101
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Li D, Zhang Q, Tang Y, Mao F, Zeng J, Ji A. LncRNAs associated with vascular mimicry establish a novel molecular subtype and prognostic model for pancreatic cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:11571-11584. [PMID: 37400573 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05015-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascular mimicry (VM) epitomizes an innovative tumor angiogenesis pathway, potentially serving as an alternate conduit under the assumption of traditional tumor angiogenesis pathway inhibition. The role of VM in pancreatic cancer (PC), however, remains unexplored. METHODS Using differential analysis and Spearman correlation, we identified key long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) signatures in PC from the collected set of VM-associated genes in the literature. We identified optimal clusters using the non-negative matrix decomposition (NMF) algorithm, and then compared clinicopathological features and prognostic differences between clusters. We also assessed tumor microenvironmental (TME) differences between clusters using multiple algorithms. Using univariate Cox regression analyses as well as lasso regression, we constructed and validated new lncRNA prognostic risk models for PC. We used Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) to analyze model-enriched functions and pathways. Nomograms were then developed to predict patient survival in association with clinicopathological factors. In addition, single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis was used to analyze the expression patterns of VM-related genes and lncRNAs in the PC of TME. Finally, we used the Connectivity Map (cMap) database to predict local anaesthetics that could modify the VM of PC. RESULTS In this study, we developed a novel three-cluster molecular subtype using the identified VM-associated lncRNA signatures of PC. The different subtypes have significantly different clinical characteristics and prognostic value, and also show differential treatment response and TME. Following an in-depth analysis, we constructed and validated a novel prognostic risk model for PC based on the VM-associated lncRNA signatures. Enrichment analysis suggested that high riskscores were significantly associated with functions and pathways, including extracellular matrix remodeling, et al. In addition, we predicted eight local anaesthetics that could modulate VM in PC. Finally, we discovered differential expression of VM-related genes and lncRNAs across various cell types within pancreatic cancer. CONCLUSION VM has a critical role in PC. This study pioneers the development of a VM-based molecular subtype that demonstrates substantial differentiation in PC populations. Furthermore, we highlighted the significance of VM within the immune microenvironment of PC. Moreover, VM might contribute to PC tumorigenesis through its mediation of mesenchymal remodeling and endothelial transdifferentiation-related pathways, which offers a new perspective on its role in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Li
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Yangzhou University Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yubao Tang
- Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feiyu Mao
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Yangzhou University Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jia Zeng
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Yangzhou University Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Anlai Ji
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Yangzhou University Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China.
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102
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Lau R, Yu L, Roumeliotis TI, Stewart A, Pickard L, Riisanes R, Gurel B, de Bono JS, Choudhary JS, Banerji U. Unbiased differential proteomic profiling between cancer-associated fibroblasts and cancer cell lines. J Proteomics 2023; 288:104973. [PMID: 37481068 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2023.104973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a key component of tumors. We aimed to profile the proteome of cancer cell lines representing three common cancer types (lung, colorectal and pancreatic) and a representative CAF cell line from each tumor type to gain insight into CAF function and novel CAF biomarkers. We used isobaric labeling, liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry to evaluate the proteome of 9 cancer and 3 CAF cell lines. Of the 9460 proteins evaluated, functional enrichment analysis revealed an upregulation of N-glycan biosynthesis and extracellular matrix proteins in CAFs. 85 proteins had 16-fold higher expression in CAFs compared to cancer cells, including previously known CAF markers like fibroblast activation protein (FAP). Novel overexpressed CAF biomarkers included heat shock protein β-6 (HSPB6/HSP20) and cyclooxygenase 1 (PTGS1/COX1). SiRNA knockdown of the genes encoding these proteins did not reduce contractility in lung CAFs, suggesting they were not crucial to this function. Immunohistochemical analysis of 30 tumor samples (10 lung, 10 colorectal and 10 pancreatic) showed restricted HSPB6 and PTGS1 expression in the stroma. Therefore, we describe an unbiased differential proteome analysis of CAFs compared to cancer cells, which revealed higher expression of HSPB6 and PTGS1 in CAFs. Data are available via ProteomeXchange (PXD040360). SIGNIFICANCE: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are highly abundant stromal cells present in tumors. CAFs are known to influence tumor progression and drug resistance. Characterizing the proteome of CAFs could give potential insights into new stromal drug targets and biomarkers. Mass spectrometry-based analysis comparing proteomic profiles of CAFs and cancers characterized 9460 proteins of which 85 proteins had 16-fold higher expression in CAFs compared to cancer cells. Further interrogation of this rich resource could provide insight into the function of CAFs and could reveal putative stromal targets. We describe for the first time that heat shock protein β-6 (HSPB6/HSP20) and cyclooxygenase 1 (PTGS1/COX1) are overexpressed in CAFs compared to cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Lau
- Clinical Pharmacology and Adaptive Therapy Group, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5NG, United Kingdom.
| | - Lu Yu
- Functional Proteomics group, Chester Beatty Laboratories, The Institute of Cancer Research, 237 Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, United Kingdom
| | - Theodoros I Roumeliotis
- Functional Proteomics group, Chester Beatty Laboratories, The Institute of Cancer Research, 237 Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Stewart
- Clinical Pharmacology and Adaptive Therapy Group, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Pickard
- Clinical Pharmacology and Adaptive Therapy Group, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Riisanes
- Cancer Biomarkers Group, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Bora Gurel
- Cancer Biomarkers Group, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Johann S de Bono
- Cancer Biomarkers Group, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Jyoti S Choudhary
- Functional Proteomics group, Chester Beatty Laboratories, The Institute of Cancer Research, 237 Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, United Kingdom.
| | - Udai Banerji
- Clinical Pharmacology and Adaptive Therapy Group, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5NG, United Kingdom.
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103
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Chen Y, Deng Q, Chen H, Yang J, Chen Z, Li J, Fu Z. Cancer-associated fibroblast-related prognostic signature predicts prognosis and immunotherapy response in pancreatic adenocarcinoma based on single-cell and bulk RNA-sequencing. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16408. [PMID: 37775715 PMCID: PMC10541448 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43495-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) influence many aspects of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) carcinogenesis, including tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. A six-gene prognostic signature was constructed for PAAD based on the 189 CAF marker genes identified in single-cell RNA-sequencing data. Multivariate analyses showed that the risk score was independently prognostic for survival in the TCGA (P < 0.001) and ICGC (P = 0.004) cohorts. Tumor infiltration of CD8 T (P = 0.005) cells and naïve B cells (P = 0.001) was greater in the low-risk than in the high-risk group, with infiltration of these cells negatively correlated with risk score. Moreover, the TMB score was lower in the low-risk than in the high-risk group (P = 0.0051). Importantly, patients in low-risk group had better immunotherapy responses than in the high-risk group in an independent immunotherapy cohort (IMvigor210) (P = 0.039). The CAV1 and SOD3 were highly expressed in CAFs of PAAD tissues, which revealed by immunohistochemical staining. In summary, this comprehensive analysis resulted in the development of a novel prognostic signature, which was associated with immune cell infiltration, drug sensitivity, and TMB, and could predict the prognosis and immunotherapy response of patients with PAAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qican Deng
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Institute of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianguo Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhenzhou Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Juncai Li
- Department of Surgery, The People's Hospital of Yubei District of Chongqing, Chongqing, China.
| | - Zhongxue Fu
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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104
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Kumar BS. Recent Advances and Applications of Ambient Mass Spectrometry Imaging in Cancer Research: An Overview. Mass Spectrom (Tokyo) 2023; 12:A0129. [PMID: 37789912 PMCID: PMC10542858 DOI: 10.5702/massspectrometry.a0129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer metabolic variability has a significant impact on both diagnosis and treatment outcomes. The discovery of novel biological indicators and metabolic dysregulation, can significantly rely on comprehension of the modified metabolism in cancer, is a research focus. Tissue histology is a critical feature in the diagnostic testing of many ailments, such as cancer. To assess the surgical margin of the tumour on patients, frozen section histology is a tedious, laborious, and typically arbitrary method. Concurrent monitoring of ion images in tissues facilitated by the latest advancements in mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is far more efficient than optical tissue image analysis utilized in conventional histopathology examination. This article focuses on the "desorption electrospray ionization (DESI)-MSI" technique's most recent advancements and uses in cancer research. DESI-MSI can provide wealthy information based on the variances in metabolites and lipids in normal and cancerous tissues by acquiring ion images of the lipid and metabolite variances on biopsy samples. As opposed to a systematic review, this article offers a synopsis of the most widely employed cutting-edge DESI-MSI techniques in cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharath S. Kumar
- Correspondence to: Bharath S. Kumar, 21, B2, 27th Street, Nanganallur, Chennai, India, e-mail:
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105
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Wang L, Wang B, Kou E, Du L, Zhu Y. New insight into the role of fibroblasts in the epithelial immune microenvironment in the single-cell era. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1259515. [PMID: 37809065 PMCID: PMC10556469 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1259515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The skin is exposed to environmental challenges and contains heterogeneous cell populations such as epithelial cells, stromal cells, and skin-resident immune cells. As the most abundant type of stromal cells, fibroblasts have been historically considered silent observers in the immune responses of the cutaneous epithelial immune microenvironment (EIME), with little research conducted on their heterogeneity and immune-related functions. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and spatial transcriptomics (ST) have overcome the limitations of bulk RNA sequencing and help recognize the functional and spatial heterogeneity of fibroblasts, as well as their crosstalk with other types of cells in the cutaneous EIME. Recently, emerging single-cell sequencing data have demonstrated that fibroblasts notably participate in the immune responses of the EIME and impact the initiation and progression of inflammatory skin diseases. Here, we summarize the latest advances in the role of fibroblasts in the cutaneous EIME of inflammatory skin diseases and discuss the distinct functions and molecular mechanisms of activated fibroblasts in fibrotic skin diseases and non-fibrotic inflammatory skin diseases. This review help unveil the multiple roles of fibroblasts in the cutaneous EIME and offer new promising therapeutic strategies for the management of inflammatory skin diseases by targeting fibroblasts or the fibroblast-centered EIME.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lin Du
- Department of Dermatology, Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanjie Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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106
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Li Y, Tang S, Shi X, Lv J, Wu X, Zhang Y, Wang H, He J, Zhu Y, Ju Y, Zhang Y, Guo S, Yang W, Yin H, Chen L, Gao D, Jin G. Metabolic classification suggests the GLUT1/ALDOB/G6PD axis as a therapeutic target in chemotherapy-resistant pancreatic cancer. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101162. [PMID: 37597521 PMCID: PMC10518604 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is known as an emerging mechanism of chemotherapy resistance, but the metabolic signatures of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs) remain unclear. Here, we characterize the metabolomic profile of PDAC organoids and classify them into glucomet-PDAC (high glucose metabolism levels) and lipomet-PDAC (high lipid metabolism levels). Glucomet-PDACs are more resistant to chemotherapy than lipomet-PDACs, and patients with glucomet-PDAC have a worse prognosis. Integrated analyses reveal that the GLUT1/aldolase B (ALDOB)/glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) axis induces chemotherapy resistance by remodeling glucose metabolism in glucomet-PDAC. Increased glycolytic flux, G6PD activity, and pyrimidine biosynthesis are identified in glucomet-PDAC with high GLUT1 and low ALDOB expression, and these phenotypes could be reversed by inhibiting GLUT1 expression or by increasing ALDOB expression. Pharmacological inhibition of GLUT1 or G6PD enhances the chemotherapy response of glucomet-PDAC. Our findings uncover potential metabolic heterogeneity related to differences in chemotherapy sensitivity in PDAC and develop a promising pharmacological strategy for patients with chemotherapy-resistant glucomet-PDAC through the combination of chemotherapy and GLUT1/ALDOB/G6PD axis inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunguang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shijie Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaohan Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jingwen Lv
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety Research, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health (SINH), Innovation Center for Intervention of Chronic Disease and Promotion of Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xueyuan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yehan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Juan He
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yiqin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yi Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yajuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shiwei Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Weiwei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China.
| | - Huiyong Yin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety Research, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health (SINH), Innovation Center for Intervention of Chronic Disease and Promotion of Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai 200031, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China; Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Luonan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
| | - Dong Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Gang Jin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), Shanghai 200433, China.
