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Ruszkowska-Ciastek B, Kwiatkowska K, Marques-da-Silva D, Lagoa R. Cancer Stem Cells from Definition to Detection and Targeted Drugs. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3903. [PMID: 38612718 PMCID: PMC11011379 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073903] [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] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancers remain the second leading cause of mortality in the world. Preclinical and clinical studies point an important role of cancer/leukaemia stem cells (CSCs/LSCs) in the colonisation at secondary organ sites upon metastatic spreading, although the precise mechanisms for specific actions are still not fully understood. Reviewing the present knowledge on the crucial role of CSCs/LSCs, their plasticity, and population heterogeneity in treatment failures in cancer patients is timely. Standard chemotherapy, which acts mainly on rapidly dividing cells, is unable to adequately affect CSCs with a low proliferation rate. One of the proposed mechanisms of CSC resistance to anticancer agents is the fact that these cells can easily shift between different phases of the cell cycle in response to typical cell stimuli induced by anticancer drugs. In this work, we reviewed the recent studies on CSC/LSC alterations associated with disease recurrence, and we systematised the functional assays, markers, and novel methods for CSCs screening. This review emphasises CSCs' involvement in cancer progression and metastasis, as well as CSC/LSC targeting by synthetic and natural compounds aiming at their elimination or modulation of stemness properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ruszkowska-Ciastek
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Collegium Medicum, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kwiatkowska
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Jan Biziel University Hospital No. 2, 85-168 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| | - Dorinda Marques-da-Silva
- Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering-Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials (LSRE-LCM), Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal; (D.M.-d.-S.); (R.L.)
- Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering (ALiCE), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- School of Technology and Management, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, Morro do Lena-Alto do Vieiro, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Lagoa
- Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering-Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials (LSRE-LCM), Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal; (D.M.-d.-S.); (R.L.)
- Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering (ALiCE), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- School of Technology and Management, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, Morro do Lena-Alto do Vieiro, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
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2
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Li Y, Tang S, Shi X, Lv J, Wu X, Zhang Y, Wang H, He J, Zhu Y, Ju Y, Zhang Y, Guo S, Yang W, Yin H, Chen L, Gao D, Jin G. Metabolic classification suggests the GLUT1/ALDOB/G6PD axis as a therapeutic target in chemotherapy-resistant pancreatic cancer. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101162. [PMID: 37597521 PMCID: PMC10518604 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is known as an emerging mechanism of chemotherapy resistance, but the metabolic signatures of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs) remain unclear. Here, we characterize the metabolomic profile of PDAC organoids and classify them into glucomet-PDAC (high glucose metabolism levels) and lipomet-PDAC (high lipid metabolism levels). Glucomet-PDACs are more resistant to chemotherapy than lipomet-PDACs, and patients with glucomet-PDAC have a worse prognosis. Integrated analyses reveal that the GLUT1/aldolase B (ALDOB)/glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) axis induces chemotherapy resistance by remodeling glucose metabolism in glucomet-PDAC. Increased glycolytic flux, G6PD activity, and pyrimidine biosynthesis are identified in glucomet-PDAC with high GLUT1 and low ALDOB expression, and these phenotypes could be reversed by inhibiting GLUT1 expression or by increasing ALDOB expression. Pharmacological inhibition of GLUT1 or G6PD enhances the chemotherapy response of glucomet-PDAC. Our findings uncover potential metabolic heterogeneity related to differences in chemotherapy sensitivity in PDAC and develop a promising pharmacological strategy for patients with chemotherapy-resistant glucomet-PDAC through the combination of chemotherapy and GLUT1/ALDOB/G6PD axis inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunguang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shijie Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaohan Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jingwen Lv
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety Research, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health (SINH), Innovation Center for Intervention of Chronic Disease and Promotion of Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xueyuan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yehan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Juan He
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yiqin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yi Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yajuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shiwei Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Weiwei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China.
| | - Huiyong Yin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety Research, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health (SINH), Innovation Center for Intervention of Chronic Disease and Promotion of Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai 200031, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China; Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Luonan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
| | - Dong Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Gang Jin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), Shanghai 200433, China.
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3
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Zhao Y, Qin C, Zhao B, Wang Y, Li Z, Li T, Yang X, Wang W. Pancreatic cancer stemness: dynamic status in malignant progression. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:122. [PMID: 37173787 PMCID: PMC10182699 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02693-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies worldwide. Increasing evidence suggests that the capacity for self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation of pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs) contribute to major challenges with current PC therapies, causing metastasis and therapeutic resistance, leading to recurrence and death in patients. The concept that PCSCs are characterized by their high plasticity and self-renewal capacities is central to this review. We focused specifically on the regulation of PCSCs, such as stemness-related signaling pathways, stimuli in tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME), as well as the development of innovative stemness-targeted therapies. Understanding the biological behavior of PCSCs with plasticity and the molecular mechanisms regulating PC stemness will help to identify new treatment strategies to treat this horrible disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Qin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Bangbo Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeru Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoying Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Weibin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
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4
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Samavarchi Tehrani S, Esmaeili F, Shirzad M, Goodarzi G, Yousefi T, Maniati M, Taheri-Anganeh M, Anushiravani A. The critical role of circular RNAs in drug resistance in gastrointestinal cancers. Med Oncol 2023; 40:116. [PMID: 36917431 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-01980-4] [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] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, drug resistance (DR) in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, as the main reason for cancer-related mortality worldwide, has become a serious problem in the management of patients. Several mechanisms have been proposed for resistance to anticancer drugs, including altered transport and metabolism of drugs, mutation of drug targets, altered DNA repair system, inhibited apoptosis and autophagy, cancer stem cells, tumor heterogeneity, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Compelling evidence has revealed that genetic and epigenetic factors are strongly linked to DR. Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) interferences are the most crucial epigenetic alterations explored so far, and among these ncRNAs, circular RNAs (circRNAs) are the most emerging members known to have unique properties. Due to the absence of 5' and 3' ends in these novel RNAs, the two ends are covalently bonded together and are generated from pre-mRNA in a process known as back-splicing, which makes them more stable than other RNAs. As far as the unique structure and function of circRNAs is concerned, they are implicated in proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, metastasis, and DR. A clear understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for circRNAs-mediated DR in the GI cancers will open a new window to the management of GI cancers. Hence, in the present review, we will describe briefly the biogenesis, multiple features, and different biological functions of circRNAs. Then, we will summarize current mechanisms of DR, and finally, discuss molecular mechanisms through which circRNAs regulate DR development in esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadra Samavarchi Tehrani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fataneh Esmaeili
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moein Shirzad
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Golnaz Goodarzi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tooba Yousefi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Maniati
- Department of English, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Amir Anushiravani
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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5
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Re-Sensitizing Cancer Stem Cells to Conventional Chemotherapy Agents. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032122. [PMID: 36768445 PMCID: PMC9917165 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are found in many cancer types. They comprise a distinct subpopulation of cells within the tumor that exhibit properties of stem cells. They express a number of cell surface markers, such as CD133, CD44, ALDH, and EpCAM, as well as embryonic transcription factors Oct4, Nanog, and SOX2. CSCs are more resistant to conventional chemotherapy and can potentially drive tumor relapse. Therefore, it is essential to understand the molecular mechanisms that drive chemoresistance and to target them with specific therapy effectively. Highly conserved developmental signaling pathways such as Wnt, Hedgehog, and Notch are commonly reported to play a role in CSCs chemoresistance development. Studies show that particular pathway inhibitors combined with conventional therapy may re-establish sensitivity to the conventional therapy. Another significant contributor of chemoresistance is a specific tumor microenvironment. Surrounding stroma in the form of cancer-associated fibroblasts, macrophages, endothelial cells, and extracellular matrix components produce cytokines and other factors, thus creating a favorable environment and decreasing the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy. Anti-stromal agents may potentially help to overcome these effects. Epigenetic changes and autophagy were also among the commonly reported mechanisms of chemoresistance. This review provides an overview of signaling pathway components involved in the development of chemoresistance of CSCs and gathers evidence from experimental studies in which CSCs can be re-sensitized to conventional chemotherapy agents across different cancer types.
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6
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The role of Hedgehog and Notch signaling pathway in cancer. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:44. [PMID: 36517618 PMCID: PMC9751255 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00099-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch and Hedgehog signaling are involved in cancer biology and pathology, including the maintenance of tumor cell proliferation, cancer stem-like cells, and the tumor microenvironment. Given the complexity of Notch signaling in tumors, its role as both a tumor promoter and suppressor, and the crosstalk between pathways, the goal of developing clinically safe, effective, tumor-specific Notch-targeted drugs has remained intractable. Drugs developed against the Hedgehog signaling pathway have affirmed definitive therapeutic effects in basal cell carcinoma; however, in some contexts, the challenges of tumor resistance and recurrence leap to the forefront. The efficacy is very limited for other tumor types. In recent years, we have witnessed an exponential increase in the investigation and recognition of the critical roles of the Notch and Hedgehog signaling pathways in cancers, and the crosstalk between these pathways has vast space and value to explore. A series of clinical trials targeting signaling have been launched continually. In this review, we introduce current advances in the understanding of Notch and Hedgehog signaling and the crosstalk between pathways in specific tumor cell populations and microenvironments. Moreover, we also discuss the potential of targeting Notch and Hedgehog for cancer therapy, intending to promote the leap from bench to bedside.
