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Dreyer CA, VanderVorst K, Free S, Rowson-Hodel A, Carraway KL. The role of membrane mucin MUC4 in breast cancer metastasis. Endocr Relat Cancer 2021; 29:R17-R32. [PMID: 34726614 PMCID: PMC8697635 DOI: 10.1530/erc-21-0083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
A major barrier to the emergence of distant metastases is the survival of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) within the vasculature. Lethal stressors, including shear forces from blood flow, anoikis arising from cellular detachment, and exposure to natural killer cells, combine to subvert the ability of primary tumor cells to survive and ultimately seed distant lesions. Further attenuation of this rate-limiting process via therapeutic intervention offers a very attractive opportunity for improving cancer patient outcomes, in turn prompting the need for a deeper understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying CTC viability. MUC4 is a very large and heavily glycosylated protein expressed at the apical surfaces of the epithelia of a variety of tissues, is involved in cellular growth signaling and adhesiveness, and contributes to the protection and lubrication of cellular linings. Analysis of patient-matched breast tumor specimens has demonstrated that MUC4 protein levels are upregulated in metastatic lesions relative to primary tumor among all breast tumor subtypes, pointing to a possible selective advantage for MUC4 overexpression in metastasis. Analysis of a genetically engineered mouse model of HER2-positive breast cancer has demonstrated that metastatic efficiency is markedly suppressed with Muc4 deletion and Muc4-knockout tumor cells are poorly associated with platelets and white blood cells known to support CTC viability. In this review, we discuss the diverse roles of MUC4 in tumor progression and metastasis and propose that intervening in MUC4 intercellular interactions with binding partners on blood-borne aggregating cells could potentially thwart breast cancer metastatic efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Kermit L. Carraway
- To whom correspondence should be addressed: Kermit Carraway, Research Building III, Room 1100B, 4645 2nd Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95817, P: (916) 734-3114,
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Lin D, Shen L, Luo M, Zhang K, Li J, Yang Q, Zhu F, Zhou D, Zheng S, Chen Y, Zhou J. Circulating tumor cells: biology and clinical significance. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:404. [PMID: 34803167 PMCID: PMC8606574 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00817-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 377] [Impact Index Per Article: 94.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are tumor cells that have sloughed off the primary tumor and extravasate into and circulate in the blood. Understanding of the metastatic cascade of CTCs has tremendous potential for the identification of targets against cancer metastasis. Detecting these very rare CTCs among the massive blood cells is challenging. However, emerging technologies for CTCs detection have profoundly contributed to deepening investigation into the biology of CTCs and have facilitated their clinical application. Current technologies for the detection of CTCs are summarized herein, together with their advantages and disadvantages. The detection of CTCs is usually dependent on molecular markers, with the epithelial cell adhesion molecule being the most widely used, although molecular markers vary between different types of cancer. Properties associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and stemness have been identified in CTCs, indicating their increased metastatic capacity. Only a small proportion of CTCs can survive and eventually initiate metastases, suggesting that an interaction and modulation between CTCs and the hostile blood microenvironment is essential for CTC metastasis. Single-cell sequencing of CTCs has been extensively investigated, and has enabled researchers to reveal the genome and transcriptome of CTCs. Herein, we also review the clinical applications of CTCs, especially for monitoring response to cancer treatment and in evaluating prognosis. Hence, CTCs have and will continue to contribute to providing significant insights into metastatic processes and will open new avenues for useful clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danfeng Lin
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education), the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Breast Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Lesang Shen
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meng Luo
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education), the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kun Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinfan Li
- Department of Pathology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Department of Pathology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fangfang Zhu
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dan Zhou
- Department of Surgery, Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Zhuji, Shaoxing, China
| | - Shu Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education), the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiding Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education), the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jiaojiao Zhou
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education), the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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103
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Ramundo V, Zanirato G, Aldieri E. The Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in the Development and Metastasis of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212216. [PMID: 34830097 PMCID: PMC8621591 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive tumor mainly associated with asbestos exposure and is characterized by a very difficult pharmacological approach. One of the molecular mechanisms associated with cancer onset and invasiveness is the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), an event induced by different types of inducers, such as transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), the main inducer of EMT, and oxidative stress. MPM development and metastasis have been correlated to EMT; On one hand, EMT mediates the effects exerted by asbestos fibers in the mesothelium, particularly via increased oxidative stress and TGFβ levels evoked by asbestos exposure, thus promoting a malignant phenotype, and on the other hand, MPM acquires invasiveness via the EMT event, as shown by an upregulation of mesenchymal markers or, although indirectly, some miRNAs or non-coding RNAs, all demonstrated to be involved in cancer onset and metastasis. This review aims to better describe how EMT is involved in driving the development and invasiveness of MPM, in an attempt to open new scenarios that are useful in the identification of predictive markers and to improve the pharmacological approach against this aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Ramundo
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (V.R.); (G.Z.)
| | - Giada Zanirato
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (V.R.); (G.Z.)
| | - Elisabetta Aldieri
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (V.R.); (G.Z.)
- Interdepartmental Center for Studies on Asbestos and Other Toxic Particulates “G. Scansetti”, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
- Correspondence:
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104
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Samarelli AV, Masciale V, Aramini B, Coló GP, Tonelli R, Marchioni A, Bruzzi G, Gozzi F, Andrisani D, Castaniere I, Manicardi L, Moretti A, Tabbì L, Guaitoli G, Cerri S, Dominici M, Clini E. Molecular Mechanisms and Cellular Contribution from Lung Fibrosis to Lung Cancer Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12179. [PMID: 34830058 PMCID: PMC8624248 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive, fibrosing interstitial lung disease (ILD) of unknown aetiology, with a median survival of 2-4 years from the time of diagnosis. Although IPF has unknown aetiology by definition, there have been identified several risks factors increasing the probability of the onset and progression of the disease in IPF patients such as cigarette smoking and environmental risk factors associated with domestic and occupational exposure. Among them, cigarette smoking together with concomitant emphysema might predispose IPF patients to lung cancer (LC), mostly to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), increasing the risk of lung cancer development. To this purpose, IPF and LC share several cellular and molecular processes driving the progression of both pathologies such as fibroblast transition proliferation and activation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, and many genetic and epigenetic markers that predispose IPF patients to LC development. Nintedanib, a tyrosine-kinase inhibitor, was firstly developed as an anticancer drug and then recognized as an anti-fibrotic agent based on the common target molecular pathway. In this review our aim is to describe the updated studies on common cellular and molecular mechanisms between IPF and lung cancer, knowledge of which might help to find novel therapeutic targets for this disease combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Valeria Samarelli
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Department of Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, 34 Carlo Forlanini Street, 47121 Forlì, Italy
| | - Georgina Pamela Coló
- Laboratorio de Biología del Cáncer INIBIBB-UNS-CONICET-CCT, Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina;
| | - Roberto Tonelli
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Marchioni
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
| | - Giulia Bruzzi
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
| | - Filippo Gozzi
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Dario Andrisani
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Ivana Castaniere
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Linda Manicardi
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
| | - Antonio Moretti
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
| | - Luca Tabbì
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
| | - Giorgia Guaitoli
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Cerri
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
| | - Enrico Clini
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy; (A.V.S.); (V.M.); (B.A.); (R.T.); (A.M.); (G.B.); (F.G.); (D.A.); (I.C.); (L.M.); (A.M.); (S.C.); (M.D.)
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy;
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Yu JJ, Shu C, Yang HY, Huang Z, Li YN, Tao R, Chen YY, Chen Q, Chen XP, Xiao W. The Presence of Circulating Tumor Cell Cluster Characterizes an Aggressive Hepatocellular Carcinoma Subtype. Front Oncol 2021; 11:734564. [PMID: 34722281 PMCID: PMC8554092 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.734564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Growing evidence suggests that circulating tumor cell (CTC) clusters may be an important factor in the metastatic process, but their role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. This study aimed to characterize the molecular and clinical features of CTC cluster-positive human HCC and to assess its prognostic value in HCC patients. Methods The CTCs and CTC clusters were evaluated in 204 HCC patients using CellSearch™ System. The counts of CTCs and CTC clusters were correlated with different clinical features, while their associations with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated integrally and hierarchically by Kaplan–Meier estimates or Cox proportional regression analysis. Five cases each of CTC cluster-negative and cluster-positive patients were selected for RNA-sequencing analysis. The results of gene enrichment analysis were further verified using tissue microarray (TMA) by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Results CTCs and CTC clusters were detected in 76 (37.3%) and 19 (9.3%) of 204 preoperative samples, respectively. CTC cluster-positive HCC represented an aggressive HCC phenotype with larger tumor size, more frequent microvascular invasion, and higher tumor stages. The survival of HCC patients utilizing CTCs and CTC clusters individually showed prognostic significance, while joint analysis revealed patients in Group III (CTC ≥ 2 and CTC cluster > 0) had the worst outcome. Stratified analysis of outcomes in Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) and tumor–node–metastasis (TNM) stages indicated that patients with CTC clusters had significantly poorer prognosis in each stage than those without CTC clusters. Moreover, the RNA sequencing and TMA staining results showed that CTC cluster-positive HCCs were usually associated with Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation. Conclusion The presence of CTC clusters characterizes an aggressive HCC subtype. CTC clusters may be used as a biomarker in predicting the prognosis on each stage of malignancy in HCC, which provides evidence for formulating therapeutic strategies for more precise treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jing Yu
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chang Shu
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui-Yuan Yang
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhao Huang
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ya-Ni Li
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ran Tao
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yue-Yue Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Ping Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Xiao
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Miquel M, Zhang S, Pilarsky C. Pre-clinical Models of Metastasis in Pancreatic Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:748631. [PMID: 34778259 PMCID: PMC8578999 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.748631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a hostile solid malignancy coupled with an extremely high mortality rate. Metastatic disease is already found in most patients at the time of diagnosis, resulting in a 5-year survival rate below 5%. Improved comprehension of the mechanisms leading to metastasis is pivotal for the development of new targeted therapies. A key field to be improved are modeling strategies applied in assessing cancer progression, since traditional platforms fail in recapitulating the complexity of PDAC. Consequently, there is a compelling demand for new preclinical models that mirror tumor progression incorporating the pressure of the immune system, tumor microenvironment, as well as molecular aspects of PDAC. We suggest the incorporation of 3D organoids derived from genetically engineered mouse models or patients as promising new tools capable to transform PDAC pre-clinical modeling and access new frontiers in personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Miquel
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Shuman Zhang
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Pilarsky
