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Sharma T, Gupta A, Chauhan R, Bhat AA, Nisar S, Hashem S, Akhtar S, Ahmad A, Haris M, Singh M, Uddin S. Cross-talk between the microbiome and chronic inflammation in esophageal cancer: potential driver of oncogenesis. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2022; 41:281-299. [PMID: 35511379 PMCID: PMC9363391 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-022-10026-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is frequently considered a lethal malignancy and is often identified at a later stage. It is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths globally. The conventional treatment methods like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery offer limited efficacy and poor clinical outcome with a less than 25% 5-year survival rate. The poor prognosis of EC persists despite the growth in the development of diagnostic and therapeutic modalities to treat EC. This underlines the need to elucidate the complex molecular mechanisms that drive esophageal oncogenesis. Apart from the role of the tumor microenvironment and its structural and cellular components in tumorigenesis, mounting evidence points towards the involvement of the esophageal microbiome, inflammation, and their cross-talk in promoting esophageal cancer. The current review summarizes recent research that delineates the underlying molecular mechanisms by which the microbiota and inflammation promote the pathophysiology of esophageal cancer, thus unraveling targets for potential therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarang Sharma
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashna Gupta
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ravi Chauhan
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Cancer Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sabah Nisar
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Cancer Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sheema Hashem
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Cancer Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sabah Akhtar
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aamir Ahmad
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Cancer Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.,Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, PA, Philadelphia, USA.,Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mayank Singh
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar. .,Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar. .,Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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O'Sullivan KE, Phelan JJ, O'Hanlon C, Lysaght J, O'Sullivan JN, Reynolds JV. The role of inflammation in cancer of the esophagus. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2014; 8:749-60. [PMID: 24857183 DOI: 10.1586/17474124.2014.913478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Esophageal adenocarcinoma is the eighth most common malignancy worldwide. The overall prognosis is poor, with 5-year survival ranges of approximately 15-25%, and 30-50% for patients who can be treated with curative intent. There has been a marked increase in incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma over the last 30 years, with chronic and severe reflux, diet and obesity identified as principal factors fuelling this rise in the West. Esophageal adenocarcinoma is an exemplar model of an inflammation-associated cancer. The key molecular pathways driving tumor development and influencing tumor biology are the subject of considerable research efforts, and is the principal focus of this review. In addition, the diverse range of changes occurring in the local immune response, tissue microenvironment, metabolic profile, intracellular signaling mechanisms and microRNA signatures are discussed, as well as novel targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie E O'Sullivan
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Molecular Medicine, St. James Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
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Chen H, Fang Y, Tevebaugh W, Orlando RC, Shaheen NJ, Chen X. Molecular mechanisms of Barrett's esophagus. Dig Dis Sci 2011; 56:3405-20. [PMID: 21984436 PMCID: PMC3750118 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-011-1885-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2011] [Accepted: 08/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Barrett's esophagus (BE) is defined as the metaplastic conversion of esophageal squamous epithelium to intestinalized columnar epithelium. As a premalignant lesion of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), BE develops as a result of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Many studies have been conducted to understand the molecular mechanisms of this disease. This review summarizes recent results involving squamous and intestinal transcription factors, signaling pathways, stromal factors, microRNAs, and other factors in the development of BE. A conceptual framework is proposed to guide future studies. We expect elucidation of the molecular mechanisms of BE to help in the development of improved management of GERD, BE, and EAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- Cancer Research Program, JLC-BBRI, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Yu Fang