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7
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Mayani H, Chávez-González A, Vázquez-Santillan K, Contreras J, Guzman ML. Cancer Stem Cells: Biology and Therapeutic Implications. Arch Med Res 2022; 53:770-784. [PMID: 36462951 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2022.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
It is well recognized that most cancers derive and progress from transformation and clonal expansion of a single cell that possesses stem cell properties, i.e., self-renewal and multilineage differentiation capacities. Such cancer stem cells (CSCs) are usually present at very low frequencies and possess properties that make them key players in tumor development. Indeed, besides having the ability to initiate tumor growth, CSCs drive tumor progression and metastatic dissemination, are resistant to most cancer drugs, and are responsible for cancer relapse. All of these features make CSCs attractive targets for the development of more effective oncologic treatments. In the present review article, we have summarized recent advances in the biology of CSCs, including their identification through their immunophenotype, and their physiology, both in vivo and in vitro. We have also analyzed some molecular markers that might become targets for developing new therapies aiming at hampering CSCs regeneration and cancer relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector Mayani
- Unidad de Investigaci..n en Enfermedades Oncol..gicas, Hospital de Oncolog.ía, Centro M..dico Nacional SXXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. Ciudad de M..xico, M..xico.
| | - Antonieta Chávez-González
- Unidad de Investigaci..n en Enfermedades Oncol..gicas, Hospital de Oncolog.ía, Centro M..dico Nacional SXXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. Ciudad de M..xico, M..xico
| | | | - Jorge Contreras
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Monica L Guzman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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8
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Sonawala K, Ramalingam S, Sellamuthu I. Influence of Long Non-Coding RNA in the Regulation of Cancer Stem Cell Signaling Pathways. Cells 2022; 11:3492. [PMID: 36359888 PMCID: PMC9656902 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as an immensely studied and experimental topic, however a wide range of questions concerning the topic still remain unanswered; in particular, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of tumor stem cells and their characteristics. Understanding the cancer stem-cell signaling pathways may pave the way towards a better comprehension of these mechanisms. Signaling pathways such as WNT, STAT, Hedgehog, NOTCH, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, TGF-β, and NF-κB are responsible not only for modulating various features of CSCs but also their microenvironments. Recently, the prominent roles of various non-coding RNAs such as small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in developing and enhancing the tumor phenotypes have been unfolded. This review attempts to shed light on understanding the influence of long non- coding RNAs in the modulation of various CSC-signaling pathways and its impact on the CSCs and tumor properties; highlighting the protagonistic and antagonistic roles of lncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Iyappan Sellamuthu
- Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai 603202, India
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9
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Redox-Regulation in Cancer Stem Cells. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102413. [PMID: 36289675 PMCID: PMC9598867 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a small subset of slowly dividing cells with tumor-initiating ability. They can self-renew and differentiate into all the distinct cell populations within a tumor. CSCs are naturally resistant to chemotherapy or radiotherapy. CSCs, thus, can repopulate a tumor after therapy and are responsible for recurrence of disease. Stemness manifests itself through, among other things, the expression of stem cell markers, the ability to induce sphere formation and tumor growth in vivo, and resistance to chemotherapeutics and irradiation. Stemness is maintained by keeping levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) low, which is achieved by enhanced activity of antioxidant pathways. Here, cellular sources of ROS, antioxidant pathways employed by CSCs, and underlying mechanisms to overcome resistance are discussed.
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10
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Patel TN, Dhanyamraju PK. Role of aberrant Sonic hedgehog signaling pathway in cancers and developmental anomalies. J Biomed Res 2021; 36:1-9. [PMID: 34963676 PMCID: PMC8894283 DOI: 10.7555/jbr.35.20210139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Development is a sophisticated process maintained by various signal transduction pathways, including the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway. Several important functions are executed by the Hh signaling cascade such as organogenesis, tissue regeneration, and tissue homeostasis, among various others. Considering the multiple functions carried out by this pathway, any mutation causing aberrant Hh signaling may lead to myriad developmental abnormalities besides cancers. In the present review article, we explored a wide range of diseases caused by aberrant Hh signaling, including developmental defects and cancers. Finally, we concluded this mini-review with various treatment strategies for Hh-induced diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trupti N Patel
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore Campus, Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014, India
| | - Pavan Kumar Dhanyamraju
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.,Penn State Cancer Institute, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
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11
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Cao J, Bhatnagar S, Wang J, Qi X, Prabha S, Panyam J. Cancer stem cells and strategies for targeted drug delivery. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2021; 11:1779-1805. [PMID: 33095384 PMCID: PMC8062588 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-020-00863-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small proportion of cancer cells with high tumorigenic activity, self-renewal ability, and multilineage differentiation potential. Standard anti-tumor therapies including conventional chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and molecularly targeted therapies are not effective against CSCs, and often lead to enrichment of CSCs that can result in tumor relapse. Therefore, it is hypothesized that targeting CSCs is key to increasing the efficacy of cancer therapies. In this review, CSC properties including CSC markers, their role in tumor growth, invasiveness, metastasis, and drug resistance, as well as CSC microenvironment are discussed. Further, CSC-targeted strategies including the use of targeted drug delivery systems are examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Shubhmita Bhatnagar
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- School of Pharmacy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
| | - Jiawei Wang
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Xueyong Qi
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Swayam Prabha
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- Cancer Research & Molecular Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
| | - Jayanth Panyam
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
- School of Pharmacy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA.
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12
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Chai JY, Sugumar V, Alshanon AF, Wong WF, Fung SY, Looi CY. Defining the Role of GLI/Hedgehog Signaling in Chemoresistance: Implications in Therapeutic Approaches. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4746. [PMID: 34638233 PMCID: PMC8507559 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Insight into cancer signaling pathways is vital in the development of new cancer treatments to improve treatment efficacy. A relatively new but essential developmental signaling pathway, namely Hedgehog (Hh), has recently emerged as a major mediator of cancer progression and chemoresistance. The evolutionary conserved Hh signaling pathway requires an in-depth understanding of the paradigm of Hh signaling transduction, which is fundamental to provide the necessary means for the design of novel tools for treating cancer related to aberrant Hh signaling. This review will focus substantially on the canonical Hh signaling and the treatment strategies employed in different studies, with special emphasis on the molecular mechanisms and combination treatment in regard to Hh inhibitors and chemotherapeutics. We discuss our views based on Hh signaling's role in regulating DNA repair machinery, autophagy, tumor microenvironment, drug inactivation, transporters, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and cancer stem cells to promote chemoresistance. The understanding of this Achilles' Heel in cancer may improve the therapeutic outcome for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yi Chai
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia;
| | - Vaisnevee Sugumar
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia;
| | - Ahmed F. Alshanon
- Center of Biotechnology Researches, University of Al-Nahrain, Baghdad 10072, Iraq;
| | - Won Fen Wong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Shin Yee Fung
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Chung Yeng Looi
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia;
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13
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Patil K, Khan FB, Akhtar S, Ahmad A, Uddin S. The plasticity of pancreatic cancer stem cells: implications in therapeutic resistance. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2021; 40:691-720. [PMID: 34453639 PMCID: PMC8556195 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-021-09979-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The ever-growing perception of cancer stem cells (CSCs) as a plastic state rather than a hardwired defined entity has evolved our understanding of the functional and biological plasticity of these elusive components in malignancies. Pancreatic cancer (PC), based on its biological features and clinical evolution, is a prototypical example of a CSC-driven disease. Since the discovery of pancreatic CSCs (PCSCs) in 2007, evidence has unraveled their control over many facets of the natural history of PC, including primary tumor growth, metastatic progression, disease recurrence, and acquired drug resistance. Consequently, the current near-ubiquitous treatment regimens for PC using aggressive cytotoxic agents, aimed at ‘‘tumor debulking’’ rather than eradication of CSCs, have proven ineffective in providing clinically convincing improvements in patients with this dreadful disease. Herein, we review the key hallmarks as well as the intrinsic and extrinsic resistance mechanisms of CSCs that mediate treatment failure in PC and enlist the potential CSC-targeting ‘natural agents’ that are gaining popularity in recent years. A better understanding of the molecular and functional landscape of PCSC-intrinsic evasion of chemotherapeutic drugs offers a facile opportunity for treating PC, an intractable cancer with a grim prognosis and in dire need of effective therapeutic advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalyani Patil
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Farheen B Khan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, The United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 15551, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sabah Akhtar
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aamir Ahmad
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.,Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar. .,Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar. .,Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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14
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Liang Y, Yang L, Xie J. The Role of the Hedgehog Pathway in Chemoresistance of Gastrointestinal Cancers. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082030. [PMID: 34440799 PMCID: PMC8391142 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The hedgehog pathway, which plays a significant role in embryonic development and stem cell regulation, is activated in gastrointestinal cancers. Chemotherapy is widely used in cancer treatment. However, chemoresistance becomes a substantial obstacle in cancer therapy. This review focuses on the recent advances in the hedgehog pathway's roles in drug resistance of gastrointestinal cancers and the novel drugs and strategies targeting hedgehog signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yabing Liang
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Clinical Medical Research Center of the Affiliated Hospital, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China;
| | - Ling Yang
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Clinical Medical Research Center of the Affiliated Hospital, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China;
- Correspondence: (L.Y.); (J.X.)
| | - Jingwu Xie
- Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Correspondence: (L.Y.); (J.X.)