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Elwakeel E, Weigert A. Breast Cancer CAFs: Spectrum of Phenotypes and Promising Targeting Avenues. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11636. [PMID: 34769066 PMCID: PMC8583860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Activationof the tumor-associated stroma to support tumor growth is a common feature observed in different cancer entities. This principle is exemplified by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are educated by the tumor to shape its development across all stages. CAFs can alter the extracellular matrix (ECM) and secrete a variety of different molecules. In that manner they have the capability to affect activation, survival, proliferation, and migration of other stromal cells and cancer cell themselves. Alteration of the ECM, desmoplasia, is a common feature of breast cancer, indicating a prominent role for CAFs in shaping tumor development in the mammary gland. In this review, we summarize the multiple roles CAFs play in mammary carcinoma. We discuss experimental and clinical strategies to interfere with CAFs function in breast cancer. Moreover, we highlight the issues arising from CAFs heterogeneity and the need for further research to identify CAFs subpopulation(s) that can be targeted to improve breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiman Elwakeel
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany;
| | - Andreas Weigert
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany;
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
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Wang Z, Zhang P, Chong Y, Xue Y, Yang X, Li H, Wang L, Zhang Y, Chen Q, Li Z, Xue L, Li H, Chong T. Perioperative Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs), MCTCs, and CTC-White Blood Cells Detected by a Size-Based Platform Predict Prognosis in Renal Cell Carcinoma. DISEASE MARKERS 2021; 2021:9956142. [PMID: 34733376 PMCID: PMC8560287 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9956142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
To explore the clinical significance of the perioperative counts of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), mesenchymal CTCs (MCTCs), and CTC- white blood cells (WBCs) in renal cell carcinoma patients. A total of 131 patients with renal cancer who underwent operation excision from our hospital were enrolled. In addition, 20 patients with benign renal diseases were recruited as a control. Blood samples were collected from the 131 patients, before operation and 3 months after surgery. Samples were also obtained simultaneously from the control group. CanPatrol CTC detection technique was used to enrich and identify CTCs, MCTCs, and CTC-WBCs. All enrolled patients were T1-3N0M0. From these, 52 patients with renal cancer underwent radical resection, while other 79 patients underwent nephron-sparing surgery. The positive rate of CTC, MCTC, and CTC-WBC before surgery were 95.4% (125/131), 61.1% (80/131), and 11.5% (15/131), respectively. Preoperative total CTCs, MCTCs, or CTC-WBCs were poorly correlated with patients' parameters. Preoperative CTC, MCTC, or CTC-WBC showed no association with progression-free survival (PFS). In contrast, postoperative total CTCs (≥6), positive MCTCs, and positive CTC-WBCs significantly correlated with recurrence and metastasis. These results remained independent indicators for worse PFS. In addition, the increased CTC and MCTC count after surgery also correlated with unfavorable PFS. The detection of six or more total CTCs, MCTC, or CTC-WBCs in peripheral blood after surgery might help to identify a subset of patients that have higher recurrent risk than the overall population of patients with at different stages of renal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenlong Wang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - Yue Chong
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710061, China
| | - Yuquan Xue
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - Xiaojie Yang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - Hecheng Li
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - Yaping Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - Zhaolun Li
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - Li Xue
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - HongLiang Li
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
| | - Tie Chong
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, Shanxi 710004, China
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109
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Wang L, Liu Z, Zhou Q, Gu S, Liu X, Huang J, Jiang H, Wang H, Cao L, Sun J, Shen Y, Meng H, Liu X. Prodrug nanoparticles rationally integrating stroma modification and chemotherapy to treat metastatic pancreatic cancer. Biomaterials 2021; 278:121176. [PMID: 34656882 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that stromal modifications improve chemotherapeutic outcomes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, combination regimens of stroma-modifying agents and small-molecule cytotoxic drugs have achieved only limited improvements in the clinic, probably due to unsatisfactory pharmacokinetic profiles and restricted drug distribution in tumors. Here, we developed self-assembled prodrug nanoparticles integrating a stromal reprogramming inducer, calcipotriol (CAL), and a potent chemotherapeutic agent, 7-Ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN38), to treat PDAC. While SN38 is conjugated to the block polymer backbone, CAL is loaded into the inner hydrophobic space during polymer self-assembly into nanoparticles. To achieve an efficient drug co-package, a planar and hydrophobic cholesterol domain was introduced to stabilize the hydrophobic CAL. Notably, the blood circulation time of CAL significantly improved as CAL|SN38 nanoparticle (CAL|SN38 NP). In addition, CAL|SN38 NP treatment significantly decreased the expression of N-cadherin, collagen, and fibronectin in tumors, which play critical roles in PDAC metastasis. Potent inhibition of primary tumor growth and vigorous anti-metastasis effects were observed after systemic administration of CAL|SN38 NP to stroma-rich PDAC orthotopic tumor-bearing mice. These findings provide a promising paradigm for developing tailor-made nanoparticles with potent stroma-modification capability to combat metastatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Gastroenterology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Department of Radiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Zimo Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Gastroenterology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Quan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Sufang Gu
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Xiangsheng Liu
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, China
| | - Jianxiang Huang
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Haiping Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, PR China
| | - Huifang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Liping Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Jihong Sun
- Department of Radiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Youqing Shen
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Huan Meng
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety and CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China.
| | - Xiangrui Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Gastroenterology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China.
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110
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Yang Y, Gu J, Li X, Xue C, Ba L, Gao Y, Zhou J, Bai C, Sun Z, Zhao RC. HIF-1α promotes the migration and invasion of cancer-associated fibroblasts by miR-210. Aging Dis 2021; 12:1794-1807. [PMID: 34631221 PMCID: PMC8460292 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2021.0315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is the major cause of death in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Inhibition of metastasis will prolong the survival of patients with CRC. Cancer cells bring their own soil, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), to metastasize together, promoting the survival and colonization of circulating cancer cells. However, the mechanism by which CAFs metastasize remains unclear. In this study, CAFs were derived from adipose mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) after co-culture with CRC cell lines. Transwell assays showed that CAFs have stronger migration and invasion abilities than MSCs. In a nude mouse subcutaneous xenograft model, CAFs metastasized from the primary tumour to the lung and promoted the formation of CRC metastases. The expression of HIF-1α was upregulated when MSCs differentiated into CAFs. Inhibition of HIF-1α expression inhibited the migration and invasion of CAFs. Western blot and ChIP assays were used to identify the genes regulated by HIF-1α. HIF-1α regulated the migration and invasion of CAFs by upregulating miR-210 transcription. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assays revealed that miR-210 specifically targeted the 3'UTR of VMP1 and regulated its expression. Downregulation of VMP1 enhanced the migration and invasion of CAFs. In vivo, inhibition of miR-210 expression in CAFs reduced the metastasis of CAFs and tumour cells. Therefore, the HIF-1α/miR-210/VMP1 pathway might regulate the migration and invasion of CAFs in CRC. Inhibition of CAF metastasis might reduce CRC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Yang
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Junjie Gu
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xuechun Li
- 2Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory (No. BZO381), Beijing 100005, China
| | - Chunling Xue
- 2Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory (No. BZO381), Beijing 100005, China
| | - Li Ba
- 2Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory (No. BZO381), Beijing 100005, China
| | - Yang Gao
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jianfeng Zhou
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Chunmei Bai
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Zhao Sun
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Robert Chunhua Zhao
- 2Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory (No. BZO381), Beijing 100005, China
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111
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Langthasa J, Sarkar P, Narayanan S, Bhagat R, Vadaparty A, Bhat R. Extracellular matrix mediates moruloid-blastuloid morphodynamics in malignant ovarian spheroids. Life Sci Alliance 2021; 4:e202000942. [PMID: 34376568 PMCID: PMC8358442 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202000942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer metastasizes into peritoneum through dissemination of transformed epithelia as multicellular spheroids. Harvested from the malignant ascites of patients, spheroids exhibit startling features of organization typical to homeostatic glandular tissues: lumen surrounded by smoothly contoured and adhered epithelia. Herein, we demonstrate that cells of specific ovarian cancer lines in suspension, aggregate into dysmorphic solid "moruloid" clusters that permit intercellular movement, cell penetration, and interspheroidal coalescence. Moruloid clusters subsequently mature into "blastuloid" spheroids with smooth contours, a temporally dynamic lumen and immotile cells. Blastuloid spheroids neither coalesce nor allow cell penetration. Ultrastructural examination reveals a basement membrane-like extracellular matrix coat on the surface of blastuloid, but not moruloid, spheroids. Quantitative proteomics reveals down-regulation in ECM protein Fibronectin-1 associated with the moruloid-blastuloid transition; immunocytochemistry also confirms the relocalization of basement membrane ECM proteins: collagen IV and laminin to the surface of blastuloid spheroids. Fibronectin depletion accelerates, and enzymatic basement membrane debridement impairs, lumen formation, respectively. The regulation by ECM dynamics of the morphogenesis of cancer spheroids potentially influences the progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimpi Langthasa
- Department of Molecular Reproduction Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Purba Sarkar
- Department of Molecular Reproduction Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Shruthi Narayanan
- Department of Molecular Reproduction Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Rahul Bhagat
- Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Bangalore, India
| | | | - Ramray Bhat
- Department of Molecular Reproduction Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
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112
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Terceiro LEL, Edechi CA, Ikeogu NM, Nickel BE, Hombach-Klonisch S, Sharif T, Leygue E, Myal Y. The Breast Tumor Microenvironment: A Key Player in Metastatic Spread. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4798. [PMID: 34638283 PMCID: PMC8507966 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in the tumorigenesis, progression, and metastatic spread of many cancers including breast. There is now increasing evidence to support the observations that a bidirectional interplay between breast cancer cells and stromal cells exists within the tumor and the tumor microenvironment both at the primary tumor site and at the metastatic site. This interaction occurs through direct cell to cell contact, or by the release of autocrine or paracrine factors which can activate pro-tumor signaling pathways and modulate tumor behavior. In this review, we will highlight recent advances in our current knowledge about the multiple interactions between breast cancer cells and neighboring cells (fibroblasts, endothelial cells, adipocytes, innate and adaptive immune cells) in the tumor microenvironment that coordinate to regulate metastasis. We also highlight the role of exosomes and circulating tumor cells in facilitating breast cancer metastasis. We discuss some key markers associated with stromal cells in the breast tumor environment and their potential to predict patient survival and guide treatment. Finally, we will provide some brief perspectives on how current technologies may lead to the development of more effective therapies for the clinical management of breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas E. L. Terceiro
- Department of Pathology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (T.S.)
| | - Chidalu A. Edechi
- Department of Pathology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (T.S.)
| | - Nnamdi M. Ikeogu
- Department of Immunology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada;
| | - Barbara E. Nickel
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB R2H 2A6, Canada;
| | - Sabine Hombach-Klonisch
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada;
| | - Tanveer Sharif
- Department of Pathology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (T.S.)
| | - Etienne Leygue
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada;
| | - Yvonne Myal
- Department of Pathology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (T.S.)
