1
|
Yu J, Chen X, Yang X, Zhang B. Understanding gut dysbiosis for hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosis and treatment. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2024:S1043-2760(24)00163-2. [PMID: 38969601 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2024.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
The gut microbiome can play a crucial role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression through the enterohepatic circulation, primarily acting via metabolic reprogramming and alterations in the hepatic immune microenvironment triggered by microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs), metabolites, and fungi. In addition, the gut microbiome shows potential as a biomarker for early HCC diagnosis and for assessing the efficacy of immunotherapy in unresectable HCC. This review examines how gut microbiota dysbiosis, with varied functional profiles, contributes to HCCs of different etiologies. We discuss therapeutic strategies to modulate the gut microbiome including diets, antibiotics, probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and nano-delivery systems, and underscore their potential as an adjunctive treatment modality for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Yu
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xiangliang Yang
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic Chemistry and Materia Medica, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Bixiang Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zheng Y, Gao Y, Zhu W, Bai XG, Qi J. Advances in molecular agents targeting toll-like receptor 4 signaling pathways for potential treatment of sepsis. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116300. [PMID: 38452729 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome caused by an infection. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is activated by endogenous molecules released by injured or necrotic tissues. Additionally, TLR4 is remarkably sensitive to infection of various bacteria and can rapidly stimulate host defense responses. The TLR4 signaling pathway plays an important role in sepsis by activating the inflammatory response. Accordingly, as part of efforts to improve the inflammatory response and survival rate of patients with sepsis, several drugs have been developed to regulate the inflammatory signaling pathways mediated by TLR4. Inhibition of TLR4 signal transduction can be directed toward either TLR4 directly or other proteins in the TLR4 signaling pathway. Here, we review the advances in the development of small-molecule agents and peptides targeting regulation of the TLR4 signaling pathway, which are characterized according to their structural characteristics as polyphenols, terpenoids, steroids, antibiotics, anthraquinones, inorganic compounds, and others. Therefore, regulating the expression of the TLR4 signaling pathway and modulating its effects has broad prospects as a target for the treatment of lung, liver, kidneys, and other important organs injury in sepsis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunyun Zheng
- Medicine College of Pingdingshan University, Pingdingshan, Henan, 467000, China
| | - Yingying Gao
- Medicine College of Pingdingshan University, Pingdingshan, Henan, 467000, China
| | - Weiru Zhu
- Medicine College of Pingdingshan University, Pingdingshan, Henan, 467000, China
| | - Xian-Guang Bai
- Medicine College of Pingdingshan University, Pingdingshan, Henan, 467000, China.
| | - Jinxu Qi
- Medicine College of Pingdingshan University, Pingdingshan, Henan, 467000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Pessino G, Scotti C, Maggi M, Immuno-Hub Consortium. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Old and Emerging Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:901. [PMID: 38473265 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, predominantly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), globally ranks sixth in incidence and third in cancer-related deaths. HCC risk factors include non-viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, environmental exposures, and genetic factors. No specific genetic alterations are unequivocally linked to HCC tumorigenesis. Current standard therapies include surgical options, systemic chemotherapy, and kinase inhibitors, like sorafenib and regorafenib. Immunotherapy, targeting immune checkpoints, represents a promising avenue. FDA-approved checkpoint inhibitors, such as atezolizumab and pembrolizumab, show efficacy, and combination therapies enhance clinical responses. Despite this, the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a challenge, as the complex tumor ecosystem and the immunosuppressive microenvironment associated with it hamper the efficacy of the available therapeutic approaches. This review explores current and advanced approaches to treat HCC, considering both known and new potential targets, especially derived from proteomic analysis, which is today considered as the most promising approach. Exploring novel strategies, this review discusses antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T), and engineered antibodies. It then reports a systematic analysis of the main ligand/receptor pairs and molecular pathways reported to be overexpressed in tumor cells, highlighting their potential and limitations. Finally, it discusses TGFβ, one of the most promising targets of the HCC microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Greta Pessino
