Interleukin-8: A chemokine at the intersection of cancer plasticity, angiogenesis, and immune suppression

Prostate cancer cell-derived exosomal IL-8 fosters immune evasion by disturbing glucolipid metabolism of CD8+ T cell

Depletion of CD8+ T cells is a major obstacle in immunotherapy; however, the relevant mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we showed that prostate cancer (PCa) cell-derived exosomes hamper CD8+ T cell function by transporting interleukin-8 (IL-8). Compared to the low IL-8 levels detected in immune cells, PCa cells secreted the abundance of IL-8 and further accumulated in exosomes. The delivery of PCa cell-derived exosomes into CD8+ T cells exhausted the cells through enhanced starvation. Mechanistically, exosomal IL-8 overactivated PPARα in recipient cells, thereby decreasing glucose utilization by downregulating GLUT1 and HK2 but increasing fatty acid catabolism via upregulation of CPT1A and ACOX1. PPARα further activates uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), leading to fatty acid catabolism for thermogenesis rather than ATP synthesis. Consequently, inhibition of PPARα and UCP1 restores CD8+ T cell proliferation by counteracting the effect of exosomal IL-8. This study revealed that the tumor exosome-activated IL-8-PPARα-UCP1 axis harms tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells by interfering with energy metabolism.

Resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal malignancies worldwide. In the past decade, with the development of early diagnostic techniques, a clear decline in GC incidence has been observed, but its mortality remains high. The emergence of new immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has changed the treatment of GC patients to some extent. However, only a small number of patients with advanced GC have a durable response to ICI treatment, and the efficacy of ICIs is very limited. Existing studies have shown that the failure of immunotherapy is mainly related to the development of ICI resistance in patients, but the understanding of the resistance mechanism is still insufficient. Therefore, clarifying the mechanism of GC immune resistance is critical to improve its treatment and clinical benefit. In this review, we focus on summarizing the mechanisms of primary or acquired resistance to ICI immunotherapy in GC from both internal and external aspects of the tumor. At the same time, we also briefly discuss some other possible resistance mechanisms in light of current studies.

The occurrence and development of vertebral osteoporosis regulated by IL-8

Vertebral osteoporotic fracture is a common type of fracture, and the incidence is higher in the elderly. However, the relationship between vertebral osteoporotic fractures and interleukin-8 (IL-8) remains unclear. A total of 163 patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures were recruited. Clinical and follow-up data were recorded, and the expression levels of IL1, MMP9, IL-8, and C-reactive protein in blood were measured. Pearson Chi-square test and Spearman correlation coefficient were used to analyze the relationship between vertebral osteoporotic fractures and related parameters. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression were used for further analysis. Pearson chi-square test, Spearman correlation coefficient and Logistic regression analysis showed that IL1 and IL-8 were significantly associated with vertebral osteoporotic fractures. Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that age and IL-8 expression level were significantly associated with maintenance time from recovery to recurrence of vertebral osteoporotic fractures. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that IL-8 expression level was significantly associated with maintenance time from recovery to recurrence of vertebral osteoporotic fractures. The higher the expression level of IL-8, the more likely it is to develop vertebral osteoporotic fracture, and the more likely it is to relapse in a short time.

Nucleocapsid protein residues 35, 36, and 113 are critical sites in up-regulating the Interleukin-8 production via C/EBPα pathway by highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is a highly infectious and pathogenic agent that causes considerable economic damage in the swine industry. It regulates the inflammatory response, triggers inflammation-induced tissue damage, suppresses the innate immune response, and leads to persistent infection. Interleukin-8 (IL-8), a pro-inflammatory chemokine, plays a crucial role in inflammatory response during numerous bacteria and virus infections. However, the underlying mechanisms of IL-8 regulation during PRRSV infection are not well understood. In this study, we demonstrate that PRRSV-infected PAMs and Marc-145 cells release higher levels of IL-8. We screened the nucleocapsid protein, non-structural protein (nsp) 9, and nsp11 of PRRSV to enhance IL-8 promoter activity via the C/EBPα pathway. Furthermore, we identified that the amino acids Q35A, S36A, R113A, and I115A of the nucleocapsid protein play a crucial role in the induction of IL-8. Through reverse genetics, we generated two mutant viruses (rQ35-2A and rR113A), which showed lower induction of IL-8 in PAMs during infection. This finding uncovers a previously unrecognized role of the PRRSV nucleocapsid protein in modulating IL-8 production and provides insight into an additional mechanism by which PRRSV modulates immune responses and inflammation.

New Insights on the Progesterone (P4) and PGRMC1/NENF Complex Interactions in Colorectal Cancer Progression

The literature data regarding the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in the context of hormone therapy (HT), including both estrogen-progestogen combinations and estrogen alone, are inconclusive. The precise relationship underlying the action of progesterone (P4) and progesterone receptors in CRC has yet to be determined. We characterized the expression profiles of both nuclear and membrane progesterone receptors and their potential cofactors in CRC tissues. Additionally, we analyzed the P4 and NENF treatment effects on the cell proliferation and invasion of DLD-1 and HT-29 colorectal cancer cells. We observed a weak expression of the nuclear P4 receptor (PGR), but an abundant expression of the P4 receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) and neuron-derived neurotrophic factor (NENF) in the CRC tissues. P4 treatment stimulated the proliferation of the DLD-1 and HT-29 CRC cells. The co-treatment of P4 and NENF significantly increased the invasiveness of the DLD-1 and HT-29 cells. A functional analysis revealed that these effects were dependent on PGRMC1. AN immunocytochemical analysis demonstrated a cytoplasmic co-localization of PGRMC1 and NENF in the CRC cells. Moreover, the concentration of serum NENF was significantly higher in CRC patients, and P4 treatment significantly increased the release of NENF in the DLD-1 cells. P4 or NENF treatment also significantly increased the IL-8 release in the DLD-1 cells. Our data may provide novel insights into the action of P4 and PGRMC1/NENF in CRC progression, where NENF may act as a potential PGRMC1 co-activator in non-classical P4 signaling. Furthermore, NENF, as a secreted protein, potentially could serve as a promising circulating biomarker candidate for distinguishing between colorectal cancer patients and healthy individuals, although large-scale extensive studies are needed to establish this.

Molecular interaction analysis of anti-IL-8 scFv-10F8-6His against IL-8 monomer through molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations

Elevated interleukin 8 (IL-8) expression has been linked to unfavorable outcomes in a range of inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and cancer. The human monoclonal antibody (HuMab) 10F8 and the hybridoma 35B11-B bind to an epitope on human IL-8, respectively. 10F8 inhibited interaction between IL-8 and neutrophils in eczema and pustulosis palmoplantaris patients while 35B11-B decreased size lesion in rat model. The binding interaction of monoclonal antibodies and IL-8, especially how complementarity-determining region (CDR) loops could bind the N-terminal of IL-8, has not been fully deliberated at molecular-level. Here, we used a combination of molecular docking, heated and long coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations to identify key residues of established interaction. Based on heated MD simulation, docked pose of complexes generated by ClusPro showed good binding stability throughout of 70 ns simulation. Based on long molecular dynamic simulations, key residues for the binding were identified throughout of 1000 ns simulation. TYR-53, ASP-99, and ARG-100 of heavy chain CDR together with TYR-33 of light chain CDR are among the highest contributing energy residues within the binding interaction. Meanwhile, LYS11 and TYR13 of IL-8 are important for the determination of overall binding energy. Furthermore, the result of decomposition residues analysis is in good agreement with the interaction analysis data. Current study provides a list of important interacting residues and further scrutiny on these residues is essential for future development and design of a new and stable recombinant antibody against IL-8.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Hydroxamic Acids Containing a Bicyclic Pinane Backbone as Epigenetic and Metabolic Regulators: Synergizing Agents to Overcome Cisplatin Resistance

Multidrug resistance is the dominant obstacle to effective chemotherapy for malignant neoplasms. It is well known that neoplastic cells use a wide range of adaptive mechanisms to form and maintain resistance against antitumor agents, which makes it urgent to identify promising therapies to solve this problem. Hydroxamic acids are biologically active compounds and in recent years have been actively considered to be potentially promising drugs of various pharmacological applications. In this paper, we synthesized a number of hydroxamic acids containing a p-substituted cinnamic acid core and bearing bicyclic pinane fragments, including derivatives of (-)-myrtenol, (+)-myrtenol and (-)-nopol, as a Cap-group. Among the synthesized compounds, the most promising hydroxamic acid was identified, containing a fragment of (-)-nopol in the Cap group 18c. This compound synergizes with cisplatin to increase its anticancer effect and overcomes cisplatin resistance, which may be associated with the inhibition of histone deacetylase 1 and glycolytic function. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the use of hydroxamic acids with a bicyclic pinane backbone can be considered to be an effective approach to the eradication of tumor cells and overcoming drug resistance in the treatment of malignant neoplasms.