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15
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Melendez-Zajgla J, Maldonado V. The Role of lncRNAs in the Stem Phenotype of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6374. [PMID: 34203589 PMCID: PMC8232220 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is one of the deadliest tumors. This neoplasia is characterized by an important cellular and phenotypic heterogeneity. In particular, it has been shown that at least two subtypes can be found: basal-like, which presents stem-like properties, and classical. Cancer stem cells have been isolated and characterized from these tumors, showing their dependance on general and tissue-specific stem transcription factors and signaling pathways. Nevertheless, little is known about their tissue microenvironment and cell non-autonomous regulators, such as long-non-coding RNAs. (lncRNAs). In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about the positive and negative effects of lncRNAs in the stemness phenotype of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cancer (PDAC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Melendez-Zajgla
- Functional Genomics Laboratory, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genomica, Periferico Sur 4809, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14610, Mexico;
| | - Vilma Maldonado
- Epigenomics Laboratory, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genomica, Periferico Sur 4809, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14610, Mexico
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16
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Barman S, Fatima I, Singh AB, Dhawan P. Pancreatic Cancer and Therapy: Role and Regulation of Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094765. [PMID: 33946266 PMCID: PMC8124621 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite significant improvements in clinical management, pancreatic cancer (PC) remains one of the deadliest cancer types, as it is prone to late detection with extreme metastatic properties. The recent findings that pancreatic cancer stem cells (PaCSCs) contribute to the tumorigenesis, progression, and chemoresistance have offered significant insight into the cancer malignancy and development of precise therapies. However, the heterogeneity of cancer and signaling pathways that regulate PC have posed limitations in the effective targeting of the PaCSCs. In this regard, the role for K-RAS, TP53, Transforming Growth Factor-β, hedgehog, Wnt and Notch and other signaling pathways in PC progression is well documented. In this review, we discuss the role of PaCSCs, the underlying molecular and signaling pathways that help promote pancreatic cancer development and metastasis with a specific focus on the regulation of PaCSCs. We also discuss the therapeutic approaches that target different PaCSCs, intricate mechanisms, and therapeutic opportunities to eliminate heterogeneous PaCSCs populations in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susmita Barman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.B.); (I.F.); (A.B.S.)
| | - Iram Fatima
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.B.); (I.F.); (A.B.S.)
| | - Amar B. Singh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.B.); (I.F.); (A.B.S.)
- VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
- Buffet Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
| | - Punita Dhawan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.B.); (I.F.); (A.B.S.)
- VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
- Buffet Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
- Correspondence:
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17
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Rossi F, Noren H, Jove R, Beljanski V, Grinnemo KH. Differences and similarities between cancer and somatic stem cells: therapeutic implications. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:489. [PMID: 33208173 PMCID: PMC7672862 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-02018-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last decades, the cancer survival rate has increased due to personalized therapies, the discovery of targeted therapeutics and novel biological agents, and the application of palliative treatments. Despite these advances, tumor resistance to chemotherapy and radiation and rapid progression to metastatic disease are still seen in many patients. Evidence has shown that cancer stem cells (CSCs), a sub-population of cells that share many common characteristics with somatic stem cells (SSCs), contribute to this therapeutic failure. The most critical properties of CSCs are their self-renewal ability and their capacity for differentiation into heterogeneous populations of cancer cells. Although CSCs only constitute a low percentage of the total tumor mass, these cells can regrow the tumor mass on their own. Initially identified in leukemia, CSCs have subsequently been found in cancers of the breast, the colon, the pancreas, and the brain. Common genetic and phenotypic features found in both SSCs and CSCs, including upregulated signaling pathways such as Notch, Wnt, Hedgehog, and TGF-β. These pathways play fundamental roles in the development as well as in the control of cell survival and cell fate and are relevant to therapeutic targeting of CSCs. The differences in the expression of membrane proteins and exosome-delivered microRNAs between SSCs and CSCs are also important to specifically target the stem cells of the cancer. Further research efforts should be directed toward elucidation of the fundamental differences between SSCs and CSCs to improve existing therapies and generate new clinically relevant cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiorella Rossi
- NSU Cell Therapy Institute, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA
| | - Hunter Noren
- NSU Cell Therapy Institute, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA
| | - Richard Jove
- NSU Cell Therapy Institute, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA
| | - Vladimir Beljanski
- NSU Cell Therapy Institute, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA.
| | - Karl-Henrik Grinnemo
- NSU Cell Therapy Institute, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA. .,Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Surgical Sciences, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Anaesthesiology, Uppsala University, Akademiska University Hospital, Akademiska sjukhuset, ingång 50, 4 tr, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden.
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18
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Yu S, Zhang C, Xie KP. Therapeutic resistance of pancreatic cancer: Roadmap to its reversal. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1875:188461. [PMID: 33157162 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a lethal disease with limited opportunity for resectable surgery as the first choice for cure due to its late diagnosis and early metastasis. The desmoplastic stroma and cellular genetic or epigenetic alterations of pancreatic cancer impose physical and biological barriers to effective therapies, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Here, we review the current therapeutic options for pancreatic cancer, and underlying mechanisms and potential reversal of therapeutic resistance, a hallmark of this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital Affiliated to the South China University of Technology, School of Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunyu Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital Affiliated to the South China University of Technology, School of Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke-Ping Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital Affiliated to the South China University of Technology, School of Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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19
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Delma MI. Besieging the Tumoral Sites: Could It Be an Alternative Therapeutic Strategy in Ductal Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma? Cureus 2020; 12:e10909. [PMID: 33194476 PMCID: PMC7657315 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.10909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is characterized by its high morbidity, and curative drugs are still lacking. In addition to immunotherapy, other molecular targeted therapeutics, such as stroma depleting agents, have been evaluated, given the abundant desmoplastic stroma that is considered a protective shield for tumor cells. However, the unexpected poor outcome has raised the debate on whether desmoplasia promotes or restrains tumor cell spread. After reviewing these key points in this paper, an approach taking advantage of desmoplasia and immune cells to besiege the tumoral sites will be proposed. Based on the available literature, the feasibility and potential limitations of this strategy will be discussed.
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20
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Lai Q, Li Q, He C, Fang Y, Lin S, Cai J, Ding J, Zhong Q, Zhang Y, Wu C, Wang X, He J, Liu Y, Yan Q, Li A, Liu S. CTCF promotes colorectal cancer cell proliferation and chemotherapy resistance to 5-FU via the P53-Hedgehog axis. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:16270-16293. [PMID: 32688344 PMCID: PMC7485712 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
CTCF is overexpressed in several cancers and plays crucial roles in regulating aggressiveness, but little is known about whether CTCF drives colorectal cancer progression. Here, we identified a tumor-promoting role for CTCF in colorectal cancer. Our study demonstrated that CTCF was upregulated in colorectal cancer specimens compared with adjacent noncancerous colorectal tissues. The overexpression of CTCF promoted colorectal cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth, while the opposite effects were observed in CTCF knockdown cells. Increased GLI1, Shh, PTCH1, and PTCH2 levels were observed in CTCF-overexpressing cells using western blot analyses. CCK-8 and apoptosis assays revealed that 5-fluorouracil chemosensitivity was negatively associated with CTCF expression. Furthermore, we identified that P53 is a direct transcriptional target gene of CTCF in colorectal cancer. Western blot and nuclear extract assays showed that inhibition of P53 can counteract Hedgehog signaling pathway repression induced by CTCF knockdown. In conclusion, we uncovered a crucial role for CTCF regulation that possibly involves the P53-Hedgehog axis and highlighted the clinical utility of colorectal cancer-specific potential therapeutic target as disease progression or clinical response biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuhua Lai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingyuan Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chengcheng He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuxin Fang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Simin Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jianqun Cai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Ding
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qian Zhong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Changjie Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinke Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Juan He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yongfeng Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qun Yan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Aimin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Side Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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21
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Ye G, Pan R, Zhu L, Zhou D. Circ_DCAF6 potentiates cell stemness and growth in breast cancer through GLI1-Hedgehog pathway. Exp Mol Pathol 2020; 116:104492. [PMID: 32668286 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2020.104492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are extensively revealed as a malignant activator or suppressor in multiple pathological processes including cancer cell stemness and growth. However, the association of circ_DCAF6 with breast cancer (BC) cell growth and stemness has not been well depicted. In this research, qRT-PCR clarified the high level of circ_DCAF6 in BC cells. In functional aspects, BC cells presented suppressed proliferation and stemness in the absence of circ_DCAF6. The potential correlation of circ_DCAF6 with Hedgehog (Hh) pathway was unveiled utilizing its specific inhibitor or agonist in qRT-PCR and functional assays. Circ_DCAF6 positively mediated the expression of GLI1 and its facilitating impacts on BC cell proliferation and stemness required the participation of GLI1-dependent Hh signaling pathway. In depth, circ_DCAF6 post-transcriptionally upregulated GLI1 expression through sequestering miR-616-3p. Rescue experiments verified that the suppressive influence of circ_DCAF6 depletion or miR-616-3p upregulation on BC progression was reversed by GLI1 upregulation. In summary, a probable contribution of circ_DCAF6 to BC cell growth and stemness was elaborated. Circ_DCAF6 assisted in Hh signal pathway activation via the up-regulation of GLI1 by sponging miR-616-3p, generating new thoughts on future direction of antagonizing BC tumorigenesis and stem-like property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guolin Ye
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, GuangDong, China.