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Scotti
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maristella Maggi
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Immuno-Hub Consortium
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rodrigues SG, van der Merwe S, Krag A, Wiest R. Gut-liver axis: Pathophysiological concepts and medical perspective in chronic liver diseases. Semin Immunol 2024; 71:101859. [PMID: 38219459 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Susana G Rodrigues
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Schalk van der Merwe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University hospital Gasthuisberg, University of Leuven, Belgium
| | - Aleksander Krag
- Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Centre for Liver Research, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Reiner Wiest
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sati P, Sharma E, Dhyani P, Attri DC, Rana R, Kiyekbayeva L, Büsselberg D, Samuel SM, Sharifi-Rad J. Paclitaxel and its semi-synthetic derivatives: comprehensive insights into chemical structure, mechanisms of action, and anticancer properties. Eur J Med Res 2024; 29:90. [PMID: 38291541 PMCID: PMC10826257 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-024-01657-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a disease that can cause abnormal cell growth and can spread throughout the body. It is among the most significant causes of death worldwide, resulting in approx. 10 million deaths annually. Many synthetic anticancer drugs are available, but they often come with side effects and can interact negatively with other medications. Additionally, many chemotherapy drugs used for cancer treatment can develop resistance and harm normal cells, leading to dose-limiting side effects. As a result, finding effective cancer treatments and developing new drugs remains a significant challenge. However, plants are a potent source of natural products with the potential for cancer treatment. These biologically active compounds may be the basis for enhanced or less toxic derivatives. Herbal medicines/phytomedicines, or plant-based drugs, are becoming more popular in treating complicated diseases like cancer due to their effectiveness and are a particularly attractive option due to their affordability, availability, and lack of serious side effects. They have broad applicability and therapeutic efficacy, which has spurred scientific research into their potential as anticancer agents. This review focuses on Paclitaxel (PTX), a plant-based drug derived from Taxus sp., and its ability to treat specific tumors. PTX and its derivatives are effective against various cancer cell lines. Researchers can use this detailed information to develop effective and affordable treatments for cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Sati
- Department of Biotechnology, Kumaun University, Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Eshita Sharma
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Praveen Dhyani
- Institute for Integrated Natural Sciences, University of Koblenz, Koblenz, Germany
| | - Dharam Chand Attri
- Department of Botany, Central University of Jammu, Rahya-Suchani (Bagla), Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Rohit Rana
- Department of Biology, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Lashyn Kiyekbayeva
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Pharmaceutical School, Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Dietrich Büsselberg
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 24144, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Samson Mathews Samuel
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 24144, Doha, Qatar.
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Saikia PJ, Pathak L, Mitra S, Das B. The emerging role of oral microbiota in oral cancer initiation, progression and stemness. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1198269. [PMID: 37954619 PMCID: PMC10639169 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1198269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most prevalent malignancy among the Head and Neck cancer. OSCCs are highly inflammatory, immune-suppressive, and aggressive tumors. Recent sequencing based studies demonstrated the involvement of different oral microbiota in oral cavity diseases leading OSCC carcinogenesis, initiation and progression. Researches showed that oral microbiota can activate different inflammatory pathways and cancer stem cells (CSCs) associated stemness pathways for tumor progression. We speculate that CSCs and their niche cells may interact with the microbiotas to promote tumor progression and stemness. Certain oral microbiotas are reported to be involved in dysbiosis, pre-cancerous lesions, and OSCC development. Identification of these specific microbiota including Human papillomavirus (HPV), Porphyromonas gingivalis (PG), and Fusobacterium nucleatum (FN) provides us with a new opportunity to study the bacteria/stem cell, as well as bacteria/OSCC cells interaction that promote OSCC initiation, progression and stemness. Importantly, these evidences enabled us to develop in-vitro and in-vivo models to study microbiota interaction with stem cell niche defense as well as CSC niche defense. Thus in this review, the role of oral microbiota in OSCC has been explored with a special focus on how oral microbiota induces OSCC initiation and stemness by modulating the oral mucosal stem cell and CSC niche defense.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Partha Jyoti Saikia
