The biology and role of CD44 in cancer progression: therapeutic implications. J Hematol Oncol. 2018;11:64. [PMID: 29747682 PMCID: PMC5946470 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-018-0605-5]

Differential methylation in CD44 and SEC23A is associated with time preference in older individuals

Time preference is a measure used to ascertain the level of which individuals prefer smaller, immediate rewards over larger, delayed rewards. We explored how an individual's time preference associates with their epigenetic profile. Time preferences were ascertained by asking participants of the Northern Ireland COhort for the Longitudinal study of Ageing to make a series of choices between two hypothetical income scenarios. From these, eight 'time preference' categories were derived, ranging from "patient" to "impatient" on an ordinal scale. The Infinium High Density Methylation Assay, MethylationEPIC (Illumina) was used to evaluate the status of 862,927 CpGs. Time preference and DNA methylation data were obtained for 1648 individuals. Four analyses were conducted, assessing the methylation patterns at single site resolution between patient and impatient individuals using two adjustment models. In this discovery cohort analysis, two CpG sites were identified with significantly different levels of methylation (p < 9 × 10^-8) between the individuals allocated to the patient group and the remaining population following adjustment for covariates; cg08845621 within CD44 and cg18127619 within SEC23A. Neither of these genes have previously been linked to time preference. Epigenetic modifications have not previously been linked to time preference using a population cohort but they may represent important biomarkers of accumulated, complex determinants of this trait. Further analysis is warranted of both the top-ranked results and of DNA methylation as an important link between measurable biomarkers and health behaviours.

Genetic heterogeneity of liver cancer stem cells

Cancer cell heterogeneity is a serious problem in the control of tumor progression because it can cause chemoresistance and metastasis. Heterogeneity can be generated by various mechanisms, including genetic evolution of cancer cells, cancer stem cells (CSCs), and niche heterogeneity. Because the genetic heterogeneity of CSCs has been poorly characterized, the genetic mutation status of CSCs was examined using Exome-Seq and RNA-Seq data of liver cancer. Here we show that different surface markers for liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs) showed a unique propensity for genetic mutations. Cluster of differentiation 133 (CD133)-positive cells showed frequent mutations in the IRF2, BAP1, and ERBB3 genes. However, leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 5-positive cells showed frequent mutations in the CTNNB1, RELN, and ROBO1 genes. In addition, some genetic mutations were frequently observed irrespective of the surface markers for LCSCs. BAP1 mutations was frequently observed in CD133-, CD24-, CD13-, CD90-, epithelial cell adhesion molecule-, or keratin 19-positive LCSCs. ASXL2, ERBB3, IRF2, TLX3, CPS1, and NFATC2 mutations were observed in more than three types of LCSCs, suggesting that common mechanisms for the development of these LCSCs. The present study provides genetic heterogeneity depending on the surface markers for LCSCs. The genetic heterogeneity of LCSCs should be considered in the development of LCSC-targeting therapeutics.

Treatment with decitabine induces the expression of stemness markers, PD-L1 and NY-ESO-1 in colorectal cancer: potential for combined chemoimmunotherapy

BACKGROUND

The mechanism of tumor immune escape and progression in colorectal cancer (CRC) is widely investigated in-vitro to help understand and identify agents that might play a crucial role in response to treatment and improve the overall survival of CRC patients. Several mechanisms of immune escape and tumor progression, including expression of stemness markers, inactivation of immunoregulatory genes by methylation, and epigenetic silencing, have been reported in CRC, indicating the potential of demethylating agents as anti-cancer drugs. Of these, a chemotherapeutic demethylating agent, Decitabine (DAC), has been reported to induce a dual effect on both DNA demethylation and histone changes leading to an increased expression of target biomarkers, thus making it an attractive anti-tumorigenic drug.

METHODS

We compared the effect of DAC in primary 1076 Col and metastatic 1872 Col cell lines isolated and generated from patients' tumor tissues. Both cell lines were treated with DAC, and the expression of the NY-ESO-1 cancer-testis antigen, the PD-L1 immunoinhibitory marker, and the CD44, Nanog, KLF-4, CD133, MSI-1 stemness markers were analyzed using different molecular and immunological assays.

RESULTS

DAC treatment significantly upregulated stemness markers in both primary 1076 Col and meta-static 1872 Col cell lines, although a lower effect occurred on the latter: CD44 (7.85 fold; ***p = 0.0001 vs. (4.19 fold; *p = 0.0120), Nanog (4.1 fold; ***p < 0.0001 vs.1.69 fold; ***p = 0.0008), KLF-4 (4.33 fold; ***p < 0.0001 vs.2.48 fold; ***p = 0.0005), CD133 (16.77 fold; ***p = 0.0003 vs.6.36 fold; *p = 0.0166), and MSI-1 (2.33 fold; ***p = 0.0003 vs.2.3 fold; ***p = 0.0004), respectively. Interestingly, in the metastatic 1872 Col cells treated with DAC, the expression of both PD-L1 and NY-ESO-1 was increased tenfold (*p = 0.0128) and fivefold (***p < 0.0001), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the upregulation of both stemness and immune checkpoint markers by DAC treatment on CRC cells might represent a mechanism of immune evasion. In addition, induction of NY-ESO-1 may represent an immuno-therapeutic option in metastatic CRC patients. Finally, the combination of DAC and anti-PD-1/anti-PD-L1 antibodies treatment should represent a potential therapeutic intervention for this group of patients.

Safety of Gold Nanoparticles: From In Vitro to In Vivo Testing Array Checklist

In recent years, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have aroused the interest of many researchers due to their unique physicochemical and optical properties. AuNPs are being explored in a variety of biomedical fields, either in diagnostics or therapy, particularly for localized thermal ablation of cancer cells after light irradiation. Besides the promising therapeutic potential of AuNPs, their safety constitutes a highly important issue for any medicine or medical device. For this reason, in the present work, the production and characterization of physicochemical properties and morphology of AuNPs coated with two different materials (hyaluronic and oleic acids (HAOA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA)) were firstly performed. Based on the above importantly referred issue, the in vitro safety of developed AuNPs was evaluated in healthy keratinocytes, human melanoma, breast, pancreatic and glioblastoma cancer cells, as well as in a three-dimensional human skin model. Ex vivo and in vivo biosafety assays using, respectively, human red blood cells and Artemia salina were also carried out. HAOA-AuNPs were selected for in vivo acute toxicity and biodistribution studies in healthy Balb/c mice. Histopathological analysis showed no significant signs of toxicity for the tested formulations. Overall, several techniques were developed in order to characterize the AuNPs and evaluate their safety. All these results support their use for biomedical applications.

Hyaluronan and Reactive Oxygen Species Signaling—Novel Cues from the Matrix?

Hyaluronan (HA) is a naturally occurring non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) localized to the cell surface and the tissue extracellular matrix (ECM). It is composed of disaccharides containing glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine, is synthesized by the HA synthase (HAS) enzymes and is degraded by hyaluronidase (HYAL) or reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) actions. HA is deposited as a high molecular weight (HMW) polymer and degraded to low molecular weight (LMW) fragments and oligosaccharides. HA affects biological functions by interacting with HA-binding proteins (hyaladherins). HMW HA is anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and antiangiogenic, whereas LMW HA has pro-inflammatory, pro-angiogenetic, and oncogenic effects. ROS/RNS naturally degrade HMW HA, albeit at enhanced levels during tissue injury and inflammatory processes. Thus, the degradation of endothelial glycocalyx HA by increased ROS challenges vascular integrity and can initiate several disease progressions. Conversely, HA exerts a vital role in wound healing through ROS-mediated HA modifications, which affect the innate immune system. The normal turnover of HA protects against matrix rigidification. Insufficient turnover leads to increased tissue rigidity, leading to tissue dysfunction. Both endogenous and exogenous HMW HA have a scavenging capacity against ROS. The interactions of ROS/RNS with HA are more complex than presently perceived and present an important research topic.