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107
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Cornwell AC, Tisdale AA, Venkat S, Maraszek KE, Alahmari AA, George A, Attwood K, George M, Rempinski D, Franco-Barraza J, Seshadri M, Parker MD, Cortes Gomez E, Fountzilas C, Cukierman E, Steele NG, Feigin ME. Lorazepam Stimulates IL6 Production and Is Associated with Poor Survival Outcomes in Pancreatic Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:3793-3812. [PMID: 37587561 PMCID: PMC10502465 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-0547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This research investigates the association between benzodiazepines (BZD) and cancer patient survival outcomes, the pancreatic cancer tumor microenvironment, and cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) signaling. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Multivariate Cox regression modeling was used to retrospectively measure associations between Roswell Park cancer patient survival outcomes and BZD prescription records. IHC, H&E, Masson's trichrome, RNAscope, and RNA sequencing were used to evaluate the impact of lorazepam (LOR) on the murine PDAC tumor microenvironment. ELISA and qPCR were used to determine the impact of BZDs on IL6 expression or secretion by human-immortalized pancreatic CAFs. PRESTO-Tango assays, reanalysis of PDAC single-cell sequencing/TCGA data sets, and GPR68 CRISPRi knockdown CAFs were used to determine the impact of BZDs on GPR68 signaling. RESULTS LOR is associated with worse progression-free survival (PFS), whereas alprazolam (ALP) is associated with improved PFS, in pancreatic cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. LOR promotes desmoplasia (fibrosis and extracellular matrix protein deposition), inflammatory signaling, and ischemic necrosis. GPR68 is preferentially expressed on human PDAC CAFs, and n-unsubstituted BZDs, such as LOR, significantly increase IL6 expression and secretion in CAFs in a pH and GPR68-dependent manner. Conversely, ALP and other GPR68 n-substituted BZDs decrease IL6 in human CAFs in a pH and GPR68-independent manner. Across many cancer types, LOR is associated with worse survival outcomes relative to ALP and patients not receiving BZDs. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that LOR stimulates fibrosis and inflammatory signaling, promotes desmoplasia and ischemic necrosis, and is associated with decreased pancreatic cancer patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail C. Cornwell
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Arwen A. Tisdale
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Swati Venkat
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Kathryn E. Maraszek
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Abdulrahman A. Alahmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anthony George
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Kristopher Attwood
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Madison George
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Pancreatic Cancer Center, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Donald Rempinski
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Pancreatic Cancer Center, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Janusz Franco-Barraza
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Institute for Cancer Research, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Marvin and Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Institute for Cancer Research, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Mukund Seshadri
- Department of Oral Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Mark D. Parker
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, New York
- Department of Ophthalmology, University at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, New York
| | - Eduardo Cortes Gomez
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
- Department of Biostatistics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Christos Fountzilas
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Edna Cukierman
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Institute for Cancer Research, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Marvin and Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Institute for Cancer Research, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Nina G. Steele
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Pancreatic Cancer Center, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Michael E. Feigin
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
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108
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Bararia A, Das A, Mitra S, Banerjee S, Chatterjee A, Sikdar N. Deoxyribonucleic acid methylation driven aberrations in pancreatic cancer-related pathways. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2023; 15:1505-1519. [PMID: 37746645 PMCID: PMC10514732 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i9.1505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PanCa) presents a catastrophic disease with poor overall survival at advanced stages, with immediate requirement of new and effective treatment options. Besides genetic mutations, epigenetic dysregulation of signaling pathway-associated enriched genes are considered as novel therapeutic target. Mechanisms beneath the deoxyribonucleic acid methylation and its utility in developing of epi-drugs in PanCa are under trails. Combinations of epigenetic medicines with conventional cytotoxic treatments or targeted therapy are promising options to improving the dismal response and survival rate of PanCa patients. Recent studies have identified potentially valid pathways that support the prediction that future PanCa clinical trials will include vigorous testing of epigenomic therapies. Epigenetics thus promises to generate a significant amount of new knowledge of biological and medical importance. Our review could identify various components of epigenetic mechanisms known to be involved in the initiation and development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and related precancerous lesions, and novel pharmacological strategies that target these components could potentially lead to breakthroughs. We aim to highlight the possibilities that exist and the potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Bararia
- Human Genetics Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata 700108, India
| | - Amlan Das
- Department of Biochemistry, Royal Global University, Assam 781035, India
| | - Sangeeta Mitra
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Kalyani, West Bengal 741235, India
| | - Sudeep Banerjee
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Tata Medical Center, Kolkata 700160, India
| | - Aniruddha Chatterjee
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun 248007, India
| | - Nilabja Sikdar
- Human Genetics Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata 700108, India
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109
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Liang G, Oh TG, Hah N, Tiriac H, Shi Y, Truitt ML, Antal CE, Atkins AR, Li Y, Fraser C, Ng S, Pinto AFM, Nelson DC, Estepa G, Bashi S, Banayo E, Dai Y, Liddle C, Yu RT, Hunter T, Engle DD, Han H, Von Hoff DD, Downes M, Evans RM. Inhibiting Stromal Class I HDACs Curbs Pancreatic Cancer Progression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.12.557260. [PMID: 37745372 PMCID: PMC10515810 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.12.557260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic lesions in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) hijack the epigenetic machinery in stromal components to establish a desmoplastic and therapeutic resistant tumor microenvironment (TME). Here we identify Class I histone deacetylases (HDACs) as key epigenetic factors facilitating the induction of pro-desmoplastic and pro-tumorigenic transcriptional programs in pancreatic stromal fibroblasts. Mechanistically, HDAC-mediated changes in chromatin architecture enable the activation of pro-desmoplastic programs directed by serum response factor (SRF) and forkhead box M1 (FOXM1). HDACs also coordinate fibroblast pro-inflammatory programs inducing leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) expression, supporting paracrine pro-tumorigenic crosstalk. HDAC depletion in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and treatment with the HDAC inhibitor entinostat (Ent) in PDAC mouse models reduce stromal activation and curb tumor progression. Notably, HDAC inhibition (HDACi) enriches a lipogenic fibroblast subpopulation, a potential precursor for myofibroblasts in the PDAC stroma. Overall, our study reveals the stromal targeting potential of HDACi, highlighting the utility of this epigenetic modulating approach in PDAC therapeutics.
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110
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Qian J, Zhang X, Wei B, Tang Z, Zhang B. The correlation between gut and intra-tumor microbiota and PDAC: Etiology, diagnostics and therapeutics. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188943. [PMID: 37355177 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the lethal cancers in the world and its 5-year survival rate is <10%. Due to the unique TME and dense tissue structure, its curative efficacy is far from satisfactory,the immunotherapy is even more invalid. According to the recent studies, the gut and tumor microbiota have been proved to play a key role in the development, progression and prognosis of PDAC. Based on the differences of microbiome composition observed in PDAC patients and normal pancreas, many researches have been made focusing on the latent communication between gut and intra-tumor microbiota and PDAC. In this review, we will demonstrate the potential mechanism of the oncogenic effects of GM and IM and their crucial effects on modulating the TME. Besides, we focus on their interaction with chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic drugs and inducing the drug resistance, thus enlightening the promising role to be used to monitor the occurrence of PDAC, accurately modulate the immune environment to promote the therapeutic efficacy and predict the prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwei Qian
- The Fourth affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu 322000, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- The Fourth affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu 322000, China
| | - Butian Wei
- The Fourth affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu 322000, China
| | - Zhe Tang
- The Fourth affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu 322000, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- The Second affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 31000, China.
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111
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An YF, Pu N, Jia JB, Wang WQ, Liu L. Therapeutic advances targeting tumor angiogenesis in pancreatic cancer: Current dilemmas and future directions. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188958. [PMID: 37495194 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most lethal malignancies, which is generally resistant to various treatments. Tumor angiogenesis is deemed to be a pivotal rate-determining step for tumor growth and metastasis. Therefore, anti-angiogenetic therapy is a rational strategy to treat various cancers. However, numerous clinical trials on anti-angiogenetic therapies for PC are overwhelmingly disappointing. The unique characteristics of tumor blood vessels in PC, which are desperately lacking and highly compressed by the dense desmoplastic stroma, are reconsidered to explore some optimized strategies. In this review, we mainly focus on its specific characteristics of tumor blood vessels, discuss the current dilemmas of anti-angiogenic therapy in PC and their underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, we point out the future directions, including remodeling the abnormal vasculature or even reshaping the whole tumor microenvironment in which they are embedded to improve tumor microcirculation, and then create therapeutic vulnerabilities to the current available therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Fei An
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Basic Medicine, Chang Zhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000,China; Department of Basic Medicine and Institute of Liver Diseases, Shan Xi Medical University, Taiyuan 030000, China
| | - Ning Pu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jin-Bin Jia
- Department of Basic Medicine and Institute of Liver Diseases, Shan Xi Medical University, Taiyuan 030000, China.
