101
|
Ermakov MS, Nushtaeva AA, Richter VA, Koval OA. Cancer-associated fibroblasts and their role in tumor progression. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2022; 26:14-21. [PMID: 35342854 PMCID: PMC8894099 DOI: 10.18699/vjgb-22-03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The stromal elements of a malignant tumor can promote cancer progression and metastasis. The structure of the tumor stroma includes connective tissue elements, blood vessels, nerves, and extracellular matrix (ECM). Some of the cellular elements of the tumor stroma are cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). The origin and function of CAFs have been actively studied over the past thirty years. CAFs produce collagen, the main scaffold protein of the extracellular matrix. Collagen in the tumor stroma stimulates fibrosis, enhances the rigidity of tumor tissue, and disrupts the transmission of proliferation and differentiation signaling pathways. CAFs control tumor angiogenesis, cell motility, tumor immunogenic properties, and the development of resistance to chemo- and immunotherapy. As a result of metabolic adaptation of rapidly growing tumor tissue to the nutrients and oxygen deprivation, the main type of energy production in cells changes from oxidative phosphorylation to anaerobic glycolysis. These changes lead to sequential molecular alterations, including the induction of specified transcriptional factors that result in the CAFs activation. The molecular phenotype of activated CAFs is similar to fibroblasts activated during inflammation. In activated CAFs, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) is synthetized de novo and various proteases and fibronectin are produced. Since CAFs are found in all types of carcinomas, these cells are potential targets for the development of new approaches for anticancer therapy. Some CAFs originate from resident fibroblasts of the organs invaded by the tumor, while others originate from epithelial tumor cells, which are undergoing an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). To date, many molecular and metabolic inducers of the EMT have been discovered including the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), hypoxia, and inflammation. This review classifies modern concepts of molecular markers of CAFs, their functional features, and discusses the stages of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and the potential of CAFs as a target for antitumor therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. S. Ermakov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
| | - A. A. Nushtaeva
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
| | - V. A. Richter
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
| | - O. A. Koval
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences; Novosibirsk State University
| |
Collapse
|
102
|
Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Mechanisms of Tumor Progression and Novel Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051231. [PMID: 35267539 PMCID: PMC8909913 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The tumor microenvironment plays an important role in determining the biological behavior of several of the more aggressive malignancies. Among the various cell types evident in the tumor “field”, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogenous collection of activated fibroblasts secreting a wide repertoire of factors that regulate tumor development and progression, inflammation, drug resistance, metastasis and recurrence. Insensitivity to chemotherapeutics and metastatic spread are the major contributors to cancer patient mortality. This review discusses the complex interactions between CAFs and the various populations of normal and neoplastic cells that interact within the dynamic confines of the tumor microenvironment with a focus on the involved pathways and genes. Abstract Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogenous population of stromal cells found in solid malignancies that coexist with the growing tumor mass and other immune/nonimmune cellular elements. In certain neoplasms (e.g., desmoplastic tumors), CAFs are the prominent mesenchymal cell type in the tumor microenvironment, where their presence and abundance signal a poor prognosis in multiple cancers. CAFs play a major role in the progression of various malignancies by remodeling the supporting stromal matrix into a dense, fibrotic structure while secreting factors that lead to the acquisition of cancer stem-like characteristics and promoting tumor cell survival, reduced sensitivity to chemotherapeutics, aggressive growth and metastasis. Tumors with high stromal fibrotic signatures are more likely to be associated with drug resistance and eventual relapse. Clarifying the molecular basis for such multidirectional crosstalk among the various normal and neoplastic cell types present in the tumor microenvironment may yield novel targets and new opportunities for therapeutic intervention. This review highlights the most recent concepts regarding the complexity of CAF biology including CAF heterogeneity, functionality in drug resistance, contribution to a progressively fibrotic tumor stroma, the involved signaling pathways and the participating genes.
Collapse
|
103
|
Hassan MS, Cwidak N, Awasthi N, von Holzen U. Cytokine Interaction With Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Esophageal Cancer. Cancer Control 2022; 29:10732748221078470. [PMID: 35442094 PMCID: PMC9024076 DOI: 10.1177/10732748221078470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is a highly aggressive cancer with poor outcomes under current treatment regimens. More recent findings suggest stroma elements, specifically cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), play a role in disease occurrence and progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts are largely the product of converted fibroblasts, but a variety of other local cell types including epithelial cells, endothelial cells, and mesenchymal cells have also been shown to transform to CAFs under the correct conditions. Cancer-associated fibroblasts primarily function in the communication between the tumor microenvironment and cancer cells via cytokine and chemokine secretions that accentuate immunosuppression and cancer growth. Cancer-associated fibroblasts also pose issues for EC treatment by contributing to resistance of current chemotherapeutics like cisplatin. Targeting this cell type directly proves difficult given the heterogeneity between CAFs subpopulations, but emerging research provides hope that treatment is on the horizon. This review aims to unravel some of the complexities surrounding CAFs’ impact on EC growth and therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Sazzad Hassan
- Department of Surgery, 158720Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN 46617, USA.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, South Bend, IN 46617, USA
| | - Nicholas Cwidak
- Department of Surgery, 158720Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN 46617, USA
| | - Niranjan Awasthi
- Department of Surgery, 158720Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN 46617, USA.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, South Bend, IN 46617, USA
| | - Urs von Holzen
- Department of Surgery, 158720Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN 46617, USA.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, South Bend, IN 46617, USA.,Goshen Center for Cancer Care, Goshen, Goshen, IN 46526, USA.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
104
|
Han ZJ, Li YB, Yang LX, Cheng HJ, Liu X, Chen H. Roles of the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 Axis in the Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 27:molecules27010137. [PMID: 35011369 PMCID: PMC8746913 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In humans, Interleukin-8 (IL-8 or CXCL8) is a granulocytic chemokine with multiple roles within the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as recruiting immunosuppressive cells to the tumor, increasing tumor angiogenesis, and promoting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). All of these effects of CXCL8 on individual cell types can result in cascading alterations to the TME. The changes in the TME components such as the cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the immune cells, the extracellular matrix, the blood vessels, or the lymphatic vessels further influence tumor progression and therapeutic resistance. Emerging roles of the microbiome in tumorigenesis or tumor progression revealed the intricate interactions between inflammatory response, dysbiosis, metabolites, CXCL8, immune cells, and the TME. Studies have shown that CXCL8 directly contributes to TME remodeling, cancer plasticity, and the development of resistance to both chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Further, clinical data demonstrate that CXCL8 could be an easily measurable prognostic biomarker in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors. The blockade of the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis alone or in combination with other immunotherapy will be a promising strategy to improve antitumor efficacy. Herein, we review recent advances focusing on identifying the mechanisms between TME components and the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis for novel immunotherapy strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Jian Han
- The Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Tumor Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, China; (Y.-B.L.); (L.-X.Y.); (H.-J.C.)
- Correspondence: (Z.-J.H.); (H.C.); Tel.: +86-186-9310-9388 (Z.-J.H.); +86-150-0946-7790 (H.C.)
| | - Yang-Bing Li
- The Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Tumor Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, China; (Y.-B.L.); (L.-X.Y.); (H.-J.C.)
| | - Lu-Xi Yang
- The Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Tumor Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, China; (Y.-B.L.); (L.-X.Y.); (H.-J.C.)
| | - Hui-Juan Cheng
- The Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Tumor Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, China; (Y.-B.L.); (L.-X.Y.); (H.-J.C.)
| | - Xin Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China;
| | - Hao Chen
- The Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Tumor Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, China; (Y.-B.L.); (L.-X.Y.); (H.-J.C.)
- Correspondence: (Z.-J.H.); (H.C.); Tel.: +86-186-9310-9388 (Z.-J.H.); +86-150-0946-7790 (H.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
105
|
Delinassios JG, Hoffman RM. The cancer-inhibitory effects of proliferating tumor-residing fibroblasts. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1877:188673. [PMID: 34953931 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2021.188673] [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: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Initiation, local progression, and metastasis of cancer are associated with specific morphological, molecular, and functional changes in the extracellular matrix and the fibroblasts within the tumor microenvironment (TME). In the early stages of tumor development, fibroblasts are an obstacle that cancer cells must surpass or nullify to progress. Thus, in early tumor progression, specific signaling from cancer cells activates bio-pathways, which abolish the innate anticancer properties of fibroblasts and convert a high proportion of them to tumor-promoting cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Following this initial event, a wide spectrum of gene expression changes gradually leads to the development of a stromal fibroblast population with complex heterogeneity, creating fibroblast subtypes with characteristic profiles, which may alternate between being tumor-promotive and tumor-suppressive, topologically and chronologically in the TME. These fibroblast subtypes form the tumor's histological landscape including areas of cancer growth, inflammation, angiogenesis, invasion fronts, proliferating and non-proliferating fibroblasts, cancer-cell apoptosis, fibroblast apoptosis, and necrosis. These features reflect general deregulation of tissue homeostasis within the TME. This review discusses fundamental and current knowledge that has established the existence of anticancer fibroblasts within the various interacting elements of the TME. It is proposed that the maintenance of fibroblast proliferation is an essential parameter for the activation of their anticancer capacity, similar to that by which normal fibroblasts would be activated in wound repair, thus maintaining tissue homeostasis. Encouragement of research in this direction may render new means of cancer therapy and a greater understanding of tumor progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John G Delinassios
- International Institute of Anticancer Research, 1(st) km Kapandritiou-Kalamou Rd., Kapandriti, 19014 Attica, Greece.