Synthesis, characterization, and in vitro anti-tumor activity studies of the hyaluronic acid-mangiferin-methotrexate nanodrug targeted delivery system

In this study, to increase the accumulation of MTX in the tumor site and reduce the toxicity to normal tissues by MA, a novel nano-drug delivery system comprised of hyaluronic acid (HA)-mangiferin (MA)-methotrexate (MTX) (HA-MA-MTX) was developed by a self-assembly strategy. The advantage of the nano-drug delivery system is that MTX can be used as a tumor-targeting ligand of the folate receptor (FA), HA can be used as another tumor-targeting ligand of the CD44 receptor, and MA serves as an anti-inflammatory agent. ¹HNMR and FT-IR results confirmed that HA, MA, and MTX were well coupled together by the ester bond. DLS and AFM images revealed that the size of HA-MA-MTX nanoparticles was about ~138 nm. In vitro cell experiments proved that HA-MA-MTX nanoparticles have a positive effect on inhibiting K7 cancer cells while having relatively lower toxicity to normal MC3T3-E1 cells than MTX does. All these results indicated that the prepared HA-MA-MTX nanoparticles can be selectively ingested by K7 tumor cells through FA and CD44 receptor-mediated endocytosis, thus inhibiting the growth of tumor tissues and reducing the nonspecific uptake toxicity caused by chemotherapy. Therefore, these self-assembled HA-MA-MTX NPs could be a potential anti-tumor drug delivery system.

Synthesis and characterization of Gd3+-loaded hyaluronic acid-polydopamine nanoparticles as a dual contrast agent for CT and MRI scans

Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography (CT) suffer from low contrast sensitivity and potential toxicity of contrast agents. To overcome these limitations, we developed and tested a new class of dual contrast agents based on polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA-NPs) that are functionalized and targeted with hyaluronic acid (HA). These nanoparticles (NPs) are chelated with Gd³⁺ to provide suitable contrast. The targeted NPs were characterized through ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared Fourier transform (FTIR), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The cytotoxicity was investigated on HEK293 cells using an MTT assay. The contrast property of synthesized Gd³⁺/PDA/HA was compared with Barium sulfate and Dotarem, as commercial contrast agents (CAs) for CT and MRI, respectively. The results illustrated that synthesized PDA-NPs have a spherical morphology and an average diameter of 72 nm. A distinct absorption peak around 280 nm in the UV-vis spectrum reported the self-polymerization of PDA-NPs. The HA coating on PDA-NPs was revealed through a shift in the FTIR peak of C=O from 1618 cm^-1 to 1635 cm^-1. The Gd³⁺ adsorption on PDA/HA-NPs was confirmed using an adsorption isotherm assay. The developed CA showed low in vitro toxicity (up to 158.98 µM), and created a similar contrast in MRI and CT when compared to the commercial agents. The r₁ value for PDA/HA/Gd³⁺ (6.5 (mg/ml)^-1 s^-1) was more than Dotarem (5.6 (mg/ml)^-1 s^-1) and the results of the hemolysis test showed that at concentrations of 2, 4, 6, and 10 mg/ml, the hemolysis rate of red blood cells is very low. Additionally, the results demonstrated that PDA/HA/Gd³⁺ could better target the CD₄₄⁺-expressing cancer cells than PDA/Gd³⁺. Thus, it can be concluded that lower doses of developed CA are needed to achieve similar contrast of Dotarem, and the developed CA has no safety concerns in terms of hemolysis. The stability of PDA/HA/Gd³⁺ has also been evaluated by ICP-OES, zeta potential, and DLS during 3 days, and the results suggested that Gd-HA NPs were stable.

Updates in the pathology of Pregnancy Associated Breast Cancer (PABC)

Pregnancy associated breast cancer (PABC) is defined as a breast cancer diagnosed during gestation, lactation or within 5 years postpartum. While the development of malignancy during pregnancy is rare, the incidence is increasing. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed during pregnancy, affecting up to 1 in 3000 deliveries. New understanding of the pathophysiology of PABC recently resulted in updated definitions distinguishing breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy (PrBC) from cancer diagnosed during the postpartum period (PPBC) due to distinct biology and prognosis. Pregnancy has a dual effect on breast cancer development- both protective against cancer and promoting tumor growth. While several hypotheses have been proposed over the years to explain these effects, the most likely hypothesis for the development of PABC is the involution hypothesis, proposing that remodeling programs activated in the immediate postpartum period are similar to wound healing and inflammation that may be associated with tumor development and progression. Although PABCs reflect all subtypes of breast carcinomas, they are most commonly invasive ductal carcinomas of high tumor grade and large tumor size, with more advanced stage at presentation and higher rates of lymph node involvement. Most PABCs are hormone negative tumors (triple negative or HER2 amplified tumors) with high Ki-67 proliferation rates. Several studies have shown that PABCs have different genomic signatures than non-PABC tumors, showing increased expression of immune response mediators. Better understanding of the molecular pathways of tumor initiation and progression, along with prompt diagnosis and novel treatment protocols in the care of PrBC and PPBC are needed to improve outcomes for these young, high-risk breast cancer patients.

Recapitulating thyroid cancer histotypes through engineering embryonic stem cells

Thyroid carcinoma (TC) is the most common malignancy of endocrine organs. The cell subpopulation in the lineage hierarchy that serves as cell of origin for the different TC histotypes is unknown. Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) with appropriate in vitro stimulation undergo sequential differentiation into thyroid progenitor cells (TPCs-day 22), which maturate into thyrocytes (day 30). Here, we create follicular cell-derived TCs of all the different histotypes based on specific genomic alterations delivered by CRISPR-Cas9 in hESC-derived TPCs. Specifically, TPCs harboring BRAF^V600E or NRAS^Q61R mutations generate papillary or follicular TC, respectively, whereas addition of TP53^R248Q generate undifferentiated TCs. Of note, TCs arise by engineering TPCs, whereas mature thyrocytes have a very limited tumorigenic capacity. The same mutations result in teratocarcinomas when delivered in early differentiating hESCs. Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP1)/Matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9)/Cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) ternary complex, in cooperation with Kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R), is involved in TC initiation and progression. Increasing radioiodine uptake, KISS1R and TIMP1 targeting may represent a therapeutic adjuvant option for undifferentiated TCs.

Photothermal Attenuation of Cancer Cell Stemness, Chemoresistance, and Migration Using CD44-Targeted MoS2 Nanosheets

Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) play key roles in chemoresistance, tumor metastasis, and clinical relapse. However, current CSC inhibitors lack specificity, efficacy, and applicability to different cancers. Herein, we introduce a nanomaterial-based approach to photothermally induce the differentiation of CSCs, termed "photothermal differentiation", leading to the attenuation of cancer cell stemness, chemoresistance, and metastasis. MoS2 nanosheets and a moderate photothermal treatment were applied to target a CSC surface receptor (i.e., CD44) and modulate its downstream signaling pathway. This treatment forces the more stem-like cancer cells to lose the mesenchymal phenotype and adopt an epithelial, less stem-like state, which shows attenuated self-renewal capacity, more response to anticancer drugs, and less invasiveness. This approach could be applicable to various cancers due to the broad availability of the CD44 biomarker. The concept of using photothermal nanomaterials to regulate specific cellular activities driving the differentiation of CSCs offers a new avenue for treating refractory cancers.

Immunotargeting of Cancer Stem Cells

The generally accepted view is that CSCs hijack the signaling pathways attributed to normal stem cells that regulate the self-renewal and differentiation processes. Therefore, the development of selective targeting strategies for CSC, although clinically meaningful, is associated with significant challenges because CSC and normal stem cells share many important signaling mechanisms for their maintenance and survival. Furthermore, the efficacy of this therapy is opposed by tumor heterogeneity and CSC plasticity. While there have been considerable efforts to target CSC populations by the chemical inhibition of the developmental pathways such as Notch, Hedgehog (Hh), and Wnt/β-catenin, noticeably fewer attempts were focused on the stimulation of the immune response by CSC-specific antigens, including cell-surface targets. Cancer immunotherapies are based on triggering the anti-tumor immune response by specific activation and targeted redirecting of immune cells toward tumor cells. This review is focused on CSC-directed immunotherapeutic approaches such as bispecific antibodies and antibody-drug candidates, CSC-targeted cellular immunotherapies, and immune-based vaccines. We discuss the strategies to improve the safety and efficacy of the different immunotherapeutic approaches and describe the current state of their clinical development.

In silico designing and expression of novel recombinant construct containing the variable part of CD44 extracellular domain for prediagnostic breast cancer

BACKGROUND

CD44, as a tumor-associated marker, can be used to detect stem cells in breast cancer. While CD44 is expressed in normal epithelial cells, carcinoma cells overexpress CD44.

AIMS

In the current study, we designed a recombinant protein that included the variable component of the CD44 (CD44v) extracellular domain to apply in clinical diagnosis of breast cancer.