- Cancer Research Program, JLC-BBRI, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Whitney Tevebaugh
- Cancer Research Program, JLC-BBRI, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Roy C. Orlando
- Center for Esophageal Diseases and Swallowing, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7080, USA
| | - Nicholas J. Shaheen
- Center for Esophageal Diseases and Swallowing, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7080, USA
| | - Xiaoxin Chen
- Cancer Research Program, JLC-BBRI, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA,Center for Esophageal Diseases and Swallowing, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7080, USA,Corresponding authors: Xiaoxin Luke Chen, MD, PhD, Cancer Research Program, Julius L. Chambers Biomedical Biotechnology Research Institute, North Carolina Central University, 700 George Street, Durham, NC 27707, USA. Tel: 919-530-6425; Fax: 919-530-7780;
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Moriyama N, Amano Y, Mishima Y, Okita K, Takahashi Y, Yuki T, Ishimura N, Ishihara S, Kinoshita Y. What is the clinical significance of stromal angiogenesis in Barrett's esophagus? J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2008; 23 Suppl 2:S210-5. [PMID: 19120900 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2008.05440.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enriched blood vessels occur in the stroma of Barrett's esophagus and are related to the ease of tumor invasion in the early stage of the cancer. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is closely related with angiogenesis through expression of vascular endothelial growth factor. The aim of the present study was to determine the predictors for angiogenesis in Barrett's esophagus and evaluate their clinical significance. METHODS Between December 2003 and May 2004, 209 patients with endoscopically and histologically proven Barrett's esophagus were enrolled. Before endoscopic examination, all participants answered structured questionnaires for gastroesophageal reflux symptoms and drug usage. HIF-1alpha and COX-2 protein expressions, cellular proliferation, and apoptosis were investigated immunohistochemically in biopsy samples taken from the esophagus of each patient. The degree of angiogenesis was determined by CD34 immunostaining analysis. Predictors for angiogenesis were evaluated with multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Sixty (28.7%) of the 209 enrolled patients with Barrett's esophagus had a high CD34 score. Factors proven as positive predictors for a high CD34 score were presence of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, reflux esophagitis, COX-2 protein expression, and the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) index. Administration of proton-pump inhibitors and HIF-1alpha protein expression were not predictors. CONCLUSIONS Reflux esophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux symptoms were positive predictors for enriched angiogenesis in the stromal portion of Barrett's esophagus, which has malignant potential because the epithelial cells express COX-2 and have accelerated cellular proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuyuki Moriyama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shimane University, School of Medicine, Izumo-shi, Shimane Japan
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De Jonge PJF, Siersema PD, Van Breda SGJ, Van Zoest KPM, Bac DJ, Leeuwenburgh I, Ouwendijk RJT, Van Dekken H, Kusters JG, Kuipers EJ. Proton pump inhibitor therapy in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease decreases the oesophageal immune response but does not reduce the formation of DNA adducts. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2008; 28:127-36. [PMID: 18384663 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2008.03699.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic oesophageal inflammation and related oxidative stress are important in the pathogenesis of erosive oesophagitis (EO) and its malignant progression. AIM To study the effect of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) on oesophageal cellular immune response and oxidative damage in EO patients. METHODS Forty gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients [non-erosive reflux disease (NERD): 15, EO: 25] were included, after 7 days off antisuppressive drugs. EO patients were randomized to 20-mg rabeprazole once daily for either 4 or 8 weeks with baseline and follow-up endoscopy with distal oesophageal biopsies. T lymphocytes, macrophages and mast cells were quantified by immunohistochemistry. DNA adducts were measured by analysis of 8-oxo-deoxyguanosine levels. RESULTS Erosive oesophagitis patients had more T lymphocytes and CD8(+) T lymphocytes in squamous epithelium than NERD patients (P = 0.001, P = 0.002, respectively). Levels of DNA adducts between both groups were, however, not different (P = 0.99). Four- and eight-week rabeprazole treatment in EO patients resulted in a significant decrease in number of T lymphocytes and CD8(+) T lymphocytes (all P < 0.05). PPIs did not, however, affect levels of DNA adducts. CONCLUSIONS Short-term PPI therapy in EO patients reduces the oesophageal cellular immune response, but does not change oxidative damage. PPI therapy may therefore not be effective in reducing the risk of oesophageal cancer in GERD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- P J F De Jonge