Immune checkpoint blockade induced shifts in cytokine expression patterns in peripheral blood of head and neck cancer patients are linked to outcome

Background

Immune-checkpoint blockade (ICB) of programmed-death-1 (PD-1) with pembrolizumab or nivolumab is approved for treating recurrent/metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). NadiHN and ADRISK are phase IIB trials investigating in locally advanced (LA) HNSCC having low or high risk of recurrence the potential benefits from adding nivolumab to post-operative radiotherapy or pembrolizumab to cisplatin-based radio-chemotherapy.

Methods

Along five randomized controlled ICB trials including NadiHN and ADRISK, blood samples were taken before and after starting ICB in n=25 patients. Concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF), CCL2 (MCP-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and CXCL10 (IP-10) pre- and post-ICB in EDTA-anticoagulated plasma and serum were compared. We used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to identify optimal cutoff for defining subgroups before analyzing overall survival (OS) applying Kaplan-Meier plots and multivariate Cox regression.

Results

We detected huge heterogeneity between cytokine patterns in pre-and post-ICB plasma and serum. We observed high correlation between concentrations of some cytokines. Despite absent systematic OS differences after ICB with pembrolizumab or nivolumab or between LA-HNSCC versus R/M HNSCC patients, we noticed improved outcome of patients having lower IFN-γ concentrations pre- and post-ICB and following ICB reduced concentrations of VEGF, IL-6, and IL-8 but not MCP-1. Contrarily, increases in IL-6, IL-8, and VEGF levels correlated with impaired outcome. Multivariate Cox regression revealed five independent OS predictors among cytokines; using natural logarithms of their hazard ratios to estimate an individual's risk of dying, three cytokine-expression pattern (CEP)-risk groups with no death within mean (95% confidence interval) follow-up of 29.2 (22.1-36.2) months and median OS of 11.3 (8.8-13.8) and 2.9 (0.4-5.4) months were found.

Conclusion

Whereas individual pre- or post-ICB cytokine concentrations in serum or plasma alone failed to predict the survivor group, CEP-risk groups may support the identification of individual patients with long-lasting benefit from ICB.

Chemokines and receptors in the development and progression of malignant tumors

Cancer cells, endothelial cells, inflammatory cells and various cytokines form a part of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Chemokines constitute the largest family of cytokines, and are mainly secreted by tumor cells and inflammatory cells in the TME. They play an important role in tumor development and progression by promoting tumor growth and metastasis, angiogenesis, and targeting the chemoattraction of inflammatory cells. Currently, some chemokine receptor antagonists are being used in clinical trials as targeted anti-tumor drugs. In this article, we review the roles of chemokines in the development and progression of malignant tumors based on recently published papers, taking into consideration of the new anti-tumor therapeutic strategies targeting chemokines and receptors.

Functionally Relevant Cytokine/Receptor Axes in Myelofibrosis

Dysregulated inflammatory signaling is a key feature of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), most notably of myelofibrosis (MF). Indeed, MF is considered the prototype of onco-inflammatory hematologic cancers. While increased levels of circulatory and bone marrow cytokines are a well-established feature of all MPNs, a very recent body of literature is intriguingly pinpointing the selective overexpression of cytokine receptors by MF hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs), which, by contrast, are nearly absent or scarcely expressed in essential thrombocythemia (ET) or polycythemia vera (PV) cells. This new evidence suggests that MF CD34+ cells are uniquely capable of sensing inflammation, and that activation of specific cytokine signaling axes may contribute to the peculiar aggressive phenotype and biological behavior of this disorder. In this review, we will cover the main cytokine systems peculiarly activated in MF and how cytokine receptor targeting is shaping a novel therapeutic avenue in this disease.

Cancer immunotherapy focusing on the role of interleukins: A comprehensive and updated study

Cytokines bind to specific receptors on target cells to activate intracellular signaling pathways that control diverse cellular functions, such as proliferation, differentiation, migration, and death. They are essential for the growth, activation, and operation of immune cells and the control of immunological reactions to pathogens, cancer cells, and other dangers. Based on their structural and functional properties, cytokines can be roughly categorized into different families, such as the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family, interleukins, interferons, and chemokines. Leukocytes produce interleukins, a class of cytokines that have essential functions in coordinating and communicating with immune cells. Cancer, inflammation, and autoimmunity are immune-related disorders brought on by dysregulation of cytokine production or signaling. Understanding cytokines' biology to create novel diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic methods for various immune-related illnesses is crucial. Different immune cells, including T cells, B cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells, and other cells in the body, including epithelial cells and fibroblasts, generate and secrete interleukins. The present study's main aim is to fully understand interleukins' roles in cancer development and identify new therapeutic targets and strategies for cancer treatment.

Differences in serum cytokine levels distinguish between clinically noninvasive lung adenocarcinoma and invasive lung adenocarcinoma: A cross-sectional study

Background

Lung cancer incidence and mortality remain high and are now the leading cause of cancer-related death. Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is one of the main histological subtypes of lung cancer. Previous studies have shown the role of inflammation in the development of lung cancer, but the relationship between cytokines and LUAD is still unclear. To further differentiate and explore the association of cytokines with the risk of non-invasive and invasive LUAD, we studied and assessed serum cytokine levels in patients with two types of LUAD.

Methods

A cohort study of 90 non-invasive LUAD and 90 invasive LUAD was retrospectively included, and the clinical characteristics were recorded in detail. The differences in the levels of 12 serum cytokines (IFN-α, IFN-γ, IL-10, IL-12P70, IL-17A, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) between the two groups of patients with LUAD were analyzed and evaluated. And we evaluated the clinical value of cytokine differential diagnosis of invasive LUAD based on receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 56.6 years, and the proportions of males and females were 38.9% and 61.1%, respectively. IFN-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-4, and IL-8 were significantly increased in patients with invasive LUAD compared with the non-invasive LUAD group. Further research found that smoking is an important factor, with changes in the four cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α being significantly higher in the smoking group of patients with invasive LUAD. It can be seen from the area under the curve that IL-1β and IL-2 have a significant differential diagnosis.

Conclusions

We observed differences in preoperative serum cytokine levels between patients with invasive and non-invasive LUAD, which may serve as potential serum biomarkers for clinical differential diagnosis and disease progression assessment.

Bacterial outer membrane vesicles in cancer: Biogenesis, pathogenesis, and clinical application

Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) are spherical, nano-sized particles of bilayer lipid structure secreted by Gram-negative bacteria. They contain a series of cargos from bacteria and are important messengers for communication between bacteria and their environment. OMVs play multiple roles in bacterial survival and adaptation and can affect host physiological functions and disease development by acting on host cell membranes and altering host cell signaling pathways. This paper summarizes the mechanisms of OMV genesis and the multiple roles of OMVs in the tumor microenvironment. Also, this paper discusses the prospects of OMVs for a wide range of applications in drug delivery, tumor diagnosis, and therapy.