| | - Ruilin Pan
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, GuangDong, China
| | - Leiwei Zhu
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, GuangDong, China
| | - Dan Zhou
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, GuangDong, China
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22
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Jiang Y, Zhuo X, Mao C. G Protein-coupled Receptors in Cancer Stem Cells. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:1952-1963. [DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200305130009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are highly expressed on a variety of tumour tissues while several
GPCR exogenous ligands become marketed pharmaceuticals. In recent decades, cancer stem cells (CSCs) become
widely investigated drug targets for cancer therapy but the underlying mechanism is still not fully elucidated.
There are vigorous participations of GPCRs in CSCs-related signalling and functions, such as biomarkers for
CSCs, activation of Wnt, Hedgehog (HH) and other signalling to facilitate CSCs progressions. This relationship
can not only uncover a novel molecular mechanism for GPCR-mediated cancer cell functions but also assist our
understanding of maintaining and modulating CSCs. Moreover, GPCR antagonists and monoclonal antibodies
could be applied to impair CSCs functions and consequently attenuate tumour growth, some of which have been
undergoing clinical studies and are anticipated to turn into marketed anticancer drugs. Therefore, this review
summarizes and provides sufficient evidences on the regulation of GPCR signalling in the maintenance, differentiation
and pluripotency of CSCs, suggesting that targeting GPCRs on the surface of CSCs could be potential
therapeutic strategies for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Jiang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xin Zhuo
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Canquan Mao
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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23
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Zhu Q, Shen Y, Chen X, He J, Liu J, Zu X. Self-Renewal Signalling Pathway Inhibitors: Perspectives on Therapeutic Approaches for Cancer Stem Cells. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:525-540. [PMID: 32021295 PMCID: PMC6970631 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s224465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The poor survival and prognosis of individuals with cancer are often attributed to tumour relapse and metastasis, which may be due to the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs have the characteristics of self-renewal, differentiation potential, high carcinogenicity, and drug resistance. In addition, CSCs exhibit many characteristics similar to those of embryonic or tissue stem cells while displaying persistent abnormal activation of self-renewal pathways associated with development and tissue homeostasis, including the Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog (Hh), TGF-β, JAK/STAT3, and NF-κB pathways. Therefore, we can eliminate CSCs by targeting these self-renewal pathways to constrain stem cell replication, survival and differentiation. At the same time, we cannot neglect the ping-pong effect of the tumour microenvironment, which releases cytokines and promotes self-renewal pathways in CSCs. Recently, meaningful progress has been made in the study of inhibitors of self-renewal pathways in tumours. This review primarily summarizes several representative and novel agents targeting these self-renewal signalling pathways and the tumour microenvironment and that represent a promising strategy for treating refractory and recurrent cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyun Zhu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Shen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiguang Chen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun He
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianghua Liu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuyu Zu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
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24
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Kowolik CM, Lin M, Xie J, Overman LE, Horne DA. Attenuation of hedgehog/GLI signaling by NT1721 extends survival in pancreatic cancer. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2019; 38:431. [PMID: 31661013 PMCID: PMC6819529 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1445-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies due to frequent late diagnosis, aggressive tumor growth and metastasis formation. Continuously raising incidence rates of pancreatic cancer and a lack of significant improvement in survival rates over the past 30 years highlight the need for new therapeutic agents. Thus, new therapeutic agents and strategies are urgently needed to improve the outcome for patients with pancreatic cancer. Here, we evaluated the anti-tumor activity of a new natural product-based epidithiodiketopiperazine, NT1721, against pancreatic cancer. METHODS We characterized the anticancer efficacy of NT1721 in multiple pancreatic cancer cell lines in vitro and in two orthotopic models. We also compared the effects of NT1721 to clinically used hedgehog inhibitors and the standard-of-care drug, gemcitabine. The effect of NT1721 on hedgehog/GLI signaling was assessed by determining the expression of GLI and GLI target genes both in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS NT1721 displayed IC50 values in the submicromolar range in multiple pancreatic cancer cell lines, while largely sparing normal pancreatic epithelial cells. NT1721 attenuated hedgehog/GLI signaling through downregulation of GLI1/2 transcription factors and their downstream target genes, which reduced cell proliferation and invasion in vitro and significantly decreased tumor growth and liver metastasis in two preclinical orthotopic mouse models of pancreatic cancer. Importantly, treatment with NT1721 significantly improved survival times of mice with pancreatic cancer compared to the standard-of-care drug, gemcitabine. CONCLUSIONS Favorable therapeutics properties, i.e. 10-fold lower IC50 values than clinically used hedgehog inhibitors (vismodegib, erismodegib), a 90% reduction in liver metastasis and significantly better survival times compared to the standard-of-care drug, gemcitabine, provide a rational for testing NT1721 in the clinic either as a single agent or possibly in combination with gemcitabine or other therapeutic agents in PDAC patients overexpressing GLI1/2. This could potentially result in promising new treatment options for patients suffering from this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia M Kowolik
- Department of Molecular Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Min Lin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Jun Xie
- Department of Molecular Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Larry E Overman
- Department of Chemistry, 1102 Natural Sciences II, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697-2025, USA
| | - David A Horne
- Department of Molecular Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
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Niyaz M, Khan MS, Mudassar S. Hedgehog Signaling: An Achilles' Heel in Cancer. Transl Oncol 2019; 12:1334-1344. [PMID: 31352196 PMCID: PMC6664200 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog signaling pathway originally identified in the fruit fly Drosophila is an evolutionarily conserved signaling mechanism with crucial roles in embryogenesis, growth and patterning. It exerts its biological effect through a signaling mechanism that terminates at glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) transcription factors which alternate between activator and repressor forms and mediate various responses. The important components of the pathway include the hedgehog ligands (SHH), the Patched (PTCH) receptor, Smoothened (SMO), Suppressor of Fused (SuFu) and GLI transcription factors. Activating or inactivating mutations in key genes cause uncontrolled activation of the pathway in a ligand independent manner. The ligand-dependent aberrant activation of the hedgehog pathway causing overexpression of hedgehog pathway components and its target genes occurs in autocrine as well as paracrine fashion. In adults, aberrant activation of hedgehog signaling has been linked to birth defects and multiple solid cancers. In this review, we assimilate data from recent studies to understand the mechanism of functioning of the hedgehog signaling pathway, role in cancer, its association in various solid malignancies and the current strategies being used to target this pathway for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madiha Niyaz
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, - 190011 Srinagar, Kashmir
| | - Mosin S Khan
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, - 190011 Srinagar, Kashmir
| | - Syed Mudassar
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, - 190011 Srinagar, Kashmir.