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Burnat G, Rau T, Elshimi E, Hahn EG, Konturek PC. Bile acids induce overexpression of homeobox gene CDX-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in human Barrett's esophageal mucosa and adenocarcinoma cell line. Scand J Gastroenterol 2007; 42:1460-5. [PMID: 17852856 DOI: 10.1080/00365520701452209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Barrett's esophagus (BE) is an acquired precancerous condition that develops from mucosal injury incurred after chronic gastroesophageal acid and bile reflux. The mechanism of progression of carcinogenesis in BE is still not fully understood. Recently, the role of bile acids and the homeobox gene transcription factor CDX-2 has been suggested in the pathogenesis of BE. The aims of the present study were 1) to compare the mRNA and protein expression of CDX-2 in biopsies obtained from patients with BE and normal squamous epithelium and 2) to study the effect of two different bile salts, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA), on the mRNA expression of CDX-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in Barrett's the adenocarcinoma cell line (OE-33). MATERIAL AND METHODS CDX-2 expression was measured in Barrett's mucosa and normal esophageal mucosa obtained from 15 patients with BE histologically diagnosed by immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). In in vitro experiments, OE-33 cells were incubated with DCA (100 microM) and UDCA (100 microM) in neutral and shortly acidified media (pulse acidification). The expression of CDX-2 and VEGF was assessed by quantitative RT-PCR. RESULTS Both mRNA and protein expression of CDX-2 were significantly up-regulated in Barrett's mucosa as compared to normal esophageal mucosa. In neutral medium, OE-33 cells showed an increase in CDX-2 expression after incubation with DCA or UDCA. After short acidification of the medium, expression of CDX-2 in OE-33 cells was significantly higher than that in cells incubated in neutral pH. The addition of DCA and UDCA did not cause any further alteration in CDX-2 expression. In neutral and acidified medium, VEGF mRNA expression was only significantly up-regulated by DCA, but not by UDCA. CONCLUSIONS Bile acids, especially in acidic medium, increase expression of CDX-2. DCA appears to be a stronger stimulant of the expression of VEGF than UDCA in the Barrett's carcinoma cell line, indicating a stronger carcinogenic potential of this bile salt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grzegorz Burnat
- First Department of Medicine, University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Kleespies A, Bruns CJ, Jauch KW. Clinical significance of VEGF-A, -C and -D expression in esophageal malignancies. Oncol Res Treat 2005; 28:281-8. [PMID: 15867486 DOI: 10.1159/000085198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF)-A, -C and -D are members of the proangiogenic VEGF family of glycoproteins. VEGF-A is known to be the most important angiogenic factor under physiological and pathological conditions, while VEGF-C and VEGF-D are implicated in the development and sprouting of lymphatic vessels, so called lymphangiogenesis. Local tumor progression, lymph node metastases and hematogenous tumor spread are important prognostic factors for esophageal carcinoma (EC), one of the most lethal malignancies throughout the world. We found solid evidence in the literature that VEGF expression contributes to tumor angiogenesis, tumor progression and lymph node metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and many authors could show a prognostic value for VEGF-assessment. In adenocarcinoma (AC) of the esophagus angiogenic properties are acquired in early stages, particularly in precancerous lesions like Barrett's dysplasia. However, VEGF expression fails to give prognostic information in AC of the esophagus. VEGF-C and -D were detected in SCC and dysplastic lesions, but not in normal mucosa of the esophagus. VEGF-C expression might be associated with lymphatic tumor invasion, lymph node metastases and advanced disease in esophageal SCC and AC. Therapeutic interference with VEGF signaling may prove to be a promising way of anti-angiogenic co-treatment in esophageal carcinoma. However, concrete clinical data are still pending.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Kleespies
- Chirurgische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany.