METHODS

A total of 100 CD44v amino-acid residues were determined, and the structure was examined using bioinformatics tools. The construct was inserted into the PET28a vector and transformed in E. coli BL21(DE3). A nearly 12 kDa fusion protein was obtained by Ni-NTA affinity metal chromatography. Recombinant CD44v was examined by Western blotting, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays.

RESULTS

The findings revealed that the structure of rCD44v was stable, and its antigenic domain was exposed. The recombinant CD44v was confirmed by western blotting, and the presence of antibodies against recombinant CD44v protein in the patient's serum was detected by the ELISA. Our data demonstrated a link between CD44v serum levels and the prevalence of breast cancer.

CONCLUSION

Assessments of antiCD44v antibodies with rCD44v could be a useful tool for identifying breast cancer in its early stages, which can lead to better outcomes.

Current State of Cold Atmospheric Plasma and Cancer-Immunity Cycle: Therapeutic Relevance and Overcoming Clinical Limitations Using Hydrogels

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a partially ionized gas that gains attention as a well-tolerated cancer treatment that can enhance anti-tumor immune responses, which are important for durable therapeutic effects. This review offers a comprehensive and critical summary on the current understanding of mechanisms in which CAP can assist anti-tumor immunity: induction of immunogenic cell death, oxidative post-translational modifications of the tumor and its microenvironment, epigenetic regulation of aberrant gene expression, and enhancement of immune cell functions. This should provide a rationale for the effective and meaningful clinical implementation of CAP. As discussed here, despite its potential, CAP faces different clinical limitations associated with the current CAP treatment modalities: direct exposure of cancerous cells to plasma, and indirect treatment through injection of plasma-treated liquids in the tumor. To this end, a novel modality is proposed: plasma-treated hydrogels (PTHs) that can not only help overcome some of the clinical limitations but also offer a convenient platform for combining CAP with existing drugs to improve therapeutic responses and contribute to the clinical translation of CAP. Finally, by integrating expertise in biomaterials and plasma medicine, practical considerations and prospective for the development of PTHs are offered.

ECM-targeting bacteria enhance chemotherapeutic drug efficacy by lowering IFP in tumor mouse models

Bacterial cancer therapies aim to manipulate bacteria to effectively deploy therapeutic payloads to tumors. Attenuated bacteria alone often cannot eradicate solid tumors. Attenuated Salmonella can be engineered to deliver cytotoxic drugs to either trigger an immune response or increase antitumor efficacy when combined with chemotherapeutic drugs. However, the extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding cancer cells forms a barrier that often limits the ability of chemotherapeutic and cytotoxic drugs to penetrate and eliminate tumors. To overcome this limitation, we developed a strategy to combine chemotherapy with an attenuated Salmonella typhimurium strain engineered to secrete HysA protein (from Staphylococcus aureus; Hyaluronidase, HAase) in tumors. The engineered Salmonella effectively degraded hyaluronan (HA), which is a major ECM constituent in tumors, and suppressed tumor growth in mouse models of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (ASPC-1) and breast cancer (4T1). Furthermore, it prolonged survival when combined with chemotherapeutic drugs (doxorubicin or gemcitabine). Upon bacterial colonization, the HAase-mediated ECM degradation decreased interstitial fluid pressure (IFP) in the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, HA degradation using HAase-expressing bacteria in vivo led to decreased binding to the receptor, CD44, expressed in tumors. This may modulate proliferation- and apoptosis-related signal pathways. Therefore, ECM-targeting bacteria can be used as a synergistic anticancer therapeutic agent to maximize chemotherapeutic drug delivery into highly invasive tumors.

N4-acetylcytidine modification of lncRNA CTC-490G23.2 promotes cancer metastasis through interacting with PTBP1 to increase CD44 alternative splicing

Although N4-acetylcytidine (ac4C) modification affects the stability and translation of mRNA, it is unknown whether it exists in noncoding RNAs, and its biological function is unclear. Here, nucleotide-resolution method for profiling CTC-490G23.2 ac4C sites and gain- and loss-of-function experiments revealed that N-acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) is responsible for ac4C modification of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). NAT10-mediated ac4C modification leads to the stabilization and overexpression of lncRNA CTC-490G23.2 in primary esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and its further upregulation in metastatic tissues. CTC-490G23.2 significantly promotes cancer invasion and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, CTC-490G23.2 acts as a scaffold to increase the binding of CD44 pre-mRNA to polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1 (PTBP1), resulting in a oncogenic splicing switch from the standard isoform CD44s to the variant isoform CD44v(8-10). CD44v(8-10), but not CD44s, binds to and increases the protein stability of vimentin. Expression levels of CTC-490G23.2 and CD44v(8-10) can predict poor prognosis in cancer patients. Furthermore, the antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)/SV40-LAH4-L1 peptide self-assembled nanocomplexes targeting CTC490G23.2 exerts a significantly suppressive effect on cancer metastasis. The outcome of this study will provide new mechanistic insight into the ac4C modification of lncRNAs and useful clues for the development of novel systemic therapies and prognostic biomarkers.

Bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation of cuproptosis-related lncRNA LINC02154 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is common in urinary system tumors. Cuproptosis is a non-apoptotic cell death pathway. Copper binds to fatty acylated mitochondrial proteins and activates various forms of cell death. LncRNA LINC02154 is significantly highly expressed in cells and tissues of many types of tumors, and the risk signature of LINC02154 in some tumors has been validated for effectiveness.

METHODS

We constructed a risk prognostic signature by obtaining differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) associated with ccRCC outcomes and cuproptosis from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We used TCGA to construct training and testing sets to analyze the risk signature and the impact of LINC02154, and we performed relevant survival analyses. Tumor mutational burdens were analyzed in different LINC02154 expression groups and risk score groups. We next analyzed the immune microenvironment of LINC20154. We performed LINC20154-related drug sensitivity analyses. We also investigated the cellular function of LINC02154 in the ACHN cell line and performed CCK-8 assay, EdU, wound-healing assay, and Transwell assay. The essential genes FDX1 and DLST of cuproptosis were detected by western blot.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that LINC02154's impact on outcomes was statistically significant. We also demonstrated the association of different ages, genders, stages, and grades with LINC02154 and risk models. The results showed a significant difference in tumor mutation burden between the groups, which was closely related to clinical prognosis. We found differences in immune cells among groups with different levels of LINC02154 expression and significant differences in immune function, immunotherapeutic positive markers, and critical steps of the immune cycle. The sensitivity analysis showed that differential expression of LINC02154 discriminated between sensitivity to axitinib, doxorubicin, gemcitabine, pazopanib, sorafenib, sunitinib, and temsirolimus. This difference was also present in the high-risk group and low-risk group. We demonstrated that the proliferation and migration of t ACHN cells in the LINC02154 knockdown group were inhibited. The western blot results showed that the knockdown of LINC02154 significantly affected the expression of FDX1 and DLST, critical genes of cuproptosis.

CONCLUSION

Finally, we demonstrated that LINC02154 and our constructed risk signature could predict outcomes and have potential clinical value.

Development of a Novel Anti-CD44 Variant 6 Monoclonal Antibody C44Mab-9 for Multiple Applications against Colorectal Carcinomas

CD44 is a cell surface glycoprotein, and its isoforms are produced by the alternative splicing with the standard and variant exons. The CD44 variant exon-containing isoforms (CD44v) are overexpressed in carcinomas. CD44v6 is one of the CD44v, and its overexpression predicts poor prognosis in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. CD44v6 plays critical roles in CRC adhesion, proliferation, stemness, invasiveness, and chemoresistance. Therefore, CD44v6 is a promising target for cancer diagnosis and therapy for CRC. In this study, we established anti-CD44 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) by immunizing mice with CD44v3-10-overexpressed Chinese hamster ovary (CHO)-K1 cells. We then characterized them using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. One of the established clones (C₄₄Mab-9; IgG₁, kappa) reacted with a peptide of the variant 6-encoded region, indicating that C₄₄Mab-9 recognizes CD44v6. Furthermore, C₄₄Mab-9 reacted with CHO/CD44v3-10 cells or CRC cell lines (COLO201 and COLO205) by flow cytometry. The apparent dissociation constant (K_D) of C₄₄Mab-9 for CHO/CD44v3-10, COLO201, and COLO205 was 8.1 × 10^-9 M, 1.7 × 10^-8 M, and 2.3 × 10^-8 M, respectively. C₄₄Mab-9 detected the CD44v3-10 in western blotting, and partially stained the formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded CRC tissues in immunohistochemistry. Collectively, C₄₄Mab-9 is useful for detecting CD44v6 in various applications.