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Zeng S, Pöttler M, Lan B, Grützmann R, Pilarsky C, Yang H. Chemoresistance in Pancreatic Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184504. [PMID: 31514451 PMCID: PMC6770382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 348] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), generally known as pancreatic cancer (PC), ranks the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the western world. While the incidence of pancreatic cancer is displaying a rising tendency every year, the mortality rate has not decreased significantly because of late diagnosis, early metastasis, and limited reaction to chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Adjuvant chemotherapy after surgical resection is typically the preferred option to treat early pancreatic cancer. Although 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin with irinotecan and oxaliplatin (FOLFIRINOX) and gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel can profoundly improve the prognosis of advanced pancreatic cancer, the development of chemoresistance still leads to poor clinical outcomes. Chemoresistance is multifactorial as a result of the interaction among pancreatic cancer cells, cancer stem cells, and the tumor microenvironment. Nevertheless, more pancreatic cancer patients will benefit from precision treatment and targeted drugs. Therefore, we outline new perspectives for enhancing the efficacy of gemcitabine after reviewing the related factors of gemcitabine metabolism, mechanism of action, and chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Zeng
- Department of Surgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Krankenhausstraße 12, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Marina Pöttler
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Glückstraße 10a, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Bin Lan
- Department of Surgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Krankenhausstraße 12, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Robert Grützmann
- Department of Surgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Krankenhausstraße 12, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Christian Pilarsky
- Department of Surgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Krankenhausstraße 12, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Hai Yang
- Department of Surgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Krankenhausstraße 12, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
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Abbasifarid E, Sajjadi-Jazi SM, Beheshtian M, Samimi H, Larijani B, Haghpanah V. The Role of ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters in the Chemoresistance of Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: A Systematic Review. Endocrinology 2019; 160:2015-2023. [PMID: 31271419 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is an aggressive type of thyroid cancer with a high mortality rate. Cytotoxic drugs are among the treatment modalities usually used for ATC treatment. However, systemic chemotherapies for ATC have not been shown to have remarkable efficacy. ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters have been suggested as a possible mechanism in ATC resistance to chemotherapy. This systematic review was aimed to define the possible roles of ABC transporters in ATC resistance to chemotherapy. Numerous databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Ovid, ProQuest, and EBSCO, were searched for papers published since 1990, with predefined keywords. The literature searches were updated twice, in 2015 and 2017. All identified articles were reviewed, and 14 papers that met the inclusion criteria were selected. In the eligible studies, the roles of 10 out of 49 ABC transporters were evaluated; among them, three pumps (ABCB1, ABCC1, and ABCG2) were the most studied transporters in ATC samples. ABCC1 and ABCG2 had the highest expression rates in ATC, and ABCB1 ranked second among the inspected transporters. In conclusion, ABC transporters are the major determinants of ATC resistance to chemotherapy. By identifying these transporters, we can tailor the best treatment approach for patients with ATC. Additional studies are needed to define the exact role of each ABC transporter and other mechanisms in ATC drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnaz Abbasifarid
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sayed Mahmoud Sajjadi-Jazi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Beheshtian
- Genetics Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hilda Samimi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bagher Larijani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Haghpanah
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Personalized Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Lu YL, Ma YB, Feng C, Zhu DL, Liu J, Chen L, Liang SJ, Dong CY. Co-delivery of Cyclopamine and Doxorubicin Mediated by Bovine Serum Albumin Nanoparticles Reverses Doxorubicin Resistance in Breast Cancer by Down-regulating P-glycoprotein Expression. J Cancer 2019; 10:2357-2368. [PMID: 31258739 PMCID: PMC6584414 DOI: 10.7150/jca.30323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Combination chemotherapy is considered to be one of the most effective treatments for breast cancer by reducing the emergence of drug resistance. In this study, a novel drug delivery system based on bovine serum albumin nanoparticles (BSA NPs) was successfully developed. Doxorubicin (DOX) and cyclopamine (CYC), a potential anti-cancer agent that inhibits the hedgehog signaling pathway were entrapped into BSA NPs through electrostatic interactions and hydrophobic interactions, respectively. Rather than simple combination of two different chemotherapeutics, the CYC also increased the intracellular DOX accumulation by decreasing the expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), which could thus reverse the DOX resistance. Tumor-targeting property of nanoparticles was the prerequisite for its further application. Interestingly, retention of fluorescently-labeled particles in vivo indicated that the dual-drug-loaded BSA NPs could not only target the primary tumors, but also target the metastatic lymph nodes, which would simultaneously inhibit the tumor growth and distant metastasis. Taken together, this study provides a promising strategy for co-delivery of drugs, tumor and metastatic lymph node targeting, and DOX resistance reversing in breast cancer chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-lin Lu
- Breast Cancer Center, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, PR China
| | - Ya-bin Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, PR China
| | - Chan Feng
- Breast Cancer Center, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, PR China
| | - Dong-lei Zhu
- Breast Cancer Center, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, PR China
| | - Jie Liu
- Breast Cancer Center, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, PR China
| | - Lv Chen
- Breast Cancer Center, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, PR China
| | - Shu-jing Liang
- Breast Cancer Center, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, PR China
| | - Chun-yan Dong
- Breast Cancer Center, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, PR China
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Hedgehog Signaling in Cancer: A Prospective Therapeutic Target for Eradicating Cancer Stem Cells. Cells 2018; 7:cells7110208. [PMID: 30423843 PMCID: PMC6262325 DOI: 10.3390/cells7110208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh) pathway is a signaling cascade that plays a crucial role in many fundamental processes, including embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. Moreover, emerging evidence has suggested that aberrant activation of Hh is associated with neoplastic transformations, malignant tumors, and drug resistance of a multitude of cancers. At the molecular level, it has been shown that Hh signaling drives the progression of cancers by regulating cancer cell proliferation, malignancy, metastasis, and the expansion of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Thus, a comprehensive understanding of Hh signaling during tumorigenesis and development of chemoresistance is necessary in order to identify potential therapeutic strategies to target various human cancers and their relapse. In this review, we discuss the molecular basis of the Hh signaling pathway and its abnormal activation in several types of human cancers. We also highlight the clinical development of Hh signaling inhibitors for cancer therapy as well as CSC-targeted therapy.
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Giroux-Leprieur E, Costantini A, Ding VW, He B. Hedgehog Signaling in Lung Cancer: From Oncogenesis to Cancer Treatment Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2835. [PMID: 30235830 PMCID: PMC6165231 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog signaling pathway is physiologically activated during embryogenesis, especially in lung development. It is also reactivated in many solid tumors. In lung cancer, Hedgehog pathway is closely associated with cancer stem cells (CSCs). Recent works have shown that CSCs produced a full-length Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) protein, with paracrine activity and induction of tumor development. Hedgehog pathway is also involved in tumor drug resistance in lung cancer, as cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapies. This review proposes to describe the activation mechanisms of Hedgehog pathway in lung cancer, the clinical implications for overcoming drug resistance, and the perspectives for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etienne Giroux-Leprieur
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Oncology, APHP-Hopital Ambroise Pare, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
- EA 4340, UVSQ, Université Paris-Saclay, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
| | - Adrien Costantini
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Oncology, APHP-Hopital Ambroise Pare, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
- EA 4340, UVSQ, Université Paris-Saclay, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
| | - Vivianne W Ding
- Thoracic Oncology Program, Department of Surgery, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
| | - Biao He
- Thoracic Oncology Program, Department of Surgery, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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Wang K, Baldwin GS, Nikfarjam M, He H. p21-activated kinase signalling in pancreatic cancer: New insights into tumour biology and immune modulation. World J Gastroenterol 2018; 24:3709-3723. [PMID: 30197477 PMCID: PMC6127653 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i33.3709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and lethal malignancies worldwide, with a very poor prognosis and a five-year survival rate less than 8%. This dismal outcome is largely due to delayed diagnosis, early distant dissemination and resistance to conventional chemo-therapies. Kras mutation is a well-defined hallmark of pancreatic cancer, with over 95% of cases harbouring Kras mutations that give rise to constitutively active forms of Kras. As important down-stream effectors of Kras, p21-activated kinases (PAKs) are involved in regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion/migration and chemo-resistance. Immunotherapy is now emerging as a promising treatment modality in the era of personalized anti-cancer therapeutics. In this review, basic knowledge of PAK structure and regulation is briefly summarised and the pivotal role of PAKs in Kras-driven pancreatic cancer is highlighted in terms of tumour biology and chemo-resistance. Finally, the involvement of PAKs in immune modulation in the tumour microenvironment is discussed and the potential advantages of targeting PAKs are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
| | - Graham S Baldwin
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
| | - Mehrdad Nikfarjam
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
| | - Hong He
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
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Huang F, Chen W, Peng J, Li Y, Zhuang Y, Zhu Z, Shao C, Yang W, Yao H, Zhang S. LncRNA PVT1 triggers Cyto-protective autophagy and promotes pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma development via the miR-20a-5p/ULK1 Axis. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:98. [PMID: 30001707 PMCID: PMC6043995 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0845-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Defective autophagy is thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cancer. Human plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) is an oncogenic long non-coding RNA that has been identified as a prognostic biomarker in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, but how PVT1 operates in the regulation of autophagy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is unclear. Methods PVT1 expression level was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and hybridization in situ (ISH). Western blot or qRT-PCR was performed to assess the ULK1 protein or mRNA level. Autophagy was explored via autophagic flux detection under a confocal microscope and autophagic vacuoles investigation under a transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The biological role of PVT1 in autophagy and PDA development was determined by gain-of-function and loss-of-function assays. Results We found that PVT1 levels paralleled those of ULK1 protein in PDA cancer tissues. PVT1 promoted cyto-protective autophagy and cell growth by targeting ULK1 both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, high PVT1 expression was associated with poor prognosis. Furthermore, we found that PVT1 acted as sponge to regulate miR-20a-5p and thus affected ULK1 expression and the development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Conclusions The present study demonstrates that the “PVT1/miR-20a-5p/ULK1/autophagy” pathway modulates the development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and may be a novel target for developing therapeutic strategies for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12943-018-0845-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengting Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 107 Yanjiang West Road, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Wenying Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Juanfei Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Yuanhua Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Yanyan Zhuang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Zhe Zhu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Chunkui Shao
- Department of Pathology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Wanling Yang
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Centre for Genomic Sciences, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Herui Yao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 107 Yanjiang West Road, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
| | - Shineng Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 107 Yanjiang West Road, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
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Stroma - A Double-Edged Sword in Pancreatic Cancer: A Lesson From Targeting Stroma in Pancreatic Cancer With Hedgehog Signaling Inhibitors. Pancreas 2018. [PMID: 29521941 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000001023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a uniformly lethal malignancy with an abundant dense desmoplastic stroma. Because of its dense stroma, conventional drugs were considered to not penetrate this physical barrier, and this caused a systemic drug resistance. Thus, abolishing this barrier with targeted agents is considered to improve the efficiency of chemotherapeutic treatment. The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is a critical regulator of pancreas development and plays diversified roles in pancreatic cancer stroma and neoplastic cells. Increasing Hh expression in neoplastic cells added desmoplastic stroma accumulation in orthotopic tumors, and Hh inhibitors that target the stroma have an ability to prolong the overall survival of Pdx-1-Cre/KrasG12D/p53R172H mice models via deleting the stromal components and increasing vascularity in pancreatic tumor. However, the failure of translation from bench to bedside indicate the complexity of the relationship between Hh signaling and desmoplastic stroma, and more insights into the complex relationships between Hh signaling pathway and stroma, even tumor cells, might help redesign Hh-targeted therapy. In this review, we discuss the possible mechanism of translation of Hh inhibitor in the clinic from pathology to molecular mechanism.