- Department of Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, KaviKrishna Laboratory, Research Park, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India
- Department of Stem Cell and Infectious Diseases, KaviKrishna Laboratory, Research Park, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India
| | - Lekhika Pathak
- Department of Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, KaviKrishna Laboratory, Research Park, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India
- Department of Stem Cell and Infectious Diseases, KaviKrishna Laboratory, Research Park, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India
| | - Shirsajit Mitra
- Department of Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, KaviKrishna Laboratory, Research Park, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India
- Department of Stem Cell and Infectious Diseases, KaviKrishna Laboratory, Research Park, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India
| | - Bikul Das
- Department of Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, KaviKrishna Laboratory, Research Park, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India
- Department of Stem Cell and Infectious Diseases, KaviKrishna Laboratory, Research Park, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, Thoreau Laboratory for Global Health, M2D2, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Papadakos SP, Arvanitakis K, Stergiou IE, Vallilas C, Sougioultzis S, Germanidis G, Theocharis S. Interplay of Extracellular Vesicles and TLR4 Signaling in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Pathophysiology and Therapeutics. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2460. [PMID: 37896221 PMCID: PMC10610499 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as a significant contributor to global cancer-related mortality. Chronic inflammation, often arising from diverse sources such as viral hepatitis, alcohol misuse, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), profoundly influences HCC development. Within this context, the interplay of extracellular vesicles (EVs) gains prominence. EVs, encompassing exosomes and microvesicles, mediate cell-to-cell communication and cargo transfer, impacting various biological processes, including inflammation and cancer progression. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a key sentinel of the innate immune system, recognizes both pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), thereby triggering diverse signaling cascades and pro-inflammatory cytokine release. The intricate involvement of the TLR4 signaling pathway in chronic liver disease and HCC pathogenesis is discussed in this study. Moreover, we delve into the therapeutic potential of modulating the TLR4 pathway using EVs as novel therapeutic agents for HCC. This review underscores the multifaceted role of EVs in the context of HCC and proposes innovative avenues for targeted interventions against this formidable disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Christos Vallilas
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stavros Sougioultzis
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece;
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mazzio E, Barnes A, Badisa R, Council S, Soliman KFA. Plants against cancer: the immune-boosting herbal microbiome: not of the plant, but in the plant. Basic concepts, introduction, and future resource for vaccine adjuvant discovery. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1180084. [PMID: 37588095 PMCID: PMC10426289 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1180084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of microorganism communities (MOCs) comprised of bacteria, fungi, archaea, algae, protozoa, viruses, and the like, are ubiquitous in all living tissue, including plant and animal. MOCs play a significant role in establishing innate and acquired immunity, thereby influencing susceptibility and resistance to disease. This understanding has fostered substantial advancements in several fields such as agriculture, food science/safety, and the development of vaccines/adjuvants, which rely on administering inactivated-attenuated MOC pathogens. Historical evidence dating back to the 1800s, including reports by Drs Busch, Coley, and Fehleisen, suggested that acute febrile infection in response to "specific microbes" could trigger spontaneous tumor remission in humans. This discovery led to the purposeful administration of the same attenuated strains, known as "Coley's toxin," marking the onset of the first microbial (pathogen) associated molecular pattern (MAMPs or PAMPs)-based tumor immunotherapy, used clinically for over four decades. Today, these same MAMPS are consumed orally by billions of consumers around the globe, through "specific" mediums (immune boosting "herbal supplements") as carriers of highly concentrated MOCs accrued in roots, barks, hulls, sea algae, and seeds. The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) mandates microbial reduction in botanical product processing but does not necessitate the removal of dead MAMP laden microbial debris, which we ingest. Moreover, while existing research has focused on the immune-modulating role of plant phytochemicals, the actual immune-boosting properties might instead reside solely in the plant's MOC MAMP laden biomass. This assertion is logical, considering that antigenic immune-provoking epitopes, not phytochemicals, are known to stimulate immune response. This review explores a neglected area of research regarding the immune-boosting effects of the herbal microbiome - a presence which is indirectly corroborated by various peripheral fields of study and poses a fundamental question: Given that food safety focuses on the elimination of harmful pathogens and crop science acknowledges the existence of plant microbiomes, what precisely are the immune effects of ingesting MAMPs of diverse structural composition and concentration, and where are these distributed in our botanicals? We will discuss the topic of concentrated edible MAMPs as acid and thermally stable motifs found in specific herbs and how these would activate cognate pattern recognition receptors (PPRs) in the upper gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), including Peyer's patches and the lamina propria, to boost antibody titers, CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, NK activity, hematopoiesis, and facilitating M2 to M1 macrophage phenotype transition in a similar manner as vaccines. This new knowledge could pave the way for developing bioreactor-grown/heat-inactivated MOC therapies to boost human immunity against infections and improve tumor surveillance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Mazzio
- Divison of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Andrew Barnes
- Divison of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Ramesh Badisa
- Divison of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Stevie Council
- John Gnabre Science Research Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Karam F. A. Soliman
- Divison of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Papadakos SP, Arvanitakis K, Stergiou IE, Lekakis V, Davakis S, Christodoulou MI, Germanidis G, Theocharis S. The Role of TLR4 in the Immunotherapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Can We Teach an Old Dog New Tricks? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2795. [PMID: 37345131 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer and is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Immunotherapy has emerged as the mainstay treatment option for unresectable HCC. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays a crucial role in the innate immune response by recognizing and responding primarily to bacterial lipopolysaccharides. In addition to its role in the innate immune system, TLR4 has also been implicated in adaptive immunity, including specific anti-tumor immune responses. In particular, the TLR4 signaling pathway seems to be involved in the regulation of several cancer hallmarks, such as the continuous activation of cellular pathways that promote cell division and growth, the inhibition of programmed cell death, the promotion of several invasion and metastatic mechanisms, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, drug resistance, and epigenetic modifications. Emerging evidence further suggests that TLR4 signaling holds promise as a potential immunotherapeutic target in HCC. The aim of this review was to explore the multilayer aspects of the TLR4 signaling pathway, regarding its role in liver diseases and HCC, as well as its potential utilization as an immunotherapy target for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioanna E Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Vasileios Lekakis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Spyridon Davakis
- First Department of Surgery, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria-Ioanna Christodoulou
- Tumor Immunology and Biomarkers Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chen C, Wang Z, Ding Y, Qin Y. Tumor microenvironment-mediated immune evasion in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1133308. [PMID: 36845131 PMCID: PMC9950271 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1133308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and is the third leading cause of tumor-related mortality worldwide. In recent years, the emergency of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) has revolutionized the management of HCC. Especially, the combination of atezolizumab (anti-PD1) and bevacizumab (anti-VEGF) has been approved by the FDA as the first-line treatment for advanced HCC. Despite great breakthrough in systemic therapy, HCC continues to