| | - Wen-Quan Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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Igata Y, Kojima M, Suzuki T, Ishii G, Morisue R, Suzuki T, Kudo M, Sugimoto M, Kobayashi S, Martin JD, Stylianopoulos T, Cabral H, Kano MR, Konishi M, Gotohda N. Relationships between physical and immunological tumor microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:3783-3792. [PMID: 37337413 PMCID: PMC10475771 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is physically palpated as a hard tumor with an unfavorable prognosis. Assessing physical features and their association with pathological features could help to elucidate the mechanism of physical abnormalities in cancer tissues. A total of 93 patients who underwent radical surgery for pancreatic and bile duct cancers at a single center hospital during a 28-month period were recruited for this study that aimed to estimate the stiffness of PDAC tissues compared to the other neoplasms and assess relationships between tumor stiffness and pathological features. Physical alterations and pathological features of PDAC, with or without preoperative therapy, were analyzed. The immunological tumor microenvironment was evaluated using multiplexed fluorescent immunohistochemistry. The stiffness of PDAC correlated with the ratio of Azan-Mallory staining, α-smooth muscle actin, and collagen I-positive areas of the tumors. Densities of CD8+ T cells and CD204+ macrophages were associated with tumor stiffness in cases without preoperative therapy. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma treated with preoperative therapy was softer than that without, and the association between tumor stiffness and immune cell infiltration was not shown after preoperative therapy. We observed the relationship between tumor stiffness and immunological features in human PDAC for the first time. Immune cell densities in the tumor center were smaller in hard tumors than in soft tumors without preoperative therapies. Preoperative therapy could alter physical and immunological aspects, warranting further study. Understanding of the correlations between physical and immunological aspects could lead to the development of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Igata
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic SurgeryNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaJapan
- Course of Advanced Clinical Research of CancerJuntendo University Graduate School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Motohiro Kojima
- Division of Pathology, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial CenterNational Cancer CenterKashiwaJapan
| | | | - Genichiro Ishii
- Department of Pathology and Clinical LaboratoriesNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaJapan
| | - Ryo Morisue
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic SurgeryNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaJapan
- Division of Pathology, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial CenterNational Cancer CenterKashiwaJapan
| | - Toshihiro Suzuki
- Division of Pharmacology, School of MedicineTeikyo UniversityTokyoJapan
- Department of Cancer Immunotherapy, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial CenterNational Cancer CenterKashiwaJapan
| | - Masashi Kudo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic SurgeryNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaJapan
| | - Motokazu Sugimoto
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic SurgeryNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaJapan
| | - Shin Kobayashi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic SurgeryNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaJapan
| | | | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing EngineeringUniversity of CyprusNicosiaCyprus
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of EngineeringThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Mitsunobu R. Kano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health SystemsOkayama UniversityOkayamaJapan
| | - Masaru Konishi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic SurgeryNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaJapan
| | - Naoto Gotohda
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic SurgeryNational Cancer Center Hospital EastKashiwaJapan
- Course of Advanced Clinical Research of CancerJuntendo University Graduate School of MedicineTokyoJapan
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Zhang K, Chen Y, Zhu J, Ge X, Wu J, Xu P, Yao J. Advancement of single-cell sequencing for clinical diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1213136. [PMID: 37720505 PMCID: PMC10501729 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1213136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-cell sequencing is a high-throughput technique that enables detection of genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenomic information at the individual cell level, offering significant advantages in detecting cellular heterogeneity, precise cell classification, and identifying rare subpopulations. The technique holds tremendous potential in improving the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer. Moreover, single-cell sequencing provides unique insights into the mechanisms of pancreatic cancer metastasis and cachexia, paving the way for developing novel preventive strategies. Overall, single-cell sequencing has immense potential in promoting early diagnosis, guiding personalized treatment, and preventing complications of pancreatic cancer. Emerging single-cell sequencing technologies will undoubtedly enhance our understanding of the complex biology of pancreatic cancer and pave the way for new directions in its clinical diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhang
- Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Ge
- Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Junqing Wu
- Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jie Yao
- Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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Bye BA, Jack J, Pierce A, Walsh RM, Eades A, Chalise P, Olou A, VanSaun MN. Combined PI3K and MAPK inhibition synergizes to suppress PDAC. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.15.553438. [PMID: 37645960 PMCID: PMC10462031 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.15.553438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic KRAS mutations are nearly ubiquitous in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), yet therapeutic attempts to target KRAS as well as its target MAPK pathway effectors have shown limited success due to the difficulty to pharmacologically target KRAS, inherent drug resistance in PDAC cells, and acquired resistance through activation of alternative mitogenic pathways such JAK-STAT and PI3K-AKT. While KRAS canonically drives the MAPK signaling pathway via RAF-MEK-ERK, it is also known to play a role in PI3K-AKT signaling. Our therapeutic study targeted the PI3K-AKT pathway with the drug Omipalisib (p110α/β/δ/γ and mTORC1/2 inhibitor) in combination with MAPK pathway targeting drug Trametinib (MEK1/2 inhibitor) or SHP099-HCL (SHP099), which is an inhibitor of the KRAS effector SHP2. Western blot analysis demonstrated that application of Trametinib or SHP099 alone selectively blocked ERK phosphorylation (pERK) but failed to suppress phosphorylated AKT (pAKT) and in some instances increased pAKT levels. Conversely, Omipalisib alone successfully inhibited pAKT but failed to suppress pERK. Therefore, we hypothesized that a combination therapeutic comprised of Omipalisib with either Trametinib or SHP099 would inhibit two prominent mitogenic pathways, MEK and PI3K-AKT, to more effectively suppress pancreatic cancer. In vitro studies demonstrated that both Omipalisib/Trametinib and Omipalisib/SHP099 combination therapeutic strategies were generally more effective than treatment with each drug individually at reducing proliferation, colony formation, and cell migration compared to vehicle controls. Additionally, we found that while combination Omipalisib/SHP099 treatment reduced implanted tumor growth in vivo , the Omipalisib/Trametinib treatment was significantly more effective. Therefore, we additionally tested the Omipalisib/Trametinib combination therapeutic in the highly aggressive PKT (Ptf1a cre , LSL-Kras G12D , TGFbR2 fl/fl ) spontaneous mouse model of PDAC. We subsequently found that PKT mice treated with the Omipalisib/Trametinib combination therapeutic survived significantly longer than mice treated with either drug alone, and more than doubled the mean survival time of vehicle control mice. Altogether, our data support the importance of a dual treatment strategy targeting both MAPK and PI3K-AKT pathways.
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115
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Cierpikowski P, Leszczyszyn A, Bar J. The Role of Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cells 2023; 12:2083. [PMID: 37626893 PMCID: PMC10453169 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth leading malignancy worldwide, with a poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Molecularly targeted therapies for HNSCC are still lacking. However, recent reports provide novel insights about many molecular alterations in HNSCC that may be useful in future therapies. Therefore, it is necessary to identify new biomarkers that may provide a better prediction of the disease and promising targets for personalized therapy. The poor response of HNSCC to therapy is attributed to a small population of tumor cells called cancer stem cells (CSCs). Growing evidence indicates that the Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of head and neck tissues. The HH pathway is normally involved in embryogenesis, stem cell renewal, and tissue regeneration. However, abnormal activation of the HH pathway is also associated with carcinogenesis and CSC regulation. Overactivation of the HH pathway was observed in several tumors, including basal cell carcinoma, that are successfully treated with HH inhibitors. However, clinical studies about HH pathways in HNSCC are still rare. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge and recent advances regarding the HH pathway in HNSCC and discuss its possible implications for prognosis and future therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Cierpikowski
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, The Ludwik Rydygier Specialist Hospital, Osiedle Zlotej Jesieni 1, 31-826 Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Leszczyszyn
- Dental Surgery Outpatient Clinic, 4th Military Clinical Hospital, Weigla 5, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Julia Bar
- Department of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Bujwida 44, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
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116
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Cauli E, Polidoro MA, Marzorati S, Bernardi C, Rasponi M, Lleo A. Cancer-on-chip: a 3D model for the study of the tumor microenvironment. J Biol Eng 2023; 17:53. [PMID: 37592292 PMCID: PMC10436436 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-023-00372-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The approval of anticancer therapeutic strategies is still slowed down by the lack of models able to faithfully reproduce in vivo cancer physiology. On one hand, the conventional in vitro models fail to recapitulate the organ and tissue structures, the fluid flows, and the mechanical stimuli characterizing the human body compartments. On the other hand, in vivo animal models cannot reproduce the typical human tumor microenvironment, essential to study cancer behavior and progression. This study reviews the cancer-on-chips as one of the most promising tools to model and investigate the tumor microenvironment and metastasis. We also described how cancer-on-chip devices have been developed and implemented to study the most common primary cancers and their metastatic sites. Pros and cons of this technology are then discussed highlighting the future challenges to close the gap between the pre-clinical and clinical studies and accelerate the approval of new anticancer therapies in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Cauli
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico Di Milano, Milan, Italy.
- Accelera Srl, Nerviano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Michela Anna Polidoro
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Marzorati
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Marco Rasponi
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
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117
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Su MC, Nethi SK, Dhanyamraju PK, Prabha S. Nanomedicine Strategies for Targeting Tumor Stroma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4145. [PMID: 37627173 PMCID: PMC10452920 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor stroma, or the microenvironment surrounding solid tumors, can significantly impact the effectiveness of cancer therapies. The tumor microenvironment is characterized by high interstitial pressure, a consequence of leaky vasculature, and dense stroma created by excessive deposition of various macromolecules such as collagen, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid (HA). In addition, non-cancerous cells such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and the extracellular matrix (ECM) itself can promote tumor growth. In recent years, there has been increased interest in combining standard cancer treatments with stromal-targeting strategies or stromal modulators to improve therapeutic outcomes. Furthermore, the use of nanomedicine, which can improve the delivery and retention of drugs in the tumor, has been proposed to target the stroma. This review focuses on how different stromal components contribute to tumor progression and impede chemotherapeutic delivery. Additionally, this review highlights recent advancements in nanomedicine-based stromal modulation and discusses potential future directions for developing more effective stroma-targeted cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Chi Su
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
| | - Susheel Kumar Nethi
- Nanovaccine Institute, Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA;
| | - Pavan Kumar Dhanyamraju
- Fels Cancer Institute of Personalized Medicine, Lewis-Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA;
| | - Swayam Prabha
- Fels Cancer Institute of Personalized Medicine, Lewis-Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA;
- Department of Cancer and Cellular Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA
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Walsh RM, Ambrose J, Jack JL, Eades AE, Bye B, Ruckert MT, Olou AA, Messaggio F, Chalise P, Pei D, VanSaun MN. Adipose-Tumor Crosstalk contributes to CXCL5 Mediated Immune Evasion in PDAC. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.15.553432. [PMID: 37645755 PMCID: PMC10461999 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.15.553432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Background CXCR1/2 inhibitors are being implemented with immunotherapies in PDAC clinical trials. Cytokines responsible for stimulating these receptors include CXCL ligands, typically secreted by activated immune cells, fibroblasts, and even adipocytes. Obesity has been linked to poor patient outcome and altered anti-tumor immunity. Adipose-derived cytokines and chemokines have been implicated as potential drivers of tumor cell immune evasion, suggesting a possibility of susceptibility to targeting specifically in the context of obesity. Methods RNA-sequencing of human PDAC cell lines was used to assess differential influences on the cancer cell transcriptome after treatment with conditioned media from peri-pancreatic adipose tissue of lean and obese PDAC patients. The adipose-induced secretome of PDAC cells was then assessed by cytokine arrays and ELISAs. Lentiviral transduction and CRISPR-Cas9 was used to knock out CXCL5 from a murine PDAC cell line for orthotopic tumor studies in diet-induced obese, syngeneic mice. Flow cytometry was used to define the immune profiles of tumors. Anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade therapy was administered to alleviate T cell exhaustion and invoke an immune response, while the mice were monitored at endpoint for differences in tumor size. Results The chemokine CXCL5 was secreted in response to stimulation of PDAC cells with human adipose conditioned media (hAT-CM). PDAC CXCL5 secretion was induced by either IL-1β or TNF, but neutralization of both was required to limit secretion. Ablation of CXCL5 from tumors promoted an immune phenotype susceptible to PD-1 inhibitor therapy. While application of anti-PD-1 treatment to control tumors failed to alter tumor growth, knockout CXCL5 tumors were diminished. Conclusions In summary, our findings show that known adipokines TNF and IL-1β can stimulate CXCL5 release from PDAC cells in vitro. In vivo , CXCL5 depletion alone is sufficient to promote T cell infiltration into tumors in an obese setting, but requires checkpoint blockade inhibition to alleviate tumor burden. DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT Raw and processed RNAseq data will be further described in the GEO accession database ( awaiting approval from GEO for PRJ number ). Additional raw data is included in the supplemental material and available upon reasonable request. WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ON THIS TOPIC Obesity is linked to a worsened patient outcome and immunogenic tumor profile in PDAC. CXCR1/2 inhibitors have begun to be implemented in combination with immune checkpoint blockade therapies to promote T cell infiltration under the premise of targeting the myeloid rich TME. WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS Using in vitro/ex vivo cell and tissue culture-based assays with in vivo mouse models we have identified that adipose derived IL-1β and TNF can promote tumor secretion of CXCL5 which acts as a critical deterrent to CD8 T cell tumor infiltration, but loss of CXCL5 also leads to a more immune suppressive myeloid profile. HOW THIS STUDY MIGHT AFFECT RESEARCH PRACTICE OR POLICY This study highlights a mechanism and emphasizes the efficacy of single CXCR1/2 ligand targeting that could be beneficial to overcoming tumor immune-evasion even in the obese PDAC patient population.
