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Senk A, Fazzari J, Djonov V. Vascular mimicry in zebrafish fin regeneration: how macrophages build new blood vessels. Angiogenesis 2024; 27:397-410. [PMID: 38546923 PMCID: PMC11303510 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-024-09914-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Vascular mimicry has been thoroughly investigated in tumor angiogenesis. In this study, we demonstrate for the first time that a process closely resembling tumor vascular mimicry is present during physiological blood vessel formation in tissue regeneration using the zebrafish fin regeneration assay. At the fin-regenerating front, vasculature is formed by mosaic blood vessels with endothelial-like cells possessing the morphological phenotype of a macrophage and co-expressing both endothelial and macrophage markers within single cells. Our data demonstrate that the vascular segments of the regenerating tissue expand, in part, through the transformation of adjacent macrophages into endothelial-like cells, forming functional, perfused channels and contributing to the de novo formation of microvasculature. Inhibiting the formation of tubular vascular-like structures by CVM-1118 prevents vascular mimicry and network formation resulting in a 70% shorter regeneration area with 60% reduced vessel growth and a complete absence of any signs of regeneration in half of the fin area. Additionally, this is associated with a significant reduction in macrophages. Furthermore, depleting macrophages using macrophage inhibitor PLX-3397, results in impaired tissue regeneration and blood vessel formation, namely a reduction in the regeneration area and vessel network by 75% in comparison to controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Senk
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Valentin Djonov
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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2
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Cannell IG, Sawicka K, Pearsall I, Wild SA, Deighton L, Pearsall SM, Lerda G, Joud F, Khan S, Bruna A, Simpson KL, Mulvey CM, Nugent F, Qosaj F, Bressan D, Dive C, Caldas C, Hannon GJ. FOXC2 promotes vasculogenic mimicry and resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112791. [PMID: 37499655 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) describes the formation of pseudo blood vessels constructed of tumor cells that have acquired endothelial-like properties. VM channels endow the tumor with a tumor-derived vascular system that directly connects to host blood vessels, and their presence is generally associated with poor patient prognosis. Here we show that the transcription factor, Foxc2, promotes VM in diverse solid tumor types by driving ectopic expression of endothelial genes in tumor cells, a process that is stimulated by hypoxia. VM-proficient tumors are resistant to anti-angiogenic therapy, and suppression of Foxc2 augments response. This work establishes co-option of an embryonic endothelial transcription factor by tumor cells as a key mechanism driving VM proclivity and motivates the search for VM-inhibitory agents that could form the basis of combination therapies with anti-angiogenics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian G Cannell
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK; New York Genome Center, 101 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10013, USA.
| | - Kirsty Sawicka
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK; New York Genome Center, 101 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10013, USA
| | - Isabella Pearsall
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK; New York Genome Center, 101 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10013, USA
| | - Sophia A Wild
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Lauren Deighton
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Sarah M Pearsall
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK; Cancer Research UK Cancer Biomarker Centre, Manchester M20 4BX, UK; CRUK Manchester Institute, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Giulia Lerda
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Fadwa Joud
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Showkhin Khan
- New York Genome Center, 101 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10013, USA
| | - Alejandra Bruna
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK; Preclinical Modelling of Paediatric Cancer Evolution Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, Cotswold Road, Sutton, Surrey SM2 5N, UK
| | - Kathryn L Simpson
- Cancer Research UK Cancer Biomarker Centre, Manchester M20 4BX, UK; CRUK Manchester Institute, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Claire M Mulvey
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Fiona Nugent
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Fatime Qosaj
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Dario Bressan
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Caroline Dive
- Cancer Research UK Cancer Biomarker Centre, Manchester M20 4BX, UK; CRUK Manchester Institute, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Carlos Caldas
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK; Department of Oncology and Breast Cancer Programme, CRUK Cambridge Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS and University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 2QQ, UK
| | - Gregory J Hannon
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK; New York Genome Center, 101 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10013, USA.
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Nairuz T, Mahmud Z, Manik RK, Kabir Y. Cancer stem cells: an insight into the development of metastatic tumors and therapy resistance. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023:10.1007/s12015-023-10529-x. [PMID: 37129728 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10529-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The term "cancer stem cells" (CSCs) refers to cancer cells that exhibit traits parallel to normal stem cells, namely the potential to give rise to every type of cell identified in a tumor microenvironment. It has been found that CSCs usually develops from other neoplastic cells or non-cancerous somatic cells by acquiring stemness and malignant characteristics through particular genetic modifications. A trivial number of CSCs, identified in solid and liquid cancer, can give rise to an entire tumor population with aggressive anticancer drug resistance, metastasis, and invasiveness. Besides, cancer stem cells manipulate their intrinsic and extrinsic features, regulate the metabolic pattern of the cell, adjust efflux-influx efficiency, modulate different signaling pathways, block apoptotic signals, and cause genetic and epigenetic alterations to retain their pluripotency and ability of self-renewal. Notably, to keep the cancer stem cells' ability to become malignant cells, mesenchymal stem cells, tumor-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, etc., interact with one another. Furthermore, CSCs are characterized by the expression of particular molecular markers that carry significant diagnostic and prognostic significance. Because of this, scientific research on CSCs is becoming increasingly imperative, intending to understand the traits and behavior of cancer stem cells and create more potent anticancer therapeutics to fight cancer at the CSC level. In this review, we aimed to elucidate the critical role of CSCs in the onset and spread of cancer and the characteristics of CSCs that promote severe resistance to targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahsin Nairuz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Zimam Mahmud
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Rasel Khan Manik
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Yearul Kabir
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh.
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Marques Dos Reis E, Vieira Berti F. Vasculogenic Mimicry-An Overview. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2514:3-13. [PMID: 35771413 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2403-6_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Vasculogenic mimicry (VM), a tumor microcirculation model found in melanoma in the last 20 years, is a vascular channel-like structure composed of tumor cells, but without endothelial cells, that stains positive for periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and negative staining for CD31. VM provides, to the highly aggressive malignant tumor cells, adequate oxygen and nutrient supply for tumor growth and subsequent metastasis process and its presence are related to poor prognosis in patients. VM is independent of endothelial cells, which may partly explain why angiogenesis drug inhibitors have not achieved the expected success for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Marques Dos Reis
- Chemical and Food Engineering Department, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda Vieira Berti
- Chemical and Food Engineering Department, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
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Senchukova MA. Issues of origin, morphology and clinical significance of tumor microvessels in gastric cancer. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:8262-8282. [PMID: 35068869 PMCID: PMC8717017 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i48.8262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) remains a serious oncological problem, ranking third in the structure of mortality from malignant neoplasms. Improving treatment outcomes for this pathology largely depends on understanding the pathogenesis and biological characteristics of GC, including the identification and characterization of diagnostic, prognostic, predictive, and therapeutic biomarkers. It is known that the main cause of death from malignant neoplasms and GC, in particular, is tumor metastasis. Given that angiogenesis is a critical process for tumor growth and metastasis, it is now considered an important marker of disease prognosis and sensitivity to anticancer therapy. In the presented review, modern concepts of the mechanisms of tumor vessel formation and the peculiarities of their morphology are considered; data on numerous factors influencing the formation of tumor microvessels and their role in GC progression are summarized; and various approaches to the classification of tumor vessels, as well as the methods for assessing angiogenesis activity in a tumor, are highlighted. Here, results from studies on the prognostic and predictive significance of tumor microvessels in GC are also discussed, and a new classification of tumor microvessels in GC, based on their morphology and clinical significance, is proposed for consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina A Senchukova
- Department of Oncology, Orenburg State Medical University, Orenburg 460021, Russia
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Treps L, Faure S, Clere N. Vasculogenic mimicry, a complex and devious process favoring tumorigenesis – Interest in making it a therapeutic target. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 223:107805. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Brock T, Boudriot E, Klawitter A, Großer M, Nguyen TTP, Giebe S, Klapproth E, Temme A, El-Armouche A, Breier G. The Influence of VE-Cadherin on Adhesion and Incorporation of Breast Cancer Cells into Vascular Endothelium. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22116049. [PMID: 34205118 PMCID: PMC8199973 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
During metastasis, cancer cells that originate from the primary tumor circulate in the bloodstream, extravasate, and form micrometastases at distant locations. Several lines of evidence suggest that specific interactions between cancer cells and endothelial cells, in particular tumor cell adhesion to the endothelium and transendothelial migration, play a crucial role in extravasation. Here we have studied the role of vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin which is expressed aberrantly by breast cancer cells and might promote such interactions. By comparing different human breast cancer cell lines, we observed that the number of cancer cells that adhered to endothelium correlated with VE-cadherin expression levels. VE-cadherin silencing experiments confirmed that VE-cadherin enhances cancer cell adhesion to endothelial cells. However, in contrast, the number of cancer cells that incorporated into the endothelium was not dependent on VE-cadherin. Thus, it appears that cancer cell adhesion and incorporation are distinct processes that are governed by different molecular mechanisms. When cancer cells incorporated into the endothelial monolayer, they formed VE-cadherin positive contacts with endothelial cells. On the other hand, we also observed tumor cells that had displaced endothelial cells, reflecting either different modes of incorporation, or a temporal sequence where cancer cells first form contact with endothelial cells and then displace them to facilitate transmigration. Taken together, these results show that VE-cadherin promotes the adhesion of breast cancer cells to the endothelium and is involved in the initial phase of incorporation, but not their transmigration. Thus, VE-cadherin might be of relevance for therapeutic strategies aiming at preventing the metastatic spread of breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Brock
- Division of Medical Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (T.B.); (E.B.); (A.K.); (T.T.P.N.)
