepatoma cell line HepG2. AhR is a mediator of ERK1/2 signaling, and cell cycle regulation in HCB-treated HepG2 cells.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a widespread environmental pollutant, and a liver tumor promoter in rodents. Depending on the particular cell lines studied, exposure to these compounds may lead to cell proliferation, terminal differentiation, or apoptosis. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that is involved in drug and xenobiotic metabolism. AhR can also modulate a variety of cellular and physiological processes that can affect cell proliferation and cell fate determination. The mechanisms by which AhR ligands, both exogenous and endogenous, affect these processes involve multiple interactions between AhR and other signaling pathways. In the present study, we examined the effect of HCB on cell proliferation and AhR expression, using an initiation-promotion hepatocarcinogenesis protocol in rat liver and in the human-derived hepatoma cell line, HepG2. Female Wistar rats were initiated with a single dose of 100 mg/kg of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) at the start of the experiment. Two weeks later, daily dosing of 100 mg/kg HCB was maintained for 10 weeks. Partial hepatectomy was performed 3 weeks after initiation. The number and area of glutathione S-transferase-P (GST-P)-positive foci, in the rat liver were used as biomarkers of liver precancerous lesions. Immunohistochemical staining showed an increase in proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive cells, along with enhanced AhR protein expression in hepatocytes within GST-P-positive foci of (DEN HCB) group, when compared to DEN. In a similar manner, Western blot analysis demonstrated that HCB induced PCNA and AhR protein expression in HepG2 cells. Flow cytometry assay indicated that the cells were accumulated at S and G2/M phases of the cell cycle. HCB increased cyclin D1 protein levels and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment of cells with a selective MEK1 inhibitor, prevented HCB-stimulatory effect on PCNA and cyclinD1, indicating that these effects are mediated by ERK1/2. Pretreatment with an AhR antagonist, prevented HCB-induced PCNA protein levels, ERK1/2 phosphorylation and alterations in cell cycle distribution. These results demonstrate that HCB-induced HepG2 proliferation and cell cycle progression depend on ERK1/2 phosphorylation which is mediated by the AhR. Our results provide a clue to the molecular events involved in the mechanism of action of HCB-induced hepatocarcinogenesis.

Hexachlorobenzene induces TGF-ß1 expression, which is a regulator of p27 and cyclin D1 modifications.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is an organochlorine pesticide widely distributed in the environment. In this study we have demonstrated that HCB induced loss of cell viability and alterations in cell cycle regulation in FRTL-5 rat thyroid cells. Analysis of cell cycle distribution by flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that HCB induced cell cycle arrest at G2/M and at G0/G1 phase, inhibiting cell cycle progression at the G1/S phase, after 24 h and 72 h of treatment. HCB-treatment resulted in an increase in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-ß1) mRNA levels, a negative regulator of cell growth in thyroid epithelial cells. Time-dependent studies showed that both cytosolic and nuclear p27 protein levels were increased by 5 µM HCB. After 24 h of treatment, total p27 in whole cells lysate was increased. Dose-dependent studies, demonstrated that HCB (0.005, 0.05, 0.5 and 5 µM) increased p27, both in the cytosol and nucleus. HCB (5 µM) induced a concomitant decrease in nuclear cyclin D1 protein levels, in a time-dependent manner. We have also demonstrated that TGF-ß1 Smad signaling is involved in HCB-induced alterations of p27 and cyclin D1 protein levels. On the other hand, ERK1/2 activation is not involved in the alteration of cell cycle regulatory proteins.