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Dvorakova K, Payne CM, Ramsey L, Bernstein H, Holubec H, Chavarria M, Bernstein C, Sampliner RE, Riley C, Prasad A, Garewal H. Apoptosis resistance in Barrett's esophagus: ex vivo bioassay of live stressed tissues. Am J Gastroenterol 2005; 100:424-31. [PMID: 15667503 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2005.40932.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a premalignant lesion of the distal esophagus in which squamous epithelial cells are replaced by metaplastic intestinal-like columnar epithelium that contains goblet cells. The factors that contribute to the progression from normal squamous mucosa to BE, Barrett's dysplasia, and adenocarcinoma are not well understood at the molecular level. Since reflux of bile acids is associated with BE development, we speculate that cells with an apoptosis-resistant phenotype are selected after long-term repeated exposure to pulses of bile acids. This will result in the survival of cells with unrepaired DNA damage, and a consequent increase in genomic instability leading to cancer progression. The major goal of this study is to compare sensitivity to apoptosis induced by the bile acid, deoxycholate (DOC), a known inducer of apoptosis, in normal esophageal squamous epithelium, normal colon epithelium, and BE. METHODS Thirteen patients with a confirmed diagnosis of BE and four patients who had undergone clinically indicated colectomy were included in the present study. Freshly obtained biopsies were incubated with control medium or medium supplemented with 1 mM DOC for 3 h and then evaluated for apoptotic changes using transmission electron microscopy and immunohistochemical staining for two apoptotic markers, cleaved caspase 3 and cleaved cytokeratin 18. RESULTS Our results indicate that BE is resistant to apoptosis induced by DOC compared to esophageal squamous epithelium and normal colon epithelium. In addition, electron micrographs revealed mitochondrial swelling in squamous epithelial cells treated ex vivo with DOC, which was absent in epithelial cells of BE. Formation of swollen mitochondria is an early marker of apoptotic cell death. Altogether, the data indicate that reduced apoptosis capability in BE tissue may contribute to progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Dvorakova
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
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Kleespies A, Guba M, Jauch KW, Bruns CJ. Vascular endothelial growth factor in esophageal cancer. J Surg Oncol 2004; 87:95-104. [PMID: 15282704 DOI: 10.1002/jso.20070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a crucial role in angiogenesis of many solid malignancies. The influence of angiogenesis and VEGF expression on progression and recurrence of esophageal cancer has been investigated over the last years. This article reviews the prognostic significance of VEGF expression, microvessel density (MVD), and lymphangiogenic factors in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), Barrett's dysplasia, and adenocarcinoma (AC) of the esophagus, their predictive value for treatment response to chemo-radiotherapy and new anti-angiogenic treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Kleespies
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, Munich, Germany.
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Marchetti M, Caliot E, Pringault E. Chronic acid exposure leads to activation of the cdx2 intestinal homeobox gene in a long-term culture of mouse esophageal keratinocytes. J Cell Sci 2003; 116:1429-36. [PMID: 12640028 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.00338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
To explore mechanisms whereby Malpighian keratinocytes can transdifferentiate into an intestinal-like epithelium, as observed in the early steps of Barrett's esophagus (BE) development, long-standing cultures of esophageal keratinocytes derived from normal mouse esophageal explants were developed. These cells were able to form multilayers and to differentiate on filter support by the formation of differentiated layers of basal cells (cytokeratine 14 positive) on which secondary suprabasal cell layers (cytokeratine 4 positive) spontaneously developed. Thus, these cultured cells, referred to as P3E6, reproduced, at least in part, the proliferation and stratification pattern existing in the normal esophagus. Because chronic exposure to acid pH is known to be a critical factor for BE development, culture medium at pH 3.5 was added into the apical chamber of cell cultures. This led to a decrease in the overall number of cells but it did not affect cell proliferation. Furthermore, external acid environment triggered expression of the GFP reporter gene fused downstream of the cdx2 intestinal homeogene regulatory sequences in P3E6 transfected cells. Expression of the endogenous CDX2 protein, detected by western blot and immunocytochemical analysis, correlated with promoter activation. These findings demonstrate that chronic exposure of esophageal keratinocytes to acid pH induces transcription of cdx2, an intestinal specific homeobox gene known to play a critical role in the differentiation and maintenance of intestinal epithelial functions. The results suggest that chronic acid exposure can modify the fate of P3E6 esophageal keratinocytes towards an intestinal program. This can be a key step in the development of intestinal metaplasia often observed in esophagus-cardia junction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Marchetti