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (E.K.); (A.E.-A.)
| | - Elisabeth Boudriot
- Division of Medical Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (T.B.); (E.B.); (A.K.); (T.T.P.N.)
| | - Anke Klawitter
- Division of Medical Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (T.B.); (E.B.); (A.K.); (T.T.P.N.)
| | - Marianne Großer
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany;
| | - Trang T. P. Nguyen
- Division of Medical Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (T.B.); (E.B.); (A.K.); (T.T.P.N.)
| | - Sindy Giebe
- Division of Vascular Endothelium and Microcirculation, Department of Medicine III, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany;
| | - Erik Klapproth
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (E.K.); (A.E.-A.)
| | - Achim Temme
- Division of Experimental Neurosurgery/Tumor Immunology, Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany;
| | - Ali El-Armouche
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (E.K.); (A.E.-A.)
| | - Georg Breier
- Division of Medical Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (T.B.); (E.B.); (A.K.); (T.T.P.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-351-4586647; Fax: +49-351-4585530
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There have been tremendous advances in the tools available for surveying blood vessels within whole organs and tissues. Here, we summarize some of the recent developments in methods for immunolabeling and imaging whole organs and provide a protocol optimized for the heart. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple protocols have been established for chemically clearing large organs and variations are compatible with cell type-specific labeling. Heart tissue can be successfully cleared to reveal the three-dimensional structure of the entire coronary vasculature in neonatal and adult mice. Obtaining vascular reconstructions requires exceptionally large imaging files and new computational methods to process the data for accurate vascular quantifications. This is a continually advancing field that has revolutionized our ability to acquire data on larger samples as a faster rate. SUMMARY Historically, cardiovascular research has relied heavily on histological analyses that use tissue sections, which usually sample cellular phenotypes in small regions and lack information on whole tissue-level organization. This approach can be modified to survey whole organs but image acquisition and analysis time can become unreasonable. In recent years, whole-organ immunolabeling and clearing methods have emerged as a workable solution, and new microscopy modalities, such as light-sheet microscopy, significantly improve image acquisition times. These innovations make studying the vasculature in the context of the whole organ widely available and promise to reveal fascinating new cellular behaviors in adult tissues and during repair.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristy Red-Horse
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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Zheng N, Zhang S, Wu W, Zhang N, Wang J. Regulatory mechanisms and therapeutic targeting of vasculogenic mimicry in hepatocellular carcinoma. Pharmacol Res 2021; 166:105507. [PMID: 33610718 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a typical hyper-vascular solid tumor; aberrantly rich in tumor vascular network contributes to its malignancy. Conventional anti-angiogenic therapies seem promising but transitory and incomplete efficacy on HCC. Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is one of functional microcirculation patterns independent of endothelial vessels which describes the plasticity of highly aggressive tumor cells to form vasculogenic-like networks providing sufficient blood supply for tumor growth and metastasis. As a pivotal alternative mechanism for tumor vascularization when tumor cells undergo lack of oxygen and nutrients, VM has an association with the malignant phenotype and poor clinical outcome for HCC, and may challenge the classic anti-angiogenic treatment of HCC. Current studies have contributed numerous findings illustrating the underlying molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways supporting VM in HCC. In this review, we summarize the correlation between epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cancer stem cells (CSCs) and VM, the role of hypoxia and extracellular matrix remodeling in VM, the involvement of adjacent non-cancerous cells, cytokines and growth factors in VM, as well as the regulatory influence of non-coding RNAs on VM in HCC. Moreover, we discuss the clinical significance of VM in practice and the potential therapeutic strategies targeting VM for HCC. A better understanding of the mechanism underlying VM formation in HCC may optimize anti-angiogenic treatment modalities for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology, The School of Pharmacy, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Shaoqin Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory for Translational Research in Cancer and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute for Translational Medicine, The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Wenda Wu
- Fujian Key Laboratory for Translational Research in Cancer and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute for Translational Medicine, The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory for Translational Research in Cancer and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute for Translational Medicine, The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Jichuang Wang
- Fujian Key Laboratory for Translational Research in Cancer and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute for Translational Medicine, The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
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Prasad S, Chandra A, Cavo M, Parasido E, Fricke S, Lee Y, D'Amone E, Gigli G, Albanese C, Rodriguez O, Del Mercato LL. Optical and magnetic resonance imaging approaches for investigating the tumour microenvironment: state-of-the-art review and future trends. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 32:062001. [PMID: 33065554 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/abc208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The tumour microenvironment (TME) strongly influences tumorigenesis and metastasis. Two of the most characterized properties of the TME are acidosis and hypoxia, both of which are considered hallmarks of tumours as well as critical factors in response to anticancer treatments. Currently, various imaging approaches exist to measure acidosis and hypoxia in the TME, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography and optical imaging. In this review, we will focus on the latest fluorescent-based methods for optical sensing of cell metabolism and MRI as diagnostic imaging tools applied both in vitro and in vivo. The primary emphasis will be on describing the current and future uses of systems that can measure intra- and extra-cellular pH and oxygen changes at high spatial and temporal resolution. In addition, the suitability of these approaches for mapping tumour heterogeneity, and assessing response or failure to therapeutics will also be covered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saumya Prasad
- Institute of Nanotechnology, National Research Council (CNR-NANOTEC), c/o Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Anil Chandra
- Institute of Nanotechnology, National Research Council (CNR-NANOTEC), c/o Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Marta Cavo
- Institute of Nanotechnology, National Research Council (CNR-NANOTEC), c/o Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Erika Parasido
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Center for Translational Imaging, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Stanley Fricke
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Center for Translational Imaging, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Yichien Lee
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Eliana D'Amone
- Institute of Nanotechnology, National Research Council (CNR-NANOTEC), c/o Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gigli
- Institute of Nanotechnology, National Research Council (CNR-NANOTEC), c/o Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
- Department of Mathematics and Physics 'Ennio De Giorgi', University of Salento, via Arnesano, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Chris Albanese
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Center for Translational Imaging, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Olga Rodriguez
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Center for Translational Imaging, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Loretta L Del Mercato
- Institute of Nanotechnology, National Research Council (CNR-NANOTEC), c/o Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
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Murugesan A, Sekar B, Saranyan R, Manivannan E, Rajmohan M. A Review on Cancer Stem Cells in Vasculogenic Mimicry Formation: A New Dimension for Targeted Therapy. JOURNAL OF ADVANCED ORAL RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/2320206820960862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Aim: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) or tumor-initiating cells have self-renewal and uncontrolled tumor growth capacity that promotes metastasis and recurrence. Challenges in anticancer have found a lateral dimension of treatment against a new pattern of tumor microcirculation, known as vasculogenic mimicry (VM), involved in cancer progression. Increasing evidence suggest that CSCs are involved in the formation of VM. In this review the correlation between CSCs and VM formation is been enlightened. Materials and Methods: The literature search was done in Medline, PubMed, Wiley, Science Direct, and Scopus. The keywords used for database search were cancer stem cells, vasculogenic mimicry, and anticancer therapy. Results: A total of 112 articles appeared from various sources, of which 102 were subjected for screening and 20 were related to the research objective. Conclusion: Based on the literature a positive correlation exists between CSC and VM, which plays a key role in tumor progression, and hence, can serve as a potential target in anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambika Murugesan
- Department of Oral Pathology and Oral Microbiology, Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - B. Sekar
- Department of Oral Pathology and Oral Microbiology, Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R. Saranyan
- Department of Periodontology, Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - E. Manivannan
- Department of Pharmacology, VMKV Medical College, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - M. Rajmohan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, KSR Institute of Dental Science and Research, Tiruchengode, Thokkavadi, Tamil Nadu, India