Reactive oxygen species and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 mediate hexachlorobenzene-induced cell death in FRTL-5 rat thyroid cells.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is an organochlorine pesticide widely distributed in the environment. We have previously shown that chronic HCB exposure triggers apoptosis in rat thyroid follicular cells. This study was carried out to investigate the molecular mechanism by which the pesticide causes apoptosis in FRTL-5 rat thyroid cells exposed to HCB (0.005, 0.05, 0.5, and 5µM) for 2, 6, 8, 24, and 48h. HCB treatment lowered cell viability and induced apoptotic cell death in a dose- and time-dependent manner, as demonstrated by morphological nuclear changes and the increase of DNA fragmentation. The pesticide increased activation of caspases-3, -8, and full-length caspase-10 processing. HCB induced mitochondrial membrane depolarization, release of cytochrome c and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), from the mitochondria to the cytosol, and AIF nuclear translocation. Cell death was accompanied by an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Blocking of ROS production, with a radical scavenger (Trolox), resulted in inhibition of AIF nuclear translocation and returned cells survival to control levels, demonstrating that ROS are critical mediators of HCB-induced apoptosis. The pesticide increased ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 phosphorylation in a time- and dose-dependent manner. However, when FRTL-5 cells were treated with specific MAPK inhibitors, only blockade of MEK1/2 with PD98059 prevented cell loss of viability, as well as caspase-3 activation. In addition, we demonstrated that HCB-induced production of ROS has a critical role in ERK1/2 activation. These results demonstrate for the first time that HCB induces apoptosis in FRTL-5 cells, by ROS-mediated ERK1/2 activation, through caspase-dependent and -independent pathways.

Action of hexachlorobenzene on tumor growth and metastasis in different experimental models.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a widespread organochlorine pesticide, considered a possible human carcinogen. It is a dioxin-like compound and a weak ligand of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). We have found that HCB activates c-Src/HER1/STAT5b and HER1/ERK1/2 signaling pathways and cell migration, in an AhR-dependent manner in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. The aim of this study was to investigate in vitro the effect of HCB (0.005, 0.05, 0.5, 5µM) on cell invasion and metalloproteases (MMPs) 2 and 9 activation in MDA-MB-231 cells. Furthermore, we examined in vivo the effect of HCB (0.3, 3, 30mg/kg b.w.) on tumor growth, MMP2 and MMP9 expression, and metastasis using MDA-MB-231 xenografts and two syngeneic mouse breast cancer models (spontaneous metastasis using C4-HI and lung experimental metastasis using LM3). Our results show that HCB (5µM) enhances MMP2 expression, as well as cell invasion, through AhR, c-Src/HER1 pathway and MMPs. Moreover, HCB increases MMP9 expression, secretion and activity through a HER1 and AhR-dependent mechanism, in MDA-MB-231 cells. HCB (0.3 and 3mg/kg b.w.) enhances subcutaneous tumor growth in MDA-MB-231 and C4-HI in vivo models. In vivo, using MDA-MB-231 model, the pesticide (0.3, 3 and 30mg/kg b.w.) activated c-Src, HER1, STAT5b, and ERK1/2 signaling pathways and increased MMP2 and MMP9 protein levels. Furthermore, we observed that HCB stimulated lung metastasis regardless the tumor hormone-receptor status. Our findings suggest that HCB may be a risk factor for human breast cancer progression.

Alterations in c-Src/HER1 and estrogen receptor α signaling pathways in mammary gland and tumors of hexachlorobenzene-treated rats.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is an organochlorine pesticide that acts as an endocrine disruptor in humans and rodents. The development of breast cancer strongly depends on endocrine conditions modulated by environmental factors. We have demonstrated that HCB is a tumor co-carcinogen in rats and an inducer of proliferation in MCF-7 cells, in an estrogen receptor α (ERα)-dependent manner, and of migration in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line. In the present study, we examined HCB effect on c-Src/human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER1) and ERα signaling pathways in mammary glands and in N-nitroso-N-methylurea (NMU)-induced mammary tumors in rats. Furthermore, we evaluated histopathological changes and serum hormone levels. Rats were separated into four groups: control, HCB (100 mg/kg b.w.), NMU (50 mg/kg b.w.) and NMU-HCB. Our data show that HCB increases c-Src and HER1 activation, c-Src/HER1 association, and Y699-STAT5b and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in mammary glands. HCB also enhances Y537-ERα phosphorylation and ERα/c-Src physical interaction. In tumors, HCB also induces c-Src and HER1 activation, c-Src/HER1 association, as well as T308-Akt and Y699-STAT5b phosphorylation. In addition, the pesticide increases ERα protein content and decreases p-Y537-ERα levels and ERα/c-Src association in tumors. HCB increases serum 17-beta estradiol and prolactin contents and decreases progesterone, FSH and LH levels in rats without tumors, while the opposite effect was observed in rats with tumors. Taken together, our results indicate that HCB induces an estrogenic effect in mammary gland, increasing c-Src/HER1 and ERα signaling pathways. HCB stimulates c-Src/HER1 pathway, but decreases ERα activity in tumors, appearing to shift them towards a higher malignancy phenotype.