Elevated NOX4 promotes tumorigenesis and acquired EGFR-TKIs resistance via enhancing IL-8/PD-L1 signaling in NSCLC

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been widely used for human non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment. However, acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs is the major barrier of treatment success, and new resistance mechanism remains to be elucidated. In this study, we found that elevated NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) expression was associated with acquired EGFR-TKIs resistance. Gefitinib is the first-generation FDA-approved EGFR-TKI, and osimertinib is the third-generation FDA-approved EGFR-TKI. We demonstrated that NOX4 knockdown in the EGFR-TKI resistant cells enabled the cells to become sensitive to gefitinib and osimertinib treatment, while forced expression of NOX4 in the sensitive parental cells was sufficient to induce resistance to gefitinib and osimertinib in the cells. To elucidate the mechanism of NOX4 upregulation in increasing TKIs resistance, we found that knockdown of NOX4 significantly down-regulated the expression of transcription factor YY1. YY1 bound directly to the promoter region of IL-8 to transcriptionally activate IL-8 expression. Interestingly, knockdown of NOX4 and IL-8 decreased programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, which provide new insight on TKIs resistance and immune escape. We found that patients with higher NOX4 and IL-8 expression levels showed a shorter survival time compared to those with lower NOX4 and IL-8 expression levels in response to the anti-PD-L1 therapy. Knockdown of NOX4, YY1 or IL-8 alone inhibited angiogenesis and tumor growth. Furthermore, the combination of NOX4 inhibitor GKT137831 and gefitinib had synergistic effect to inhibit cell proliferation and tumor growth and to increase cellular apoptosis. These findings demonstrated that NOX4 and YY1 were essential for mediating the acquired EGFR-TKIs resistance. IL-8 and PD-L1 are two downstream targets of NOX4 to regulate TKIs resistance and immunotherapy. These molecules may be used as potential new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for overcoming TKIs resistance in the future.

The significance of spread through air spaces in the prognostic assessment model of stage I lung adenocarcinoma and the exploration of its invasion mechanism

PURPOSE

Spread through air spaces (STAS) is a crucial invasive mode of lung cancer and has been shown to be associated with early recurrence and metastasis. We aimed to develop a prognostic risk assessment model for stage I lung adenocarcinoma based on STAS and other pathological features and to explore the potential relationship between CXCL-8, Smad2, Snail, and STAS.

METHODS

312 patients who underwent surgery at Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital with pathologically diagnosed stage I lung adenocarcinoma were reviewed in the study. STAS and other pathological features were identified by H&E staining, and a prognostic risk assessment model was established. The expression levels of CXCL8, Smad2, and Snail were determined by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The nomogram was established based on age, smoking history, STAS, tumor lymphocyte infiltration, tissue subtype, nuclear grade, and tumor size. The C-index for DFS was (training set 0.84 vs validation set 0.77) and for OS was (training set 0.83 vs validation set 0.78). Decision curve analysis showed that the model constructed has a better net benefit than traditional reporting. The prognostic risk score validated the risk stratification value for stage I lung adenocarcinoma. STAS was an important prognostic factor associated with stronger invasiveness and higher expression of CXCL8, Smad2, and Snail. CXCL8 was associated with poorer DFS and OS.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed and validated a survival risk assessment model and the prognostic risk score formula for stage I lung adenocarcinoma. Additionally, we found that CXCL8 could be used as a potential biomarker for STAS and poor prognosis, and its mechanism may be related to EMT.

Simultaneous isolation of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer organoids and fibroblasts reveals stroma-mediated resistance mechanisms

Recurrent hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer kills more than 600,000 women annually. Although HR+ breast cancers typically respond well to therapies, approximately 30% of patients relapse. At this stage, the tumors are usually metastatic and incurable. Resistance to therapy, particularly endocrine therapy is typically thought to be tumor intrinsic (e.g., estrogen receptor mutations). However, tumor-extrinsic factors also contribute to resistance. For example, stromal cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), residing in the tumor microenvironment, are known to stimulate resistance and disease recurrence. Recurrence in HR+ disease has been difficult to study due to the prolonged clinical course, complex nature of resistance, and lack of appropriate model systems. Existing HR+ models are limited to HR+ cell lines, a few HR+ organoid models, and xenograft models that all lack components of the human stroma. Therefore, there is an urgent need for more clinically relevant models to study the complex nature of recurrent HR+ breast cancer, and the factors contributing to treatment relapse. Here, we present an optimized protocol that allows a high take-rate, and simultaneous propagation of patient-derived organoids (PDOs) and matching CAFs, from primary and metastatic HR+ breast cancers. Our protocol allows for long-term culturing of HR+ PDOs that retain estrogen receptor expression and show responsiveness to hormone therapy. We further show the functional utility of this system by identifying CAF-secreted cytokines, such as growth-regulated oncogene α , as stroma-derived resistance drivers to endocrine therapy in HR+ PDOs.

Pro-Tumorigenic and Thrombotic Activities of Platelets in Lung Cancer

Aside from their key protective roles in hemostasis and innate immunity, platelets are now recognized as having multifaceted, adverse roles in the pathogenesis, progression and outcome of many types of human malignancy. The most consistent and compelling evidence in this context has been derived from the notable association of elevated circulating platelet counts with the onset and prognosis of various human malignancies, particularly lung cancer, which represents the primary focus of the current review. Key topics include an overview of the association of lung cancer with the circulating platelet count, as well as the mechanisms of platelet-mediated, pro-tumorigenic immunosuppression, particularly the role of transforming growth factor beta 1. These issues are followed by a discussion regarding the pro-tumorigenic role of platelet-derived microparticles (PMPs), the most abundant type of microparticles (MPs) in human blood. In this context, the presence of increased levels of PMPs in the blood of lung cancer patients has been associated with tumor growth, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis, which correlate with disease progression and decreased survival times. The final section of the review addresses, firstly, the role of cancer-related platelet activation and thrombosis in the pathogenesis of secondary cardiovascular disorders and the associated mortality, particularly in lung cancer, which is second only to disease progression; secondly, the review addresses the potential role of antiplatelet agents in the adjunctive therapy of cancer.

Association among inflammaging, body composition, physical activity, and physical function tests in physically active women

Background

Inflammaging is a phenomenon that has been associated with the development and progression of sarcopenia and frailty syndrome. According to the literature, on the one side, the increase in body fat is associated with a systemic pro-inflammatory status, which consequently favors inflammaging, and on the other side, the regular practice of physical exercise can mitigate the development of this scenario. Therefore, here, we aimed to evaluate the association between inflammaging and physical factors, both body and functional, in a group of physically active older women.

Methods

Seventy older women (mean age 72.66 ± 6.17 years) participated in this observational cross-sectional and were separated into the eutrophic, overweight, and obese groups. It was assessed: by bioimpedance-body fat percentage (Fat%) and total (Fat kg), skeletal muscle mass (muscle), and free fat mass both in percentage (FFM%) and total (FFMkg); by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)-the time of moderate-intensity physical activity per week; by physical tests-handgrip (HG), sit-up-stand-on-the-chair in 5 repetitions (Sit-up) and vertical squat jump test (SJ); in addition to the determination of serum cytokine concentration (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-8), and also body mass index (BMI) and calf circumference (Calf).

Results

Higher FFM% and lower body fat (both kg and %) were found in the eutrophic group than in the other groups. The eutrophic group also performed more weekly physical activity, jumped higher, and presented not only higher serum IL-6 concentration but also an increased ratio of IL-10/IL-6, IL-10/TNF-α, IL-10/IL-8 as compared to the values found in the overweight group. The obese group presented higher body fat (kg and %) and lower FFM% than the other groups and also higher serum IL-6 concentration than the overweight group. Interestingly, several significant negative and positive correlations between body composition, physical tests, and serum cytokine concentrations were found in the eutrophic and obese groups.

Conclusion

While the eutrophic older women group showed a remarkable regulation of the systemic inflammatory status with positive associations in the physical parameters assessed, the overweight and obese groups presented impairment regulations of the inflammaging, which could be related to less weekly physical activity and higher body fat.