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Alkatan HM, Al Qahtani AA, Maktabi AM. Enucleated globes with choroidal melanoma: A retrospective histopathological study and correlation with cytogenetic profile in 2 eye centers. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2020; 55:227-233. [PMID: 32518647 PMCID: PMC7272512 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2020.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Uveal melanoma is the commonest intraocular malignant tumor in adults and the choroid is the commonest involved location. It is more prevalent in Caucasians; however, the demographics are widely variable based on ethnicity. Histopathological features have been correlated to the cytogenetic profile, which we intend to report through the study of enucleated eyes with choroidal melanoma (CM). Materials and Methods A retrospective review of 28 enucleated globes with CM in 2 tertiary eye centers (January 2000-December 2017). The tumors were histopathologically classified based on the 8th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC). The histopathological risk factors and the AJCC classifications were correlated with Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for chromosomes 3 and 8 available results in 18/28 eyes. Results We have included 28 patients with a mean age of 56 years, 13 males (46.4%) and 15 females (53.6%). None had lymph node involvement or metastatic disease. The tumor size was categorized as 3 and 4 in 68% of eyes. Half tumors were of spindle cell type and were associated with absent cytogenetic abnormality in chromosomes 3 and 8 (P=0.005). Closed vascular loops presence was significantly associated with abnormal chromosomes 3 and 8 (P=0.027). Conclusion Patients in our area presented late with larger tumor size. The spindle cell CM was the commonest and correlated with negative FISH results, while the presence of closed vascular loops was a risk factor for abnormal FISH results hence expected worse prognosis. AJCC classification did not correlate well with our FISH results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hind M Alkatan
- Ophthalmology Department, King Saud University Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Pathology Department, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Aoun Al Qahtani
- Surgical Vitreo-retina, Ophthalmology Department, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azza My Maktabi
- Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Department, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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13
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Valdivia A, Mingo G, Aldana V, Pinto MP, Ramirez M, Retamal C, Gonzalez A, Nualart F, Corvalan AH, Owen GI. Fact or Fiction, It Is Time for a Verdict on Vasculogenic Mimicry? Front Oncol 2019; 9:680. [PMID: 31428573 PMCID: PMC6688045 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The term vasculogenic mimicry (VM) refers to the capacity of certain cancer cells to form fluid-conducting structures within a tumor in an endothelial cell (EC)-free manner. Ever since its first report by Maniotis in 1999, the existence of VM has been an extremely contentious issue. The overwhelming consensus of the literature suggests that VM is frequently observed in highly aggressive tumors and correlates to lower patient survival. While the presence of VM in vivo in animal and patient tumors are claimed upon the strong positive staining for glycoproteins (Periodic Acid Schiff, PAS), it is by no means universally accepted. More controversial still is the existence of an in vitro model of VM that principally divides the scientific community. Original reports demonstrated that channels or tubes occur in cancer cell monolayers in vitro when cultured in matrigel and that these structures may support fluid movement. However, several years later many papers emerged stating that connections formed between cancer cells grown on matrigel represented VM. We speculate that this became accepted by the cancer research community and now the vast majority of the scientific literature reports both presence and mechanisms of VM based on intercellular connections, not the presence of fluid conducting tubes. In this opinion paper, we call upon evidence from an exhaustive review of the literature and original data to argue that the majority of in vitro studies presented as VM do not correspond to this phenomenon. Furthermore, we raise doubts on the validity of concluding the presence of VM in patient samples and animal models based solely on the presence of PAS+ staining. We outline the requirement for new biomarkers of VM and present criteria by which VM should be defined in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Valdivia
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gabriel Mingo
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Varina Aldana
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mauricio P Pinto
- Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marco Ramirez
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudio Retamal
- Faculty of Medicine and Science, Center of Cellular Biology and Biomedicine (CEBICEM), Universidad San Sebastian, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alfonso Gonzalez
- Faculty of Medicine and Science, Center of Cellular Biology and Biomedicine (CEBICEM), Universidad San Sebastian, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisco Nualart
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Universidad de Concepcion, Concepción, Chile
| | - Alejandro H Corvalan
- Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Santiago, Chile
| | - Gareth I Owen
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Santiago, Chile.,Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Santiago, Chile
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14
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Abstract
The ability to generate new microvessels in desired numbers and at desired locations has been a long-sought goal in vascular medicine, engineering, and biology. Historically, the need to revascularize ischemic tissues nonsurgically (so-called therapeutic vascularization) served as the main driving force for the development of new methods of vascular growth. More recently, vascularization of engineered tissues and the generation of vascularized microphysiological systems have provided additional targets for these methods, and have required adaptation of therapeutic vascularization to biomaterial scaffolds and to microscale devices. Three complementary strategies have been investigated to engineer microvasculature: angiogenesis (the sprouting of existing vessels), vasculogenesis (the coalescence of adult or progenitor cells into vessels), and microfluidics (the vascularization of scaffolds that possess the open geometry of microvascular networks). Over the past several decades, vascularization techniques have grown tremendously in sophistication, from the crude implantation of arteries into myocardial tunnels by Vineberg in the 1940s, to the current use of micropatterning techniques to control the exact shape and placement of vessels within a scaffold. This review provides a broad historical view of methods to engineer the microvasculature, and offers a common framework for organizing and analyzing the numerous studies in this area of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. © 2019 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 9:1155-1212, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Tien
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Materials Science and Engineering, Boston University, Brookline, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Morphological characteristics of vasculogenic mimicry and its correlation with EphA2 expression in gastric adenocarcinoma. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3414. [PMID: 30833656 PMCID: PMC6399224 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40265-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetically deregulated tumor cells generate vascular channels by vasculogenic mimicry (VM) that is independent of endothelial blood vessels. The morphological characteristics of VM and the role of EphA2 in the formation of VM were evaluated in 144 clinical samples of gastric adenocarcinoma and AGS gastric cancer cell line. It has long been believed that VM consists of PAS-positive basement membrane and CD31/CD34-negative cells. Interestingly, we found that the luminal surface of gastric tumor cells that form VM channels showed PAS-positive reaction, and that the involvement of CD31/CD34-positive tumor cells in the formation of VM channels. Highly aggressive tumor cells that formed VM were found to express CD31 or CD34, implicating the angiogenic and vasculogenic potential of the genetically deregulated tumor cells. VM occurrence was positively correlated with high expression of EphA2 in our patient cohort, and the indispensable role of EphA2 in VM formation was identified by gene silencing in AGS cells. We also report that Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)-positive tumor cells were involved in the formation of VM channels in EBV-associated gastric cancer samples. Overall, our results suggest that EphA2 signaling promotes tumor metastasis by inducing VM formation during gastric tumorigenesis.
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16
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Rhodocetin-αβ selectively breaks the endothelial barrier of the tumor vasculature in HT1080 fibrosarcoma and A431 epidermoid carcinoma tumor models. Oncotarget 2018; 9:22406-22422. [PMID: 29854288 PMCID: PMC5976474 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor vasculature differs from normal blood vessels in morphology, composition and stability. Here, we describe a novel tumor vessel-disrupting mechanism. In an HT1080/mouse xenograft tumor model rhodocetin-αβ was highly effective in disrupting the tumor endothelial barrier. Mechanistically, rhodocetin-αβ triggered MET signaling via neuropilin-1. As both neuropilin-1 and MET were only lumen-exposed in a subset of abnormal tumor vessels, but not in normal vessels, the prime target of rhodocetin-αβ were these abnormal tumor vessels. Consequently, cells lining such tumor vessels became increasingly motile which compromised the vessel wall tightness. After this initial leakage, rhodocetin-αβ could leave the bloodstream and reach the as yet inaccessible neuropilin-1 on the basolateral side of endothelial cells and thus disrupt nearby vessels. Due to the specific neuropilin-1/MET co-distribution on cells lining such abnormal tumor vessels in contrast to normal endothelial cells, rhodocetin-αβ formed the necessary trimeric signaling complex of rhodocetin-αβ-MET-neuropilin-1 only in these abnormal tumor vessels. This selective attack of tumor vessels, sparing endothelial cell-lined vessels of normal tissues, suggests that the neuropilin-1-MET signaling axis may be a promising drugable target for anti-tumor therapy, and that rhodocetin-αβ may serve as a lead structure to develop novel anti-tumor drugs that target such vessels.