Hexachlorobenzene induces deregulation of cellular growth in rat liver.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is an organochlorine pesticide widely distributed in the biosphere. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of HCB on the homeostasis of liver cell growth, analyzing parameters of cell proliferation and apoptosis, in HCB (0.1, 1, 10 and 100 mg/kg body weight)-treated rats, during 4 weeks. Cell proliferation and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, associated with survival mechanisms, were increased at HCB 100 mg/kg. The pesticide increased the number of apoptotic cells, and the activation of caspase-3, -9 and -8, in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting that HCB-induced apoptosis is mediated by caspases. Increased Fas and FasL protein levels indicate that the death receptor pathway is also involved. This process is associated with decreased Bid, and increased cytosolic cytochrome c protein levels. Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-ß1) intervenes in apoptotic and/or proliferative processes in hepatocytes. TGF-ß1 cDNA and protein levels are dose-dependently increased, suggesting that this cytokine might be involved in HCB-induced dysregulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis. In conclusion, this study reports for the first time that HCB induces loss of the homeostatic balance between cell growth and cell death in rat liver. Induced apoptosis occurs by mechanisms involving signals emanating from death receptors, and the mitochondrial pathway.

Activation of c-Src/HER1/STAT5b and HER1/ERK1/2 signaling pathways and cell migration by hexachlorobenzene in MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell line.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a widespread environmental pollutant. It is a dioxin-like compound and a weak ligand of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) protein. HCB is a tumor cocarcinogen in rat mammary gland and an inducer of cell proliferation and c-Src kinase activity in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. This study was carried out to investigate HCB action on c-Src and the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER1) activities and their downstream signaling pathways, Akt, extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2), and signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) 5b, as well as on cell migration in a human breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231. We also investigated whether the AhR is involved in HCB-induced effects. We have demonstrated that HCB (0.05µM) produces an early increase of Y416-c-Src, Y845-HER1, Y699-STAT5b, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Moreover, our results have shown that the pesticide (15 min) activates these pathways in a dose-dependent manner (0.005, 0.05, 0.5, and 5µM). In contrast, HCB does not alter T308-Akt activation. Pretreatment with a specific inhibitor for c-Src (4-amino-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-(t-butyl) pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine [PP2]) prevents Y845-HER1 and Y699-STAT5b phosphorylation. AG1478, a specific HER1 inhibitor, abrogates HCB-induced STAT5b and ERK1/2 activation, whereas 4,7-orthophenanthroline and α-naphthoflavone, two AhR antagonists, prevent HCB-induced STAT5b and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. HCB enhances cell migration evaluated by scratch motility and transwell assays. Pretreatment with PP2, AG1478, and 4,7-orthophenanthroline suppresses HCB-induced cell migration. These results demonstrate that HCB stimulates c-Src/HER1/STAT5b and HER1/ERK1/2 signaling pathways in MDA-MB-231. c-Src, HER1, and AhR are involved in HCB-induced increase in cell migration. The present study makes a significant contribution to the molecular mechanism of action of HCB in mammary carcinogenesis.