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119
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Storz P. Roles of differently polarized macrophages in the initiation and progressionof pancreatic cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1237711. [PMID: 37638028 PMCID: PMC10450961 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1237711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
During development of pancreatic cancer macrophage-mediated inflammatory processes and the formation of cancerous lesions are tightly connected. Based on insight from mouse models we provide an overview on the functions of classically-activated pro-inflammatory and alternatively-activated anti-inflammatory macrophages in the initiation and progression of pancreatic cancer. We highlight their roles in earliest events of tumor initiation such as acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM), organization of the fibrotic lesion microenvironment, and growth of low-grade (LG) lesions. We then discuss their roles as tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) in progression to high-grade (HG) lesions with a cancerous invasive phenotype and an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Another focus is on how targeting these macrophage populations can affect immunosuppression, fibrosis and responses to chemotherapy, and eventually how this knowledge could be used for novel therapy approaches for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Storz
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
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120
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Schmidt DR, Gramatikov IMT, Sheen A, Williams CL, Hurwitz M, Dodge LE, Holupka E, Kiger WS, Cornwall-Brady MR, Huang W, Mak HH, Cormier KS, Condon C, Dane Wittrup K, Yilmaz ÖH, Stevenson MA, Down JD, Floyd SR, Roper J, Vander Heiden MG. Ablative radiotherapy improves survival but does not cure autochthonous mouse models of prostate and colorectal cancer. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2023; 3:108. [PMID: 37558833 PMCID: PMC10412558 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-023-00336-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) of cancer are powerful tools to study mechanisms of disease progression and therapy response, yet little is known about how these models respond to multimodality therapy used in patients. Radiation therapy (RT) is frequently used to treat localized cancers with curative intent, delay progression of oligometastases, and palliate symptoms of metastatic disease. METHODS Here we report the development, testing, and validation of a platform to immobilize and target tumors in mice with stereotactic ablative RT (SART). Xenograft and autochthonous tumor models were treated with hypofractionated ablative doses of radiotherapy. RESULTS We demonstrate that hypofractionated regimens used in clinical practice can be effectively delivered in mouse models. SART alters tumor stroma and the immune environment, improves survival in GEMMs of primary prostate and colorectal cancer, and synergizes with androgen deprivation in prostate cancer. Complete pathologic responses were achieved in xenograft models, but not in GEMMs. CONCLUSIONS While SART is capable of fully ablating xenografts, it is unable to completely eradicate disease in GEMMs, arguing that resistance to potentially curative therapy can be modeled in GEMMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Schmidt
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Iva Monique T Gramatikov
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Allison Sheen
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Christopher L Williams
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Martina Hurwitz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laura E Dodge
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Edward Holupka
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - W S Kiger
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Milton R Cornwall-Brady
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Wei Huang
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Howard H Mak
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kathleen S Cormier
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Charlene Condon
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - K Dane Wittrup
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ömer H Yilmaz
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, USA
| | - Mary Ann Stevenson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Julian D Down
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Scott R Floyd
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jatin Roper
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, and Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Matthew G Vander Heiden
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
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Nasiraee MR, Shahrivari S, Sayad S, Mahdavi H, Saraygord‐Afshari N, Bagheri Z. An agarose-alginate microfluidic device for the study of spheroid invasion, ATRA inhibits CAFs-mediated matrix remodeling. Cytotechnology 2023; 75:309-323. [PMID: 37389131 PMCID: PMC10299977 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-023-00578-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence demonstrates that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are responsible for tumor genesis, growth, metastasis, and treatment response. Therefore, targeting these cells may contribute to tumor control. It has been proposed that targeting key molecules and pathways of proliferative functions can be more effective than killing CAFs. In this regard, multicellular aggregates, like spheroids, can be used as human tumor models. Spheroids closely resemble human tumors and mimic many of their features. Microfluidic systems are ideal for cultivation and study of spheroids. These systems can be designed with different biological and synthetic matrices in order to have a more realistic simulation of the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we investigated the effect of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) on 3D spheroid invasion of MDA-MB cells exposed to hydrogel matrix derived from CAFs. The number of invasive cells significantly decreased in CAF-ECM hydrogel treated with ATRA (p < 0.05), which indicates that ATRA could be effective for CAFs normalization. This experiment was done using an agarose-alginate microfluidic chip. As compared with common methods, such hydrogel casting is an easier method for chip fabrication and can even reduce costs. Graphical abstract Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10616-023-00578-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Nasiraee
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Shabnam Shahrivari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Soheila Sayad
- Department of Surgery, Firoozgar Clinical Research Development Center (FCRDC), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hoda Mahdavi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Saraygord‐Afshari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Zeinab Bagheri
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University G.C, Tehran, 19839-69411 Iran
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Laface C, Memeo R, Maselli FM, Santoro AN, Iaia ML, Ambrogio F, Laterza M, Cazzato G, Guarini C, De Santis P, Perrone M, Fedele P. Immunotherapy and Pancreatic Cancer: A Lost Challenge? Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1482. [PMID: 37511856 PMCID: PMC10381818 DOI: 10.3390/life13071482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Although immunotherapy has proved to be a very efficient therapeutic strategy for many types of tumors, the results for pancreatic cancer (PC) have been very poor. Indeed, chemotherapy remains the standard treatment for this tumor in the advanced stage. Clinical data showed that only a small portion of PC patients with high microsatellite instability/mismatch repair deficiency benefit from immunotherapy. However, the low prevalence of these alterations was not sufficient to lead to a practice change in the treatment strategy of this tumor. The main reasons for the poor efficacy of immunotherapy probably lie in the peculiar features of the pancreatic tumor microenvironment in comparison with other malignancies. In addition, the biomarkers usually evaluated to define immunotherapy efficacy in other cancers appear to be useless in PC. This review aims to describe the main features of the pancreatic tumor microenvironment from an immunological point of view and to summarize the current data on immunotherapy efficacy and immune biomarkers in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Laface
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
| | - Riccardo Memeo
- Unit of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery, "F. Miulli" General Regional Hospital, 70021 Acquaviva Delle Fonti, Italy
| | | | | | - Maria Laura Iaia
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
| | - Francesca Ambrogio
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Marigia Laterza
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Gerardo Cazzato
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Pathology Section, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Chiara Guarini
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
| | - Pierluigi De Santis
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
| | - Martina Perrone
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
| | - Palma Fedele
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
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123
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Vaziri-Gohar A, Hue JJ, Abbas A, Graor HJ, Hajihassani O, Zarei M, Titomihelakis G, Feczko J, Rathore M, Chelstowska S, Loftus AW, Wang R, Zarei M, Goudarzi M, Zhang R, Willard B, Zhang L, Kresak A, Willis JE, Wang GM, Tatsuoka C, Salvino JM, Bederman I, Brunengraber H, Lyssiotis CA, Brody JR, Winter JM. Increased glucose availability sensitizes pancreatic cancer to chemotherapy. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3823. [PMID: 37380658 PMCID: PMC10307839 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38921-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is highly resistant to chemotherapy. Effective alternative therapies have yet to emerge, as chemotherapy remains the best available systemic treatment. However, the discovery of safe and available adjuncts to enhance chemotherapeutic efficacy can still improve survival outcomes. We show that a hyperglycemic state substantially enhances the efficacy of conventional single- and multi-agent chemotherapy regimens against PDAC. Molecular analyses of tumors exposed to high glucose levels reveal that the expression of GCLC (glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit), a key component of glutathione biosynthesis, is diminished, which in turn augments oxidative anti-tumor damage by chemotherapy. Inhibition of GCLC phenocopies the suppressive effect of forced hyperglycemia in mouse models of PDAC, while rescuing this pathway mitigates anti-tumor effects observed with chemotherapy and high glucose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Vaziri-Gohar
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Department of Cancer Biology, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA.
| | - Jonathan J Hue
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University Hospitals, Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ata Abbas
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Hallie J Graor
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Omid Hajihassani
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mehrdad Zarei
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University Hospitals, Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - George Titomihelakis
- Jefferson Pancreas, Biliary and Related Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John Feczko
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Moeez Rathore
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sylwia Chelstowska
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Alexander W Loftus
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University Hospitals, Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rui Wang
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mahsa Zarei
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Maryam Goudarzi
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Core, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Renliang Zhang
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Core, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Belinda Willard
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Core, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Adam Kresak
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University and Department of Pathology Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Joseph E Willis
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University and Department of Pathology Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Gi-Ming Wang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Curtis Tatsuoka
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph M Salvino
- Molecular and Cellular Oncogenesis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ilya Bederman
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Henri Brunengraber
- Department of Nutrition and Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Costas A Lyssiotis
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jonathan R Brody
- Brenden Colson Center for Pancreatic Care; Departments of Surgery and Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology; Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Jordan M Winter
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University Hospitals, Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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McCarthy GA, Di Niro R, Finan JM, Jain A, Guo Y, Wyatt C, Guimaraes A, Waugh T, Keith D, Morgan T, Sears R, Brody J. Deletion of the mRNA stability factor ELAVL1 (HuR) in pancreatic cancer cells disrupts the tumor microenvironment integrity. NAR Cancer 2023; 5:zcad016. [PMID: 37089813 PMCID: PMC10113877 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Stromal cells promote extensive fibrosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which is associated with poor prognosis and therapeutic resistance. We report here for the first time that loss of the RNA-binding protein human antigen R (HuR, ELAVL1) in PDAC cells leads to reprogramming of the tumor microenvironment. In multiple in vivo models, CRISPR deletion of ELAVL1 in PDAC cells resulted in a decrease of collagen deposition, accompanied by a decrease of stromal markers (i.e. podoplanin, α-smooth muscle actin, desmin). RNA-sequencing data showed that HuR plays a role in cell-cell communication. Accordingly, cytokine arrays identified that HuR regulates the secretion of signaling molecules involved in stromal activation and extracellular matrix organization [i.e. platelet-derived growth factor AA (PDGFAA) and pentraxin 3]. Ribonucleoprotein immunoprecipitation analysis and transcription inhibition studies validated PDGFA mRNA as a novel HuR target. These data suggest that tumor-intrinsic HuR supports extrinsic activation of the stroma to produce collagen and desmoplasia through regulating signaling molecules (e.g. PDGFAA). HuR-deficient PDAC in vivo tumors with an altered tumor microenvironment are more sensitive to the standard of care gemcitabine, as compared to HuR-proficient tumors. Taken together, we identified a novel role of tumor-intrinsic HuR in its ability to modify the surrounding tumor microenvironment and regulate PDGFAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace A McCarthy
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - Roberto Di Niro
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - Jennifer M Finan
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - Aditi Jain
- The Jefferson Pancreas, Biliary and Related Cancer Center, Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Yifei Guo
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - Cory R Wyatt
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Alexander R Guimaraes
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Trent A Waugh
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - Dove Keith
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - Terry K Morgan
- Department of Pathology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Rosalie C Sears
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - Jonathan R Brody
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
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125
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Chibaya L, Murphy KC, DeMarco KD, Gopalan S, Liu H, Parikh CN, Lopez-Diaz Y, Faulkner M, Li J, Morris JP, Ho YJ, Chana SK, Simon J, Luan W, Kulick A, de Stanchina E, Simin K, Zhu LJ, Fazzio TG, Lowe SW, Ruscetti M. EZH2 inhibition remodels the inflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype to potentiate pancreatic cancer immune surveillance. NATURE CANCER 2023; 4:872-892. [PMID: 37142692 PMCID: PMC10516132 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00553-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapies that produce durable responses in some malignancies have failed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) due to rampant immune suppression and poor tumor immunogenicity. We and others have demonstrated that induction of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) can be an effective approach to activate anti-tumor natural killer (NK) cell and T cell immunity. In the present study, we found that the pancreas tumor microenvironment suppresses NK cell and T cell surveillance after therapy-induced senescence through enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2)-mediated epigenetic repression of proinflammatory SASP genes. EZH2 blockade stimulated production of SASP chemokines CCL2 and CXCL9/10, leading to enhanced NK cell and T cell infiltration and PDAC eradication in mouse models. EZH2 activity was also associated with suppression of chemokine signaling and cytotoxic lymphocytes and reduced survival in patients with PDAC. These results demonstrate that EZH2 represses the proinflammatory SASP and that EZH2 inhibition combined with senescence-inducing therapy could be a powerful means to achieve immune-mediated tumor control in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loretah Chibaya
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Katherine C Murphy
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Kelly D DeMarco
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Sneha Gopalan
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Haibo Liu
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Chaitanya N Parikh
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Yvette Lopez-Diaz
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Melissa Faulkner
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Junhui Li
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - John P Morris
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yu-Jui Ho
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sachliv K Chana
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Janelle Simon
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wei Luan
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Amanda Kulick
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elisa de Stanchina
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karl Simin
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Lihua Julie Zhu
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Thomas G Fazzio
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Scott W Lowe
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
| | - Marcus Ruscetti
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Immunology and Microbiology Program, University of Massachusetts Medical Chan School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Cancer Center, University of Massachusetts Medical Chan School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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126
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McCarthy GA, Jain A, Di Niro R, Schultz CW, Jiang W, Yeo CJ, Bowers J, Finan J, Rhodes K, Casta L, Hou V, Stefanoni A, Brown SZ, Nevler A, Agostini LC, Getts L, Getts R, Brody JR. A Novel 3DNA® Nanocarrier effectively delivers payloads to pancreatic tumors. Transl Oncol 2023; 32:101662. [PMID: 37004490 PMCID: PMC10068615 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Standard-of-care systemic chemotherapies for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) currently have limited clinical benefits, in addition to causing adverse side effects in many patients. One factor known to contribute to the poor chemotherapy response is the poor drug diffusion into PDAC tumors. Novel treatment methods are therefore drastically needed to improve targeted delivery of treatments. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of the 3DNA® Nanocarrier (3DNA) platform to direct delivery of therapeutics to PDAC tumors in vivo. MATERIALS AND METHODS A panel of PDAC cell lines and a patient tissue microarray were screened for established tumor-specific proteins to identify targeting moieties for active targeting of the 3DNA. NRG mice with or without orthotopic MIA PaCa-2-luciferase PDAC tumors were treated intraperitoneally with 100 μl of fluorescently labeled 3DNA. RESULTS Folic acid and transferrin receptors were significantly elevated in PDAC compared to normal pancreas. Accordingly, both folic acid- and transferrin-conjugated 3DNA treatments significantly increased delivery of 3DNA specifically to tumors in comparison to unconjugated 3DNA treatment. In the absence of tumors, there was an increased clearance of both folic acid-conjugated 3DNA and unconjugated 3DNA, compared to the clearance rate in tumor-bearing mice. Lastly, delivery of siLuciferase by folic acid-conjugated 3DNA in an orthotopic model of luciferase-expressing PDAC showed significant and prolonged suppression of luciferase protein expression and activity. CONCLUSION Our study progresses the 3DNA technology as a reliable and effective treatment delivery platform for targeted therapeutic approaches in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace A McCarthy
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, 2730 S. Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97201, USA; Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 2730 S. Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - Aditi Jain
- Department of Surgery, The Jefferson Pancreas, Biliary and Related Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Roberto Di Niro
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, 2730 S. Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97201, USA; Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 2730 S. Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - Christopher W Schultz
- Department of Surgery, The Jefferson Pancreas, Biliary and Related Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Developmental Therapeutics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Charles J Yeo
- Department of Surgery, The Jefferson Pancreas, Biliary and Related Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Jennifer Finan
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, 2730 S. Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97201, USA; Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 2730 S. Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | | | | | - Vivi Hou
- Genisphere, LLC, Hatfield, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Avinoam Nevler
- Department of Surgery, The Jefferson Pancreas, Biliary and Related Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lebaron C Agostini
- Department of Surgery, The Jefferson Pancreas, Biliary and Related Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Jonathan R Brody
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, 2730 S. Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97201, USA; Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 2730 S. Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97201, USA.