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17
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Collateral Damage Intended-Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Vasculature Are Potential Targets in Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18112355. [PMID: 29112161 PMCID: PMC5713324 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18112355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
After oncogenic transformation, tumor cells rewire their metabolism to obtain sufficient energy and biochemical building blocks for cell proliferation, even under hypoxic conditions. Glucose and glutamine become their major limiting nutritional demands. Instead of being autonomous, tumor cells change their immediate environment not only by their metabolites but also by mediators, such as juxtacrine cell contacts, chemokines and other cytokines. Thus, the tumor cells shape their microenvironment as well as induce resident cells, such as fibroblasts and endothelial cells (ECs), to support them. Fibroblasts differentiate into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which produce a qualitatively and quantitatively different extracellular matrix (ECM). By their contractile power, they exert tensile forces onto this ECM, leading to increased intratumoral pressure. Moreover, along with enhanced cross-linkage of the ECM components, CAFs thus stiffen the ECM. Attracted by tumor cell- and CAF-secreted vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), ECs sprout from pre-existing blood vessels during tumor-induced angiogenesis. Tumor vessels are distinct from EC-lined vessels, because tumor cells integrate into the endothelium or even mimic and replace it in vasculogenic mimicry (VM) vessels. Not only the VM vessels but also the characteristically malformed EC-lined tumor vessels are typical for tumor tissue and may represent promising targets in cancer therapy.
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18
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Structural and functional identification of vasculogenic mimicry in vitro. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6985. [PMID: 28765613 PMCID: PMC5539303 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07622-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) describes a process by which cancer cells establish an alternative perfusion pathway in an endothelial cell-free manner. Despite its strong correlation with reduced patient survival, controversy still surrounds the existence of an in vitro model of VM. Furthermore, many studies that claim to demonstrate VM fail to provide solid evidence of true hollow channels, raising concerns as to whether actual VM is actually being examined. Herein, we provide a standardized in vitro assay that recreates the formation of functional hollow channels using ovarian cancer cell lines, cancer spheres and primary cultures derived from ovarian cancer ascites. X-ray microtomography 3D-reconstruction, fluorescence confocal microscopy and dye microinjection conclusively confirm the existence of functional glycoprotein-rich lined tubular structures in vitro and demonstrate that many of structures reported in the literature may not represent VM. This assay may be useful to design and test future VM-blocking anticancer therapies.
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19
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History and conceptual developments in vascular biology and angiogenesis research: a personal view. Angiogenesis 2017; 20:463-478. [DOI: 10.1007/s10456-017-9569-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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20
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Angara K, Borin TF, Arbab AS. Vascular Mimicry: A Novel Neovascularization Mechanism Driving Anti-Angiogenic Therapy (AAT) Resistance in Glioblastoma. Transl Oncol 2017; 10:650-660. [PMID: 28668763 PMCID: PMC5496207 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2017.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a hypervascular neoplasia of the central nervous system with an extremely high rate of mortality. Owing to its hypervascularity, anti-angiogenic therapies (AAT) have been used as an adjuvant to the traditional surgical resection, chemotherapy, and radiation. The benefits of AAT have been transient and the tumors were shown to relapse faster and demonstrated particularly high rates of AAT therapy resistance. Alternative neovascularization mechanisms were shown to be at work in these resilient tumors to counter the AAT therapy insult. Vascular Mimicry (VM) is the uncanny ability of tumor cells to acquire endothelial-like properties and lay down vascular patterned networks reminiscent of host endothelial blood vessels. The VM channels served as an irrigation system for the tumors to meet with the increasing metabolic and nutrient demands of the tumor in the event of the ensuing hypoxia resulting from AAT. In our previous studies, we have demonstrated that AAT accelerates VM in GBM. In this review, we will focus on the origins of VM, visualizing VM in AAT-treated tumors and the development of VM as a resistance mechanism to AAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kartik Angara
- Laboratory of Tumor Angiogenesis, Georgia Cancer Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Thaiz F Borin
- Laboratory of Tumor Angiogenesis, Georgia Cancer Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Ali S Arbab
- Laboratory of Tumor Angiogenesis, Georgia Cancer Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
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21
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Abstract
Tumor neovascularization acquires their vessels through a number of processes including angiogenesis, vasculogenesis, vascular remodeling, intussusception, and possibly vascular mimicry in certain tumors. The end result of the tumor vasculature has been quantified by counting the number of immunohistochemically identified microvessels in areas of maximal vascularity, so-called hot spot. Other techniques have been developed such as Chalkley counting and the use of image analysis systems that are robust and reproducible as well as being more objective. Many of the molecular pathways that govern tumor neovascularization have been identified and many reagents are now available to study these tissue sections. These include angiogenic growth factors and their receptors and cell adhesion molecules, proteases, and markers of activated, proliferating, cytokine-stimulated, or angiogenic vessels, such as CD105. It is also possible to differentiate quiescent from active vessels. Other reagents that can identify proteins involved in microenvironmental influences such as hypoxia have also been generated. Although the histological assessment of tumor vascularity is used mostly in the research context, it may also have clinical applications if appropriate methodology and trained observers perform the studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Min Pang
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 2 St Andrews Place, Melbourne, 3002, Australia
| | - Nicholas Jene
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 2 St Andrews Place, Melbourne, 3002, Australia
| | - Stephen B Fox
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 2 St Andrews Place, Melbourne, 3002, Australia.
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22
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Abstract
Cancer metastasis is highly inefficient and complex. Common features of metastatic cancer cells have been observed using cancer cell lines and genetically reconstituted mouse and human tumor xenograft models. These include cancer cell interaction with the tumor microenvironment and the ability of cancer cells to sense extracellular stimuli and adapt to adverse growth conditions. This review summarizes the coordinated response of cancer cells to soluble growth factors, such as RANKL, by a unique feed forward mechanism employing coordinated upregulation of RANKL and c-Met with downregulation of androgen receptor. The RANK-mediated signal network was found to drive epithelial to mesenchymal transition in prostate cancer cells, promote osteomimicry and the ability of prostate cancer cells to assume stem cell and neuroendocrine phenotypes, and confer the ability of prostate cancer cells to home to bone. Prostate cancer cells with activated RANK-mediated signal network were observed to recruit and even transform the non-tumorigenic prostate cancer cells to participate in bone and soft tissue colonization. The coordinated regulation of cancer cell invasion and metastasis by the feed forward mechanism involving RANKL, c-Met, transcription factors, and VEGF-neuropilin could offer new therapeutic opportunities to target prostate cancer bone and soft tissue metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Chia-Yi Chu
- Departments of Medicine and Surgery, Samuel Orchin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA,
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23
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Vascular channels formed by subpopulations of PECAM1+ melanoma cells. Nat Commun 2014; 5:5200. [PMID: 25335460 PMCID: PMC4261234 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting the vasculature remains a promising approach for treating solid tumors; however, the mechanisms of tumor neovascularization are diverse and complex. Here we uncover a new subpopulation of melanoma cells that express the vascular cell adhesion molecule PECAM1, but not VEGFR-2, and participate in a PECAM1-dependent form of vasculogenic mimicry (VM). Clonally-derived PECAM1+ tumor cells coalesce to form PECAM1-dependent networks in vitro and they generate well-perfused, VEGF-independent channels in mice. The neural crest specifier AP-2α is diminished in PECAM1+ melanoma cells and is a transcriptional repressor of PECAM1. Reintroduction of AP-2α into PECAM1+ tumor cells represses PECAM1 and abolishes tube-forming ability whereas AP-2α knockdown in PECAM1− tumor cells up-regulates PECAM1 expression and promotes tube formation. Thus, VM-competent subpopulations, rather than all cells within a tumor, may instigate VM, supplant host-derived endothelium, and form PECAM1-dependent conduits that are not diminished by neutralizing VEGF.