Targeting ovarian cancer stem cells: a new way out

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy due to tumor heterogeneity, the lack of reliable early diagnosis methods and the high incidence of chemoresistant recurrent disease. Although there are developments in chemotherapies and surgical techniques to improve the overall survival of OC patients, the 5-year survival of advanced OC patients is still low. To improve the prognosis of OC patients, it is important to search for novel therapeutic approaches. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of tumor cells that participate in tumor growth, metastasis and chemoresistance. It is important to study the role of CSCs in a highly heterogeneous disease such as OC, which may be significant to a better understanding of the oncogenetic and metastatic pathways of the disease and to develop novel strategies against its progression and platinum resistance. Here, we summarized the current findings about targeting methods against ovarian cancer stem cells, including related signaling pathways, markers and drugs, to better manage OC patients using CSC-based therapeutic strategies.

New Horizons in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Prognostic Role of CD44 Expression

BACKGROUND

The transmembrane glycoprotein CD44, the major hyaluronan (HA) receptor, has been proven to regulate cell growth, survival, differentiation, and migration. It is therefore widely considered to be involved in carcinogenesis. Its role as a new therapeutic target in solid tumors is under evaluation in clinical trials. The prognostic value remains controversial. Here, we aimed to investigate the correlation between CD44 expression and the clinicopathological features and survival in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients.

METHODS

Data from 65 mCRC patients of the Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari were retrospectively collected from 2008 to 2021. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed at the Pathology Division, University Hospital of Cagliari on 3 μm thick sections obtained from paraffin blocks. The intensity of immunohistochemical staining was subclassified into four groups: score 0 if negative or weak membrane staining in less than 10% of tumor cells; score 1+ if weak membrane staining in at least 10% of tumor cells or moderate membrane staining in less than 10% of tumor cells; score 2+ if moderate membrane staining in at least 10% of tumor cells or intensive membrane staining in less than 10% of tumor cells; score 3+ if intense membrane staining in at least 10% of tumor cells. Based on this score, we distinguished patients into low CD44 expression (score 0, 1+, 2+) and high CD44 expression (score 3+). Statistical analysis was performed with MedCalc (survival distribution: Kaplan-Meier; survival comparison: log-rank test; association between categorical variables: Fisher's exact test).

RESULTS

Patients' median age was 66 years (range 49-85). Regarding CD44 expression, score was 0 in 18 patients, 1+ in 15 patients, 2+ in 18 patients, and 3+ in 14 patients. Median overall survival (mOS) was 28.1 months (95%CI: 21.3-101). CD44 overexpression (3+) was correlated with poor prognosis (p = 0.0011; HR = 0.2), with a mOS of 14.5 months (95%CI 11.7 to 35.9) versus 30.7 months (95%CI 27.8 to 101) in lower CD44 expression. Higher CD44 expression was associated with clinically poor prognostic features: age ≥ 70 years (p = 0.0166); inoperable disease (p = 0.0008); stage IV at diagnosis (p = 0.0241); BRAF mutated (p = 0.0111), high-grade tumor (p = 0.0084).

CONCLUSIONS

CD44 markedly correlated with aggressive tumor behavior and contributed to the earlier progression of disease, thus suggesting its role as a novel prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target for mCRC patients.

Photodynamic therapy: Innovative approaches for antibacterial and anticancer treatments

Photodynamic therapy is an alternative treatment mainly for cancer but also for bacterial infections. This treatment dates back to 1900 when a German medical school graduate Oscar Raab found a photodynamic effect while doing research for his doctoral dissertation with Professor Hermann von Tappeiner. Unexpectedly, Raab revealed that the toxicity of acridine on paramecium depends on the intensity of light in his laboratory. Photodynamic therapy is therefore based on the administration of a photosensitizer with subsequent light irradiation within the absorption maxima of this substance followed by reactive oxygen species formation and finally cell death. Although this treatment is not a novelty, there is an endeavor for various modifications to the therapy. For example, selectivity and efficiency of the photosensitizer, as well as irradiation with various types of light sources are still being modified to improve final results of the photodynamic therapy. The main aim of this review is to summarize anticancer and antibacterial modifications, namely various compounds, approaches, and techniques, to enhance the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy.

Targeted Lymphoma Therapy Using a Gold Nanoframework-Based Drug Delivery System

Precision nanomedicine can be employed as an alternative to chemo- or radiotherapy to overcome challenges associated with the often narrow therapeutic window of traditional treatment approaches, while safely inducing effective, targeted antitumor responses. Herein, we report the formulation of a therapeutic nanocomposite comprising a hyaluronic acid (HA)-coated gold nanoframework (AuNF) delivery system and encapsulated IT848, a small molecule with potent antilymphoma and -myeloma properties that targets the transcriptional activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). The porous AuNFs fabricated via a liposome-templated approach were loaded with IT848 and surface-functionalized with HA to formulate the nanotherapeutics that were able to efficiently deliver the payload with high specificity to myeloma and lymphoma cell lines in vitro. In vivo studies characterized biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and safety of HA-AuNFs, and we demonstrated superior efficacy of HA-AuNF-formulated IT848 vs free IT848 in lymphoma mouse models. Both in vitro and in vivo results affirm that the AuNF system can be adopted for targeted cancer therapy, improving the drug safety profile, and enhancing its efficacy with minimal dosing. HA-AuNF-formulated IT848 therefore has strong potential for clinical translation.

Smart Phototheranostics based on Carbon Nanohorns for Precise Imaging-Guided Post-PDT toward Residual Tumor Cells after Initial Phototherapy

As promising photonic material, phototheranostics can be activated in the laser irradiation range of tumor with sensitivity and spatiotemporal precision. However, it is difficult to completely eradicate solid tumors due to their irregularity and limited laser irradiation area. Herein, multi-stimulus responsive HA-Ce6@SWNHs were constructed with single-walled carbon nanohorns (SWNHs) and chlorine e6 (Ce6) modified hyaluronic acid (HA) via non-covalent binding. This SWNHs-based phototheranostics not only exhibited water dispersion but also could target tumor and be activated by near-infrared light for photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT). Additionally, HA-Ce6@SWNHs could be degraded by hyaluronidase in residual tumor cells, causing HA-Ce6 to fall off the SWNHs surfaces to restore autofluorescence, thus precisely guiding the programmed photodynamic treatments for residual tumor cells after the initial phototherapy. Thus, this work provides a rationally designed multiple-stimulus-response strategy to develop smart SWNHs-based phototheranostics for precise PDT/PTT and post-treatment imaging-guided PDT of residual tumor cells.

Antibody Drug Conjugates of Near-Infrared Photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) in Breast Cancers

Worldwide, the incidence rate of breast cancer is the highest in women. Approximately 2.3 million people were newly diagnosed and 0.685 million were dead of breast cancer in 2020, which continues to grow. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive breast cancer subtype with a higher risk of recurrence and metastasis, but disappointly, there are no effective and specific therapies clinically, especially for patients presenting with metastatic diseases. Therefore, it is urgent to develop a new type of cancer therapy for survival improvisation and adverse effects alleviation of breast cancers. Near-infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) is a newly developed, photochemistry-based cancer therapy. It was drive by an antibody-photoabsorber conjugate (APC) which is triggered by near-infrared light. The key part of APC is a cancer-targeting monoclonal antibody (mAb) that can bind to receptors or antigens on the surface of tumor cells. Because of this targeted conjugate accumulation, subsequent deployment of focal NIR-light results in functional damage on the targeted cell membranes without harming the immediately adjacent receptor-negative cells and evokes a kind of photochemical, speedy, and highly specific immunogenic cell death (ICD) of cancer cells with corresponding antigens. Subsequently, immature dendritic cells adjacent to dying cancer cells will become mature, further inducing a host-oriented anti-cancer immune response, complicatedly and comprehensively. Currently, NIR-PIT has progressed into phase 3 clinical trial for recurrent head and neck cancer. And preclinical studies have illustrated strong therapeutic efficacy of NIR-PIT targeting various molecular receptors overexpressed in breast cancer cells, including EGFR, HER2, CD44c, CD206, ICAM-1 and FAP-α. Thereby, NIR-PIT is in early trials, but appears to be a promising breast cancer therapy and moving into the future. Here, we present the specific advantages and discuss the most recent preclinical studies against several transmembrane proteins of NIR-PIT in breast cancers.