Hexachlorobenzene triggers apoptosis in rat thyroid follicular cells.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a widespread environmental pollutant. Chronic exposure of humans to HCB produces a number of effects, such as triggering of porphyria, increased synthesis of liver microsomal enzymes, neurological symptoms, immunological disorders and thyroid dysfunctions. In rats, HCB induced hepatic porphyria, neurotoxic effects, and toxic effects on the reproductive system, thyroid function, and immune system. HCB is also known to cause tumors of the liver, thyroid and mammary gland in laboratory animals. The aim of this study was to investigate parameters of thyroid growth regulation, mainly cell proliferation and apoptosis in thyroid tissue from HCB (0.1, 1, 10, 100, and 500 mg/kg body weight)-treated female Wistar rats. The current study demonstrates that only the exposure to the highest HCB dose for 30 days, has adverse effects on thyroid endpoints examined related to thyroid gland morphology, and 3,3'5,5'-tetraiodothyronine (T(4), thyroxine) serum levels, without changes in thyroid-stimulating hormone concentrations or in thyroid gland weight. Morphological changes, included flattened epithelium and increased colloid size compared with control tissue. Transforming growth factor (TGF-beta1) mRNA levels, evaluated by RT-PCR, revealed a significant upregulation after exposure to HCB (1, 10, 100 mg/kg body weight). Cell proliferation evaluated by 5'-Br deoxiuridine incorporation into DNA, was not altered at any dose. HCB (1, 10, 100 mg/kg body weight) induces apoptosis, evaluated by in situ end labeling of fragmented DNA, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxy uridine triphosphate nick-end labeling, in rat thyroid glands. This process is associated with dose-dependent increases in cytochrome c release from the mitochondria and procaspase-9 processing to its active product. Caspase-8 was not activated. These studies indicate that doses of HCB that do not disrupt thyroid economy induce TGF-beta1 expression and apoptosis in the thyroid gland, involving the mitochondrial pathway.

Hexachlorobenzene triggers AhR translocation to the nucleus, c-Src activation and EGFR transactivation in rat liver.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a widespread environmental pollutant. It has some properties that are typical for dioxin-like compounds that act mainly through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) protein. Upon dioxin binding, the AhR translocates to the nucleus and modulates gene expression. At the same time, c-Src kinase frees from the AhR complex and thereby activates its own kinase activity, which acts as a trigger for the growth factor receptor signal transduction pathway. HCB is a weak agonist of the AhR, and the evidence that HCB toxicity is mediated via the AhR complex is limited and inconclusive. In the present study, female Wistar rats were administered HCB (1, 10 and 100mg/kg) for 30 days. Liver cytosolic AhR was translocated to the nucleus. The activity of liver microsomal c-Src increased at all assayed doses. HCB induced the association of the EGFR with c-Src and increased the phosphorylation of EGFR at tyrosine 845 (Tyr845), a known c-Src phosphorylation site. c-Src from WB-F344 cells treated with HCB exhibited increased protein levels and c-Src-pTyr416 phosphorylation than the control cells. Again HCB induced EGFR phosphorylation at Tyr845. Such an effect of HCB could not be detected when c-Src activity was blocked by PP2. All together, our data demonstrates that HCB may induce EGFR transactivation through an c-Src-dependent pathway.

[Triiodothyroacetic acid in euthyroid goiter. New data on its mechanisms of action. Comparison with L-thyroxin]. / Intérêt de l'acide triiodothyroacétique pour le traitement du goître euthyroïdien. Nouvelles données sur son mode d'action. Comparaison avec la L-thyroxine.

Euthyroid goiter is usually treated with THS-inhibiting doses of L-thyroxin (L-T4), which can have troublesome adverse effects. It has been suggested that triiodothyroacetic acid (Triac), a TSH suppressor, might have fewer peripheral effects and better tolerability than T4. We therefore compared the risk-benefit ratios of the two drugs. Thirty-six women with euthyroid goiter (no thyroid cancer) were randomized to receive either Triac (19.6 ug/kg) (n=19) or L-T4 (1.7 ug/kg) (n=17) for 11 months. Goiter volume, lumar and femoral bone mineral density, and serum osteocalcin, deoxypyridinoline, TSH, free T4, and total cholesterol, high-density cholesterol (HDL), low-density cholesterol (LDL), and triglycerides were determined before and after treatment. Student's test and X2 analysis were used. TSH values (microunits/ml) in the Triac and T4 groups were respectively 1.91 +/- 0.6 (basal) and 0.18 +/- 01 (after) and 2.1 +/- 2.5 (basal) and 0.18 +/- 0.3 (after). Thyroid volume fell by 37.9 +/- 35.4% in the Triac group and by 14.5 +/- 39.5% in the L-T4 group (p=0.069). Goiter volume fell by at least 50% in 42% of patients treated with Triac and in 17.7% of patients treated with L-T4 (p=0.15). Triac was associated with fewer adverse events. Changes in bone mineral density, serum deoxypyridinoline, serum osteocalcin and the lipid profile did not differ between the treatment arms. However, the Apo B level fell more strongly on Triac than on T4. These results show that Triac is more effective than L-T4 on goiter size, while having similar peripheral effects.