| | - Robert M Hoffman
- Department of Surgery, University of California, 9300 Campus Point Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; AntiCancer Inc., 7917 Ostrow St, San Diego, CA 92111, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
106
|
Xu C, Zhang K, Yang F, Zhou X, Liu S, Li Y, Ma S, Zhao X, Lu T, Lu S, Zhang J, Li H, Han D, Wen W, Qin W. CD248 + Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: A Novel Prognostic and Therapeutic Target for Renal Cell Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:773063. [PMID: 34970489 PMCID: PMC8712640 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.773063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays an important role in the progression of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are considered to constitute a major component of the TME and participate in various tumor-promoting molecular events. We have previously confirmed that CD248 represents a promising biomarker of CAFs, which may provide insight into CAF-based tumor-promoting effects. However, CAF-mediated tumor progression and the potential mechanism of CD248 remain largely unknown in RCC patients. METHODS Expression profiling and clinical data of RCC patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. An MCP-counter algorithm and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were performed to explore the prognostic value of CAFs and CD248, respectively. A Pearson correlation coefficient test and Student's t-test were employed to evaluate the relationship between immunosuppressive TME and CD248 or CAFs. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining were performed to confirm CD248 expression within CAFs. CD248-specific siRNA was used to investigate the potential function of CD248 in CAF tumor promotion. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs), weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and enrichment analysis were conducted to clarify the function of CD248+ CAFs in RCC progression and the associated regulatory mechanism. RESULTS CD248 overexpression and CAF infiltration could predict poor RCC prognosis, which may involve the immunosuppressive TME. CD248 may serve as a promising CAFs biomarker and be involved with the tumor-promoting effect of CAFs. Moreover, CD248+ CAF infiltration may contribute to RCC progression and an immunosuppressive TME through cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions and metabolism regulation. CONCLUSION CD248+ CAFs participate in the regulation of RCC progression and immunosuppressive TME, which may represent a novel prognostic and therapeutic target for RCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Xu
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Keying Zhang
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Fa Yang
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Innovation Port Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Shaojie Liu
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Shanjin Ma
- Department of Urology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiaolong Zhao
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Tong Lu
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Shiqi Lu
- Department of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, China
| | - JiaYu Zhang
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Hongji Li
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Donghui Han
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Weihong Wen
- Department of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Weijun Qin
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| |
Collapse
|
107
|
Yang D, Zhang N, Li M, Hong T, Meng W, Ouyang T. The Hippo Signaling Pathway: The Trader of Tumor Microenvironment. Front Oncol 2021; 11:772134. [PMID: 34858852 PMCID: PMC8632547 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.772134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hippo pathway regulates cancer biology in many aspects and the crosstalk with other pathways complicates its role. Accumulated evidence has shown that the bidirectional interactions between tumor cells and tumor microenvironment (TME) are the premises of tumor occurrence, development, and metastasis. The relationship among different components of the TME constitutes a three-dimensional network. We point out the core position of the Hippo pathway in this network and discuss how the regulatory inputs cause the chain reaction of the network. We also discuss the important role of Hippo-TME involvement in cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Duo Yang
- Department of the Forth Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Meihua Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Tao Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wei Meng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Taohui Ouyang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| |
Collapse
|
108
|
Jang SD, Song J, Kim HA, Im CN, Khawar IA, Park JK, Kuh HJ. Anti-Cancer Activity Profiling of Chemotherapeutic Agents in 3D Co-Cultures of Pancreatic Tumor Spheroids with Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Macrophages. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5955. [PMID: 34885065 PMCID: PMC8656537 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13235955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Activated pancreatic stellate cells (aPSCs) and M2 macrophages modulate tumor progression and therapeutic efficacy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) via epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Here, our aim was to analyze the anti-invasion effects of anti-cancer agents where EMT-inducing cancer-stroma interaction occurs under three-dimensional (3D) culture conditions. We used microfluidic channel chips to co-culture pancreatic tumor spheroids (TSs) with aPSCs and THP-1-derived M2 macrophages (M2 THP-1 cells) embedded in type I collagen. Under stromal cell co-culture conditions, PANC-1 TSs displayed elevated expression of EMT-related proteins and increased invasion and migration. When PANC-1 TSs were exposed to gemcitabine, 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, or paclitaxel, 30-50% cells were found unaffected, with no significant changes in the dose-response profiles under stromal cell co-culture conditions. This indicated intrinsic resistance to these drugs and no further induction of drug resistance by stromal cells. Paclitaxel had a significant anti-invasion effect; in contrast, oxaliplatin did not show such effect despite its specific cytotoxicity in M2 THP-1 cells. Overall, our findings demonstrate that the TS-stroma co-culture model of PDAC is useful for activity profiling of anti-cancer agents against cancer and stromal cells, and analyzing the relationship between anti-stromal activity and anti-invasion effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- So-Dam Jang
- Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Jeeyeun Song
- Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Hyun-Ah Kim
- Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Chang-Nim Im
- Graduate Program for Future Medical Research Leaders, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Iftikhar Ali Khawar
- Graduate Program for Future Medical Research Leaders, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Jong Kook Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, Research Institute for Bioscience & Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Hyo-Jeong Kuh
- Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
- Cancer Evolution Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
- Department of Medical Life Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
109
|
Newnes HV, Armitage JD, Audsley KM, Bosco A, Waithman J. Directing the Future Breakthroughs in Immunotherapy: The Importance of a Holistic Approach to the Tumour Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13235911. [PMID: 34885021 PMCID: PMC8656826 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13235911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Immunotherapies have changed the way we treat cancer and, while some patients have benefitted greatly, there are still those that do not respond to therapy. Understanding why some patients respond to therapy and others do not is critical in developing new immunotherapeutic strategies. The increasing awareness of the importance of investigating the tumour in its entirety, including the surrounding tissue and role of various immune cells is helping to differentiate responders and non-responders. In addition, the resolution gained by the development of sophisticated bioinformatic technologies allows for a deeper understanding of the complex roles of individual cells in the tumour. This advancement will be critical for the development of novel therapies to treat cancer. Abstract Immunotherapy has revolutionised the treatment of cancers by exploiting the immune system to eliminate tumour cells. Despite the impressive response in a proportion of patients, clinical benefit has been limited thus far. A significant focus to date has been the identification of specific markers associated with response to immunotherapy. Unfortunately, the heterogeneity between patients and cancer types means identifying markers of response to therapy is inherently complex. There is a growing appreciation for the role of the tumour microenvironment (TME) in directing response to immunotherapy. The TME is highly heterogeneous and contains immune, stromal, vascular and tumour cells that all communicate and interact with one another to form solid tumours. This review analyses major cell populations present within the TME with a focus on their diverse and often contradictory roles in cancer and how this informs our understanding of immunotherapy. Furthermore, we discuss the role of integrated omics in providing a comprehensive view of the TME and demonstrate the potential of leveraging multi-omics to decipher the underlying mechanisms of anti-tumour immunity for the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies.
Collapse
|
110
|
Evaluation of Hedgehog Pathway Inhibition on Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome Fibroblasts and Basal Cell Carcinoma-Associated Fibroblasts: Are Vismodegib and Sonidegib Useful to Target Cancer-Prone Fibroblasts? Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225858. [PMID: 34831015 PMCID: PMC8616531 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Activating mutations in the Hh pathway underlies the development of sporadic and familial skin BCC. For these oncogenic proliferations displaying ligand-independent activation of the intracellular pathway, two molecules have been approved for therapeutic purposes: vismodegib and sonidegib. Improper Hh signalling occurs in many human tumours also via a paracrine mechanism (ligand-dependent) in which the secretion of Hh ligands by stromal cells support tumour growth. On the other hand, the mobilization of neoplastic stroma by cancer cells is sustained by the activation of Hh signalling in surrounding fibroblasts suggesting a central role of this bidirectional crosstalk in carcinogenesis. Additionally, loss-of-function mutations in the PTCH1 gene in the context of NBCCS, an autosomal dominant disorder predisposing to multiple BCCs, determine tumour permissive phenotypes in dermal fibroblasts. Here, profiling syndromic and BCC-associated fibroblasts unveiled an extraordinary similarity characterized by overexpression of several Hh target genes and a marked pro-inflammatory outline. Both cell types exposed to Hh inhibitors displayed reversion of the tumour-prone phenotype. Under vismodegib and sonidegib treatment, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, frequently over-active in tumour stroma, resulted down-regulated by pAKT-GSK3β axis and consequent increase of β-catenin turnover. Overall, this study demonstrated that vismodegib and sonidegib impacting on fibroblast tumour supportive functions might be considered in therapy for BCC independently to the mutation status of Hh components in neoplastic cells.
Collapse
|
111
|
De P, Aske JC, Dale A, Rojas Espaillat L, Starks D, Dey N. Addressing activation of WNT beta-catenin pathway in diverse landscape of endometrial carcinogenesis. Am J Transl Res 2021; 13:12168-12180. [PMID: 34956444 PMCID: PMC8661239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The WNT-beta-catenin pathway (WP) is one of the major oncogenic pathways in solid tumors. Wnt beta-catenin pathway plays a unique role in a wide range of endometrial dysfunctions, from embryo implantation failure to severe pathogenic changes like endometriosis and endometrial cancer. Although abnormal activation of the pathway has long been known to be associated with endometrial tumorigenesis, the pathway's exact mode of involvement remains to be understood. As more evidence has been presented in favor of a crucial role of the WP in solid tumors, including endometrial cancer, anti-WP drugs are currently being tested to manage the disease. Aggressive tumor cells are nurtured by the tumor microenvironment (TME). The genetic alterations within tumor cells are the primary driving force to activate the extra-tumoral micro-environment. TME (a) provides metabolic support for the proliferation of tumor cells, (b) orchestrates immune-evasion, (c) initiates mechanistic signaling for several metastasis-associated phenotypes, and (d) supports cellular events for the development of drug resistance. To get metabolic as well as immune support from the tumor microenvironment, tumor cells cross-talk with components of the TME, most critically to the cancer-associated fibroblasts. Thus it is expected that the tumor-TME cross-talk throughout the process of tumorigenesis and metastasis is one of the characteristic features of an aggressive tumor. Here we review the WP's mechanistic involvement as a common culprit (Un Colpevole Comune) in endometrial tumor cells and endometrial cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF). In this review, we have attempted to discuss the activation of the WP in the genesis and progression of endometrial cancers, including endometrial tumor biology, tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and wnt-beta catenin genetic alteration. We interrogated the available literature on the various aspects of endometrial carcinogenesis leading to the pathway's activation. We examined how genetic alterations in WP directly influence tumor cell signaling to bring out different tumor cell phenotypes, and present palpable evidence to envision a role of WP inhibitors in the future management of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pradip De
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57105, USA
| | | | - Adam Dale
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57105, USA
| | - Luis Rojas Espaillat
- Division of Gynecological Oncology, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57105, USA
| | - David Starks
- Division of Gynecological Oncology, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57105, USA
| | - Nandini Dey
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57105, USA
| |
Collapse
|
112
|
Corbet M, Pineda MA, Yang K, Tarafdar A, McGrath S, Nakagawa R, Lumb FE, Suckling CJ, Harnett W, Harnett MM. Epigenetic drug development for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1010069. [PMID: 34748611 PMCID: PMC8601611 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