Sulforaphane suppresses skin squamous cell carcinoma cells proliferation through miR-199a-5p/Sirt1/CD44ICD signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to explore the impact of sulforaphane on the growth of sSCC cells, and the activation of miR-199a-5p/Sirt1 and CD44ICD signaling pathways.

METHODS

Cell viability, count, apoptosis, and invasion assays were performed in the sSCC cell line (SCC-13) in which miR-199a-5p was over-expressed or under-expressed. The expression levels of miR-199a-5p, Sirt1 and CD44ICD mRNA were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

RESULTS

Sulforaphane significantly inhibited the cell growth and invasion of SCC-13 cells, and dramatically induced cell apoptosis. Additionally, sulforaphane also greatly increased miR-199a-5p expression and suppressed Sirt1 and CD44ICD mRNA levels. Moreover, miR-199a-5p overexpression considerably down-regulated the expressions of Sirt1 and CD44ICD mRNA, and promoted the ability of sulforaphane to represses cell growth and invasion, and to induce cell apoptosis. However, miR-199a-5p underexpression has the opposite effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Sulforaphane appears to inhibit sCC progression by impacting its growth and invasion ability, and regulates miR-199a-5p/Sirt1 and CD44ICD signaling pathways, and may be utilized to develop a curative approach for sSCC.

3D printed tissue models: From hydrogels to biomedical applications

The development of new advanced constructs resembling structural and functional properties of human organs and tissues requires a deep knowledge of the morphological and biochemical properties of the extracellular matrices (ECM), and the capacity to reproduce them. Manufacturing technologies like 3D printing and bioprinting represent valuable tools for this purpose. This review will describe how morphological and biochemical properties of ECM change in different tissues, organs, healthy and pathological states, and how ECM mimics with the required properties can be generated by 3D printing and bioprinting. The review describes and classifies the polymeric materials of natural and synthetic origin exploited to generate the hydrogels acting as "inks" in the 3D printing process, with particular emphasis on their functionalization allowing crosslinking and conjugation with signaling molecules to develop bio-responsive and bio-instructive ECM mimics.

MUC1 promotes cancer stemness and predicts poor prognosis in osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma (OS) is one of the most common primary bone malignancy. Combining chemotherapy and surgical treatment significantly improved clinical outcomes for osteosarcoma patients. Osteosarcoma stem cells (OSCs) are often more malignant than differentiated cancer cells and are a key determinant of responses to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, therefore, the removal of OSCs could be an effective therapeutic strategy. Myxoprotein 1 (MUC1) is aberrantly overexpressed in many human cancers and it promotes cancer stemness through activation of pluripotency networks. In this study, we observed elevated MUC1 in osteosarcoma and a depressed prognosis in patients with high MUC1 expression profiles. Our observations also revealed that MUC1 promoted OS stemness and tumor metastasis both in vivo and in vitro. These data led us to hypothesize that MUC1 may be a therapeutic target for patients with OS.

Barriers and opportunities for gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer therapy

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) has become one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths across the world. A lack of durable responses to standard-of-care chemotherapies renders its treatment particularly challenging and largely contributes to the devastating outcome. Gemcitabine, a pyrimidine antimetabolite, is a cornerstone in PDA treatment. Given the importance of gemcitabine in PDA therapy, extensive efforts are focusing on exploring mechanisms by which cancer cells evade gemcitabine cytotoxicity, but strategies to overcome them have not been translated into patient care. Here, we will introduce the standard treatment paradigm for patients with PDA, highlight mechanisms of gemcitabine action, elucidate gemcitabine resistance mechanisms, and discuss promising strategies to circumvent them.

XTP1 facilitates the growth and development of gastric cancer by activating CDK6

Background

Hepatitis B virus X protein (XTP1) is overexpressed in tumor tissues and regulates cancer progression. However, the molecular mechanism of XTP1 in gastric cancer (GC) is poorly understood. Hence, we aimed to dissect the underlying role of XTP1 in the development of GC.

Methods

Lentiviruses were constructed and transfected into GC cells to upregulate or downregulate gene expression. The expressions of proteins in GC cells or tumor tissues were assessed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay, or the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) database. Cell proliferation was assessed via methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, Celigo cell counting assay, cell cycle analysis, and colony formation assay. Cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. The apoptosis-related proteins were evaluated using the human apoptosis antibody array. GC cell migration was detected by scratch wound-healing assays and Transwell migration assays. Potential downstream molecules were identified by the human GeneChip assay combined with bioinformatics analysis.

Results

We found that XTP1 is overexpressed in GC tissues and is positively related to its pathological grade. XTP1 knockdown restrained the growth and migration of GC cells, while XTP1 overexpression promoted cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis. A mechanistic study indicated that XTP1 knockdown inhibited cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) expression and that CDK6 might be a potential downstream molecule of XTP1. Further study confirmed that CDK6 depletion also suppressed GC cell proliferation and migration and increased GC cell apoptosis. Moreover, rescue experiments verified that CDK6 knockdown abated the promotion of XTP1 overexpression on GC progression.

Conclusions

XTP1 facilitated the development and progression of GC cells by activating CDK6. Therefore, the XTP1-CDK6 axis might be a potential therapeutic target for GC.

Natural Biopolymers as Smart Coating Materials of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery

In recent years, the functionalization of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with different types of responsive pore gatekeepers have shown great potential for the formulation of drug delivery systems (DDS) with minimal premature leakage and site-specific controlled release. New nanotechnological approaches have been developed with the objective of utilizing natural biopolymers as smart materials in drug delivery applications. Natural biopolymers are sensitive to various physicochemical and biological stimuli and are endowed with intrinsic biodegradability, biocompatibility, and low immunogenicity. Their use as biocompatible smart coatings has extensively been investigated in the last few years. This review summarizes the MSNs coating procedures with natural polysaccharides and protein-based biopolymers, focusing on their application as responsive materials to endogenous stimuli. Biopolymer-coated MSNs, which conjugate the nanocarrier features of mesoporous silica with the biocompatibility and controlled delivery provided by natural coatings, have shown promising therapeutic outcomes and the potential to emerge as valuable candidates for the selective treatment of various diseases.

Stepwise fate conversion of supporting cells to sensory hair cells in the chick auditory epithelium

In contrast to mammals, the avian cochlea, specifically the basilar papilla, can regenerate sensory hair cells, which involves fate conversion of supporting cells to hair cells. To determine the mechanisms for converting supporting cells to hair cells, we used single-cell RNA sequencing during hair cell regeneration in explant cultures of chick basilar papillae. We identified dynamic changes in the gene expression of supporting cells, and the pseudotime trajectory analysis demonstrated the stepwise fate conversion from supporting cells to hair cells. Initially, supporting cell identity was erased and transition to the precursor state occurred. A subsequent gain in hair cell identity progressed together with downregulation of precursor-state genes. Transforming growth factor β receptor 1-mediated signaling was involved in induction of the initial step, and its inhibition resulted in suppression of hair cell regeneration. Our data provide new insights for understanding fate conversion from supporting cells to hair cells in avian basilar papillae.

Phosphorylation of IGFBP-3 by Casein Kinase 2 Blocks Its Interaction with Hyaluronan, Enabling HA-CD44 Signaling Leading to Increased NSCLC Cell Survival and Cisplatin Resistance

Cisplatin is a platinum agent used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Much remains unknown regarding the basic operative mechanisms underlying cisplatin resistance in NSCLC. In this study, we found that phosphorylation of IGFBP-3 by CK2 (P-IGFBP-3) decreased its binding to hyaluronan (HA) but not to IGF-1 and rendered the protein less effective at reducing cell viability or increasing apoptosis than the non-phosphorylated protein with or without cisplatin in the human NSCLC cell lines, A549 and H1299. Our data suggest that blocking CD44 signaling augmented the effects of cisplatin and that IGFBP-3 was more effective at inhibiting HA-CD44 signaling than P-IGFBP-3. Blocking CK2 activity and HA-CD44 signaling increased cisplatin sensitivity and more effectively blocked the PI3K and AKT activities and the phospho/total NFκB ratio and led to increased p53 activation in A549 cells. Increased cell sensitivity to cisplatin was observed upon co-treatment with inhibitors targeted against PI3K, AKT, and NFκB while blocking p53 activity decreased A549 cell sensitivity to cisplatin. Our findings shed light on a novel mechanism employed by CK2 in phosphorylating IGFBP-3 and increasing cisplatin resistance in NSCLC. Blocking phosphorylation of IGFBP-3 by CK2 may be an effective strategy to increase NSCLC sensitivity to cisplatin.

