Change in gene expression profile induced by alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone in a malignant mesothelioma cell line

We have previously reported that the peptide;v melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) has antiproliferative effects in human malignant mesothelioma cells. To determine the molecular mechanisms underlying such effects, we investigated the changes in gene expression profile induced by the alpha-MSH analog [Nle4-DPhe7]-alpha-MSH (NDP-alpha-MSH) in a human malignant mesothelioma cell lines The cDNA macroarray technique revealed changes in expression of genes involved in cell growth, adhesion, signal transduction, and transcriptions. In particular, NDP-alpha-MSH down-regulated expression of B-Myb and Myc, two oncogenes considered of paramount importance for cell proliferation and cancer. Further, NDP-alpha-MSH exerted a favorable transcriptional regulation of certain integrins and their signaling pathways. Finally, peptide treatment was associated with a prominent inhibition of IL-13 a cytokine with tumor-promoting effects. The data indicate that the influences of alpha-MSH extend beyond the established anti-inflammatory effects in normal cells to include cell cycle regulatory properties in malignant cells.