portend a poor prognosis owing to drug resistance and frequent recurrence. The tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC is a complex and structured mixture characterized by abnormal angiogenesis, chronic inflammation, and dysregulated extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, collectively contributing to the immunosuppressive milieu that in turn prompts HCC proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. The tumor microenvironment coexists and interacts with various immune cells to maintain the development of HCC. It is widely accepted that a dysfunctional tumor-immune ecosystem can lead to the failure of immune surveillance. The immunosuppressive TME is an external cause for immune evasion in HCC consisting of 1) immunosuppressive cells; 2) co-inhibitory signals; 3) soluble cytokines and signaling cascades; 4) metabolically hostile tumor microenvironment; 5) the gut microbiota that affects the immune microenvironment. Importantly, the effectiveness of immunotherapy largely depends on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Also, the gut microbiota and metabolism profoundly affect the immune microenvironment. Understanding how TME affects HCC development and progression will contribute to better preventing HCC-specific immune evasion and overcoming resistance to already developed therapies. In this review, we mainly introduce immune evasion of HCC underlying the role of immune microenvironment, describe the dynamic interaction of immune microenvironment with dysfunctional metabolism and the gut microbiome, and propose therapeutic strategies to manipulate the TME in favor of more effective immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yanru Qin
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Huang C, Zhou Y, Cheng J, Guo X, Shou D, Quan Y, Chen H, Chen H, Zhou Y. Pattern recognition receptors in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and progression to hepatocellular carcinoma: An emerging therapeutic strategy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1145392. [PMID: 37020586 PMCID: PMC10067914 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1145392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive lipid accumulation and has become the leading chronic liver disease worldwide. NAFLD is viewed as the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome, ranging from simple steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) to advanced fibrosis, eventually leading to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The pathogenesis of NAFLD progression is still not clear. Pattern recognition receptor (PRR)-mediated innate immune responses play a critical role in the initiation of NAFLD and the progression of NAFLD-related HCC. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) are the two major PRRs in hepatocytes and resident innate immune cells in the liver. Increasing evidence indicates that the overactivation of TLRs and the cGAS signaling pathways may contribute to the development of liver disorders, including NAFLD progression. However, induction of PRRs is critical for the release of type I interferons (IFN-I) and the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs), which prime systemic antitumor immunity in HCC therapy. In this review, we will summarize the emerging evidence regarding the molecular mechanisms of TLRs and cGAS in the development of NAFLD and HCC. The dysfunction of PRR-mediated innate immune response is a critical determinant of NAFLD pathology; targeting and selectively inhibiting TLRs and cGAS signaling provides therapeutic potential for treating NALF-associated diseases in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Youlian Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiemin Cheng
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Diwen Shou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Quan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hanqing Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yongjian Zhou, ; Huiting Chen, ; Hanqing Chen,
| | - Huiting Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yongjian Zhou, ; Huiting Chen, ; Hanqing Chen,
| | - Yongjian Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yongjian Zhou, ; Huiting Chen, ; Hanqing Chen,
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kamiya T, Ohtani N. The role of immune cells in the liver tumor microenvironment: an involvement of gut microbiota-derived factors. Int Immunol 2022; 34:467-474. [PMID: 35652367 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxac020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
More than 500 species of microbiota reside in the human intestine and coexist with humans, their host. Gut microbial metabolites and components are absorbed from the intestine and influence cells in the liver, including hepatocytes and stromal cells, such as liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, hepatic stellate cells, Kupffer cells, natural killer (NK) cells, NK T cells, and other immune cells. This gut-originated axis to the liver is called the "gut-liver axis", which underscores the importance of the link between the gut and the liver. In this review, we discuss the gut microbial components and metabolites that affect cells in the liver, particularly in association with immune cells, and the related responses. We also highlight the mechanisms underlying gut microbiota-mediated liver carcinogenesis and discuss cancer prevention, including the recently clarified modulation of immune checkpoint inhibitor efficacy by the gut microbiota.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomonori Kamiya