- Senior Scientist, CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
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113
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Ozimski LL, Gremmelspacher D, Aceto N. A fatal affair: Circulating tumor cell relationships that shape metastasis. iScience 2021; 24:103073. [PMID: 34568794 PMCID: PMC8449241 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells are metastatic precursors in several cancer types. Their biology and clinical utility are subject to numerous investigations, yet one aspect that is often neglected is their entanglement with the tumor microenvironment, namely the cross talk with stromal and immune cells and their relationships with other tumor-derived components such as circulating tumor DNA and extracellular vesicles in circulation. We will focus our short review specifically on these aspects, i.e., providing some examples of the liaison that circulating tumor cells have with stromal or immune cells and illustrating their relationship with other circulating tumor derivatives such as circulating tumor DNA and extracellular vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren L. Ozimski
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Gremmelspacher
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Aceto
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
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114
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Liu J, Lian J, Chen Y, Zhao X, Du C, Xu Y, Hu H, Rao H, Hong X. Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs): A Unique Model of Cancer Metastases and Non-invasive Biomarkers of Therapeutic Response. Front Genet 2021; 12:734595. [PMID: 34512735 PMCID: PMC8424190 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.734595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Late-stage cancer metastasis remains incurable in the clinic and is the major cause death in patients. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are thought to be metastatic precursors shed from the primary tumor or metastatic deposits and circulate in the blood. The molecular network regulating CTC survival, extravasation, and colonization in distant metastatic sites is poorly defined, largely due to challenges in isolating rare CTCs. Recent advances in CTC isolation and ex vivo culture techniques facilitates single-cell omics and the development of related animal models to study CTC-mediated metastatic progression. With these powerful tools, CTCs can potentially be used as non-invasive biomarkers predicting therapeutic response. These studies may open a new avenue for CTC-specific drug discoveries. In this short review, we aim to summarize recent progress in the characterization of CTCs and their clinical relevance in various cancers, setting the stage for realizing personalized therapies against metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialing Liu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jingru Lian
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yafei Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - ChangZheng Du
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hailiang Hu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hai Rao
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Hong
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
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115
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Ferrara B, Pignatelli C, Cossutta M, Citro A, Courty J, Piemonti L. The Extracellular Matrix in Pancreatic Cancer: Description of a Complex Network and Promising Therapeutic Options. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174442. [PMID: 34503252 PMCID: PMC8430646 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The stroma is a relevant player in driving and supporting the progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), and a large body of evidence highlights its role in hindering the efficacy of current therapies. In fact, the dense extracellular matrix (ECM) characterizing this tumor acts as a natural physical barrier, impairing drug penetration. Consequently, all of the approaches combining stroma-targeting and anticancer therapy constitute an appealing option for improving drug penetration. Several strategies have been adopted in order to target the PDAC stroma, such as the depletion of ECM components and the targeting of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are responsible for the increased matrix deposition in cancer. Additionally, the leaky and collapsing blood vessels characterizing the tumor might be normalized, thus restoring blood perfusion and allowing drug penetration. Even though many stroma-targeting strategies have reported disappointing results in clinical trials, the ECM offers a wide range of potential therapeutic targets that are now being investigated. The dense ECM might be bypassed by implementing nanoparticle-based systems or by using mesenchymal stem cells as drug carriers. The present review aims to provide an overview of the principal mechanisms involved in the ECM remodeling and of new promising therapeutic strategies for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Ferrara
- Diabetes Research Institute (HSR-DRI), San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milan, Italy; (B.F.); (C.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Cataldo Pignatelli
- Diabetes Research Institute (HSR-DRI), San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milan, Italy; (B.F.); (C.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Mélissande Cossutta
- INSERM U955, Immunorégulation et Biothérapie, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Université Paris-Est Créteil, 94010 Créteil, France; (M.C.); (J.C.)
- AP-HP, Centre d’Investigation Clinique Biothérapie, Groupe Hospitalo-Universitaire Chenevier Mondor, 94010 Créteil, France
| | - Antonio Citro
- Diabetes Research Institute (HSR-DRI), San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milan, Italy; (B.F.); (C.P.); (A.C.)
| | - José Courty
- INSERM U955, Immunorégulation et Biothérapie, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Université Paris-Est Créteil, 94010 Créteil, France; (M.C.); (J.C.)
- AP-HP, Centre d’Investigation Clinique Biothérapie, Groupe Hospitalo-Universitaire Chenevier Mondor, 94010 Créteil, France
| | - Lorenzo Piemonti
- Diabetes Research Institute (HSR-DRI), San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milan, Italy; (B.F.); (C.P.); (A.C.)
- Correspondence:
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116
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Su SF, Ho H, Li JH, Wu MF, Wang HC, Yeh HY, Kuo SW, Chen HW, Ho CC, Li KC. DNA methylome and transcriptome landscapes of cancer-associated fibroblasts reveal a smoking-associated malignancy index. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:e139552. [PMID: 34228648 DOI: 10.1172/jci139552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Unlike the better-studied aberrant epigenome in the tumor, the clinicopathologic impact of DNA methylation in the tumor microenvironment (TME), especially the contribution from cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), remains elusive. CAFs exhibit profound patient-to-patient tumorigenic heterogeneity. We asked whether such heterogeneity may be exploited to quantify the level of TME malignancy. We developed a robust and efficient methylome/transcriptome co-analytical system for CAFs and paired normal fibroblasts (NFs) from non-small-cell lung cancer patients. We found 14,781 CpG sites of CAF/NF differential methylation, of which 3,707 sites showed higher methylation changes in ever-smokers than in nonsmokers. Concomitant CAF/NF differential gene expression analysis pointed to a subset of 54 smoking-associated CpG sites with strong methylation-regulated gene expression. A methylation index that summarizes the β values of these CpGs was built for NF/CAF discrimination (MIND) with high sensitivity and specificity. The potential of MIND in detecting premalignancy across individual patients was shown. MIND succeeded in predicting tumor recurrence in multiple lung cancer cohorts without reliance on patient survival data, suggesting that the malignancy level of TME may be effectively graded by this index. Precision TME grading may provide additional pathological information to guide cancer prognosis and open up more options in personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Fang Su
- Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Oncology, National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,YongLin Institute of Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hao Ho
- Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Hua Li
- Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Fang Wu
- Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Toxicology, National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsu-Chieh Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Yuan Yeh
- School of Big Data Management, Soochow University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shuenn-Wen Kuo
- Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Wen Chen
- Graduate Institute of Toxicology, National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Chi Ho
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ker-Chau Li
- Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Statistics, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Ortiz-Otero N, Marshall JR, Glenn A, Matloubieh J, Joseph J, Sahasrabudhe DM, Messing EM, King MR. TRAIL-coated leukocytes to kill circulating tumor cells in the flowing blood from prostate cancer patients. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:898. [PMID: 34362331 PMCID: PMC8343922 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08589-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Radical surgery is the first line treatment for localized prostate cancer (PC), however, several studies have demonstrated that surgical procedures induce tumor cell mobilization from the primary tumor into the bloodstream. Methods The number and temporal fluctuations of circulating tumor cells (CTC), cancer associated fibroblasts (CAF) and CTC cluster present in each blood sample was determined. Results The results show that both CTC and CTC cluster levels significantly increased immediately following primary tumor resection, but returned to baseline within 2 weeks post-surgery. In contrast, the CAF level decreased over time. In patients who experienced PC recurrence within months after resection, CTC, CAF, and cluster levels all increased over time. Based on this observation, we tested the efficacy of an experimental TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)-based liposomal therapy ex-vivo to induce apoptosis in CTC in blood. The TRAIL-based therapy killed approximately 75% of single CTCs and CTC in cluster form. Conclusion Collectively, these data indicate that CTC cluster and CAF levels can be used as a predictive biomarker for cancer recurrence. Moreover, for the first time, we demonstrate the efficacy of our TRAIL-based liposomal therapy to target and kill prostate CTC in primary patient blood samples, suggesting a potential new adjuvant therapy to use in combination with surgery. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-08589-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerymar Ortiz-Otero
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA
| | - Jocelyn R Marshall
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA
| | - Antonio Glenn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37202, USA
| | - Jubin Matloubieh
- The University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Jean Joseph
- The University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | | | - Edward M Messing
- The University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Michael R King
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37202, USA.
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Mosier JA, Schwager SC, Boyajian DA, Reinhart-King CA. Cancer cell metabolic plasticity in migration and metastasis. Clin Exp Metastasis 2021; 38:343-359. [PMID: 34076787 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-021-10102-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer metastasis in which cancer cells manipulate their metabolic profile to meet the dynamic energetic requirements of the tumor microenvironment. Though cancer cell proliferation and migration through the extracellular matrix are key steps of cancer progression, they are not necessarily fueled by the same metabolites and energy production pathways. The two main metabolic pathways cancer cells use to derive energy from glucose, glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, are preferentially and plastically utilized by cancer cells depending on both their intrinsic metabolic properties and their surrounding environment. Mechanical factors in the microenvironment, such as collagen density, pore size, and alignment, and biochemical factors, such as oxygen and glucose availability, have been shown to influence both cell migration and glucose metabolism. As cancer cells have been identified as preferentially utilizing glycolysis or oxidative phosphorylation based on heterogeneous intrinsic or extrinsic factors, the relationship between cancer cell metabolism and metastatic potential is of recent interest. Here, we review current in vitro and in vivo findings in the context of cancer cell metabolism during migration and metastasis and extrapolate potential clinical applications of this work that could aid in diagnosing and tracking cancer progression in vivo by monitoring metabolism. We also review current progress in the development of a variety of metabolically targeted anti-metastatic drugs, both in clinical trials and approved for distribution, and highlight potential routes for incorporating our recent understanding of metabolic plasticity into therapeutic directions. By further understanding cancer cell energy production pathways and metabolic plasticity, more effective and successful clinical imaging and therapeutics can be developed to diagnose, target, and inhibit metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna A Mosier
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Samantha C Schwager
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - David A Boyajian
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
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Wrenn E, Huang Y, Cheung K. Collective metastasis: coordinating the multicellular voyage. Clin Exp Metastasis 2021; 38:373-399. [PMID: 34254215 PMCID: PMC8346286 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-021-10111-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The metastatic process is arduous. Cancer cells must escape the confines of the primary tumor, make their way into and travel through the circulation, then survive and proliferate in unfavorable microenvironments. A key question is how cancer cells overcome these multiple barriers to orchestrate distant organ colonization. Accumulating evidence in human patients and animal models supports the hypothesis that clusters of tumor cells can complete the entire metastatic journey in a process referred to as collective metastasis. Here we highlight recent studies unraveling how multicellular coordination, via both physical and biochemical coupling of cells, induces cooperative properties advantageous for the completion of metastasis. We discuss conceptual challenges and unique mechanisms arising from collective dissemination that are distinct from single cell-based metastasis. Finally, we consider how the dissection of molecular transitions regulating collective metastasis could offer potential insight into cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Wrenn
- Translational Research Program, Public Health Sciences and Human Biology Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Yin Huang
- Translational Research Program, Public Health Sciences and Human Biology Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Kevin Cheung
- Translational Research Program, Public Health Sciences and Human Biology Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.