ES-62 is the major secreted protein of the parasitic filarial nematode, Acanthocheilonema viteae. The molecule exists as a large tetramer (MW, ~240kD), which possesses immunomodulatory properties by virtue of multiple phosphorylcholine (PC) moieties attached to N-type glycans. By suppressing inflammatory immune responses, ES-62 can prevent disease development in certain mouse models of allergic and autoimmune conditions, including joint pathology in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), a model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Such protection is associated with functional suppression of "pathogenic" hyper-responsive synovial fibroblasts (SFs), which exhibit an aggressive inflammatory and bone-damaging phenotype induced by their epigenetic rewiring in response to the inflammatory microenvironment of the arthritic joint. Critically, exposure to ES-62 in vivo induces a stably-imprinted CIA-SF phenotype that exhibits functional responses more typical of healthy, Naïve-SFs. Consistent with this, ES-62 "rewiring" of SFs away from the hyper-responsive phenotype is associated with suppression of ERK activation, STAT3 activation and miR-155 upregulation, signals widely associated with SF pathogenesis. Surprisingly however, DNA methylome analysis of Naïve-, CIA- and ES-62-CIA-SF cohorts reveals that rather than simply preventing pathogenic rewiring of SFs, ES-62 induces further changes in DNA methylation under the inflammatory conditions pertaining in the inflamed joint, including targeting genes associated with ciliogenesis, to programme a novel "resolving" CIA-SF phenotype. In addition to introducing a previously unsuspected aspect of ES-62's mechanism of action, such unique behaviour signposts the potential for developing DNA methylation signatures predictive of pathogenesis and its resolution and hence, candidate mechanisms by which novel therapeutic interventions could prevent SFs from perpetuating joint inflammation and destruction in RA. Pertinent to these translational aspects of ES-62-behavior, small molecule analogues (SMAs) based on ES-62's active PC-moieties mimic the rewiring of SFs as well as the protection against joint disease in CIA afforded by the parasitic worm product.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Corbet
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Miguel A. Pineda
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Kun Yang
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Anuradha Tarafdar
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah McGrath
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Rinako Nakagawa
- Immunity and Cancer, Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Felicity E. Lumb
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Colin J. Suckling
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - William Harnett
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (MMH); (WH)
| | - Margaret M. Harnett
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (MMH); (WH)
| |
Collapse
|
113
|
Sommerfeld L, Finkernagel F, Jansen JM, Wagner U, Nist A, Stiewe T, Müller‐Brüsselbach S, Sokol AM, Graumann J, Reinartz S, Müller R. The multicellular signalling network of ovarian cancer metastases. Clin Transl Med 2021; 11:e633. [PMID: 34841720 PMCID: PMC8574964 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcoelomic spread is the major route of metastasis of ovarian high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) with the omentum as the major metastatic site. Its unique tumour microenvironment with its large populations of adipocytes, mesothelial cells and immune cells establishes an intercellular signaling network that is instrumental for metastatic growth yet poorly understood. METHODS Based on transcriptomic analysis of tumour cells, tumour-associated immune and stroma cells we defined intercellular signaling pathways for 284 cytokines and growth factors and their cognate receptors after bioinformatic adjustment for contaminating cell types. The significance of individual components of this network was validated by analysing clinical correlations and potentially pro-metastatic functions, including tumour cell migration, pro-inflammatory signal transduction and TAM expansion. RESULTS The data show an unexpected prominent role of host cells, and in particular of omental adipocytes, mesothelial cells and fibroblasts (CAF), in sustaining this signaling network. These cells, rather than tumour cells, are the major source of most cytokines and growth factors in the omental microenvironment (n = 176 vs. n = 13). Many of these factors target tumour cells, are linked to metastasis and are associated with a short survival. Likewise, tumour stroma cells play a major role in extracellular-matrix-triggered signaling. We have verified the functional significance of our observations for three exemplary instances. We show that the omental microenvironment (i) stimulates tumour cell migration and adhesion via WNT4 which is highly expressed by CAF; (ii) induces pro-tumourigenic TAM proliferation in conjunction with high CSF1 expression by omental stroma cells and (iii) triggers pro-inflammatory signaling, at least in part via a HSP70-NF-κB pathway. CONCLUSIONS The intercellular signaling network of omental metastases is majorly dependent on factors secreted by immune and stroma cells to provide an environment that supports ovarian HGSC progression. Clinically relevant pathways within this network represent novel options for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leah Sommerfeld
- Department of Translational Oncology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology (ZTI)Philipps UniversityMarburgGermany
| | - Florian Finkernagel
- Department of Translational Oncology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology (ZTI)Philipps UniversityMarburgGermany
| | - Julia M. Jansen
- Clinic for Gynecology, Gynecological Oncology and Gynecological EndocrinologyUniversity Hospital (UKGM)MarburgGermany
| | - Uwe Wagner
- Clinic for Gynecology, Gynecological Oncology and Gynecological EndocrinologyUniversity Hospital (UKGM)MarburgGermany
| | - Andrea Nist
- Genomics Core Facility, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology (ZTI)Philipps UniversityMarburgGermany
| | - Thorsten Stiewe
- Genomics Core Facility, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology (ZTI)Philipps UniversityMarburgGermany
- Institute of Molecular OncologyPhilipps UniversityMarburgGermany
| | - Sabine Müller‐Brüsselbach
- Department of Translational Oncology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology (ZTI)Philipps UniversityMarburgGermany
| | - Anna M. Sokol
- The German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine‐MainMax Planck Institute for Heart and Lung ResearchBad NauheimGermany
| | - Johannes Graumann
- The German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine‐MainMax Planck Institute for Heart and Lung ResearchBad NauheimGermany
- Institute for Translational Proteomics, Philipps UniversityMarburgGermany
| | - Silke Reinartz
- Department of Translational Oncology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology (ZTI)Philipps UniversityMarburgGermany
| | - Rolf Müller
- Department of Translational Oncology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology (ZTI)Philipps UniversityMarburgGermany
| |
Collapse
|
114
|
Sacconi A, De Vitis C, de Latouliere L, di Martino S, De Nicola F, Goeman F, Mottini C, Paolini F, D'Ascanio M, Ricci A, Tafuri A, Marchetti P, Di Napoli A, De Biase L, Negro A, Napoli C, Anibaldi P, Salvati V, Duffy D, Terrier B, Fanciulli M, Capalbo C, Sciacchitano S, Blandino G, Piaggio G, Mancini R, Ciliberto G. Multi-omic approach identifies a transcriptional network coupling innate immune response to proliferation in the blood of COVID-19 cancer patients. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:1019. [PMID: 34716309 PMCID: PMC8553595 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04299-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients are worsened by the presence of co-morbidities, especially cancer leading to elevated mortality rates. SARS-CoV-2 infection is known to alter immune system homeostasis. Whether cancer patients developing COVID-19 present alterations of immune functions which might contribute to worse outcomes have so far been poorly investigated. We conducted a multi-omic analysis of immunological parameters in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of COVID-19 patients with and without cancer. Healthy donors and SARS-CoV-2-negative cancer patients were also included as controls. At the infection peak, cytokine multiplex analysis of blood samples, cytometry by time of flight (CyTOF) cell population analyses, and Nanostring gene expression using Pancancer array on PBMCs were performed. We found that eight pro-inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-8, IL-13, IL-1ra, MIP-1a, IP-10) out of 27 analyzed serum cytokines were modulated in COVID-19 patients irrespective of cancer status. Diverse subpopulations of T lymphocytes such as CD8+T, CD4+T central memory, Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT), natural killer (NK), and γδ T cells were reduced, while B plasmablasts were expanded in COVID-19 cancer patients. Our findings illustrate a repertoire of aberrant alterations of gene expression in circulating immune cells of COVID-19 cancer patients. A 19-gene expression signature of PBMCs is able to discriminate COVID-19 patients with and without solid cancers. Gene set enrichment analysis highlights an increased gene expression linked to Interferon α, γ, α/β response and signaling which paired with aberrant cell cycle regulation in cancer patients. Ten out of the 19 genes, validated in a real-world consecutive cohort, were specific of COVID-19 cancer patients independently from different cancer types and stages of the diseases, and useful to stratify patients in a COVID-19 disease severity-manner. We also unveil a transcriptional network involving gene regulators of both inflammation response and proliferation in PBMCs of COVID-19 cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Sacconi
- UOSD Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia De Vitis
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa de Latouliere
- UOSD SAFU, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona di Martino
- UOSD Clinical Pathology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca De Nicola
- UOSD SAFU, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Frauke Goeman
- UOSD SAFU, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Mottini
- UOSD SAFU, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Paolini
- UOSD Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Michela D'Ascanio
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Ricci
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Agostino Tafuri
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Marchetti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Di Napoli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luciano De Biase
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Negro
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and of Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Anibaldi
- Hospital Direction and Clinical Departments, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Salvati
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Darragh Duffy
- Institut Pasteur, Laboratory of Dendritic Cell Immunobiology, Department of Immunology, Paris, France
| | - Benjamin Terrier
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Referral Center for Rare Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris-Centre, University of Paris, Paris, France
| | - Maurizio Fanciulli
- UOSD SAFU, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Capalbo
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Sciacchitano
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Biomedical Research, Niccolò Cusano University Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Blandino
- UOSD Oncogenomica ed Epigenetica, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giulia Piaggio
- UOSD SAFU, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
115
|
Chen J, Cheng J, Zhao C, Zhao B, Mi J, Li W. The Hippo pathway: a renewed insight in the craniofacial diseases and hard tissue remodeling. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:4060-4072. [PMID: 34671220 PMCID: PMC8495397 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.63305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hippo pathway plays an important role in many pathophysiological processes, including cell proliferation and differentiation, cell death, cell migration and invasion. Because of its extensive functions, Hippo pathway is closely related to not only growth and development, but also many diseases, including inflammation and cancer. In this study, the role of Hippo pathway in craniofacial diseases and hard tissue remodeling was reviewed, in attempting to find new research directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Chen
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China.,Xiangya Stomatological Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Oral Health Research, Hunan 3D Printing Engineering Research Center of Oral Care, Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Jingyi Cheng
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Cong Zhao
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Boxuan Zhao
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Jia Mi
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Wenjie Li
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China.,Xiangya Stomatological Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Oral Health Research, Hunan 3D Printing Engineering Research Center of Oral Care, Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China.,National Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on High-strength Structural Materials, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.,State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| |
Collapse
|
116
|
Sadras F, Monteith GR, Roberts-Thomson SJ. An Emerging Role for Calcium Signaling in Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111366. [PMID: 34768796 PMCID: PMC8583802 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors exist in a complex milieu where interaction with their associated microenvironment significantly contributes to disease progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the primary component of the tumor microenvironment and participate in complex bidirectional communication with tumor cells. CAFs support the development of various hallmarks of cancer through diverse processes, including direct cell-cell contact, paracrine signaling, and remodeling and deposition of the extracellular matrix. Calcium signaling is a key second messenger in intra- and inter-cellular signaling pathways that contributes to cancer progression; however, the links between calcium signaling and CAFs are less well-explored. In this review, we put into context the role of calcium signaling in interactions between cancer cells and CAFs, with a focus on migration, proliferation, chemoresistance, and genetic instability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Sadras
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (F.S.); (G.R.M.)
| | - Gregory R. Monteith
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (F.S.); (G.R.M.)