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24
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Breier G, Grosser M, Rezaei M. Endothelial cadherins in cancer. Cell Tissue Res 2014; 355:523-7. [PMID: 24619142 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-1851-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cadherins are cell adhesion receptors that play important roles in embryogenesis and tissue homoeostasis. Endothelial cells express various members of the cadherin superfamily, in particular vascular endothelial (VE-) cadherin, which is the main adhesion receptor of endothelial adherens junctions and neural (N-) cadherin, which is normally localized outside the junctions and may mediate adhesion between endothelial cells and non-endothelial cells. Dysregulation of cadherin expression has been implicated in tumor progression, in particular the loss of epithelial (E-) cadherin expression or function and the gain of N-cadherin. Moreover, more recently, aberrant expression of VE-cadherin was observed in certain cancer types. In breast carcinoma, VE-cadherin was shown to promote tumor cell proliferation and invasion through enhancing TGF-β signaling. Thus, in breast cancer, the cadherin switch involves another player, vascular endothelial cadherin, which is part of an intricate interplay of classical cadherins in breast cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Breier
- Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany,
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25
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Chung HJ, Mahalingam M. Angiogenesis, vasculogenic mimicry and vascular invasion in cutaneous malignant melanoma – implications for therapeutic strategies and targeted therapies. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2014; 14:621-39. [DOI: 10.1586/14737140.2014.883281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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26
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Abstract
The vascular endothelium is a dynamic cellular "organ" that controls passage of nutrients into tissues, maintains the flow of blood, and regulates the trafficking of leukocytes. In tumors, factors such as hypoxia and chronic growth factor stimulation result in endothelial dysfunction. For example, tumor blood vessels have irregular diameters; they are fragile, leaky, and blood flow is abnormal. There is now good evidence that these abnormalities in the tumor endothelium contribute to tumor growth and metastasis. Thus, determining the biological basis underlying these abnormalities is critical for understanding the pathophysiology of tumor progression and facilitating the design and delivery of effective antiangiogenic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew C Dudley
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA; and McAllister Heart Institute, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA.
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27
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Witkiewicz H, Oh P, Schnitzer JE. II. Capsular vaso-mimicry formed by transgenic mammary tumor spheroids implanted ectopically into mouse dorsal skin fold: implications for cellular mechanisms of metastasis. F1000Res 2013; 2:9. [PMID: 24555024 PMCID: PMC3869488 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.2-9.v2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Most cancer patients die of metastatic disease, not primary tumors, while biological mechanisms leading to metastases remain unclear and effective therapies are missing. Using a mouse dorsal skin chamber model we had observed that tumor growth and vasculature formation could be influenced by the way in vitro cultured (avascular) spheroids of N202 breast tumor cells were implanted; co-implantation of lactating breast tissue created stimulating microenvironment, whereas the absence of the graft resulted in temporary tumor dormancy. This report addressed the issue of cellular mechanisms of the vasculogenic switch that ended the dormancy. In situ ultrastructural analysis revealed that the tumors survived in ectopic microenvironment until some of host and tumor stem cells evolved independently into cells initiating the vasculogenic switch. The tumor cells that survived and proliferated under hypoxic conditions for three weeks were supported by erythrogenic autophagy of others. However, the host microenvironment first responded as it would to non-immunogenic foreign bodies, i.e., by encapsulating the tumor spheroids with collagen-producing fibroblasts. That led to a form of vaso-mimicry consisting of tumor cells amid tumor-derived erythrosomes (synonym of erythrocytes), megakaryocytes and platelets, and encapsulating them all, the host fibroblasts. Such capsular vaso-mimicry could potentially facilitate metastasis by fusing with morphologically similar lymphatic vessels or veins. Once incorporated into the host circulatory system, tumor cells could be carried away passively by blood flow, regardless of their genetic heterogeneity. The fake vascular segment would have permeability properties different from genuine vascular endothelium. The capsular vaso-mimicry was different from vasculogenic mimicry earlier observed in metastases-associated malignant tumors where channels formed by tumor cells were said to contain circulating blood. Structures similar to the vasculogenic mimicry were seen here as well but contained non-circulating erythrosomes formed between tumor nodules. The host's response to the implantation included coordinated formation of new vessels and peripheral nerves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halina Witkiewicz
- Proteogenomics Research Institute for Systems Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Phil Oh
- Proteogenomics Research Institute for Systems Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Jan E Schnitzer
- Proteogenomics Research Institute for Systems Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
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28
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Witkiewicz H, Oh P, Schnitzer JE. II. Capsular vaso-mimicry formed by transgenic mammary tumor spheroids implanted ectopically into mouse dorsal skin fold: cellular mechanisms of metastasis. F1000Res 2013; 2:9. [PMID: 24555024 PMCID: PMC3869488 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.2-9.v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2013] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Most cancer patients die of metastatic disease, not primary tumors, while biological mechanisms leading to metastases remain unclear and effective therapies are missing. Using a mouse dorsal skin chamber model we had observed that tumor growth and vasculature formation could be influenced by the way in vitro cultured (avascular) spheroids of N202 breast tumor cells were implanted; co-implantation of lactating breast tissue created stimulating microenvironment, whereas the absence of the graft resulted in temporary tumor dormancy. This report addressed the issue of cellular mechanisms of the vasculogenic switch that ended the dormancy. In situ ultrastructural analysis revealed that the tumors survived in ectopic microenvironment until some of host and tumor stem cells evolved independently into cells initiating the vasculogenic switch. The tumor cells that survived and proliferated under hypoxic conditions for three weeks were supported by erythrogenic autophagy of others. However, the host microenvironment first responded as it would to non-immunogenic foreign bodies, i.e., by encapsulating the tumor spheroids with collagen-producing fibroblasts. That led to a form of vaso-mimicry consisting of tumor cells amid tumor-derived erythrosomes (synonym of erythrocytes), megakaryocytes and platelets, and encapsulating them all, the host fibroblasts. Such capsular vaso-mimicry could potentially facilitate metastasis by fusing with morphologically similar lymphatic vessels or veins. Once incorporated into the host circulatory system, tumor cells could be carried away passively by blood flow, regardless of their genetic heterogeneity. The fake vascular segment would have permeability properties different from genuine vascular endothelium. The capsular vaso-mimicry was different from vasculogenic mimicry earlier observed in metastases-associated malignant tumors where channels formed by tumor cells were said to contain circulating blood. Structures similar to the vasculogenic mimicry were seen here as well but contained non-circulating erythrosomes formed between tumor nodules. The host's response to the implantation included coordinated formation of new vessels and peripheral nerves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halina Witkiewicz
- Proteogenomics Research Institute for Systems Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Phil Oh
- Proteogenomics Research Institute for Systems Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Jan E Schnitzer
- Proteogenomics Research Institute for Systems Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
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29
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Witkiewicz H, Oh P, Schnitzer JE. I. Embryonal vasculature formation recapitulated in transgenic mammary tumor spheroids implanted pseudo-orthotopicly into mouse dorsal skin fold: the organoblasts concept. F1000Res 2013; 2:8. [PMID: 24627767 PMCID: PMC3938277 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.2-8.v2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Inadequate understanding of cancer biology is a problem. This work focused on cellular mechanisms of tumor vascularization. According to earlier studies, the tumor vasculature derives from host endothelial cells (angiogenesis) or their precursors of bone marrow origin circulating in the blood (neo-vasculogenesis) unlike in embryos. In this study, we observed the neo-vasculature form in multiple ways from local precursor cells. Recapitulation of primitive as well as advanced embryonal stages of vasculature formation followed co-implantation of avascular (
in vitro cultured) N202 breast tumor spheroids and homologous tissue grafts into mouse dorsal skin chambers. Ultrastructural and immunocytochemical analysis of tissue sections exposed the interactions between the tumor and the graft tissue stem cells. It revealed details of vasculature morphogenesis not seen before in either tumors or embryos. A gradual increase in complexity of the vascular morphogenesis at the tumor site reflected a range of steps in ontogenic evolution of the differentiating cells. Malignant- and surgical injury repair-related tissue growth prompted local cells to initiate extramedullar erythropoiesis and vascular patterning. The new findings included: interdependence between the extramedullar hematopoiesis and assembly of new vessels (both from the locally differentiating precursors); nucleo-cytoplasmic conversion (karyolysis) as the mechanism of erythroblast enucleation; the role of megakaryocytes and platelets in vascular pattern formation before emergence of endothelial cells; lineage relationships between hematopoietic and endothelial cells; the role of extracellular calmyrin in tissue morphogenesis; and calmyrite, a new ultrastructural entity associated with anaerobic energy metabolism. The central role of the extramedullar erythropoiesis in the formation of new vasculature (blood and vessels) emerged here as part of the tissue building process including the lymphatic system and nerves, and suggests a cellular mechanism for instigating variable properties of endothelial surfaces in different organs. Those findings are consistent with the organoblasts concept, previously discussed in a study on childhood tumors, and have implications for tissue definition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halina Witkiewicz
- Proteogenomics Research Institute for Systems Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Phil Oh
- Proteogenomics Research Institute for Systems Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Jan E Schnitzer
- Proteogenomics Research Institute for Systems Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
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30
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Plate KH, Scholz A, Dumont DJ. Tumor angiogenesis and anti-angiogenic therapy in malignant gliomas revisited. Acta Neuropathol 2012; 124:763-75. [PMID: 23143192 PMCID: PMC3508273 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-012-1066-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2012] [Revised: 11/02/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cellular and molecular mechanisms of tumor angiogenesis and its prospects for anti-angiogenic cancer therapy are major issues in almost all current concepts of both cancer biology and targeted cancer therapy. Currently, (1) sprouting angiogenesis, (2) vascular co-option, (3) vascular intussusception, (4) vasculogenic mimicry, (5) bone marrow-derived vasculogenesis, (6) cancer stem-like cell-derived vasculogenesis and (7) myeloid cell-driven angiogenesis are all considered to contribute to tumor angiogenesis. Many of these processes have been described in developmental angiogenesis; however, the relative contribution and relevance of these in human brain cancer remain unclear. Preclinical tumor models support a role for sprouting angiogenesis, vascular co-option and myeloid cell-derived angiogenesis in glioma vascularization, whereas a role for the other four mechanisms remains controversial and rather enigmatic. The anti-angiogenesis drug Avastin (Bevacizumab), which targets VEGF, has become one of the most popular cancer drugs in the world. Anti-angiogenic therapy may lead to vascular normalization and as such facilitate conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy. However, preclinical and clinical studies suggest that anti-VEGF therapy using bevacizumab may also lead to a pro-migratory phenotype in therapy resistant glioblastomas and thus actively promote tumor invasion and recurrent tumor growth. This review focusses on (1) mechanisms of tumor angiogenesis in human malignant glioma that are of particular relevance for targeted therapy and (2) controversial issues in tumor angiogenesis such as cancer stem-like cell-derived vasculogenesis and bone-marrow-derived vasculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl H Plate
- Institute of Neurology (Edinger Institute), Frankfurt University Medical School, Frankfurt, Germany.