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The Function of SDF-1-CXCR4 Axis in SP Cells-Mediated Protective Role for Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by SHH/GLI1-ABCG2 Pathway. Shock 2018; 47:251-259. [PMID: 27454381 DOI: 10.1097/shk.0000000000000694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury ranks as the primary cause of acute renal injury with severe morbidity and mortality. Side population (SP) cells have recently drawn increasing attention due to their critical role in injury repair and regeneration. Unfortunately, the underlying mechanism involved in renal I/R remains poorly elucidated. Here, pronounced increases of stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and its receptor CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) were substantiated in I/R kidneys from C57BL/6 mice subjected to clamp the bilateral renal pedicles to mimic renal ischemia. Similar up-regulation of them was also determined in SP cells upon simulated ischemia/reperfusion (SI/R). In contrast to non-SP cells, SP cells exhibited higher viability, apoptosis resistance, chemotaxis, and paracrine actions following SI/R treatment, and these were further enhanced after SDF-1 stimulation. Interestingly, blocking CXCR4 signaling with AMD3100 notably ameliorated the above effects. Mechanism analysis corroborated that SDF-1/CXCR4 further induced the expression of ATP-binding cassette transporter ABCG2, an essential element for SP-mediated kidney regeneration after renal I/R injury. Moreover, AMD3100 pretreatment strikingly attenuated ABCG2 elevation in SP cells. Additionally, sonic hedgehog (SHH)-Gli 1 signaling was involved in SDF-1/CXCR4-mediated ABCG2 expression. When SP cells pretreated with AMD3100 were intravenously injected into I/R mice, SP cell-mediated decreases in blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and histological score of kidney were noticeably attenuated, indicating that blocking CXCR4 pathway mitigated the therapeutic function of SP cells in renal I/R injury. Together, this research suggests that SDF-1/CXCR4 axis might act, via Shh-Gli1-ABCG2 signaling, as a positive regulator of SP cell-based therapies for renal I/R by Shh-Gli 1-ABCG2 signaling.
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Wang K, Chen D, Qian Z, Cui D, Gao L, Lou M. Hedgehog/Gli1 signaling pathway regulates MGMT expression and chemoresistance to temozolomide in human glioblastoma. Cancer Cell Int 2017; 17:117. [PMID: 29225516 PMCID: PMC5715541 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-017-0491-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chemoresistance of glioblastoma (GBM) is a feature of this devastating disease. This study is to determine the relationship between Hedgehog (HH)/Gli1 signaling pathway and chemoresistance to temozolomide (TMZ) in human GBM. Methods We analyzed Gli1 nuclear staining and O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) expression in 48 cases of primary GBM tissues by immunohistochemistry. Quantitative PCR, western blot, methylation-specific PCR, cell proliferation and apoptosis assay were used to investigate changes of MGMT expression and chemosensitivity to TMZ after manipulating HH/Gli1 signaling activity in A172 and U251 GBM cell lines. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay was utilized to identify potential Gli1 potential binding sites in MGMT gene promoter region. We established GBM xenografts using U251 cells to assess whether inhibiting HH/Gli1 signaling activity restored chemosensitivity to TMZ. Results O6-Methylguanine DNA methyltransferase-positive GBM tissues had a significantly higher rate of Gli1 nuclear staining than MGMT-negative ones (67.7% vs. 32.3%, p = 0.0159). Activation of HH/Gli1 signaling by pcDNA3.1-Gli1 cell transfection in A172 cells led to increased MGMT expression and enhanced resistance to TMZ treatment. Inhibition of the HH/Gli1 signaling by cyclopamine in U251 cells resulted in decreased MGMT expression and increased sensitivity to TMZ treatment. Both ways altered MGMT levels without changing the MGMT promoter methylation. The potential binding site of Gli1 in the MGMT gene promoter region was located at - 411 to - 403 bp upstream the transcriptional start site. The in vivo study revealed a synergistic effect on tumor growth inhibition with the combined administration of cyclopamine and TMZ. Conclusions This study shows that HH/Gli1 signaling pathway regulates MGMT expression and chemoresistance to TMZ in human GBM independent from MGMT promoter methylation status, which offers a potential target to restore chemosensitivity to TMZ in a fraction of GBM with high MGMT expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wang
- Neurosurgical Department, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Dongjiang Chen
- Neurosurgical Department, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Zhouqi Qian
- Neurosurgical Department, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Daming Cui
- Neurosurgical Department, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Liang Gao
- Neurosurgical Department, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Meiqing Lou
- Neurosurgical Department, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072 China
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Rucki AA, Xiao Q, Muth S, Chen J, Che X, Kleponis J, Sharma R, Anders RA, Jaffee EM, Zheng L. Dual Inhibition of Hedgehog and c-Met Pathways for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment. Mol Cancer Ther 2017; 16:2399-2409. [PMID: 28864680 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-16-0452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-resistant tumors. The c-Met and Hedgehog (Hh) pathways have been shown previously by our group to be key regulatory pathways in the primary tumor growth and metastases formation. Targeting both the HGF/c-Met and Hh pathways has shown promising results in preclinical studies; however, the benefits were not readily translated into clinical trials with PDAC patients. In this study, utilizing mouse models of PDAC, we showed that inhibition of either HGF/c-Met or Hh pathways sensitize the PDAC tumors to gemcitabine, resulting in decreased primary tumor volume as well as significant reduction of metastatic tumor burden. However, prolonged treatment of single HGF/c-Met or Hh inhibitor leads to resistance to these single inhibitors, likely because the single c-Met treatment leads to enhanced expression of Shh, and vice versa. Targeting both the HGF/c-Met and Hh pathways simultaneously overcame the resistance to the single-inhibitor treatment and led to a more potent antitumor effect in combination with the chemotherapy treatment. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(11); 2399-409. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka A Rucki
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins Univer- sity School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Qian Xiao
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins Univer- sity School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Surgical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of the Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Cancer Institute, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Stephen Muth
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins Univer- sity School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jianlin Chen
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins Univer- sity School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Southern China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu Che
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins Univer- sity School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery Department, Cancer Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jennifer Kleponis
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins Univer- sity School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Rajni Sharma
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Robert A Anders
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins Univer- sity School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Elizabeth M Jaffee
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins Univer- sity School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,The Skip Viragh Center for Pancreatic Cancer, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Lei Zheng
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins Univer- sity School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland. .,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,The Skip Viragh Center for Pancreatic Cancer, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Amey CL, Karnoub AE. Targeting Cancer Stem Cells-A Renewed Therapeutic Paradigm. ONCOLOGY & HEMATOLOGY REVIEW 2017; 13:45-55. [PMID: 33959299 PMCID: PMC8098671 DOI: 10.17925/ohr.2017.13.01.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis is often accompanied by radio- and chemotherapeutic resistance to anticancer treatments and is the major cause of death in cancer patients. Better understanding of how cancer cells circumvent therapeutic insults and how disseminated cancer clones generate life-threatening metastases would therefore be paramount to the development of effective therapeutic approaches for clinical management of malignant disease. Mounting reports over the past two decades have provided evidence for the existence of a minor population of highly malignant cells within liquid and solid tumors, which are capable of self-renewing and of regenerating secondary growths with the heterogeneity of the primary tumors from which they derive. These cells, called tumor-initiating cells or cancer stem cells (CSCs) exhibit increased resistance to standard radio- and chemotherapies and appear to have mechanisms that enable them to evade immune surveillance. CSCs are therefore considered to be responsible for systemic residual disease after cancer therapy, as well as for disease relapse. How CSCs develop, the nature of the interactions they establish with their microenvironment, their phenotypic and functional characteristics, as well as their molecular dependencies have all taken center stage in cancer therapy. Indeed, improved understanding of CSC biology is critical to the development of important CSC-based anti-neoplastic approaches that have the potential to radically improve cancer management. Here, we summarize some of the most pertinent elements regarding CSC development and properties, and highlight some of the clinical modalities in current development as anti-CSC therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antoine E Karnoub
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, US; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, US; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, US
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Yan Y, Wang Y, Zhao P, Ma W, Hu Z, Zhang K. BMI-1 Promotes Self-Renewal of Radio- and Temozolomide (TMZ)-Resistant Breast Cancer Cells. Reprod Sci 2017; 24:1620-1629. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719117697255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yanfang Yan
- Department of Gland Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Gland Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Pengxin Zhao
- Department of Gland Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Weiyuan Ma
- Department of Gland Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Zhigang Hu
- Department of Gland Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Kaili Zhang
- Department of Gland Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
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Targeting Signaling Pathways in Cancer Stem Cells for Cancer Treatment. Stem Cells Int 2017; 2017:2925869. [PMID: 28356914 PMCID: PMC5357538 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2925869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt, Hedgehog, and Notch pathways are inherent signaling pathways in normal embryogenesis, development, and hemostasis. However, dysfunctions of these pathways are evident in multiple tumor types and malignancies. Specifically, aberrant activation of these pathways is implicated in modulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small subset of cancer cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation into heterogeneous tumor cells. The CSCs are accountable for tumor initiation, growth, and recurrence. In this review, we focus on roles of Wnt, Hedgehog, and Notch pathways in CSCs' stemness and functions and summarize therapeutic studies targeting these pathways to eliminate CSCs and improve overall cancer treatment outcomes.