- Mater Research, Translational Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Sarah J. Roberts-Thomson
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (F.S.); (G.R.M.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
117
|
De P, Aske J, Dey N. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Functions as a Road-Block in Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5246. [PMID: 34680395 PMCID: PMC8534063 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The journey of a normal resident fibroblast belonging to the tumor microenvironment (TME) from being a tumor pacifier to a tumor patron is fascinating. We introduce cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) as a crucial component of the TME. Activated-CAF partners with tumor cells and all components of TME in an established solid tumor. We briefly overview the origin, activation, markers, and overall functions of CAF with a particular reference to how different functions of CAF in an established tumor are functionally connected to the development of resistance to cancer therapy in solid tumors. We interrogate the role of CAF in mediating resistance to different modes of therapies. Functional diversity of CAF in orchestrating treatment resistance in solid tumors portrays CAF as a common orchestrator of treatment resistance; a roadblock in cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nandini Dey
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer Institute, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA; (P.D.); (J.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
118
|
Mao X, Xu J, Wang W, Liang C, Hua J, Liu J, Zhang B, Meng Q, Yu X, Shi S. Crosstalk between cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment: new findings and future perspectives. Mol Cancer 2021; 20:131. [PMID: 34635121 PMCID: PMC8504100 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01428-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 840] [Impact Index Per Article: 280.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a stromal cell population with cell-of-origin, phenotypic and functional heterogeneity, are the most essential components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Through multiple pathways, activated CAFs can promote tumor growth, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis, along with extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and even chemoresistance. Numerous previous studies have confirmed the critical role of the interaction between CAFs and tumor cells in tumorigenesis and development. However, recently, the mutual effects of CAFs and the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) have been identified as another key factor in promoting tumor progression. The TIME mainly consists of distinct immune cell populations in tumor islets and is highly associated with the antitumor immunological state in the TME. CAFs interact with tumor-infiltrating immune cells as well as other immune components within the TIME via the secretion of various cytokines, growth factors, chemokines, exosomes and other effector molecules, consequently shaping an immunosuppressive TME that enables cancer cells to evade surveillance of the immune system. In-depth studies of CAFs and immune microenvironment interactions, particularly the complicated mechanisms connecting CAFs with immune cells, might provide novel strategies for subsequent targeted immunotherapies. Herein, we shed light on recent advances regarding the direct and indirect crosstalk between CAFs and infiltrating immune cells and further summarize the possible immunoinhibitory mechanisms induced by CAFs in the TME. In addition, we present current related CAF-targeting immunotherapies and briefly describe some future perspectives on CAF research in the end.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqi Mao
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jie Hua
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qingcai Meng
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
119
|
Li X, Yang Y, Huang Q, Deng Y, Guo F, Wang G, Liu M. Crosstalk Between the Tumor Microenvironment and Cancer Cells: A Promising Predictive Biomarker for Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:738373. [PMID: 34692696 PMCID: PMC8529050 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.738373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have changed the landscape of cancer treatment and are emerging as promising curative treatments in different type of cancers. However, only a small proportion of patients have benefited from ICIs and there is an urgent need to find robust biomarkers for individualized immunotherapy and to explore the causes of immunotherapy resistance. In this article, we review the roles of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and discuss the effects of ICIs on these cell populations. We discuss the potential of the functional interaction between the TME and cancer cells as a predictive biomarker for ICIs. Furthermore, we outline the potential personalized strategies to improve the effectiveness of ICIs with precision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Li
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yueyao Yang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qian Huang
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Deng
- School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fukun Guo
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Gang Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
120
|
Flavonoids against non-physiologic inflammation attributed to cancer initiation, development, and progression—3PM pathways. EPMA J 2021; 12:559-587. [PMID: 34950252 PMCID: PMC8648878 DOI: 10.1007/s13167-021-00257-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AbstractInflammation is an essential pillar of the immune defense. On the other hand, chronic inflammation is considered a hallmark of cancer initiation and progression. Chronic inflammation demonstrates a potential to induce complex changes at molecular, cellular, and organ levels including but not restricted to the stagnation and impairment of healing processes, uncontrolled production of aggressive ROS/RNS, triggered DNA mutations and damage, compromised efficacy of the DNA repair machinery, significantly upregulated cytokine/chemokine release and associated patho-physiologic protein synthesis, activated signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis and tumor progression, abnormal tissue remodeling, and created pre-metastatic niches, among others. The anti-inflammatory activities of flavonoids demonstrate clinically relevant potential as preventive and therapeutic agents to improve individual outcomes in diseases linked to the low-grade systemic and chronic inflammation, including cancers. To this end, flavonoids are potent modulators of pro-inflammatory gene expression being, therefore, of great interest as agents selectively suppressing molecular targets within pro-inflammatory pathways. This paper provides in-depth analysis of anti-inflammatory properties of flavonoids, highlights corresponding mechanisms and targeted molecular pathways, and proposes potential treatment models for multi-level cancer prevention in the framework of predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM / 3PM). To this end, individualized profiling and patient stratification are essential for implementing targeted anti-inflammatory approaches. Most prominent examples are presented for the proposed application of flavonoid-conducted anti-inflammatory treatments in overall cancer management.
Collapse
|
121
|
Phenotypic screening system using three-dimensional (3D) culture models for natural product screening. J Antibiot (Tokyo) 2021; 74:660-666. [PMID: 34326483 DOI: 10.1038/s41429-021-00457-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent progress in three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems has attracted much attention in the fields of basic life science and drug development. Newly established methods include 3D co-culture, spheroid culture, and organoid culture; these methods enable more human tissue-like culture and have largely replaced traditional two-dimensional (2D) monolayer culture. By combining 3D culture methods with high-content imaging analysis, it is possible to obtain diverse and convincing data even during initial screening (which requires rapid and easy operating procedures). Until recently, 3D culture methods were considered expensive, time-consuming, complex, and unstable. However, by exploiting the self-assembling nature of cells and adding several technical improvements, we have developed several phenotypic screenings aimed at discovering anticancer compounds.
Collapse
|
122
|
Zhu S, Zhang T, Zheng L, Liu H, Song W, Liu D, Li Z, Pan CX. Combination strategies to maximize the benefits of cancer immunotherapy. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:156. [PMID: 34579759 PMCID: PMC8475356 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01164-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 77.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and adoptive cell therapy (ACT) have revolutionized cancer treatment, especially in patients whose disease was otherwise considered incurable. However, primary and secondary resistance to single agent immunotherapy often results in treatment failure, and only a minority of patients experience long-term benefits. This review article will discuss the relationship between cancer immune response and mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy. It will also provide a comprehensive review on the latest clinical status of combination therapies (e.g., immunotherapy with chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted therapy), and discuss combination therapies approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. It will provide an overview of therapies targeting cytokines and other soluble immunoregulatory factors, ACT, virotherapy, innate immune modifiers and cancer vaccines, as well as combination therapies that exploit alternative immune targets and other therapeutic modalities. Finally, this review will include the stimulating insights from the 2020 China Immuno-Oncology Workshop co-organized by the Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network (CAHON), the China National Medical Product Administration (NMPA) and Tsinghua University School of Medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaoming Zhu
- Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tian Zhang
- Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network, New York, NY, USA.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, DUMC 103861, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Lei Zheng
- Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network, New York, NY, USA.,The Sydney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Hongtao Liu
- Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network, New York, NY, USA.,University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Wenru Song
- Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network, New York, NY, USA.,Kira Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Delong Liu
- Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network, New York, NY, USA.,New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Zihai Li
- Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network, New York, NY, USA. .,Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Chong-Xian Pan
- Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network, New York, NY, USA. .,Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA, 02132, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
123
|
Cancer-associated fibroblasts: overview, progress, challenges, and directions. Cancer Gene Ther 2021; 28:984-999. [PMID: 33712707 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-021-00318-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Tumors are one of the main causes of death in humans. The development of safe and effective methods for early diagnosis and treatment of tumors is a difficult problem that needs to be solved urgently. It is well established that the occurrence of tumors involves complex biological mechanisms, and the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays an important role in regulating the biological behavior of tumors. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a group of activated fibroblasts with significant heterogeneity and plasticity in the tumor microenvironment. They secrete a variety of active factors to regulate tumor occurrence, development, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. Although most studies suggest that CAFs have significant tumor-promoting functions, some evidence indicates that they may have certain tumor-suppressive functions in the early stage of tumors. Current research on CAFs continues to face many challenges, and the heterogeneity of their origin, phenotype, and function is a major difficulty and hot spot. To provide new perspectives for the research on CAFs and tumor diagnosis and treatment, this review summarizes the definition, origin, biomarkers, generation mechanism, functions, heterogeneity, plasticity, subpopulations, pre-metastasis niches (PMN), immune microenvironment, and targeted therapy of CAFs, describes the research progress and challenges, and proposes possible future research directions based on existing reports.
Collapse
|
124
|
Azwar S, Seow HF, Abdullah M, Faisal Jabar M, Mohtarrudin N. Recent Updates on Mechanisms of Resistance to 5-Fluorouracil and Reversal Strategies in Colon Cancer Treatment. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:854. [PMID: 34571731 PMCID: PMC8466833 DOI: 10.3390/biology10090854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) plus leucovorin (LV) remain as the mainstay standard adjuvant chemotherapy treatment for early stage colon cancer, and the preferred first-line option for metastatic colon cancer patients in combination with oxaliplatin in FOLFOX, or irinotecan in FOLFIRI regimens. Despite treatment success to a certain extent, the incidence of chemotherapy failure attributed to chemotherapy resistance is still reported in many patients. This resistance, which can be defined by tumor tolerance against chemotherapy, either intrinsic or acquired, is primarily driven by the dysregulation of various components in distinct pathways. In recent years, it has been established that the incidence of 5-FU resistance, akin to multidrug resistance, can be attributed to the alterations in drug transport, evasion of apoptosis, changes in the cell cycle and DNA-damage repair machinery, regulation of autophagy, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, cancer stem cell involvement, tumor microenvironment interactions, miRNA dysregulations, epigenetic alterations, as well as redox imbalances. Certain resistance mechanisms that are 5-FU-specific have also been ascertained to include the upregulation of thymidylate synthase, dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, and the downregulation of thymidine phosphorylase. Indeed, the successful modulation of these mechanisms have been the game plan of numerous studies that had employed small molecule inhibitors, plant-based small molecules, and non-coding RNA regulators to effectively reverse 5-FU resistance in colon cancer cells. It is hoped that these studies would provide fundamental knowledge to further our understanding prior developing novel drugs in the near future that would synergistically work with 5-FU to potentiate its antitumor effects and improve the patient's overall survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shamin Azwar
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.A.); (H.F.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Heng Fong Seow
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.A.); (H.F.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Maha Abdullah
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.A.); (H.F.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Mohd Faisal Jabar
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia;
| | - Norhafizah Mohtarrudin
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.A.); (H.F.S.); (M.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
125
|
Cancer-associated fibroblasts are associated with poor prognosis in solid type of lung adenocarcinoma in a machine learning analysis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16779. [PMID: 34408230 PMCID: PMC8373913 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96344-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) participate in critical processes in the tumor microenvironment, such as extracellular matrix remodeling, reciprocal signaling interactions with cancer cells and crosstalk with infiltrating inflammatory cells. However, the relationships between CAFs and survival are not well known in lung cancer. The aim of this study was to reveal the correlations of CAFs with survival rates, genetic alterations and immune activities. This study reviewed the histological features of 517 patients with lung adenocarcinoma from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. We performed gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), network-based analysis and survival analysis based on CAFs in four histological types of lung adenocarcinoma: acinar, papillary, micropapillary and solid. We found four hallmark gene sets, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, hypoxia, and inflammatory response gene sets, that were associated with the presence of CAFs. CAFs were associated with tumor proliferation, elevated memory CD4+T cells and high CD274 (encoding PD-L1) expression. In the pathway analyses, CAFs were related to blood vessel remodeling, matrix organization, negative regulation of apoptosis and transforming growth factor-β signaling. In the survival analysis of each histological type, CAFs were associated with poor prognosis in the solid type. These results may contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies against lung adenocarcinoma cases in which CAFs are present.