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Abstract
HT1080 - a human fibrosarcoma-derived cell line – forms aggressive angiogenic tumours in immuno-compromised mice. In spite of its extensive use as a model of tumour angiogenesis, the molecular event(s) initiating the angiogenic program in these cells are not known. Since hypoxia stimulates tumour angiogenesis, we examined the hypoxia-induced events evoked in these cells. In contrast to cells grown under normoxic conditions, hypoxia-primed (1% O2) HT1080 cells formed robust tubules on growth factor-reduced matrigel and formed significantly larger tumours in xenograft models in a chetomin-sensitive manner, indicating the role of HIF-1α-mediated transcription in these processes. Immuno-histochemical analyses of tumours formed by GFP-expressing HT1080 cells clearly showed that the tumour cells themselves expressed various angiogenic markers including Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) and formed functional vessels containing red blood cells, thereby unambiguously demonstrating the vasculogenic mimicry of HT1080 cells in vivo. Experiments performed with the HT1080 cells stably transfected with plasmid constructs expressing shNRP-1 or full-length NRP-1 clearly established that the HIF1α-mediated up-regulation of NRP-1 played a deterministic role in the process. Hypoxia-exposure resulted in an up-regulation of c-Myc and OCT3/4 and a down-regulation of KLF4 mRNAs, suggesting their involvement in the tumour formation and angiogenesis. However, silencing of NRP-1 alone, though not affecting proliferation in culture, was sufficient to abrogate the tumour formation completely; clearly establishing that the hypoxia-mediated HIF-1α-dependent up-regulation of NRP-1 is a critical molecular event involved in the vasculogenic mimicry and tumor formation by HT1080 cells in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roli M. Misra
- Stem Cell Lab, National Centre for Cell Science, National Centre for Cell Science Complex, University of Pune Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Manmohan S. Bajaj
- Stem Cell Lab, National Centre for Cell Science, National Centre for Cell Science Complex, University of Pune Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vaijayanti P. Kale
- Stem Cell Lab, National Centre for Cell Science, National Centre for Cell Science Complex, University of Pune Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Maharashtra, India
- * E-mail:
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MSC and Tumors: Homing, Differentiation, and Secretion Influence Therapeutic Potential. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2012; 130:209-66. [PMID: 22990585 DOI: 10.1007/10_2012_150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
: Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSC) are adult multipotent progenitors with fibroblast-like morphology able to differentiate into adipocytic, osteogenic, chondrogenic, and myogenic lineages. Due to these properties, MSC have been studied and introduced as therapeutics in regenerative medicine. Preliminary studies have also shown a possible involvement of MSC as precursors of cellular elements within tumor microenvironments, in particular tumor-associated fibroblasts (TAF). Among a number of different possible origins, TAF may originate from a pool of circulating progenitors from bone marrow or adipose tissue-derived MSC. There is growing evidence to corroborate that cells immunophenotypically defined as MSC are able to reside as TAF influencing the tumor microenvironment in a potentially bi-phasic and obscure manner: either promoting or inhibiting growth depending on tumor context and MSC sources. Here we focus on relationships between the tumor microenvironment, cancer cells, and MSC, analyzing their diverse ability to influence neoplastic development. Associated activities include MSC homing driven by the secretion of various mediators, differentiation towards TAF phenotypes, and reciprocal interactions with the tumor cells. These are reviewed here with the aim of understanding the biological functions of MSC that can be exploited for innovative cancer therapy.
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Seftor REB, Hess AR, Seftor EA, Kirschmann DA, Hardy KM, Margaryan NV, Hendrix MJC. Tumor cell vasculogenic mimicry: from controversy to therapeutic promise. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2012; 181:1115-25. [PMID: 22944600 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2012.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Revised: 07/24/2012] [Accepted: 07/30/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
In 1999, The American Journal of Pathology published an article entitled "Vascular channel formation by human melanoma cells in vivo and in vitro: vasculogenic mimicry," by Maniotis and colleagues, which ignited a spirited debate for several years and earned distinction as a citation classic. Tumor cell vasculogenic mimicry (VM) refers to the plasticity of aggressive cancer cells forming de novo vascular networks, which thereby contribute to perfusion of rapidly growing tumors, transporting fluid from leaky vessels, and/or connecting with the constitutional endothelial-lined vasculature. The tumor cells capable of VM share a plastic, transendothelial phenotype, which may be induced by hypoxia. Since VM was introduced as a novel paradigm for melanoma tumor perfusion, many studies have contributed new findings illuminating the underlying molecular pathways supporting VM in a variety of tumors, including carcinomas, sarcomas, glioblastomas, astrocytomas, and melanomas. Facilitating the functional plasticity of tumor cell VM are key proteins associated with vascular, stem cell, and hypoxia-related signaling pathways, each deserving serious consideration as potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic indicators of the aggressive, metastatic phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E B Seftor
- Children's Hospital of Chicago Research Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60614-3394, USA
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34
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Zhou F, Hu J, Shao JH, Zou SB, Shen SL, Luo ZQ. Metronomic chemotherapy in combination with antiangiogenic treatment induces mosaic vascular reduction and tumor growth inhibition in hepatocellular carcinoma xenografts. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2012; 138:1879-90. [PMID: 22736027 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-012-1270-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Accepted: 06/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In addition to sprouting angiogenesis, other mechanisms, such as mosaic tumor vessel formation, have been recognized to contribute to tumor vascularization. We sought to examine vascular alteration as well as tumor growth inhibition after treatment with antiangiogenic therapy, chemotherapy alone or in combination. METHODS Hepatocellular carcinoma cells (Hep3B) expressed green fluorescent protein were utilized to establish orthotopic xenograft model in nude mice. The formation and distribution of mosaic vessels was analyzed quantitatively by immunolabeling. Next, changes in tumor microcirculation and therapeutic effects on tumor growth were evaluated in several different treatment groups: control, conventional doxorubicin, metronomic doxorubicin, bevacizumab, bevacizumab plus conventional doxorubicin, and bevacizumab plus metronomic doxorubicin. In addition, we examined the effects of combined regimens on lung metastasis using a highly metastatic human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCCLM3) mouse model. RESULTS Approximately 62 % of the vessels were present in the central part or near the midsection of the tumor and were mosaic. Only the combined antiangiogenic treatment and chemotherapy (metronomic schedule, P = 0.00; conventional schedule, P = 0.02) had a significant effect on the degree of mosaic vasculature. Metronomic doxorubicin in combination with bevacizumab had an even more profound effect than bevacizumab plus conventional doxorubicin (P < 0.05) on tumor growth inhibition and survival. However, bevacizumab plus metronomic doxorubicin failed to inhibit lung metastasis compared with antiangiogenic monotherapy. CONCLUSIONS Metronomic chemotherapy in combination with antiangiogenic treatment results in the reduction of mosaic tumor vasculature, inhibition of tumor growth, and enhanced survival of mice. Further investigation of drug scheduling is required to optimize antitumor activity.