- Department of Pathophysiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahi-machi, Abeno-ku, Osaka, 545-8585, Japan
| | - Naoko Ohtani
- Department of Pathophysiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-4-3 Asahi-machi, Abeno-ku, Osaka, 545-8585, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Luo W, Guo S, Zhou Y, Zhao J, Wang M, Sang L, Chang B, Wang B. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: How the Gut Microbiota Contributes to Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Therapy. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:873160. [PMID: 35572649 PMCID: PMC9092458 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.873160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiota is gaining increasing attention, and the concept of the "gut-liver axis" is gradually being recognized. Leaky gut resulting from injury and/or inflammation can cause the translocation of flora to the liver. Microbiota-associated metabolites and components mediate the activation of a series of signalling pathways, thereby playing an important role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). For this reason, targeting the gut microbiota in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of HCC holds great promise. In this review, we summarize the gut microbiota and the mechanisms by which it mediates HCC development, and the characteristic alterations in the gut microbiota during HCC pathogenesis. Furthermore, we propose several strategies to target the gut microbiota for the prevention and treatment of HCC, including antibiotics, probiotics, faecal microbiota transplantation, and immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenyu Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- The Second Clinical College, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shiqi Guo
- The Second Clinical College, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- The Second Clinical College, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jingwen Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Mengyao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lixuan Sang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bing Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bingyuan Wang
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhou J, Che J, Xu L, Yang W, Zhou W, Zhou C. Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles containing long noncoding RNA PART1 exert oncogenic effect in hepatocellular carcinoma by polarizing macrophages into M2. Dig Liver Dis 2022; 54:543-553. [PMID: 34497040 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM We explored whether tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) could deliver long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) PART1 into macrophage to orchestrate macrophage polarization in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHOD The expression patterns of PART1, microRNA (miR)-372-3p and TLR4 were detected by RT-qPCR in the HCC tissues and HCC cells. PART1 was silenced or overexpressed in HCC cells to assess its effects on the HCC cell process. EVs were isolated from PART1-overexpressed HCC cells, and co-cultured with macrophages, and gain- and loss-of-function assays were implemented in macrophages to evaluate their role in macrophage polarization. Relationship among PART1, miR-372-3p, and TLR4 was evaluated. Effect of EV-PART1 on tumorigenicity in vivo was detected by subcutaneous tumorigenicity test in nude mice. RESULT PART1 and TLR4 were upregulated while miR-372-3p was downregulated in HCC tissues and cells. PART1 increased HCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT. Mechanistically, PART1 bound to miR-372-3p to downregulate its expression, whereas TLR4 was negatively targeted by miR-372-3p in the macrophages. EVs containing PART1, TLR4 overexpression, or miR-372-3p inhibition induced M2 polarization of macrophages. Also, EVs containing PART1 promoted M2 polarization of macrophages and the occurrence of HCC by affecting miR-372-3p/TLR4 axis. CONCLUSION HCC cell-derived EVs might up-regulate TLR4 by inhibiting miR-372-3p via PART1 delivery to promote macrophage M2 polarization in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingyang Zhou
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Jinhui Che
- Department of Hepatopancreatobillary Surgery, Xuzhou City Cancer Hospital, Xuzhou 221005, PR China
| | - Lu Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobillary Surgery, Xuzhou City Cancer Hospital, Xuzhou 221005, PR China
| | - Weizhong Yang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobillary Surgery, Xuzhou City Cancer Hospital, Xuzhou 221005, PR China
| | - Wuyuan Zhou
- Department of Hepatopancreatobillary Surgery, Xuzhou City Cancer Hospital, Xuzhou 221005, PR China.