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Qureshi-Baig K, Ullmann P, Haan S, Letellier E. Tumor-Initiating Cells: a criTICal review of isolation approaches and new challenges in targeting strategies. Mol Cancer 2017; 16:40. [PMID: 28209178 PMCID: PMC5314476 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-017-0602-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Most cancers contain a subpopulation of highly tumorigenic cells, known as cancer stem cells (CSCs) or tumor-initiating cells (TICs). Targeting TICs may be essential to achieve cure, because of their self-renewal and tumorigenic properties as well as their resistance to conventional therapies. Despite significant advances in TIC biology, their isolation and identification remain largely disputed and incompletely established. In this review, we discuss the latest developments in isolation and culturing approaches of TICs, with focus on colorectal cancer (CRC). We feature recent findings on TIC-relevant signaling pathways and the metabolic identity of TICs, as well as their current clinical implications. Lastly, we highlight the influence of inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity on TIC function and targeting approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Qureshi-Baig
- Life Sciences Research Unit, Molecular Disease Mechanisms Group, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Campus Belval, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Pit Ullmann
- Life Sciences Research Unit, Molecular Disease Mechanisms Group, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Campus Belval, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Serge Haan
- Life Sciences Research Unit, Molecular Disease Mechanisms Group, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Campus Belval, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Elisabeth Letellier
- Life Sciences Research Unit, Molecular Disease Mechanisms Group, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Campus Belval, Belvaux, Luxembourg.
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Ishiwata T. Cancer stem cells and epithelial-mesenchymal transition: Novel therapeutic targets for cancer. Pathol Int 2016; 66:601-608. [PMID: 27510923 DOI: 10.1111/pin.12447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite the development of various therapeutic approaches, recurrence and metastasis remain major problems for patients with advanced cancer. Recent studies have shown that cancer stem cells (CSCs) play an important role in cancer aggressiveness. In cancer tissues, a small number of CSCs are able to self-renew and differentiate into heterogeneous cancer cells. CSCs usually remain in the resting phase of the cell cycle and possess efficient drug efflux pathways. Thus, they are resistant to chemoradiotherapy and surviving CSCs contribute to recurrence. During cancer metastasis, CSCs undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), thereby acquiring mesenchymal features, migrating to adjacent stromal tissues, and invading blood or lymph vessels. Recent studies showed that EMT-inducible factors also enhance or induce CSC-like features in cancer cells. These findings suggest that EMT is closely correlated with cancer recurrence and metastasis. Inhibition of nestin, a CSC marker, reduces the aggressiveness of several types of cancer. Suppression of the mesenchymal variant of fibroblast growth factor (FGFR)-2, FGFR-2 IIIc, and regulation of the EMT using epithelial splicing regulatory protein 1 (ESRP1) are effective in the treatment of immunodeficient mice with pancreatic cancer. The roles of CSCs and EMT in cancer and possible therapies are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiyuki Ishiwata
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan.
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42
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Narayanan V, Weekes CD. Molecular therapeutics in pancreas cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2016; 8:366-79. [PMID: 27096032 PMCID: PMC4824715 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v8.i4.366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Revised: 11/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of the "precision-medicine" paradigm in oncology has ushered in tremendous improvements in patient outcomes in a wide variety of malignancies. However, pancreas ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has remained an obstinate challenge to the oncology community and continues to be associated with a dismal prognosis with 5-year survival rates consistently less than 5%. Cytotoxic chemotherapy with gemcitabine-based regimens has been the cornerstone of treatment in PDAC especially because most patients present with inoperable disease. But in recent years remarkable basic science research has improved our understanding of the molecular and genetic basis of PDAC. Whole genomic analysis has exemplified the genetic heterogeneity of pancreas cancer and has led to ingenious efforts to target oncogenes and their downstream signaling cascades. Novel stromal depletion strategies have been devised based on our enhanced recognition of the complex architecture of the tumor stroma and the various mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment that sustain tumorigenesis. Immunotherapy using vaccines and immune checkpoint inhibitors has also risen to the forefront of therapeutic strategies against PDAC. Furthermore, adoptive T cell transfer and strategies to target epigenetic regulators are being explored with enthusiasm. This review will focus on the recent advances in molecularly targeted therapies in PDAC and offer future perspectives to tackle this lethal disease.
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Vorvis C, Koutsioumpa M, Iliopoulos D. Developments in miRNA gene signaling pathways in pancreatic cancer. Future Oncol 2016; 12:1135-50. [PMID: 26984178 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2015-0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a devastating malignancy that ranks as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Dismal prognosis is mainly attributable to limited knowledge of the molecular pathogenesis of the disease. miRNAs have been found to be deregulated in pancreatic cancer, affecting several steps of initiation and aggressiveness of the disease by regulating important signaling pathways, such as the KRAS and Notch pathways. Moreover, the effect of miRNAs on regulating cell cycle events and expression of transcription factors has gained a lot of attention. Recent studies have highlighted the application of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic tools. The current review focuses on latest advances with respect to the roles of miRNAs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma associated signaling pathways and miRNA-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Vorvis
- Center for Systems Biomedicine, Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marina Koutsioumpa
- Center for Systems Biomedicine, Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dimitrios Iliopoulos
- Center for Systems Biomedicine, Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Aberrant GLI1 Activation in DNA Damage Response, Carcinogenesis and Chemoresistance. Cancers (Basel) 2015; 7:2330-51. [PMID: 26633513 PMCID: PMC4695894 DOI: 10.3390/cancers7040894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Revised: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The canonical hedgehog (HH) pathway is a multicomponent signaling cascade (HH, protein patched homolog 1 (PTCH1), smoothened (SMO)) that plays a pivotal role during embryonic development through activation of downstream effector molecules, namely glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (GLI1), GLI2 and GLI3. Activation of GLIs must be tightly regulated as they modulate target genes which control tissue patterning, stem cell maintenance, and differentiation during development. However, dysregulation or mutations in HH signaling leads to genomic instability (GI) and various cancers, for example, germline mutation in PTCH1 lead to Gorlin syndrome, a condition where patients develop numerous basal cell carcinomas and rarely rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS). Activating mutations in SMO have also been recognized in sporadic cases of medulloblastoma and SMO is overexpressed in many other cancers. Recently, studies in several human cancers have shown that GLI1 expression is independent from HH ligand and canonical intracellular signaling through PTCH and SMO. In fact, this aberrantly regulated GLI1 has been linked to several non-canonical oncogenic growth signals such as Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS), avian myelocytomatosis virus oncogene cellular homolog (C-MYC), transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), wingless-type MMTV integration site family (WNT) and β-catenin. Recent studies from our lab and other independent studies demonstrate that aberrantly expressed GLI1 influences the integrity of several DNA damage response and repair signals, and if altered, these networks can contribute to GI and impact tumor response to chemo- and radiation therapies. Furthermore, the ineffectiveness of SMO inhibitors in clinical studies argues for the development of GLI1-specific inhibitors in order to develop effective therapeutic modalities to treat these tumors. In this review, we focus on summarizing current understanding of the molecular, biochemical and cellular basis for aberrant GLI1 expression and discuss GLI1-mediated HH signaling on DNA damage responses, carcinogenesis and chemoresistance.