The role of CXCL family members in different diseases

Chemokines are a large family mediating a lot of biological behaviors including chemotaxis, tumor growth, angiogenesis and so on. As one member of this family, CXC subfamily possesses the same ability. CXC chemokines can recruit and migrate different categories of immune cells, regulate tumor's pathological behaviors like proliferation, invasion and metastasis, activate angiogenesis, etc. Due to these characteristics, CXCL subfamily is extensively and closely associated with tumors and inflammatory diseases. As studies are becoming more and more intensive, CXCLs' concrete roles are better described, and CXCLs' therapeutic applications including biomarkers and targets are also deeply explained. In this review, the role of CXCL family members in various diseases is summarized.

An integrated bioinformatic investigation of focal adhesion-related genes in glioma followed by preliminary validation of COL1A2 in tumorigenesis

Focal adhesions (FAs) allow cells to contact the extracellular matrix, helping to maintain tension and enabling signal transmission in cell migration, differentiation, and apoptosis. In addition, FAs are associated with changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that lead to malignant progression and drug resistance in tumors. However, there are still few studies on the comprehensive analysis of focal adhesion-related genes (FARGs) in glioma. Expression data and clinical information of glioma samples were downloaded from public databases. Two distinct molecular subtypes were identified based on FARGs using an unsupervised consensus clustering algorithm. A scoring system consisting of nine FARGs was constructed using integrated LASSO regression and multivariate Cox regression. It not only has outstanding prognostic value but also can guide immunotherapy of glioma patients, which was verified in TCGA, CGGA, GSE16011, and IMvigor210 cohorts. The results of bioinformatics analysis, immunohistochemistry staining, and western blotting all revealed that the expression of COL1A2 was up-regulated in glioblastoma and related to poor prognosis outcomes in patients from public datasets. COL1A2 promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioblastoma cells. A positive correlation between COL1A2 and CD8 was determined in GBM specimens from eight patients. Moreover, the results of cell co-cultured assay showed that COL1A2 participated in the killing of GBM cells by Jurkat cells. Our study indicates that the FARGs have prominent application value in the identification of molecular subtypes and prediction of survival outcomes in glioma patients. Bioinformatics analysis and experimental verification provide a direction for further research on FARGs.

Etoposide: A rider on the cytokine storm

For more than 40 years, the epipodophyllotoxin drug etoposide is prescribed to treat cancer. This semi-synthetic compound remains extensively used to treat advanced small-cell lung cancer and in various chemotherapy regimen for autologous stem cell transplantation, and other anticancer protocols. Etoposide is a potent topoisomerase II poison, causing double-stranded DNA breaks which lead to cell death if they are not repaired. It is also a genotoxic compound, responsible for severe side effects and secondary leukemia occasionally. Beyond its well-recognized function as an inducer of cancer cell death (a "killer on the road"), etoposide is also useful to treat immune-mediated inflammatory diseases associated with a cytokine storm syndrome. The drug is essential to the treatment of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and the macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), in combination with a corticosteroid and other drugs. The use of etoposide to treat HLH, either familial or secondary to a viral or parasitic infection, or treatment-induced HLH and MAS is reviewed here. Etoposide dampens inflammation in HLH patients via an inhibition of the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as IL-6, IL-10, IL-18, IFN-γ and TNF-α, and reduction of the secretion of the alarmin HMGB1. The modulation of cytokines production by etoposide contributes to deactivate T cells and to dampen the immune stimulation associated to the cytokine storm. This review discussed the clinical benefits and mechanism of action of etoposide (a "rider on the storm") in the context of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, notably life-threatening HLH and MAS. The question arises as to whether the two faces of etoposide action can apply to other topoisomerase II inhibitors.

Cytokine sustained delivery for cancer therapy; special focus on stem cell- and biomaterial- based delivery methods

As immune regulators, cytokines serve critical role as signaling molecules in response to danger, tissue damage, or injury. Importantly, due to their vital role in immunological surveillance, cytokine therapy has become a promising therapeutics for cancer therapy. Cytokines have, however, been used only in certain clinical settings. Two key characteristics of cytokines contribute to this clinical translational challenge: first, they are highly pleiotropic, and second, in healthy physiology, they are typically secreted and act very locally in tissues. Systemic administration of the cytokines can consequently result in serious side effects. Thus, scientists have sought various strategies to circumvent theses hurdles. Recent in vivo reports signify that cytokine delivery platforms can increase their safety and therapeutic efficacy in tumor xenografts. Meanwhile, cytokine delivery using multipotent stem cells, in particular mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), and also a diversity of particles and biomaterials has demonstrated greater capability in this regards. Herein, we take a glimpse into the recent advances in cytokine sustained delivery using stem cells and also biomaterials to ease safe and effective treatments of a myriad of human tumors.

Role of Fibroblasts in Chronic Inflammatory Signalling in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps-A Systematic Review

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is an inflammatory disease of the nose and paranasal sinuses characterized by the presence of nasal polyps. The symptoms produced by the presence of nasal polyps such as nasal obstruction, nasal discharge, facial pain, headache, and loss of smell cause a worsening in the quality of life of patients. The source of the nasal polyps remains unclear, although it seems to be due to a chronic inflammation process in the sinonasal mucosa. Fibroblasts, the main cells in connective tissue, are intimately involved in the inflammation processes of various diseases; to this end, we carried out a systematic review to evaluate their inflammatory role in nasal polyps. Thus, we evaluated the main cytokines produced by nasal polyp-derived fibroblasts (NPDF) to assess their involvement in the production of nasal polyps and their involvement in different inflammatory pathways. The results of the review highlight the inflammatory role of NPDF through the secretion of various cytokines involved in the T1, T2, and T3 inflammatory pathways, as well as the ability of NPDF to be stimulated by a multitude of substances. With these findings, the fibroblast is positioned as a new potential therapeutic target in the treatment of CRSwNP.

Targeted blockade of interleukin-8 negates metastasis and chemoresistance via Akt/Erk-NFκB axis in oral cancer

BACKGROUND

The tumor microenvironment plays a significant role in tumor growth, metastasis and chemoresistance via dysregulated signaling pathways. Toward this, an inflammatory chemokine, interleukin-8 (IL-8), is overexpressed in various cancers and is involved in tumor progression and chemoresistance. However, the mechanistic role of IL-8 in mediating metastasis and chemoresistance in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is not known.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In the present study, we evaluated the effect of IL-8 in regulating metastasis as well as chemoresistance in OSCC cell lines. For this, IL-8 was blocked exogenously using neutralizing IL-8 monoclonal antibody and IL-8 levels were enhanced by exogenous supply of recombinant human IL-8 (rhIL-8) to OSCC cells. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was evaluated using qPCR, migration by scratch/wound healing assay and invasion ability using transwell assay. rIL-8 induced chemoresistance was studied by apoptosis assay and the nuclear localization of NFκB using immunocytochemistry. IL-8 was significantly overexpressed in OSCC patients and cell lines. While exogenous blockade of IL-8 significantly reduced EMT, migration and invasion potential in OSCC cells, IL-8 overexpression upregulated these cellular traits thereby confirming the role of IL-8 in OSCC metastasis. Exogenous blockade of IL-8 also reversed chemoresistance in cisplatin resistant OSCC subline via NFκB signaling.

CONCLUSION

IL-8 plays a crucial role in OSCC metastasis and its targeted blockade can help in management of cisplatin resistance.

Melatonin blunts the tumor-promoting effect of cancer-associated fibroblasts by reducing IL-8 expression and reversing epithelial-mesenchymal transition

BACKGROUND

Most studies on melatonin have focused on tumor cells but have ignored the tumor microenvironment (TME), especially one of its important components, the cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Therefore, we attempted to explore the role of melatonin in TME.

METHODS

We investigated the regulatory role of melatonin in the tumor-promoting effect of CAFs and its underlying mechanism by using cell and animal models.

RESULTS

CAFs promoted tumor progression, but melatonin weakened the tumor-promoting effect of CAFs. Compared with tumor cells, IL-8 was mainly expressed in CAFs. CAFs-overexpressing IL-8 induced the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tumor cells, and a positive crosstalk was observed between CAFs and tumor cells undergoing EMT, thereby further promoting the IL-8 expression. Melatonin suppressed this crosstalk by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, thereby impeding the IL-8 expression from CAFs. Importantly, melatonin reversed CAFs-derived IL-8-mediated EMT by inhibiting the AKT pathway. Melatonin was found to directly and indirectly inhibit tumor progression.