| | - Cuncai Zhou
- Department of Hepatobillary Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330029, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li D, Wu M. Pattern recognition receptors in health and diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:291. [PMID: 34344870 PMCID: PMC8333067 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00687-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 565] [Impact Index Per Article: 188.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are a class of receptors that can directly recognize the specific molecular structures on the surface of pathogens, apoptotic host cells, and damaged senescent cells. PRRs bridge nonspecific immunity and specific immunity. Through the recognition and binding of ligands, PRRs can produce nonspecific anti-infection, antitumor, and other immunoprotective effects. Most PRRs in the innate immune system of vertebrates can be classified into the following five types based on protein domain homology: Toll-like receptors (TLRs), nucleotide oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors (NLRs), retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I)-like receptors (RLRs), C-type lectin receptors (CLRs), and absent in melanoma-2 (AIM2)-like receptors (ALRs). PRRs are basically composed of ligand recognition domains, intermediate domains, and effector domains. PRRs recognize and bind their respective ligands and recruit adaptor molecules with the same structure through their effector domains, initiating downstream signaling pathways to exert effects. In recent years, the increased researches on the recognition and binding of PRRs and their ligands have greatly promoted the understanding of different PRRs signaling pathways and provided ideas for the treatment of immune-related diseases and even tumors. This review describes in detail the history, the structural characteristics, ligand recognition mechanism, the signaling pathway, the related disease, new drugs in clinical trials and clinical therapy of different types of PRRs, and discusses the significance of the research on pattern recognition mechanism for the treatment of PRR-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danyang Li
- Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital and the Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Minghua Wu
- Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital and the Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Liu Z, Ding F, Shen X. Total flavonoids of Radix Tetrastigma suppress inflammation-related hepatocellular carcinoma cell metastasis. Mol Genet Genomics 2021; 296:571-579. [PMID: 33576897 PMCID: PMC8144124 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-020-01759-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of the total flavonoids of Radix Tetrastigma (RTF) on inflammation-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Extracted RTF was diluted to different concentrations for subsequent experiments. HCC cells were cotreated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and RTF to investigate the effects of RTF on LPS-stimulated HCC cells. A CCK-8 kit was used to measure cell proliferation. Apoptosis was detected with a flow cytometer. Cell migration and invasion were quantified by wound healing and Transwell assays, respectively. The expression of TLR4 and COX-2 and activation of the NF-κB pathway were determined by Western blotting. Treatment with LPS significantly enhanced cell proliferation and decreased the apoptosis rate, while cell migration and invasion were notably upregulated. RTF suppressed the proliferation and invasion induced by LPS stimulation and promoted HCC cell apoptosis. The protein levels of Bax and cleaved caspase-3 were decreased and that of Bcl-2 was increased by LPS in HCC cells, which could be rescued by RTF. RTF significantly inhibited the LPS-induced expression of the proinflammatory mediators IL-6 and IL-8 in HCC cells. Mechanistically, with RTF treatment, the upregulated expression of TLR4 and COX-2 induced by LPS was obviously downregulated. Furthermore, the phosphorylation of NF-κB/p65 was significantly decreased in LPS-stimulated cells after supplementation with RTF. Our study suggests that RTF exerts a significant inhibitory effect on the LPS-induced enhancement of the malignant behaviors of HCC cells via inactivation of TLR4/NF-κB signaling. RTF may be a promising chemotherapeutic agent to limit HCC development and inflammation-mediated metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhendong Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of TCM), Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Fangmi Ding
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of TCM), Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Xingyong Shen
- Department of Oncology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, 15 Changle West Road, Xian, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tsui YM, Chan LK, Ng IOL. Cancer stemness in hepatocellular carcinoma: mechanisms and translational potential. Br J Cancer 2020; 122:1428-1440. [PMID: 32231294 PMCID: PMC7217836 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-0823-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stemness, referring to the stem-cell-like phenotype of cancer cells, has been recognised to play important roles in different aspects of hepatocarcinogenesis. A number of well-established cell-surface markers already exist for liver cancer stem cells, with potential new markers of liver cancer stem cells being identified. Both genetic and epigenetic factors that affect various signalling pathways are known to contribute to cancer stemness. In addition, the tumour microenvironment—both physical and cellular—is known to play an important role in regulating cancer stemness, and the potential interaction between cancer stem cells and their microenvironment has provided insight into the regulation of the tumour-initiating ability as well as the cellular plasticity of liver CSCs. Potential specific therapeutic targeting of liver cancer stemness is also discussed. With increased knowledge, effective druggable targets might be identified, with the aim of improving treatment outcome by reducing chemoresistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Man Tsui