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Yang MC, Wang HC, Hou YC, Tung HL, Chiu TJ, Shan YS. Blockade of autophagy reduces pancreatic cancer stem cell activity and potentiates the tumoricidal effect of gemcitabine. Mol Cancer 2015; 14:179. [PMID: 26458814 PMCID: PMC4603764 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-015-0449-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered responsible for the recurrence and chemoresistance of cancer. Dysregulated autophagy is highly prevalent in many types of cancer including pancreatic cancer and has been implicated in cytoprotection and tumor promotion. This study aimed to investigate the role of autophagy in regulating cancer stemness and chemoresistance of pancreatic cancer. Methods The correlation between autophagy and CSCs and its clinical significance were analyzed using pancreatic cancer tissue microarrays. Genetic and pharmacological approaches were applied to explore the function of autophagy on CSC activity and gemcitabine resistance of pancreatic cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Results LC3 expression positively correlated with the expression of CSC markers aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1), CD44, and CD133 in pancreatic cancer tissues. High coexpression of LC3/ALDH1 was associated with both poor overall survival and progression-free survival. In pancreatic cancer cell lines, higher LC3-II expression was observed in the sphere-forming cells than in the bulk cells. Blockade of autophagy by silencing ATG5, ATG7, and BECN1 or the administration of autophagy inhibitor chloroquine markedly reduced the CSC populations, ALDH1 activity, sphere formation, and resistance to gemcitabine in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, osteopontin (OPN) was found to stimulate LC3-II, ALDH1, CD44, and CD133 expression in PANC-1 cells, whereas this effect could be prevented by OPN knockdown and autophagy blockade. After treatment with various inhibitors against the major signaling pathways downstream of OPN, only the inhibitor of NF-κB activation, BAY 1170–82, could effectively counteract OPN-induced autophagy and CSC activity. According to the histochemical results, pancreatic cancer patients manifesting high levels of OPN/LC3/ALDH1 and OPN/CD44/CD133 had poor survival. Conclusions Induction of autophagy mediated by OPN/NF-κB signaling is required for maintenance of pancreatic CSC activity. Combination of gemcitabine with pharmacological autophagy inhibitors is a promising therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12943-015-0449-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Chen Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Hao-Chen Wang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Ya-Chin Hou
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan. .,Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Hui-Ling Tung
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Tai-Jan Chiu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Yan-Shen Shan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan. .,Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan.
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Justilien V, Fields AP. Molecular pathways: novel approaches for improved therapeutic targeting of Hedgehog signaling in cancer stem cells. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 21:505-13. [PMID: 25646180 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-0507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is critical for embryonic development. In adult tissues, Hh signaling is relatively quiescent with the exception of roles in tissue maintenance and repair. Aberrant activation of Hh signaling is implicated in multiple aspects of transformation, including the maintenance of the cancer stem cell (CSC) phenotype. Preclinical studies indicate that CSCs from many tumor types are sensitive to Hh pathway inhibition and that Hh-targeted therapeutics block many aspects of transformation attributed to CSCs, including drug resistance, relapse, and metastasis. However, to date, Hh inhibitors, specifically those targeting Smoothened [such as vismodegib, BMS-833923, saridegib (IPI-926), sonidegib/erismodegib (LDE225), PF-04449913, LY2940680, LEQ 506, and TAK-441], have demonstrated good efficacy as monotherapy in patients with basal cell carcinoma and medulloblastoma, but have shown limited activity in other tumor types. This lack of success is likely due to many factors, including a lack of patient stratification in early trials, cross-talk between Hh and other oncogenic signaling pathways that can modulate therapeutic response, and a limited knowledge of Hh pathway activation mechanisms in CSCs from most tumor types. Here, we discuss Hh signaling mechanisms in the context of human cancer, particularly in the maintenance of the CSC phenotype, and consider new therapeutic strategies that hold the potential to expand considerably the scope and therapeutic efficacy of Hh-directed anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verline Justilien
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Alan P Fields
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jacksonville, Florida.
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Cochrane CR, Szczepny A, Watkins DN, Cain JE. Hedgehog Signaling in the Maintenance of Cancer Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2015; 7:1554-85. [PMID: 26270676 PMCID: PMC4586784 DOI: 10.3390/cancers7030851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a rare population of cells with the capacity to self-renew and give rise to heterogeneous cell lineages within a tumour. Whilst the mechanisms underlying the regulation of CSCs are poorly defined, key developmental signaling pathways required for normal stem and progenitor functions have been strongly implicated. Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is an evolutionarily-conserved pathway essential for self-renewal and cell fate determination. Aberrant Hh signaling is associated with the development and progression of various types of cancer and is implicated in multiple aspects of tumourigenesis, including the maintenance of CSCs. Here, we discuss the mounting evidence suggestive of Hh-driven CSCs in the context of haematological malignancies and solid tumours and the novel strategies that hold the potential to block many aspects of the transformation attributed to the CSC phenotype, including chemotherapeutic resistance, relapse and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine R Cochrane
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
| | - Anette Szczepny
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
| | - D Neil Watkins
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia.
- UNSW Faculty of Medicine, Randwick, New South Wales 2031, Australia.
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia.
| | - Jason E Cain
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE We describe the first mouse model of pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) lesions induced by alcohol in the presence and absence of chronic pancreatitis. METHODS Pdx1-Cre;LSL-K-ras mice were exposed to Lieber-DeCarli alcohol diet for 6 weeks with cerulein injections. The PanIN lesions and markers of fibrosis, inflammation, histone deacetylation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and cancer stemness were measured by immunohistochemistry and Western. RESULTS Exposure of Pdx1-Cre;LSL-K-ras mice to an alcohol diet significantly stimulated fibrosis and slightly but not significantly increased the level of PanIN lesions associated with an increase in tumor-promoting M2 macrophages. Importantly, the alcohol diet did not increase activation of stellate cells. Alcohol diet and cerulein injections resulted in synergistic and additive effects on PanIN lesion and M2 macrophage phenotype induction, respectively. Cerulein pancreatitis caused stellate cell activation, EMT, and cancer stemness in the pancreas. Pancreatitis caused histone deacetylation, which was promoted by the alcohol diet. Pancreatitis increased EMT and cancer stemness markers, which were not further affected by the alcohol diet. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that alcohol has independent effects on promotion of PDAC associated with fibrosis formed through a stellate cell-independent mechanism and that it further promotes early PDAC and M2 macrophage induction in the context of chronic pancreatitis.
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Abstract
The existence of therapy resistant glioma stem cells is responsible for the high recurrence rate and incurability of glioblastomas. The Hedgehog pathway activity plays an essential role for self-renewal capacity and survival of glioma stem cells. We examined the potential of the Sonic hedgehog ligand for sensitizing of glioma stem cells to endogenous nano-irradiation. We demonstrate that the Sonic hedgehog ligand preferentially and efficiently activats glioma stem cells to enter the radiation sensitive G2/M phase. Concomitant inhibition of de novo thymidine synthesis with fluorodeoxyuridine and treatment with the Auger electron emitting thymidine analogue 5-[I-125]-Iodo-4′-thio-2′-deoxyuridine ([I-125]ITdU) leads to a fatal nano-irradiation in sensitized glioma stem cells. Targeting of proliferating glioma stem cells with DNA-incorporated [I-125]ITdU efficiently invokes the intrinsic apoptotic pathway despite active DNA repair mechanisms. Further, [I-125]ITdU completely inhibits survival of glioma stem cells in vitro. Analysis of non-stem glioblastoma cells and normal human astrocytes reveals that glioma stem cells differentially respond to Sonic hedgehog ligand. These data demonstrate a highly efficient and controllable single-cell kill therapeutic model for targeting glioma stem cells.
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50
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Rao CV, Mohammed A. New insights into pancreatic cancer stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2015; 7:547-555. [PMID: 25914762 PMCID: PMC4404390 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v7.i3.547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Revised: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) has been one of the deadliest of all cancers, with almost uniform lethality despite aggressive treatment. Recently, there have been important advances in the molecular, pathological and biological understanding of pancreatic cancer. Even after the emergence of recent new targeted agents and the use of multiple therapeutic combinations, no treatment option is viable in patients with advanced cancer. Developing novel strategies to target progression of PC is of intense interest. A small population of pancreatic cancer stem cells (CSCs) has been found to be resistant to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. CSCs are believed to be responsible for tumor initiation, progression and metastasis. The CSC research has recently achieved much progress in a variety of solid tumors, including pancreatic cancer to some extent. This leads to focus on understanding the role of pancreatic CSCs. The focus on CSCs may offer new targets for prevention and treatment of this deadly cancer. We review the most salient developments in important areas of pancreatic CSCs. Here, we provide a review of current updates and new insights on the role of CSCs in pancreatic tumor progression with special emphasis on DclK1 and Lgr5, signaling pathways altered by CSCs, and the role of CSCs in prevention and treatment of PC.
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