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Ansardamavandi A, Tafazzoli-Shadpour M. The functional cross talk between cancer cells and cancer associated fibroblasts from a cancer mechanics perspective. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1868:119103. [PMID: 34293346 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.119103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The function of biological tissues in health and disease is regulated at cellular level and is highly influenced by the physical microenvironment, through the interaction of forces between cells and ECM, which are perceived through mechanosensing pathways. In cancer, both chemical and physical signaling cascades and their interactions are involved during cell-cell and cell-ECM communications to meet requirements of tumor growth. Among stroma cells, cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play key role in tumor growth and pave the way for cancer cells to initiate metastasis and invasion to other tissues, and without recruitment of CAFs, the process of cancer invasion is dysfunctional. This is through an intense chemical and physical cross talks with tumor cells, and interactive remodeling of ECM. During such interaction CAFs apply traction forces and depending on the mechanical properties, deform ECM and in return receive physical signals from the micromechanical environment. Such interaction leads to ECM remodeling by manipulating ECM structure and its mechanical properties. The results are in form of deposition of extra fibers, stiffening, rearrangement and reorganization of fibrous structure, and degradation which are due to a complex secretion and expression of different markers triggered by mechanosensing of tumor cells, specially CAFs. Such events define cancer progress and invasion of cancer cells. A systemic knowledge of chemical and physical factors provides a holistic view of how cancer process and enhances the current treatment methods to provide more diversity among targets that involves tumor cells and ECM structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arian Ansardamavandi
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
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Gunaydin G. CAFs Interacting With TAMs in Tumor Microenvironment to Enhance Tumorigenesis and Immune Evasion. Front Oncol 2021; 11:668349. [PMID: 34336660 PMCID: PMC8317617 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.668349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) are among the most important and abundant players of the tumor microenvironment. CAFs as well as TAMs are known to play pivotal supportive roles in tumor growth and progression. The number of CAF or TAM cells is mostly correlated with poor prognosis. Both CAFs and TAMs are in a reciprocal communication with the tumor cells in the tumor milieu. In addition to such interactions, CAFs and TAMs are also involved in a dynamic and reciprocal interrelationship with each other. Both CAFs and TAMs are capable of altering each other's functions. Here, the current understanding of the distinct mechanisms about the complex interplay between CAFs and TAMs are summarized. In addition, the consequences of such a mutual relationship especially for tumor progression and tumor immune evasion are highlighted, focusing on the synergistic pleiotropic effects. CAFs and TAMs are crucial components of the tumor microenvironment; thus, they may prove to be potential therapeutic targets. A better understanding of the tri-directional interactions of CAFs, TAMs and cancer cells in terms of tumor progression will pave the way for the identification of novel theranostic cues in order to better target the crucial mechanisms of carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurcan Gunaydin
- Department of Basic Oncology, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, Ankara, Turkey
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Wang Z, Liu J, Huang H, Ye M, Li X, Wu R, Liu H, Song Y. Metastasis-associated fibroblasts: an emerging target for metastatic cancer. Biomark Res 2021; 9:47. [PMID: 34112258 PMCID: PMC8194104 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-021-00305-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis suggests a poor prognosis for cancer patients, and treatment strategies for metastatic cancer are still very limited. Numerous studies have shown that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a large component of the tumor microenvironment, contribute to tumor metastasis. Stromal fibroblasts at metastatic sites are different from CAFs within primary tumors and can be termed metastasis-associated fibroblasts (MAFs), and they also make great contributions to the establishment of metastatic lesions and the therapeutic resistance of metastatic tumors. MAFs are capable of remodeling the extracellular matrix of metastatic tumors, modulating immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, promoting angiogenesis and enhancing malignant tumor phenotypes. Thus, MAFs can help establish premetastatic niches and mediate resistance to therapeutic strategies, including immunotherapy and antiangiogenic therapy. The results of preclinical studies suggest that targeting MAFs can alleviate the progression of metastatic cancer and mitigate therapeutic resistance, indicating that MAFs are a promising target for metastatic cancer. Here, we comprehensively summarize the existing evidence on MAFs and discuss their origins, generation, functions and related therapeutic strategies in an effort to provide a better understanding of MAFs and offer treatment perspectives for metastatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zimu Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, #305, East Zhongshan Road, 210002, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiaxin Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, #305, East Zhongshan Road, 210002, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hairong Huang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, 210002, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingxiang Ye
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, #305, East Zhongshan Road, 210002, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinying Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, 210008, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ranpu Wu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Southeast University of Medicine, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongbing Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, #305, East Zhongshan Road, 210002, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yong Song
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, #305, East Zhongshan Road, 210002, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Sznurkowska MK, Aceto N. The gate to metastasis: key players in cancer cell intravasation. FEBS J 2021; 289:4336-4354. [PMID: 34077633 PMCID: PMC9546053 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis is a leading cause of cancer‐related death and consists of a sequence of events including tumor expansion, intravasation of cancer cells into the circulation, survival in the bloodstream, extravasation at distant sites, and subsequent organ colonization. Particularly, intravasation is a process whereby cancer cells transverse the endothelium and leave the primary tumor site, pioneering the metastatic cascade. The identification of those mechanisms that trigger the entry of cancer cells into the bloodstream may reveal fundamentally novel ways to block metastasis at its start. Multiple factors have been implicated in cancer progression, yet, signals that unequivocally provoke the detachment of cancer cells from the primary tumor are still under investigation. Here, we discuss the role of intrinsic properties of cancer cells, tumor microenvironment, and mechanical cues in the intravasation process, outlining studies that suggest the involvement of various factors and highlighting current understanding and open questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena K Sznurkowska
- Department of Biomedicine, Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Aceto
- Department of Biomedicine, Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Switzerland
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Pang TCY, Xu Z, Mekapogu AR, Pothula S, Becker T, Corley S, Wilkins MR, Goldstein D, Pirola R, Wilson J, Apte M. HGF/c-Met Inhibition as Adjuvant Therapy Improves Outcomes in an Orthotopic Mouse Model of Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2763. [PMID: 34199452 PMCID: PMC8199621 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhibition of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-MET pathway, a major mediator of pancreatic stellate cell (PSC)-PC cell interactions, retards local and distant cancer progression. This study examines the use of this treatment in preventing PC progression after resection. We further investigate the postulated existence of circulating PSCs (cPSCs) as a mediator of metastatic PC. METHODS Two orthotopic PC mouse models, produced by implantation of a mixture of luciferase-tagged human pancreatic cancer cells (AsPC-1), and human PSCs were used. Model 1 mice underwent distal pancreatectomy 3-weeks post-implantation (n = 62). One-week post-resection, mice were randomised to four treatments of 8 weeks: (i) IgG, (ii) gemcitabine (G), (iii) HGF/c-MET inhibition (HiCi) and (iv) HiCi + G. Tumour burden was assessed longitudinally by bioluminescence. Circulating tumour cells and cPSCs were enriched by filtration. Tumours of Model 2 mice progressed for 8 weeks prior to the collection of primary tumour, metastases and blood for single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq). RESULTS HiCi treatments: (1) reduced both the risk and rate of disease progression after resection; (2) demonstrated an anti-angiogenic effect on immunohistochemistry; (3) reduced cPSC counts. cPSCs were identified using immunocytochemistry (α-smooth muscle actin+, pan-cytokeratin-, CD45-), and by specific PSC markers. scRNA-seq confirmed the existence of cPSCs and identified potential genes associated with development into cPSCs. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to demonstrate the efficacy of adjuvant HGF/c-Met inhibition for PC and provides the first confirmation of the existence of circulating PSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony C. Y. Pang
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia; (T.C.Y.P.); (Z.X.); (A.R.M.); (S.P.); (D.G.); (R.P.); (J.W.)
- Surgical Innovations Unit, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Zhihong Xu
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia; (T.C.Y.P.); (Z.X.); (A.R.M.); (S.P.); (D.G.); (R.P.); (J.W.)
| | - Alpha Raj Mekapogu
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia; (T.C.Y.P.); (Z.X.); (A.R.M.); (S.P.); (D.G.); (R.P.); (J.W.)
| | - Srinivasa Pothula
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia; (T.C.Y.P.); (Z.X.); (A.R.M.); (S.P.); (D.G.); (R.P.); (J.W.)
| | - Therese Becker
- Centre for Circulating Tumour Cell Diagnostics and Research, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia;
| | - Susan Corley
- Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics, School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.C.); (M.R.W.)
| | - Marc R. Wilkins
- Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics, School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.C.); (M.R.W.)
| | - David Goldstein
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia; (T.C.Y.P.); (Z.X.); (A.R.M.); (S.P.); (D.G.); (R.P.); (J.W.)
| | - Romano Pirola
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia; (T.C.Y.P.); (Z.X.); (A.R.M.); (S.P.); (D.G.); (R.P.); (J.W.)
| | - Jeremy Wilson
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia; (T.C.Y.P.); (Z.X.); (A.R.M.); (S.P.); (D.G.); (R.P.); (J.W.)
| | - Minoti Apte
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia; (T.C.Y.P.); (Z.X.); (A.R.M.); (S.P.); (D.G.); (R.P.); (J.W.)
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Giorello MB, Borzone FR, Labovsky V, Piccioni FV, Chasseing NA. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in the Breast Tumor Microenvironment. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2021; 26:135-155. [PMID: 33398516 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-020-09475-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Years of investigation have shed light on a theory in which breast tumor epithelial cells are under the effect of the stromal microenvironment. This review aims to discuss recent findings concerning the phenotypic and functional characteristics of cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and their involvement in tumor evolution, as well as their potential implications for anti-cancer therapy. In this manuscript, we reviewed that CAFs play a fundamental role in initiation, growth, invasion, and metastasis of breast cancer, and also serve as biomarkers in the clinical diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Belén Giorello
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP, 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Francisco Raúl Borzone
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP, 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vivian Labovsky
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP, 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Flavia Valeria Piccioni
- Laboratorio de Oncología Molecular y Nuevos Blancos Terapéuticos (IBYME) y Laboratorio de Inmunohematología (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP, 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Norma Alejandra Chasseing
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP, 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Hassan S, Blick T, Thompson EW, Williams ED. Diversity of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Phenotypes in Circulating Tumour Cells from Prostate Cancer Patient-Derived Xenograft Models. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112750. [PMID: 34206049 PMCID: PMC8198708 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112750] [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: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Spread of prostate cancer to other parts of the body is responsible for the majority of deaths. Tumour cell epithelial mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) increases their metastatic potential and facilitates their survival in the blood as circulating tumour cells (CTCs). The aim of this study was to molecularly characterise CTCs in a panel of prostate cancer patient-derived xenografts using genes associated with epithelial and mesenchymal phenotypes, and to compare the EMP status of CTCs with their matched primary tumours. The study highlights high heterogeneity in CTC enumeration and EMP gene expression between tumour-bearing mice and within individual blood samples, and therefore caution should be taken when interpreting pooled CTC analyses. Critically, tumour cells were present in the epithelial-mesenchymal hybrid state in the circulation. The study also demonstrates that there is high variation in CTC size, which would introduce sample bias to size-based CTC isolation techniques. Abstract Metastasis is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) status of primary tumours has relevance to metastatic potential and therapy resistance. Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) provide a window into the metastatic process, and molecular characterisation of CTCs in comparison to their primary tumours could lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in the metastatic cascade. In this study, paired blood and tumour samples were collected from four prostate cancer patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models (BM18, LuCaP70, LuCaP96, LuCaP105) and assessed using an EMP-focused, 42 gene human-specific, nested quantitative RT-PCR assay. CTC burden varied amongst the various xenograft models with LuCaP96 having the highest number of CTCs per mouse (mean: 704; median: 31) followed by BM18 (mean: 101; median: 21), LuCaP70 (mean: 73; median: 16) and LuCaP105 (mean: 57; median: 6). A significant relationship was observed between tumour size and CTC number (p = 0.0058). Decreased levels of kallikrein-related peptidase 3 (KLK3) mRNA (which encodes prostate-specific antigen; PSA) were observed in CTC samples from all four models compared to their primary tumours. Both epithelial- and mesenchymal-associated genes were commonly expressed at higher levels in CTCs compared to the bulk primary tumour, although some common EMT-associated genes (CDH1, VIM, EGFR, EPCAM) remained unchanged. Immunofluorescence co-staining for pan-cytokeratin (KRT) and vimentin (VIM) indicated variable proportions of CTCs across the full EMP axis, even in the same model. EMP hybrids predominated in the BM18 and LuCaP96 models, but were not detected in the LuCaP105 model, and variable numbers of KRT+ and human VIM+ cells were observed in each model. SERPINE1, which encodes plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), was enriched at the RNA level in CTCs compared to primary tumours and was the most commonly expressed mesenchymal gene in the CTCs. Co-staining for SERPINE1 and KRT revealed SERPINE1+ cells in 7/11 samples, six of which had SERPINE+KRT+ CTCs. Cell size variation was observed in CTCs. The majority of samples (8/11) contained larger CTCs ranging from 15.3 to 37.8 µm, whilst smaller cells (10.7 ± 4.1 µm, similar in size to peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs)) were identified in 6 of 11 samples. CTC clusters were also identified in 9/11 samples, containing 2–100 CTCs per cluster. Where CTC heterogeneity was observed in the clusters, epithelial-like cells (KRT+VIM−) were located on the periphery of the cluster, forming a layer around hybrid (KRT+VIM+) or mesenchymal-like (KRT−VIM+) cells. The CTC heterogeneity observed in these models emphasises the complexity in CTC isolation and classification and supports the increasingly recognised importance of the epithelial-mesenchymal hybrid state in cancer progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Hassan
- Faculty of Health and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane City, QLD 4000, Australia; (S.H.); (T.B.)