CONCLUSION

Our research reveals the potential action mechanism of melatonin in regulating the CAF-tumor cell interaction and suggests the potential of melatonin as an adjuvant of tumor therapy.

Frequencies of an Immunogenic HER-2/neu Epitope of CD8+ T Lymphocytes Predict Favorable Clinical Outcomes in Prostate Cancer

HER-2/neu is the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, which is associated with the progression of prostate cancer (PCa). HER-2/neu-specific T cell immunity has been shown to predict immunologic and clinical responses in PCa patients treated with HER-2/neu peptide vaccines. However, its prognostic role in PCa patients receiving conventional treatment is unknown, and this was addressed in this study. The densities of CD8+ T cells specific for the HER-2/neu_(780-788) peptide in the peripheral blood of PCa patients under standard treatments were correlated with TGF-β/IL-8 levels and clinical outcomes. We demonstrated that PCa patients with high frequencies of HER-2/neu_(780-788)-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes had better progression-free survival (PFS) as compared with PCa patients with low frequencies. Increased frequencies of HER-2/neu_(780-788)-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes were also associated with lower levels of TGF-β and IL-8. Our data provide the first evidence of the predictive role of HER-2/neu-specific T cell immunity in PCa.

Extracellular vesicles from PBDE-47 treated M(LPS) THP-1 macrophages modulate the expression of markers of epithelial integrity, EMT, inflammation and muco-secretion in ALI culture of airway epithelium

AIMS

The lung epithelial cells form a physical barrier to the external environment acting as the first line of defence against potentially harmful environmental stimuli. These cells interact with several other cellular components, of which macrophages are some of the most relevant. We analysed the effects of the PBDE-47 on the microRNA cargo of THP-1 macrophage like derived small Extracellular Vesicles (sEVs) and the effects on A549 lung epithelial cells.

MAIN METHODS

sEVs from M(LPS) THP-1 macrophage-like cells after PBDE-47 treatment (sEVs^PBDE+LPS) were characterized by nanoparticle tracking analysis and their microRNA cargo studied by qPCR. Confocal microscopy was applied to study sEVs cellular uptake by A549 cells. The expression of tight junctions (TJs), adhesion molecules, inflammation markers and mucus production in A549 cultured in air liquid interface (ALI) conditions were studied by Real Time PCR and confocal microscopy.

KEY FINDINGS

sEVs^PBDE+LPS microRNA cargo analysis showed that the PBDE-47 modulated the expression of the miR-15a-5p, miR29a-3p, miR-143-3p and miR-122-5p. Furthermore, ALI cultured A549 cells incubated with sEVs^PBDE+LPS showed that zonula occludens-1 (p ≤ 0.04), claudin (p ≤ 0.02), E-cadherin (p ≤ 0.006) and Vimentin (p ≤ 0.0008) mRNAs were increased in A549 cells after sEVs^PBDE+LPS treatment. Indeed, Interleukin (IL)-8 (p ≤ 0.008) and mucin (MUC5AC and MUC5B) (p ≤ 0.03 and p ≤ 0.0001) mRNA expression were up- and down-regulated, respectively.

SIGNIFICANCE

PBDE-47 treated macrophages secrete sEVs with altered microRNA cargo that affect the mRNA expression of TJs, adhesion molecules, cytokines and EMT markers damaging the normal function of the lung epithelium, potentially contributing to the development of lung diseases.

Tumor cell density dependent IL-8 secretion induces the fluctuation of tregs/CD8 + T cells infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma: one prompt for the existence of density checkpoint

BACKGROUND

Tumor cell density is a basic pathological feature of solid tumors. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy reduce tumor cell density, whereas unrestricted tumor cell proliferation promotes this feature. The impact of tumor cells on the microenvironment following changes in tumor cell density is still unclear. In this study, we focused on the response of key immune cell subsets to tumor cell density in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

We determined the density of tumor and immune cells in the same area by section staining. We then identified potential mediators using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), enzyme-linked immunofluorescence assay (ELISA), 3D and co-culture, flow cytometry, and lentivirus intervention. The mechanism of lactate promotion was verified using lactate tests, bioinformatics, western blotting, and the above methods. The IL-8/DAPK1/lactate/regulatory T cell (Treg) axis was verified using a mouse liver cancer model. Tumor mutation burden was calculated using maftools in R.

RESULTS

We found that the Treg/CD8 + T cell ratio is not consistent with tumor cell density in HCC, and a decreased Treg/CD8 + T cell ratio in the range of 5000-6000 cells/mm² may elicit the possibility for immunotherapy in an immunosuppressive microenvironment. We showed that IL-8 mediates this immune fluctuation and promotes the infiltration of Tregs through the DAPK1/pyruvate kinase activity/lactate axis in HCC. Based on tumor ploidy and mutation burden data, we discussed the potential significance of immune fluctuation in the homeostasis of HCC mutation burden and proposed a "density checkpoint" and "entropy model" to describe this phenomenon.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we report the mode of infiltration of Tregs/CD8 + T cells in response to tumor cell density and provide a new theoretical basis for IL-8 as a therapeutic target and the selection of an immunotherapy window in HCC.

In Vitro Antitumor and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Allium-Derived Compounds Propyl Propane Thiosulfonate (PTSO) and Propyl Propane Thiosulfinate (PTS)

Increasing rates of cancer incidence and the side-effects of current chemotherapeutic treatments have led to the research on novel anticancer products based on dietary compounds. The use of Allium metabolites and extracts has been proposed to reduce the proliferation of tumor cells by several mechanisms. In this study, we have shown the in vitro anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effect of two onion-derived metabolites propyl propane thiosulfinate (PTS) and propyl propane thiosulfonate (PTSO) on several human tumor lines (MCF-7, T-84, A-549, HT-29, Panc-1, Jurkat, PC-3, SW-837, and T1-73). We observed that this effect was related to their ability to induce apoptosis regulated by oxidative stress. In addition, both compounds were also able to reduce the levels of some pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-8, IL-6, and IL-17. Therefore, PTS and PTSO may have a promising role in cancer prevention and/or treatment.

Tumor cell plasticity in targeted therapy-induced resistance: mechanisms and new strategies

Despite the success of targeted therapies in cancer treatment, therapy-induced resistance remains a major obstacle to a complete cure. Tumor cells evade treatments and relapse via phenotypic switching driven by intrinsic or induced cell plasticity. Several reversible mechanisms have been proposed to circumvent tumor cell plasticity, including epigenetic modifications, regulation of transcription factors, activation or suppression of key signaling pathways, as well as modification of the tumor environment. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, tumor cell and cancer stem cell formation also serve as roads towards tumor cell plasticity. Corresponding treatment strategies have recently been developed that either target plasticity-related mechanisms or employ combination treatments. In this review, we delineate the formation of tumor cell plasticity and its manipulation of tumor evasion from targeted therapy. We discuss the non-genetic mechanisms of targeted drug-induced tumor cell plasticity in various types of tumors and provide insights into the contribution of tumor cell plasticity to acquired drug resistance. New therapeutic strategies such as inhibition or reversal of tumor cell plasticity are also presented. We also discuss the multitude of clinical trials that are ongoing worldwide with the intention of improving clinical outcomes. These advances provide a direction for developing novel therapeutic strategies and combination therapy regimens that target tumor cell plasticity.