- Laboratory of Lympho-Epithelial Interactions, Department of Cell Biology and Infection, Pasteur Institute, 28, Rue du Dr Roux, 75015 Paris, France
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Auvinen MI, Sihvo EIT, Ruohtula T, Salminen JT, Koivistoinen A, Siivola P, Rönnholm R, Rämö JO, Bergman M, Salo JA. Incipient angiogenesis in Barrett's epithelium and lymphangiogenesis in Barrett's adenocarcinoma. J Clin Oncol 2002; 20:2971-9. [PMID: 12089227 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2002.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Barrett's esophagus (BE), a precancerous condition for Barrett's adenocarcinoma, is classically characterized by flames of salmon-colored mucosa extending into normal pale esophageal mucosa. This flaming is thought to be a consequence of continuous erosis of mucosa caused by chronic reflux. Another characteristic feature of Barrett's adenocarcinoma patients is the frequent development of lymph node metastases. We addressed whether onset of angiogenesis occurs in BE and if the lymphatic system might provide a route for Barrett's adenocarcinoma cells to infiltrate regular lymph nodes. PATIENTS AND METHODS Fifteen surgically resected Barrett's dysplasia or adenocarcinoma patients were included. Immunohistochemistry and a modified whole mount analysis were used. RESULTS The incipient angiogenesis originates from the pre-existing vascular network in the lamina propria and infiltrates Barrett's epithelium, giving its ominous salmon-red color. Barrett's epithelium-specific goblet cells express vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A. The immature blood vessels show a relative absence of smooth muscle actin (SMA)-positive mural cells and express VEGF receptor (VEGFR)-2 and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 on their exterior. Coexpression of VEGF-C and its receptor VEGFR-3 on lymphatic vessels is demonstrated. CONCLUSION BE is strongly neovascularized not eroded. This novel concept of a molecular mechanism of the origin of BE might emphasize why precancerous BE can give rise to the more cancerous dysplasia and Barrett's adenocarcinoma stages. In addition, adenocarcinoma cells induce lymphangiogenesis. The new lymphangiogenic vessels might provide a systemic route for adenocarcinoma cells to invade circulation and induce lymph node metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merja I Auvinen
- Cellular Signalling Group, Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biosciences, Viikki BioCenter, University of Helsinki, Finland.
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Chilton AP, Jankowski J. Squamous carcinoma of the oesophagus: continuing to challenge. Dig Liver Dis 2001; 33:528-30. [PMID: 11816538 DOI: 10.1016/s1590-8658(01)80101-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A P Chilton
- Epithelial Laboratory, Division of Medical Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK
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Abstract
The rate of oesophageal adenocarcinoma is increasing in the western world and has a poor prognosis mainly because individuals present at a late stage. Attempts to intervene at an early stage of tumour progression have not proven cost effective, although lesions identified during surveillance programmes have a better prognosis. As a consequence, there has been renewed interest in strategies that might prevent the precursor lesion Barrett's oesophagus. Furthermore, there is an improved understanding of genetic and environmental interactions necessary for the clonal expansion and propagation of metaplastic premalignant lesions. Clearly, three mechanisms promote cancer progression--inheritance of germ-line mutations or polymorphisms, sporadic mutagenesis, and local epigenetic alterations. Locally produced cytokines and bile acids in the refluxate create a microenvironment that sets the scene for metaplastic transformation of the oesophageal epithelium, mainly by directly affecting metaplastic stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Jankowski
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK.
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