- Translational Research Institute (TRI), Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Tony Blick
- Faculty of Health and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane City, QLD 4000, Australia; (S.H.); (T.B.)
- Translational Research Institute (TRI), Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Erik W. Thompson
- Faculty of Health and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane City, QLD 4000, Australia; (S.H.); (T.B.)
- Translational Research Institute (TRI), Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
- Correspondence: (E.W.T.); (E.D.W.)
| | - Elizabeth D. Williams
- Faculty of Health and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane City, QLD 4000, Australia; (S.H.); (T.B.)
- Translational Research Institute (TRI), Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre—Queensland (APCRC-Q), Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
- Queensland Bladder Cancer Initiative (QBCI), Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
- Correspondence: (E.W.T.); (E.D.W.)
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Donato C, Kunz L, Castro-Giner F, Paasinen-Sohns A, Strittmatter K, Szczerba BM, Scherrer R, Di Maggio N, Heusermann W, Biehlmaier O, Beisel C, Vetter M, Rochlitz C, Weber WP, Banfi A, Schroeder T, Aceto N. Hypoxia Triggers the Intravasation of Clustered Circulating Tumor Cells. Cell Rep 2021; 32:108105. [PMID: 32905777 PMCID: PMC7487783 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are shed from solid cancers in the form of single or clustered cells, and the latter display an extraordinary ability to initiate metastasis. Yet, the biological phenomena that trigger the shedding of CTC clusters from a primary cancerous lesion are poorly understood. Here, when dynamically labeling breast cancer cells along cancer progression, we observe that the majority of CTC clusters are undergoing hypoxia, while single CTCs are largely normoxic. Strikingly, we find that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) targeting leads to primary tumor shrinkage, but it increases intra-tumor hypoxia, resulting in a higher CTC cluster shedding rate and metastasis formation. Conversely, pro-angiogenic treatment increases primary tumor size, yet it dramatically suppresses the formation of CTC clusters and metastasis. Thus, intra-tumor hypoxia leads to the formation of clustered CTCs with high metastatic ability, and a pro-angiogenic therapy suppresses metastasis formation through prevention of CTC cluster generation. Hypoxia leads to cell-cell junction upregulation and intravasation of CTC clusters Hypoxic CTC clusters are highly metastatic compared to normoxic CTCs Increase in intra-tumor hypoxia leads to accelerated metastasis Treatment with EpB2 reduces hypoxia and prevents CTC cluster formation
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Donato
- Department of Biomedicine, Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Leo Kunz
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Francesc Castro-Giner
- Department of Biomedicine, Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Aino Paasinen-Sohns
- Department of Biomedicine, Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Karin Strittmatter
- Department of Biomedicine, Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Maria Szczerba
- Department of Biomedicine, Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ramona Scherrer
- Department of Biomedicine, Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nunzia Di Maggio
- Department of Biomedicine, Cell and Gene Therapy Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wolf Heusermann
- IMCF Imaging Core Facility Biozentrum, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Biehlmaier
- IMCF Imaging Core Facility Biozentrum, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Beisel
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marcus Vetter
- Gynecologic Cancer Center, University Hospital Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Breast Cancer Center, University Hospital Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Rochlitz
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Breast Cancer Center, University Hospital Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Walter Paul Weber
- Breast Cancer Center, University Hospital Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Surgery, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Banfi
- Department of Biomedicine, Cell and Gene Therapy Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Timm Schroeder
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Aceto
- Department of Biomedicine, Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.
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128
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Schwerdtfeger M, Desiderio V, Kobold S, Regad T, Zappavigna S, Caraglia M. Long non-coding RNAs in cancer stem cells. Transl Oncol 2021; 14:101134. [PMID: 34051619 PMCID: PMC8176362 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non coding RNAs are involved in the regulation of multiple cellular processes. Cancer stemness and escape from immunological anti-cancer mechanisms are important mechanisms of resistance to anti-cancer agents and are pivotal in controlling cancer development and metastases. Long non coding RNAs have deep effects on the immune-modulation and on the control of cancer stem cells. Several pathways involved in immunological escape and cancer stemness are modulated by long non coding RNAs. Targeting long non coding RNAs is a potential new strategy to control tumor development and metastases.
In recent years, it has been evidenced that the human transcriptome includes several types of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that are mainly involved in the regulation of different cellular processes. Among ncRNAs, long-non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are defined as longer than 200 nucleotides and have been shown to be involved in several physiological and pathological events, including immune system regulation and cancer. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are defined as a population of cancer cells that possess characteristics, such as resistance to standard treatments, cancer initiation, ability to undergo epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and the ability to invade, spread, and generate metastases. The cancer microenvironment, together with genetic and epigenetic factors, is fundamental for CSC maintenance and tumor growth and progression. Unsurprisingly, lncRNAs have been involved in both CSC biology and cancer progression, prognosis and recurrence. Here we review the most recent literature on IncRNAs involvement in CSC biology and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Schwerdtfeger
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS-M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU Munich, Germany, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)
| | - Vincenzo Desiderio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Sebastian Kobold
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS-M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU Munich, Germany, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL); German Center for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Partner site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tarik Regad
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Zappavigna
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
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129
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Raskov H, Orhan A, Gaggar S, Gögenur I. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Cancer and Cancer Immunotherapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:668731. [PMID: 34094963 PMCID: PMC8172975 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.668731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME), including the interplay between tumor cells, stromal cells, immune cells, and extracellular matrix components, is mandatory for the innovation of new therapeutic approaches in cancer. The cell-cell communication within the TME plays a pivotal role in the evolution and progression of cancer. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are major cell populations in the stroma of all solid tumors and often exert protumorigenic functions; however, the origin and precise functions of CAF and TAM are still incompletely understood. CAF and TAM hold significant potential as therapeutic targets to improve outcomes in oncology when combined with existing therapies. The regulation of CAF/TAM communication and/or their differentiation could be of high impact for improving the future targeted treatment strategies. Nevertheless, there is much scope for research and innovation in this field with regards to the development of novel drugs. In this review, we elaborate on the current knowledge on CAF and TAM in cancer and cancer immunotherapy. Additionally, by focusing on their heterogenous functions in different stages and types of cancer, we explore their role as potential therapeutic targets and highlight certain aspects of their functions that need further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Raskov
- Center for Surgical Science, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark
| | - Adile Orhan
- Center for Surgical Science, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Shruti Gaggar
- Center for Surgical Science, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark
| | - Ismail Gögenur
- Center for Surgical Science, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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130
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Ebrahimi S, Nonacs P. Genetic diversity through social heterosis can increase virulence in RNA viral infections and cancer progression. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 8:202219. [PMID: 34035948 PMCID: PMC8097216 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.202219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
In viral infections and cancer tumours, negative health outcomes often correlate with increasing genetic diversity. Possible evolutionary processes for such relationships include mutant lineages escaping host control or diversity, per se, creating too many immune system targets. Another possibility is social heterosis where mutations and replicative errors create clonal lineages varying in intrinsic capability for successful dispersal; improved environmental buffering; resource extraction or effective defence against immune systems. Rather than these capabilities existing in one genome, social heterosis proposes complementary synergies occur across lineages in close proximity. Diverse groups overcome host defences as interacting 'social genomes' with group genetic tool kits exceeding limited individual plasticity. To assess the possibility of social heterosis in viral infections and cancer progression, we conducted extensive literature searches for examples consistent with general and specific predictions from the social heterosis hypothesis. Numerous studies found supportive patterns in cancers across multiple tissues and in several families of RNA viruses. In viruses, social heterosis mechanisms probably result from long coevolutionary histories of competition between pathogen and host. Conversely, in cancers, social heterosis is a by-product of recent mutations. Investigating how social genomes arise and function in viral quasi-species swarms and cancer tumours may lead to new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Ebrahimi
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, 621 Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
| | - Peter Nonacs
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, 621 Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
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131
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Neophytou CM, Panagi M, Stylianopoulos T, Papageorgis P. The Role of Tumor Microenvironment in Cancer Metastasis: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092053. [PMID: 33922795 PMCID: PMC8122975 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Metastasis, the process by which cancer cells escape primary tumor site and colonize distant organs, is responsible for most cancer-related deaths. The tumor microenvironment (TME), comprises different cell types, including immune cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts, as well as structural elements, such as collagen and hyaluronan that constitute the extracellular matrix (ECM). Intratumoral interactions between the cellular and structural components of the TME regulate the aggressiveness, and dissemination of malignant cells and promote immune evasion. At the secondary site, the TME also facilitates escape from dormancy to enhance metastatic tumor outgrowth. Moreover, the ECM applies mechanical forces on tumors that contribute to hypoxia and cancer cell invasiveness whereas also hinders drug delivery and efficacy in both primary and metastatic sites. In this review, we summarize the latest developments regarding the role of the TME in cancer progression and discuss ongoing efforts to remodel the TME to stop metastasis in its tracks. Abstract The tumor microenvironment (TME) regulates essential tumor survival and promotion functions. Interactions between the cellular and structural components of the TME allow cancer cells to become invasive and disseminate from the primary site to distant locations, through a complex and multistep metastatic cascade. Tumor-associated M2-type macrophages have growth-promoting and immunosuppressive functions; mesenchymal cells mass produce exosomes that increase the migratory ability of cancer cells; cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) reorganize the surrounding matrix creating migration-guiding tracks for cancer cells. In addition, the tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) exerts determinant roles in disease progression and cancer cell migration and regulates therapeutic responses. The hypoxic conditions generated at the primary tumor force cancer cells to genetically and/or epigenetically adapt in order to survive and metastasize. In the circulation, cancer cells encounter platelets, immune cells, and cytokines in the blood microenvironment that facilitate their survival and transit. This review discusses the roles of different cellular and structural tumor components in regulating the metastatic process, targeting approaches using small molecule inhibitors, nanoparticles, manipulated exosomes, and miRNAs to inhibit tumor invasion as well as current and future strategies to remodel the TME and enhance treatment efficacy to block the detrimental process of metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiana M. Neophytou
- European University Research Center, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus;
- Tumor Microenvironment, Metastasis and Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 1516, Cyprus
| | - Myrofora Panagi
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (M.P.); (T.S.)
| | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (M.P.); (T.S.)
| | - Panagiotis Papageorgis
- European University Research Center, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus;
- Tumor Microenvironment, Metastasis and Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 1516, Cyprus
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +357-22-713158
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132
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Deeg HJ. Chimerism, the Microenvironment and Control of Leukemia. Front Immunol 2021; 12:652105. [PMID: 33968052 PMCID: PMC8100309 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.652105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Transplantation of allogeneic hematopoietic cells faces two barriers: failure of engraftment due to a host versus graft reaction, and the attack of donor cells against the patient, the graft versus host (GVH) reaction. This reaction may lead to GVH disease (GVHD), but in patients transplanted due to leukemia or other malignant disorders, this may also convey the benefit of a graft versus leukemia (GVL) effect. The interplay of transplant conditioning with donor and host cells and the environment in the patient is complex. The microbiome, particularly in the intestinal tract, profoundly affects these interactions, directly and via soluble mediators, which also reach other host organs. The microenvironment is further altered by the modifying effect of malignant cells on marrow niches, favoring the propagation of the malignant cells. The development of stable mixed donor/host chimerism has the potential of GVHD prevention without necessarily increasing the risk of relapse. There has been remarkable progress with novel conditioning regimens and selective T-cell manipulation aimed at securing engraftment while preventing GVHD without ablating the GVL effect. Interventions to alter the microenvironment and change the composition of the microbiome and its metabolic products may modify graft/host interactions, thereby further reducing GVHD, while enhancing the GVL effect. The result should be improved transplant outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Joachim Deeg
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and the University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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133
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Bota-Rabassedas N, Banerjee P, Niu Y, Cao W, Luo J, Xi Y, Tan X, Sheng K, Ahn YH, Lee S, Parra ER, Rodriguez-Canales J, Albritton J, Weiger M, Liu X, Guo HF, Yu J, Rodriguez BL, Firestone JJA, Mino B, Creighton CJ, Solis LM, Villalobos P, Raso MG, Sazer DW, Gibbons DL, Russell WK, Longmore GD, Wistuba II, Wang J, Chapman HA, Miller JS, Zong C, Kurie JM. Contextual cues from cancer cells govern cancer-associated fibroblast heterogeneity. Cell Rep 2021; 35:109009. [PMID: 33882319 PMCID: PMC8142261 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells function as primary architects of the tumor microenvironment. However, the molecular features of cancer cells that govern stromal cell phenotypes remain unclear. Here, we show that cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) heterogeneity is driven by lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cells at either end of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) spectrum. LUAD cells that have high expression of the EMT-activating transcription factor ZEB1 reprogram CAFs through a ZEB1-dependent secretory program and direct CAFs to the tips of invasive projections through a ZEB1-driven CAF repulsion process. The EMT, in turn, sensitizes LUAD cells to pro-metastatic signals from CAFs. Thus, CAFs respond to contextual cues from LUAD cells to promote metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neus Bota-Rabassedas
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Priyam Banerjee
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yichi Niu
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wenjian Cao
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jiayi Luo
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yuanxin Xi
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xiaochao Tan
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kuanwei Sheng
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Young-Ho Ahn
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Inflammation-Cancer Microenvironment Research Center, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Korea
| | - Sieun Lee
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Inflammation-Cancer Microenvironment Research Center, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Korea
| | - Edwin Roger Parra
- Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jaime Rodriguez-Canales
- Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jacob Albritton
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Inflammation-Cancer Microenvironment Research Center, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Korea
| | - Michael Weiger
- Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xin Liu
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hou-Fu Guo
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jiang Yu
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - B Leticia Rodriguez
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Barbara Mino
- Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chad J Creighton
- Dan L Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Luisa M Solis
- Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Pamela Villalobos
- Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Maria Gabriela Raso
- Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Daniel W Sazer
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Don L Gibbons
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - William K Russell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Gregory D Longmore
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ignacio I Wistuba
- Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Harold A Chapman
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco Cardiovascular Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jordan S Miller
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Chenghang Zong
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Jonathan M Kurie
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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134
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Hu CL, Zhang YJ, Zhang XF, Fei X, Zhang H, Li CG, Sun B. 3D Culture of Circulating Tumor Cells for Evaluating Early Recurrence and Metastasis in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Onco Targets Ther 2021; 14:2673-2688. [PMID: 33888992 PMCID: PMC8057830 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s298427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are considered to be a key factor involved in tumor metastasis. However, the isolation and culture of CTCs in vitro remains challenging, and their clinical application for predicting prognosis and survival is still limited. The development of accurate evaluating system for CTCs will benefit for clinical assessment of HCC. Methods Density gradient centrifugation and magnetic separation based on CD45 antibody were used to isolate CTCs. 3D culture was used to maintain and amplify CTCs and HCC cells. Cellular immunofluorescence was used to identify CTCs and spheroids. The cutoff value of CTC spheroid was calculated using X-tile software. The relationship between clinicopathological variables and CTC spheroids in HCC patients is analyzed. In vivo models were used to evaluate tumor growth and metastasis of CTC spheroids. Results Patient-derived CTCs/HCC cells were isolated and expanded to form spheroids using 3D culture. CTC spheroids could be used to predict short-term recurrence of CTCs compared with conventional CTC enumeration. Different cell lines exhibited different formation rates and grew to different sizes. Identification of CTC spheroids revealed that EpCAM and β-catenin were expressed in spheroids derived from HCC cells and in the HCC/CTCs. EpCAM-positive HCC cells exhibited improved spheroid formation in 3D culture and were more tumorigenic and likely to metastasize to the lung in vivo. Abnormal activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was observed in EpCAM positive cells. Conclusion CTC spheroids could predict prognosis of HCC more precisely compared with conventional CTC enumeration. EpCAM may participate in the formation and survival of CTC spheroids which dependent on Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong-Li Hu
- Translational Medicine Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201620, People's Republic of China.,Department of Molecular Oncology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgical Hospital & National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Jun Zhang
- School of Health and Social Care, Shanghai Urban Construction Vocational College, Shanghai, 201415, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Feng Zhang
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgical Hospital & National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Fei
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201204, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun-Guang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Sun
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgical Hospital & National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
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135
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Massagué J, Ganesh K. Metastasis-Initiating Cells and Ecosystems. Cancer Discov 2021; 11:971-994. [PMID: 33811127 PMCID: PMC8030695 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis is initiated and sustained through therapy by cancer cells with stem-like and immune-evasive properties, termed metastasis-initiating cells (MIC). Recent progress suggests that MICs result from the adoption of a normal regenerative progenitor phenotype by malignant cells, a phenotype with intrinsic programs to survive the stresses of the metastatic process, undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transitions, enter slow-cycling states for dormancy, evade immune surveillance, establish supportive interactions with organ-specific niches, and co-opt systemic factors for growth and recurrence after therapy. Mechanistic understanding of the molecular mediators of MIC phenotypes and host tissue ecosystems could yield cancer therapeutics to improve patient outcomes. SIGNIFICANCE: Understanding the origins, traits, and vulnerabilities of progenitor cancer cells with the capacity to initiate metastasis in distant organs, and the host microenvironments that support the ability of these cells to evade immune surveillance and regenerate the tumor, is critical for developing strategies to improve the prevention and treatment of advanced cancer. Leveraging recent progress in our understanding of the metastatic process, here we review the nature of MICs and their ecosystems and offer a perspective on how this knowledge is informing innovative treatments of metastatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Massagué
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, New York.
| | - Karuna Ganesh
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, New York.
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Hospital, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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136
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Abstract
Our goal in this chapter is to explore the complex processes of metastasis and why there is a predisposition for this to occur in the lung. In addition, we aim to describe the incidence of pulmonary metastases in various contexts and based on the origin of the primary tumor. There are unique characteristics of the pulmonary system that make metastases more likely to occur in the lung than anywhere else in the body. Some of these characteristics include receiving the entire cardiac output every minute, having the densest capillary bed in the body, and being the first reservoir of most lymphatic drainage entering the venous system. There are multiple postulated routes of metastasis to the pulmonary system including hematogenous and lymphatic routes with early or late dissemination. The vascularization of pulmonary metastases is variable and complex, often recruiting supply from bronchial and pulmonary origin. There are also many biochemical factors in the tumor microenvironment that play a key role in the development of lung metastases including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin-8 (IL-8), very late antigen 4 (VLA-4) and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). Studies vary widely in reported rates of pulmonary metastases due to differences in clinical study design, however, it is commonly accepted that up to half of autopsies performed on patients who died of malignancy have pulmonary metastases. In a surgical series describing the incidence of primary cancer types with resected pulmonary metastases the most common sites were thyroid, colon, breast, genitourinary tract, skin, liver, breast, and adrenal glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- William D Gerull
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Varun Puri
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Benjamin D Kozower
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
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137
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Capp JP, DeGregori J, Nedelcu AM, Dujon AM, Boutry J, Pujol P, Alix-Panabières C, Hamede R, Roche B, Ujvari B, Marusyk A, Gatenby R, Thomas F. Group phenotypic composition in cancer. eLife 2021; 10:63518. [PMID: 33784238 PMCID: PMC8009660 DOI: 10.7554/elife.63518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although individual cancer cells are generally considered the Darwinian units of selection in malignant populations, they frequently act as members of groups where fitness of the group cannot be reduced to the average fitness of individual group members. A growing body of studies reveals limitations of reductionist approaches to explaining biological and clinical observations. For example, induction of angiogenesis, inhibition of the immune system, and niche engineering through environmental acidification and/or remodeling of extracellular matrix cannot be achieved by single tumor cells and require collective actions of groups of cells. Success or failure of such group activities depends on the phenotypic makeup of the individual group members. Conversely, these group activities affect the fitness of individual members of the group, ultimately affecting the composition of the group. This phenomenon, where phenotypic makeup of individual group members impacts the fitness of both members and groups, has been captured in the term 'group phenotypic composition' (GPC). We provide examples where considerations of GPC could help in understanding the evolution and clinical progression of cancers and argue that use of the GPC framework can facilitate new insights into cancer biology and assist with the development of new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pascal Capp
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, University of Toulouse, INSA, CNRS, INRAE, Toulouse, France
| | - James DeGregori
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, United States
| | - Aurora M Nedelcu
- Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Antoine M Dujon
- CREEC/CANECEV, MIVEGEC (CREES), University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France.,Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Justine Boutry
- CREEC/CANECEV, MIVEGEC (CREES), University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Pascal Pujol
- CREEC/CANECEV, MIVEGEC (CREES), University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Catherine Alix-Panabières
- CREEC/CANECEV, MIVEGEC (CREES), University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France.,Laboratory of Rare Human Circulating Cells (LCCRH), University Medical Centre of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Rodrigo Hamede
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Benjamin Roche
- CREEC/CANECEV, MIVEGEC (CREES), University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Beata Ujvari
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.,School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Andriy Marusyk
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, United States
| | - Robert Gatenby
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, United States
| | - Frédéric Thomas
- CREEC/CANECEV, MIVEGEC (CREES), University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France
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138
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Dai L, Li M, Zhang WL, Tang YJ, Tang YL, Liang XH. Fibroblasts in cancer dormancy: foe or friend? Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:184. [PMID: 33771156 PMCID: PMC7995785 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01883-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer dormancy is defined that the residual cancer cells could enter into a state of quiescence and patients remain asymptomatic for years or even decades after anti-tumor therapies. Fibroblasts, which represent a predominant cell type in tumor microenvironment, play a pivotal role in determining the ultimate fate of tumor cells. This review recapitulates the pleiotropic roles of fibroblasts which are divided into normal, senescent, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and circulation CAFs in tumor dormancy, relapse, metastasis and resistance to therapy to help the treatment of cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei-long Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ya-Jie Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237 China
| | - Ya-ling Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin-hua Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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139
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Detection of clustered circulating tumour cells in early breast cancer. Br J Cancer 2021; 125:23-27. [PMID: 33762721 PMCID: PMC8257701 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01327-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumour cell (CTC) clusters have been proposed to be major players in the metastatic spread of breast cancer, particularly during advanced disease stages. Yet, it is unclear whether or not they manifest in early breast cancer, as their occurrence in patients with metastasis-free primary disease has not been thoroughly evaluated. In this study, exploiting nanostructured titanium oxide-coated slides for shear-free CTC identification, we detect clustered CTCs in the curative setting of multiple patients with early breast cancer prior to surgical treatment, highlighting their presence already at early disease stages. These results spotlight an important aspect of metastasis biology and the possibility to intervene with anti-cluster therapeutics already during the early manifestation of breast cancer.