Moderate Constraint Facilitates Association and Force-Dependent Dissociation of HA-CD44 Complex

Binding of cell surface glycoprotein CD44 to hyaluronic acid (HA) is a key event for mediating cell adhesion, motility, metastasis, inflammatory responses and tumor development, but the regulation mechanism and its molecular basis under diverse mechanical constraints remain unclear. We herein investigated interaction of CD44 HABD (HA binding site domain) to HA through free and steered molecular dynamics (MD) simulations as well as atomic force microscope (AFM) measurement using different constraints on HA. The middle, two ends or both of the constrained HA chains were fixed for MD simulations, while one and two biotin-avidin linkage or physical absorption were used to immobilize HA on substrates for AFM experiments, to model HA chains with low, moderate and high HA flexibilities, respectively. We found that binding of CD44 to moderate fixed HA was possessed of a better thermo-stability, a lower mechanical strength and a higher dissociation probability, while higher adhesive frequency, smaller rupture force and shorter lifetime were assigned to CD44 on the two biotin-immobilized HA rather than one biotin-immobilized or physically absorbed HA on substrates, suggesting a moderate HA flexibility requirement in favor of association and force-induced dissociation of CD44-HA complex. Tensile-induced convex conformation of HA chain was responsible for reduction of complex mechano-stability and did inversely a shrunken CD44 HABD under stretching; transition from catch bond to slip bond governed CD44-HA interaction. This study uncovered the regulation mechanism and its molecular basis for CD44-HA affinity under diverse mechano-microenvironments and provided a new insight into CD44-HA interaction-mediated cell inflammatory responses and tumor development.

Cellular and Molecular Biology of Cancer Stem Cells of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death globally. The cancer stem cells (CSCs) of HCC are responsible for tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, recurrence, chemoresistance, target therapy resistance and radioresistance. The reported main surface markers used to identify liver CSCs include epithelial cell adhesion/activating molecule (EpCAM), cluster differentiation 90 (CD90), CD44 and CD133. The main molecular signaling pathways include the Wnt/β-catenin, transforming growth factors-β (TGF-β), sonic hedgehog (SHH), PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Notch. Patients with EpCAM-positive alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-positive HCC are usually young but have advanced tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stages. CD90-positive HCCs are usually poorly differentiated with worse prognosis. Those with CD44-positive HCC cells develop early metastases. Those with CD133 expression have a higher recurrence rate and a shorter overall survival. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway triggers angiogenesis, tumor infiltration and metastasis through the enhancement of angiogenic factors. All CD133+ liver CSCs, CD133+/EpCAM+ liver CSCs and CD44+ liver CSCs contribute to sorafenib resistance. SHH signaling could protect HCC cells against ionizing radiation in an autocrine manner. Reducing the CSC population of HCC is crucial for the improvement of the therapy of advanced HCC. However, targeting CSCs of HCC is still challenging.

Nano-Based Drug Delivery of Polyphenolic Compounds for Cancer Treatment: Progress, Opportunities, and Challenges

Polyphenols and their derivates, a kind of natural product distributed in herb plants, vegetables, and fruits, are the most abundant antioxidants in the human diet and have been found to display cancer-preventative effects in several epidemiological studies. The scientific community has also validated the anti-cancer bioactivities and low toxicities of polyphenolic compounds, including flavones, tannins, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins, through in vitro and in vivo studies. However, the low stability, weak targeting ability, poor solubility, and low bioavailability of pure polyphenolic agents have significantly impaired their treatment efficacy. Nowadays, nano-based technology has been applied to surmount these restrictions and maximize the treatment efficacy of polyphenols. In this review, we summarize the advantages and related mechanisms of polyphenols in cancer treatment. Moreover, aiming at the poor solubility and low bioavailability of pure polyphenols in vivo, the advantages of nano-based delivery systems and recent research developments are highlighted. Herein, particular emphasis is mainly placed on the most widely used nanomaterials in the delivery of natural products, including liposomes, micelles, and nanogels. Finally, we present an overview and the challenges of future implementations of nano-based delivery systems of polyphenolic compounds in the cancer therapeutic field.

The emerging scenario of immunotherapy for T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: advances, challenges and future perspectives

T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is a challenging pediatric and adult haematologic disease still associated with an unsatisfactory cure rate. Unlike B-ALL, the availability of novel therapeutic options to definitively improve the life expectancy for relapsed/resistant patients is poor. Indeed, the shared expression of surface targets among normal and neoplastic T-cells still limits the efficacy and may induce fratricide effects, hampering the use of innovative immunotherapeutic strategies. However, novel monoclonal antibodies, bispecific T-cell engagers (BTCEs), and chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) T-cells recently showed encouraging results and some of them are in an advanced stage of pre-clinical development or are currently under investigation in clinical trials. Here, we review this exciting scenario focusing on most relevant advances, challenges, and perspectives of the emerging landscape of immunotherapy of T-cell malignancies.

Siglec-15 as multifunctional molecule involved in osteoclast differentiation, cancer immunity and microbial infection

Siglec-15 is a highly conserved member of the Siglec family, expressed on osteoclasts, a subset of myeloid cells and some cancer cells. Except for regulating osteoclast differentiation, Siglec-15 engages in immunoregulation as an immune suppressor. Siglec-15 functions as an immunosuppressive molecule in tumor-associated macrophage-mediated T cell immunity in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which makes Siglec-15 to be an emerging and promising target for normalization cancer immunotherapy. Besides, Siglec-15 interacts with sialylated pathogens and modulates host immune response against microbial pathogens by altering cytokine production and/or phagocytosis, which further broadens the underlying pathophysiological roles of Siglec-15. The fact that N-glycosylation and sialylation of Siglec-15 play a pivotal role in Siglec-15 biological function indicates that targeting certain post-translational modification may be an effective strategy for targeting Siglec-15 therapy. In-depth exploring Siglec-15 biology function is crucial for better design of Siglec-15-based therapy according to different clinical indications.

Identification of shared gene signatures and molecular mechanisms between chronic kidney disease and ulcerative colitis

Background

There is a complex interaction between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), but the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the coexistence of CKD and UC are unclear. This study aimed to investigate the key molecules and pathways that may mediate the co-occurrence of CKD and UC through quantitative bioinformatics analysis based on a public RNA-sequencing database.

Methods

The discovery datasets of CKD (GSE66494) and UC (GSE4183), as well as validation datasets of CKD (GSE115857) and UC (GSE10616), were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. After identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with GEO2R online tool, the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses for the DEGs were performed. Next, protein-protein interaction network was constructed with Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) and visualized by Cytoscape. Gene modules were identified by the plug-in MCODE and hub genes were screened using the plug-in CytoHubba. Then, correlation between immune cell infiltration and hub genes was analyzed, and the receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the predictive value of hub genes. Finally, immunostaining of human specimens was used to validate the relevant findings.

Results

A total of 462 common DEGs were identified and selected for further analyses. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that these DEGs were primarily enriched in immune- and inflammation-related pathways. Among them, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway ranked top in both discovery and validation cohorts, and the key signal molecule phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) was shown to be significantly overexpressed in human CKD kidneys and UC colons, and further elevated in CKD-UC comorbidity specimens. Moreover, nine candidate hub genes, including CXCL8, CCL2, CD44, ICAM1, IL1A, CXCR2, PTPRC, ITGAX, and CSF3, were identified, of which ICAM1 was validated as a common hub gene. Besides, immune infiltration analysis revealed that neutrophils, macrophages, and CD4⁺ T memory cells significantly accumulated in both diseases, and ICAM1 was remarkably associated with neutrophil infiltration. Furthermore, intercellular adhesion molecule1 (ICAM1)-mediated neutrophil infiltration was validated to be upregulated in kidney and colon biopsies of CKD and UC patients, and further increased in patients diagnosed with both CKD and UC. Finally, ICAM1 had shown critical value as a diagnostic marker for the co-occurrence of CKD and UC.

Conclusions

Our study elucidated that immune response, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and ICAM1-mediated neutrophil infiltration might be the common pathogenesis of CKD and UC, and identified ICAM1 as a key potential biomarker and therapeutic target for the comorbidity of these two diseases.