The chemokines CXCL8 and CXCL12: molecular and functional properties, role in disease and efforts towards pharmacological intervention

Chemokines are an indispensable component of our immune system through the regulation of directional migration and activation of leukocytes. CXCL8 is the most potent human neutrophil-attracting chemokine and plays crucial roles in the response to infection and tissue injury. CXCL8 activity inherently depends on interaction with the human CXC chemokine receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2, the atypical chemokine receptor ACKR1, and glycosaminoglycans. Furthermore, (hetero)dimerization and tight regulation of transcription and translation, as well as post-translational modifications further fine-tune the spatial and temporal activity of CXCL8 in the context of inflammatory diseases and cancer. The CXCL8 interaction with receptors and glycosaminoglycans is therefore a promising target for therapy, as illustrated by multiple ongoing clinical trials. CXCL8-mediated neutrophil mobilization to blood is directly opposed by CXCL12, which retains leukocytes in bone marrow. CXCL12 is primarily a homeostatic chemokine that induces migration and activation of hematopoietic progenitor cells, endothelial cells, and several leukocytes through interaction with CXCR4, ACKR1, and ACKR3. Thereby, it is an essential player in the regulation of embryogenesis, hematopoiesis, and angiogenesis. However, CXCL12 can also exert inflammatory functions, as illustrated by its pivotal role in a growing list of pathologies and its synergy with CXCL8 and other chemokines to induce leukocyte chemotaxis. Here, we review the plethora of information on the CXCL8 structure, interaction with receptors and glycosaminoglycans, different levels of activity regulation, role in homeostasis and disease, and therapeutic prospects. Finally, we discuss recent research on CXCL12 biochemistry and biology and its role in pathology and pharmacology.

Inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling promotes an M1 macrophage switch by repressing the ATF3-CXCL8 axis in Ewing sarcoma

Ewing sarcomas are aggressive pediatric tumors of bone and soft tissues driven by in frame chromosomal translocations that yield fusion proteins guiding the oncogenic program. Promising alternative strategies to ameliorate current treatments involve inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. In this study, we identified the activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) as an important mediator of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in Ewing sarcoma cells. ATF3 exerted its pro-tumoral activity through modulation of several chemokine-encoding genes, including CXCL8. The product of CXCL8, IL-8, acts as a pro-inflammatory chemokine critical for cancer progression and metastasis. We found that ATF3/IL-8 axis impacts macrophages populating the surrounding tumor microenvironment by promoting the M2 phenotype. Our study reveals valuable information on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR derived chemokine signaling in Ewing sarcoma cells: by promoting ATF3 and CXCL8 downregulation, inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling promotes a proinflammatory response leading to upregulation of the protective anti-tumoral M1 macrophages.

Crosstalk of Inflammatory Cytokines within the Breast Tumor Microenvironment

Several immune and immunocompetent cells, including dendritic cells, macrophages, adipocytes, natural killer cells, T cells, and B cells, are significantly correlated with the complex discipline of oncology. Cytotoxic innate and adaptive immune cells can block tumor proliferation, and others can prevent the immune system from rejecting malignant cells and provide a favorable environment for tumor progression. These cells communicate with the microenvironment through cytokines, a chemical messenger, in an endocrine, paracrine, or autocrine manner. These cytokines play an important role in health and disease, particularly in host immune responses to infection and inflammation. They include chemokines, interleukins (ILs), adipokines, interferons, colony-stimulating factors (CSFs), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), which are produced by a wide range of cells, including immune cells, such as macrophages, B-cells, T-cells, and mast cells, as well as endothelial cells, fibroblasts, a variety of stromal cells, and some cancer cells. Cytokines play a crucial role in cancer and cancer-related inflammation, with direct and indirect effects on tumor antagonistic or tumor promoting functions. They have been extensively researched as immunostimulatory mediators to promote the generation, migration and recruitment of immune cells that contribute to an effective antitumor immune response or pro-tumor microenvironment. Thus, in many cancers such as breast cancer, cytokines including leptin, IL-1B, IL-6, IL-8, IL-23, IL-17, and IL-10 stimulate while others including IL-2, IL-12, and IFN-γ, inhibit cancer proliferation and/or invasion and enhance the body's anti-tumor defense. Indeed, the multifactorial functions of cytokines in tumorigenesis will advance our understanding of cytokine crosstalk pathways in the tumor microenvironment, such as JAK/STAT, PI3K, AKT, Rac, MAPK, NF-κB, JunB, cFos, and mTOR, which are involved in angiogenesis, cancer proliferation and metastasis. Accordingly, targeting and blocking tumor-promoting cytokines or activating and amplifying tumor-inhibiting cytokines are considered cancer-directed therapies. Here, we focus on the role of the inflammatory cytokine system in pro- and anti-tumor immune responses, discuss cytokine pathways involved in immune responses to cancer and some anti-cancer therapeutic applications.

Challenges to addressing the unmet medical needs for immunotherapy targeting cold colorectal cancer

With the establishment of the immune surveillance mechanism since the 1950s, attempts have been made to activate the immune system for cancer treatment through the discovery of various cytokines or the development of antibodies up to now. The fruits of these efforts have contributed to the recognition of the 3^rd generation of anticancer immunotherapy as the mainstream of cancer treatment. However, the limitations of cancer immunotherapy are also being recognized through the conceptual establishment of cold tumors recently, and colorectal cancer (CRC) has become a major issue from this therapeutic point of view. Here, it is emphasized that non-clinical strategies to overcome the immunosuppressive environment and clinical trials based on these basic investigations are being made on the journey to achieve better treatment outcomes for the treatment of cold CRC.

Enterococcus faecalis promotes the progression of colorectal cancer via its metabolite: biliverdin

BACKGROUND

Enterococcus faecalis (Efa) has been shown to be a "driver bacteria" in the occurrence and development of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aims to explore the effect of specific metabolites of Efa on CRC.

METHODS

The pro-tumor effects of Efa were assessed in colonic epithelial cells. The tumor-stimulating molecule produced by Efa was identified using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The proliferative effect of metabolites on CRC cells in vitro was assayed as well. The concentration of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) was determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Tubular formation assay of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and cell migration assay were applied to study angiogenesis. Additionally, western blot analysis was used to investigate key regulatory proteins involved in the angiogenesis pathway. Tumor growth was assessed using mouse models with two CRC cells and human colon cancer organoid.

RESULTS

Co-incubation with the conditioned medium of Efa increased the proliferation of cultured CRC cells. Biliverdin (BV) was determined as the key metabolite produced by Efa using LC-MS screening. BV promoted colony formation and cell proliferation and inhibited cell cycle arrest of cultured CRC cells. BV significantly increased the expression level of IL-8 and VEGFA by regulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, leading to the acceleration of angiogenesis in CRC. The up-regulation of proliferation and angiogenesis by BV were also confirmed in mice.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, BV, as the tumor-stimulating metabolite of Efa, generates proliferative and angiogenic effects on CRC, which is mainly mediated by the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR.

Expression of the prognostic marker IL-8 correlates with the immune signature and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer

BACKGROUND

IL-8 has been implicated in the malignant progression of various types of cancers; however, the precise molecular mechanisms associated with IL-8 in breast cancer (BRCA) are unclear.

METHODS

We analyzed the clinical signature and immune characteristics of BRCA patients and its correlation with IL-8 expression using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets. The role of IL-8 in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was verified through Western blotting, Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, and wound healing assays, as well as cell invasion experiments.

RESULTS

Through a comprehensive bioinformatics study, we determined that high IL-8 expression was associated with poor prognosis. Enrichment analysis revealed that high IL-8 expression was enriched in immune-related processes and cancer-related signaling pathways. In addition, IL-8 was associated with most of the immune-infiltrating cells, and high IL-8 expression indicated poor response to immunotherapy. Importantly, we found that IL-8 induced EMT in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, our data indicate that IL-8 may be a potential and valuable prognostic marker in BRCA, which may induce adverse outcomes by modulating the immune response and promoting EMT in BRCA patients.

Senescent cells and SASP in cancer microenvironment: New approaches in cancer therapy

Cellular senescence was first described as a state characterized by telomere shortening, resulting in limiting cell proliferation in aging. Apart from this type of senescence, which is called replicative senescence, other senescence types occur after exposure to different stress factors. One of these types of senescence induced after adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy and radiotherapy) is called therapy-induced senescence. The treatment with chemotherapeutics induces cellular senescence in normal and cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment. Thus therapy-induced senescence in the cancer microenvironment is accepted one of the drivers of tumor progression. Recent studies have revealed that senescence-associated secretory phenotype induction has roles in pathological processes such as inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition and promoting tumor vascularization. Thus senolytic drugs that specifically kill senescent cells and senomorphic drugs that inhibit the secretory activity of senescent cells are seen as a new approach in cancer treatment. Developing and discovering new senotherapeutic agents targeting senescent cells is also gaining importance. In this review, we attempt to summarize the signaling pathways regarding the metabolism, cell morphology, and organelles of the senescent cell. Furthermore, we also reviewed the effects of SASP in the cancer microenvironment and the senotherapeutics that have the potential to be used as adjuvant therapy in cancer treatment.