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127
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Apiz Saab JJ, Dzierozynski LN, Jonker PB, AminiTabrizi R, Shah H, Menjivar RE, Scott AJ, Nwosu ZC, Zhu Z, Chen RN, Oh M, Sheehan C, Wahl DR, Pasca di Magliano M, Lyssiotis CA, Macleod KF, Weber CR, Muir A. Pancreatic tumors exhibit myeloid-driven amino acid stress and upregulate arginine biosynthesis. eLife 2023; 12:e81289. [PMID: 37254839 PMCID: PMC10260022 DOI: 10.7554/elife.81289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutrient stress in the tumor microenvironment requires cancer cells to adopt adaptive metabolic programs for survival and proliferation. Therefore, knowledge of microenvironmental nutrient levels and how cancer cells cope with such nutrition is critical to understand the metabolism underpinning cancer cell biology. Previously, we performed quantitative metabolomics of the interstitial fluid (the local perfusate) of murine pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumors to comprehensively characterize nutrient availability in the microenvironment of these tumors. Here, we develop Tumor Interstitial Fluid Medium (TIFM), a cell culture medium that contains nutrient levels representative of the PDAC microenvironment, enabling us to study PDAC metabolism ex vivo under physiological nutrient conditions. We show that PDAC cells cultured in TIFM adopt a cellular state closer to that of PDAC cells present in tumors compared to standard culture models. Further, using the TIFM model, we found arginine biosynthesis is active in PDAC and allows PDAC cells to maintain levels of this amino acid despite microenvironmental arginine depletion. We also show that myeloid derived arginase activity is largely responsible for the low levels of arginine in PDAC tumors. Altogether, these data indicate that nutrient availability in tumors is an important determinant of cancer cell metabolism and behavior, and cell culture models that incorporate physiological nutrient availability have improved fidelity to in vivo systems and enable the discovery of novel cancer metabolic phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan J Apiz Saab
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | | | - Patrick B Jonker
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | - Roya AminiTabrizi
- Metabolomics Platform, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | - Hardik Shah
- Metabolomics Platform, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | - Rosa Elena Menjivar
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn ArborUnited States
| | - Andrew J Scott
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of MichiganAnn ArborUnited States
| | - Zeribe C Nwosu
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn ArborUnited States
| | - Zhou Zhu
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | - Riona N Chen
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | - Moses Oh
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | - Colin Sheehan
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | - Daniel R Wahl
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of MichiganAnn ArborUnited States
| | | | - Costas A Lyssiotis
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn ArborUnited States
| | - Kay F Macleod
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | | | - Alexander Muir
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of ChicagoChicagoUnited States
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128
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Akhuba L, Tigai Z, Shek D. Major hurdles of immune-checkpoint inhibitors in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2023; 6:327-331. [PMID: 37457121 PMCID: PMC10344717 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2022.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
In 2030, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) will become the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the world. Unfortunately, neither conventional chemotherapy nor novel immunotherapeutic strategies can provide durable responses and the survival prognosis remains very low. PDAC is notorious for its immune-resistant features and unique genomic landscape facilitating tumor escape from immunosurveillance. Novel immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) failed to show promising efficacy and other multi-modal approaches are currently being validated in multiple clinical trials. In this paper, we provide our opinion on the major mechanisms responsible for PDAC resistance to ICI therapy and provide our view on future strategies which may overcome those barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liia Akhuba
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Zhanna Tigai
- Accreditation Centre, RUDN University, Moscow 117198, Russia
| | - Dmitrii Shek
- Blacktown Clinical School, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
- Blacktown Mt Druitt Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
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129
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Borlongan MC, Wang H. Profiling and targeting cancer stem cell signaling pathways for cancer therapeutics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1125174. [PMID: 37305676 PMCID: PMC10247984 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1125174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenic cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation of cells within the tumor that express genetic and phenotypic profiles and signaling pathways distinct from the other tumor cells. CSCs have eluded many conventional anti-oncogenic treatments, resulting in metastases and relapses of cancers. Effectively targeting CSCs' unique self-renewal and differentiation properties would be a breakthrough in cancer therapy. A better characterization of the CSCs' unique signaling mechanisms will improve our understanding of the pathology and treatment of cancer. In this paper, we will discuss CSC origin, followed by an in-depth review of CSC-associated signaling pathways. Particular emphasis is given on CSC signaling pathways' ligand-receptor engagement, upstream and downstream mechanisms, and associated genes, and molecules. Signaling pathways associated with regulation of CSC development stand as potential targets of CSC therapy, which include Wnt, TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β)/SMAD, Notch, JAK-STAT (Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription), Hedgehog (Hh), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Lastly, we will also discuss milestone discoveries in CSC-based therapies, including pre-clinical and clinical studies featuring novel CSC signaling pathway cancer therapeutics. This review aims at generating innovative views on CSCs toward a better understanding of cancer pathology and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia C. Borlongan
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Science College of Graduate Studies, Elk Grove, CA, United States
| | - Hongbin Wang
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Science College of Graduate Studies, Elk Grove, CA, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences College of Pharmacy, Elk Grove, CA, United States
- Department of Basic Science College of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA, United States
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130
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Imran KM, Tintera B, Morrison HA, Tupik JD, Nagai-Singer MA, Ivester H, Council-Troche M, Edwards M, Coutermarsh-Ott S, Byron C, Clark-Deener S, Uh K, Lee K, Boulos P, Rowe C, Coviello C, Allen IC. Improved Therapeutic Delivery Targeting Clinically Relevant Orthotopic Human Pancreatic Tumors Engrafted in Immunocompromised Pigs Using Ultrasound-Induced Cavitation: A Pilot Study. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1585. [PMID: 37376034 PMCID: PMC10302458 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15061585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic tumors can be resistant to drug penetration due to high interstitial fluid pressure, dense stroma, and disarrayed vasculature. Ultrasound-induced cavitation is an emerging technology that may overcome many of these limitations. Low-intensity ultrasound, coupled with co-administered cavitation nuclei consisting of gas-stabilizing sub-micron scale SonoTran Particles, is effective at increasing therapeutic antibody delivery to xenograft flank tumors in mouse models. Here, we sought to evaluate the effectiveness of this approach in situ using a large animal model that mimics human pancreatic cancer patients. Immunocompromised pigs were surgically engrafted with human Panc-1 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumors in targeted regions of the pancreas. These tumors were found to recapitulate many features of human PDAC tumors. Animals were intravenously injected with the common cancer therapeutics Cetuximab, gemcitabine, and paclitaxel, followed by infusion with SonoTran Particles. Select tumors in each animal were targeted with focused ultrasound to induce cavitation. Cavitation increased the intra-tumor concentrations of Cetuximab, gemcitabine, and paclitaxel by 477%, 148%, and 193%, respectively, compared to tumors that were not targeted with ultrasound in the same animals. Together, these data show that ultrasound-mediated cavitation, when delivered in combination with gas-entrapping particles, improves therapeutic delivery in pancreatic tumors under clinically relevant conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khan Mohammad Imran
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Roanoke, VA 24061, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Benjamin Tintera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Holly A. Morrison
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Juselyn D. Tupik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Margaret A. Nagai-Singer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Hannah Ivester
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Roanoke, VA 24061, USA
| | - McAlister Council-Troche
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Michael Edwards
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Sheryl Coutermarsh-Ott
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Christopher Byron
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Sherrie Clark-Deener
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Kyungjun Uh
- Division of Animal Science, College of Agriculture Food and Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Kiho Lee
- Division of Animal Science, College of Agriculture Food and Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Paul Boulos
- OxSonics Therapeutics, Oxford Science Park, Oxford OX4 4GA, UK
| | - Cliff Rowe
- OxSonics Therapeutics, Oxford Science Park, Oxford OX4 4GA, UK
| | | | - Irving C. Allen
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Roanoke, VA 24061, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
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131
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Khabipov A, Trung DN, van der Linde J, Miebach L, Lenz M, Erne F, von Bernstorff W, Schulze T, Kersting S, Bekeschus S, Partecke LI. CCR4 Blockade Diminishes Intratumoral Macrophage Recruitment and Augments Survival of Syngeneic Pancreatic Cancer-Bearing Mice. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1517. [PMID: 37371612 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is known for its tumor microenvironment (TME), which is rich in stromal and immune cells supporting cancer growth and therapy resistance. In particular, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are known for their angiogenesis- and metastasis-promoting properties, which lead to the failure of conventional therapies for pancreatic cancer. Hence, treatment options targeting TAMs are needed. The C-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CCR4) is critical for immune cell recruitment into the TME, and in this paper we explore the effects of its genetic or immunotherapeutic blockade in pancreatic-cancer-bearing mice. Murine PDA6606 pancreatic cancer cells and murine peritoneal macrophages were used for in vitro migration assays. In vivo, a syngeneic, orthotropic pancreatic cancer model was established. Tumor growth and survival were monitored under prophylactic and therapeutic application of a CCR4 antagonist (AF-399/420/18025) in wildtype (CCR4wt) and CCR4-knockout (CCR4-/-) mice. Immune infiltration was monitored in tumor tissue sections and via flow cytometry of lysed tumors. PDA6606 cells induced less migration in CCR4-/- than in CCR4wt macrophages in vitro. Pancreatic TAM infiltration was higher, and survival was reduced in CCR4wt mice compared to CCR4-/- mice. Antagonizing CCR4 in wildtype mice revealed similar results as in CCR4-/- mice without antagonization. Prophylactic CCR4 antagonist application in wildtype mice was more efficient than therapeutic antagonization. CCR4 seems to be critically involved in TAM generation and tumor progression in pancreatic cancer. CCR4 blockade may help prolong the relapse-free period after curative surgery in pancreatic cancer and improve prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aydar Khabipov
- Department of General, Thoracic, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Dung Nguyen Trung
- Department of General, Thoracic, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Julia van der Linde
- Department of General, Thoracic, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Lea Miebach
- Department of General, Thoracic, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., 17475 Greifswald, Germany
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Maik Lenz
- Department of General, Thoracic, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Felix Erne
- Department of General, Thoracic, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Wolfram von Bernstorff
- Department of General, Thoracic, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Tobias Schulze
- Department of General, Thoracic, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Stephan Kersting
- Department of General, Thoracic, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sander Bekeschus
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
- Clinic and Policlinic for Dermatology and Venerology, Rostock University Medical Center, Strempelstr. 13, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Lars Ivo Partecke
- Department of General, Thoracic, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., 17475 Greifswald, Germany
- Department of General, Visceral, and Thoracic Surgery, Helios Clinic Schleswig, St. Jurgener Str. 1-3, 24837 Schleswig, Germany
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132