Collapse
|
126
|
Itoh G, Takagane K, Fukushi Y, Kuriyama S, Umakoshi M, Goto A, Yanagihara K, Yashiro M, Tanaka M. Cancer-associated fibroblasts educate normal fibroblasts to facilitate cancer cell spreading and T cell suppression. Mol Oncol 2021; 16:166-187. [PMID: 34379869 PMCID: PMC8732346 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In some tumors, a small number of cancer cells are scattered in a large fibrotic stroma. Here, we demonstrate a novel mechanism for expansion of pro‐tumor fibroblasts via cancer‐associated fibroblast (CAF)‐mediated education of normal fibroblasts (NFs). When NFs were incubated with conditioned medium from CAFs, the resulting CAF‐educated fibroblasts (CEFs) generated reactive oxygen species, which induced NF‐κB‐mediated expression of inflammatory cytokines and the extracellular matrix protein asporin (ASPN), while expression of a common CAF marker gene, α‐SMA, was not increased. ASPN further increased CEF expression of downstream molecules, including indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1 (IDO‐1), kynureninase (KYNU), and pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A). These CEFs induce cytocidal effects against CD8+ T cells and IGF‐I activation in cancer cells. CEFs were generated without cancer cells by the direct mixture of NFs and CAFs in mouse xenografts, and once CEFs were generated, they sequentially educated NFs, leading to continuous generation of CEFs. In diffuse‐type gastric cancers, ASPNhigh/IDO‐1high/KYNUhigh/α‐SMA− CEFs were located at the distal invading front. These CEFs expanded in the fibrotic stroma and caused dissemination of cancer cells. ASPN may therefore be a key molecule in facilitating tumor spreading and T‐cell suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Go Itoh
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biochemistry, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Kurara Takagane
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biochemistry, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Yuma Fukushi
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biochemistry, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, 010-8543, Japan.,Department of Life Science, Faculty and Graduate School of Engineering and Resource Science, Akita University, 1-1 Tegata Gakuenmachi, Akita, 010-8502, Japan
| | - Sei Kuriyama
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biochemistry, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Michinobu Umakoshi
- Department of Cellular and Organ Pathology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Akiteru Goto
- Department of Cellular and Organ Pathology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Yanagihara
- Division of Biomarker Discovery, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, 6-5-1, Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-8577, Japan
| | - Masakazu Yashiro
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-4-3 Asahimachi, Abeno-ku, Osaka, 545-8545, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Tanaka
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biochemistry, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
127
|
Hot or cold: Bioengineering immune contextures into in vitro patient-derived tumor models. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 175:113791. [PMID: 33965462 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have proven to be tremendously effective for a subset of cancer patients. However, it is difficult to predict the response of individual patients and efforts are now directed at understanding the mechanisms of ICI resistance. Current models of patient tumors poorly recapitulate the immune contexture, which describe immune parameters that are associated with patient survival. In this Review, we discuss parameters that influence the induction of different immune contextures found within tumors and how engineering strategies may be leveraged to recapitulate these contextures to develop the next generation of immune-competent patient-derived in vitro models.
Collapse
|
128
|
Abstract
The major problems with cancer therapy are drug-induced side effects. There is an urgent need for safe anti-tumor drugs. Artemisinin is a Chinese herbal remedy for malaria with efficacy and safety. However, several studies reported that artemisinin causes neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity in animal models. Recently, nanostructured drug delivery systems have been designed to improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce toxicity. Artemisinin has been reported to show anticancer properties. The anticancer effects of artemisinin appear to be mediated by inducing cell cycle arrest, promoting ferroptosis and autophagy, inhibiting cell metastasis. Therefore, the review is to concentrate on mechanisms and molecular targets of artemisinin as anti-tumor agents. We believe these will be important topics in realizing the potential of artemisinin and its derivatives as potent anticancer agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongning Li
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhao
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
129
|
Mavridou D, Psatha K, Aivaliotis M. Proteomics and Drug Repurposing in CLL towards Precision Medicine. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13143391. [PMID: 34298607 PMCID: PMC8303629 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143391] [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: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite continued efforts, the current status of knowledge in CLL molecular pathobiology, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment remains elusive and imprecise. Proteomics approaches combined with advanced bioinformatics and drug repurposing promise to shed light on the complex proteome heterogeneity of CLL patients and mitigate, improve, or even eliminate the knowledge stagnation. In relation to this concept, this review presents a brief overview of all the available proteomics and drug repurposing studies in CLL and suggests the way such studies can be exploited to find effective therapeutic options combined with drug repurposing strategies to adopt and accost a more “precision medicine” spectrum. Abstract CLL is a hematological malignancy considered as the most frequent lymphoproliferative disease in the western world. It is characterized by high molecular heterogeneity and despite the available therapeutic options, there are many patient subgroups showing the insufficient effectiveness of disease treatment. The challenge is to investigate the individual molecular characteristics and heterogeneity of these patients. Proteomics analysis is a powerful approach that monitors the constant state of flux operators of genetic information and can unravel the proteome heterogeneity and rewiring into protein pathways in CLL patients. This review essences all the available proteomics studies in CLL and suggests the way these studies can be exploited to find effective therapeutic options combined with drug repurposing approaches. Drug repurposing utilizes all the existing knowledge of the safety and efficacy of FDA-approved or investigational drugs and anticipates drug alignment to crucial CLL therapeutic targets, leading to a better disease outcome. The drug repurposing studies in CLL are also discussed in this review. The next goal involves the integration of proteomics-based drug repurposing in precision medicine, as well as the application of this procedure into clinical practice to predict the most appropriate drugs combination that could ensure therapy and the long-term survival of each CLL patient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Mavridou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Functional Proteomics and Systems Biology (FunPATh)—Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), GR-57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantina Psatha
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Functional Proteomics and Systems Biology (FunPATh)—Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), GR-57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation of Research and Technology, GR-70013 Heraklion, Greece
- Correspondence: (K.P.); (M.A.)
| | - Michalis Aivaliotis
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Functional Proteomics and Systems Biology (FunPATh)—Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), GR-57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation of Research and Technology, GR-70013 Heraklion, Greece
- Correspondence: (K.P.); (M.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
130
|
Ferreira LP, Gaspar VM, Mendes L, Duarte IF, Mano JF. Organotypic 3D decellularized matrix tumor spheroids for high-throughput drug screening. Biomaterials 2021; 275:120983. [PMID: 34186236 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.120983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) is emerging as a valuable tool for generating 3D in vitro tumor models that better recapitulate tumor-stroma interactions. However, the development of dECM-3D heterotypic microtumors exhibiting a controlled morphology is yet to be materialized. Precisely controlling microtumors morphologic features is key to avoid an inaccurate evaluation of therapeutics performance during preclinical screening. To address this, herein we employed ultra-low adhesion surfaces for bioengineering organotypic 3D metastatic breast cancer-fibroblast models enriched with dECM microfibrillar fragments, as a bottom-up strategy to include major matrix components and their associated biomolecular cues during the early stages of 3D microtissue spheroids assembly, simulating pre-existing ECM presence in the in vivo setting. This biomimetic approach enabled the self-assembly of dECM-3D tumor-stroma spheroids with tunable size and reproducible morphology. Along time, dECM enriched and stroma-rich microtumors exhibited necrotic core formation, secretion of key biomarkers and higher cancer-cell specific resistance to different chemotherapeutics in comparison to standard spheroids. Exometabolomics profiling of dECM-Spheroid in vitro models further identified important breast cancer metabolic features including glucose/pyruvate consumption and lactate excretion, which suggest an intense glycolytic activity, recapitulating major hallmarks of the native microenvironment. Such organotypic dECM-enriched microtumors overcome the morphologic variability generally associated with cell-laden dECM models, while providing a scalable testing platform that can be foreseeable leveraged for high-throughput screening of candidate therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luís P Ferreira
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Vítor M Gaspar
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Luís Mendes
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Iola F Duarte
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João F Mano
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
131
|
Moody AS, Dayton PA, Zamboni WC. Imaging methods to evaluate tumor microenvironment factors affecting nanoparticle drug delivery and antitumor response. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2021; 4:382-413. [PMID: 34796317 PMCID: PMC8597952 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2020.94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Standard small molecule and nanoparticulate chemotherapies are used for cancer treatment; however, their effectiveness remains highly variable. One reason for this variable response is hypothesized to be due to nonspecific drug distribution and heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment, which affect tumor delivery of the agents. Nanoparticle drugs have many theoretical advantages, but due to variability in tumor microenvironment (TME) factors, the overall drug delivery to tumors and associated antitumor response are low. The nanotechnology field would greatly benefit from a thorough analysis of the TME factors that create these physiological barriers to tumor delivery and treatment in preclinical models and in patients. Thus, there is a need to develop methods that can be used to reveal the content of the TME, determine how these TME factors affect drug delivery, and modulate TME factors to increase the tumor delivery and efficacy of nanoparticles. In this review, we will discuss TME factors involved in drug delivery, and how biomedical imaging tools can be used to evaluate tumor barriers and predict drug delivery to tumors and antitumor response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amber S. Moody
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Carolina Institute for Nanomedicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Paul A. Dayton
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - William C. Zamboni
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Carolina Institute for Nanomedicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| |
Collapse
|
132
|
Giorello MB, Borzone FR, Labovsky V, Piccioni FV, Chasseing NA. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in the Breast Tumor Microenvironment. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2021; 26:135-155. [PMID: 33398516 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-020-09475-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Years of investigation have shed light on a theory in which breast tumor epithelial cells are under the effect of the stromal microenvironment. This review aims to discuss recent findings concerning the phenotypic and functional characteristics of cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and their involvement in tumor evolution, as well as their potential implications for anti-cancer therapy. In this manuscript, we reviewed that CAFs play a fundamental role in initiation, growth, invasion, and metastasis of breast cancer, and also serve as biomarkers in the clinical diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis of this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Belén Giorello
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP, 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Francisco Raúl Borzone
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP, 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vivian Labovsky
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP, 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Flavia Valeria Piccioni
- Laboratorio de Oncología Molecular y Nuevos Blancos Terapéuticos (IBYME) y Laboratorio de Inmunohematología (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP, 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Norma Alejandra Chasseing
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP, 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
133
|
Raskov H, Orhan A, Gaggar S, Gögenur I. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Cancer and Cancer Immunotherapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:668731. [PMID: 34094963 PMCID: PMC8172975 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.668731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME), including the interplay between tumor cells, stromal cells, immune cells, and extracellular matrix components, is mandatory for the innovation of new therapeutic approaches in cancer. The cell-cell communication within the TME plays a pivotal role in the evolution and progression of cancer. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are major cell populations in the stroma of all solid tumors and often exert protumorigenic functions; however, the origin and precise functions of CAF and TAM are still incompletely understood. CAF and TAM hold significant potential as therapeutic targets to improve outcomes in oncology when combined with existing therapies. The regulation of CAF/TAM communication and/or their differentiation could be of high impact for improving the future targeted treatment strategies. Nevertheless, there is much scope for research and innovation in this field with regards to the development of novel drugs. In this review, we elaborate on the current knowledge on CAF and TAM in cancer and cancer immunotherapy. Additionally, by focusing on their heterogenous functions in different stages and types of cancer, we explore their role as potential therapeutic targets and highlight certain aspects of their functions that need further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hans Raskov
- Center for Surgical Science, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark
| | - Adile Orhan
- Center for Surgical Science, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Shruti Gaggar
- Center for Surgical Science, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark
| | - Ismail Gögenur
- Center for Surgical Science, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
134
|
Zhang H, Jiang H, Zhu L, Li J, Ma S. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in non-small cell lung cancer: Recent advances and future perspectives. Cancer Lett 2021; 514:38-47. [PMID: 34019960 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) constitutes the majority of lung cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. Nearly 70% of NSCLC patients were diagnosed at advanced stage with only 15% of five-year survival rate. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the major component of tumor microenvironment and account for almost 70% of the cells in tumor tissues. By the crosstalk with cancer cells, CAFs reprogrammed cancer cell metabolism, remodeled extracellular matrix (ECM) and created a supportive niche for cancer stem cells. CAFs lead collective invasion of tumor cells and shape tumor immune microenvironment, promoting tumor metastasis and immune escape. In this review, we have summarized the progress of studies regarding CAFs influences on NSCLC in recent five years from the aspects of cell growth, metabolism, therapy resistance, invasion and metastasis and immune suppression. We have discussed the involved mechanisms and implications for the development of anti-NSCLC therapies. The current strategies of CAFs targeting and elimination have also been generalized. Only better understanding of the molecular biology of CAFs may contribute to the development of novel anti-NSCLC strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongfang Zhang
- Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Affiliated Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310002, China; Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Lucheng Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Affiliated Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310002, China
| | - Jiawei Li
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Shenglin Ma
- Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Affiliated Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310002, China; Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| |
Collapse
|
135
|
Li L, Chen C, Chiang C, Xiao T, Chen Y, Zhao Y, Zheng D. The Impact of TRPV1 on Cancer Pathogenesis and Therapy: A Systematic Review. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:2034-2049. [PMID: 34131404 PMCID: PMC8193258 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.59918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) is a transmembrane protein that can be activated by various physical and chemical stimuli and is associated with pain transduction. In recent years, TRPV1 was discovered to play essential roles in cancer tumorigenesis and development, as TRPV1 expression levels are altered in numerous cancer cell types. Several investigations have discovered direct associations between TRPV1 and cancer cell proliferation, cell death, and metastasis. Furthermore, about two dozen TRPV1 agonists/antagonists are under clinical trial, as TRPV1 is a potential drug target for treating various diseases. Hence, more researchers are focusing on the effects of TRPV1 agonists or antagonists on cancer tumorigenesis and development. However, both agonists and antagonists may reveal anti-cancer effects, and the effect may function via or be independent of TRPV1. In this review, we provide an overview of the impact of TRPV1 on cancer cell proliferation, cell death, and metastasis, as well as on cancer therapy and the tumor microenvironment, and consider the implications of using TRPV1 agonists and antagonists for future research and potential therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Shenzhen University International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Cheng Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Shenzhen University International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chengyao Chiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Shenzhen University International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Tian Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Shenzhen University International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yangchao Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Yongxiang Zhao
- National Center for International Research of Biological Targeting Diagnosis and Therapy (Guangxi Key Laboratory of Biological Targeting Diagnosis and Therapy Research), Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Duo Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Shenzhen University International Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| |
Collapse
|
136
|
Chen C, Hou J, Yu S, Li W, Wang X, Sun H, Qin T, Claret FX, Guo H, Liu Z. Role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the resistance to antitumor therapy, and their potential therapeutic mechanisms in non-small cell lung cancer. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:413. [PMID: 33841574 PMCID: PMC8020389 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a malignant tumor with high morbidity and mortality rates, which seriously endangers human health. Although treatment methods continue to evolve, the emergence of drug resistance is inevitable and seriously hinders the treatment of NSCLC. The tumor microenvironment (TME) protects tumor cells from the effects of chemotherapeutic drugs, which can lead to drug resistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are an important component of the TME, and various studies have demonstrated that CAFs play a crucial role in drug resistance in NSCLC. However, the drug resistance mechanism of CAFs and whether CAFs can be used as a target to reverse the resistance of tumor cells remain unclear. The present review discusses this issue and describes the heterogeneity of CAF markers, as well as their origins and resident organs, and the role and mechanism of this heterogeneity in NSCLC progression. Furthermore, the mechanism of CAF-mediated NSCLC resistance to chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy is introduced, and strategies to reverse this resistance are described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Congcong Chen
- School of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, P.R. China
| | - Jia Hou
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Sizhe Yu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Wenyuan Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Hong Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Tianjie Qin
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Francois X. Claret
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston TX77030, USA
| | - Hui Guo
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Ministry of Education of China, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Zhiyan Liu
- School of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, P.R. China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Xi'an No. 3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710018, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
137
|
Zhang C, Liu J, Wang J, Hu W, Feng Z. The emerging role of leukemia inhibitory factor in cancer and therapy. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 221:107754. [PMID: 33259884 PMCID: PMC8084904 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a multi-functional cytokine of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) superfamily. Initially identified as a factor that inhibits the proliferation of murine myeloid leukemia cells, LIF displays a wide variety of important functions in a cell-, tissue- and context-dependent manner in many physiological and pathological processes, including regulating cell proliferation, pluripotent stem cell self-renewal, tissue/organ development and regeneration, neurogenesis and neural regeneration, maternal reproduction, inflammation, infection, immune response, and metabolism. Emerging evidence has shown that LIF plays an important but complex role in human cancers; while LIF displays a tumor suppressive function in some types of cancers, including leukemia, LIF is overexpressed and exerts an oncogenic function in many more types of cancers. Further, targeting LIF has been actively investigated as a novel strategy for cancer therapy. This review summarizes the recent advances in the studies on LIF in human cancers and its potential application in cancer therapy. A better understanding of the role of LIF in different types of cancers and its underlying mechanisms will help to develop more effective strategies for cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cen Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA
| | - Juan Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA
| | - Jianming Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA
| | - Wenwei Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA.
| | - Zhaohui Feng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
138
|
Xu Q, Huang S, Xu ZM, Ji K, Zhang X, Xu WP, Wei W. Promotion effects of DEHP on hepatocellular carcinoma models: up-regulation of PD-L1 by activating the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2021; 10:376-388. [PMID: 34141151 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfab018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), as an endocrine disruptor, is often used as a plasticizer in various polyvinyl chloride plastic products and medical consumables. Epidemiological studies have shown that long-term large intake of DEHP may be a risk factor for liver dysfunction. Long-term exposure to DEHP is associated with liver disease and aggravates the progression of chronic liver injury. However, the effects of DEHP on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are rarely studied. In this study, we sought to determine the effects of DEHP on HCC induced by carbon tetrachloride combined with diethylnitrosamine, and further study its molecular mechanism. It was found that DEHP exposure significantly promotes tumor immune escape and activates signaling pathways involved in related protein expression of tumor immune escape, including PD-L1, JAK2, and STAT3. In addition, the trends observed in the HepG2 cells assay are consistent with vivo conditions. In summary, DEHP may play a tumor-promoting role in HCC mice and IFN-γ stimulated HepG2 cells, which may be related to the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine of Education Ministry, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Song Huang
- Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine of Education Ministry, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Zi-Ming Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 678 Furong Road, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Ke Ji
- Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine of Education Ministry, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunotherapy and Nutrition Therapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, No 17 Lujiang Road, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Wei-Ping Xu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunotherapy and Nutrition Therapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, No 17 Lujiang Road, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine of Education Ministry, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| |
Collapse
|
139
|
Komen J, van Neerven SM, van den Berg A, Vermeulen L, van der Meer AD. Mimicking and surpassing the xenograft model with cancer-on-chip technology. EBioMedicine 2021; 66:103303. [PMID: 33773183 PMCID: PMC8024912 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Organs-on-chips are in vitro models in which human tissues are cultured in microfluidic compartments with a controlled, dynamic micro-environment. Specific organs-on-chips are being developed to mimic human tumors, but the validation of such 'cancer-on-chip' models for use in drug development is hampered by the complexity and variability of human tumors. An important step towards validation of cancer-on-chip technology could be to first mimic cancer xenograft models, which share multiple characteristics with human cancers but are significantly less complex. Here we review the relevant biological characteristics of a xenograft tumor and show that organ-on-chip technology is capable of mimicking many of these aspects. Actual comparisons between on-chip tumor growth and xenografts are promising but also demonstrate that further development and empirical validation is still needed. Validation of cancer-on-chip models to xenografts would not only represent an important milestone towards acceptance of cancer-on-chip technology, but could also improve drug discovery, personalized cancer medicine, and reduce animal testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Job Komen
- BIOS Lab on a Chip group, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Twente, P. O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - Sanne M van Neerven
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Albert van den Berg
- BIOS Lab on a Chip group, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Twente, P. O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Louis Vermeulen
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Andries D van der Meer
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, TechMed Centre, University of Twente, P. O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
140
|
Motohara T, Yoshida GJ, Katabuchi H. The hallmarks of ovarian cancer stem cells and niches: Exploring their harmonious interplay in therapy resistance. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 77:182-193. [PMID: 33812986 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The concept of a "cancer stem cell" has evolved over the past decades, and research on cancer stem cell biology has entered into a stage of remarkable progress. Cancer stem cells are a major determining factor contributing to the establishment of phenotypic and functional intratumoral heterogeneity in synchronization with their surrounding "cancer stem cell niches." They serve as the driving force for cancer initiation, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance in various types of malignancies. In verity, reciprocal interplay between ovarian cancer stem cells and their niches involves a complex but ingeniously orchestrated tumor microenvironment within the intraperitoneal milieu and especially contribute to chemotherapy resistance in patients with advanced ovarian cancer. Herein, we review the principles of our current understanding of the biological features of ovarian cancer stem cells, focusing mainly on the precise mechanisms underlying acquired chemotherapy resistance. Furthermore, we highlight the specific roles of various cancer-associated stromal and immune cells in creating possible cancer stem cell niches that regulate ovarian cancer stemness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Motohara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan.
| | - Go J Yoshida
- Department of Immunological Diagnosis, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Katabuchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
141
|
Prieto-García E, Díaz-García CV, Agudo-López A, Pardo-Marqués V, García-Consuegra I, Asensio-Peña S, Alonso-Riaño M, Pérez C, Gómez C, Adeva J, Paz-Ares L, López-Martín JA, Agulló-Ortuño MT. Tumor-Stromal Interactions in a Co-Culture Model of Human Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Cells and Fibroblasts and Their Connection with Tumor Spread. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9040364. [PMID: 33807441 PMCID: PMC8065458 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9040364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
One key feature of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a dense desmoplastic reaction that has been recognized as playing important roles in metastasis and therapeutic resistance. We aim to study tumor-stromal interactions in an in vitro coculture model between human PDAC cells (Capan-1 or PL-45) and fibroblasts (LC5). Confocal immunofluorescence, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), and Western blotting were used to evaluate the expressions of activation markers; cytokines arrays were performed to identify secretome profiles associated with migratory and invasive properties of tumor cells; extracellular vesicle production was examined by ELISA and transmission electron microscopy. Coculture conditions increased FGF-7 secretion and α-SMA expression, characterized by fibroblast activation and decreased epithelial marker E-cadherin in tumor cells. Interestingly, tumor cells and fibroblasts migrate together, with tumor cells in forming a center surrounded by fibroblasts, maximizing the contact between cells. We show a different mechanism for tumor spread through a cooperative migration between tumor cells and activated fibroblasts. Furthermore, IL-6 levels change significantly in coculture conditions, and this could affect the invasive and migratory capacities of cells. Targeting the interaction between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment might represent a novel therapeutic approach to advanced PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Prieto-García
- Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Oncology, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.-G.); (C.V.D.-G.); (A.A.-L.); (V.P.-M.); (C.P.); (L.P.-A.); (J.A.L.-M.)
| | - C. Vanesa Díaz-García
- Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Oncology, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.-G.); (C.V.D.-G.); (A.A.-L.); (V.P.-M.); (C.P.); (L.P.-A.); (J.A.L.-M.)
| | - Alba Agudo-López
- Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Oncology, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.-G.); (C.V.D.-G.); (A.A.-L.); (V.P.-M.); (C.P.); (L.P.-A.); (J.A.L.-M.)
| | - Virginia Pardo-Marqués
- Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Oncology, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.-G.); (C.V.D.-G.); (A.A.-L.); (V.P.-M.); (C.P.); (L.P.-A.); (J.A.L.-M.)
| | - Inés García-Consuegra
- Proteomic Unit, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (I.G.-C.); (S.A.-P.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Center (CIBERER), U723, Instituto de Salud Carlos III. Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Asensio-Peña
- Proteomic Unit, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (I.G.-C.); (S.A.-P.)