Opposing USP19 splice variants in TGF-β signaling and TGF-β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition of breast cancer cells

Ubiquitin-specific protease (USP)19 is a deubiquitinating enzyme that regulates the stability and function of multiple proteins, thereby controlling various biological responses. The alternative splicing of USP19 results in the expression of two major encoded variants that are localized to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) (USP19-ER) and cytoplasm (USP19-CY). The importance of alternative splicing for the function of USP19 remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated that USP19-CY promotes TGF-β signaling by directly interacting with TGF-β type I receptor (TβRI) and protecting it from degradation at the plasma membrane. In contrast, USP19-ER binds to and sequesters TβRI in the ER. By decreasing cell surface TβRI levels, USP19-ER inhibits TGF-β/SMAD signaling in a deubiquitination-independent manner. Moreover, USP19-ER inhibits TGF-β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), whereas USP19-CY enhances EMT, as well as the migration and extravasation of breast cancer cells. Furthermore, USP19-CY expression is correlated with poor prognosis and is higher in breast cancer tissues than in adjacent normal tissues. Notably, the splicing modulator herboxidiene inhibits USP19-CY, increases USP19-ER expression and suppresses breast cancer cell migration. Targeting USP19 splicing or its deubiquitinating activity may have potential therapeutic effects on breast cancer.

Proteolysis of CD44 at the cell surface controls a downstream protease network

The cell surface receptor cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) is the main hyaluronan receptor of the human body. At the cell surface, it can be proteolytically processed by different proteases and was shown to interact with different matrix metalloproteinases. Upon proteolytic processing of CD44 and generation of a C-terminal fragment (CTF), an intracellular domain (ICD) is released after intramembranous cleavage by the γ-secretase complex. This intracellular domain then translocates to the nucleus and induces transcriptional activation of target genes. In the past CD44 was identified as a risk gene for different tumor entities and a switch in CD44 isoform expression towards isoform CD44s associates with epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer cell invasion. Here, we introduce meprin β as a new sheddase of CD44 and use a CRISPR/Cas9 approach to deplete CD44 and its sheddases ADAM10 and MMP14 in HeLa cells. We here identify a regulatory loop at the transcriptional level between ADAM10, CD44, MMP14 and MMP2. We show that this interplay is not only present in our cell model, but also across different human tissues as deduced from GTEx (Gene Tissue Expression) data. Furthermore, we identify a close relation between CD44 and MMP14 that is also reflected in functional assays for cell proliferation, spheroid formation, migration and adhesion.

CD44 rs13347C>T Variants in 3'UTR and Prostate Neoplasms: A Case-control Study and Bioinformatics Approach

CD44, a cell-surface receptor and a key player in cellular signaling, can act as both tumor suppressor and promoter. This study aimed to investigate the association of CD44 rs13347C>T variants with prostate neoplasms, including both benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancers using a case-control and bioinformatics approach. Genomic DNA was extracted from 545 blood samples (225 BPH, 225 prostate cancers, and 95 control) and the CD44 rs13347C>T genotypes were identified using PCR-RFLP. We explored miRNA interactions using the miRNASNP-v3 database and GeneMANIA for co-expression networks. Results showed cancer patients had significantly higher PSA levels compared to both controls (p= 0.03) and BPH (p= 0.01). Additionally, digital rectal examination-positive and smoker BPH patients showed significantly the increased cancer risk (p= 0.004, p= 0.046). Prostate cancer group indicated significantly higher frequency of CD44 rs13347C>T mutant allele compared to control and BPH groups, particularly in TT and CT+TT genotypes (p < 0.05). miRNA SNP-v3 database predicted the mutant allele of CD44 rs13347C>T could lose 1 and gain 6 miRNAs for a new site created. Co-expression analysis revealed a direct interaction between CD44 and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a gene known to be dysregulated in smokers. Furthermore, these genes alone display co-expression interactions with integrin subunit alpha 4 (ITGA4), protein plays a paradoxical role, both suppressing and promoting tumors. Based on the findings, the mutant allele of CD44 rs13347C>T may disrupt miRNA binding, which may potentially impact CD44, AHR, and ITGA4 expression in smokers, possibly contributing to prostate cancer progression.

Immune-related pan-cancer gene expression signatures of patient survival revealed by NanoString-based analyses

The immune system plays a central role in the onset and progression of cancer. A better understanding of transcriptional changes in immune cell-related genes associated with cancer progression, and their significance in disease prognosis, is therefore needed. NanoString-based targeted gene expression profiling has advantages for deployment in a clinical setting over RNA-seq technologies. We analysed NanoString PanCancer Immune Profiling panel gene expression data encompassing 770 genes, and overall survival data, from multiple previous studies covering 10 different cancer types, including solid and blood malignancies, across 515 patients. This analysis revealed an immune gene signature comprising 39 genes that were upregulated in those patients with shorter overall survival; of these 39 genes, three (MAGEC2, SSX1 and ULBP2) were common to both solid and blood malignancies. Most of the genes identified have previously been reported as relevant in one or more cancer types. Using Cibersort, we investigated immune cell levels within individual cancer types and across groups of cancers, as well as in shorter and longer overall survival groups. Patients with shorter survival had a higher proportion of M2 macrophages and γδ T cells. Patients with longer overall survival had a higher proportion of CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T memory cells, NK cells and, unexpectedly, T regulatory cells. Using a transcriptomics platform with certain advantages for deployment in a clinical setting, our multi-cancer meta-analysis of immune gene expression and overall survival data has identified a specific transcriptional profile associated with poor overall survival.

Afatinib Reverses EMT via Inhibiting CD44-Stat3 Axis to Promote Radiosensitivity in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Afatinib, a second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), exerts its radiosensitive effects in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, the detailed mechanism of afatinib-mediated sensitivity to radiation is still obscure in NPC.

METHODS

Quantitative phosphorylated proteomics and bioinformatics analysis were performed to illustrate the global phosphoprotein changes. The activity of the CD44-Stat3 axis and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT)-linked markers were evaluated by Western blotting. Wound healing and transwell assays were used to determine the levels of cell migration upon afatinib combined IR treatment. Cell proliferation was tested by CCK-8 assay. A pharmacological agonist by IL-6 was applied to activate Stat3. The xenograft mouse model was treated with afatinib, radiation or a combination of afatinib and radiation to detect the radiosensitivity of afatinib in vivo.

RESULTS

In the present study, we discovered that afatinib triggered global protein phosphorylation alterations in NPC cells. Further, bioinformatics analysis indicated that afatinib inhibited the CD44-Stat3 signaling and subsequent EMT process. Moreover, functional assays demonstrated that afatinib combined radiation treatment remarkably impeded cell viability, migration, EMT process and CD44-Stat3 activity in vitro and in vivo. In addition, pharmacological stimulation of Stat3 rescued radiosensitivity and biological functions induced by afatinib in NPC cells. This suggested that afatinib reversed the EMT process by blocking the activity of the CD44-Stat3 axis.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, this work identifies the molecular mechanism of afatinib as a radiation sensitizer, thus providing a potentially useful combination treatment and drug target for NPC radiosensitization. Our findings describe a new function of afatinib in radiosensitivity and cancer treatment.

ROS-Generating Hyaluronic Acid-Modified Zirconium Dioxide-Acetylacetonate Nanoparticles as a Theranostic Platform for the Treatment of Osteosarcoma

Materials that are able to produce free radicals have gained increasing attention for environmental and biomedical purposes. Free radicals, such as the superoxide anion (O₂^•-), act as secondary messengers in many physiological pathways, such as cell survival. Therefore, the production of free radicals over physiological levels has been exploited in the treatment of different types of cancer, including osteosarcoma (OS). In most cases, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by materials is light-induced and requires the use of chemical photosensitisers, making it difficult and expensive. Here, for the first time, we propose photoluminescent hybrid ZrO₂-acetylacetonate nanoparticles (ZrO₂-acac NPs) that are capable of generating O₂^•- without light activation as an adjuvant for the treatment of OS. To increase the uptake and ROS generation in cancer cells, we modify the surface of ZrO₂-acac NPs with hyaluronic acid (HA), which recognizes and binds to the surface antigen CD44 overexpressed on OS cells. Since these nanoparticles emit in the visible range, their uptake into cancer cells can be followed by a label-free approach. Overall, we show that the generation of O₂^•- is toxic to OS cells and can be used as an adjuvant treatment to increase the efficacy of conventional drugs.