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Huang P, Gao W, Fu C, Tian R. Functional and Clinical Proteomic Exploration of Pancreatic Cancer. Mol Cell Proteomics 2023:100575. [PMID: 37209817 PMCID: PMC10388587 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2023.100575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, most cases being pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), is one of the most lethal cancers with a median survival time of less than 6 months. Therapeutic options are very limited for PDAC patients, and surgery is still the most effective treatment, making improvements in early diagnosis critical. One typical characteristic of PDAC is the desmoplastic reaction of its stroma microenvironment, which actively interacts with cancer cells to orchestrate key components in tumorigenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Global exploration of cancer-stroma crosstalk is essential to decipher PDAC biology and design intervention strategies. Over the past decade, the dramatic improvement of proteomics technologies has enabled profiling of proteins, post-translational modifications (PTMs), and their protein complexes at unprecedented sensitivity and dimensionality. Here, starting with our current understanding of PDAC characteristics, including precursor lesions, progression models, tumor microenvironment, and therapeutic advancements, we describe how proteomics contributes to the functional and clinical exploration of PDAC, providing insights into PDAC carcinogenesis, progression, and chemoresistance. We summarize recent achievements enabled by proteomics to systematically investigate PTMs-mediated intracellular signaling in PDAC, cancer-stroma interactions, and potential therapeutic targets revealed by these functional studies. We also highlight proteomic profiling of clinical tissue and plasma samples to discover and verify useful biomarkers that can aid early detection and molecular classification of patients. In addition, we introduce spatial proteomic technology and its applications in PDAC for deconvolving tumor heterogeneity. Finally, we discuss future prospects of applying new proteomic technologies in comprehensively understanding PDAC heterogeneity and intercellular signaling networks. Importantly, we expect advances in clinical functional proteomics for exploring mechanisms of cancer biology directly by high-sensitivity functional proteomic approaches starting from clinical samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiwu Huang
- Department of Chemistry and Research Center for Chemical Biology and Omics Analysis, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Weina Gao
- Department of Chemistry and Research Center for Chemical Biology and Omics Analysis, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Changying Fu
- Department of Chemistry and Research Center for Chemical Biology and Omics Analysis, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ruijun Tian
- Department of Chemistry and Research Center for Chemical Biology and Omics Analysis, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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133
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Mehta N, Meng Y, Zare R, Kamenetsky-Goldstein R, Sattely E. A developmental gradient reveals biosynthetic pathways to eukaryotic toxins in monocot geophytes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.12.540595. [PMID: 37214939 PMCID: PMC10197729 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.12.540595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Numerous eukaryotic toxins that accumulate in geophytic plants are valuable in the clinic, yet their biosynthetic pathways have remained elusive. A lead example is the >150 Amaryllidaceae alkaloids (AmAs) including galantamine, an FDA-approved treatment for Alzheimer's disease. We show that while AmAs accumulate to high levels in many tissues in daffodils, biosynthesis is localized to nascent, growing tissue at the base of leaves. A similar trend is found for the production of steroidal alkaloids (e.g. cyclopamine) in corn lily. This model of active biosynthesis enabled elucidation of a complete set of biosynthetic genes for the production of AmAs. Taken together, our work sheds light on the developmental and enzymatic logic of diverse alkaloid biosynthesis in daffodil. More broadly, it suggests a paradigm for biosynthesis regulation in monocot geophytes where plants are protected from herbivory through active charging of newly formed cells with eukaryotic toxins that persist as aboveground tissue develops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj Mehta
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Yifan Meng
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Richard Zare
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth Sattely
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- HHMI, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
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134
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Brichkina A, Polo P, Sharma SD, Visestamkul N, Lauth M. A Quick Guide to CAF Subtypes in Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092614. [PMID: 37174079 PMCID: PMC10177377 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer represents one of the most desmoplastic malignancies and is characterized by an extensive deposition of extracellular matrix. The latter is provided by activated cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are abundant cells in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment. Many recent studies have made it clear that CAFs are not a singular cellular entity but represent a multitude of potentially dynamic subgroups that affect tumor biology at several levels. As mentioned before, CAFs significantly contribute to the fibrotic reaction and the biomechanical properties of the tumor, but they can also modulate the local immune environment and the response to targeted, chemo or radiotherapy. As the number of known and emerging CAF subgroups is steadily increasing, it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep up with these developments and to clearly discriminate the cellular subsets identified so far. This review aims to provide a helpful overview that enables readers to quickly familiarize themselves with field of CAF heterogeneity and to grasp the phenotypic, functional and therapeutic distinctions of the various stromal subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Brichkina
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology, Clinics for Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Pierfrancesco Polo
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology, Clinics for Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Shrey Dharamvir Sharma
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology, Clinics for Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Nico Visestamkul
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology, Clinics for Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Lauth
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology, Clinics for Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
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135
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Hebert JD, Neal JW, Winslow MM. Dissecting metastasis using preclinical models and methods. Nat Rev Cancer 2023; 23:391-407. [PMID: 37138029 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00568-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis has long been understood to lead to the overwhelming majority of cancer-related deaths. However, our understanding of the metastatic process, and thus our ability to prevent or eliminate metastases, remains frustratingly limited. This is largely due to the complexity of metastasis, which is a multistep process that likely differs across cancer types and is greatly influenced by many aspects of the in vivo microenvironment. In this Review, we discuss the key variables to consider when designing assays to study metastasis: which source of metastatic cancer cells to use and where to introduce them into mice to address different questions of metastasis biology. We also examine methods that are being used to interrogate specific steps of the metastatic cascade in mouse models, as well as emerging techniques that may shed new light on previously inscrutable aspects of metastasis. Finally, we explore approaches for developing and using anti-metastatic therapies, and how mouse models can be used to test them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess D Hebert
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Joel W Neal
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Monte M Winslow
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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136
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Goenka A, Khan F, Verma B, Sinha P, Dmello CC, Jogalekar MP, Gangadaran P, Ahn B. Tumor microenvironment signaling and therapeutics in cancer progression. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2023; 43:525-561. [PMID: 37005490 PMCID: PMC10174093 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor development and metastasis are facilitated by the complex interactions between cancer cells and their microenvironment, which comprises stromal cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) components, among other factors. Stromal cells can adopt new phenotypes to promote tumor cell invasion. A deep understanding of the signaling pathways involved in cell-to-cell and cell-to-ECM interactions is needed to design effective intervention strategies that might interrupt these interactions. In this review, we describe the tumor microenvironment (TME) components and associated therapeutics. We discuss the clinical advances in the prevalent and newly discovered signaling pathways in the TME, the immune checkpoints and immunosuppressive chemokines, and currently used inhibitors targeting these pathways. These include both intrinsic and non-autonomous tumor cell signaling pathways in the TME: protein kinase C (PKC) signaling, Notch, and transforming growth factor (TGF-β) signaling, Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) stress response, lactate signaling, Metabolic reprogramming, cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) and Siglec signaling pathways. We also discuss the recent advances in Programmed Cell Death Protein 1 (PD-1), Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte Associated Protein 4 (CTLA4), T-cell immunoglobulin mucin-3 (TIM-3) and Lymphocyte Activating Gene 3 (LAG3) immune checkpoint inhibitors along with the C-C chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4)- C-C class chemokines 22 (CCL22)/ and 17 (CCL17), C-C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2)- chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2), C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5)- chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3 (CCL3) chemokine signaling axis in the TME. In addition, this review provides a holistic understanding of the TME as we discuss the three-dimensional and microfluidic models of the TME, which are believed to recapitulate the original characteristics of the patient tumor and hence may be used as a platform to study new mechanisms and screen for various anti-cancer therapies. We further discuss the systemic influences of gut microbiota in TME reprogramming and treatment response. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of the diverse and most critical signaling pathways in the TME, highlighting the associated newest and critical preclinical and clinical studies along with their underlying biology. We highlight the importance of the most recent technologies of microfluidics and lab-on-chip models for TME research and also present an overview of extrinsic factors, such as the inhabitant human microbiome, which have the potential to modulate TME biology and drug responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anshika Goenka
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of NeurologyThe Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer CenterNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicago, 60611ILUSA
| | - Fatima Khan
- Department of Neurological SurgeryFeinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicago, 60611ILUSA
| | - Bhupender Verma
- Department of OphthalmologySchepens Eye Research InstituteMassachusetts Eye and Ear InfirmaryHarvard Medical SchoolBoston, 02114MAUSA
| | - Priyanka Sinha
- Department of NeurologyMassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative DiseaseMassachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, 02129MAUSA
| | - Crismita C. Dmello
- Department of Neurological SurgeryFeinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicago, 60611ILUSA
| | - Manasi P. Jogalekar
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of California San FranciscoSan Francisco, 94143CAUSA
| | - Prakash Gangadaran
- BK21 FOUR KNU Convergence Educational Program of Biomedical Sciences for Creative Future TalentsDepartment of Biomedical Science, School of MedicineKyungpook National UniversityDaegu, 41944South Korea
- Department of Nuclear MedicineSchool of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University HospitalDaegu, 41944South Korea
| | - Byeong‐Cheol Ahn
- BK21 FOUR KNU Convergence Educational Program of Biomedical Sciences for Creative Future TalentsDepartment of Biomedical Science, School of MedicineKyungpook National UniversityDaegu, 41944South Korea
- Department of Nuclear MedicineSchool of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University HospitalDaegu, 41944South Korea
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137
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Saha G, Roy S, Basu M, Ghosh MK. USP7 - a crucial regulator of cancer hallmarks. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188903. [PMID: 37127084 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Over the course of three decades of study, the deubiquitinase Herpesvirus associated Ubiquitin-Specific Protease/Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 7 (HAUSP/USP7) has gradually come to be recognized as a crucially important molecule in cellular physiology. The fact that USP7 is overexpressed in a number of cancers, including breast, prostate, colorectal, and lung cancers, supports the idea that USP7 is also an important regulator of tumorigenesis. In this review, we discuss USP7's function in relation to the cancer hallmarks described by Hanahan and Weinberg. This post-translational modifier can support increased proliferation, block unfavorable growth signals, stop cell death, and support an unstable cellular genome by manipulating key players in the pertinent signalling circuit. It is interesting to note that USP7 also aids in the stabilization of molecules that support angiogenesis and metastasis. Targeting USP7 has now emerged as a crucial component of USP7 research because pharmacological inhibition of USP7 supports p53-mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Efficacious USP7 inhibition is currently being investigated in both synthetic and natural compounds, but issues with selectivity and a lack of co-crystal structure have hindered USP7 inhibition from being tested in clinical settings. Moreover, the development of new, more effective USP7 inhibitors and their encouraging implications by numerous groups give us a glimmer of hope for USP7-targeting medications as effective substitutes for hazardous cancer chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gouranga Saha
- Cancer Biology and Inflammatory Disorder Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology (CSIR-IICB), TRUE Campus, CN-6, Sector-V, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700091 & 4, Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata, PIN - 700032, India
| | - Srija Roy
- Cancer Biology and Inflammatory Disorder Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology (CSIR-IICB), TRUE Campus, CN-6, Sector-V, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700091 & 4, Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata, PIN - 700032, India
| | - Malini Basu
- Department of Microbiology, Dhruba Chand Halder College, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, PIN - 743372, India
| | - Mrinal K Ghosh
- Cancer Biology and Inflammatory Disorder Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology (CSIR-IICB), TRUE Campus, CN-6, Sector-V, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700091 & 4, Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata, PIN - 700032, India.