- Laboratory of Rare Diseases, Mitochondrial &Neuromuscular Diseases, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marina Alonso-Riaño
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Carlos Pérez
- Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Oncology, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.-G.); (C.V.D.-G.); (A.A.-L.); (V.P.-M.); (C.P.); (L.P.-A.); (J.A.L.-M.)
| | - Carlos Gómez
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (C.G.); (J.A.)
| | - Jorge Adeva
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (C.G.); (J.A.)
| | - Luis Paz-Ares
- Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Oncology, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.-G.); (C.V.D.-G.); (A.A.-L.); (V.P.-M.); (C.P.); (L.P.-A.); (J.A.L.-M.)
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (C.G.); (J.A.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Center (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Medicine Department, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía (UCM), Av. de Séneca, 2, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - José A. López-Martín
- Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Oncology, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.-G.); (C.V.D.-G.); (A.A.-L.); (V.P.-M.); (C.P.); (L.P.-A.); (J.A.L.-M.)
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (C.G.); (J.A.)
| | - M. Teresa Agulló-Ortuño
- Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Oncology, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.-G.); (C.V.D.-G.); (A.A.-L.); (V.P.-M.); (C.P.); (L.P.-A.); (J.A.L.-M.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Center (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. de Córdoba S/N, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Facultad de Fisioterapia y Enfermería, (UCLM), Av. de Carlos III, S/N, 45071 Toledo, Spain
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
142
|
Necchi A, de Jong JJ, Raggi D, Briganti A, Marandino L, Gallina A, Bandini M, Dabbas B, Davicioni E, Capitanio U, Montorsi F, Seiler R, Wright JL, Lotan Y, Black PC, Gibb EA. Molecular Characterization of Residual Bladder Cancer after Neoadjuvant Pembrolizumab. Eur Urol 2021; 80:149-159. [PMID: 33785257 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2021.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer (MIBC), molecular alterations in immunotherapy-resistant tumors found at radical cystectomy (RC) remain largely unstudied. OBJECTIVE To investigate the biology of pembrolizumab-resistant tumors in comparison to an RC cohort treated without any systemic therapy and a cohort of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC)-treated tumors. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Transcriptome-wide expression profiling was performed on 26 RC samples from patients with ypT2-4 disease after pembrolizumab treatment, of which 22 had matched pretherapy samples. Unsupervised consensus clustering (CC) was performed to compare 26 post-pembrolizumab samples with 94 RC samples without neoadjuvant treatment and 21 samples collected from the former tumor bed of NAC-treated patients (scar tissue). Clusters were investigated for their biological and clinical characteristics and were compared to a cohort of post-NAC tumors (n = 133). OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS Patient and tumor characteristics were compared between subgroups using χ2 tests and two-sided Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. The primary endpoint was recurrence-free survival. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS Molecular subtyping of pre- and post-pembrolizumab samples revealed significant differences: only 36% of samples had a concordant subtype according to the consensus classifier. Unsupervised CC revealed three distinct post-pembrolizumab clusters (basal, luminal, and scar-like). A scar-like subtype was present in 50% of the post-pembrolizumab cases (n = 13) and expressed genes associated with wound healing/scarring. This subtype had higher luminal marker expression in the post-pembrolizumab setting compared to CC scar-like tumors from the other cohorts. Patients with the scar-like subtype showed favorable prognosis after systemic therapy, but not in the RC-only setting. The small numbers in each subgroup represents the major study limitation. CONCLUSIONS This study expands our understanding of the biology of pembrolizumab-resistant MIBC and provides a framework for defining molecular subtypes after treatment. The results further support the hypothesis that luminal-type tumors may be resistant to immunotherapy or that this treatment may select for, or induce, a luminal phenotype. PATIENT SUMMARY We carried out genetic analysis for bladder cancer tumors from patients who had received an immunotherapy agent called pembrolizumab and compared them to tumors treated with standard chemotherapy or just bladder removal. We found differences in gene expression between the treatment types and between tumor tissue from the same patient before and after treatment. These results may be helpful in personalizing therapy strategies for patients with bladder cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Necchi
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital and Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Joep J de Jong
- Department of Urology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniele Raggi
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital and Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Briganti
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Department of Urology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital and Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Marandino
- Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland (IOSI), Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Gallina
- Department of Urology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital and Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bandini
- Department of Urology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital and Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Umberto Capitanio
- Department of Urology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital and Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Montorsi
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Department of Urology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital and Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Roland Seiler
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Yair Lotan
- Department of Urology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Peter C Black
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of BC, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ewan A Gibb
- Decipher Biosciences Inc., Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
143
|
Yoshida GJ, Saya H. Molecular pathology underlying the robustness of cancer stem cells. Regen Ther 2021; 17:38-50. [PMID: 33869685 PMCID: PMC8024885 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Intratumoral heterogeneity is tightly associated with the failure of anticancer treatment modalities including conventional chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and molecularly targeted therapy. Such heterogeneity is generated in an evolutionary manner not only as a result of genetic alterations but also by the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are proposed to exist at the top of a tumor cell hierarchy and are undifferentiated tumor cells that manifest enhanced tumorigenic and metastatic potential, self-renewal capacity, and therapeutic resistance. Properties that contribute to the robustness of CSCs include the abilities to withstand redox stress, to rapidly repair damaged DNA, to adapt to a hyperinflammatory or hyponutritious tumor microenvironment, and to expel anticancer drugs by the action of ATP-binding cassette transporters as well as plasticity with regard to the transition between dormant CSC and transit-amplifying progenitor cell phenotypes. In addition, CSCs manifest the phenomenon of metabolic reprogramming, which is essential for maintenance of their self-renewal potential and their ability to adapt to changes in the tumor microenvironment. Elucidation of the molecular underpinnings of these biological features of CSCs is key to the development of novel anticancer therapies. In this review, we highlight the pathological relevance of CSCs in terms of their hallmarks and identification, the properties of their niche—both in primary tumors and at potential sites of metastasis—and their resistance to oxidative stress dependent on system xc (−). Intratumoral heterogeneity driven by CSCs is responsible for therapeutic resistance. CTCs survive in the distant organs and achieve colonization, causing metastasis. E/M hybrid cancer cells due to partial EMT exhibit the highest metastatic potential. The CSC niche regulates stemness in metastatic disease as well as in primary tumor. Activation of system xc(-) by CD44 variant in CSCs is a promising therapeutic target.
Collapse
Key Words
- ABC, ATP-binding cassette
- ALDH, Aldehyde dehydrogenase
- BMP, Bone morphogenetic protein
- CAF, Cancer-associated fibroblast
- CD44 variant
- CD44v, CD44 variant
- CSC, Cancer stem cell
- CTC, Circulating tumor cell
- CagA, Cytotoxin-associated gene A
- Cancer stem cell
- DTC, Disseminated tumor cell
- E/M, Epithelial/mesenchymal
- ECM, Extracellular matrix
- EGF, Epidermal growth factor
- EMT, Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition
- EpCAM, Epithelial cell adhesion moleculeE
- Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)
- GSC, Glioma stem cell
- GSH, reduced glutathione
- HGF, Hepatocyte growth factor
- HNSCC, Head and neck squamous cell cancer
- IL, Interleukin
- Intratumoral heterogeneity
- MAPK, mitogen-activated protein kinase
- MET, mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition
- NSCLC, non–small cell lung cancer
- Niche
- Nrf2, nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2
- OXPHOS, Oxidative phosphorylation
- Plasticity
- Prrx1, Paired-related homeodomain transcription factor 1
- ROS, Reactive oxygen species
- SRP1, Epithelial splicing regulatory protein 1
- TGF-β, Transforming growth factor–β
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Go J Yoshida
- Division of Gene Regulation, Institute for Advanced Medical Research (IAMR), Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Saya
- Division of Gene Regulation, Institute for Advanced Medical Research (IAMR), Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
144
|
Li Y, Gu L. Establishment and characterization of HXWMF-1: the first mouse fibroblastic tumor cell line derived from leukemia-associated fibroblasts. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:177. [PMID: 33740980 PMCID: PMC7977166 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01870-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chemo-resistance is still a major obstacle in leukemia treatment. Accumulating evidence indicates that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most abundant stromal cells in tumor microenvironment (TME), play a crucial role in cancer progression and response to chemotherapy. To Figure out the role of leukemia-associated fibroblasts (LAFs) in relapsed/refractory leukemia, we constructed the first leukemia-associated fibroblastic tumor cell line, HXWMF-1. Methods A cell culture technique was used to establish the leukemia-associated fibroblastic tumor cell line. Molecular and cellular biological techniques including flow cytometry, MTT assay, western blotting, and short tandem repeat (STR) analysis were used to characterize the cell line. Nude mice were used for xenograft studies. Results We established a LAFs derived tumor cell line HXWMF-1, originated from the subcutaneous xenografts of HXEX-ALL1, a cell line originated from a patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at the second relapse. The HXWMF-1 cell line was authenticated as a tumor cell line and being derived from CAFs based on morphologic, immunophenotypic, cytogenetic and STR analyses and tumorigenicity test in nude mice. To clarify the reliability of the method, we got the LAFs derived tumor cells from three different tumor mass of HXEX-ALL1 xenografts. Conclusions To our knowledge, HXWMF-1 is the first fibroblastic tumor cell line derived from LAFs or CAFs. In addition, the cell line provided firm evidence for that leukemia cells may induce LAFs/CAFs malignant transformation, which may help to develop brand new theory and therapeutic strategies for patients with relapsed /refractory ALL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Li
- Laboratory of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 20, Section 3, Renmin South Road, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China.,Joint Laboratory of West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University and School of Life Science, Fudan University for Pulmonary Development and Disease, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ling Gu
- Laboratory of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 20, Section 3, Renmin South Road, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China. .,Joint Laboratory of West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University and School of Life Science, Fudan University for Pulmonary Development and Disease, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
145
|
Ham IH, Lee D, Hur H. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast-Induced Resistance to Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy in Gastrointestinal Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1172. [PMID: 33803229 PMCID: PMC7963167 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past few decades, the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in resistance to therapies for gastrointestinal (GI) cancers has emerged. Clinical studies focusing on GI cancers have revealed that the high expression of CAF-related molecules within tumors is significantly correlated with unfavorable therapeutic outcomes; however, the exact mechanisms whereby CAFs enhance resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy in GI cancers remain unclear. The cells of origin of CAFs in GI cancers include normal resident fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial cells, pericytes, and even epithelial cells. CAFs accumulated within GI cancers produce cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors involved in resistance to therapies. CAF-derived exosomes can be engaged in stroma-related resistance to treatments, and several non-coding RNAs, such as miR-92a, miR-106b, CCAL, and H19, are present in CAF-derived exosomes and transferred to GI cancer cells. The CAF-induced desmoplastic reaction interferes with drug delivery to GI cancer cells, evoking resistance to chemotherapy. However, due to the heterogeneity of CAFs in GI cancers, identifying the exact mechanism underlying CAF-induced resistance may be difficult. Recent advancements in single-cell "omics" technologies could offer clues for revealing the specific subtypes and biomarkers related to resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- In-Hye Ham
- Department of Surgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea; (I.-H.H.); (D.L.)