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140
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Smith DL, Debeb BG, Diagaradjane P, Larson R, Kumar S, Ning J, Lacerda L, Li L, Woodward WA. Prophylactic cranial irradiation reduces the incidence of brain metastasis in a mouse model of metastatic, HER2-positive breast cancer. Genes Cancer 2021; 12:28-38. [PMID: 33884104 PMCID: PMC8045965 DOI: 10.18632/genesandcancer.212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) can reduce the incidence of brain metastasis and
improve overall survival in some patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia or small-cell
lung cancer. We examined the potential effects of PCI in a mouse model of breast cancer
brain metastasis. The HER2+ inflammatory breast cancer cell line MDA-IBC3 was labeled with
green fluorescent protein and injected via tail-vein into female SCID/Beige mice. Mice
were then given 0 Gy or 4 Gy of whole-brain irradiation 2 days before tumor-cell injection
or 5 days, 3 weeks, or 6 weeks after tumor-cell injection. Mice were sacrificed 4-weeks or
8-weeks after injection and brain tissues were examined for metastasis by fluorescent
stereomicroscopy. In the unirradiated control group, brain metastases were present in 77%
of mice at 4 weeks and in 90% of mice at 8 weeks; by comparison, rates for the group given
PCI at 5 days after tumor-cell injection were 20% at 4 weeks (p=0.01) and
30% at 8 weeks (p=0.02). The PCI group also had fewer brain metastases
per mouse at 4 weeks (p=0.03) and 8 weeks (p=0.006)
versus the unirradiated control as well as a lower metastatic burden
(p=0.01). Irradiation given either before tumor-cell injection or 3-6
weeks afterward had no significant effect on brain metastases compared to the unirradiated
control. These results underscore the importance of timing for irradiating subclinical
disease. Clinical whole brain strategies to target subclinical brain disease as safely as
possible may warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel L Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bisrat G Debeb
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Parmeswaran Diagaradjane
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Richard Larson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Swaminathan Kumar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jing Ning
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lara Lacerda
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Li Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wendy A Woodward
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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141
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Shao H, Moller M, Cai L, Prokupets R, Yang C, Costa C, Yu K, Le N, Liu ZJ. Converting melanoma-associated fibroblasts into a tumor-suppressive phenotype by increasing intracellular Notch1 pathway activity. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248260. [PMID: 33705467 PMCID: PMC7951899 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a crucial role in cancer progression, drug resistance and tumor recurrence. We have recently shown that the Notch pathway determines the tumor-regulatory role of experimentally created ‘CAFs’. Here, we examined the status of Notch signaling in human melanoma-associated fibroblasts (MAFs) versus their normal counterparts and tested whether manipulation of the Notch pathway activity in MAFs alters their tumor-regulatory function. Using tissue microarrays, we found that MAFs exhibit decreased Notch pathway activity compared with normal fibroblasts in adjacent and non-adjacent skin. Consistently, MAFs isolated from human metastatic melanoma exhibited lower Notch activity than did normal human fibroblasts, demonstrating that Notch pathway activity is low in MAFs. We then investigated the effect of increasing Notch pathway activity in MAF on melanoma growth in co-cultures and in a mouse co-graft model. We found that activation of the Notch pathway in MAFs significantly restricted melanoma cell growth in vitro and suppressed melanoma skin growth and tumor angiogenesis in vivo. Our study demonstrates that the Notch signaling is inhibited in MAFs. Increase of Notch pathway activity can confer tumor-suppressive function on MAFs. Thus, targeting melanoma by activating Notch signaling in MAF may represent a novel therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Shao
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Mecker Moller
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Long Cai
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Rochelle Prokupets
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Cuixia Yang
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Connor Costa
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Kerstin Yu
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Nga Le
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Zhao-Jun Liu
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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142
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Fibrotic Phenotype of Peritumour Mesenteric Adipose Tissue in Human Colon Cancer: A Potential Hallmark of Metastatic Properties. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052430. [PMID: 33670920 PMCID: PMC7957668 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of tumour associated stroma on cancer metastasis is an emerging field. However, cancer associated genes in peritumoral adipose tissue (pAT) in human colon cancer have not been explored. The aim of this study was to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with cancer pathways in mesenteric pAT compared with adjacent adipose tissue. In total, nine patients with colon cancer pathological stage T2/T4 were employed in this study. DEGs were identified in 6 patients employing Nanostring PanCancer Pathway Panel and pathway enrichment analyses were performed. Differential expression of the 5 most up-regulated and 2 down regulated genes was validated with qRT-PCR. Results showed collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1) p = 0.007; secreted frizzled related protein (SFRP2) p = 0.057; fibroblast growth factor 7 (FGF7) not significant (ns); phospholipase A2, group IIA (PLA2G2A) ns; nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR) ns; lymphoid enhancer binding factor 1 (LEF1) p = 0.03; cadherin 1, Type 1, E-cadherin (epithelial) (CDH1) 0.09. Results have highlighted down-regulation of the Wingless/Integrated (Wnt) pathway in mesenteric pAT compared to distal adipose tissue. Highly upregulated genes in mesenteric pAT were involved in extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interactions and focal adhesion. Highly down regulated genes were involved in the cell cycle. Immunohistochemistry revealed differential distribution of COL1A1 showing maximum levels in tumour tissue and gradually decreasing in distant adipose tissue. COL1A1 and down regulation of Wnt pathway may have a role in local invasion and distant metastasis. COL1A1 may represent a stromal prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in colon cancer.
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143
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Chandra Jena B, Kanta Das C, Banerjee I, Das S, Bharadwaj D, Majumder R, Mandal M. Paracrine TGF-β1 from breast cancer contributes to chemoresistance in cancer associated fibroblasts via upregulation of the p44/42 MAPK signaling pathway. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 186:114474. [PMID: 33607074 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Conventionally, Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are considered as an inducer of chemoresistance in cancer cells. However, the underlying mechanism by which carcinomas induce chemoresistance in CAFs through tumor-stroma cross-talk is largely unknown. Henceforth, we uncovered a network of paracrine signals between carcinoma and CAFs that drives chemoresistance in CAFs. Acquired tamoxifen and 5-Fu resistant cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-468 respectively showed higher apoptotic resistance compared to the parental cell. Besides, chemoresistant breast cancer cells showed overexpression of TGF-β1 and have the higher potential to induce CAF phenotype in the normal dermal fibroblasts in a paracrine manner through the TGF-β1 cytokine, compared to their parental cell. Moreover, the chemoresistant cancer cells augmented the EMT markers with a reduction of E-cadherin in the CAFs. Importantly we found out that the TGF- β1 enriched conditioned media from both of the resistant cells triggered chemoresistance in the CAFs by p44/42 MAPK signaling axis. Mechanistically, pharmacological and genetic blockade of TGF-β1 inhibits p44/42 MAPK activation with the subsequent restoration of chemosensitivity in the CAFs. Altogether we ascertained that chemoresistant cancer cells have tremendous potential to modulate the CAFs compared to the parental counterpart. Targeting TGF-β1 and p44/42 MAPK signaling in the future may help to abrogate the chemoresistance in the CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bikash Chandra Jena
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Chandan Kanta Das
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Indranil Banerjee
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Subhayan Das
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Deblina Bharadwaj
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Ranabir Majumder
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Mahitosh Mandal
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India.
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144
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Yu T, Wang C, Xie M, Zhu C, Shu Y, Tang J, Guan X. Heterogeneity of CTC contributes to the organotropism of breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 137:111314. [PMID: 33581649 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are viewed as pro-metastasis precursors shed from primary tumors or metastatic sites. The phenotypic and molecular heterogeneity of CTCs is associated with breast cancer progression and prognosis. Therefore, we divided CTCs into several subtypes according to their differences in biomarker status, epithelial/mesenchymal phenotype, aggregation status, and other factors to summarize their characteristics. Considering that the organ-specific metastasis is a hallmark of breast cancer, we adopted the "seed and soil" model to further analyze the relationship between the heterogeneity of CTCs and the organotropism of breast cancer. We speculated that CTCs might not only develop their genetic potential but communicate with surroundings, including chemokine systems, hemocytes, and extracellular matrix components, to regulate the organ-specific metastases of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Yu
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Cenzhu Wang
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengyan Xie
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengjun Zhu
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongqian Shu
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinhai Tang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoxiang Guan
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China.