Hexachlorobenzene is a tumor co-carcinogen and induces alterations in insulin-growth factors signaling pathway in the rat mammary gland.

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a widespread environmental pollutant. Controversy still exists about the breast carcinogenic properties of organochlorines in humans. The ligands, receptors, and related signaling proteins of the insulin growth factor family are involved in the regulation of breast-cancer cell growth. The aims of this study were to determine: (1) whether HCB is co-carcinogenic in a medium term assay of N-nitroso N-methylurea (NMU)-induced mammary tumors in rats; (2) the effect of HCB on insulin receptor (IR), insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR) and insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) levels and on IRS-1 phosphorylation; (3) microsomal and cytosolic Protein Tyrosine Kinase (PTK) activities in mammary glands and NMU-induced tumors. Sprague Dawley rats were injected with 50 mg/kg body weight of NMU at 50, 80, and 110 days old. HCB (100 mg/kg body weight) was administered three times a week from 65 to 110 days of age. Rats were separated in four groups: control, NMU, HCB, and NMU-HCB. HCB alone did not induce tumor development. Parameters of tumor development were increased in NMU-HCB compared to NMU rats. A higher cellular undifferentiation was observed in NMU-HCB tumors. IR, IGF-IR, and IRS-1 levels were higher in HCB than in controls. Conversely IGF-IR levels decreased in NMU-HCB vs. NMU group. The IRS-1 phosphorylation increased in HCB rats; however, it decreased in NMU-HCB vs. NMU. HCB decreased microsomal PTK activity in tumors. This study showed for the first time that HCB is a co-carcinogenic agent in NMU-induced mammary tumors in rats. Our results suggest that the IR and/or IGF-IR signaling pathway may be involved in the mechanism of action of HCB.

Effect of in vivo administered hexachlorobenzene on epidermal growth factor receptor levels, protein tyrosine kinase activity, and phosphotyrosine content in rat liver.

In the present study, the effects of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) content of liver microsomes and plasma membrane, and on EGFR-tyrosine kinase activity in the microsomal fraction were investigated. In addition, we studied the parameters of the tyrosine kinase signalling pathway such as protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) activity and phosphotyrosine content in microsomal and cytosolic protein. To determine whether the observed alterations were correlated with a manifestation of overt toxicity, a single very low dose of HCB (1mg/kg body wt) and two much higher doses (100 and 1000 mg/kg body wt), the highest being toxicologically significant in that it reduced serum thyroxine (T(4)) and inhibited uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase (URO-D) (EC 4.1.1.37) activity, were tested. Our results demonstrated that liver microsomes of rats treated with HCB had higher levels of EGFR than untreated rats; treated rats also had less EGFR present in hepatocyte plasma membrane fractions than did untreated rats. HCB altered the phosphotyrosine content and protein phosphorylation of some microsomal and cytosolic proteins in a biphasic dose-response relationship. At the low dose, phosphorylation and phosphotyrosine content of several microsomal proteins were increased; however, these effects were diminished or reversed at the higher doses. Our results suggest that chronic HCB treatment produces a down-regulation of the EGFR and a dose-dependent increase in EGFR-tyrosine kinase activity in the microsomal fraction. This effect may contribute to the alteration of membrane and cytosolic protein tyrosine phosphorylation. The level of sensitivity encountered in our studies is extraordinary, occurring at 1/10 to 1/1000 the doses of HCB known to cause other toxicological lesions.