The Microbiome-TIME Axis: A Host of Possibilities

Cancer continues to be a significant source of mortality and morbidity worldwide despite progress in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Fortunately, immunotherapy has been a breakthrough in the treatment of many cancers. However, the response to immunotherapy treatment and the experience of associated side effects varies significantly between patients. Recently, attention has been given to understanding the role of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in the development, progression, and treatment response of cancer. A new understanding of the role of the microbiota in the modulation of the TIME has further complicated the story but also unlocked a new area of adjuvant therapeutic research. The complex balance of tumor-permissive and tumor-suppressive immune environments requires further elucidation in order to be harnessed as a therapeutic target. Because both the TIME and the microbiome show importance in these areas, we propose here the concept of the "microbiome-TIME axis" to review the current field of research and future directions.

Strategies to overcome myeloid cell induced immune suppression in the tumor microenvironment

Cancer progression and metastasis due to tumor immune evasion and drug resistance is strongly associated with immune suppressive cellular responses, particularly in the case of metastatic tumors. The myeloid cell component plays a key role within the tumor microenvironment (TME) and disrupts both adaptive and innate immune cell responses leading to loss of tumor control. Therefore, strategies to eliminate or modulate the myeloid cell compartment of the TME are increasingly attractive to non-specifically increase anti-tumoral immunity and enhance existing immunotherapies. This review covers current strategies targeting myeloid suppressor cells in the TME to enhance anti-tumoral immunity, including strategies that target chemokine receptors to deplete selected immune suppressive myeloid cells and relieve the inhibition imposed on the effector arms of adaptive immunity. Remodeling the TME can in turn improve the activity of other immunotherapies such as checkpoint blockade and adoptive T cell therapies in immunologically "cold" tumors. When possible, in this review, we have provided evidence and outcomes from recent or current clinical trials evaluating the effectiveness of the specific strategies used to target myeloid cells in the TME. The review seeks to provide a broad overview of how myeloid cell targeting can become a key foundational approach to an overall strategy for improving tumor responses to immunotherapy.

Anticancer Effects of Fucoxanthin through Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis Induction, Angiogenesis Inhibition, and Autophagy Modulation

Cancer accounts for one in seven deaths worldwide and is the second leading cause of death in the United States, after heart disease. One of the standard cancer treatments is chemotherapy which sometimes can lead to chemoresistance and treatment failure. Therefore, there is a great need for novel therapeutic approaches to treat these patients. Novel natural products have exhibited anticancer effects that may be beneficial in treating many kinds of cancer, having fewer side effects, low toxicity, and affordability. Numerous marine natural compounds have been found to inhibit molecular events and signaling pathways associated with various stages of cancer development. Fucoxanthin is a well-known marine carotenoid of the xanthophyll family with bioactive compounds. It is profusely found in brown seaweeds, providing more than 10% of the total creation of natural carotenoids. Fucoxanthin is found in edible brown seaweed macroalgae such as Undaria pinnatifida, Laminaria japonica, and Eisenia bicyclis. Many of fucoxanthin's pharmacological properties include antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antiobesity, anticancer, and antihypertensive effects. Fucoxanthin inhibits many cancer cell lines' proliferation, angiogenesis, migration, invasion, and metastasis. In addition, it modulates miRNA and induces cell cycle growth arrest, apoptosis, and autophagy. Moreover, the literature shows fucoxanthin's ability to inhibit cytokines and growth factors such as TNF-α and VEGF, which stimulates the activation of downstream signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt autophagy, and pathways of apoptosis. This review highlights the different critical mechanisms by which fucoxanthin inhibits diverse cancer types, such as breast, prostate, gastric, lung, and bladder development and progression. Moreover, this article reviews the existing literature and provides critical supportive evidence for fucoxanthin's possible therapeutic use in cancer.

The double-edged role of hydrogen sulfide in the pathomechanism of multiple liver diseases

In mammalian systems, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)-one of the three known gaseous signaling molecules in mammals-has been found to have a variety of physiological functions. Existing studies have demonstrated that endogenous H₂S is produced through enzymatic and non-enzymatic pathways. The liver is the body's largest solid organ and is essential for H₂S synthesis and elimination. Mounting evidence suggests H₂S has essential roles in various aspects of liver physiological processes and pathological conditions, such as hepatic lipid metabolism, liver fibrosis, liver ischemia‒reperfusion injury, hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatotoxicity, and acute liver failure. In this review, we discuss the functions and underlying molecular mechanisms of H₂S in multiple liver pathophysiological conditions.

The role of extracellular vesicles and interleukin-8 in regulating and mediating neutrophil-dependent cancer drug resistance

Tumor drug resistance is a multifactorial and heterogenous condition that poses a serious burden in clinical oncology. Given the increasing incidence of resistant tumors, further understanding of the mechanisms that make tumor cells able to escape anticancer drug effects is pivotal for developing new effective treatments. Neutrophils constitute a considerable proportion of tumor infiltrated immune cells, and studies have linked elevated neutrophil counts with poor prognosis. Tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) can acquire in fact immunoregulatory capabilities, thus regulating tumor progression and resistance, or response to therapy. In this review, we will describe TANs' actions in the tumor microenvironment, with emphasis on the analysis of the role of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) as crucial modulators and mediators of TANs biology and function in tumors. We will then discuss the main mechanisms through which TANs can induce drug resistance, finally reporting emerging therapeutic approaches that target these mechanisms and can thus be potentially used to reduce or overcome neutrophil-mediated tumor drug resistance.

Non-small cell lung cancer-derived exosomes promote proliferation, phagocytosis, and secretion of microglia via exosomal microRNA in the metastatic microenvironment

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common tumor that metastasizes to the brain. It is now accepted that the successful colonization and growth of tumor cells are determined by the interaction between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Microglia, brain innate immune cells, have been reported to play a vital role in the establishment of brain metastases. As essential mediators of intercellular communications, tumor-derived exosomes have an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of cancer by transferring their cargos to specific recipient cells. The crosstalk between microglia and tumor-derived exosomes has been extensively described. However, it is still unclear whether metastatic NSCLC cells secret exosomes to microglia and regulate the microglial functions. Here, our results showed that microglia aggregated in the brain metastatic sites. Meanwhile, microglia could take up the exosomes derived from NSCLC cells, leading to alterations of microglial morphology and increased proliferation, phagocytosis, and release of inflammatory cytokines including interleukin-6, interleukin-8, and CXCL1. Further investigation indicated that miR1246 was the most enriched microRNA in NSCLC-derived exosomes and mediated the partial effects of exosomes on microglia. Notably, miR1246 was also upregulated in the plasmatic exosomes of NSCLC patients. These results offer a new insight into the impact of NSCLC-derived exosomes on microglia and provide a new potential biomarker for diagnosing NSCLC.

The roles of metabolic profiles and intracellular signaling pathways of tumor microenvironment cells in angiogenesis of solid tumors

Innate and adaptive immune cells patrol and survey throughout the human body and sometimes reside in the tumor microenvironment (TME) with a variety of cell types and nutrients that may differ from those in which they developed. The metabolic pathways and metabolites of immune cells are rooted in cell physiology, and not only provide nutrients and energy for cell growth and survival but also influencing cell differentiation and effector functions. Nowadays, there is a growing awareness that metabolic processes occurring in cancer cells can affect immune cell function and lead to tumor immune evasion and angiogenesis. In order to safely treat cancer patients and prevent immune checkpoint blockade-induced toxicities and autoimmunity, we suggest using anti-angiogenic drugs solely or combined with Immune checkpoint blockers (ICBs) to boost the safety and effectiveness of cancer therapy. As a consequence, there is significant and escalating attention to discovering techniques that target metabolism as a new method of cancer therapy. In this review, a summary of immune-metabolic processes and their potential role in the stimulation of intracellular signaling in TME cells that lead to tumor angiogenesis, and therapeutic applications is provided. Video abstract.