- Infamm-aging Translational Research Center, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | - Dagyeong Lee
- Department of Surgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea; (I.-H.H.); (D.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | - Hoon Hur
- Department of Surgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea; (I.-H.H.); (D.L.)
- Infamm-aging Translational Research Center, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
146
|
Challenges and advances in clinical applications of mesenchymal stromal cells. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:24. [PMID: 33579329 PMCID: PMC7880217 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01037-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 268] [Impact Index Per Article: 89.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), also known as mesenchymal stem cells, have been intensely investigated for clinical applications within the last decades. However, the majority of registered clinical trials applying MSC therapy for diverse human diseases have fallen short of expectations, despite the encouraging pre-clinical outcomes in varied animal disease models. This can be attributable to inconsistent criteria for MSCs identity across studies and their inherited heterogeneity. Nowadays, with the emergence of advanced biological techniques and substantial improvements in bio-engineered materials, strategies have been developed to overcome clinical challenges in MSC application. Here in this review, we will discuss the major challenges of MSC therapies in clinical application, the factors impacting the diversity of MSCs, the potential approaches that modify MSC products with the highest therapeutic potential, and finally the usage of MSCs for COVID-19 pandemic disease.
Collapse
|
147
|
Aggarwal V, Montoya CA, Donnenberg VS, Sant S. Interplay between tumor microenvironment and partial EMT as the driver of tumor progression. iScience 2021; 24:102113. [PMID: 33659878 PMCID: PMC7892926 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), an evolutionary conserved phenomenon, has been extensively studied to address the unresolved variable treatment response across therapeutic regimes in cancer subtypes. EMT has long been envisaged to regulate tumor invasion, migration, and therapeutic resistance during tumorigenesis. However, recently it has been highlighted that EMT involves an intermediate partial EMT (pEMT) phenotype, defined by incomplete loss of epithelial markers and incomplete gain of mesenchymal markers. It has been further emphasized that pEMT transition involves a spectrum of intermediate hybrid states on either side of pEMT spectrum. Emerging evidence underlines bi-directional crosstalk between tumor cells and surrounding microenvironment in acquisition of pEMT phenotype. Although much work is still ongoing to gain mechanistic insights into regulation of pEMT phenotype, it is evident that pEMT plays a critical role in tumor aggressiveness, invasion, migration, and metastasis along with therapeutic resistance. In this review, we focus on important role of tumor-intrinsic factors and tumor microenvironment in driving pEMT and emphasize that engineered controlled microenvironments are instrumental to provide mechanistic insights into pEMT biology. We also discuss the significance of pEMT in regulating hallmarks of tumor progression i.e. cell cycle regulation, collective migration, and therapeutic resistance. Although constantly evolving, current progress and momentum in the pEMT field holds promise to unravel new therapeutic targets to halt tumor progression at early stages as well as tackle the complex therapeutic resistance observed across many cancer types. Partial EMT phenotype drives key hallmarks of tumor progression Role of tumor microenvironment in pEMT phenotype via cellular signaling pathways Engineering 3D in vitro models to study pEMT phenotype Opportunities and challenges in understanding pEMT phenotype
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vaishali Aggarwal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Catalina Ardila Montoya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Vera S Donnenberg
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,UPMC-Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
| | - Shilpa Sant
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,UPMC-Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy; Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, UPMC-Hillman Cancer Center, 700 Technology Drive, Room 4307, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| |
Collapse
|
148
|
YAP and endothelin-1 signaling: an emerging alliance in cancer. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:27. [PMID: 33422090 PMCID: PMC7797087 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-01827-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The rational making the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) the centerpiece of targeted therapies is fueled by the awareness that GPCR-initiated signaling acts as pivotal driver of the early stages of progression in a broad landscape of human malignancies. The endothelin-1 (ET-1) receptors (ET-1R), known as ETA receptor (ETAR) and ETB receptor (ETBR) that belong to the GPCR superfamily, affect both cancer initiation and progression in a variety of cancer types. By the cross-talking with multiple signaling pathways mainly through the scaffold protein β-arrestin1 (β-arr1), ET-1R axis cooperates with an array of molecular determinants, including transcription factors and co-factors, strongly affecting tumor cell fate and behavior. In this scenario, recent findings shed light on the interplay between ET-1 and the Hippo pathway. In ETAR highly expressing tumors ET-1 axis induces the de-phosphorylation and nuclear accumulation of the Hippo pathway downstream effectors, the paralogous transcriptional cofactors Yes-associated protein (YAP) and Transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ). Recent evidence have discovered that ET-1R/β-arr1 axis instigates a transcriptional interplay involving YAP and mutant p53 proteins, which share a common gene signature and cooperate in a oncogenic signaling network. Mechanistically, YAP and mutp53 are enrolled in nuclear complexes that turn on a highly selective YAP/mutp53-dependent transcriptional response. Notably, ET-1R blockade by the FDA approved dual ET-1 receptor antagonist macitentan interferes with ET-1R/YAP/mutp53 signaling interplay, through the simultaneous suppression of YAP and mutp53 functions, hampering metastasis and therapy resistance. Based on these evidences, we aim to review the recent findings linking the GPCR signaling, as for ET-1R, to YAP/TAZ signaling, underlining the clinical relevance of the blockade of such signaling network in the tumor and microenvironmental contexts. In particular, we debate the clinical implications regarding the use of dual ET-1R antagonists to blunt gain of function activity of mutant p53 proteins and thereby considering them as a potential therapeutic option for mutant p53 cancers. The identification of ET-1R/β-arr1-intertwined and bi-directional signaling pathways as targetable vulnerabilities, may open new therapeutic approaches able to disable the ET-1R-orchestrated YAP/mutp53 signaling network in both tumor and stromal cells and concurrently sensitizes to high-efficacy combined therapeutics.
Collapse
|
149
|
Jiang Y, Han Q, Zhao H, Zhang J. Promotion of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation by hepatocellular carcinoma-educated macrophages through Wnt2b/β-catenin/c-Myc signaling and reprogramming glycolysis. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:13. [PMID: 33407720 PMCID: PMC7788901 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01808-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumour microenvironment (TME) can promote the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Some tumours can be suppressed by targeting Wnt2b in tumour cells. However, the role of Wnt2b in HCC is still unknown. In particular, the role of Wnt2b-mediated signal activation in macrophage polarization in the HCC microenvironment, and the regulatory effect between Wnt and glycolysis in TAMs has not been described. Methods The expression of Wnt2b in TAMs was detected by qPCR and immunofluorescence. Wnt2b/β-catenin interference in HCC-TAMs was performed by lentivirus carrying targeted shRNA or TLR9 agonist. Markers related to macrophage polarization and the changes of key glycolytic enzymes expression were detected by flow cytometry and qPCR. ECAR was analysed by Seahorse analyser. MTT assay, wound healing assay, western blotting were used to evaluate the promoting effect of different HCC-TAMs on the proliferation, migration and EMT of HCC in vitro. Tumour cells and different HCC-TAMs were injected via subcutaneously into immunodeficient mice to assess the effects of CpG ODN, Wnt2b, or β-catenin on HCC-TAMs in tumour growth in vivo. Results Polarization-promoting factors derived from HCC cells upregulated the expression of Wnt2b in macrophages, which promoted the polarization of TAMs to M2-like macrophages by activating Wnt2b/β-catenin/c-Myc signalling. Furthermore, this process was associated with the activation of glycolysis in HCC-TAMs. These HCC-TAMs could promote the development of EMT, proliferation, and migration of HCC. In addition to silencing Wnt2b or β-catenin expression, TLR9 agonist CpG ODN downregulated the level of glycolysis and inhibited the M2 polarization of HCC-TAMs, reversing the tumour-promoting effects of TAMs in vitro and vivo. Conclusions As a potential target for HCC therapy, Wnt2b may play an important regulatory role for the functions of TAMs in the TME. Moreover, the TLR9 agonist CpG ODN might act as a Wnt2b signal inhibitor and can potentially be employed for HCC therapy by disturbing Wnt2b/β-catenin/c-Myc and inhibiting glycolysis in HCC-TAMs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jiang
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qiuju Han
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Huajun Zhao
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
150
|
The Harmonious Interplay of Amino Acid and Monocarboxylate Transporters Induces the Robustness of Cancer Cells. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11010027. [PMID: 33401672 PMCID: PMC7823946 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a growing body of evidence that metabolic reprogramming contributes to the acquisition and maintenance of robustness associated with malignancy. The fine regulation of expression levels of amino acid and monocarboxylate transporters enables cancer cells to exhibit the metabolic reprogramming that is responsible for therapeutic resistance. Amino acid transporters characterized by xCT (SLC7A11), ASCT2 (SLC1A5), and LAT1 (SLC7A5) function in the uptake and export of amino acids such as cystine and glutamine, thereby regulating glutathione synthesis, autophagy, and glutaminolysis. CD44 variant, a cancer stem-like cell marker, stabilizes the xCT antiporter at the cellular membrane, and tumor cells positive for xCT and/or ASCT2 are susceptible to sulfasalazine, a system Xc(-) inhibitor. Inhibiting the interaction between LAT1 and CD98 heavy chain prevents activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 by glutamine and leucine. mTOR signaling regulated by LAT1 is a sensor of dynamic alterations in the nutrient tumor microenvironment. LAT1 is overexpressed in various malignancies and positively correlated with poor clinical outcome. Metabolic reprogramming of glutamine occurs often in cancer cells and manifests as ASCT2-mediated glutamine addiction. Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) mediate metabolic symbiosis, by which lactate in cancer cells under hypoxia is exported through MCT4 and imported by MCT1 in less hypoxic regions, where it is used as an oxidative metabolite. Differential expression patterns of transporters cause functional intratumoral heterogeneity leading to the therapeutic resistance. Therefore, metabolic reprogramming based on these transporters may be a promising therapeutic target. This review highlights the pathological function and therapeutic targets of transporters including xCT, ASCT2, LAT1, and MCT.
Collapse
|