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Lo-Kong Chan
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Irene Oi-Lin Ng
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong. .,State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Blockade of TLR4 using TAK-242 (resatorvid) enhances anti-cancer effects of chemotherapeutic agents: a novel synergistic approach for breast and ovarian cancers. Immunol Res 2020; 67:505-516. [DOI: 10.1007/s12026-019-09113-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
19
|
Lei K, Ma B, Shi P, Jin C, Ling T, Li L, He X, Wang L. Icariin Mitigates the Growth and Invasion Ability of Human Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma via Inhibiting Toll-Like Receptor 4 and Phosphorylation of NF-κB P65. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:299-307. [PMID: 32021276 PMCID: PMC6971293 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s214514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is an aggressive malignancy worldwide. Icariin (ICA), an active ingredient of flavonoids, has been demonstrated to possess antitumor activity in diverse cancers. Whereas, the role of ICAin OSCC is still unclear. METHODS Herein, we investigated the anti-tumor effects of ICA in vitro and in vivo. CCK-8, colony formation and trans-well assay were used to examined viability, proliferation and invasion in SCC-9 and SCC-15 cell lines, respectively. Next, we tested the expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and NF-κB P65 by western blot or immunofluorescence staining. Finally, we constructed a xenograft mice model to investigate the effect of ICA in vivo. RESULTS In vitro, ICA decreased the human oral squamous cells viability, proliferation and invasion in a concentration-dependent manner. Besides, ICA decreased the phosphorylation level of P65 and down-regulated TLR4 protein. In vivo, compared with control, ICA significantly suppressed the tumor size and weight. In addition, ICA downregulated the levels of Ki67 and VEGF markedly. Dramatically, ICA decreased the phosphorylation level of P65 in tumor tissues. CONCLUSION Taken together, ICA could act as a anticancer drug against OSCC to mitigate the growth and invasion ability, the underlying mechanism may due to the down-regulation of TLR4/NF-κB signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke Lei
- Department of Stomatology, Central Hospital of Guangyuan, Guangyuan628000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing Ma
- Department of Respiratory, Central Hospital of Guangyuan, Guangyuan628000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ping Shi
- Department of Respiratory, Central Hospital of Guangyuan, Guangyuan628000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Che Jin
- Endodontics Department, Dental Hospital of Lanzhou, Lanzhou730000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tan Ling
- Department of Stomatology, Central Hospital of Guangyuan, Guangyuan628000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Longjiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiangyi He
- Department of Prosthodontics, School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lunchang Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Central Hospital of Guangyuan, Guangyuan628000, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhou S, Du R, Wang Z, Shen W, Gao R, Jiang S, Fang Y, Shi Y, Chang A, Liu L, Liu C, Li N, Xiang R. TLR4 increases the stemness and is highly expressed in relapsed human hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Med 2019; 8:2325-2337. [PMID: 30957973 PMCID: PMC6536932 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.2070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays an essential role in cancer progress. Here, we find that the expression of TLR4 in relapsed human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) clinical samples is higher than that in the non‐relapsed ones, which leads us to explore the role of TLR4 in cancer stemness. We reported that TLR4‐AKT signaling pathway was activated by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in HCC cell lines to enhance the cancer stemness capacity, which was reflected by the increased percentage of CD133+CD49f+ population and side population, enhanced sphere formation, and the upregulation of stemness marker gene‐SOX2. Downregulation of SOX2 attenuated the enhanced HCC stemness induced by LPS, indicating SOX2 as a downstream mediator of LPS‐TLR4 signaling. The role of LPS‐TLR4 signaling in inducing HCC stemness was further confirmed by tumor xenograft experiment in vivo. Taken together, our findings provide a novel therapeutic target to prevent the recurrence of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Zhou
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Renle Du
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhenglu Wang
- Biobank of Tianjin First Center Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenzhi Shen
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ruifang Gao
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shan Jiang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Fang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuzhi Shi
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Antao Chang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Biobank of Tianjin First Center Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chenghu Liu
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Na Li
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, Tianjin, China.,The 2011 Project Collaborative Innovation Center for Biological Therapy, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Rong Xiang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, Tianjin, China.,The 2011 Project Collaborative Innovation Center for Biological Therapy, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|