Manipulation of the crosstalk between tumor angiogenesis and immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment: Insight into the combination therapy of anti-angiogenesis and immune checkpoint blockade

Immunotherapy has been recognized as an effective and important therapeutic modality for multiple types of cancer. Nevertheless, it has been increasing recognized that clinical benefits of immunotherapy are less than expected as evidenced by the fact that only a small population of cancer patients respond favorably to immunotherapy. The structurally and functionally abnormal tumor vasculature is a hallmark of most solid tumors and contributes to an immunosuppressive microenvironment, which poses a major challenge to immunotherapy. In turn, multiple immune cell subsets have profound consequences on promoting neovascularization. Vascular normalization, a promising anti-angiogenic strategy, can enhance vascular perfusion and promote the infiltration of immune effector cells into tumors via correcting aberrant tumor blood vessels, resulting in the potentiation of immunotherapy. More interestingly, immunotherapies are prone to boost the efficacy of various anti-angiogenic therapies and/or promote the morphological and functional alterations in tumor vasculature. Therefore, immune reprograming and vascular normalization appear to be reciprocally regulated. In this review, we mainly summarize how tumor vasculature propels an immunosuppressive phenotype and how innate and adaptive immune cells modulate angiogenesis during tumor progression. We further highlight recent advances of anti-angiogenic immunotherapies in preclinical and clinical settings to solidify the concept that targeting both tumor blood vessels and immune suppressive cells provides an efficacious approach for the treatment of cancer.

Chemokines and cytokines: Axis and allies in prostate cancer pathogenesis

Chemokines are recognized as the major contributor to various tumorigenesis, tumor heterogeneity, and failures of current cancer therapies. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is enriched with chemokines and cytokines and plays a pivotal role in cancer progression. Chronic inflammation is also considered an instructive process of cancer progression, where chemokines are spatiotemporally secreted by malignant cells and leukocyte subtypes that initiate cell trafficking into the TME. In various cancers, prostate cancer (PCa) is reported as one of the leading cancers in the worldwide male population. The chemokines-mediated signaling pathways are intensively involved in PCa progression and metastasis. Emerging evidence suggests that chemokines and cytokines are responsible for the pleiotropic actions in cancer, including the growth, angiogenesis, endothelial mesenchymal transition, leukocyte infiltration, and hormone escape for advanced PCa and therapy resistance. Chemokine's system and immune cells represent a promising target to suppress tumorigenic environments and serve as potential therapy/immunotherapy for the PCa. In this review, an attempt has been made to shed light on the alteration of chemokine and cytokine profiles during PCa progression and metastasis. We also discussed the recent findings of the diverse molecular signaling of these circulating chemokines and their corresponding receptors that could become future targets for therapeutic management of PCa.

Pathways of Angiogenic and Inflammatory Cytokines in Multiple Myeloma: Role in Plasma Cell Clonal Expansion and Drug Resistance

Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy, and despite the introduction of innovative therapies, remains an incurable disease. Identifying early and minimally or non-invasive biomarkers for predicting clinical outcomes and therapeutic responses is an active field of investigation. Malignant plasma cells (PCs) reside in the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment (BMME) which comprises cells (e.g., tumour, immune, stromal cells), components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and vesicular and non-vesicular (soluble) molecules, all factors that support PCs’ survival and proliferation. The interaction between PCs and BM stromal cells (BMSCs), a hallmark of MM progression, is based not only on intercellular interactions but also on autocrine and paracrine circuits mediated by soluble or vesicular components. In fact, PCs and BMSCs secrete various cytokines, including angiogenic cytokines, essential for the formation of specialized niches called “osteoblastic and vascular niches”, thus supporting neovascularization and bone disease, vital processes that modulate the pathophysiological PCs–BMME interactions, and ultimately promoting disease progression. Here, we aim to discuss the roles of cytokines and growth factors in pathogenetic pathways in MM and as prognostic and predictive biomarkers. We also discuss the potential of targeted drugs that simultaneously block PCs’ proliferation and survival, PCs–BMSCs interactions and BMSCs activity, which may represent the future goal of MM therapy.

CXCL8 Up-Regulated LSECtin through AKT Signal and Correlates with the Immune Microenvironment Modulation in Colon Cancer

Simple Summary

Patients with high expression of CXCL8 are not sensitive to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) treatment, but the mechanism is unclear. LSECtin is the immune checkpoint ligand of LAG3, and is considered as an important factor of ICIs resistance. This study confirmed the role of CXCL8 and LSECtin in immune microenvironment modulation of colon cancer. The expression of CXCL8 is positively correlated with more than 40 immune checkpoints. CXCL8 could up-regulate LSECtin through AKT signal and promoted the proliferation and invasion ability of colon cancer. These results may be important reasons for the primary drug resistance of ICIs in colon cancer.

Abstract

Background: The role of CXCL8 and LSECtin in colon cancer liver metastasis and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) treatment effect were widely recognized. However, the regulatory role of CXCL8 on LSECtin is still unclear. Methods: The expression of CXCL8 or LSECtin was analyzed by TCGA database, and verified by GES110225 and clinical samples. The relationship between the expression of CXCL8 or LSECtin and immune cells infiltration, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway, Gene Ontology (GO) items, stromal score, Estimation of STromal and Immune cells in MAlignant Tumours (ESTIMAT) immune score, tumor mutation burden (TMB), mismatch repair gene and immune checkpoints expression were analyzed by Spearman. The effects of CXCL8 on LSECtin expression, proliferation, and invasion ability were clarified by recombinant CXCL8 or CXCL8 interfering RNA. Results: In colon cancer, the expression of CXCL8 was higher, but LSECtin was lower than that in normal mucosa. The expression of CXCL8 or LSECtin was significantly positively correlated with immune cells infiltration, stromal score, ESTIMATE immune score, TMB, and immune checkpoints expression. The expression of LSECtin was closely related to the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway and response of chemokine function, such as CXCL8/CXCR1/2 pathway. There was a significant positive correlation between the expression of CXCL8 and LSECtin in colon cancer. CXCL8 up-regulated LSECtin through AKT signal and promoted the proliferation and invasion ability of colon cancer. Conclusions: CXCL8 up-regulated LSECtin by activating AKT signal and correlated with the immune microenvironment modulation in colon cancer.

Association of serum Interleukin-8 level with lymph node metastasis and tumor recurrence in gastric cancer

The level of pretherapeutic serum interleukin-8 (sIL-8) has been demonstrated to correlate with chemoresistance in gastric cancer. However, its clinicopathological significance of sIL-8 in gastric cancer remains unknown. Herein, a total of 335 patients diagnosed with gastric adenocarcinoma were enrolled. The clinicopathological features were collected, and the sIL-8 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The sIL-8 levels ranged from 1.48 pg/ml to 1025.22 pg/ml with > 15.41 pg/ml defined as high according to the receiver operating characteristic analysis. sIL-8 levels were strongly associated with Lauren classification and tumor recurrence. High sIL-8 correlated with lymph node metastasis (LNM) in the intestinal- and diffuse-type tumors and acted as an independent risk factor for LNM in both types. Patients with high sIL-8 levels had worse relapse-free survival than those with low sIL-8 levels. High sIL-8 level was associated with tumor relapse in the intestinal- and diffuse-type tumors, and was also an independent risk factor in the intestinal- and mixed-type tumors. Further analysis revealed that sIL-8 levels were positively associated with LNM and tumor relapse in patients with negative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), but not in those with elevated serum CEA levels. In conclusion, this retrospective study demonstrated that the pretherapeutic sIL-8 level has predictive value for LNM and tumor recurrence, and may serve as a potential tumor marker in gastric cancer.