[Advances in the Study of Tissue-resident Memory T Cells in Lung Cancer]

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been widely used in the treatment of lung cancer, but the benefit population is limited and there is a lack of effective predictive markers of efficacy. Tissue-resident memory T cells (TRM) reside in tissues and exert anti-tumor effects by expressing the integrins CD103, CD49a or C-type lectin CD69 and immune checkpoint receptors. TRM expressing programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) is enriched with transcriptional products associated with cytotoxicity and enhances T cell (antigen) receptor (TCR)-mediated cytotoxicity. TRM is a promising biomarker for predicting the efficacy and prognosis of immunotherapy in lung cancer patients. This review will describe the progress of TRM research in lung cancer.
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Targeted Drug Delivery System Based on Copper Sulfide for Synergistic Near-Infrared Photothermal Therapy/Photodynamic Therapy/Chemotherapy of Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Multi-modal synergistic therapy, especially the integration of near-infrared laser phototherapies and chemotherapy, is often sought after owing to its minimal invasiveness, low side effects, and improved anticancer therapeutic efficacy. Herein, CuS nanoparticles were first coated with zinc phthalocyanine derivant (Pc)-functionalized mesoporous silica (mSiO₂-Pc) to achieve a drug delivery system (CuS@mSiO₂-Pc) with photothermal/photodynamic therapy. Chemical drug DOX was subsequently loaded for chemotherapy, and hyaluronic acid (HA) was employed as a covering material with cancer targeting. The as-obtained CuS@mSiO₂-Pc(DOX)@HA nanoparticles were nano-sized with good biocompatibility, effective DOX loading, and controllable DOX releasing. Expectedly, this multifunctional nanoplatform exhibits effective generation of reactive oxygen species and hyperthermia upon the near-infrared laser irradiation. Most importantly, the nanoparticles were targeted into 4T1 cells and showed significantly remarkable cytotoxicity under near-infrared laser irradiation, proving their synergistic therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, this targeted drug system based on CuS with synergistic photothermal therapy/photodynamic therapy/chemotherapy has great application prospects in clinical anticancer treatment for triple negative breast cancer.

Advanced 3D Magnetic Scaffolds for Tumor-Related Bone Defects

The need for bone substitutes is a major challenge as the incidence of serious bone disorders is massively increasing, mainly attributed to modern world problems, such as obesity, aging of the global population, and cancer incidence. Bone cancer represents one of the most significant causes of bone defects, with reserved prognosis regarding the effectiveness of treatments and survival rate. Modern therapies, such as hyperthermia, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and magnetic therapy, seem to bring hope for cancer treatment in general, and bone cancer in particular. Mimicking the composition of bone to create advanced scaffolds, such as bone substitutes, proved to be insufficient for successful bone regeneration, and a special attention should be given to control the changes in the bone tissue micro-environment. The magnetic manipulation by an external field can be a promising technique to control this micro-environment, and to sustain the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts, promoting the expression of some growth factors, and, finally, accelerating new bone formation. By incorporating stimuli responsive nanocarriers in the scaffold's architecture, such as magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with bioactive molecules, their behavior can be rigorously controlled under external magnetic driving, and stimulates the bone tissue formation.

Signs of apoptosis in circulating tumor cell subpopulations with phenotypes associated with stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast carcinoma

Introduction. Ability of circulating tumor cells (CTC) initiate metastases in distant sites is associated primarily with their resistance to apoptosis which allows them to retain viability in the blood. Knowledge of phenotypical signs associated with this ability would allow to predict the risk of metastases and optimize adjuvant therapy.Aim. To examine signs of apoptosis in CTC populations with various phenotypical characteristics.Materials and methods. The study included 58 patients with invasive breast carcinoma of unspecified type, stages T1–4N0–3M0. Cell concentrates extracted from patients’ whole blood were stained with an antibody cocktail against CK7 / 8, CD45, EpCAM, CD44, CD24, CD133, ALDH, N-cadherin which allowed to identify CTC with signs of stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Annexin V and 7‑amino-actinomycin D staining was used for evaluation of apoptosis stage in CTC populations.Results. Circulating tumor cells are characterized by heterogeneity in respect to signs of stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition and presence of early and late signs of apoptosis and necrosis. CTC phenotypes including co-expression of epithelial marker CK7 / 8 and stemness marker CD133 (but not CD44) are characterized by absence of signs of apoptosis. Co-expression of CK7 / 8 and CD133 in CTC with stemness markers CD44+ / C D24– is associated with development of early but not late signs of apoptosis and necrosis. Circulating tumor cells without co-expression of CK7 / 8 and CD133 could have both early and late signs of apoptosis and necrosis. Circulating tumor cells phenotypes with signs of early apoptosis expressing CD133 remain in blood after non-adjuvant chemotherapy opposed to CTC without CD133 expression.Conclusion. There are CTC phenotypical signs associated with stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition and linked to apoptosis resistance or sensitivity.

Decreased CD44v3 expression impairs endometrial stromal cell proliferation and decidualization in women with recurrent implantation failure

BACKGROUND

The precise pathogenesis of poor endometrial receptivity in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) remains unclear. This study was aimed at exploring the effects of different CD44 isoforms in the mid-secretory phase endometrium on endometrial receptivity in women with RIF.

METHODS

Mid-secretory phase endometrial tissue samples were obtained from the following two groups of women who had undergone IVF: (a) 24 patients with RIF and (b) 18 patients with infertility due to tubal obstruction, who had achieved a successful clinical pregnancy after the first embryo transfer in IVF (control group). Identification of differentially expressed CD44 isoforms in endometrial tissues was assessed using immunohistochemistry, qPCR, and western blotting. Effects of overexpression and knockdown of CD44v3 on proliferation and decidualization of immortalized human endometrial stromal cells (T-HESCs) and primary HESCs were investigated by qPCR and western blot analysis. A heterologous coculture system of embryo implantation was constructed to mimic the process of trophoblast invasion during implantation.

RESULTS

The expression of CD44v3 was significantly higher in the mid-secretory phase of endometrial stromal cells than in the proliferation phase, but was notably lower in RIF patients. Knockdown of CD44v3 significantly downregulated cell proliferation both in T-HESCs and HESCs. The expression of decidualization markers, prolactin (PRL) and insulin like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP1), was notably decreased following the knockdown of CD44v3, whereas the expression of both PRL and IGFBP1 increased after its overexpression in HESCs. Furthermore, the CD44v3-knockdown HESCs displayed significant deficiency in supporting trophoblast outgrowth in a coculture system of embryo implantation; however, overexpression of CD44v3 in HESCs promoted trophoblast outgrowth.

CONCLUSION

The reduced expression of CD44v3 suppresses the proliferation and decidualization of HESCs, which might play a pivotal role in poor endometrial receptivity in women with RIF.

Hyaluronic-Acid-Tagged Cubosomes Deliver Cytotoxics Specifically to CD44-Positive Cancer Cells

Delivery of chemotherapy drugs specifically to cancer cells raises local drug doses in tumors and therefore kills more cancer cells while reducing side effects in other tissues, thereby improving oncological and quality of life outcomes. Cubosomes, liquid crystalline lipid nanoparticles, are potential vehicles for delivery of chemotherapy drugs, presenting the advantages of biocompatibility, stable encapsulation, and high drug loading of hydrophobic or hydrophilic drugs. However, active targeting of drug-loaded cubosomes to cancer cells, as opposed to passive accumulation, remains relatively underexplored. We formulated and characterized cubosomes loaded with potential cancer drug copper acetylacetonate and functionalized their surfaces using click chemistry coupling with hyaluronic acid (HA), the ligand for the cell surface receptor CD44. CD44 is overexpressed in many cancer types including breast and colorectal. HA-tagged, copper-acetylacetonate-loaded cubosomes have an average hydrodynamic diameter of 152 nm, with an internal nanostructure based on the space group Im3m. These cubosomes were efficiently taken up by two CD44-expressing cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and HT29, representing breast and colon cancer) but not by two CD44-negative cell lines (MCF-7 breast cancer and HEK-293 kidney cells). HA-tagged cubosomes caused significantly more cell death than untargeted cubosomes in the CD44-positive cells, demonstrating the value of the targeting. CD44-negative cells were equally relatively resistant to both, demonstrating the specificity of the targeting. Cell death was characterized as apoptotic. Specific targeting and cell death were evident in both 2D culture and 3D spheroids. We conclude that HA-tagged, copper-acetylacetonate-loaded cubosomes show great potential as an effective therapeutic for selective targeting of CD44-expressing tumors.