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145
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Mpekris F, Panagi M, Voutouri C, Martin JD, Samuel R, Takahashi S, Gotohda N, Suzuki T, Papageorgis P, Demetriou P, Pierides C, Koumas L, Costeas P, Kojima M, Ishii G, Constantinidou A, Kataoka K, Cabral H, Stylianopoulos T. Normalizing the Microenvironment Overcomes Vessel Compression and Resistance to Nano-immunotherapy in Breast Cancer Lung Metastasis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2001917. [PMID: 33552852 PMCID: PMC7856901 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202001917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Nano-immunotherapy regimens have high potential to improve patient outcomes, as already demonstrated in advanced triple negative breast cancer with nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel and the immune checkpoint blocker (ICB) atezolizumab. This regimen, however, does not lead to cures with median survival lasting less than two years. Thus, understanding the mechanisms of resistance to and development of strategies to enhance nano-immunotherapy in breast cancer are urgently needed. Here, in human tissue it is shown that blood vessels in breast cancer lung metastases are compressed leading to hypoxia. This pathophysiology exists in murine spontaneous models of triple negative breast cancer lung metastases, along with low levels of perfusion. Because this pathophysiology is consistent with elevated levels of solid stress, the mechanotherapeutic tranilast, which decompressed lung metastasis vessels, is administered to mice bearing metastases, thereby restoring perfusion and alleviating hypoxia. As a result, the nanomedicine Doxil causes cytotoxic effects into metastases more efficiently, stimulating anti-tumor immunity. Indeed, when combining tranilast with Doxil and ICBs, synergistic effects on efficacy, with all mice cured in one of the two ICB-insensitive tumor models investigated is resulted. These results suggest that strategies to treat breast cancer with nano-immunotherapy should also include a mechanotherapeutic to decompress vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotios Mpekris
- Cancer Biophysics LaboratoryDepartment of Mechanical and Manufacturing EngineeringUniversity of CyprusNicosia1678Cyprus
| | - Myrofora Panagi
- Cancer Biophysics LaboratoryDepartment of Mechanical and Manufacturing EngineeringUniversity of CyprusNicosia1678Cyprus
| | - Chrysovalantis Voutouri
- Cancer Biophysics LaboratoryDepartment of Mechanical and Manufacturing EngineeringUniversity of CyprusNicosia1678Cyprus
| | - John D. Martin
- Department of BioengineeringGraduate School of EngineeringThe University of TokyoBunkyoTokyo113‐8656Japan
| | - Rekha Samuel
- Centre for Stem Cell Research (A unit of inStem Bengaluru)Christian Medical College Campus BagayamVellore560065India
| | - Shinichiro Takahashi
- Department of Hepatobiliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaChiba277‐8577Japan
| | - Naoto Gotohda
- Department of Hepatobiliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaChiba277‐8577Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Suzuki
- Department of Hepatobiliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaChiba277‐8577Japan
| | - Panagiotis Papageorgis
- Department of Life SciencesProgram in Biological SciencesEuropean University CyprusNicosia2404Cyprus
| | - Philippos Demetriou
- The Center for the Study of Haematological and other MalignanciesNicosia2032Cyprus
| | - Chryso Pierides
- The Center for the Study of Haematological and other MalignanciesNicosia2032Cyprus
| | - Laura Koumas
- The Center for the Study of Haematological and other MalignanciesNicosia2032Cyprus
- Karaiskakio FoundationNicosia2032Cyprus
| | - Paul Costeas
- The Center for the Study of Haematological and other MalignanciesNicosia2032Cyprus
- Cyprus Cancer Research InstituteNicosia2032Cyprus
| | - Motohiro Kojima
- Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial CenterNational Cancer CenterKashiwaChiba277‐8577Japan
| | - Genichiro Ishii
- Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial CenterNational Cancer CenterKashiwaChiba277‐8577Japan
| | - Anastasia Constantinidou
- Cyprus Cancer Research InstituteNicosia2032Cyprus
- Medical SchoolUniversity of CyprusNicosia1678Cyprus
- Bank of Cyprus Oncology CentreNicosia2012Cyprus
| | - Kazunori Kataoka
- Innovation Center of NanoMedicineKawasaki Institute of Industrial PromotionKawasakiKanagawa210‐0821Japan
- Institute for Future InitiativesThe University of TokyoBunkyoTokyo113‐0033Japan
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of BioengineeringGraduate School of EngineeringThe University of TokyoBunkyoTokyo113‐8656Japan
| | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics LaboratoryDepartment of Mechanical and Manufacturing EngineeringUniversity of CyprusNicosia1678Cyprus
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146
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Biffi G, Tuveson DA. Diversity and Biology of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Physiol Rev 2021; 101:147-176. [PMID: 32466724 PMCID: PMC7864232 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00048.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 624] [Impact Index Per Article: 156.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Efforts to develop anti-cancer therapies have largely focused on targeting the epithelial compartment, despite the presence of non-neoplastic stromal components that substantially contribute to the progression of the tumor. Indeed, cancer cell survival, growth, migration, and even dormancy are influenced by the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME). Within the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been shown to play several roles in the development of a tumor. They secrete growth factors, inflammatory ligands, and extracellular matrix proteins that promote cancer cell proliferation, therapy resistance, and immune exclusion. However, recent work indicates that CAFs may also restrain tumor progression in some circumstances. In this review, we summarize the body of work on CAFs, with a particular focus on the most recent discoveries about fibroblast heterogeneity, plasticity, and functions. We also highlight the commonalities of fibroblasts present across different cancer types, and in normal and inflammatory states. Finally, we present the latest advances regarding therapeutic strategies targeting CAFs that are undergoing preclinical and clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Biffi
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York; Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Research Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York; and Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David A Tuveson
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York; Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Research Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York; and Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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147
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Peixoto A, Cotton S, Santos LL, Ferreira JA. The Tumour Microenvironment and Circulating Tumour Cells: A Partnership Driving Metastasis and Glycan-Based Opportunities for Cancer Control. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1329:1-33. [PMID: 34664231 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-73119-9_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Circulating tumour cells (CTC) are rare cells that actively detach or are shed from primary tumours into the lymph and blood. Some CTC subpopulations gain the capacity to survive, home and colonize distant locations, forming metastasis. This results from a multifactorial process in which cancer cells optimize motility, invasion, immune escape and cooperative relationships with microenvironmental cues. Here we present evidences of a self-fuelling molecular crosstalk between cancer cells and the tumour stroma supporting the main milestones leading to metastasis. We discuss how the tumour microenvironment supports pre-metastatic niches and CTC development and ultimately dictates CTC fate in targeted organs. Finally, we highlight the key role played by protein glycosylation in metastasis development, its prompt response to microenvironmental stimuli and the tremendous potential of glycan-based molecular signatures for liquid biopsies and targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Peixoto
- Experimental Pathology and Therapeutics Group, Portuguese Institute of Oncology, Porto, Portugal. .,Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal. .,Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3s), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal. .,Institute for Biomedical Engineering (INEB), Porto, Portugal. .,Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (P.ccc), Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sofia Cotton
- Experimental Pathology and Therapeutics Group, Portuguese Institute of Oncology, Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3s), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Institute for Biomedical Engineering (INEB), Porto, Portugal.,Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (P.ccc), Porto, Portugal
| | - Lúcio Lara Santos
- Experimental Pathology and Therapeutics Group, Portuguese Institute of Oncology, Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (P.ccc), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Surgical Oncology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - José Alexandre Ferreira
- Experimental Pathology and Therapeutics Group, Portuguese Institute of Oncology, Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (P.ccc), Porto, Portugal
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148
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Richard V, Kumar TRS, Pillai RM. Transitional dynamics of cancer stem cells in invasion and metastasis. Transl Oncol 2021; 14:100909. [PMID: 33049522 PMCID: PMC7557893 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2020.100909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
At the onset, few cancer cells amidst the tumor bulk, identified as cancer stem cells (CSCs) or early disseminated cancer cells (eDCCs) are capable of survival post conventional therapy and persist as minimal residual disease (MRD). Metastatic subclones emerge both early and late in the life of primary tumor ensuing an ongoing regional clonal evolution of progenitor cells in metastatic and primary tumors. In the last decade, multiple studies proposed various identities of stem-like cells that undergo transitions to adapt to the changing microenvironment as the disease progresses. This review advocates with substantial evidence the dynamic model of tumor propagation by exploring the specific cell types, reversible phenotypic plasticity between the tumorigenic leader seeds and the supporting follower cancer cells both in circulation and in solid tissue to accurately decipher tumor promoting clones and its role in metastatic dissemination and tumor re-growth. (142 words).
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinitha Richard
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram 695014, Kerala State, India
| | - T R Santhosh Kumar
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram 695014, Kerala State, India
| | - Radhakrishna M Pillai
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram 695014, Kerala State, India.
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149
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Riggio AI, Varley KE, Welm AL. The lingering mysteries of metastatic recurrence in breast cancer. Br J Cancer 2021; 124:13-26. [PMID: 33239679 PMCID: PMC7782773 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-01161-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 290] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite being the hallmark of cancer that is responsible for the highest number of deaths, very little is known about the biology of metastasis. Metastatic disease typically manifests after a protracted period of undetectable disease following surgery or systemic therapy, owing to relapse or recurrence. In the case of breast cancer, metastatic relapse can occur months to decades after initial diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we provide an overview of the known key factors that influence metastatic recurrence, with the goal of highlighting the critical unanswered questions that still need to be addressed to make a difference in the mortality of breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra I Riggio
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Katherine E Varley
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Alana L Welm
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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150
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Hussain S, Peng B, Cherian M, Song JW, Ahirwar DK, Ganju RK. The Roles of Stroma-Derived Chemokine in Different Stages of Cancer Metastases. Front Immunol 2020; 11:598532. [PMID: 33414786 PMCID: PMC7783453 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.598532] [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: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The intricate interplay between malignant cells and host cellular and non-cellular components play crucial role in different stages of tumor development, progression, and metastases. Tumor and stromal cells communicate to each other through receptors such as integrins and secretion of signaling molecules like growth factors, cytokines, chemokines and inflammatory mediators. Chemokines mediated signaling pathways have emerged as major mechanisms underlying multifaceted roles played by host cells during tumor progression. In response to tumor stimuli, host cells-derived chemokines further activates signaling cascades that support the ability of tumor cells to invade surrounding basement membrane and extra-cellular matrix. The host-derived chemokines act on endothelial cells to increase their permeability and facilitate tumor cells intravasation and extravasation. The tumor cells-host neutrophils interaction within the vasculature initiates chemokines driven recruitment of inflammatory cells that protects circulatory tumor cells from immune attack. Chemokines secreted by tumor cells and stromal immune and non-immune cells within the tumor microenvironment enter the circulation and are responsible for formation of a "pre-metastatic niche" like a "soil" in distant organs whereby circulating tumor cells "seed' and colonize, leading to formation of metastatic foci. Given the importance of host derived chemokines in cancer progression and metastases several drugs like Mogamulizumab, Plerixafor, Repertaxin among others are part of ongoing clinical trial which target chemokines and their receptors against cancer pathogenesis. In this review, we focus on recent advances in understanding the complexity of chemokines network in tumor microenvironment, with an emphasis on chemokines secreted from host cells. We especially summarize the role of host-derived chemokines in different stages of metastases, including invasion, dissemination, migration into the vasculature, and seeding into the pre-metastatic niche. We finally provide a brief description of prospective drugs that target chemokines in different clinical trials against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Hussain
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Bo Peng
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Mathew Cherian
- Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Jonathan W Song
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States.,Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Dinesh K Ahirwar
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ramesh K Ganju
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
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