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MESH Headings
- Administration, Metronomic
- Angiogenesis Inhibitors/administration & dosage
- Animals
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use
- Bevacizumab
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Doxorubicin/administration & dosage
- Drug Administration Schedule
- Humans
- Injections, Intravenous
- Liver Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Lung Neoplasms/prevention & control
- Lung Neoplasms/secondary
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Nude
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/pathology
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/prevention & control
- Survival Analysis
- Treatment Outcome
- Tumor Burden/drug effects
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Mingde Road, Nanchang 330006, China.
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35
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Dunleavey JM, Dudley AC. Vascular Mimicry: Concepts and Implications for Anti-Angiogenic Therapy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 1:133-138. [PMID: 24729954 DOI: 10.2174/2211552811201020133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
As in normal tissues, solid tumors depend on vascular networks to supply blood, oxygen, and nutrients. Tumor blood vessels are formed by common processes of neovascularization for example endothelial sprouting. However, some tumors have alternative and unexpected mechanisms of neovascularization at their disposal. In a process termed "vascular mimicry," tumors create their own, tumor cell-lined channels for fluid transport independent of typical modes of angiogenesis. These tumor cell-lined conduits may express endothelial-selective markers and anti-coagulant factors which allow for anastamosis with host endothelium. In this review, we explore the current status of vascular mimicry research, highlighting recent evidence which strengthens the hypothesis for this unusual ability of tumor cells. Furthermore, we address the theoretical possibility that vascular mimicry provides a mechanism whereby tumors could escape anti-angiogenic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M Dunleavey
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Andrew C Dudley
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC ; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC ; McAllister Heart Institute, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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36
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Takakura N. Involvement of non-vascular stem cells in blood vessel formation. Int J Hematol 2012; 95:138-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s12185-012-1011-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2012] [Revised: 01/18/2012] [Accepted: 01/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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37
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Weis SM, Cheresh DA. Tumor angiogenesis: molecular pathways and therapeutic targets. Nat Med 2011; 17:1359-70. [PMID: 22064426 DOI: 10.1038/nm.2537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1269] [Impact Index Per Article: 97.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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38
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Grunewald TGP, Herbst SM, Heinze J, Burdach S. Understanding tumor heterogeneity as functional compartments--superorganisms revisited. J Transl Med 2011; 9:79. [PMID: 21619636 PMCID: PMC3118334 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-9-79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2011] [Accepted: 05/27/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Compelling evidence broadens our understanding of tumors as highly heterogeneous populations derived from one common progenitor. In this review we portray various stages of tumorigenesis, tumor progression, self-seeding and metastasis in analogy to the superorganisms of insect societies to exemplify the highly complex architecture of a neoplasm as a system of functional "castes." Accordingly, we propose a model in which clonal expansion and cumulative acquisition of genetic alterations produce tumor compartments each equipped with distinct traits and thus distinct functions that cooperate to establish clinically apparent tumors. This functional compartment model also suggests mechanisms for the self-construction of tumor stem cell niches. Thus, thinking of a tumor as a superorganism will provide systemic insight into its functional compartmentalization and may even have clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G P Grunewald
- Department of Pediatrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Kölner Platz 1, Munich, Germany.
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39
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Ma JL, Han SX, Zhu Q, Zhao J, Zhang D, Wang L, Lv Y. Role of Twist in vasculogenic mimicry formation in hypoxic hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vitro. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2011; 408:686-91. [PMID: 21539816 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2011.04.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2011] [Accepted: 04/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) refers to the unique ability of highly aggressive human tumor cells to form matrix-rich networks de novo when cultured on a three-dimensional matrix, thus mimicking embryonic vasculogenesis. Some studies have shown that tumor hypoxia can promote tumor cells to form vessel-like tubes in vitro and express genes associated with VM. Although, the mechanisms involved in hypoxia-induced VM remain elusive, we hypothesized that the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) regulator Twist may play a major role in hypoxia-induced VM. We investigated this hypothesis in vitro by pretreating hepatocellular carcinoma cells under hypoxic conditions. Following the hypoxia treatment, the cells formed typical pipe-like VM networks. Moreover, the expression of VM markers was increased. Hypoxia-induced VM was accompanied by the increased expression of Twist. Twist siRNA reversed the effects of hypoxia on VM. These results suggest that the overexpression of Twist correlates to hypoxia-induced VM in hepatocellular carcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-lu Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The FirstAffiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, No. 277 Yanta West Road, Xi’an, PR China
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40
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Jackson AL, Zhou B, Kim WY. HIF, hypoxia and the role of angiogenesis in non-small cell lung cancer. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2011; 14:1047-57. [PMID: 20854179 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2010.511617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD The role of angiogenesis in the initiation and progression of NSCLC and the molecular alterations leading to the growth of tumor vasculature are areas of great interest and recent therapeutic success. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW VEGF and its receptors play critical roles in the development of tumor vasculature and can be targeted by agents such as bevacizumab in the treatment of NSCLC. Furthermore, tumor hypoxia and the expression of the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) family of proteins are also linked to poorer survival in these patients. Recent studies using genetically engineered mouse models expressing stabilized HIF validate the importance of HIF in the evolution of NSCLC and demonstrate genetically that HIF is involved in NSCLC. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN An overview of the key pathways and mediators of tumor angiogenesis, their relevance to the pathogenesis of NSCLC, and an update on the current status of angiogenesis inhibitors in NSCLC. TAKE HOME MESSAGE Angiogenesis is a key mediator of NSCLC progression. Several antiangiogenic strategies are in clinical use and under development. While candidate predictive biomarkers of response to antiangiogenic therapy exist, they await independent and prospective validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Autumn L Jackson
- The University of North Carolina, The Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7295, USA
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41
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Strilić B, Kucera T, Lammert E. Formation of cardiovascular tubes in invertebrates and vertebrates. Cell Mol Life Sci 2010; 67:3209-18. [PMID: 20490602 PMCID: PMC11115780 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-010-0400-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2010] [Revised: 04/17/2010] [Accepted: 05/03/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cardiovascular system developed early in evolution and is pivotal for the transport of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products within the organism. It is composed of hollow tubular structures and has a high level of complexity in vertebrates. This complexity is, at least in part, due to the endothelial cell lining of vertebrate blood vessels. However, vascular lumen formation by endothelial cells is still controversially discussed. For example, it has been suggested that the lumen mainly forms via coalescence of large intracellular vacuoles generated by pinocytosis. Alternatively, it was proposed that the vascular lumen initiates extracellularly between adjacent apical endothelial cell surfaces. Here we discuss invertebrate and vertebrate cardiovascular lumen formation and highlight the possible modes of blood vessel formation. Finally, we point to the importance of a better understanding of vascular lumen formation for treating human pathologies, including cancer and coronary heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris Strilić
- Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
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42
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Egeblad M, Nakasone ES, Werb Z. Tumors as organs: complex tissues that interface with the entire organism. Dev Cell 2010; 18:884-901. [PMID: 20627072 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2010.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 840] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2010] [Revised: 04/06/2010] [Accepted: 04/23/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Solid tumors are not simply clones of cancer cells. Instead, they are abnormal organs composed of multiple cell types and extracellular matrix. Some aspects of tumor development resemble processes seen in developing organs, whereas others are more akin to tissue remodeling. Some microenvironments, particularly those associated with tissue injury, are favorable for progression of mutant cells, whereas others restrict it. Cancer cells can also instruct surrounding tissues to undergo changes that promote malignancy. Understanding the complex ways in which cancer cells interact with their surroundings, both locally in the tumor organ and systemically in the body as a whole, has implications for effective cancer prevention and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikala Egeblad
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, 1 Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.