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138
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Lim JU, Lee E, Lee SY, Cho HJ, Ahn DH, Hwang Y, Choi JY, Yeo CD, Park CK, Kim SJ. Current literature review on the tumor immune micro-environment, its heterogeneity and future perspectives in treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2023; 12:857-876. [PMID: 37197639 PMCID: PMC10183402 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr-22-633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objective Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) were a major clinical advancement that provided an opportunity to improve the prognosis of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, programmed death-ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression does not sufficiently predict ICI efficacy in NSCLC patients. In recent studies, the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) was shown to have a central role in lung cancer progression and to affect clinical outcome of patients diagnosed with lung cancer. As development of new therapeutic targets to overcome ICI resistance is a priority, understanding the TIME is important. Recently, a series of studies was conducted to target each component of TIME to improve efficacy of cancer treatment. In this review, important features related to TIME, its heterogeneity and current trends in treatment targeting the component of TIME are discussed. Methods PubMed and PMC were searched from January 1st, 2012 to August 16th, 2022 using the following key words: "NSCLC", "Tumor microenvironment", "Immune", "Metastasis" and "Heterogeneity". Key Content and Findings Heterogeneity in the TIME can be either spatial or temporal. Subsequent to heterogeneous changes in the TIME, treatment of lung cancer can be more challenging because drug resistance is more likely to occur. In terms of the TIME, the main concept for increasing the chance of successful NSCLC treatment is to activate immune responses against tumor cells and inhibit immunosuppressive activities. In addition, relevant research is focused on normalizing an otherwise aberrant TIME in NSCLC patients. Potential therapeutic targets include immune cells, cytokine interactions, and non-immune cells such as fibroblasts or vessels. Conclusions In management of lung cancer, understanding TIME and its heterogeneity is significant to treatment outcomes. Ongoing trials including various treatment modalities such as radiotherapy, cytotoxic chemotherapy, and anti-angiogenic treatment and regimens inhibiting other immunoinhibitory molecules are promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Uk Lim
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunyoung Lee
- Division of Pulmonology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Postech-Catholic Biomedical Engineering Institute, Songeui Multiplex Hall, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Yun Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Gachon University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong Jun Cho
- Division of Pulmonology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Postech-Catholic Biomedical Engineering Institute, Songeui Multiplex Hall, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hyuck Ahn
- Division of Pulmonology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Postech-Catholic Biomedical Engineering Institute, Songeui Multiplex Hall, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongki Hwang
- Postech-Catholic Biomedical Engineering Institute, Songeui Multiplex Hall, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Young Choi
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Incheon St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Dong Yeo
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Kwon Park
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Joon Kim
- Division of Pulmonology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Postech-Catholic Biomedical Engineering Institute, Songeui Multiplex Hall, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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139
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Rebelo R, Xavier CPR, Giovannetti E, Vasconcelos MH. Fibroblasts in pancreatic cancer: molecular and clinical perspectives. Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:439-453. [PMID: 37100646 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are highly abundant cells in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment (TME) that modulate desmoplasia. The formation of a dense stroma leads to immunosuppression and therapy resistance that are major causes of treatment failure in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Recent evidence suggests that several subpopulations of CAFs in the TME can interconvert, explaining the dual roles (antitumorigenic and protumorigenic) of CAFs in PDAC and the contradictory results of CAF-targeted therapies in clinical trials. This highlights the need to clarify CAF heterogeneity and their interactions with PDAC cells. This review focuses on the communication between activated PSCs/CAFs and PDAC cells, as well as on the mechanisms underlying this crosstalk. CAF-focused therapies and emerging biomarkers are also outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Rebelo
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Cancer Drug Resistance Group, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology (IPATIMUP), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Porto (FFUP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina P R Xavier
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Cancer Drug Resistance Group, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology (IPATIMUP), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Helena Vasconcelos
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Cancer Drug Resistance Group, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology (IPATIMUP), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Porto (FFUP), Porto, Portugal.
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140
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Palma AM, Vudatha V, Peixoto ML, Madan E. Tumor heterogeneity: An oncogenic driver of PDAC progression and therapy resistance under stress conditions. Adv Cancer Res 2023; 159:203-249. [PMID: 37268397 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a clinically challenging disease usually diagnosed at advanced or metastasized stage. By this year end, there are an expected increase in 62,210 new cases and 49,830 deaths in the United States, with 90% corresponding to PDAC subtype alone. Despite advances in cancer therapy, one of the major challenges combating PDAC remains tumor heterogeneity between PDAC patients and within the primary and metastatic lesions of the same patient. This review describes the PDAC subtypes based on the genomic, transcriptional, epigenetic, and metabolic signatures observed among patients and within individual tumors. Recent studies in tumor biology suggest PDAC heterogeneity as a major driver of disease progression under conditions of stress including hypoxia and nutrient deprivation, leading to metabolic reprogramming. We therefore advance our understanding in identifying the underlying mechanisms that interfere with the crosstalk between the extracellular matrix components and tumor cells that define the mechanics of tumor growth and metastasis. The bilateral interaction between the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment and PDAC cells serves as another important contributor that characterizes the tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressing phenotypes providing an opportunity for an effective treatment regime. Furthermore, we highlight the dynamic reciprocating interplay between the stromal and immune cells that impact immune surveillance or immune evasion response and contribute towards a complex process of tumorigenesis. In summary, the review encapsulates the existing knowledge of the currently applied treatments for PDAC with emphasis on tumor heterogeneity, manifesting at multiple levels, impacting disease progression and therapy resistance under stress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vignesh Vudatha
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | | | - Esha Madan
- Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal; Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.
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141
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Kumarasamy V, Frangou C, Wang J, Wan Y, Dynka A, Rosenheck H, Dey P, Abel EV, Knudsen ES, Witkiewicz AK. Pharmacologically targeting KRAS G12D in PDAC models: tumor cell intrinsic and extrinsic impact. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.18.533261. [PMID: 37162905 PMCID: PMC10168422 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.18.533261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive disease for which new therapeutic interventions are needed. Here we assessed the cellular response to pharmacological KRAS inhibition, which target the central oncogenic factor in PDAC. In a panel of PDAC cell lines, pharmaceutical inhibition of KRAS G12D allele, with MRTX1133 yields variable efficacy in the suppression of cell growth and downstream gene expression programs in 2D culture. CRISPR screens identify new drivers for enhanced therapeutic response that regulate focal adhesion and signaling cascades, which were confirmed by gene specific knockdowns and combinatorial drug synergy. Interestingly, MRTX1133 is considerably more efficacious in the context of 3D cell cultures and in vivo PDAC patient-derived xenografts. In syngeneic models, KRAS G12D inhibition elicits potent tumor regression that did not occur in immune-deficient hosts. Digital spatial profiling on tumor tissues indicates that MRTX1133 activates interferon-γ signaling and induces antigen presentation that modulate the tumor microenvironment. Further investigation on the immunological response using single cell sequencing and multispectral imaging reveals that tumor regression is associated with suppression of neutrophils and influx of effector CD8 + T-cells. Thus, both tumor cell intrinsic and extrinsic events contribute to response and credential KRAS G12D inhibition as promising strategy for a large percentage of PDAC tumors.
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142
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Myo Min KK, Ffrench CB, Jessup CF, Shepherdson M, Barreto SG, Bonder CS. Overcoming the Fibrotic Fortress in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Challenges and Opportunities. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2354. [PMID: 37190281 PMCID: PMC10137060 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
An overabundance of desmoplasia in the tumour microenvironment (TME) is one of the defining features that influences pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) development, progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance. Desmoplasia is characterised by the recruitment and activation of fibroblasts, heightened extracellular matrix deposition (ECM) and reduced blood supply, as well as increased inflammation through an influx of inflammatory cells and cytokines, creating an intrinsically immunosuppressive TME with low immunogenic potential. Herein, we review the development of PDAC, the drivers that initiate and/or sustain the progression of the disease and the complex and interwoven nature of the cellular and acellular components that come together to make PDAC one of the most aggressive and difficult to treat cancers. We review the challenges in delivering drugs into the fortress of PDAC tumours in concentrations that are therapeutic due to the presence of a highly fibrotic and immunosuppressive TME. Taken together, we present further support for continued/renewed efforts focusing on aspects of the extremely dense and complex TME of PDAC to improve the efficacy of therapy for better patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay K. Myo Min
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (K.K.M.M.); (C.B.F.)
| | - Charlie B. Ffrench
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (K.K.M.M.); (C.B.F.)
| | - Claire F. Jessup
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Mia Shepherdson
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
- Hepatopancreatobiliary & Liver Transplant Unit, Division of Surgery & Perioperative Medicine, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Savio George Barreto
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
- Hepatopancreatobiliary & Liver Transplant Unit, Division of Surgery & Perioperative Medicine, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Claudine S. Bonder
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (K.K.M.M.); (C.B.F.)