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43
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Giovannini M, Aldrighetti D, Zucchinelli P, Belli C, Villa E. Antiangiogenic strategies in breast cancer management. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2010; 76:13-35. [PMID: 20702105 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2009.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2009] [Revised: 10/28/2009] [Accepted: 12/17/2009] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is considered one of the key mechanisms of tumour growth and survival. Therefore it represents an ideal pharmaceutical target. Many antiangiogenic agents have been developed so far in several solid tumours and also in breast cancer. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEFG) is the main target and both monoclonal antibodies and small molecules belonging to the tyrosine kinase inhibitors directed against VEGF(R) have been developed. Some other therapeutic approaches have shown to exert some antiangiogenic activity, such as hormonal agents, metronomic chemotherapy, bisphosphonates and others. In this paper we provide an introduction of the current data supporting the angiogenesis in breast cancer and a review of the most relevant antiagiogenic therapies which have been investigated so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Giovannini
- Medical Oncology Unit, Oncology Dept, San Raffaele Scientific Institute-University Hospital, Milan, Italy.
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44
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Samaranayake H, Määttä AM, Pikkarainen J, Ylä-Herttuala S. Future prospects and challenges of antiangiogenic cancer gene therapy. Hum Gene Ther 2010; 21:381-96. [PMID: 20163246 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2010.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In 1971 Judah Folkman proposed the concept of antiangiogenesis as a therapeutic target for cancer. More than 30 years later, concept became reality with the approval of the antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) monoclonal antibody bevacizumab as a first-line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer. Monoclonal antibodies and small molecular drugs are the most widely applied methods for inhibition of angiogenesis. The efficacy of these antiangiogenic modalities has been proven, in both preclinical and clinical settings. Although angiogenesis plays a major role in wound healing, hypoxia, and in the female reproductive cycle, inhibition of angiogenesis seems to be a relatively safe therapeutic option against cancers, and has therefore become a logical arena for a wide range of experimentation. The twentieth century has shown the boom of gene therapy and thus it has been applied also in the antiangiogenic setting. This review summarizes methods to induce antiangiogenic responses with gene therapy and discusses the obstacles and future prospects of antiangiogenic cancer gene therapy.
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45
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Nagy JA, Chang SH, Shih SC, Dvorak AM, Dvorak HF. Heterogeneity of the tumor vasculature. Semin Thromb Hemost 2010; 36:321-31. [PMID: 20490982 DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1253454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The blood vessels supplying tumors are strikingly heterogeneous and differ from their normal counterparts with respect to organization, structure, and function. Six distinctly different tumor vessel types have been identified, and much has been learned about the steps and mechanisms by which they form. Four of the six vessel types (mother vessels, capillaries, glomeruloid microvascular proliferations, and vascular malformations) develop from preexisting normal venules and capillaries by angiogenesis. The two remaining vessel types (feeder arteries and draining veins) develop from arterio-venogenesis, a parallel, poorly understood process that involves the remodeling of preexisting arteries and veins. All six of these tumor vessel types can be induced to form sequentially in normal mouse tissues by an adenoviral vector expressing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A164. Current antiangiogenic cancer therapies directed at VEGF-A or its receptors have been of only limited benefit to cancer patients, perhaps because they target only the endothelial cells of the tumor blood vessel subset that requires exogenous VEGF-A for maintenance. A goal of future work is to identify therapeutic targets on tumor blood vessel endothelial cells that have lost this requirement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice A Nagy
- Center for Vascular Biology Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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46
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Casal C, Torres-Collado AX, Plaza-Calonge MDC, Martino-Echarri E, Ramón Y Cajal S, Rojo F, Griffioen AW, Rodríguez-Manzaneque JC. ADAMTS1 contributes to the acquisition of an endothelial-like phenotype in plastic tumor cells. Cancer Res 2010; 70:4676-86. [PMID: 20484033 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-09-4197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells have been hypothesized to explain tumor plasticity, including the capability to adopt distinct differentiation commitments. Among the mechanisms of tumor neovascularization, the ability of some malignant cells to mimic an endothelial phenotype has been recognized by a capacity to form matrix-enriched pseudovascular structures. In addition to the expression of genes associated with an endothelial nature, the molecular dynamism of specific microenvironments may also be critical. Here, we report the identification of the extracellular protease ADAMTS1 as a critical molecule for tumor cells to acquire endothelial-like properties. In a fibrosarcoma model, ADAMTS1 increased tumor growth rate in an angiogenesis-independent manner, influencing the tumor cells to display an exclusive endothelial-like gene signature. We documented the relevant expression of ADAMTS1 in aggressive and highly plastic melanoma and Ewing sarcoma cells. Notably, inhibiting ADAMTS1 action compromised the endothelial mimetic attributes observed in this setting. Our findings provide insights into how the tumor microenvironment can elicit endothelial mimicry by tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Casal
- GENYO (Pfizer-University of Granada-Andalusian Government Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research), Armilla, Granada, Spain
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47
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Abstract
Pancreatic islets are highly vascularized micro-organs. Approximately 10% of an islet consists of blood vessels. The induction and maintenance of the islet vascular system depend on VEGF secreted from β-cells. VEGF is also critical for the phenotype of the islet vasculature by induction of a vast number of fenestrae. The islet vasculature serves the role of supplying the endocrine cells with oxygen and nutrients, but may also be important for proper glucose sensing of the cells, for paracrine support of endocrine function and growth, and for drainage of metabolites and secreted islet hormones into the systemic circulation. Emerging evidence suggests an important role of islet endothelial cells to maintain β-cell function and growth by secretion of molecules such as hepatocyte growth factor, thrombospondin-1 and laminins, thereby forming a vascular niche for the endocrine cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Olerud
- a Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Åsa Johansson
- a Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per-Ola Carlsson
- b Department of Medical Sciences, Section for Endocrinology and Diabetology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden and Department of Medical Cell Biology, Husargatan 3, Box 571, SE-75123, Uppsala, Sweden.
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48
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Eikesdal HP, Kalluri R. Drug resistance associated with antiangiogenesis therapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2009; 19:310-7. [PMID: 19524042 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2009.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2008] [Accepted: 05/20/2009] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Neovascularization is one of the hallmarks associated with tumor growth. In the recent years, a number of angiogenesis inhibitors have been approved for clinical use in cancer patients. However, the efficacy of antiangiogenic therapy is in most cases short-lasting, with likely drug resistance developing within a few months. It is becoming clear also that there are a subset of malignant tumors that are inherently resistant to angiogenesis inhibition. The knowledge regarding resistance mechanisms towards angiogenesis inhibitors is still evolving and here we propose some theories and in some cases provide experimental evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Petter Eikesdal
- Division of Matrix Biology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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49
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Ejaz S, Chekarova I, Ashraf M, Lim CW. A Novel 3-D Model of Chick Chorioallantoic Membrane for Ameliorated Studies in Angiogenesis. Cancer Invest 2009; 24:567-75. [PMID: 16982460 DOI: 10.1080/07357900600894773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Decisive indulgence of angiogenesis requires a more holistic assessment and several in vivo assays have been developed that permit a more realistic appraisal of the angiogenic response. One of the most popular assays to study angiogenic activity is the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). Although CAM assay is a vital technique used to study normal and putative angiogenesis, a serious drawback in its utilization is the lack of quantitative assessment of vascularization. In this study, we proposed a new 3-D model of the developing CAM for precise quantification of normal vasculature of CAM from Day 4 to Day 13 of incubation. Image probing technique was used to quantify different 3-D parameters of vascular microarchitecture. A significant increase (P < 0.05) in surface roughness (Sa) was observed at Day 5 of incubation, while highly significant increase (P < 0.01) in Sa values was observed at Day 6 of incubation. Maximum increase (P < 0.001) in Sa values was observed from Day 7 to Day 9 of incubation and slight decrease in Sa values was observed in successive days. Similar results were observed for root mean square values (Sq), absolute heights of the surface (Sz), and amount of lowest valleys (Sy) on CAM. A significant increase (P < 0.05) in developed surface area (Sdr) from Day 5 of incubation, reaching to its maximum (P < 0.01) at Day 9 also was noted. Similarly, significant increase (P < 0.05) in fluid core retention (Sci) illustrates presence of copious fluid in blood vessels. Image probing technique offers a useful modality for visualizing 3-D microvascular architecture of CAM to exaggerate the fine details and reveal the hidden information that can be helpful for precise quantification of angiogenesis. This approach can be used to evaluate the angiogenic and antiangiogenic potential of different biological substances and also can be a valuable independent prognostic indicator in a wide variety of human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohail Ejaz
- Department of Pathology, Biosafety Research Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
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Minagawa A, Koga H, Sakaizawa K, Sano K, Saida T. Dermoscopic and histopathological findings of polymorphous vessels in amelanotic cutaneous metastasis of pigmented cutaneous melanoma. Br J Dermatol 2009; 160:1134-6. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2009.09103.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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