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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143
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Wei D, Wang L, Liu Y, Hafley MA, Tan L, Lorenzi PL, Yang P, Zuo X, Bresalier RS. Activation of Vitamin D/VDR Signaling Reverses Gemcitabine Resistance of Pancreatic Cancer Cells Through Inhibition of MUC1 Expression. Dig Dis Sci 2023:10.1007/s10620-023-07931-3. [PMID: 37071246 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-023-07931-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) has a poor prognosis due to its therapeutic resistance. Inactivation of vitamin D/vitamin D receptor (VDR) signaling may contribute to the malignant phenotype of PDA and altered expression of oncoprotein mucin 1 (MUC1) may be involved in drug resistance of cancer cells. AIM To determine whether vitamin D/VDR signaling regulates the expression and function of MUC1 and its effect on acquired gemcitabine resistance of pancreatic cancer cells. METHODS Molecular analyses and animal models were used to determine the impact of vitamin D/VDR signaling on MUC1 expression and response to gemcitabine treatment. RESULTS RPPA analysis indicated that MUC1 protein expression was significantly reduced in human PDA cells after treatment with vitamin D3 or its analog calcipotriol. VDR regulated MUC1 expression in both gain- and loss-of-function assays. Vitamin D3 or calcipotriol significantly induced VDR and inhibited MUC1 expression in acquired gemcitabine-resistant PDA cells and sensitized the resistant cells to gemcitabine treatment, while siRNA inhibition of MUC1 was associated with paricalcitol-associated sensitization of PDA cells to gemcitabine treatment in vitro. Administration of paricalcitol significantly enhanced the therapeutic efficacy of gemcitabine in xenograft and orthotopic mouse models and increased the intratumoral concentration of dFdCTP, the active metabolite of gemcitabine. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate a previously unidentified vitamin D/VDR-MUC1 signaling axis involved in the regulation of gemcitabine resistance in PDA and suggests that combinational therapies that include targeted activation of vitamin D/VDR signaling may improve the outcomes of patients with PDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daoyan Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Unit 1466, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Unit 1466, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Margarete A Hafley
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Unit 1466, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Lin Tan
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Philip L Lorenzi
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Peiying Yang
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xiangsheng Zuo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Robert S Bresalier
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Unit 1466, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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144
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Fang YT, Yang WW, Niu YR, Sun YK. Recent advances in targeted therapy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2023; 15:571-595. [PMID: 37123059 PMCID: PMC10134207 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i4.571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a fatal disease with a 5-year survival rate of 8% and a median survival of 6 mo. In PDAC, several mutations in the genes are involved, with Kirsten rat sarcoma oncogene (90%), cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (90%), and tumor suppressor 53 (75%–90%) being the most common. Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 4 represents 50%. In addition, the self-preserving cancer stem cells, dense tumor microenvironment (fibrous accounting for 90% of the tumor volume), and suppressive and relatively depleted immune niche of PDAC are also constitutive and relevant elements of PDAC. Molecular targeted therapy is widely utilized and effective in several solid tumors. In PDAC, targeted therapy has been extensively evaluated; however, survival improvement of this aggressive disease using a targeted strategy has been minimal. There is currently only one United States Food and Drug Administration-approved targeted therapy for PDAC – erlotinib, but the absolute benefit of erlotinib in combination with gemcitabine is also minimal (2 wk). In this review, we summarize current targeted therapies and clinical trials targeting dysregulated signaling pathways and components of the PDAC oncogenic process, analyze possible reasons for the lack of positive results in clinical trials, and suggest ways to improve them. We also discuss emerging trends in targeted therapies for PDAC: combining targeted inhibitors of multiple pathways. The PubMed database and National Center for Biotechnology Information clinical trial website (www.clinicaltrials.gov) were queried to identify completed and published (PubMed) and ongoing (clinicaltrials.gov) clinical trials (from 2003-2022) using the keywords pancreatic cancer and targeted therapy. The PubMed database was also queried to search for information about the pathogenesis and molecular pathways of pancreatic cancer using the keywords pancreatic cancer and molecular pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ting Fang
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Wen-Wei Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Ya-Ru Niu
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yong-Kun Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Hebei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Langfang 065001, Hebei Province, China
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145
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Chhabra Y, Weeraratna AT. Fibroblasts in cancer: Unity in heterogeneity. Cell 2023; 186:1580-1609. [PMID: 37059066 PMCID: PMC11422789 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Tumor cells do not exist in isolation in vivo, and carcinogenesis depends on the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), composed of a myriad of cell types and biophysical and biochemical components. Fibroblasts are integral in maintaining tissue homeostasis. However, even before a tumor develops, pro-tumorigenic fibroblasts in close proximity can provide the fertile 'soil' to the cancer 'seed' and are known as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). In response to intrinsic and extrinsic stressors, CAFs reorganize the TME enabling metastasis, therapeutic resistance, dormancy and reactivation by secreting cellular and acellular factors. In this review, we summarize the recent discoveries on CAF-mediated cancer progression with a particular focus on fibroblast heterogeneity and plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yash Chhabra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Ashani T Weeraratna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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146
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Halbrook CJ, Lyssiotis CA, Pasca di Magliano M, Maitra A. Pancreatic cancer: Advances and challenges. Cell 2023; 186:1729-1754. [PMID: 37059070 PMCID: PMC10182830 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 254.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the deadliest cancers. Significant efforts have largely defined major genetic factors driving PDAC pathogenesis and progression. Pancreatic tumors are characterized by a complex microenvironment that orchestrates metabolic alterations and supports a milieu of interactions among various cell types within this niche. In this review, we highlight the foundational studies that have driven our understanding of these processes. We further discuss the recent technological advances that continue to expand our understanding of PDAC complexity. We posit that the clinical translation of these research endeavors will enhance the currently dismal survival rate of this recalcitrant disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Halbrook
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Orange, CA 92868, USA.
| | - Costas A Lyssiotis
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Marina Pasca di Magliano
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Anirban Maitra
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, Sheikh Ahmed Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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147
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Qiu H, Su N, Wang J, Yan S, Li J. Quantitative proteomics analysis in small cell carcinoma of cervix reveals novel therapeutic targets. Clin Proteomics 2023; 20:18. [PMID: 37031178 PMCID: PMC10082492 DOI: 10.1186/s12014-023-09408-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a rare pathologic subtype, small cell carcinoma of the cervix (SCCC) is characterized by extensive aggressiveness and resistance to current therapies. To date, our knowledge of SCCC origin and progression is limited and sometimes even controversial. Herein, we explored the whole-protein expression profiles in a panel of SCCC cases, aiming to provide more evidence for the precise diagnosis and targeting therapy. METHODS Eighteen SCCC samples and six matched normal cervix tissues were collected from January 2013 to December 2017. Data independent acquisition mass spectrometry (DIA) was performed to discriminate the different proteins (DEPs) associated with SCCC. The expression of CDN2A and SYP in corresponding SCCC tissues was verified using immunohistochemistry. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were used to identify the key DEPs related to SCCC development and tumor recurrence. RESULTS As a result, 1311 DEPs were identified in SCCC tissues (780 up-regulated and 531 down-regulated). In up-regulated DEPs, both GO analysis and KEGG analysis showed the most enriched were related to DNA replication (including nuclear DNA replication, DNA-dependent DNA replication, and cell cycle DNA replication), indicating the prosperous proliferation in SCCC. As for the down-regulated DEPs, GO analysis showed that the most enriched functions were associated with extracellular matrix collagen-containing extracellular matrix. KEGG analysis revealed that the DEPs were enriched in Complement and coagulation cascades, proteoglycans in cancer, and focal adhesion-related pathways. Down-regulation of these proteins could enhance the mobility of cancer cells and establish a favorable microenvironment for tumor metastasis, which might be accounted for the frequent local and distant metastasis in SCCC. Surprisingly, the blood vessels and circulatory system exhibit a down-regulation in SCCC, which might be partly responsible for its resistance to anti-angiogenic regimens. In the stratification analysis of early-stage tumors, a group of enzymes involved in the cancer metabolism was discriminated in these recurrence cases. CONCLUSIONS Using quantitative proteomics analysis, we first reported the whole-protein expression profiles in SCCC. Significant alterations were found in proteins associated with the enhancement of DNA replication and cellular motility. Besides the association with mitosis, a unique metabolic feature was detected in cases with tumor recurrence. These findings provided novel targets for disease surveillance and treatments, which warranted further validation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haifeng Qiu
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Provincial Medical Key Laboratory for Gynecologic Malignancies Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Gynecologic Malignancies Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ning Su
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Shuping Yan
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.1, East Jianshe Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450000, Henan, China.
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Ono H, Murase Y, Yamashita H, Kato T, Asano D, Ishikawa Y, Watanabe S, Ueda H, Akahoshi K, Ogawa K, Kudo A, Akiyama Y, Tanaka S, Tanabe M. RRM1 is mediated by histone acetylation through gemcitabine resistance and contributes to invasiveness and ECM remodeling in pancreatic cancer. Int J Oncol 2023; 62:51. [PMID: 36866763 PMCID: PMC10019754 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2023.5499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The invasiveness of pancreatic cancer and its resistance to anticancer drugs define its malignant potential, and are considered to affect the peritumoral microenvironment. Cancer cells with resistance to gemcitabine exposed to external signals induced by anticancer drugs may enhance their malignant transformation. Ribonucleotide reductase large subunit M1 (RRM1), an enzyme in the DNA synthesis pathway, is upregulated during gemcitabine resistance, and its expression is associated with worse prognosis for pancreatic cancer. However, the biological function of RRM1 is unclear. In the present study, it was demonstrated that histone acetylation is involved in the regulatory mechanism related to the acquisition of gemcitabine resistance and subsequent RRM1 upregulation. The current in vitro study indicated that RRM1 expression is critical for the migratory and invasive potential of pancreatic cancer cells. Furthermore, a comprehensive RNA sequencing analysis showed that activated RRM1 induced marked changes in the expression levels of extracellular matrix‑related genes, including N‑cadherin, tenascin‑C and COL11A. RRM1 activation also promoted extracellular matrix remodeling and mesenchymal features, which enhanced the migratory invasiveness and malignant potential of pancreatic cancer cells. The present results demonstrated that RRM1 has a critical role in the biological gene program that regulates the extracellular matrix, which promotes the aggressive malignant phenotype of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Ono
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Murase
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Hironari Yamashita
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Tomotaka Kato
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Daisuke Asano
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Ishikawa
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Shuichi Watanabe
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Hiroki Ueda
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Keiichi Akahoshi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Kosuke Ogawa
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kudo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Yoshimitsu Akiyama
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Shinji Tanaka
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
| | - Minoru Tanabe
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113‑8510, Japan
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149
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Wieder R. Fibroblasts as Turned Agents in Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2014. [PMID: 37046676 PMCID: PMC10093070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiated epithelial cells reside in the homeostatic microenvironment of the native organ stroma. The stroma supports their normal function, their G0 differentiated state, and their expansion/contraction through the various stages of the life cycle and physiologic functions of the host. When malignant transformation begins, the microenvironment tries to suppress and eliminate the transformed cells, while cancer cells, in turn, try to resist these suppressive efforts. The tumor microenvironment encompasses a large variety of cell types recruited by the tumor to perform different functions, among which fibroblasts are the most abundant. The dynamics of the mutual relationship change as the sides undertake an epic battle for control of the other. In the process, the cancer "wounds" the microenvironment through a variety of mechanisms and attracts distant mesenchymal stem cells to change their function from one attempting to suppress the cancer, to one that supports its growth, survival, and metastasis. Analogous reciprocal interactions occur as well between disseminated cancer cells and the metastatic microenvironment, where the microenvironment attempts to eliminate cancer cells or suppress their proliferation. However, the altered microenvironmental cells acquire novel characteristics that support malignant progression. Investigations have attempted to use these traits as targets of novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Wieder
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and the Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
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150
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Bärthel S, Falcomatà C, Rad R, Theis FJ, Saur D. Single-cell profiling to explore pancreatic cancer heterogeneity, plasticity and response to therapy. NATURE CANCER 2023; 4:454-467. [PMID: 36959420 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00526-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal cancer entity characterized by a heterogeneous genetic landscape and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Recent advances in high-resolution single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics technologies have enabled an in-depth characterization of both malignant and host cell types and increased our understanding of the heterogeneity and plasticity of PDAC in the steady state and under therapeutic perturbation. In this Review we outline single-cell analyses in PDAC, discuss their implications on our understanding of the disease and present future perspectives of multimodal approaches to elucidate its biology and response to therapy at the single-cell level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Bärthel
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center and German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Chiara Falcomatà
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center and German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Roland Rad
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Fabian J Theis
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München-German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Computation, Information and Technology (CIT), Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Dieter Saur
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center and German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
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